LIG Nex1, Sejong University open research center for future weapons

LIG Nex1 and Sejong University have opened a research center for future weapons systems in Seoul, focusing on aerospace, cyber warfare, and more.

From left: LIG Nex1 CEO Kim Ji-chan, LIG Group Chairman Koo Bon-sang, Sejong University President Bae Deg-hyo, and the university's Vice President Hong Woo-young pose for a photo during an opening ceremony for a future weapons system research center on Wednesday in eastern Seoul. [LIG NEX1]

LIG Nex1, a defense supplier, and Sejong University jointly opened a future weapons system research center.

The two parties hosted an opening ceremony on Wednesday, attended by LIG Group Chairman Koo Bon-sang, Sejong University President Bae Deg-hyo, LIG Nex1 CEO Kim Ji-chan and Sejong University Vice President Hong Woo-young.

Located at Sejong University’s Gwanggaeto building in eastern Seoul, the center will specialize in research projects on future weapon systems involving aerospace, guided weapons, surveillance and reconnaissance — such as sound navigation and ranging systems, or sonar — autonomous weapon systems, cyber warfare, manned and unmanned teaming and integrated architecture.

Sejong University provided the space for the center inside the university, while LIG Nex1 set up the research center.

LIG Nex1 and Sejong University are collaborating on research and development (R&D) for a joint research project this year, and will continue to work together in identifying and proposing challenges in defense.

LIG Nex1 signed a memorandum of understanding with Sejong University in June last year for a comprehensive collaboration to foster talents in the space sector, and set up a lecture room for students in the university’s Department of Defense Systems Engineering in November last year.

“With the establishment of the center, we will strive to enhance [Korea’s] national competitiveness by creating a favorable R&D environment and fostering human resources with expertise in the defense sector,” said LIG Nex1 CEO Kim.

BY SHIN HA-NEE [shin.hanee@joongang.co.kr]