2025-03-24-ITIF-从快速追随者到创新领导者_重构韩国技术监管（英）_11页_326kb

Report Summary: From Fast Follower to Innovation Leader – Restructuring South Korea's Technology Regulation

South Korea's current regulatory framework, combining "positive regulation" and "shadow regulations," was effective for its manufacturing era but now hinders innovation in digital technologies like AI, cryptocurrency, and mobility. This system delays innovation until after regulations are established, allowing competitors like China to advance faster.

Key challenges include:

• Inhibiting growth in crypto, ride-sharing (e.g., TADA), and AI due to restrictive approvals and informal discouragement from regulators.
• Despite high R&D investment, South Korea's innovation ecosystem is weakening, with declining platform values, poor start-up perceptions, and risks of economic stagnation by 2031.
• Issues stem from a risk-averse culture and regulatory uncertainty, leading to missed opportunities for global leadership.

Recommendations for reform include:

• Shifting to a "negative regulation" model that permits innovation unless prohibited, focusing on minimal, evidence-based rules for emerging technologies.
• Establishing a cross-agency "control tower" with enforcement authority to coordinate tech policy and prevent fragmentation.
• Learning from international examples, such as the US, Singapore, and Japan, to foster innovation while managing risks.

Failure to modernize could result in South Korea losing its innovation edge, with GDP growth projections dropping significantly. Bold structural reforms are urged to capitalize on existing strengths and drive future competitiveness.