Evolution and Features of Korea's Science & Technology Policy Coordination System

Korea is examining how to coordinate its S&T policies and solidify its position as a leader of infrastructure innovation policy that forms the foundation for many different policies. A number of questions have been raised, such as whether to install a superior coordinating body like the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) or separate the budget allocation and coordination authority from the budget-planning ministry. Korea has tried using various institutional coordination devices and functions such as reorganizing its administrative ministries based on related functions and installing or reinforcing a superior coordinating body. In line with these discussions, the strengthening of the S&T policy coordination function through the NSTC is currently under review. In order to design an effective S&T coordination system in step with changing political and social demands, it is important to have a clear recognition of the current context as well as the unique institutional characteristics of Korea. This study examines the evolution of Korea's S&T policy coordination systems and analyzes its features.