Landmark commitments on AI, semiconductors, space and more form a key part of new UK-Republic of Korea Accord
The UK’s partnership with fellow science leader, the Republic of Korea, will be pushed to new heights with a series of science and tech deals to be signed by Secretary of State Michelle Donelan, Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy Bang Moon-kyu, and Minister of Science and ICT Lee Jong Ho, at the Royal Society tomorrow (Wednesday 22 November).
These have been agreed as part of a new landmark Accord between the two countries, that is being announced this week as part of President Yoon Suk Yeol’s State Visit to the UK, which begins today. As two of the world’s most innovative economies, the UK and the Republic of Korea are natural partners, with both countries placing in the top five of the Global Innovation Index.
The two countries will work closer together than ever before to harness the potential of critical technologies like AI, quantum and semiconductors to create jobs and unlock economic growth, alongside a new £4.5 million fund to create joint research and innovation partnerships. This builds on the recent international progress on safe, responsible AI development achieved at the AI Safety Summit, the next edition of which will be co-hosted by the Republic of Korea and the UK next year.
New commitments to collaborate in space, and on digital tech, as well as an over-arching agreement on science and technology, will open up new opportunities for trade, innovation and investment in both countries – ultimately helping to grow the economy, one of the Prime Minister’s five priorities.
