Signal Korea's net outflow of science and technology talent has deepened, with departing researchers of higher calibre

Summary

KISTEP reports that Korea is not highly competitive in attracting global science and technology talent and loses more researchers abroad than it gains. Brain drain is high while the country's appeal to incoming global talent remains low. A talent-flow indicator measured per 10,000 people has shifted further into outflow in recent years. Researchers who leave are also of higher quality than those who arrive. Participation of foreign researchers in national R&D is limited, and regions are struggling as population decline and outflow to the capital area drain local talent.