Enviro News Asia, Jakarta – Universitas Pembangunan Nasional “Veteran” Jakarta (UPNVJ) welcomed a delegation from Mokpo National University, South Korea, on Thursday, 21 May 2026. This strategic meeting formed part of UPNVJ’s ongoing efforts to strengthen international cooperation, expand academic mobility, and promote the internationalization of higher education. The event also featured a guest lecture discussing the role of maritime-based universities in supporting sustainable regional development.
The delegation from Mokpo National University was represented by Sun-Kee Hong, Director of the Office of International Affairs, and Jin-Sol Kim, Officer of the Office of International Affairs. The delegation was received by UPNVJ representatives, including the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, the Acting Head of the Office of International Affairs along with staff and interns, vice deans, representatives from the International Office of the Faculty of Economics and Business, and other related units within UPNVJ.
During the meeting, both institutions discussed various opportunities for academic collaboration. The key areas of discussion included student and faculty exchange programs, guest lectures, joint research initiatives, short-term academic programs, and the strengthening of formal cooperation through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and Implementation Agreement (IA).
Mokpo National University also introduced several of its flagship international programs, including joint degree and double degree schemes in the fields of Naval Architecture & Ocean Engineering, Fisheries and Marine Sciences, and Mechatronics Engineering. In addition, the delegation presented the Online College Global Korean Studies Program, which offers international students the opportunity to study the Korean language, culture, history, and society through online learning.
As part of the visit, UPNVJ organized a guest lecture entitled “A Glocal Marine-Specialized University as a Driver of Sustainable Regional Development,” delivered by Sun-Kee Hong. The event was attended by students from various faculties at UPNVJ, including international students currently pursuing their studies at the State Defense Campus.
In his presentation, Sun-Kee Hong explained the concept of a “glocal university,” referring to a higher education institution capable of connecting local potential with global competitiveness. This concept is realized through the strengthening of education, innovation, research, and collaboration with industry and regional governments.
The guest lecture also broadened students’ perspectives regarding Mokpo National University’s academic strengths, particularly in the fields of maritime studies, shipbuilding, green energy, artificial intelligence, and regional innovation. Students were introduced to opportunities for student exchange, double degree programs, Korean language education, internships, and career development support for international students in South Korea.
Participants showed great enthusiasm during the interactive discussion session. Several students raised questions regarding scholarship opportunities, the experiences of international students in South Korea, and global career prospects after participating in academic mobility programs.
Through this activity, UPNVJ reaffirmed its commitment to expanding international networks and building sustainable collaboration with overseas universities. The partnership with Mokpo National University is expected to create broader opportunities for the UPNVJ academic community in the areas of academics, research, international mobility, and global capacity development.
For UPNVJ, strengthening international cooperation is part of the institution’s strategy to enhance the quality of higher education and expand the university’s contribution at the global level. In line with the policy direction of the Rector of UPNVJ, Prof. Dr. Anter Venus, MA, Comm, campus internationalization is not merely interpreted as expanding networks, but also as a strategic effort to provide more open, relevant, and impactful learning experiences for students and society.(www.upnvj.ac.id)
