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�鶹��Ƶ Korea hosts record-breaking digital art competition

Katarina Benson — Thu, 05 Jun 2025 16:20:04 +0000

�鶹��Ƶ Korea hosts record-breaking digital art competition Katarina Benson Thu, 06/05/2025 - 12:20

The fifth annual Progress@Play Social Impact Digital Art Competition has successfully concluded with an award ceremony at �鶹��Ƶ’s Korea campus. This year’s competition was supported by the Incheon Metropolitan Office of Education and the Game Culture Foundation.

This year’s competition centered on creative ideas and sustainable solutions to emerging social issues and attracted a record 255 teams of middle school, high school, and university students from Korea and abroad. Participants presented their ideas through various digital formats, including animations, webtoons, computer games, videos, and illustrations. Notably, many submissions focused on the psychological and social effects of social media, reflecting concerns shared across generations.

Progress@Play exhibition. Photo provided

The ceremony brought together student finalists and their families, as well as �鶹��Ƶ Korea leadership and staff, and Computer Game Design Program faculty James Broderick and John McGrew. Special guests included Cheolsoo Son, director of secondary Education at the Incheon Metropolitan Office of Education, and Hyunkyung Kim, director of the Game Culture Education Center at the Game Culture Foundation.

“This year’s entries offered sharp insights into the social issues driven by social media,” said Broderick, an assistant professor of computer game design who also served as a competition judge. “While previous years often explored traditional themes like the environment, human rights, and aging, this year reflected a shift toward challenges faced by digital natives—including online performative culture and psychological effects of social media. It signals an expanding spectrum of social awareness among youth.”

Entries were evaluated by �鶹��Ƶ Korea’s Computer Game Design faculty and external experts for social impact, quality, creativity, and artistic merit.

The top prize in the middle/high school division was awarded to Hyunbi Kim of Korea Animation High School for the project "Have You Seen the Southern Land?" while Yoonsik Kang of Sejong University took first place in the university division with "Omniscient."

The Korea Animation High School team won for their project "Have You Seen the Southern Land?" Photo provided

All winners received cash prizes. Middle and high school awardees also earned a certificate from the superintendent of the Incheon Metropolitan Office of Education and a $2,000 scholarship (USD) upon admission to �鶹��Ƶ Korea.

“This competition has created a meaningful platform for students and the public to engage with Korea’s evolving social issues,” said Joshua Park, campus dean of �鶹��Ƶ Korea. “Through our Computer Game Design Program and Korea Serious Game Institute, �鶹��Ƶ Korea delivers a distinctive practice-based education. We remain committed to strengthening collaborations with academic, industry, and public-sector partners to serve as a trusted global hub for innovation and learning.”

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�鶹��Ƶ Korea undergrads publish research in international environmental journal

Katarina Benson — Mon, 02 Jun 2025 14:44:09 +0000

�鶹��Ƶ Korea undergrads publish research in international environmental journal Katarina Benson Mon, 06/02/2025 - 10:44

An undergraduate student-led �鶹��Ƶ Impact project at �鶹��Ƶ Korea results in a co-authored article published in the peer-reviewed international journal Environmental Monitoring and Assessment. “Accessible water quality monitoring through hybrid human–machine colorimetric methods” stems from the �鶹��Ƶ Impact project focused on environmental conditions in the Seunggi-cheon stream in Incheon.

Under the mentorship of Soyoung Kwon, associate dean of external affairs and professor of global affairs, and Dakota McCarty, an assistant professor in the Department of Environmental Science and Policy, �鶹��Ƶ Korea students collected and analyzed water samples, tested an innovative low-cost method for monitoring water quality, and contributed new insights to the field. Their approach combined colorimetric testing with human-guided digital analysis, producing data that closely aligned with laboratory results.

Students test the water samples. Photo provided

The project gave students valuable, hands-on experience in all stages of academic research—from fieldwork and data analysis to writing and publication. It introduced them to the world of scientific inquiry and academic publishing, equipping them with the skills, confidence, and credentials to pursue future research and graduate study.

“Working with Dr. McCarty and the other Center for Security Policy Studies (CSPS) Fellows gave me new insight into environmental security concerns like access to clean drinking water,” said Sam Sims, a junior global affairs major. “Now it’s an important part of how I think about security as a whole.”

CSPS, founded by director Ellen Laipson, is a unit of the Schar School of Policy and Government.

“[This paper] highlights the power of collaborative inquiry and the real social impact of student research,” Kwon said. “Mentoring these emerging scholars was incredibly rewarding, and I hope it inspires future student-led projects.”

McCarty agreed. “I’m incredibly proud of the students. Moving from a local project to a peer-reviewed international publication is a rare achievement at the undergraduate level,” he said. “It not only gives students a glimpse into real research but also strengthens their academic profiles for graduate school and beyond.”

Students with their research poster. Photo provided

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George �鶹��Ƶ and Fairfax City leaders visit Korea to advance entrepreneurship

Katarina Benson — Tue, 20 May 2025 18:33:25 +0000

George �鶹��Ƶ and Fairfax City leaders visit Korea to advance entrepreneurship Katarina Benson Tue, 05/20/2025 - 14:33

A senior delegation from �鶹��Ƶ’s Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations and Costello College of Business, along with Fairfax City Economic Development, recently visited �鶹��Ƶ Korea for a weeklong strategic engagement to promote entrepreneurship education and business development.

The Korea–U.S. Business Cooperation Delegation included Trishana E. Bowden, vice president for advancement and alumni relations and president of the �鶹��Ƶ Foundation; Lauren Bird, associate vice president for corporate and foundation relations; J.K. Aier, senior associate dean for academic affairs and global engagement at Costello; Patrick Soleymani, associate dean for outreach and strategic engagement at Costello and commissioner of the Fairfax City Economic Development Authority; and Chris Bruno, CEO and director of the Fairfax City Economic Development Authority.

Startup Park presentation. Photo provided

The delegation met with internal and external partners during their visit. Alongside Campus Dean Joshua Park, they presented business collaboration opportunities to organizations including the Korea Data Industry Promotion Agency, Seoul Fintech Lab, and Incheon Startup Park. Their goal was to support local companies interested in expanding to Fairfax.

Park also signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Global Digital Innovation Network (GDIN), an international platform promoting digital entrepreneurship and startup ecosystems.

The agreement establishes an internship program with GDIN to provide students valuable global work experience, while offering GDIN access to George �鶹��Ƶ’s student talent. Additional plans include joint startup incubation programs, collaborative research, curriculum development, and co-hosting international events.

“The Costello College of Business is a nationally ranked R1 research university business school that leverages its prime location in Northern Virginia, near Washington, D.C., to provide governments, businesses, and students with the best possible opportunities for industry-academic collaboration, internships, and career networking,” said Aier. “This agreement marks an important milestone in our continued efforts to position ourselves as a global hub for the rapidly evolving business environment.”

“Through this agreement, we will further strengthen our global connections with the U.S. campus and Fairfax City, providing students both domestically and internationally valuable experiences in the innovation ecosystem and real growth opportunities,” said Park. “We are also committed to enhancing Korea–U.S. collaboration in education and research, serving as a trusted bridge that helps students, businesses, and government agencies advance on the global stage through innovation, expertise, and entrepreneurship.”

Fairfax City presentation. Photo provided

The delegation also engaged with �鶹��Ƶ Korea leadership, faculty, students, and staff, and the Costello deans connected directly with business students and faculty during their visit.

"Our goal in coming here was to strengthen international connections and explore opportunities to expand access to the transformative global experiences this campus offers,” said Bowden. “What we see emerging is exactly that—a dynamic ecosystem where education and industry converge to prepare students to lead and solve the challenges of tomorrow. It’s inspiring to witness how our students, faculty, and partners are advancing George �鶹��Ƶ’s global mission—bridging innovation, education, and culture in ways that truly reflect the spirit of the �鶹��Ƶ Nation.”

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�鶹��Ƶ Korea holds 5th annual beach cleaning day

Colleen Rich — Fri, 02 May 2025 18:04:46 +0000

�鶹��Ƶ Korea holds 5th annual beach cleaning day Colleen Rich Fri, 05/02/2025 - 14:04

Students at Masian Beach. Photo provided

As part of its commitment to sustainability and community engagement, �鶹��Ƶ Korea held its fifth annual beach clean-up at Masian Beach in Yeongjongdo, Incheon, on April 19. Students, faculty, and staff from both �鶹��Ƶ Korea and the University of Utah Asia Campus participated.

The cleanup was organized under the �鶹��Ƶ Cares Program, �鶹��Ƶ Korea’s signature social impact initiative, which aims to support the local community. As a UN Global Compact member, the campus partners with the local community on hands-on volunteer and learning opportunities, such as coastal clean-ups, youth mentoring, and campaigns like the Zero Waste Challenge. Now in its fifth year, the clean-up has become a key part of �鶹��Ƶ Korea’s community outreach, inspiring sustainable action.

“It was a meaningful experience to join community members in working together to restore the beach,” said Noble Gabriel, a junior computer game design major from George �鶹��Ƶ’s Fairfax Campus.

Students used a technique called “plogging,” a combination of jogging and picking up litter. “Seeing participants work diligently to restore the area despite strong chilly winds was especially inspiring and affirmed the value of service in our �鶹��Ƶ Korea community,” said Lauren Poindexter, senior coordinator of Student Involvement.

“It was deeply meaningful to see our students and faculty come together once again to give back to the Incheon community,” said Joshua Park, dean of �鶹��Ƶ Korea. “Through the �鶹��Ƶ Cares Program, we will continue putting our educational mission—pursuing a more just and prosperous society—into action by delivering a real social value.”

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�鶹��Ƶ Korea and U.S. Embassy Seoul host Young Trilateral Leaders workshop

Katarina Benson — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 13:55:23 +0000

�鶹��Ƶ Korea and U.S. Embassy Seoul host Young Trilateral Leaders workshop Katarina Benson Tue, 04/29/2025 - 09:55

�鶹��Ƶ Korea and the U.S. Embassy Seoul recently hosted the 2025 U.S.–Republic of Korea (ROK)–Japan Young Trilateral Leaders (YTL) Regional Workshop Series on the �鶹��Ƶ Korea campus. The workshop featured sessions on peace technology led by experts from the Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution at George �鶹��Ƶ and the Faculty of Letters at Soka University in Japan.

The 2025 YTL Workshop Series consists of four phases. Phase one consisted of four weeks of online pre-learning from March 10 to April 4. Then the Incheon Songdo workshop, held from April 11–14 at �鶹��Ƶ Korea, marked the second phase and took place over four days. The third phase will be co-hosted with U.S. Consulate General Osaka in Hiroshima, Japan, from May 9–12. The final phase, an online evaluation, is scheduled for August 21 and 28.

During the in-person workshop, 26 members of the State Department’s YTL program from Korea, the United States, and Japan built on their pre-session knowledge, engaging in lectures and group activities with Korean and international experts. Topics included conflict analysis and resolution, peace studies, the application of advanced artificial intelligence (AI) games, and international relations based on historical and cultural perspectives.

Students participate in the in-person workshop. Photo provided

“�鶹��Ƶ Korea is cultivating global conflict management experts through the Korea Serious Game Institute and the Peace and Conflict Studies Center Asia,” said �鶹��Ƶ Korea Campus Dean Joshua Park. “Grounded in innovation, expertise, and an entrepreneurial spirit, we aim to strengthen U.S.-Korea collaboration in education and research for the Fourth Industrial Revolution—serving as a trusted bridge for students, industries, and government agencies to thrive on the global stage.”

On Saturday, April 12, the YTL workshop opened with a keynote address by �鶹��Ƶ Korea Dean Joshua Park and U.S. Embassy Seoul public diplomacy officer Joshua Lustig, followed by a lecture from Soyoung Kwon, associate dean of external affairs and professor of global affairs, on “Korea’s Regional Diplomacy and the Trilateral Alliance.”

Program leader Roland Wilson, director of the Peace and Conflict Studies Center Asia (PACSC Asia) and professor of conflict analysis and resolution, delivered a session on Youth Leadership, which led into a joint talk with James Broderick (Computer Game Design Program) titled “Peace and Conflict: How to Use Tech and AI.” Participants then collaborated in small groups to analyze conflict scenarios and propose solutions using AI-based serious games.

On Sunday, April 13, after completing a trilateral conflict simulation and case studies, students visited the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) for a field learning experience.

“This workshop offered young leaders from Korea, the U.S., and Japan an opportunity to strengthen their conflict analysis and resolution skills by using �鶹��Ƶ’s advanced AI serious games," said Roland Wilson, who is a George �鶹��Ƶ alumnus with a PhD in conflict analysis and resolution. "It also helped them develop global leadership and teamwork, while exploring innovative solutions to regional and international conflict challenges. I hope this workshop has provided future youth leaders with a valuable opportunity to view regional and global relations to deepen mutual understanding.”

“The trilateral partnership is a crucial component of our shared commitment to the safety, security, and prosperity of both our own countries and the broader Indo-Pacific region,” said U.S. Embassy Seoul Public Diplomacy Officer Joshua Lustig. “For this partnership to truly flourish, we need to leverage the creativity and talents of people from every corner of our respective societies, especially emerging leaders like those participating in this workshop.”

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�鶹��Ƶ Korea hosts U.S. Chargé d’Affaires for fireside chat

Katarina Benson — Sat, 05 Apr 2025 20:56:38 +0000

�鶹��Ƶ Korea hosts U.S. Chargé d’Affaires for fireside chat Katarina Benson Sat, 04/05/2025 - 16:56

�鶹��Ƶ Korea recently welcomed Ambassador Joseph Yun, Chargé d'Affaires ad interim at the United States Mission in the Republic of Korea, for an exclusive fireside chat at the Incheon Global Campus Small Theater.

Moderated by Soyoung Kwon, associate dean of external affairs and professor of global affairs, the event drew more than 300 attendees. The dialogue with Ambassador Yun covered a wide range of topics, including U.S.-Korea relations and the role of global universities in international diplomacy.

The Fireside Chat. Photo provided

The program opened with welcome remarks from �鶹��Ƶ Korea Dean Joshua Park. "This fireside chat has been a significant opportunity to enhance understanding of U.S.–Korea diplomatic relations, North Korea policy, conflict resolution, and peacebuilding," said Park. "�鶹��Ƶ Korea will continue to serve as a key hub for public diplomacy between the U.S. and Korea, striving to equip our diverse international student body with cross-cultural experiences, adaptability, cultural comprehension, and global citizenship."

Distinguished guests included Wonsok Yun, commissioner of the Incheon Free Economic Zone Authority; Byung-geun Park, CEO of the Incheon Global Campus Foundation; Arthur H. Lee, president of the State University of New York, Korea; Gregory Hill, chief administrative officer of the University of Utah Asia Campus; Nam-sik Lee, president of JEI University; and Woong-hee Kim, vice president for external affairs at Inha University.

The event concluded with a VIP reception in honor of Ambassador Yun’s visit, joined by a special guest—Incheon Mayor Jeongbok Yoo.

"Global universities can function as public diplomacy platforms connecting Korea and the U.S. through adaptability, cultural comprehension, and global citizenship," said Kwon. She also emphasized �鶹��Ƶ Korea’s commitment to expanding networks through dialogue and communication and contributing to the broader welfare of Korea.

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�鶹��Ƶ Korea to Host 2025 Korea-US-Japan eSports Tournament

Pam Muirheid — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 15:35:54 +0000

�鶹��Ƶ Korea to Host 2025 Korea-US-Japan eSports Tournament Pam Muirheid Thu, 03/27/2025 - 11:35

Original article written by Lee Sang-beom in N News (Korea), March 25, 2025:

�鶹��Ƶ Korea will host the '2025 Korea-U.S.-Japan eSports Tournament' in collaboration with the U.S. Embassy in Korea, the U.S. Embassy in Japan, and Coupang. Photo by Ji Kang

�鶹��Ƶ Korea, in collaboration with the U.S. Embassy in Korea, the U.S. Embassy in Japan, and Coupang, will host the 2025 Korea-U.S.-Japan eSports Tournament, a global initiative to foster strategic thinking, teamwork, and digital engagement among young gamers from Korea, the U.S., and Japan.

This tournament is an innovative global program where participants will learn teamwork, leadership, and conflict resolution through gaming as an eSport, and is an educational platform that develops essential cognitive and collaborative skills in a competitive environment while strengthening trilateral relations among Korea, the United States, and Japan. The eSports Tournament is open to young Korean, American, and Japanese citizens aged 20-39, and requires English communication skills.

Participants will participate in online training and weekly activities from April to May, and will participate in the eSports tournament in Incheon in June.

Through this tournament, �鶹��Ƶ Korea will provide a special opportunity for young gamers to communicate with peers from diverse cultural backgrounds and improve their problem-solving skills, adaptability, and leadership capabilities. Professor Sang Nam, Professor of Computer Game Design at �鶹��Ƶ, Co-Director of Virginia Functional Game Research Institute, and Director of Korea Functional Game Research Institute, said:

"This '2025 Korea-US-Japan eSports Tournament' is an innovative platform designed to promote digital literacy, cross-cultural collaboration, and leadership development beyond games as entertainment and competition." He added, "We are pleased to demonstrate the role of eSports as a bridge to strengthen trilateral cooperation among Korea, the United States, and Japan."

“The trilateral partnership among the United States, Japan, and Korea is a vital component of our shared effort to ensure safety, security, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region,” said Joshua Lustig, Public Diplomacy Officer at the U.S. Embassy in Seoul. “We anticipate that the 2025 Korea-U.S.-Japan eSports Tournament will bring our three countries closer together by further strengthening the network of youth champions among them.”

The program is fully sponsored by Coupang through a public-private partnership with the U.S. Department of State, and the event is co-hosted with Company E, a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit.

The application deadline for the event is March 28, and eSports training and in-person eSports tournament matches will take place starting April 5.

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�鶹��Ƶ Korea's global network expands in Vietnam

Katarina Benson — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 18:23:16 +0000

�鶹��Ƶ Korea's global network expands in Vietnam Katarina Benson Wed, 03/26/2025 - 14:23

Last week, �鶹��Ƶ Korea Campus Dean Joshua Park led a strategic visit to Vietnam to strengthen international partnerships across three key cities: Hanoi, Danang, and Ho Chi Minh. He was accompanied by Kelley Chung, associate dean of admissions and enrollment, and Jake Lee, admissions counselor.

In Hanoi, the �鶹��Ƶ Korea delegation met with Vice President Nguyen Thi Ngoc Bich of Hanoi International College, signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to promote educational and intercultural collaboration.

�鶹��Ƶ Korea and Hanoi International College leadership. Photo provided

They also visited Vinschool, a K-12 school, engaging in discussions about future education partnerships. Additionally, the team introduced �鶹��Ƶ Korea’s programs to approximately 90 students at Korean Global School and explored collaboration opportunities with the principal and staff of Vietnamese-Australia High School.

The journey continued in Danang, where the team strengthened ties with the University of Danang (VNUK), building on George �鶹��Ƶ's existing partnership. Nguyen Van Huy, head of the Research and International Cooperation Office, described their collaboration as "a stepping stone for global education."

The trip concluded in Ho Chi Minh City with the signing of an MOU with Saigon Business School, paving the way for student transfers, faculty exchanges, and future joint initiatives. The team also visited the University of Economics and Finance and connected with the vice president and staff to discuss potential educational partnerships.

"It was a highly productive week in Vietnam,” said Park, reflecting on the trip. “I’m excited to bring these new partnerships to life and create more global opportunities for our students."

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Dean Joshua Park shares vision for �鶹��Ƶ Korea

Katarina Benson — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 19:39:45 +0000

Dean Joshua Park shares vision for �鶹��Ƶ Korea Katarina Benson Wed, 03/12/2025 - 15:39

More than 250 attendees, including students, family members, faculty, staff, and distinguished guests gathered for the �鶹��Ƶ Korea's Spring Convocation at the Incheon Global Campus Small Theater.

“�鶹��Ƶ Korea upholds the identity of �鶹��Ƶ, while blending unique Korean elements, offering the best of both worlds," �鶹��Ƶ Korea Campus Dean Joshua Park told the assembled group.

"Admission to �鶹��Ƶ Korea is becoming increasingly competitive each year, driven by our distinctive programs and global network," said Kelley Chung, associate dean of admissions and enrollment at �鶹��Ƶ Korea. "As a leading American educational institution in Korea, we are dedicated to both expanding our reach and enhancing the quality of our programs."

�鶹��Ƶ Korea students benefit from a unique academic curriculum, spending three years at the Songdo campus in Korea and one year at the Fairfax Campus in Virginia. The campus upholds the same academic standards as the U.S. campus while offering more affordable tuition and awarding the same degree.

In an recent interview with Incheon Ilbo, Park emphasized collaboration with international universities to attract global talent to the Incheon Global Campus.

Since assuming office in July last year, Park has highlighted �鶹��Ƶ Korea’s role as an extension campus of the U.S. institution, stating, “�鶹��Ƶ Korea has boundless potential in terms of growth and internationalization. We will preserve the core identity of �鶹��Ƶ while shaping a campus that uniquely reflects Korean characteristics.”

A key priority for �鶹��Ƶ Korea is internationalization. Currently, students from more than 20 countries are enrolled at the campus. To further increase the number of international students, Park plans to expand partnerships with international universities, aiming to raise the proportion of international students to 40–50% within the next five years.

In particular, �鶹��Ƶ Korea has been forming Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with universities across Asia. As a result, international student enrollment is expected to increase from next year.

“We are not just looking to collaborate with any university; we are focused on partnering with top-tier institutions,” Park stated. “Through this initiative, we seek to attract the top 1–5% of outstanding students to Songdo, providing them with education and supporting their transition to Incheon.”

Given its location in the major city of Incheon, �鶹��Ƶ Korea also prioritizes collaboration with local schools and businesses. “Introducing American culture to Incheon’s government, businesses, and students is one of our primary missions,” said Park. “To support this, we have established MOUs with Inha University and the University of Incheon, jointly developing various programs.”

As part of this effort, �鶹��Ƶ Korea is developing programs and workshops to help students from Inha and Incheon National universities build global competencies without needing to study abroad.

Additionally, �鶹��Ƶ Korea collaborates with startups in Incheon. The business school works with �鶹��Ƶ’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) to assist local companies facing challenges in entering the U.S. market.

“Our business school provides practical support, such as courses in business-level English writing, to actively assist local businesses,” Park explained.

Ultimately, Park envisions �鶹��Ƶ Korea deepening its integration with the local community and business sector while leveraging its strengths.

"�鶹��Ƶ Korea will not be confined to a single field but will continue to evolve in response to corporate and regional needs, continuously improving its academic programs," he said.

“Last year, �鶹��Ƶ Korea celebrated its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of establishing strong roots in the region. Over the next decade, we will focus on achieving tangible results and broadening our reach—attracting global talent and cultivating internationally competent professionals who can contribute both locally and globally.”

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