CNU Selected for Korea’s Southwest Innovation

Chonnam National University (CNU) has been selected for Korea’s landmark “10 Seoul National Universities” Initiative, a national strategy to develop world-class research universities beyond the capital region. As one of only three universities chosen nationwide, CNU will advance a KRW 550 billion (approximately US$410 million) initiative over the next five years. The selection recognises CNU’s capacity to lead major projects in Korea’s Southwest region through advanced semiconductors, future energy and artificial intelligence (AI).

To deliver this agenda, CNU will establish its 18th college, the Advanced Convergence College, to train 300 students each year: 200 in advanced semiconductors and 100 in future energy. Company professionals will participate directly in teaching, while students will gain hands-on experience through workplace placements. Education and research will focus on solving real challenges faced by industry, preparing graduates to contribute effectively from their first day in the workplace.

Having established Korea’s first dedicated AI college in 2019, CNU will build on seven years of education and research experience to launch AI Hub University 2.0. The University will strengthen AI education across its own programmes, extend proven curricula and resources to regional universities, and ultimately open AI learning opportunities and infrastructure to the wider community.

CNU will also lead an university network of 27 institutions across Korea’s Southwest region. The network will share education content and research platforms in semiconductors, future energy and AI, while widening access to joint fabrication and clean-room facilities, project-based learning and collaborative research.

“This selection is a decisive opportunity for CNU to become a research-intensive university that leads balanced growth in Korea’s Southwest region and serves as a core hub for cooperation among local governments, industry, academia and research institutions,” said CNU President Keun Bae Lee. “We will cultivate the talent needed for future industries, build world-class R&D and AI capabilities, and create a sustainable innovation ecosystem.”