Research
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Research
Seeking Solutions for Sustainable Food Packaging
Research Excellence Proven by Academic Milestones Professor Jun Tae Kim conducts research on bioplastic-based, multifunctional food packaging materials. Over the past three years and four months, he has published 69 SCIE papers, with 68.4% of his 38 lead-author publications appearing in journals ranking in the top 10% of the Journal Citation Reports (JCR). In 2025, he was named to the single-year list of the World's Top 2% Scientists published by Elsevier and Stanford University. He also conducts safety evaluation research for food utensils, containers, and packaging under research commissions from the National Institute of Food and Drug Safety Evaluation, helping to establish relevant national regulatory standards. Professor Kim credited his selection as a Kyung Hee Fellow to the collaborative efforts of his laboratory members rather than to individual achievement. “It is highly meaningful to receive recognition for our research, and I will continue to approach our work with a deep sense of responsibility,” he reflected. Professor Kim and his research team at the Food Processing and Packaging Laboratory work together on multifunctional food packaging materials. Research to Enhance Freshness and Monitor Quality His research on multifunctional food packaging proceeds along three main paths. The first is active packaging technology, which integrates antibacterial, antiviral, and antioxidant properties with UV blocking and gas absorption capabilities. This suppresses food oxidation and microbial growth, preserving freshness and significantly extending shelf life. The second is intelligent packaging technology, which utilizes changes in color or fluorescence to allow customers to visually inspect food freshness. The third path focuses on developing eco-friendly packaging materials using bioplastics to enhance sustainability. Safety remains the absolute standard of his research. “Because packaging materials come into direct contact with food, safety must be guaranteed before we consider functionality,” Professor Kim emphasized. The laboratory verifies material safety through cytotoxicity assays and migration tests. Professor Kim has consistently conducted safety evaluations for food-contact items, earning the Encouragement Award for Outstanding Performance in R&D Projects from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) in 2023. At the laboratory level, they have confirmed significant preservation effects. “We verified that the storage period was extended in seafood like shrimp, and overall, our materials prolonged freshness by 30% to 40%,” Professor Kim stated. This is the result of combined properties working in unison—including antioxidants, antimicrobials, gas absorbers, and UV blockers—to inhibit food oxidation and microbial growth. Professor Kim’s research focuses on reducing food waste during distribution and storage, and developing packaging materials that can replace petroleum-based plastics. Because different foods spoil for different reasons, the required packaging functions vary. Antibacterial functions are critical for foods prone to microbial growth, while antioxidant functions are vital for items that oxidize rapidly. While tailoring functions to address these specific needs, the laboratory is also researching highly versatile packaging materials that can be easily adopted by industry. Postdoctoral researchers Dr. Zohreh Riahi (Materials Science Engineering) and Dr. Thangarasu Sasikumar (Chemistry) bring fresh perspectives to expand the scope of active and intelligent packaging research. Expanding Research Scope Through Institutional Support and CollaborationInstitutional support from the university played a key role in helping Professor Kim establish his food packaging research. “We were able to build our foundation and continue our research thanks to support from the Office of Research and University-Industry Cooperation,” he shared. Through the "Future-Leading Young Researcher" support program, he received 80 million won in initial funding over two years, along with comprehensive administrative assistance in project application, agreements, budget review, and fund execution. Support for purchasing research materials and hosting academic conferences through research administrative staff programs also helped sustain their work. Professor Kim views collaboration with his laboratory members as the cornerstone of his work, comparing the research process to an "ensemble" rather than a "solo performance." Based on flat, horizontal communication, he conducts regular lab meetings to share progress and fosters an environment where all members can freely propose ideas. Postdoctoral researchers recruited from abroad also participate in the laboratory. By bringing materials science and chemistry researchers into a laboratory traditionally focused on food science, the team has expanded its research boundaries. The laboratory collaborates with the materials science specialist on metal-organic framework (MOF) materials, and with the chemist on fluorescent sensor-based intelligent packaging. “Integrating perspectives from different disciplines has helped us introduce novel materials and methodologies,” Professor Kim explained. Next Steps: Commercialization and Carbon-Neutral Material Development Moving forward, Professor Kim plans to focus on two major areas. The first is scaling up functional packaging materials proven in the lab to technologies that can be implemented in actual industrial settings. The second is intensifying research into carbon-neutral materials that account for the entire life cycle of packaging, from production to disposal. Commercialization remains a key challenge. “While active packaging is closer to industrial application than intelligent packaging, we must still resolve issues related to unit cost, manufacturing stability, and safety verification,” Professor Kim noted. The laboratory is focusing on finding materials and manufacturing processes that can overcome these limitations. “I want to focus on the fundamental, essential challenges in the field of food packaging,” Professor Kim said, adding that research always begins with the question "why." He places great emphasis on thorough review, iterative verification, and strict research ethics. For him, selection as a Kyung Hee Fellow is both a powerful motivator to continue his research and a responsibility to deliver even better results.
2026.08.18- SDG 2 - Zero Hunger
- SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being
- SDG 9 - Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
- SDG 12 - Responsible Consumption and Production
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Research , Academics
Expanding Education from Space Science to Space Exploration
Interdisciplinary Education for an Evolving Space Era The scope of space exploration is expanding rapidly. Encompassing lunar and Martian exploration, the commercial space sector, space security, and satellite data utilization, space has grown far beyond scientific research into a vital pillar of industrial innovation and national strategy. Kyung Hee established the Space Exploration Convergence Major to respond directly to this shifting landscape. "The global space sector is undergoing a major paradigm shift from government-led initiatives to a 'New Space' era driven by private sector collaboration," explained Professor Yong-Jae Moon, Chair of the Department of Space Science. The decision to establish the program grew from a conviction that maintaining a competitive edge requires cultivating specialists who understand the full lifecycle of space exploration. "We need interdisciplinary experts capable of leading this new era and responding to both national and global demands," Professor Moon added. Space exploration is far too complex to rely on any single discipline. It demands a synthesis of scientific knowledge to understand target celestial bodies, electronic and mechanical engineering to build space platforms, and specialized capabilities in mission design and data analytics. Led by the Department of Space Science in partnership with the Departments of Electronic Engineering and Mechanical Engineering, the Space Exploration Convergence Major allows students to build on a baseline of space science while integrating engineering technologies to comprehensively design and understand space missions. Bridging Space Science and Real-World Missions The Space Exploration Convergence Major is not designed to replace traditional space science education. Instead, it leverages Kyung Hee’s established strengths in space science to expand students' capabilities in practical mission design and engineering implementation. Professor Young-Joo Song, who directs the major, highlighted the distinction between traditional space science and the new program. “While space science focuses on understanding space phenomena and environments—such as the sun, planets, space weather, astronomical observations, and space plasma—the Space Exploration Convergence Major applies this understanding directly to real-world exploration missions,” Professor Song explained. The curriculum covers setting exploration goals, designing orbits and trajectories, building spacecraft buses and payloads, conducting ground testing and operations, and analyzing scientific data. The major connects knowledge across three core fields. Space science defines the mission's direction by asking "what to explore and why." Electronic engineering implements critical spacecraft systems, including power, communications, control, sensors, onboard computers, and data processing units. Mechanical engineering addresses structural integrity and thermal control, ensuring the spacecraft can withstand launch vibration and shocks, extreme temperature fluctuations, and the harsh vacuum of space. Kyung Hee’s research achievements in space science directly enrich the curriculum. Professor Moon emphasized that the university's research base—including the development of lunar magnetic field monitors and participation in black hole imaging projects—extends into undergraduate education. The curriculum features courses directly tied to space missions, such as Space Environment I, Space Science Payload Experiments, Space Exploration Physics, and Space Exploration Mission Design. Rather than focusing solely on theory, students engage with real-world space mission data and actual payload development processes. Full-Lifecycle Education from Design to Data AnalysisThe Space Exploration Convergence Major integrates the entire lifecycle of space exploration into its curriculum. Students progress step-by-step through design, development, testing, operations, and scientific data analysis. The program aims to help students view space exploration not as a collection of isolated technologies, but as an integrated process where mission objectives define system requirements, which in turn dictate operations and subsequent data analysis. During their early years, students build a strong mathematical, physical, and engineering foundation through core courses like calculus, physics, programming, and engineering design. They then advance to specialized subjects—including Space Exploration Physics, Celestial Mechanics, Space Flight Dynamics, Satellites and Propulsion, and Space Exploration Mission Design—learning to manage the entire mission lifecycle from conceptual design and trajectory mapping to launch, orbit acquisition, maintenance maneuvers, and decommissioning. The development and testing phases are bridged through practical laboratory and design courses. Through classes such as Space Science Payload Experiments, Space Optomechanical Design and Experiments, Space Electronic Applications and Experiments, and Advanced Mechanical Engineering Experiments, students learn how spacecraft and payloads are realized as physical systems. They gain a hands-on understanding of how hardware, software, structure, electronics, thermal controls, and feedback systems integrate. Professor Song highlighted Space Exploration Mission Design and the Space Exploration Convergence Project as flagship courses. “In Space Exploration Mission Design, students study launch conditions, orbit selection based on mission goals, communication and observation coverage, visibility analysis, and the design of single-spacecraft and satellite-constellation missions,” he said. Meanwhile, in the Space Exploration Convergence Project, students use real-world data, system models, and hardware or software components to execute a project from proposal writing and analysis to design, implementation, and presentation. These courses focus on problem-solving experiences rather than passive knowledge transfer. Rather than searching for predetermined answers, students learn to define problems, evaluate constraints, and propose viable solutions. Professor Moon explained that this hands-on focus led to placing Space Exploration Convergence Project I & II and Independent Deep Learning I & II in the junior and senior years. “Through these projects, students apply their major knowledge to real-world problems and gain valuable collaborative experience,” Moon noted. Expanding Career Pathways in the Future Space IndustryThe Space Exploration Convergence Major prepares students for a wide array of career paths. Graduates can enter fields such as space mission design, satellite and spacecraft systems engineering, payload development, space environment analysis, ground station operations, and scientific data analysis. In addition to space-related research institutes and private aerospace firms, graduates can expand their careers into advanced engineering industries, including semiconductors, robotics, defense, automotive, and precision machinery. “This major is by no means limited to the space sector,” Professor Moon explained. The curriculum covers fundamental engineering topics—such as circuit theory, semiconductor engineering, robot control, antenna engineering, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, mechanics of materials, and mechanical vibrations—that are highly valued across multiple industries. The multidisciplinary mindset and system-level understanding gained through space exploration education serve as a strong competitive edge for students. Professor Song advised that curiosity and an open-minded attitude are vital for prospective students. No one is expected to excel in every area from the start. “Students need to build a foundation in physics and math, use programming as a tool, and show a willingness to learn the terminology of both electronics and mechanics,” he said. “Space exploration rarely has a single right answer.” Both professors envision the Space Exploration Convergence Major as a launchpad for students to become hands-on, multidisciplinary problem-solvers. In this program, students study space science to grasp mission objectives and space environments, while mastering electronic and mechanical engineering to build spacecraft systems and core operational hardware. Bridging these disciplines through end-to-end mission design and project-based execution defines the core trajectory of the major. Professor Song characterized the ideal graduate as "an action-oriented innovator who comprehensively understands space exploration missions, independently defines real-world challenges, and bridges diverse technical domains to engineer practical solutions" Professors Yong-Jae Moon and Young-Joo Song share their vision for the Space Exploration Convergence Major while touring the campus observatory.
2026.08.10 -
Research
Harnessing Waste Energy to Power Future Innovation
A research group led by Professor Daewon Kim of the Department of Electronic Engineering has published two consecutive studies in energy harvesting and smart healthcare. The two papers, with graduate student Jae-Kang Kim and Dr. Hyun-Woo Cho participating as first authors, were published side-by-side in the latest issue of Advanced Functional Materials (IF 19.0, JCR Top 5%), a world-renowned journal in materials science. "Since energy harvesting is a highly promising technology for the future, our goal is to move beyond proof-of-concept and drive actual commercialization," Professor Kim said. "To achieve this, I run the lab with an emphasis on cultivating responsible talent by guiding each researcher to independently complete their own projects." Converting Water Droplet Impact to Electricity The study led by student Jae-Kang Kim developed a hybrid power generation device (DTMG) that combines a triboelectric nanogenerator (DEG) and a magnetoelastic generator (MEG). Existing water-droplet-based generators had limitations: they only produced electricity at the instant of impact and their electrodes corroded easily in aquatic environments. The research group resolved the corrosion issue by using laser-patterned fluorinated graphene (FLIG) as the electrode material. They also introduced an elastic support structure (ELS) inspired by a cantilever to generate electricity continuously from the impact of water droplets. Unlike prior research focused solely on harvesting water ionic energy, this design maximizes efficiency by simultaneously harnessing both ionic and mechanical impact energy. "The process from design to fabrication was highly challenging," Jae-Kang Kim said. "Fabricating graphene through laser processing and transferring it onto the polymer substrate was particularly delicate. Optimizing the parameters took substantial time, but narrowing down the variables one by one and finally getting the desired results was immensely rewarding." The developed device functions as both a power source and a sensor. Equipped with self-powered sensing capabilities that simultaneously detect water-droplet drop height and ion concentration without external power, the device goes beyond a simple power source to serve as a water environment monitoring platform. Tests involving capacitor charging and driving small electronics confirmed its practical viability. "If we can generate electricity using the movement of water droplets, the potential applications are endless," Professor Kim explained. "Although the generated energy is still small, scaling it up to a usable level and commercializing it is the direction of our future research." Jae-Kang Kim, who first joined the lab as an undergraduate intern, added: "I became interested in the research after taking Professor Kim's class, which led me to pursue graduate studies. Water has long been studied as an energy source, but there are still many unexplored areas, which makes it highly attractive. I chose this path because successfully harvesting even small amounts of energy in a stable, usable way would enable us to perform better research than before." Jae-Kang Kim entered graduate school after serving as an undergraduate research intern. He is conducting research on water-based energy harvesting with a focus on practical commercialization. Harnessing Minute Movements of the Heart for Power Dr. Hyun-Woo Cho developed an implantable self-powered device (ACH-TENG) that converts the micro-movements of a beating heart into triboelectric energy, integrating it with an AI-based real-time arrhythmia monitoring system. Conventional implantable cardiac monitors carry a fundamental limitation: surgery is required once the battery is depleted. The research group designed a hybrid architecture merging arch and cantilever shapes, achieving up to 2.5 times higher output within the body's confined spaces, and incorporated nanospike materials to further boost electrical performance. The device's long-term stability and biocompatibility were verified through saline solution tests and in vivo experiments using pig hearts. Research in biomedical engineering is challenging due to strict ethical standards and high barriers to clinical entry. "For implantable devices, communication and collaboration with hospitals are just as critical as technical maturity," Professor Kim said. "Thanks to close collaboration with medical staff, we were able to proceed to preclinical in vivo animal testing." Dr. Cho added: "Even with excellent technology, it is meaningless without a clinical validation environment. Collaboration with the hospital was the decisive turning point for this research." The research group combined a wireless-communication-based real-time monitoring system with AI analysis algorithms to implement a platform that automatically classifies heart rate variability and instantly alerts to arrhythmic conditions. This demonstrated the feasibility of a smart medical platform that operates autonomously inside the body without a battery. "This achievement was made possible by our lab environment, which respects student autonomy and encourages us to try out ideas the moment they strike," Dr. Cho shared. Both studies were supported by the Fourth Phase of the Brain Korea 21 (BK21) Project and the Excellent Junior Researcher Program of the National Research Foundation of Korea. Dr. Hyun-Woo Cho recalled his graduate studies as "an exciting time where I could freely pursue any research I wanted."
2026.08.10- SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being
- SDG 7 - Affordable and Clean Energy
- SDG 9 - Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
- SDG 12 - Responsible Consumption and Production
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Research
Ushering in the Era of 'K-Human Rights'
Tracing the Shift from Norm-Taker to Norm-Maker Q. You are the first Korean to be elected Chair of the UN Human Rights Council Advisory Committee and to concurrently head the Working Group on Communications. What are your thoughts, and what does this election mean for you personally and for South Korea? First, I am profoundly honored and feel a deep sense of responsibility to serve concurrently as the Chair of the UN Human Rights Council Advisory Committee and the Working Group on Communications. Holding both chairmanships simultaneously is rare in the international community. The UN system stands on three pillars: peace and security, development, and human rights. These areas are represented by major organs: the Security Council, the Economic and Social Council, and the Human Rights Council. Among them, the Advisory Committee is an 18-member think tank of independent experts. It is a key body that advises the Human Rights Council by conducting studies and offering recommendations on pressing global human rights issues. The Advisory Committee researches topics mandated by Human Rights Council resolutions. These studies typically take one to two years, often longer, and provide guidelines for the UN General Assembly to draft treaties or for the Human Rights Council to establish special procedures. Human rights are not always mainstream within the UN, but having a dedicated council allows us to achieve vital progress as a think tank. As a scholar, leading a body that drives international discourse on emerging human rights agendas and seeks implementation strategies is deeply rewarding. Concurrently serving as Chair of the Working Group on Communications carries even greater weight, as its process is considered the only universal individual complaint mechanism functioning within the UN system. For the nation, this milestone is significant because it establishes a foundation for South Korea to play a leading role in human rights, extending its soft power beyond cultural domains like K-pop and K-food. For a long time, Korea was primarily a "norm-taker" complying with international rules. Now, it has made a symbolic leap toward becoming a "norm-maker" that actively shapes those rules. This marks a continuation of Korea's rising stature in human rights since joining the UN in 1991. While my work on the Advisory Committee is strictly in the capacity of an independent expert, standing on the international stage with my identity as a South Korean citizen carries great weight and I will do my utmost to fulfill these duties. Professor Buhm-Suk Baek has focused deeply on digital technologies and human rights as a rapporteur for the Advisory Committee. His election reflects his academic dedication and practical achievements in the field. Contributions to Digital Technology and Human Rights Q. You have served on the Advisory Committee since 2020 and have now been elected Chair. What specific expertise and contributions do you believe were most highly valued in this process? Since South Korea joined the UN, there are two major human rights issues that the country has proposed and successfully integrated into the formal agenda of the Human Rights Council. The first is "Local Government and Human Rights," initiated in 2013. The second is "New and Emerging Digital Technologies and Human Rights," adopted by a council resolution in 2019. Given Korea's advanced digital landscape in semiconductors and internet technology, active domestic discussions allowed us to take the lead internationally on this issue. I was appointed as the Advisory Committee's rapporteur for the digital technologies and human rights agenda and submitted a report (A/HRC/47/52) in 2021. With the rapid rise of generative AI and various digital technologies integrating into daily life, new issues emerged across the spectrum of human rights, including privacy, discrimination, freedom of expression, labor rights, and democratic governance. In 2024, I was appointed rapporteur for a study on artificial intelligence and good governance. I spent the last year and a half conducting this research and recently submitted the report, which was officially adopted by the council. I believe my academic focus on this emerging intersection of digital technology and human rights was viewed favorably. I have led rapporteur duties for over five years, spanning from when this topic first emerged in international human rights mechanisms to recent AI discussions. Additionally, my ongoing academic work in South Korea regarding victims' rights and victim-centered approaches, combined with the application of these principles in practice on the global stage, served as a key basis for the committee's evaluation. Q. The Advisory Committee serves as the think tank for the Human Rights Council. What is the key difference between a committee member and the Chair? As a regular member, one can focus primarily on assigned rapporteur duties or specific research topics, and occasionally voice opinions. In contrast, the Chair must facilitate consensus among members from diverse national and cultural backgrounds, a role requiring significant political and diplomatic tact. For example, when addressing AI and national governance, sensitive issues like "digital colonialism" elicit starkly different national viewpoints. Finding a balanced tone for the final report requires careful political consideration, and navigating these negotiations has taught me a great deal about how international organizations function. Depending on the resolution, Advisory Committee rapporteurs receive and analyze anywhere from 30 to 70 questionnaires submitted by member states, civil society, universities, and national human rights institutions. We convene expert panels and continuously revise reports; for instance, the report adopted this June underwent eight revisions. Balancing diverse national interests is critical. While international human rights law may seem idealistic, it is a demanding field driven by political power dynamics forged in conflict. The Advisory Committee plays a vital role in setting the minimum standards for human rights norms that UN member states are expected to uphold. Addressing Emerging Human Rights Issues under the Standard of Universality Q. What issues do you hope to champion during your term as Chair? The area currently occupying the center of our discussions is undoubtedly digital technology and human rights. We are actively conducting multi-layered studies on the human rights implications of digital technologies, including gender-based violence in digital spaces, the impact of disinformation and misinformation on democracy, and the challenges neurotechnology poses to cognitive liberty and mental privacy. We are also broadly addressing environmental, social, and economic rights, such as plastic pollution, climate change, and the practical implementation of social rights. The scope of the Advisory Committee's agenda has expanded to reflect contemporary demands, as human rights extend beyond traditional civil and political rights into new frontiers. As Chair, I want to ensure the Advisory Committee is not merely an academic body, but a dynamic brain trust offering actionable policy recommendations on urgent human rights crises. In the area of digital technology, my priority is leveraging our research to establish a practical, normative framework. Q. With new types of human rights challenges emerging—such as climate change and AI—how is the Advisory Committee responding? The emergence of new technologies is not entirely unprecedented; discussions on science and human rights can be traced to Article 27 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Article 15 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR). However, modern digital technologies evolve so rapidly that they create a "normative gap" where existing laws cannot keep pace. While domestic debates are sometimes slowed by a "regulation after allowance" stance, the UN has addressed these issues in over 120 resolutions and reports since the 1990s, fostering normative convergence. In responding to these new challenges, the UN and the international community maintain the core premise that technology is never neutral. Digital technologies embed specific value judgments and power dynamics throughout their design, development, deployment, and use. Consequently, their impact on human rights cannot be dismissed as a mere accidental byproduct. The Advisory Committee operates on several key principles. First, we examine the applicability of existing international human rights standards, identifying and bridging normative gaps caused by new technologies. Second, we apply a rights-based approach while analyzing the disproportionate impact of technology on vulnerable groups. Empirical studies consistently show that marginalized populations—including women, children, the elderly, individuals with disabilities, migrants, and minorities—are most exposed to the negative side effects of new technologies. Third, we emphasize a dual framework: the state's duty to protect human rights and corporations' responsibility to respect them. Human rights due diligence based on the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs) is increasingly vital in both digital technology and climate change, which connects closely to ESG agendas. Fourth, we champion a victim-centered approach. Individuals must have access to effective remedies when rights are violated. We must recognize that the technical opacity of algorithmic decisions risks rendering the right to a remedy meaningless. At this juncture, where we face the twin forces of the climate crisis and digital transformation, the Advisory Committee seeks an integrated, intersectional approach rather than fragmented responses. This perspective is essential for the international human rights protection system to successfully meet 21st-century challenges. Kyung Hee's academic tradition of pursuing scholarship and peace aligns closely with Professor Baek's core values. He emphasized that the university's spirit—that academic pursuits must serve the public good of peace—aligns with his identity and role as an international human rights law scholar. Balancing the Advisory Committee's Academic Focus with the Working Group on Communications' Pragmatic Nature Q. You will also chair the Working Group on Communications. What kind of synergy do you expect between these two positions? Another core role of the Advisory Committee is reviewing individual communications concerning gross and reliably attested human rights violations. The Human Rights Council complaint procedure is effectively the only universal mechanism that allows any citizen in the world to appeal directly to the UN. We receive over 15,000 complaints annually. We filter out duplicates or cases under other jurisdictions, thoroughly reviewing the remaining cases under the principles of subsidiarity and confidentiality. The Working Group on Communications serves as the initial gatekeeper to determine the admissibility of these complaints. This task is highly demanding and sensitive, as it goes beyond resolving individual incidents to determine whether a systematic pattern of gross violations exists in a state. When gravity is established, it often prompts Human Rights Council resolutions to appoint country-specific special rapporteurs—such as the Special Rapporteur on North Korean Human Rights—or establish new special procedures. Given the geopolitical stakes, debates within the working group can be intense. As a researcher, I have long studied victims' rights and victim-centered frameworks, tracking the development of protective norms in international criminal law and transitional justice. This academic background helps me look beyond narrow legal and procedural boundaries to hear the voices and appeals of complainants—the often-unheard victims of human rights abuses—within their broader contexts. If the Advisory Committee is a forum for conceptual and normative academic dialogue, the Working Group on Communications is a venue for intense political and practical negotiations. Serving as Chair of both allows me to balance procedural efficiency with victim protection, creating a powerful synergy that organically links the dual pillars of human rights research and remedy within the UN mechanism. Q. "Universality" seems to be a crucial standard in your work. How do you maintain this standard in practice? When working on the international human rights stage, it is crucial to remain unconstrained by domestic political frames like progressive or conservative to maintain universality. Over the past two decades, I have addressed a broad spectrum of issues, from comfort women forced into sexual slavery by the Japanese military to North Korean human rights. While these issues are sometimes viewed through politicized lenses at home, focusing single-mindedly on victim protection allows me to uphold universal standards. The essence of human rights is giving voice to those who have been marginalized and silenced. To be sure, navigating trade-offs between competing rights and identifying the fine line between justifiable restrictions and violations remains a persistent challenge. For instance, while freedom of expression is a fundamental right, it can be restricted to maintain public order—though states often use this justification to infringe upon rights excessively. Recently, the UN Special Rapporteur in the field of cultural rights cautioned against "memory laws" that criminalize historical distortion, suggesting that states should be careful not to mandate a single historical narrative. Yet, the demand to counter historical distortion is also difficult to ignore. Deciding the scope of criminal punishment requires balancing free expression with historical truth, a boundary that is academically and legally delicate to draw. Embracing Kyung Hee's Academic Tradition and Historical Legacy Q. What is currently the most hotly debated topic within the Advisory Committee? Without a doubt, it is neurotechnology and human rights. As neural engineering—which can read brain signals or directly stimulate neural pathways—merges with AI, it is already being used in applications like regulating suicidal thoughts in patients with depression. This technology touches on the core of cognitive freedom and the absolute right to freedom of conscience and thought. While neurotechnology has positive therapeutic goals, it carries a high risk of "dual-use" abuse, such as in criminal investigations or coerced confessions. This is no longer science fiction. Redefining and regulating the boundaries of these absolute rights is currently the subject of our most intense debates. Q. How has Kyung Hee's core value of "Scholarship and Peace" influenced your international human rights work? Kyung Hee's long-cherished value of "Scholarship and Peace" resonates deeply with the academic stance I maintain in international human rights. Human rights research is not driven by academic curiosity alone; it is rooted in a profound respect for human dignity and a practical commitment to building peaceful communities. Moreover, Kyung Hee's philosophy—that scholarship should not exist for its own sake but must serve the public good of peace—aligns perfectly with my approach as a scholar of international human rights law. Academically identifying the structural causes of human rights violations lays the foundation for peace building. These two values support each other: a peaceful international order is impossible without the universal realization of human rights. The university's historical legacy—from its founder to its leadership in establishing the UN International Day of Peace—is a source of immense pride as I work on the international stage. The support of university members, including the Global Academy for Future Civilizations, and an educational philosophy highlighting our responsibility to global society provide vital encouragement for balancing research, teaching, and international duties. I will continue to do my best to promote human rights domestically and globally in alignment with the university's ideals. Q. How do you hope to share your international experience with students, and what advice would you offer to those aspiring to enter this field of work? If the practical experience gained at international organizations is not brought back to the classroom, its value is halved. Over the past few years, we have run internship programs through the Global Academy for Future Civilizations to give undergraduates hands-on experience in international affairs. Giving students even a single week to absorb the atmosphere of these institutions generates a far more powerful learning effect than a semester of lectures. I hope to open introductory courses in international human rights law across various programs to provide interested students with intensive learning opportunities. Concurrently, I plan to establish pathways for graduate students to participate directly in research projects for international organizations, bridging theory and practice. There is a distinct thrill in witnessing a single sentence, carefully drafted by a scholar, shape international standards and alter government policies. This tangible impact shows how academic research can directly protect human rights in the real world, a lesson I am eager to share with my students. For students dreaming of the international stage, several qualities are essential. First is deep expertise. International organizations do not seek generalists; they look for talent with specialized, indispensable knowledge in a particular field. Second is language proficiency. Foreign languages are tools, not ends. Mastering at least one other UN official language beside English, such as French or Spanish, is a major asset. Third is intercultural sensitivity. International organizations are diverse environments, and the ability to communicate and build consensus with colleagues from different cultural backgrounds is a core professional competency. Structural changes in international human rights do not manifest overnight; patience and the ability to maintain a long-term perspective are vital. Furthermore, one must balance academic rigor with practical awareness. Human rights are not abstract concepts but issues affecting concrete human lives; research that fails to listen to the voices of those who have experienced violations is hollow. Finally, sincerity is paramount. Entering an international organization should not be the ultimate goal. I hope students remember that it is simply a pathway toward the fundamental values of promoting human rights and building peace.
2026.08.03- SDG 1 - No Poverty
- SDG 9 - Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
- SDG 10 - Reduced Inequalities
- SDG 13 - Climate Action
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Research , Global Eminence
A Journey of Academic Excellence and Peace
The "Kyung Hee Scholars Forum" was held at Grand Peace Hall on Thursday, June 18. The Kyung Hee Scholars Forum (Part 1) brings together HCRs, Kyung Hee Fellows (Research), and the World’s Top 2% Researchers Sharing the journeys of prominent faculty members and formulating tailored research strategies "Granting autonomy and resources to outstanding researchers, offering rewards for performance and recognition for excellence" Editor’s Note: On Thursday, June 18, the "Kyung Hee Scholars Forum" was held at Grand Peace Hall under the theme "A Journey of Academic Excellence and Peace: Celebrating the Achievements of 2025." The forum was organized to celebrate the university's record-breaking research achievements of the past year and to discuss Kyung Hee's mid-to-long-term research strategies. This article covers the highlights from Part 1 of this two-part event. Kyung Hee Produces Record Number of HCRs and World's Top 2% Researchers The year 2025 marked a major milestone for research at Kyung Hee University. Four faculty members—Professors Chulmo Koo and Namho Chung (School of Smart Tourism), Professor Jin-Woo Bae (Department of Biology), and Kohwang Distinguished Professor Choong Seon Hong (Department of Computer Science and Engineering)—were named Highly Cited Researchers (HCR) by Clarivate. The annual HCR list recognizes researchers whose publication citations rank in the top 1% of their field globally, based on Web of Science data. In 2025, only 6,868 researchers from 1,300 institutions across 60 countries received this distinction—representing roughly one in a thousand scholars worldwide. With these four designees, Kyung Hee ranked third among South Korean comprehensive private universities and led the nation in social sciences HCRs. In addition, a record number of faculty members were named to the world's top 2% researchers list compiled by Stanford University and Elsevier: 62 based on career-long metrics and 120 based on single-year impact—the university's largest cohort to date. To foster research excellence and honor outstanding scholarly contributions, Kyung Hee annually names top research faculty as "Kyung Hee Fellows (Research)." For the 2025 academic year, six faculty members received this honor: Professor Myoung Sook Oh of the Department of Oriental Pharmaceutical Science, Professor Jun Tae Kim of the Department of Food and Nutrition, Professor Dong Keon Yon of the School of Medicine, Professor Inhan Kim of the Department of Architecture, Professor Kwang Pyo Kim of the Department of Applied Chemistry, and Professor Young Sun Kim of the Department of Gerontology. The Scholars Forum provided a platform for these HCRs, Kyung Hee Fellows, and top-tier researchers to reflect on their academic journeys and exchange insights on current research challenges. President Jinsang Kim expressed his respect and gratitude to the scholars who brought honor to Kyung Hee, stating, "We will refine our policies and culture to ensure our outstanding faculty can immerse themselves fully in their research." Introducing Kyung Hee's Unique 'Global Niche Top' Strategy Part 1 of the Scholars Forum opened with a welcoming address by President Jinsang Kim, followed by presentations titled "The Journey to Becoming a World-Class Scholar" and "Global Research Trends and Recommendations for Future Inquiry." The session concluded with the presentation of the Kyung Hee Scholars and Outstanding Researcher Awards. Emphasizing the forum's broader purpose, President Kim noted, "This gathering is not simply to celebrate research outputs, but to measure the heights of Kyung Hee's academic future and express our profound respect for the scholars leading the way." Choosing to highlight the resilience and perseverance required in research rather than focusing solely on record-breaking outcomes, President Jinsang Kim pledged administrative reforms to help top scholars focus entirely on their work. Systemic processes and institutional culture are being redesigned to alleviate administrative burdens. "We will grant outstanding researchers the autonomy and resources they need, offering fair rewards for performance and bold recognition for excellence," President Kim emphasized. "A university's standing is not built on empty declarations. Reputation is not a goal in itself, but the natural byproduct of an unyielding commitment to educational and research excellence." He also outlined a vision that looks beyond quantitative rankings: a targeted "Global Niche Top" strategy designed to secure world-leading positioning in specialized fields. Rather than merely increasing volume, Kyung Hee seeks to maximize its research impact and deepen its leadership within international collaborative networks. "By building a virtuous cycle between education and research, we will forge ahead as an institution dedicated to shaping a better future for humanity," President Kim concluded. Professor Namho Chung of the School of Smart Tourism and Director Hyunju Jang of Elsevier deliver their presentations. Professor Chung reflected on his path to becoming a world-class scholar, while Director Jang offered recommendations for future research. An Environment That Nurtures World-Class ScholarsProfessor Namho Chung of the School of Smart Tourism shared his path to HCR status in a keynote titled "The Journey to Becoming a World-Class Scholar: Environment, Platform, and Colleagues." Addressing the vital role of academic surroundings, Professor Chung observed, "Just as a fish grows to different sizes depending on its habitat, outstanding researchers are not born—they are nurtured by their environment." He cited Kyung Hee’s research culture—marked by mutual respect for scholarly pursuits, reliable internal grants, and abundant opportunities for international collaboration—as the catalyst for his recognition. Professor Chung also detailed the evolution of his team's research platform. Beginning with the establishment of the Smart Tourism Research Center (STRC) in 2013, his team built a strong academic foundation over a decade through the Social Sciences Korea (SSK) initiative supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea. Later, through the Brain Korea 21 (BK21) Phase 4 project, the STRC expanded into a thriving research ecosystem supporting more than 20 research professors. The center subsequently launched the Journal of Smart Tourism, an international journal which achieved Scopus indexing in 2026. Emphasizing the power of scholarly collaboration, Professor Chung concluded: "Sustaining this momentum would have been impossible without Professor Chulmo Koo—a fellow HCR with whom I co-founded the School of Smart Tourism and the Korea Smart Tourism Association—along with the research professors who advanced into faculty roles worldwide through our BK21 program." Recalling how senior colleagues generously shared successful grant proposals when the STRC was first launched, he noted, "Being named an HCR is not an individual triumph; it is a milestone co-created by our entire university community." "Fusing Kyung Hee’s Unique Research Assets to Drive New Academic Agendas"The forum also turned its attention to global research trends and strategic directions for future inquiry. Analyzing how the research landscape is shifting in the AI era, Elsevier Director Hyunju Jang proposed a strategic framework leveraging Kyung Hee's core strengths. She highlighted how the rapid expansion of generative AI is transforming scientific methodology: by 2024, 84% of researchers were utilizing AI tools in their work, while the use of Large Language Models (LLMs) in manuscript preparation doubled from 30% in 2023 to 60% in 2024. "The question is no longer whether to adopt AI, but how to harness it effectively," Director Jang emphasized. Drawing on Elsevier’s topic cluster technology, Director Jang shared a global research momentum analysis that identified eight high-impact fields from among 1,500 global clusters: AI and deep learning, energy transition materials, environment and sustainability, bio and precision medicine, smart systems, digital mental health, AI-driven educational innovation, and management and social transition. The findings demonstrate that interdisciplinary convergence—bridging the sciences, social sciences, and humanities—is the cornerstone of future research competitiveness. Outlining a strategy tailored to Kyung Hee's distinct capabilities, she concluded, "Complex global issues like climate change and demographic shifts cannot be solved by a single discipline. By reinterpreting the strengths of a comprehensive university through a global lens, Kyung Hee can carve out pioneering research domains and build an unmistakable institutional brand." Commemorative plaques were presented to faculty members named as HCRs and Kyung Hee Fellows (Research). The plaques feature the Kyung Hee Person Statue, symbolizing the progressive spirit and cooperative drive of the university’s community. Research Support Policies Pave the Way for SuccessFaculty named as HCRs and Kyung Hee Fellows (Research) were presented with plaques featuring the "Kyung Hee Person Statue" (familiarly known as the Eight Fairies Statue). Erected in 1969 to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the university's founding, the sculpture depicts figures from traditional lore whose flight across the sky symbolizes the progressive spirit and upward strides of Kyung Hee’s community, while their unified formation reflects a shared commitment to cooperation and solidarity. Following the presentation of awards, Kohwang Distinguished Professor Choong Seon Hong delivered remarks on behalf of the HCR recipients, while Professor Young Sun Kim spoke on behalf of the Kyung Hee Fellows (Research). "It is a profound honor to fulfill my long-held dream of becoming an HCR in the very year of my retirement," Professor Hong shared. He emphasized that Kyung Hee's institutional support provided the essential foundation for his achievement: "Thanks to the university's international student scholarship program, domestic and international students worked seamlessly together in my lab, fostering a global perspective. Furthermore, the ES/IS program sparked new research directions and laid the groundwork for international collaboration." Professor Choong Seon Hong has published more than 300 papers in premier international journals across the fields of wireless network resource management and machine learning. In 2024, he was elected an IEEE Fellow—one of the highest honors in electrical, computer, and communications engineering—and received the Grand Award at the Undang Academic Awards, the top honor in South Korea's ICT sector. He is currently pioneering research in AI agents and network-specific world models. Professor Young Sun Kim is an academic pioneer who opened new ground in the emerging field of AgeTech. Anticipating demographic shifts long before aging became a central global issue, she dedicated her career to senior-focused technology. "A field that was largely obscure a decade ago has now become a major domain highlighted by global corporations," Professor Kim noted. "We are also witnessing the field mature academically, as specialized research centers are being established worldwide." Professor Kim's strategic foresight and a decade of groundwork culminated in major milestones during the interim evaluation of the BK21 Phase 4 project, where the AgeTech Research Group was recognized as an outstanding education and research team and awarded the AX Sprint project. Expressing appreciation for the university's enduring trust, she concluded: "We achieved this success because Kyung Hee believed in our center's vision. In response to that trust, I will do my utmost to position Kyung Hee as a global leader in senior-specific physical AI."
2026.08.03 -
Research
Professor Jinseok Lee Honored with Presidential Commendation for Leading Medical AI Innovation
Professor Jinseok Lee of the Department of Biomedical Engineering received the Presidential Citation on Science and ICT Day in recognition of his contributions to building research infrastructure and fostering talent in medical AI. Developing core multimodal AI technology, leading global research collaboration "Aiming to secure international credibility for Korea's AI research outcomes" Professor Jinseok Lee of the Department of Biomedical Engineering received the Presidential Citation on Science and ICT Day in recognition of his achievements in establishing research infrastructure and nurturing outstanding talents in the field of medical artificial intelligence. Professor Lee is leading innovations in emergency medicine by driving the development of core multimodal artificial intelligence technologies. Establishing a Korea-Led Global AI Research Platform Professor Lee is leading research into core multimodal AI technology, which integrates and analyzes diverse data sources including biosignals, medical imaging, and clinical text. Unlike traditional systems that rely on a single format, this AI simultaneously interprets multiple data types. As a result, Professor Lee serves as the principal investigator for several major national strategic AI initiatives. Through the Information Technology Research Center (ITRC) program—funded by the Ministry of Science and ICT and managed by the Institute for Information & Communications Technology Planning & Evaluation (IITP)—he oversees the architecture for a end-to-end AI system spanning data collection, transmission, analysis, and clinical decision-making. He is also driving the development of core algorithms and data-processing technologies tailored for real-world medical use. "In emergency situations, medical teams are flooded with different physiological datasets all at once," Professor Lee explained. "An AI capable of synthesizing this data to make rapid, accurate decisions will be a true game-changer for emergency medicine." Professor Lee is also driving international research collaboration in medical AI far beyond Korea. As principal investigator of the 'Global AI Frontier Lab,' he is establishing a global AI research hub in partnership with New York University (NYU)—a structure led by Korean researchers and joined by leading international institutions. This collaboration is already yielding tangible results. The research team established a multinational network involving eight regional trauma centers in Korea (including Ajou University Hospital and Chonnam National University Hospital), the NYU Langone Trauma Center in the US, and the Westmead Trauma Center in Australia. Together, they developed an AI model that predicts a trauma patient's mortality risk in real time during pre-hospital transport, validating its performance using multi-center datasets from Korea and abroad. "This is a prime example of AI technology developed in Korea being directly validated and reproduced in international clinical settings," Professor Lee emphasized. "It plays a major role in elevating the global credibility and competitiveness of Korean AI research." Fostering AI Talent and Expanding Educational Horizons Breakthroughs at Professor Lee’s laboratory are rapidly making their way into industry. Over the past five years, his work has yielded 16 domestic patent applications, four registrations, and seven international patent applications. Beyond intellectual property, his team's research is actively driving real-world commercialization through tech transfer initiatives. In addition to building cutting-edge research infrastructure, Professor Lee is deeply committed to training the next generation of AI specialists. Through the Global AI Frontier Lab, he dispatches young researchers to top international institutions, including NYU. He also serves as Deputy Director of the 'Medical AI Convergence Talent Support Project,' sponsored by the Ministry of Health and Welfare. This strategic national program bridges healthcare and artificial intelligence to foster global competitiveness. To make an immediate impact, Professor Lee designed a cross-disciplinary curriculum that enables engineering students to grasp clinical realities and healthcare needs, empowering them to build and deploy medical AI solutions directly.
2026.07.22 -
Research
The International Center for Quantum Matter Bridges Research and Industry at Quantum Materials Frontier 2026
The International Center for Quantum Matter, French neutral atom-based quantum computer company Pasqal, and the Kyung Hee Brain Pool Project Group host the “Quantum Materials Frontier 2026: Bridging Research and Industry” symposium. “Quantum Materials Frontier 2026: Bridging Research and Industry” symposium features academic symposiums, panel discussions, and academic seminars under the theme of “Research-to-Industry Bridge” The International Center for Quantum Matter (ICQM) hosted the “Quantum Materials Frontier 2026: Bridging Research and Industry” symposium. The center co-organized the event with Pasqal, a French neutral atom-based quantum computing company, and the Kyung Hee Brain Pool Project Group. The symposium brought together world-class researchers and industry experts in quantum materials and quantum technology to discuss the future of quantum science and technology and strategies for its commercialization. Leading Korean and International Quantum Researchers Share Insights The symposium drew prominent researchers from the global quantum science and technology community, including Konstantin Novoselov, Eminent Scholar (ES), Director of the International Center for Quantum Matter (ICQM) and winner of the 2010 Nobel Prize in Physics; Philip Kim, ES, Harvard University professor and recipient of the 2023 Benjamin Franklin Medal; Dr. Alexandre Dauphin of Pasqal; Director Kihwan Kim of the Institute for Basic Science (IBS); Director Sang-Wook Han of the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST); President Donghun Lee of the Korean Quantum Information Society; and Professor Seok-Kyun Son of the Department of Physics. Centered on the theme "Research-to-Industry Bridge," the event featured an academic symposium, a panel discussion, and academic seminars. Attendees shared the latest research trends in quantum computing, quantum sensing, quantum materials, quantum simulation, and hybrid quantum systems. They also discussed strategies and collaborative methods to bridge the gap between basic research and commercial applications. The event drew a wide audience, including representatives from domestic quantum tech firms, research institutes, university scholars, and students, fostering active communication across academia, industry, and research sectors. In the panel discussion, speakers emphasized the necessity of industry-academia-research cooperation, professional talent cultivation, and sustainable cooperation platforms to commercialize quantum technology and build a robust ecosystem. Following the discussion, the organizers presented the "Future Science Talent Award" to honor three undergraduate and three graduate students representing the next generation of quantum science and technology leaders. During the academic seminars, experts from global industry, academia, and research institutes—including Pasqal, KISTI, KIST, KRISS, UNIST, POSTECH, LG Electronics, and KQC—presented their latest findings and technological trends in quantum computing, devices, simulation, hybrid systems, and sensing. The sessions sparked lively discussions on real-world industrial applications and opportunities for future joint research. Prior to the symposium, the International Center for Quantum Matter signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Pasqal. The International Center for Quantum Matter and Pasqal Sign MOU On the morning of the symposium, the International Center for Quantum Matter and Pasqal signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to expand international cooperation in quantum science and technology. Under the agreement, they will leverage Pasqal's neutral atom-based quantum computing platform alongside Kyung Hee's research expertise in quantum materials to identify applications for next-generation materials, simulations, and computing. The partnership will also drive applied research to generate industrial impact. Additionally, both parties committed to building a global quantum research ecosystem through joint international projects, talent exchange, and collaborative workshops. Director Novoselov noted: "For quantum technology to deliver tangible benefits to industry and society, we must build close cooperation between fundamental science and the industrial sector. This symposium served as a vital forum for researchers and industry representatives to align on the future and practical applications of quantum technology." Professor Seok-Kyun Son, Associate Director of the center and the event's chief organizer, remarked: "We plan to identify new use cases combining quantum computing and materials research, while establishing a collaborative platform that helps domestic researchers and industry engage with the global quantum ecosystem. By expanding international joint research, talent development, and industry-academia-research partnerships, we will establish Kyung Hee as a key hub for global quantum cooperation."
2026.07.20 -
Research
Extending Battery Lifespan Through Next-Generation Aqueous Zinc Batteries
Professor Jae Su Yu’s research team at the School of Electronic Engineering, in collaboration with a research team from Yangzhou University, developed a dual-additive electrolyte engineering strategy to overcome the critical limitations of aqueous zinc metal batteries. Professor Jae Su Yu’s research team at the School of Electronic Engineering develops a dual-additive electrolyte engineering strategy The battery retains 93% of its initial capacity even after 800 charge-discharge cycles Professor Jae Su Yu’s research team at the School of Electronic Engineering, in collaboration with Yangzhou University in China, has developed a dual-additive electrolyte engineering strategy to overcome the core limitations of aqueous zinc metal batteries. The team published their findings in the prestigious international journal Nature Communications (IF: 15.7). Overcoming the LIfespan Flaw in Fire-Safe Next-Gen Batteries Lithium-ion batteries, which power most smartphones and electric vehicles, pose fire risks due to their flammable organic electrolytes. In contrast, water-based aqueous zinc metal batteries offer a much safer and cost-effective alternative, making them a promising candidate for next-generation energy storage. However, repeated charge-discharge cycles trigger undesirable chemical side reactions and cause sharp zinc crystals (dendrites) to grow on the zinc anode. This rapidly degrades battery life, presenting a major hurdle for commercialization. Professor Yu’s team resolved this challenge by introducing a combination of two additives to the electrolyte: L-cysteine, a natural amino acid commonly used in food and cosmetics, and methyl propionate (MP), an organic compound. MP reconstructs the hydrogen-bonding network in the electrolyte, weakening the interaction between zinc ions and water molecules to facilitate smoother ion desolvation at the electrode surface. Concurrently, L-cysteine adsorbs preferentially onto the zinc anode, forming a protective layer rich in inorganic compounds–such as zinc nitride, zinc sulfide, and zinc oxide–that effectively suppresses side reactions and dendrite growth. a. Screening of organic molecules based on binding energies with H2O, Zn2+, and ΔESP. b. Screening of amino acids based on adsorption energies, LUMO levels, and Zn2+ binding energies. c. ZSLM electrolyte model in MD simulations. d. RDF results. e. Snapshots of AIMD simulations. f. Galvanostatic cycling of Zn||Zn cells. g. Charge-discharge curves of Zn||I2 pouch cells. h. Cycling performance and Coulombic efficiency (CE). Dual Additive Boosts Battery Life, Paving the Way for Commercialization The results were impressive. The zinc symmetric cells operated stably for over 3,000 hours, and the zinc-iodine pouch cell maintained 93.1% of its initial capacity even after 800 charge-discharge cycles. Moreover, the battery continued to operate normally even under severe physical abuse—including bending, cutting, and needle-punching—proving its potential for wearable electronics and other demanding applications. Professor Yu stated, "We expect our additive screening methodology to serve as a versatile tool for developing various aqueous batteries. This work brings us one step closer to commercializing safe, long-lasting energy storage systems." The team conducted this research with support from the Ministry of Education’s Key Research Institutes Program for Science Engineering. Professor Jae Su Yu highlights the significance of this research, stating that the team has moved a step closer to commercializing safe, long-lasting batteries.
2026.07.20 -
Research
Kyung Hee University Advances Research Ecosystem for Science and Engineering Graduate Students
Kyung Hee University has received the highest "S-grade" in the annual evaluation of the "2026 Science and Engineering Research Fellowship Support Project." Receives highest "S-grade" rating in the annual evaluation of the "Science and Engineering Research Fellowship Support Project" Achieves zero students falling below the minimum funding threshold, securing recognition for its outstanding support Acclaimed for systematic management systems, including the launch of a dedicated administrative unit and a 5-step Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) Kyung Hee University has received the highest "S-grade" rating in the annual evaluation of the "2026 Science and Engineering Research Fellowship Support Project" conducted by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF). Through this evaluation, Kyung Hee has demonstrated its status as a leading institution in cultivating future core talents in the science and engineering fields. The "Science and Engineering Research Fellowship Support Project" aims to create an environment where science and engineering graduate students can concentrate on their research without financial burdens and support the stable growth of next-generation researchers. During the evaluation of the first-year (2025) operating performance, Kyung Hee University's Industry-Academic Cooperation Foundation (IACF) received the highest “S-grade” rating with praise for its outstanding execution capabilities and innovative management framework. Active Administration Driving Global Research Achievements A standout achievement is the complete elimination of funding shortfalls for graduate students. Through active university-wide efforts and increased research grants, Kyung Hee successfully closed the gap for all students who previously received less than the minimum stipend. The university now fully meets the minimum monthly support standards: 800,000 KRW for master's students and 1.1 million KRW for doctoral students. This provides a solid foundation for full-time science and engineering graduate students, allowing them to focus on their research and consistently deliver outstanding results without financial worry The IACF secured institutional and administrative stability by advancing the project's foundations. Following the enactment of operating regulations in September 2025, the IACF refined the regulations through professional consulting provided by the NRF. Furthermore, it independently developed and implemented a "5-Step Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)" that systematizes the entire stipend payment process, achieving a record of zero payment errors and 100% participant confirmation. The university also made significant strides in building an efficient governance structure through organizational restructuring. The IACF launched a dedicated "Student Labor Cost Management Section" under the Research Support Team and formed a separate steering committee to boost operational expertise. Furthermore, it introduced a multi-layered oversight system where the dedicated unit and related departments work in tandem to cross-check data, effectively eliminating administrative errors and compliance blind spots. Another key success factor was the active participation of the university community, which helped foster a strong culture of giving to secure funding. To ensure that student researchers can focus fully on their work in a stable environment, the IACF launched the "K-Stipend Companion Campaign." Within just six months, the campaign raised 110 million KRW in pledges and 108 million KRW in actual donations. Moving forward, the IACF plans to implement concrete initiatives to continually improve support for full-time science and engineering graduate students. It will continue to encourage voluntary contributions from departments, colleges, and principal investigators while expanding the "Companionship Campaign" to diversify its funding sources. To ensure proactive and systematic oversight, the IACF will also upgrade its administration software systems. Furthermore, it will establish regular working-level consultative meetings among related departments to completely eliminate administrative blind spots, update operational manuals, and host regular briefing sessions to ensure the program meets the specific needs of its participants. “Earning the top ‘S-grade’ rating in this annual evaluation is the fruitful result of our entire university community working together to improve the research environment for our graduate students,” said Een-Kee Hong, Head of the IACF. “We remain deeply committed to supporting these outstanding next-generation scholars who will lead our future society, ensuring they can focus on generating world-class research achievements without financial barriers.”
2026.07.13 -
Research
Maternal Influenza Infection Linked to Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease
From left: Professor Dong Keon Yon of the College of Medicine, student Yujin Choi, researcher Hyunjee Kim, and senior researcher Jaeyu Park Professor Dong Keon Yon’s research team leverages large-scale medical big data to achieve a world-first validation Published in the online edition of GUT (Impact Factor: 26.2), the world’s premier journal in gastroenterology A research team led by Professor Dong Keon Yon of the College of Medicine (including researchers Hyunjee Kim and Jaeyu Park, and student Yujin Choi) has utilized large-scale Korean medical big data to prove for the first time globally that maternal influenza (flu) infection during pregnancy increases the risk of the child developing ulcerative colitis. Their groundbreaking findings were published this May in the online edition of GUT (Impact Factor: 26.2), one of the most prestigious journals in the field of gastroenterology. Tracking 2.56 Million Mother-Child Pairs Reveals a 33% Increased Risk of Ulcerative Colitis The research team conducted a massive, long-term tracking study following 2,562,302 children born between 2010 and 2017 for up to 14 years. They analyzed the correlation between prenatal influenza infection and the risk of children developing inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD)—specifically ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease—while adjusting for additional variables including the child's age, the specific trimester of infection, and seasonal factors. The analysis revealed that when a mother was exposed to influenza during pregnancy, the child's risk of developing ulcerative colitis increased by 33%. Remarkably, this trend persisted even after adjusting for familial confounding factors such as genetic background and home environments. This elevated risk tended to persist until the child reached seven years of age. Interestingly, no significant association was found with Crohn's disease, suggesting that prenatal infection compromises the fetal immune system in highly disease-specific ways. The timing of the infection also played a critical role. When the influenza infection occurred during the third trimester, the child's risk of developing ulcerative colitis nearly doubled compared to the uninfected control group. Furthermore, infections contracted during the peak flu seasons of winter or spring saw the child's risk rise by approximately 50%. The underlying mechanism behind this phenomenon suggests that inflammatory cytokines triggered by the maternal flu infection cross the placenta, ultimately disrupting the regulatory system of the child's intestinal mucosal immunity. Senior researcher Jaeyu Park explained, "Crohn's disease is generally considered more severe than ulcerative colitis in terms of complications and clinical progression. However, our study demonstrates that maternal influenza infection shares a distinct, statistically significant link specifically with the development of ulcerative colitis among inflammatory bowel diseases." Professor Yon emphasized the broader implications of the study, noting, "Directly validating the long-term impacts of maternal influenza on a child's gut health through clinical trials is incredibly challenging. Being able to uncover this definitive link using massive medical big data is the core breakthrough of this research." He added, "Proactive flu vaccinations during pregnancy and prompt treatment upon infection could serve as vital clinical strategies to protect a child from future inflammatory bowel disease. Moving forward, we will continue leveraging advanced methodologies to develop practical prevention and management strategies that patients can truly benefit from."
2026.06.15