In 2025, Seoul National University (SNU) experienced significant changes, described as the Year of the Blue Snake in the Korean zodiac, symbolizing wisdom and renewal. This period has been marked by academic innovation and a renewed emphasis on education and community involvement. Notable developments included the launch of SNU College, the opening of the SNU Commons Central Library, and various cultural events.
Launch of SNU College
SNU College was launched on March 1, featuring a new curriculum designed to promote creative interdisciplinary thinking among students and to underscore their roles as global citizens. This initiative was complemented by the inauguration of the SNU Commons Central Library on March 7, which provides a productive space for learning and cultural activities, while offering interdisciplinary resources to the student body.
SNU Commons Central Library
The SNU Commons Central Library includes modern facilities such as the New Box, a flagship knowledge hall, and the Media Lab, both intended to foster creative learning and research. The library’s infrastructure supported approximately 4,200 newly admitted students during the spring semester, highlighting its role as a central hub for academic activities.
Gwanak AMP UP Rock Festival
In early April, SNU hosted its inaugural rock festival, “Gwanak AMP UP,” at the Poongsan Outdoor Theater. Organized by student bands in collaboration with the Cultural Autonomy Committee, the event celebrated student-led music and provided a venue for live performances, reinforcing the significance of music within the university community.
SNUFESTIVAL and Arts Week
The annual SNUFESTIVAL, held in May, engaged students with a variety of activities including busking, games, and performances by well-known artists, continuing a tradition of rich cultural participation. The fall festival similarly attracted large crowds with its diverse array of cultural activities and performances.
The tenth anniversary of Arts Week served as another cultural achievement, showcasing various artistic programs and encouraging participation from the broader university community. The year’s theme prompted students and faculty to explore creative expressions beyond conventional educational frameworks.
Symposium on Artificial Intelligence
In September, a symposium co-hosted by SNU and OpenAI focused on the implications of artificial intelligence in contemporary society. This event brought together industry leaders and researchers to discuss ethical concerns and future educational pathways, culminating in a memorandum of understanding between SNU and OpenAI to facilitate future collaborations.
50th Anniversary of SNU’s Integration
Furthermore, 2025 marked the 50th anniversary of SNU’s Integration, which unified multiple colleges and institutes, reinforcing the university’s commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration. Celebratory events reflected on SNU’s historical evolution and aspirations for the future, alongside a KBS documentary that showcased the institution’s influence on the landscape of higher education.
Looking Ahead
Moving forward, SNU plans to continue refining its curriculum, enhancing global engagement, and expanding cultural programming, underlining its mission to drive global transformation. The experiences and initiatives of 2025 have established a robust foundation for the university’s future contributions to education and society.
(Source: SNU)
