Seoul National University (SNU) will hold its 79th Commencement Ceremony on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. in the Gwanak Campus Main Gymnasium. A total of 4,952 graduates—2,224 undergraduates, 1,841 master’s students, and 887 doctoral candidates—will receive their degrees at this ceremony.
In his commencement address, SNU President Ryu Hong Lim will emphasize the significance of “courage” and the spirit of “living together”. He describes courage as “the power to reject any unfair or irrational constraints, and the will to forge a new future despite uncertainty.” He further underscores the importance of “living together,” which recognizes that others and society form the very basis of one’s identity. “The rapid transformations of our era and the severe turbulence both at home and abroad demand that we all cultivate a courageous intellect and a conscience dedicated to the common good,” President Ryu remarks. He concludes by urging graduates to “take pride in being part of SNU, and to move forward courageously, yet always alongside those around you.”
The ceremony will feature a congratulatory speech by Dr. Kim Inkwon (‘75, College of Medicine,), who has long been dedicated to treating Hansen’s disease patients and conducting international medical volunteer work in underserved regions. Dr. Kim has spent nearly 40 years at the National Sorokdo Hospital and Yeosu Aeyang Hospital, focusing not merely on medical treatment but on the humanitarian practice of healing. Jang Sewon, a graduate of the Department of English Education who has overcome disabilities and demonstrated passion and commitment through various volunteer activities, has been selected as the representative speaker for the graduating class and will deliver an inspiring message.
Key proceedings at the Commencement Ceremony include the national anthem, the conferral of degrees and awards, addresses by the president and guest speakers, and the singing of the school song to conclude the event.
The following day, Thursday, February 27, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., SNU will hold its 2025 Entrance Ceremony at the same venue on the Gwanak Campus. A total of 7,478 new students—including 3,868 undergraduates, 2,802 master’s and integrated master’s-doctoral students, and 808 doctoral students—will join the university.
In his welcoming remarks, President Ryu Hong Lim will introduce the concept of “the adjacent possible,” highlighting how small and simple elements can grow into complex structures and systems, and how this idea resonates with the start of one’s university life. He will encourage new students to explore diverse opportunities, embrace interdisciplinary connections, and discover fresh insights through both contemplation and decisive action.
Invited speaker Professor Park Mi Sun of the Graduate School of International Agricultural Technology will urge incoming students to broaden their knowledge and experiences during their time at SNU, noting the importance of sincere engagement with the world. Kim Jongseop, President of the SNU Alumni Association, will also address attendees, advising them to embrace a wide range of experiences and to fully enjoy their university journey.
Key proceedings at the Entrance Ceremony include the national anthem, an academic report, the new student representative’s address, the president’s speech, congratulatory remarks, and the singing of the school song.
Both the Commencement and Entrance Ceremonies will be livestreamed on Seoul National University’s official YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/@SeoulNationalUniversity). The entire SNU community extends its heartfelt congratulations to all graduating students and a warm welcome to all new students embarking on this exciting new chapter.