South Korea's position as a global leader in research and innovation is under scrutiny as the Nature Index 2024 South Korea supplement reveals both strengths and challenges in the nation's scientific landscape. Despite substantial investments in research and development (R&D) and a rich history of innovation, the country faces significant hurdles that could impact its future standing.
The report highlights South Korea’s impressive commitment to science, with the highest number of researchers per capita and substantial R&D spending compared to other countries in the Nature Index. However, the findings suggest that the country is not achieving the expected returns on its investment, with research output in high-impact journals not matching the level of funding.
Key challenges outlined in the report include:
• Innovation Hub Status: South Korea is striving to maintain its reputation as a hub for innovation, particularly in strengthening ties between industry and academia. However, a rapid decline in student enrollment poses a threat to sustaining this status.
• Gender Disparity: The research workforce in South Korea shows a stark gender imbalance, with only 23% of researchers being female. This underrepresentation highlights a significant growth opportunity for the country to enhance diversity and inclusivity within its scientific community.
• Cultural Barriers: Attracting and retaining international students and researchers is another area of concern. Cultural and language differences are seen as barriers to making South Korean research more accessible to the global community.
The supplement also features a league table of the top 50 South Korean institutions, ranked by their Share in the Nature Index, providing a snapshot of the country’s leading research entities.
In an effort to delve deeper into these issues, Nature Portfolio, in partnership with the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), will host an Index Live event on Korean research in February 2025. The event will bring together experts to discuss the themes introduced in the supplement and explore strategies for South Korea to overcome its challenges and reinforce its role as a leader in global science.
The full supplement, Nature Index 2024 South Korea, is available online and provides a comprehensive overview of the country’s research environment, along with insights into how South Korea can bolster its scientific contributions on the world stage.
Click here to read the original press release.
