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Ranks 26th in Korea (791–800 globally), Climbing More Than 100 Places from the Previous Year Global Standing Soars with No. 4 Worldwide in WURI Visionary Leadership Ranking Educational and Research Innovation, Globalization Strategy Earn Meaningful Recognition on the Global Stage [June 24, 2026] YU (President CHOI Oe-chool) has been ranked 26th in Korea (791–800 globally) in the QS World University Rankings 2027, recently released by global higher education analyst QS (Quacquarelli Symonds). Notably, YU ranked No. 1 among comprehensive private universities outside the Seoul metropolitan area. Compared with last year's ranking (901–950 globally), YU climbed more than 100 places, further strengthening its position as a globally competitive university. This year's rankings evaluated 1,504 universities worldwide, with 43 Korean universities included. YU received particularly strong evaluations in the categories of Citations per Faculty, International Faculty Ratio, and International Student Ratio. YU's strong performance in the International Faculty Ratio and International Student Ratio reflects its globalization strategy, which is founded on the value of global social contribution. The University has gained international recognition by establishing Saemaul Studies, an academic discipline based on the Saemaul Undong (New Village Movement) and Korea's development experience, and offering undergraduate and graduate programs in the field. In particular, the Park Chung Hee School of Policy and Saemaul—established in 2011—has grown into a leading global graduate school attracting talented students from developing countries around the world. In just 15 years, approximately 1,000 young professionals from 81 countries, including officials from the World Bank, the United Nations World Food Programme (UN WFP), the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), and four other international organizations, have completed the master's program in Saemaul Studies and are now working as international development professionals across the globe. Through Saemaul Studies, YU has also built extensive global networks with governments of developing countries and major international organizations, contributing significantly to the University's sustainability and global competitiveness. <International Students Enrolled at YU Park Chung Hee School of Policy and Saemaul (PSPS)> The QS World University Rankings assess universities using nine indicators: Academic Reputation (30%), Citations per Faculty (20%), Employer Reputation (15%), Faculty/Student Ratio (10%), International Faculty Ratio (5%), International Student Ratio (5%), International Research Network (IRN) (5%), Employment Outcomes (5%), and Sustainability (5%). Because the rankings incorporate both subjective measures, such as academic and employer reputation, and objective indicators, including research citations, faculty and international student ratios, and graduate employment outcomes, they are widely regarded as one of the world's most credible university ranking systems. YU has recently continued to earn strong recognition in major global university rankings. In the WURI (World University Rankings for Innovation) 2026, announced in May, the University ranked No. 3 in the world in the Student Mobility and Openness category and No. 4 globally in Visionary Leadership. The 2026 WURI evaluated 13,211 innovative programs submitted by 1,927 universities across 96 countries, placing YU among the world's top-performing institutions in both categories. President CHOI Oe-chool said, "YU's continued strong performance in major global university rankings, including the QS World University Rankings, is an encouraging indication that our educational and research innovation, along with our globalization strategy, is receiving meaningful recognition by international standards. It is particularly significant that YU's vision and achievements are being acknowledged on the global stage." He added, "Guided by our vision of nurturing talented individuals who contribute to the prosperity of humanity, YU continues to pursue innovation across all aspects of university operations, including education and research. We will further strengthen our global competitiveness and continue to grow into a university that fulfills its responsibilities and role in the international community."
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From Vision to Action: Advancing the Vision of a Creative and Innovative University Contributing to the Prosperity of Humanity Faculty, Staff, Students, the Educational Foundation, and Alumni Unite Behind YU’s Future Development Innovation Proven by Results, Sustained Through Action—QS Ranking Surge Reflects Continued Growth Strengthening Institutional Innovation Through AI- and AX-Driven Transformation, IR Strategy, and Medical Center Development Plan [June 29, 2026] YU (President CHOI Oe-chool) held the Future Action Days for Y-INNOVATION 2030, reaffirming its commitment to implementing the University's long-term development strategy. The event was held to share the expanded edition of Y-INNOVATION 2030, an updated and enhanced version of YU's long-term development plan based on the University's vision—"A Creative and Innovative University Contributing to the Prosperity of Humanity"—which was proclaimed during YU's 75th anniversary celebration in 2022. It also served to unite the University community around a shared commitment to putting the vision into action. The gathering reviewed the achievements of YU's innovation initiatives since the 2022 vision declaration while reaffirming the University's determination to translate its vision and development strategies into concrete actions by all members of the YU community and to accelerate innovation for the future. Held on June 25 at the Lee Si-won Global Convention Hall of the Cheonma Art Center, the event was attended by HAN Jae-sook, Chairperson of the Yeungnam School Corporation; YU President CHOI Oe-chool; KIM Yong-dae, President of the YU Medical Center; LEE Dong-hyung, Chair of the Faculty Council; PARK Young-bong, Chair of the Staff Labor Union; SHIM Chang-seop, President of the Student Council; and other key members of the University community, who reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the implementation of the University's development plan. Senior representatives of the YU General Alumni Association, including Senior Vice President KOH Dong-hyeon, Vice President DO Soo-hoe, and Vice President JOO Dae-jung, also attended to express their support for the University's continued development and commitment to its future vision. The program featured: ▲the unveiling of a video introducing the University's vision and development plan, ▲the presentation of the expanded Y-INNOVATION 2030 plan, ▲the announcement of the YU Medical Center Development Plan, ▲presentations on the University's AI vision and strategy and Institutional Research (IR) strategy, including a live demonstration, and ▲a joint pledge ceremony committing participants to implementing the development plan. Throughout the event, YU emphasized its commitment to maintaining consistency in institutional policies while strengthening execution through AI- and AX (AI Transformation)-driven innovation and an Institutional Research (IR) system for continuous performance management. The message shared throughout the event was clear: YU's development strategy must move beyond declaration to execution grounded in innovation, and mutual trust, shared understanding, and collaboration among University members constitute the foundation of institutional competitiveness. Through the event, YU reaffirmed its development plan with members of the University community while declaring its determination to further strengthen collaboration among the Educational Foundation, the University, the Medical Center, and the General Alumni Association. Building on this commitment, YU plans to accelerate implementation of its development initiatives while fostering a culture in which all members actively participate in realizing the University's vision. The event also carried special significance as a continuation of the 2022 Vision Declaration Ceremony. At that time, YU presented its new vision along with development strategies in five key areas—educational innovation, industry-academia research, social contribution, globalization, and sustainable management—outlining its roadmap for future growth. Four years later, the University has moved beyond simply sharing its vision, demonstrating through tangible achievements that its innovation strategy is producing measurable results and entering a new phase centered on execution. YU has indeed maintained strong momentum in recent global university rankings and external funding achievements. In the recently released QS World University Rankings 2027, YU ranked No. 1 among comprehensive private universities outside the Seoul metropolitan area (26th in Korea and 791–800 globally), climbing more than 100 places worldwide compared with the previous year. The results indicate that the University's educational and research innovation and globalization strategy have earned meaningful recognition by international standards. In addition, in the WURI (World University Rankings for Innovation) 2026, announced in May, YU ranked No. 3 globally in Student Mobility and Openness and No. 4 in Visionary Leadership. Notably, the University's Visionary Leadership ranking has steadily improved over the past three years, reaching the world's top tier and demonstrating international recognition of YU's innovation leadership in consistently sharing and implementing its institutional vision. YU has also achieved remarkable success in securing external financial support. According to the 2025 University Finance Information System statistics, the University secured a total of KRW 107.4 billion in external funding—including central government grants, local government support, and funding from other organizations—ranking No. 1 among private general universities nationwide. This achievement represents more than financial success; it reflects the high level of confidence that governments and external organizations place in YU's innovation capacity and long-term sustainability. These accomplishments are not the result of chance but rather the outcome of the University's consistent implementation of its innovation initiatives and development strategies since the 2022 vision declaration. YU has established a virtuous cycle in which its institutional vision and philosophy inspire the understanding and participation of faculty, staff, and students, leading to educational innovation, stronger research competitiveness, internationalization, improved student outcomes, enhanced public trust, and greater recognition in global evaluations. Delivering congratulatory remarks on behalf of JUNG Tae-il, President of the YU General Alumni Association, Senior Vice President KOH Dong-hyeon said, "Today's event provides a meaningful opportunity for members of the YU community to share the University's vision and development plan while reaffirming their commitment to putting them into practice. As we enter the era of AI-driven transformation, YU's pursuit of future innovation based on a sustainable development strategy represents an important step toward becoming a globally recognized prestigious university." He continued, "I recently learned with great pride that YU achieved outstanding results in major global university rankings and ranked first nationwide in external government funding disclosures. These accomplishments are the valuable result of the dedication of every member of the University community. Representing our 300,000 alumni, I assure you that we will continue to provide unwavering support and cooperation as a trusted partner to ensure the successful realization of YU's vision and development plan." <From left: YU President CHOI Oe-chool, HAN Jae-sook, Chairperson of the Yeungnam School Corporation, and KOH Dong-hyeon, Senior Vice President of the YU General Alumni Association> Chairperson HAN Jae-sook of the Yeungnam School Corporation said, "The vision and development plan shared by YU are not merely declarations but a clear direction and mission for the University's future. Through AI- and IR-based implementation strategies, we must ensure that these plans move beyond statements of intent and become a virtuous cycle of concrete action and measurable results." She added, "The Educational Foundation will continue to serve as a strong foundation by providing full support so that these efforts, built upon the understanding and participation of the University community, lead to meaningful achievements and enable YU to make bold strides toward the future." In his commitment address, President CHOI Oe-chool said, "YU has recently strengthened its global standing through remarkable advances in prestigious international university rankings, including the QS World University Rankings and the WURI. These achievements have been made possible by the dedication of our faculty, staff, students, and all members of the University community, who have worked together to realize YU's vision." He continued, "Rather than becoming complacent with our accomplishments, YU will seize the era of AI-driven transformation as an opportunity for a new leap forward, further strengthening our education, research, and global competitiveness. The rapid advancement of AI is fundamentally reshaping the higher education environment and redefining how universities survive and thrive. AI-driven industrial transformation will also lead to a paradigm shift in higher education, moving from an academic pedigree-based hierarchy toward one centered on competence and capability." President CHOI concluded, "The future of YU depends on the collective commitment of not only our faculty, staff, and students, but also the Educational Foundation and the General Alumni Association. Together, we will combine the strength of the entire YU community to realize our vision of becoming a Creative and Innovative University Contributing to the Prosperity of Humanity and achieve even greater progress. Finally, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Chairperson HAN Jae-sook of the Yeungnam School Corporation and all those who have provided their guidance and support, enabling YU to respond proactively to the challenges facing higher education."
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AI-powered in silico platform identifies natural compound with promising applications in the medical and biotechnology industries Natural compound amentoflavone shown to increase muscle mass and strength in animal studies Published in the prestigious international journal Phytomedicine and featured in HBR (Hanbitsa), drawing attention from both academia and industry YU Cell Culture Research Institute strengthens global research competitiveness while expanding research and technology support for Gyeongbuk’s Uiseong bioindustry [June 25, 2026] <YU Department of Biotechnology and Cell Culture Research Institute research team (from left: Research Professor Syed Sayeed Ahmad, Professor CHOI In-ho, and Research Professor LIM Jeong-ho)> A research team at Yeungnam University (YU), led by President CHOI Oe-chool, has attracted attention from both academia and industry by identifying a natural compound using artificial intelligence (AI) and demonstrating its potential as a treatment for sarcopenia. The findings were published in the internationally renowned journal Phytomedicine (Impact Factor: 11.3), specializing in natural-product and complementary medicine, and were also featured in Hanbitsa (People Who Brightened Korea), highlighting both the academic and industrial significance of the study. The study was co-first-authored by Research Professor LIM Jeong-ho of the YU Cell Culture Research Institute and Research Professor Syed Sayeed Ahmad of the Department of Biotechnology, with Professor CHOI In-ho of the Department of Biotechnology serving as the corresponding author. The research team conducted the study with the goal of establishing a research and development platform that utilizes in silico technologies—computer simulation-based virtual experimentation—and AI to discover highly commercializable natural compounds from Korea's natural resources and apply them to the medical and biotechnology industries. The researchers explained, "We selected myostatin, a key negative regulator of muscle growth, as our therapeutic target. Through AI-assisted in silico analysis, we identified amentoflavone, a natural compound found in Ginkgo biloba and Selaginella tamariscina, both of which are widely known in Korea." They added, "Using muscle stem cell experiments, we elucidated the compound's muscle-forming effects and its underlying mechanism of action. In animal experiments using a mouse model of muscle atrophy, we confirmed that the compound significantly increased muscle mass, enhanced muscle strength, and improved physical performance." Professor CHOI In-ho, Director of the YU Cell Culture Research Institute, said, "As populations continue to age rapidly, sarcopenia and other muscle-loss disorders have become major social and medical challenges both in Korea and around the world. However, effective treatment options remain extremely limited." He added, "The natural compound identified through this study has strong potential not only for the development of natural-product-based therapeutics but also as an ingredient for functional health foods." He continued, "By integrating AI with conventional in silico technologies, we have established a new research platform that is expected to introduce a new paradigm for natural-product research and commercialization while driving significant advances in the field." After earning his doctoral degree from YU in 2022, Research Professor LIM Jeong-ho joined the YU Cell Culture Research Institute and has been conducting research at its Uiseong Branch since 2024. He currently serves as a key researcher in several regional bioindustry initiatives, including the K-U City Project, part of the Anchor Project (formerly the RISE Project) supported by the Ministry of Education and Gyeongsangbuk-do, as well as the In Silico Commercialization Infrastructure Development Project supported by Uiseong County, contributing to research and educational programs aimed at fostering the regional bioindustry. Meanwhile, Research Professor Ahmad, an expert in in silico technologies and AI, has been serving as an international research faculty member in YU's Department of Biotechnology since 2019 and has collaborated closely with Professor CHOI's research group. He has published more than 60 papers in international journals and continues to conduct active research in AI- and in silico-based natural-product discovery. Beyond its academic significance, the study also demonstrates that the YU Cell Culture Research Institute's Uiseong Branch has established the research capacity and infrastructure needed to continuously produce internationally competitive research outcomes.By integrating in silico and AI technologies into its existing cell culture-based research platform, the Institute has presented new possibilities for building an innovative bio-research and industrial ecosystem. Meanwhile, in 2023, YU established and began operating a regional branch of its research institute at the Gyeongbuk Cell Culture Industry Support Center in the Uiseong Bio Valley General Industrial Complex, one of the few university research institutes in Korea to establish a regional branch of this kind. The YU Cell Culture Research Institute plans to further expand research and technology support for regional biotechnology companies while strengthening collaboration to foster the bioindustry.
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Gold medal on the international stage follows 21.49-second personal best at the National Athletics Championships, demonstrating growing global competitiveness YU track and field team showcases strength across multiple events with outstanding performances at the National University Championships and the Miryang Arirang National Athletics Meet [July 3, 2026] <KIM Tae-uk, sophomore in the School of Kinesiology, YU> Yeungnam University (YU) (President CHOI Oe-chool) track and field athlete KIM Tae-uk (sophomore, School of Kinesiology) captured the gold medal in the men's 200-meter final at the 2026 Hong Kong Open Athletics Championships (World Athletics Continental Tour Bronze). Competing in the men's 200-meter final in Hong Kong on June 14, KIM overcame adverse rainy conditions with composed race management and outstanding late-race acceleration, crossing the finish line first in 21.57 seconds. KIM has recently shown marked improvement in his curve-running technique and his ability to maintain speed in the latter stages of races. As his ability to negotiate the bend—one of the most critical elements of the 200-meter event—has improved, so too has his overall competitiveness. Athletics officials noted that KIM has developed into one of Korea's leading collegiate sprinters and that his gold medal at this international competition demonstrates his ability to compete successfully on the global stage. They also expressed confidence that he will continue to deliver strong performances in upcoming national team selection trials and international competitions. Although rainy weather made fast times difficult for all competitors, KIM remained composed throughout the race, defeating athletes from across Asia to stand atop the podium. His smooth running through the curve and explosive acceleration on the home straight ultimately proved decisive, once again demonstrating his competitiveness on the international stage. The victory is particularly meaningful because it builds on the momentum he has established in recent domestic competitions. At the 55th National Athletics Championships in May, KIM finished third in the men's collegiate 200 meters with a time of 21.49 seconds, narrowly missing a higher finish in a fiercely contested race decided by just one-hundredth of a second. He also claimed the men's 100-meter title at the 81st National University Athletics Championships, confirming his outstanding competitiveness across the sprint events. Alongside KIM's success, the YU track and field team has continued to produce impressive results at major national competitions, reaffirming its status as one of Korea's premier collegiate athletics programs. At the 81st National University Athletics Championships in May, KIM won the men's 100 meters, PARK Sung-jin claimed the men's 800-meter title, and LEE Chae-jin finished runner-up in the women's 400 meters, with several YU athletes earning podium finishes. The team's success continued at the Miryang Arirang 2026 National Athletics Meet in June, where PARK and LEE won the men's and women's 800 meters, respectively, while NO Gyu-rim captured the women's 400-meter hurdles title. LEE also finished second in the women's 400 meters, and CHOI Ji-hyun placed second in the women's 200 meters and third in the women's 100 meters, highlighting the team's depth and competitiveness across multiple events. KIM said, "I am very pleased to have achieved such a good result at an international competition. I will continue training consistently to improve my times and strive to develop into an athlete capable of representing Korean athletics." Meanwhile, the YU track and field team has continued to raise its national profile during the 2026 season through outstanding performances at both national and international competitions. In particular, KIM Tae-uk's gold medal at the Hong Kong Open is regarded as a representative achievement that reflects the team's systematic training program and its strong athlete development capabilities. Major Results of the YU Track and Field Team in 2026 Competition Results 2026 Hong Kong Open Athletics Championships KIM Tae-uk – 1st, Men's 200m (21.57) 55th National Athletics Championships KIM Tae-uk – 2nd, Men's Collegiate 100m (10.59) KIM Tae-uk – 3rd, Men's Collegiate 200m (21.49) 81st National University Athletics Championships KIM Tae-uk – 1st, Men's Collegiate 100m PARK Sung-jin – 1st, Men's Collegiate 800m LEE Chae-jin – 2nd, Women's Collegiate 400m Miryang Arirang 2026 National Athletics Meet LEE Chae-jin – 1st, Women's Collegiate 800m PARK Sung-jin – 1st, Men's Collegiate 800m NO Gyu-rim – 1st, Women's Collegiate 400m Hurdles LEE Chae-jin – 2nd, Women's Collegiate 400m CHOI Ji-hyun – 2nd, Women's Collegiate 200m CHOI Ji-hyun – 3rd, Women's Collegiate 100m 2nd Korea University Athletics Federation President's Cup National Athletics Championships LEE Chae-jin – 1st, Women's Collegiate 800m LEE Chae-jin, NO Gyu-rim, PARK Sung-jin, LEE Tae-hwa – 1st, 1,600m Mixed Relay KIM Tae-uk – 2nd, Men's Collegiate 100m KIM Tae-uk – 2nd, Men's Collegiate 200m LEE Chae-jin – 2nd, Women's Collegiate 400m PARK Sung-jin – 2nd, Men's Collegiate 800m LEE Chae-jin – 3rd, Women's Collegiate 100m
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A Total of 89 Alumni Elected, Including 20 Metropolitan and Local Government Heads and 1 Superintendent of Education YU Produces 17 Local Government Heads in Daegu and Gyeongbuk, Demonstrating Overwhelming Influence and Competitiveness Following the Election of 13 National Assembly Members in the 22nd General Election, YU Alumni Once Again Showcase Their Political Strength [June 22, 2026] At 6 p.m. on June 18, the YU General Alumni Association (President JUNG Tae-il) and YU (President CHOI Oe-chool) jointly hosted a congratulatory reception at Daegu Grand Hotel to celebrate alumni elected in the 9th Nationwide Simultaneous Local Elections. The event honored the 89 YU alumni who earned the trust and support of voters in this year’s elections. YU alumni, who are making significant contributions across diverse sectors of Korean society, secured victories in a wide range of positions, including metropolitan and local government heads, superintendent of education, metropolitan council members, and local council members, further establishing themselves as key leaders shaping the nation’s future. By category, the elected alumni include 3 metropolitan government heads, 1 superintendent of education, 17 local government heads (8 in Daegu and 9 in Gyeongbuk), 23 metropolitan council members (9 in Daegu and 14 in Gyeongbuk), and 45 local council members (18 in Daegu, 20 in Gyeongbuk, 1 in Ulsan, 1 in Gyeonggi, 1 in Gyeongnam, and 4 proportional representatives). The results demonstrate that YU graduates have continued to play pivotal roles in regional and national development across a broad range of fields. Among the winners, alumnus LEE Cheol-woo (Graduate School of Business Administration Advanced Management Program, hereinafter called 'AMP') secured a third term as Governor of Gyeongsangbuk-do, laying a stable foundation for regional development. Alumnus CHU Kyung-ho (AMP) was elected Mayor of Daegu Metropolitan City, while alumna CHOO Mi-ae (AMP) won the race for Governor of Gyeonggi-do, the nation’s largest provincial government. Alumna KANG Eun-hee (AMP) was re-elected for a third term as Superintendent of Education for Daegu, reaffirming her leadership in educational administration. In particular, YU alumni achieved remarkable success in the elections for local government heads in the Daegu-Gyeongbuk region. In Daegu, 8 of the 9 elected district and county heads are YU graduates, once again demonstrating the University's strong influence and competitiveness throughout the region. In Gyeongbuk, 9 YU alumni were elected as local government heads, further solidifying the University's role as a driving force in local governance. The elected local government heads include RYU Gyu-ha, Mayor of Jung-gu (Pharmacy, Class of '75); WOO Seong-jin, Mayor of Dong-gu (Ph.D., Graduate School); KWON Oh-sang, Mayor of Seo-gu (Political Science and Diplomacy, Class of '85); CHO Jae-gu, Mayor of Nam-gu (MBA); LEE Geun-su, Mayor of Buk-gu (Public Administration, Class of '84); KIM Dae-kwon, Mayor of Suseong-gu (AMP); KIM Yong-pan, Mayor of Dalseo-gu (Economics, Class of '78); and KIM Jin-yeol, County Governor of Gunwi-gun (Animal Science, Class of '78) in Daegu. In Gyeongbuk, the elected alumni include NAM Han-kwon, County Governor of Ulleung-gun (Advanced Executive Program); BAE Nak-ho, Mayor of Gimcheon (Master’s Program, Graduate School of Public Administration); KWON Ki-chang, Mayor of Andong (Ph.D., Graduate School); KIM Byeong-sam, Mayor of Yeongcheon (Economics, Class of '86); KIM Hak-hong, Mayor of Mungyeong (Advanced Policy Leadership Program, Graduate School of Public Administration); CHO Hyun-il, Mayor of Gyeongsan (MBA); PARK Kwon-hyun, County Governor of Cheongdo-gun (Master’s Program, Graduate School of Public Administration); LEE Nam-cheol, County Governor of Goryeong-gun (Master’s Program, Graduate School of Public Administration); and JEON Hwa-sik, County Governor of Seongju-gun (Community Development, Class of '77). Approximately 300 guests attended the celebration held on June 18, including JUNG Tae-il, President of the YU General Alumni Association; HAN Jae-sook, Chairperson of the Yeungnam School Corporation; CHOI Oe-chool, President of YU; National Assembly members KIM Seok-ki and LEE In-sun; as well as numerous YU alumni and prominent figures from political and business circles. Congratulatory plaques and commemorative gifts were presented to the elected alumni. In his congratulatory remarks, President JUNG Tae-il said, “I sincerely congratulate all alumni who have earned the trust of voters and are now entrusted with leading the future of their communities and our nation. This election once again demonstrates the strength and pride of YU alumni.” He continued, “Your victories are not only personal achievements but also a source of pride for YU and its 300,000 alumni worldwide. I hope you will fulfill your public responsibilities with integrity and inclusive leadership worthy of the trust placed in you by local residents. The Alumni Association will continue to serve as a strong network supporting your policies and visions so they can take root in local communities.” During the event, President JUNG also introduced a series of AI-generated questions and answers highlighting YU’s recent achievements, which received enthusiastic responses from attendees. He praised the University’s accomplishments, including ranking first among private universities nationwide in government and local government financial support projects in 2025, achieving a 100 percent freshman enrollment rate for two consecutive years, and President CHOI Oe-chool being ranked fourth globally in the Visionary Leadership category of the 2026 World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI). Chairperson HAN Jae-sook remarked, “The achievements of the 89 elected alumni are meaningful accomplishments that elevate not only your personal reputations but also the prestige and standing of YU and its alumni community. I deeply respect your dedication and capabilities, which have earned the trust of the people.” She added, “I hope your new journeys will contribute to regional development and improve the quality of life for citizens. The unwavering support and affection of our alumni have been the driving force behind YU’s growth, and the University will continue striving to become a globally renowned institution worthy of that support.” In his congratulatory speech, President CHOI Oe-chool said, “This election has once again demonstrated YU’s enduring strength in producing leaders who have played pivotal roles in Korea’s transformation from one of the world’s poorest nations into an advanced country.” I hope our alumni, chosen through the trust of the people, will continue to grow into leaders who guide Korea toward an even more dignified and advanced future.” He continued, “As the era of AI and rapid technological change unfolds, the role of universities has become more important than ever. Building on our accumulated human and institutional strengths, YU will continue to nurture global talent that contributes to regional communities, the nation, and ultimately the prosperity of humankind.” President CHOI concluded, “I would like to express my sincere gratitude to President JUNG Tae-il for his outstanding leadership of the Alumni Association under the motto, ‘A Vibrant Alumni Association, A Prestigious Alma Mater.’ I ask for the continued support and encouragement of our alumni. YU will remain committed to nurturing talent that fulfills its responsibilities to the times.” Previously, YU produced 13 members of the National Assembly in the 22nd National Assembly elections held in 2024. In the 2022 local elections as well, the University produced 1 metropolitan government head, 16 local government heads, and 1 superintendent of education, continuing to demonstrate the remarkable influence and strength of its alumni network in Korean politics.
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Trust in YU Medical Center Grew Through Caring for a Foster Child After Pledging Body Donation, She Keeps Her Promise Five Years Later with a KRW 10 Million Gift to YU “Giving Has Always Been My Greatest Joy … I Hope YU Will Nurture People Who Truly Help Others” [June 19, 2026] <From fourth left, YU President CHOI Oe-chool and Rev. WON Soon-hee> “When I first came to YU Medical Center with a child in my care who was going through a difficult time and met Professor SEO Wan-seok, I found tremendous comfort and developed deep trust in the University. I hope my small donation can help nurture people who will make a real difference in the lives of others.” The trust she developed at a university hospital while supporting a struggling child eventually grew into an extraordinary act of lifelong giving. Rev. WON Soon-hee (81), who has devoted her life to ministry, missionary work, and service, has pledged to donate her body to YU (President CHOI Oe-chool) College of Medicine and has also contributed a development fund to support the education of future medical professionals, leaving a profound impression on the University community. Recently, Rev. Won visited YU to donate a development fund to the College of Medicine. About five years earlier, she had pledged to donate her body to the College to contribute to medical education and research. Her latest gift reflects her conviction to continue serving society until the end of her life and represents a meaningful example of philanthropy that combines body donation with financial support for future generations. The story dates back about nine years. Rev. WON’s connection with YU began through a foster child she was raising. At the time, the 14-year-old student visited Professor SEO Wan-seok of the Department of Psychiatry at YU Medical Center with Rev. WON. Through ongoing treatment and counseling, the student gradually regained emotional stability, while Rev. WON found comfort and developed deep trust in the hospital and its medical staff through their sincere care and dedication. According to Rev. WON, the student looked forward to visiting the hospital to see Professor SEO even more than going to school. That experience became much more than a memory of treatment. Witnessing firsthand the compassion and care extended not only to patients but also to their families, Rev. WON came to appreciate even more deeply the importance of educating medical professionals who save lives and serve society. This conviction eventually led her to decide that she wanted to contribute to medical education even after her passing, culminating in her noble pledge to donate her body to YU College of Medicine. Her generosity did not stop there. After deciding to donate his body, Rev. WON also began setting aside savings to establish a scholarship fund, hoping to contribute in some small way to the further development of the College of Medicine. Although she was not financially affluent, she faithfully saved through an installment savings account. Once she had accumulated the amount she had promised herself, she personally visited YU College of Medicine on April 9 and presented the development fund. Rev. WON worked as a civil servant for 20 years at the Bureau of Survey and Statistics under the former Economic Planning Board, the predecessor of today's Statistics Korea. In 1985, she entered Seoul Jangsin University and graduated in 1989 before beginning her ministry. Since then, she has devoted herself to missionary work, volunteer service, and charitable giving, continually supporting those in need both in Korea and abroad within her means. Her body donation pledge and development fund contribution to YU College of Medicine are natural extensions of this lifelong commitment to service. “I have never lived a wealthy life,” Rev. WON said. “But throughout my life, I have learned that giving brings greater happiness than keeping things for myself. Through my relationship with YU, I came to hope that I could contribute, even in a small way, to educating people who genuinely help others. Little by little, I gathered that hope, and it brought me back to YU. Though my contribution may be modest, I want to continue giving in whatever ways I can.” Professor SEO Wan-seok reflected on his long-standing relationship with Rev. WON with deep emotion. “Many years ago, when I first met Rev. WON as the guardian of a patient, she told me that one day she hoped to establish a scholarship fund and make a donation,” he recalled. “As time passed, those words faded into a distant memory. But the moment I received a call from the College of Medicine administration office and heard the name ‘WON Soon-hee,’ everything came flooding back.” He added, “I was deeply moved to learn that she had returned to YU to fulfill the promise she made so many years ago. Her life of giving was a profound lesson to me then, and it continues to inspire my deepest respect today.” YU President CHOI Oe-chool said, “I was deeply touched when I learned about Rev. WON Soon-hee’s relationship with YU and how that bond led to both a body donation pledge and a development fund contribution. Her lifelong dedication to giving and serving others resonates deeply throughout our society.” He continued, “Her heartfelt trust in YU and the promise she has faithfully kept will become a foundation for educating future medical professionals who will save lives and serve humanity. YU’s educational philosophy of nurturing talent that contributes to the prosperity of humankind aligns closely with Rev. WON’s values. We will honor her noble intentions by educating our students with sincerity so that they may grow into professionals dedicated to life, humanity, and their communities.” Meanwhile, YU held an official ceremony on the morning of June 18 to recognize Rev. WON’s donation. The event was attended by President CHOI Oe-chool, Vice President for External Affairs SEO Bo-geon, KIM Yong-dae, President of YU Medical Center, WON Kyu-jang, Dean of the College of Medicine, Professor SEO Wan-seok, and other University officials.
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Four Nationally Funded Programs Join Forces to Advance Generative AI-Based Convergence Education From Problem Definition to Validation and Industrial Application, YU Cultivates Practice-Oriented AI Convergence Talent Through Multidisciplinary Collaboration [June 18, 2026] YU (President CHOI Oe-chool) has introduced a new model of practice-oriented convergence education that empowers students to solve real-world social and industrial challenges using generative artificial intelligence (AI), further advancing its efforts to nurture future-ready talent. From May 20 to 22, YU hosted the “2026 SW·HUSS·COSS Joint Convergence AI Hackathon” at Sono Belle Cheongsong. The event was jointly organized by YU’s SW Star University Project Group, the Digital-Humanities and Universities for Social Sustainability (D-HUSS) Project Group, the HUSS Global Coexistence Project Group, and the Eco-Up Convergence and Open Sharing System (COSS) Project Group. Forty students from diverse academic backgrounds participated in generative AI-based convergence projects. Unlike conventional training programs that focus simply on how to use generative AI tools, this hackathon was designed to help students identify real-world social and industrial problems and develop their own solutions. Throughout the projects, participants analyzed why particular problems arise, how they affect society, how they relate to current industries, and whether they could generate new economic value. The program was also designed to encourage students to use generative AI not merely as a tool for producing outputs, but as a practical tool for solving real-world problems. Rather than accepting AI-generated outputs at face value, students repeatedly evaluated and refined the purpose, process, and validity of AI-generated results to strengthen their ability to use AI critically and effectively. Participants completed the entire project cycle, including problem definition, market and demand analysis, generative AI application, service planning, prototype development, result validation, and final presentations. Through this process, they enhanced not only their technical skills but also the problem-solving and decision-making abilities required in real industrial settings. Another distinguishing feature of the program was its emphasis on multidisciplinary collaboration. Students from engineering, humanities and social sciences, and energy-related disciplines worked together as teams, gaining firsthand experience in understanding and integrating different academic perspectives and ways of thinking. By coordinating diverse ideas and developing innovative solutions, participants cultivated the collaborative skills and interdisciplinary mindset increasingly required in the future workforce. The competition produced a wide range of projects addressing challenges in education, the environment, and local communities, including a Campus Energy Management System that integrates AI with renewable energy technologies. Students explored the practical feasibility of their ideas using generative AI and developed tangible outcomes, gaining valuable experience through hands-on, industry-oriented projects. Student satisfaction with the program was also notably high, with 81.8 percent of participants reporting positive overall evaluations. YU plans to continue expanding problem-solving educational programs that combine generative AI with convergence education. JUNG Jin-young, Director of the Eco-Up COSS Project Group, said, “It was particularly impressive to see students combine AI and energy technologies to propose solutions for everyday and regional issues. Beyond technological achievements, this was a meaningful program that encouraged students to consider social value.” NOH Sang-rae, Director of the D-HUSS Project Group, remarked, “Even in the age of artificial intelligence, the ability to understand people and society remains essential. It was highly meaningful to see students integrate humanities and social science perspectives with digital technologies to analyze problems and design solutions.” JUNG Jae-hak, Director of the HUSS Global Coexistence Project Group, added, “This was a valuable opportunity for students from diverse disciplines to reflect together on a sustainable future from the perspective of coexistence between humans and AI, putting the values of global coexistence into practice. I hope these achievements will open new possibilities for connecting academia and industry.” PARK Yong-wan, Director of the YU’s SW Star University Project Group, stated, “In the era of generative AI, the ability to define problems, use AI appropriately, and validate outcomes is more important than simply mastering technology itself. This program was designed as a practice-oriented convergence education model that allows students to experience the entire process of solving real social and industrial challenges.” He continued, “YU will continue to innovate its educational programs so that students can grow into AI and digital convergence professionals capable of creating new value in industry and society after graduation.”
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Relay Lecture Series Connecting Business Leaders, Legal Professionals and Medical Experts… Cultivating Public Spirit and Social Responsibility among Future Lawyers “Lawyers Should Present the Direction and Solutions for Society”… Emphasizing Public Interest and Institutional Reform [June 17, 2026] YU’s Law School, headed by President CHOI Oe-chool, hosted a special lecture by Lee Si-won, Chairman of Buchun Co., Ltd., on June 11 as part of its regular course, “Law and Social Responsibility.” “Law and Social Responsibility” is a relay lecture-style course newly introduced in the first semester of the 2026 academic year. The course invites experts from various sectors—including legal professionals, business leaders, and medical practitioners—to discuss the public role, social influence, and responsibilities of legal professionals from diverse perspectives. The guest speaker for this session was LEE Si-won, an alumnus of the Department of Commerce at Yeungnam University (formerly Daegu University), Class of ‘63.Chairman LEE founded Buchun Co., Ltd. in 1975 and has dedicated his career to the textile industry, growing the company into a global enterprise recognized worldwide for its product quality. In recognition of his achievements, YU awarded him an Honorary Doctorate in Business Administration in 2018. Opening his lecture, Chairman LEE introduced distinguished YU alumni who have contributed to Korea’s development across various sectors, including the legal profession, business, government, politics, and finance. He encouraged students by saying, “You should carry a greater sense of responsibility grounded in pride in your community and your alma mater.” Drawing on his own experiences as an entrepreneur, Chairman LEE vividly shared his journey—from founding his company and overcoming crises to building a globally competitive enterprise—capturing the audience’s attention. He also offered advice to aspiring lawyers. “Legal professionals are highly trusted and respected members of society. Along with pride in the profession comes the responsibility to live up to those expectations,” he said. “You should aspire not to become mere ‘legal technicians’ who simply apply laws, but true lawyers who present the direction society should take and propose solutions to its challenges.” He added, “I hope you will actively engage in public-interest activities for socially disadvantaged groups and grow into professionals who contribute to improving institutions so that our society can move in the right direction.” Through the course “Law and Social Responsibility,” YU Law School shares the real-world experiences of experts from various fields and helps students develop into legal professionals equipped with balanced perspectives and practical ethical awareness. This year’s lecture series has featured prominent speakers including former Supreme Court Justice AHN Dae-hee, Distinguished Adjunct Chair Professor at YU Law School; OH Dae-guk, Chairman of SDGN Tech Co., Ltd.; WOO Sang-hyun, President of W Hospital; and HWANG Byung-woo, Chairman of iM Financial Group, all of whom have shared their experiences and insights with students. SEO Bo-geon, Dean of YU Law School, said, “Chairman LEE Si-won’s lecture offered students an opportunity to broaden their perspectives on society and industry through the insights of a business leader who built a world-class company in his field.” He added, “YU Law School will continue to actively support students in becoming legal professionals with a strong sense of public service and social responsibility by expanding collaborations with experts from diverse fields.”
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No.1 Among Private Universities Nationwide in the 2025 Higher Education Finance Statistics, Surpassing Yonsei, Hanyang, and Korea University Selected for Major Government-Funded Projects Again This Year, Including the Advanced Industry Talent Training Boot Camp and Glocal University Support Program University Innovation Delivers Results with 100% Freshman Enrollment Rate for Two Consecutive Years; President CHOI Oe-chool’s Leadership Gains Global Recognition [June 8, 2026] (Unit: KRW 1,000) Ranking University Government and Local Government Support 1 Yeungnam University 107,449,111 2 Yonsei University 102,056,958 3 Hanyang University 90,631,162 4 Korea University 83,388,692 5 Keimyung University 83,186,637 Top 5 Private Universities by Government Funding Support (Based on the 2025 Higher Education Finance Information System Statistics) YU (President CHOI Oe-chool) ranked first among private general universities nationwide in government funding support (based on the 2025 survey), once again demonstrating its standing as a highly competitive institution trusted and selected by both central and local governments. Securing the largest amount of external financial support among Korea’s private universities—surpassing several of Seoul’s most prestigious private institutions—is regarded as a symbolic achievement that highlights the competitiveness of a leading regional private university. According to the 2025 higher education financial support statistics recently released by the Higher Education Finance Information System, YU secured a total of KRW 107.4 billion in external funding, including support from the Ministry of Education, other central government agencies, local governments, and external organizations.YU was followed by Yonsei University, Hanyang University, and Korea University, which ranked second through fourth, respectively. The Higher Education Finance Information System is Korea’s comprehensive public disclosure platform for higher education finance, providing information on government-funded higher education projects and university financial data. The system is administered by the Korea Advancing Schools Foundation in accordance with relevant laws and regulations. This achievement, verified through a highly credible public disclosure system, demonstrates that YU’s success is not the result of a one-time project but reflects sustained trust from government agencies, local governments, and other external organizations. YU ranked eighth among private universities in external funding support with KRW 58.2 billion in 2021, rose to fifth place in 2022, second place in 2024, and now reached first place in 2025 with KRW 107.4 billion, showing steady year-on-year growth. This top ranking carries even greater significance at a time when universities face increasingly challenging financial conditions. With declining student populations, prolonged tuition freezes, and intensifying concentration of resources in the Seoul metropolitan area, financial uncertainty across higher education continues to grow. In this environment, the scale of external funding from government and local authorities is widely recognized as a key indicator of a university’s capacity for educational innovation, research competitiveness, and sustainable growth. YU’s competitiveness has continued to be validated through its selection for major government-funded initiatives this year. The university was chosen for the 2026 Advanced Industry Talent Training Boot Camp Project, jointly administered by the Ministry of Education and the Korea Institute for Advancement of Technology (KIAT); the KOICA Specialized Human Resources Development Program (Master’s Degree Program in Science and Engineering); and the Gyeongbuk-type Glocal University Support Project, a flagship initiative under Gyeongsangbuk-do’s Regional Innovation System & Education (RISE) framework. Through these selections, both central and local governments have once again recognized YU’s excellence as an institution that cultivates talent capable of driving social and economic development. The resources secured through these large-scale funding programs are being directly invested in educational and research innovation. They support curriculum reforms aligned with industry demands, the establishment of AI-based educational infrastructure, expanded university-industry collaboration, strengthened global competency programs, and enhanced student support services. These investments are translating into measurable gains in the university’s overall competitiveness. The impact of these innovations is also evident in admissions outcomes. YU achieved a 100% freshman enrollment rate for both the 2025 and 2026 academic years. In particular, during the 2026 admissions cycle, admission scores increased in 54 of 67 early-admission recruitment units (80.6%), while 60 of 63 regular-admission recruitment units (95.2%) recorded broader increases in admission scores. These results indicate that YU has firmly established itself as a university trusted and actively chosen by prospective students, parents, and educators. They also demonstrate that large-scale external financial support is not merely a numerical achievement but is contributing to improvements in educational quality, student competency development, and the university’s overall attractiveness. Observers attribute these accomplishments in large part to the leadership of President CHOI Oe-chool.In the recently announced 2026 World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI), YU ranked 4th in the world in the Visionary Leadership category, earning international recognition for its innovative leadership capabilities. President CHOI has demonstrated consistent improvement in this category over the past three years, gaining global recognition for effectively sharing the university’s vision with stakeholders and implementing it with consistency. Analysts note that a virtuous cycle has emerged in which the university’s vision and philosophy are translated into collective action across the institution, leading to educational innovation, success in securing external funding projects, and increased trust from students and parents. The reason YU continues to be selected by governments and public agencies is clear: the university has a well-defined vision, strong execution capabilities, and tangible results that are producing meaningful change in education and research. President CHOI Oe-chool stated, “External financial support is a critically important foundation for strengthening a university’s competitiveness. The government and local government funding secured by YU will be used to improve educational environments, promote research innovation, and cultivate future talent by enhancing student capabilities.” He added, “These resources will play a significant role in realizing YU’s vision of nurturing individuals who contribute to the prosperity of human society.” Expressing his gratitude, he concluded, “This achievement was made possible through the dedication and hard work of all members of the university community, including faculty and staff, who have embraced the university’s vision and worked tirelessly to put it into practice.”
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23rd President’s Cup Golf Tournament Becomes a Celebration of Alumni–University Unity and Giving More Than a Social Gathering: Alumni Reflect on the Future of YU and Renew Their Commitment to Growing Together “We Will Honor the Generosity and Goodwill of Our Alumni Through Education” [June 5, 2026] <KANG Sam-seok (Economics, Class of ’86) donates KRW 100 million (left); SON Je-hong (Business Administration, Class of ’81), KIM Jae-wan (Electrical Engineering, Class of ’76), KWON Soon-dae (International Trade, Class of ’82), JIN Yong-gyun (Economics, Class of ’91), and LEE Won-ho (Architecture, Class of ’85) donate a combined KRW 30 million (right)> YU alumni gathered once again to demonstrate their enduring affection and support for their alma mater. The university’s long-standing tradition of giving—faithfully carried on year after year—continued strong again this year. At the 23rd Yeungnam University President’s Cup Golf Tournament, held on May 29 at Solmoro Country Club in Yeoju, Gyeonggi Province, alumni, including members of the Seoul Capital Area Alumni Association, donated a total of KRW 130 million in development funds. The generous contributions will serve as a valuable foundation for YU’s continued growth and future development. The event brought together alumni from the Seoul Capital Area Alumni Association, the General Alumni Association, and members of the YU community. A total of 144 participants in 36 teams competed in a shotgun-format tournament, creating an opportunity to strengthen fellowship and cooperation between the university and its alumni. More than a sporting and networking event, the gathering provided a meaningful occasion for participants to discuss the future of both YU and the alumni association while reaffirming their shared commitment to moving forward together. The development fund donations reflected alumni members’ steadfast dedication to their alma mater. KANG Sam-seok, CEO of Masangsoft Co., Ltd. (Economics, Class of ’86), donated KRW 100 million. Additional contributions included KRW 15 million from SON Je-hong (Business Administration, Class of ’81); KRW 5 million each from KIM Jae-wan, President of the Seoul Capital Area Alumni Association (Electrical Engineering, Class of ’76), and KWON Soon-dae, Vice President of the Association (International Trade, Class of ’82); KRW 3 million from JIN Yong-gyun (Economics, Class of ’91); and KRW 2 million from LEE Won-ho (Architecture, Class of ’85). For many years, YU alumni in the Seoul metropolitan area have translated their affection for the university into action through the annual President’s Cup Golf Tournament. Their contributions represent far more than one-time donations. The tradition of giving, sustained year after year, embodies the solidarity, responsibility, and pride associated with being a YU alumnus. KANG Sam-seok, who donated KRW 100 million, said, “The education and experiences I gained at YU laid the foundation for who I am today. I will continue to support my alma mater and future generations of students wherever I may be, and contribute in any way I can.” YU President CHOI Oe-chool expressed his appreciation, saying, “On behalf of the university, I sincerely thank our alumni who never forget to support their alma mater and younger generations year after year. We will honor and cherish the generosity and goodwill you have shown.” He added, “The development funds contributed by our alumni will be used not only for the advancement of the university but also to nurture talented individuals who can contribute to the prosperity of humanity, in line with YU’s vision.”
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