'Open Brunch' event held for young researchers

PM vows expanded support for stable research careers

Prime Minister Han Seong-sook speaks with participants at the fifth Open Brunch event with young science and technology researchers, held Sunday at the prime minister's official Seoul residence in Samcheong-dong, Jongno-gu. [Office of the Prime Minister]
Prime Minister Han Seong-sook speaks with participants at the fifth Open Brunch event with young science and technology researchers, held Sunday at the prime minister's official Seoul residence in Samcheong-dong, Jongno-gu. [Office of the Prime Minister]

Prime Minister Han Seong-sook said Sunday the government would "firmly support young researchers so they can boldly take on challenges in a stable environment and grow into researchers who lead the future."

Han made the remarks at an "Open Brunch" event she hosted for young science and technology researchers at her official residence in Samcheong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul.

Attendees included professors and postdoctoral researchers who had returned to South Korea after conducting research abroad, as well as young researchers affiliated with government-funded research institutes.

Responding to a participant who raised concerns about the continuity of basic research, Han promised to earmark a dedicated share of funding for basic and foundational research during any policy transition, ensuring researchers can pursue such work alongside national priority projects.

For researchers returning from abroad, Han directed relevant agencies to link early-stage research grants and equipment support so they can focus on their work quickly, and to improve young researchers' access to shared research facilities.

On the treatment of postdoctoral researchers, Han said the government "fully understands that this is a critical stage in growing into an independent researcher," adding that it would expand support to help them build their careers while conducting research in a stable environment.


mp1256@heraldcorp.com