- The "Synthetic Biology Promotion Act" was passed in the National Assembly's plenary session on April 2.
- Following approval by the Cabinet, the law is set to be implemented in 2026 after a one-year grace period.
- It establishes national-level regulations for fostering synthetic biology and ensuring safety.

The Ministry of Science and ICT (Minister Yoo Sang-im, hereinafter referred to as "MSIT") announced that the "Synthetic Biology Promotion Act" was passed during the National Assembly's plenary session on April 2.

Synthetic biology is a cutting-edge field where advanced digital technologies, such as artificial intelligence and big data, converge with life sciences. As a transformative force in biotechnology, it addresses the limitations of traditional methods and drives innovation in bio-manufacturing. Its applications are rapidly expanding—from vaccine development to tackling climate crises—making it a pivotal area in global technological competition. Recognizing its strategic importance, Korea has become the first country in the world to enact legislation specifically aimed at advancing synthetic biology.

The “Synthetic Biology Promotion Act” was developed through expert consultations and public feedback beginning in 2022. The bill, sponsored by Choi Soo-jin, a Member of the National Assembly, was introduced during the 22nd National Assembly on September 10, 2024. It was subsequently reviewed by the Science, ICT, Broadcasting and Communications Committee on March 11, 2025, and the Legislation and Judiciary Committee on March 26, before being passed in a plenary session on April 2.

The legislation aims to promote research and development (R&D) in synthetic biology at a national level, establish a legal framework for responsible technology development, enhance societal understanding, and build consensus. Key provisions include:

1. Establishing a National Framework for Synthetic Biology Development
The MSIT Minister is required to formulate a "Synthetic Biology Promotion Basic Plan" every five years after consulting relevant government agencies (Article 5).
Legal grounds have been established for the creation and operation of the Synthetic Biology Development Council (Article 12).
In addition, the MSIT Minister may designate specialized policy institutions to efficiently support policy development (Article 13).

2. Promoting Research and Development
The Act establishes a legal basis for implementing national synthetic biology R&D projects.
The MSIT Minister may designate R&D hub institutions to drive innovation, promote broader adoption, and strengthen collaboration among academia, industry, and research institutes (Article 15).

3. Building Research Infrastructure and Creating an Enabling Environment
The government may establish and operate core infrastructure for synthetic biology R&D and application, such as biomanufacturing facilities ("biofoundries") (Article 19). It may also develop and implement policies to support the use of synthetic biology research data (Article 21).
To promote the dissemination of results and ensure interoperability, the government may formulate and implement policies for standardization in synthetic biology (Article 22).
Legal grounds have been established for nurturing specialized human resources (Article 23) and promoting international cooperation (Article 24).

4. Responsible Management: Guidelines, Safety Systems, and Public Engagement
To proactively address uncertainties that may arise from advances in synthetic biology and to create a safe and autonomous research environment, the MSIT Minister may establish R&D guidelines (Article 25).
The Minister may also establish and operate a safety management system in consultation with relevant central administrative agencies (Article 26).
When formulating policies for the promotion of synthetic biology, the government is required to gather input from stakeholders (Article 27).
To enhance public understanding and build societal consensus, the government may implement related outreach and engagement initiatives (Article 28).
The Synthetic Biology Promotion Act will take effect in 2026, following Cabinet approval and promulgation, and after a one-year grace period. The government plans to ensure its smooth implementation by preparing subordinate legislation, including enforcement decrees and relevant guidelines.
Minister Yoo stated, “It is deeply meaningful that Korea has become the first country in the world to enact dedicated legislation for the promotion of synthetic biology. This law serves as a major milestone that provides national direction and strategy for a field with boundless potential, while laying the groundwork for advancing our national bioeconomy.”
He further emphasized, “The government will do its utmost to ensure smooth implementation of follow-up measures by maintaining close communication with stakeholders during the process of developing subordinate regulations, policies, and guidelines.”
For further information, please contact the Public Relations Division (Phone: +82-44-202-4034, E-mail: msitmedia@korea.kr) of the Ministry of Science and ICT.


※ Please refer to the attached PDF.