The ministry has been drafting its 2026 R&D budget plan with priorities that include fostering “5 poles and 3 special zones” growth engines, expanding the Manufacturing AI Transformation initiative (M.AX), and strengthening the industrial ecosystem.
To concentrate R&D spending, it said it screened new projects after reviews that included input from private-sector experts by field and internal deliberations. It also carried out performance-based restructuring of ongoing projects while integrating fragmented small-scale programs.
For the “5 poles and 3 special zones” initiative, the ministry said it will launch new projects next year to provide package support by region for technology development, infrastructure and workforce training. The plan includes the 5 poles and 3 special zones growth-engine project, technical support to help regional advanced industries respond to green-transition regulations, and development of manufacturing AI models that use tacit know-how.
Other proposed projects include core technology development for full-stack AI factories that optimize entire manufacturing processes, AI-based manufacturing safety systems to protect workers, and industry-specific R&D to boost productivity using AI in sectors such as shipbuilding, bio and distribution.
To strengthen the industrial ecosystem and competitiveness in advanced and key industries, the ministry listed projects such as next-generation battery technology for humanoids, localization of core materials and parts for advanced aircraft engines, and core technologies to shift the chemical industry toward high value-added specialty products.
The ministry also said it will respond to supply-chain issues linked to the recent Middle East war. New projects include technology and process development for preprocessing medium-to-heavy crude to support feedstock diversification in refining and petrochemicals, alternative materials technology to stabilize supplies of inputs such as naphtha, and “Industry GX Plus” to support development and demonstration of carbon-reduction technologies for high-emitting industries.
“Industrial technology competitiveness is emerging as the foundation of the national economy and security, while global competition for technological supremacy is intensifying,” Moon said. “For our industries to secure a competitive edge, the public and private sectors must strategically choose areas and invest boldly and quickly.”
* This article has been translated by AI.
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