Korea is an IT powerhouse. But when it comes to OS, database, groupware, ERP and other main software, Korea lags far behind. In terms of digitalizing government operations, Korea tops the list of countries. However, most of its software programs are made overseas (86%), thus driving the government to correct the situation. For instance, the Ministry of Knowledge and Economy has invested 250 billion won over the past three years to develop the world's best software, hoping to open a new door to the 849-billion-dollar global market. Although Korea's share of the world market accounts for only 1.8%, the future prospects aren't so gloomy. Some companies like Timax and Altibase have already succeeded in flawlessly commercializing Korean OS and DB products. With such a background, the Information Technology Professionals' Association of Korea (IPAK) is eager to inform the world that Korea, too, can develop good software.
The following is an excerpt of an interview with Cho Sung-Kap, chairman of IPAK, the host of Software Contest of Korea.
Q: Please tell us about IPAK.
A: IPAK is a non-profit organization. Established in 1983, IPAK has invited as members distinguished IT experts from academic and industry circles across the globe. The members include Alvin Toffler, former Korean Vice Prime Minister Oh Myung, and former ministers like Yang Seung-Taek and Kyong Sang-Hyun. IPAK is the first non-profit organization authorized by the ministry to promote fraternity among IT experts and encourage their participation in the formulation and implementation of IT policies.
Q: What kind of activities is IPAK involved in
A: In addition to the commemoration of the day Korea first introduced the computer, we have been holding the Software Contest since 1987 to promote the development of new software and to advance information technology. So far we have given awards to over 400 experts and they are actively involved IT business in all walks of life. For your information, Kwon Kang-Hyun, who is vice president of Samsung in charge of web applications, is also a recipient of our award.
Q: What is the contest like in terms of scale and number of awards offered
A: The awards are divided into two categories - the general public and the student categories - and over 30 awards, including President's Award, Prime Minister's Award, and Minister's Award, are given after careful examination.
Q: Is the contest hosted by IPAK alone
A: Although IPAK is the host of the contest, the Ministry of Knowledge and Economy and the National IT Industry Promotion Agency (NIPA) sponsor the event. A special organizing committee was formed to assist successful hosting of the event. Lee Kark-Bum, chair of the Presidential Council on Information Society, was named the president of the contest and Suk Ho-Ik, vice chairman of KT, was named the vice president. An advisory committee was also formed with Park Chan-Mo, chair of National Research Foundation of Korea, serving as the committee president. Currently, 15 IT related government agencies are enlisted as advisory committee members and provide invaluable assistance for the growth of the event.
Q: Can foreigners participate in the contest too
A: Yes. This year too, many participants from China have submitted their entries to the contest and from 2011, we plan to expand the scope of participants to the US, South America, Southeast Asia and Europe.
