Lee Jae-yeon (fourth-year undergraduate student, Division of Mechanical Design Engineering (Nano-Bio Mechanical System Engineering)) was awarded the 2021 Korea Talent Award (Award of the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education).

The Korea Talent Award, hosted by the Ministry of Education and organized by the Korea Foundation for the Advancement of Science and Creativity, is presented to outstanding talents who demonstrate excellence across various fields to raise public interest in nurturing young talent.

Lee was honored in recognition of her planning and operation of multiple social innovation projects aimed at building a "next-generation green city." She was also highly evaluated for leading various social change activities, including about 1,000 hours of volunteer service, serving as a leader of the SK University Student Volunteer Corps SUNNY, and working as a student reporter for the Jeonbuk National University (JBNU) University Press & Broadcasting Service.

Lee said, "I would like to express my gratitude to my family who always gives me love and to the people who have mentored me. I will study and act for the well-being of Korea and strive to be of meaningful service in places where I can make a significant contribution."

Meanwhile, for the 2021 Korea Talent Award, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education's Award was presented to 100 individuals nationwide (50 high school students and 50 university students and members of the general public).