Author Jung-wook Ko delivered a congratulatory speech at the Sungkyunkwan University Summer Commencement, themed "The Magic of Time for You."
▲ At the Commencement, Ko Jung-wook (Korean Language and Literature, Class of '80) is delivering a congratulatory message.
On August 23, at the university’s summer graduation ceremony, it was announced that Ko Jung-wook, a distinguished alumnus who has brought pride to the university, delivered an inspiring speech titled "The Magic of Time for You." The ceremony was attended by graduates, their families, and faculty members, with Ko’s speech, filled with hope and anticipation for future challenges, deeply inspiring the graduates.
Ko Jung-wook, who overcame his disability, earned his bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in Korean literature from Sungkyunkwan University. He is now a prominent figure actively engaged as a writer and lecturer. Among his works, “The Boy Who Carries the Bag” became a million-seller, was included in elementary school textbooks, and even adapted into a musical, creating a significant impact. Through these achievements, Ko has consistently emphasized the importance of overcoming social prejudice against disabilities and the value of living together in harmony.
In his speech, Ko conveyed the important message that how one uses their time can significantly influence their life’s outcomes. Reflecting on his time at the university, he shared his experiences of making bold decisions and embracing challenges, offering valuable advice to the graduates. "Even if it seems reckless, take on challenges. Even if you occasionally face setbacks in a harsh world, trusting in time and maintaining steady effort will be your greatest weapon," he said, leaving a profound impression on the graduates as they prepare to step into society.
▲ At the Commencement, Ko Jung-wook (Korean Language and Literature, Class of '80) is delivering a congratulatory message.
(From left in the picture: President Yoo Ji-beom, Vice President Kim Jae-hyun, Dean of Confucian Studies Kim Dong-min, Dean of the College of Humanities Ahn Dae-hoe, and Dean of the College of Social Sciences Kim Geun-se)
Ko also elaborated on how he achieved his dream of becoming a writer through the "magic of time," encouraging the graduates to fully utilize the time as a resource to realize their own dreams. “God grants us the gift of 24 hours each day, the same for everyone. How we use that time determines our future,” he remarked, urging the graduates to set goals for their lives and relentlessly pursue them.
It is hoped that Ko Jung-wook's speech will provide the graduates with significant inspiration and motivation. The importance of time and the value of taking on challenges that he emphasized will serve as a solid foundation for the graduates as they seize the many opportunities that lie ahead and build their own paths to success.
Meanwhile, the university celebrated another proud cohort of alumni through this year’s summer graduation ceremony and looks forward to the positive impact these graduates will have across various fields in society.
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