Former Samsung Electronics Vice Chairman Yoon Jong-yong, DGIST's First Honorary Doctorate Holder

"Fostering Science and Technology Talent Is the Ultimate Mission"
Former Inaugural Chairman of DGIST

Former Samsung Electronics Vice Chairman Yoon Jong-yong receiving an honorary doctorate from DGIST President Lee Geon-woo. Photo by DGIST

Yoon Jong-yong, former Vice Chairman of Samsung Electronics who emphasized nurturing science and technology talent as his final mission, received an honorary doctorate from DGIST.

DGISTS announced on the 22nd that it awarded its first honorary doctorate since its founding to Yoon, the inaugural chairman.

Former Vice Chairman Yoon Jong-yong significantly contributed to the advancement of science and technology and the creation of a creative research environment, not only at Samsung Electronics but also at DGIST, greatly benefiting Korea’s industrial sector and technological development.

Yoon Jong-yong, Vice Chairman of Samsung Electronics, is giving an acceptance speech for an honorary doctorate. Photo by DGIST

Yoon said, “It is a great honor to receive the first honorary doctorate at DGIST, an institution I have held dear as its inaugural chairman,” adding, “Believing that the advancement of science and technology is the core of national competitiveness, I accepted the inaugural chairmanship of DGIST. Since nurturing science and technology talent is my final mission, I will strive to contribute further to DGIST’s development into a world-class university.”

Yoon Jong-yong, the inaugural chairman, was recognized for his contributions to DGIST’s early development and was selected as a Science and Technology Merit Awardee in 2017. In 2022, he received a Special Contribution Award in Information and Communications from the Ministry of Science and ICT, continuously earning recognition for his achievements.

During his tenure at Samsung Group, Yoon made significant contributions to Samsung Electronics’ growth into a global brand through his distinctive leadership. Joining Samsung Group in 1966, he served as Vice President of the Electronics Division, CEO, and Vice Chairman of Samsung Electronics, leading core technology development and management innovation in semiconductors, displays, and mobile communications. Notably, he spearheaded the development of DRAM and flash memory, playing a crucial role in establishing Korea as the world’s number one semiconductor powerhouse. He also contributed to Samsung Electronics securing global competitiveness and becoming a global leader in semiconductors and home appliances.

President Lee Geon-woo said, “We are pleased to award the first honorary doctorate since our founding to Yoon Jong-yong, the inaugural chairman who has greatly contributed to DGIST’s rapid growth over the past 20 years,” adding, “Going forward, DGIST will lead regional development and national science and technology through innovative educational programs and research. We will do our best to advance as a world-class university together with our members, unafraid of change and innovation.”