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Hanyang University Professor Wi Jeong-jae Wins Prestigious Lotte Chemical Mid-Career Award

From Hankyoreh · (11h ago) Korean Positive tone

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Professor Wi Jeong-jae from Hanyang University's Department of Organic and Nano Engineering has received the 'Lotte Chemical Mid-Career Award' from the Polymer Society of Korea.
  • The award recognizes mid-career researchers for outstanding achievements in polymer science and technology.
  • Professor Wi was honored for his significant contributions to soft robotics and functional polymer materials, including research published in 'Science Advances'.

Hanyang University is celebrating a significant achievement as Professor Wi Jeong-jae from the Department of Organic and Nano Engineering has been honored with the prestigious 'Lotte Chemical Mid-Career Award' at the 2026 Polymer Society of Korea Spring Academic Conference. This recognition, established in 2024 with the support of Lotte Chemical, aims to acknowledge and encourage mid-career researchers who have made remarkable strides in the field of polymer science and technology.

Professor Wi's groundbreaking work in soft robotics, liquid crystal and magnetic soft robots, 3D microstructures, and advanced polymer composite materials has set him apart as a leading innovator. His research, particularly his recent publication in the esteemed journal 'Science Advances' detailing enhanced performance of light-responsive jump elements through rigid patterning design, has garnered significant attention within the academic community. This award is a testament to his dedication and pioneering spirit in pushing the boundaries of material science.

The Polymer Society of Korea, a leading academic organization with over 5,000 members since its establishment in 1976, plays a crucial role in advancing polymer science and disseminating related technologies to industry. Professor Wi's selection for this award, alongside other distinguished researchers like Na Seok-in (Jeonbuk National University) and Yoo Young-jae (Chung-Ang University), highlights the vibrant research landscape in South Korea.

This accolade not only celebrates Professor Wi's individual accomplishments but also reflects positively on Hanyang University's commitment to fostering cutting-edge research and nurturing world-class talent. His contributions are vital in driving innovation in functional polymer materials, with potential applications that could significantly impact various technological fields. The university community extends its warmest congratulations to Professor Wi on this well-deserved honor.

DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.