May 17, 2025
KIPO Launches ODA Project to Expand K-Invention Education to Cambodia
The Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO) has officially launched an Official Development Assistance (ODA) project aimed at introducing Korea's invention education model to Cambodia from 2025 to 2027.
In the ceremony held in Siem Reap, Cambodia on May 5 2025, KIPO exchanged the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the cooperation for the enhancement of invention education of the nation, with the Cambodian Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport (MoEYS), represented by Permanent Secretary of State Kim Sethany, and the Ministry of Commerce (MoC), represented by Secretary of State Ouk Prachea.
The MoU outlines key areas of collaboration which are the development of a sustainable invention education system, establishment of a joint Steering Committee for Invention Education, and public awareness enhancement. By closely engaging in each other under the MoU, both sides aim to achieve tangible outcomes such as formulation of Cambodia's national master plan for invention education, preparation of localized invention education programs and materials, development of training programs for educators, and establishment and operation of invention education classrooms in designated schools.
Prior to the signing ceremony, Vice Commissioner MOK Sung-ho held a high-level meeting with senior officials from MoEYS and MoC to discuss the significance of the ODA project and review the progress of the cooperative activities carried out under the MoU signed last year on reinforced cooperation in intellectual property. Topics included trademark data exchange, IP protection, and the formulation of a joint work plan.
After the conclusion of the ceremony, the representatives held another ceremony for the launch of the Invention Education Joint Steering Committee. The committee is expected to play a central role in coordinating the project and ensuring the effective introduction of the Korean invention education model into Cambodia.
This project is expected to help nurture creative and innovative talents among Cambodian students by leveraging Korea's accumulated expertise in invention education. It will also serve as a platform to share Korea's IP-based economic development experience with developing countries.
Vice Commissioner Mok stated, "As intellectual property becomes increasingly important for national economic growth, this invention education ODA project holds great significance in supporting the cultivation of innovative human capital in Cambodia." He added, "We will make every effort to ensure the successful transfer of the Korean-style invention education model to Cambodia, laying the foundation for its expansion to other parts of the world."