The government has announced plans to invest 20 billion won annually through 2012 in LED (light-emitting diode) research and development.

The Ministry of Knowledge Economy announced the plans Thursday during a meeting to seek improved cooperation among LED industry players.

Participants in the meeting came from industrial, academic and research institutes.

Investment will be concentrated on core technologies for high-power LED chips and cutting-edge LED lights, including ultra-slim light panels using LEDs.

LED technology is expected to play a key role in the next-generation lighting market.