UNIST announced the successful conclusion of the ‘2025 UNIST Science Festival (Science ON),’ held on September 26 and 27, 2025. The event attracted an enthusiastic crowd of thousands from the local community, exemplifying the university’s commitment to fostering a vibrant culture of science, innovation, and public engagement.
A young child was seen operating an AI robot dog at a science experience booth, demonstrating hands-on engagement with AI technology. l Image Credit: Studio INGAM
Throughout the morning of the first day, the campus was transformed into a vibrant hub of discovery and learning. Visitors explored over 110 interactive exhibits and experiential booths spanning diverse fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), renewable energy, quantum science, biotechnology, robotics, and neuroscience. The program attracted families, students, educators, and science enthusiasts eager to engage in hands-on activities and learn about cutting-edge research. The venue quickly evolved into an ‘Open Science Classroom,’ fostering an atmosphere of open curiosity and exploration.
The ‘Experiential Booths of Science Dreamers,’ operated by high school students from the Ulsan area, also gained widespread popularity, offering a space where youth and citizens could collaboratively envision the possibilities of future science.
The event’s hallmark ‘Open Science Classroom‘ atmosphere was further enriched by engaging talk concerts featuring distinguished speakers such as Collaborating Professors Ji Young Lee and Sedol Lee. These sessions received high praise for delivering inspiring insights and fostering meaningful dialogue on perseverance, self-belief, and embracing technological challenges. The large auditorium was filled to capacity, reflecting the community’s strong interest in science and leadership.
Collaborating Professor Ji Young Lee is giving an honest and heartfelt lecture to the audience, discussing the theme “The Power to Make Dreams Come True.” l Image Credit: Studio INGAM
The talk concerts further heightened the festival’s excitement, with the 400-seat auditorium consistently filled to capacity. Collaborating Professor Ji Young Lee delivered an inspiring lecture themed ‘The Power to Make Dreams Come True,’ emphasizing that “Loving oneself is the greatest strength needed to realize dreams,” which resonated strongly with the audience.
During the Q&A sessions, Professor Lee shared candid reflections on the journey of challenge and growth. She stressed that “the most important thing is to be healthy both physically and mentally so that one can pursue dreams to the very end.” He highlighted the importance of self-care and maintaining balance while pursuing challenging goals. Furthermore, she emphasized that “[J]ust having one or two people who believe in and support you gives you the strength to get back up,” underscoring the significance of small but steadfast support from those around us on the path toward achieving our dreams.
At sunset, the campus lawn transforms into a romantic stage for the “Autumn Starlight Film Festival,” where citizens and students gathered to enjoy outdoor movies under the evening sky. l Image Credit: Studio INGAM
Interactive activities, including the ‘Squid Game-themed Team Challenge‘ and the popular ‘Fall Starlight Film Festival,’ successfully brought the community together in a festive environment. The campus lawn buzzed with excitement as families enjoyed outdoor movies under the autumn sky, creating memorable moments that linked science, culture, and community spirit.
The second day continued to be a success, with numerous families exploring science experience booths, participating in campus tours of UNIST’s advanced research facilities, and enjoying lively performances by students. The event proved to be a meaningful platform for fostering curiosity and lifelong learning among young people.
In the university auditorium, filled with citizens, Collaborating Professor Sedol Lee delivered an engaging talk about AI, Go (Baduk), and life stories, captivating the audience with his insights. l Image Credit: Studio INGAM
Professor Lee’s talk, which drew long lines prior to commencement, shared experiences from his matches against AlphaGo, emphasizing that technological advancements expand human limitations and open new possibilities. Audience members responded enthusiastically, giving applause for the inspiring presentation.
During the Q&A session, Professor Lee interacted directly with attendees, answering various questions about AI, Go, and life with sincerity. He also signed copies of his book, 『Lee Sedol: Reading Life’s Moves』, and took photos with attendees, fostering a close connection with the audience.
On the campus lawn, students, citizens, and children are enjoying a lively bubble magic show together, creating a joyful and festive atmosphere. l Image Credit: Studio INGAM
Subsequently, the Science Magic Shows, Bubble Magic Performances, and UNIST student’s busking performances further enlivened the festival scene. Children cheered as they watched performances unfold before their eyes, while adults applauded and engaged with the stage.
The picnic zone and campus tour programs drew many visitors, allowing them to observe research equipment and facilities firsthand, witnessing the forefront of scientific innovation.
A citizen who visited the festival with their child remarked, “I have passed by UNIST multiple times on my way to Ulsan Station, but this was my first time entering the campus. It was meaningful to enjoy various science experiences with my children, and I was very impressed by how beautiful the campus is.”
President Chong Rae Park observed a demonstration of a small EV developed through students’ creative ideas, showcasing innovative student projects. l Image Credit: Studio INGAM
President Park commented, “The overwhelming response to this year’s UNIST Science ON demonstrates our community’s passion for science and innovation. We are proud to serve as a catalyst for inspiring future scientists and fostering a culture of curiosity and collaboration.” He added, “This event not only showcased the latest advancements in science and technology but also united the university and local community in a joyful celebration of discovery. We look forward to continuing this tradition of open, inclusive science festivals that ignite imaginations and build lasting connections.”
With its successful execution and vibrant atmosphere, the 2025 UNIST Science ON reaffirmed UNIST’s position as a leading hub of innovation and community engagement, inspiring countless visitors and participants to dream big and explore the endless possibilities of science.
The event’s seamless operation was made possible through the dedicated efforts of organizers and sponsors, including Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP), the Kyungdong Scholarship Foundation, Korea East-West Power Co., Ltd., and Korea National Oil Corporation (KNOC). All activities were offered free of charge, underscoring UNIST’s commitment to accessible public engagement.
