■ Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB) held a groundbreaking ceremony on the 30th at its Ochang branch for the expansion of its animal biosafety level 3 (ABL3) research facility, which is capable of conducting primate experiments. The expanded national preclinical trial support center ABL3 facility for primates will cover an area of approximately 770 square meters, with a goal of completion in the first half of 2026. KRIBB President Seok-Yoon Kwon noted, "This is an important step to proactively respond to future infectious disease threats and to enhance the domestic bio research and development ecosystem."
■ Norma announced that it signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Middle Eastern investment corporation Al Fardan Ventures on the 25th to establish a state-of-the-art quantum computing research and development (R&D) center in the region. The two parties agreed to support the rapidly growing demand for ICT technologies in the Middle East, including artificial intelligence (AI), data center infrastructure, and cloud computing. They also agreed to continue R&D and technical support in the fields of cybersecurity and quantum computing technologies.
■ The National Institute of Environmental Research announced on the 30th that it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the French National Institute for Health and Medical Research (INSERM) to develop evaluation methods for neurodevelopmental toxicity using alternative models. The two organizations plan to closely collaborate through joint research and knowledge exchange to develop and establish new neurodevelopmental toxicity assessment methods using animal alternative models. Director Jeong-Du Heo of the National Institute of Environmental Research said, "We will strive to leverage the expertise of both organizations to create synergy."
■ Telefix, a space artificial intelligence (AI) total solution corporation, announced that it received the highest grade of 'TI-1' in the investment technology credit evaluation (TCB) from Korea Technology Credit Rating. The investment technology credit evaluation is a system that deeply assesses the growth potential of companies to select candidates for investment from the perspective of investment institutions. TI-1 is the highest evaluation grade among the 10-grade system. CEO Song-Ik Jo of Telefix stated, "We will grow into a corporation that provides greater value to customers through innovative technology development and business expansion."