• Journal of the Korean association of regional geographers
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• v.12 no.1
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• pp.108-123
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• 2006

This study attempts to analysis the roles of national laboratories in the context of regional innovation systems and the contribution to local economic development in the case of Taedok Science Park in Korea. It also tries comparative studies between Taedok Science Park and some European experiences. Recently the role of national laboratories as key innovation agents for regional development strategies is emphasized in European countries. In the similar context, national laboratories have explicit missions to assist in the formations of new firms and to support existing small and medium-sized enterprises in their localities. It is found that these functions are largely present and become more important in Taedok, but that the linkages between national laboratories and local firms are still weaker than some European countries. This study concludes that national laboratories in Korea should reinforce the industry-research linkages with local economic activities in the region to stimulate cooperation activities.