Fostering Global Citizenship and Leadership Among Youth
By Dr.Prof.Kang sunok
On Friday, 23 May 2025, Shinhan University welcomed the 8th Secretary-General of the United Nations, Mr. Ban Ki-moon, for a distinguished lecture held in the main auditorium of Bethel Hall. Currently serving as Chairman of the Ban Ki-moon Foundation for a Better Future, Mr. Ban addressed the theme “Youth and the Future”, offering profound insights into the evolving role of young people in global affairs and the essence of leadership in the 21st century.
This lecture formed a central component of Shinhan University’s ongoing efforts to cultivate global talent and was designed to inspire students to develop a broader international perspective and proactive vision for leadership in an interconnected world. Shinhan University continues to place a strong emphasis on youth empowerment, particularly in the areas of peacebuilding, diplomacy, and sustainable cooperation.
In line with this vision, the university has dedicated considerable effort to promoting education for peace through international engagement, with particular significance given to its unique geographic context near the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)—a globally recognized symbol of conflict and reconciliation. Shinhan’s commitment to transforming such spaces into platforms for education and dialogue underscores its mission to foster sustainable peace through academia.
This special lecture follows Shinhan University’s participation in the official plaque unveiling ceremony for the Beijing Office of the Ban Ki-moon Foundation on 20 September 2024. At that event, the university engaged in meaningful dialogue with the foundation on advancing international cooperation for youth education and leadership development amidst a shifting global landscape.
President Kang Seong-jong of Shinhan University remarked,
“The invitation of Chairman Ban Ki-moon represents more than a prestigious moment for our institution; it is a deeply educational experience that provides our students with the opportunity to understand global issues from the perspective of a true statesman. His presence and insights will inspire the next generation of leaders to act with conscience and conviction.”
Moving forward, Shinhan University remains committed to enhancing its global education initiatives, including hosting distinguished international speakers and expanding collaborative programmes aimed at fostering peace, understanding, and shared prosperity.
This event marks not only a milestone in the university’s academic outreach, but also a reaffirmation of its mission to equip students with the knowledge, empathy, and vision necessary to contribute meaningfully to the international community.
