이 대통령 “AI 이후의 먹거리, 7대 첨단 기술…핵심 전략 자산될 것”

President Yoon Jae-myung declared on the 12th that South Korea must prepare for the era of artificial intelligence (AI) and harness the opportunity presented by semiconductor industry development. He elaborated on seven advanced technologies, collectively known as the 7th Strategic Emerging Engines for Disruptive Innovation (7-SEED), which he believes will serve as the next engine of economic growth and a core national asset.

The seven technologies include small modular reactors (SMR), nuclear fusion, renewable energy, quantum computing, aerospace, advanced biotechnology, and advanced materials and supply chains. At the 'Future Growth Power and 7-SEED Report Meeting' held at the Blue House, President Yoon stated that he believes these advanced technologies will grow into towering trees, producing new mega-projects in the future.

He emphasized that the choices made by South Korea will determine whether it becomes a leader in overcoming infinite opportunities or a pursuer facing potential risks. The Ministry of Science, ICT and Future Planning (MSTP) and other agencies presented the national project plan for the 7-SEED, which comprises three main areas: future clean energy, next-generation frontier technologies, and advanced supply chains.

Each of these focuses on specific areas such as SMR, quantum computing, aerospace, and advanced biotechnology. The government plans to establish a civil-military partnership, led by Vice Minister Lee Hoon and MSTP Secretary-General, to develop and monitor project-specific roadmaps and progress. A group of around 60 experts from academia, research institutions, and industry attended the meeting to discuss the importance of energy and supply chain technologies, the need for advanced technology acquisition, and how the government can support this transformation.

President Yoon concluded by reaffirming the government's commitment to providing the necessary support for South Korea to lead in advanced industries and not merely keep up with others.