On the evening of February 24, 2026, the Sapphire Ballroom on the third floor of the Lotte Hotel in Sogong-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul, was abuzz with anticipation and pride. The Korean Foreign Language University Alumni Association, a group that has long celebrated the achievements and camaraderie of its graduates, convened its 2026 regular general meeting—a night marked by both tradition and a forward-looking spirit.
The highlight of the evening was the inauguration of Kim Deok-sul, a 1981 graduate of the Japanese language program and chairman of Eunistory Asset Management Co., Ltd., as the 35th president of the Alumni Association. With an atmosphere thick with applause and well-wishes, Kim’s appointment was seen as a nod to both his professional accomplishments and his commitment to the university’s values. The ceremony, attended by alumni from across generations, underscored the enduring bonds and evolving legacy of the institution.
But the event was about much more than a change in leadership. The Alumni Association also hosted its prestigious 'Proud Alumni Award' and 'Proud Alumni Merit Award' ceremonies, honoring those whose achievements have brought distinction to the university and made a tangible impact in their respective fields.
This year’s 'Proud Alumni Award' recognized two extraordinary individuals. First, Lee Yeon-hyang, a 1989 graduate of the English-Korean Translation and Interpretation graduate school, who currently serves as chief interpreter at the U.S. Department of State. Lee’s career has placed her at the heart of international diplomacy, most notably as a key interpreter at major diplomatic events, including the high-stakes Korea-U.S. summit. According to multiple reports, her precise and nuanced interpretations have been instrumental in fostering understanding at the very highest levels of government. Her selection as an award recipient was met with widespread approval, with many noting her role as a bridge between nations in times of both tension and cooperation.
Sharing the honor was Park Si-bok, a 1975 graduate of the Russian language program and CEO of Sedo Camping. Park has been credited with pioneering global camping culture, transforming what was once a niche pastime into a thriving international industry. His leadership at Sedo Camping has not only popularized outdoor recreation but also fostered a sense of community and adventure among people of all ages. As the Alumni Association noted, Park’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to innovation have made him a role model for future generations.
The 'Proud Alumni Merit Award' was equally competitive, celebrating alumni whose contributions have often taken place behind the scenes but are no less significant. Kim Hyo-soon, a 1982 graduate of the English Education program, was honored for her more than two decades of dedication to educational development and philanthropy in Shanghai, China. As the former director of an academy in Shanghai, Kim has been lauded for her efforts to expand educational opportunities and promote cultural exchange. Her work has touched the lives of countless students and has strengthened ties between Korea and China in the process.
Joining her as a recipient was Song Min-kyung, who earned her degree from the Political Administration and Media graduate school in Diplomacy and Security in 2015. Song currently serves as the education officer at the U.S. Eighth Army support group. Her efforts to expand entrusted education and facilitate personnel exchange between Cyber Hankuk University of Foreign Studies and the U.S. Eighth Army support group have been pivotal. The Alumni Association credited Song with enhancing cross-cultural understanding and cooperation, a feat that resonates deeply in a world where such exchanges are more important than ever.
According to reports from enewstoday, dongA.com, and other major outlets, the ceremony was not only a celebration of individual achievement but also a reflection of the university’s broader mission. The honorees’ stories—ranging from diplomatic interpretation to international business leadership, educational philanthropy to military-academic cooperation—demonstrate the diverse paths that alumni have taken, each contributing in their own way to the university’s global reputation.
In his inaugural remarks, Kim Deok-sul emphasized the importance of unity and vision for the Alumni Association’s future. While the exact text of his speech was not made public, attendees noted that Kim spoke about leveraging the collective strength of alumni to support both the university and broader society. His message, according to those present, was one of inclusion, ambition, and gratitude for the groundwork laid by previous generations.
The event also featured moments of reflection. Many attendees, some of whom had traveled from overseas, took time to share memories of their university days and discuss the challenges and opportunities facing today’s students. The sense of continuity—of past, present, and future converging—was palpable. As one alum put it, “Nights like this remind us not only of where we’ve come from but also of what we can still accomplish together.”
For the university, the annual general meeting and award ceremonies serve as more than just formalities. They are a chance to reaffirm the institution’s values and to showcase the tangible results of its educational philosophy. The recognition of alumni who have excelled in fields as varied as diplomacy, business, education, and military cooperation sends a powerful message to current students: that the skills and relationships forged at the university can open doors to global impact.
It’s worth noting that the selection process for the awards is rigorous, with nominees evaluated on the basis of professional achievement, service to society, and contributions to the university’s reputation. This year’s recipients, according to the Alumni Association, exemplify the ideals of leadership, integrity, and service that the university seeks to instill in all its graduates.
As the evening concluded, there was a shared sense of optimism for the future. With Kim Deok-sul at the helm and a new generation of alumni stepping into leadership roles, the Korean Foreign Language University Alumni Association appears well-positioned to continue its tradition of excellence and service. The stories celebrated on this night will no doubt inspire others to follow in their footsteps, ensuring that the university’s legacy endures for years to come.
The 2026 general meeting was, in every sense, a testament to the power of education, the strength of community, and the enduring impact of shared purpose.