Candidate Yusangim: "Doing Our Best to Reflect R&D Budget"... Dismissing Criticism of Lack of Expertise

First Day at Work on the 19th to Prepare for Confirmation Hearing
"Global Tech Hegemony Competition and Critical Times"
"Communication with All Sectors... Securing Tech Sovereignty"

Candidate for Minister of Science and ICT, Yu Sang-im, stated on the 19th, "I will do my best to actively communicate not only with experts from various fields but also with on-site researchers to ensure that the necessary research and development (R&D) budget is reflected."

Professor Yu Sang-im of the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Seoul National University, nominated as the Minister of Science and ICT, is answering questions from the press as he enters the confirmation hearing preparation office set up at Gwanghwamun Post Office in Jongno-gu, Seoul on the 19th. Photo by Jo Yong-jun jun21@

On the same day, Yu met with reporters at Gwanghwamun in Jongno-gu, Seoul, where his office was set up to prepare for the confirmation hearing, and made these remarks.

He emphasized, "In an era where technological hegemony competition is taking place worldwide, it is important for our country to recover and secure technological sovereignty," adding, "I will strive to innovate the R&D system to support South Korea in gaining global leadership in strategic technology fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), quantum technology, and advanced biotechnology."

He also mentioned, "There were regrettable shortcomings in communication with the science and technology community during the recent R&D budget allocation process."

Regarding criticism about his lack of expertise in the ICT field, Yu responded, "Information and communication is a field represented by AI semiconductors, and I am someone who has worked in materials and components," but added, "Since I have worked on materials and components necessary for the ICT field, I believe I have sufficient understanding of that area."

He continued, "I will carefully examine each issue and reflect them in policies through good judgment and communication."

Addressing opinions that his background as an academic might limit his policy implementation and negotiation skills in the National Assembly, he said, "Many academics also demonstrate leadership and have considerable influence in various policy and communication aspects," and expressed confidence, "I am confident that I can communicate smoothly with the political circles in Yeouido and the industrial sector."

He added, "If you become a recognized expert in any field, you have the ability to understand and make judgments in that area," and said, "My background is in materials and components, but my accumulated research experience and leadership will be helpful."

Finally, he stated, "The important thing is to communicate smoothly with more experts," and vowed, "This is a very critical time. We must win the digital competition with advanced countries to have a future."