South Korea will launch a brain-mapping project to establish a visual database of the structure and functions of the brain by 2023.

The Ministry of Science, ICT and Future Planning on Monday announced the plan for developing the country's brain science to that effect.

The ministry will first focus on creating a map of the cerebral cortex, the brain’s outer layer of neural tissues associated with cognitive functions.

The United States is currently focusing a study of the cerebral cortex related to sight, while Japan is producing a brain map centering on the prefrontal cortex associated with cognitive functions.

The Seoul government expects that the brain map, if developed, will enable accuracy in the diagnosis and treatment of brain diseases.

The ministry estimates the project will require 340 billion won in total over the next ten years and plans to hold consultations with related ministries to discuss ways to secure funds.