"We aim to position Korea among the global top 3 in clinical trial competitiveness and establish it as Asia's central research hub"

With streamlined regulatory pathways, globally aligned infrastructure, and strong patient engagement, Korea is fast emerging as a preferred hub for clinical development in Asia. At the centre of this shift is KoNECT — a government-funded, nonprofit organisation under the Ministry of Health and Welfare of Korea tasked with accelerating both domestic and global clinical trial activity. President Dr. Inseok Park discusses how the agency is driving international investment, deepening cross-border collaborations, and preparing Korea’s research workforce for the next phase of global clinical trials. Edited excerpts:

- Dr Inseok Park

KONECT was established to strengthen Korea's global competitiveness in clinical research. What are the key milestones achieved since its foundation, and how has your role evolved with recent government designations (e.g., as National Center for Clinical Research Service)?

Since its establishment in 2014, KoNECT has been dedicated to enhancing Korea's global competitiveness in clinical research by improving trial capabilities and advancing clinical infrastructure. In 2020, KoNECT was officially designated by the government as the National Center for Clinical Research Service, responsible for supporting the overall clinical trial industry—including infrastructure development, ongoing curriculum design and implementation as an educational institute, and attracting both domestic and international investment. Following this designation, KoNECT’s role has significantly expanded. We now support policy formulation, act as a bridge connecting government, academia, and industry stakeholders, and lead initiatives to cultivate specialised professionals and advance clinical trial digitalization.

Our flagship annual event, the KoNECT International Conference (KIC), serves as a platform to showcase Korea’s global leadership in the field of clinical trials. We have also implemented practical initiatives, including the free distribution of Clinical Trial Management Systems (CTMS), the launch of the 'Korean Clinical Trials Participation Portal’ to enhance participant access, and the establishment of a hands-on training center for clinical professionals. Importantly, KoNECT has responded proactively to public health emergencies such as COVID-19.