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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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Conducted on April 30 under the supervision of the YU Facilities Management Office Inspection aimed at protecting traditional architecture and preventing campus wildfires Fire prevention training to ensure safety of local residents and visitors [May 2, 2025] On April 30, Yeungnam University (President CHOI Oe-chool) carried out an on-site wildfire response drill in the area surrounding its on-campus Folk Village to help protect traditional wooden architecture and prevent fires in forest-adjacent areas. This drill was organized in light of recent wildfire outbreaks, prolonged dry weather, and increasing visitor traffic—all of which heighten the risk of fire. The YU Folk Village, in particular, consists of densely clustered traditional wooden buildings, making it especially vulnerable to fire damage. The drill served to test and reinforce rapid and systematic response procedures in case of an actual emergency. Approximately 30 participants, including staff from the YU Facilities Management Office and Folk Village personnel, took part in the exercise. The team practiced forest fire suppression techniques and also inspected nearby emergency fire extinguishing equipment. Additionally, participants were reminded of fire safety guidelines, especially regarding the handling of ignition sources, and emphasized the importance of proactive self-inspection for prevention. LEE Dae-jin, Director of Facilities Management and professor in the Department of Architecture, who oversaw the drill, stated, “In areas where traditional architecture and forested land are concentrated, fire response must be swift and accurate. This training has strengthened our capacity to prevent fires and minimize damage in emergency situations.” He added, “We also urge university members and local visitors to adhere to fire safety rules to help maintain a safe environment in and around the Folk Village.”
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Dominates the 3rd Herald Economy–Korea Herald National Wrestling Championship Three first-place, three second-place, and three third-place finishes across individual events Wrestler LEE Yoo-jun named MVP and selected for the national team [April 25, 2025] <YU Wrestling Team claims the overall title at the 3rd Herald Economy–Korea Herald National Wrestling Championship.> Yeungnam University (President CHOI Oe-chool) has once again demonstrated its dominance on the national stage, securing the overall team championship at the 3rd Herald Economy–Korea Herald National Wrestling Championship held in Jangheung-gun, Jeollanam-do, on April 14. This latest victory follows their team title win at the 43rd President’s Cup National Wrestling Championship in March, marking two consecutive national championships. YU wrestlers showcased outstanding performance across all weight classes, earning a total of nine medals. Gold medals went to KIM Joo-young (1st year, Department of Adapted Physical Education) in the 74kg category, LEE Yoo-jun (2nd year, Department of Adapted Physical Education) in the 92kg category, and HA Yoon-ho (4th year, Department of Adapted Physical Education) in the 125kg category. Among them, LEE Yoo-jun delivered dominant performances throughout the tournament and was honored with the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. Silver medals were earned by SHIN Chae-hwan (4th year, Department of Physical Education) in the 57kg category, MOON Hae-min (3rd year, Department of Adapted Physical Education) in the 70kg category, and YOO Jae-hyung (3rd year, Department of Physical Education) in the 79kg category, each reaching the finals after intense bouts. Bronze medals went to GO Jung-yeon (2nd year, Department of Adapted Physical Education) in the 65kg category, HWANG Dong-jin (4th year, Department of Physical Education) in the 86kg category, and KOO Min-joon (3rd year, Department of Physical Education) in the 97kg category. Head Coach KIM Ik-hee received the Coaching Excellence Award for his leadership and training strategy. He was highly praised for personally guiding the team from early morning to late-night sessions to maximize athlete performance. Assistant Coach HAN Hyun-soo, who also competed in the 125kg freestyle category for the senior division, defeated top contender KIM Min-seo of the Korea Armed Forces Athletic Corps to win a gold medal, proving his dual role as an elite coach and active athlete. Meanwhile, MVP awardee LEE Yoo-jun has been selected to represent South Korea at the U20 Asian Junior Wrestling Championships, scheduled for July in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. Expectations are high for his performance on the international stage. Coach KIM Ik-hee remarked, “Our athletes balanced rigorous training with their academic responsibilities and stayed focused through to the end, which led to this remarkable back-to-back championship result. We will not rest on this success and will continue striving to remain at the top of the collegiate wrestling world.”
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63 Million KRW Delivered to Gyeongsangbuk-do for Wildfire Recovery Over 1,100 YU and Medical Center Members Take Part in Fundraising From Students to Faculty, Staff, and International Students—The Entire University Community United in Giving All Funds Raised Donated to Gyeongsangbuk-do—Used for Disaster Recovery and Resident Support [April 14, 2025] <YU delivered a donation raised by its university community to support residents affected by wildfires. (From left, fifth person: YU President CHOI Oe-chool, Gyeongsangbuk-do Vice Governor KIM Hak-hong)> Yeungnam University (President CHOI Oe-chool) has donated 63 million KRW to Gyeongsangbuk-do to support residents affected by the recent large-scale wildfires in the region. The donation was raised through a voluntary fundraising campaign among the university community. The campaign ran for approximately two weeks, from March 28 to April 8, and saw participation from over 1,100 individuals, including faculty and staff from Yeungnam University and Yeungnam University Medical Center (Director KIM Yong-dae), as well as enrolled students and international students. Notably, the campaign brought together people from different nationalities and backgrounds—students, faculty, staff, and international students alike—demonstrating the warm spirit of solidarity within the YU community and their deep sense of responsibility toward the local region in a time of unprecedented crisis. The donation ceremony was held on April 14 at the Office of the Vice Governor of Gyeongsangbuk-do. Present at the event were President CHOI Oe-chool of Yeungnam University, Gyeongsangbuk-do Vice Governor KIM Hak-hong, Director LEE Jun of YU Medical Center, Chairperson PARK Young-bong of the YU Staff Union, Director JUNG Jin-young of the Social Contribution Center, Student President AHN Deok-geun, and international student representatives Tembo Tobias and Lao Sereylinda, who gathered to share in the spirit and meaning of the donation effort. <Graduate students from YU’s Park Chung Hee School of Policy and Saemaul participate in the fundraising for wildfire relief.> Led by its Social Contribution Center, YU has long been engaged in a wide range of community service activities. The wildfire relief campaign was part of these ongoing efforts. The center regularly conducts campus clean-up activities, kimchi-making volunteer programs, support for local children’s centers, and overseas volunteer missions—initiatives aimed at strengthening ties with the local and global communities. Through this campaign, YU hopes to support the swift recovery of affected residents and the restoration of disaster-stricken areas. President CHOI Oe-chool commented, “This campaign was a meaningful act of compassion, driven by the spontaneous participation of our university members who empathized with the pain of their neighbors. YU remains dedicated to cultivating warm-hearted, responsible individuals who contribute to humanity.” He continued, “I extend my heartfelt condolences to those who have suffered great loss due to the sudden wildfires and sincerely hope that they may return to their normal lives as soon as possible. YU will continue to stand beside the local community, sharing in its hardships and offering real, meaningful support.”
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Education Provided to Over 4,400 People from 87 Countries Including Master's Programs and Short-Term Trainings YU Selected for Two Government-Commissioned Saemaul Undong Training Programs in 2025, Achieving Multi-Year Contract Success This Year’s Training Targets Government Officials from Six African Countries—Equatorial Guinea Participates for the First Time YU's Program Emerges as an Educational Model Contributing to Global Poverty Alleviation and Sustainable Development [April 9, 2025] <Training session for Saemaul development officials from the SNNPR region in Ethiopia> Yeungnam University (President CHOI Oe-chool) has been selected to implement two of the six 2025 Saemaul Undong Invitation Training Programs commissioned by the Ministry of the Interior and Safety. With this, YU continues its multi-year streak of securing government-funded training projects. This achievement reflects the university's alignment with the South Korean government’s international cooperation policy, which aims to systematically share Korea’s rural development experience based on the Saemaul Undong and contribute to sustainable development and poverty alleviation in developing countries. This year’s project consists of six training programs targeting 167 participants from eight countries. YU successfully applied to operate two programs: the "Francophone African Saemaul Undong Invitation Program" (for participants from the Central African Republic, Guinea, and Equatorial Guinea), and the "Anglophone African Saemaul Undong Invitation Program" (for participants from Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, and Zambia). YU was selected as a program operator due to its high scores in key evaluation categories such as institutional expertise, training execution plans, and program structure. Notably, Equatorial Guinea is participating in a Saemaul Undong-related program for the first time, demonstrating the program’s growing international reach and influence. YU plans to invite 28 government officials and village leaders from the six countries in two separate sessions scheduled for August and October. Each session will consist of a 10-day intensive training program. The curriculum will provide theoretical instruction on the philosophy and strategies of the Saemaul Undong, its role in economic development, rural innovation case studies, rural financial system development, and methods for expanding agricultural value chains. The program aims to showcase the applicability of Korea’s rural development model in a variety of contexts. Participants will also engage in field visits to advanced industrial and agricultural institutions, including the Gyeongbuk Agricultural Research and Extension Services, agricultural product processing centers, and POSCO. They will visit symbolic sites such as the Sabang Memorial Park and the Saemaul Undong birthplace memorial to experience Korea's development journey firsthand. In the final phase of the program, participants will develop localized Saemaul Undong implementation plans for their home countries, completing an integrated educational experience that bridges theory and practice. YU’s leadership in international development cooperation through Saemaul Undong is backed by deep academic preparation and years of experience. President CHOI Oe-chool of YU was the first to advocate for the academic institutionalization of Saemaul Undong in 2007. He went on to establish the Korean Society for Saemaul Studies and the Global Saemaul Forum in 2008, serving as the founding president of both. In 2011, YU introduced a “Global Saemaul” major at its Graduate School of Public Administration, and in 2012, established the Park Chung Hee School of Policy and Saemaul with a dedicated Department of Saemaul Studies. In August 2013, YU awarded the world’s first master’s degree in Saemaul Studies and launched the undergraduate Department of Saemaul and International Development in 2015, completing its educational framework for nurturing global development experts. <Presentation of best practices from KOICA Global Training Programs> Leveraging this educational infrastructure, YU's Park Chung Hee School of Policy and Saemaul has trained over 970 master’s degree students from 76 countries—including participants affiliated with international organizations such as the UN World Food Programme (WFP) and the World Bank. Since 2013, the Institute for International Development Cooperation has also conducted short-term training for over 3,370 participants from 51 countries. In total, more than 4,400 individuals from 87 countries have learned from YU’s Saemaul development programs, sharing Korea’s development experiences.These figures highlight YU's role not only in education but in advancing “knowledge diplomacy” on a global scale. Yeungnam University, which operated this global training program, was recognized in February 2019 as the best educational case among over 120 ODA training programs conducted over three and a half years with support from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), receiving a plaque and prize. More significantly YU is gaining recognition for establishing "Saemaul Studies" as an academic discipline and supporting sustainable development in developing countries by educating future experts. This academic validation stems from President CHOI Oe-chool’s research, which applied Thomas S. Kuhn’s theory of scientific paradigms to define the academic identity of Saemaul Studies. By evolving beyond a simple practical movement, Saemaul Undong is now recognized as a distinct discipline integrating theory and practice. This development has enabled tailored education and policy recommendations based on the needs of individual developing countries. As a result, Saemaul Studies has been officially recognized by the government as a research field and has been shared internationally through departments such as Saemaul-based Economic Development programs in universities in the Philippines, Cambodia, Ethiopia, and Uzbekistan. During the Korea-Africa Summit held in June 2024, leaders from participating nations expressed their gratitude for YU’s education in Saemaul Undong. This acknowledgment affirms that YU’s programs are not merely ODA assistance but serve as “knowledge-based partnerships” founded on mutual respect in the international community. YU has maintained practical exchanges over several years with this year’s participating countries. It has conducted 20 training sessions in Ethiopia, 2 in Zambia, and 1 each in Zimbabwe and the Central African Republic. It has also produced 44 Saemaul Studies master’s graduates from Ethiopia and 21 each from Zimbabwe and Zambia. In addition, YU has signed MOUs with Ethiopia’s Amhara Region, Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples’ Region (SNNPR), Central Ethiopia Region, Werabe University, and Addis Ababa University to expand cooperation in Saemaul-based international development. LEE Sang-ho, Director of YU’s Institute for International Development Cooperation, stated, “This selection as a training program operator reflects the expertise YU has accumulated over the past decade in Saemaul Undong education and training.” He added, “Korea, once a recipient of aid, must now fulfill its role and responsibility as a developed nation helping achieve global sustainable development.” He concluded, “YU will continue striving to contribute to the international community’s shared goals, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).”
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2025 YU Alumni Homecoming Event Held—Over 50 Alumni from the Seoul Area Return to Campus ‘Connected Through Cheonma’ Talk Concert Becomes a Mentoring Platform Filled with Alumni Wisdom Seoul-area Alumni Donate 330 Million KRW in Development Fund and Share Experiences with Students [April 16, 2025] On April 14, in the full bloom of spring, more than 50 alumni of Yeungnam University (President CHOI Oe-chool) currently active in Seoul and the metropolitan area visited their alma mater. Organized under the title "YU Seoul Alumni Homecoming Event," the gathering brought together accomplished alumni from various sectors to reconnect with students and the university. The event began at noon with a welcome luncheon at the Cheonma Art Center and continued with an alumni lecture, a talk concert with students, and a campus tour. The YU Seoul Alumni Association has long served as a steadfast supporter and sincere advisor to the university. Since 2011, the "Homecoming Day" tradition has acted as a meaningful bridge between alumni and their alma mater. Although briefly interrupted due to COVID-19, the event resumed this year for its ninth edition, reaffirming its status as a signature alumni event that stands out among Korean universities. The event was attended by President CHOI Oe-chool, university administrators, and current students. Prominent alumni in attendance included KIM Seok-hoe (Class of ’75, CEO of Borim Construction, Architecture), PARK Jeong-gwan (Pharmacy ’75, Chairman of With Pharm Co., Ltd.) and SEO Yeong-deuk (Law ’78, Managing Partner at Jeongron Law Firm), among others. <PARK Jeong-gwan, President of the Seoul Alumni Association, delivers a welcome speech.> In his welcome remarks, PARK Jeong-gwan, President of the Seoul Alumni Association, said, “I’m very pleased to resume our alma mater visit after such a long break due to COVID-19. I hope today’s gathering becomes a meaningful opportunity to strengthen our unity and cooperation as alumni. Under the name of Yeungnam University, we are one family, and I look forward to our continued mutual support and growth.” < YU President CHOI Oe-chool delivers a welcome address.> YU hosted a welcome event and luncheon for the visiting alumni. President CHOI Oe-chool and university executives expressed their appreciation to the alumni, with CHOI stating, “I sincerely thank our alumni for making time in their busy schedules to return to their alma mater. Your visit leaves a strong impression and deep inspiration for the university and your juniors. The paths you’ve paved serve as reliable signposts for our students. Today’s gathering will be a meaningful source of motivation for them as they prepare for an uncertain future. YU will continue to nurture talent that contributes to the common prosperity of humanity.” AHN Deok-geun, President of the Student Government Association (4th-year student in Medical Biotechnology), presented a bouquet to President PARK Jeong-gwan, expressing, “We are deeply grateful to the alumni who came all this way for us. Your invaluable experience and guidance are a great source of strength. We will proudly carry the torch of the Cheonma spirit as we move toward an even brighter future.” <Seoul-area YU alumni donate development funds to their alma mater.> <From left: former Seoul Alumni Association President KIM Seok-hoe, YU President CHOI Oe-chool, PARK Jeong-gwan’s spouse KIM In-sook, Seoul Alumni Association President PARK Jeong-gwan, and alumnus SON Je-hong> During the event, alumni also donated development funds to support the university and its students. PARK Jeong-gwan (Chairman of With Pharm Co., Ltd.) donated 310 million KRW, KIM Seok-hoe (CEO of Borim Construction, Architecture) contributed 10 million KRW, and SON Je-hong (CEO of Pacific CIM Co., Ltd.) also donated 10 million KRW. The donations were presented to President CHOI Oe-chool. <A talk concert is held as part of the Seoul Alumni Association’s visit to YU.> Following the luncheon, a talk concert titled “Reconnecting Cheonma Time: Mentoring and the Power of Alumni Networks” was held at the LEE Si-won Global Convention Hall in the Cheonma Art Center. Panelists included former Seoul Alumni Association President KIM Seok-hoe, current President PARK Jeong-gwan, SEO Yeong-deuk, President of the Seoul Law & Law School Alumni Association, and PARK In-sook, President of the Seoul Pharmacy Alumni Association. They engaged in candid conversation with students. The venue, which accommodated about 100 students, was filled to capacity as students attentively listened to the wisdom and experiences shared by their seniors. The event concluded on a high note, affirming the pride and solidarity that bind Yeungnam University alumni across generations.
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Selected for the Physician-Scientist Training Program—Third Consecutive Selection 500 Million KRW Over Three Years—Supporting Resident Research and Infrastructure Development [April 11, 2025] Yeungnam University (President CHOI Oe-chool) has been selected as a final recipient of the 2025 Convergence-Type Physician-Scientist Training Program (Undergraduate and Graduate Infrastructure), jointly announced by the Ministry of Health and Welfare and the Korea Health Industry Development Institute. As part of a consortium led by Korea University and joined by Hanyang University and Chungbuk National University, YU’s College of Medicine will receive approximately 500 million KRW in funding over three years, through February 2028, to support physician-scientist training initiatives. A physician-scientist is a researcher who studies diseases based on knowledge of both clinical and basic medicine. Since 2019, the Ministry of Health and Welfare has supported the full-cycle training of physician-scientists through this program, aiming to cultivate talent that meets global standards. YU's College of Medicine has participated in the program since its inception in 2019, contributing to the development of physician-scientist training systems and collaborative education and research platforms within the consortium. In this third phase of the program, the university will focus on supporting research for medical residents and strengthening infrastructure. The goals include establishing a foundation for interdisciplinary research and education, expanding training programs for resident physician-scientists, and formulating strategies for utilizing and supporting these professionals post-graduation. KWON Gyu-jang, Dean of the YU College of Medicine, stated, “Being selected for this program for the third consecutive time allows us to ensure continuity and chart a long-term path for development. Based on YU’s educational and research infrastructure, we will deliver an optimized physician-scientist training program that contributes to the growth of the biomedical industry.”
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Ambassador Paul Sobba Massaquoi of Sierra Leone Visits YU Again to Strengthen Saemaul Cooperation Detailed Discussions Held on Establishing a Department of Saemaul Studies in Sierra Leone YU Aims to Expand Sustainable Development Cooperation with Sierra Leone [April 3, 2025] <From left, Ambassador Paul Sobba Massaquoi and YU President CHOI Oe-chool> Ambassador Paul Sobba Massaquoi of Sierra Leone to the Republic of Korea revisited Yeungnam University (YU) on April 1. His return visit, just a few months after his initial visit in December last year, aimed to engage in detailed discussions on establishing a Department of Saemaul Studies at universities in Sierra Leone and applying the principles of the Saemaul Undong (New Village Movement). During the visit, Ambassador Paul once again expressed deep interest in YU’s theoretical and practical expertise in Saemaul development. In a meeting with YU President CHOI Oe-chool, he stated, “Following my visit to Yeungnam University last year, the government of Sierra Leone and major universities have shown growing interest in the Saemaul Undong and Saemaul Studies. We are seeking to promote sustainable development in Sierra Leone through the establishment of a Department of Saemaul Studies and a research institute, and collaboration with YU is essential in this process.” In response, President CHOI said, “The Saemaul Undong is a successful model that led Korea’s economic development and has been internationally recognized for its value. Yeungnam University will actively share its experience in Saemaul development and academic research to support Sierra Leone’s national progress. If Sierra Leone moves forward with establishing a Department of Saemaul Studies and related educational and research programs, we will provide full support.” President CHOI also noted, “Given Ambassador Paul’s expressed willingness to donate land for a university site in Sierra Leone, we expect even closer cooperation going forward.” During the visit, various discussions were held to develop concrete plans for collaboration between the Sierra Leonean government and universities and YU. These included not only the potential establishment of a Department of Saemaul Studies at Sierra Leonean universities but also the development of training programs for Saemaul leaders, civil servants, and community leaders. President CHOI, expressing his deep trust in Ambassador Paul’s patriotism and passion, introduced YU’s regional development strategies and emphasized that the success of the Saemaul Undong lies not only in policy-based approaches but also in its ability to transform people’s mindsets, as evidenced by comparative models of community development from around the world. Meanwhile, President CHOI was recently appointed Policy Advisor to the Central Ethiopia Region and invited as a special lecturer for a training program for senior officials of the Ethiopian central government. He has also received a request for cooperation from the Ministry of Education of Guinea for establishing a Department of Saemaul Studies at a local university. As such, YU continues to expand its global partnerships by promoting the Saemaul Undong in developing countries across Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia. Through these efforts, the university fosters global talent to tackle shared challenges of the international community. The collaboration with Sierra Leone is part of this broader initiative and is expected to contribute to mutual growth and strengthened exchanges between the two nations.
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International Music Education Exchange to Expand Through Joint Research and Performances Lecture Concert on Mongolian Music Held to Commemorate the Agreement [April 1, 2025] Yeungnam University (YU, President CHOI Oe-chool) has signed an academic and educational exchange agreement with the School of Music and Arts at the Mongolian State University of Arts and Culture. The agreement aims to promote the development of music and arts education through joint research and performance activities, focusing on facilitating the exchange of faculty, researchers, and students, and building an academic partnership. The signing ceremony was held on March 31 at the YU Music Hall, with attendees including HAN Yong-hee, Dean of the YU College of Music, and CH. Tsevexsuren, Dean of the School of Music and Arts at the Mongolian university, along with Professor CH. Basankhuu. Through this agreement, the two universities have committed to: ▲ holding joint research and presentation events, ▲ sharing academic materials and publications, ▲ conducting joint lectures and research through faculty exchanges, and ▲ facilitating exchanges of both graduate and undergraduate students. These initiatives aim not only to promote academic advancement but also to strengthen global networks in the field of arts and culture. Dean HAN Yong-hee stated, “We expect this agreement with the Mongolian State University of Arts and Culture will greatly enhance cooperation between Mongolia and Korea in music education and research,” adding, “We will continue to pursue joint research and performances to promote mutual growth in the field of musical arts.” To commemorate the agreement, a “Mongolian Music Lecture Concert” was held at 3 p.m. that day at Yeong-eum Hall in YU’s Music Hall. The special lecture featured performances and explanations by Professor CH. Basankhuu and Dean CH. Tsevexsuren—both of whom earned doctoral degrees from YU—introducing traditional Mongolian instruments such as the limbe (wind instrument) and yatga (string instrument). Professor CH. Basankhuu also shared his experience as a student at YU, highlighting the significance of the ongoing exchange between the two universities.
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