The Necessity and Future Challenges of Science, Technology, Society and Humanities Fusion Research in Korea

Science, technology, society and humanities (STSH) fusion research is aimed at creating new research areas and methods that can resolve complicated issues in society that cannot be solved by a single academic discipline. This study identifies initiatives that can promote STSH fusion research in Korea. We review the definition and characteristics of STSH fusion research to analyze the necessity of STSH fusion research with a focus on the structural changes in the S&T environment. The emergence and diffusion of generic technologies, transition to post catch-up innovation mode, and the evolution of policy to the third generation innovation policy are identified as notable changes. This paper briefly reviews the status of fusion research underway and presents initiatives to promote STSH fusion research.