In 2025, the Korean government initiated a phased transition of government-funded research institutes from an outcome-oriented framework to an institutionally mission-oriented research paradigm. Earlier, in 2022, the government had announced the Fourt...
In 2025, the Korean government initiated a phased transition of government-funded research institutes from an outcome-oriented framework to an institutionally mission-oriented research paradigm. Earlier, in 2022, the government had announced the Fourth Basic Plan for Space Development Promotion, which redefined the national space policy framework—shifting the emphasis from public-sector-led system development to a mid- to long-term, mission-driven approach centered on private-sector participation. Against this backdrop, this study explores KARI’s strategic orientation for Fundamental Research within the evolving policy environment that increasingly prioritizes mission-oriented research frameworks.