South Korea is set to participate in the European Union's project to develop a satellite navigation system.

The Ministry of Science and Technology requested some six-point-four billion won in budget for next year to take part in the three-point-four billion euro Galileo project.

The system being developed under the project is expected to compete with the global positioning system (GPS) of the United States by offering more precise information and wider coverage.

Sponsored by the European Commission and the European Space Agency, the Galileo project will send precise data to drivers, sailors, and mobile phone and computer users, allowing them to find their exact location on the surface of the planet via 30 satellites.

The technology is expected to be operational by 2008 and improve disaster prevention and safety management efforts.

By participating in the project, Seoul is hoping to reduce its dependence on the GPS system and improve the country's information infrastructure as well as promote cooperation in politics, economy and science and technology with the EU.