Ranked in the Global Innovation Index as the top city in Asia, Daejeon has become an important hub for innovation

In conversation with IFA International, Daejeon’s Vice Mayor for Economy and Science Ho-Jong Chang introduces the city, its Technopark, and the trailblazing Daejeon-based companies showcasing their latest technologies at IFA this year.

Could you start by introducing Daejeon and explaining its status as a hub for innovation?
Daejeon Metropolitan City is indisputably the science capital of South Korea, where the nation’s top scientists, researchers, and industry professionals come together. It is home to 19 universities and 26 government-funded research institutes. Daejeon has recently prioritised six core future strategic technologies— aerospace, bio-health, chips, defence, quantum, and robots—and is intensively promoting their development. The city has also attracted significant government and private research and development (R&D) investment. Notably, in 2023, Daejeon was ranked as the top city in Asia in the Global Innovation Index (GII) published by the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO).

How does the Daejeon Technopark contribute to accelerating the creation of technology-intensive enterprises while aiding economic revitalisation?
The Technopark is dedicated to identifying and supporting technology-based start-ups; facilitating commercialisation; building collaborative networks; strengthening the industrial ecosystem, and supporting local companies’ expansion into global markets. These efforts are aimed at stimulating regional industrial development, creating jobs, and fostering economic growth.

What are some of the highlights IFA visitors can discover at the Daejeon Technopark stand?
The ten Daejeon-based companies participating in this edition of IFA are showcasing a number of innovative technologies, including high-speed delivery drones for long-range transportation; XR experience technology using LEDs; a real-time accident detection solution based on AI deep learning; a thermal imaging solution for detecting defects in semiconductor equipment; a chicken-cooking robot; a haptic suit for an immersive gaming experience; an AI-based beamforming technology, and a customised digital scent solution. At our stands, you can experience these technologies, and, we have prepared various events featuring Kumdori, Daejeon’s beloved mascot.

South Korea is IFA Next’s Innovation Partner Country this year. Why is IFA, and specifically IFA NEXT, such an important event for the industry?
IFA Next serves as IFA’s innovation hub, connecting world-leading innovators, research institutions, promising start-ups, and forward-thinking companies. In this regard, I believe that IFA Next provides an ideal platform for companies to forge partnerships, attract investors, and explore new market opportunities.

A unique position for a unique city

When asked about his role as Daejeon’s Vice Mayor for Economy and Science, Ho-Jong Chang explained that it is “a unique position held only by Daejeon in South Korea.” He outlined that the role involves “strategically managing the city by harnessing the cutting-edge technologies emerging from Daejeon’s Research Complex and KAIST, fostering industrial collaborations, and driving economic growth.” As the Vice Mayor for Economy and Science, Mr Chang oversees all affiliated organisations related to Daejeon’s economy, science, and industry, and develops integrated and future-oriented strategies. Building on the growing importance of international cooperation, Mr Chang stated, “I have been actively seeking partnerships with overseas companies, institutions, and universities. Also, I have been strongly committed to promoting the ‘World Economic and Scientific Cities Alliance,’ which will be launched in early September with six cities worldwide.”

Hub 27 / Pav 12

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