Jeonbuk National University (JBNU) will strengthen cooperation with Nagasaki University of Foreign Studies in Japan by formally launching and operating an international dual degree program.

Ishikawa Akihito, President of Nagasaki University of Foreign Studies, and Vice-President Park Young-gyu (concurrently Dean of the College of Foreign Languages and Director of the International Exchange Center) visited JBNU on December 10 and met with President Yang Oh‑bong, Jo Hwa‑rim, Director of the Office of International Affairs, and others to discuss detailed operational measures for the dual degree agreement.

The discussions focused on practical matters necessary for program operation, such as defining participating majors, student selection criteria, and methods for linking curricula. Through this, cooperation is expected to advance to more concrete and systematic stages.

Since signing an MOU in 2012, the two universities have built a sustained cooperation for more than ten years, including sending and hosting exchange students, short-term training, and jointly operating programs.

Notably, in August students from Nagasaki University of Foreign Studies participated in JBNU’s Korean Culture Experience program, receiving Korean language instruction and experiencing Korean culture, thereby broadening the scope of exchanges. This visit is regarded as an important turning point toward an advanced academic cooperation framework in the form of a dual degree program, beyond simple exchanges.

President Yang Oh‑bong said, “The dual degree agreement holds great significance for cultivating global talent who understand both countries’ cultures and academic disciplines. I hope this discussion will strengthen interdepartmental cooperation and expand practical opportunities for both students and faculty.”

Jo Hwa‑rim, Director of the Office of International Affairs, stated, “Nagasaki University of Foreign Studies is a key partner that has grown with us over a long period based on mutual trust. We will actively support the dual degree program so that students can enhance their international experience and academic competitiveness. We also hope cooperation will expand into joint research and educational areas in the future.”