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Saemaul Invitation Training Program requested by the UN WFP Guinea Office 18 participants including senior government officials, NGO workers, and WFP staff from Guinea From classroom lectures to field experience, strengthening rural development through Saemaul Undong [June 18, 2025] A training delegation from Guinea visited Yeungnam University (President CHOI Oe-chool) to study Korea’s Saemaul Undong (New Village Movement). The program, titled the “2025 WFP Guinea Office Saemaul Invitation Training Program,” is hosted by YU’s Institute for International Development Cooperation (IIDC) and runs from June 11 to 20. The training program includes eight high-level Guinean government officials, such as the Director of Agriculture and Livestock in Boké Region, Director of Agricultural Operations, Gender and Social Inclusion Expert for the Commercial Agriculture Development Project, Director of Monitoring and Evaluation for the National School Feeding Program, and Deputy Director of the National Directorate of Family Health and Nutrition. In addition, three NGO representatives, three village leaders affiliated with the WFP Guinea Office, and four WFP staff members are participating—for a total of 18 participants. These individuals are key personnel in the “Zero Hunger Village (ZHV)” project and will receive training focused on the theories and implementation strategies of Saemaul Undong. As part of efforts to share Korea’s development experience, the World Food Programme (WFP) officially began adopting Saemaul Undong in 2011 as part of its Zero Hunger strategy. The model has since gained traction in multiple countries, including Guinea. At the 2024 Korea-Africa Summit, several African leaders expressed appreciation to the Korean government, noting that their youth had studied Saemaul Undong at the Park Chung Hee School of Policy and Saemaul (PSPS) and were now contributing to their home countries’ development. Korea and Guinea both began receiving WFP assistance in 1964. Within two decades, Korea graduated from WFP aid and became a model for self-reliant development with international support. Meanwhile, Guinea continues to work with global organizations and partners to pursue its development goals. The current training is receiving high praise for giving Guinean leaders and professionals the opportunity to directly experience Korea’s remarkable transformation. This is not the first collaboration between YU and Guinea’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock. In July 2023, President CHOI Oe-chool met with Guinea’s Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, Mamoudou Nagnalen Barry, during his visit to Korea for the K-Rice Belt Ministerial Conference. They discussed the importance of training Saemaul experts and agreed to deepen cooperation. In May of the same year, Minister Felix Lamah and his delegation signed an MOU with YU to foster Saemaul education and potentially establish a Saemaul Studies department at a Guinean university. With Guinea positioning Saemaul Undong at the core of its rural development strategy, this latest training represents a crucial step toward more concrete and practical cooperation. Notably, the training was initiated at the request of the WFP Guinea Office, thanks in large part to the efforts of Ms. SAVANE Kadijah, who graduated from PSPS in August 2023. After joining the WFP Guinea Office, she actively applied the knowledge and experience she had gained at YU to integrate Saemaul Undong practices into local initiatives. Through her continued dedication, she successfully secured World Bank funding, which made this training program a reality. This serves as a leading example of how Saemaul studies are producing tangible outcomes in international cooperation and development diplomacy. Guinea is also the starting point of Korea’s K-Rice Belt initiative, which aims to eradicate hunger in Africa by transferring Korean agricultural technologies and practices to countries that rely on rice imports. Compared to Guinea’s traditional rice farming methods, the adoption of Korean “Tongil” rice varieties and Saemaul principles has resulted in over 500% yield increases. This YU training is expected to empower Guinean agricultural officials with insights into Korea’s agricultural innovations and Saemaul philosophy, providing practical support for advancing the K-Rice Belt project and positively influencing agricultural policy reform in Guinea. <Guinean trainees participating in a rice planting activity.> The training program began on June 12 with a special lecture by President CHOI Oe-chool on the principles and strategies of Saemaul Undong. It covers a range of topics, including rural innovation, agricultural policy, rural finance, and food security. The program also includes field visits to YU’s campus and museum, the Saemaul Movement Memorial Park in Cheongdo (the birthplace of Saemaul Undong), the lunch service facilities at Seongam Elementary School in Gyeongsan, rice planting at the Southern Crop Division of the National Institute of Crop Science in Miryang, and a tour of the rice processing center in Sangju. Participants will also draft and present Action Plans tailored to Guinea’s context, with the aim of applying their learning to the local ZHV projects. Habib THIAM, Director of Agriculture and Livestock for Boké Region in Guinea, remarked, “Guinea possesses rich agricultural resources, but we haven’t been able to fully utilize them. This training is deeply meaningful, as it allows us to systematically learn the philosophy of Saemaul Undong and Korea’s development experience. President CHOI’s lecture, in particular, offered profound insights that moved me like a life lesson. Comparing what I’ve learned to Guinea’s reality has been eye-opening,” he said. “I will strive to improve agricultural policies in Guinea and contribute to regional development based on what I have learned here.” President CHOI Oe-chool stated, “Saemaul Undong has evolved beyond a local development model into a global poverty alleviation strategy. By systematizing Saemaul as an academic discipline, YU has continuously provided Saemaul development education and training to developing countries. I hope the participants will gain the capacity to lead change in Guinea through Korea’s development experiences and Saemaul philosophy. Our outstanding alumni, now working in international organizations, are becoming pioneers of educational diplomacy, enhancing Korea’s global reputation. YU will continue doing its utmost to cultivate such talented individuals.” YU’s IIDC, which oversees this program, provides short-term programs covering both the theory and practical implementation of Saemaul Undong for government officials and local leaders from developing countries. To date, over 3,400 participants from 50 countries have completed the program, which has made significant contributions to increasing household income and strengthening community capacity in partner countries.
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YU’s Records Manager KIM Tae-hoon receives Minister of the Interior and Safety Award at the 2025 Records Day ceremony Recognized for contributions to digital archives enhancing the public value and accessibility of university records YU’s Records Management Team leads efforts to build archives and promote a culture of records in higher education [June 13, 2025] <KIM Tae-hoon of Yeungnam University’s Records Management Team> KIM Tae-hoon (age 37) of Yeungnam University’s Records Management Team (President CHOI Oe-chool) received the Minister of the Interior and Safety Award at the “2025 Records Day” ceremony held at the Government Complex Seoul on June 9. The National Records Management Award is presented to individuals who have contributed to improving record management capabilities within public institutions and advancing archival culture. Mr. KIM was honored for his service of 6 years and 3 months with YU’s Records Management Team since 2019, during which he contributed to the collection, organization, preservation, and utilization of university records, promoting the dissemination of archival culture and advancing national records management. This award highlights the external recognition of YU’s systematic records management system and its efforts in building a robust archival infrastructure. While most awardees were affiliated with central government ministries, local governments, or public institutions, Mr. KIM was the only award recipient from a private university, garnering even greater attention. His recognition underscores YU’s exemplary leadership in university record management. YU’s Records Management Team has not only focused on preserving documents but also recognized records as valuable assets that reflect the university’s identity and values, systematically managing and utilizing them. The team has systematically managed and utilized records, capturing the university’s history and transformation through education, exhibitions, and digital content, thereby enhancing the public value and accessibility of records. Notable efforts include: ▲Organizing major historical records of the university ▲Expanding record collections through contests and public donations ▲Digitizing administrative and historical records and building a database ▲Advancing a digital-based archive system ▲Operating a COVID-19 disaster archive These initiatives have been recognized as meaningful outcomes that document the evolving story of both the university and the local community. Mr. KIM stated, “Records are not just a collection of information but essential assets that reflect the identity and values of a university. I’m grateful that our team's efforts have been recognized with such a meaningful award. I hope to continue contributing responsibly to the promotion of archival culture and the enhancement of record management.” Going forward, Yeungnam University plans to strengthen the foundation for precise management and use of administrative records on campus so that records can serve as living administrative assets and knowledge resources. The university also intends to continue expanding its leadership role in promoting archival culture and enhancing the public function of its university archives.
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- 2025. 06. 26
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Master’s student PARK Chae-hee from the Department of Chemical Engineering receives award Recognized for designing a microcapsule system for continuous enzymatic reactions Innovative research with wide applications in the biomedical field [June 10, 2025] <Graduate student PARK Chae-hee receives the Best Poster Presentation Award> PARK Chae-hee, a master’s student in the Department of Chemical Engineering at Yeungnam University (President CHOI Oe-chool), won the Best Poster Presentation Award at the 2025 Spring Conference of the Korean BioChip Society. Held from May 14 to 16 at the Yeosu Expo Convention Center, the conference brought together experts and researchers from various fields including biology, medicine, and engineering to share the latest technologies and research in biochips. The annual conference provides young researchers with a valuable opportunity to present their work and engage in academic exchange. PARK Chae-hee received high acclaim for her research titled “Biomimetic Microcapsule System for Efficient Multistep Enzymatic Reactions.” Her work focused on the design of sophisticated microcapsules using microfluidic technology to facilitate sequential enzymatic reactions. The system organizes multiple enzymes within a single capsule in a spatially structured manner, enabling rapid and efficient cascade reactions. The judges particularly praised the precise control over the physical and chemical properties of the capsules and the strategic placement of enzymes, noting the research’s potential for broad applications in the biomedical field, including drug delivery systems and in vivo drug synthesis. PARK stated, “Although I faced many challenges during the research, I was able to achieve meaningful results thanks to the guidance of my professor and the support and encouragement of my lab colleagues. I hope to continue pursuing impactful research in this field.” Her advisor, Professor CHOI Chang-hyeong, added, “PARK Chae-hee has conducted in-depth research based on consistent experimentation and analysis throughout her master’s program. This award is a testament to her dedication and passion, and I expect even greater achievements in the future. I will continue to support students in conducting creative research and building their competitiveness in the global academic community.”
- PR team
- 2025. 06. 26
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PSPS international students participate in the Gyeongsan Jain Danoje Festival Experience of traditional culture such as rinsing hair with changpo water offers insight into Dano’s meaning [June 4, 2025] International students at Yeungnam University (President CHOI Oe-chool) had a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Korean culture. On May 31, more than 50 international students enrolled in Yeungnam University’s Park Chung Hee School of Policy and Saemaul (PSPS) participated in the 2025 Gyeongsan Jain Dano Festival, held at Gyejeong Forest in Jain-myeon, Gyeongsan City. They joined in a variety of traditional cultural activities as part of the event. One of the highlights for the students was participating in the symbolic Dano custom of rinsing hair with changpo (sweet flag) water. This ritual, traditionally associated with wishes for health and protection from misfortune, provided students with hands-on experience of Korea’s cultural heritage. Amid the gentle scent of changpo in the forest, the students engaged with both the tradition and local citizens, sharing in the festive atmosphere. Dano, celebrated on the 5th day of the 5th lunar month, is a traditional holiday rooted in Korea’s agrarian past. It marks the completion of rice planting and includes wishes for a plentiful harvest, good health, and protection from the summer heat. Alongside the hair-rinsing ritual, students explored various cultural booths and learned about the wisdom embedded in Korea’s traditional lifestyle Margarita Yanes Villoria Villegas, a student from Colombia at PSPS, shared her thoughts: “It was amazing to experience firsthand the Korean holiday traditions that I had only read about in books. Experiencing traditional Korean culture, laughing with friends, and interacting with local citizens made today’s memory a truly special part of my life and studies in Korea.” President CHOI Oe-chool remarked, “It is deeply meaningful that international students were able to understand Korean history and culture by participating in the Dano Festival and forming warm connections with the local community. YU will continue to nurture global talents who contribute to humanity by providing practical education that bridges our region with the world.”
- PR team
- 2025. 06. 26
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YU Extends the Spirit of the Daedong Festival through Volunteer Service Faculty, Staff, and Student Council Join Forces for Campus Cleanup [May 30, 2025] Yeungnam University (President CHOI Oe-chool) conducted a campus cleanup immediately following its annual Daedong Festival. On the morning of May 29 at 7:30 AM, the university held a campus and main gate area cleaning activity as part of the “2025 Social Contribution Day.” Organized by the YU Social Contribution Group, the initiative gave a meaningful closure to the festivities. Over 200 university members took part in the cleanup, including faculty and staff from the YU Social Contribution Group, student volunteer teams, the Student Council, international students, and dormitory residents. Starting from Cheonma-ro in front of the clock tower, participants were divided into three teams covering the main gate, soccer field, and the vicinity of YU Station outside the campus. They used eco-friendly items such as vests, cleaning tongs, biodegradable trash bags, and gloves, contributing to the realization of ESG values. This initiative stems from a small act of voluntary campus cleaning by then-Professor CHOI Oe-chool (now president) over a decade ago, which gradually spread and is now systematically operated by the YU Social Contribution Group as part of the “Social Contribution Day” program. It is praised not only as an environmental effort but also as an embodiment of YU’s community spirit, social responsibility, and a positive shift in festival culture. The activity lasted about an hour, beginning at 7:30 AM. It went beyond simple cleanup work, serving as a valuable opportunity to foster community awareness and remind participants of their responsibility toward the environment. In particular, this year’s effort continued the energy of the Daedong Festival through volunteerism, strengthening solidarity and a sense of unity among campus members. The YU Social Contribution Group plans to expand its initiatives for sustainable community service and environmental protection. President CHOI Oe-chool of Yeungnam University remarked, “Seeing everyone voluntarily come together to clean the campus the morning after the festival is a symbolic scene that reflects YU’s dignity and the maturity of our students. It moves me deeply compared to the past.” He added, “YU will continue to nurture talent that contributes to society with warm hearts and professional knowledge, fulfilling our role as a university that breathes with the local community and practices social responsibility.”
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- 2025. 06. 11
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Forum Held at YU Cheonma Art Center on May 30, Attended by Senior Scholars and Experts Two Decades of Dokdo Research Reviewed Under the Theme “Retrospect and Prospect of Korea’s Dokdo Studies” Discussion on Korea-Japan Maritime Boundary Issues and Dokdo Education — Anticipated Policy Impact [June 2, 2025] Yeungnam University (President CHOI Oe-chool) held a scholarly forum to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the founding of its Dokdo Research Institute, under the theme “Retrospect and Prospect of Korea’s Dokdo Studies.” The forum took place on May 30 at the Lee Si-won Global Convention Hall of the Cheonma Art Center on the YU campus. It was organized to reflect on the development of Dokdo research in Korea and explore future research directions and solutions to ongoing Korea-Japan conflicts. Hosted by the YU Dokdo Research Institute with support from the Ministry of Education, the National Research Foundation of Korea, and North Gyeongsang Province, the event was attended by over 100 participants, including scholars, policy experts, and university members. The forum provided an in-depth academic and policy-oriented discussion on Dokdo-related issues. In the first session, Professor Emeritus KIM Byung-ryul of the Korea National Defense University delivered a keynote address titled “Retrospect and Prospect of Korea’s Dokdo Studies.” He examined the trajectory of Dokdo research since Korea’s liberation, outlining the Korea-Japan maritime boundary dispute and legal issues under international law, while presenting potential response strategies. In the second session, a panel discussion was led by Professor CHOI Jae-mok, Director of the YU Dokdo Research Institute. Presenters included Professor Emeritus MOON Cheol-young of Dankook University, Professor Emeritus SON Seung-chul of Kangwon National University, Dr. LEE Sang-tae, President of the Korean Association of Territory Studies, and Professor Emeritus LEE Seok-yong of Hannam University. They examined the current state of Dokdo research through various lenses including history, geography, island policy, and international law. The session featured an in-depth dialogue on interdisciplinary research and strengthening effective sovereignty over Dokdo. Professor CHOI Jae-mok stated, “For the past 20 years, the Dokdo Research Institute has led research and education efforts on Dokdo, serving as a think tank for Korea’s Dokdo policy. Through academic forums, publication of the Dokdo Research Series, and exhibitions, we have worked to raise public awareness of Dokdo.” He added, “This forum will help realign the direction of Dokdo research and further our efforts toward a peaceful resolution of the Dokdo issue and the formation of a national consensus.” President CHOI Oe-chool of YU delivered congratulatory remarks via video message, saying, “Since its founding, YU has laid a solid academic foundation for Dokdo research. We will continue to support scientific and interdisciplinary approaches to raise global and future generational awareness of Dokdo’s significance. I hope this forum marks a new turning point in Dokdo research.” Meanwhile, the YU Dokdo Research Institute, established in 2005 as Korea’s first dedicated institute for Dokdo studies, has played a central role in research, education, and outreach on Dokdo for the past two decades. It has hosted over 120 academic conferences, 100 seminars, and numerous special lectures and exhibitions. In 2007, it was designated as a Ministry of Education policy-focused research institute, and many of its research outcomes have been reflected in government policies by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Education, bridging the gap between academia and policy.
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- 2025. 06. 11
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CHOI and his wife honored for lifelong dedication to alma mater and students, donating over KRW 1 billion Busts installed on May 21 at YU Library’s outdoor donor recognition space Pioneer in Civil Engineering and Construction, Dedicated to Nurturing Talent Through Scholarship Programs [May 21, 2025] Yeungnam University (President CHOI Oe-chool) held a bust unveiling ceremony on May 21 to honor CHOI Hyuk-young, Chairman of the CHOI Hyuk-young Scholarship Foundation, and his wife, JI Kyum-ja. The busts, now installed at the university’s outdoor donor recognition area near the Central Library, commemorate their long-standing commitment and generosity to the university. An alumnus from the Class of ’63 in Civil Engineering, Chairman CHOI began his donations with KRW 100 million in 2007 and has since contributed over KRW 1.05 billion in development funds, playing a key role in supporting his alma mater and younger generations. <Yeungnam University held a bust unveiling ceremony on May 21 to honor Chairman CHOI Hyuk-young and his wife. (Left: Chairman CHOI Hyuk-young, Right: President CHOI Oe-chool)> After graduating from YU, CHOI launched Shinwon Development Co., Ltd. and participated in Korea’s third overseas construction project—the Port of Khorramshahr in Iran. While at Samsung Construction, he contributed to winning contracts in the Middle East, including Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and Libya, playing a pivotal role in advancing Korea’s national industry. Later, he founded Samwoo Construction Co., Ltd., leading major infrastructure projects across Korea such as expressways, subways, and industrial complexes, establishing himself as a trailblazer in Korea’s construction sector. His passion for education and talent development was equally notable. In 2013, he established the CHOI Hyuk-young Scholarship Foundation, which has provided scholarships to more than 20 high schools and universities nationwide. Beyond financial support, he has mentored scholarship recipients, offering guidance on careers and life, and has become a respected life mentor. In recognition of his contributions, he received the Moran Medal of the Order of Civil Merit in 2024 and an honorary doctorate in engineering from YU in 2021. He also fully funded symbolic projects for his alma mater, such as the “Cheonma Tunnel Fountain” at the university's main gate and the large “Big Time” clock on the Central Library’s exterior. The newly installed busts honor these lifelong acts of dedication and generosity. <Chairman CHOI Hyuk-young delivers remarks at the unveiling ceremony.> At the unveiling ceremony, Chairman CHOI remarked, “I am deeply grateful to my family who has always been with me on this journey and to Yeungnam University, which nurtured my dreams during my student days. I feel both honored and humbled by the installation of these busts on campus. I have pursued scholarship programs to give back to society and my alma mater for the blessings I’ve received. I will continue to support our juniors not only through financial means but with heartfelt encouragement to help them pursue their dreams.” <YU President CHOI Oe-chool gives congratulatory remarks at the unveiling ceremony.> YU President CHOI Oe-chool stated, “Today’s unveiling of Chairman CHOI Hyuk-young and Mrs. JI Kyum-ja’s busts is deeply meaningful. We sincerely thank them for their unwavering love and generosity for YU and our students over many years. Chairman CHOI is not only a pioneer in Korea’s construction industry but also a champion of education and a role model for younger generations. In line with YU’s slogan ‘Eyes on the Future, Challenge to the World,’ we will ensure that their noble legacy serves as a strong foundation for nurturing global talents who will contribute to humanity. As president, I will do my utmost to carry forward their warm-hearted spirit and commitment to education.”
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- 2025. 06. 11
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Hands-on job readiness programs tailored for international students Career camp and job fair integration for personalized employment support From application documents to mock interviews to real-life hiring—“We’re ready for the real world!” [May 29, 2025] Yeungnam University (President CHOI Oe-chool) has launched a hands-on “Career Empowerment Program for International Students” to enhance their job competitiveness in Korea. Going beyond theoretical instruction, the program focused on practical experience through career camps and participation in job fairs to strengthen students’ real-world job readiness. From May 9 to 10, the university held a two-day “Career Camp for International Students” at Kolon Hotel in Gyeongju, with over 30 students participating.The camp included sessions on understanding the Korean job market and job search platforms, aptitude tests, target company analysis, resume writing, and interview strategies—including simulations—all aimed at developing essential employment skills. Participants wrote their own résumés and cover letters and received personalized feedback through 1:1 consulting sessions. They also took part in mock interviews based on the revised materials, allowing them to hone their practical interview skills. In addition, students explored career paths related to their majors and conducted job-type assessments, gaining deeper insight into their personal career planning. On May 20, students also attended the “2025 Global Talent Fair” held at COEX in Seoul. Prior to the fair, they received on-campus training on the Korean recruitment landscape and target company analysis, submitted tailored application documents, and participated in mock interviews to prepare for the event. At the fair, students engaged in on-site 1:1 interviews and job consultations with corporate recruiters based on their submitted résumés, gaining first-hand experience in real hiring settings. Some participants also received detailed guidance on visa strategies, including the D-10 (job-seeking visa) and E-7-1 (professional employment visa), helping them establish clearer post-graduation plans. LEE Chun-Young, Director of the Office of International Affairs, stated, “International students often face language barriers and limited access to recruitment information, which makes job hunting especially challenging. We will continue to provide practical support to help them successfully integrate into Korean society and thrive in their careers.” Yeungnam University continues to operate employment support programs for international students and plans to further strengthen ties with domestic and global companies to expand its training and support for cultivating global talent.
- PR team
- 2025. 06. 11
- 2025. 05. 29
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YU community, alumni advisors, and vice presidents gather to commemorate milestone Awards presented to top lecturers, exemplary staff, and students for service and creativity ‘Songam LEE Jong-woo Achievement Awards’ honors key contributors to university innovation [May 16, 2025] Yeungnam University (President CHOI Oe-chool) held a ceremony to celebrate the 78th anniversary of its founding. The ceremony took place on May 15 at the LEE Si-won Global Convention Hall in the Cheonma Art Center on the YU campus. Distinguished guests included YU alumni association advisors JUNG Tae-il (Chairman of Korea OSG) and NOH Hee-chan (Chairman of Samil Spinning Co.), Vice President of the Alumni Association and Daegu Chamber of Commerce and Industry President PARK Yoon-kyung, Chairperson HAN Jae-sook of the Yeongnam School Corporation, and board member KIM Jin-sam. Senior Vice Chairman KIM Gwan-yong of the Peaceful Unification Advisory Council (PUAC), and Governor LEE Cheol-woo of Gyeongsangbuk-do also conveyed their congratulations through video messages and written statements, expressing high hopes for YU's continued growth. <(From left) JUNG Tae-il (Chairman of Korea OSG), NOH Hee-chan (Chairman of Samil Spinning Co.), and PARK Yoon-kyung (Vice President of the Alumni Association and Daegu Chamber of Commerce and Industry President) deliver congratulatory remarks during the ceremony.> In his congratulatory address, alumni advisor JUNG Tae-il stated, “Yeungnam University stands where it does today thanks to the dedication of its members. I hope it continues to achieve greater progress in the years ahead.” Advisor NOH Hee-chan emphasized, “The university’s slogan, ‘Future and Challenge,’ aligns perfectly with YU’s direction. With strong momentum and a spirit of challenge, YU is more than capable of becoming a global leader beyond its region.” Alumni Vice President PARK Yoon-kyung added, “For the past 78 years, YU has produced countless talents who have contributed to national and regional development. I wholeheartedly support its future leap forward.” <Chairperson HAN Jae-sook of the Yeungnam School Corporation delivers the commemorative address.> In her address, Chairperson HAN Jae-sook remarked, “It is a proud moment to celebrate the 78th anniversary of our university. I deeply appreciate the dedication of all university members who have worked hard to advance YU despite difficult circumstances.” She continued, “Since its founding, YU has played a vital role in national development by nurturing outstanding talents. Even amid the crisis of declining school-age population, we are strengthening our competitiveness. YU has always turned crises into opportunities, and I ask everyone to continue working together under the leadership of the president to further advance the university.” <President CHOI Oe-chool delivers a commemorative speech at YU’s 78th anniversary ceremony.> In his speech, President CHOI Oe-chool stated, “Our university was established based on the founding vision of President Park Chung-hee to foster talent for national renaissance and the creation of a new history.” He added, “Today’s ceremony is not only a commemoration of our 78-year legacy but also a renewed commitment to our future.” He continued, “As we face a rapidly changing era with transformative technologies like AI and robotics, it is time to deeply reflect on our identity and future direction. We will embrace change and challenge without fear, continue to innovate, and rise as a world-class private university dedicated to cultivating talents who contribute to humanity.” During the ceremony, YU honored faculty and staff members who have made significant contributions in education, research, and administration, as well as students who have positively impacted society and the campus community. Awards included: Long-service awards (92 recipients), Cheonma Honors Teaching Excellence Awards (7 faculty members), Teaching Excellence Awards (12 faculty members), Research Excellence Awards (15 faculty members), Songam LEE Jong-woo Achievement Awards (4 faculty members), Exemplary Staff Awards (7 recipients), Sharing, Volunteerism, and Creativity Awards (5 students). In particular, the anniversary ceremony was made more meaningful by recognizing not only faculty and staff but also five students who have made a positive impact on the community by embodying the values of sharing, service, and creativity with the Sharing, Service, and Creativity Award. Additionally, the Songam LEE Jong-woo Merit Award was presented to four professors in recognition of their contributions to the university's development and innovation. This award has been presented since 2022, funded by a development donation from YU alumnus LEE Jong-woo, Chairman of Korea Homer Co., Ltd.
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- 2025. 05. 22
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YU Hosts Traditional Coming-of-Age Ceremony for International Students Providing an opportunity to understand Korean culture by experiencing traditional Korean rituals at Folk Village [May 15, 2025] Yeungnam University (President CHOI Oe-chool) held a traditional coming-of-age ceremony on the morning of May 14 at Gugye Confucian Academy in the YU Folk Village. In celebration of the 53rd Coming-of-Age Day (observed annually on the third Monday of May), the event welcomed international students from various countries including Japan, Uzbekistan, the Netherlands, China, and Myanmar, alongside Korean students. Participants experienced the traditional Korean coming-of-age rituals—Gwanrye (for men) and Gyerye (for women). Since 2014, YU has hosted this annual event to mark Coming-of-Age Day, with over 60 international students having participated in the ceremony to date. During the ceremony, male students dressed in traditional dopo robes, tied their hair into topknots, and donned gat (traditional Korean hats), reenacting the Gwanrye ritual. Female students wore dangui (ceremonial hanbok), unbraided their hair to form a chignon, and inserted a hairpin, recreating the Gyerye ritual. All participants respectfully engaged in the ceremony dressed in full traditional attire, deepening their understanding of Korean culture while enjoying the experience. Gwanrye is a traditional Korean ceremony that marks the coming of age for young men aged 15 to 20, symbolized by tying the topknot and wearing a gat. Gyerye, for young women, involves tying up the hair in a bun and inserting a hairpin, symbolizing the transition into adulthood. Jang Igor, a senior majoring in Business Administration from Uzbekistan who participated in the event, shared his thoughts: “It was a very interesting and memorable experience to take part in Korea’s traditional coming-of-age ceremony. I hope to continue learning about Korean culture and creating many more memories.” LEE Eun-jung, Director of the YU Museum and organizer of the event, said, “This was a meaningful occasion for international students to reflect on the significance and responsibility of adulthood while directly experiencing Korean traditional culture. I hope this event becomes a special memory in their life abroad.”
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