When the late Dr. Seok-chang Yoo founded a small non-profit hospital in 1931, nobody expected that it would turn into a large-scale comprehensive university that Konkuk is today. After all, the era was marked by Japanese colonial rule with little hope left for the Korean people. Despite the challenging conditions, Dr. Yoo proceeded on his life-long journey as an educator and a social reformer, and Konkuk University (KU) became an important part of his contribution to the Korean people.
It is no surprise that Dr. Yoo put "Sincerity (성, 誠), Fidelity (신, 信) and Righteousness (의, 義),” KU’s motto passed down to this day, before academic excellence. The university prioritizes supporting students in need, and its medical center is recognized for extraordinary patient care. Upon graduation, KU students become the driving force of the Korean society with their integrity and knowledge.
All of us at the KU Foundation endeavor to carry on Dr. Yoo’s legacy. We have improved the university’s curriculum and quality of teaching, built new buildings and facilities, and invited world-class scholars to conduct research. The Star City project is also a part of our multi-faceted efforts to fulfill the founder’s vision. We will continue to strive to make the Konkuk community more creative and dynamic so that the university will be able to take a big leap toward becoming a globally competitive one.