Seoul: The science ministry has announced a comprehensive strategy to nurture science professionals by offering career-long incentives, addressing the rising demand for expertise fueled by the burgeoning artificial intelligence (AI) industry.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the initiative is a response to concerns about a potential decline in the number of graduate students in science and engineering starting in 2027 due to a shrinking population, a trend that could impact South Korea's competitiveness in the AI sector. The government aims to create an innovative ecosystem where researchers can transform challenges into growth opportunities, providing a stable and clear career vision for science talent.

As part of the plan, the government will annually recognize 20 professionals over the next five years as "national scientists," each receiving an annual research grant of 100 million won (approximately US$68,600). Efforts will also focus on enhancing math and science education at the elementary and middle school levels and expanding scholarship programs for students pursuing science and engineering degrees.

Further, AI education for science majors will be reinforced to encourage innovation by integrating AI into various scientific fields. The government plans to expand financial support, aiming for 10 percent of graduate students to receive scholarships by 2030, up from the current 1.3 percent. Moreover, 5 percent of the government's total expenditures will be allocated to research and development (R and D) projects to boost innovation.

Science Minister Bae Kyung-hoon highlighted the government's objective to create an R and D ecosystem where outstanding talent can freely engage in research and deliver impactful results.