The Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI), which has led the development of domestic information and communication technology (ICT), celebrated its 50th anniversary by reviewing the achievements of the past half-century and declaring a leap into the future.

ETRI held a ceremony at its headquarters in Daejeon on the 1st and announced that the economic impact of its research and development achievements on the entire industry amounts to approximately 494 trillion won.

Officials from the Ministry of Science and ICT, former heads of institutions, and key figures from industry, academia, and research attended the event to shed light on the history of the institute.

The ceremony began with the screening of a 50th anniversary video, followed by a commemorative speech, congratulatory messages, awards for distinguished contributors, and the publication of the 50-year history book.

Since its establishment in 1976, ETRI has laid the foundation for industrial growth by developing core national ICT technologies such as Time-Digital Switching (TDX), Memory Semiconductor (DRAM), CDMA mobile communication, 3G and 4G communication systems, and artificial intelligence technology.

In particular, the TDX, completed with proprietary technology, is regarded as the starting point for self-reliance in telecommunications technology and became the foundation for subsequent innovation in the semiconductor and mobile communications sectors.

According to data analyzed by researchers, technological achievements accumulated over the past 50 years have generated a total economic value of 494 trillion won through production, employment, and market expansion.

Among these, the direct industrial effect through core technologies is 316 trillion won, and related The effect spread to industry was estimated at 178 trillion won.

CDMA, DRAM, and TDX are cited as representative examples that boosted the competitiveness of the domestic ICT industry.

At the event, a special program was also prepared to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the opening of TDX, providing an opportunity to reflect on the significance of technological independence.

A digital pledge ceremony attended by all employees and an unveiling ceremony for a commemorative sculpture were also held.

The ETRI Researcher of the Year Award was presented to Principal Researcher Kim Hye-jin, who developed AI-based tactile sensor technology.

Researcher Kim was recognized for his contribution to the commercialization of technology and the strengthening of industrial competitiveness by implementing an omnidirectional tactile sensor applicable to robot hands.

ETRI plans to expand next-generation research centered on artificial intelligence, 6G communication, and digital transformation technologies, and also create an open promotional space where the public can directly experience research results.

ETRI stated, “Based on the spirit of challenge of the past 50 years, we will lead technological innovation in Korea for the next 50 years.”