2025 Winter Graduation Ceremony Held
- -Hosted at New Millenium Hall, Humanities and Social Sciences Campus… 4,747 Graduates Embark on Their Journeys
- -Director Jang Jae-hyun (Class of ‘05, Film Studies), Director of 'Exhuma', Delivers Commencement Speech
- -President Yoo Ji-beom, Chairman Park Jae-wan, and Alumni Association President Kim Sung-jip Offer Encouraging Messages
On Tuesday, February 25, at 11:00 AM, Sungkyunkwan University held its 2025 Winter Graduation Ceremony at New Millenium Hall, located in the basement of the 600th Anniversary Hall on the Humanities and Social Sciences Campus.
Under the theme, “Since ancient times, the nation’s brightest minds have gathered at Sungkyun—your presence here is no coincidence,” the ceremony celebrated the graduates' academic journey and their transition into the next chapter as individuals who embody the core Confucian virtues of Benevolence (ÈÊ), Righteousness (Áx), Propriety (¶Y), and Wisdom (ÖÇ).
This year, a total of 4,747 graduates received their degrees: 2,782 Bachelor’s degrees, 1,612 Master’s degrees, 353 Doctoral degrees.
Before the official ceremony, the university president and faculty members conducted the Ko-yu-rae (¸æÓɶY) at Sungkyunkwan, a traditional ritual announcing significant events, such as admissions and graduations, to Confucius’ shrine. (This year, due to renovations of Daeseongjeon Hall, the ritual was held at Bicheondang instead.)
¡ù Ko-yu-rae: A ceremony to announce significant events such as admissions, graduations, or building constructions by visiting Confucius' shrine.
President Yoo encouraged graduates to take what they have learned at Sungkyunkwan University and actively contribute to society:
“Your graduation is not the end, but a new beginning. Carry the spirit of Sungkyun with courage, and become leaders who bring positive change to the world.”
He also emphasized the importance of creative and bold action in a rapidly changing era:
“To act righteously, you must free yourself from prejudice and preconceptions. Embrace the spirit of a true free thinker.”
Chairman Park Jae-wan, Board of Trustees, reminded graduates that their next chapter is filled with both new opportunities and challenges:
“You are now stepping into the second act of your life—one filled with both risks and endless possibilities. Overcome the fear of challenges.”
He urged graduates to carve their own paths instead of simply following others:
“Do not merely follow the paths already taken. Forge your own way. Even if the road ahead is difficult, it is through those challenges that you will grow.”
Alumni Association President Kim Sung-jip:
Welcoming the new graduates into the 29,000-strong Sungkyunkwan alumni network, President Kim emphasized the power of connection and lifelong learning:
“You are now part of a global family of Sungkyun alumni. No matter where you go, take pride in being a Sungkyun graduate, and continue to grow and contribute to society;"
Commencement Speech was delivered by Director Jang Jae-hyun (Exhuma, The Priests, Svaha: The Sixth Finger). Jang Jae-hyun (Class of ‘05, Film Studies) delivered an inspiring speech to the graduates, drawing from his own experiences.
He reassured them that uncertainty is natural, encouraging them to embrace their fears and use them as motivation:
“There is no such thing as a ‘safe zone.’ Anxiety never truly goes away, but if you learn to accept it as a companion, rather than an enemy, you’ll find yourself feeling more at peace.”
Quoting a line from the film Million Dollar Baby, he emphasized the importance of self-preservation in a competitive world:
“Protect yourself.”
He reminded graduates that happiness isn’t just about achieving goals but also about cherishing small moments. Reflecting on his college days, he recalled the simple joy of sharing a meal with friends after winning an award for a student film:
“That was one of the happiest moments of my life, yet I didn’t fully appreciate it at the time. Don’t make the same mistake—cherish the little moments.”
Concluding his speech with a lighthearted yet profound message, he told graduates:
“Go out and celebrate today like there’s no tomorrow. And then, show up for work tomorrow.”
We wholeheartedly support the future endeavors of all our graduates and look forward to their remarkable contributions as proud members of the Sungkyunkwan community.
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