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Short abstract:

This study analyzed the sociotechnical imaginaries associated with the space agency in Korea, comparing past discussions with those related to the Korean AeroSpace Agency. It could offer insights into the trajectory of KASA and provide a glimpse into the future Korea through the lens of space.

Long abstract:

In many countries, space agencies have played a crucial role in shaping and realizing the future visions of societies, much like NASA symbolized the American spirit of explorations on the frontier. On January 9, 2024, the National Assembly of Korea passed a set of bills outlining the planned launch of the Korea AeroSpace Administration(KASA), with the establishment scheduled for May 2024. The creation of KASA was the realization of a long-standing dream in the space sector in South Korea.

The establishment of KASA was one of the key national tasks of the Yoon Suk Yeol administration, realizing this enduring aspiration of Korean society within two years after Yun’s inauguration. However, the planned launch of KASA assumed different roles and formats compared to the ongoing discussions within the space sector. Conflicts emerged between various regions and sectors through the implementation process, and numerous challenges persisted despite the imminent opening in May.

This study analyzed the national imaginaries of Korean society around the Korean Space Agency. By comparing past discussions with those related to the planned launch of KASA, the analysis examines the sociotechnical imaginaries associated with the space agency in Korean society. The study aims to explore the implicit ideals and aspirations embedded in KASA and assess how they align or differ from the previously envisioned image of Korea in the discourse in the Korean space sector. This exploration could offer insights into the trajectory of KASA and provide a glimpse into the future Korean society through the lens of space.