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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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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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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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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.
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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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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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All-in-One Access to Exchange Programs and Overseas Opportunities Exchange Students from Partner Universities Bring Global Campus to Life [May 14, 2025] Yeungnam University (President CHOI Oe-chool) hosted the 9th YU International EXPO on May 13 at the Clock Tower Plaza near the university’s main gate. The event was organized to enhance students’ global competencies by showcasing the university’s diverse international exchange programs. The EXPO offered students a comprehensive overview of opportunities such as exchange and visiting student programs, as well as short-term overseas dispatch programs. One-on-one consultations at each booth enabled participants to receive tailored information, leading to enthusiastic participation and strong engagement. The venue buzzed with student interest in international exchange. Visitors to the booths learned about programs including student exchange, the OPP (Outbound Pilot Program) and YCP (Yeungnam Columbus Program) — both short-term summer dispatch programs — as well as the Buddy Program and Language Partner Program designed to foster interaction with international students. Through direct conversations with staff and senior student participants, students were able to gather practical insights on eligibility, selection processes, and life abroad. A special feature of this year’s EXPO was the participation of international exchange students from 33 partner universities across 13 countries, including the U.S., Mexico, Germany, France, Spain, the Netherlands, Japan, and China. These students introduced their cultures and campus life, creating a vibrant international atmosphere. YU students who had previously studied abroad also ran booths to offer firsthand advice and share their experiences. On-site applications for the 24th cohort of the University Student Ambassadors (USA) were also accepted during the event. The program, which supports foreign exchange students and promotes YU internationally, drew keen interest from students passionate about becoming global leaders. LEE Chun-young, Director of the Office of International Affairs and organizer of the EXPO, said, “Many students are interested in international programs but aren’t sure how to get started. This event was a great opportunity for students to experience and learn about YU’s exchange programs firsthand. We hope even more students will seize these global opportunities to enhance their future competitiveness.” As of the first semester of 2025, YU has signed international exchange agreements with 557 universities and institutions across 63 countries. Currently, 81 exchange students from 37 partner universities in 16 countries are studying at YU, while 106 YU students are gaining global experience at 44 universities in 14 countries.
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Degenerative disease treatment developer “Bichedam” opens affiliated research institute at YU YU Startup Incubation Center fosters a local tech startup ecosystem through tailored growth support [May 9, 2025] On May 7, Yeungnam University (President CHOI Oe-chool) announced the establishment of a corporate-affiliated research lab by Bichedam, a promising bio company specializing in natural substance-based treatments for degenerative diseases, within the university’s Startup Incubation Center and Production Technology Research Institute. This marks a significant milestone, as the research lab represents a leap forward for a startup fostered and supported by YU since its inception. Bichedam is one of the center’s standout success stories—receiving office space, access to specialized equipment, technical guidance, and business consulting since its early days. With the launch of this research lab, the company plans to focus on advancing technologies related to standardizing natural ingredients and enhancing quality control. A ceremony celebrating the opening of the new research facility was attended by KIM Sam-soo, Vice President for Industry-Academic Affairs at YU; LEE Hwa-dong, Director at the Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine; PARK Min-kyu, Head of the Clinical Trial Center at Chungbuk National University; CHOI Hyuk-yong, Attorney at Law Firm Bae, Kim & Lee; and MOON Ho-bin, CEO of Bichedam, among others. CEO MOON Ho-bin stated, “We wouldn’t be here today without the full support of the YU Startup Incubation Center. This day marks a new beginning in our challenge to develop novel therapeutics.” In his congratulatory remarks, KIM Sam-soo said, “It is very meaningful to bring a promising company’s research lab onto the university campus. We hope YU continues to play a proactive role in discovering creative ideas and connecting them to real-world industry.” Since being designated by the Small and Medium Business Administration in 2000, YU’s Startup Incubation Center has built a systematic support system for early-stage ventures and continuously fosters tech-driven startups targeting both domestic and global markets. Moving forward, the center plans to strengthen tailored support for entrepreneurs and promote collaborations with faculty and external experts to support the growth of promising ventures and contribute to the sustainable development of regional and national industries.
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Full-spectrum collaboration in human resources, facilities, and programs to drive educational innovation and competitiveness Nurturing talent to solve global challenges, leading regional innovation and national development [April 30, 2025] Yeungnam University (President CHOI Oe-chool) and Yeungnam University College (President LEE Jae-yong) signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen mutual development and enhance competitiveness. The agreement reflects a shared commitment to building a practical and sustainable cooperation system in response to the rapidly changing landscape of higher education. The signing ceremony took place on April 28 at YU’s Chunma Arts Center, with over 80 key representatives from both institutions in attendance, including HAN Jae-sook, Chairperson of the Yeungnam School Corporation, YU President CHOI Oe-chool, and YUC President LEE Jae-yong. The event underscored the strong bond and mutual commitment to collaboration between the two schools. <(From left) LEE Jae-yong, President of Yeungnam University College; HAN Jae-sook, Chairperson of the Yeungnam School Corporation; CHOI Oe-chool, President of Yeungnam University> Both institutions have long worked together to seek solutions to challenges commonly faced by regional universities, such as declining student populations and financial constraints, while maintaining an ongoing dialogue on avenues for inter-university cooperation.This latest agreement focuses on the effective sharing of infrastructure and capabilities, aiming to generate tangible outcomes through the exchange of human and material resources. Through the agreement, the two institutions plan to actively collaborate across various areas, including: ▲ Friendship exchanges to promote mutual understanding and cooperation and support joint activities for university integration ▲ Strengthening collaboration between organizational units such as industry-academic cooperation offices and international departments (including international colleges) ▲ Exchange and mutual support for fostering talent, including sharing JA faculty and other personnel ▲ Project cooperation leveraging specialized knowledge, talent, and facilities from both universities ▲ Additional cooperative initiatives that contribute to the development of both institutions <President CHOI Oe-chool delivers a welcome address at the YU–YUC cooperation MOU signing ceremony.> In her congratulatory remarks, Chairperson HAN Jae-sook of the Yeungnam School Corporation stated, “Today’s agreement marks the first step in educational innovation for future generations and a meaningful starting point for a new chapter of change and progress within Yeungnam School Corporation. Given the remarkable achievements and reputations both Yeungnam University and Yeungnam University College have built in their respective fields, and their contributions to national development through the cultivation of numerous talented individuals, I hope this agreement will serve as a strong foundation for their continued mutual growth.” LEE Jae-yong, President of Yeungnam University College, commented, “In today’s fast-changing educational environment, collaboration between universities is no longer a choice but a necessity. If our two institutions can achieve substantial cooperation across various domains through this agreement, we can expect even greater outcomes. Yeungnam University College has led the way in dual-track learning and achieved one of the nation’s highest employment rates. To further boost our competitiveness, close cooperation with Yeungnam University is essential. I look forward to concrete and measurable results such as the sharing of educational infrastructure and the operation of joint programs.” President CHOI Oe-chool of Yeungnam University remarked, “This agreement marks both a declaration and a new beginning as our two universities chart a shared future. It is especially significant in that we have established a platform for co-growth by effectively and efficiently sharing our human and physical resources.” He added, “In particular, this cooperation will enable us to nurture talent that will become a new driving force for the local community, while maximizing regional development potential, such as the upcoming opening of the new Daegu–Gyeongbuk (TK) airport. It will also present a new model for university advancement based on inter-university cooperation.” CHOI concluded by saying, “With close collaboration and mutual trust, we will also contribute to meeting the growing demand for education on Korea’s development experience in developing countries and do our utmost to cultivate talent that will contribute to humanity.”
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A rare edition preserving the pinnacle of early Joseon metal-type printing culture A valuable East Asian historical resource with excellent preservation and historical integrity High academic value in the study of Joseon-era printing and various scholarly fields [May 2, 2025] The Zizhi Tongjian (資治通鑑, Volumes 81–85), housed in the Central Library of Yeungnam University (President CHOI Oe-chool), has been officially announced as a candidate for designation as a national treasure. On April 29, the Cultural Heritage Administration of Korea declared its plan to designate the volumes as a “Treasure,” recognizing their historical and academic value. The Zizhi Tongjian is a historical chronicle compiled over 19 years by Chinese Song dynasty statesman and historian Sima Guang (司馬光, 1019–1086). Covering approximately 1,362 years of history from 403 BCE to just before the founding of the Song dynasty, the work follows a chronological (annalistic) format and was compiled with the intent to provide political and military lessons useful for governance. It has been regarded as a model historical text across East Asia and was widely read by kings and officials in the Joseon dynasty as essential reading for state administration. The volumes now announced as candidates for national treasure designation—Zizhi Tongjian, Volumes 81–85—were printed in 1436, the 16th year of King Sejong’s reign, using metal movable type at Jujaso, the state-run printing office of the time. Of particular note is that the text was printed using the Chojugapin-ja type, one of the earliest and most valuable movable types created by Jujaso. These five volumes—compiled into a single bound book—are currently preserved at Yeungnam University’s Central Library. While partial copies of this edition exist at other institutions such as the National Library of Korea and the Kyujanggak Institute for Korean Studies at Seoul National University, surviving copies of this specific edition are extremely rare, making it of exceptional academic significance. The preliminary designation of YU’s Zizhi Tongjian as a national treasure is especially meaningful as it reflects both the university’s academic achievements and its contributions to cultural heritage preservation. The rare text serves as a critical resource for the study of early Joseon metal-type printing technology and holds value across a wide range of disciplines, including history, political science, public administration, and bibliography. CHOI Jae-mok, Director of the YU Library, commented, “The preliminary designation of Zizhi Tongjian as a national treasure is a symbolic recognition of our university’s long-standing efforts in the preservation and research of academic resources. We will continue doing our utmost to preserve this precious heritage and contribute to academic progress both domestically and internationally.”
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