Korea Aerospace University (KAU) held its 69th Commencement Ceremony for the 2025 academic year (Spring) on February 12 at the university auditorium, conferring degrees on a total of 810 graduates. The ceremony celebrated 678 bachelor’s degree recipients, 116 master’s graduates, and 16 doctoral candidates, marking another milestone in the university’s long-standing mission to cultivate aerospace and aviation professionals.
The event was attended by KAU President Heo Hee-young, Goyang Special City Mayor Lee Dong-hwan, National Assembly Member Han Jun-ho, Chair Professor Hong Nam-ki, and Hwang Ho-won, President of the Korea Institute of Aviation Safety Technology, among other distinguished guests. Several dignitaries also delivered congratulatory remarks via video message, extending their encouragement to the graduating class as they embark on new professional journeys.
The ceremony proceeded with an academic report, the president’s address, congratulatory speeches, a valedictory speech by a student representative, degree conferral, and awards for outstanding academic achievement.
Since its founding in 1952, Korea Aerospace University has produced more than 30,000 professionals who have advanced into diverse sectors across industry and research. As Korea’s only comprehensive aerospace university, KAU continues to play a pivotal role in educating specialists across the entire aerospace value chain—from aircraft and satellite design and manufacturing to maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO), software, artificial intelligence, aviation operations, air traffic control, logistics, and aviation management.
In his commencement address, President Heo emphasized the importance of lifelong learning and continuous challenge in an era defined by rapid technological transformation. He noted that life, like flight, includes both tailwinds and headwinds, but that resistance can serve as a powerful force for elevation. “Just as an aircraft rises higher against the wind,” he remarked, “may you find opportunities for growth even amid adversity.”
Mayor Lee Dong-hwan encouraged graduates to choose courage over fear, leveraging the capabilities they have built in the aerospace field. National Assembly Member Han Jun-ho likewise urged students to pursue their dreams and unlock their full potential in their respective career paths. Professor Hong Nam-ki underscored the importance of maintaining clear direction and a disciplined commitment to learning, while President Hwang Ho-won highlighted resilience and a pioneering spirit as essential virtues in a fast-changing era.
Delivering the valedictory speech on behalf of the graduating class, Han Hye-rim, a student majoring in Logistics, reflected on the shared experiences of navigating both online and in-person learning environments. She emphasized that learning never ceased despite the challenges and expressed hope that classmates would reunite in broader global arenas after pursuing their individual voyages.
The ceremony concluded with the conferral of degrees and recognition of outstanding students. Graduates celebrated with families, faculty, and alumni, capturing commemorative photographs across campus and marking the beginning of a new chapter.
Looking ahead, Korea Aerospace University reaffirmed its commitment to responding proactively to the evolving aerospace industry and accelerating digital transformation. The university aims to continue fostering professionals equipped with technical expertise, adaptability, and a strong sense of responsibility—leaders prepared to shape the future of global aviation and space industries.
