KAIST became the first institute in Korea to introduce an Industrial Liaison Program Membership (ILPM). ILPM is a new model of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that connects member companies with the latest research developments at the institute. It differs from a common MOU in that the institute plays a more active role in technology consulting.

With an annual membership fee of 50 million Korean Won, member companies gain access to KAIST’s experts, research facilities and information resources that will bring innovation to the market. In addition, the ILPM offers a customized program that addresses each member company’s specific business needs. With the assistance of the ILPM and productive relationships with KAIST professors, the member companies will compete more effectively in the market.

MIT’s Industrial Liaison Program (ILP) is a good precedent. Established in 1948, ILP is currently serving around 200 companies and operates within MIT’s Office of Corporate Relations. The program is staffed with professional officers who act as liaisons to corporate representatives chosen by each member company. Members attend informal conferences to discuss research progress, establish contacts with faculty on the MIT campus and receive lab reports and other research publications.
The first member of KAIST’s ILPM is Youlchon Chemical, a Nongshim subsidiary. It is a leading packaging company known for its production of high-quality functional packaging materials. On March 22, Youlchon Chemical joined ILPM and signed a MOU with KAIST. CEO Nok Jung Song of Youlchon Chemical and President Nam Pyo Suh attended the ceremony. Through this MOU, Youlchon Chemical will gain insight into a variety of issues related to its core business from professors and researchers. KAIST has promised active support in recruiting as well.

Chief Jae Seok Chang from KAIST’s Office of University-Industry Cooperation who led the ILPM said, “We are currently consulting various companies that have difficulties with entering new business fields because of a lack of technology and information. The ILPM will provide total care and support for these companies. We are planning to further expand this program.”