In a groundbreaking development for international collaboration in research and innovation, the Republic of Korea is set to join Horizon Europe, the European Union's flagship programme in these domains, and join the growing group of associated countries. This move marks a significant milestone in fostering mutual collaboration and underscores a strategic shift in the EU's approach to global cooperation in science and technology. Let's delve deeper into what this entails and why it matters.
Horizon Europe Association Agreement: A Stepping Stone to Enhanced Cooperation
Negotiations and Agreement
Negotiations between Iliana Ivanova, Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education, and Youth, and Lee Jong Ho, Korean Minister for Science and Information and Communication Technology, have culminated in Korea's imminent association with Horizon Europe. The signing of the Association Agreement, anticipated in the latter half of 2024 pending ratification procedures, paves the way for Korea's active participation in Horizon Europe starting in 2025.
"I am happy to welcome Korea into the Horizon family. This is a milestone for cooperation and great news for global science and innovation. Together, we will be able to tackle global challenges more effectively." - Iliana Ivanova, Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education, and Youth.
Empowering Korean Researchers and Organizations
With this association, Korean researchers and organisations gain access to funding opportunities under Pillar II of Horizon Europe. Pillar II, the programme's largest collaborative segment, addresses global challenges such as climate change, energy sustainability, digital transformation, and public health. With a substantial budget of €53.5 billion, this pillar provides a platform for Korean entities to contribute their expertise and resources towards tackling pressing global issues.
A Shift in International Research and Innovation Cooperation
Inclusive Approach
Korea becoming an associated country with Horizon Europe represents a departure from traditional geographic proximity-based cooperation models. Historically, the EU extended such partnerships primarily to neighbouring countries. However, Horizon Europe's inclusive approach welcomes like-minded nations with robust science, innovation, and technology profiles, irrespective of location. This signals a broader vision of global collaboration in research and innovation, transcending geographical boundaries for collective scientific progress.
Building on Existing Partnerships
The Agreement for Scientific and Technological Cooperation, which came into effect in 2007, laid the groundwork for cooperation between the EU and Korea. This longstanding agreement, overseen by the Joint Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation, provided the framework for deeper engagement in research and innovation. Korea's expression of interest in becoming an associated country with Horizon Europe formalised through a Letter of Intent in February 2022, reflects a mutual commitment to advancing collaborative efforts in science and technology.
Horizon Europe: A Global Endeavor
Scope and Impact
With a staggering budget of €95.5 billion for 2021-2027, the programme is open to participants worldwide and offers opportunities for collaboration across borders and continents. Entities from associated countries benefit from equal access to funding and participation in collaborative projects, underscoring the programme's commitment to inclusivity and excellence in scientific endeavours.
Conclusion
The Republic of Korea's association with Horizon Europe heralds a new era of collaboration, innovation, and shared scientific progress. As borders blur and challenges become increasingly interconnected, initiatives like Horizon Europe serve as beacons of hope, uniting nations in pursuing knowledge and solutions. With Korea joining hands with the EU, the stage is set for transformative breakthroughs that will shape humanity's future.
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