Dr. Jong-Tae Park, President of Incheon National University, completed his four-year term and officially stepped down on May 9.

Born in Geochang, Gyeongsangnam-do, Dr. Park earned his Ph.D. in Engineering from Yonsei University in 1987 and subsequently joined Incheon National University as a professor. Throughout his academic career, he dedicated himself to research in electronic engineering and the cultivation of future talent.

Dr. Park played a pivotal role in transforming Incheon National University from a private to a municipal university. Working alongside like-minded faculty and staff, he led major reforms that garnered strong support from the local community. These efforts laid the groundwork for the university’s eventual transition to a national university. Following this transition, he contributed significantly to the university’s development by serving in key leadership roles.

In 2021, Dr. Park was inaugurated as the 16th president of Incheon National University. During his four-year term, he spearheaded future-oriented educational innovations, including the modernization of the university's administrative system and a complete overhaul of general and major curricula. He established the College of Interdisciplinary Studies, increased the research budget by 70%, and introduced the Sure Lab initiative—laying the institutional foundation for the university’s transition to a research-centered institution. Additionally, he secured financial stability and long-term growth by increasing national funding by 30% and expanding the budget of the Industry-University Cooperation Foundation by 80%.

In his farewell address, Dr. Jong-Tae Park expressed deep gratitude and fulfillment for having spent over 40 years with Incheon National University. He emphasized his hope that the spirit of consensus and communication would become a lasting part of the university’s culture. Highlighting his efforts to strengthen the university’s foundation through inclusive and communicative leadership, he also noted the progress made in research and educational innovation. Dr. Park further stressed the importance of establishing a foundation for a research-oriented university and the need for the creation of a medical school, urging continued dedication from all members of the university community for its ongoing development.

The ceremony, which began with a congratulatory performance by students, was attended by more than 300 participants, including faculty, staff, students, alumni, former students taught by Dr. Park, and members of the university’s development fund and supporters’ association. They gathered to honor his achievements and to wish for the university’s continued success.