Korea is set to become part of the Horizon Europe programme, the European Union’s flagship initiative for research and innovation
The announcement came following successful 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.
The Association Agreement shows a significant milestone in promoting mutual collaboration in research and innovation between Korea and the EU.
Pillar II of the program
This association will facilitate Korea’s participation in Horizon Europe from 2025 onwards, enabling researchers and organisations in Korea to access funding under Pillar II of the program.
With a substantial budget of €53.5 billion, Pillar II focuses on addressing shared global challenges such as climate change, energy sustainability, digital economy, and healthcare. With Korea’s inclusion, the Horizon Europe program gains a valuable partner renowned for its technological prowess and innovative capacity.
The Association Agreement
The decision to associate with Horizon Europe reflects the EU’s evolving approach to international research and innovation cooperation. While traditionally offered to neighbouring countries, Horizon Europe extends its distance to like-minded partners with strong science, innovation, and technology profiles, irrespective of geographic proximity.
The Association Agreement builds on the longstanding cooperation between the EU and Korea in research and innovation, governed by the Agreement for Scientific and Technological Cooperation established in 2007.
This partnership is overseen by the Joint Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation, ensuring effective collaboration and mutual benefit.
Korea’s interest in joining Horizon Europe, as demonstrated by a Letter of Intent submitted during the 7th meeting of the Joint Science & Technology Cooperation Committee in 2022, shows its commitment to advancing global scientific endeavours.
Horizon Europe is expanding its distance.
Horizon Europe, with a budget of €95.5 billion for 2021-2027, represents the EU’s largest research and innovation initiative. Open to participants worldwide, the program welcomes contributions from associated countries, offering equal opportunities for entities to engage in collaborative projects and access funding on par with EU Member States.
The association of Korea with Horizon Europe signifies a strategic alignment towards driving excellence, accelerating scientific progress, promoting innovation ecosystems, and global openness.
This collaboration not only strengthens ties between Korea and the EU but also helps to enhance international cooperation.
