Professor Hwang Woo-suk, credited with the world's first extraction of stem cells from a cloned human embryo, has been labeled "the envy of science" by the Associated Press.

The AP said a large number of envious foreign stem cell scientists are continuously visiting Hwang's lab for lessons. University of Pittsburgh stem cell researcher Gerald Schatten was quoted as saying "the whole world owes South Korea a debt of gratitude," referring to a new stem cell research technique developed by Professor Hwang.

The report said Professor Hwang is a staunch advocate of stem cell research for theraputic purposes despite some criticism from religious conservatives.

The report also gave detailed coverage to overwhelming financial support for Hwang's research from both the government and the private sector.

Hwang was quoted as saying that he will be able to announce more breakthroughs in stem cell research within the year.