In a landmark move, South Korea is set to join the European Union's Horizon Europe research funding program, marking a significant step towards internationalizing scientific collaboration. The European Commission's announcement today solidifies South Korea's status as the first East Asian country to "associate to" Horizon Europe, paving the way for enhanced cooperation and knowledge exchange.
Under this agreement, South Korean researchers will have equal opportunities to participate in and lead Horizon grants alongside their European counterparts, fostering a dynamic environment for tackling pressing global research challenges. Park Seokchun, deputy director of South Korea's Ministry of Science and ICT, highlights the potential for Korean researchers to address critical issues while expanding their international networks and collaborations.
While the financial specifics are yet to be disclosed, the successful conclusion of negotiations between South Korean Science Minister Lee Jong-ho and European Commissioner Iliana Ivanova heralds a new era of scientific partnership. This milestone comes on the heels of New Zealand's recent accession to Horizon Europe, reflecting the program's commitment to inclusivity and collaboration beyond Europe's borders.
Associate countries gain access to Pillar 2 funding, totaling €53.5 billion, dedicated to research in crucial areas such as health, climate change, energy, and industrial competitiveness. In return, these countries contribute to the Horizon budget based on the grants secured by their researchers, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship.
However, the program's expansion has sparked debates within the scientific community, with concerns raised about its potential impact on smaller EU countries' competitiveness. While some advocate for further openness, others emphasize the need to prioritize European interests. Nevertheless, amid geopolitical shifts and evolving global challenges, the imperative for cooperation and solidarity remains paramount.
For South Korean academics like Daesub Yoon, the benefits of joining Horizon Europe are evident. Facilitating participation in international consortia and fostering cross-border collaboration, this initiative promises to amplify South Korea's research capabilities on the global stage.
Moreover, South Korea's commitment to bolstering domestic research funding underscores its strategic approach to balancing international engagement with national priorities. With plans to enhance research funding by 2025, the South Korean administration aims to ensure that participation in Horizon Europe complements rather than detracts from domestic research initiatives.
As the global scientific community continues to navigate complex challenges, initiatives like Horizon Europe serve as catalysts for innovation, collaboration, and progress. By forging partnerships across continents, nations stand poised to address shared challenges and unlock new frontiers in knowledge creation and dissemination.
More: https://www.science.org/content/article/south-korea-join-european-union-s-research-funding-program
