S&T Trends

National R&D Program Planning and Management in Terms of MOP in Korea

Hyun Cheol KIM

Abstract

The Highly Advanced National R&D Program (G7-Project) is a representative mission-oriented R&D program 

and the first inter-ministerial R&D project, led by the Ministry of Science and ICT. As a cooperative project headed 

by multiple ministries, the key to success is ascertaining how to maintain focus on the R&D areas of synergy 

development, rather than performing well individually. In particular, consistent management in a mission-oriented 

R&D program is necessary to ensure research continuity. In the case of R&D projects led by large project teams or 

research teams, initially, progress is positive as diverse opinions are gathered, and extensive analyses are conducted; 

however, problems arise at the later stages. In many cases, the project or research teams lack appropriate R&D project 

management. In the majority of the national R&D projects in recent days, in light of the decline of the government’s 

role, the role of researchers and beneficiaries is growing. These roles encompass a wide range of stakeholders, from 

the government, researchers and citizen beneficiaries, and among the stakeholders, active participation and conflict 

management are required. Under this situation, cultivating Project Manager for national R&D projects is essential to 

ensure technical expertise and project management in research implementation. 

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