Why the Merger of Korea National University of Transportation and Chungbuk National University is a Game Changer for Higher Education in Korea?

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[iNews24 Reporter Lee Yong-min] The Association of Emeritus Professors at the Korea National University of Transportation announced its support for a merger with Chungbuk National University.

In a statement on March 30, the emeritus professors’ association said, \”With the sharp decline in the school-age population, we actively support the merger of the two universities to enable them to advance as a top-tier national flagship university representing Korea’s future.\”

The association said the university, buoyed by its selection for the government’s \”Glocal University 30\” program, now awaits only the Ministry of Education’s final approval for the merger. It expressed deep concern and strong regret over what it described as some alumni’s baseless opposition that ignores broader trends.

The association emphasized that past successful integrations with Cheongju Science College and Korea Railroad University helped establish the current, proud structure of the Korea National University of Transportation. It said the proposed merger—leveraging the strengths of both institutions—will remake the university as a \”national flagship university\” with research and educational competitiveness at the global level.

The association urged faculty, staff, students and alumni to end counterproductive conflict and division. \”The path to integration will not be easy,\” it said, \”but now is the time for all members and alumni to unite and work together toward the shared goal of becoming a top-tier national flagship university.\”