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Sogang Strengthens IP Support for Innovation

Posted on by Sogang University

Sogang University has officially launched the SOGANG IP Lounge, a dedicated patent consultation hub designed to support researchers, staff, and students in protecting intellectual property and advancing research commercialisation. Opened on 30 September, the initiative reflects the university’s strategic effort to build a sustainable research–patent–technology transfer ecosystem amid growing global competition in innovation.

Operated by the Office of Industry–Academic Cooperation, the IP Lounge offers free, professional IP consultations to all members of the Sogang community. Located in the Teilhard Hall (Room 517), the centre is staffed by in-house and partner patent attorneys specialising in patents, trademarks, designs, and copyrights. Consultations are held twice a month and cover the entire IP lifecycle, from early-stage ideas and prior art review to licensing, technology transfer, start-ups, and investment strategies.

Supporting Researchers and Student Innovators

The IP Lounge has been designed to address a critical gap faced by researchers and students, particularly those without access to dedicated patent support. Undergraduate students involved in capstone design projects and start-up preparation, as well as faculty members preparing for publication or international patent filings, have actively used the service.

“Once research findings are published, the technology is disclosed. This makes early IP planning essential,” said Park Ye-seul, a patent attorney and alumna of Sogang University who currently oversees the operation of the IP Lounge. “Our goal is to help researchers identify patentable value early and guide them toward effective protection and commercialisation.”

Expanding Global IP Awareness

As part of its broader IP capacity-building efforts, Sogang University also hosted a U.S. Patent Seminar in July, inviting a partner attorney from a leading Washington, D.C.-based patent law firm. The seminar addressed key issues such as authorship versus inventorship, U.S. patent strategy, and global monetisation pathways, attracting strong interest from faculty, researchers, and staff. The event highlighted the growing importance of international patent strategies as Sogang’s research output increasingly targets global markets.

Building a Sustainable Innovation Ecosystem

By establishing the SOGANG IP Lounge, Sogang University aims to move beyond fragmented support and toward an integrated system that links research excellence, IP protection, and real-world impact. The initiative aligns with the university’s long-term vision to strengthen industry collaboration and ensure that academic innovation translates into social and economic value.

“In today’s era of global technological competition, patents are not optional—they are a core asset,” the university noted. “Through the IP Lounge, Sogang is committed to empowering its researchers and students to transform ideas into protected, impactful innovation.”

INHARoSAT Reaches Orbit on Nuri’s 4th Launch

Posted on by INHA University

▲3U-class CubeSat ‘INHARoSAT’ (10×10×30 cm), developed by the Aerospace Control and Systems Laboratory

The CubeSat developed by the research team led by Professor Ki-Young Choi of the Department of Aerospace Engineering at Inha University has successfully entered Earth’s orbit along with the fourth launch of Korea’s Nuri rocket.

The 3U-class CubeSat ‘INHARoSAT’, designed and built by the Aerospace Control and Systems Laboratory, features a groundbreaking technology: it is the world’s first CubeSat to carry a flexible solar cell module rolled up for launch and deployed in space.

INHARoSAT was selected as a flight mission in the 2022 CubeSat Competition hosted by the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI), and was launched aboard Nuri during its successful fourth flight on the 27th.

Upon entering its target orbit, INHARoSAT deployed the RoSADA (Rollable Solar Array Drum Assembly)—a roll-out solar array structure developed by the research team—and is set to conduct various missions, including evaluating the performance of the flexible solar cells developed by the domestic company Plexel Space.

In small satellites, limited surface area often results in chronic power shortages. Traditional satellites use folded panel-type solar arrays, which increase both size and mass. The Inha research team addressed this issue by proposing a method of rolling up flexible solar cells for compact stowage, enabling the deployment of wider solar arrays in space. This approach is expected to contribute to future technologies such as space solar power stations.

A key mission of INHARoSAT is to verify Inha university’s independent capability to develop and operate space-grade electronics. In addition to its main computer, the satellite carries an internally developed Integrated Onboard Computer (I-OBC). Successful validation of the I-OBC will demonstrate Inha University’s ability to produce space-qualified electronics.

To support the mission, Inha university has also established its own ground station at the Songdo Aerospace Convergence Campus, enabling direct communication with the satellite. Through operating the ground station and communicating with INHARoSAT, Inha university aims to further strengthen its operational expertise.

The project has significantly enhanced Inha university’s capacity in space development, with faculty and graduate students across aerospace specializations participating in CubeSat development. Looking ahead, Inha University plans to continue advancing education and research in space technologies and contributing to the growth of the national space industry. As part of this vision, Inha university recently established the Aerospace & Defense Specialized Graduate School, aimed at leading global innovation in aerospace and defense fields.

Professor Ki-Young Choi, principal investigator of the CubeSat project, stated, “The successful orbital insertion of INHARoSAT marks the culmination of Inha University’s continuous challenges and investments in core aerospace fields—from launching its first indigenous rocket in the 1960s to establishing the Aerospace Convergence Campus. We will continue to strengthen our role in space technology education, research, and industry collaboration, ensuring that our students develop the core competencies needed to lead the future space industry.”

열진공챔버에서 고온 시험 중인 ‘인하로샛’(INHARoSAT).

▲ INHARoSAT undergoing high-temperature testing in a thermal vacuum chamber.

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Sogang Expands Academic–Industry Ties

Posted on by Sogang University

Sogang University has established the Sogang–Pangyo Digital Innovation Campus in Pangyo Techno Valley, creating a new industry–academia collaboration platform focused on artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and advanced mobility. Located in Widen Tower, the campus serves as a strategic base for education, research, startup incubation, and global partnership development within South Korea’s leading innovation cluster.

The university has secured approximately 10,000 square metres of dedicated campus space, housing educational facilities for system semiconductor design and technology management–entrepreneurship, alongside an integrated industry–academia hub. Designed as a practice-oriented campus embedded within an industrial environment, the Pangyo Campus brings together teaching, research, and startup activities in close proximity to industry partners, offering a new model of collaboration distinct from conventional university campuses.

The establishment of the Pangyo Campus reflects Sogang University’s long-term strategy to strengthen links between academia and industry while cultivating talent for future industries. By leveraging its research strengths and entrepreneurial expertise, the university aims to foster global startups and train professionals equipped to lead technological innovation.

The campus has garnered strong support from local and national stakeholders, including Gyeonggi Province and Seongnam City, as well as from corporate partners located in Pangyo Techno Valley. Executives from the four holding companies of Widen Tower—Motrac, Inox Advanced Materials, Estraffic, and YMC—along with representatives from Gyeonggi Housing & Urban Corporation (GH) and innovation partners such as Pii Co., Ltd., have participated in building the campus’s collaborative ecosystem. Additional support has been provided by domestic and international partners, including HT Holdings, BDC Accelerator, and global research and innovation institutions.

The Pangyo Digital Innovation Campus also integrates creative and interdisciplinary elements into its innovation environment. Digital works produced by students from Sogang University’s Department of Art & Technology are showcased across campus spaces, highlighting the convergence of technology and creativity and contributing to a dynamic, open innovation culture.

Key entrepreneurship support organisations, including a Startup Support Foundation, Technology Holding Company, and accelerator programmes, operate within the campus. Facilities include joint industry–academia research centres, private and co-working offices, and startup training spaces designed to support innovation-driven enterprises. Through partnerships with global institutions such as TNO and GDIN, the campus facilitates international collaboration and supports the global expansion of promising startups. Further cooperation with institutions in India and China is also under discussion, strengthening the campus’s global reach.

Across its facilities, the Pangyo Campus hosts student- and faculty-founded ventures, international research collaborations, and customised training programmes for working professionals, alongside startups in AI, semiconductors, and advanced mobility. Faculty members conduct teaching and research directly on site, reinforcing the campus’s role as a practice-based innovation hub embedded within an active industrial ecosystem.

Through the Pangyo Digital Innovation Campus, Sogang University aims to identify and support high-potential startups both domestically and internationally, expand global university–industry collaboration projects, and provide hands-on learning opportunities for students and professionals. The campus is envisioned as an open space for innovation where local communities, companies, and entrepreneurs can collaborate, experiment, and translate ideas into real-world impact.

President Shim Jong-hyeok emphasized that the Pangyo Campus is designed to serve as a hub where companies can access advanced technologies and talent, young entrepreneurs can pursue and realise their startup ambitions, and the broader Pangyo–Seongnam community can engage with innovation and culture. He noted that, through sustained collaboration between universities and industry, the initiative aims to establish a pioneering model that contributes to regional development and enhances national competitiveness.

INHA Launches AI Innovation Headquarter

Posted on by INHA University

Inha University held the inauguration ceremony for its new AI Convergence Innovation Headquarters on December 2 at the Orakai Songdo Park Hotel.

The AI Convergence Innovation Headquarters will serve as a comprehensive AI governance system encompassing education, research, and industry–academic cooperation. It was established to strengthen future innovation capabilities and reinforce the foundation for collaboration with the local community.

By integrating Inha University’s AI-specialized capabilities—including the College of Software Convergence, the BK21 AI Education & Research Group, and the AI Convergence Research Center—the new headquarters aims to become a university-centered AI hub that systematically manages AI talent development, advanced R&D, and industry partnerships.

Building on this foundation, Inha University plans to accelerate the convergence of AI technologies with key regional strategic industries—such as biomedical, logistics, maritime, new drug innovation, future mobility, and manufacturing innovation—ultimately creating an AI-driven innovation ecosystem that will lead broader industrial transformation.

During the event, Inha University also signed an MoU with KINX and LS ELECTRIC to build an AI-based innovation ecosystem.

Under the agreement, the three institutions will strengthen cooperation in various areas supporting regional innovation, including:

• Developing AI convergence–focused professional talent

• Joint R&D for digital transformation in Incheon’s strategic industries

• Sharing human and physical resources

They will jointly carry out core tasks under the I-RISE initiative—such as developing AI-based educational programs and conducting collaborative research in AI and digital transformation—while also expanding academic and research exchanges.

President Myungwoo Cho stated, “With the launch of the AI Convergence Innovation Headquarters, we expect Inha University’s AI education, research, and industry–academic cooperation to become more systematically integrated and expanded. We will continue building a consistent framework for AI technology development, real-world testing, and professional talent cultivation to strengthen Incheon’s future competitiveness.”

▲President Myungwoo Cho delivers remarks at the inauguration ceremony.

▲Executive Vice President Seonghyeon Baek presents on the mission and structure of the new AI Convergence Innovation Headquarters.

▲KINX Director Jonghong Won, President Myungwoo Cho, and LS ELECTRIC CEO Daeseok Chae pose for a commemorative photo after signing the MoU.

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Sogang Hosts Pet Blessing Ceremony

Posted on by Sogang University

The Office of Campus Ministry Affairs at Sogang University recently held a pet blessing ceremony in front of Saint Ignatius Chapel, marking the first event of its kind in six years. The ceremony drew strong participation from members of the university community, reflecting growing social interest in companion animals and responsible coexistence.

Participants included individuals currently living with their companion animals, those remembering pets that had passed away, and others caring for animals undergoing medical treatment. Despite their diverse circumstances, participants came together with a shared sense of respect for life and a commitment to caring relationships between humans and animals.

The ceremony, which lasted approximately one hour, was officiated by Rev. Kim Chi-hun, Dean of Campus Ministry Affairs. In his address, Rev. Kim highlighted the interconnectedness of ecological awareness and sustainable environments, noting that these values are practiced through everyday relationships, including those with companion animals. He emphasized that sustainable coexistence begins with recognizing animals as partners in shared living environments rather than as objects of ownership.

Rev. Kim also reflected on the broader significance of the ceremony, noting that harmony between humans and nature is essential for fostering balanced relationships within ecosystems. Referring to the legacy of St. Francis of Assisi, he underscored the long-standing ethical tradition of respect for all forms of life and the idea that care for companion animals can extend into wider responsibility toward society and the natural world.

Following the address, companion animals and their owners received blessings, along with commemorative certificates prepared for the occasion. Each certificate included the names of the animal and owner, an image of St. Francis, and a short prayer, allowing participants to retain a meaningful record of the ceremony.

Throughout the event, the atmosphere remained calm and orderly, enabling the ceremony to conclude smoothly. Beyond its ceremonial aspects, the gathering also served as a space for communication, where participants shared personal experiences and reflected collectively on themes of empathy, care, and sustainability.

Through this community-based initiative, the university highlighted how everyday practices of care and coexistence can contribute to more inclusive, responsible, and environmentally conscious communities.

8th IUT Commencement Ceremony Held

Posted on by INHA University

▲Graduates celebrate with the traditional cap-tossing ceremony at the 8th Commencement Ceremony of Inha University in Tashkent (IUT).

Inha university held the 8th Commencement Ceremony of Inha University in Tashkent (IUT) in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, on the 23rd.

This year, 307 graduates received their degrees, joined by their families and friends in celebration. Among them, 213 students from the School of Computer and Information Engineering earned their degrees through the 4+0 joint curriculum program, while 75 students from the School of Business and Logistics completed a 3+1 joint program to obtain degrees from our university. Additionally, 19 MBA students received graduate-level degrees after completing the 1+1 joint program operated with our Graduate School of Business.

The ceremony was attended by President Myeong Woo Cho; Sung Yong-rak, Chair of the Jungseok-Inha Foundation; Managing Director Kim Yun-hwi; National Assembly members Kim Kyo-heung, Yang Moon-suk, and Jin Jong-oh; Korean Ambassador to Uzbekistan Won Do-yeon; Uzbekistan’s Minister of Digital Technologies Sherzod Shermatov; and IUT President Bobur Abdullaev, all of whom congratulated the graduates.

At the ceremony, Tursunova Mokhira Botir Kiz received the Jungseok-Inha Foundation Chairman’s Award for graduating as valedictorian, while Yuldashev Komiljon and Abdullajanov Azizjon received the President’s Award.

IUT was established in 2014 in Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan. It is recognized as Korea’s first successful case of exporting a full university-level education system, pioneering initiatives such as the 3+1 visiting education program and 4+0 joint curriculum model.

Under the university’s strong academic framework, IUT produced its first graduating class in 2018, and now—with this year’s ceremony—has educated and sent more than 2,300 students into various fields of society.

Most graduates have secured employment at leading local IT companies, state-owned enterprises, and government agencies, solidifying IUT’s status as one of Uzbekistan’s top institutions.

In his congratulatory address, President Myeong Woo Cho stated, “Since their founding, Inha University and IUT have walked together with the shared mission of nurturing global talent,” adding, “The knowledge and experiences you have gained at IUT will become a driving force for the future of Uzbekistan.”

성용락 정석인하학원 이사장이 제8회 타슈켄트 인하대학교(Inha University in Tashkent·IUT) 학위수여식에서 축사를 하고 있다.▲ Sung Yong-rak, Chair of the Jungseok-Inha Foundation, delivers congratulatory remarks at the 8th IUT Commencement Ceremony.

조명우 총장이 제8회 타슈켄트 인하대학교(Inha University in Tashkent·IUT) 학위수여식에서 축사를 하고 있다.▲ President Myeong Woo Cho delivers a congratulatory address at the 8th IUT Commencement Ceremony.

김교흥 국회의원이 제8회 타슈켄트 인하대학교(Inha University in Tashkent·IUT) 학위수여식에서 축사를 하고 있다.▲ National Assembly member Kim Kyo-heung delivers congratulatory remarks at the 8th IUT Commencement Ceremony.

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Inha Launches Tech Institute in Hen Univ.

Posted on by INHA University

▲Attendees pose for a commemorative photo at the launch ceremony of the Inha Institute of Technology, a Sino-foreign cooperative education institution established by Henan Polytechnic University and Inha University.

Inha University recently held the launch ceremony for the Inha Institute of Technology, a Sino-foreign cooperative education institution jointly established with Henan Polytechnic University in China.

The ceremony was attended by Inha University President Myung Woo Cho, Vice President for External Affairs Woonghee Kim, Global Affairs Director Taejoon Jeon, as well as Henan Polytechnic University President Wu Zhishen and Vice President Zhao Renyong.

During the launch ceremony, the two universities established a Joint Steering Committee to build an official operational system and discussed future cooperation directions along with detailed implementation plans.

Inha University began pursuing the establishment of this Sino-foreign cooperative education institution in December 2020. After extensive discussions regarding participating departments, admission quotas, and the operational structure, the program received official approval from the Chinese Ministry of Education this September.

China’s Sino-foreign cooperative education system allows Chinese universities with strong educational and research capabilities to jointly operate academic programs with overseas universities upon approval from the Ministry of Education. Institutions (機構) established under this system are independent educational entities jointly founded by a Chinese and foreign university, and the issuance of dual degrees is mandatory.

Because all Sino-foreign cooperative education programs require approval from the Chinese Ministry of Education, the review and approval process is known to be extremely rigorous. Inha University’s newly approved institution represents only the fifth time in history that a Korean university has received approval for an “institution-level” Sino-foreign cooperative education program. Among all Korea-China cooperative education applications submitted for the 2025 academic year—both program-level and institution-level—this is the only case approved, underscoring its significant achievement.

Henan Polytechnic University is one of the most prominent industry-specialized universities in Henan Province and is recognized as one of the province’s four core higher education institutions. The university is widely known for its outstanding research capabilities, including receiving the prestigious National Science and Technology Progress Award (First Class). It has also been selected for China’s “Plan for Educating and Training Outstanding Engineers,” showcasing its strong educational infrastructure and ability to cultivate top-tier engineering talent.

With the launch ceremony complete, Inha University has begun full-scale preparations for operating the Inha Institute of Technology.

The institute will offer undergraduate 4+0 dual-degree programs in Biotechnology, Geoinformation Engineering, and Chemical Engineering.

Under the 4+0 dual-degree model, Chinese students will study for four years at the Inha Institute of Technology using Inha University’s curriculum and, upon completion, receive degrees from both universities.

Faculty members from Inha University will be dispatched to China to deliver lectures in person, ensuring that students receive high-quality and systematic academic instruction.

The university aims to recruit the first cohort of freshmen in September 2026. Chinese students will be admitted through the local university entrance examination system, and the institute plans to enroll 270 students annually through 2037.

Building on the success of Inha University in Tashkent (IUT) — established in 2014 as Korea’s first exported university-level education system — Inha University continues to expand international academic cooperation with leading institutions worldwide.

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Industrial Park Collaboration Center(IPCC)

Posted on by INHA University

The I-RISE Headquarters held the launch ceremony for the Industrial Park Coupled Collaboration Center (IPCC) on the 16th at Oakwood Premier Incheon.

Established as part of Incheon’s RISE (Regional Innovation-led University Support System) initiative, the IPCC aims to support advanced industrial transformation and strengthen competitiveness of companies within regional industrial complexes, in line with the city’s manufacturing renaissance.

Inha University has established six IPCC divisions tailored to Incheon’s strategic industries: •Logistics AI •Future Mobility •Bio •Semiconductors •Smart Manufacturing (AX) •Energy

Each IPCC will promote a range of industry-academia-research collaboration projects, including joint R&D for industrial advancement and training programs to enhance the expertise of employees working within industrial complexes.

During the RISE project period, the IPCC network will be expanded and further established, evolving into a regional hub for industry-academia cooperation.

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The event was attended by more than 80 participants, including officials from Inha University, Korea Industrial Complex Corporation, Incheon Metropolitan City, Incheon Technopark, Incheon RISE Center, Korea Institute of Industrial Technology, Inha Technical College, and representatives from participating IPCC companies.

Inha University also signed a business agreement with the Incheon Regional Headquarters of the Korea Industrial Complex Corporation, aiming to nurture region-specific talent and promote industrial development.

Under this agreement, the two institutions will collaborate on: •Operating consultative bodies centered on industrial complex tenants •R&D cooperation and policy participation for digitalization and carbon-neutral transition •Field-based support for companies •Development and operation of education programs for employees within industrial complexes.

In addition, Director Park In-gyu of the AI Convergence Research Center delivered a keynote speech titled “AX Revolution in Incheon through Physical AI,” presenting innovation strategies for industrial complexes powered by artificial intelligence.

Director Choi Chung-hyeok of the Korea Industrial Complex Corporation Incheon Headquarters stated, “We will do our utmost to ensure effective cooperation that leads to industrial transformation and enhanced corporate competitiveness.”

“It is meaningful to launch the IPCC as a new collaboration platform where local communities, industries, universities, and research institutions share innovative technologies under the I-RISE framework. Inha University will leverage its capabilities as a world-class research-driven institution to actively meet the innovation demands of Incheon’s strategic industries, including AI.”

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Development of Advanced Technology by IU

Posted on by Haejong

A research team led by Professors Moon-Sang Lee and Myung-Kwan Ham (Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Inha University) has recently developed a flexible, ultra-low-power next-generation artificial synaptic device based on the two-dimensional nanomaterial tellurene, demonstrating potential for direct end-user applications.

Neuromorphic semiconductors, which mimic the structure of the human brain, are considered a next-generation semiconductor technology. They enable parallel computing while significantly reducing power consumption, making them highly attractive for future computing industries.

The team synthesized tellurene (a 2D form of tellurium), one of the promising 2D nanomaterials, and fabricated an artificial synaptic device to improve neuromorphic semiconductor efficiency. Their analysis confirmed the feasibility of applying the device to next-generation neuromorphic edge computing, highlighting its ultra-low power consumption, reconfigurability, and flexibility.

Tellurene possesses high charge mobility and strong mechanical stability. The team synthesized 2D tellurene using a hydrothermal method and implemented it into an artificial synapse with a transistor-like structure.

The resulting device demonstrated an ultra-low-power consumption of about 10 femtojoules (fJ). Experimental results showed that 2D tellurene-based synaptic devices could be applied to end-user products, broadening the scope for applications in electronic skin, wearable devices, and other edge computing systems.

Professor Moon-Sang Lee stated: “This study is significant in that it implemented flexible artificial synaptic devices based on 2D nanomaterials with enhanced synaptic characteristics, thereby demonstrating their potential for neuromorphic edge computing applications.” Professor Myung-Kwan Ham added: “The developed synaptic device overcomes the limitations of conventional nanomaterials and is expected to be applicable across diverse environments.” This research was recently published online in the Royal Society of Chemistry’s international journal Journal of Materials Chemistry C.

The first authors are M.S. candidates Bo-Rim Yoo and Ji-Chan Yoon (Department of Materials Science and Engineering). Students Yu-Na Kim, Ji-Hyang Park, and Jin-A Park also contributed to the study. Professors Moon-Sang Lee and Myung-Kwan Ham (Inha University), along with Prof. Eon-Jeong Kim (Dongguk University), served as co-corresponding authors.

KU research group discovers the principles of in vivo thermopower generation

Posted on by Editorial Team

Professor Yoon Hyo-jae’s research team from the Department of Chemistry at KU (President Kim Dong-One) has discovered the principle of generating electricity from rubber plant leaves without any additional processing, thereby successfully implementing thermoelectric performance superior to that of existing artificial materials.The results of this study were published online on July 26, 2025, in Advanced Materials, a globally renowned journal in materials science.

Leaves have long been recognized as mediators of photosynthesis and gas exchange. However, Professor Yoon Hyo-jae’s research group has demonstrated that plants can also serve as high-performance energy conversion devices.

The research group discovered the ionic Seebeck effect of plants in which moisture and ions within plant tissues move in response to temperature differences, thereby generating voltage differences. Specifically, when leaves are partially dried, an electrically conductive layer is formed on their surface, which dramatically amplifies the effect.

The researchers confirmed that the ionic Seebeck effect is exhibited not only in dried leaves but also in living leaves, enabling electricity generation. They also discovered that when electrodes were attached to living leaves and exposed to light, a stable voltage was repeatedly generated and that this energy conversion process did not affect the leaf’s physiological functions.

Kang Hun-gu, the first author of the article, said, “The fact that leaves can serve as ‘living thermoelectric devices’ that generate electricity by receiving heat is a new plant function that has not been observed until now. Our study well demonstrates a convergence research paradigm that interconnects chemistry, biology, and energy science.”

This research holds significant value from a sustainability point of view because the results could enable the utilization of plants in their natural state. Furthermore, since changes in plant health can be detected in real time, the results of this study are expected to have wide applications in environmental and agricultural fields, such as climate change response and plant growth monitoring.

This study was supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea.