▲ Prime Minister Han Seong-sook attends an "Open Brunch" event with young science and technology researchers at her official residence in Samcheong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, on September 20.
Prime Minister Han Seong-sook said on Sunday (September 20), "The government will provide strong support so that young researchers can take on bold challenges in stable environments and grow into leaders of future research."
Han made the remarks during an "Open Brunch" event at her official residence in Samcheong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, where she invited young researchers from the science and technology sector.
The event was attended by professors who returned to Korea after conducting research abroad, postdoctoral researchers, and young researchers affiliated with government-funded research institutes.
Addressing concerns raised by an attendee regarding the sustainability of basic research, Han promised, "To ensure that basic research is not sidelined during policy transitions, we will separate the allocation of resources for basic and fundamental research so that researchers can continue basic and original research alongside national projects."
For researchers returning from overseas, she urged relevant agencies to "link initial research funding with equipment support so they can quickly focus on their research, and improve conditions for young researchers to access shared research facilities."
Regarding the treatment and working conditions of postdoctoral researchers, Han noted, "I am well aware that this is a crucial step toward becoming independent researchers," adding, "We will expand support so they can carry out research in a stable environment and build their careers."
(Photo courtesy of the Prime Minister's Office, Yonhap News)
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