ASU, South Korea's Dongguk University enter into mutual opportunities agreement
Officials from Arkansas State University and Dongguk University in South Korea joined Monday morning to sign agreements that will solidify a relationship between ASU and Dongguk University. The ceremony took place in the ASU Administration Building lobby.
Dr. Dan Howard, interim chancellor at Arkansas State University, and Dr. Hee Ok Kim, president of Dongguk University, both signed memorandum of understanding documents and then placed their signatures on a transfer and articulation agreement that will help establish a foundation for both institutions to search for collaborative opportunities that will benefit both schools.
In addition to Dr. Kim, the South Korean delegation included Dr. In Jai Kim, dean of the Office of International Programs at Dongguk University; Mr. Sang Yoo Kim, deputy director of International Relations; Dr. Sang Il Lee, dean of Strategic Planning; and Mr. In Jun Jang of Dongguk University.
“We live in a highly connected global economy and are extremely proud to enter into these agreements with Dr. Kim and Dongguk University,” said Dr. Howard. “It has been our dream to create a global community which brings Arkansas State University to the world and the world to Arkansas State University. This is a another great step toward that goal and to have students come and be a part of Arkansas State University as well as those ASU students travel to Dongguk University. Both will enjoy strong learning and cultural experiences.”
Dr. Kim agreed, saying, “We appreciate to be able to discuss a new friendship with Dr. Dan Howard and Arkansas State University. We look forward to strengthening our relationship for future collaborations.”
Dr. Kim mentioned that students from Dongguk will begin attending classes at ASU as early as this summer.
Arkansas State University has previously entered into globalization agreements with universities in China, Japan, Kuwait, Turkey and another South Korean institution, Hannam University. In 2010-11, ASU enjoyed the highest international student enrollment with more than 1,000 students from 68 different countries.
Dr. Kim gave an overview of Dongguk University, which was established in 1906 and is a private institution located in Seoul. The university has an enrollment of more than 17,200. He noted that Dongguk has an alumni base of over 230,000 and is strong, both academically and athletically.
Dongguk, which consistently ranks among Korea’s top universities, remains one of the few Buddhist-affiliated academic institutions in the world. However, students and teachers of all beliefs and philosophies are welcome and are exposed to practical learning and training in every area of study.
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