The government plans to spend W20 billion annually over the next two years on developing light-emitting diode technology (US$1=W1,134).

Knowledge Economy Minister Choi Kyung-hwan said that the global LED illumination market is forecast to expand from the current 5 percent of the total lighting industry to 26 percent in 2012.

Through increased investment the government plans to establish related masters and doctorate programs at four universities to nurture human resources in the field.

Also, the U.S. grading system for LED illumination will be introduced in July to enhance the quality of Korean products.