The '水리부엉이' team, composed of students Kim Seok-hun, Lee Ga-hyun (College of Natural Science, Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences) and No Na-eun (College of Natural Science, Division of Biological Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences), won the Grand Prize at the 10th University Students' Water Environment Policy and Technology Competition hosted by the Ministry of Environment.

Launched in 2014, this competition marked its tenth edition this year. It has been run to discover innovative policies and technologies in the water environment field proposed by university students and to cultivate outstanding young talent. Entries were accepted from August to September this year, and winners were selected following evaluation by a panel of judges.

Selected winners received research funding to support their activities and to enhance the completeness of their submissions. They participated in advisory sessions (incubating camp) involving academics, industry representatives, and policymakers, and held interim presentations.

The Jeonbuk National University (JBNU) team that won the Grand Prize, which includes the Minister of Environment's Award and an overseas study tour opportunity, presented their idea for developing a water-saving mobile game application, Running Now: Water Saver, and received high praise from the judges.

The JBNU students' proposed game uses the Ministry of Environment's mascot 'Now' as its character to encourage water-saving practices. It drew considerable attention for its potential to foster nationwide participation and to raise public interest in the water environment and water conservation.

No Na-eun said, "I am pleased that we achieved a good result through the long preparation period and collaboration with my teammates," adding, "I will learn as much as I can through the overseas study tour opportunity and grow into a leading talent in the water environment field in the Republic of Korea."