On a crisp winter afternoon in Seoul, the campus of Sogang University in Mapo-gu buzzed with anticipation and excitement. February 20, 2026, marked a milestone for hundreds of aspiring scholars and their families as the university hosted its entrance blessing ceremony for the 2026 academic year. The event, steeped in tradition and optimism, drew students, faculty, and proud parents together to celebrate new beginnings and the promise of academic achievement.
According to NEWSIS, Sogang University’s entrance ceremony wasn’t just a formality—it was a vibrant gathering that set the tone for the year ahead. The university’s auditorium brimmed with eager faces as incoming students took their seats, each one about to embark on a journey that would shape not only their careers but also their character. The day’s proceedings, formally titled the “2026 Academic Year Entrance Blessing Ceremony,” underscored the institution’s commitment to nurturing both the intellect and the spirit of its students.
The highlight of the ceremony came when the new students stood together and took an oath, pledging to uphold the values of Sogang University and to pursue their studies with diligence and integrity. As NEWSIS reported, “new students took an oath during the ceremony,” a moment that resonated deeply with many in attendance. The sense of unity and shared purpose was palpable, as classmates—many meeting each other for the first time—joined voices in a collective promise to strive for excellence.
The entrance blessing ceremony has long been a cherished tradition at Sogang University, reflecting its Jesuit heritage and its emphasis on holistic education. The event typically blends solemn rituals with moments of celebration, infusing the academic year with hope and a sense of belonging. For the class of 2026, this ritual took on added significance, as students and faculty alike looked forward to a year filled with opportunities for growth and discovery.
“It’s not just about starting classes,” remarked one faculty member, observing the ceremony from the sidelines. “It’s about welcoming these young people into a community where they’ll be challenged, supported, and inspired.” The university’s leadership echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of fostering both academic rigor and a caring, inclusive environment.
As families watched from the audience, many couldn’t help but reflect on the journey that had brought their children to this moment. The admissions process at Sogang University is known for its competitiveness, drawing applicants from across South Korea and beyond. For those who received an acceptance letter, the entrance ceremony represented the culmination of years of hard work, late-night study sessions, and unwavering determination.
The ceremony also served as a reminder of the broader role that universities play in South Korean society. Higher education remains a cornerstone of opportunity and social mobility in the country, and institutions like Sogang University are at the forefront of preparing future leaders. The university’s emphasis on ethical leadership, critical thinking, and service to others is woven into the fabric of its academic programs and campus life.
During the blessing portion of the event, university chaplains and senior faculty offered words of encouragement and hope. They urged students to approach their studies with curiosity and resilience, and to support one another through the inevitable challenges that lie ahead. The message was clear: success at Sogang University is not measured solely by grades or accolades, but by the growth and transformation that occur along the way.
For many students, the oath-taking ceremony was the most memorable part of the day. Standing shoulder to shoulder with their peers, they pledged to “study with sincerity and integrity,” and to “contribute positively to the university community.” These words, though simple, carried weight—serving as both a personal commitment and a public declaration of purpose.
As the ceremony concluded, the mood on campus shifted from solemn reflection to celebration. Students snapped photos with friends and family, explored the university grounds, and began to envision the years ahead. For some, this was their first time setting foot on campus; for others, it was a return to familiar territory. Regardless of their background, all shared a sense of excitement and possibility.
The entrance blessing ceremony also provided an opportunity for university officials to outline their vision for the coming year. Administrators spoke about new academic initiatives, expanded research opportunities, and enhanced support services for students. They encouraged the incoming class to take full advantage of the resources available to them, from state-of-the-art laboratories to vibrant student organizations.
In the days leading up to the ceremony, campus staff worked tirelessly to ensure that every detail was perfect. From arranging seating to coordinating the program, their efforts paid off as the event unfolded without a hitch. The university’s commitment to excellence was evident not only in the ceremony itself but also in the care and attention given to welcoming each new student.
Looking ahead, the class of 2026 faces both challenges and opportunities. The world of higher education is evolving rapidly, shaped by technological advances, shifting job markets, and global events. Sogang University, with its strong academic reputation and vibrant campus culture, is well-positioned to help students navigate these changes and prepare for the future.
As one student put it after the ceremony, “Today feels like the start of something big. I’m nervous, but mostly I’m excited to see what’s possible.” That sense of anticipation echoed throughout the campus, as new and returning students alike looked forward to a year of learning, friendship, and personal growth.
While the entrance blessing ceremony may last only a few hours, its impact lingers long after the applause has faded. For the students, faculty, and families gathered at Sogang University on February 20, 2026, it marked not just the beginning of an academic year, but the start of a new chapter—one defined by hope, ambition, and the shared pursuit of knowledge.