South Korea is overhauling administrative rules governing government research funds to widen individual researchers’ discretion and reduce paperwork. The Ministry of Science and ICT said the Cabinet approved an amendment to the enforcement decree of the National Research and Development Innovation Act. The changes include a new direct-cost category called “research innovation expenses,” allowing flexible spending on routine items. Overhead spending rules will shift to a negative list, and pre-approval requirements for meeting expenses will be abolished.

South Korea\'s Ministry of Science and ICT will cooperate with Google DeepMind on AI-based science and technology innovation, including joint research, talent development and responsible AI use. The sides signed a memorandum of understanding in Seoul and agreed to expand collaboration across technology, infrastructure and researcher exchanges. They also plan internships, an AI campus in South Korea, and joint work on AI safety and governance, including testing methodologies.