"Science Diplomacy Is Now Essential, Not Optional"... Academy Urges Stronger Cooperation Between Science Ministry and Foreign Ministry

Korean Academy of Science and Technology Proposes Science Diplomacy Strategies
in Issue No. 115 of "The Voice of the Korean Academy of Science and Technology"

Amid intensifying global competition for leadership in science and technology, the Korean Academy of Science and Technology has recommended that "the Ministry of Science and ICT and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs should strengthen their cooperation to enhance Korea's science diplomacy capabilities."

On October 28, through Issue No. 115 of "The Voice of the Korean Academy of Science and Technology," titled "Paradigm Shift in Science Diplomacy: What Is Korea's Strategy?", the Academy presented strategic directions for a Korean-style science diplomacy in the evolving international order.

Cover of The Voice of the Korean Academy of Science and Technology No. 115. Provided by the Korean Academy of Science and Technology

The Academy emphasized that, as the global perspective on science diplomacy is shifting from an ideological approach to a more practical and strategic one, Korea also needs to redesign its diplomatic strategies to secure national leadership in science and technology.

In particular, the Academy pointed out the growing importance of science in foreign policy and diplomacy in science policy, and proposed concrete measures to support this trend: strengthening cooperation between the Ministry of Science and ICT and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, such as expanding overseas missions focused on science and technology, and establishing a support system for humanities and social science research related to science and technology.

The report stated, "Science and technology are no longer confined to the realm of pure research, but now influence all areas of national security, industry, and foreign policy," adding, "Science and technology diplomacy capabilities have become a new metric of national power."

Jung Jin-ho, President of the Korean Academy of Science and Technology, said, "While 'science diplomacy' may be a somewhat unfamiliar concept in Korea, it has already become an indispensable diplomatic strategy amid the reorganization of the international order." He further stressed, "As technological supremacy is now directly linked to national security, securing science diplomacy capabilities is urgent for autonomous and practical diplomacy."

"The Voice of the Korean Academy of Science and Technology" is the Academy's flagship policy proposal series, presenting long-term visions and policy directions for national science and technology. Leading scholars in the field participate to offer scientific and technological solutions and policy recommendations for national issues. Issue No. 115 will also be distributed to the government, the National Assembly, and related organizations to serve as a basis for discussions on policy and legislative improvements.

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