Blueprint for Korea’s Leap to Become One of the Top Three Global AI Powerhouse (AI G3)

- Joint Announcement of “Policy Directions for National AI Strategies” at the 1st National AI Committee chaired by President Yoon Suk Yeol, setting the course for Korea's leap to AI G3- Unified Efforts Between Government and Private Sector to implement four nationwide “AI Flagship Projects” under the vision of “Establishing a Global AI Hub through the Leap to AI G3” (Project 1) Expand advanced GPU capacity by 15 times and support the commercialization of domestic AI semiconductors, including the establishment of the “National AI Computing Center” (Project 2) Stimulate private investment of KRW 65 trillion in the AI sector over four years (2024-2027), with government initiatives to encourage this growth (Project 3) Drive a nationwide AI transformation to achieve an AI adoption rate of 70% in industries and 95% in the public sector by 2030 (Project 4) Establish robust AI safety and security capabilities early on to take the lead in global AI governance- Outline of Policy Directions across four key areas of the AI ecosystem: (1) Fostering Startups and Talent, (2) Innovating Technology and Infrastructure, (3) Creating an Inclusive and Fair Environment, and (4) Securing Global LeadershipThe Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT), led by Minister Yoo Sang-im, announced that on September 26th, the “Policy Directions for National AI Strategies” was unveiled at the 1st meeting of the National AI Committee, chaired by President Yoon Suk Yeol and held at the Four Seasons Hotel in Seoul.Key Summary of the “Policy Directions for National AI Strategies”1. Background and SignificanceThe world is rapidly entering the AI era, marked by an unprecedented and expansive revolution. AI is no longer just a technological advancement; it is driving a profound shift that reshapes national economies and security. Major nations like the U.S., China, and the EU are racing to accelerate AI innovation and establish global leadership, viewing AI as crucial to their national survival.Since the current government took office, Korea has placed AI at the forefront of its agenda and launched President-led initiatives such as the “New York Initiative” (Sept. 2022), “Paris Initiative” (June 2023), “Digital Bill of Rights” (Sept. 2023), “AI-Semiconductor Initiative” (April 2024), and the “AI Seoul Summit” (May 2024). These efforts aim to boost AI competitiveness and shape global standards.Korea has developed a robust AI software ecosystem, producing several indigenous generative AI models, and boasts world-class semiconductor memory and manufacturing capabilities. However, as competition intensifies due to big tech companies with immense capital, there is a growing need for a paradigm shift in AI policies. Notably, Korea ranks third globally in generative AI models, with 11 developed domestically, following the U.S. (64) and China (42) as of July 2024 (source: EPOCH AI).Recognizing AI’s critical role in the next 30 years, the "Policy Directions for National AI Strategies" was created to provide a blueprint for Korea’s emergence as an AI G3 powerhouse, building on the country’s experiences from the digital revolution and the combined expertise of both public and private sectors.2. Shift in Policy ParadigmBy analyzing the successes and shortcomings of current AI policies, as well as considering the global AI market landscape and Korea’s potential, the policy aims to enhance AI innovation capabilities while addressing existing gaps with targeted support. The government will move beyond merely expanding the initial AI infrastructure to focus on scaling and integrating systems that private entities find difficult to build independently. In addition to direct investment, the government intends to greatly improve the landscape for private AI investments. Moreover, the government will establish AI as part of the national infrastructure, fostering transformation across all sectors and support public-private partnerships to help domestic companies venture into global markets.3. Vision and Implementation StrategyThe “Policy Directions for National AI Strategies” envisions establishing Korea as a "Global AI Hub through the Leap to AI G3." This vision is driven by four nationwide “AI Flagship Projects” and policy directions across four key areas of the AI ecosystem: (1) Expanding Startups and Talent, (2) Innovating Technology and Infrastructure, (3) Creating an Inclusive and Fair Environment, and (4) Securing Global Leadership. Vision Establish a Global AI Hub through the Leap to AI G3 Implementation Strategies [Four AI Flagship Projects] 1. Significant Expansion of National AI Computing Infrastructure 2. Substantial Increase in Private AI Investment 3. Comprehensive National AI Transformation (AI+X) 4. Securing AI Safety, Security, and Global Leadership [Four Core Policy Directions] 1. Fostering Startups and Talent 2. Innovating Technology and Infrastructure 3. Creating an Inclusive and Fair Environment 4. Securing Global Leadership Implementation Framework The National AI Committee will consolidate efforts between the government and private sector to drive these initiatives  4. Key ContentsDetails of the Four AI Flagship ProjectsSignificant Expansion of National AI Computing Infrastructure(Expand to over 2 exaflops (EF) by 2030, increasing current GPU capacity 15-fold)To bridge the current gap in AI computing infrastructure compared to major tech companies, Korea aims to expand its GPU capacity by more than 15 times by 2030, achieving over 2 exaflops. Efforts will also be made to commercialize domestic AI semiconductors. Through joint public-private investment, a “National AI Computing Center” will be established with a budget of up to KRW 2 trillion, alongside a low-interest loan program to support private sector expansion of AI computing infrastructure through 2027. This initiative aims to foster sustained private investment in AI computing infrastructure and provide world-class computing resources to companies and researchers. Furthermore, during the course of this initiative, the adoption of domestic AI semiconductors, such as NPUs (Neural Processing Units) and PIMs (Processing-In-Memory), will be promoted to nurture a specialized AI computing ecosystem in Korea, with a focus on developing and applying tailored hardware and software technologies. Moreover, efforts will be made to drive the globalization of Korea's AI computing ecosystem by supporting the export of domestic AI semiconductors through collaborations with global companies.Substantial Increase in Private AI Investment(4-year private investment totaling KRW 65 trillion from 2024 to 2027, supported by government measures to boost investments)Although private AI investment in Korea currently lags behind other major countries, a total of KRW 65 trillion in private investments will be made over the next four years (2024-2027). The government will support and incentivize these investments. As private companies expand their investments in AI technology, talent development, and computing infrastructure, the government will explore various tax benefits and expand policy finance measures, including the establishment of large-scale funds. This approach is intended to foster a virtuous investment cycle throughout the AI value chain, allowing Korea to actively engage in the growing global competition for AI dominance.Comprehensive National AI Transformation (AI+X)(Expand AI adoption across all sectors to achieve 70% in industries, 95% in the public sector by 2030)Beyond limited AI applications in specific sectors, a comprehensive AI transformation will be implemented across the entire nation, covering industry, public services, society, regional development, and defense. Customized AX(AI+X) plans will be created for eight key industries—such as manufacturing, finance, and medical biotechnology—that have high potential for AI adoption but currently exhibit slow transitions. To enhance public sector capabilities, the government will establish a government-wide AI platform, which will be used to develop AI-based services in 18 public domains (e.g., safety, disaster response, healthcare, etc.), resulting in tangible AI services that citizens can experience (public sector AI+X). Additionally, proactive measures will be taken to address employment shifts caused by AI, strengthen protections for vulnerable workers, and introduce AI-based digital textbooks starting in 2025 to transform public education. AI-based innovations in the healthcare system will also be pursued. The establishment of regional AI innovation hubs and the formulation of military AI security policies, alongside the expansion of AI infrastructure in defense, will contribute to the widespread use of AI in national defense. Through this comprehensive AI adoption strategy, Korea aims to achieve AI adoption rates of 70% in industries and 95% in the public sector by 2030, ultimately reshaping the entire economic structure and generating an economic impact of approximately KRW 310 trillion by 2026.Securing AI Safety, Security, and Global Leadership(Take the lead in global AI governance by securing AI safety and security capabilities early on)With the global rise of risks associated with advanced AI technologies—such as deepfake crimes and cyber threats—the importance of AI safety and security is becoming increasingly apparent. To systematically address the advanced risks of AI, Korea will establish a national AI Safety Research Center in November. Additionally, efforts will be made to achieve a balanced development of AI and ensure its safety and reliability by enacting an “AI Basic Act” within the year. The values and norms outlined in the “Seoul Declaration” will be promoted globally, and international cooperation will be expanded to encourage responsible use of AI in military and security contexts. Further efforts will be made to identify and support collaborative models between domestic and international companies, establish global AI research platforms like the AI Frontier Lab, and actively pursue AI-focused Official Development Assistance (ODA) initiatives to reinforce Korea’s position as a global AI leader.Details of the Four Core Policy DirectionsFostering AI Startups and Talent to Support AI InnovationWhile AI unicorn companies are emerging globally, Korea currently lacks its own AI unicorns, and there are ongoing challenges in securing AI talent. To address this, the government aims to nurture 10 AI unicorn companies by 2030 by creating a supportive environment for specialized AI startups and promoting M&A activities. Additionally, efforts will be made to simplify and globalize AI talent development, with the goal of securing 200,000 AI experts by 2030 (up from 51,000 in 2023).2) Advancing Core AI Technologies and Innovating AI InfrastructureJoint research hubs focusing on AI semiconductors will be established to strengthen technological cooperation with leading countries. Efforts will also focus on securing competitiveness in emerging AI markets, such as on-device AI. Regulatory reforms concerning personal data will support AI innovation in new industries, and mechanisms for utilizing high-quality copyrighted content will be improved to create a conducive environment for generative AI. Furthermore, innovations in low-latency and low-power edge networks will be pursued, and laws such as the “Special Act on the Expansion of the National Power Grid” will be enacted to manage increased AI traffic and power demand.3) Establishing a Sustainable Foundation for AI Development and ExpansionTo ensure that everyone benefits from AI, the government will work towards enacting a “Digital Inclusion Act,” guaranteeing universal access to AI. Moreover, a fair competition framework will be established to support AI innovation, along with a framework to protect legitimate rights. Measures to prevent unfair discrimination and privacy violations during AI development and use will also be implemented.Establishing New Norms for the AI Era and Leading Global AI GovernanceLegal frameworks will be developed to address emerging issues in the AI era, such as the allocation of responsibility and rights for AI decisions. In addition, protections will be put in place for individuals and vulnerable groups in an era of AI-based automated decision-making. As a global AI hub, Korea will continue to expand its cooperation with leading nations and international organizations, actively taking the lead in global AI governance discussions.5. Implementation FrameworkThe newly established National AI Committee will be responsible for establishing and implementing the “National AI Strategy” by translating the policy directions into concrete and actionable tasks. To achieve this, the committee will operate specialized subcommittees that include top private-sector experts and relevant ministries, who will work together to develop detailed initiatives and implementation plans. Additionally, dedicated support teams will provide structured support to ensure the committee’s smooth and efficient operation.During the meeting, President Yoon Suk Yeol, who chairs the National AI Committee, announced, "We are embarking on a national all-out effort to achieve our ambitious goal of becoming one of the top three global AI powerhouses (AI G3)." He further highlighted the committee’s role, stating, "The National AI Committee, inaugurated today, will serve as the central platform for fostering public-private cooperation, bringing together national innovation capabilities to spearhead a critical AI transformation. Together, we will design and shape the next 30 years, driven by AI."For further information, please contact the Public Relations Division (Phone: +82-44-202-4034, E-mail: msitmedia@korea.kr) of the Ministry of Science and ICT. Please refer to the attached PDF.

MSIT Accelerates Future Growth with a Transition to a Pioneering R&D System

◇ The Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT) has announced a record-high budget of KRW 19 trillion for 2025.- The 2025 R&D budget represents a 16.1% increase compared to 2024, reaching KRW 9.7 trillion.- Key investments will focus on pioneering R&D, AI and digital innovation, core talent and basic research, and strategic international cooperation.◇ The government's total R&D budget for 2025 will rise by 11.8% compared to 2024, amounting to KRW 29.7 trillion.The Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT), led by Minister Yoo Sang-im, announced that the total budget for the ministry, as outlined in the 2025 government budget and fund management plan, has been set at KRW 19 trillion. This marks a 5.9% increase from the KRW 17.9 trillion allocated in 2024.Since last year, the MSIT has been working to eliminate accumulated inefficiencies in R&D and improve outdated regulations. Efforts have included abolishing preliminary feasibility studies for R&D projects to allow for faster responses to technological changes, introducing support systems for innovative and ambitious R&D, and pushing for improvements in international R&D cooperation frameworks.For this overhaul of the R&D system, the MSIT has allocated KRW 9.7 trillion for R&D in 2025, a 16.1% increase compared to the KRW 8.4 trillion in 2024. This figure surpasses the KRW 9.1 trillion allocated in 2023 before any budget cuts, marking a 6.5% increase. This strategic expansion of investment is not just a restoration to previous budget levels but a targeted increase to accelerate the nation's future growth through a shift to pioneering R&D.[MSIT's Key Investment Areas]In 2025, the MSIT’s primary focus areas for investment, based on the restructured R&D system, are as follows:1. Supporting Pioneering R&D: KRW 3.64 trillion in 2024 → KRW 4.32 trillion in 2025To transition from a catch-up strategy to a pioneering R&D approach, the MSIT will allocate KRW 4.32 trillion, or 44% of its 2025 R&D budget, to this area. The primary focus will be on securing international leadership in three key “game-changing” technologies: artificial intelligence (AI) and semiconductors, advanced biotechnology, and quantum technology.In the AI field, efforts will focus on overcoming the limitations of generative AI by developing next-generation technologies and supporting innovations across the AI-semiconductor value chain. In biotechnology, the ministry will back innovations in gene regulation, gene editing, new drug development, and refractory cancer diagnostics, as well as the establishment of biotech foundries. For quantum technology, initiatives will include promoting mission-oriented projects, securing leading technologies based on international collaborations, and commercializing quantum sensors.Development of Pioneering AI-Semiconductor-Based Data Center Technologies:KRW 7.5 billion in 2024 → KRW 10 billion in 2025Development of Biotechnology and Medical Technology:KRW 304.3 billion in 2024 → KRW 368.4 billion in 2025Development and Commercialization of Quantum Sensor Technology:KRW 7.7 billion in 2024 → KRW 13.8 billion in 2025Development of Cloud-based Resource Sharing Technologies (K-Cloud) Using AI Semiconductors:KRW 37 billion in 2025 (new)Flagship Quantum Science and Technology Projects:KRW 25.2 billion in 2025 (new)Additionally, investments will be expanded in "innovative and ambitious R&D" projects. These are high-risk, high-reward initiatives that, although they have a high possibility of failure, have the potential to create significant breakthroughs if successful. The ministry plans to break away from the traditional management system and focus on supporting projects that are driven by responsible project managers who define challenging problems and pursue innovative approaches.Breakthrough R&D Projects:KRW 10 billion in 2024 → KRW 11.7 billion in 2025Development of Pioneering Digital Innovation Technologies:KRW 10 billion in 2024 → KRW 11.6 billion in 2025Innovative Small Modular Reactors:KRW 27.4 billion in 2024 → KRW 53 billion in 2025Development of Van der Waals Materials and Process Technology for ULSI Semiconductors:KRW 4 billion in 2025 (new)The ministry will also continue investing in key national strategic sectors such as next-generation nuclear power, advanced mobility, and hydrogen to secure technological leadership. Investments will also be increased for future energy sources, including nuclear fusion and renewable energy.Development of Key Technologies for Safe Storage and Disposal of Spent Nuclear Fuel:KRW 19.4 billion in 2024 → KRW 21.4 billion in 2025Hydrogen Technology Independence Project:KRW 3.4 billion in 2024 → KRW 10.3 billion in 2025Development of Key Technologies for Carbon-Free Energy:KRW 5.7 billion in 2025 (new)A budget of KRW 183.3 billion, a significant 83% increase from 2024, will be allocated to government-funded research institutes to support “Global Top” strategic research groups. This group will break down barriers between research institutes and play a pivotal role in leading R&D. Additionally, the MSIT will strengthen interdisciplinary research efforts among two or more research institutes to develop technologies that directly benefit the public, such as urban flood response technologies and building safety inspection systems.Support for “Global Top” Strategic Research Groups:KRW 100 billion in 2024 → KRW 183.3 billion in 2025Development of Urban Flood Response Technology (Joint Project of KICT KRRI, KIGAM and ETRI):KRW 8.4 billion in 2025 (new)Development of Vaccines and Therapeutics for Emerging Infectious Diseases (Joint Project of KRIBB and KRICT):KRW 8 billion in 2025 (new)Upcycling of Food Waste to Polymer Resources (Joint Project of KFRI, WIKIM, and KIOM)KRW 4 billion in 2025 (new)Digitalization of Safety Inspections for Buildings and Bridges (Joint Project of KICT and KRISS):KRW 6.8 billion in 2025 (new)Development of Ultra-High-Density Semiconductor Stacking Technology (Joint Project of KITECH and KIMM)KRW 6.4 billion in 2025 (new)2. AI and Digital Innovation:KRW 0.84 trillion in 2024 → KRW 0.88 trillion in 2025The MSIT plans to boost productivity across industries and create quality jobs by expanding the use of artificial intelligence (AI) throughout society, ultimately improving the quality of life for citizens. Investments will be directed toward applying AI to industries such as manufacturing, finance, and logistics to create new markets, as well as identifying and commercializing AI-convergence services in collaboration with other government ministries. As a follow-up to the AI Seoul Summit 2024, the MSIT will expand support for leading global initiatives such as establishing AI safety research centers to play a pivotal role in shaping the international AI and digital order.Support for AI Semiconductor Demonstration:KRW 18.8 billion in 2024 → KRW 24.4 billion in 2025K-CareNetwork Based on Digital Innovation Technology:KRW 4 billion in 2024 → KRW 6 billion in 2025Establishing a Foundation for Digital Order and Supporting International Expansion (including the Operation of the AI Safety Research Center):KRW 3.8 billion in 2024 → KRW 5.8 billion in 2025AI Innovation Fund:KRW 45 billion in 2025 (new)Support for Sustainable Data Center Industry:KRW 9.5 billion in 2025 (new)The MSIT will also strengthen investments in creating a safe and inclusive AI and digital environment for citizens. This includes permanently operating digital education centers nationwide and establishing an AI-based intelligent information security system to combat increasingly covert and sophisticated cyber threats.Promoting Use of Encryption:KRW 700 million in 2024 → KRW 3.9 billion in 2025Open-RAN Testbed Establishment:KRW 1 billion in 2024 → KRW 3.9 billion in 2025Applying and Expanding Secure Software Supply Chain Management System:KRW 6 billion in 2025 (new)3. Fostering Core Talent and Expanding Basic Research:KRW 3.21 trillion in 2024 → KRW 3.57 trillion in 2025The MSIT will focus on nurturing talent to lead Korea’s future by creating a stable research environment and enhancing AI and digital education. This includes supporting core talent in emerging technologies. In particular, the ministry plans to introduce a stipend program for graduate students in STEM fields, ensuring they can fully dedicate themselves to their research.Science and Technology Innovation Talent Development:KRW 52.1 billion in 2024 → KRW 59.9 billion in 2025ICT Broadcasting Innovation Talent Development:KRW 105.4 billion in 2024 → KRW 130.4 billion in 2025Graduate Student Stipend for STEM Fields:KRW 60 billion in 2025 (new)Support for AI Fellowship Program:KRW 6 billion in 2025 (new)Training for Future International Nuclear Power Specialists:KRW 2 billion in 2025 (new)The MSIT will allocate its largest-ever budget for basic research, which serves as the foundation for innovation. New initiatives will support pioneering research in emerging fields, while follow-up studies by high-performing researchers will receive expanded support. Additionally, a new "National Agenda Basic Research" initiative will be introduced, offering strategic "middle-up" support for basic research that aligns with government policies and societal needs.Support for Individual Basic Research:KRW 1.6982 trillion in 2024 → KRW 1.9108 trillion in 2025Support for Collaborative Research Initiatives:KRW 419.7 billion in 2024 → KRW 430.4 billion in 20254. Strengthening Strategic International Cooperation:KRW 1.13 trillion in 2024 → KRW 1.25 trillion in 2025To respond to the global competition for technological supremacy and expand Korea's role in the international scientific community, investments in international scientific and technological cooperation will continue to increase. First, international joint research with leading advanced countries will be actively pursued. The scale of ongoing international joint research projects in the three key transformative areas (game-changers) – artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and quantum technology – as well as in the semiconductor and materials sectors, will be expanded. Additionally, new international joint research initiatives will be launched in the field of carbon neutrality. Furthermore, Korea will officially participate in Horizon Europe, the world's largest multilateral research and innovation program, following the successful conclusion of negotiations for associate membership in March this year, and efforts will be made to encourage the participation of Korean researchers.Digital Biotechnology Development:KRW 15 billion in 2024 → KRW 28.3 billion in 2025International Joint Research in Semiconductors and Displays:KRW 3.41 billion in 2024 → KRW 7.39 billion in 2025International Joint Research in Digital Innovation Technology:KRW 2.93 billion in 2024 → KRW 6.46 billion in 2025AI Research Hub Establishment:KRW 4 billion in 2024 → KRW 10 billion in 2025Strengthening International Cooperation in Quantum Technology:KRW 7.78 billion in 2024 → KRW 16.6 billion in 2025Connecting Global Young Researchers in Materials Science:KRW 7.875 billion in 2024 → KRW 15.9 billion in 2025International C.L.E.A.N. (Climate, Energy, and Environment Action Network):KRW 4.03 billion in 2025 (new)The MSIT will also bolster the foundation for international science and technology cooperation. Taking advantage of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit to be held in South Korea next November, a pilot program supporting exchanges between scientists from countries within the Asia-Pacific region will be launched. The role of international science and technology cooperation hubs will be enhanced by providing support for overseas information gathering and networking. Furthermore, collaboration with the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) and research development zones in Korea will be expanded to support overseas expansion for researchers and tech companies.Building Foundations for International Cooperation:KRW 24 billion in 2024 → KRW 38.1 billion in 2025APEC Scientist Exchange Expansion:KRW 2.55 billion in 2025 (new)International Boost-Up Project:KRW 5 billion in 2025 (new)[2025 Government R&D Budget: KRW 29.7 Trillion]Meanwhile, the total government R&D budget for 2025 will amount to KRW 29.7 trillion, an 11.8% increase from 2024 (KRW 26.5 trillion), marking a record high. Given that the overall government expenditure is expected to rise by only 3.2%, this indicates a significant increase in the R&D sector compared to other fields.The key areas for the government's R&D investments in 2025 are as follows:1. Driving National Innovation through Game-Changing Technologies and Innovative and Ambitious R&DThe government will expand strategic investments to achieve G3 status by 2030 in three key game-changing technologies: AI-semiconductors, advanced biotechnology, and quantum technology. Additionally, KRW 1 trillion will be allocated to support innovative and ambitious R&D activities, fostering a dynamic research environment.Three Game-Changing Technologies:KRW 2.7 trillion in 2024 → KRW 3.5 trillion in 2025Innovative and Ambitious R&D:KRW 0.7 trillion in 2024 → KRW 1 trillion in 20252. Building a Pioneering R&D EcosystemThe government plans to deliver unprecedented support for basic research, fostering a diverse and resilient domestic R&D ecosystem. A new stipend program will be introduced to create a stable research environment for full-time graduate students, while international cooperation will be enhanced through participation in global initiatives like Horizon Europe.Basic Research:KRW 2.6 trillion in 2024 → KRW 2.9 trillion in 2025Talent Development:KRW 0.8 trillion in 2024 → KRW 1 trillion in 2025International R&D:KRW 1.8 trillion in 2024 → KRW 2.2 trillion in 20253. Supporting Cutting-Edge Technologies for Dynamic Economic GrowthThe government will increase investments in technology development to secure a 'super gap' in key advanced industries, such as semiconductors, displays, and secondary batteries, while also supporting emerging growth sectors like space exploration and next-generation nuclear power. Corporate R&D will be supported in scaling up technologies and commercializing core technologies. Additionally, by diversifying funding methods, such as integrating investments with loans, the government aims to accelerate innovation in companies with strong capabilities and help them achieve self-sustainability.Cutting-Edge Technologies:KRW 2 trillion in 2024 → KRW 2.4 trillion in 2025Technology Sovereignty and New Growth Engine:KRW 2.9 trillion in 2024 → KRW 3.3 trillion in 2025Corporate Innovation Ladder:KRW 1.3 trillion in 2024 → KRW 1.4 trillion in 20254. Science and Technology for National SafetyIn the defense sector, investments will focus on enhancing the competitiveness of defense technologies and strengthening collaborations between civilian and military sectors. The government will also enhance R&D for disaster response and safety to address emerging threats, such as digital crimes and large-scale industrial accidents.Defense:KRW 2.9 trillion in 2024 → KRW 3.1 trillion in 2025Disaster-response and Safety:KRW 1.9 trillion in 2024 → KRW 2.1 trillion in 2025The 2025 budget proposal, including the fund management plan, was approved by the Cabinet on August 27th and will be sent to the National Assembly on September 2nd. During the regular National Assembly session, the standing committees will conduct a preliminary review, followed by a full-scale review by the Budget Committee. The final budget will be determined after amendments and a vote in the plenary session.Minister Yoo Sang-im stated, "The 2025 budget proposal for the MSIT prioritizes key investments in areas critical for the transition to pioneering R&D, building on last year’s structural improvements. We will make bold investments in promising technologies that are challenging for the private sector to develop, and nurture the core talent that is the foundation of national competitiveness. Next year will mark the start of Korea's leap into the future."For further information, please contact the Public Relations Division (Phone: +82-44-202-4034, E-mail: msitmedia@korea.kr) of the Ministry of Science and ICT. Plaese refer to the attached PDF.

MSIT, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, promotes the training of specialized S&T diplomacy personnel.

- MSIT opens the 2024 Science and Technology Diplomacy Academy with two directors from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as lecturers, strengthening inter-ministerial cooperation. - Online/offline training courses offered for participants from the science and technology industry, academia, and research sectors involved in international cooperation. ​ The Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT) announced that it will hold the 2024 Science and Technology Diplomacy Academy starting August 28. The academy is an online/offline educational program launched in 2021 by collaboration of MSIT, the Korea Institute of Science and Technology Evaluation and Planning (KISTEP), and the National Research Foundation (NRF) of Korea. The program provides training on technology cooperation strategies, science and technology diplomacy policies, international trends, and practical skills for international cooperation for participants involved in international cooperation from companies, universities, and research institutes. ​ The lecturers of the academy include experts on international cooperation systems, projects, and policies. This year, leveraging the strengthened inter-ministerial cooperation, following the joint hosting of the AI Seoul Summit by MSIT and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), directors from MOFA’s Treaty Division and International Science and Technology Norms Division will give lectures on the overview of international agreements, the process of their conclusion, and global technical standards. ​ Lee Jun-Hee, Director of the International Science and Technology Norms Division at MOFA, emphasized, "The international community is rapidly advancing in establishing governance and norms for key emerging technologies, which are directly related to national security and international competitiveness." He added, "We plan to deepen cooperation between the two ministries to train the specialized personnel needed for science and technology diplomacy as Korea advances as a global leader." ​ Hwang Sung-Hoon, Director General for the International Cooperation Bureau at MSIT, also emphasized, "As the competition for technological supremacy intensifies and international joint research in science and technology becomes more active, the importance of training personnel to drive this is greater than ever." He added, "MSIT and MOFA will closely cooperate to foster and utilize science and technology diplomacy personnel who will lead the globalization of Korean science and technology." ​ For further information, please contact the Public Relations Division (Phone: +82-44-202-4034, E-mail: msitmedia@korea.kr) of the Ministry of Science and ICT. ​ Please refer to the attached PDF.