UNIST has officially initiated a comprehensive fundraising campaign, “Vision 2050,” aimed at realizing its strategic growth blueprint for the mid- to long-term future. To mark the campaign’s launch, UNIST President Chong Rae Park made a personal donation of KRW 100 million, exemplifying strong leadership and commitment.
This generous contribution will serve as a catalyst for the ‘Together U 2050′ campaign—a meaningful, community-driven initiative encouraging members of the UNIST community and the public to participate through regular donations. With just KRW 2,050 per month, supporters can help advance science and technology, nurture the next generation of innovators, and contribute to a collective movement for regional and global innovation.
UNIST President Chong Rae Park personally donated KRW 100 million to mark the beginning of Together U 2050 Campaign. ㅣ Image Credit: UNIST Development Fund Team
A Gift to Empower AI and Mind Science Research
President Park’s contribution is dedicated to advancing UNIST’s pioneering research in artificial intelligence (AI) and mind science—two key fields that embody the essence of Vision 2050. “AI addresses global challenges, while mind science tackles human-centered issues,” said President Park. “This donation reflects my personal and professional commitment to the next generation, and I hope it serves as a starting point for UNIST’s growth alongside the local community.”
The initiative aligns with UNIST’s ambition to become a national hub for strategic technologies and a global leader in AI innovation by 2050.
UNIST opens its official ‘UNIQUE STORE’ as the ‘Together U 2050’ campaign kicks off. l Image Credit: UNIST Development Fund Team
Growing Culture of Giving at UNIST
UNIST’s culture of philanthropy has been gaining momentum in recent months. Notably, Junho Lee, Honorary Chairman of the Duksan Group, recently fulfilled a KRW 30 billion stock donation, while the Undang Nanum Foundation contributed KRW 1 billion to support young entrepreneurs. Local business leaders and alumni are actively participating, reinforcing a burgeoning spirit of giving across the region.
In conjunction with the Together U 2050 campaign, UNIST will open its official merchandise shop, so-called the UNIQUE STORE, on November 7, located on the first floor of the UNIST Library. The opening will be celebrated with a special ‘Night of Gratitude‘ event, inviting donors and community partners to join the festivities.
The store was established in response to strong demand from the UNIST community—over 770 members participated in a survey, with 668 expressing the need for a campus store. It will feature more than 80 products, including UNIST mascot plushies, stationery, and daily goods.
All proceeds will be reinvested into scholarships, research funding, and campus development projects. Many products will incorporate regional symbols of Ulsan, such as prehistoric petroglyphs and whales. Collaborations with local companies will further strengthen community ties. Additionally, part of the profits will support youth entrepreneurship and public-benefit programs in the region.
The donation presentation ceremony took place at the Main Administration Building of UNIST on October 27, 2025. ㅣ Image Credit: UNIST Development Fund Team
Building a Sustainable Cycle of Giving
“Giving does not have to be a grand gesture—it can start with small, everyday actions,” said President Park. “We aim to create a virtuous cycle where UNIST’s research achievements and innovations return tangible benefits to the community.”
He added, “The UNIQUE STORE represents a sustainable link between UNIST’s innovative spirit and regional development. Through it, we hope to reinvest in the dreams and research of young talents, helping transform Ulsan from an industrial city into a true hub of science and technology innovation.”
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