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2023-12-29

Color traffic lane markings on road

The Korea Expressway Corporation (KEC), in 2011, installed ‘Color Guidance Lanes’ at expressways for the first time in the nation.  Increasing Safety and Reducing Confusion! No more trouble with directions for the public. ContentThe Seoul Station intersection in Seoul. ⓒ City of Seoul Website√ Overview√ The Birth of a System√ Accomplishments and expansion■ With just a few lines, an innovation on the road                                      Pink and Green lines, drawn along the road, have gradually become a common sight. These lines are officially called ‘Color Guidance Lanes’. Color guidance lanes are guidance lanes painted on road surfaces so that drivers can easily identify driving directions and routes at intersections, interchanges, and junctions, etc.While there are three colors for guidance lanes, the common colors visible are pink and green. Pink guidance lanes are utilized if a road splits off in one direction, while green is additionally applied for a second direction.■ First appearance in 2011, at the Ansan junction of the West Coast Expressway,                                         On May 3rd, 2011, the ‘Color Guidance Lanes’ were first applied at the Ansan junction of the West Coast Expressway for the first time in the nation.* The world’s first color guidance lanes are known to have been installed at the Aramachi district of Sendai city, by Japan. Korea’s first color guidance lanes, visible at the Ansan junction of the West Coast Expressway ⓒ Naver Maps Screen captureThe star of this innovation is Mr. Yoon, Seok-deok, an employer of the KEC who worked at the Gunpo office at the time. His direct inspiration for developing the idea came from a traffic accident on March 2011, when a passenger vehicle and cargo truck crossed ways while changing lanes, leading to a fatal accident.Given directions at work to develop “a solution that even children could understand” Mr. Yoon headed home. At home, after seeing his children playing with paint and crayons, he devised an idea to “color the roads”.There were many obstacles to apply this idea in reality and bring forth innovation. At the time, there were only four colors (white, yellow, blue and red) permitted to be painted on roads. It was difficult to receive cooperation from related government agencies, as painting a different color, even for path guidance, would go against road and traffic legislation. Changing such legislation also took a good amount of time. After countless efforts and receiving active cooperation from Senior Inspector Lim, Yong Hoon of the Incheon Metropolitan Police Agency (Stationed at the 11th Substation at the time), Mr. Yoon succeeded in introducing the first color guidance lanes to the Ansan junction.* Utilization of traffic limitation agreements and indemnification policies for active administration, etc.  ■ Color Guidance Lanes, visible in countless locations. The Ansan junction had an average count of 25 traffic accidents per year, but following the implementation of color guidance lanes, the following six months showed a substantial reduction in incidents (3 in total).Once the colored guidance lanes were proven to have an outstanding impact on reducing traffic accidents, related government institutions began to take official action.The KEC began to create internal guidelines starting June 2012, and continued to improved its established installation standards. The KEC moved to expand the implementation of colored guidance lanes to the entire expressway network of Korea, including its junctions (Expanded to 187 locations by June 2015).In December 2017, even the Ministry of Land Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) created a “Manual on installation and management of color guidance lanes” and supported the nation-wide implementation of standardized color guidance lanes. Furthermore, the color guidance lanes were connected with traffic navigation systems and road signs so that drivers could identify driving directions with more ease.On May 17th, 2021, color guidance lanes, which had been limited to being a MOLIT provision, were reflected as official road surface markings on active rules for the Traffic Code by the National Police Agency, thus gaining official legislative grounds.Color guidance lanes have now expanded their application from not only expressways, but to any area that holds accident risks, including general national roads and regional roads. They have taken an important role of assisting drivers with a safer, easier way to navigate the road.* As of March 2023, 905 expressway locations in the nation have the lanes implemented, with substantially more locations installed for metropolitan roads.  [Left] Traffic navigation software in use, showing directions in connection with the color guidance lane system ⓒ MOLIT blog   [Right] Color guidance Lanes, painted at a congested inner-city intersection. ⓒ National Police Agency Blog

2023-12-29

First In Korea Drive-through Screening Stations

  The Kyungpook National University Chilgok Hospital, in February 2020, operated the world’s first Drive-through Screening Station. A Pinnacle of K-Quarantine, Outstandingly Quick and Safe!Content√ Overview√ The Birth of a System√ Accomplishments and expansion■ Quick and Safe!!                          Drive-through screening stations are mobile screening and testing stations for drivers, designed to allow potential patients of infectious diseases to receive testing from within their vehicles without the need to exit their vehicles. These stations are a medical application derived from existing drive-through ordering systems utilized by fast food restaurants and franchise coffee shops where customers order from inside their vehicles.     A drive-through screening in process ⓒ Kyungpook National University Chilgok HospitalOn the 23rd of February, 2020, the Kyungpook National University Chilgok Hospital implemented the world’s first drive-through COVID19 screening method, with multiple nations benchmarking this new method of screening for infectious diseases.As COVID 19 was rapidly spreading within Korea at the time, there was a strong need for a faster and efficient, but also safe method of screening. The existing diagnosis method for COVID19 involved potential patients visiting on foot, gathering in front of negative pressure testing chambers, causing a high concern of secondary exposure. Meanwhile, long waiting times and testing times resulted in rising complaints of inconvenience and uneasiness.In this time of national crisis, Dr. Kim, Jinyong, head of the Center for Global Infectious Diseases Control of Incheon Medical Center, suggested a drive-through method for testing, and Kyungpook National University Chilgok Hospital rapidly introduced a drive-through screening station and began operations in accordance with its facility’s conditions.  👇The Korean Drive-through Testing Method, Leading the Global Standard 👇- The Drive-through testing method was first implemented in simulation form at Stanford Hospital & Clinics in the USA, with a rise in avian flu cases in 2009. However, Korea’s success case of actual implementation at a national level was the first of its kind in the world.- Beginning in August, 2020, the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) led efforts to register the COVID19 drive-through screening station standard operating model with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), with the model being verified as a world standard in February, 2022.■ The Quick Diagnoses of innovative screening stations, contributing to limiting spread of COVID19     The advantage that drive-through screening stations hold are their ability to cut off exposure threats and test with speed. The risk of exposure or infection is greatly reduced, as test subjects are tested for temperature and samples while remaining in the independent space of their vehicles.As the COVID19 drive-through tests allowed all testing procedures including questionnaire completion, doctor diagnosis, and sample collection, all from within each subject’s vehicle, the test time for each individual could be reduced to about 5 to 10 minutes. While there had been risks of cross exposure from patients waiting in front of screening stations, an addition of phone reservations for treatment led to reduced waiting lines.The existing COVID19 testing method required internal disinfection, air ventilation and changing of protective gear for medical personnel with each test, but the drive-through method allowed the exclusion of disinfection and ventilation procedures, while medical personnel were now able to continue testing with only a change of gloves and apron.The Kyungpook National University Chilgok Hospital’s own research showed that the drive-through method increased testing speeds by 20 to 30 times in comparison to existing testing methods.■ through Screening, Praised Overseas as a Rapid Solution Model of K-Quarantine.      After the Kyungpook National University Chilgok Hospital made this first move in groundbreaking infectious disease testing with the drive-through screening stations, the government, regional municipalities, and public medical facilities rapidly followed suit. Drive-through testing quickly spread throughout the nation, with drive-through screening stations being implemented at Yeungnam University Hospital in Daegu, and cities like Sejong and Goyang after two days, on February 26th, 2020.   [Left] Vehicles visiting the drive-through screening station ⓒ Yeungnam University Hospital   [Right] Drive-through stations in operation ⓒ SejongThe Ministry of the Interior and Safety (MOIS) and the COVID19 Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters (CDSCHQ) further assisted work in the field by establishing a drive-through screening station standard operating model in March, 2020, and distributing it to all municipalities in the nation. The MOHW, beginning August 2020, made efforts to have the COVID19 drive-through screening station standard operation model registered with the ISO. In February of 2022, the Korea standard operating model of drive-through screening stations was officially accepted as a worldwide standard.    With international praise and benchmarking cases following, the Korean method of drive-through screening stations has been evaluated as a best practice standard for quarantining in the world. You could call it a global hit that once again placed K-quarantine practices in the limelight.The BBC praised the system as a “brand new drive-through method of COVID testing that rapidly incorporated a wise idea”, and the CNN spread the success of K-Quarantine practices, mentioning how the stations “limited contact between potential patients and medical personnel, with test subjects never exiting their vehicles”.Der Spiegel, a German news outlet, reported with the title “Korea’s strategy for COVID19 is resolute transparency”, providing a detailed report of the procedures followed by multiple Korean municipalities that were eager to implement drive-through stations for rapid COVID19 testingProfessor Kwon, Ki Tae and co-researchers at the Division of Infectious Diseases, Kyungpook National University Chilgok Hospital, also introduced the operation case of Korean drive-through screening stations in the Journal of Korean Medical Science (JKMS), an international journal of medicine.  

2023-12-29

First in Korea Priority Signaling for Emergency Vehicles.

In 2020, the City of Suwon, Gyeonggi Province, introduced the nation’s first ‘Priority Signaling System for Emergency Vehicles’.Splitting Traffic with Signaling, holding onto Life in the Golden Hour!Content‘An ambulance, running through an intersection with priority signaling ⓒ Suwon City√ Overview√ The Birth of a System√ Accomplishments and expansion■ A Safety Innovation for Emergency Patients and Paramedics         The priority signaling system for emergency vehicles is designed to automatically change lights to green when emergency vehicles including ambulances with emergency patients are entering intersections, made possible by the Integrated Safety Center tracking vehicle locations through GPS.The City of Suwon, Gyeonggi Province established on January 20th , 2020, for the first time in Korea, and has since operated, a ‘center-based’ priority signaling system for emergency vehicles in all areas of the city.Utilizing this system, as soon as an emergency situation is registered to the emergency safety center, the regional municipality’s central control center can identify and provide an ideal route to emergency vehicles. Furthermore, by predicting when emergency vehicles are expected to pass an intersection in their path and providing green light signaling, it can assist in the rapid passage of emergency vehicles.   ■ Acquiring a Fast and Safe Path for Emergency Vehicles.‘Priority Signaling for Emergency Vehicles’, responsible for guaranteeing the golden hour of emergencies, is currently operated by using either the ‘on-site control method’ or ‘center-connected method’※ The ‘on-site control method’ was first implemented by the City of Uiwang, Gyeonggi Province, in 2017. However, the existing ‘on-site control method’ required the installation of not just signal controllers, but also vehicle transmitters and wireless transceiver stations at each intersection, which would have led to a budget of more than 30 billion won if applied to Suwon.For cost reduction and operational efficiency, the City of Suwon actively pushed for a ‘center-connected method (Central control method)’, that had the Suwon Integrated Safety Center control the signaling system of all intersections within the path of emergency vehicles. After a total of 400 million Won in budgets and 7 months of development, the city of Suwon, on January 20th , 2020, introduced Korea’s first priority signaling system for emergency vehicles that utilized a central ‘center-connected method’.Deputy team leader Lee, Byung-ho of the City Office of Suwon, who led the development of this system, introduced how the idea came to life, stating that he “thought problems for emergency vehicle systems could have a similar solution to how bus arrival times at bus stops could be calculated for passengers based on the location of buses”.  ■ Developing even further into a nationwide, broad-scale Priority Signaling System!The ‘priority signaling system for emergency vehicles’ that began implementation for emergency ambulances at fire stations beginning January 2020, were later applied to police vehicles, leading to 1,827 accumulative cases of operation leading up to December 2022. Thanks to the introduction of the priority signaling system, the mean passage time for emergency vehicles maneuvering 1km was reduced by 56.3% from 3 minutes 20 seconds to 1 minute and 27 seconds.The priority signaling system for emergency vehicles is an example of how recognition of an existing issue, such as emergency vehicle dispatch and patient transport delays from complicated and change-prone road conditions, could be transformed into a specific improvement of systems. It is an accomplishment coming from the close cooperation of the City government of Suwon, fire departments, the police, and various research institutions of traffic safety.Building on this accomplishment, the system has increased speed for the transportation process of patients with time-sensitive conditions, such as severe trauma and acute myocardial infarctions, to medical facilities, greatly enhancing not just the protection of the public’s lives, but also the value of public safety.The priority signaling system for emergency vehicles, first implemented in January, 2020 for emergency dispatch vehicles at fire stations, were later expanded and applied to fire trucks and police vehicles in August, 2021, leading to 1,827 total cases of operation leading up to December 2022.In addition, the system was spread to 8 municipalities in the Gyeonggi Province, and 10 other areas around the nation, with several regions competing to introduce the system to their roads.The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) and the National Fire Agency are in the process of test driving a system utilizing a combined form of the ‘on-site control method’ and the ‘central-control method’, and hopes to further develop the system into a nationwide ‘Wide-area Priority Signaling System for Emergency Vehicles’.

2023-12-29

First In Korea Digital Vaccination Certificate (COOV)

 The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA), in 2021, introduced a Digital Vaccination Certificate System (COOV) that completely restricted forgery for the first time in the world.With infectious diseases keeping us on our toes at all times, with COOV, you can access your vaccination information with safety and convenience.Content √ Overview√ The Birth of a System√ Accomplishments and expansion■ Covid-19 Vaccination records in the palm of your hand. The Covid-19 Digital Vaccination Certificate System (COOV) is a system that electronically provides proof of vaccination. In the form of a mobile application that anyone can easily install with a smartphone, the certification it provides is international, allowing usage overseas. Through a simple self-verification process for identity, an individual’s personal identification and vaccination records can be confirmed on the COOV app, and desired information can be shared with another individual through a QR code, with authenticity verified in real-time.   [Left] A screen capture showing vaccination record verification and sharing. ⓒ KDCAWhen Covid-19 was spreading worldwide, the Korean government operated solutions such as quarantine passes to limit further proliferation and damage. The public had no choice but to suffer the inconvenience of verifying their vaccination status in everyday life and when travelling abroad However, the paper-based Covid-19 vaccination certificates were difficult to issue and store, with the problem of being vulnerable to forgery.With this problem in hand, the KDCA, on April 15th, 2021, began distribution for the COOV App, the world’s first blockchain-based Covid-19 digital vaccination certificate system that could, in principle, prevent forgery. The Korean public could now easily and conveniently verify their Covid-19 vaccination status.※ COOV : A combine word meaning ‘COvid-19 OVercome’, the name embodied Korea’s will to overcome Covid-19. Beginning in July of the same year, COOV was connected to private platform (Kakao, Naver) that had been providing digital entry list services. Now, the public could conveniently verify their vaccination status through their mobile app of choice.■ A Safe Covid-19 Digital Vaccination Certificate Born from Blockchain Technology!Blockchain and Decentralized Identity (DID) technology was applied to COOV to prevent forgery and confirm validity for digital vaccination certificates.※ Blockchain Labs, the startup that internally developed the Blockchain and DID technology, provided the COOV app with the functionality, free of charge. The service’s blockchain network, operated directly by the KDCA, only stored Public key information that could verify the fidelity of digital vaccination certificates, while personal information such as resident registrations numbers are excluded from storage.  COOV, by establishing a blockchain consensus algorithm that does not utilize cryptocurrency tokens, prevented any fees from using the blockchain, and is operated separately from crypto assets. Furthermore, vaccination records and provided with a real-time generated Dynamic QR, allowing safe management by preventing third parties to confirm the verification details.Because DID technology is applied to COOV, the user’s information is only stored in their smartphone, not a centralized server. The user can directly customize the how much personal information (name and date of birth), other than core vaccination information, that they share■ The COOV app, a Standard of Quarantine Security in Korea and Beyond!                        The KDCA, beginning on November 15th, 2021, expanded its mutual verification system for digital vaccination certificates, starting with Singapore and leading on to Vietnam and the Philippines.Later on, in July, 2022, the format of the European Union’s Digital Covid-19 Certificate (EU DCC) was applied to COOV, allowing COOV vaccine record verification, even in EU member nations. As of April, 2023, the COOV app is used as n international certificate in 75 nations, including the EU.A screen capture of thee COOV app issuing and verifying international certificates (EU, Singapore) ⓒ KDCAThe DID and blockchain technology applied to COOV was affirmed internationally, with it being exported to Singapore. COOV was also the center of attention worldwide, with the Linux Foundation officially requesting technological support regarding the applied technologies.Meanwhile, the COOV app, since its introduction, has accumulated approximately 31 million downloads, 290 million cases of certificate issuing, and 2 billion collective cases of certificate verification, solidifying its status as an outstanding app of the Korean public.COOV, a safe Covid-19 digital vaccination certificate verification system, implemented by the KDCA for the first time in the world, is expected to expedite the development of quarantine security systems, not just in Korea, but all around the world.

2023-12-20

The Braille Passport

  The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), in July 2017, implemented braille passports for the first time in the world.  The 250,000 visually impaired citizens of Korea can all check their own passport information when travelling abroad.Contents√ Overview√ The Birth of a System√ Accomplishments√ References■Braille passports, “available at the fingertips” of the visually impaired                 Not many people may know that braille passports, which allow the visually impaired to travel abroad with ease, were first implemented in KoreaBraille passports are specialized passports for the visually impaired, issued by the ROK MOFA for the first time in the world to allow visually impaired citizens to confirm the information on their own passports. Braille passports are issued by attaching a transparent sticker marked with key passport information, including names, passport number, and date of issue and expiry, on to the back of the front cover of a regular passport.  ■ ROK, a Global Passport Powerhouse, implements the world’s first braille passportIn June, 2016, following the Korean National Assembly’s proposal to partially amend legislation under the Passport Act, the introduction of braille passports was implemented, with related preparations in system improvement underway. Finally, on April 20th, 2017, marking the 37th National Day of People with Disability, 240 domestic passport processing institutions and 175 overseas embassies and consulates began to issue braille passports for the first time in the world.In the beginning, only individuals of level 1 to 3 visual impairment were eligible to issue braille passports, but starting from July 2019, all individuals with visual impairment were permitted to apply for braille passports. The process of applying for braille passports has also been simplified. Applicants are no longer required to provide any documentation, such as a disability registration card, to confirm their disability status. With the applicant’s consent, their level of disability can be automatically verified on the public administrative information network.The issuance of braille passports has significantly increased actual convenience, as the visually impaired can now easily confirm their information, no longer having to hassle with checking their information whenever visiting overseas, or reserving flights and accommodations. 👇The History of Implementing the Braille Passport👇   √ The Ministry of Government Legislation (MOLEG) opened ideas from the public for “Lawmaking for the Happiness of Citizens”, receiving the suggestion of braille passports. (2015.06.)    √ Partial reform for passport legislation was proposed for new provisions to issue braille passports to the visually impaired, led by legislators including congressman Joo Seung Yong. (2016.06.)   √ The 「Passport Act」 is amended to provide base rules for issuing braille passports (2017.03.21.)    √ First issuance of braille passports for Level 1~3 visual impairment (2017.04.20.)    √ Braille passport issuance, expanded to all visually impaired individuals (2019.07.01.)      ⟹In the spirit of a proactive administration that realizes legal benefits that increase convenience for individuals with disabilities, the target group for issuance was expanded prior to amendment of the 「Passport Act」     √ Plan to partially amend legislation within the Passport Act, proposed by lawmakers including congresswoman Choo Mi-ae (2019.08.16.)    √ The 「Passport Act」 is amended to expand implementation of braille passports (2021.01.05.)■ Braille passports as a Global Best Practice. In 2017, the first year of issuance, 131 braille passports were issued, and as of the end of March 2023, a total of 958 passports have been issued.The UN’s Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), relating to the matter of freedom of expression, opinion, and information access for persons with disabilities, advises convention signatories to improve and support convenience in communication for sign language and braille. The world’s first braille passport actively incorporated this initiative, leading to organizations and groups working for the rights of the visually impaired around the world, including the World Blind Union (WBU), to spread news of Korea’s issuance of braille passports.Following Korea’s braille passport policy in action, in June 2018, Portugal became the first nation in the EU to introduce a braille passport policy in the form of a braille page included in passports. Braille passports are gradually expanding to other nations, with the UK implementing a braille sticker (with name, expiration date, and the word “Passport” in braille) similar to that of Korea, and nations like Finland, Nicaragua, Kenya etc. favorably reviewing the implementation of braille passports.

2023-12-20

An Internet-based Electronic Patent Application System

​In 1999,the Korean Intellectual Property Office(KIPO) opened an internet-based electronic patent application system, the first of its kind in the world.This was an online service that could be utilized by anyone, with ease and speed.Contents √ Overview √ The Birth of a System √ Accomplishments and expansion √ References■ Patent Applications, from anywhere, with ease and speed!The very idea of owning a patent is rather grand. Yet, the idea of actually applying for one may be daunting for you. It turns out the process is not that difficult. Nowadays, as long as you have access to a personal computer or a smartphone, applying for a patent takes about 10 minutes of your time. However, even until the mid-1990s, online applications sounded like an element of Science Fiction. The Korean Government brought this seemingly fictitious concept into reality in 1999, with ‘KIPOnet’. Wait, what is an “Electronic Patent Application”?√ An Electronic Patent Application describes a method of applying for a patent through online means, such as through the internet.√ Its many advantages include an enhancement in convenience, lowered fees, and precision of processing etc.KIPOnet(특허넷 at inception, meaning Patent-net, currently renamed) is a system that accepts online applications for industrial properties like patents, utility models, trademarks and designs, and processes their electronic review. As applicants can not only apply for patents conveniently, but also gain online access to their pending review status and results, KIPOnet is appraised to have left a significant mark on the improvement of patent application convenience, with contributions to patent administration simplification and informatization However, the Korean Government takes particular pride in the fact that the KIPO’s KIPOnet is the world’s first ever system supporting applications for all forms of industrial property, including patents and trademarks.※ Starting years for other application systems in the world: US and EU (2000), WIPO* and Japan (2005)* WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organization): The UN’s specialized agency created to promote and protect intellectual property around the world ■ Back in the 1990s, a single patent would cost 320,000 Won, and take Three Years to processDuring the 1990s, there was a rapid increase in applications for industrial properties. Even until the mid-90s before KIPOnet was developed, one would have to wait three years, and spend 320,000 won (a standard example application consisting of 100 pages of documentation). to officially apply for and register a single case of industrial property. Applicants were required to visit the KIPO in person for each application request, and again whenever additional documents were required, resulting in repeated costs to acquire documents and added inconvenience. The largest frustration came from the applicant’s inability to confirm the current status of registration for their ongoing application. The methods of processing utilized by the KIPO also required a change. The office’s manual approach to processing documents lacked the efficiency required to process the ever-expanding workload of applications.In order to innovate for such inconveniences, the KIPO established a “7 year Plan to Computerize Patent Administration Matters,” and implemented an overall informatization of patent administration processes. KIPOnet, the online patent application system, was a prime example of such efforts. Starting from November, 1995, three years of development and a 31.8 billion won budget was invested to make the system a reality. Finally, on January 2nd, 1999, the KIPOnet system was revealed to the world ■ Full speed ahead for a Nation of 10 Million patent registrations.With KIPOnet live, all elements of patent administration, including application, registration, and review were computerized. An applicant can process all patent application matters online, without having to visit the KIPO with a handful of documents. Due to this convenience, by its second month of service, KIPOnet’s online application process had already accounted for 65% of all patent applications. Other nations operating similar electronic application services took at least three years to reach such proportions, displaying how swiftly the system settled in with the Korean public.In comparison to the existing manual process, the appearance of an internet-based electronic application system succeeded in significantly decreasing lead time and cost. (Based on data from 2001, two years after KIPOnet went live)√ Total review lead-time reduced by 30% after two years: 37 months (1996) → 21.3 months (2001)√ Cost burden on applicants reduced: 320,000 won (1996) → approx. 100,000 (2001)√ Internet-based processing contributed to collective annual cost-savings of 200 billion won  ※ As 81.4% of all applications were handled electronically in 2001, transportation costs and travel time occurring from in-person visits were mitigated.√ Annual savings were assessed at 30 billion won due to significant reduction in administrative costs*  ※ Cost of printing technical documents for patents, courier fees, storage fees for documents, utility costs etc.Based on this convenient system, in 2003, the Republic of Korea broke records as the first nation to surpass 1 million electronic patent applications.Meanwhile, the early iterations of KIPOnet still had a lot of room for improvement. The largest complaint from private applicants and small business applicants was its unavailability on weekends and holidays. A change was also required for international patent applications that had to continue utilizing existing manual processing methods. In 2005, after analyzing 740 user requirements and 1,800 work processes, the KIPO finally rolled out KIPOnet 2*, an electronic application and at-home review system which now allowed applicants to handle patent application matters from anywhere, at any time. This marked the beginning of an era of completely non-stop electronic applications. KIPOnet was also the first system for a Korean government agency that provided 24-hour, year-round, non-stop electronic processing services. KIPOnet 2, in particular, was the first of its kind to allow processing of PCT (the International Patent System, under the Patent Cooperation Treaty) patent applications with convenience and speed online, and continues to evolve with persistently innovative ideas.*KIPOnet 2: Switched from existing batch processing methods to real-time processing methods, allowing patent processing possible regardless of time of day or non-work days.The Innovation History of KIPOnet√ 1999.01. ‘KIPOnet’ the world’s first internet-based electronic patent application service, is launched.√ 2001.07. Existing CD-ROM reports, transitioned to Internet-based reports.√ 2005.01. KIPOnet 2 is live, with 24-hour, year-round non-stop service for electronic applications, supporting the world’s first online application service for international patents.√ 2007.11. Web-based electronic application service opened√ 2009.01. World’s first remote video system implemented and operated for patent applications√ 2010.01. World’s first 3D design application system established.√ 2020.03. World’s first mobile service for trademark applications implemented Based on many “World’s First” accomplishments, KIPOnet has been appraised as a successful model of the patent administration system, and is spreading its experiences and best practices in operating patent administration to the world. The Korean model has actually become a benchmarking standard for other nations including Japan, China, France etc. The KIPO has supplied KIPOnet in the form of official aid or exports, to the UAE, Mongolia, Azerbaijan, the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO), etc. [Left] 2015 Opening ceremony for the ARIPO’s Patent Information System. ⓒKIPO   [Right] The 2016 Signing of an export MOU for ROK-UAE. ⓒ KIPO■ The KIPO’s ‘Internet Based Electronic Patent Application System’Based on such innovation, the KIPO was ranked first in ‘IP Innovation Ranking 2021’, provided by the World Trademark Review (WTR), an intellectual property intelligence service that assesses the IP agencies of the world. The KIPO plans to further complete a next-generation KIPOnet system, as an innovation in patent administration utilizing artificial intelligence technology, by 2027. We hope that the KIPOnet system of Korea, a powerhouse nation of intellectual property, once again causes tectonic shifts throughout the world as an international standard in the patent administration field.

Resources / News & Notice

[Press Release] S. Korea Tops OECD Global Digital Government Index for 2nd Consecutive Time

Tops the list in 4 of 6 dimensions, ranks 2nd in overall score in 2 dimensions with significant increase in scores by dimensionTops Digital Government Index after ranking first on 2023 OECD OURdata Index□ The Ministry of the Interior and Safety (LEE Sang-min, Minister) announced that the Korean government has topped the 2023 Digital Government Index, surveyed by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), for the second consecutive time.  ○ The Digital Government Index was first surveyed by the OECD in 2019 to measure the level of digital transformation of the governments and public sectors of its member countries. The latest results were released four years later, similar to the Olympics or the World Cup. ○ After topping the 2019 Digital Government Index, Korea topped it again in 2023.□ In the 2023 Digital Government Index, the OECD assessed 33 member countries and 5 non-member countries* along six dimensions.     * 33 of 38 OECD member countries + 5 non-member countries (Peru, Brazil, Argentina, Croatia, Romania) □ Korea’s performance when it comes to digital government far outpaced other nations in the assessment. It was followed by Denmark (No. 2) and the United Kingdom (No. 3).   ○ Korea topped the list with an overall composite score of 0.935 (on a 1-point scale), representing a jump of 0.193 over its 2019 score of 0.742.  ○ Compared to the score gap in the first assessment of 0.006 between Korea (No. 1, 0.742) and the UK (No. 2, 0.736), Korea (No. 1, 0.935) topped the list this time with a score gap of 0.124 with Denmark (No. 2, 0.811), which is more than 20 times larger than the previous gap.      □ Significant changes were observed in the assessment results, with 40% of the top 10 performers from the 2019 assessment, or 6 countries, making it to the top 10 for the 2023 assessment. Nevertheless, Korea topped the list for two consecutive times, this time even with a wider gap.   ○ In 2019, two Asian countries - Korea (No. 1) and Japan (No.5) - made it to the top-10 list, but Korea was alone in 2023.  * 2019 Top 10 Performers: Korea, United Kingdom, Colombia, Denmark, Japan, Canada, Spain, Israel, Portugal, France   * 2023 Top 10 Performers: Korea, Denmark, United Kingdom, Norway, Australia, Estonia, Colombia, Ireland, France, Canada□ The six dimensions are: ① Digital by design, ② Data-driven public sector, ③ Government as a platform, ④ Open by default, ⑤User-driven, ⑥ Proactiveness.   ○ The results show Korea topping the list in 4 of the 6 dimensions: △ Data-driven public sector △ Government as a platform △ Open by default △ Proactiveness. It came in second for the remaining dimensions – Digital by design and User-driven. □ Compared to the first-ever assessment in 2019, the scores for Korea jumped significantly overall. While in 2019, its lowest score by dimension was ranked 12th, in the 2023 assessment, Korea ranked 1st in 4 dimensions and 2nd in 2 dimensions.□ The 2023 assessment by six dimensions are as follows:□ ‘Data-driven public sector’ measures how the use of data across public policies create new values. Korea was the top performer, receiving the full score of 1, while the OECD average stood at 0.633.  ○ Korea’s score in this dimension jumped 47% from 0.68 (No. 3) in 2019 to the full score of 1 (No. 1) in 2023. ○ During this time period, Korea passed the Act on Promotion of Data-based Administration, aimed at laying the foundation for administrative and public institutions to jointly utilize and analyze the data they have (data request and coordination process, responsible personnel for data-based administration, installation of data analysis center, etc.) and to establish a system of planning and evaluation to facilitate the use of data.  ○ In addition, building an “Integrated Data Management Platform,” where administrative institutions register their own data and request data from other institutions whenever needed-thereby establishing the platform for evidence-based decision making-must have been a factor in the positive assessment.□ “Government as a platform” measures the transparent deployment of standards and data by the government so that demand-centered integrated and related services can be easily developed and walls across the public sector eradicated to enable the development of demand-centric services. Korea received 0.913, while the OECD average score stood at 0.615. ○ In July 2022, the YOON Suk-yeol administration launched the Presidential Committee on the Digital Platform Government and identified “Digital Platform Government” as a major state target, providing a more detailed role of the government as a platform.   ○ Well-received as examples of the strengthening of the government’s role as platform were “Open Digital Services” that enable the private sector to take advantage of converged public services that had only been accessed via public application and website, as well as “Private Software as a Service (SaaS),” which enhances efficiency through application of private cloud company technology to the software used by administrative and public institutions. □  The “Open by default” dimension measures the openness of the government’s information, data and procedures. Korea received 0.882, with the OECD average score being 0.525.   ○ “National Hub Data” has been acknowledged as outstanding as a data set allowing the public sector to create added value from public data, as was “Authenticating Service,” which enables users to see whether information is authentic or not, even if it is not disclosed.   ○  On top of continuously identifying and opening high-value data, the Korean government also provides services that can be offered jointly as public data such as transportation services near homes and tailored start-up assisting services for small business owners.□ “Proactiveness” assesses the governments’ capacity to anticipate the needs of the public so as to facilitate the delivery of the right government services. Korea received 0.934, while the OECD average was 0.567.      ○  Korea’s score in the “Proactiveness” rose significantly, jumping a dramatic 86% from 0.5 (No. 12) in 2019 to 0.934 (No. 1) in 2023 and climbing up more than 10 places on the list. ○ Also pointed out as outstanding was the “Virtual Assistant Service for the Public (Guppi) AI Chatbot,” which enables users to use Q&A and consulting services and provides easy access to essential administrative information on health, transportation, taxes, etc., through linkage with a public mobile app.   ○  As of 2023, the number of subscribers to the Virtual Assistant Service for the Public hovered around 16.26 million, and it is now in a position to be the representative administrative service with 1 of every 3 citizens using it.   □  The “Digital design” dimension measures efforts to adopt digital technology from the launch of new public policies and services. Korea scored 0.971, while the OECD average stood at 0.684. ○  Korea’s “My Public Data,” where users can submit required documents in one go-rather than separately-along with their consent to the public sector’s use of personal information, was also considered outstanding. ○ “Public My Data,” which began as a pilot program in 2021, now provides personal administrative information in 160 categories, including issuance of resident registration cards and tax payment certificates, for a total of 140 services ranging from loans to registering for the electricity bill welfare discount.□  The “User-driven” dimension assesses governments’ capacity to guarantee engagement of the public (users) in policy making and service design. Korea received a score of 0.909, while the OECD average was 0.607.  ○ Korea’s score for the “User-driven” dimension jumped 35% from 0.67 (No. 4) in 2019 to 0.909 (No. 2) in 2023.   ○  Pointed to as outstanding were the “Participatory Public Service Design Group,”’ which involves the public in the overhauling of service delivery procedures, and the “Public Idea Box.”□ The Ministry of the Interior and Safety realizes it cannot be complacent about these latest assessment results and is committed to continuing to exert its full efforts to building a “Digital Platform Government” that aims to address social issues with the cooperation of its citizens, corporations and government agencies to create new values. ○  By “phasing out required public documents,” the Ministry aims to initiate “Digital by Design” through the use of digital technology for all government services. It also will utilize new technology like “Hyperscale AI” to bolster the use of data in making administrative decisions and to roll out tailored services for individuals.   ○ Moreover, it will continue to strengthen its own role as a platform for growth where both public and private sector join hands through services like “Digital Service Open” and “Shift to Private-based Cloud Native.”       * Cloud Native: A more agile and flexible method than the original method-in terms of resource management-where a variety of services can be included that are provided by the private sector, instead of having to change the entire structure to introduce new services.   ○ This is expected to contribute significantly to helping digital government-related companies go global.   □ Meanwhile, Korea topped the Open Data Assessment*  in 2023 (announced in December), representing the fourth consecutive time it has done so, following identical showings in 2015, 2017, and 2019. * The OECD carries out open data assessment on member countries, in accordance with based on the International Open Data Charter. □ According to Minister of the Interior and Safety LEE Sang-min, “Korea was able to top the Digital Government Index again, after also ranking first in the Open Data Assessment announced by the OECD last December, thanks to the efforts exerted by the public, government and corporations.” He added, “The ministry will continue to build a digital platform government that provides service convenience and stability in its globally acknowledged role as a digital government leader.”

2024-01-31

[Press Release] Real-time Subway Platform Congestion Prediction Model

-  A real-time platform congestion calculation model for the subway in Seoul and the Gimpo Goldline was developed.-  With 90% accuracy, it can quickly detect crowd surges and allow immediate on-site measures following the manual.-  From November, the analysis model will be piloted in two subway stations in Seoul, and the Ministry of the Interior and Safety plans to standardize it for nationwide implementation.The government has completed the development of an artificial intelligence (AI) based data analysis model that can monitor real-time congestion at subway station platforms, which will be piloted starting this month.The Ministry of the Interior and Safety (MOIS, Minister Lee Sang-min) announced that the Integrated Data Analysis Center (IDAC) has completed the development of the "AI-based Subway Platform Congestion Prediction Model." This model has been under development using the subway in Seoul and the Gimpo Goldline as samples since June, and it will be piloted on the Seoul subways starting this month.The model was developed based on AI-generated estimates of the number of people on the subway platforms. It calculates the density and congestion level, considering the platform area, and classifies it into four levels from Level 1 to Level 4 to represent the congestion.The IDAC, the Seoul Metro, and the Gimpo Goldline joined the model development process, using 8 million pieces of data, including subway entry and exit tag data, transportation card settlement data, and train departure and arrival data.Platform occupancy refers to the passengers waiting for the subways on the platform after passing through the entry gates and the passengers who move through the platform to the exit gates after getting off the train.The real-time platform occupancy at the station is determined by a comprehensive analysis of factors such as the real-time number of people passing through entry and exit gates, the number of people who passed through entry and exit gates at the previous station, and historical entry and exit data for the current period.According to the technical standards of the Railway Safety Management System (Design Guidelines for Urban Railway Stations and Transfer Facilities), the congestion level is calculated based on the percentage of people exceeding the baseline of 4.3 people per square meter (100% congestion). Real-time platform occupancy: 300 people, platform area: 50 m², per-area standard occupancy: 4.3 people, → Congestion level: (300 ÷ 50)/4.3 = 1.395 (139.5%) → Congestion level: CautionThe two- rounds of performance verification results confirmed an accuracy of 90.1% for the analysis model.The developed model has been integrated into the Seoul Metro's control room dashboard. Seoul Metro uses this model to monitor the congestion levels of two stations displayed in real time.Along with the development and implementation of this model, the Seoul Metro has also revamped its congestion response system. In the event of unexpected crowd surges, the system is designed to automatically disseminate information and take proactive on-site measures following the congestion management manual.MOIS and the Seoul Metro believe that the utilization of this analysis model will help effectively respond to congestion situations within subway stations. Scientific monitoring of platform congestion will enable proactive on-site measures at different levels, leading to a tangible effect in preventing accidents.MOIS plans to standardize the platform congestion calculation model through a pilot operation process within the year and expand it to subway stations in the metropolitan area and four other cities (Busan, Daegu, Gwangju, Daejeon).Vice Minister Ko Kidong stated, “As a concrete achievement of the Digital Platform Government, it will enhance the public convenience when applied to the subway.” “We will continue to support the effective prevention of subway crowd accidents as we have overhauled the response system for congestion,” he added. #Big_Data   #Real_Time  #Subway  #Congestion_Prediction_Model  #Agile_Government  #Data_Based_Government   #Ministry_of_the_Interior_and_Safety

2024-01-09

[Press Release] Arrested 51 Voice Phishing Scammers Using the World’s First Voice Analysis Model for Voice Phishing

- The voice data analysis model for voice phishing crimes, developed by the Ministry of the Interior and Safety, played a pivotal role in apprehending criminals on the ground.- The Gyeonggi Nambu Provincial Police and the National Forensic Service collaborated to analyze the voices of criminals, finding clues to accomplices and unsolved cases. - The voice analysis model has been widely used among police agencies nationwide, which is expected to further accelerate the investigation of voice phishing crimes. The government's voice data analysis model for voice phishing crimes, developed for the first time in the world in February, is playing a key role in the investigation and arrest of voice phishing crimes. Therefore, it is expected that such crime-related investigations will speed up. On October 31st, the Ministry of the Interior and Safety (MOIS, Minister Lee Sang-min) announced that it had apprehended a total of 51 individuals, including the leaders of three voice phishing criminal organizations and their financial management personnel by using the 'voice phishing voice analysis model' (hereinafter referred to as the voice analysis model). The model was developed earlier this year and has been used to analyze the National Forensic Service (NFS) and police investigations.The three arrested organizations were found to have established call center offices in domestic apartments and used personal information and burner phones to blackmail victims to “release their explicit videos,” extorting a total of 600 million won from them.The Gyeonggi Nambu Provincial Police (hereinafter referred to as Gyeonggi Nambu Police) arrested five individuals for the first time in May during on-site inspections of repeaters that change overseas calling numbers used in voice phishing crimes into domestic mobile phone numbers starting with '010.’Following this, the police initiated a full-scale investigation to establish the criminal charges of the apprehended suspects and identify related individuals. In particular, the police utilized the voice analysis model* distributed by MOIS in July during the investigation of the apprehended suspects to determine whether the voices of the arrested suspects and the voices obtained from the victims match.*A police investigator from the Gyeonggi Southern Police completed MOIS’ training on the voice analysis model (July 11) and used the pilot analysis model.According to the assessment results, the investigating officer who confirmed the identity of the individuals used this information to substantiate the suspects' charges. Simultaneously, he requested an in-depth analysis from the NFS to verify additional allegations against the suspect and to identify any accomplices.The NFS used the voice analysis model developed this year to compare and analyze the voices of the apprehended suspects with over 13,000 recorded voices of voice phishing crime offenders that they possessed. As a result of 12 rounds of close cooperation and mutual analysis between the NFS and the Gyeonggi Nambu Police, they were able to confirm the relevance of 17 cases, including the “Overseas XX Call Center Organization Case,” which was previously classified as an unsolved case, and identify the related criminals.Based on their analysis and the analysis results from the NFS, the Gyeonggi Nambu Police was able to quickly identify the suspects, accelerating follow-up investigations, including phone and bank account record inquiries, as well as the CCTV verification process.As a result, it identified the suspects from three organizations, including the call center head, the fund management team, and the counselors. By the end of October, it had apprehended a total of 51 individuals, including 16 direct accomplices and other individuals involved in related crimes.Currently, additional apprehension operations are underway for the suspects with identified charges, so the number of individuals arrested is expected to increase in the future.MOIS and the police believe that using the newly developed voice analysis model played a decisive role in accelerating the investigation and apprehension process of voice phishing crime organizations.In particular, the use of this analysis model has been highly significant, not only in arresting domestic voice phishing crime organizations but also in revealing previously unsolved overseas operation organizations, leading to the additional arrest of their members.In line with this, the ministry plans to conduct regular training on the use of the analysis model twice a year and support the widespread use of the analysis model in various voice-related case investigations moving forward.Minister Lee Sang-min commented, "The effectiveness of voice analysis in combating voice phishing has been confirmed through the apprehension of criminal organizations." He stated, "In the evolving landscape of voice-related crimes, we will continue to provide training and improve the model so that it can be widely utilized to swiftly apprehend criminals in various forms of voice crime investigations."#Big_Data  #Voice_Analysis_Model  #Agile_Government  #Data_Based_Government  #Voice_Phishing  #Ministry_of_the_Interior_and_Safety  #National Forensic Service

2023-11-01

[Press Release] 7th Regional Symposium on Effective Governance and Digital Transformation for Accelerating the Progress towards the 2030 Agenda

• The 7th Regional Symposium on the SDGs in Asia-Pacific from October 17 to 19- Scale up governance among UN member countries in the Asia-Pacific region to achieve the SDGs- In-depth discussions on climate change, disaster response, digital government innovation, and collaboration mechanisms for local governmentsAsia-Pacific countries and 48 UN member state representatives will gather in Incheon for three days from October 17 to October 19 to review the progress on the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and discuss how to achieve them.* Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): a set of 17 goals in economic, social, and environmental areas adopted by the United Nations in September 2015 that the international community has committed to achieving by 2030 for sustainable developmentThe Ministry of the Interior and Safety (MOIS, Minister Lee Sang-min) has announced that it will host the "7th Regional Symposium on Sustainable Development in Asia-Pacific” in collaboration with the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) and Incheon Metropolitan City. The Regional Symposium, marking its 7th anniversary, is an international gathering to review the process of public administration innovation and the achievement of SDGs in UN member countries. More than 150 participants, including government officials from 48 countries in the Asia-Pacific and East Africa regions, representatives from international organizations, and heads of public institutions, are expected to attend.At the opening ceremony, Interior and Safety Minister Lee Sang-min and Incheon Metropolitan City Mayor Yoo Jeongbok will deliver opening remarks, and Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations Li Junhua will give a video message. Ban Ki-moon, chairman of the Ban Ki-moon Foundation for a Better Future (former Secretary General of the United Nations), will deliver the keynote address. Speakers include representatives from governments and major international organizations*, including the US National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)’s Disaster Response Division head , and join via video or in person.* Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UNWOMEN), United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), etc. Over three days, the symposium will discuss the latest issues receiving significant attention at home and abroad, including climate change, disaster response, and digital innovation.On Day 1, presentations will cover topics such as strengthening data governance through digital innovation and local government's digital transformation and innovation for improving public services. On Day 2, there will be a special session on the UN DESA curriculum on SDG governance and discussions on various themes, such as promoting women’s leadership and climate action through effective policy-making processes. Especially, on the last day, the "Local Governance and Partnerships Forum" will be held with the participation of six national policy agencies* on realizing the Local Era for the first time this year. During this forum, participants will discuss digital government at the local level and strengthening resilience to climate change through innovation.* Korea Research Institute for Local Administration, Korea Local Information Research and Development Institute, Korea Institute of Public Administration, Korea Island Development Institute, National Disaster Management Research Institute, Saemaul FoundationMOIS will host prestigious international events in the field of public administration, the “UN Public Service Forum” and the “UN Public Service Awards Ceremony” in Korea next year.Minister Lee Sang-min stated in his opening remarks, "The world needs to work together in great solidarity to bridge the widening global divide and achieve the SDGs." He also emphasized that MOIS will contribute to creating a safe and sustainable world through the spread of the Saemaul Undong, world-class government innovation, and digital platform government. #International_Cooperation  #Ministry_of_the_Interior_and_Safety

2023-10-16

[Press Release] Innovative Mobile ID Card Service Led by Public-Private Convergence

• The Ministry of the Interior and Safety and Samsung Electronics (Samsung Pay) sign an MOU to open up mobile IDs to the private sector.• Pilot service for two types of mobile IDs on Samsung Pay from next year, expanding to private apps.In the future, mobile identification cards (Mobile IDs) will not only replace ID cards but also enable secure and convenient access to new public-private convergence services.The Ministry of the Interior and Safety (MOIS, Minister Lee Sang-min) announced that it will introduce new convergence services for two types of mobile IDs (mobile driver's license and national veteran card) using Samsung Electronics' smartphone security features from early next year. Mobile IDs are a key task under the Digital Platform Government Implementation Plan (announced on April 14). The objective is not only to expand the types of mobile IDs but also to create new values in people’s daily lives in collaboration with the private sector. MOIS, together with Samsung Electronics, is building a common foundation to ensure convenient and secure use of mobile IDs across various private apps through a hardware-based robust security solution that only global smartphone manufacturers can develop. Currently, mobile ID card data is provided through a general app rather than the hardware security area, making it challenging to utilize the data across apps. The mobile ID card data will be securely stored in a secure storage space (TrustZone) within the application processor (AP) chipset embedded in Samsung Electronics smartphones. This ensures that external intrusions, malicious programs, and other malicious threats will be blocked at the source when issuing and using mobile IDs, providing a secure and convenient base for use in various private apps.First, the ministry will launch a nationwide pilot service for two types of mobile IDs, mobile driver's licenses and national veteran cards, through Samsung Pay early next year. It will expand the service in stages to various private apps that citizens use daily. This will allow citizens to obtain and use mobile IDs directly from their favorite private apps without installing the government’s ID app. Combined with business creativity and innovation, open ID cards are expected to create new business models in online and offline services that require identity verification. Example of mobile ID card convergence service: parking fee discount for national veterans As-IsTo-Be  Example of mobile ID card convergence service: parking fee discount for national veterans multaneously process identity verification and payment on Samsung Pay (a mobile national veteran card installed) At the signing ceremony, Minister Lee Sang-min and President and Head of Samsung Electronics’ Corporate Management Office Park Hark Kyu demonstrated the upcoming mobile ID convergence service. On October 6, Minister Lee Sang-min signs a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Samsung Electronics to open mobile IDs to the private sector. Through this MOU, cooperation will be promoted to establish a common base for mobile IDs using the security features of Samsung Electronics smartphones and to open up and activate the use of various private apps. Minister Lee Sang-min said, “We will quickly promote the opening of mobile IDs to the private sector, allowing the public to experience a convenient daily life with a digital platform government.” Following the signing ceremony, Minister Lee observes the semiconductor production process at Samsung Electronics' Pyeongtaek Campus, the world’s largest, and visits a disaster prevention center to hear about the safety management, including fire response. Minister Lee emphasized, "The safety of semiconductor industry workplaces affects not only the national economy but also the global economy," urging rigorous safety management of workplaces and prompt response to emergencies to protect the people.#Digital_Platform_Government  #Mobile_ID_Card  #Convergence_Service  #Ministry_of_the_Interior_and_Safety

2023-10-09

[Press Release] Korea’s Immigration Service, the Best in the World! Songpa-gu’s Diaper Changing Station in a Men’s Restroom, the First in Korea!

• MOIS selected six innovation cases as the First and Best in Government Innovations that make people’s lives easier and are recognized globally.- The Korean Intellectual Property Office introduced the World’s first online patent application system. - Seoul Metropolitan City and Jeonju City are the best in Korea for installing and maintaining sidewalks, and the Pay-as-you-throw garbage bag of the Seongnam City of Gyeonggi-do stands out as the best in the country. The Ministry of the Interior and Safety (MOIS, Minister LEE Sang-min) has selected and announced the six exemplary cases of the 2nd “First and Best in Government Innovation” in collaboration with the Korea Institute of Public Administration.Category              Best PracticeBest in the World ▴Immigration service: Incheon Airport Immigration Office, Ministry of JusticeFirst in the World       ▴Online patent application: Korean Intellectual Property OfficeFirst in Korea       ▴ Installation of a diaper changing station in a men’s public restroom: Songpa-gu, Seoul Best in Korea       ▴ Sidewalk installation and maintenance (2): Seoul Metropolitan City and Jeonju City, Jeollabuk-do                          ▴ Pay-as-you-throw garbage bag: Seongnam City, Gyeonggi-doThe immigration service of the Incheon Airport Immigration Office under the Ministry of Justice has been selected as the world’s best practice of government innovation. In March of this year, it was named the winner of the Best Immigration Service at the “World Airport Awards 2023*”, raising the pride of Koreans for its outstanding public services unmatched by any other country.* The survey was conducted by Skytrax, an international air transport rating organization, among passengers at 427 airports worldwide. The immigration service of the Incheon Airport has enabled swift immigration screening and secure border management through continuous innovation, such as adopting cutting-edge technology and system improvement*. * Introduction of the Smart Entry Service (an automatic immigration clearance system), i-PreChecking system (a passenger pre-verification system), and flexible arrangement of screening officers based on passenger flow, etc. The Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO) launched the world’s first online patent application system in 1999* through government innovation, highlighting the excellence of Korea’s public administration.  * Launch year of the online patent application of each country: US and EU in 2000, WIPO (UN) in 2005, Japan in 2005Three million online patent applications were filed for the first ten years, and approximately 8.75 million were filed over the 24 years until the end of last year. The online application system has also been exported to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Azerbaijan. In the meantime, Songpa-gu in Seoul is the first place to install a diaper changing station in a men’s public restroom, which is easy to see now. In March 2007, Songpa-gu installed a diaper changing station in the men’s restroom of the district office and the Sports and Culture Center for the first time in Korea for fathers who go out with their babies. This initiative created an environment where men could easily care for babies and improved the system.This case became the cornerstone for the MOIS to revise the Public Toilets Act (February 4, 2010), which mandates the installation of a diaper changing station in men’s public restrooms of a certain size.Three local governments have been selected as Korea’s best institutions for sidewalk installation and maintenance and Pay-as-you-throw garbage bag.In sidewalk installation and maintenance, Seoul City was selected as the metropolitan local government for its systematic and efficient installation and maintenance of sidewalks by introducing permeable blocks and a real-name system for sidewalk construction. Among local governments, Jeonju City in Jeollabuk-do was selected for its design of sidewalk blocks that reflect local characteristics and the installation of sidewalks prioritizing pedestrian convenience and durability.In the field of Pay-as-you-throw garbage bags, Seongnam City in Gyeonggi-do was selected for providing bags of various sizes to reflect residents’ demand, inducing proper garbage discharge with simple and user-friendly designs (pictograms and QR codes), and enhancing citizen convenience. MOIS will grant certification plaques to the selected institutions to boost their pride and facilitate active benchmarking among institutions. More details on the selected best and first practices can be found on the government innovation website "Innovation 24” (innovation.go.kr). Institutions aiming to receive the First and Best in Government Innovation certifications can submit their applications to MOIS anytime. And the best practices will be selected from different categories each time.JEONG Seon Yong, Deputy Minister for Government Innovation and Organization Management, said, “Selecting the First and Best in Government Innovation aims to spread the achievements of the Korean government’s innovation at home and abroad.” “We will widely promote the selected best practices so that innovation can be sparked in more places,” he further mentioned. 

2023-08-10

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