Table of Contents
- Researcher Qualification Standards
- Dedicated Facility Requirements
- Documentation Requirements
- Common Application Failures
- FAQ
1. Researcher Qualification Standards
Researchers must hold a bachelor's degree or higher in a relevant science, engineering, or IT field, OR have 3+ years of R&D experience. All researchers must be full-time employees of the company (not contractors). Head researcher must be a recognized specialist in the research area.
2. Dedicated Facility Requirements
- Physically separate and dedicated research space (not shared with office)
- Clearly labeled with "Research Laboratory" signage
- Equipped with appropriate research tools and instruments
- Minimum space: no strict size requirement, but must be functionally adequate
3. Documentation Requirements
- Research plan with specific objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes
- Researcher employment certificates and academic credentials
- Facility lease and floor plan
- Equipment inventory list
- Budget plan for R&D expenditures
4. Common Application Failures
- Research plan is too generic or copied from another company
- Researcher is listed but not actually employed full-time
- Facility is shared with general office space with no physical separation
- Equipment listed doesn't match the stated research activities
FAQ
Q. Can a foreign national researcher qualify?
A. Yes, as long as they are legally employed in Korea and meet the degree/experience requirements.
Q. What is the minimum number of researchers for a startup?
A. For small businesses (소기업), a minimum of 2 full-time researchers is required.
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