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Tag: South Korea

Mayor Kang Shares Gwangju’s Growth Strategy

Posted on by Chonnam National University

GWANGJU, South Korea – On September 16, Chonnam National University (President Lee Keun-bae) successfully hosted the 2nd Yongbong Forum under the theme, “Transforming Democratic Values into Opportunities for Growth.”

Gwangju Mayor Kang Gi-jung, a CNU alumnus, served as the keynote speaker, outlining a future strategy for Gwangju rooted in its democratic spirit. Mayor Kang identified three historical periods of “isolation” for the city:

The May 18th Democratization Movement in 1980

The three-party merger in 1991

The current “employment isolation” caused by a changing industrial landscape.

“The same DNA that allowed Gwangju to overcome the challenges of May 1980 will empower us to break through today’s job isolation,” Mayor Kang stated. He emphasized that Gwangju is already overcoming its third isolation by spearheading new industries, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI).

AI, Mobility, and Energy: The Pillars of Growth

Citing 2024 Nobel Laureate James A. Robinson, Mayor Kang noted that “democratic societies lead in economic development.” He presented AI, Mobility, and Energy as the three core opportunities for Gwangju’s growth.

Reflecting on his tenure as Senior Secretary for Political Affairs under the Moon Jae-in administration, he highlighted his role in securing the AI Phase 1 preliminary feasibility study exemption. As Mayor, he continues to push for:

Exemption for AI Phase 2 (scheduled for 2025)

Hosting the National AI Computing Center

The “Golden Triangle” Innovation Hub: Connecting the AX Verification Valley (Chumdan District), AI Mobility City (Future Auto Industrial Complex), and “Y-Park” (former military airport site).

Interactive Dialogue with the Community

The forum drew over 300 participants, including students and local residents. The event featured an interactive Q&A session where Mayor Kang addressed community concerns, ranging from solving power shortages in new AI cities to mitigating inconveniences from Subway Line 2 construction.

Cho Jin-hyung, Vice President of External Cooperation at CNU, remarked: “The Yongbong Forum is an open platform for sharing the university’s intellectual assets and communicating with regional leaders. We will continue to invite experts from various fields to explore ways for the university and the region to grow together.”

2025 Corporate & Social Projects

Posted on by INHA University

기업사회문제해결 프로젝트 성과발표회에 참여한 학생들과 관계자들이 기념촬영을 하고 있다.▲Students and industry representatives pose for a commemorative photo at the Corporate & Social Problem-Solving Project Final Presentation.

The Engineering Education Innovation Center recently hosted the 2025 Corporate & Social Problem-Solving Project Final Presentation.

The event featured a total of five teams, consisting of four competition-track teams and one advanced-track team. A panel of judges composed of industry experts, patent attorneys, and faculty members evaluated the teams’ presentations and prototypes.

Over a two-month period, students carried out a practice-oriented industry–academia cooperative capstone project that involved problem definition, design, prototype development, and feedback. The projects were based on real-world industrial challenges presented by Hyperdrive Korea Co., Ltd. and Hydrofast Co., Ltd.

The proposed project topics combined technological innovation with social value. They included the development of a non-powered ground reaction force ankle assist device for socially vulnerable individuals experiencing muscle loss, as well as smart agriculture technology utilizing four-wheel steering and driving systems.

Following the evaluation, the Grand Prize in the competition track was awarded to Team “Mu-Yaho.” The team developed a lightweight, custom-made walking assist device using a GFRP plate spring. The project demonstrated a high level of completeness through appropriate material selection (GFRP utilization), creative and precise design, and verification based on electromyography (EMG) measurements.

In particular, the team’s link structure design, which reflected joint motion mechanisms, and the systematic application of engineering elements were highly praised for achieving a technical level comparable to professional research standards.

The Excellence Award was presented to Team Balpyeonhan Sesang, while the Advanced Track Outstanding Technology Award was awarded to Team ALM.

Choi Soo-sung, CEO of Hydrofast Co., Ltd., stated, “Watching the students’ problem-solving processes was highly inspiring for the industry as well. I hope this project becomes a valuable asset in your future careers.”

Pyeon Seok-jun, Director of the Inha Engineering Education Innovation Center, commented, “This industry-collaborative project was a meaningful opportunity that provided students with real-world experience and growth. We will continue to expand industry-linked education models in the future.”

Original Article



SAIX Peers Forum on Human–AI Collaboration

Posted on by Sogang University

Sogang University held its January brown-bag meeting of SAIX Peers (Sogang AIX Peers), an interdisciplinary research forum connecting scholars across artificial intelligence, humanities, and social sciences. The session featured Professor Yoonseok Heo from the Division of English, who presented research on human–AI collaboration in creative writing.

Professor Huh examined how humans and artificial intelligence can interact through staged collaborative processes in literary creation. By comparing the narrative arcs of AI-generated fiction with human-authored works, he analysed the current limitations of AI in storytelling, including difficulties in constructing tension and complex narrative structures.

Building on these findings, he proposed directions for developing AI models specialised in creative writing through interdisciplinary collaboration. He emphasised that computer science research could focus on algorithmic modelling of narrative structures, while humanities scholars could contribute by constructing high-quality literary datasets essential for improving model performance. He also introduced the concept of “LLM-as-a-Judge,” highlighting the need for AI-based evaluation frameworks capable of assessing creativity and narrative coherence beyond surface-level linguistic patterns.

During the discussion session, participants shared broader challenges in AI-driven creative research, including copyright constraints on training data and the resulting limitations in model performance. The dialogue further expanded to potential educational applications of AI-based evaluation systems.

SAIX Peers was launched in November 2025 as part of Sogang University’s “AI Driven University” vision. Through regular forums and interdisciplinary exchanges, the initiative aims to foster collaborative research and deepen academic understanding of the ethical, cultural, and technological implications of artificial intelligence.

Strengthening Cooperation in Multicultural Education

Posted on by QS Editorial

Monday November 17, 2025 in the 1st Conference Room of the KU Main Building, Korea University (President Kim Dong-One) signed an educational MOU with Haemil School which establishes their cooperation in multicultural education.

Based on this agreement, KU and Haemil plan to operate various joint programs such as mentoring programs and multicultural talent development camps, and to actively support the academic development and career exploration of multicultural youth.

Haemil School Chairman Kim said, “As someone with a multicultural background, I have always felt a responsibility to be a role model for multicultural students. It is meaningful that through this MOU, KU students can serve as practical mentors to Haemil School students.” KU President Kim stated, “I hope that this agreement will allow students from multicultural families to fully realize their potential. Korea University will endeavor to provide multicultural students with expanded education opportunities and a solid foundation for personal and intellectual growth.”

Sae-A Chairman Kim at CNU: Challenge and Trust

Posted on by Chonnam National University

GWANGJU, South Korea – On October 14, Chonnam National University (President Lee Keun-bae) successfully hosted the 3rd Yongbong Forum of 2025 at Yongbong Hall. The keynote speaker, Woong-ki Kim, Chairman of Global Sae-A Group, delivered an inspiring lecture on “Trust” and “Challenge” as the core values driving global corporate success.

Before the lecture, President Lee Keun-bae introduced Chairman Kim’s book, The World is My Treasure Island, highlighting key philosophies such as:

“Be the one to plant the flag first.”

“When the wind doesn’t blow, run with your pinwheel.”

“The miracle of people and business creating a ‘Forest of Abundance.'”

“Chairman Kim’s business philosophy—defined by challenge and human-centric values—perfectly aligns with the DNA that CNU has long upheld,” President Lee remarked.

Turning Crisis into Opportunity through Principles

During the forum, Chairman Kim emphasized that choosing a meaningful path over comfort and building irreplaceable “Trust” are essential for corporate survival. He explained that maintaining principles during a crisis transforms trust into capital that creates unforeseen opportunities, while proactive “Challenge” shifts the market tide in one’s favor.

He inspired the youth with poignant messages, stating, “Victory comes to those who are prepared, though others may call it luck,” and “If there is such a thing as destiny, it is the result of the choices I have made.”

Future Talent: The “Continuous Learner”

In a vibrant Q&A session covering AI-era talent and crisis management, Chairman Kim stressed the importance of “Continuous Learners” (acquisition-oriented talent).

“The future belongs to those who strive to learn and grow, rather than those who merely try to prove their past,” he advised. He cited goal-setting, self-development, creative execution, crisis awareness, and trust-based sacrifice for colleagues as fundamental qualities for the next generation of leaders.

Cho Jin-hyung, Vice President of External Cooperation at CNU, concluded: “The Yongbong Forum is evolving into a platform for practical discourse connecting academia, industry, and the global stage. We will continue to expand collaborations that enhance the future competitiveness of our region and nation.”

Chairman Oh Receives CNU Honorary PhD

Posted on by Chonnam National University

GWANGJU, South Korea – Chonnam National University (CNU), led by President Lee Keun-bae, officially conferred an Honorary Doctorate in Economics upon Oh Hyung-seok, Chairman of TopSolar Co., Ltd., on October 1. The degree recognizes Chairman Oh’s pioneering role in the renewable energy industry and his unwavering commitment to regional social responsibility.

A Pioneer in Renewable Energy and Carbon Neutrality

Since founding TopSolar in 1994, Chairman Oh has been at the forefront of the solar energy sector. Through independent technological development, he elevated South Korea’s renewable energy competitiveness to a global level. His proactive response to the shifting energy paradigm has been instrumental in supporting the government’s “2050 Carbon Neutrality” goal, establishing a sustainable foundation for the nation’s energy transition.

Aligning Corporate Success with Regional Growth

Beyond business achievements, CNU highly evaluated Chairman Oh’s philosophy that “corporate growth must be shared with society.” His continuous efforts in creating local jobs, establishing scholarship programs, and leading social contribution activities exemplify the “Regional Win-Win” value that CNU actively pursues.

A Model for Future Generations

During the ceremony, President Lee Keun-bae stated, “Chairman Oh’s journey of challenge and innovation serves as a profound inspiration for our students. This honorary degree is a tribute to his remarkable contributions to both the industry and the community.”

In his acceptance speech, Chairman Oh remarked, “It is a great honor to receive this recognition from Chonnam National University. I remain dedicated to advancing the renewable energy sector and fostering mutual growth with the local community.”

Inha Appreciation Night with Donors & Alumni

Posted on by INHA University

▲ Participants of the 2026 Inha Appreciation Night pose for a commemorative photo.

On January 14, Inha university invited donors and alumni who have devoted themselves to the development of the school and hosted the “2026 Inha Appreciation Night” at the Sheraton Grand Incheon.

The “Inha Appreciation Night” was organized to express gratitude to donors and alumni who have accompanied the university through its growth and leap forward, and to share the university’s vision and direction for future development.

The event was attended by about 50 donors and alumni who are contributing to Inha University’s development, including President Cho Myung-woo and Kim Doo-han, President of the Inha University Alumni Association.

At the Inha Appreciation Night, a development fund donation ceremony for the university was also held. Alumni Association President Kim Doo-han donated 30 million won to the university development fund, while the Global Business Leader Academy (GBLA) 1st Cohort Alumni Association (10 million won) and former Inha University Vice President Kim Yoo-hang (6 million won) also joined in donating to the university’s development fund.

Alumni Association President Kim Doo-han said, “I am grateful for the remarkable leap forward achieved by my alma mater, and together with fellow alumni, I will continue to contribute even more to the development of our university.”

President Cho Myung-woo shared with donors and alumni the university’s path of growth and its vision for the future during the event.

In particular, he introduced the university’s CubeSat “INHAROSAT,” which successfully entered orbit together with the 4th launch of Nuri last year, and reflected on the path Inha has taken as the “birthplace” of Korea’s aerospace field.

Inha university also introduced its major development campaigns currently underway. The development campaigns are external cooperation projects in which donors, alumni, and the local community participate together to ensure the continuous advancement of the university’s education and research.

These include ▲ the “1,000-won Breakfast” campaign to strengthen student welfare, ▲ a naming campaign linked to the construction of Seungunjae, a Happiness Dormitory, and ▲ visits to alumni-run companies to strengthen industry–academia cooperation and alumni networks.

Through these development campaigns, the university plans to further solidify the foundation for improving student welfare and the educational environment, as well as for sustained cooperation with donors and alumni.

President Cho Myung-woo stated, “The Inha Appreciation Night went beyond simply expressing gratitude to the Inha community—donors and alumni—who have contributed to the development of Inha University in many ways so far; it was a meaningful time to draw the university’s history and future together,” adding, “We will continue to leap forward as a global prestigious university that grows together with alumni, donors, and the local community.”

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INHA Students Win Turbine Contest

Posted on by INHA University

Aims to expand the technological base and cultivate specialists in the aircraft gas turbine engine field

College of Engineering students prove their excellence by winning the Grand Prize and First Prize

College of Engineering students at INHA university achieved outstanding results at the ‘2025 National Collegiate Micro Gas Turbine Application Capstone Design Competition’ recently hosted by the Korea Fluid Machinery Association (KOFMA).

 

This competition, held for the first time this year, aims to expand the technological base and cultivate specialists in the field of aircraft gas turbine engines, which has been selected as a national strategic technology.

 

The ‘MG Generation’ team—composed of Department of Mechanical Engineering students Roh Cheong-ju, Kang Seo-hyeon, Kang Seok-ju, Ko Kang-min, and Kim Chan-ho (advisor Professor Kim Dong-sub)—won the Grand Prize, the KOFMA President’s Award, for their presentation on “Analysis of Performance and Mission Profile Changes in a Micro Turbojet with Water Injection.”

 

They quantitatively confirmed that the application of water injection increased maximum thrust and reduced the UAV’s (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) maximum climb angle and time to reach target altitude. This analysis of flight performance improvement received high praise from the judges.

 

The ‘Inha Jet’ team—consisting of Department of Aerospace Engineering students Lee Seung-heon, Kim Seon-woo, Moon Gab-woo, and Lee Jung-hyuk (advisor Professor Lee Sang-yoon)—received the First Prize, the Doosan Enerbility CEO’s Award. Their presentation was on “Turboshaft Engine Modification and Simulation for Hybrid Electric Propulsion System Application.”

 

Based on a performance analysis of a micro turbine generator for UAVs, the team designed a power turbine configuration and verified it through computational analysis. They received a positive evaluation for presenting the feasibility of developing a hybrid-type UAV utilizing a micro gas turbine.

 

These awards are expected to have a significant ripple effect in terms of education and industry-academia-university collaboration.

 

In particular, the ‘MG Generation’ team plans to expand its research based on the competition results into a feasibility analysis for applying hydrogen to micro gas turbines. This will be in connection with the ‘Carbon-Free Fuel (Hydrogen/Ammonia) Gas Turbine Design and Production’ project (led by their advisor, Professor Kim Dong-sub, and funded by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy/KETEP) and the Safety Innovation Research Center (led by Professor Kwak Jae-soo of Korea Aerospace University).

 

The ‘Inha Jet’ team, winners of the First Prize at the National Collegiate Micro Gas Turbine Application Capstone Design Competition, poses for a commemorative photo.

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Sogang Taking the Lead in Sustainability

Posted on by Sogang University

Sustainability is no longer an optional virtue for higher education; it is an imperative. Grounded in its identity as a Jesuit university, Sogang University has responded to this challenge not with rhetoric, but by constructing a cohesive ecosystem that links campus life, community engagement, cutting-edge research, and graduate education. By integrating the efforts of students, faculty, and practitioners, the university demonstrates how institutional missions rooted in social responsibility can be aligned with the concrete demands of a sustainable future.

On campus, abstract commitments are translated into tangible practices through student-led initiatives. A recent resource-circulation campaign illustrates this transformation. Students collected PET bottles, discarded textiles, and old banners, directing them into an upcycling process that produced fiber-panel benches for campus use. Beyond simple recycling, this initiative allowed students to observe how small individual actions—emptying leftover drinks, sorting bottles, or cleaning club rooms—can be materially reinvested into shared spaces.

Sogang’s engagement also extends into local communities. In Jeonju, a community urban-innovation program brought together Sogang students and peers from other universities to co-design improvements for village walking trails and rest areas. This collaboration elevated a standard capstone design course into a practical intervention, resulting in infrastructural improvements that residents can directly experience.

On the research side, the university addresses environmental challenges with scientific depth. In chemical and biomolecular engineering, Professor Jeyoung Park, together with colleagues from Inha University and the Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, has developed marine-biodegradable poly(ester amide) materials that combine high mechanical strength with rapid biodegradation, offering potential alternatives to nylon used in fishing gear and textiles. Likewise, Professor Jong Suk Lee’s group, led by doctoral researcher Ju Ho Shin, has produced a new class of extrinsically microporous polymer membranes with exceptional CO₂-separation performance, demonstrating clear industrial relevance for carbon-capture technologies.

Educationally, these values are institutionalized through the Graduate School of Economics. Since 2022, the Master’s program in ESG Economics has offered a specialized curriculum that combines micro and macroeconomics with ESG evaluation methods, corporate governance, financial-market dynamics, and labor policy. Its credit-sharing structure with MBA and other professional programs attracts a diverse cohort—including practitioners from finance, consulting, and corporate ESG roles—ensuring that coursework is consistently grounded in real-world cases and market developments.

Taken together, these initiatives depict a university pursuing a genuinely integrated approach to sustainability. From upcycled benches on campus to biodegradable materials in the laboratory and ESG strategies in the classroom, Sogang University is not simply preparing future professionals—it is actively contributing to the construction of a more sustainable society.

Sogang Advances Lifelong Education

Posted on by Sogang University

Sogang University and the city of Paju (under Mayor Kim Kyung-il) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on Wednesday, October 22, at 3 p.m. in the President’s Office at Sogang University to promote lifelong education based on the “Once-in-a-Lifetime Project.” This MOU was formed as part of government-academic collaboration to expand the foundation of lifelong education in the local community and to build a model for enhancing citizens’ competencies.

Paju’s “Once-in-a-Lifetime Project” aims to establish a sustainable lifelong learning system by operating lifelong learning centers across different administrative districts (Eup, Myeon, and Dong) in collaboration with Sogang University’s Institute for Continuing Education, with the goal of providing customized education for local residents and establishing community-based learning ecosystems.

The signing ceremony was attended by Kim Kyung-il, Paju’s mayor; Kim Tae-hoon, director of the Culture and Education Bureau of Paju; Lee Hak-hyun, head of Munsan Eup; Choi Hee-jin, section chief for the Institute for Continuing Education; Sogang President Sim Jong-hyeok; Professor Song Tai-kyung, executive vice president for Research & External Affairs; and Professor Ha Byoung-chun, dean of the Institute for Continuing Education.

Under the agreement, the two institutions will cooperate to develop lifelong learning programs customized to local needs, expand future education focusing on AI and digital competencies, establish learning hubs within communities for different district levels (Eup, Myeon, and Dong), and foster resident-involved learning communities.

Speaking about the agreement, President Sim Jong-hyeok said, “This agreement is an important starting point for realizing the public value by sharing the university’s educational capacities with the local community.” For his part, Mayor Kim Kyung-il stated, “We will continue to strengthen the city’s foundation as a place where all citizens can keep learning in their daily lives.”

As it is currently implementing the “Seoul RISE (Regional Innovation System & Education)” program, Sogang University is planning to expand its cooperative projects beyond Seoul to other municipalities in the metropolitan area as part of its “Community Co-Prosperity” projects.