South Korea Unveils Seven-Project Technology Strategy

South Korea unveiled an ambitious technology strategy on Wednesday as it seeks to develop new engines of economic growth beyond semiconductors and artificial intelligence.

The “Seven Major SEED” initiative brings together seven projects spanning nuclear energy, quantum technology, space, biotechnology and other emerging fields. President Lee Jae Myung chaired the Blue House meeting where officials announced the strategy.

The plan sets long-term targets for technologies that South Korea sees as important to future economic growth and national competitiveness.

Seven Strategic Technology Projects

The initiative covers small modular reactors, fusion energy, next-generation renewable energy, quantum technology, space and aviation, advanced biotechnology, and critical minerals and materials supply chains.

Under the strategy, South Korea aims to achieve several major milestones over the coming decade.

The country plans to commercially deploy indigenous small modular reactors by 2035. It also aims to land on the moon by 2030 and develop a domestic 100-qubit quantum computer by 2029.

In biotechnology, the strategy targets the commercialisation of brain-computer interface products by 2035.

Together, the projects reflect South Korea’s effort to build capabilities across several emerging technology sectors rather than relying primarily on its established strengths.

Focus On Future Economic Growth

The strategy comes as South Korea prepares for slower long-term economic growth. At the same time, governments around the world are intensifying competition in emerging technologies.

Officials increasingly view these technologies as important not only for economic competitiveness but also for national security.

By targeting areas ranging from advanced energy systems to quantum computing and biotechnology, South Korea aims to establish new sources of growth while strengthening its position in strategically important technologies.

The approach also places long-term development goals alongside efforts to build domestic technological capabilities.

Long-Term Technology Ambitions

Science Minister Bae Kyung-hoon said the seven projects would provide a foundation for South Korea’s future development.

“We will help these seeds grow and build a South Korea that no one can rival in 10 or 20 years,” Bae said.

The targets extend across different technology fields and timeframes. Some focus on developing domestic technologies, while others set goals for commercial deployment or major scientific achievements.

South Korea’s strategy therefore combines technological development with longer-term economic planning. The government is seeking to strengthen emerging industries while preparing for a period of slower economic growth and greater global competition.

With inputs from Reuters