The Korean government laid out its new strategy, dubbed the “new growth 4.0 strategy,” details of which were released Monday. The primary goals highlighted in the plan are listed as follows:

• Flying taxis by 2025. 
• Spacecraft on the moon in 2032. 
• A 30 percent share in the 6G market by 2030. 
• Robot delivery in 2025. 
• Drone delivery in 2027.

Apart from these aforementioned goals,15 other areas have been targeted by the government. They include future mobility, space exploration, quantum technology, future medical technology; energy technology, AI and 6G communication networks, logistics, carbon-neutral cities, smart farms, smart grids, semiconductors, batteries, carbon-free and autonomous ships, bioscience innovation, K-culture and tourism; Korean content development; and huge overseas deals,v including construction, defense exports, and nuclear power plant contracts. 

Additionally, the Korean government is also heavily focusing on commercializing flying cars. Very recently, Japan’s first manned taxi took to the skies in a first-of-its-kind trip. With their ability to cover shorter distances in a shorter amount of time, flying cars hold the promise of freeing up the roads for pedestrians, cyclists, and long-distance travelers. The Korean government is also planning to open an Urban Air Mobility test bed in Goheung, South Jeolla, in the month of August this year. Further reports also state that Hyundai Motor and Korean Air are just some of the biggest private organizations involved in the design and development of flying vehicles. In-city testing is expected to begin in 2024.

As per the government’s proposition of a precision digital map, fully autonomous vehicles will be commercialized and regulated by the year 2027. As a part of its long-term plan, the government is also aiming towards popularizing self-driving vehicles by 2035. For the space program, the launch of the third iteration of their rocket, Nuri-Ho will be held in the first half of this year itself, with yearly launches planned down the line until 2027.

Another big part of Korea’s government plans is to open Korea’s very own Disney by the year 2025. The massive project, estimated at 6.3 billion won (~$48.5 Million), will be a key project to integrate the country’s culture and entertainment interests. The whole project will be located in Goyang at the time of its completion. 

Apart from the development of a 50-Qubit quantum computer by the year 2026, the Korean government is also advocating for the R&D of next-generation nuclear reactors. A lot of major Korean organizations are keen on investing in the nuclear future of the country. A new, more specific AI application plan will be implemented by the government to make day-to-day life easy for the country’s residents. The applications will range from childcare to education and medical services to 6G technology. The country already ranks second worldwide in terms of 5G network share. Lastly, micro fulfillment centers will be permitted by the government in order to deliver drones and robots for military applications.

Finance Minister Choo Kyung-ho stated that their economic slowdown is attributed to reducing exports and investments pertaining to the global economy. Such a detailed, step-by-step plan will help boost the country’s economic vitality over a long period. Of course, technological innovation will be the key method to achieving these long-term goals.

RELATED:

• South Korea Announces Plans for 6G Network Service Launch in 2028
• South Korea Caught in the Middle of US-China Tech War: Chip Sale down by 50% in January
• Best Solar Power Banks 2023