The Catholic University of Korea (President Choon Kyu Choi) held the “170th Anniversary Ceremony of the Founding of The Catholic University of Korea” at Myeongdong Cathedral on the 29th to celebrate the university’s 170th anniversary.

 The ceremony was attended by members of the Catholic University community, alumni, and representatives of the Church. It served as a meaningful occasion to reflect on the university’s 170-year history and tradition, and to share its spirit and future vision. 

The commemorative Mass was celebrated by Archbishop Peter Soon-Taick Chung, Chairperson of the Catholic Educational Foundation, at the main cathedral of Myeongdong Cathedral. It was concelebrated by Cardinal Andrew Yeom Soo-jung, Bishop Peter Kang Woo-il, President Rev. Choon Kyu Choi, and other priests. 

Following the Mass, the Vision Proclamation Ceremony was held at Coste Hall. The event proceeded in the following order: opening performance, opening address, national ceremony, introduction of guests, screening of the 170th anniversary commemorative video, welcoming remarks by the President, congratulatory address by the Chairperson of the Catholic Educational Foundation, congratulatory remarks from distinguished guests, screening of a congratulatory video, vision proclamation, singing of the university anthem, and closing remarks. 

At the Vision Proclamation Ceremony, President Choon Kyu Choi announced the university’s mid- to long-term development plan, CUK VISION 2040. Under the new vision — “The Only One University that Contributes to Humanity through Life-Centered Value Creation” — he presented six strategic initiatives to realize this goal: ▲ innovation in internationalization ▲ advancement of interdisciplinary research ▲ innovation in the industry-academia ecosystem ▲ restructuring of the academic system ▲ innovation in the curriculum ▲ and promotion of Catholic values.

President Choon Kyu Choi stated, “It is an infinite honor and a great responsibility to share this historic moment of the 170th anniversary of The Catholic University of Korea and the 30th anniversary of the integration of Songsim, Songsin, and Songeui Campuses.” He added, “The spirit of CUK 2040 lies in the belief that the university achieves greater accomplishments when it is devoted to meaningful endeavors, and that true growth occurs more healthily when it is not forced.”