New Minister of Science and ICT Emphasizes AI: "Our Competitiveness Lies in Speed"

Minister Yusangim of Science and ICT Inaugurated on the 16th

Newly appointed Minister of Science and ICT Yusang-im stated in his inaugural speech, "In a situation where the development of science, technology, and digital innovation technologies determines the fate of the nation, our country must preempt strategic technologies ahead of leading countries and continuously secure talented personnel." Minister Yu pledged to actively foster the three major game-changing technologies?artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors, advanced bio, and quantum?and to transform the system into a leading research and development (R&D) system while expanding support for science and technology personnel.

Minister Yoo Sang-im of the Ministry of Science and ICT visited the National Daejeon National Cemetery in Yuseong-gu, Daejeon Metropolitan City, on the afternoon of the 16th. After paying respects at the Memorial Tower, he is seen signing the guestbook. Photo by Ministry of Science and ICT

At the inauguration ceremony held on the afternoon of the 16th at the Sejong Ministry of Science and ICT building, Minister Yu presented four major policy directions: securing leadership in the three major game-changing technology fields of AI, semiconductors, advanced bio, and quantum; transforming the R&D system into a leading model; fostering science and technology personnel; and promoting livelihood stabilization policies that the public can feel.

During the confirmation hearing, Minister Yu, who had said he had not used AI before, mentioned AI first. He emphasized opening the G3 era in the AI field, developing services together with the industry, building an overseas expansion ecosystem, and working hard to establish AI computing infrastructure and next-generation networks to support this.

Minister Yu pledged to focus on establishing a new digital order and enacting a basic AI law, and to lead the National Artificial Intelligence Committee, which will launch in September, to become an "AI big tent."

As a researcher himself, Minister Yu announced plans to create an investment portfolio centered on national strategic technologies, growth engines, overseas joint research, and talent development to promote leading R&D. In particular, he urged the successful completion of abolishing the R&D preliminary feasibility study system and improving the evaluation system, which were announced by his predecessor Minister Lee Jong-ho but have yet to be finalized, as well as the innovation of government-funded research institutes.

He also strongly emphasized that government-funded research institutes in science and technology must innovate to become institutions that lead national core projects through collective intelligence, befitting their status.

Regarding the nurturing of science and engineering talent, Minister Yu said, "I will ensure that many talented individuals who will lead our country's future can dream of becoming scientists and engineers," and stated that through expanding scholarships for outstanding science and engineering university students, researchers will feel pride and dignity, and society will create an atmosphere that empathizes with their dedication and efforts. He also promised to actively reflect voices from the field to resolve the lack of communication raised during the R&D budget cut process.

Minister Yu also presented plans to implement livelihood policies that the public can feel. He emphasized efforts to alleviate household burdens through promoting competition in the telecommunications market, expanding AI accessibility for all citizens, providing high-quality broadcasting and media services, and building a safe digital environment free from network failures and malicious cyberattacks.

Minister Yu urged, "Our competitiveness comes from speed," and said, "As the ministry responsible for science, technology, and digital platforms that must unite the capabilities of all ministries and the private sector, let us lead changes in technology and industry and proceed with what needs to be done swiftly."