Aspiring cybersecurity experts receive training at state institute

Hong Won-ki, director at the data and information division of the Ministry of Personnel Management, speaks during a training session held at the Government Joint Cyber Security Center in Sejong, Tuesday. Courtesy of Ministry of Personnel Management

A group of aspiring cybersecurity experts have received training at a state institute as part of government efforts to nurture the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.

According to the Ministry of Personnel Management on Wednesday, 25 students studying artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity at Korea University were given an opportunity to learn more about growing cyber threats to the public such as AI-driven data breaches at the Government Joint Cyber Security Center (JCSC) in Sejong.

Under the ministry program, the students got a glimpse into how government systems operate to prevent and counter threats through immersive simulations.

“This training helped me understand that cybersecurity isn’t just about technology ― it also involves policy and cross-sector collaboration. Applying what we learned in class to real-world scenarios gave me genuine confidence,” said participant Yang Chae-han.

Launched in 2021, the JCSC is now jointly run by 13 government departments and agencies. It provides facilities and equipment necessary to effectively respond to cybersecurity threats and serves as an education platform for government officials.

The facility has been particularly useful for smaller government agencies that lack resources to set up their own such systems, according to ministry officials.

“The JCSC plays a vital role in interagency coordination and cybersecurity workforce development ― both essential to protecting our digital infrastructure,” Minister Yeon Won-jeong said.

Officials said the ministry will continue to broaden its collaboration with academic, research and public institutions to further strengthen Korea’s cyber resilience and foster talent in that critical field.