[Tech War, Birth of Advanced Nations] "Young People Must Have Goals... Strong Will of Rulers Is Important"

Interview with Cho Wankyu, First Generation of Korean Science and Technology, Former President of Seoul National University

Asia Exclusive_Cho Wankyu, Former President of Seoul National University./Photo by Kim Hyunmin kimhyun81@

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Bong-su] "The foundation for South Korea's economic growth, which emerged from the devastation of the Korean War, was science and technology. We must support young people so they can have dreams and work hard, and above all, the strong will and action of those in power are crucial."

Jo Wankyu, former president of Seoul National University (94), a first-generation elder representative of Korea's science and technology community, spoke about the past 80 years during which our country, once a wasteland that was not even a developing country, earned the title of an advanced nation. After graduating from Seoul National University’s Department of Biology in 1958, shortly after the Korean War, Jo is one of the few surviving elders of the first-generation group who laid the foundation for Korea’s science and technology, which was practically a barren field at the time. He notably contributed internationally by attracting the International Vaccine Institute, proposed by the United Nations (UN), to Korea, helping to eradicate infectious diseases in underdeveloped and low-income countries. This also contributed to the advancement of Korea’s vaccine research and manufacturing technology. Currently, Jo serves as the standing advisor of the Korea Support Committee for the International Vaccine Institute, dedicating passion comparable to that of an active professional. On the 9th, we met him at the institute located in Nakseongdae, Gwanak-gu, Seoul, and asked about the tasks for Korea to become a leading science and technology nation. The following is a Q&A with former President Jo.

- Is Korea a leading country in science and technology?

△ Science covers many fields, but overall, it is still insufficient. The most important thing is manpower development. Science is becoming less popular among young students. Later, they become doctors or lawyers. The system for nurturing scientists needs improvement. The foundation for Korea becoming one of the world’s top 10 economies after the devastation of the Korean War was science and technology.

- Korea has not won a Nobel Prize yet, and is still far from being a first mover.

△ Let’s look at Japan’s example. If Japan has a budget of 10 billion won, about 2 billion won is spent on research collaboration, exchanges, and consultations with foreign Nobel laureates. We have been too neglectful and stingy about such international research cooperation. We need to do better from now on. Korea has people worthy of winning a Nobel Prize. If we discover and nurture them a little better, they can win in the future. Recently, I became chairman of an organization called ‘Science Kiwoom’ to promote the creation of Nobel laureates.

Asia Invitation_Cho Wankyu, Former President of Seoul National University./Photo by Hyunmin Kim kimhyun81@

- What conditions must a leading country in science and technology have?

△ Being a leading country is not just about science and technology. A high moral standard and financial power are also necessary. Education is important too. Nowadays, Korean parents send their children to university unconditionally, but looking at BTS or ‘Squid Game,’ the idea that success only comes from going to university is outdated. When educating children, we should first find the field that matches their preferences and talents, and if necessary for achievement, then send them to university.

- What should be done to become a leading country?

△ It is most important that young people have clear goals and work hard for their own achievements. Ultimately, it depends on the will of those in power. The president must have the will to foster science and technology to revitalize and develop our economy. There should also be preferential treatment for those who have contributed to science and technology. When the first awardees were selected, I was disappointed that a vice minister, not a prime minister or minister, came out to present the certificate.

- Conflicts in our society are becoming more serious.

△ Older people need to help young people succeed, and young people need to value and respect the elderly. Generational conflict is of no help at all.