Authors:
Harry Park
YG National Board Vice Chair, University of Southern California
Madeleine (Lena) Lee
YG National Board Vice Chair, University of Michigan
Intro
KSEA, with the Korean Federation of Science and Technology Societies (KOFST; Korean: 한국과학기술단체총연합회), hosted YGF (Young Generation Forum) and YPF (Young Professional Forum) in Seoul, Korea. YGF/YPF 2023 coincided with The 1st World Congress of Korean Scientists and Engineers (WCKSE; 제1회 세계한인과학기술인대회), where eminent scientists from all across the globe congregated at the Science and Technology (ST) Center in Seoul, South Korea.
Over 110 young Korean scientists and engineers from 16 different countries convened at the Ibis Styles Ambassador Seoul Gangnam Hotel in Seoul, South Korea from July 3rd to July 7th. A total of 15 YGF undergraduate delegates and 5 YPF graduate student/postdoc delegates from the United States attended the conference, representing the most substantial participation among all nations. Countries around the globe like Germany, France, Japan, Canada, Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Australia, New Zealand, the Netherlands, Belgium, and the host nation, Korea, all sent participants to the conference. The main events of YGF/YPF were hosted at the Science and Technology Center concurrently with WCKSE, just 15 minutes from the hotel.
Day 1
YGF/YPF kicked off with opening remarks from KOFST’s president, Dr. Tai Sik Lee. He expressed hope for the young generation of Korean scientists and engineers, urging them to reach “to the sky” and become outstanding members of the scientific community. The day continued with presentations from one YGF delegate from each participating country who presented the trends in science and technologies in their respective countries.
After the opening ceremony and country representative presentations, participants networked within small groups over dinner before ending the day.
Day 2
The next day was marked by the Group Science and Technology Expedition, introducing participants to Seoul’s science and technology hubs, including the National Aviation Museum, Hyundai Motor Museum, and Theatre des Lumieres.
YGF/YPF delegates then attended the WCKSE Welcome Dinner, which included remarks from KOFST President Dr. Tai Sik Lee, followed by a plenary speech from Dr. Jin Hyung Lee, Professor of Neuroscience at Stanford University, and a captivating performance of Jultagi (줄타기) – the traditional art of tightrope walking.
Day 3
A special treat awaited YGF/YPF attendees on the third day as they had a unique opportunity to meet South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, who visited the Country Booth Exploration. At this event, each participating country showcased their culture, from delectable cuisine to cultural artifacts and traditional clothing. This immersive cross-cultural experience allowed participants to bond over diverse cultures and fostered a sense of unity within the YGF/YPF community.
Following the Country Booth Exploration, participants attended the Future Science and Technology Lecture series, spotlighting experts from a plethora of STEM fields, from foundational sciences and artificial intelligence to aerospace engineering and advanced mobility.
Day 4
Attendees had the privilege of listening to distinguished guest speakers during the Industry-Academic Research Tech Forum. This event provided a valuable chance for participants to expand their understanding beyond their own disciplines and gain deeper insights into the latest advancements in their respective fields.
Having gained a deeper understanding of the intersection between industry, academia, and research, YGF/YPF delegates proceeded to the Seoul Museum of History. Participants learned about the foundation and evolution of South Korea through an enlightening historical tour.
Day 5
On the final day of the YGF/YPF Forum, participants engaged in the Next-Gen Leaders Forum. During this event, YPF members presented their research to a global audience, including WCKSE and YGF participants. This platform magnified their work, making it a momentous experience for all.
Following the presentations, attendees had the opportunity to network with WCKSE members during lunch and learn about South Korea’s industries and job opportunities through the Nex-Gen Job Fair.
The forum culminated with the YGF/YPF Review, celebrating the week’s achievements with a recap video of the week’s vibrant activities. Participants, grouped by their countries, received certificates, marking their successful completion of the event.
Conclusion
The YGF/YPF Forum was a golden opportunity for U.S. delegates to delve into diverse STEM domains, forge connections with Korean scientists and engineers globally, and create cherished memories. Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to KOFST for orchestrating this exceptional event and to KSEA for making our participation possible.
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