On Thursday, July 17, the POSCO TJ Park Foundation held a farewell ceremony for the graduates of the POSCO Global Scholarship in Korea. A total of 16 fellows from 9 countries — Mongolia, Myanmar, Vietnam, Uzbekistan, Indonesia, India, Kazakhstan, Türkiye, and the Philippines — attended the event. It was a meaningful occasion to reflect on their journeys in Korea and to affirm their new beginnings together.

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The ceremony began with words of encouragement from Mr. Dongkyoon Choi, Executive Director of the POSCO TJ Park Foundation. He introduced the late POSCO Honorary Chairman Tae-Joon Park’s philosophy of "Education for National Prosperity," and explained how the foundation continues to uphold that legacy. In particular, his message — “Wherever you go and whatever you do, carry the pride and honor of being a POSCO Fellow. Become the best leader you can be, and give back to the world what you’ve learned” — left a deep impression on the graduates.

 

 

Next, the graduates each took turns sharing their reflections on their time in Korea. In roughly four minutes per person, they spoke about their academic achievements, cultural experiences, and personal growth. Their heartfelt stories were met with applause and emotional responses from fellow graduates, some of whom were visibly moved. A common theme in all of their remarks was the aspiration to serve as global leaders who bridge Korea and their home countries, empowered by the knowledge and experiences gained during their studies.

 

 

The final segment featured research presentations from three graduates who had completed their doctoral programs: Saurav Tanwar, Ceyda Eldem, and Thu Rain Aung. Covering a range of fields including environmental engineering, nuclear engineering, and computer engineering, each scholar explained how their research could contribute practical and social value. Their presentations sparked active discussions and questions, providing an engaging academic forum for knowledge exchange.

 

 

This year’s farewell ceremony was especially meaningful as it was held in conjunction with the POSCO Junior Leader Fellowship Program. During the closing dinner, graduates and junior fellows gathered by country for a networking session. They shared experiences and visions for the future, building a sense of pride and unity as members of the POSCO Fellowship community. Many graduates also offered practical advice and warm encouragement to the junior fellows who are interested in studying in Korea, creating a supportive and inspiring atmosphere.

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The POSCO Global Scholarship in Korea, operated by the POSCO TJ Park Foundation, is a “bring-in” scholarship program that annually invites about 30 students from various countries to pursue full master’s or doctoral degrees at top Korean graduate schools. The program provides full tuition and living expenses, along with additional activities such as workshops in Pohang and Gwangyang, Korean cultural experiences, language support, and team-based activities. Upon graduation, fellows return to their home countries and actively contribute as mid-level leaders in government, academia, and industry.