The Korea Environment Institute (KEI) received the “Best Research Institute Award” in recognition of its outstanding research performance in 2022 at the commendation ceremony held on May 23 at the Auditorium in Sejong National Research Complex. As one of the 26 institutes affiliated with the National Research Council for Economic, Humanities and Social Sciences under the Office of the Prime Minister, KEI has achieved the prestigious title of “Best Research Institute” for two consecutive years.

KEI President Chang Hoon Lee, receiving the “Best Research Institute Award”

From right to left: KEI President Chang Hoon Lee, NRC Chairperson Hae-Gu Jung, 

Hyunwoo Kim (Head, General Affairs and Welfare Team)

The award is presented by the Council, which conducts annual evaluations of the 26 research institutes. These evaluations assess whether the institutes are developing policies that align with their establishment purposes and whether they are producing and supplying fundamental and policy-related knowledge. The evaluations also aim to determine the efficient and effective management of the process involved in performing these functions. Through this evaluation, the Council aims to ensure the research achievements and commitments of national research institutes, guide their development, and enhance their international competitiveness.

Representatives of the eight institutes selected as Best Research Institutes, 

Outstanding Research Institutes, and Innovative Research Institutes

KEI’s effort and pursuit of excellence in research planning, identifying research needs, ensuring research ethics, achieving outcomes in national policy projects, and maintaining an appropriate welfare system and its operation were highly recognized. Additionally, two research projects were selected as “Best Research Report” and “Best Policy Contribution Report.” The project titled “Pyrolysis of Plastic Waste: Current Status and Policy Tasks” led by Director Ji Hye Jo from the Division for Resource Circulation and the project titled “Comprehensive Plans for Improving Atmospheric Environment and Comprehensive Measures for Prevention of Damage Caused by Long-Range Transboundary Air Pollutants” led by Chief Research Fellow Changsub Shim were recognized for their excellence in research and significant contributions to national policy.

Awardees of “Best Research Report”: Dr. Ji Hye Jo, standing in the first row, sixth from the right

Awardees of “Best Policy Contribution Report”: Dr. Changsub Shim, standing in the second row, third from the right

KEI President Chang Hoon Lee expressed his pride and honor, stating, “It’s a great honor to be recognized for the efforts of our members. As we celebrate our 30th anniversary this year, receiving the Best Research Institute Award for two consecutive years holds even greater significance. Drawing strength from this honor, we will continue to strive for the sustainable development of South Korea and the global community in the year 2023 and beyond.”

From left to right: Dr. Changsub Shim, KEI President Chang Hoon Lee, and Dr. Ji Hye Jo

KEI members, celebrating together