Korea unveils roadmap for AI, bio, and quantum technology

The South Korean government is setting its sights on the future by identifying artificial intelligence (AI) and chips, advanced biotechnology, and quantum technology as the top three game-changing technologies. In a recent meeting of the Presidential Advisory Council on Science and Technology, plans were unveiled to strengthen investment and the value chain in these sectors by 2030.

The AI and chip initiative aims to enhance national competitiveness in AI and maintain the brand power of Korean semiconductors. The government has identified nine technological tasks, including the development of artificial general intelligence (AGI) and lightweight, low-power AI technology. The goal is to cultivate AI technology capable of human-like thought and behavior, with intelligence levels surpassing those of adult humans by 50 percent.

The advanced biotechnology initiative seeks to promote advanced bio as the nation’s next major industry after semiconductors. Plans for this sector include cultivating digital bio and integrating data, AI, and bio. The government will establish an integrated bio-data platform across biomaterials and medical sectors, with a focus on developing a “human standard molecular map” for disease prediction based on cell molecule analysis.

The quantum initiative aims to elevate the nation’s quantum science and technology to levels exceeding 80 percent of those in the United States by 2030. The government has increased the budget for quantum science and technology, with a focus on developing critical quantum components and process technologies for quantum processors. The goal is to increase the number of quantum technology companies from 80 in 2022 to 500 by 2030.

These initiatives represent a forward-thinking approach by the South Korean government to position the country as a leader in cutting-edge technologies and drive innovation in key sectors.