• Journal of the Korean Society of Industry Convergence
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• v.25 no.2_2
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• pp.219-232
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• 2022

The aim of this study is to provide the dynamic convergence index that reflected the inherent characteristics of the convergence phenomenon and utilized the nationally-funded R&D projects data, thereby suggesting useful information about the direction of the national convergence R&D strategy. The dynamic convergence index that we suggested was made of two indicators: persistency and diversity. From a time-series perspective, the persistency index, which measures the degree of continuous convergence of multidisciplinary nationally-funded R&D projects, and the diversity index, which measures the degree of binding with heterogeneous research areas. We conducted the empirical experiment with 151,248 convergence R&D projects during the 2015~2021 time period. The results showed that convergence R&D projects in both public health and life sciences appeared the highest degree of persistency. It was presumed that the degree of persistency has increased again due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Meanwhile, the degree of diversity has risen with combining with disciplinary such as materials, chemical engineering, and brain science areas to solve social problems including mental health, depression, and aging. This study not only provides implications for improving the concept and definition of dynamic convergence in terms of persistency and diversity for national convergence R&D strategy but also presented dynamic convergence index and analysis methods that can be practically applied for directing public R&D programs.

• Journal of the Korean Applied Science and Technology
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• v.41 no.3
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• pp.825-841
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• 2024

This study aimed to scrutinize the evolution of cosmetics research and development (R&D) in Korea, utilizing data from nationally funded R&D projects, and to suggest strategies to enhance the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). A thorough analysis was performed on cosmetics-related national R&D funded project data from 2019 to 2023, a comprehensive analysis was conducted on annual trends, key organization, regional characteristics, major departments, and main functions and efficacy of R&D. The features revealed that the cosmetics industry, predominantly comprised of SMEs, is directing its efforts towards the development of a diverse range of functional products, with a recent shift towards the production of eco-friendly and sustainable materials. From a regional perspective, Gyeonggi-do and Chungcheongbuk-do had the highest levels of R&D activities, demonstrating the significant R&D capabilities of these local industry. It provides a systematic comprehensive analysis based on national R&D funded project data, identifies recent trends in the cosmetics industry, and evidence for SMEs to strengthen market competitiveness and establish long-term strategies for sustainable growth. Therefore, the results of this study dispense significant information and insights not only to SMEs but also to policymakers, using critical foundational data for formulating and implementing policies to advance the cosmetics industry.