Science ministry hosts seminar on 2045 national development strategy

The science ministry hosted a joint seminar Wednesday with the Ministry of Economy and Finance and two presidential advisory councils to outline a national development strategy extending to 2045. Held at the Fairmont Ambassador in Seoul, the event brought together constitutional advisory bodies to discuss future changes facing South Korea as it approaches the centennial of its liberation.

Park Hong-geun, minister of economy and finance, warned that past success does not guarantee future results amid a civilizational shift driven by artificial intelligence, climate transitions, demographic changes and supply chain realignments. "The 2045 National Development Strategy is a blueprint for the lives of the next generation," Park said, emphasizing that the government aims to build an irreplaceable South Korea through social consensus rather than pre-determined answers.

Participants proposed three visions for 2045: a nation growing through innovation, one where innovation improves daily life, and a trusted global partner. Achieving these goals requires bold investment in AI and talent alongside regulatory reforms to ensure benefits reach the next generation rather than concentrating among a few.

Speakers called for strategic autonomy in a reorganizing international order and structural reforms in institutions and finances to match changing demographics. Park stated the government would focus national capabilities on sectors accelerating future opportunities while adapting systems to new industrial structures.

Seo Yong-seok, a professor at KAIST, addressed the impact of AI on youth employment, suggesting shocks would disproportionately affect young people entering the labor market. He urged a shift from short-term job creation to redesigning career accumulation paths, proposing recognized non-linear career moves and converting public R&D projects into career infrastructure.

The seminar featured additional presentations by Won Seung-yeon of Myongji University and Kim Mi-ru of the Korea Development Institute, followed by a panel discussion including representatives from the Korea University Quantum Society, Kyungnam University, the Science and Technology Policy Institute, and the Industrial Technology Research Institute.