Korea Academy of Science and Technology Elects 34 New Regular Members: Average Age 55, Including Two Women
The Korea Academy of Science and Technology (KAST), a leading scholarly organization representing distinguished scientists and engineers in South Korea, recently announced the election of 34 new regular members. The announcement came following the 2nd regular general meeting for 2025 held on November 27, with the results released on November 28. ### Overview of the Newly Elected Members
The new cohort comprises experts across various scientific fields:
- Natural Sciences Division: 10 members, including Professor Kim Hyun-jung from Sogang University’s Department of Physics.
- Engineering Division: 11 members, including Professor Kim Dong-ha from Ewha Womans University.
- Agricultural and Fisheries Sciences Division: 3 members, including Professor Kang Byung-chul from Seoul National University.
- Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences Division: 10 members, including Professor Kang Seok-gu of Yonsei University.
The average age of this year’s elected members is 55 years. The youngest among them is Professor Shin Suk-woo, a researcher at the Institute for Basic Science and the Korea Institute for Advanced Study (KIAS), who was elected at the age of 47. Among the 34 newly elected scientists, two women were elected: Professors Kim Hyun-jung (Physics, Sogang University) and Park So-jung (Chemistry and Nanoscience, Ewha Womans University).
Noteworthy Appointments and Institutional Milestones
This round of elections marked some significant firsts:
- A senior researcher from the Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM) was elected as a KAST member, becoming the first from this institution to join the academy.
- Professor Kim Yong-gi from the Department of Pharmacy at Sookmyung Women’s University was elected as a KAST member, the second in 30 years to represent the university in the academy.
Rigorous Selection Process
Membership in KAST is highly prestigious and requires a proven record of excellence. Candidates must have actively contributed to their respective scientific and technological fields for at least 20 years. The selection involves a thorough three-stage evaluation focusing on:
- The candidate’s top 10 representative papers published within the last five years.
- Overall scientific and technological impact as well as the far-reaching implications of their research.
- Contributions to the advancement of science and technology domestically and internationally.
This rigorous selection process ensures that only those with outstanding achievements and significant scholarly influence become regular members.
Upcoming Induction Ceremony
KAST plans to hold the induction ceremony for the new members on January 22, 2026. During this event, the academy will formally welcome the newcomers and highlight their remarkable research achievements.
The Korea Academy of Science and Technology continues to play a pivotal role in recognizing and fostering leadership in Korea’s science and technology community, contributing to the country’s innovative research landscape. The election of this new group of accomplished scientists and engineers indicates a vibrant, ongoing commitment to excellence and scholarly advancement.
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