Speaker Woo Wonsik Awarded Honorary Doctorate by Chonnam National University for Realizing Democracy

On the 16th, at Yongbong Hall of Chonnam National University, Woo Wonsik, Speaker of the National Assembly (left), and Lee Geunbae, President of Chonnam National University, are taking a commemorative photo at the 'Honorary Doctorate Degree Conferment Ceremony for Speaker Woo Wonsik.' Provided by Chonnam National University

Chonnam National University announced on the 19th that it had conferred an honorary Doctor of Philosophy degree on Woo Wonsik, Speaker of the National Assembly.

The ceremony, held on the afternoon of the 16th at Yongbong Hall, was organized in recognition of Speaker Woo's contributions to safeguarding constitutional order and realizing democracy during times of national crisis, as well as his practical politics in support of the socially disadvantaged.

The conferment ceremony was attended by a wide range of figures, including National Assembly members Seo Samseok and Kim Sangwook, Chief Secretary Cho Oseop, Gwangju City Council Chairperson Shin Sujeong, Chonnam National University Alumni Association President Ryu Hyekyung, former Alumni Association President Noh Dongil, and other former presidents of the association.

The degree was jointly conferred by President Lee Geunbae and Graduate School Dean Joo Jeongmin, following an introduction of Speaker Woo's major achievements. The Alumni Association also presented him with a membership certificate.

President Lee Geunbae stated, "Forty-five years ago in May, it was the students of Chonnam National University and the citizens of Gwangju who stood up against the military regime's martial law. In the recent situation resembling martial law, the people and the National Assembly once again played a central role," adding, "At that critical moment, Speaker Woo Wonsik protected constitutional order with unwavering determination, responsibility, and strong leadership. As a member of Chonnam National University, I am proud to confer upon him the honorary Doctor of Philosophy degree."

Speaker Woo Wonsik remarked, "The fundamental strength that allowed me to risk everything to lift martial law originated from Gwangju in May 1980," and continued, "The path opened by Gwangju has strengthened and nurtured both myself and our community, and today it stands as a powerful civic spirit and cultural DNA."

He added, "It is an honor to receive an honorary doctorate from Chonnam National University, which is a symbol of the history and tradition of democracy," and pledged, "I will continue to realize and expand the values of democracy in the future."