Academics
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Research
Kyung Hee Appoints NASA Senior Scientist Dr. Fathi Karouia as Research Professor
Dr. Fathi Karouia of NASA joins the Institute for Future Space Exploration as an academic research professor. Senior Scientist in Space Biology, Overseeing Research and Experiments on the International Space Station (ISS) Elevating Korea’s Space Medicine and Space Life Sciences to the Next Level at the Institute for Future Space Exploration The Institute of Future Space Exploration has appointed Dr. Fathi Karouia from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) as an academic research professor. A leading authority in the fields of space medicine and space life sciences, Dr. Karouia has spent over 25 years at NASA, accumulating unrivaled practical experience and expertise in areas including space medicine, space life sciences, astrobiology, planetary protection, astronaut health, and life science research aboard the ISS. Dr. Karouia plans to conduct his research in space medicine and space life sciences while holding concurrent positions at both NASA and the Institute for Future Space Exploration. Tackling Key Challenges in Space Exploration Dr. Karouia served as the Portfolio Lead Scientist for Space Biology at NASA, overseeing research and experiments conducted on the International Space Station (ISS). He also serves as the co-chair of the Advancements in Astrobiology and Space Exploration Development Committee and the Space Manufacturing and Production Applications Committee at the International Astronautical Federation (IAF), contributing to priority-setting for space exploration and the emerging space bioeconomy. In 2025, Kyung Hee University was selected for the “University Basic Research Institute Support Project (G-LAMP)” and subsequently established the Institute for Future Space Exploration as a core thematic research center. The institute conducts pioneering research focused on three major pillars: core space exploration technology, space AI, and basic space medicine. With Dr. Karouia’s arrival, the institute will take on the primary challenges humanity faces in the process of exploring space. Furthermore, Dr. Karouia is expected to continue joint research with Dr. Man Seok Kim of the School of Medicine, who is the first Korean to participate in the “NASA GeneLab Working Group.” Dr. Karouia and Professor Kim have been conducting collaborative research for several years to advance space medicine. Dr. Karouia states, “I will work to build strong cooperative relationships with Kyung Hee’s outstanding scientists and Korea’s space ecosystem, including the Korea AeroSpace Administration (KASA), and further contribute to fostering the next generation of innovators in the fields of space medicine and space life sciences.” Professor Kim explained, “Our goal is to solve the critical issues encountered in human space exploration while creating biomedical innovations that benefit humanity on Earth.”
2026.04.27 -
Research
Development of High-Performance Superconductors with Hydrogen Storage Capabilities
Professor Jong-Soo Rhyee’s research team in the Department of Applied Physics has developed an ultra-high-strength metal superconductor that simultaneously integrates hydrogen storage capabilities and superconducting properties. Ensuring High Mechanical Strength and Durability Convergence of Hydrogen-Based Energy Systems and Superconducting Technology Professor Jong-Soo Rhyee’s research team in the Department of Applied Physics (Lead authors: Dr. Rahmatul Hidayati and Research Professor Jin Hee Kim) has developed an ultra-high-strength metal superconductor that simultaneously integrates hydrogen storage capabilities and superconducting properties. This achievement, which presents a next-generation superconducting material technology tailored for the hydrogen economy era, was published in the international materials science journal Advanced Functional Materials (Impact Factor 19.0). Superconductors are materials with zero electrical resistance. Once a current begins to flow, it continues indefinitely, making the superconductor a “dream material” capable of storing electrical energy in the form of magnetic fields. Due to these unique properties, superconductors are utilized as core materials across the future energy, medical, and transportation industries—ranging from lossless power transmission and superconducting magnets to Superconducting Magnetic Energy Storage (SMES), maglev trains, MRIs, and nuclear fusion devices. However, existing metal-based superconductors face limitations in expanding their applications due to the challenges of maintaining cryogenic environments and concerns over material durability. To overcome these limitations, Professor Rhyee’s team developed a new metal superconductor by applying the concept of high-entropy alloys (HEAs). High-entropy alloys consist of multiple metallic elements mixed uniformly, resulting in a structure that is both simple and exceptionally strong. The newly developed material demonstrated approximately six times the strength of standard stainless steel and proved highly resistant to corrosion or fracture, even in hydrogen-rich environments. Figure Description: Crystal structure of high-entropy alloys and a conceptual diagram of hydrogen-storing high-entropy alloy superconductivity. The most significant feature of this research is the integration of a new role—hydrogen storage—into superconducting functionality. The newly developed superconductor can store hydrogen at a level of approximately 3.8 wt% relative to its mass. This represents the world’s highest value for a metal hydrogen-storage material, excluding hydrides. While common metals typically suffer from structural weakening upon absorbing hydrogen, this material demonstrates high technical maturity by enabling hydrogen storage while maintaining both mechanical strength and hydrogen embrittlement resistance (the property of not corroding or weakening in a hydrogen-rich atmosphere). The material’s superconducting properties have also been enhanced. Its superconducting critical current—the maximum current a superconductor can carry—reaches an exceptionally high value of approximately 300kA/cm². Based on these multifunctional characteristics—high strength, hydrogen resistance, and high critical current—this superconductor is expected to have a direct impact on next-generation superconducting energy storage systems, superconducting magnets, and hydrogen-based energy infrastructure. Professor Rhyee remarked, “By combining the energy transfer capabilities of superconductors with hydrogen storage and refrigerant functions, we have presented the potential for a new superconducting material tailored for the hydrogen economy era.” He added, “We expect this to expand into various applications where hydrogen-based energy systems and superconducting technology converge.” This research was supported by the Alchemist Project of the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy. The research team plans to work toward integrating the developed superconductor with hydrogen-based energy systems.
2026.04.27 -
Academics
Kyung Hee University Inaugurates Pangyo VI Campus
Offering diverse support programs to ensure the successful growth of resident companiesA new industry-academic cooperation platform where university research, education, and industrial sites meet The opening ceremony for the Kyung Hee Pangyo VI (Venture Incubating) Campus was held on Thursday, March 19. This campus is a networking space for startup support and regional innovation, established through a partnership between Kyung Hee University and SoulBrain, a company specializing in semiconductors. The ceremony was attended by key figures including President Jinsang Kim; Eun Yeol Lee Provost (Global) and Director of the RISE Project Group; Een-Kee Hong, Head of the University-Industry Cooperation Team and Dean of Research; Young-Soo Park, CEO of SoulBrain; and Weon-kyung Kim, CEO of the Gyeonggi Center for Creative Economy & Innovation. Participants gathered for the opening ceremony of the Kyung Hee Pangyo VI Campus. The campus serves as a new industry-academic cooperation platform where university research, education, and industry converge. “A Stepping Stone for Future Industry Talent and Technological Innovation” Located within the SoulBrain headquarters in Pangyo 2nd Techno Valley, the Kyung Hee Pangyo VI Campus is set to establish itself as a hub for the regional economy by encouraging startups among university members and local residents. With support from the Gyeonggi RISE (Regional Innovation System & Education) project, Kyung Hee has developed its own specialized startup support ecosystem. Building on this foundation, the university will select resident companies—primarily those designated as “G7” (Gyeonggi Province Focused Growth Startups)—and operate a variety of support programs to ensure their successful growth. Together with Kyung Hee, SoulBrain plans to pursue joint industry-academic research projects and invigorate technology-based entrepreneurship. In particular, both institutions look forward to fostering a startup ecosystem in fields where they share significant strengths, such as advanced materials, semiconductors, and AI. President Jinsang Kim remarked, “The convergence of university and industry capabilities will serve as a stepping stone for innovation in future industries.” At the opening ceremony, President Kim proclaimed the vision for the Kyung Hee Pangyo VI Campus, noting, “Advancements in science and technology are transforming human society at an unprecedented pace. In this period of ‘Great Transformation,’ Kyung Hee is striving to develop its own unique innovation model.” He emphasized the campus as a key part of this innovation “where university research, education, and the industrial field converge to create a new value for the future.” He added, “By combining the strengths of the university and the industrial sector, this campus will serve as a stepping stone for cultivating talent and driving technological breakthroughs in future industries like AI and semiconductors, positioning itself at the very center of change and innovation.” In his congratulatory remarks, Park, CEO of SoulBrain stated, “As the pace of technological innovation accelerates, the importance of securing top-tier talent and research collaboration is greater than ever. Now that Kyung Hee University’s research prowess has met the innovation ecosystem of Pangyo, I hope this campus becomes a central hub for future industrial sectors.” Kim, CEO of the Gyeonggi Center for Creative Economy & Innovation added, “I hope this space allows startups, corporations, researchers, and students to connect and grow together, serving as the starting point for leading South Korea’s future industrial competitiveness.”
2026.04.20 -
Global Eminence
Establishing a Data-Driven Decision-Making System
Kyung Hee unveiled the “K-DX Bidg Data Analysis System”—an integrated platform that consolidates education, research, and administration data to support systematic data-driven decision-making. Official Launch of the K-DX Big Data Analysis System Establishment of 143 Data Marts (DM) across faculty, research, and administration Support for customized decision-making by administrative units and comparative analysis of university indicators Kyung Hee recently unveiled the “K-DX Big Data Analysis System” (hereafter “K-DX System”) to the university community. Designed to unify fragmented data across education, research, and administration, the system facilitates a shift from intuition-based operations toward a data-driven, “smart” decision-making framework. This initiative aims to elevate traditional Management Information Systems (MIS) to the level of sophisticated Executive Information Systems (EIS) and Decision Support Systems (DSS). A defining feature of the K-DX System is the establishment of 143 specialized Data Marts (DM), which aggregate critical institutional data spanning faculty affairs, academics, industry-academic cooperation, and research. This structure provides top-level management, including the President and Vice Presidents, with the insights needed for macro-strategic planning, while offering deans and department heads precise support for thematic, working-level decision-making. ‘The K-DX Big Data Analysis System offers visualized data to support administrative assessments and foster informed strategic decisions across the university. Visualizing Public Disclosure Data for Immediate Assessments of Competitiveness The system’s key functions include: · Visualized reports on core university indicators (students/education, research performance, finance, internationalization, etc.). · External competitiveness analysis benchmarking against rival institutions based on official university disclosures. · Comprehensive monitoring of full-time faculty research performance (domestic/international papers, FWCI, JCR quartiles, etc.). A standout feature is the visualization of 20 major university disclosure items, including employment rates, student-to-faculty ratios, and research grant performance. By providing objective comparisons with other universities, the system allows for an immediate diagnosis of competitiveness at both the department and university levels. The K-DX System is available to all Kyung Hee faculty and staff. For ease of access, it is integrated with existing university portal accounts. To ensure robust data security, the system is designed in strict compliance with institutional document security guidelines, requiring users to state their purpose of use whenever downloading files. Hail Park, Head of the Center for Strategic Planning, stated, “The K-DX Big Data Analysis System is the cornerstone of our Digital Transformation (DX) infrastructure, aimed at maximizing Kyung Hee’s core drivers through objective metrics. We plan to expand the data marts related to key performances and gradually roll out additional analysis reports through continuous system maintenance and upgrades.”
2026.04.20 -
Global Eminence
Kyung Hee Officially Launches Generative AI Platform “ChatKHU”
“ChatKHU” is a generative AI platform designed to enhance the AI competencies of the Kyung Hee community Latest LLM Models Available to All Kyung Hee Members From Test to Images and Videos “Further Accelerating the University’s Digital Transformation” Kyung Hee has officially launched ChatKHU, a generative AI platform designed to strengthen the AI competencies of the university community. ChatKHU is a dedicated university platform that provides integrated access to various cutting-edge LLM models from global AI leaders such as OpenAI, Google, and Anthropic. All members of the Kyung Hee community can now leverage text generation, image and video creation models, and data analysis functions within a single, unified environment. Reducing Repetitive Tasks with Custom Document-based Chatbots The program is organized into three main areas: “Studio,” where users can build chatbots without coding; “Store,” for sharing useful chatbots; and “Chat,” for interacting with the latest LLM models and custom bots. By utilizing Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) technology, even non-developers can easily create their own chatbots. This allows for the creation of bots based on internal university documents—such as administrative manuals, regulations, and lecture materials—to streamline repetitive administrative tasks and support both teaching and learning. To facilitate AI adoption, university members are provided with a standard amount of monthly usage credits. Users can access various AI models and features within this credit limit, with the option to purchase additional credits if they exceed the limit. Additionally, free LLM models are available to ensure that basic AI utilization remains unrestricted. This system allows users to strategically allocate their credits for specific needs, such as high-performance language models or specialized image and video generation tools. Starting with the rollout of ChatKHU, Kyung Hee University is planning a variety of programs to bolster the AI competencies of its community members. Minimizing Data Leakage Concerns and Strengthening AI Competency The university has established the “ChatKHU Ethics and Usage Guidelines” to ensure the responsible use of generative AI. These guidelines encompass five core principles: Human-Centricity, Accountability, Fairness & Transparency, Safety & Security, and Academic Value & Public Interest. These principles clearly define the scope of AI application while setting standards for responsible use, specifically instructing members to avoid inputting confidential or sensitive internal data. Furthermore, the system is designed to protect personal information and research data by storing all data on a private cloud allocated to the university. This architecture minimizes concerns regarding data leakage often associated with public generative AI and establishes a secure foundation for AI utilization tailored to the university environment. Moving forward, Kyung Hee plans to build an environment where its community members can use generative AI safely and efficiently, expanding its application across education, research, and administration. Various programs, including special lectures by AI experts and competitions, are in development to further enhance the AI literacy of the university community. Sung-Won Lee, Director of the DX (Digital Transformation) Promotion Team, stated: “ChatKHU is an integrated platform designed to allow our members to utilize the latest AI technologies both safely and effectively. By expanding AI use across all sectors—education, research, and administration—we will further accelerate the university’s digital transformation.”
2026.04.13 -
Research
Young Researchers Thrive in an Autonomous Research Environment
“An opportunity to reflect on research directions and commit to new responsibilities.” Yu-seop Kim (PhD Candidate, Mechanical Engineering) For Yu-seop Kim, being selected for this scholarship serves as a powerful validation that his past efforts were not in vain. After completing his Master’s degree, he transitioned into the doctoral program, where he plans to significantly deepen and evolve his current research. Building on a foundation of fundamental mechanical engineering theory and design expertise, Kim developed a keen interest in energy harvesting—the technology of converting ambient energy, such as movement or vibration, into electricity. While personally fabricating and verifying power-generation devices during his Master’s studies, he discovered the potential to expand this technology into “self-powered sensors” that operate without the need for external power sources. Recently, his work has focused on developing sensors that can harvest energy from even the slightest movements to operate independently. Finding Answers in Biological Sensory Structures Inspired by biological sensory organs, Yu-seop Kim is developing high-sensitivity triboelectric sensors that generate their own electricity without an external power source. Because triboelectric sensors generate signals through the charge produced when two materials contact and separate, they typically struggle to detect “static pressure”—force that is applied and held still. To overcome this, Kim introduced an “Origami Kresling” structure, which converts static pressure into internal rotational motion. This allows the sensor to output a continuous signal by generating minute internal movements even when a static force is applied. Having already produced a prototype, he is currently optimizing performance based on various structural and material variables. Furthermore, Kim is developing a multimodal sensor that mimics the cupula structure found in the lateral lines of fish and the human vestibular system. This sensor can simultaneously detect pressure, shear force, and contact location. By utilizing a flexible dome-shaped structure and an air-gap design, the sensor generates distinct signal patterns based on the direction and location of a stimulus. This technology holds great promise for applications in electronic skin and robotic tactile systems. To ensure the precision of these sensors, Kim is also developing a manufacturing process for the precise machining of polymer materials in the “Meso-scale While Zone”—a middle-ground scale where fabrication standards have yet to be fully established. His ultimate goal is to secure manufacturing efficiency by achieving precise control within this challenging scale. Embracing New Challenges with Confidence Yu-seop Kim officially entered the doctoral program this semester. “A year ago, I saw a senior in our laboratory receive the Presidential Science Scholarship, and that inspired me to follow in their footsteps,” he shared. He advised juniors interested in academia that many scholarship programs exist to support graduate students. Kim noted that since the journey toward a PhD is not short, actively utilizing such institutional support can provide the courage needed to pursue ambitious research. Kim also shared his personal resolve: “Being selected for this scholarship has motivated me to pursue my doctoral studies with an even greater sense of responsibilities.” His future goal is to build an energy-autonomous platform that integrates power generation devices with sensors. Furthermore, he aims to secure mass-production process technologies to advance his research findings all the way to the commercialization stage. “Achieving the Presidential Science Scholarship through a culture of autonomous research.” Donghan Lee (PhD Candidate, Mechanical Engineering) Citing the laboratory’s atmosphere of respecting autonomous research as his primary driver for growth, Donghan Lee added, “The time we spent sharing research ideas became a vital catalyst for broadening my intellectual horizons.” Driven by a fascination with the interaction between the motion of objects and force, Donghan Lee chose to major in mechanical engineering. While studying traditional mechanics, he noted that static charges could influence both physical and biological systems even without an external power source. He discovered that electrostatic technology could generate substantial value when converged with other fields, moving beyond conventional mechanical design. His research subsequently expanded into the development of electret technology—encompassing the generation, storage, and application of static charges—and its convergence with the biological sciences. Expanding into the Generation, Storage, and Convergence of Static Charge Lee’s research is structured around two major pillars: the storage and application of static charge and the generation and utilization of static charge. Currently, he is focused on developing electrets capable of maintaining a semi-permanent electrostatic field without an external power source. While electrets have vast applications in microphones, dust filters, and energy harvesting devices, research has often remained in its early stages due to limitations in charge stability. To address this, Lee has established a high-quality electret manufacturing process that integrates charge injection, material processing, and packaging technologies to ensure the stable retention of large charge volumes. Furthermore, he utilizes a 3D potential measurement system and a Thermally Stimulated Discharge Current (TSDC) system to quantitatively analyze the electrical characteristics of these electrets, allowing for a precise evaluation of charge distribution and stability within the materials. Lee’s research also extends into the biological sciences. Previously, applying a continuous electrostatic field to cells was limited by the need for bulky, kilovolt-level high-voltage equipment. By utilizing electrets, Lee is conducting convergence research on cell culture, scar suppression, and the regulation of cell proliferation and differentiation. To date, he has participated in six collaborative studies to identify the effects of electrostatic fields at the cellular level. Additionally, Lee is conducting research on static charge generation using Triboelectric Nanogenerators (TENGs). By analyzing the characteristics of input energy, he seeks designs that can efficiently harvest energy even in irregular environments, reaching significant milestones after extensive trial and error. Toward the Social Application of Electrostatic Technology “This scholarship allowed me to validate the value of the research I have dedicated five years to, and it feels as though my past efforts have been truly recognized,” said Donghan Lee, sharing his reflections on being selected for the award. Set to graduate from his doctoral program this summer, Lee has sustained his research through various institutional support systems. The combination of publication-based scholarships, teaching assistantships, and laboratory stipends—now supplemented by the Presidential Science Scholarship—has allowed him to immerse himself fully in his academic pursuits. Building on these experiences, Lee aspires to grow into a convergence researcher who bridges the gap between electrostatic application technology and tangible social value. Recognizing the immense potential of electret technology, he plans to expand his focus toward the practical application stage. He intends to enhance technical maturity by developing materials with high charge stability and biocompatibility, while expanding collaborative research across diverse sectors, including electrical and electronic engineering, biotechnology, and environmental engineering. Furthermore, he is exploring ways to make a direct impact on society through technology transfers or entrepreneurship. An autonomous research environment empowers students to take initiative in their investigations and cultivate creative ideas, serving as the bedrock for meaningful research outcomes. This culture of excellence is clearly reflected in the laboratory’s recent achievements. Professor Dongwhi Choi’s lab has now produced a total of three Presidential Science Scholars over the past two years.
2026.04.13 -
Research
Dean Seong-Gyu Ko’s Team at the College of Korean Medicine Publishes in Top Nature Portfolio Journal
A schematic diagram illustrating how the GPR54-DDC signaling axis regulates the growth, survival, and metabolic reprogramming of non-small cell lung cancer cells. The paper, titled “GPR54 regulates non-small cell lung cancer development via dopa decarboxylase,” was co-authored by Dr. Hyun-Ha Hwang and Dr. Seo Yeon Lee as co-first authors. Corresponding author Dean Seong-Gyu Ko remarked, “Publishing an original research paper in a top-tier journal is a first for Kyung Hee University’s College of Korean Medicine and a rare feat within the broader field of Korean medicine, making this achievement deeply meaningful.” This publication is particularly significant as it represents a flagship success for the Center for Herb-based Cancer Research. Dr. Hwang added, “When the acceptance was confirmed, it didn’t feel real at first. As the congratulations continue to pour in, I feel a great sense of responsibility alongside the joy.” Discovery of a “New Switch” for Lung Cancer Cell Growth Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for approximately 85% of all lung cancer cases. To improve treatment outcomes, it is crucial to understand the fundamental mechanisms driving cancer cell growth and survival. In this study, the research team focused on a receptor protein called GPR54. The results confirmed that GPR54 and DDC act together as a signaling axis that drives both the growth and metabolic reprogramming of NSCLC. Using a Kras mutation-induced mouse model of NSCLC, the team observed that removing the GPR54 gene led to a decrease in the number of tumors and the size of lesions, while increasing cancer cell death (apoptosis) and extending survival periods. This indicates that GPR54 plays a vital role in the growth of NSCLC. These findings suggest clinically significant potential for future applications. Furthermore, analysis of public data revealed higher levels of GPR54 in tumor tissues, with a trend of poorer survival rates in groups with high GPR54 mRNA expression. DDC levels were also elevated in tumors and were reported to be linked to survival indicators. Based on these findings, the team identified GPR54 and DDC as potential biomarkers for monitoring the status of NSCLC and as new therapeutic targets. Dean Ko remarked, “When starting treatment, lung cancer patients are primarily concerned with whether targeted therapies can be used. This study is significant because it presents a new mechanism that can be utilized regardless of a patient’s response to existing targeted therapies.” A core researcher who led this achievement through unwavering focus and perseverance.Hyun-Ha Hwang Dr. Hwang, who devoted himself day and night to this study for its publication, expressed deep gratitude to his advisor and lab members for their support in completing this research. From Target Discovery to Publication in Top-Tier JournalsThis achievement was not built overnight. According to Dean Ko, “Anticancer research based on herbal medicine, including SH003 (a complex formulation of Astragalus membranaceus, Angelica gigas, and Trichosanthes kirilowii), is a research pipeline that has been developed for over a decade.” While the team has historically accumulated research on breast and lung cancers, they are currently focusing their efforts on NSCLC. The motivation behind this specific study was a proactive goal: “Let’s directly identify the new targets and biomarkers through which our medications actually operate.” Rather than simply following established mechanisms, the team sought to discover original pathways where herbal-based research truly intersects with modern science. As a result, the team identified GPR54 as a novel target, which is closely linked to the SH003 anticancer substance research pipeline. “This paper is highly significant as it proposed a world-first pathway in the process of uncovering the principles behind how our developed medications work,” Dean Ko noted. The publication process was equally demanding. Confident in the quality of their work, the team aimed for a prestigious journal. When the initial review came back with a request for a “Major Revision,” the team saw it as a sign of potential and dedicated themselves entirely to the supplemental work. Dr. Hyun-Ha Hwang played the central role during this phase. The four months spent preparing the revision were a true test of endurance; Dr. Hwang immersed himself in data supplementation, often working through the night with an average of only two hours of sleep. “Dr. Hwang is a researcher with the tenacity to remain immersed in his work regardless of whether it is the weekend or the crack of dawn,” Dean Ko remarked, encouraging the team. “Even without a massive budget or a large research staff, we were able to achieve this result thanks to the visionary selection of a high-impact topic combined with the sheer persistence of our researchers.” Dean Seong-Gyu Ko: Securing scientific evidence for herbal medicine through convergence research and building public trust.Dean Seong-Gyu Ko Dean Ko emphasized the broader significance of this publication for the field, stating, “With the publication of this paper, we have proven that the College of Korean Medicine possesses the full capability to produce original research papers grounded in biology, biotechnology, and chemistry.” Expanding the Intersection of Korean Medicine and Biotechnology The Center for Herb-based Cancer Research focuses on verifying the efficacy of herbal medicines using the language of modern biomedical science and systematically securing evidence for their mechanisms. Dean Ko noted, “Many cancer patients use Korean traditional medicine (KTM) in conjunction with surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.” He added, however, that data sufficiently explaining the evidence and operational mechanisms of herbal medicine is still lacking. “The center’s goal is to create highly reliable evidence for herbal medicines and expand the potential for collaboration with conventional Western medicine, helping the public choose KTM treatments with confidence,” he explained. The research team plans to continue follow-up studies centered on NSCLC. They will broadly investigate whether the GPR54-DDC axis can be developed into a viable therapeutic target, its potential for combination therapy with existing anticancer or immunotherapeutic drugs, and whether herbal medicines can be linked to the alleviation of cancer cachexia—a condition that worsens the systemic state of cancer patients. In his closing remarks, Dean Ko offered words of encouragement to junior researchers and students: “I have come this far with the mindset of paving a single road in the wilderness. If I have laid one road, younger researchers will be able to widen it and eventually build a highway. I hope this achievement serves as a challenge to them, proving that ‘I can do it, too.” The research team’s goal is to establish the scientific evidence and mechanisms through which herbal medicine can improve the quality of life for cancer patients while creating synergy with targeted therapies and immunotherapy.
2026.04.06 -
Academics
Bringing Science Museums to Life with Immersive Media
Team “In-cureactive” won the Minister of Education Award at the WE-Meet Project Competition for developing XR-based educational content specifically designed for science museums. Immersive Media Team Wins Minister of Education Award in WE-Meet Project Creating Synergy Through Interdisciplinary Collaboration for XR Science Museum Exhibits The “In-cureactive” team—composed of Sungmin Yoon (Electronic Engineering, ’21), Kihyun Park (Digital Contents, ’21), Yeoni Seo (Theater and Film, ’23) and Sara Lee (Taekwondo, ’23)—has been awarded the Minister of Education Award at the WE-Meet Project Competition. This nationwide industry-academic event is co-hosted by the Ministry of Education and the National Research Foundation of Korea and serves as a flagship program for the College of Immersive Media Innovation Convergence, a part of the Convergence and Open Sharing System (COSS). The team developed “XR-based Education Content for Science Museums,” a competitive game where visitors create molecules by touching chemical symbols displayed on the walls. The content supports up to six simultaneous participants and features an adaptive interface that recognizes the height of the user’s touch, ensuring a seamless experience for both children and adults. By utilizing an XR CAVE (Cave Automatic Virtual Environment) system—which integrates the side walls, center screen, and floor—the project offers a fully immersive experience. This innovation effectively transforms static exhibition spaces into dynamic, multi-user edutainment hubs. Q. How does it feel to receive the Minister of Education Award? Sungmin Yoon (hereafter Yoon): We didn’t start this project with the specific goal of winning an award. Instead, we focused entirely on identifying user needs and pain points and then finding ways to solve them. Following that logical flow of problem-solving was a deeply rewarding experience, and I think that focus is what ultimately led to this great result. Kihyun Park (hereafter Park): This was my first time experiencing the full, sequential process of a project—from initial use research to problem definition and final design. Receiving this award is especially meaningful because it feels like a validation of that entire journey. Q. What was the core problem or insight that sparked this project? Yoon: Since the competition theme was XR-based content development, our discussions led us to focus on science museum exhibition systems. We noticed that while many museums are equipped with high-tech hardware like LiDAR sensors for large-scale displays, visitors often remain passive observers, simply looking at the screens. Sara Lee (hereafter Lee): To address this, we planned interactive content that leverages existing systems while maximizing educational impact. This led us to our final direction: a chemical bonding experience where visitors actively participate to grasp scientific concepts. Q. What specific problems did you uncover during the user research phase? Lee: We visited museums in person to conduct surveys and interviews. Through this process, we confirmed that long wait times for experiential content and displays that focused purely on visual effects resulted in low participation. Furthermore, because the primary users are children with varying heights, the existing systems often struggled to accurately recognize their interactions. Yeoni Seo (hereafter Seo): To solve these issues, we designed gamification content that allows users to learn educational material through gameplay. We put a lot of thought into an interface that even young children—our main target audience—could use easily. We also designed the experience to accommodate more participants within a set time limit to significantly reduce the wait times noted during our research. Q. What challenges did you face during the implementation phase? Yoon: Since it was everyone’s first time actually developing content using an XR CAVE system, there were definitely hurdles. We received assistance from partner companies for the initial display calibration and touch system setup, and then we built the actual content on top of that foundation. Park: We put a lot of thought into the UX (user experience) design so it would be accessible to all ages, from children to adults. We designed the interface so that element symbols would appear only near the area where a player touches the wall. This allowed interaction to happen naturally regardless of the user’s height. Lee: We focused on making the content as user-friendly as possible. This involved careful level design to ensure the game wasn’t too difficult. We also worked on the “world-building” aspects—creating a laboratory atmosphere with specific background music, sound effects, and props—to help users feel fully immersed in the experience. Seo: While the team members didn’t have extensive development experience and all came from different majors, that diversity actually created a greater synergy. We divided roles based on our individual interests and academic backgrounds. Sungmin Yoon handled content development, Kihyun Park managed UX design, Sara Lee took charge of planning, and I used my background in Theater and Film to develop the scenario and narrative. Though each team member pursued the Immersive Media Convergence major for different reasons, they divided their responsibilities to align with their individuals interests. Q. What sparked your interest in the Immersive Media Convergence major? Seo: I used to think that theater/film and immersive media were entirely separate fields. However, after taking Professor Tack Woo’s “Introduction to Computer Games” course, I realized there are deep connections between immersive media and cinematic visuals. This naturally led to an interest in XR and AI technologies, prompting me to choose this major. My goal is to combine my Theater and Film major with immersive media to create entirely new types of content. Lee: My interest in game planning grew through my activities in the game development club, “Ludens.” Seeing the process of a plan being transformed into actual content made me think more specifically about my career path. I applied for the Immersive Media Convergence major because it allows me to learn planning, development, and design all at once. Yoon: I’ve always believed that XR and VR are fields with immense future potential. As hardware and communication technologies rapidly evolve, I wanted to contribute to realizing truly immersive media that transcends current technical barriers, such as limited immersion and low interaction levels. Park: While studying UX design, I found it fascinating that there are no standardized user experience patterns in XR and AR environments yet. I wanted to take on the challenge of defining how users interact within these new technological landscapes. Q. What are your goals for the future? Seo: I want to grow into a convergence-oriented talent who understands planning, development, and design alike. My ultimate goal is to create entirely new forms of content by merging my theater and film background with immersive media. Park: I’ve realized how vital it is to have a broad understanding of technology, design, and even business strategy. I plan to study these fields abroad in the future to gain a wider range of international experience. Yoon: My goal is work in the R&D of VR and XR devices. I want to develop technologies that enable highly immersive interactions. Lee: Through this project, I’ve gained certainty in my goal of becoming a game planner. I want to create content that delivers fresh, innovative experiences to users all around the world. Q. Any words of advice for students considering the Immersive Media Convergence major? Park: The Convergence and Open Sharing System (COSS) offers an excellent curriculum and a diverse array of practical training content. Through project-centered classes, you can build your real-world content development capabilities. On top of that, there are various programs like credit exchanges with other universities and overseas training opportunities, so you can truly gain as much as you are willing to pursue.
2026.04.06 -
Research
From Sensors to Security on a Single 3D Semiconductor Chip
A research team led by Professor Seunghyun Lee (Department of Electronic Engineering) has developed a multifunctional monolithic 3D semiconductor chip that integrates data sensing, storage, and encryption into a single chip. Professor Seunghyun Lee (Department of Electronic Engineering) Develops a Next-Generation Hardware Platform Simultaneous Execution of Security and Computation with Improved Space Efficiency A research team led by Professor Seunghyun Lee of the Department of Electronic Engineering has developed a multifunctional monolithic 3D semiconductor chip that combines data sensing, storage, and encryption into a single chip. The research findings were published in February in Advanced Materials (Impact Factor: 26.8), a leading global journal in materials science. With the spread of AI and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, the amount of data needing to be processed is growing rapidly, making the limits of current computing systems very clear. In traditional designs, sending huge amounts of data from sensors to a central processor causes bottlenecks and uses a lot of power. There is also a major security risk, as information can be exposed while being moved. To solve these problems, neuromorphic architecture—which mimics the human brain and visual system to efficiently link sensing, storage, and computing—is becoming a popular alternative. As security threats grow in IoT environments, there is increasing interest in next-generation hardware that can protect data while also increasing energy efficiency. Ensuring Performance and Security with Quantum Dots and 3D Stacking Professor Lee’s research team developed this new semiconductor chip by applying monolithic 3D integration technology, which involves stacking Indium Gallium Zinc Oxide (IGZO)-based phototransistors directly on top of Vertical Resistive Random Access Memory (VRRAM). By introducing quantum dots into the semiconductor channels, the team significantly expanded the range of light the sensor can detect—stretching from ultraviolet (UV) and visible light to near-infrared (NIR) regions. Professor Lee emphasized, “We utilized the tiny, natural irregularities that occur when quantum dots and memory devices operate to create a security system. By using these irregular signals to generate an unclonable physical security key, we have built a powerful hardware-based security system.” When the top layer of the chip detects an image, the bottom memory layer processes the data immediately. During this process, the original data is never exposed to the outside. Instead, it is converted into a hash code that contains only the essential information, ensuring the data remains secure. Professor Seunghyun Lee and researchers Batyrbek Alimkhanuly, Minwoo Lee, Junseong Bae, and Jinsu Choi participated as co-authors of this study. Proving Competitiveness in 3D Integrated Semiconductor Technology The research team utilized 3D Ternary Content-Addressable Memory (TCAM) structure, which allows encrypted hash codes to be searched and matched instantly without needing to be decrypted first. This design achieved a ninefold improvement in space efficiency and more than six times increase in energy efficiency compared to traditional 2D devices. Notably, the system proved both its security and practicality by identifying data similarities with over 94% accuracy while the data remained encrypted. Professor Lee explained, “This suggests a way to utilize AI technology while protecting personal information, even in ‘edge’ environments where computing resources are limited.” Professor Lee, who serves on the national roadmap committee for 3D semiconductor integration, stated, “In the era of AI and IoT, hardware technology that satisfies both energy efficiency and security is a core comparative advantage. Through this research, we have internationally demonstrated Korea’s technical prowess in the fields of 3D integrated semiconductors and security hardware.” This study was supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF), the institute of Information & Communications Technology Planning & Evaluation (IITP), and the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE).
2026.03.23 -
Research
Enhancing Neuromorphic Device Reliability Through Simulation
Moongyu Choi (Department of Semiconductor Engineering) of Professor Seung Hwan Lee’s research team at the Department of Electronic Engineering received the Bronze Award at the Samsung Humantech Paper Awards. Professor Seung Hwan Lee’s Research Team Wins Bronze at the Samsung Humantech Paper Awards Contributing to the Performance of Next-Generation AI Semiconductors Moongyu Choi, a third-semester master’s student in the Department of Semiconductor Engineering and a member of Professor Seung Hwan Lee’s research team in the Department of Electronic Engineering, has won the Bronze Award at the Samsung Humantech Paper Awards. This award is a prestigious science competition for students both in Korea and abroad, aiming to discover talented individuals who will lead the development of science and technology in the 21st century. Students who win a Bronze Award or higher are granted special benefits when applying for positions at Samsung Group. Reducing Performance Variation Between Devices Choi conducted research aimed at enhancing the performance and reliability of neuromorphic devices. These devices are next-generation AI semiconductor technologies that process information by mimicking the neural network structure structure of the human brain, and they are currently drawing significant attention as a core technology for implementing next-generation AI hardware. Reflecting on his achievement, Choi shared, “I entered the competition at the recommendation of my advisor. Rather than focusing on winning, my goal was simply to complete the research in full, so I am very happy to have achieved such a great result. Since this competition is a challenge any graduate student can take on, I hope that many others feel encouraged to try.” Professor Lee praised his student’s dedication, noting, “I am very proud of Moongyu for taking responsibility and seeing this difficult research through to completion.” The study specifically focused on addressing the performance variation that occurs between individual components in neuromorphic systems. In practical applications, if the characteristics of each device are inconsistent, the overall system’s performance and reliability can suffer. Through simulation-based analysis, Choi analyzed the internal state changes of the devices and explored design strategies to minimize this dispersion. The research process was not without its hurdles. In the early stages, Choi struggled to establish a clear direction, which led to simulation results that didn’t align with expectations. “I faced difficulties in setting the research path but was able to develop the study by visiting my advisor two or three times a week for consistent feedback,” Choi explained. “By continuously analyzing previous research and investing a significant amount of time into simulations, I eventually achieved the desired results.” Mutual Growth Through Dialogue Reflecting on his mentorship approach, Professor Lee shared, “Rather than providing step-by-step instructions, I prefer to present a theme so that students can contemplate and find their own answers. I dedicated time to let the student explore research directions independently. Through our extensive discussions on those directions, we were able to grow together as teacher and student through this process of learning.” This research is expected to significantly contribute to the commercialization of AI semiconductors and neuromorphic systems. While neuromorphic devices are recognized for their high energy efficiency and strengths in parallel computing, ensuring reliability and performance stability remains a critical challenge for their use in industrial settings. “Neuromorphic technology is a research field with immense potential for growth,” said Choi. “If we continue to study various metrics such as dispersion issues and device lifespan, these technologies will be fully applicable in the industry setting in the future.” Looking ahead, Professor Lee’s research team plans to expand beyond individual devices to arrays and circuit systems, with the goal of implementing a complete AI semiconductor chip. “Our ultimate goal is to scale neuromorphic elements into large-scale arrays and integrate them with circuit systems to create a single AI chip,” Professor Lee explained. “This will lead to the development of AI devices that can operate effectively in edge environments.” Professor Seung Hwan Lee’s research team plans to expand beyond individual devices to arrays and circuit systems to create a single AI semiconductor chip.
2026.03.23