Kim Moon-soo, a candidate for the presidential primary, announced a science and technology policy pledge that includes the establishment of the vice minister of science and technology and the special ambassador for science, as well as the amendment of the Basic Science and Technology Act.
Candidate Kim presented three major policy goals: the establishment of the vice minister of science and technology and the special ambassador for science and the amendment of the Basic Science and Technology Act; improvement of the treatment and strengthening the status of scientists; and the nurturing of a world-class research hub and the creation of an immersive research environment.
Candidate Kim noted, "I will create an advanced law for the status, treatment, and rights protection of scientists, establishing a system that enhances our standing at the national level," and added, "I will establish a vice minister of science and technology who will oversee budgets and organizations related to science and technology research and development." He also stated, "I will create a new position of the special ambassador for science to cooperate with the global scientific community."
Regarding the vice minister of science and technology, he said, "Through comprehensive planning and effective resource allocation, I will prevent duplication and omissions in budgets and organizations, establishing an efficient system for innovation-driven growth in science and technology."
To this end, the plan is to restore the retirement age of researchers at government-funded research institutes to the pre-IMF level of 65, and to abolish or completely improve the PBS system. He also mentioned that he would significantly raise the salary standard for research and development positions.
Candidate Kim emphasized, "I will guarantee the salary standard at the level of 80% of the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF)," and said, "I will prepare a welfare package for the stability of scientists' housing and education for their children and significantly expand the rate of medals and decorations awarded."
Additionally, he promised to enhance research productivity by expanding the number of administrative staff supporting research activities and technicians maintaining research equipment, as well as establishing 'five advanced technology international joint research centers' centered around government-funded research institutes to attract overseas research institutions and personnel.
Finally, Candidate Kim stated, "I will take the lead in creating an environment where scientists can fully exercise their autonomy and creativity on a solid institutional basis."