By combining techniques like big data... with genome analysis... and even robotics, Korean scientists are learning more local plants and other living things.<br />They're finding ways that substances in these life forms can be used to make all kinds of things... from medicine to makeup.<br />Park Se-young has this report. <br />Some 17-hundred specimens of plants and other organisms native to Korea can be found here.<br />When a new species is found, it's analyzed and its data is recorded.<br />The technology for analyzing natural substances has become more precise.<br />A robotic arm detects the functional component of a substance and quickly verifies its effects on cells.<br /><br />"There have been recent advances in analysis techniques and in genome and big data technology. Such equipment and technology can help us study natural substances more easily."<br /><br />Natural substances, which are relatively safer than artificial chemicals, are used to develop high-value goods like medicines and cosmetics.<br />As well as discovering useful substances, researchers also analyze the combination of ingredients and get ideas for drug development.<br />The Korean government will support joint research projects by companies and research institutes so that the discovery of promising substances can lead to the development of useful products.<br /><br /><br />"Not only is the market promising, the domestic demand for eco-friendly products is on the rise. So we are exploring various options like new systems and funding."<br /><br />The improving relationship between the two Koreas is likely to have a positive effect on natural substance research as the sector has been selected as the Number one field for collaborative research.<br />Park Se-young, Arirang News. <br />
