Yoon Appoints Seoul National University Professor Park Sang-wook as New Science and Technology Secretary

Establishment of Four New Secretaries Under the Chief of Science and Technology Affairs

President Yoon Suk-yeol appointed Professor Park Sang-wook of the Department of Science at Seoul National University as the first Chief of Science and Technology, a newly established position, on the 25th.

Lee Gwan-seop, Chief of Staff to the President, held a briefing at the Yongsan Presidential Office in the afternoon and introduced Chief Park, saying, "He majored in basic science and science and technology policy, actively participated in research and policy advisory in the field of science and technology innovation policy, and possesses both theoretical and practical expertise. He also has high policy insight and a strong will to reform the research and development (R&D) system."

Born in 1972, Chief Park graduated from the Department of Chemistry at Seoul National University and earned his master's and doctoral degrees in chemistry from Seoul National University Graduate School. He also obtained a Ph.D. in Science and Technology Policy from the University of Sussex in the UK.

Lee also evaluated, "We expect him to proactively identify core technologies and R&D investment targets that will determine the future competitiveness of Korea and to coordinate and adjust related policies to support them efficiently."

Sangwook Park, Senior Secretary for Science and Technology / Photo by the Presidential Office

After Lee’s announcement, Chief Park told reporters, "I will do my utmost to prepare our country's future through science and technology," adding, "I will strive to secure capabilities and grow industries in strategic technology fields such as artificial intelligence, quantum, and bio."

He also emphasized active communication between research sites and the government. Chief Park said, "I will work together with researchers, research administration personnel, scientists, and various related organizations to upgrade the science and technology innovation ecosystem into a leading and strong nation type," and stressed, "I will actively and sincerely assist President Yoon to become a successful science president."

Regarding the government's R&D budget cuts, he responded, "The R&D budget part will be reviewed more thoroughly, and I will consider how to improve it constructively and speak separately on that," adding, "Above all, I will actively clarify any misunderstandings and ensure that the Chief of Science and Technology Office is recognized for its role during this year’s budget adjustment process."

The Presidential Office announced the plan to establish the Chief of Science and Technology position on November 30 last year. Under the Chief of Science and Technology, there will be four secretaries in charge of R&D policy, digital, bio-medical, and future strategic technologies.

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