Between Persistent Conflicts and the Pursuit of Innovation: Exploring the Identity Formation and Transformation of the National Research Council

This study analyzes the formation and evolution of the organizational identity of the National Research Council(NRC) from 1999 to 2022. The council has redefined its identity in response to changing times and internal and external environmental demands, with its roles and values varying across different periods. Prior to the council’s integration, it sought to overcome perceptions of redundancy by establishing a core identity. Post-integration, the council focused on strengthening its strategic foresight function through supporting and nurturing research institutions. Following the relocation to Sejong City, the council aimed to establish itself as a policy research hub, considering a broader research ecosystem beyond the management of its affiliated institutions. Throughout this process, persistent issues such as excessive competition, challenges in conducting commissioned projects, balancing autonomy and public accountability, practical constraints on collaborative research, and the ongoing struggle to establish its mission and identity were evident. Concurrently, the council endeavored to foster an environment where it could comprehensively consider the nation’s direction and objectives while promoting autonomy and creativity. Based on the case of NRC, this study highlights common problems and challenges faced by national research institutions and underscores the importance of creating a long-term research environment in national strategy formulation.