Development of an Innovation Cluster: Can It be Nurtured?

Abstract

Summary form only given. Many countries are now developing the science parks in order to make it as the competive tool of one's nation. In Korea, Daedeok Innopolis - formerly known as Daedeok Science Town - has started from the initial plan in 1973. Since then, it has played a major role, in developing national S&T knowledge and thus contributing to the industrial development of Korea. According to recent researches (Yim, 2002, 2006), it is argued that there are some signs of innovation cluster as the result of cumulative effects of R&D resources, government support and so on. In addition, it has been following the downstream path of evolution - from S&T development to commercialization - and is in the early stage of an innovation cluster. In this paper it is argued that proper clustering oriented programs can create clustering and networking among the university, company and public laboratories and nurture a creative venture friendly ecosystem, which leads to the development of sustainable innovation cluster. The argument will be supported by questionnaires and interviews. The paper emphasize the importance of creative eco-system as well as networked clusters with the science parks. Finally, the experience of Daedeok Innopolis can be benchmarked by other similar science parks in the world.