It contributes to national development by promoting science and technology through active participation of its member scientists and engineers who have demonstrated professional excellence domestically and internationally in their respective fields.

KAST was founded in 1994 to play a strong role in helping South Korea climb the technology ladder.

[1][2] KAST has also served to encourage cooperation between scientists in South and North Korea in the science and technology sector.

[3] The non-profit institute has also strengthened global cooperation by operating the secretariat for the 17-member Association of Academies of Science in Asia (AASA) since 2000.

The award recognizes South Korean scientists' contribution to scientific studies and advancement in the country and serves to encourage further excellence.