South Korea’s government has announced significant policy measures to strengthen its science and technology sector. President Lee Jae-myung emphasized the importance of building a robust safety net for researchers, ensuring that financial limitations do not halt scientific progress. The government is committed to being a strong partner and supporter for researchers, particularly in the face of challenges and uncertainties. These initiatives are part of a broader vision to position South Korea as a global leader in science and technology.
The policy changes directly impact researchers, students, and faculty at institutions like KAIST, as well as the broader scientific community. Notably, KAIST has inaugurated its first ‘AI College,’ which is expected to serve as a foundation for South Korea’s ambition to become one of the top three nations in artificial intelligence. The government has also increased the basic research budget by over 17%, with a focus on supporting early-career researchers and restoring the research ecosystem affected by previous R&D budget cuts. These actions aim to encourage innovation, entrepreneurship, and the pursuit of new scientific theories.
Implementation of these measures began with the KAIST graduation ceremony held on February 20, 2026, where President Lee outlined the government’s commitment. The increased research funding and the establishment of the AI College mark a new phase in South Korea’s science policy. The government is actively working to ensure that the benefits of artificial intelligence are distributed across society and that researchers have the resources needed to pursue groundbreaking work. Restoration of the research ecosystem and expanded support for basic research are ongoing priorities.
Frequently asked questions include: What is the purpose of the new AI College at KAIST? The AI College aims to provide a foundation for South Korea’s vision of becoming a global leader in artificial intelligence. How will increased research funding impact researchers? The expanded budget ensures that researchers, especially early-career scientists, can focus on their work without financial barriers. What actions should researchers take? Researchers are encouraged to trust government support, pursue ambitious projects, and contribute to national innovation goals.
Metaqsol opinion: South Korea’s new science policy, highlighted by the launch of the KAIST AI College and increased research funding, reflects a strategic commitment to innovation and researcher support. The government’s focus on eliminating financial barriers and restoring the research ecosystem addresses previous challenges caused by R&D budget cuts. By prioritizing early-career researchers and artificial intelligence, South Korea is positioning itself for global leadership in science and technology. These actions are expected to drive significant progress and benefit both the scientific community and society at large.