Hwang Woo-suk, the former Seoul National University professor embroiled in a stem cell research scandal in 2005, has lost his South Korean citizenship after acquiring nationality in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
According to legal sources on November 9, the Cheongju Immigration and Foreign Affairs Office announced on August 13 that Hwang lost his South Korean nationality upon obtaining UAE citizenship on April 9 of this year. Under Article 15 of the Nationality Act, South Korean citizens automatically lose their nationality when they voluntarily acquire foreign citizenship.
Given Hwang's recent activities in the UAE, his birth year, and the registered address in the announcement matching his hometown of Buyeo, South Chungcheong Province, he is presumed to be the same individual.
The UAE has allowed limited immigration for scientists, doctors, and investors since 2021, making it difficult for foreigners to obtain citizenship. Recommendations from rulers, crown princes, or government agencies are required for citizenship.
Conversely, the UAE has one of the highest proportions of foreign residents globally, with approximately 10 million foreigners making up nearly 90% of its 11 million population.
Hwang has received multiple joint venture proposals from the UAE and currently serves as the CEO of a biotech research institute there. The UAE biotech firm focuses on animal cloning and stem cell research.
In a video posted on the UAE biotech's social media in August, Hwang stated, "My vision is for the UAE to become a hub for biotech advancement. I hope our research and efforts can contribute not only to animal health and agriculture but also to the protection of endangered species and biodiversity conservation."
Hwang gained significant attention in 2005 for successfully extracting and culturing the world's first human embryonic stem cells, but he later faced legal disputes after the manipulation of research papers was revealed. He was dismissed from Seoul National University in 2006 but contested the decision in court. After a nine-year legal battle, he lost the case in 2015, confirming his dismissal. Additionally, he was prosecuted for concealing the manipulation of research papers and embezzling research funds, receiving a suspended prison sentence of one year and six months in 2014.
In July of this year, the government officially revoked Hwang's 'Korea's Top Scientist Award,' which he received in 2004, marking the end of his recognition 22 years later.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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