Comparing recent technology foresight studies in Korea and China: towards foresight‐minded governments?

Abstract

Purpose This paper seeks to compare recent third generation technology foresight studies in South Korea and mainland China. Both studies were released in 2005. Design/methodology/approach Review of the foresight reports released by the Chinese and Korean governments (not available in English), interviews with the project leaders of foresight studies. Findings China is relatively behind Korea in the sophistication of its technology foresight methodology. Chinese foresight is second generation (technology focus) whereas Korea's is third generation (society focus). There is no example of policy up‐take of TF results in China so far but there was one very recent example in Korea. There was no private sector participation in using Chinese foresight results; however, there was limited participation in Korea. Foresight methodology should be generally enhanced. Practical implications A better link between policy‐making and foresight process is needed. This requires changes at both ends. Governance issues of foresight are addressed towards the end of the paper. Originality/value Original, unpublished competitive paper for the ASIALICS 2006 International Conference, Shanghai, April 2006.