Sejong University Forges Ahead with “DigiLog AI+” Strategy for Global Renown
Sejong University is embarking on a transformative journey, strategically repositioning itself as a globally recognized institution through its innovative “DigiLog AI+” initiative. This ambitious strategy harmonizes the efficiency of digital technologies with the enduring value of analog principles, aiming to equip students for the burgeoning intelligent information society. At the core of this evolution lies “Vision 2035,” the university’s mid- to long-term development plan, which champions a comprehensive AI transformation (AX) across all academic and administrative domains, with a particular emphasis on cultivating future-ready talent.
Cultivating AI and AX Convergence Talent: A Multifaceted Approach
Sejong University’s distinct educational objective is to nurture “AI·AX convergence talent” specifically tailored to the demands of new industries emerging from the Fourth Industrial Revolution. To realize this vision, the university has meticulously crafted and is actively implementing four principal strategies supported by 16 detailed action plans. These initiatives encompass:
- AI-Based Educational Innovation for Field Problem Solving: Developing curricula and pedagogical approaches that leverage AI to address real-world challenges and foster practical application of knowledge.
- Strengthening Research Competitiveness in Future New Industries: Investing in and promoting research endeavors focused on cutting-edge fields and emerging technologies.
- Expanding Online-Offline Shared and Collaborative Infrastructure: Building robust platforms and environments that facilitate seamless integration and cooperation between digital and physical learning spaces.
- Building a Foundation for Activating Glocal Connections: Fostering both global reach and local relevance through international partnerships and community engagement.
A pivotal element of this strategy is the university’s proactive response to the industrial shifts driven by generative AI. Under the banner of “DigiLog AI+”, which builds upon the established “The DigiLog Sejong” framework, Sejong University is committed to developing convergent talent. This approach emphasizes not only the technical proficiency in utilizing AI but also the cultivation of human-centered values, ensuring graduates are well-rounded individuals capable of ethical and impactful innovation.
Establishing the Nation’s Premier “AI Convergence College”
Marking a significant milestone, Sejong University launched its AI Convergence College in 2024. This pioneering college is continuously expanding by establishing and nurturing state-of-the-art departments. These include:
- Department of AI Data Science
- Department of AI Robotics
- Department of AI Convergence Electronics Engineering
Looking ahead to the 2026 regular admissions cycle, the college will introduce an innovative “cutting-edge convergence track.” This new pathway will empower freshmen to explore and select their academic departments with unprecedented freedom, unburdened by rigid major restrictions. Furthermore, to secure talent for emerging technological frontiers, the university has newly introduced the Quantum Intelligence Information Department. Through these strategic expansions and continuous growth, the AI Convergence College has achieved an impressive enrollment quota of 1,008 students, solidifying its position as the largest of its kind in the country.
The President-Direct “AX Innovation Institute”: Orchestrating Transformation
To spearhead the university’s comprehensive AI transformation (AX), Sejong University has established the “AX Innovation Institute.” This institute operates directly under the President, serving as the central command for the university’s AX endeavors. Tightly integrated with “Vision 2035,” the institute’s mandate includes:
- AI Infrastructure Construction on Campus: Developing and deploying advanced AI infrastructure across the university grounds to support research, teaching, and administrative functions.
- Advancing AI Convergence Curricula: Continuously refining and enhancing educational programs to embed AI principles and applications across all disciplines.
- Intelligent Transformation of Academic and Administrative Systems: Leveraging AI to optimize and modernize the university’s operational systems, improving efficiency and user experience for students, faculty, and staff.
Through these concerted efforts, Sejong University aims to create a robust “AX ecosystem” where AI becomes an integral and routinely utilized tool for innovation by every member of the university community.
Mandatory “AI Microdegree” for All Students
Recognizing the pervasive importance of AI literacy, Sejong University mandates an “AI Microdegree” program for all its students. This comprehensive program, comprising 10–12 credits, is designed to impart essential AI competencies. The curriculum includes:
- AI Basics (Liberal Arts Coding): Foundational modules introducing students to the principles of AI and computational thinking through accessible coding exercises.
- Advanced AI: Deeper dives into more complex AI concepts and methodologies.
- AI-X Bridge Courses: Interdisciplinary courses that synergize students’ major knowledge with AI technologies, fostering unique application-oriented skills.
By 2028, this AI Microdegree is slated to become a mandatory graduation requirement for all students, ensuring a baseline of AI proficiency across the entire student body.
Asia’s Largest “AI Media Lab” at the Forefront of Innovation
In a significant collaboration with SK Telecom, Sejong University has unveiled “Team Studio Sejong,” which stands as Asia’s largest AI Media Lab and virtual production studio. This cutting-edge facility is equipped to handle advanced AI-driven video production, including:
- AI virtual production
- XR (Extended Reality) filming
- ICVFX (In-Camera Visual Effects)
Leveraging this state-of-the-art infrastructure, the newly established AI Content Graduate School is actively training specialized talent in the field of AI media. The university is also vigorously promoting industry-academia collaboration within the AI media sector, bridging the gap between academic research and commercial application.
Global Recognition for Sejong University’s Innovation
Sejong University’s commitment to innovation and academic excellence is consistently validated by external evaluations. The university has achieved notable rankings in prestigious global university assessments:
- In the “2025–2026 US News & World Report World University Rankings,” Sejong University secured the third position domestically for the second consecutive year and ranked 238th globally.
- The “2026 THE World University Rankings” placed Sejong University eighth domestically and within the 251–300 band globally.
Furthermore, the university has demonstrated sustained excellence in the Ministry of Education’s University Innovation Support Project, earning an “S-grade” for three consecutive years.
President Eom Jong Hwa articulated the university’s overarching vision: “Our goal is not merely to teach technology but to cultivate ‘DigiLog-type’ talent who combine digital capabilities with human sensibility.” He further expressed confidence in the university’s trajectory, stating, “Through AI transformation, we will enter the global top 100 universities by 2035.” This forward-looking strategy positions Sejong University as a leader in shaping the future of higher education in the age of artificial intelligence.
