[Asia Exclusive] "Space Development, Time to Properly Organize Systems and Get Things Done"

Lee Sang-ryul, Director of Korea Aerospace Research Institute, Dedicated 35 Years to Research and Development

[Interview and Summary = Asia Economy Reporter Kim Bong-su] "If we think about the future of the nation, investment in space development is a given."

Recently, with the launch of Korea's own space launch vehicle Nuriho, independent space development has officially begun. However, there are still many criticisms that as a latecomer, there is a long way to go. Starting decades later than space powers like the United States, it is difficult to catch up with American private companies such as SpaceX, which are a step ahead in commercialization and technology.

Regarding this, Lee Sang-ryul, President of the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI), said in an interview with Asia Economy on the 2nd, "That discussion is over," and raised his voice, saying, "Now is the time to think about how to do better."

He emphasized the need to properly undertake work through the establishment of a national space development system capable of rational decision-making. On the occasional 'political headwinds' that frustrate scientists, he also gave a harsh critique, saying, "Experts' opinions must be respected." The following is a Q&A with President Lee.

- Please share your thoughts on the development and launch of Nuriho.

△ Strictly speaking, we cannot say the Nuriho launch was a success. However, from the moment of liftoff, all stages such as stage separation and fairing separation proceeded very smoothly, and the problem occurred only at the end. Verification was conducted on each step we performed. Everyone is confident. Other countries usually fail up to the third attempt before succeeding. In that sense, our start was not bad. The cause of the third-stage liquid engine shutting down 46 seconds early has not yet been identified. We are reviewing all data from the moment of liftoff.

- There are still criticisms asking, "Why should we develop space?"

△ When we conduct our own public opinion polls or statistics, nine out of ten citizens support space development. It was a controversial issue 20 to 30 years ago, but not anymore. Considering South Korea's national status and future, it is naturally necessary. We must move beyond the debate of whether to do it or not and focus on "how to do it better." If the nation does not give up on technology or the future, space development is essential. Space security, space economy, and space industry competitiveness have become factors that determine national power.

- Your position as a latecomer is ambiguous.

△ Appropriate strategic positioning is essential. Compared to 30 years ago, much has been achieved in space development. We have built satellites and launch vehicles. However, recently, the space development field, which had been progressing slowly, has suddenly become a stage of innovation. Choosing the path we should take in such times is a difficult decision. There are voices calling for bold challenges to innovative and pioneering technologies, and others argue for optimizing what has traditionally been done. We must carry both pillars simultaneously and find our own path.

- How will you resolve obstacles to the independent launch of lunar probes?

△ If the U.S. refuses to sell components for Korean launch vehicle payloads based on the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), independent development is not impossible. However, responding emotionally to ITAR regulations could provoke further emotional responses. Diplomatic solutions must be pursued simultaneously. I understand the government is trying to resolve this by communicating with the U.S. side whenever possible. On the other hand, there may be ways to obtain U.S. approval on a case-by-case basis. Since the U.S. is strengthening international cooperation in space development through programs like Artemis, we should strategically utilize such aspects.

- What are your thoughts on the discussion about establishing a Space Agency?

△ We are in a developmental process. Let's return to basics. Compared to when there was nothing in space development, we are receiving tremendous investment. However, times have changed, and space development is undergoing innovation. Even in the U.S., NASA is now trailing SpaceX in the launch vehicle sector. Since space development has officially begun, we need to discuss how to succeed, and one of those is the Space Agency. The name is not important; what matters is whether it is a system that can make decisions efficiently. If that is achieved, it does not matter what it is called. Especially, KARI was designated as a specialized space development institute in December 2016, but no details have been decided regarding relationships with other space policy organizations. We must pool wisdom and transform it into a system that can outperform other countries.

- Please explain the Korean Positioning System (KPS) project, which will be in full swing from next year.

△ It will be a flagship project with an investment of about 4 trillion won. It is a declaration of independence for national infrastructure information in Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT). Although the U.S. allows free use of its Global Positioning System (GPS), some question whether it is necessary. However, if at some point diplomatic issues arise between countries causing suspension or interference, national infrastructure will be shaken. This would halt all industries including finance and ICT. Especially in the Fourth Industrial Revolution era, ultra-precise PNT information is essential for autonomous vehicles, drones, and Urban Air Mobility (UAM).

- What message would you like to convey to the public, future generations, and your family?

△ After the Nuriho launch, I received a lot of encouragement from the public. I will do my best for the success of the second launch next year. Honestly, I feel very uneasy these days. Although the researchers have achieved great results, the outside world is changing too fast with unimaginable innovations. I hope younger generations look far ahead and dream boldly and challengingly. Only then, when I retire at my age, I can comfortably step down with pride in being the best in the world. Not all dreams come true, but if you don't dream, nothing happens. If more people take a long-term view and challenge, since our country has excellent talents, I believe the world’s number one in space development will soon emerge. To my family, I am always sorry for being busy. They say, "He is a proud person to outsiders, but why does it have to be our dad?"

Profile - Who is Lee Sang-ryul, President of KARI?

Since joining the former Korea Astronomy and Space Science Institute in 1986, he has covered all research fields from aircraft to satellites, space launch vehicles, and lunar exploration, contributing to most major achievements. He was a key figure in developing the Arirang series, Korea’s proud high-performance multipurpose practical satellites, leading the entire development and launch process as project leader for Arirang 3 and 5. Recently, he led the lunar exploration project team, overseeing system development and launch preparations for the 2022 lunar orbiter launch, and laid the groundwork for the lunar lander planned for 2030. For these contributions, he received the National Medal in 2000, the Science and Technology Medal (Woongbi) in 2007, the National Intelligence Service Director’s Award in 2002, and was selected as one of Korea’s Top 100 Technologies and Leaders by the Korean Academy of Engineering in 2010. He graduated from Seoul National University with a degree in Aeronautical Engineering in 1984, earned master’s degrees in Aeronautical Engineering from Seoul National University Graduate School, in Launch Vehicles and Satellites from the French National Aerospace Institute, and in Automatic Control and Space Applications from Paul Sabatier University, where he also earned his doctorate in Automatic Control and Space Applications. He took office on March 23 and will serve a three-year term until March 2024.