Basic Science Institute

Established in 2011, the Institute for Basic Science here in Seoul stands as a testament to South Korea’s commitment to scientific advancement. This isn’t just another research facility. The Institute for Basic Science, often called IBS, represents a bold, nationwide initiative. Its mission? To unravel the fundamental mysteries of the universe, from the smallest particles to the largest cosmic structures. The Institute for Basic Science is not confined to these walls. It’s a network of around 30 research centers spread across South Korea, each a hub of cutting-edge exploration. These centers delve into diverse fields. These range from physics and chemistry to mathematics and life sciences. Around 1,800 researchers and students, 30% of whom are international, contribute to this ambitious project. The Institute for Basic Science is sometimes referred to as South Korea’s “Nobel Prize project,” highlighting the high aspirations driving its research. One of the Institute for Basic Science’s most exciting endeavors is the development of RAON. RAON is a heavy ion accelerator facility in Daejeon. This state-of-the-art facility will be the first in the world to utilize both isotope separator on-line and in-flight methods, pushing the boundaries of nuclear physics. In 2018, the Institute for Basic Science further solidified its position at the forefront of research. It housed the largest number of Clarivate Highly Cited Researchers in Korea. That same year, the IBS Center for Climate Physics acquired Aleph, a 1.43-petaflop Cray XC50 supercomputer. Aleph greatly enhanced its climate modeling capabilities. More recently, Olaf, a new supercomputer, joined the ranks of the top 10 green supercomputers. The Institute for Basic Science isn’t just about pushing the boundaries of knowledge. It’s also about cultivating the next generation of scientists. The IBS School, a joint program with the University of Science and Technology, offers a unique graduate program. It leverages the resources of the Institute for Basic Science’s HQ Centers to provide unparalleled training for budding researchers. The Institute for Basic Science continues to grow and evolve. With ongoing expansion plans and the establishment of new research buildings at various universities, the future of basic science in South Korea looks brighter than ever, thanks to the Institute for Basic Science.