Minister Lim Hye-sook of the Ministry of Science and ICT's First External Visit... Visiting Laboratory Accidents and Bio Sites

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Bong-su] Minister Lim Hye-sook of the Ministry of Science and ICT chose to visit research sites as her first external schedule after taking office. On the afternoon of the 20th, Minister Lim visited Kyungpook National University and the Korea Brain Research Institute in Daegu consecutively.

At Kyungpook National University, she held a meeting with young researchers to discuss directions for improving laboratory safety systems and strengthening support measures for young researchers. Minister Lim Hye-sook stated that she will make every effort to enhance communication with young researchers and resolve difficulties in the field. In particular, she visited the laboratory site where an accident occurred in December 2019 to review measures to prevent recurrence and urged support for the victims.

Minister Lim then visited the Brain Research Institute to gather opinions on the government's support direction for bio research and development. She held a meeting with about ten brain science researchers from industry, academia, and research institutes to discuss securing future-leading promising technologies through brain research and promoting industrialization.

Minister Lim said, “I hope domestic brain science researchers unite to take the lead in realizing the 'Korean New Deal' in the bio sector, and especially that young researchers strive to enhance the foundational strength of our country's science and technology through free and creative research," adding, “Starting with this first visit to basic research sites, I will directly visit various sites such as universities, government-funded research institutes, and companies to communicate and implement policies rooted in the field that everyone can empathize with."

Minister Lim's approach is interpreted as a sign of her intention to leverage her strengths as a university professor and research expert to take charge of the ministry's work with a field-centered approach. It is also analyzed that she aims to overcome the ongoing concerns inside and outside the ministry, which arose around the time of the parliamentary confirmation hearing, through her on-site activities.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.