As part of the , the POSCO TJ Park Foundation hosted the 2025 POSCO Junior Leader Fellowship program from July 16 to 23, inviting 19 scholarship recipients from 9 Asian countries (India, Indonesia, China, Myanmar, Türkiye, Malaysia, Kazakhstan, Vietnam, and Thailand) to Korea for a 7-night, 8-day program. The fellows, representing diverse cultural backgrounds, had a meaningful opportunity to experience POSCO’s values as well as Korea’s industries and culture, preparing them to grow into global leaders.

 

July 17 (Thu) – Opening Ceremony & Special Lectures

 

 

The opening ceremony was held at the Grand Conference Room of the POSCO Center in Seoul. Through orientation and ice-breaking activities, the fellows quickly built camaraderie and broke down initial barriers.

 

 

The first was given by Professor Keun Lee of the Graduate School of International Studies at Seoul National University, who offered an in-depth overview of Korea's economic development and the significance of POSCO as a global company.

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The second lecture was delivered by Mr. Dongkyoon Choi, Executive Director of the POSCO TJ Park Foundation, who explained POSCO’s founding philosophy, the principle of “Education for National Prosperity,” and the mission of the foundation—instilling a strong sense of identity among the fellows.

After the lectures, the students engaged in a team-based card game rooted in POSCO’s corporate ethics, fostering their ethical judgment and leadership. The evening concluded with a visit to Seoul Sky Observatory at Lotte World Tower for a panoramic view of the city.

 

July 18 (Fri) – Exchange at Seoul National University

 

 

The fellows visited Seoul National University, where they interacted with members of the international student club “Guk-in,” engaging in discussions about education and social issues in their respective countries, while getting a glimpse into the daily lives of Korean university students.

Later, Vice President Sedon Joo of POSTECH delivered a lecture on “Global Challenges and Leadership,” from a technological perspective aligned with POSCO’s vision. The mostly STEM-major students listened attentively, showing strong engagement.

 

July 19 (Sat) – Korean Cultural Experience Day

 

 

The fellows explored historical traces embedded in Seoul. In the morning, they visited Gwanghwamun Square to view the historic Gyeongbokgung Palace.

For lunch, they joined MasterChef Korea finalist Chef Youngjun Kim to prepare traditional Korean bibimbap, learning about the variety and philosophy of Korean cuisine.

In the afternoon, they toured Changdeokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village, enjoying Korea’s traditional architecture and capturing memories through photos.

 

July 20 (Sun) – Visit to Gyeongju

 

 

Departing from POSCO Center, the fellows traveled to Gyeongju, the ancient capital rich in history and culture. They visited Oksanseowon Confucian Academy and Sesim Village, where they experienced traditional Confucian education of the Joseon Dynasty, and participated in hands-on activities such as archery, making traditional snacks (oranda), and leaf dyeing. They also explored Gyeongju's renowned heritage sites including Woljeonggyo Bridge, Cheomseongdae Observatory, and Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond, wrapping up the day with a night tour that showcased the serene beauty of the city.

 

July 21 (Mon) – Visit to Pohang

 

 

In Pohang, the fellows visited POSCO History Museum, Pohang Steelworks, and Park 1538, gaining firsthand insight into POSCO’s growth into a global steelmaker. Surrounded by the sounds of blast furnaces and rolling mills, they felt the energy of Korea’s industrial strength. They then visited POSTECH to learn about its cutting-edge technologies and educational system. At Change Up Ground, they explored Korea's startup ecosystem and how creative ideas can be turned into business opportunities. The day concluded with a visit to Pohang Space Walk, an architectural landmark.

 

July 22 (Tue) – Closing Ceremony & Project Presentations

 

 

Back in Seoul, the fellows participated in a Project-Based Learning (PBL) presentation session, where they showcased solutions to social problems using POSCO’s technology. Teams were awarded based on innovation, feasibility, and teamwork. At the closing ceremony, participants shared reflections on how the program had impacted their lives and future careers. The POSCO Junior Leader Fellowship concluded with a farewell dinner, wrapping up a memorable journey.