Strategist Who Led Quantum and Space, Vice Minister Lee Changyoon Concludes 30 Years of Public Service

Lee Changyoon Bids Farewell as First Vice Minister of Science and ICT on July 15
A Leader Who Advanced Strategic Technologies such as Quantum, Space, and Semiconductors

"It was not my personal abilities that made this time meaningful. It was thanks to all of you here."

On July 15, with his farewell ceremony, former First Vice Minister of Science and ICT Lee Changyoon concluded his approximately 30 years and 3 months of public service. He stated, "It may seem short or long depending on perspective, but for me, it was a rewarding and honorable time."

Vice Minister Lee, who passed the 30th Higher Civil Service Examination, held key positions including Director General for R&D Policy, Director General for Basic and Source Technology Policy, and Director General for Public Research Policy. During his term, he took the lead in fostering strategic technologies such as space, semiconductors, and quantum technology. In the quantum field, he presented the vision of "2025 as the first year of industrialization" and established cooperation channels with the United States and Switzerland. In May, he visited the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Vienna, Austria, to discuss cooperation based on small modular reactors (SMRs). Earlier this year, he also reviewed the MIT-KAIST platform, directly overseeing the foundation for Korea-US science and technology cooperation.

During the farewell speeches, one official recalled a lunchtime conversation asking, "Do aliens really exist?" and said, "I remember the Vice Minister saying it would be stranger if we were the only ones in this vast universe." He added, "He was a leader who never lost his curiosity and imagination, and who always contemplated a vision for human civilization."

Gu Hyukchae, who was appointed as the new First Vice Minister, also said in his farewell speech, "Although he is my senior in age, we started our public service careers together in 1995," and added, "He was always a senior who paved the way ahead of us."

Song Wanho, Director of Basic Research Promotion, who also volunteered to give a farewell speech, said, "Even when he had to make complex decisions, he always put people first as a leader." He continued, "Through the Basic Research Strategy Dialogue, which he consistently maintained, I expect to see meaningful changes in the field before long." He concluded his remarks by saying, "I hope you visit all your favorite local restaurants and enjoy cycling as much as you like," bidding a fond farewell.

In closing, Vice Minister Lee said, "Now, as a civilian, I hope to become a senior who can at least treat you to a meal." He added heartfelt advice to his junior colleagues in public service, saying, "Your work is not what matters most. You, yourselves, are the most important."