Trends Identified

Polymerase Chain Reaction for Site Diagnosis
The technology of examining the gene on the spot using the gene amplification technology PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction). The DNA and RNA containing the gene information are extracted from saliva or blood, and amplified to check infection. This method was spotlighted as the quickest and accurate method since the outbreak of novel swine-origin influenza. Its application is expanding day by day, including respiratory disease check, venereal disease check, drug resistance test, and somatic mutation test for cancer diagnosis.
2011
KISTEP 10 Emerging Technologies 2011
South Korea, Korea Institute of S&T Evaluation and Planning (KISTEP)
Wearable Computer
Wearable computer is a body-borne computer that is worn by the user under, with, or on top of clothing. Wearable technology was initially applied in military uses, but can now be applied to various fields including fashion and logistics.
2010
KISTEP 10 Emerging Technologies 2010
South Korea, Korea Institute of S&T Evaluation and Planning (KISTEP)
3D Display
Three dimensional displays enable users to experience and interact with virtual images, increasing effectiveness of information delivery. The technology is currently used commercially in 3D movie theaters, and is expected to enter homes in the near future through glasses-free 3D displays and holographic TVs.
2010
KISTEP 10 Emerging Technologies 2010
South Korea, Korea Institute of S&T Evaluation and Planning (KISTEP)
Nursing Helper Robot
The nursing helper robot responds to the user’s needs based on behavioral and facial recognition. Equipped with artificial skin and tactile sensors, the nursing helper robot can work as mobility aids for patients, and assist in nursing
2010
KISTEP 10 Emerging Technologies 2010
South Korea, Korea Institute of S&T Evaluation and Planning (KISTEP)
Multi-purpose Vaccine
Multi-purpose vaccines prevent diseases caused by most variants of pathogenic bacteria and reduce the number of vaccinations a child receives. Identifying safe and effective antigens, and ensuring the stability of the vaccine is important. The technology uses DNA vaccines that target DNA sequences common in widely ranging pathogens.
2010
KISTEP 10 Emerging Technologies 2010
South Korea, Korea Institute of S&T Evaluation and Planning (KISTEP)
Gene Theraphy
Gene therapy involves the substitution of genes that cause diseases or insertion of therapeutic genes. Prior to implementation, the discovery of target genes, designing of delivery systems, securing stability of gene expression, and relevant ethical issues need to be addressed.
2010
KISTEP 10 Emerging Technologies 2010
South Korea, Korea Institute of S&T Evaluation and Planning (KISTEP)
Home Healthcare System
Home healthcare system is a healthcare service that collects biometric information at home and sends it to hospitals for diagnosis, and provides care in case of emergencies. As a fundamental technology for aging society, the home healthcare system can provide prescriptions for minor ailments or chronic conditions.
2010
KISTEP 10 Emerging Technologies 2010
South Korea, Korea Institute of S&T Evaluation and Planning (KISTEP)
High Efficiency Portable Solar Battery
Portable energy supplies are becoming more and more important due to the scarcity of fossil fuels and the wide use of personal devices. Personal devices, automobiles, and other related industries are expected to produce more than $100 billion market value in 2020.
2010
KISTEP 10 Emerging Technologies 2010
South Korea, Korea Institute of S&T Evaluation and Planning (KISTEP)
Smart Nuclear Reactor
Demand for small and medium-sized nuclear reactors has been increasing in many countries where power grid capacity is low, and decentralized power supply is needed. The technology can also be used to desalinate seawater with nuclear energy. The technology is expected to create a global market worth more than $70 billion by 2020.
2010
KISTEP 10 Emerging Technologies 2010
South Korea, Korea Institute of S&T Evaluation and Planning (KISTEP)
Wireless Electric Power Transmission Technology
The technology enables transmission of electrical energy without the use of power plugs and outlets within limited distance. The technology can be applied for ubiquitous computing of electronic devices. Prior to implementation, efficiency enhancement and size miniaturization of wireless transmitters are the issues that need to be addressed.
2010
KISTEP 10 Emerging Technologies 2010
South Korea, Korea Institute of S&T Evaluation and Planning (KISTEP)