CLSU Inaugurates First King Sejong Institute-Muñoz in NE

The Central Luzon State University (CLSU), through its productive partnership with Sunchon National University (SCNU) of South Korea, officially inaugurated the first-ever King Sejong Institute (KSI)-Muñoz in Nueva Ecija, today, August 27. After a year of collaborative planning, the KSI-Muñoz will begin offering Korean language and culture classes to the community of Science City of Muñoz and nearby cities. The program is designed for Filipinos interested in learning Korean for cultural understanding, academic purposes, or employment opportunities in South Korea. Courses will be available at both the introductory and intermediate levels. Classes are scheduled from Monday to Thursday, from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM, for Korean language instruction. Fridays will be dedicated to Korean culture lectures, held from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The inaugural ceremony was graced by key officials and dignitaries, including Dr. Evaristo A. Abella, CLSU President; Dr. Ravelina R. Velasco, CLSU Vice President for Academic Affairs; Hon. Baby Armi L. Alvarez, Mayor of the Science City of Muñoz; Prof. Dr. Lee Byungwoon, SCNU President; Ms. Seo Kangseok, SCNU International Affairs Office; Mr. Kim Hoy Taek, SCNU Industry-University Cooperation Foundation; Mr. Sang Seungman, Minister and Consul of the Korean Embassy in the Philippines; and Mr. Kwon Minhyuck, Consul of the Korean Embassy in the Philippines. While the official lecturer, Ms. Kim Suhyeon, was also introduced to the CLSU Community. In his words, President Abella said, “As the University aspires to become a hub of excellence and innovation, the KSI-Muñoz reflects our commitment to holistic education-where science and technology meet culture and humanity.” He also stressed that “This partnership brings us closer to our vision of producing globally competitive and culturally grounded graduates,” aligned with the University’s mission. Meanwhile, Mr. Sang, expressed his support for the initiative, stating, “This is a historic day not just for both universities, but for both countries - the Philippines and South Korea. I am truly delighted that Hanggeul and Korean culture are now brought closer to North and Central Luzon, as we continue to build meaningful bridges together. As a partner institution, SCNU President Prof. Dr. Lee, expressed that he was deeply grateful for the warm welcome. “SCNU and CLSU have continued to build trust and cooperation, and I hope our areas of collaboration will further thrive. Being both an institution that gives importance to agriculture, I look forward to working together in the field of animal science and agricultural technology.” This initiative underscores the commitment of both CLSU and SCNU to fostering international relations and providing valuable educational opportunities to the local community.