South Korea ranks third globally in AI model development, government recognizes science contributions
South Korea positioned itself as a top-three AI nation at the 2026 Science and ICT Day Ceremony on April 21, with Prime Minister Kim Min-seok highlighting the country's standing in artificial intelligence development alongside the United States and China.
The ceremony, held at the Korea Science and Technology Center in Seoul, honored 164 scientists, engineers, and ICT professionals for contributions to research and industry advancement. Of those recognized, 148 received awards in person.
AI metrics and policy direction
According to a Stanford University report cited by the Prime Minister, South Korea released the third-highest number of notable AI models in 2025. The country also holds the top ranking in AI patents per 100,000 people for two consecutive years.
The government outlined two policy priorities to reach the world's top five in science and technology. First, it will build an AI computing center using 260,000 advanced GPUs acquired last year and develop a proprietary AI model in the global top 10. Second, it plans to establish South Korea as a global AI hub.
The government abolished preliminary feasibility studies for research and development in January, shifting toward an ecosystem centered on autonomy and creativity. It will expand scholarships and research grants to allow young scientists to focus on their work.
Awards and recognition
Professor V. Narry Kim of Seoul National University received the Changjo Medal for RNA research contributions to life sciences. Professor Jungsang Kim of Duke University received the same honor for securing core quantum computing technologies.
Professor Won-Do Heo of KAIST won the Ungbi Medal for leading molecular optogenetics research. Professor Ho-Kyung Kim of Seoul National University received the Doyak Medal for developing floating offshore infrastructure technology.
In the information and communication category, Professor Eun-Ok Baek of Hanyang University received the Order of Service Merit for convergence research applying AI to biomedical fields.
Diversity shifts in science leadership
The proportion of female directors at the Korean Federation of Science and Technology Societies increased from 10% to 25%. Regional director representation rose from 20% to 40%, reflecting expanded balance in the scientific community.
Prime Minister Kim acknowledged current economic and international challenges but emphasized that overcoming crises requires more than government action. It demands creativity and risk-taking from scientists and engineers, backed by public support.
The science and technology budget has grown substantially since the field's formal establishment in 1968, when it stood at 6.8 billion won. The Prime Minister attributed the country's current standing to sustained investment and the perseverance of research professionals.
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