Message from the Chairman

Nearly five decades (=Almost five decades) have passed since my father, the late SK Chairman Chey Jong-hyon, established the Korea Foundation for Advanced Studies (KFAS) with a vision to invest in human capital as the cornerstone of national and global progress. This founding principle continues to guide the Chey Institute for Advanced Studies today as we confront increasingly complex global challenges.

The world now stands at a critical crossroads marked by persistent and escalating geopolitical tensions. The prolonged U.S.-China rivalry, the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, rising instability in the Middle East, and deepening political and economic polarization across many nations are reshaping the global order. Additionally, supply chain disruptions, energy security concerns, climate change, and the resurgence of protectionism further complicate the path toward global stability and prosperity.

At the same time, the rapid advancement of science and technology led by (=driven by) artificial intelligence, quantum computing, biotechnology, and renewable energy- is fundamentally transforming societies and economies. While these innovations offer unprecedented opportunities, they also intensify geopolitical competition as nations race to secure technological dominance. The intersection of technological progress and geopolitical strategy has become a defining challenge of our era, influencing everything from global security dynamics to economic resilience.

Among the battleground sectors in the race for technological dominance, AI stands as the most contested. The so-called “AI arms race” is transforming the geopolitical landscape, driven by not only economic interests, but strategic considerations. The world is already looking beyond the current AI capabilities, and toward artificial general intelligence (AGI) and AI-powered physical automation. The rapid pace at which major powers innovate and adapt underscores the increasing need for global collaboration in AI innovation.

In response to these multifaceted challenges, the Chey Institute for Advanced Studies is committed to fostering in-depth analysis and dialogue on geopolitical risks and the implications of scientific innovation. Our mission is to propose pragmatic and comprehensive solutions that contribute to regional and global stability, sustainable growth, and shared prosperity. By bringing together global thought leaders, policymakers, and experts, we strive to create a knowledge-sharing platform that bridges insights and fosters collective wisdom to navigate these uncertain times.

Guided by the enduring vision of the late Chairman Chey, the Chey Institute will continue to champion academic exchange, research, and innovation as driving forces for addressing the complex challenges of today and building a better future for all.

We sincerely ask for your continued support and encouragement as we work toward this mission.

Chey Tae-won

Chairman / SK Group, Chey Institute for Advanced Studies

Message from the President

In 2025, the Chey Institute for Advanced Studies has continued to address the complex interplay between geopolitical tensions and rapid technological advancements. Our commitment to insightful analysis and fostering solutions remains unwavering as we navigate this transformative era.

Our flagship initiative, the Trans-Pacific Dialogue (TPD), has served as a vital platform for constructive engagement among leaders from Korea, the United States, Japan, and other key partners. Through candid discussions on regional security, economic resilience, and technological governance, TPD has generated actionable policy insights to navigate emerging global dynamics.

The CHEY Institute's Science and Technology Innovation Council has deepened its role in addressing the societal and geopolitical implications of cutting-edge innovations. By convening experts from diverse fields, the Council examines risks and opportunities in areas such as AI governance, cybersecurity, and sustainable technology development. These efforts aim to bridge the gap between scientific progress and strategic policymaking, ensuring that innovation serves the broader good.

In our commitment to public engagement, we have launched a series of science innovation lectures aimed at demystifying complex scientific topics for the general public. We had an honor to host a lecture by Professor Victor Ambros, co-recipient of the 2024 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for his discovery of microRNA and its role in gene regulation.

Furthermore, our collaboration with leading Asian universities has elevated international forums such as the Beijing Forum, Shanghai Forum, and Tokyo Forum to new heights. These platforms have garnered significant global recognition and importance, fostering academic discourse and cooperation beyond Northeast Asia.

As we move forward, the Chey Institute is dedicated to expanding its global networks and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. By working with leading academic institutions, research organizations, and think tanks worldwide, we seek to cultivate collective intelligence that can drive pragmatic solutions for global stability and sustainable growth.

Guided by the founding vision of the late Chairman Chey Jong-hyon, we will continue to pursue knowledge and innovation as essential tools for addressing the complex challenges of our time.

I look forward to your continued interest and support as we strive to create meaningful impact in the years ahead.

Kim Yoosuk

President Chey Institute for Advanced Studies