The Korea Times
Seeking to outpace global rivals in the race for biotechnology leadership, Korea has introduced a comprehensive legal framework designed to accelerate synthetic biology — an emerging field that applies engineering principles to living systems. The policy is intended to speed the translation of rapidly advancing research into commercial applications, positioning the sector as a key driver of economic growth and technological independence. The Ministry of Science and ICT said the new law, which took effect Thursday, establishes a full-cycle support system spanning research, infrastructure, data use and safety oversight. The measure is designed to bring order and speed to a field increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence and automation. Synthetic biology allows scientists to design and engineer biological systems, with applications ranging from biomanufacturing and health care to energy and agriculture. The ministry said the law formalizes a national strategy first outlined in December 2023, when the technology was designated a key strategic sector. Under the framework, the governmen
Go to News Site