Choi Acting President: "Will Spare No Policy Support for Young Scientists"

"Significance of Young Researchers Leading DeepSeek Development"

Choi Sang-mok, Acting President and Deputy Prime Minister as well as Minister of Economy and Finance, stated on the 19th, "We will spare no policy support to ensure that the creative ideas and challenges of young scientists become the driving force for the future of the Republic of Korea."

On the same day, Acting President Choi held a luncheon meeting with Yoo Sang-im, Minister of Science and ICT, at the Government Seoul Office and met with young scientists in advanced science and technology fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), bio, and quantum technologies, making these remarks.

Choi Sang-mok, Acting President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Economy and Finance. Yonhap News

The luncheon meeting was held to encourage the challenges and efforts of young scientists who have achieved outstanding results based on excellent capabilities in the fiercely competitive global advanced science and technology fields, and to discuss the future development direction of Korea’s science and technology through a transition to leading-edge research and development (R&D).

At the meeting, Acting President Choi explained, "Our economy is facing structural challenges such as low birth rates and a reduction in manufacturing comparative advantage," adding, "Advanced science and technology is a key driving force that brings about innovation in various fields."

He also emphasized the importance of young scientists’ roles, stating, "It is highly significant that the development of DeepSeek, which caused a great impact with the release of high-performance and low-cost AI models recently, was led by young researchers."

The attendees requested support for overcoming difficulties in global joint research processes such as R&D investment to secure technology leadership in recently spotlighted advanced fields like physical AI, training specialized personnel in quantum technology, and agreements with overseas institutions. They also proposed expanding incentives for technology commercialization and focused investment in promising young scientists.

Acting President Choi responded, "We will create an environment where young scientists can fully immerse themselves in research and support innovative ideas to bear fruit," adding, "The policy proposals discussed today will be actively reviewed in the future policy-making process."

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