University of Seoul professor wins publication award; alumnus signs legacy donation
Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- Professor Kim Choong-ho of the University of Seoul's Urban Engineering department received the Korean Urban Design Institute's Publication Award for his book 'The Birth of Space'.
- Yoon Moon-gu, CEO of tax firm Ian, signed a legacy donation agreement with the University of Seoul Foundation, marking the second such agreement in the foundation's history.
- This donation follows a precedent set by Professor Park Hoon, who also made a legacy donation, fostering a growing culture of giving within the university.
The University of Seoul is celebrating a significant milestone in its culture of philanthropy with the recent legacy donation agreement signed by Yoon Moon-gu, CEO of tax firm Ian. This marks the second legacy donation in the foundation's history, following the groundbreaking contribution by Professor Park Hoon. These acts of generosity are not merely financial; they represent a powerful testament to the enduring impact of academic mentorship and a commitment to social responsibility.
Mr. Yoon Moon-gu, an alumnus who earned his doctorate under Professor Park Hoon, cited his mentor's consistent donations and recent legacy pledge as profound inspirations for his own decision. This echoes a sentiment of academic lineage extending into tangible support for the university's future. The foundation views these successive donations as a positive cycle, where a mentor's actions inspire a student's generosity, creating a ripple effect that invigorates the entire university community.
The consistent donations of Professor Park Hoon and the recent news of a legacy donation agreement have been a great inspiration.
Professor Park Hoon himself has been a driving force behind the 'Korean Legacy 10' initiative, advocating for tax incentives for legacy donations exceeding 10% of an estate. His academic work in this area has laid the groundwork for potential legislation, demonstrating a commitment to not only fostering a giving culture within the university but also influencing broader societal practices. The University of Seoul, through these initiatives, is positioning itself as a leader in promoting a culture of gratitude and sustained support.
The practice of a mentor's actions leading to a student's donation is creating a true virtuous cycle where the culture of donation is passed from person to person.
Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.