In August 2022, a torrential rain inundated the entire school, devastating the Central Library and leaving thousands of valuable books damaged and soaked. Despite this unfortunate event, 260 students volunteered their time to salvage and restore the books by carefully drying them page by page. Their selflessness and compassion are truly heartwarming, and a testament to the character of our Seoul National University students. These are SNU students who not only excel in their academic pursuits but also rise to the occasion during crises and challenges, demonstrating the power of collective effort and teamwork.
Congratulations to all the graduates of Seoul National University who have accomplished an incredible feat by earning bachelor’s, master's, and Ph.D. degrees. As you embark on a new journey, I offer my sincere support for this new chapter in your lives. Your success is the result of the hard work, attention, and love from many people. First and foremost, I want to extend our gratitude to your families for their unwavering support and encouragement, helping you grow into remarkable individuals of our society. I also want to express my appreciation to the faculty members who dedicated their time and efforts in the lecture rooms, research labs, and administrative offices, allowing you to proudly become esteemed Seoul National University alumni. I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the distinguished guests who have joined us today. Let us all congratulate and encourage these exceptional students for their brilliant achievements.
We are at the beginning of a new era, “a time of great transition,” marked by a global pandemic, the emergence of a new digital era, turbulent geopolitics and the impacts of climate change. The world has been plunged into chaos due to the unprecedented global pandemic and is now struggling to overcome this difficult crisis and establish a new order. Furthermore, we are witnessing the emergence of a new digital era amid the evolving wave of artificial intelligence and the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The balance of global power is shifting, and unexpected wars and disasters are constantly reshaping the international relations. Additionally, extreme cold waves and repeated heavy rainfall indicate the severe impacts of global climate change.
These changes are causing confusion and fear in our society, but I have faith. You are the true leaders of this transition period and have the wisdom to navigate this era. You will lead the way in this period shaping the future of our society. You are the ones who reject meaningless generation discourse and who value your own beliefs and existence. You are the ones who are not afraid to speak out against injustice and strive for fairness and engage with the world through the internet proficiently utilizing smart devices.
The pandemic over the past three years has brought tremendous shock and pain to us, but it has also provided us with an invaluable opportunity to reflect. Reflection allows us to rediscover our daily life, contemplate our future, and take a leap forward in lives. Before embarking on a new journey, take some time to look back on yourself and become a “pioneer in your own life” through this reflection. The leader required by the future society is not the one who follows a given life, but a leading talent who can decide and create the direction of life for oneself.
The world is evolving at an unprecedented pace and becoming larger and more complex. Many of the things that we once thought were true are now being challenged, and we face problems to which we do not have clear solutions. As graduates of Seoul National University, you have been trained in a free academic community that encourages questioning, exploring, and critical thinking. I encourage you to embrace this spirit, always be curious and ask the right questions. In the era of artificial intelligence, the ability to innovate and express creativity is becoming increasingly valuable. So, I urge you to fully embrace and enjoy the unique human ability to think, imagine, explore, and realize new ideas.
We have a very special guest with us today at this commencement ceremony. Do you remember the exhilarating takeoff of the Korean launch vehicle Nuri at the Naro Space Center last June? The success of the launch was the realization of the efforts of countless people who worked tirelessly for a long time. At the forefront of this effort was Ko Jung-hwan, the director of the Korea Aerospace Research Institute, who is leading the development of the Nuri and making history in the field of space exploration in Korea. Nuri's success was not a matter of luck, but a testament to their perseverance and courage to confront failure directly. Only those who have the courage not to fear failure can become great challengers. Graduates of Seoul National University, be “courageous challengers” who are not afraid to express your individuality while also prioritizing social values. We wholeheartedly support your efforts to make a positive impact on society through your bold and creative ideas.
I would like to leave you with one final thought. The recent emergence of chatbot artificial intelligence has sparked a lot of interest and discussion. I asked the chatbot: “What should Seoul National University graduates aim to do after graduation?” The answers I received were fairly predictable - finding a good job or pursuing a field with their passions and interests. But one response stood out: “Use your knowledge learned at Seoul National University to help others.” I urge you not to take this advice lightly as our lives are not solitary races but rather a shared journey with many others. If you have only focused on your own path so far, I urge you to take a moment and extend a helping hand to those around you. I strongly encourage you to utilize your exceptional knowledge and abilities to make meaningful contributions to your community and inspire a sense of pride in others. It is important to acknowledge that individuals who possess strong leadership skills, and respected intellect, like Seoul National University graduates, are crucial for the progress and improvement of society.
Dear Graduates of Seoul National University, the pause we experienced due to the COVID-19 pandemic was not a wasted time, but rather a "time of immunity" that helped us grow stronger. Your experiences and memories of bravely overcoming these challenging times will become the strongest "vaccine of life" that will help you become more resilient members of society. As you leave the university, I hope you can leave behind any difficult memories and carry with you only the happy moments and passion in your heart. If you ever feel lonely or face challenges in the future, take a moment to look around you. Your alma mater, Seoul National University, will always be there to support and guide you. Congratulations on your graduation, and I wish you all the success and happiness in your future endeavors. Thank you.
February 24, 2023.
Honglim Ryu
President of Seoul National University