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YU Establishes Itself as a University Chosen by Outstanding Students and Trusted by Parents “Bold Innovation” Yields Results … Large Influx of Outstanding Students and Growing Trust from Students and Parents 2026 Regular Admissions Competition Rate Reaches Record High of 5.97 to 1; Early Admissions Enrollment Rate Also Hits 99% Nation’s No.1 Scholarship Fund (KRW 86.5 Billion) and Large-Scale National Projects (RISE and Others) Provide Strong Support for Students Global University Evaluation (Leiden Ranking) Top 5 Nationwide for Two Consecutive Years; No.1 Nationwide in Newly Appointed Prosecutors Demonstrates Top-Level Competitiveness [March 4, 2026] Yeungnam University (YU, President CHOI Oe-chool) has achieved another milestone by maintaining a 100% freshman enrollment rate (based on the Ministry of Education’s Higher Education Disclosure quota standard) for the second consecutive year in the 2026 academic year. The total freshman quota was 4,620 students. This follows last year’s achievement of a 100% enrollment rate for the first time in 17 years. Despite the challenging admissions environment marked by a rapidly declining school-age population and intensifying concentration in the Seoul metropolitan area, YU recorded an early admissions enrollment rate of 99% for the 2026 academic year. In the regular admissions round, the University also attracted strong attention by recording a record-high competition rate of 5.97 to 1. Notably, in this year’s university admissions cycle, YU succeeded in achieving both quantitative and qualitative growth.Along with the second consecutive year of 100% freshman enrollment, it was confirmed that the academic performance of newly admitted students improved in 60 academic departments compared to the previous year.This once again demonstrates that YU’s bold institutional innovation has earned strong trust from prospective students and their parents. Remarkable Achievements Driven by Bold University Innovation and the Dedication of Its Members These impressive admissions outcomes are the result of the University’s innovation strategies entering a new phase of development under President CHOI Oe-chool’s second term. The achievements were made possible through the dedication of all members of the University, including faculty members who devoted themselves to research and education while pursuing comprehensive educational innovation with clear goals, and administrative staff who worked tirelessly to support these efforts. Such sincere efforts grounded in a “students-first philosophy” resonated deeply with prospective students and parents, ultimately becoming a decisive factor in their choice of YU. Nation’s Highest-Level Scholarship Fund of KRW 86.5 Billion and “Student-Centered” Financial Investment One of YU’s core competitive strengths lies in its unwavering investment in students. The University’s total scholarship fund amounts to approximately KRW 86.5 billion, ranking No.1 nationwide (based on the 2025 Higher Education Disclosure data). This translates into an average annual scholarship benefit of about KRW 4.4 million per student. In addition, YU secured KRW 85.7 billion in funding through the 2025 Gyeongsangbuk-do RISE (Regional Innovation System & Education) Project. The University has also been selected for major national strategic initiatives, including the Semiconductor Specialized University Program and the Convergence Physician-Scientist Training Program. These substantial financial resources are fully invested in student education and capability development, serving as a strong foundation for nurturing and maximizing the potential of young talents. Globally Recognized Research Excellence and Rising University Reputation Bold financial support and strategic investment have translated into remarkable achievements in various university evaluations and graduate outcomes.In the 2025 Leiden Ranking, YU ranked Top 5 nationwide for the second consecutive year and No.1 among private universities outside the Seoul metropolitan area. The University has also produced four Highly Cited Researchers (HCR) and achieved global recognition through faculty-founded startup HUMANICS, which won the Innovation Award at the CES in the United States for two consecutive years, demonstrating world-class competitiveness beyond academia. Furthermore, in the 2025 national selection examination for new prosecutors, YU produced 10 successful candidates, ranking No.1 nationwide. In total, the University produced 23 public legal professionals, setting an all-time record for the institution. Outstanding Achievements in International Development Cooperation and Social Responsibility … Inducted into the “Porter Prize Hall of Fame” YU has also distinguished itself in the fields of international development cooperation and social responsibility, leading efforts to create social value through higher education. Notably, the University achieved the remarkable distinction of being inducted into the “Hall of Fame” of the Porter Prize for Excellence in CSV·ESG, after receiving the award for three consecutive years. These achievements were highly recognized for YU’s efforts to academically systematize Saemaul Studies, rooted in the Saemaul Movement that played a pivotal role in Korea’s rapid national development, and to advance sustainable development policies. Based on these academic foundations, the University has successfully nurtured more than 1,000 global leaders from 77 countries, who are expected to contribute to the development of their respective nations. YU Establishes Itself as a University Chosen by Outstanding Students and Recommended by Parents President CHOI Oe-chool of YU expressed his gratitude, stating: “The remarkable achievements of maintaining a 100% freshman enrollment rate for two consecutive years and improving academic performance across 60 departments are the result of the dedicated efforts of all faculty and staff who have devoted themselves to nurturing the competencies that today’s generation requires.” He continued, “The differentiated educational competitiveness created through the dedication of our University members has earned deep trust from prospective students and their parents, and I believe it played a crucial role in their final decision to choose YU.” He also emphasized, “In the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, where artificial intelligence and robotics technologies are rapidly advancing, technological capability is important, but society urgently needs ‘warm-hearted professionals’ with altruistic leadership.” Based on this educational philosophy, he added that the University will devote all its capabilities to nurturing students into global leaders who elevate the dignity of Korea and contribute to the advancement of human society. President CHOI further stated, “With the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI), the era defined by academic pedigree is fading, giving way to an age of unlimited competition based on real competence. YU will wholeheartedly support its students so that they can fully develop their potential on campus and grow into creators of a new era.”
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Two KOICA “Capacity Building for Professional Program” Tracks (IT·AI and Manufacturing Industry Engineering) Selected Simultaneously Only Two Universities Nationwide Selected in Two or More Fields, Including YU Approximately KRW 6.2 Billion in Funding Secured Through 2030 … Training Master’s-Level Engineers for Developing Countries International Development Cooperation Education Recognized Through External Financial Support Since 2011 [March 10, 2026] Yeungnam University (YU, President CHOI Oe-chool) has been selected as a training institution for two programs—IT·AI and Manufacturing Industry Engineering—in the “Capacity Building for Professional Program (Master’s Degree Program in Science and Engineering)” hosted by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA). With this selection, YU will receive approximately KRW 6.2 billion in KOICA funding through August 2030 to train master’s-level engineers who will contribute to industrial development in developing countries. The KOICA Capacity Building for Professional Program is a national-level Official Development Assistance (ODA) initiative targeting partner countries designated by the OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC). The program combines master’s degree programs at Korean universities with industry internships. It aims to cultivate R&D professionals who meet the industrial needs of developing countries by providing integrated education that includes degree coursework, field training, and Korean language education, particularly in technology sectors where Korea holds comparative advantages. YU has already educated approximately 1,000 professionals from 77 countries, including public sector officials and NGO experts, through its graduate programs. YU will operate two programs under this initiative. In the IT·AI field, the Department of Information and Communication Engineering at the Graduate School (Principal Investigator: Professor CHOI Kyu-sang) will admit 15 trainees per cohort for three cohorts, totaling 45 trainees. In the Manufacturing Industry Engineering field, the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the Graduate School (Principal Investigator: Professor HONG Sung-ho) will admit 10 trainees per cohort for three cohorts, totaling 30 trainees. Altogether, YU will train 75 international trainees across the two programs. Among 17 universities nationwide selected across five fields in this call, only two universities—including YU—were selected in two or more fields simultaneously. YU has long promoted international development cooperation initiatives led by the government, including those organized by KOICA, while building a global cooperation model rooted in regional engagement and the sharing of Saemaul Studies. In particular, YU has implemented several programs through the Park Chung Hee School of Policy and Saemaul (PSPS), including the Master’s Program for Training Community Development Leaders (2014–2017) and the Master’s Training Program in Water Resource Management (2023–2027). In addition, various global education and training programs operated by the University’s Institute for International Development Cooperation have received project funding from central and local governments. The outcomes have also been outstanding. In February 2016, YU conducted the “Saemaul Movement Policy Training Program for Ethiopia’s Southern Nations, Nationalities and People’s Region (SNNPR)”, which was later selected by KOICA as the best case among global education and training programs. KOICA held a national competition in 2018 to evaluate the performance of 120 global training programs conducted over three and a half years (March 2015–August 2018), and YU’s local training program in Ethiopia’s SNNPR was recognized as the top-performing case. <International students of the Park Chung Hee School of Policy and Saemaul (PSPS) at YU> The University’s accumulated experience in education, research, industry–academia cooperation, and international development cooperation is considered to have led to the simultaneous selection of two programs in the KOICA Capacity Building for Professional Program. During the preparation stage of the project, the Global Industry–Academic Cooperation Center under YU’s Industry–Academic Cooperation Foundation supported systematic planning and execution in collaboration with related academic departments and industry partners, thereby enhancing the overall quality of the proposal. With this selection, YU is expected to further strengthen its international development cooperation capacity by integrating its research competitiveness in IT, AI, and advanced manufacturing, its systematic support system for international students, and its close cooperation network with regional industries. President CHOI Oe-chool of YU stated, “Being selected simultaneously in two fields in the KOICA Capacity Building for Professional Program is a meaningful achievement that recognizes not only YU’s globally acknowledged expertise in international development cooperation but also its world-class education and research capabilities in science and engineering.” He added, “At the same time, this achievement means that YU’s global responsibility has become even greater.” President CHOI continued, “Together with KOICA, we will systematically train master’s-level professionals and help them grow into field-oriented R&D experts who can be immediately deployed to meet the industrial demands of partner countries. We will fulfill our responsibilities to ensure the successful implementation of this program.” He further emphasized, “By combining our accumulated experience in international development cooperation through the sharing of Saemaul Studies with talent development in advanced technology fields, YU will grow into a leading global contribution university that makes tangible contributions to the sustainable industrial development of developing countries and shared prosperity across the global community.” Meanwhile, the KOICA Capacity Building for Professional Program is operated for 24 to 30 months, combining a master’s degree program, a 3–6 month industry internship, and Korean language education to support both academic study and on-site adaptation. Each program selects 10–15 trainees, and participants from major partner countries such as Nepal, Mongolia, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Uzbekistan, and Indonesia receive comprehensive support through the host institution, including tuition, dormitory fees, airfare, and living expenses. The program also provides responsible academic guidance to ensure successful completion of the degree.
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On-site Consular Services Provided on the 21st at Cheonma Art Center of YU Establishing a Stable Study Environment through a Tailored Support System for International Students YU Expands Cooperation Networks through Special Lectures for Indian Faculty and Academic Exchanges [February 24, 2026] On the 21st, the Consular Service Camp hosted by the Embassy of India in Seoul was held at the Lee Si-won Global Convention Hall of the Cheonma Art Center at Yeungnam University (YU, President CHOI Oe-chool). The event was organized to provide on-site consular services—such as visa-related assistance, administrative services, and document issuance—for Indian students, faculty members, and their families residing in the Daegu–Gyeongbuk region. Officials from the Consular and Community Affairs Section of the Embassy of India visited the campus in person to conduct the services, and approximately 130 participants attended the event. This camp was an official consular service initiative organized by the Embassy of India to enhance convenience for Indian nationals living overseas. It is particularly significant in that YU, through close cooperation with the Embassy, hosted the program for the first time on a university campus in the Daegu–Gyeongbuk region.In particular, YU actively supported the provision of the venue and event operations so that Indian international students and faculty members on campus—as well as members of the local Indian community—could access essential administrative services more conveniently. Beyond academic exchange with Indian universities and institutions, YU has continuously strengthened communication with its multicultural campus community.Last year, President CHOI Oe-chool personally delivered a special lecture about YU to Indian faculty members on campus, further strengthening the network with the Indian academic community. As a result of these efforts, the number of Indian international students at YU has been gradually increasing. The University is steadily establishing itself as a global educational environment where talented individuals from diverse nationalities study and interact together. <In June last year, President CHOI Oe-chool delivered a special lecture for Indian faculty members at YU.> LEE Chun-young, Vice President for International Affairs at YU, stated, “This Consular Service Camp is the result of cooperation built on trust with the Embassy of India and represents a meaningful opportunity for the regional Indian community and the University to come together.” He added, “YU will continue to expand educational and research exchanges with India while strengthening institutional support so that international students can pursue their studies in a safe and stable environment.” Meanwhile, the Office of International Affairs at YU operates a systematic support system to promote stable study experiences and convenience for international students while actively providing a wide range of administrative support services.The Consular Service Camp conducted in cooperation with the Embassy of India is part of these efforts, designed to help international students studying at YU conveniently complete essential administrative procedures. In addition, YU has established a comprehensive support system for international students that includes: ▲ dedicated counseling and student life support programs for international students; ▲ regular and special courses at the Korean Language Institute designed to improve Korean proficiency; ▲ mentoring and tutoring programs to assist with campus life adjustment; ▲ the YU Global Festival and cultural experience programs to promote multicultural exchange; ▲ scholarship programs and academic achievement support systems; and ▲visa and immigration administrative assistance. Through these services, YU supports international students in adapting smoothly to both academic life and daily living in Korea.
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Selected as Operating University for the AI Track of the Ministry of Education’s “2026 Advanced Industry Talent Development Bootcamp” KRW 7.6 Billion Project Through 2030 to Advance the AI Talent Development System Curriculum Developed and Operated with Industry … Intensive Short-Term Training to Cultivate Practice-Ready Talent Sought by Companies Following Selection in the ‘Bio’ Field in 2024, Establishes a Talent Development Foundation for Future Core Industries—AI and Bio [March 6, 2026] Yeungnam University (YU, President CHOI Oe-chool) has been newly selected as a participating university for the “2026 Advanced Industry Talent Development Bootcamp” program jointly organized by the Ministry of Education (South Korea) and the Korea Institute for Advancement of Technology (KIAT). Through this selection, YU will further strengthen practice-oriented education based on industry demand and will actively promote the cultivation of core AI talent linked to the industrial ecosystem of the Daegu–Gyeongbuk region. The Advanced Industry Talent Development Bootcamp program is designed for universities and companies to jointly develop and operate curricula, providing short-term intensive education programs of up to one year to train highly skilled professionals in advanced fields such as artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics. YU has been selected as the operating university for the AI field, and beginning this year it will implement the program for five years (2026–2030) with a total project budget of KRW 7.6 billion, including central government and local government funding. Previously, in 2024, YU was also selected for the Bio field of the same program, securing KRW 7.0 billion in government funding for a five-year project (3+2 years) beginning in 2024. With the additional selection in the AI field this year, YU will now operate programs in two key future growth industries—AI and Bio. This is expected to further strengthen YU’s education innovation and industry–academia collaboration in advanced industries, while enabling the University to play a central role in enhancing national industrial competitiveness and fostering future talent. In particular, YU plans to use this project as an opportunity to closely connect regional industries with the educational environment and to further advance its practice-oriented AI talent development system. Key initiatives include: △ cultivating talent that responds to the needs of advanced industries and strengthening connections with industrial sites; △ developing industry demand–based curricula and providing practice-oriented education; △ systematically operating immersive training programs and field internships with corporate participation; and △ achieving phased improvements in educational outcomes and employment performance based on annual performance indicators. Through these efforts, YU aims to enhance students’ career development and employment competitiveness. Furthermore, by continuously producing practice-oriented AI professionals aligned with industrial demand, YU expects to help reduce workforce mismatches in industry, expand technology dissemination through industry–academia collaboration, and improve employment rates. The initiative is also anticipated to contribute to strengthening regional industrial competitiveness and revitalizing Korea’s advanced industry ecosystem. President CHOI Oe-chool of YU stated, “Being selected for this government-supported AI talent development project carries great significance at a time of major industrial transformation centered on artificial intelligence.” He continued, “As the rapid advancement and expansion of AI are equalizing specialized knowledge across many fields, higher education will also shift from a ‘credential-centered’ system to a ‘competency-centered’ paradigm, where the boundaries between academic disciplines are increasingly dissolving.” President CHOI further explained, “YU has already established a system that enables all members of the University—including students and faculty—to freely utilize proven AI tools without restrictions. Beyond acquiring professional knowledge, we will further strengthen our education and support systems to cultivate AI specialists grounded in strong ethical values.” He also emphasized, “These innovative efforts have contributed to achieving a 100% freshman enrollment rate for two consecutive years, as well as improvements in the academic performance of incoming students across 60 departments. These results demonstrate that YU is recognized as a university trusted and chosen by students and their parents.” Finally, he added, “As YU approaches its 80th anniversary next year, we will continue to lead sustainable innovation and cooperative development while doing our utmost to nurture creative and innovative talents who contribute to the prosperity of human society.”
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Honorary degree reflects Korea’s gratitude to Ethiopia, a Korean War ally Ambassador Dukamo contributes to improving quality of life in Ethiopia through Saemaul Development initiatives Advancement of Korea–Ethiopia cooperation and broader Korea–Africa friendship Educational and public diplomacy achievements rooted in the global sharing of Saemaul Studies [February 23, 2026] Yeungnam University (YU, President CHOI Oe-chool) conferred an Honorary Doctorate in International Development on Dessie Dalkie Dukamo, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ethiopia to the Republic of Korea, at a ceremony held on February 20 at the Grand Hall of Cheonma Arts Center. The honorary degree recognizes Ambassador Dukamo’s distinguished diplomatic contributions to Ethiopia’s national development and human resource cultivation, as well as his efforts to strengthen bilateral friendship and cooperation between Korea and Ethiopia. During his tenure as Ambassador to Korea, Ambassador Dukamo has played a pivotal role in integrating Korea’s development experience and the Saemaul Development model into Ethiopia’s national development strategies. At both central and regional government levels, he has emphasized the importance of Saemaul Development and leadership training, serving as a key bridge in localizing and expanding Saemaul Studies in Ethiopia.Prior to his diplomatic appointment, Ambassador Dukamo served as Governor of Ethiopia’s Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples’ Region (SNNPR) and as Minister of Science and Technology. Since 2022, he has served as Ambassador of Ethiopia to the Republic of Korea, concurrently accredited to three Southeast Asian countries. For approximately 13 years—beginning during his governorship—he has engaged with Korea’s development experience and shared it with Ethiopia and other developing countries, leading initiatives in human resource development and Saemaul-based policy implementation to promote mutual growth and understanding between the two nations. In his acceptance remarks, Ambassador Dukamo stated, “It is a great honor and responsibility to receive an honorary doctorate from Yeungnam University, the cradle of institutionalizing the Saemaul Movement into Saemaul Studies and disseminating it worldwide.” He continued, “Through my training at Yeungnam University, I came to understand that the Saemaul Movement begins with a strong sense of ownership and community participation, which are essential for sustainable development. The Saemaul spirit—rooted in diligence, self-help, and cooperation, and expanded to include sharing, service, and creativity—deeply resonates with Ethiopia’s vision for national development.” He added that the degree symbolizes not only a personal honor but also the future partnership between Ethiopia and Korea, pledging continued efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation and promote sustainable development. Yeungnam University has sustained its cooperation with Ethiopia not merely as an exchange partnership, but as an expression of gratitude rooted in historical ties and a commitment to global contribution. Ethiopia was the only African nation to dispatch combat troops during the Korean War, beginning in 1950—prior to the establishment of formal diplomatic relations—standing in defense of the Republic of Korea’s freedom and peace. In the post-war period, Ethiopia continued humanitarian support, including the establishment of orphanages and medical assistance in Korea. In recognition of this historical bond, Yeungnam University has pursued educational cooperation centered on Saemaul Studies. Through the Park Chung Hee School of Policy and Saemaul (PSPS, established in 2011), the University has invited 44 young leaders from Ethiopia in fields such as community development, public policy, forestry resources, and water and environmental management, providing full scholarships and living expenses for master’s-level training grounded in Korea’s development experience.In addition, more than 600 civil servants from SNNPR have participated in local training programs, and to date approximately 1,000 Ethiopian participants have engaged in Saemaul Development theory and practice programs facilitated by YU. It was through these collaborative efforts that Yeungnam University’s partnership with Ambassador Dukamo began. In 2015, during his tenure as Governor of SNNPR, he personally visited Yeungnam University to participate in Saemaul training after recognizing its potential as a regional development strategy. He subsequently completed training programs alongside senior regional officials and incorporated Saemaul Development principles into local policy.In 2016, with support from KOICA, a large-scale policy training program for SNNPR officials was launched, later recognized as a best practice in KOICA’s global training initiatives. Ethiopia is regarded as one of the most proactive African countries in adopting and localizing the Saemaul Movement. Yeungnam University has provided Saemaul training programs for high-ranking officials and leaders from regions such as Amhara and SNNPR, supporting policy capacity building and regional development planning. This is regarded as a case demonstrating that Yeungnam University’s Saemaul Studies are being substantively integrated into local administration and regional development policies. More recently, cooperation has further expanded to include inter-university exchange. Concrete achievements have continued, including academic exchange and cooperation with Addis Ababa University, the operation of training programs at Werabe University, and the establishment of a Department of Saemaul Studies there. In parallel, collaboration in academic exchange and talent cultivation has been gradually systematized. The conferment of this honorary doctorate is viewed as the culmination of accumulated educational collaboration and mutual trust, and is expected to further elevate Korea–Ethiopia friendship and educational diplomacy. President CHOI Oe-chool stated, “The Republic of Korea has grown from a country that once received assistance from the international community into one that now repays the nations that defended its freedom and shares its development experience with the world.” He continued, “It is important that we express our gratitude in meaningful ways to the Ethiopian youth who sacrificed their lives for Korea even before diplomatic relations were established. Sharing the proven achievements of Saemaul Studies education and cooperation is one such way.” He concluded, “Helping improve people’s lives through the global sharing of Saemaul Studies is a true expression of gratitude and a core value of global contribution. Through this honorary doctorate, we convey our sincere appreciation to the Ethiopian government and people, and we will further expand cooperation across Africa to contribute to shared prosperity for humanity.”
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Degrees Conferred on February 20 at the Grand Hall of Cheonma Arts Center; Doctoral Graduates and Master’s Representative Attend 127 doctoral, 429 master’s, and 3,651 bachelor’s degrees awarded across colleges and graduate schools [February 20, 2026] Yeungnam University (YU, President CHOI Oe-chool) held its 2025 Spring Commencement Ceremony on February 20. At the ceremony, held at the Grand Hall of the Cheonma Arts Center, all doctoral graduates of the Graduate School and a representative of the master’s degree recipients were present. President CHOI Oe-chool and SHIN Seung-hoon, Dean of the Graduate School, personally conferred degrees upon the graduates and delivered congratulatory remarks. In addition to the main ceremony, each undergraduate college and graduate school—including the Law School and six professional graduate schools (Graduate School of Business Administration; Graduate School of Environment Health; Graduate School of Education; Graduate School of Engineering; Graduate School of Culture, Arts & Design; and the Park Chung-hee School of Policy and Saemaul)—held separate degree conferment ceremonies. At YU, a total of 3,651 bachelor’s, 429 master’s, and 127 doctoral degrees were awarded. Among the graduates were 185 international students (48 bachelor’s, 79 master’s, and 58 doctoral recipients). In addition, 372 undergraduate students completed two or more majors and received multiple degrees. On the same day, YU also conferred an Honorary Doctorate in International Development upon Dessie Dalkie Dukamo, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ethiopia to the Republic of Korea. <HAN Jae-sook, Chairperson of the Yeungnam School Corporation, delivers congratulatory remarks.> HAN Jae-sook, Chairperson of the Yeungnam School Corporation, extended her congratulations to the graduates, stating, “I sincerely congratulate all of you proud graduates receiving your honorable degrees today. This achievement is the fruit of your long-standing dedication and passion, made even more meaningful through the unwavering support and love of your families and professors.” She added, “Graduation marks both the conclusion of your academic journey and the beginning of a new chapter. I hope you will create positive change in your respective fields, grounded in intellectual responsibility and a spirit of challenge.” Referring to Ambassador Dukamo, who received the honorary doctorate, she remarked, “His dedicated efforts to promote friendship between Korea and Ethiopia and to strengthen international solidarity symbolically reflect the social responsibility of scholarship and the value of international cooperation that our university upholds.” She added, “I sincerely hope our proud graduates will continue to grow as global leaders, guiding the dreams and future of humanity.” <President CHOI Oe-chool delivers the commencement address.> In his commencement address, President CHOI stated, “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all graduates who have earned their degrees through continuous challenge and diligent effort.” He emphasized, “In an era defined by rapid transformation in advanced industries such as artificial intelligence, big data, and biotechnology, proactive preparation for change and a spirit of challenge are no longer optional but essential. I encourage you to move forward toward the future without fear, guided by the Cheonma spirit.”He further urged graduates to take responsible roles in addressing global challenges such as climate change, poverty alleviation, and world peace, and to grow into global leaders contributing to the shared prosperity of humanity. Congratulating Ambassador Dukamo on receiving the honorary doctorate, President CHOI added, “Ethiopia is a cherished ally that stood in defense of the Republic of Korea’s freedom during the Korean War, and we hold deep gratitude for that noble sacrifice.” He continued, “The Ambassador’s efforts to apply Korea’s Saemaul Development experience and Saemaul Studies to Ethiopia’s national development—thereby improving the quality of life for its people and promoting Korea–Africa friendship—carry profound meaning as an expression of gratitude and reciprocity.”
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YU ranks 6th nationwide and 1st outside the Seoul metropolitan area in number of student entrepreneurs Sharing youth startup achievements and expanding investment linkages; Demo Day validates business and technological competitiveness Strengthening its role as a regional startup hub platform AI startup trends lecture and MOUs reinforce structured entrepreneurship support system [February 13, 2026] Yeungnam University (YU, President CHOI Oe-chool) held the “2025 YUnicorn IMPACT RISE” event on February 12 at the Lee Si-won Global Convention Hall of the Cheonma Arts Center, providing a platform to share the outcomes of its entrepreneurship support programs and expand investment linkages. According to the 2025 Higher Education Disclosure data, YU recorded 58 student entrepreneurs, ranking 6th nationwide and 1st among universities outside the Seoul metropolitan area, demonstrating its outstanding entrepreneurial capacity. Building on these achievements, YU has expanded entrepreneurship education and field-oriented support programs. The event was organized to comprehensively share the University’s startup support outcomes and to validate them from market and investment perspectives.The event showcased the results of phased startup support programs implemented by the YUnicorn Startup Support Group under the RISE Project, including entrepreneurship education, mentoring, commercialization assistance, and prototype development.Approximately 100 participants, including university students interested in entrepreneurship, attended to share startup achievements and explore the latest startup trends. Distinguished guests in attendance included President CHOI Oe-chool of YU, Gyeongsan Mayor CHO Hyun-il, Chairperson AHN Moon-gil of the Gyeongsan City Council, and JEONG Ki-hwan, Head of the Daegu-Gyeongbuk Regional Office of SMEs and Startups, who offered encouragement for the University’s entrepreneurial accomplishments. <Startup prototypes are introduced at the exhibition booth.> The program began with an opening ceremony and performance report, followed by the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with external investment institutions such as venture capital (VC) firms and accelerators (ACs), as well as ceremonies for the delivery of Letters of Intent for investment and Investment Commitment Agreements. These initiatives provided an opportunity to gain external recognition of YU’s startup achievements and to strengthen cooperative foundations with investment partners. During the Demo Day session, five student startup teams from universities in the Gyeongsan area presented their business ideas and engaged in Q&A sessions, undergoing comprehensive evaluation of business feasibility, technological capability, and market potential.In addition, LEE Jae-hoon, CEO of Ecopro Partners Co., Ltd., delivered a special lecture titled “Startup Trends Utilizing AI,” sharing insights into emerging technology-driven startup trends and practical cases. An “Idea Startup Valley” exhibition booth was also operated as a side event, presenting key programs and prototype outcomes of the YUnicorn Startup Support Group. <President CHOI Oe-chool delivers the welcome address.> In his welcome remarks, President CHOI stated, “As universities look toward the global market, they must provide young entrepreneurs with an environment that does not fear failure and with a practical support system.” He added, “We are now in an era where professional expertise must be combined with AI utilization capabilities to secure competitiveness. YU will actively leverage its global network to connect entrepreneurship education, research, and industry–academia cooperation, enabling students to grow into entrepreneurial leaders who understand both technology and the market.” He further emphasized, “Together with the region, we will build an innovative startup ecosystem and develop into a leading startup hub worthy of being called Korea’s new growth engine, ‘Y-Valley.’” Meanwhile, the event was conducted as part of the Gyeongsangbuk-do Regional Innovation System & Education (RISE) Project and served as a structured startup performance platform centered on the YUnicorn Startup Support Group, aimed at systematically organizing and disseminating YU’s entrepreneurship outcomes while strengthening linkages with regional investment institutions.
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Seven Trans Art majors participate in producing three large-scale (2m) sculptures of the official character “Pruma” Installed at the Central Library, Cheonma Art Center, and Yeungnam University Station… expected to serve as campus landmarks and photo zones Practical creative opportunities and “Art Creation Scholarship” support to strengthen student competencies [February 13, 2026] <The Yeungnam University character “Pruma” sculpture and Trans Art students who participated in its production, along with Professor SHIN Gi-woon> Yeungnam University (President CHOI Oe-chool) has installed large-scale sculptures embodying the University’s official character, “Peuruma,” at key locations across campus, drawing significant attention. The project is particularly meaningful in that the sculptures were created not by established artists, but through the direct participation of current students from the College of Art and Design’s Department of Trans Art. The University launched the “Pruma Sculpture Production Project” to strengthen the symbolic identity of major campus spaces and to convey a friendly institutional image to visitors, completing installation on the 20th. Seven students from the Department of Trans Art (advised by Professor SHIN Gi-woon) in the College of Art and Design participated in the project. Over a period of approximately five months beginning in September of last year, the students were directly involved in the entire production process—from design planning and material selection to fabrication and painting—thereby enhancing their practical competencies as emerging artists. Each sculpture measures approximately 2 meters in height and 1.2 meters in width. They were produced by integrating FRP (fiber-reinforced plastic), known for its durability and lightweight properties, with 3D printing technology. The works vividly depict “Pruma,” a friendly character reinterpretation of the University’s symbolic “Cheonma” (Heavenly Horse). <Trans Art students producing the “Pruma” sculpture> The sculptures have been installed at three high-traffic and easily accessible locations: ▲the Central Library ▲the Cheonma Art Center ▲near Exit 3 of Yeungnam University Station on Daegu Metro Line 2.NOH Hye-rim (Class of ’21, Department of Trans Art), who led the project, stated, “It was a valuable opportunity to apply what we learned in the classroom to a real-world project. Although there were technical challenges, we overcame them through teamwork and were able to grow to the next level as emerging artists. I hope this work will provide joyful memories not only to members of Yeungnam University but also to local residents.” Professor SHIN Gi-woon of the Department of Trans Art, who supervised the project, commented, “This case enhances both educational value and school pride, as students directly created a symbol of the University and contributed to the campus environment. I hope the newly installed Peuruma sculptures will serve as a medium conveying Yeungnam University’s vibrant and friendly image to both members and visitors.” In addition, as part of the project, the students carried out repair work on deteriorated sections of the large-scale “Cheonma” sculpture previously installed at the Cheonma Jimum Gate. They removed rust from the sculpture’s surface and repainted it in blue, the symbolic color of Yeungnam University, thereby contributing to further enhancement of the campus landscape. <Trans Art students conducting repair work on the large “Cheonma” sculpture located at the entrance of Cheonma Jimum Gate> Meanwhile, YU awarded the President’s Special Scholarship for Artistic Creation (“Art Creation Scholarship”) to the students who participated in the project in recognition of their efforts. The University also plans to continue promoting various initiatives that integrate students’ disciplinary competencies into campus environment improvement and institutional brand enhancement.
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80 faculty members selected as Clarivate Highly Cited Researchers and Elsevier’s World’s Top 2% Scientists Sharing and dissemination of research excellence boost faculty pride and institutional reputation President CHOI Oe-chool: “I am proud that our creative and challenging research achievements have been recognized globally” [January 27, 2026] Yeungnam University (YU, President CHOI Oe-chool) held the 2025 Academic Year Outstanding Research Faculty Award Ceremony on January 23 at the Cheonma Art Center, honoring faculty members whose outstanding research achievements have contributed significantly to enhancing the University’s research competitiveness and global standing. <President CHOI Oe-chool presents an Award of Merit to an outstanding research faculty member.> The ceremony was organized to recognize outstanding researchers, foster faculty pride, and strengthen the University’s overall research capacity through the sharing and dissemination of exemplary research outcomes.Award recipients were selected based on internationally recognized and authoritative researcher evaluation results. Among the honorees were Professors LEE Yong-rok (School of Chemical Engineering), CHOI In-ho (Department of Biomedical Engineering), SUMANTA Sahoo (School of Chemical Engineering), and RAJACHUDAN (School of Chemical Engineering), who were named Highly Cited Researchers (HCR) in the 2025 list released by Clarivate Plc. In addition, faculty members selected as World’s Top 2% Scientists (2025) by Elsevier were also included, bringing the total number of award recipients to 80. <Professors selected as Highly Cited Researchers (from left): RAJACHUDAN, SUMANTA Sahoo, CHOI In-ho, and LEE Yong-rok.> In his congratulatory remarks, President CHOI stated, “In an era marked by unprecedentedly rapid technological change—driven by artificial intelligence, robotics, advanced materials, and biotechnology—the competitiveness of a university ultimately stems from research. I am extremely proud of our faculty members who have been recognized as outstanding researchers through globally respected evaluations.” He added, “Your dedication and willingness to take on challenges are shaping both the present and future of Yeungnam University. We will continue to expand research infrastructure and strengthen administrative and financial support so that our researchers can fully devote themselves to creative and challenging research endeavors.” YU has continued to secure major government- and local government-funded initiatives, expanding strategic investments aimed at nurturing talent and strengthening research capacity in next-generation growth sectors. These investments have translated into qualitative advancements across education and research, yielding tangible results in major domestic and international university rankings. Backed by sustained strategic public funding, YU has steadily enhanced its research capabilities, achieving notable distinctions such as Top 5 nationwide for two consecutive years in the Leiden Ranking, joint 15th place domestically in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, No. 1 among regional private universities in the 2025 INUE–Hankyung University Evaluation, 3rd nationwide in SCI publications per faculty member, and entry into the global top tier of the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI). Building on these accumulated research achievements, YU aims to further advance as a world-class research-oriented university.
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Recognition for in silico- and AI-based development of food-grade materials for cultivated meat culture media Next-generation culture medium technology ensures human safety and cost competitiveness, demonstrating strong commercialization potential Professor CHOI In-ho continues momentum following selection as a “2025 Highly Cited Researcher” [February 3, 2026] <Professor CHOI In-ho of the Department of Biomedical Engineering at Yeungnam University (Director, Cell Culture Research Institute)> Yeungnam University (YU, President CHOI Oe-chool) announced that the research team led by Professor CHOI In-ho of the Department of Biomedical Engineering (Director, Cell Culture Research Institute) has been selected in the Life and Marine Sciences category of the “2025 National R&D Top 100 Achievements,” an honor awarded by the Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT). Professor CHOI’s team attended the 2025 National R&D Top 100 Achievements Award Ceremony, held on January 30 at the Four Seasons Hotel in Seoul, where they received an official certificate and commemorative plaque presented in the name of the Minister of Science and ICT. The National R&D Top 100 Achievements program annually selects and honors the top 100 projects from approximately 70,000 government-funded national R&D projects, following a comprehensive evaluation of excellence and societal and industrial impact. Around 1,000 projects recommended by relevant ministries undergo a rigorous review process before final selection.Launched in 2006, the program has become the government’s flagship initiative for recognizing outstanding research achievements and enhancing researchers’ professional pride. The selected research was highly praised for addressing one of the key barriers to the commercialization of the cultivated meat industry—the high cost of cell culture media—through the development of culture media formulations based on food-grade materials. Using proprietary in silico and artificial intelligence (AI)-based analytical platforms, Professor CHOI’s team identified natural compound-based media additives capable of significantly improving culture efficiency. The research outcomes have been published in international academic journals, secured related patents, and successfully transferred to industry, demonstrating strong commercialization viability.The project was supported by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs and carried out through an industry–academia–research collaboration led by Professor CHOI In-ho, with participation from Professor HUH Sun-jin (Chung-Ang University), HAN Ki-soo, CEO of Neo Crema Co., Ltd., Dr. MOON Ik-jae of T-Ribose Co., Ltd., and Professor KIM Ji-hoe of Yeungnam University’s Department of Biomedical Engineering. The collaborative framework underscores the project’s significance as a successful model of cross-sector innovation. Professor CHOI commented, “Following my selection as one of Elsevier and Stanford University’s World’s Top 2% Scientists (2025) and Clarivate’s Highly Cited Researchers (2025), it is especially meaningful to be recognized among the National R&D Top 100 Achievements.” He added, “This accomplishment is the result of the collective efforts of all participating researchers and industry partners. Moving forward, I will continue striving to link fundamental research with industry applications to contribute to the advancement of regional communities and the national bioindustry.”
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