Building a National System of Technology Foresight in Korea

Abstract

Since the introduction of the first Technology Foresight (TF) in 1994, Korea has conducted four TFs. One of these TFs was revised and targets the entire field of science and technology (S&T). TF in Korea has become a key process in setting S&T policy, such as the Science and Technology Basic Plan (S&T Basic Plan). The S&T Basic Plan determines the national strategic technologies through reflecting on future technology of TF. The S&T Basic Plan is a mandatory legal planning process established every 5 years by the Korean government. It is the top-level policy document affecting S&T-related policy making in Korea.

TF in Korea primarily utilizes the Delphi method. The third and fourth TFs have strengthened the links between S&T and society by determining future technologies capable of solving future needs. The fourth TF presented scenarios and special illustrations to show members of the public the future technologies and their implications for society. Additionally, the fourth TF analysed the potential negative impacts of future technologies. Together with the Technology Level Evaluation and the Technology Assessment, the TF is a key source of information for setting mid- and long-term S&T strategies and policies in Korea.