February 2025 Commencement Address

February 24, 2025
President  Dong-Sup Yoon

Dear graduates who are leaving this beloved campus today with your well-earned degrees, 

my heartfelt congratulations on your graduation!

I extend my deepest gratitude and congratulations to the parents and families who have provided unwavering love and support throughout this journey. I would also like to express my appreciation to Honorable Chairman Hur Dong-Soo and Members of the Board of Trustees, Dr. Lee Kyoung Ryul, President of the Yonsei Alumni Association, former Presidents of Yonsei University, and all our distinguished alumni who have joined us today to celebrate this joyous occasion. And I am deeply grateful to our esteemed professors, who have devoted themselves to instilling academic excellence and Yonsei’s core values, enabling our graduates to grow into outstanding Yonseians.  

Dear Yonseians,

From today, you are no longer just students—you are alumni of Yonsei University, and this institution will forever be your alma mater. You are now ready to spread your wings and soar into the larger world. The knowledge and wisdom you have gained, the ability to empathize and communicate, and the spirit of collaboration and innovation that you have cultivated on this campus—now is the time to share them with the world.

Last fall, we were thrilled to hear that our very own alumna, author Han Kang, had been awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature. Her achievement demonstrated the power of Korean literature to the world, and her profound empathy for human suffering and deep love for humanity moved the hearts of people across the globe. As Koreans and as Yonseians, we all felt immense pride and joy.

Han Kang’s works, imbued with the warmth of life itself, embrace the pain of the suffering and share in their struggles. Through them, I am once again reminded of the vital role that empathy and solidarity play in our lives. Dr. Brian Hare, an evolutionary anthropologist and neuroscientist, argues in his book Survival of the Friendliest that empathy and cooperation are the most valuable skills possessed by humans. More than strength or intelligence, it is kindness and communication that determine a species’ success in evolution.

In a time of political and social unrest, where division and hatred are on the rise, I hope you, as mature Yonseians, will rise above this era with empathy and cooperation. May the knowledge and skills you gained at Yonsei empower you to bring positive change to both your own life and society. Just as today marks your proud graduation, may you continue to live as true leaders who never lose sight of the spirit of community.

Dear Graduates,

Your success today would not have been possible without the unwavering support of your family, friends, and professors. A strong community provides the foundation and strength needed to overcome difficulties. When we come together as more than just individuals, we can pursue and achieve even greater dreams.

As you graduate, you step into a larger community. You will forge new relationships in the workplace, in society, in your nation, and even on the global stage. If each of you contributes your passion and talent to the growth of the community, we can build a better world together. Remember, ten people taking one step forward together is more valuable than one person taking ten steps alone.

Dear Yonseians,

The idea of living to 100 is no longer just a catchphrase—it has become a reality. I see life as having four acts, much like the four quarters of a basketball game. As graduates, you are now stepping into the second quarter, the second act of your journey. I believe you have worked hard during the first quarter, but the real adventure begins now. This is the time to leave the comfort of your nest and spread your wings to navigate the world on your own. It is also a stage where, through new experiences and challenges, you can grow in ways you never imagined.

Like an eagle that flies higher and sees farther than all others, I hope you uphold the values of truth and freedom and become individuals who bring light and goodness to the world. May you take flight as kind-hearted Yonsei eagles and find happiness in your journey. Yonsei will always be cheering you on.

Once again, congratulations on your graduation. May you always be surrounded by God’s love and boundless blessings.