Academics
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Research
Professor Jinseok Lee Honored with Presidential Commendation for Leading Medical AI Innovation
Professor Jinseok Lee of the Department of Biomedical Engineering received the Presidential Citation on Science and ICT Day in recognition of his contributions to building research infrastructure and fostering talent in medical AI. Developing core multimodal AI technology, leading global research collaboration "Aiming to secure international credibility for Korea's AI research outcomes" Professor Jinseok Lee of the Department of Biomedical Engineering received the Presidential Citation on Science and ICT Day in recognition of his achievements in establishing research infrastructure and nurturing outstanding talents in the field of medical artificial intelligence. Professor Lee is leading innovations in emergency medicine by driving the development of core multimodal artificial intelligence technologies. Establishing a Korea-Led Global AI Research Platform Professor Lee is leading research into core multimodal AI technology, which integrates and analyzes diverse data sources including biosignals, medical imaging, and clinical text. Unlike traditional systems that rely on a single format, this AI simultaneously interprets multiple data types. As a result, Professor Lee serves as the principal investigator for several major national strategic AI initiatives. Through the Information Technology Research Center (ITRC) program—funded by the Ministry of Science and ICT and managed by the Institute for Information & Communications Technology Planning & Evaluation (IITP)—he oversees the architecture for a end-to-end AI system spanning data collection, transmission, analysis, and clinical decision-making. He is also driving the development of core algorithms and data-processing technologies tailored for real-world medical use. "In emergency situations, medical teams are flooded with different physiological datasets all at once," Professor Lee explained. "An AI capable of synthesizing this data to make rapid, accurate decisions will be a true game-changer for emergency medicine." Professor Lee is also driving international research collaboration in medical AI far beyond Korea. As principal investigator of the 'Global AI Frontier Lab,' he is establishing a global AI research hub in partnership with New York University (NYU)—a structure led by Korean researchers and joined by leading international institutions. This collaboration is already yielding tangible results. The research team established a multinational network involving eight regional trauma centers in Korea (including Ajou University Hospital and Chonnam National University Hospital), the NYU Langone Trauma Center in the US, and the Westmead Trauma Center in Australia. Together, they developed an AI model that predicts a trauma patient's mortality risk in real time during pre-hospital transport, validating its performance using multi-center datasets from Korea and abroad. "This is a prime example of AI technology developed in Korea being directly validated and reproduced in international clinical settings," Professor Lee emphasized. "It plays a major role in elevating the global credibility and competitiveness of Korean AI research." Fostering AI Talent and Expanding Educational Horizons Breakthroughs at Professor Lee’s laboratory are rapidly making their way into industry. Over the past five years, his work has yielded 16 domestic patent applications, four registrations, and seven international patent applications. Beyond intellectual property, his team's research is actively driving real-world commercialization through tech transfer initiatives. In addition to building cutting-edge research infrastructure, Professor Lee is deeply committed to training the next generation of AI specialists. Through the Global AI Frontier Lab, he dispatches young researchers to top international institutions, including NYU. He also serves as Deputy Director of the 'Medical AI Convergence Talent Support Project,' sponsored by the Ministry of Health and Welfare. This strategic national program bridges healthcare and artificial intelligence to foster global competitiveness. To make an immediate impact, Professor Lee designed a cross-disciplinary curriculum that enables engineering students to grasp clinical realities and healthcare needs, empowering them to build and deploy medical AI solutions directly.
2026.07.22 -
Academics
College of Fine Arts Hosts
The College of Fine Arts commemorates its 60th anniversary with an exhibition at the KUMA Museum First-year students showcase their initial creations, and organizers hold a special opening ceremony for parents and members This exhibition marks the beginning of artistic education on campus To celebrate its 60th anniversary, the College of Fine Arts launched the "2026 College of Fine Arts First Step Exhibition" and organized a special event for university members and parents. The exhibition provided a platform to share the freshmen's initial artistic creations with the university community. The exhibition unveiled the initial artworks created by the newly admitted freshmen of the College of Fine Arts. The students prepared space designs featuring the first-year student character "Mirangi" and interactive installation art to enhance the visitor experience. The college held the exhibition on the first through fourth floors of the KUMA Museum building from Monday, June 8, to Sunday, June 14. (Left) Dean Hyoung-min Na delivers welcoming remarks at an opening ceremony on Monday, June 8. (Right) Dean Na and students participate in the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Opening Ceremony Welcomes Parents and Outlines Curriculum On the afternoon of June 8, organizers held an opening ceremony on the first floor of the museum. Faculty members, parents, students, and other university personnel attended the ceremony to celebrate the students' artistic debut. The college also introduced a parent invitation program to directly showcase its curriculum and creative environment. The College of Fine Arts linked this exhibition with educational programs designed to help first-year students adjust to their studies and expand their creative pursuits. Through consultations on the art-making process and advisory feedback programs, the college helped students enhance their practical creative capabilities. Dean Hyoung-min Na of the College of Fine Arts stated: "The First Step Exhibition supports our first-year students as they embark on their journey as professional artists. This exhibition is especially meaningful because it invites both the university community and parents of our students to join us in celebrating the 60th anniversary of the college." He added, "Presenting their artworks to the public for the first time is a vital experience for students. We must view this as an extension of their education, supporting their creative drive and artistic growth." The College of Fine Arts operates various student support initiatives. In addition to exhibitions, its signature program is the overseas training program. Each year, the college selects over 30 undergraduate students to participate in a seven-day overseas program. This program enables students to host exhibitions locally and experience diverse cultures. The college maintains collaborative relationships with institutions worldwide, including those in China, Germany, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Singapore. Earlier this year, a training program took place in Rome and Florence, Italy, the primary creative base for Chair Professor Eun-sun Park.
2026.07.21 -
Global Eminence
Kyung Hee University Hospital Excels in Newsweek’s 2026 Asia-Pacific Specialized Hospital Evaluation
In the 'Best Specialized Hospitals Asia Pacific 2026' evaluation published by the American news weekly Newsweek, five departments of Kyung Hee University Hospital—including Orthopedic Surgery (3rd in Asia-Pacific, 3rd in Korea) and Endocrinology (10th in Asia-Pacific, 6th in Korea)—secured top-tier rankings. Orthopedics Ranks #3 in Asia-Pacific as Kyung Hee University Hospital Builds Global Trust Global Rankings Reaffirm Hospital’s Core Strengths Patient-First Care and Public Engagement Drive International Recognition Kyung Hee University Hospital (KHUH) secured top-tier rankings across five clinical specialties in Newsweek’s "Best Specialized Hospitals Asia Pacific 2026." The results underscore the hospital’s core strengths in a rapidly evolving global healthcare landscape. This achievement also highlights how the Kyung Hee University System’s founding philosophy—the harmony of academia, medicine, and public action—translates into tangible medical excellence. The evaluation–conducted in partnership with global research firm Statista–assessed regional peer recommendations, international accreditations, and Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs). KHUH stood out across five specialties, led by Orthopedic Surgery, which climbed two spots to rank 3rd in Asia-Pacific (3rd in Korea). Other recognized departments included Endocrinology (10th in Asia-Pacific / 6th in Korea), Pulmonology (21st / 9th), Neurology (68th / 13th), and Cardiology (125th / 14th). Criteria for Specialized Hospitals Expand to Treatment Outcomes and Patient Experience The global healthcare sector is undergoing a major paradigm shift. Rapid population aging and the rise of chronic and complex diseases have heightened the critical importance of specialized clinical capabilities. Competition has intensified among leading global hospitals in age-related medical fields, including orthopedics, endocrinology, and cardiovascular medicine. Concurrently, evaluation standards for pulmonology and immunology have become more rigorous due to climate change and the persistent threat of infectious diseases, making a hospital's emergency response and patient safety systems key benchmarks in international comparisons. Furthermore, the growing emphasis on PROMs-based evaluations, which directly reflect patient experiences and clinical outcomes, has established a clear trend: the quality of care is now measured by positive changes in a patient’s actual quality of life, rather than the simple volume of medical procedures. KHUH’s strong performance reflects its proactive adaptation to these shifting standards. For years, the hospital has streamlined its clinical workflows to focus on severe and rare diseases while consistently implementing strategies to elevate care quality, such as multidisciplinary treatment systems, precision medicine, and advanced patient safety protocols. The upward climb of the Endocrinology and Pulmonology departments highlights the continuous accumulation of clinical and research excellence. Additionally, the Cardiology department, which entered the rankings for the first time this year, demonstrates strong potential for long-term growth. Leading the Future of Medicine through Specialized Centers and Digital Healthcare "As international healthcare competition grows increasingly specialized, hospitals worldwide are competing on the basis of patient-centered care and academic credibility," stated Hospital Director Jong-woo Kim. "Kyung Hee University Hospital will continue to balance clinical practice, research, and education to grow as a leading medical research and treatment institution representing Asia." The global medical landscape is projected to change rapidly in the coming years. The convergence of demographic aging, heightened infectious disease risks, environmental toxicity, and the integration of artificial intelligence in healthcare will continue to accelerate structural competition in specialized clinical capabilities. Building on this success, KHUH plans to proactively respond to changes in the future healthcare ecosystem by advancing its specialized centers, strengthening international research networks, and pioneering clinical innovations through digital health technologies.
2026.07.20 -
Research
The International Center for Quantum Matter Bridges Research and Industry at Quantum Materials Frontier 2026
The International Center for Quantum Matter, French neutral atom-based quantum computer company Pasqal, and the Kyung Hee Brain Pool Project Group host the “Quantum Materials Frontier 2026: Bridging Research and Industry” symposium. “Quantum Materials Frontier 2026: Bridging Research and Industry” symposium features academic symposiums, panel discussions, and academic seminars under the theme of “Research-to-Industry Bridge” The International Center for Quantum Matter (ICQM) hosted the “Quantum Materials Frontier 2026: Bridging Research and Industry” symposium. The center co-organized the event with Pasqal, a French neutral atom-based quantum computing company, and the Kyung Hee Brain Pool Project Group. The symposium brought together world-class researchers and industry experts in quantum materials and quantum technology to discuss the future of quantum science and technology and strategies for its commercialization. Leading Korean and International Quantum Researchers Share Insights The symposium drew prominent researchers from the global quantum science and technology community, including Konstantin Novoselov, Eminent Scholar (ES), Director of the International Center for Quantum Matter (ICQM) and winner of the 2010 Nobel Prize in Physics; Philip Kim, ES, Harvard University professor and recipient of the 2023 Benjamin Franklin Medal; Dr. Alexandre Dauphin of Pasqal; Director Kihwan Kim of the Institute for Basic Science (IBS); Director Sang-Wook Han of the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST); President Donghun Lee of the Korean Quantum Information Society; and Professor Seok-Kyun Son of the Department of Physics. Centered on the theme "Research-to-Industry Bridge," the event featured an academic symposium, a panel discussion, and academic seminars. Attendees shared the latest research trends in quantum computing, quantum sensing, quantum materials, quantum simulation, and hybrid quantum systems. They also discussed strategies and collaborative methods to bridge the gap between basic research and commercial applications. The event drew a wide audience, including representatives from domestic quantum tech firms, research institutes, university scholars, and students, fostering active communication across academia, industry, and research sectors. In the panel discussion, speakers emphasized the necessity of industry-academia-research cooperation, professional talent cultivation, and sustainable cooperation platforms to commercialize quantum technology and build a robust ecosystem. Following the discussion, the organizers presented the "Future Science Talent Award" to honor three undergraduate and three graduate students representing the next generation of quantum science and technology leaders. During the academic seminars, experts from global industry, academia, and research institutes—including Pasqal, KISTI, KIST, KRISS, UNIST, POSTECH, LG Electronics, and KQC—presented their latest findings and technological trends in quantum computing, devices, simulation, hybrid systems, and sensing. The sessions sparked lively discussions on real-world industrial applications and opportunities for future joint research. Prior to the symposium, the International Center for Quantum Matter signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Pasqal. The International Center for Quantum Matter and Pasqal Sign MOU On the morning of the symposium, the International Center for Quantum Matter and Pasqal signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to expand international cooperation in quantum science and technology. Under the agreement, they will leverage Pasqal's neutral atom-based quantum computing platform alongside Kyung Hee's research expertise in quantum materials to identify applications for next-generation materials, simulations, and computing. The partnership will also drive applied research to generate industrial impact. Additionally, both parties committed to building a global quantum research ecosystem through joint international projects, talent exchange, and collaborative workshops. Director Novoselov noted: "For quantum technology to deliver tangible benefits to industry and society, we must build close cooperation between fundamental science and the industrial sector. This symposium served as a vital forum for researchers and industry representatives to align on the future and practical applications of quantum technology." Professor Seok-Kyun Son, Associate Director of the center and the event's chief organizer, remarked: "We plan to identify new use cases combining quantum computing and materials research, while establishing a collaborative platform that helps domestic researchers and industry engage with the global quantum ecosystem. By expanding international joint research, talent development, and industry-academia-research partnerships, we will establish Kyung Hee as a key hub for global quantum cooperation."
2026.07.20 -
Research
Extending Battery Lifespan Through Next-Generation Aqueous Zinc Batteries
Professor Jae Su Yu’s research team at the School of Electronic Engineering, in collaboration with a research team from Yangzhou University, developed a dual-additive electrolyte engineering strategy to overcome the critical limitations of aqueous zinc metal batteries. Professor Jae Su Yu’s research team at the School of Electronic Engineering develops a dual-additive electrolyte engineering strategy The battery retains 93% of its initial capacity even after 800 charge-discharge cycles Professor Jae Su Yu’s research team at the School of Electronic Engineering, in collaboration with Yangzhou University in China, has developed a dual-additive electrolyte engineering strategy to overcome the core limitations of aqueous zinc metal batteries. The team published their findings in the prestigious international journal Nature Communications (IF: 15.7). Overcoming the LIfespan Flaw in Fire-Safe Next-Gen Batteries Lithium-ion batteries, which power most smartphones and electric vehicles, pose fire risks due to their flammable organic electrolytes. In contrast, water-based aqueous zinc metal batteries offer a much safer and cost-effective alternative, making them a promising candidate for next-generation energy storage. However, repeated charge-discharge cycles trigger undesirable chemical side reactions and cause sharp zinc crystals (dendrites) to grow on the zinc anode. This rapidly degrades battery life, presenting a major hurdle for commercialization. Professor Yu’s team resolved this challenge by introducing a combination of two additives to the electrolyte: L-cysteine, a natural amino acid commonly used in food and cosmetics, and methyl propionate (MP), an organic compound. MP reconstructs the hydrogen-bonding network in the electrolyte, weakening the interaction between zinc ions and water molecules to facilitate smoother ion desolvation at the electrode surface. Concurrently, L-cysteine adsorbs preferentially onto the zinc anode, forming a protective layer rich in inorganic compounds–such as zinc nitride, zinc sulfide, and zinc oxide–that effectively suppresses side reactions and dendrite growth. a. Screening of organic molecules based on binding energies with H2O, Zn2+, and ΔESP. b. Screening of amino acids based on adsorption energies, LUMO levels, and Zn2+ binding energies. c. ZSLM electrolyte model in MD simulations. d. RDF results. e. Snapshots of AIMD simulations. f. Galvanostatic cycling of Zn||Zn cells. g. Charge-discharge curves of Zn||I2 pouch cells. h. Cycling performance and Coulombic efficiency (CE). Dual Additive Boosts Battery Life, Paving the Way for Commercialization The results were impressive. The zinc symmetric cells operated stably for over 3,000 hours, and the zinc-iodine pouch cell maintained 93.1% of its initial capacity even after 800 charge-discharge cycles. Moreover, the battery continued to operate normally even under severe physical abuse—including bending, cutting, and needle-punching—proving its potential for wearable electronics and other demanding applications. Professor Yu stated, "We expect our additive screening methodology to serve as a versatile tool for developing various aqueous batteries. This work brings us one step closer to commercializing safe, long-lasting energy storage systems." The team conducted this research with support from the Ministry of Education’s Key Research Institutes Program for Science Engineering. Professor Jae Su Yu highlights the significance of this research, stating that the team has moved a step closer to commercializing safe, long-lasting batteries.
2026.07.20 -
Research
Kyung Hee University Advances Research Ecosystem for Science and Engineering Graduate Students
Kyung Hee University has received the highest "S-grade" in the annual evaluation of the "2026 Science and Engineering Research Fellowship Support Project." Receives highest "S-grade" rating in the annual evaluation of the "Science and Engineering Research Fellowship Support Project" Achieves zero students falling below the minimum funding threshold, securing recognition for its outstanding support Acclaimed for systematic management systems, including the launch of a dedicated administrative unit and a 5-step Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) Kyung Hee University has received the highest "S-grade" rating in the annual evaluation of the "2026 Science and Engineering Research Fellowship Support Project" conducted by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF). Through this evaluation, Kyung Hee has demonstrated its status as a leading institution in cultivating future core talents in the science and engineering fields. The "Science and Engineering Research Fellowship Support Project" aims to create an environment where science and engineering graduate students can concentrate on their research without financial burdens and support the stable growth of next-generation researchers. During the evaluation of the first-year (2025) operating performance, Kyung Hee University's Industry-Academic Cooperation Foundation (IACF) received the highest “S-grade” rating with praise for its outstanding execution capabilities and innovative management framework. Active Administration Driving Global Research Achievements A standout achievement is the complete elimination of funding shortfalls for graduate students. Through active university-wide efforts and increased research grants, Kyung Hee successfully closed the gap for all students who previously received less than the minimum stipend. The university now fully meets the minimum monthly support standards: 800,000 KRW for master's students and 1.1 million KRW for doctoral students. This provides a solid foundation for full-time science and engineering graduate students, allowing them to focus on their research and consistently deliver outstanding results without financial worry The IACF secured institutional and administrative stability by advancing the project's foundations. Following the enactment of operating regulations in September 2025, the IACF refined the regulations through professional consulting provided by the NRF. Furthermore, it independently developed and implemented a "5-Step Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)" that systematizes the entire stipend payment process, achieving a record of zero payment errors and 100% participant confirmation. The university also made significant strides in building an efficient governance structure through organizational restructuring. The IACF launched a dedicated "Student Labor Cost Management Section" under the Research Support Team and formed a separate steering committee to boost operational expertise. Furthermore, it introduced a multi-layered oversight system where the dedicated unit and related departments work in tandem to cross-check data, effectively eliminating administrative errors and compliance blind spots. Another key success factor was the active participation of the university community, which helped foster a strong culture of giving to secure funding. To ensure that student researchers can focus fully on their work in a stable environment, the IACF launched the "K-Stipend Companion Campaign." Within just six months, the campaign raised 110 million KRW in pledges and 108 million KRW in actual donations. Moving forward, the IACF plans to implement concrete initiatives to continually improve support for full-time science and engineering graduate students. It will continue to encourage voluntary contributions from departments, colleges, and principal investigators while expanding the "Companionship Campaign" to diversify its funding sources. To ensure proactive and systematic oversight, the IACF will also upgrade its administration software systems. Furthermore, it will establish regular working-level consultative meetings among related departments to completely eliminate administrative blind spots, update operational manuals, and host regular briefing sessions to ensure the program meets the specific needs of its participants. “Earning the top ‘S-grade’ rating in this annual evaluation is the fruitful result of our entire university community working together to improve the research environment for our graduate students,” said Een-Kee Hong, Head of the IACF. “We remain deeply committed to supporting these outstanding next-generation scholars who will lead our future society, ensuring they can focus on generating world-class research achievements without financial barriers.”
2026.07.13 -
Global Eminence , Academics
Expanding AI Fashion Education at the 46th Graduation Exhibition
The Department of Clothing and Textiles hosts the “AI × Fashion Innovation Partnership Meet-Up” and the 46th Graduation Fashion Show Expands academic-industrial cooperation with AI and 3D fashion-tech enterprises to lead future fashion education Kyung Hee University’s Department of Clothing and Textiles in the College of Human Ecology hosted the "AI × Fashion Innovation Partnership Meet-Up" and the 46th Graduation Fashion Show "Beyond Human" at Grand Peace Hall. The event gathered representatives from partner AI and fashion-tech companies, the Seoul RISE Project Group, and alumni-founded fashion startups. Attendees shared the achievements of digital fashion education and discussed the future direction of academic-industrial cooperation. During the academic-industrial networking session, participants shared the current status of education and industry-academia cooperation within the department. This was followed by congratulatory remarks from key attendees, a commemorative photo session for the academic-industrial network, and networking among participating businesses and institutions. The day culminated in the 46th Graduation Fashion Show "Beyond Human." Yeu Jun Yoon, Dean of Academic Affairs (Seoul), emphasized the importance of collaboration between academia and industry in his congratulatory remarks. Yoon stated, "With rapid technological changes such as AI, it is difficult for universities to achieve success alone. We must cross the boundaries of academic disciplines and organizations to find pathways for shared growth." He added, "It is impressive to see the Department of Clothing and Textiles keeping pace with these changes and driving educational innovation." Tae-Kyung Kim, Director of the AI Education Support Center for the RISE (Regional Innovation-led University Support System) Project Group (Seoul), explained the necessity of AI convergence education. Kim predicted, "Artificial intelligence is not the exclusive domain of computer science or technical specialists. In the future, the convergence of AI with diverse fields will become increasingly critical." He emphasized the need to cultivate talent who can bridge expertise in their respective fields with technology through AI convergence education. The event featured key partner companies in the AI and fashion-tech sectors, including Studiolab (AI photography, content generation, and product detail page automation), MeTown (3D digitization and AI rendering), Code-Create (AI-human collaborative fashion design), Metabank (AI-driven virtual fitting solutions), Faddit (digital tech pack and manufacturing collaboration solutions), and Youth Hitech (CLO 3D-based virtual garment production). Representatives from AM Company (an eco-friendly, sustainable textile manufacturer), alumni-founded fashion brands ERTR and All in Complete, and fashion media outlets also participated to network and share insights. Participants of the “AI × Fashion Innovation Partnership Meet-Up” share directions for academic-industrial cooperation and discuss future collaboration. An Educational Environment Built Hand-in-Hand with AI and Fashion-Tech Enterprises Through industry-academic cooperation with AI and fashion-tech companies, the Department of Clothing and Textiles is actively cultivating future fashion leaders by establishing an educational environment where students can gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge industrial technologies. In their coursework, students develop practical competencies by directly utilizing various digital fashion technologies, including AI-based fashion design, 3D virtual garment production, 3D scanning, AI rendering, virtual fitting, and digital content creation. Through the University Innovation Support Project (Nexus Project), the department partnered with Studiolab to deliver training in AI-based fashion content production, and hosted the "Digital Fashion Tech Creation Contest" to assess students' digital fashion capabilities. In the "Technical 3D Pattern Design" course, they collaborated with Youth Hitech to provide education on 3D virtual garment creation utilizing CLO 3D software. Additionally, in the "Fashion Creation Studio 1 & 2" courses, students explored digital archiving methods in partnership with MeTown through hands-on practice in 3D scanning of fashion products, AI rendering, and utilizing the EVOVA 3D Showroom. They also practiced virtual fitting service planning with Metabank using its AI-based virtual fitting solution, "BOGOFIT." Furthermore, they held human-AI collaborative design practice using "AiDA," a generative AI fashion design program developed by Code-Create. Collaboration with sustainable fashion enterprises also continued. AM Company generously donated 700 yards of eco-friendly fabric used in the 2026 graduation fashion show. This allowed students to complete their collections by utilizing sustainable materials alongside AI and digital technologies. Professor Seonju Kam, who led the "Fashion Creation Studio 1 & 2" classes, emphasized the importance of AI-convergent fashion education, saying: "AI tech is a new creative language that designers must master. It is crucial for students to directly experience various AI tools, learn not to fear technology, and expand their designs through hands-on practice." She added, "The capability to look beyond simple tool usage and merge technology with creative ideas to generate new value will become increasingly vital in future fashion education.” Entrepreneurship education has also been linked with industry-academia cooperation. In cooperation with the RISE Project Group, the department operated the "Kyung Hee Fashion Creator" project, which enabled participants to experience the entire startup cycle, ranging from brand planning and product manufacturing to marketing and distribution. Moreover, in collaboration with Faddit, which offers AI-based fashion design and garment production collaboration solutions, and the Dongdaemun-gu Sewing Association, students gained hands-on experience in actual manufacturing processes, such as writing tech packs and creating samples. The department is also restructuring its curriculum through its participation in the 2026 RISE "AI-Related Department Support Project." It plans to run and refine 10 AI-convergent courses to enhance digital fashion and AI-based design competencies. Professor Hwa Kyung Song, Chair of the Department of Clothing and Textiles, stated: "Through educational innovation and academic-industrial cooperation leveraging AI and digital technologies, our department is dedicated to helping students develop competencies to proactively respond to future industrial transformations. We will continue to expand diverse educational programs and industry-linked opportunities to support our students' growth and development." Showcasing Advancements in AI Fashion at the Graduation Fashion Show Graduating students of the department showcased the achievements of their AI fashion education on the stage of the 46th Graduation Fashion Show "Beyond Human." Sixty-three students participated in eight teams, presenting a total of 126 garments. Rooted in posthumanism, "Beyond Human" conveys a message of shifting away from human-centric perspectives to explore boundaries and existences beyond the human. Students actively utilized various technologies during design development, such as generative AI design tools, 3D virtual garment creation, AI rendering, and virtual fitting. Rather than simply using AI-generated outputs, they selected and refined them to align with their unique concepts and design directions, culminating in highly creative collections. The runway stage videos were also planned and produced by the students themselves. Utilizing generative AI-based image and video editing technologies, they visually expanded each team's concept and structured the presentation so that the garments and video formed a single, cohesive narrative. The event served as a platform to demonstrate how AI and digital technologies are integrated into fashion education and creative processes, while validating a new educational model where academia and industry collaborate to nurture future fashion leaders. The finale of the 46th Graduation Fashion Show “Beyond Human.”
2026.07.13- SDG 4 - Quality Education
- SDG 9 - Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
- SDG 10 - Reduced Inequalities
- SDG 12 - Responsible Consumption and Production
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Global Eminence
Kyung Hee University Partners with Jeju National University and Jeju Province for Beach Cleanup
The "2026 Learn-cation Project: Jeju Beach Cleanup with Kyung Hee Univ., Jeju Univ., Jeju Special Self-Governing Province, and Kyung Hee Jeju Alumni Association" took place on Friday, May 29, in the Ojo-ri area of Seongsan-eup, Seogwipo-si. Kyung Hee University, Jeju University, Jeju Province, and the Kyung Hee Jeju Alumni Association host a plogging event in Seongsan-eup, Ojo-ri Continuous collaboration on “learn-cations” and social innovation programs since 2024 Kyung Hee University joined forces with Jeju National University, Jeju Special Self-Governing Province, and the Kyung Hee Jeju Alumni Association to clean up the beaches of Jeju. On May 29, Kyung Hee hosted the "2026 Learn-cation Project: Jeju Beach Cleanup" in the Ojo-ri area of Seongsan-eup, Seogwipo-si. Following last year's cleanup near Songaksan Mountain in Daejeong-eup, Seogwipo-si, this environmental campaign brought universities, local government, and alumni networks together in Jeju. The Jeju Beach Cleanup is a community cooperation project initiated under the "Learn-cation Activation and Exchange Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding" signed in November 2024 by Kyung Hee University, Jeju Special Self-Governing Province, and Jeju National University. Since the agreement, Kyung Hee Humanitas College has operated the "Social Innovation Semester" program in Jeju, conducting various initiatives on local business district revitalization, tourism promotion, village branding, and creative space design. The inaugural Jeju beach plogging event took place in 2025 near Songaksan Mountain in conjunction with the carbon-neutral campaigns marking Earth Day. The cleanup campaign gathered around 60 participants, including Kyung Hee University President Jinsang Kim, Jeju National University President Duk-Soon Yang, Jeju Special Self-Governing Province Youth Policy Director Hee-Sook Yoo, Humanitas College Social Innovation Semester Professor Dae-Sik Woo and his students, Jeju National University students, the Jeju Alumni Association, and local residents of Ojo-ri. Participants gathered at the Ojo-ri Community Hall and split into two teams to carry out environmental cleanups. Students from the Humanitas College Social Innovation Semester program and Jeju National University participated in the environmental cleanup activities In his welcoming remarks, President Jinsang Kim encouraged the students, saying: "The role of a university is to establish a foundation where students can realize their potential through education and give back to society. The students gathered here are already practicing both. The process in which students connect their academic learning to real-world regional challenges and seek solutions carries vital significance for social innovation education." Jeju National University President Duk-Soon Yang, a proud Kyung Hee alumnus (Department of Public Administration, Class of '84) who took office in March 2026, shared: "Recalling my college days, Kyung Hee has always been an institution that strives for peace. Jeju Island is also an island of peace, shaped by its painful history in modern times. I believe Kyung Hee University, Jeju Special Self-Governing Province, and Jeju National University share 'peace' as a common keyword. I hope today's event serves as a catalyst for active exchanges between students of Kyung Hee and Jeju National University." Ki-Bong Ko, a resident of Ojo-ri, remarked: "Ojo-ri has been designated as a representative carbon-neutral model village in Jeju, thanks to the community's dedication to cultivating a clean and beautiful environment. While gathering today to pick up trash is important, I hope you take in our village's beautiful scenery and environment, appreciate the residents' efforts to preserve it, and remember it for a long time. I believe those memories will serve as a driving force to pass on a cleaner environment to future generations." The alumni diver team, led by alumnus Chul-Sang Hwang (Department of Physical Education, Class of '92; Professor at Jeju International University) from the Jeju Alumni Association, conducted underwater cleanup operations.
2026.07.13 -
Academics
Professor Jong-Do Park on Helping Students Graduate Without Hating Mathematics
Professor Jong-Do Park found the meaning of his Fellow selection in the enabling environment of his department which “strives to teach well.” He believes that all the faculty members continuously pursue the development of their students, and this selection is the result of representing those accumulated efforts. He stated, "I am grateful that the selection committee seems to have recognized the educational practices of the entire Department of Mathematics." Composing Lectures to Understand the Flow of Mathematics as an Academic Field Professor Park views major mathematics as a flow of academic study accumulated over a long period. Most of the content learned during the semester is the result of refinement for over more than a century. He believes that students should understand the connections and developments rather than memorizing individual concepts. Therefore, he emphasizes “academic connectivity” in every lecture. In the first class of a lecture, he explains the big picture of his course by organically binding the content to be learned during the semester. While the lecture progresses, he points out where they are now, what important and difficult concepts they will face soon, and what they need to prepare to understand them. This is out of his desire for students to not just accept organized results, but to follow the flow of thought of mathematicians like Gauss or Euler and see under what problem awareness they created new concepts and methods. Lectures Enabling Students to Actively Intervene as 'Protagonists' What Professor Park considers most important in class is that students do not remain “spectators” of the lecture but actively intervene to become “protagonists.” He believes that the classical method of explaining while writing on the blackboard with students directly taking notes and reviewing, is still the most effective. This is because students can only truly internalize the content when they follow definitions, theorems, and proof processes with their own hands, rather than just listening. However, he felt that the teaching methods must also change in accordance with the reality that students' learning styles and academic capacities have diversified. The turning point was the pandemic period. Prior to the pandemic, lectures centered on writing on the board and providing PDF materials afterward, but students accustomed to online classes showed different patterns after returning to face-to-face classes. Professor Park said, "Seeing students struggle with face-to-face classes, I felt the need to prepare online learning resources separately from offline lectures." In line with these changes, Professor Park began composing all lectures in PPT form and recording the lecture content in advance to provide them as videos for preparation and review. The “Kyung Hee Math” YouTube channel (see related link)is also a pillar of class expansion. However, he does not provide completed materials as a whole to students. Prior to the lecture, he provides a fill-in-the-blank document containing only the overall structure, and makes students write in important definitions, theorems, proofs, and calculations during the class. This means that students must think and record on their own while following the flow of the class. The fact that it is difficult to satisfy all students of various levels within limited lecture times also became the background for video production. Professor Park supplemented content that could not be covered in class with videos, allowing students to selectively utilize them according to their levels and needs. This was based on the judgment that easier explanations could help students with insufficient foundations, while expanded content could benefit those who wish to delve deeper. This approach led to actual changes in learning attitudes. An increasing number of students utilized the video materials, which were expected to be used for review, for preparation instead, and asked questions on points they were curious about during class. He stated, "When I see students continuing their math studies even during vacations or military leave, I feel rewarded as an educator." The innovation of the digital environment at the university level was also helpful. Professor Park utilizes “ChatKHU,” a generative AI provided on campus, in his classes. He also conducted a class comparing the methods of his students with the methods used by AI. Even if the AI reached the same conclusion, it sometimes showed more complex solution processes or new approaches. This is also an example where the university-wide learning environment opened a new perspective for students to critically review their own mathematical solving processes. Turning Assessment into Learning A good assessment in Professor Park's view is not simply a procedure for grading. He states, "It must be a process through which students confirm their deficiencies through exams and can start learning anew." For this purpose, he discloses solutions, grading criteria, and averages for each question after mid-term exams. Students gain the strength to follow subsequent classes through the process of writing incorrect-answer notes and organizing them again. The fairness of assessments is also a principle he values importantly. There are past exam questions commonly referred to as jokbo (exam genealogy), and he believed that students obtaining these past papers caused inequality in learning. Professor Park distributes recent past exam questions and solutions in advance before exams. After the exams, he provides opportunities to read the exam papers. This time is not simply for checking grades. It allows students to find where their logic was broken in their solutions and close the semester by discussing the solution processes with the professor. Professor Park's assessment of college mathematics is a method that examines the correct answer and the entire solution process. Even if the answer is correct, points can be deducted if the intermediate process is insufficient; conversely, even if the final answer is incorrect, points can be received if the core process is correct. He states, "This method of assessment fosters students' abilities to advance their thought processes without giving up." He emphasizes incorrect-answer notes for the same reason, since it is difficult to follow subsequent content while leaving previous content insufficiently understood. In math exams, some students give up halfway. However, in the midterm exam of the first semester of academic year 2026, all 45 students who took the exam solved it in its entirety. It was a rare case, to the point that the teaching assistant said it was the first time seeing it, and Professor Park picked it as the most rewarding experience in recent years. Exams Solved Alone, Growth Built Together There are also educational practices that continue outside the classroom. Since 2017, Professor Park has led a group of students preparing for the university student mathematics competition. It began when he felt, during counseling with students dreaming of entering graduate school or wishing to tackle more difficult problems, that a higher goal was needed where they could compete with outstanding students nationwide. The group solves and discusses problems every week. Students present their assigned questions and become facilitators to find solutions. Professor Park tells students, "Do not hide what you do not know." It is natural not to know the answer for everything and true discussions can begin only when students have questions. Going through this process, students grasp each other's strengths and weaknesses and grow together. As a result, since 2017, more than 10 students have won a total of 20 awards in the Korean Mathematical Society’s University Mathematics Competition, and in 2024, this group produced a gold prize winner, given to the top 5%, for the first time. Professor Park reminds students, "Exams are always an 'individual event' for students, but the process of discussing together and helping each other is a 'team event.'" This is because the experience of discussing the same goal and sharing the joy of problem-solving is more important than winning awards. As a result, the Kyung Hee delegation won the Outstanding Club Award, newly established in 2024, for two consecutive years. Loving Mathematics to the Very End Professor Park often delivers the same words to first-year students: "You probably came to the Department of Mathematics because you liked math, and I hope you still love math at the moment of graduation." Mathematics is not simply a skill for solving calculation problems but a discipline for learning logical ways of thinking. While attempting to understand the process of proving important problems from new definitions, students develop the strength to overcome any obstacle. He points to learning experiences accustomed to “finding answers quickly” as one of the reasons students become afraid of math. College mathematics is not study for quickly finding established answers, but is a process of understanding why such theories were made and through what trials and errors they reached their current form. Therefore, rather than all students aiming for perfect grades, he recommends that each student set a goal of what they want to learn in his course and follow it through to the end. He wants to teach students the value of utilizing math as a tool in each student’s individual journey. This strength remains even if career paths change. Students deeply captivated by the charm of math can enter graduate school to cultivate their dreams as scholars, and students heading to other fields such as finance and engineering can challenge new domains based on the cognitive power raised through math. Professor Park explained, "After graduation, math students advance into various paths such as actuarial science, banking, graduate schools of engineering and economics, and the field of education." Professor Park is also envisioning a “University Mathematics Competition Homecoming Day” connecting graduate students from the competition group with current undergraduate students. This is because he believes that the voices of those who walked the same path first can serve as realistic guides. Furthermore, he is planning to open lectures that gather and introduce mathematics used in the fields of economics or engineering. Professor Park stated, "In the future, I will continue to help students not to fear math and to discover the vast possibilities of math within their respective career paths." The university student mathematics competition club “Math Love” received the “Outstanding Club Award” from the Korean Mathematical Society in 2024.
2026.07.13 -
Global Eminence
Construction Begins on New Engineering Building Annex
Long-awaited construction project scheduled for completion in December 2027 Embodying a new educational paradigm rooted in innovation, synergy, and open spaces Kyung Hee University is officially breaking ground on its new Engineering Building Annex. This milestone comes just a year after the university hosted a kickoff event for the construction of this new annex in May 2025. Spanning a floor area of more than 4,000 square meters across three stories above ground, the annex will be situated in front of the current College of Engineering building. Construction is scheduled to commence in July 2026 toward a target completion date of December 2027. A Hub for Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Leading Research as a Robot-Friendly FacilityThe Engineering Building Annex was designed by Professor Dongil Kim of the Department of Architecture around the core keywords of “synergy” and “open spaces” to reflect the paradigm shifts in future education. The building will feature an innovation lounge designed to spark spontaneous interactions among community members, alongside open-concept laboratory spaces that transcend traditional departmental boundaries. The interior layout is set to house modern classrooms, faculty research offices, advanced labs, and student lounges. Outside, the exterior grounds will feature a central courtyard inspired by the architecture of Jongmyo Shrine, offering a serene environment for students to freely gather and converse. The annex was designed to honor the history and tradition of the main Engineering Building, ensuring seamless architectural harmony between the two structures. Beyond its role as an academic facility, the annex will double as a massive, real-world testing ground. It will serve as the live demonstration site for the “Smart+ Building Core Technology Development” project led by Professor Kyung Eun Hwang of the Department of Architecture, embodying the cutting edge of robot-friendly architectural design. The building will also house a tentative Tech Center, where eight different types of operational robots will provide daily services to students and staff while positioning the university at the forefront of pioneering research in autonomous building technologies. The successful completion of this landmark project calls for the shared enthusiasm and support of the entire university community. Click here to support the College of Engineering Annex Construction Fund. Powered by the Community: A Vision for the Global Top 100 As a long-awaited initiative and a cornerstone of the Global Campus’s future roadmap, the Engineering Building Annex project has inspired a wave of generous contributions from community members who resonate deeply with its mission. A significant portion of the construction costs was successfully secured through this unified support. Moving forward, the College of Engineering plans to leverage the construction of the new annex and the upcoming improvement of the Reactor Research & Education Center as a catalyst to foster a vibrant, widespread culture of giving among alumni, faculty, and students alike. In tandem with the start of construction, the College of Engineering officially proclaimed its ambitious new vision: To rank 3rd among domestic private comprehensive universities and break into the top 100 research-centric engineering colleges globally by 2030. To turn this blueprint into reality, the college has designated strategic areas for intensive growth and established a comprehensive, long-term development roadmap. Guided by this strategy, the institution will aggressively roll out targeted initiatives across key performance indicators, including pioneering research, future-ready education, student career advancement, campus satisfaction, and global institutional reputation.
2026.06.22