[2025 Audit] NST Chairman Kim Youngsik: "Tried to Prevent R&D Cuts... Deeply Regretful"

Pursuing Structural Reforms Toward 'Top 3 in AI' Following the Abolition of PBS

Kim Youngsik, Chairman of the National Research Council of Science and Technology (NST), expressed his regret regarding the controversy over the Yoon Suk Yeol administration's cuts to the research and development (R&D) budget, stating, "I tried my best to prevent it, but the outcome was not as intended," and added, "I am deeply disappointed." He also mentioned that, following the abolition of the Project-Based System (PBS), the NST will work to improve the structure of government-funded research institutes and establish artificial intelligence (AI) research centers to support the government's goal of making Korea one of the top three AI powers.

On October 24, at the National Assembly audit held at the Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI) in Daejeon, Chairman Kim said, "As a scientist, I believe there were problems in the budget allocation process," and added, "I thought it was wrong." Last year, while serving as the ruling party secretary during the R&D budget cuts, he joined in raising concerns about the so-called "R&D cartel." However, he clarified, "My intention was to improve efficiency, not to support the budget cuts."

On the 24th, at the National Assembly audit held at the Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI) in Daejeon, Kim Youngsik, Chairman of the National Research Council of Science and Technology, is listening attentively to the questions from the lawmakers. Photo by Yonhap News

He further stated, "With the upcoming abolition of PBS, government-funded research institutes are pursuing structural changes to improve their research environment." PBS is a system in which government-funded institutes cover personnel costs and other expenses by undertaking government projects. The system has long been criticized for reducing researchers' focus due to competition for projects and administrative burdens. The current administration is pursuing a phased abolition of this system.

The NST oversees and manages 23 government-funded science and technology research institutes. Chairman Kim emphasized, "We will establish AI research centers and expand data infrastructure to strengthen the nation's technological sovereignty," and added, "True technological sovereignty is achieved when researchers are respected and their achievements benefit the lives of the people."

He also acknowledged, "We are aware of the disparities in research capabilities and budgets among government-funded institutes," and explained, "Since April last year, we have been implementing a system to support and supplement the unique capabilities of each institution."

Within the science and technology community, Chairman Kim's remarks are being interpreted as an acknowledgment of the administration's initial stance on R&D budget cuts, while also signaling an effort to restore trust at research sites through structural improvements centered on government-funded institutes.