Former top Samsung exec stresses convergence of IT and natural sciences

SEOUL, Sept. 15 (Yonhap) -- A former top executive of South Korea's largest
chipmaker, Samsung Electronics Co., said Tuesday that natural sciences merged
with information technologies (IT) will lead future industry.
"When natural sciences, including mathematics, physics and earth sciences
converge with IT, we will be a true leader of new technology," said Hwang
Chang-kyu, former vice chairman of the semiconductor division at Samsung
Electronics, in a guest lecture at Seoul National University.
Hwang, widely known as "Mr. Chip" in South Korea, oversaw Samsung's rise in the
semiconductor sector over the past decade.
He stepped down from the post in January when a sweeping management reshuffle
took place at the country's largest conglomerate, Samsung Group.
"Basic sciences have long been neglected in South Korea, not like in the United
States or Japan. However, there is still potential in the country, as it has a
strong IT infrastructure," said Hwang.
"It is still not too late for us to work on the convergence of IT,
nano-technology and bio-technology," he added.
ygkim@yna.co.kr
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