In 2011, when I first came to KIST as a young man, everything was new to me. I had no idea that, 8 years later, I would join the staff at VKIST. These days, I collaborate with KIST staff on the construction of VKIST, which is being built step-by-step according to KIST’s methodology. It is an honor and a pleasure to be taking part in this project—I certainly never imagined anything like it!
To me, Korea will always be a country of great and varied beauty: Korean TV dramas featuring incredibly gorgeous actresses, dynamic Korean football players I grew up watching, etc. As a student at KIST, I was also introduced to the “Miracle on the Han River” and the tireless, indomitable spirit of the Korean people. Now, Korea has become one of the most developed countries in the world: one of only seven nations to join the 30-50 club. Throughout the country’s economic transformation, KIST was a driving force that made the Korean “miracle” possible.
Tran Tuan Thanh, VKIST R&D Management Team Leader
In 2011, when I first came to KIST as a young man, everything was new to me. I had no idea that, 8 years later, I would join the staff at VKIST. These days, I collaborate with KIST staff on the construction of VKIST, which is being built step-by-step according to KIST’s methodology. It is an honor and a pleasure to be taking part in this project—I certainly never imagined anything like it!
In my role at VKIST, many of my colleagues are specialists from KIST. Not only do we work together, we are good friends, as well. I particularly wish to thank Mr. Joo Yong Chul, a very wise man, and Mr. Jung Jiwon, an incredibly hard worker. And a very special thanks to the founding president of VKIST, Dr. Kum Dongwha, who previously served as president of KIST and is a truly great president. I learned a great deal of knowledge and skill from each of them.
In my eyes, KIST is a premier research institute that aims to improve quality of life for everyone and create a better future. From its launch in 1966, KIST has continually been at the forefront of Korean development, and their success stories go hand-in-hand. KIST is the result of strong leadership, effective policy, and passionate researchers. In its early stages, KIST prided itself on being a “laboratory that never sleeps”, reflecting the dedication and commitment of its pioneering scientists and researchers.
In 2019, when I returned to KIST as a VKIST staff member participating in the VKIST – 1st Capacity Building Program, I understood how essential it was for me to digest as much knowledge and experience as possible from KIST’s experts in order to ensure VKIST’s smooth establishment.
VKIST is taking its first step toward building its R&D capacities. Our mission is to lead applied R&D on advanced technologies pertaining to Vietnamese industries and sustainable economic development. VKIST aims to become a leader among technical solution providers for market winners, meaning that its R&D activities are aligned with bridging the gap between meeting Vietnam’s technological needs and offering practical market solutions.
The first task will be the successful and timely completion of the VKIST ODA project. Building a solid foundation is essential for VKIST’s sustainable future growth. To accomplish this, VKIST must work to organize and improve every aspect of its management. Capacity-building will be aligned with the construction of an operating system (OS), personnel development, and the procurement of needed equipment.
I believe that with help from KIST, the VKIST Project will prove a great success, becoming the definitive example of successful cooperation between Vietnam and Korea—and not just in terms of S&T. I can see myself ten years from now telling my family how proud I am to have been a part of this special moment in history.
Just as KIST did for Korea, VKIST is expected to play a leading role in accelerating Vietnam’s industrialization process and paving the way for the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
