Seoul: Former Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung pledged to expand South Korea’s research and development (R and D) budget on Monday, vowing to make the country a global leader in an era of intensifying technology competition. Lee, who declared his presidential bid earlier this month and is leading opinion polls for the June 3 presidential election, made the pledge in a Facebook post marking Science Day.
According to Lao News Agency, Lee emphasized the need for bold investment in R and D, noting that it currently accounts for only 4.4 percent of the national budget. He stated, “We need to invest much more boldly. Only investment and an overwhelming level of technology can lead the world.”
Lee further articulated his vision for transforming South Korea into a scientific powerhouse that leads the world in advanced science and technology. He pledged to increase support in key areas including artificial intelligence, semiconductors, secondary batteries, biotech and vaccines, hydrogen energy, and future mobility technologies.
