The advent of 5G technology will help humans transcend time and transform their ways of life. The materials industry should take a preemptive approach to this new order. Five issues related to future materials include ▶ adapting to a new climate regime, ▶ preparation for a super-aged society, ▶ disaster prevention, ▶ continuous economic growth, and ▶ hyper-connected society. The following needs will arise spurring the development of new materials: the rise of future metropolitan cities, establishment of new logistics system, sustainable urban systems. The steel industry will be able to create a competitive advantage if it takes a preemptive approach to new materials development.