Mokpo National University and Suncheon National University Submit 'University Integration Application' to Ministry of Education

Presenting a 'Specialization Strategy' Based on Vision and Strengths

National Mokpo University (President Song Hacheol) announced on the 2nd that it submitted a university integration application to the Ministry of Education on the 31st of last month, together with National Mokpo University and National Suncheon University.

This application was jointly prepared by both universities after they agreed on November 15 of last year to pursue university integration and the establishment of an integrated medical school. They formed a 'Joint Promotion Committee' and a 'Working Committee,' and engaged in in-depth discussions and preparations.

Sang Hacheol (right), president of Mokpo National University, and Lee Byungun, president of Suncheon National University, have applied to the Ministry of Education for the integration of the two universities. Provided by Mokpo National University

Subsequently, starting on the 26th of last month, the application for university integration underwent review by the Joint Promotion Committee and each university's internal committee, before being finally submitted to the Ministry of Education on the 31st. The application outlines the purpose and expected benefits of the integration, as well as the vision for the integrated university. It also presents specialization strategies based on the strengths and academic characteristics of each region and sets specific implementation goals.

The two universities plan to strengthen cooperation with the local community through glocal university integration, maximize synergy in education and research, and provide various support measures for students and the local community. In particular, both universities emphasized their commitment to establishing a medical school based on the integration, strengthening the regional healthcare system, creating a medical and life science industry cluster, and fostering high value-added advanced industries to become a hub for research and education.

Song Hacheol, President of National Mokpo University, stated, "The university integration application reflects the aspirations of Jeonnam residents for the establishment of a new medical school to improve medical welfare in the region," and pledged, "We will do our utmost to enhance local medical services by securing quotas for the medical school and establishing an integrated medical school and university hospital to build a comprehensive regional healthcare system." He also expressed his gratitude, saying, "We appreciate the support of university members, alumni, and the local community who supported the integration of the two universities to achieve the greater goal of establishing a new medical school."