Developing Future Technologies Such as DNA Memory and Bionic Suits

Ministry of Science and ICT Secures Core Original Technologies in Untapped Fields
Calls for New Projects Including Future Promising Convergence Technology Pioneers and Science-Technology-Humanities-Social Sciences Convergence Research Programs

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Bong-su] The government is embarking on the development of future technologies such as DNA memory capable of storing ultra-large capacity big data and 'bionic suits' that enable people with disabilities to function like able-bodied individuals.

The Ministry of Science and ICT will open a call for new projects (totaling 51.3 billion KRW) starting from the 23rd for the Future Promising Convergence Technology Pioneer Project and the Science and Technology-Humanities and Social Sciences Convergence Research Project, aimed at securing core original technologies in unexplored fields such as DNA memory and wearable bionic suits embedded in clothing.

The Future Promising Convergence Technology Pioneer Project supports research in unexplored fields through the convergence of two or more technologies or groups, with the goal of creating mid- to long-term future growth engines. In this call, eight new projects will be selected, including a memory system capable of permanently storing large amounts of information in DNA, a sensory and muscle strength simultaneous assistive bionic suit wearable inside clothing, and a convergence system that simultaneously captures carbon dioxide and generates electricity using seawater, with each project receiving 5.4 billion KRW in support over five years.

The Science and Technology-Humanities and Social Sciences Convergence Research Project will select three new projects (each supported with 2.7 billion KRW over five years), including the development of a sensory-based interface to replace smartphone touchpads for enhancing infant cognitive abilities and behavioral analysis research, the creation of digital content that integrates psychiatry and art to improve anxiety symptoms, and the evaluation of walking environments and development of autonomous wheelchairs for the elderly.

Lee Chang-yoon, Director of Basic Original Research Policy at the Ministry of Science and ICT, stated, "Mission-oriented convergence research is essential to respond to the rapidly changing issues of future society," adding, "Through support for the development of core original technologies in unexplored fields, we aim to contribute to South Korea’s ability to secure future promising technologies."