"Limitations of Catch-up R&D"... National Academy Questions the 'Next Stage' for Korean Science and Technology

Examining the Research Ecosystem, Research Culture, and Innovation Startup Structure

"Transition Needed from a Results-Oriented Focus to a System that Respects Value"

The National Academy of Science and Technology of Korea is launching a series of discussions to diagnose the structural limitations of Korea's science and technology sector and to seek future strategies. This initiative stems from concerns that, despite increased investment in research and development (R&D), the country remains locked in a catch-up R&D structure and a research ecosystem focused on short-term achievements.

On May 13, the Academy announced that it will host the expert discussion series titled "Korean Science and Technology: Seeking the Path" starting from May 14.

This series will be held in three sessions, covering the following main topics: the redesign of the research ecosystem, improvement of research culture and systems, and the creation of a foundation for the emergence of innovative companies. The plan is to focus discussions on the policy, institutional, and cultural challenges required for Korean science and technology to shift from a traditional catch-up growth model to a leading innovation-driven system.

The first discussion, themed "A Crisis in Science and Technology: Is Compensation the Only Issue?", will take place at 4 p.m. on May 14 at the Journalist Club in the Seoul Press Center. The event will be broadcast live through the Academy's YouTube channel.

The keynote speech will be delivered by Professor Park Beomsoon. Under the theme "A New Social Contract for Science and Technology: From Improved Treatment to Respect for Value," Professor Park is expected to emphasize that scientists and engineers should be viewed not merely as instruments for economic growth, but as key agents driving social change.

In the subsequent comprehensive discussion, the heads of the five divisions of the Academy will participate, discussing the direction for transforming the research ecosystem and policy challenges in science and technology from the perspectives of basic sciences, engineering, agricultural and marine sciences, medical sciences, and policy studies.

The discussion will be chaired by Vice President Kim Yoon-young, with participation from Cho Yonghoon, Lee Wonjun, Han Hojae, Park Youngnyeon, and Hong Sungwook.

Key topics will include restoring autonomy in basic science research, establishing researcher-centered governance, building a support system for long-term research, and addressing issues of path dependence in Korea's science and technology policies.

President Chung Jin-ho stated, "In order for Korean science and technology to move beyond its past successes and lead the world through innovation in research and industry ecosystems, it is necessary to fundamentally reflect on existing policy structures and research culture," adding, "I hope this series will become a platform for public discourse to seek future strategies for our science and technology sector."