Jung Da-hyun is a reporter at The Korea Times, covering social issues in Korea, including foreign residents, education, environment and politics. Driven by a deep interest in people’s stories, she focuses on investigative and feature reporting through direct interviews and field coverage. She received the Amnesty International Korea Media Award for her “Deepfake Crisis at Schools” series. Reach her at dahyun08@koreatimes.co.kr. Always open to hearing your stories.
Handong Global University begins search for new president
The front view of Handong Global University's main building, Hyeondong Hall / Courtesy of Handong Global University
By Jung Da-hyun
Handong Global University has launched a search for a new president, seeking a leader to advance its Christian mission and global vision as the institution marks its 30th anniversary.
The incoming president, the university’s eighth, will serve a four-year term beginning Feb. 1, 2026, and concluding Jan. 31, 2030.
Founded in 1995 in Pohang, North Gyeongsang Province, the university has built a reputation as a small but strong institution with a global outlook and innovative academic programs.
Over the past three decades, Handong Global University has produced more than 15,000 graduates now working in over 100 countries. Despite not operating a medical school, the university has trained over 300 medical doctors and more than 1,250 practicing lawyers in Korea and abroad, many of whom have carried out the school’s founding motto, "Learn to give."
The university has been recognized for its pioneering approach in Korean higher education, introducing innovations such as a flexible major selection policy, mandatory double majors, team-based learning and its signature holistic education model.
In 2024, it became the first university in Asia to partner with San Francisco-based Minerva University on curriculum development. Minerva is known for its unique global rotation program, where students live and learn in different cities around the world. Handong Global University was also selected for the government’s Glocal University 30 project — an initiative to strengthen both global competitiveness and local engagement — as well as the Global Corporate Innovation Park program, which aims to foster future-oriented education.
Marking its 30th anniversary this year, the university is seeking a new president to guide its mission for the decades ahead, with a focus on Christian values and global engagement.
Applications are open until 6 p.m. on Aug. 29, and must be submitted in person or by registered mail.
The university’s selection committee said it is looking for a candidate with a clear and creative educational vision aligned with Handong’s founding purpose, which emphasizes whole person education — nurturing intellect, character and spirituality.
Candidates should also have a strong track record in academia and research, proven leadership and administrative capabilities, fundraising experience and spiritual maturity.
"We are seeking a visionary leader to guide Handong into its next chapter of growth," a committee representative said. "We welcome candidates dedicated to raising Christian leaders for the global era, building on the university’s three decades of educational excellence."
All applications will be reviewed by the Presidential Candidate Selection Committee, with the final appointment to be made by the board of trustees of the HGU Foundation.
Further details, including eligibility requirements and the full application process, can be found on the university’s official website.