'Proud Sookmyung Alumna' Kim Hye-gyeong: "Education Is the Greatest Force for Changing Lives and Society"

Attended the Eve Ceremony for Sookmyung Women's University's 120th Anniversary
Donated the Silver Double Ring Worn During Macron's Visit to Charity Auction; Proceeds to Support University Development Fund

On May 21, Kim Hye-kyung attended the eve celebration for the 120th anniversary of Sookmyung Women's University and stated, "Education is the greatest force that can change an individual's life and, furthermore, transform society."

Kim Hye-kyung is delivering a congratulatory speech at the eve celebration marking the 120th anniversary of Sookmyung Women's University held at a hotel in Gangnam, Seoul on the 21st. Photo by The Blue House Press Corps, Yonhap News Agency

According to a written briefing by An Gwi-ryeong, Deputy Spokesperson for the Office of the President, Kim attended the "Eve of the 120th Anniversary of Sookmyung Women's University" held that evening at the Grand InterContinental Seoul Parnas, celebrating the 120th anniversary with over 1,000 people, including university officials and alumni.

This event was organized as a festival and a venue for cultural connection to mark the start of the next 120 years, held one day before the 120th anniversary of Sookmyung Women's University, which falls on May 22. As Kim, herself an alumna of Sookmyung Women's University, entered the venue, she was greeted with enthusiastic applause from attendees.

On this day, Kim received the "Proud Sookmyung Alumna Award." Moon Si-yeon, President of Sookmyung Women's University, remarked that Kim "has embodied the intellect, dignity, consideration, and sharing values of Sookmyung alumni, delivering warmth and hope to our society."

President Moon further stated, "With deep affection for her alma mater and unwavering support, Kim has joined us on a meaningful journey for the development and future of Sookmyung. It is with gratitude and respect that we present her with this award."

In her congratulatory speech, Kim emphasized that Sookmyung Women's University has played a pivotal role in nurturing talented individuals amid changing times. Kim said, "Throughout numerous changes and challenges, Sookmyung has always cultivated the talent society needs, steadfastly supporting our community. At the heart of this has been faith in people and a genuine commitment to education."

Kim repeatedly highlighted the significance of education. She stated, "Learning opens new possibilities for some and offers courage and hope to others as they navigate the world. Education is the greatest force that can change a person's life and, furthermore, transform society."

Kim also presented her vision of the ideal future talent as "those who grow together." She said, "The society of the future will require people who know how to grow together, rather than those who advance alone. Even as technology rapidly changes the world, the power to lead a community ultimately comes from people."

She continued, "Sookmyung has not only excelled at nurturing outstanding talent but has also instilled respect for others, a sense of responsibility to the community, and the value of solidarity and support for one another. I hope the university will continue to grow as an institution that inspires hope in our society with intelligence, dignity, and a warm spirit of community that leads the world."

First Lady Kim Hye Kyung is taking a commemorative photo at the eve event celebrating the 120th anniversary of Sookmyung Women's University, held at a hotel in Gangnam, Seoul, on the 21st. Photo by the Blue House Press Photographers Team, Yonhap News Agency

Kim concluded her official schedule with a group photo. Even after the event, she took time to greet alumni individually, responding to requests for handshakes and photos.

Meanwhile, Kim donated the silver double ring she wore during French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to Korea, which had drawn public attention, to a charity auction. The silver double ring, crafted by master metal artisan Park Hae-do, will have its auction proceeds contributed to the Sookmyung Women's University development fund, to be used for educational support and related initiatives.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.