Strengthening Technological Collaboration Between South Korea and the United States
On the 29th, the Ministry of Science and ICT announced its intention to sign a “Korea-U.S. Technology Prosperity MOU (TPD).” This agreement is a result of discussions held during the 2025 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) week. The signing will involve representatives from both governments, including Vice Minister Bae Kyung-hoon of the Ministry of Science and ICT and Michael Kratsios, Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. Additionally, AI Future Planning Chief Ha Jung-woo from the presidential office will be present.
The primary objective of this MOU is to establish a comprehensive cooperation system in key emerging technologies. As fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and synthetic biology become increasingly important, the two nations aim to enhance their collaborative efforts. According to the Ministry of Science and ICT, the agreement seeks to jointly pursue prosperity for future generations, improve the quality of life for citizens in both countries, and elevate the Korea-U.S. alliance. It includes commitments related to “accelerating AI applications and innovation” and “trustworthy technology leadership.”
Key Areas of Cooperation
Accelerating AI Applications and Innovation
In the first area of cooperation, “Accelerating AI Applications and Innovation,” the two countries plan to leverage AI technology to drive advancements across various technological and industrial fields. To achieve this, they will jointly develop an innovation-friendly AI policy framework and cooperate in AI technology exports across all AI fields. This collaboration aims to foster a regional joint AI ecosystem in Asia and other countries.
Additionally, the two nations will closely collaborate in areas such as:
- Developing datasets suitable for AI utilization
- Promoting safe AI innovation
- Cooperating in trustworthy AI technology exports
These initiatives are designed to ensure that AI development is not only rapid but also responsible and beneficial to society.
Trustworthy Technology Leadership
In the second area of cooperation, “Trustworthy Technology Leadership,” the two countries will strengthen collaboration on action plans in core technology fields such as next-generation communications, pharmaceutical and biotechnology supply chains, quantum innovation, and space exploration. They will also emphasize the importance of research security in research and development across core emerging technology fields.
Furthermore, the agreement includes active support for basic research and personnel exchanges to strengthen the foundation for scientific and technological cooperation between the two nations. This aspect of the MOU highlights the commitment of both countries to ensure that technological advancements are not only innovative but also secure and ethically sound.
Broader Implications of the Agreement
The signing of the Korea-U.S. Technology Prosperity MOU marks a significant step forward in bilateral relations. By focusing on emerging technologies, both nations are positioning themselves at the forefront of global innovation. The agreement reflects a shared vision of leveraging technology to address global challenges and create opportunities for future generations.
This partnership is expected to have far-reaching implications, not only for South Korea and the United States but also for the broader international community. As AI, quantum computing, and other cutting-edge technologies continue to shape the world, the collaboration between these two nations could serve as a model for other countries seeking to advance their own technological capabilities.
Through this agreement, the Korea-U.S. alliance is set to deepen its commitment to fostering a future where technology is used responsibly and equitably. The focus on trustworthy technology leadership ensures that innovations are developed with ethical considerations in mind, promoting trust and confidence among citizens and stakeholders alike.