The Science and Technology Research Award was given to Professor Kim Jeong-sang from Duke University in the U.S., Han Gi-soo, CEO of Philoptics, who contributed to the localization of key equipment for organic light-emitting diodes (OLED) with unique laser technology, and DN Solutions, which developed the country’s first source technology for machine tools. Professor Kim is a pioneer in ion trap-based quantum computer technology. He founded the U.S. quantum computing company IonQ in 2015, developing technology to manufacture ion traps using semiconductor processes and designing the structure of quantum computers. He continues to lead the commercialization of ion trap quantum computers while solving numerous challenges.
Professor Kim expressed his gratitude, stating, "As a scientist, exploring the unknown world and creating a business based on achievements is not easy, but I feel a great sense of fulfillment. I believe in the social value of science and technology and thank the foundation for this award."
CEO Han was recognized for developing world-class OLED display processing equipment. He was the first to apply laser processing technology to mass production, leading to improvements in product yield and quality. He also developed laser processing equipment for high-precision and high-speed processing of glass substrates for semiconductors.
Since founding Philoptics in 2008, CEO Han has been dedicated to technology development in the domestic display industry. He stated, "I will work even harder to establish ourselves as a global leading company."
DN Solutions developed the country’s first orthogonal multi-processing machine and ultra-precision processing machine. These devices have been recognized as national core technologies. Last year, out of a total revenue of 2.1 trillion won, 1.7 trillion won was achieved through exports. The company also received the '8 Million Dollar Export Tower' award last year. It is currently evaluated as the number one company in the domestic machine tool sector and the third globally.
The Venture Business Startup Award was given to Kang Geon-woo, CEO of NRB, Kim Hak-soo, CEO of Social Bean, and Jo Nam-seok, CEO of the Unmanned Exploration Institute. CEO Kang is recognized for leading a paradigm shift in the construction industry through the commercialization of buildings. He founded a venture using off-site construction (OSC) methods to produce the tallest modular buildings in the country and develop construction technology.
CEO Kim was recognized for creatively reinterpreting and branding everyday products, breaking away from traditional paradigms in the manufacturing sector. He branded the 'Purgi Baby Whale Plate,' famous as a national infant plate, and also created the infant product brand 'Atti Rabbit' and the toddler shoe brand 'Attipas.'
CEO Jo is an entrepreneur in the field of space exploration robots. He founded the 'Unmanned Exploration Institute' with the goal of developing technology for space exploration rovers and entering international markets. He participated in the demonstration of auxiliary satellites during the 4th and 5th launches of the Korean launch vehicle Nuri and is working on verifying space-grade components and technologies in space environments. He plans to accelerate the development of lunar exploration rovers in collaboration with LG Innotek.
Chairman Jang Dae-hwan of the Maekyung Media Group stated, "I believe that talented individuals in science, technology, and culture make the world a more peaceful place. Congratulations to today's awardees," and added, "Maekyung will continue to lead the discovery and training of future talents based on a knowledge-based nation."
Jeong Hyun-hee, Chairperson of the Jeong Jin-ki Journalism Culture Foundation, remarked, "In this era of artificial intelligence (AI), we need to be questioners rather than answerers. I remembered the founder's words about always having a sense of problem awareness," and congratulated the awardees for their outstanding achievements without stopping at this awareness.
Ryu Je-myeong, Vice Minister of Science and ICT, emphasized, "The source that made our country's development possible, despite lacking resources and technology, is talent," and added, "The Jeong Jin-ki Journalism Culture Award, which has discovered talent, is an honorable award that embodies deep insight and a sense of responsibility towards the nation."
[Ko Jae-won / Choi Won-seok]
