KIST reexamines 60 years of innovation legacy through ‘KIST Studies’ session
Session explores Korea’s national R&D model, global science cooperation, and pathways to pass research heritage to future generations
The Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) has opened a new discussion to define and transmit its 60 years of scientific and technological innovation heritage to the next generation. On November 6, KIST held the ‘KIST Studies (KIST學) Session’ during the Korean Society for Innovation Management Conference in Jeju, presenting research and policy perspectives on the institute’s role in shaping Korea’s science and technology landscape since its establishment.
The session is part of KIST’s efforts to mark its upcoming 60th anniversary in 2026 by reassessing the institution’s contributions to national development and clarifying its research philosophy for the future. The program brought together six scholars to present and discuss the evolution and expansion of KIST’s work across research, talent development, industry collaboration, and international cooperation.
In the keynote, Dr. Jungwoo Kim, Senior Researcher at KIST’s Science and Technology Policy Institute, proposed categorizing KIST’s legacy into four pillars: △ Establishment of Korea’s national R&D architecture I△ ndustry–academia–research collaboration △ Talent development △ Official development assistance (ODA) and global cooperation
He emphasized that KIST’s role cannot be viewed merely as research output, but as the foundation of Korea’s modern science and technology ecosystem.
Prof. Manyong Moon (Chonbuk National University) highlighted KIST’s historical function as a "reverse brain drain" hub, attracting scientists trained abroad back to Korea. He described KIST as the model from which all government-funded research institutes later emerged, arguing that the “KIST model” remains relevant for developing countries seeking science-led growth.
Prof. Yongjin Kim (Dankook University) analyzed KIST’s collaboration with industry through multiple partnership models, including technology transfer (e.g., LG Chem), co-laboratory research (Linking Lab), deep-tech venture creation (Cureverse), and innovation ecosystem building (KIST Innovation). He suggested introducing a systematic framework for strategic partner selection to strengthen future collaboration portfolios.
Dr. Jongjoo Kim, Director of Policy Planning at KIST, presented the VKIST project in Vietnam as a representative case of international science and technology cooperation. He noted that KIST’s institutional model has been effectively transferred to developing economies, describing this as “a unique Korean pathway of science-driven national development.”
During the panel discussion moderated by Prof. Eunkyung Lee (Chonbuk National University), panelists exchanged views on how KIST should compile, preserve, and reinterpret its institutional heritage to support new research directions for the next generation.
KIST Vice President Dr. Junyeon Jang stated, “This session marks an important starting point in systematizing KIST’s research philosophy and innovation legacy. We will continue working to ensure that this legacy inspires and strengthens future scientific leadership in Korea.”