UNIST is set to host the 2025 UNIST Science Festival (Science ON)! from September 26 to 27, 2025. This dynamic event aims to showcase innovative student projects, cutting-edge research, and future technologies in a celebration of science and creativity open to all.
Over the two-day festival, visitors will experience a vibrant display of scientific achievements and engaging activities designed to foster a deeper public understanding of science and technology. The event embodies UNIST’s vision of being a platform where everyone can dream big, imagine new possibilities, and pioneer breakthroughs. It also reflects the university’s ongoing commitment to nurturing future scientific leaders through collaboration with the local community.
Themed “Science ON: Switch on Science,” the festival symbolizes turning the switch on curiosity and discovery. Highlights include an exhibition of student-designed projects and research outcomes, alongside expanded hands-on programs for local students, teachers, and parents. Participants will have opportunities to explore fields such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy, semiconductors, quantum science, biotechnology, and neuroscience—all in one place.
A key feature is the “Creative Design Exhibition,” where approximately 70 science displays and research experience booths will be set up in the lobby of UNIST Engineering Buildings and the open plaza in front of the Main Administration Building. Attendees can interact directly with the exhibits, enjoy demonstrations, and collect stamps to receive souvenirs.
The festival also offers a dedicated “Science Experience Zone by Young Innovators” showcasing works by local middle and high school students. This collaborative space encourages meaningful exchanges between youth and university researchers, inspiring the next generation of innovators.
Renowned speakers will deliver inspiring talks throughout the event. On the first day, Collaborating Professor Ji Young Lee will discuss “The Power to Turn Dreams into Reality,” followed by a session with Jaehyung Jung from the YouTube channel Psick University, exploring “The Introduction to Nerds, Nerds 101.”
In the afternoon, the campus lawn will come alive with the “Ulsan Hanmaum Play,”, an interactive activity inspired by popular culture designed to strengthen community bonds among students and citizens alike. As evening approaches, the lawn transforms into an open-air cinema where visitors can enjoy the “Autumn Starlight Science Film Festival” while savoring food from local trucks and relaxing under the stars.
The second day features another engaging lineup, including a talk by Collaborating Professor Sedol Le titled “Challenge and the Divine Move,” along with science magic shows and bubble performances. The festival atmosphere will be further enriched by student-led performances—music, dance, and theatrical acts—creating a lively and festive environment. A picnic zone will provide a comfortable space for visitors to unwind and socialize.
Throughout the festival, guided campus tours will be available, offering approximately 30-minute explorations of the Office of Research Facilities and Training and its research facilities, including the research equipment education and support center. These tours can be booked on-site.
All programs are offered free of charge, emphasizing UNIST’s dedication to community engagement. President Chong Rae Park expressed, “This festival is an opportunity to weave the stories of our students’ growth into the fabric of the community.” He further added, “UNIST strives to be a university that shares the joy and value of technological innovation with society at large.”
The event is organized by UNIST and sponsored by Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP), the Kyungdong Scholarship Foundation, Korea East-West Power Co., Ltd., and Korea National Oil Corporation (KNOC). For more details, please refer to the attached event brochure.
