Sookmyung Women's University Holds Ceremony Celebrating Its 120th Anniversary
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- Writer 커뮤니케이션팀
- 보도일자 2026-06-12
Sookmyung Women's University held its 120th Anniversary Celebration Ceremony on May 20 at the Samsung Convention Center in the Centennial Hall. The ceremony was attended by members of the Sookmyung community, including President Moon Si-yeun, Sookmyung Educational Foundation Chair Park In-kook, Alumnae Association President Kim Kyung-hee, Sookmyung Development Committee Chair Jeong Choon-hee, as well as faculty, staff, and students.
Joining the event to commemorate the university's 120th anniversary were former university presidents Lee Kyung-sook, Han Young-sil, Hwang Sun-hye, and Jang Yun-geum; former Alumnae Association presidents Jung Jung-ae, Jung Soon-ok, Kim Jong-hee, and Kim Soon-rye; former Sookmyung Educational Foundation Chair Lee Seung-han; former foundation trustee Lee Hee-beom; Lee Jun, Chair of the Prince Uichin Memorial Foundation; Lee Ki-jeong, President of Hanyang University; and Park Jung-soo, Vice President of Ewha Womans University.
The ceremony began with the screening of “Royal Road,” a promotional video specially produced to mark the university's 120th anniversary. This was followed by a performance titled “Era of Peace and Prosperity” by the Sunheon Dance Company, composed of Prof. Cha Soo-jung of the Dept. of Dance and students. Combining the traditional Korean dances “Taepyeongmu and Hwagwanmu,” both of which symbolize peace and prosperity for the nation, the performance reflected the founding ideals of Queen Sunheon and conveyed hopes for Sookmyung's continued growth and development.
In her commemorative address, President Moon Si-yeun stated, “The spirit of Outthinkers—the courage to take paths others have never taken and the willingness to embrace innovation without hesitation in the face of change—runs throughout Sookmyung’s history.” She added, “Even in the age of artificial intelligence, Sookmyung will remain a leading center of humanistic education, cultivating the uniquely human values of creativity, empathy, and responsibility.”
She continued, “If the past 120 years were a history built by bringing together people’s hearts and aspirations, the next 120 years will be a time of soaring toward the future hand in hand with others.” She pledged, “I will devote myself to ensuring that Sookmyung Women's University continues to uphold the noble values of women’s education while leading change and innovation in Korean higher education.”
In his congratulatory remarks, Chair Park In-kook said, “Just as seeds of hope were planted on this land 120 years ago during a time of national hardship, we must now plant the seeds for the next 120 years as we face the profound transformations of a new era.”
Alumnae Association President Kim Kyung-hee remarked, “I will continue moving forward step by step so that every alumna can ultimately contribute to the development of our university.”
Sookmyung Development Committee Chair Jeong Choon-hee stated, “The history and traditions that Sookmyung has built over the past 120 years are a unique source of pride that cannot be measured by anything else.” She added, “I hope our proud alma mater will continue to shine as a light that illuminates the world.”
Lee Ki-jeong, President of Hanyang University, commented, “The small seed of education planted by Queen Sunheon 120 years ago has now grown into a great tree producing women leaders who open new paths.” He added, “I sincerely support Sookmyung Women's University as it continues to shape a greater future through its gentle power to brighten the world.”
The celebration also featured congratulatory performances of “First Love” and “Beautiful Country” by vocal instructor Jang Ji-ae from the Dept. of Vocal Music. The ceremony concluded with a singing of the university anthem. Government commendations and awards recognizing long-term service were also presented during the event.