Recently, South Korea's National Assembly officially passed the Synthetic Biology Promotion Act, making it the first country in the world to enact legislation specifically dedicated to the field of synthetic biology. The law will come into effect in 2026, following cabinet approval and promulgation, after a one-year preparation period. To ensure smooth implementation, the South Korean government plans to simultaneously advance supplementary legislation, including enforcement decrees and relevant guidelines.
Synthetic biology is regarded as a cutting-edge field that integrates artificial intelligence, big data, and life sciences. It has wide-ranging applications in areas such as vaccine development and addressing climate change, and is considered a key strategic domain in global technology competition. According to a January 2025 report by the Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information (KISTI), South Korea currently accounts for only 2% of global synthetic biology research output—significantly behind the United States (25%) and China (16%). With this legislation, South Korea aims to accelerate domestic R&D and industrialization in synthetic biology and enhance its international competitiveness.
Key measures under the Synthetic Biology Promotion Act include:
1. Establishing a National Framework for Synthetic Biology Development
2. Promoting Research and Development
3. Building Research Infrastructure and Creating an Enabling Environment
4. Responsible Management: Guidelines, Safety Systems, and Public Engagement
Minister of Science and ICT, Yoo Sang-im, emphasized that this legislation is a milestone that lays a strong foundation for the future of South Korea’s bioeconomy. The government will work closely with all stakeholders to ensure the effective implementation of supporting regulations and policies.
Establishing a Foundation to Lead the Bioeconomy: Enactment of the "Synthetic Biology Promotion Act"
