Signal South Korea Unveils $6.5B Strategy to Boost AI, Semiconductor and Strategic Technologies

Summary

South Korea's Ministry of Science and ICT approved a strategic technology plan at the 13th National Strategic Technology Committee meeting on 27 March 2026, covering AI, semiconductors, quantum and other fields. The plan allocates 8.6 trillion won for 2026 implementation and mobilises 46.6 trillion won in policy financing for companies across the technology lifecycle, a roughly 30% increase in R&D investment over the previous year. It identifies 513 individual technologies grouped into 19 common categories, and runs as a five-year roadmap through 2028. Implementation elements include establishing regional innovation hubs, expanding specialized research institutes, talent development and skills training programmes, and cross-ministry regulatory coordination. Detailed sub-strategies are scheduled for release later in 2026.