[2024 Commencement] “I urge you to compete on the world stage, and shape the future of humanity!”

President Yong Hoon Lee delivered some valuable life lessons in his commencement speech at the 2024 UNIST Commencement Ceremony, which took place on Thursday, February 15, 2024.

In his congratulatory remarks, President Lee urged the Class of 2024 to boldly face challenges with the spirit of ‘First In Change,’ just as they have done throughout their time at UNIST. He stated, “In this era of scientific and technological upheaval, it is crucial that we adopt a global perspective, compete on the world stage, and shape the future of humanity.” President Lee further emphasized the significance of planning for the future, looking ahead five to ten years, whether within their respective fields of study or through interdisciplinary convergence.

President Lee expressed his gratitude to the students for their contributions to the growth of UNIST, which has emerged as a research-oriented university proudly ranked among the top 10 young universities worldwide in just over a decade. Consequently, he encouraged the graduating students to maintain a strong connection and engagement with their alma mater in the years to come.

President Lee also stressed that life and education encompass more than just acquiring credentials and achieving a successful career. Thus, he urged the graduating students to give back to the communities that have nurtured them and those they will be a part of. He also encouraged them to actively prepare themselves to build beautiful families and nurture future generations of brilliant talents, envisioning a future brimming with boundless opportunities.

Class of 2024 throw their mortarboards in the air to celebrate their graduation at the 2024 UNIST Commencement Ceremony, which took place in the UNIST Gymnasium on February 15, 2024.

Below is the complete commencement address by President Yong Hoon Lee:

Dear Members of the Graduating Class,

Today, we gather here to celebrate the graduation of 915 remarkable individuals who will now join the esteemed family of over 8,200 UNIST alumni. On behalf of the entire UNIST community, I extend my heartfelt congratulations on your well-deserved success and commend you for becoming high-caliber talents in the fields of science and technology.

Your unwavering dedication and perseverance have led you to this proud moment in your lives. Today, we not only celebrate your accomplishments, but also embrace the bright futures that lie ahead for each and every one of you. Your accomplishments have filled us with immense pride.

In honor of your graduation, I sincerely congratulate and thank the faculty and staff members of UNIST for their dedication and sincere efforts throughout the years, culminating in this momentous day. Please also allow me to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the parents and extended families of our graduates for their unwavering support and countless sacrifices along this remarkable journey.

I would also like to extend special thanks to  distinguished guests who have graced us with their presence today. We truly appreciate you taking time out of your busy schedules to join us on this joyous occasion.

Our Proud Graduates, 

UNIST was established in 2009 with a grand vision of becoming a world-leading university, dedicated to advancing science and technology for the prosperity of humankind. Our aim was to create a research-oriented university that would not only bring about positive changes for the future of Ulsan and the Southeastern region of Korea, but also contribute to our nation and the future of humanity.

Today, I can proudly say that UNIST has transformed from a wild plain surrounding Gamak pond into a global hub for science and technology. UNIST has grown into a research-oriented university that proudly positioned itself among world’s top 10 young universities.

UNIST has become one of the nation’s universities with the highest number of top 1% researchers. Our faculty startups have achieved remarkable success, including one that was honored with the prestigious $5 million Export Tower Award. Furthermore, our research teams have consistently excelled in global competitions, particularly in the fields of artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomous vehicles.

These exceptional accomplishments stand as a testament to your unwavering commitment and perseverance.

Our Beloved Graduates,

We are living in an era of rapid scientific and technological advancements. Artificial intelligence, which announced its birth through AlphaGo in 2016, continues to reshape our lives, as evidenced by recent developments, such as ChatGPT. Moreover, the urgent need for carbon neutrality in response to the climate crisis demands transformative changes across all industries, transcending the realms of environment and energy.

As graduates entering this era of upheaval, you possess a unique opportunity to seize new possibilities. As leaders in science and technology, it is crucial that we adopt a global perspective, compete on the world stage, and shape the future of humanity. As you leave this stadium as proud graduates of UNIST, I urge you to plan your future five to ten years ahead, whether within your respective fields of study or through the convergence of various disciplines. Do not let fear hinder you from achieving greatness. Embrace the spirit of “First in Change” and pave your way to success.

You are esteemed individuals of great intellect who have garnered substantial support from our society. I, thus, implore you to give back to the communities that have nurtured you and the ones you will be part of. In a society plagued by conflicts and divisions, strive to deliver peace and harmony. Be willing to share your talents and resources while developing a clear vision for your future. I hope that you will grow not only as exceptional professionals, but also as compassionate human beings, radiating kindness and warmth in your interactions with others.

While the pursuit of success in your chosen fields is undeniably important, it is crucial to recognize that the world encompasses far more than individual career achievements. I urge you to consider the pressing issue of population decline that our country faces by actively preparing ourselves to build beautiful families and nurture future generations of brilliant talents. Together, we can create a future filled with boundless opportunities.

Dear Members of the Graduating Class, 

Wherever your journey takes you, remember that UNIST will always be with you, guiding you towards your goals and supporting your aspirations. We sincerely hope that you will stay connected and engaged with your alma mater in the years ahead.

Once again, congratulations on your well-deserved success, and I extend my best wishes to each and every one of you as you embark on your future endeavors.

Thank you.