South Korea Names 100 National Scientists, Seeks 2,000 Global Experts

Government Launches Ambitious Plan to Cultivate Scientific Talent

The government has unveiled a comprehensive strategy aimed at strengthening South Korea’s scientific and technological landscape. The initiative includes selecting 100 national scientists and attracting 2,000 overseas researchers by 2030. This move is part of a broader effort to reverse the trend of talent outflow and ensure that the country remains competitive in key technological fields.

Selecting 100 National Scientists by 2030

To address the issue of talent retention, the Ministry of Science and ICT plans to designate domestic researchers with exceptional achievements as “National Scientists.” These individuals will be selected annually, with 20 chosen each year over the next five years, totaling approximately 100 by 2030. Each selected scientist will receive around 100 million Korean won in annual research support funds, allowing them to continue their R&D work without financial constraints.

In addition to this, the government has announced plans to expand AI education by establishing new AI gifted schools in North Chungcheong Province and Gwangju. Existing AI science and gifted schools will also be expanded. Regional science and technology institutes will be designated as AX innovation hubs, further promoting collaboration and innovation.

Attracting Overseas Researchers

The plan also focuses on attracting 2,000 overseas outstanding and emerging researchers by 2030. These researchers will be concentrated in core strategic technology areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and advanced biotechnology. To make South Korea more attractive for international researchers, the government will improve study visa conditions. This includes extending the internship allowance period from six to 12 months and increasing the job-seeking period from two to three years.

A fast-track system for permanent residency or naturalization will be expanded, making it easier for overseas researchers to settle in South Korea. The scope of this program will be broadened beyond existing government-funded science institutes and UST faculty to include general universities.

Expanding Economic Support for STEM Students

Economic support for students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields will see significant expansion. The graduate school scholarship rate, which currently stands at around 1.3%, will be increased to 10% by 2030. Additionally, the number of universities offering research living stipends will grow from 35 to 55.

Public sector job opportunities for young and emerging researchers will also increase. This includes expanding university faculty and professional research positions. The number of emerging researchers hired by government-funded research institutes will be raised to 600 annually, providing more pathways for career development in the field.

Supporting Researchers to Focus Solely on Research

To streamline the research process, the government will reform the research fund management system. This includes allowing 10% of direct costs to be used autonomously and transitioning indirect costs to a negative regulation system. Administrative forms previously required by various ministries and specialized agencies will be minimized to only essential ones, with other data requests fundamentally prohibited.

Vision for a Future of Innovation

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Science and ICT Bae Kyung-hoon emphasized the importance of this initiative during the “National Report Meeting for a Korea Where Citizens Dream of Becoming Scientists and Engineers Again.” He stated, “The government aims to leap toward an R&D ecosystem where outstanding talents gather, conduct research freely, and create innovative achievements.”

He added, “By properly utilizing the record-high R&D budget of 35 trillion Korean won, we will realize a Korea where citizens dream of becoming scientists and engineers again, and build a science and technology powerhouse where scientists and engineers take responsibility for the future.”