NEW BEGINNING, NEW INSPIRATION
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Pukyong National University Student Team Wins Grand Prize for Developing a Flying Fish Roe Alternative Using Olive Flounder Eggs- Food Science and Engineering student team excels at fisheries industry innovation competition- Presents the potential of a multi-sensory seafood product using fertilized olive flounder eggs as a substitute for flying fish roeThe Haedam Team, consisting of senior students Seo-Jin Park, Young-Jin Oh, So-Jeong Yoo, Ye-Rim Ha, and Seung-Soo Lee from the Major in Food Science and Engineering at Pukyong National University and advised by Professor Gil-Bo Shim, won the Grand Prize at the “2026 Idea Competition for Fostering Convergence Talent and Innovating Traditional Fisheries Industries,” recently hosted by the Korean Society of Fisheries Science. The competition was organized to discover innovative ideas for the traditional fisheries industry and promote the cultivation of interdisciplinary talent in the fisheries sector. Participating teams competed with creative and practical ideas that could contribute to solving challenges faced by the fisheries industry. Under the theme “Eggs Embracing the Sun: Tasting the Sea, Bursting with Color,” the Haedam Team received the highest evaluation for proposing a flying fish roe alternative made from fertilized olive flounder eggs, a resource that can be stably secured through Korea’s olive flounder aquaculture industry. While conventional flying fish roe relies heavily on imports and faces limitations in supply stability, the team focused on the fact that fertilized olive flounder eggs can provide a reliable domestic source of raw materials through linkage with the local aquaculture industry. The product proposed by the team is characterized by its ability to recreate the distinctive “popping” texture of flying fish roe by utilizing the unique membrane properties of fertilized olive flounder eggs. Through vinegar treatment, the egg membrane proteins were induced to undergo structural modification, creating a design in which the contents are released instantly when bitten, thereby delivering the popping texture preferred by consumers. The team also incorporated anthocyanin pigments derived from red cabbage, adding a visual element that changes color in response to pH variations. When lemon juice is added, the color shifts from purple to red under acidic conditions, allowing consumers to directly experience the transformation. This concept demonstrates the potential of a multi-sensory seafood product that simultaneously stimulates the senses of sight, touch, taste, hearing, and smell. Unlike conventional artificial flying fish roe made from starch- or alginate-based materials, the proposed product differentiates itself by using actual fish eggs as its base ingredient. In addition, it can provide nutritional components such as DHA and EPA, suggesting strong potential for expansion into the food service, convenience food, and premium ingredient markets. The product is also expected to contribute to the high-value utilization of underused marine resources and the revitalization of Korea’s seafood industry. Professor Gil-Bo Shim stated, “This award is particularly meaningful in that the students creatively reinterpreted resources from the traditional fisheries industry as innovative food materials.” He added, “Through follow-up research aimed at improving flavor, ensuring microbial stability, and enhancing shelf life, we expect to further increase the potential for commercialization.” Meanwhile, the Haedam Team plans to further improve the prototype by enhancing its preservation performance, color stability, and texture, thereby increasing both its product completeness and market applicability.
Pukyong National University Hosts Career Fair Featuring Direct Mentoring by Professionals from Major Corporations and Public Institutions- “2026 PKNU Career, Employment, and Startup Expo” held on May 21？22- Participation from major corporations, public enterprises, and public institutions, offering professional mentoring, recruitment information sessions, and startup support consultations- First-time provision of career counseling in English and Chinese, as well as employment visa consultations for international studentsPukyong National University (President Sang-Hoon Bae) held the “2026 PKNU Career, Employment, and Startup Expo” over two days, May 21 and 22, at the PKNU Convention Hall and Dongwon Jang Bogo Hall to help students and local young people develop their career paths and strengthen their employment competencies. Hosted by the university’s University Job Plus Center (Director Cheol-Soo Kim), the expo was organized to provide career and employment support opportunities for students and local youth. Human resources managers and alumni currently working in various industries participated directly in the event, sharing employment information and recruitment trends with attendees. More than 60 organizations and companies participated in the expo, including major corporations, public enterprises, and public institutions such as the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (Kori Nuclear Power Headquarters), Korean Air Aerospace Division, NH NongHyup Bank, Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), LIG Defense & Aerospace, Sungwoo Hitech, Busan Transportation Corporation, Busan Facilities Corporation, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, Korea Southern Power, Korea Exchange, LS ELECTRIC, Korea Housing Finance Corporation, Korean Register, and the Korea Environment Corporation. At the PKNU Convention Hall, booths were operated in three sections: the Professional Mentoring Zone, the Corporate Zone, and the Consultation and Promotion Zone. In the Professional Mentoring Zone, Pukyong National University alumni currently working in industry and corporate professionals shared job-specific mentoring and practical employment preparation strategies. The Corporate Zone provided recruitment information, corporate promotion activities, and on-site consultations for participants. In addition, the expo featured career and startup support services, including English- and Chinese-language career counseling for international students and employment visa consultations, both introduced for the first time. Promotion booths were also operated by related organizations, including the University Job Plus Center, the Ministry of Employment and Labor, the Busan Economic Promotion Agency, and the Military Manpower Administration. At Dongwon Jang Bogo Hall, recruitment information sessions introducing corporate talent requirements and hiring procedures, as well as special lectures by industry professionals, were held. The event also offered a variety of interactive programs, including employment seminars on the latest recruitment trends, personal color analysis, career tarot readings, custom emotion-inspired perfume making, a photo zone, roulette events, and food trucks.
Pukyong National University Discusses Busan’s Future Strategies for a Year-from Fisheries and AI to Arctic Shipping Routes- “Talking About Busan” marks its first anniversary, establishing itself as a regular exchange platform for leaders from government, industry, academia, and research institutionsPukyong National University (President Sang-Hoon Bae) has marked the first anniversary of its regular forum, “Talking About Busan,” where leaders from government, industry, academia, and research institutions gather to discuss strategies for the future development of Busan. Launched by the university in May of last year, Talking About Busan was created as a forum for open discussions on the city’s major issues and future vision. It has since established itself as a platform where regional opinion leaders come together to explore development strategies and collaborative initiatives for Busan. Since its inaugural session in May last year, the forum has been held on a monthly basis, bringing together representatives from universities, the Busan Metropolitan Government, research institutes, financial institutions, and businesses. Participants have engaged in broad discussions on Busan’s strengths and challenges, promising industries, and policy directions. In particular, discussions have focused on Busan’s future growth engines, including the convergence of fisheries and artificial intelligence, the development of the marine biotechnology industry, strategies for the Arctic shipping route era, marine semiconductors, and the advancement of the shipbuilding equipment industry. The forum has also explored a wide range of development strategies, including talent cultivation to support Busan’s transformation into a global hub city and maritime capital, as well as financial and logistics innovation, the blockchain industry, business relocation, and the promotion of gastronomy and tourism. To commemorate the forum’s first anniversary, Pukyong National University has also published an archive volume documenting the discussions and achievements accumulated over the past year. Over the past year, the forum has brought together Pukyong National University and a wide range of public and research institutions, including the Busan Metropolitan Government, the Busan Institute for Talent & Lifelong Education (BIT), the Korea Fisheries Resources Agency, the Korea Marine Equipment Research Institute, the Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology (KIOST), the Korea Maritime Institute (KMI), the Global Urban Tourism Promotion Organization (TPO), the Financial Supervisory Service, the Busan Institute for Startup & Venture Growth, Busan Technopark, the Bank of Korea Busan Headquarters, and Busan Paik Hospital. The forum has also expanded its industry？academia？research cooperation network through the participation of regional companies, including Geumyang Shipping Co., Ltd., Gijang Mulsan Co., Ltd., Samjin Food Co., Ltd., Slash B Slash, Eogiya Factory Co., Ltd., AD Fisheries Co., Ltd., Yuju Co., Ltd., Inter Ocean Co., Ltd., and Marine Drone Technology Co., Ltd.. President Sang-Hoon Bae stated, “Over the past year, ‘Talking About Busan’ has provided a platform through which leaders from various sectors across Busan have continuously communicated and strengthened the foundation for collaboration.” He added, “Moving forward, we will continue to bring together the region’s innovation capabilities to discover new growth engines for Busan and create a virtuous ecosystem in which both the region and the university can grow and prosper together.”
Pukyong National University Selected for Two Projects under the Ministry of Climate and Environment’s “Clean Air Technology Development Program”- Research teams led by Professors Yoon-Seok Son and Young-Min Noh of the Environmental Engineering Program secure KRW 3.2 billion and KRW 4.2 billion in research funding over four years- Projects to focus on tracking biogenic volatile organic compounds and identifying sources of fine particulate matter emissionsPukyong National University (President Sang-Hoon Bae) has been selected for two projects simultaneously under the “CLEAN-AIR Technology Development Program” in the 2026 Environmental Technology Development Program competition organized by the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment. The CLEAN-AIR Technology Development Program aims to secure and demonstrate technologies necessary to achieve the goals of the Third Comprehensive Plan for Air Quality Improvement and the Second Comprehensive Plan for Fine Dust Management. Under the program, two projects from Pukyong National University were selected: “Development of Tracking Technology for the Emission Distribution of Korean-Type Biogenic Volatile Organic Compounds (BVOCs)” led by the research team of Professor Yoon-Seok Son of the Environmental Engineering Program, and “Development of NH₃-PM Measurement LiDAR and Monitoring Technologies for Identifying Fugitive Emission Sources” led by the research team of Professor Young-Min Noh. The research teams led by Professors Yoon-Seok Son and Young-Min Noh will receive KRW 3.2 billion and KRW 4.2 billion, respectively, to conduct their research over a four-year period from 2026 to 2029. Professor Yoon-Seok Son’s team will collaborate with The Catholic University of Korea, Konkuk University, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), the National Institute of Forest Science, and the Korea Environment Institute to develop a technology for tracking the emission distribution of Korean-type biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs). Through field measurements, the researchers plan to estimate BVOC emission factors from representative tree species in Korea and use the results to develop a Korean-specific BVOC model. Professor Young-Min Noh’s team will conduct the project in collaboration with Jeonbuk National University, the Korea Institute of Energy Research (KIER), and Novascop Co., Ltd. to develop NH₃-PM (ammonia？particulate matter) measurement LiDAR and monitoring technologies needed to identify fugitive emission sources. In particular, the team plans to develop a prototype NH₃ LiDAR system, implement emission mapping software, and create algorithms for calculating emission inventories. The researchers stated, “Building on the achievements and expertise accumulated by the Environmental Engineering Program in the field of environmental engineering, we will conduct research that contributes to achieving the goals of national fine particulate matter and ozone management plans. We will also make every effort to secure the required technological performance and carry out successful field demonstrations.”
Team Reboot, a Faculty Startup of Pukyong National University, Selected for New Project under the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries’ Deep-Tech Transformation Technology Development Program- Launches development of a project on the future of maritime procurement and supply driven by a Busan-based AI agent- Industry？academia consortium led by Team Reboot with participation from Pukyong National University and Pusan National University, backed by a total project budget of KRW 2.75 billionTeam Reboot Co., Ltd., an AI startup founded by faculty members of Pukyong National University and led by CEO Sung-Cheol Choi, has been selected for a new project under the 2026 Deep-Tech Transformation Technology Development Program organized by the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries (MOF) and the Korea Institute of Marine Science & Technology Promotion (KIMST). The selected project, titled “Development of an AI Agent-Based Platform for Autonomous Decision-Making in Ship Supply Procurement and Distribution and Integrated Optimization of Maritime Logistics,” will be led by Team Reboot as the principal research and development organization. Research teams led by Professors Yoon-Je Jung and Tae-Sun Yoo of the Division of Systems Management and Engineering at Pukyong National University, along with the research team of Professor Do-Won Kim from the Department of Industrial Engineering at Pusan National University, will participate as collaborative research institutions. The project will be carried out for approximately two years and nine months, from April 2026 through December 2028, with a total project budget of KRW 2.75 billion, including KRW 1.925 billion in government funding. Korea is the world’s fifth-largest maritime nation, operating more than 1,800 oceangoing vessels and supported by over 100 ship management companies. Although the domestic ship supply procurement market is estimated to exceed KRW 1 trillion annually, most small and medium-sized ship management companies still rely on manual processes based on emails and spreadsheets. Due to the limited utilization of data within legacy ERP systems, decisions related to procurement, inventory management, and logistics have largely depended on the experience and intuition of individual managers. As a result, structural issues such as excessive emergency shipments, shortages of critical spare parts, and overstocking have persisted throughout the industry. Through this project, Team Reboot aims to develop a platform that addresses this “Decision Intelligence Gap.” The goal is to create a Data-to-Decision platform that automatically converts unstructured documents―including emails, Excel files, Word documents, and PDFs―into actionable data for multi-vessel, multi-item ship supply procurement and distribution operations. The platform will integrate demand forecasting, lead-time prediction, estimated time of arrival (ETA) forecasting, and inventory and logistics optimization to automatically recommend when, what, how much, where, and by which transportation mode supplies should be delivered. CEO Sung-Cheol Choi of Team Reboot stated, “This project marks the starting point of an AI-driven transformation of Busan’s maritime industry. Going beyond simple automation, we aim to build an autonomous procurement system in which AI agents can make decisions and execute tasks independently.” A key technical component of the project is the development of a multi-layer inventory and logistics optimization engine capable of simultaneously addressing constraints unique to the maritime industry. Ships are treated as “moving warehouses,” creating a complex optimization problem involving multiple factors, including strict time-window constraints that allow supplies to be delivered only when vessels are in port, lead-time uncertainty caused by fluctuations in estimated time of arrival (ETA), and transportation mode selection based on a 30-kilogram threshold. The Team Reboot consortium plans to implement a series of world-class technologies throughout the project, including △scenario-based stochastic mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) △real-time replanning through Rolling Horizon Model Predictive Control (MPC) when ETA information is updated △Wasserstein distributionally robust optimization (DRO) △autonomous constraint relaxation using multi-agent AI systems. The research team led by Professor Yoon-Je Yu of Pukyong National University has continuously conducted industry？academia collaborative research with Team Reboot as part of the ICAN Project Group supported by the Institute of Information & Communications Technology Planning & Evaluation (IITP). In this project, the team will take primary responsibility for the core research components, including uncertainty modeling (WP2), integrated inventory and logistics optimization (WP3), and real-time replanning (WP4). Professor Yoon-Je Yu stated, “The probabilistic optimization framework based on Port-call Fulfillment has the potential to become a foundational technology not only for the ship supply domain but also for a wide range of mobile asset supply optimization applications, including offshore plants, military logistics, and island transportation systems.” Meanwhile, the research team led by Professor Tae-Sun Yoo at the same university will be responsible for procurement mechanism design (WP5). The team plans to develop technologies such as multi-attribute reverse auctions that account for ETA uncertainty, combinatorial reverse auctions (WDP) for optimizing bundled deliveries, and CVaR-based automated bidding systems designed to mitigate tail-risk exposure. Through these innovations, the project aims to transform conventional procurement practices centered on the lowest bid into a Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) optimization framework that incorporates risk considerations. The research team led by Professor Do-Won Kim of Pusan National University will be responsible for multi-agent AI-based complex service scheduling (WP6). In operations involving vessels linked to Arctic shipping routes, ships often must simultaneously carry out ship supply loading, MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) services, and eco-friendly bunkering within a limited port stay. In such cases, conflicts frequently arise among safety regulations (such as prohibiting hot work within a 50-meter radius of bunkering operations), spatial constraints (including overlapping movements of barges and cranes), and time constraints (such as departure deadlines), creating deadlock situations. The project aims to achieve an autonomous deadlock resolution rate of over 80% while reducing vessel port stay time by more than 20%. To accomplish this, Professor Kim’s team will develop a four-agent pipeline consisting of Command, Repair Modeling, Self-Debugging, and Human-in-the-Loop agents. Unlike conventional optimization solvers that simply return an “infeasible” result and terminate when no feasible solution can be found, this AI-agent framework will autonomously transform certain hard constraints into soft constraints and generate practical compromise solutions that remain executable under real-world operating conditions. Since its establishment in 2023, Team Reboot has developed and commercialized a range of AI-powered solutions, including askyour.trade, an AI-based trade document automation platform; askyour.work, an AI agent-driven workflow automation platform; and RB-Opt D2O, an industrial optimization platform. The newly selected project represents a large-scale initiative to transfer and expand the core technologies of these three platforms into the maritime domain and is expected to serve as a springboard for entry into major ship management hubs in Northeast Asia, including Japan, Singapore, and Hong Kong, as well as the broader global market. The global ship management software market is projected to reach USD 1.2 billion by 2033, while a Decision Intelligence solution specialized for ship supply procurement and management has yet to emerge in the global market. CEO Sung-Cheol Choi stated, “We expect askyour.ship to become a maritime AX (AI Transformation) platform that begins in Busan and expands to the global stage. Through industry？academia collaborative research with Pukyong National University and Pusan National University, we will cultivate at least six master’s- and doctoral-level specialists in AI and optimization convergence technologies, while also contributing to the enhancement of digital capabilities across Busan’s maritime industry cluster.”
Pukyong National University Holds 80th Anniversary Ceremony and Future Vision Declaration- Held on the 8th at the university headquarters … “A Strong University Opening the Future through Courage, Innovation, and Challenge!” Pukyong National University (President Sang-Hoon Bae) held its “80th Anniversary Ceremony and Future Vision Declaration” on the morning of May 8 in the grand conference room on the second floor of the university headquarters. The event, organized to mark Pukyong National University’s 80th anniversary and the 30th anniversary of its integration, was attended by President Sang-Hoon Bae; former President Maeng-Eon Park; Alumni Association President Se-Ho Park; former Alumni Association Presidents Young-Ok Seo and Seung-Chul Lee; as well as representatives and heads of institutions from the Busan Metropolitan Government, regional universities, public institutions, and major organizations. During the event, Pukyong National University commemorated its history and major achievements and presented its vision for the future through a commemorative video screening, congratulatory remarks and messages from distinguished guests at home and abroad, the future vision declaration, and celebratory performances. At the future vision declaration ceremony, the university announced its slogan, “A Strong University Opening the Future through Courage, Innovation, and Challenge!” and presented three key implementation strategies: becoming a research-oriented university, an AX innovation university, and a globally innovative university. In his commemorative address, President Sang-Hoon Bae stated, “As Busan’s first higher education institution, we pioneered deep-sea fisheries and cultivated the talent required by each era while leading the industrialization of Korea.” He added, “Without remaining satisfied with the glory of the past and present, we will grow into the No. 1 university in the southeastern region, a top 10 university in Korea, and a globally ranked top 500 university.” He continued, “As a university that grows together with the region, Pukyong National University has been part of the growth of Busan and Korea, just as Busan and Korea have been part of the university’s development.” He emphasized, “We will work hand in hand with regional industries, businesses, and civil society to shape the future of young people and open the future of Busan together―a city where the ocean and urban life, industry and culture coexist.” At the ceremony, Professors Dong-Pil Cheon (Department of Technology Management), Do-Hyung Kim (Department of Aquatic Life Medicine), and Chan-Jung Kim (Major in Mechanical Design Engineering) received the 30th Academic Award in recognition of their contributions to academic advancement through the publication of outstanding papers in domestic and international journals. Professors Myeon Kim (Major in Industrial Design), So-Eun Lee (Major in Media and Communication), Fazlur Rahman Khan (Institute for International Cooperation in Fisheries and Ocean Development), Dong-Hyun Kim (Major in Mechanical, Shipbuilding and HVAC Engineering), Eun-Gyo Seo (Major in Environmental Atmospheric Sciences), and Moon-Seok Chae (Major in Nano Convergence Engineering) received the Young Researcher Award for their creative and passionate research activities. Professors Jong-O Nam (Major in Resource and Environmental Economics), Seong-Cheol Choi (Major in Industrial and Management Engineering), Kyung-Hoon Lee (Division of Marine Production System Management), Jae-Jin Kim (Major in Environmental Atmospheric Sciences), Pil-Geon Oh (Major in Nano Convergence Engineering), Yang-Won Lee (Major in Satellite Information Convergence Engineering), and Gil-Bo Shim (Major in Food Science and Engineering) received the Industry？Academia Cooperation Award in recognition of their active joint research with industry and contributions to technology transfer. In addition, 40 faculty and staff members received the University Development Contribution Award, while six faculty and staff members were honored with the Alumni Association President’s Award. Special commendations were presented to five staff members and 35 students, and 10 faculty and staff members with 30 years of service and 18 faculty and staff members with 20 years of service received long-service awards.
Pukyong National University and Korea Maritime & Ocean University ‘Join Hands’ to Lead the Development of the Marine and Fisheries Sector- Agreement signed on the 30th to jointly promote agendas for the “Busan Era of the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries” Pukyong National University (President Sang-Hoon Bae) and Korea Maritime & Ocean University (President Dong-Geun Ryu), Korea’s leading national universities specializing in marine and fisheries studies, signed an agreement on “Mutual Cooperation for Leading the Development of the Marine and Fisheries Sector” on April 30 at the headquarters of Korea Maritime & Ocean University. The signing ceremony was attended by major representatives from both universities, including President Sang-Hoon Bae and President Dong-Geun Ryu. This memorandum of understanding was prepared to cultivate talent that will lead the future development of the marine and fisheries industry and strengthen national competitiveness. Through this agreement, the two universities plan to combine their educational and research capabilities to take the lead in national marine and fisheries policies and regional innovation. To this end, the two universities will promote cooperation in education and research across the marine industry centered on the marine and fisheries sector, including △joint research and development as well as academic and information exchange △cultivation of future marine and fisheries professionals △development and operation of joint graduate programs and specialized courses in the marine and fisheries field △training of personnel related to the establishment of a maritime court. In addition, the two institutions agreed to jointly respond to national issues and collaborate on research, talent development, and policy proposals aimed at leading key future strategic tasks in the marine and fisheries sector. President Sang-Hoon Bae stated, “Through this agreement, the nation’s two leading national universities specializing in marine and fisheries studies, both based in Busan, are expected to jointly advance the agenda for the Busan era of the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries through education, research, and talent cultivation, while also taking the lead in national marine and fisheries policies and regional innovation.”
Pukyong National University Makes Remarkable Gains Beyond Flagship National Universities in THE Asia University Rankings- Ranked in the 351？400 band, marking a significant rise from the previous year … 7th among national universities in KoreaPukyong National University in Busan (President Sang-Hoon Bae) was ranked in the 351？400 band in Asia in the 2026 THE Asia University Rankings, placing it jointly 7th among national universities in Korea. The UK-based global university ranking organization THE (Times Higher Education) announced the results on April 23, evaluating Asian universities based on five core indicators―teaching, research environment, research quality, industry collaboration, and international outlook―as well as 17 performance indicators. In this year’s evaluation, Pukyong National University made a significant leap in the Asian rankings, rising from the 401？500 band last year to the 351？400 band, an improvement of approximately 50 places. Its domestic ranking also climbed from 35th to 30th. Among national universities in Korea, it is ranked jointly 7th alongside Seoul National University of Science and Technology. Among the universities ranked within the top 800 in Asia in this year’s evaluation were nine flagship national universities, specialized science and technology universities, and major private universities, totaling 41 institutions. Among non-flagship national universities, only Pukyong National University and Seoul National University of Science and Technology were included within the top 800. In particular, while the rankings of most universities declined in this year’s evaluation, only eight of the 41 universities, including Pukyong National University, improved their rankings compared to the previous year. Pukyong National University showed upward trends across most indicators, including a significant increase in its industry collaboration score. Building on these results, Pukyong National University plans to further strengthen its global competitiveness as it marks its 80th anniversary this year by advancing university innovation strategies such as becoming a research-oriented university, an AX innovation university, and a globally innovative university.
“AI Evaluation Systems Reduce Teacher Authority but Strengthen Teacher？Student Collaboration”- Pukyong National University research team publishes findings in an international journalA new study has found that while AI-based evaluation systems reduce teachers’ authority in assessment, they also strengthen collaborative relationships between teachers and students. A research team consisting of Yuan Peng, a doctoral student in the Department of Educational Consulting at the Graduate School of Pukyong National University, Gyun Heo, Professor at Pukyong National University, and Soon-An Hyun, Research Professor at Sunchon National University, published these findings in the paper titled “Reconstructing Teacher？Student Relationship in AI-Based Assessment Systems: Authority Transfer or Collaborative Evolution?” The paper was published in the April issue of the international journal
Pukyong National University Confers Honorary Doctorate on Se-Ho Park, Chairman of Woojoo Sealings Group- Degree conferred at ceremony held on the 23rd in recognition of his contributions to national industrial development as a professional business leader Pukyong National University (President Sang-Hoon Bae) conferred an Honorary Doctorate in Business Administration on Se-Ho Park, Chairman of Woojoo Sealings Group, at a degree conferral ceremony held on the afternoon of April 23 in the grand conference room on the second floor of the university headquarters. At the ceremony, Chairman Se-Ho Park received the honorary doctorate in recognition of his contributions to the development of national industry as a professional business leader. Since founding Woojoo Gaspack Industrial Co., Ltd. in 1982, Chairman Se-Ho Park has pioneered the fields of gaskets, packing, and seals for more than 40 years, building Woojoo Sealings Group into a leading regional company and contributing to the advancement of regional and national manufacturing industries through internationally competitive quality standards. In addition to his accomplishments as a professional executive, Se-Ho Park is also widely respected as a leader dedicated to coexistence and sharing, contributing to the development of the local community. As an alumnus of Pukyong National University, he currently serves as the 15th President of the Alumni Association and as an advisor to the 1st PKNU CEO Academy, while continuing to support alumni unity and university development. Chairman Se-Ho Park stated, “While managing my business, I have deeply realized the value of scholarship and learning, and it was my alma mater, Pukyong National University, that fulfilled this long-held aspiration.” He added, “I will continue to lend my support so that I may contribute to the development of my alma mater as it advances toward becoming a research-oriented university, an AX innovation university, and a globally innovative university.” President Sang-Hoon Bae remarked, “It is truly meaningful to hold this ceremony conferring the honorary Doctor of Business Administration degree upon Chairman Se-Ho Park.” He continued, “With the Chairman’s wholehearted support and encouragement, our university will continue to grow into an even prouder institution recognized regionally, nationally, and globally as a research-oriented university, an AX innovation university, and a globally innovative university.”
Pukyong National University Selected for the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries’ “Korean-Style Sea Grant” Program- KRW 4.9 billion project through 2030 to address key issues in Yeongnam and Jeju and cultivate marine and fisheries professionalsPukyong National University (President Sang-Hoon Bae) announced that it has been selected for the 2026 Marine and Fisheries Convergence Professional Workforce Development Program (Korean-Style Sea Grant) sponsored by the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries. This national program conducts research on regional issues in the marine and fisheries sector, disseminates research outcomes, and cultivates specialized professionals. Among the nation’s four regional clusters―West Sea, East Sea, Southwest Sea, and Yeongnam？Jeju―Pukyong National University was selected as the university responsible for the Yeongnam？Jeju Sea Grant program. Through this selection, Pukyong National University will receive a total of KRW 4.984 billion in project funding over four years and nine months, from April 2026 to December 2030, to carry out specialized research and talent development initiatives. Since 2014, Pukyong National University has led the Sea Grant program in the Yeongnam region, serving as a regional innovation hub in the marine and fisheries sector. In this project, the Yeongnam Sea Grant Center of Pukyong National University (Director Kyung-Hwe Kim, Professor of the Department of Ocean Engineering) will serve as the lead research institution, while Jeju National University and the Marine Eco-Technology Institute Co., Ltd. will participate as joint research institutions. Participating organizations also include the Busan Metropolitan Government, Jeju Special Self-Governing Province, the Korea Marine Environment Management Corporation, and the Oyster Hanging Culture Fisheries Cooperative. Through this initiative, Pukyong National University will identify and carry out research projects addressing regional issues by reflecting the needs of local governments, fishers, and marine and fisheries-related organizations. The research areas will include fishing village and fisher welfare, coastal conservation and development, marine cultural tourism, and marine and fisheries safety. Major research projects planned under the program include △development of marine bio-healthcare technologies utilizing Sargassum horneri △production of renewable energy based on coastal contaminated sediments △analysis of the spatiotemporal changes in fisheries resources and diseases caused by climate change △development of grand-design technologies for marine landscapes aimed at increasing blue carbon. In addition, the project will develop convergence-oriented university courses and educational programs to cultivate future research talent with strong field-based expertise, while also establishing public？private？industry？academic networks and a global cooperation system. Through these efforts, the university aims to achieve concrete outcomes, including the training of 37 master’s and doctoral-level specialists in regional issue research and the employment of 26 professionals in the marine and fisheries sector. Professor Kyung-Hwe Kim stated, “Based on the achievements and expertise that Pukyong National University has accumulated in the marine and fisheries field, we will conduct field-oriented research tailored to solving regional issues and do our utmost to expand research outcomes and establish a foundation for cultivating specialized research personnel.”
Human Gut-Derived Postbiotics Draw Attention as Next-Generation Food Packaging Materials- Research achievement by the team of Professor Young-Mok Kim at Pukyong National University … proven effects in maintaining refrigerated salmon freshness as well as antibacterial and antioxidant properties- Published in the international journal
Pukyong National University Becomes the First University in Korea to Launch a “Quantum AI Research Institute,” Taking the Lead in Next-Generation Quantum AI Technology- Opening ceremony held on the 14th, along with a commemorative lecture by Lee Yong-Ho of KRISSNew hub leading research on the convergence of quantum technology and artificial intelligence (AI) in Korea has officially opened. On April 14, Pukyong National University (President Sang-Hoon Bae) held the opening ceremony and a commemorative lecture for its Quantum AI Research Institute (Director Sang-Wook Woo) at Natural Science Building 1, becoming the first university in Korea to establish such an institute and marking the beginning of its full-scale research initiatives. The institute was newly established to promote and develop academic research on quantum mechanics-based software and hardware, as well as multidisciplinary applied technologies related to quantum systems. Starting with the opening ceremony, the institute plans to pursue several key initiatives: △leading the convergence of quantum science and AI technologies to cultivate next-generation regional talent △promoting balanced regional development as an innovation hub linked to the national AI strategy △creating new industries and accelerating technology commercialization by integrating with the strategic industries of the southeastern region △conducting joint research and exchange cooperation projects with domestic and international universities, research institutes, and industries. Participants in the event included Yong-Ho Lee, Head of the Superconducting Quantum Computing System Research Center at the Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science (KRISS); Jae-Gyun Ham, Head of the Quantum Computing Service Research Center at the Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information (KISTI); Seung-Wook Baek, Head of the Quantum Technology Division at the National Research Foundation of Korea; and Dong-Hyun Kim, Director of the Future Technology Strategy Bureau of Busan Metropolitan City, along with other related officials. At the opening ceremony, Sang-Wook Woo, Director of the institute (Professor of Physics and CEO of PharmCADD), emphasized the importance of research on the convergence of quantum computing and AI, stating, “When combined with AI, quantum technology has the potential to fundamentally reshape paradigms across academic fields such as high-energy physics, materials science, and life sciences, as well as industries including pharmaceuticals/biotech, logistics, finance, and secondary batteries.” He added, “Through cooperation among industry, academia, and research institutes, we will create tangible outcomes.” Professor Sang-Wook Woo is also the CEO of PharmCADD, a biotech company that develops new drugs by combining quantum computing and AI technologies. President Sang-Hoon Bae stated, “The Quantum AI Research Institute will serve as a key foundation for securing future technological competitiveness, and we will contribute to the advancement of national strategic technologies by bringing together the university’s research capabilities.” Following the opening ceremony, Yong-Ho Lee, Head of the Superconducting Quantum Computing System Research Center at KRISS, delivered a presentation on the latest trends and commercialization of quantum computing technology under the theme, “Current Status and Future Prospects of Quantum Computing Development.”
Pukyong National University Selected for the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries’ “Fisheries Food Automation and Innovation Research Center”- Cultivating AI-based Blue Food convergence talent; KRW 4 billion in support over five yearsA research team led by Sang-Gil Lee, Professor of the Major in Food and Nutrition at Pukyong National University, has been finally selected for the “Fisheries Food Automation and Innovation Research Center” project under the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries’ “Marine and Fisheries Convergence Professional Workforce Development Program.” This national R&D project aims to foster interdisciplinary talent and drive industrial innovation in the marine and fisheries sector. With support of up to KRW 4 billion over approximately five years from 2026 to 2030, the research team will advance AI-based fisheries food processing technologies and cultivate specialized professionals in the field. This research focuses on developing an intelligent automation system that integrates artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, big data, and 3D printing technologies throughout the entire fisheries food processing cycle, while also establishing a field-oriented talent development system. Through this initiative, Pukyong National University plans to conduct full-cycle research covering everything from blue food production and processing to customized food development and the resource utilization of fisheries byproducts, while cultivating more than 45 master’s- and doctoral-level professionals. In addition, Pukyong National University will operate industry？academia cooperation-based education programs and practice-oriented projects to foster interdisciplinary professionals who can respond to industrial demands. This project brings together researchers from various fields led by Sang-Gil Lee, including Professors Won-Il Nam (Electronic Engineering), Ji-Hwan Ha (Big Data Convergence), Woo-Young Choi (Control and Instrumentation Engineering), Jong-Yong Park (Naval Architecture and Marine Systems Engineering), Ho-Jeong Kwak (Food Science and Engineering), and Yun-Hee Choi (Aquaculture Applied Life Science). The team will carry out highly interdisciplinary research in areas such as AI-based robotics control for fisheries food processing, customized food design, and the development of high-value-added materials. In addition, Pukyong National University plans to collaborate with Dongguk University, Pusan National University, Kyungpook National University, Dong-Eui University, and Jeonju University to carry out joint education and research and to establish a nationwide Blue Food research network. The major research tasks include △development of an AI-based robotics control system for processing irregularly shaped fisheries products △development of personalized fisheries food and flexible production technologies △development of high-value-added materials using fisheries byproducts △development of industry？academia cooperation education programs and manufacturing systems. In particular, cooperation with regional industries is expected to contribute to the commercialization of research outcomes and the enhancement of industrial competitiveness. Professor Sang-Gil Lee stated, “This project is meaningful in that it establishes a new research and education model that converges fisheries food with advanced engineering technologies.” He added, “We will focus on cultivating interdisciplinary talent that will lead the sustainable Blue Food industry.”
Pukyong National University Selected as an AI Campus for the “2026 K-Digital Training” Program- Taking a leap forward as a hub for cultivating AI practical talentPukyong National University (President Sang-Hoon Bae) announced that it has been selected for the 2026 “K-Digital Training AI Campus” program promoted by the Ministry of Employment and Labor and the Korea Skills Quality Authority. The K-Digital Training AI Campus program is a national vocational training initiative in which universities and industries collaborate to operate educational programs aimed at cultivating key practical professionals in the fields of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital advanced technologies. In particular, it is characterized by an expanded campus-based model, moving beyond the existing single-course-centered approach to comprehensively operate various AI-specialized training programs. Through its selection for this project, Pukyong National University plans to establish a systematic curriculum covering the entire AI field and strengthen project-based learning (PBL) centered on industry demand. Through this approach, trainees are expected to acquire core AI technologies such as data analysis, machine learning, deep learning, and MLOps in a practical manner, while also developing the ability to solve real industrial problems through industry-linked projects. In addition, Pukyong National University plans to actively utilize its accumulated AI and software education infrastructure, GPU-based training environment, and industry？academia cooperation network to enhance the quality of education and foster customized talent development linked to regional industries. Maeng-Seok Noh, Professor of the Major in Big Data Convergence and the project director, stated, “As AI technology has become a key factor determining competitiveness across all industries, we will establish a leading model for cultivating practice-oriented AI talent through this AI Campus project.” He added, “We will do our best to continuously produce the talent needed by the region and industry.” Meanwhile, through its selection as an AI Campus, Pukyong National University plans to begin full-scale recruitment of trainees by offering various support benefits, including full government funding for tuition, a monthly training allowance of KRW 600,000, and free rental of the latest laptops.
Extending Both Lifespan and Output of High-Nickel Cathodes for Next-Generation All-Solid-State Batteries- Joint research achievement by Pukyong National University and the Korea Institute of Energy Research- Published in