On the morning of March 24, at the Stateroom, the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Viet Nam National University Ho Chi Minh City, held an official meeting with Mr. Jung Jungtae, the newly appointed Consul General of South Korea in Ho Chi Minh City.
The meeting not only served as a formal welcome, but also opened discussions on strategic directions for cooperation in education and culture between the two sides.
Overview of the meeting – PHOTO: TUAN VU
Speaking at the meeting, Prof. Dr. Ngo Thi Phuong Lan, President of the University, expressed her pleasure in welcoming Mr. Jung and his delegation. She also highlighted the increasingly close ties between Viet Nam and South Korea, strengthened through practical exchanges and collaboration.
Reaffirming the University’s leading role in Korean Studies education and research, she emphasized key initiatives such as the development of the Korean Business program, the operation of King Sejong Institute Ho Chi Minh City 6, and Vietnamese language programs for international learners. The University has also actively expanded its global partnerships, with nearly 200 students recently participating in study and exchange programs in South Korea.
Prof. Dr. Ngo Thi Phuong Lan expresses her honor in welcoming the new Consul General of South Korea in Ho Chi Minh City – PHOTO: TUAN VU
In response, Mr. Jung Jungtae expressed his appreciation for the warm reception. He shared that he had previously studied Vietnamese at the University in 2011, and that his wife is also an alumna, describing the institution as his “second home.” He commended the University’s more than 30 years of experience in Korean Studies education and its efforts in fostering connections between students of both countries.
Mr. Jung Jungtae speaks at the meeting – PHOTO: TUAN VU
During the meeting, both sides discussed specific directions for future cooperation in education and research. The Consulate proposed prioritizing the development of Korean language teachers to meet growing demand in Viet Nam. In terms of research, Mr. Jung expressed interest in joint studies on national reunification, drawing from Viet Nam’s practical experience. The University affirmed its readiness to mobilize experts to support such initiatives.
Representatives from various units also introduced new cooperation proposals. Dr. Nguyen Thi Phuong Mai, Dean of the Faculty of Korean Studies, outlined plans to develop a specialization in Cultural Content, implement 2+2 joint training programs, and expand partnerships with Korean universities. Meanwhile, Dr. Nguyen Hoang Phuong, Vice Dean in charge of the Faculty of Vietnamese Studies, proposed increasing faculty and student exchanges, as well as internships and experiential programs to enhance cross-cultural understanding.
Representatives of academic units propose cooperation directions at the meeting – PHOTO: TUAN VU
In response, Consul General Jung expressed strong support and committed to acting as a bridge to connect the University with leading universities and educational organizations in South Korea, helping to bring these initiatives to fruition.
The meeting concluded in a formal yet warm atmosphere. Both parties took commemorative photos at the Stateroom, a symbolic venue representing the strong ties between Viet Nam and South Korea, built with sponsorship from POSCO Group.
The visit is expected to pave the way for new developments in bilateral cooperation, contributing to a deeper and more effective Viet Nam–South Korea strategic partnership.
Both sides take a commemorative photo at the Stateroom – PHOTO: TUAN VU
TUAN VU
TRANSLATED BY: TIEN VU
