"A Leap Toward the Next 100 Years" ... Kyungnam University Holds 80th Anniversary Ceremony

Leading Regional Innovation with Achievements in Physical AI, Large-Scale Manufacturing AI, and RISE
Sharing the Vision of a University at the Forefront of Local Transformation

Kyungnam University held its 80th anniversary ceremony and declared a strong leap forward as a "University for the Next 100 Years," connecting the region and the world on the proud foundation of its 80-year history.

On the afternoon of May 20, at 3 p.m., Kyungnam University held the "80th Anniversary Ceremony" in the main building’s fourth-floor conference hall.

Paik Jae-gyu, President of Kyungnam University, is delivering a commemorative speech at the 80th anniversary ceremony of the university. [Photo by Kyungnam University]

This commemorative ceremony was organized to reflect on the educational and developmental journey Kyungnam University has taken since its founding, and to share a new university vision—centered on education, research, industry-academia cooperation, and international exchange—with all members of the university community.

The event was attended by President Park Jae-gyu, members of the university, alumni, local community leaders, and domestic and international guests, who gathered to celebrate the significance of the 80th anniversary. Notably, world-renowned American author and Kyungnam University honorary doctorate recipient, Professor Jack Marenai, and Mrs. Dusita Marenai, along with other overseas guests, were present, further highlighting the university’s stature as a hub for international exchange.

Since liberation, Kyungnam University has grown as a leading private educational institution, laying the foundation for higher education in the region. Over the past 80 years, the university has upheld the core values of education, nurturing talents needed by each era. To date, it has produced 160,000 alumni who are active in a wide range of fields, including education, administration, industry, culture, media, and the public sector, solidifying its position as a cradle for talent across society.

Marking its 80th anniversary this year, the university has also achieved remarkable results in advanced industry and regional innovation. Kyungnam University was selected as the leading institution for the government's next-generation Physical AI Core Technology Demonstration Project, specifically for the "PINN-based Manufacturing Convergence Data Collection and Demonstration Project," with a total budget of 32 billion won, positioning itself at the forefront of AI transformation in manufacturing.

In addition, the university is advancing research in manufacturing data-driven large-scale AI, digital twin technology, and smart factory sophistication, centered on the "Global Joint Research Center for Large-Scale Manufacturing AI." It is building cooperative frameworks with Seoul National University, the Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI), the Korea Electronics Technology Institute (KETI), the Korea Institute of Industrial Technology (KITECH), and global companies.

These achievements are especially meaningful as they directly relate to Gyeongnam’s core industries: machinery, defense, shipbuilding, and mobility. Kyungnam University is being recognized as an innovative university supporting the future competitiveness of the regional manufacturing sector, based on its practical research capabilities and talent development systems tailored to the needs of local industries.

Alongside this, the university is driving the co-growth of regional industries and academia through various national projects, including the Regional Innovation-led University Support System (RISE). It also plays a key role in encouraging young talent to stay in the region, nurturing industry-specific professionals, and building a robust industry-academia cooperation ecosystem.

During the ceremony, President Park Jae-gyu remarked, "Kyungnam University, which began in 1946 with the determination to brighten the future of the region and the nation, is now celebrating its 80th anniversary. I extend my deepest gratitude to every member of the Hanma family, our 160,000 alumni, and the local community for their unwavering support throughout our journey toward becoming a prestigious institution."

He continued, "Despite the changes and challenges of the times, our university has steadfastly pursued truth and innovation for the future with the unwavering Hanma spirit. Now, building on our proud history, we will further enhance education and research and make a vigorous leap as a 'University for the Next 100 Years' that connects the region and the world."

During the ceremony, awards were presented to those who have contributed to the university’s development, including long-service awards and the President’s Special Merit Award. The long-service award was given to 26 individuals, including Jeong Eunsang, Dean of the College of Creative Convergence. The President’s Special Merit Award was presented to Professor Jo Miwon of the Department of English Education.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.