The Korean Academy of Sciences and Technology is an authoritative academic organization comprised of Korea's leading science and technology scholars. It was established as a purely private organization in 1994 to lay the foundation of promoting Korea's science and technology community.

KAST supports policy research and advisory activities of scholars in science and technology for the development of basic science in Korea and the creation of a healthy R&D eco-system. It also performs science education and cultural activities to nurture future talent.

Additionally, through exchanges and cooperation with overseas academies, KAST plays a crucial role in science and technology private diplomacy, and works towards ensuring that science and technology contribute to the common good of humankind.