This file photo taken on April 10, 2025, shows humanoid robots showcased at an establishment ceremony of a South Korean humanoid robot industry alliance held in Seoul. (Yonhap)
SEOUL, May 12 (Korea Bizwire) — South Korea has newly designated robotics and defense technologies as part of its portfolio of advanced technologies the country aims to strategically develop as new economic growth engines, the industry ministry said Monday.
The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy posted a notification of designation of the two new national strategic technologies on the official gazette, bringing the total number of such technologies to 19.
Before the addition of robotics and defense, South Korea’s list of national strategic technologies comprised eight semiconductor-related technologies, four related to displays, three concerning rechargeable batteries and two in biotechnology.
In the robotics sector, the government picked the design, manufacturing and processing technology for humanoid robots capable of moving at speeds of at least 3.3 meters per second and carrying loads exceeding 20 kilograms.
Last year, the government announced a plan to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics technologies to boost the competitiveness of the Korean humanoid robot technologies to a global top tier level by 2027.
In the defense sector, core materials and components technologies for advanced aircraft engines with a thrust of 15,000 pounds-force or more have been newly listed as strategic technology.
The advanced engines are considered core technology needed to develop next-generation fighter jets and unmanned aerial vehicles.
“To support the development of such technologies, the government plans to provide comprehensive support, including the establishment of specialized graduate schools, tax incentives to promote investment, and the development of necessary infrastructure,” an official at the ministry said.
(Yonhap)
