Cover KAIST, an educational powerhouse known for its trailblazing contributions to science and engineering, has appointed Kwon Ji-yong—better known as G-Dragon of Big Bang—as a special professor
KAIST, an educational powerhouse known for its trailblazing contributions to science and engineering, has appointed Kwon Ji-yong—better known as G-Dragon of Big Bang—as a special professor
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KAIST, South Korea’s monument to science and technology, turned heads when it appointed K-pop star G-Dragon as a special professor—an unexpected move that reflects the institution’s ambition to fuse science with art and culture.
Mention KAIST (the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology), and what often comes to mind is an educational powerhouse known for its trailblazing contributions to science and engineering. The university has long produced talent that fuels Korea’s progress and extends its influence on the global stage. In June last year, KAIST made headlines across both academic and pop cultural circles by appointing Kwon Ji-yong—better known as G-Dragon of Big Bang—as a special professor. The appointment was not just symbolic; it signalled KAIST’s bold vision of uniting the precision of science and technology with the innovation and reach of arts and culture. But what gives KAIST the confidence to champion such an interdisciplinary approach? Tatler Vietnam takes a closer look at the fascinating elements that define one of South Korea’s most prestigious institutions.
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The pioneer shaping Korea’s scientific and technological future
Founded in 1971, the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology holds the distinction of being the country’s first dedicated science and technology university. More than that, KAIST has become a cornerstone of national innovation.
For more than 50 years, the university has served as an incubator for pioneering ideas, helping to propel South Korea into the modern age of science and technology. Its alumni of bright minds trained in rigorous theory and practical application have become key drivers in the nation’s transformation. With a proud 54-year legacy, KAIST consistently ranks among the top five universities in South Korea, attracting both domestic and international students eager to contribute to the future of innovation.
Above The university remains committed to nurturing future leaders in science and technology (photo: KAIST)
The university remains committed to nurturing future leaders in science and technology (photo: KAIST)
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As of the end of 2024, KAIST had produced approximately 75,000 graduates, including 20,867 bachelor’s degree holders, 38,360 master’s graduates, and 15,772 PhDs. With its guiding principle: “We continue to educate, research, and innovate for the happiness and prosperity of mankind”. The university remains committed to nurturing future leaders in science and technology, pursuing both foundational and interdisciplinary research to advance innovation with global impact.
Incubating creativity and innovation beyond boundaries
Above Through SaTReC’s efforts, KAIST has played a key role in commercialising satellite technologies (photo: KAIST)
Through SaTReC’s efforts, KAIST has played a key role in commercialising satellite technologies (photo: KAIST)
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Driven by a vision that extends beyond the Earth’s atmosphere, KAIST established the Satellite Technology Research Center (SaTReC). Since 1989, this centre has been instrumental in the design and deployment of small satellites. Its work aims to strengthen Korea’s capacity for independent research and technological advancement in aerospace, steadily improving satellite systems and pushing the boundaries of space science.
Through SaTReC’s efforts, KAIST has played a key role in commercialising satellite technologies, helping position South Korea as an exporter in this high-tech field and enhancing the country’s standing on the global stage.
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Above KAIST strives not only to equip its community with knowledge, but to ignite a lasting passion for creativity and forward-thinking innovation in each individual (photo: KAIST)
KAIST strives not only to equip its community with knowledge, but to ignite a lasting passion for creativity and forward-thinking innovation in each individual (photo: KAIST)
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Driven by its mission and vision, KAIST consistently encourages both students and researchers to deepen their expertise, refine their skills, and pursue ideas that challenge conventional thinking. Alongside academic excellence, the university is also known for promoting a wide range of extracurricular pursuits, from advanced seminars and competitive intellectual challenges to hands-on teaching initiatives and impactful community engagement, fostering a vibrant environment of connection between students and faculty.
With an unwavering dedication to excellence in education and scientific advancement, KAIST strives not only to equip its community with knowledge, but to ignite a lasting passion for creativity and forward-thinking innovation in each individual.
Breakthrough vision with G-Dragon
Above G-Dragon was officially appointed as a special visiting professor for a two-year term (photo: The Korea Times / Yonhap)
G-Dragon was officially appointed as a special visiting professor for a two-year term (photo: The Korea Times / Yonhap)
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At the “Innovate Korea 2024” event, held by KAIST in partnership with the National Science and Technology Research Council (NST) at its main Daejeon campus, G-Dragon was officially appointed as a special visiting professor for a two-year term. The Big Bang frontman will lead lectures on leadership, host cultural events for both undergraduate and graduate students, share his personal journey as an artist, and offer a new perspective that aims to help future engineers design products tailored for the entertainment industry.
Above G-Dragon’s appointment is also a strategic gesture (photo: The Korea Herald)
G-Dragon’s appointment is also a strategic gesture (photo: The Korea Herald)
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This move not only marks a daring step forward but also highlights KAIST’s expansive, boundary-breaking vision. The university is shaping a new generation of engineers who are not confined to technical proficiency but are enriched with cultural fluency, bold thinking, and interdisciplinary agility. The partnership between cutting-edge science and the cultural influence of Korean entertainment is expected to spark a powerful synergy, boosting global competitiveness and harnessing the potential of artificial intelligence across creative sectors. G-Dragon’s appointment is also a strategic gesture that positions KAIST as an adventurous, progressive institution unafraid to innovate, while strengthening its appeal among both domestic and international academic communities.
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