Baek Kyung-hoon (배경훈), deputy prime minister and minister of science and ICT, attended the 60th anniversary ceremony of the Korean Federation of Science and Technology Societies on Tuesday and expressed gratitude for the dedication and hard work of scientists and engineers.

About 500 people attended, including Song Ki-heon (송기헌), chairman of the National Assembly Science, ICT, Broadcasting and Communications Committee, other committee members, KOFST member organisations and its leadership, and other key figures in the science and technology community.

Participants discussed KOFST's new role and future direction under the vision of a people-centered future opened together through science and technology. KOFST looked back on its activities and achievements over the past 60 years and declared a future vision for the next 60 years. The event also included ministerial commendations for scientists and engineers who contributed to the development of science and technology and KOFST, and the presentation of an outstanding paper award.

In a special dialogue joined by experts in AI, bio and quantum fields, participants discussed key turning points expected to reshape the science and technology landscape over the next 10 to 20 years and tasks needed to prepare in response.

Baek said South Korea was able to grow into a science and technology powerhouse thanks to scientists and engineers who looked to the future and took bold challenges. He said he hoped KOFST would serve as a venue for connections where new cooperation among industry, academia and research begins, based on its network spanning about 600 member organisations and the science and technology community.