[Student Spotlight] UAC Joins Global Conversation at the 2025 Jinju K-Entrepreneurship International Forum

Leaders, scholars, students, and entrepreneurs from 28 countries gathered in Jinju this October for the 2025 Jinju K-Entrepreneurship International Forum, a three-day event themed “The Role of Entrepreneurship in the Era of Global Challenges.” More than 1,000 participants attended the forum, held at Gyeongsang National University’s Centennial Hall as part of Jinju City’s long-term initiative to strengthen its identity as “the Capital of Korean Entrepreneurship.”

UAC Takes a Meaningful Role in Global Dialogue

Students, faculty, and staff from the University of Utah Asia Campus gather for a group photo during the 2025 Jinju K-Entrepreneurship International Forum, celebrating their participation in the event alongside representatives from the David Eccles School of Business.

The University of Utah Asia Campus (UAC) played an active and visible role throughout the event.
A delegation of 80 students, faculty, and staff attended the forum and engaged in discussions on global innovation, leadership, and the future of entrepreneurship.

Assistant Professor of Accounting Sunghee Kim served on the organizing committee and led the UAC student delegation. He was joined by Assistant Professor of Information Systems Byoung-gyu Gong and Director of External Relations James Park, who supported student participation throughout the event’s key sessions.

Dr. Gregory Hill, Chief Administrative Officer of UAC, was invited to moderate the featured Global University Presidents Session, which brought together academic leaders from Korea, the United States, and Malaysia to discuss how universities can prepare students for rapid global change. His participation showcased UAC’s growing presence within international academic networks.

Global University Presidents Session

During the Global University Presidents Session, Dr. Hill guided a conversation on how universities can cultivate the skills and mindset needed for future challenges. Panelists underscored the importance of clear communication, ethical decision-making, and cross-cultural collaboration, which also align with UAC’s teaching philosophy and the University of Utah’s strong entrepreneurship programs.

In his closing remarks, Dr. Hill reminded students that entrepreneurship extends beyond launching a business—
it is equally about understanding people, solving meaningful problems, and acting with integrity.
He encouraged students to apply what they learned in Jinju as they continue their studies in Korea and Utah.

A Forum with Deep Local Significance

The forum holds special meaning for Jinju City, which emphasizes its historic connection to Korean entrepreneurship. The founders of Korea’s major companies—including—Samsung, LG, GS, and Hyosung—were born in Jinju, and the city views the forum as a way to connect this legacy with new global initiatives.

This mission aligns naturally with UAC’s unique educational model. Students at the Asia Campus experience both Korean and U.S. academic environments, allowing them to combine local insight with global perspective, qualities essential to advancing entrepreneurship beyond Korea’s borders.

Opening Messages from Global Leaders

The event began with remarks from several distinguished speakers, including

former Korean Prime Minister Dr. Seung-soo Han,
former UN General Assembly President Dr. Jan Kavan,
former U.S. Small Business Administration Chief Counsel Dr. Winslow Sargeant, and
Dr. David Sprott, Dean of the Drucker School of Management.

Their messages centered on innovation, international collaboration, and responsible leadership during a time of rapid economic and social transformation.

UAC Students Take an Active Role

UAC students participate in a workshop session during the 2025 Jinju K-Entrepreneurship International Forum, engaging in discussions on entrepreneurship and local innovation at a community learning space in Jinju.

Throughout the three-day forum, UAC students attended sessions, asked insightful questions, and connected with presenters from various countries. Their engagement earned positive recognition from speakers and organizers.

UAC student Solmi Lee reads the “Jinju Declaration” during the closing ceremony of the 2025 Jinju K-Entrepreneurship International Forum, representing the student delegation alongside global leaders and speakers.

A memorable highlight occurred during the closing ceremony, when UAC student Solmi Lee was selected to read the “Jinju Declaration,” summarizing the forum’s central messages and aspirations. Her selection reflected the confidence that organizers placed in UAC students as representatives of the event’s international spirit.

A UAC student receives a Certificate of Completion from the Mayor of Jinju City during the closing ceremony of the 2025 Jinju K-Entrepreneurship International Forum, recognizing the student delegation’s active participation in the program.

At the conclusion of the program, all participating UAC students received Certificates of Completion signed by the Mayor of Jinju City, recognizing their involvement in the entrepreneurship learning program and encouraging them to continue sharing their insights both in Korea and abroad.

Looking Ahead

The 2025 Jinju K-Entrepreneurship International Forum was both a global gathering and a meaningful celebration of Jinju’s entrepreneurial heritage. Through its participation, the University of Utah Asia Campus strengthened its relationship with Jinju City and reaffirmed its commitment to preparing students who can bridge cultures, engage responsibly, and contribute new ideas to the global entrepreneurial landscape.

– Written by Lauren Tran, Fall 2025 Communications Intern at Marketing & Communications Center, University of Utah Asia Campus (Reviewed & edited by Yoonji Kim, Senior Communications specialist, University of Utah Asia Campus)