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Sierra Leone’s Minister of Higher and Technical Education and Ambassador to Korea Lead High-Level Delegation to YU Seeking Saemaul Studies Cooperation Practical Implementation Accelerates Following December MOU Between YU and the Government of Sierra Leone Agreements Signed with Two Public Universities to Establish Departments of Saemaul Economic Development and Saemaul Research Institutes Sierra Leonean Education Minister: “Redesigning the National Education System Through Partnership with YU” [April 27, 2026] <YU signed agreements with two public universities in Sierra Leone to establish Departments of Saemaul Economic Development> The government of Sierra Leone, located on the Atlantic coast of West Africa, has stepped forward to establish “Saemaul Studies Departments” at local public universities. Through the sharing of Saemaul Studies—a Korean-born academic discipline—YU and the Sierra Leonean government have entered a new phase of international development cooperation that extends beyond higher education innovation to community development and national economic growth. On April 21, a high-level delegation including Sierra Leone’s Minister of Technical and Higher Education Haja Ramatulai Wurie, Sierra Leonean Ambassador to Korea Paul Sobba Massaquoi, senior government officials, and professors from local public universities visited YU. The purpose of the visit was to sign agreements for the establishment of Departments of Saemaul Economic Development at two public universities in Sierra Leone. YU signed separate agreements with Milton Margai Technical University and Eastern Technical University. The agreements were personally signed by Minister Haja Ramatulai Wurie, representing both the Sierra Leonean government and the two universities. Minister Wurie, regarded as one of Sierra Leone’s emerging leaders, holds a master’s degree in biomedical science from the University of Wolverhampton and a doctorate in medicine from University of Warwick. She currently oversees higher education in Sierra Leone and is recognized for leading future talent development and national innovation. The agreements were designed to accelerate the practical implementation of the memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed between YU and the Government of Sierra Leone in December 2025 and to expand cooperation into institution-level execution. Under the agreements, the participating institutions will collaborate in the following areas: ▲curriculum development and consulting for the establishment of Departments of Saemaul Economic Development ▲support for the establishment and operation of Saemaul Movement Research Institutes ▲exchange programs for faculty, students, and staff ▲sharing academic information and materials ▲promotion of joint research initiatives. Under the agreements, YU plans to provide phased support for the establishment of academic departments and educational and research systems within Sierra Leonean universities, while further developing a cooperation model linking the cultivation of experts in Saemaul development with community advancement. <YU President CHOI Oe-chool delivers a special lecture to the Sierra Leonean high-level delegation> Minister Haja Ramatulai Wurie stated, “Education has always been at the center of the national development agenda.Today’s agreement with YU marks a turning point in Sierra Leone’s national framework for technological and educational innovation.” She added, “By learning from Korea’s development experience, Sierra Leone will also place technological and educational innovation at the center of its development agenda and follow Korea’s path.” She continued, “Through our partnership with YU, we aim to go beyond simple cooperation and redesign how educational innovation functions throughout Sierra Leone.We will localize Saemaul Studies across Sierra Leonean educational institutions and establish research institutes. The principles of diligence, self-help, and cooperation will become practical tools for community and national economic development.” Ambassador Paul Sobba Massaquoi described the visit as “not merely a ceremonial diplomatic schedule, but a historic moment in which years of exchange and trust have borne fruit in the form of a comprehensive partnership.” He added, “YU’s exceptional commitment to Africa’s Saemaul Movement projects and Sierra Leone’s development made today’s achievement possible.” He further expressed hope that the outcomes of the visit would be broadly shared within the Sierra Leonean government and that President CHOI Oe-chool would receive an official invitation from the government to further strengthen bilateral ties and sustainable cooperation. Following the signing ceremony, the delegation from Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Technical and Higher Education participated in a four-day training program on the Saemaul Movement and Saemaul Development. Organized by YU’s Institute for International Development Cooperation, the program included lectures and discussions on ▲Saemaul Studies ideas linked to Sierra Leone’s national development strategy ▲introduction to the curriculum of YU’s Park Chung Hee School of Policy and Saemaul ▲sharing the experiences of the Saemaul Movement and Korea’s national development. The delegation also held discussions with international students from the Park Chung Hee School of Policy and Saemaul, exchanging views on academic and research experiences as well as practical applications in their home countries. In addition, the delegation visited the Cheongdo Saemaul Movement Birthplace Memorial Park, the National Institute of Crop Science in Miryang, the Samsung Electronics Promotion Hall in Gumi, and the Park Chung Hee Presidential Archives, participating in field visits designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of Korea’s development experience. <Minister Haja Ramatulai Wurie of Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Technical and Higher Education poses for a commemorative photo with her certificate after completing the Saemaul Movement and Saemaul Development training program at YU> (From left: President CHOI Oe-chool, Minister Haja Ramatulai Wurie) After completing the program, Minister Wurie remarked, “I was deeply impressed by President CHOI Oe-chool’s explanation of Korea’s development process and the background behind the spread of the Saemaul Movement based on his own experiences. I came to understand why there is such strong international demand for sharing the Saemaul Movement and why President CHOI is so passionate about spreading it globally. The program provided valuable insights applicable to Sierra Leone’s circumstances.” She added, “I highly commend YU’s efforts to expand the Saemaul Movement and Saemaul Studies to other countries. I especially appreciate how the university enables young people from around the world to study at YU and bring that knowledge and experience back to their home countries. This will greatly contribute to promoting global citizenship and harmony among nations.” She further emphasized, “My vision is for the Saemaul Movement to become fully institutionalized in Sierra Leone and established as a ‘way of life.’ I believe this will drive Sierra Leone’s sustainable development.The movement must be localized to reflect Sierra Leone’s sociocultural norms, and its core principles should be firmly embedded throughout the educational curriculum, from elementary to secondary education.” Minister Wurie also noted, “From President CHOI’s remarks, I could clearly sense his consistent commitment to giving back to society. Leaders should prioritize global and community interests above all else, and that is the aspect of his philosophy I admire most.” She added, “I believe there are many similarities between the vision of the President of Sierra Leone and that of President CHOI.I hope to invite President CHOI to Sierra Leone in the near future so the two leaders can meet, exchange ideas, and share experiences.” <The Sierra Leonean high-level delegation holds a completion ceremony after finishing the Saemaul Movement and Saemaul Development training program at YU> Building on the agreements, YU plans to continue follow-up discussions so that its higher education cooperation with Sierra Leone evolves beyond visits and exchanges into a practical and sustainable cooperation system encompassing department establishment, research hubs, personnel exchanges, and joint research. President CHOI Oe-chool stated, “The Saemaul Movement, which embodied the spirit of Hongik Ingan through public policy, was a crucial driving force behind Korea’s overcoming poverty and achieving national development. Saemaul Studies, which systematized this experience academically, has also proven its effectiveness internationally.” He added, “Following the agreement signed with the Sierra Leonean government last December, today’s implementation-level cooperation with Sierra Leonean public universities represents another significant step forward. We will move ahead with a strong sense of responsibility so that achievements in education, research, and talent cultivation lead to real change within Sierra Leone.” He continued, “Through the establishment of Departments of Saemaul Economic Development, the creation of research and training hubs, and the expansion of human exchanges within Sierra Leonean universities, we will help future leaders grow into key drivers of community development while building a sustainable cooperation model through which both countries can share and verify tangible outcomes.”
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Generative AI Platform ‘AI@YU’ Opens, Providing Free Access to More Than 20 Premium AI Models Including ChatGPT and Gemini Integrated Platform Enables Use of Advanced Paid AI Models Through a Single Campus Account Accelerating Innovation in Learning, Research, and Administration from Self-Directed Learning to Research Productivity and Administrative Efficiency [April 29, 2026] YU (President CHOI Oe-chool) officially launched ‘AI@YU’ [https://factchat.yu.ac.kr ], a generative AI platform available free of charge to all university members, including students, faculty, and staff, on April 28. ‘AI@YU’ is a next-generation generative AI platform based on the latest multimodal large language models (LLMs). It enables users to access more than 20 advanced premium AI models—including ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, and Perplexity—through a single integrated platform. The service supports multimodal functions including text generation, image and video creation, and voice input and output. The platform operates on a credit-based system, with credits automatically distributed to all university members on the first day of each month. In particular, OpenAI’s ‘GPT-5 nano’ model and Mindlogic’s ‘SAIT2 PRO’ model are available free of charge without usage limits. As generative AI technologies continue to evolve rapidly, demand for AI utilization across university campuses is expanding in areas such as learning support, research activities, and administrative services. In response to these changes, YU plans to strengthen the digital capabilities of its members and enhance institutional competitiveness by introducing a university-wide integrated generative AI platform. With the launch of ‘AI@YU,’ students are expected to strengthen their learning capabilities through personalized AI support for researching and organizing study materials, as well as assistance with assignments and report writing. The platform is also expected to improve research productivity through functions such as academic writing support and research data analysis. In addition, it can be widely utilized to improve administrative efficiency through report drafting, document summarization, and automation of repetitive administrative tasks. Alongside the rapid adoption of AI technologies, YU has also established a responsible usage framework. From the initial stage of platform implementation, the university reviewed and applied security and ethical measures including automatic anonymization of sensitive information, inappropriate content filtering, and educational ethical guidelines for generative AI usage. To protect personal usage records, prompts and usage histories created by individuals are accessible only to the users themselves and cannot be viewed by external users or administrators, allowing members to utilize the platform with greater confidence. President CHOI Oe-chool stated, “Generative AI will become a core foundational technology transforming education, research, industry, and administration in the era of limitless global competition. The role of universities extends beyond simply providing access to technology; universities must also establish educational and support systems that help students utilize AI responsibly while strengthening their capabilities.” He added, “Through the introduction of this generative AI platform service, we hope YU students and members will responsibly leverage AI to enhance problem-solving skills and creativity, growing into future-oriented leaders aligned with YU’s vision of cultivating talent that contributes to the prosperity of humanity and leads the times.”
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Overall University Division Champion at the 4th Herald Economy–Korea Herald National Wrestling Championships Dominant Performance with 3 Gold, 1 Silver, and 3 Bronze Medals in Individual Events YOON Ju-young Named MVP, Head Coach KIM Ik-hee Receives Best Coach Award [April 30, 2026] <YU wrestling team wins the overall university division championship at the 4th Herald Economy–Korea Herald National Wrestling Championships> The YU wrestling team (President CHOI Oe-chool) claimed the overall university division championship at the 4th Herald Economy–Korea Herald National Wrestling Championships,achieving its third consecutive overall title and once again solidifying its status as the nation’s premier collegiate wrestling team. Held from April 17 to 22 at the Hapcheon Multi-Purpose Gymnasium in Gyeongsangnam-do, the competition saw the YU wrestling team deliver outstanding performances in both team and individual events. The team earned three gold medals, one silver medal, and three bronze medals in individual competition, demonstrating overwhelming competitiveness throughout the tournament. In particular, YOON Ju-young (senior, Department of Physical Education) was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player (MVP), playing a pivotal role in YU’s championship victory. YOON stated, “Although I faced the difficult challenge of a long-term injury, I remained dedicated to rehabilitation. I was able to achieve this victory thanks to my coach and teammates who continuously encouraged and supported me,” expressing his gratitude. YU wrestling team Head Coach KIM Ik-hee received the Best Coach Award in recognition of his leadership. Coach KIM commented, “Some of our athletes experienced declines in physical condition, but we achieved strong results because the players stayed committed to their goals and gave their best until the very end. Moving forward, we will further improve performance through recovery training and foundational conditioning while helping our athletes build confidence and maintain clear goals.”
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Surpassing the Limits of Existing Theory, Expanding Cryo-EM Applications to Small Protein Drug Interaction Analysis Professor KIM Dong-young’s Research Team Collaborates with Drug Discovery Platform Company Baobab AiBIO Featured by Science and Published in Nature Communications [May 6, 2026] <(Left) First author Dr. PARK Geon-woong, (Right) Cryo-EM structure of the approximately 32 kDa Human PLK1–onvansertib complex> “Too small to see?” A research team led by Professor KIM Dong-young from YU’s School of Pharmacy (President CHOI Oe-chool) has, for the first time in the world, successfully identified the structure of ultramicroscopic proteins previously considered too small to be analyzed using cryogenic electron microscopy (Cryo-EM). Proteins are essential biological molecules responsible for a wide range of functions in the human body, and their structures provide critical information that determines those functions. Research aimed at accurately identifying protein structures forms the foundation for uncovering disease mechanisms and developing new drugs. Until now, X-ray crystallography, which utilizes high-intensity X-rays, has been the most widely used technique for protein structure analysis. This method determines protein structures by crystallizing proteins and exposing them to X-rays. However, it has significant experimental limitations because protein crystallization is often difficult, time-consuming, and labor-intensive. To overcome these challenges, Cryo-EM, which analyzes structures by collecting images of samples, has gained increasing attention and has recently become a core technology in protein structural analysis due to major advances in imaging resolution. Cryo-EM has generally been considered highly effective for analyzing large proteins exceeding 200 kDa (a unit used to indicate protein size), but limited in its ability to resolve smaller proteins. According to a theory proposed by 2017 Nobel Prize winner in Chemistry Richard Henderson, the minimum protein size theoretically analyzable by electron microscopy was approximately 38 kDa. In practice, the smallest Cryo-EM structure reported to date had been around 46 kDa, making 38 kDa widely regarded as the practical lower limit. In this study, the research team successfully determined the structure of maltose-binding protein bound to maltose (a type of sugar), measuring approximately 41 kDa, at a resolution of 2.4 Å (angstroms, equal to 10⁻¹⁰ meters or 0.1 nm) using Cryo-EM. Furthermore, the team succeeded in resolving the structure of PLK1 (approximately 32 kDa) bound to the targeted anticancer drug onvansertib at a resolution of 3.4 Å. This achievement surpasses previously accepted theoretical limits and demonstrates that Cryo-EM can be used not only to determine the structures of small proteins, but also to analyze their interactions with drugs. Professor KIM Dong-young stated, “This study demonstrated that currently commercialized Cryo-EM instruments are capable of analyzing small protein structures beyond previously established theoretical limits. More importantly, we proved that the technology can precisely identify drug-binding states, significantly expanding the application range of Cryo-EM.” He added, “The findings also highlight the importance of cultivating highly skilled professional researchers alongside advances in instrumentation.” The study utilized Cryo-EM equipment provided by Baobab AiBIO (CEO NOH Kyung-tae), a drug discovery platform company, and was led by Dr. Park Geon-woong (Ph.D. graduate of YU’s Graduate School of Pharmacy and first author of the paper). A preprint version of the study released on bioRxiv in July last year attracted international attention after being featured on the official blog of Science. The revised paper was subsequently published online on April 14 in the international journal Nature Communications.
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Rwandan Ambassador to Korea Visits YU Six Times, Requests Cooperation Centered on Saemaul Programs Ambassador Nkubito Calls for Expanding Educational Partnerships Across Diverse Academic Fields Collaboration to Foster Practice-Oriented Talent Based on Local Needs in Rwanda Concrete Plans for “Outstanding Student Recruitment–Education–Performance Management” and Long-Term Degree-Based Talent Development Model [April 20, 2026] <The Rwandan Ambassador to Korea and delegation visited YU to discuss expanding bilateral cooperation and talent development initiatives> (From left: President CHOI Oe-chool, Ambassador Nkubito Manzi Bakuramutsa) The international exchange between YU (President CHOI Oe-chool) and Rwanda, which began with cooperation on the “localization of the Saemaul Undong,” is now expanding into diverse academic fields including engineering and agriculture. This step-by-step expansion of collaboration between a Korean university and a foreign government for local talent development is regarded as a model case of global academic cooperation. On April 15, Ambassador Nkubito Manzi Bakuramutsa of Rwanda to Korea and his delegation visited YU, met with President CHOI Oe-chool, and discussed ways to expand bilateral cooperation projects and strengthen talent development initiatives. Including visits by his predecessor, this marked the sixth visit by a Rwandan ambassador to YU. During the meeting, both sides agreed to further strengthen the cooperation framework built around Saemaul programs while expanding the scope of their educational partnership into a broader range of academic disciplines. In particular, they discussed concrete measures to recruit outstanding Rwandan students to YU and establish linked degree programs. Both parties plan to explore new program models to facilitate Rwandan students’ admission to YU, along with practical discussions on scholarship support and selection processes. Ambassador Nkubito stated, “YU’s expertise in Saemaul Studies and international development cooperation, along with its experience in talent cultivation, can provide meaningful opportunities for Rwandan youth.” He added, “The President of Rwanda places strong value on citizen-driven policy and change. In this regard, building a strategic partnership between Rwanda and YU, which has institutionalized the Saemaul Undong academically, could generate even greater impact. I hope more Rwandan students will come to YU to study across various disciplines.” Currently, around 50 Rwandan students have graduated from or are enrolled in YU’s Park Chung Hee School of Policy and Saemaul. President CHOI remarked, “Based on YU’s accumulated experience in Saemaul Studies and international development cooperation, we will do our utmost to systematically design diverse growth pathways for young Rwandan talent.” He continued, “In addition to educating future generations, leadership that promotes policies with trust and consistency is equally important. In that sense, President Paul Kagame demonstrates exceptional leadership qualities. If Rwandan youth can share and localize YU’s expertise in Saemaul-based international development, combined with President Kagame’s leadership, Rwanda can achieve even more rapid national development. Furthermore, I believe Korea’s model of compressed economic growth can be successfully replicated in Rwanda.” This initiative aims not only to enhance the capacity of developing countries’ talent in community development, but also to cultivate practice-oriented professionals tailored to Rwanda’s national needs, including advancements in food and agriculture, as well as the expansion of infrastructure and manufacturing capabilities. The significance of this discussion lies in its transition beyond short-term training programs toward designing a long-term, degree-based talent development pipeline across multiple disciplines. The international cooperation between YU and Rwanda has gradually evolved through sharing Saemaul Studies and Korea’s development experience. In November 2020, then Rwandan Ambassador to Korea Yasmin Amri Sued visited YU to discuss cooperation on localizing the Saemaul Undong, laying the foundation for collaboration. In March 2021, YU signed an agreement with Rwanda’s Ministry of Education, establishing an institutional framework including recommendations for international students to the Park Chung Hee School of Policy and Saemaul. In October 2024, at the request of Rwanda’s Minister of Education, President CHOI visited Rwanda and delivered a special lecture on Saemaul education to presidents and vice presidents of five major universities, including the University of Rwanda, as well as senior officials from the Ministry of Education. Building on these accumulated efforts, the current discussion represents a new phase of cooperation. Moving forward, YU plans to institutionalize regular consultation channels with the Rwandan government and further develop a structured system encompassing student selection, education, and performance management, thereby designing more comprehensive growth pathways for Rwandan youth. Meanwhile, travel YouTuber Pani Bottle recently gained significant attention after posting a video titled “A Visit to a Rwandan Village That Thrived by Adopting Korea’s Saemaul Undong.(https://youtu.be/OkGSeDPzXyQ?si=-p6CUV07al_tKJEa)” The video highlights a successful case of applying the Saemaul movement in Rwanda. Notably, a YU graduate working with KOICA in Rwanda appears in the video, directly explaining Saemaul Studies and vividly showcasing the achievements of YU’s international development Saemaul program.
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Research Team Led by Professor PARK Ju-hyun Proposes Novel Method for Estimating Geometric Models in Computer Vision Strong Academic and Industrial Interest for Applications in Autonomous Driving, 3D Reconstruction, Robotics Control, and Augmented Reality (AR) First-Author Paper by Dr. CHOI Yeon-gyu Published in IEEE TPAMI, World’s Leading Journal in Computer Vision [April 27, 2026] <Researcher CHOI Yeon-gyu from the Department of Electrical Engineering at YU> A research team led by Professor PARK Ju-hyun of the Department of Electrical Engineering at YU (President CHOI Oe-chool), under the Nonlinear Dynamics Laboratory, has developed an advanced optimization technology for geometric modeling in computer vision applicable to autonomous driving and robotics, drawing significant attention from both academia and industry. This study was conducted with Dr. CHOI Yeon-gyu of YU’s Department of Electrical Engineering as the first author. The research paper is scheduled to be published in the May 2026 issue of IEEE Transactions on Pattern Analysis and Machine Intelligence (IEEE TPAMI) [JCR top 0.7%, Impact Factor 18.6], the world’s most prestigious journal in artificial intelligence and computer vision. Dr. CHOI explained, “This study focuses on advancing techniques that precisely model the geometric relationship between two images captured from different viewpoints of the same 3D scene by two cameras in computer vision. Conventional approaches have structural limitations in deriving optimal models in environments with significant noise or outliers. In this work, we address these limitations by introducing a novel post-processing mechanism that maximizes the inherent performance of the algorithm.” The newly proposed method, termed MEPC (Multi-Estimation-based Parameter Centroid), goes beyond the conventional practice of selecting a single model with the highest statistical score. Instead, it determines a central set of model parameters based on multiple hypothesis candidates generated through repeated estimation processes. This approach reduces the impact of data distortion and enables more accurate and stable geometric modeling. Notably, this technology can be applied across a wide range of vision-based industries that require highly precise geometric model estimation, including autonomous driving, 3D reconstruction, robotic control, and augmented reality (AR). In these fields, minimizing the effects of data distortion while accurately capturing the geometric structure of real-world environments is critically important. The research team stated, “This achievement expands the limits of how precisely model estimation can be optimized even in noisy environments. It is expected to significantly enhance the technological competitiveness of systems requiring high-precision sensor pose estimation, such as multi-sensor fusion, 3D Gaussian Splatting (3DGS), and Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM).” Building on this outcome, the team plans to conduct follow-up research aimed at advancing next-generation multimodal AI convergence and intelligent mobility systems. This research was supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea.
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Genome Analysis of Human Remains from Imdang-dong and Joyeong-dong Tombs Reveals Three Kingdoms-Era Kinship Networks First Genetic Evidence of Consanguinity and Endogamy, Including Family-Based Human Sacrifice Burials Contributing to Korean and East Asian Ancient History Research, Published in Science Advances [April 9, 2026] <From left, Curator KIM Dae-uk of the YU Museum, Professor WOO Eun-jin of Sejong University, and Professor JEONG Choong-won of Seoul National University> YU (President CHOI Oe-chool) has drawn major academic attention by, for the first time, identifying complex kinship networks among ancient Koreans through genome analysis based on human skeletal remains. This study was conducted as an international collaborative project involving Curator KIM Dae-uk of the YU Museum, Professor WOO Eun-jin of Sejong University, Professor JEONG Choong-won of Seoul National University, and the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology. The research team analyzed human remains excavated from the Imdang-dong and Joyeong-dong ancient tomb complex in Gyeongsan, a representative archaeological site of the Three Kingdoms period, presenting new findings on local customs during the Silla era. Human bones and teeth can retain DNA over long periods depending on preservation conditions. Such ancient genomes provide valuable insights into past populations, including mobility, physical traits, kinship structures, and marriage practices. By extracting DNA from the remains of 78 individuals recovered from 44 tombs, the team identified biological kinship relationships and revealed that ancient inhabitants of the Gyeongsan region practiced consanguineous and endogamous marriages. KIM Dae-uk, co–first author and corresponding author of the study, stated, “The burial complexes of Imdang-dong and Joyeong-dong are tombs of descendants of the ancient Apdok state, where multiple sacrificial burials have been identified within large tombs. In addition to grave goods such as ornaments, weapons, and pottery, the site preserves animal remains consumed at the time, as well as the skeletal remains of both tomb owners and sacrificial individuals. This makes it an exceptional site where scientific analysis of human remains allows us to vividly reconstruct ancient lives, including kinship, dietary differences by social class, diseases, and sudden deaths.” The Seoul National University research team noted, “The patterns of endogamy observed among ancient Koreans in this study sharply contrast with the strict female exogamy commonly identified in ancient and medieval European societies. To date, genetically confirmed cases of such patterns in ancient societies have only been reported in Neolithic Türkiye and China,” highlighting the uniqueness of the findings. These results also carry significant archaeological implications. While historical texts such as Samguk Sagi document instances of consanguineous marriage within the Silla royal family, this is the first time such practices have been genetically verified. Demonstrating that endogamy and consanguinity were commonly practiced in regional Silla society represents a major historical and academic breakthrough. <Kinship network diagram of individuals buried in the Imdang-dong and Joyeong-dong tomb complex based on DNA analysis> The study also uncovered previously unverifiable kinship relationships among sacrificial individuals. Cases in which sacrificial individuals buried within the same tomb were identified as parent–child or siblings confirm that entire families were interred together as part of sacrificial burial practices for a specific tomb owner. Furthermore, no direct kinship ties were identified between tomb owners and sacrificial individuals. The rarity of close familial relationships between them indicates a clear segmentation of kinship structures according to burial status. The findings support prior archaeological hypotheses. Earlier studies suggested that adjacent tombs may belong to married couples, and this study confirmed spousal relationships between individuals buried in adjoining tombs through reconstructed family trees. This strongly suggests that similar adjacent tombs found in other burial complexes may also represent married couples. Additionally, while previous research hypothesized that kinship relationships would be segmented by spatial zones within the tomb complex, this study revealed that kinship ties extended across these zones, demonstrating the overall interconnectedness of the Imdang-dong and Joyeong-dong burial complex. The research team stated, “Through further analysis of ancient genomes from surrounding regions, we plan to investigate the scale and mobility of local communities during the Three Kingdoms period. Comparative studies with similar cases across Korea will help identify broader characteristics of regional societies of the time. We also aim to reconstruct ancient life in greater detail by studying ancient pathogen DNA, genetic diseases, and stress patterns.” This study is expected to stimulate greater interest and necessity in ancient genome research in Korea. KIM Dae-uk added, “Although recent achievements in ancient genome research in Korea have begun to be reported, there remains not only a lack of studies on kinship relationships within the Korean Peninsula, but also a shortage of sufficiently representative genomic data. It is expected that continued and active research like this will broaden academic discussion and interest in the previously unknown social customs and genetic composition of ancient Korean populations, thereby deepening our overall understanding of Koreans.” Meanwhile, this study was conducted with support from the “Apdok Cultural Heritage Research and Utilization Project” commissioned by Gyeongsan City, Gyeongsangbuk-do, as well as the National Research Foundation of Korea’s “Basic Research Program for Intensive, Long-term Research” and the “University Research Institute Support Program (G-LAMP).” The study was published on April 9, 2026, in Science Advances, an international journal issued by the American Association for the Advancement of Science, under the title “Ancient genomes reveal an extensive kinship network and endogamy in a Three-Kingdoms period society in Korea.”
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Exhibition Themed “Dokdo, the Island That Opens the Morning of Korea” Touring 80 Institutions and Schools Across Daegu, Gyeongbuk, Chungnam, and Gangwon from April to December Designed to Raise Awareness of Dokdo’s Significance Among Students and Citizens [April 21, 2026] <2026 Traveling Dokdo Exhibition “Dokdo, the Island That Opens the Morning of Korea,” hosted by YU Dokdo Institute (Daegu Sehyeon Elementary School)> YU (President CHOI Oe-chool) will host the “2026 Traveling Dokdo Exhibition” from April to December 2026 across the Daegu, Gyeongbuk, Chungnam, and Gangwon regions. On March 24, 2026, Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology announced the results of high school social studies textbook screenings, which included claims that “Dokdo is Japan’s inherent territory.” Furthermore, the Diplomatic Bluebook 2026, released on April 10, reiterates for the 13th consecutive year Japan’s assertion of territorial sovereignty over Dokdo. In response, the YU Dokdo Institute—designated as a policy-focused research institute by the Ministry of Education—has organized the “Traveling Dokdo Exhibition” in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, the Dokdo Foundation, the Gyeongsangbuk-do Office of Education, the Daegu Metropolitan Office of Education, the Chungcheongnam-do Office of Education, and the Gangwon Geography Education Research Association. Under the theme “Dokdo, the Island That Opens the Morning of Korea,” the exhibition will be held simultaneously across four regional venues, including the main exhibition space at Amnyang Middle School in Gyeongsan, from April 20 to December 22. <2026 Traveling Dokdo Exhibition “Dokdo, the Island That Opens the Morning of Korea,” hosted by YU Dokdo Institute (Amnyang Middle School, Gyeongsan, Gyeongbuk)> Marking the 11th annual “Dokdo Education Week,” this exhibition aims to address Japan’s distorted education on Dokdo while making the significance of Korea’s Dokdo accessible to the general public. The exhibition runs daily from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. In Gangwon Province, the exhibition began on April 13 at Jeongseon High School under the supervision of the Gangwon Geography Education Research Association. In Daegu and Chungnam, exhibitions opened on April 20 at Daegu Sehyeon Elementary School and Nonsan Middle School, respectively. The exhibition will continue as a traveling program across approximately 80 institutions and schools, including 24 in Gyeongsangbuk-do (Apr. 20–Dec. 22, 2026), 29 in Daegu (Apr. 20–Dec. 18, 2026), 13 middle and high schools in Chungcheongnam-do (Apr. 20–Oct. 30, 2026), and 15 middle and high schools in Gangwon (Apr. 13–Nov. 13, 2026). Professor CHOI Jae-mok, Director of the YU Dokdo Institute (Department of Philosophy), stated, “Since the revision of national curriculum guidelines in 2017 and 2018, Japan’s Ministry of Education has mandated the inclusion of territorial claims over Dokdo (Takeshima) in all elementary, middle, and high school social studies textbooks. This traveling exhibition has been designed to help students and citizens clearly recognize the unjust nature of such claims and to better understand the value of Dokdo.” He added, “We hope this exhibition will serve as an opportunity to deepen public knowledge and foster greater appreciation for Dokdo.”
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In Just 15 Years Since Its Establishment, Talent from 81 Developing Countries, Including Seven International Organizations such as the World Bank and WFP, Has Enrolled This Year, New Students from Four Countries—Central African Republic, Bhutan, Namibia, and Trinidad and Tobago—Admitted for the First Time [March 31, 2026] <Flag Attachment Ceremony for Newly Admitted Students from Four Countries at YU Park Chung Hee School of Policy and Saemaul (PSPS)> The global network of the Park Chung Hee School of Policy and Saemaul (PSPS) at Yeungnam University (YU), led by President CHOI Oe-chool, has expanded to 81 countries worldwide. In March 2026, a total of 29 new students from 20 countries newly joined PSPS, including, for the first time since its establishment, students from four countries—Central African Republic (CAF), Bhutan (BTN), Namibia (NAM), and Trinidad and Tobago (TTO)—who received their certificates of admission.As a result, the cumulative number of countries represented among admitted students increased significantly from 77 to 81. These newly admitted students will systematically acquire Korea’s development experience and know-how based on the Saemaul Undong and Saemaul Studies, and are expected to grow into key experts who will lead the development of their home countries. Since its establishment in 2011, PSPS has, in just 15 years, attracted young talents from 81 countries, including officials from seven international organizations such as the World Bank and the United Nations World Food Programme (UN WFP), drawing global attention.The majority of international students at PSPS come from developing countries, representing a highly distinctive achievement that is difficult to find at any other university worldwide. Why are developing countries around the world increasingly choosing YU? This is because global attention is being focused on the “Saemaul Undong” and “Saemaul Studies,” which are recognized as UNESCO documentary heritage.“Saemaul Studies” is an indigenous academic discipline of Korea established by Yeungnam University.Professor CHOI Oe-chool, the current President of YU, systematized the Saemaul Undong and Korea’s development experience into an academic discipline, which has been recognized both domestically and internationally. As the founding Dean of PSPS, President CHOI is also credited with laying the foundation for the school’s development. In particular, the case of the Central African Republic, which newly admitted students this year, is drawing attention. This is because the student was officially recommended by the government of the Central African Republic to promote the Saemaul Undong in the country. In October 2022, a delegation of 21 high-ranking officials, including minister-level officials dispatched under a special directive from the President of the Central African Republic, visited YU and participated in a two-week special training program to explore localization strategies for the Saemaul Undong. The President of the Central African Republic, who had shown strong interest in the Saemaul Undong, requested the Korean government to provide Saemaul education for senior officials, and the program was conducted by YU’s Institute of International Development Cooperation under the auspices of the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA). This initiative led the Central African Republic to actively pursue a government-led implementation of the Saemaul Undong. Subsequently, in August 2024 and August 2025, high-ranking officials, university professors, and community leaders from the Central African Republic visited YU again as part of training programs invited by the Ministry of the Interior and Safety. This continued academic exchange and strong mutual trust have ultimately led to enrollment in the Master’s program in Saemaul Studies. Agossingala Soleil Levant (Department of Saemaul International Development), a former employee of a state-owned enterprise in the Central African Republic who enrolled in March this year, stated, “Many countries look to Korea’s economic prosperity and remarkable development as a role model. I believe this is why developing countries around the world choose PSPS at Yeungnam University.” He added, “I have great expectations for my studies at YU, as I will not only learn Saemaul Studies and Korea’s development experience systematized by the university, but also have the opportunity to study, share knowledge, and build networks with government officials and experts from various fields who have come from all over the world.” President CHOI Oe-chool of YU remarked, “Saemaul Studies is an academic discipline that systematizes the content of the Saemaul Undong—policy-driven initiatives rooted in the Hongik Ingan philosophy of benefiting humanity. It goes beyond Korea’s experience of overcoming poverty and serves as a practical development model that enables developing countries to achieve self-sustained growth.” He continued, “The fact that talented individuals from developing countries who once participated in training programs at YU are returning to enroll in full-degree programs demonstrates that Saemaul Studies has firmly established itself as a key educational content for sustainable development across the globe.” He further emphasized, “YU will spare no effort in supporting international students who have internalized the Saemaul spirit—diligence, self-help, cooperation, sharing, service, and creativity—so that they can play pivotal roles not only in the development of their home countries but also in addressing global challenges such as climate change and advancing shared prosperity for future generations.In particular, we will strengthen our educational efforts to help developing countries overcome poverty by developing and integrating curricula that actively utilize artificial intelligence (AI).” <International Students Enrolled at YU Park Chung Hee School of Policy and Saemaul (PSPS)> PSPS has been nurturing international development experts, primarily targeting officials from international organizations, as well as civil servants and public sector professionals from developing countries.A total of 1,096 individuals from 81 countries—including officials from seven international organizations such as the World Bank and the United Nations World Food Programme (UN WFP)—have studied at PSPS, contributing to high-level social impact in the international community. These graduates are actively serving as key policymakers, Saemaul international development experts, and leaders of the Saemaul Undong in central government ministries, public institutions, and international development NGOs around the world. As of March 2026, 158 international students from 29 countries are currently enrolled. On March 30, YU held a flag attachment ceremony for the four newly admitted countries of this year, attended by President CHOI Oe-chool, senior faculty members, and international students.
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YU Takes First Step in International Exchange with Leading U.S. Think Tank, The Korea Society Special Lecture by President CHOI Oe-chool: “Korea and the U.S. Future Generations Should Work Together to Build a Safer and Happier World” [April 6, 2026] <American High School Students Experiencing Korea’s Traditional Coming-of-Age Ceremonies at Ssangsongjeong in the Folk Village of Yeungnam University> Yeungnam University (YU, President CHOI Oe-chool) has taken its first step in international exchange cooperation with The Korea Society, a leading American private think tank dedicated to Korea–U.S. relations. On April 1, as the inaugural exchange event, 24 American public high school juniors and seniors visited YU and participated in a unique cultural program at Ssangsongjeong in the university’s on-campus folk village. There, they experienced Korea’s traditional coming-of-age ceremonies—Gwallye (冠禮) for men and Gyerye (筓禮) for women.Wearing traditional ceremonial attire such as dangui and dopo, along with jokduri and gat, the students followed traditional Korean etiquette, performed formal rites, and received their courtesy names (ja), symbolizing adulthood. Through this immersive experience, they reflected on social responsibility and life goals while gaining a deeper understanding of Korean culture. The event was organized part of “Project Bridge,” a flagship educational program of The Korea Society.as Launched in 1993, Project Bridge aims to enhance understanding of Korea by selecting outstanding high school students from major U.S. cities such as New York, Los Angeles, and Montana as “Youth Ambassadors.” Over the course of a year, participants engage in Korean language study, workshops on Korean society and culture, research and presentations, and a 9-night, 10-day study tour in Korea, culminating in community presentations back in the United States. East Kaufhold, an 11th-grade student from Brooklyn High School who received the courtesy name “Sumyeong” (秀明) during the ceremony, said, “I’m truly happy to have taken part in such a meaningful coming-of-age ceremony and to receive a special name at YU’s folk village surrounded by cherry blossoms in full bloom. My love for Korea has deepened, and I will do my best to share what I have seen and felt with my community when I return.” <President CHOI Oe-chool Delivering a Special Lecture to American High School Students Visiting YU as Part of The Korea Society’s Project Bridge Program> Prior to the ceremony, President CHOI Oe-chool personally delivered a special lecture to the visiting students.Drawing from his own experiences, he explained the historical relationship between Korea and the United States, receiving enthusiastic responses from the audience. He particularly highlighted the evolution of Korea–U.S. relations since the Korean War, as well as Korea’s remarkable transformation from one of the world’s poorest nations after the war into a developed country. He also introduced the Saemaul Undong, widely regarded as one of the key driving forces behind this transformation, capturing the students’ strong interest. During the lecture, President CHOI stated, “I belong to the generation that has witnessed Korea’s remarkable journey from one of the poorest countries after the Korean War to a developed nation today. Through that experience, I have come to dream of a world where no child suffers from hunger.” He continued, “Under the slogan ‘Toward a Safer and Happier World,’ YU is making practical efforts as a university. If Korea and the United States continue to cooperate based on trust, and if YU fulfills its role as an educational institution in cultivating talents who contribute to the prosperity of humanity, I believe we can create a world where more people live happy lives. I hope the students here today will join in this vision and effort.” His remarks were met with enthusiastic applause. In response, Linda Tobash, who led the delegation as Senior Education Advisor at The Korea Society, said, “We are deeply grateful to Yeungnam University for providing students with memories they will cherish for a lifetime. The materials shared by President CHOI during his lecture, reflecting Korea’s history and lived experiences, hold special meaning for me. I served in Korea as a Peace Corps volunteer for three years starting in 1976, when the Saemaul Undong was in full swing. I personally witnessed the dedication and energy of the Korean people, which I believe became the driving force behind today’s Republic of Korea.” She added, “Through today’s experience at YU, students have gained a much deeper understanding of what they have learned about Korea over the past year. We have also been teaching about the Saemaul Undong and the leadership of Park Chung-hee, and I am confident that President CHOI’s lecture resonated deeply with them. We hope this visit will serve as a starting point for developing a wider range of educational and cultural exchange programs with YU.” The Korea Society was established in 1957 by prominent figures from Korea and the United States, including General James A. Van Fleet, who served as commander of the U.S. Eighth Army during the Korean War, with the aim of strengthening Korea–U.S. relations. Based in New York, it is widely recognized as a leading private think tank promoting bilateral exchange across policy, education, and cultural sectors. The Korean government has also valued the organization’s symbolic significance and global network. During a visit to New York for the United Nations General Assembly last year, First Lady KIM Hye-kyung attended an event hosted by The Korea Society and engaged with future generations of the Korean diaspora. In February this year, Foreign Minister CHO Hyun also met with a delegation from the organization to discuss ways to enhance Korea–U.S. cooperation, underscoring its role as a trusted private bridge between the two countries. <American High School Students Walking Along the Cherry Blossom Path on the YU Campus Wearing Traditional Korean Attire> President CHOI Oe-chool stated, “I hope that the education and experiences at YU will not remain a one-time visit to Korea, but will serve as an opportunity for future generations of Korea and the United States to understand and learn from each other’s values and historical contexts.” He added, We hope that this first step with The Korea Society will lead to the continuous expansion of exchange activities that contribute not only to both institutions but also to Korea–U.S. friendship and shared global prosperity.“ In particular, by cultivating talent based on Saemaul Studies—which systematizes the Saemaul Undong—we aim to work together in addressing global challenges such as poverty reduction and climate change.” Meanwhile, building on this initial exchange with The Korea Society, YU plans to develop a sustainable international cooperation model centered on future generations. Meanwhile, building on this initial exchange with The Korea Society, YU plans to develop a sustainable international cooperation model centered on future generations.
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