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Celebratory Event Held to Mark 10.3 Billion Won Milestone for Second Business School Building Fund NEW

Celebratory Event Held to Mark 10.3 Billion Won Milestone for Second Business School Building Fund -Reaching 10.38 Billion Won over 17 years since the fundraising initiative began in 2009, driven by the dedicated contributions of alumni. ▲ Group photo of major donors who contributed 100 million won or more to the Second Business School Building Fund (From left - Front Row: Jeon Yong-joo, Chairman of HashSnap (Business '74); Lim Kyung-yoon, President of the Business School Alumni Association & Chairman of HANKEM (Business '79); Shin Sang-hoon, Commissioner of the Women's Korean Basketball League (Business '70); Kim Ik-rae, Chairman of Sunmyung Accounting Corporation (Commerce '62); President Yoo Ji-beom; Professor Emeritus Chang Young-kwang (Business '68); Lee Hyun-gu, Chairman of Lacasa Group (Business '68); Lee Chang-hee, Alumnus (Commerce '58). Back Row: Lee Dong-hwan, Director of Legal Affairs; Won Ki-chan, Former President of Samsung Card (Business '78); Cho Yeon-seo, CEO of Dongju Corporation (Second daughter of the late Chairman Cho Byung-doo); Cho Yoon-seo, CEO of Daeho Packaging (Eldest daughter of the late Chairman Cho Byung-doo); Lee Jeung-sang, Secretary General of the Business School Alumni Association (Business '74); Kim Won-gap, Vice Chairman of Hyundai Corporation Holdings (Business '72); Dean Lee Jong-eun; Professor Emeritus Hyun Sun-hae (Business '77); Seo Ah-young, Associate Dean of the School of Business) Sungkyunkwan University’s School of Business (Dean Lee Jong-eun) hosted a celebratory event on Friday, June 12, 2026, at the Loft House of Lacasa Hotel to commemorate achieving 10.3 billion won in fundraising for the Second Business School Building. The event commenced with expression of gratitude from Chairman of the Board Park Jae-wan, followed by opening remarks from President Yoo Ji-beom, a response speech by Alumni Association President Lim Kyung-yoon, and a progress report and future roadmap presentation by Dean Lee Jong-eun. ▲ Photo from the pre-event reception ▲ (From left) Chairman of the Board Park Jae-wan and President Yoo Ji-beom delivering opening remarks ▲ Dean Lee Jong-eun presenting the progress report During the event, plaques of appreciation were awarded to Kim Won-gap, Chairman of the Second Business School Building Fundraising Committee (Vice Chairman of Hyundai Corporation Holdings, Business '72), and Lee Jeung-sang, Secretary General of the Alumni Association (Business '74), in recognition of their exceptional contributions to the campaign. ▲ Kim Won-gap receiving the plaque of appreciation ▲ Lee Jeung-sang receiving the plaque of appreciation The program continued with reflections shared by former alumni association presidents, followed by a networking dinner that fostered a warm atmosphere of fellowship. ▲ (From left) Former Alumni Association Presidents Kim Ik-rae, Lee Hyun-gu, and Jeon Yong-joo sharing their reflections Fundraising for the Second Business School Building officially began in April 2009. To date, a total of 10.38 billion won has been raised through the generous participation of 677 individual donors and 15 organizations. "The unwavering dedication of the Business School Alumni Association united our community, allowing this fundraising campaign to continue seamlessly for 17 years," Dean Lee Jong-eun stated. "We will continue to honor the enduring commitment of our alumni to provide a premier educational environment for future generations."
- 작성일 2026-09-03
- 조회수 80
Professor Emeritus Chang Young-kwang (Business '68) Donates 100 Million Won for Second Business School Building NEW

▲ Professor Emeritus Chang Young-kwang (Business '68) (right) presenting the donation for the Second Business School Building to President Yoo Ji-beom. Sungkyunkwan University’s Development Cooperation Foundation (Director Choi Jae-bunk) held a donation ceremony on Monday, June 8, at the Reception Room of the 600th Anniversary Hall on the Humanities and Social Sciences Campus (HSSC). Professor Emeritus Chang Young-kwang of the Department of Business Administration donated 100 million won toward the construction of the Second Business School Building. The ceremony was attended by Professor Emeritus Chang Young-kwang; Kim Ik-rae, Chairman of Sunmyung Accounting Corporation (Business '62); Lee Hyun-gu, Chairman of Lacasa Group (Business '68); Lim Kyung-yoon, President of the Business School Alumni Association (Business '79); Lee Jeung-sang, Secretary General of the Business School Alumni Association (Business '74); along with President Yoo Ji-beom; Joo Young-soo, Executive Director of the SKKU Foundation; Choi Hoon-seok, Vice President of HSSC; Lee Dong-hwan, Director of Legal Affairs; Director Choi Jae-bunk; and Dean Lee Jong-eun of the School of Business. To mark Professor Chang's rare return to his alma mater, the event featured a university PR video, a special video highlighting Chairman Lee Hyun-gu’s lifelong journey alongside the university, and an interview segment. "Having dedicated my life to Sungkyunkwan University as both a workplace and my beloved alma mater, I decided to make this contribution in the hope that it will provide a better educational environment to nurture future business leaders," Professor Chang remarked. "I sincerely hope this modest gesture becomes a solid foundation for our younger students to pursue greater dreams and contribute to society." President Yoo Ji-beom responded, "We deeply thank Professor Chang, who has devoted many years to teaching students, focusing on research, and advancing the university. This contribution, filled with the professor's precious vision, will serve as a powerful driving force for the new building project, ensuring students have an enhanced environment to learn and grow into exceptional leaders." ▲ Professor Emeritus Chang Young-kwang (center) receiving a congratulatory bouquet and commemorative gift. (From left: Director Choi Jae-bunk, Dean Lee Jong-eun, Professor Chang, Executive Director Joo Young-soo) This is not Professor Chang’s first expression of affection for his alma mater. Over the years, he has consistently supported students across various sectors, including the Startup Innovation Fund, Asset Management Center Fund, Jungbong Academic Research Fund, 600th Anniversary Hall Construction Fund, Business School Alumni Association Happiness Fund, Business School Development Fund, and Alumni Association Development Fund. With this latest 100 million won contribution, his cumulative donations approach 300 million won. ▲ Professor Emeritus Chang Young-kwang sharing his reflections on the donation. Appointed as a professor in the Department of Business Administration in 1981, Professor Chang nurtured countless students throughout his tenure. He served multiple terms as Dean of the School of Business and Graduate School of Business, steering the institution's administrative and educational growth. He also made significant contributions to academia and society at large, serving as President of the Korea Securities Association and as an examiner for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) examination. In 2013, he was honored with the prestigious Order of Service Merit (Green Stripes), a high-ranking national medal bestowed upon public officials and private school educators who have made distinct contributions through long-term educational service. With the fundraising for the Second Business School Building having already surpassed 10 billion won, Professor Chang’s generous addition is expected to further accelerate the construction project located behind the Faculty Hall on the HSSC campus. ▲ (From left) Secretary General Lee Jeung-sang, Dean Lee Jong-eun, Vice President Choi Hoon-seok, Alumni President Lim Kyung-yoon, Chairman Kim Ik-rae, Chairman Lee Hyun-gu, Professor Emeritus Chang Young-kwang, President Yoo Ji-beom, Executive Director Joo Young-soo, Director Choi Jae-bunk, and Director Lee Dong-hwan.
- 작성일 2026-09-03
- 조회수 84
School of Business Successfully Hosts 2026 Sports Day NEW

The School of Business (Dean Lee Jong-eun) hosted its 2026 Annual Sports Day on Thursday, May 28, at the Humanities and Social Sciences Campus Main Stadium. The event brought together approximately 400 undergraduate students from the Department of Business Administration and the Department of Global Business Administration for a meaningful day of community-building, camaraderie, and friendly competition. Designed to maximize student engagement and strengthen teamwork, the program featured a diverse lineup of competitive events. Main matches included soccer, couple dodgeball, strategic tug-of-war, group jump rope, giant ball volleyball, Chocobi scramble, mixed relay, and women's dodgeball, each marked by enthusiastic cheering and fierce competition. Events such as couple dodgeball, strategic tug-of-war, and the Chocobi scramble drew an exceptionally enthusiastic response, as they required cooperation and strategic thinking rather than physical strength alone. Meanwhile, the mixed relay and giant ball volleyball provided students with opportunities to synchronize their efforts and showcase strong teamwork, while group jump rope and women's dodgeball concluded successfully with widespread participation. Throughout the stadium, energetic cheers echoed for every team. Regardless of the match outcomes, participants encouraged and supported one another, fostering a deep sense of community. The event facilitated natural interactions between freshmen and upperclassmen, significantly strengthening their sense of belonging and unity as members of the business school. This sports day provided a much-needed burst of energy for students exhausted from their studies while serving as a catalyst for a collaborative culture within the School of Business. Moving forward, the school plans to continue offering diverse student-centered cultural and networking programs to cultivate a vibrant and healthy campus community.
- 작성일 2026-09-03
- 조회수 77
SKK GSB Celebrates 60th Anniversary and Proclaims '3E VISION' for the Next Six Decades Content NEW

Sungkyunkwan University’s Graduate School of Business (SKK GSB, Dean Lee Jong-eun) celebrated its 60th anniversary by hosting a commemorative gala on June 1 at the Grand Ballroom of JW Marriott Hotel Seoul. Attended by approximately 300 distinguished guests, emeritus professors, alumni, and current students, the event served as a meaningful occasion to reflect on the school’s history and achievements while pledging a bold new leap forward. The celebration commenced with a 60th-anniversary commemorative video and a celebratory magic performance, followed by congratulatory remarks from President Yoo Ji-beom, a commemorative address by Dean Lee Jong-eun, and a welcome speech by Jeon Yong-joo, President of the Alumni Association. Adding profound historical depth, Professor Emeritus Cho Kwan-soo—who served on the faculty when the business school was founded in 1965—delivered a retrospective speech tracing the past 60 years of growth. This was followed by an awards ceremony honoring individuals who have significantly contributed to the development of the graduate school. Achievement awards were presented to Professors Emeriti Chang Young-kwang, Song In-man, and Hyun Sun-hae; alumni Lee Yong-guk, Kim Do-hyun, Lee Woo-heon, and Ban Myung-sook; as well as the Kingo Leaders Club, Tae-pyung-seong-dae Golf Club, and EMBA Alpine Club. In addition, the SKK GSB Alumni Association presented a development fund of 100 million won to the university. During the event, on-site fundraising campaigns—namely the "SKK GSB Development Fund 3x20 Campaign" and the "Second Business School Building Construction Fund Campaign"—were actively promoted using donation kiosks and QR codes featured in the event brochures. Part 2 of the event featured a gala dinner, a vocal performance, and a vision proclamation ceremony dedicated to sharing the school's future roadmap. Dean Lee Jong-eun unveiled the new strategic framework, the "3E VISION." The 3E VISION is built upon three core values: EXCEL, ETHICS, and ENGAGE. EXCEL represents visionary leadership that spearheads the intelligent information era through innovation and future-oriented thinking; ETHICS stands for authentic leadership that practices social values and responsibility; and ENGAGE signifies cooperative, growth-oriented leadership through collaboration with diverse stakeholders. To mark the vision proclamation, a butterfly-shaped drone flew across the venue, symbolically representing a powerful takeoff toward the next 60 years and drawing an enthusiastic response from attendees. The evening reached its peak with a celebratory performance by renowned singer Namgung Ok-boon. This was followed by the presidential transition ceremony of the Alumni Association, during which outgoing President Jeon Yong-joo handed over the association flag to incoming President Lee Jae-beom. Through this 60th-anniversary celebration, SKK GSB successfully honored its six decades of achievement, shared its new vision and growth strategy, and signaled a dynamic and ambitious launch toward the next 60 years.
- 작성일 2026-09-03
- 조회수 98
[News] W-AMP Hosts Domestic Seminar in Andong and Yeongju NEW

Sungkyunkwan University’s elite executive education program, W-AMP, held its domestic seminar in the Andong and Yeongju regions on May 16, offering participants a meaningful opportunity to strengthen bonds and immerse themselves in traditional Korean culture. The seminar brought together 26 participants, including W-AMP Class 27 members, their spouses, and faculty members. Led by Professor Oh Won-seok, the itinerary focused on exploring key historical landmarks in Andong and Yeongju, the heartlands of Korean Confucian heritage. Departing from the 600th Anniversary Hall at Sungkyunkwan University, the group visited Andong’s prominent cultural sites: Hahoe Folk Village and Dosan Seowon. At Hahoe Folk Village, participants experienced Joseon-dynasty aristocracy culture and traditional architecture firsthand, gaining a deeper appreciation for Korea’s indigenous lifestyle. At Dosan Seowon, they reflected on the core values of Confucianism while honoring the profound scholarly legacy of the master scholar Toegye Yi Hwang. Moving on to Yeongju, the participants visited Buseoksa Temple, a millennial Buddhist sanctuary renowned for its National Treasure Muryangsujeon Hall and breathtaking natural surroundings. The site offered a unique window into Korea’s Buddhist heritage and architectural brilliance, broadening participants' understanding of traditional arts and history. Andong, celebrated as the birthplace of Korean Confucianism, preserves centuries of history and tradition. By pairing Andong’s Confucian roots with Yeongju’s Buddhist legacy at Buseoksa Temple, this expedition provided a comprehensive look at the remarkable diversity and depth of traditional Korean culture. W-AMP (Wisdom Management, Wealth Management, Well-being Management) is Sungkyunkwan University’s premier executive program, drawing on the institution's legacy of over 600 years and its rich humanistic assets. Grounded in Eastern philosophy, history, culture, and the arts, the program cultivates creative leadership while addressing cutting-edge business trends such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Big Data, and ESG, earning widespread acclaim for its distinctive curriculum. "This domestic seminar was a meaningful gathering that deepened our understanding of traditional culture while fostering communication and harmony among participants," a W-AMP representative stated. "Moving forward, we plan to continue supporting the insight and leadership development of top executives through diverse field studies and networking initiatives."
- 작성일 2026-09-03
- 조회수 89
[News] Business School Successfully Holds '2026 Spring Semester Career Concert' NEW

Hosted by the 26th Business School Student Council "Be:hind," the "2026 Spring Semester Business School Career Concert" was successfully held on May 13, 2026. The event was designed to provide practical career exploration opportunities and employment insights to undergraduate students by inviting alumni active across diverse industries. Running from 1:00 PM to 5:20 PM at Lecture Room 33B101 on the basement level 1 of the Business Building at Sungkyunkwan University's Humanities and Social Sciences Campus, the event drew a total of 73 students from the Department of Business Administration and the School of Global Business. The concert featured alumni speakers from a wide spectrum of fields—including finance, law, pharmaceuticals, food marketing, IT, and automotive industries—who shared their personal career journeys and practical work experiences. Students gained a vivid understanding of job roles and industry characteristics, helping them refine their career paths. The alumni speakers included: ▲ Lee Won-jae (Business '01, Head of Branch at BNP Paribas Seoul) ▲ Kang Jun-won (Business '12, Kim & Chang Law Firm) ▲ Lee Kyung-wook (Business '07, Financial Planning Office at Dongkook Pharmaceutical) ▲ Lee Hee-won (Business '18, B2B Product Marketer at CJ CheilJedang) ▲ Cho Hang-woo (Global Business '19, Software Solutions Engineer at Microsoft) ▲ Lee Min-ju (Business '11, New Business Intelligence Team at Kia) Kicking off the speaker sessions, Lee Won-jae, Head of Branch at BNP Paribas Seoul, discussed shifts in the global financial sector and investment banking, offering advice on competencies demanded in international markets and university preparation. He emphasized, "Problem-solving skills and communication capabilities matter far more than simple credentials." Going beyond a traditional lecture, the career concert fostered networking and communication between current students and alumni. During the Q&A sessions, students raised active questions regarding recruitment procedures, job selection criteria, and essential collegiate skills, to which the speakers responded with candid, hands-on advice. The 26th Business School Student Council Be:hind shared, "We planned this event so students could encounter diverse career trajectories and concretely contemplate their futures. We plan to continue operating practical career programs to support our students." A participating student remarked, "Hearing stories from seniors across various fields made me realize the vast career potential of a business degree, and the realistic advice on job preparation was especially memorable." SKKU’s Business School plans to continually expand networking events and tailored programs to enhance students' career exploration and employment competitiveness.
- 작성일 2026-09-02
- 조회수 100
[News] Chairman Lee Hyun-gu (Business '68) Donates 800M KRW to Development Fund NEW

Continuous Practice of Love for Alma Mater - La Casa Group Chairman Lee Hyun-gu (Business '68) Donates an Additional 800 Million KRW to Development Fund- ▲ La Casa Group Chairman Lee Hyun-gu (Business '68, right) presents the development fund to President Ji-bum Yoo. On Wednesday, May 6, 2026, La Casa Group Chairman Lee Hyun-gu (Business '68) donated 800 million KRW in development funds at the reception room of the 600th Anniversary Hall on Sungkyunkwan University’s Humanities and Social Sciences Campus. The contribution consists of 530 million KRW for the Jungbong Academic Research Fund and 270 million KRW for the Second Business Building Construction Fund, serving as a vital catalyst for strengthening the university's research foundation and campus infrastructure. The ceremony was attended by Chairman Lee alongside La Casa Group Executive Director Lee Hyung-woo (his eldest son) and Team Leader Lee Ju-hee. University leadership present included President Ji-bum Yoo, Foundation Executive Director Young-su Joo, Humanities and Social Sciences Campus Vice President Hoon-seok Choi, General Affairs Director Dong-hwan Lee, Advancement Cooperation Director Jae-bung Choi, Business School Dean Jong-eun Lee, Alumni Association Executive Vice President Cha Dong-ok (English Language & Literature '76), Second Business Building Fundraising Committee Chairman Won-kap Kim (Business '72), Business School Alumni Association President Im Kyung-yun (Business '79), Business School Alumni Association Secretary-General Lee Jeung-sang (Business '74), and Alumni Association Secretary-General Ahn Sang-in (English Language & Literature '86). The event featured a screening of the university's promotional video alongside a special compilation of footage and interviews highlighting Chairman Lee’s long-standing history with his alma mater. Chairman Lee stated, "I decided to make this donation hoping my alma mater can foster future talents within an enhanced educational environment. Being an SKKU alumnus has been a tremendous source of strength throughout my life and business journey, and I hope this offers meaningful support to my junior students." President Ji-bum Yoo expressed, "I deeply thank Chairman Lee for pooling his precious aspirations for the university's advancement. This contribution will solidify our education and research infrastructure, empowering students to learn and grow in a superior environment." ▲ Chairman Lee Hyun-gu (center) receives a congratulatory bouquet of flowers. (From left: President Ji-bum Yoo, Chairman Lee Hyun-gu, and Executive Director Lee Hyung-woo, Chairman Lee's eldest son) Chairman Lee has consistently demonstrated his deep affection for his alma mater by contributing over 4.1 billion KRW in donations to various funds, including the Jungbong Brain Science Research Fund, University Development Fund, Second Business Building Construction Fund, Jungbong Academic Research Fund, Business School Development Fund, Miscellaneous Scholarship Fund, Sungkyun Global Center Construction Fund, Business School Alumni Association Development Fund, Business Building Construction Fund, COVID-19 Mutual Hope Fund, Junior Love Meal Support Fund, Cho Byung-doo Scholarship Fund, Business School Alumni Association Happiness Fund, Yuga Arts & Culture Contents Research Institute Development Fund, Business School 60th Anniversary Development Fund, and SKKU Business Forum Fund. ▲ Chairman Lee Hyun-gu sharing his thoughts on the donation. Chairman Lee pioneered quality and design innovation in South Korea's furniture industry by founding the design-based comprehensive interior furniture brand "Casamia," and subsequently expanded his business domain into the lifestyle space industry through "La Casa Hotel," presenting new business models. ▲ Chairman Lee Hyun-gu (right) and President Ji-bum Yoo (left) pose for a commemorative photo in front of the Jungbong Future Foundation plaque. Furthermore, guided by the philosophy that corporate growth must go hand in hand with society, he has consistently practiced philanthropy and social contribution across various fields such as education, healthcare, and culture. Notably, last year he established the Jungbong Future Foundation to continue sharing and social returns in a more sustainable and systematic manner. The Jungbong Future Foundation focuses on arts, culture, education, and welfare, operating support programs for marginalized groups, talent development, and community initiatives to contribute to building a healthy and sustainable future society. ▲ (From left) Ahn Sang-in (Alumni Association Secretary-General), Jong-eun Lee (Dean of the Business School), Cha Dong-ok (Alumni Association Executive Vice President), Won-kap Kim (Second Business Building Fundraising Committee Chairman), Im Kyung-yun (Business School Alumni Association President), Lee Hyung-woo (Executive Director), Chairman Lee Hyun-gu, President Ji-bum Yoo, Young-su Joo (Foundation Executive Director), Hoon-seok Choi (Vice President), Lee Jeung-sang (Business School Alumni Association Secretary-General), Professor Kim Eung-hak, and Dong-hwan Lee (General Affairs Director).
- 작성일 2026-09-02
- 조회수 107
[New Faculty Interview] Prof. Wonja Song: Helping Students Discover Potential and Shape a Greater Future NEW

Q1. Could you please introduce yourself and share your background? I am Wonja Song, newly appointed to teach accounting at SKKU's Business School. Having worked for many years as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) handling practical auditing, tax, internal controls, and governance, I've always viewed accounting not just as numbers, but as the core language of corporate trust and transparency. I currently teach tax accounting and intermediate accounting, and I am deeply honored to serve as the faculty advisor for "Songhoeheon," our CPA preparation track, closely supporting students toward their career goals. Q2. What is your main field of study, and what inspired you to pursue it? My expertise centers on financial accounting, auditing, ESG, IFRS, and internal controls, with an expanding focus on tax accounting. I was drawn to accounting through hands-on professional experiences where I saw firsthand how financial statements and tax data act as critical indicators of a firm's current and future health. Understanding how these figures shape managerial strategy and market evaluation inspired me to dive deeper into academic research. Q3. How do you feel about joining SKKU, and what are your plans? It is a great privilege to join an institution with such deep tradition and academic excellence. My goal is to deliver a balanced perspective on how accounting and tax mechanisms actually function in capital markets. Through my tax accounting courses and my role at Songhoeheon, I want to help students grasp the practical significance of these subjects and provide hands-on guidance for aspiring CPAs. Q4. What are your research goals moving forward? I aim to continue exploring how corporate accounting disclosures impact stakeholders, and how accounting, auditing, internal controls, and ESG intersect with corporate sustainability. Furthermore, I plan to expand my research into tax accounting, investigating how taxation and reporting regulations influence managerial decisions and firm value, always aiming for a blend of theoretical rigor and real-world relevance. Q5. What does an ideal educator look like to you? An ideal educator goes beyond transmitting knowledge—they guide students to think independently and grow. In accounting and tax education, this means instilling professional ethics, social responsibility, and a long-term perspective rather than just focusing on exam preparation. I hope to help students develop into trusted, well-rounded professionals. Q6. Do you have any closing advice or words for SKKU Business students? I hope our students cultivate not only academic knowledge but also strong ethics, resilience, and independent critical thinking. Treat diligence and a high sense of responsibility as your greatest assets. I am committed to walking alongside you as a mentor who helps you discover your true potential and step confidently into a broader future.
- 작성일 2026-09-02
- 조회수 116
[News] SKKU Business & Economics Joint Cultural Festival - April Fools' Event "In a Relationship with Sang-gyeong" Held NEW

To celebrate April Fools' Day on April 1, a special joint cultural festival was hosted by the Business School and the School of Economics. Held from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM on the first-floor pilotis of the Business Building under the subtitle "In a Relationship with Sang-gyeong," the 2026 joint April Fools' festival was co-planned and operated by the Business School Student Council "Be:hind" and the School of Economics Student Council "Irang." The event featured a retro concept where participants wore school uniforms to revive memories of their high school days. To ensure no one felt excluded, a school uniform rental program was provided for students who did not own a uniform or faced sizing issues. The festival drew enthusiastic responses through a variety of hands-on programs. Nostalgic game booths—including lucky draw boards, Ddakji, Jegichagi, Hopscotch, and Gonggi (jackstones)—were operated alongside a Dalgona snack stand and a unique event called the "Sang-gyeong Exam." Additionally, a photo zone offered instant Polaroid group photography, allowing participants to preserve cherished moments. This joint cultural festival served as an opportunity to vitalize interaction among Sang-gyeong (Business and Economics) students while expanding mutual understanding and communication with other college cultures. Furthermore, co-hosting the event achieved economies of scale, resulting in cost-reduction benefits. Subin Ji (Business '23), the 26th Student Council President who oversaw the event, shared her thoughts: "It was deeply meaningful to provide a platform for Sang-gyeong students to connect by uniting the Business School and School of Economics through this joint April Fools' festival. I was especially impressed by how students enjoyed a unique culture through the uniform rental program tailored to the April Fools' theme. Seeing everyone enjoy the event brought a sense of reward and happiness, and the collaboration process with the School of Economics was smooth and enjoyable. I hope more exchange events will follow in the future." Meanwhile, the joint Business and Economics cultural festival began as a co-hosted initiative in 2022, evolved into a joint event in 2023, and has continued its tradition up to this year. Built on cooperation between the two student councils, the event featured more diverse programs, laying the groundwork for broader communication across the entire Sungkyunkwan community beyond individual colleges.
- 작성일 2026-09-02
- 조회수 44
[Alumni Interview] Ilguk Kim (Global Bus. '14) - Accepted to Harvard MBA & MPA/ID NEW

1. Hello, it's a pleasure to meet you. Could you please give a brief self-introduction and talk about what you currently do? Hello. I am Ilguk Kim, a 2014 alumnus of Sungkyunkwan University's Department of Global Business Administration. After graduation, I worked for about five years as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) on the M&A Advisory team at Samil PricewaterhouseCoopers, executing various corporate investment attractions, sell-side advisory services, due diligence, and valuations. M&A advisory involves connecting capital-seeking or selling companies with investors to secure transactions. This is largely similar to investment banking (IB), and I was able to gain hands-on experience focusing primarily on mid-sized deals within the accounting firm.Starting in the fall of 2026, I will begin the Joint Degree program pursuing an MBA at Harvard Business School and an MPA/ID at Harvard Kennedy School. 2. First, congratulations on your admission to the Harvard MBA and MPA/ID Joint Degree program. Could you introduce what these programs are? The Harvard MBA is, as widely known, a Master of Business Administration program covering general business essentials such as leadership, strategy, organization, finance, and entrepreneurship.Conversely, the MPA/ID might be slightly less familiar; it is the Master in Public Administration in International Development at Harvard Kennedy School. In this program, students learn how to address structural issues in nations and societies based on econometrics, development economics, and public administration. Graduates frequently advance into international organizations like the World Bank or public policy sectors. While each is individually a two-year program, being admitted to both allows you to earn both degrees within three years. I applied because I found it compelling to study not only corporate and market perspectives but also larger-scale issues concerning national and societal development. 3. I am curious about what led you to apply for the Harvard MBA while working as a CPA. Since preparing for it amid a busy schedule must not have been easy, what routines or methods helped you stay consistent? The Harvard MBA had actually been a vague object of aspiration for me since high school. I had long harbored thoughts of working on a bigger stage if I studied there. Over time, as I gained practical experience, that vague ambition evolved into a concrete goal. Particularly through cross-border M&A and a Singapore overseas dispatch, my desire to work across more diverse industries and countries grew stronger, naturally leading to MBA applications.I didn't have any extraordinary routines during preparation; above all, my desperate desire to attend an MBA program gave me the strength to push through difficult phases and stay consistent. I also made cold calls to school and work seniors who were currently enrolled or graduated from MBAs, gathering information and continuously drawing motivation. I believe authentic, earnest desperation was the most crucial factor. 4. Were there any difficult or challenging parts during the preparation process, and how did you overcome them? First, I prepared for the quantitative components. Applying to an MBA or MPA/ID requires GMAT and TOEFL scores. Building those scores while balancing a career demanded much greater stamina and patience than expected. Therefore, if possible, I think it is best to tackle quantitative elements intensively over a fixed period by leveraging long company leaves or leave-of-absence systems. Second were the essays. While exams have structured answers, essays require convincingly demonstrating who you are, why this specific school fits, and what kind of person you aspire to become. Thus, rather than just writing well, deep self-reflection and organizing the meaning within your experiences were much more important. This was the most difficult part for me, but simultaneously the most valuable preparation and a time of profound self-discovery.I also realized that strong essay material is not suddenly manufactured right before application deadlines. I tried to see through great projects with maximum effort at work and pursued as many volunteer activities, hobbies, and community experiences outside of work as possible. Juggling such activities amidst a busy daily routine is difficult, but if you even vaguely contemplate graduate school preparations, building your own track record in advance is vital.Furthermore, "fit" matters immensely by school, so finding institutions that align with you is critical. For instance, Harvard features characteristics such as the Case Method, training general managers, section culture, FIELD learning, and an East Coast location. Applying to multiple places while concentrating more energy on schools with a strong fit helps craft a differentiated application. 5. What are you most looking forward to over the next three years in the Harvard MBA and MPA/ID joint program? What I look forward to most is Harvard MBA's Case Method. Before class, students read cases and deliberate thoroughly, while classes involve answering spontaneous cold-call questions from professors and engaging in debates. I am eager to train in standing before exceptional peers, building logic on the spot, clearly expressing my thoughts, and persuading others. Ultimately, what matters in the real world is not just knowing the correct answers, but whether you can persuade people with your own logic. Another aspect I anticipate is diversity. Because American graduate schools, especially Harvard, heavily value diversity, I expect the nationalities, races, professions, values, and life experiences of my incoming peers to be extraordinarily colorful. In a sense, it will be an environment resembling a "miniature earth" inside a single classroom, and I hope to learn perspectives I never considered and broaden my worldview in such a space.Personally, studying both business administration and international development will allow me to ponder "meaningful impact" more deeply. I have high expectations that these coming three years will help clarify what kind of impact I want to make on the world. 6. Lastly, do you have any advice you would like to share with fellow students dreaming of similar paths? SKKU has truly exceptional students. Throughout my time at school, I always felt a great sense of pride. However, sometimes because it feels like not many people have walked similar paths nearby, students might limit themselves, wondering, "Can I really do this?" Stepping out into society, I found that numerous SKKU senior alumni hold wonderful positions all over the world. There are also many SKKU alumni at Harvard MBA. Ultimately, instead of spending a long time worrying about whether "someone like me is possible," the important thing is to simply take a challenge. You have to try for the probability to stay above zero anyway. Life gradually drifts in the direction you speak and think. I sincerely cheer for my SKKU juniors as they carve out wonderful paths in their respective places.
- 작성일 2026-09-02
- 조회수 43