South Korea Targets Smarter, More Supportive Research Environment in Upcoming Strategy (Image supported by ChatGPT)
SEOUL, Aug. 13 (Korea Bizwire) — South Korea plans to roll out a comprehensive strategy next month aimed at fostering a more researcher-friendly ecosystem for research and development in cutting-edge technologies, the Ministry of Science and ICT announced Wednesday.
Science Minister Bae Kyung-hoon met with researchers at Seoul National University to discuss ways to revamp the country’s R&D landscape ahead of the strategy’s release. The ministry emphasized that the plan will focus on driving innovation through reforms fueled by artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies.
“It is essential to build an R&D ecosystem characterized by continuous innovation, supported by nationwide reforms led by AI and cutting-edge technology,” Bae said during the meeting.
He added that the government’s forthcoming blueprint, scheduled for release in September, aims to enable universities, government research institutes, and businesses to concentrate on their core missions, thereby promoting authentic growth powered by science and technology.
Science Minister Bae Kyung-hoon speaks during an event in Seoul on Aug. 12, 2025. (Yonhap)
Researchers at the meeting urged the government to enhance predictability in R&D policies and reduce regulatory and administrative burdens that hinder research efforts. They also called for improvements in the evaluation process for government-funded projects and emphasized the importance of supporting the commercialization of research outcomes.
The upcoming strategy reflects South Korea’s commitment to strengthening its position as a global leader in innovation amid rapid technological change.
M. H. Lee (mhlee@koreabizwire.com)
