□ DGIST (President Kunwoo Lee) announced that it signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials (KIMM; President Seoghyeon Ryu) on Tuesday, September 8, at DGIST’s main administration building. The agreement aims to advance Korea’s science and technology capabilities and drive innovation in future machinery and manufacturing industries.
□ The agreement was established in response to the rapid digital transformation of the machinery and manufacturing sectors and the growing integration of artificial intelligence (AI). Through this partnership, the two institutions seek to build a strategic research collaboration framework and accelerate industry-driven innovation and commercialization.
□ Under the agreement, DGIST and KIMM will pursue broad cooperation in several key areas, including (1) technology development and commercialization through joint research in mechanical engineering and related technologies; (2) exchanges of research personnel and specialized educational programs; (3) shared use of advanced research facilities, equipment, and infrastructure; and (4) mutual exchange of academic and technical information.
□ The partnership is expected to generate significant synergies by combining DGIST’s world-class research talent and deep-tech capabilities, which are based on highly sophisticated and advanced technologies, with KIMM’s leading mechanical engineering technologies and advanced demonstration infrastructure. Together, the two institutions aim to move beyond laboratory-based technology development and establish a leading model for Korea’s machinery and manufacturing ecosystem, enabling innovative technologies to be successfully deployed in real-world industrial and manufacturing environments.
□ “The key challenges facing today’s machinery and manufacturing industries are AI convergence, autonomous manufacturing, and the successful commercialization of advanced technologies,” said DGIST President Kunwoo Lee. “By combining DGIST’s cutting-edge technologies with KIMM’s advanced infrastructure, we expect to create powerful synergies that will help elevate the global competitiveness of Korea’s machinery and manufacturing industries.”
□ “I am delighted to establish this meaningful partnership with DGIST, a leading institution shaping the future of advanced science and technology in Korea,” said KIMM President Seoghyeon Ryu. “By closely integrating KIMM’s strengths in machinery and manufacturing technologies and demonstration capabilities with DGIST’s innovative deep-tech research expertise, we will enhance the competitiveness of Korea’s manufacturing sector and generate tangible commercialization outcomes.”
□ The two institutions plan to faithfully implement the terms of the agreement based on mutual trust and expand practical collaboration through follow-up initiatives, including joint research projects and broader exchanges of personnel, facilities, and other resources.
