Education World

A report suggesting possible inter-Korean cooperation in the chemistry, biotech, and nano-science fields was released Wednesday by a state-run think tank, claiming the gap in the depth of technology between the two countries in such areas is relatively minimal.

The Science and Technology Policy Institute (STEPI) said in its latest “Issue and Policy” report that the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) has traditionally shown advancements in the polymer chemistry industry, nano-science and mathematics sectors, as well as biotech areas including animal cloning, hinting that cooperation between the two Koreas may be fruitful.

The report also said the DPRK has very advanced technology in the nuclear energy and missiles industries but collaboration in such areas would depend on how the country conforms to the denuclearization process recommended by the international community.

However, the STEPI said, the difference in the quality and depth of research between the two countries is too big at this point to push for any quick cooperation, as it suggested gradually building better infrastructure and education systems in the DPRK and taking a step-by-step approach before forming any partnerships.

SEOUL, Jan. 4 (Xinhua) — South Korean President Lee Myung-bak vowed Monday the country will broaden and strengthen diplomatic relations with others, including the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK).

“We need to open a new chapter in relations between South Korea and the DPRK this year,” Lee said in his televised address to the nation, designed to lay out policy blueprint for 2010. Full story

SEOUL, Jan. 4 (Xinhua) — South Korea’s top diplomat said Monday that the country will continue pursuing what is called a “grand bargain” designed to help bring denuclearization of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), local media reported.

“For the complete and verifiable denuclearization of the DPRK, the country will seek a grand bargain based on close cooperation with five other countries in the (six-party) talks,” Seoul’s Foreign Minister Yu Myung-hwan said.