The Korea-UK Science Forum was held at the Royal Society in London on November 22nd. Top scientists from Korea and the UK gathered to discuss the role and importance of science and technology for the benefit of humanity.

The forum, which was attended by South Korean President YOON Suk Yeol and the Duchess of Edinburgh, among others, brought together around 60 top scientists from Korea and the UK. These scientists, including the President of the Royal Society and its key members, discussed the importance of science and global solidarity. From the Korean side, IBS President NOH Do Young, Director KIM V. Narry of the Center for RNA Research, and Professor LEE Sang Yup from KAIST participated as key panelists.

Panelists from Korea and the UK are having discussions at the Korea-UK Science Forum

Starting with President YOON Suk Yeol's keynote speech, the forum aimed to increase awareness of the importance of science, discuss global cooperation, and explore ways to enhance collaboration between the two countries. Opinions were exchanged on the expanding role of science in addressing global challenges such as pandemics, energy and resource shortages, and climate crises, as well as the need for international cooperation. As a key presenter from the Korean side, President NOH Do Young presented on collaboration between the two countries for strengthening world-class research capabilities, while Director KIM V. Narry spoke about the role and duty of scientists for the benefit of humanity.

Meanwhile, attendees explored artifacts showcasing the history of science at the Royal Society. Some of these important items viewed included the original manuscript of Isaac Newton's 'Principia,' which includes the laws of motion such as universal gravitation, the world's first scientific journal, 'Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society,' and the Royal Society Charter containing signatures of all members over 360 years since its establishment.

IBS President NOH Do Young (left), Director KIM V. Narry (center), chief librarian of the Royal Society (right) are viewing the charter containing signatures of all Royal Society members

The Royal Society, established in 1660, is the world's foremost authority when it comes to scientific academic organizations. It was founded to contribute to the development of science and human prosperity based on the exploration of useful knowledge in nature and technology. Individuals such as Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, Albert Einstein, and other scientists who changed the course of world history had been members of the Royal Society. In 2021, Director KIM V. Narry of the IBS Center for RNA Research and Professor LEE Sang Yup from KAIST were selected as members, making them the first Koreans to receive this honor.

Since signing a 'Science and Technology Cooperation MOU' in 2013, IBS has consistently maintained academic exchanges with the Royal Society. The "Korea-UK Research Conference," held every two years alternately by the two institutions, is a platform for presenting research achievements in major fields such as life sciences, materials, and quantum physics and encouraging collaboration in these fields. Most recently, the 6th conference was held in Yongpyong, Korea in March of this year, where 40 researchers from IBS, the Royal Society, and other universities and institutes from the two countries discussed topics related to quantum materials and infectious diseases.

IBS Public Relations Team
William I. Suh