Aju News Corp. Chairman Kwak Young-gil Wins Korea University Alumni Award

Kwak Young-gil, chairman of Aju News Corp., received Korea University’s “Proud Korea University Alumni Award” in recognition of raising the honor of his alma mater and contributing to social development.

Korea University, led by President Kim Dong-won, presented the award to Kwak (English Language and Literature, class of ’74) during its 121st anniversary ceremony and anniversary events held May 5 morning at the Inchon Memorial Hall in Seongbuk-gu, Seoul. Also honored were Samyang International Chairman Heo Kwang-soo (Business, ’65) and Ace Bed CEO Ahn Sung-ho (Geology, ’87).

The university said Kwak has “always looked at the world with a clear and upright eye” and devoted himself to delivering the truth, calling his work “a true guide” for society. It also cited his pioneering spirit, strong support for his alma mater and commitment to nurturing younger generations.

In his remarks, Kwak said he learned not just language but a “humanities mindset” after entering the English department “without even knowing the difference between ‘camp’ and ‘English.’” He added, “For me, English literature was a ‘door to spirituality’ beyond language.”

Kwak said that over the past five years he studied humanity’s classics and artificial intelligence and concluded that the essence of spirituality connects to the university’s motto of “freedom, justice and truth.” He said he reached the view that altruism — “public good first, private interest later” — is the door to spirituality.

Calling spirituality a key driver in the AI era, Kwak said, “Ten years ago I thought about ‘human-centered AI,’ but now we must pursue ‘spirit-centered AI.’” He added, “If spirituality cannot govern AI, humans will inevitably be ruled by technology.”

As a manager leading a global news media organization, Kwak said his company is using a multilingual news system to promote the global rise of “K-series,” including K-defense. He added, “If South Korea was once the ‘light of the East,’ now Korea University must become the ‘light of humanity’ in the AI era,” and said he hopes his efforts will help advance his alma mater.

The event also honored K-Net Investment Partners CEO Kim Dae-young (Public Administration, ’81) and Eugene Investment & Securities CEO Yoo Chang-soo (Sociology, ’81) with the “Community Service and Development Merit Award.”