Cambodia and the Republic of Korea are deepening their collaboration in research and development (R&D) to accelerate innovation, with a clear focus on establishing a strong national R&D management system and building a robust science, technology, and innovation (STI) ecosystem in Cambodia.

A Cambodian delegation composed of officials from the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation (MISTI), Office of the Council of Ministers, Ministry of Economy and Finance, and Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport attended a week-long workshop on R&D Management System in Korea from 21–27 May 2025. The visit marked an important step in the third phase of the K-Innovation Partnership Program, which aims to support Cambodia’s STI policy implementation and institutional development.

The partnership, led by Korea’s Science and Technology Policy Institute (STEPI), has been instrumental in shaping Cambodia’s national STI landscape. Since 2018, the collaboration has moved through three strategic phases: the development of the STI Policy 2020–2030, the formulation of six national technology roadmaps such as education, health, agriculture, digital innovation, energy, and tourism, and the ongoing design of a national R&D management system.

“This workshop signifies a fundamental moment in the implementation of Cambodia STI Roadmap 2030,” said H.E. Dr. Hul Seingheng, Undersecretary of State at MISTI. “While Cambodia continues to build capacity, we must ensure that our R&D management system is tailored to address our unique challenges and harness opportunities for long-term development.”

He highlighted how these key developments are integral to Cambodia’s broader vision for innovation-led growth and emphasized the importance of strategic collaboration among ministries, universities, development partners, and the research community. “By aligning their efforts, we create an ecosystem where every stakeholder contributes to the nation's innovation-driven future,” he stated.

Korea’s structured approach to R&D was presented as a model for Cambodia’s development. Dr. Lee Myonghwa, Director of STEPI’s K-Innovation Partnership Program, noted, “It is our distinct privilege to share Korea's insights with Cambodia. This partnership aims not only at knowledge transfer but also at establishing a foundation for sustainable science, technology, and innovation (STI) ecosystems.”

Korea’s success in prioritizing technologies such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, environmental solutions, and ICT was presented as a case study for targeted national investment. “Through these priorities, we have developed roadmaps that guide research efforts, ensuring alignment with economic and social impact,” Dr. Lee added.

The program has also underscored the vital role of international partnerships in national STI development. “STEPI’s strategic support has enabled us to create industry innovation clusters, laying the groundwork for future advancements,” said H.E. Hul.

Beyond institutional systems and funding structures, human capital development remains central to Cambodia’s STI ambitions. “While Korea is experiencing a shortage of scientists due to an aging population, Cambodia benefits from a youthful workforce eager to develop its research capabilities. This partnership can act as a bridge, exchanging knowledge and talent between both nations," he added.

Dr. Lee echoed the potential of mutual benefit. “This partnership is not only about Cambodia learning from Korea but also about Korea gaining valuable insights and talent from Cambodia’s dynamic research community,” he said.