The Korea Association for the Establishment of a Society Based on Good Science and Technology stressed that a sober assessment and concrete action are needed for the future of South Korea's science and technology.

KASEOL made the remarks in a statement on April 20, a day before the 59th Science Day. It called for the government and political circles to take concrete action to advance science and technology so Science Day does not remain a ceremonial event.

KASEOL delivered specific requests to the government and political circles. It first asked them to quickly complete appointments of heads of science and technology institutions. "Swiftly complete appointments of heads of major science and technology institutions operating under vacancy and acting leadership structures, and avoid parachute and reward appointments lacking expertise," it said. It also stressed that each party and candidate should clearly include science and technology innovation strategies in pledges for the upcoming local elections.

It also asked for the smooth execution of the "K-Moonshot project". "Fundamental and systematic changes must accompany evaluation culture, a philosophy that allows failure, researcher autonomy and a long-term project support system," it said, adding, "The government should not stop at declarations and should properly execute the 'K-Moonshot project.'"

KASEOL also reviewed situations in which domestic innovative technologies are commercialised abroad first and South Korean companies face reverse discrimination. It said an evidence-based regulatory system grounded in science and technology should be established and that listening to opinions from experts and industry sites should be made mandatory. It added that social and economic conditions should be created so researchers can take pride and focus on their work.

KASEOL said, "A country that talks about science only on Science Day has no future," adding it will not stop playing a role in "presenting the right path" until South Korea moves toward becoming a true science and technology powerhouse.