South Korea's Tech Edge Fades as China Surges Ahead in Innovation Race
South Korea has lost its long-standing lead over China in secondary batteries, the last sector where it held a clear advantage. A recent government assessment also reveals that the technological gap between the two nations has grown since 2022. Experts now suggest cooperation rather than competition could secure South Korea's future role in regional innovation networks.
Between 2022 and 2024, South Korea narrowed its technological gap with the US by 0.4 years. In the same period, China closed its own gap by 0.8 years, widening the distance between the two Asian economies. The findings, released by South Korea's Ministry of Science and ICT, highlight China's rapid progress in critical fields.
South Korea's traditional strengths—single-point breakthroughs and export-driven growth—face growing challenges. Globalisation is slowing, while other economies expand their industrial bases. Regional supply chains are also shifting, with South Korean firms moving production to Southeast Asia yet still relying on Chinese components.
China now dominates 57 of 64 key technologies and leads in areas like AI, despite US-led restrictions on tech collaboration. South Korea's semiconductor sector, once a global leader, now sees China playing a larger role, including partnerships with firms like Samsung. However, no major joint projects in semiconductors or AI have been announced since 2024.
Analysts argue that South Korea's future lies not in head-to-head competition but in becoming a vital node within Asia's innovation ecosystem. By focusing on high-end, specialised segments, the country could remain an essential supplier in regional networks. A cooperative approach with China, particularly in semiconductor supply chains, might also strengthen its global position.
The widening technological gap and China's growing dominance in critical sectors leave South Korea with limited options. Shifting toward regional cooperation and high-value specialisation could help it retain influence. For now, the country's role as a key supplier depends on adapting to an increasingly fragmented global tech landscape.
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