Science ministry vice minister meets AI students to discuss future careers

The science ministry said Thursday that Vice Minister Koo Hyuk-chae met with 34 middle school students from the Youth Science Grand March AI team on July 30 at the Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute.

Koo listened to the students' accounts of applying generative AI tools in their daily studies and exchanged views on how the technology will reshape society and create new professions.

"In an era where Korean AI models are utilized across various industrial sites, students will have more opportunities to pursue their dreams in AI and other science and technology fields," Koo said. He expressed hope that the dialogue would serve as a valuable catalyst for nurturing the students' aspirations.

Koo also pledged that the ministry would continue to expand various science culture programs and career exploration opportunities so teenagers can experience science and technology up close and communicate directly with researchers to grow into future scientists.

The Youth Science Grand March is a three-night, four-day program operated by the ministry and the Korea Foundation for the Advancement of Science and Creativity. It encourages entry into science and engineering careers by allowing students to visit research institutes, companies and universities while receiving mentorship from professionals. The broader initiative includes bio and aerospace teams alongside the AI group, totaling 102 participants across three groups.