EuroGeoSurveys (EGS) and the Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM) have signed their first MoU establishing a formal framework for cooperation between the two organisations and the public geoscience communities they represent.
The agreement reflects a shared commitment to advancing geological knowledge, supporting evidence-based decision-making, and addressing global societal challenges. Bringing together the collective expertise of KIGAM and Europe’s geological survey organisations creates new opportunities to exchange knowledge, strengthen scientific links, and collaborate on strategic priorities of mutual interest.
Dr. Yi Kyun Kwon, KIGAM President, said: “KIGAM is pleased to establish this new partnership with EuroGeoSurveys, which will provide an important platform for strengthening connections with geological survey organisations across Europe. We look forward to expanding scientific and technical exchanges, developing new opportunities for joint research and capacity building, and working together to address shared challenges in the Earth sciences. We believe this cooperation will further strengthen ties between the Korean and European geoscience communities and contribute to sustainable development, resource security, and greater societal resilience.”
The MoU identifies a broad range of geoscience topics as potential areas for cooperation, including critical raw materials, carbon capture and storage, geological data infrastructures and digitalisation, geological mapping and 3D modelling, geophysics, geohazards and offshore geology, water resources, and geoheritage. The organisations may also pursue capacity building activities, including researcher exchanges, joint training activities, webinars, and broader knowledge sharing.
Specific opportunities for collaboration may arise in areas such as harmonising resource assessment methodologies, advancing digital geological infrastructures and AI applications, supporting digital twins of the subsurface, improving groundwater monitoring and protection, and geoscience in regional development. These activities will foster closer cooperation between European and Asian geoscience communities.
Dr. Julie Hollis, EGS Secretary General, said: “International collaboration is essential in addressing the complex challenges facing society today in which geoscience often plays a central role. EuroGeoSurveys is pleased to begin this partnership and looks forward to sharing expertise, advancing the application of geoscience through geological surveys, and strengthening connections between Europe’s and Korea’s public geoscience communities.”
The signing of this MoU reflects the shared ambition of both organisations to strengthen international scientific collaboration and promote the role of public geoscience in supporting sustainable development, resource security, environmental protection, and societal resilience.
