Press release from Nobel Prize Outreach

Seoul to host Nobel Prize laureates for a discussion on AI’s impact on science

17 August 2026
2023_NPD_Seoul (30)

Copyright © Nobel Prize Outreach. Photo: Clément Morin

On 20 September, Nobel Prize laureates and other leading experts will gather in Seoul to discuss how artificial intelligence could shape the future of science. High school and university students, science teachers, researchers, and members of the public are invited to register for the Nobel Prize Dialogue. Registration is also open to the media.

Today, artificial intelligence has moved beyond being merely a tool for scientific research. It is transforming how discoveries are made, the speed of research, reshaping collaboration, and even changing the standards by which scientific findings are validated. At the same time, AI is driving profound changes across society, from education, industry and healthcare to culture, the labour market and public policy, with the potential to reshape the way we live.

While AI greatly expands the possibilities of science, it also raises important questions about the reliability of data, algorithmic transparency, the proprietary nature of AI technologies, and the role of human judgement and creativity. It also prompts broader discussions about the societal implications of technological change.

The 2026 Nobel Prize Dialogue in Seoul will examine how artificial intelligence is transforming the future of science and explore what these changes mean for our ability to develop scientific solutions to the urgent challenges facing our world.

Three Nobel Prize laureates will participate in the discussions: chemistry laureate David MacMillan (2021), physics laureate Brian P. Schmidt (2011), and medicine laureate Craig C. Mello (2006). They will be joined on stage by leading researchers from around the world, as well as Sngmoo Lee, filmmaker, professor, and director of the Art and Technology Lab at the Korea National University of Arts.

Nobel Prize Dialogue Seoul 2026 is organised by Nobel Prize Outreach and the Korean Academy of Science and Technology (KAST), with the kind support of Nobel International Partners ABB, EQT and Scania, and the Supporting Organisation National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF).

In connection with the dialogue, the three laureates will also give lectures at universities across South Korea.

You can read more about the event here: https://www.nobelprize.org/events/nobel-prize-dialogue/seoul-2026/

Here is a list of all participants: https://www.nobelprize.org/events/nobel-prize-dialogue/seoul-2026/panellists

Media requests can be sent to: [email protected] or [email protected]

Craig Mello pic - original
Craig Mello. / Received from Craig Mello.
David MacMillan
David MacMillan. / Corinne Strauss Photography
Brian Schmidt_Photo_Copyright Australian National University.jpg
Brian Schmidt. / Photo: Jamie Kidston © Australian National University

Nobel Prize Outreach

Nobel Prize Outreach spreads knowledge about Nobel Prize-awarded achievements and stimulates interest in science, literature and peace in line with Alfred Nobel’s vision and legacy. Nobel Prize Outreach reaches a global audience of millions through its high-quality productions: The official digital channels of the Nobel Prize, the Nobel Prize Concert, as well as a series of intercontinental, inspirational lecture events featuring Nobel Prize laureates.

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