National Pukyong University Takes on National Research Laboratory Challenge with Marine Mineral Resource Convergence Technology

National Pukyong University (President Bae Sanghoon) is taking on the challenge of establishing a large-scale convergence research institute to secure national strategic resources in the field of marine mineral resources.

On April 29, National Pukyong University announced that it has officially entered the competition for the 2025 "National Research Laboratory (NRL 2.0)" project, which is jointly promoted by the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Science and ICT, by submitting its plan to establish the "Future Marine Mineral Resources Convergence Research Institute."

Conceptual Diagram of the Future Marine Mineral Resources Convergence Research Institute.

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The "National Research Laboratory (NRL 2.0)" project aims to foster convergence research institutes capable of conducting world-class research, utilizing the excellent research personnel and infrastructure possessed by universities. Selected universities receive support through a block funding system of up to 100 billion KRW over a total of 10 years, allowing them to autonomously operate research and focus on large-scale, long-term research projects.

For this project, National Pukyong University proposed a convergence research institute model equipped with a technological system that covers the entire resource development cycle, from deep-sea resource exploration to mining and refining. In particular, the university highlighted its differentiation from existing research by pursuing future-oriented R&D that incorporates Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies, such as AI-based deep-sea exploration, digital twin mining technologies, and eco-friendly rare metal recovery processes.

In addition, the university has established a close cooperation system with the Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology (KIOST), the Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources, and private marine technology companies. A total of 26 researchers, including the faculty of National Pukyong University, will participate to provide a stable and long-term research foundation. If selected as a national research institute, the university plans to secure full-time research personnel, establish research equipment, and operate international joint research and talent development programs.

Bae Sanghoon, President of National Pukyong University, stated, "We expect that this challenge for the National Research Laboratory project will serve as an opportunity for National Pukyong University to become a national strategic research hub in the field of marine resources. The university will play a central role in achieving technological independence in deep-sea resource development and securing resource sovereignty."

National Pukyong University Daeyeon Campus.

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