The Gyeongnam region is undoubtedly the epicenter of the aerospace industry in South Korea, with over 80% of aerospace-related facilities located there. Among them, the Jinju-Sacheon area, where Gyeongsang National University and the Korea Aerospace Industries are situated, is designated as a specialized aerospace industry zone. Since the establishment of the Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering Department in 1996, Gyeongsang National University has been dedicated to fostering aerospace engineering as one of its core areas of focus. Through various national education and research initiatives (RRC, Regional University Specialization Project, BK21 Project, NURI Project), remarkable progress has been made over the years.
The "Aerospace Specialized Graduate School," established in collaboration with industry and academia, aims to cultivate master's and doctoral-level professionals equipped with practical problem-solving skills by harnessing the academic capabilities of Gyeongsang National University, the research proficiency of the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (the sole research institute in the aerospace field), and the practical development experience of Korea Aerospace Industries Co., Ltd. (the only aircraft assembly company in South Korea). The faculty is composed of experts from all three institutions, and the curriculum will focus on nurturing the ability to address real-world issues.
I am confident that the establishment of the "Aerospace Specialized Graduate School" will serve as a catalyst for Gyeongsang National University to take a significant leap forward. Furthermore, this specialized graduate school is poised to evolve into a collaborative research center that encompasses education, research, and development in close partnership with industry, academia, and research organizations. I am certain that it will become a model of exemplary collaboration between industry and academia in the aerospace field.
Thank you.
Sung-Ki Lyu, Dean of Gyeongsang National University Graduate School of Aerospace Engineering