Big Bang theory: G-Dragon appointed as visiting professor at KAIST

G-Dragon was appointed as a visiting professor of mechanical engineering at KAIST, the university announced Wednesday.

G-Dragon, center, is appointed as visiting professor at KAIST by university President Lee Kwang-hyung, left. Galaxy Corporation CEO Choi Yong-ho, right, seen standing next to G-Dragon. [KAIST]

G-Dragon was appointed as a visiting professor of mechanical engineering at KAIST, the university announced Wednesday.

His term will last for two years until 2026.

G-Dragon, whose real name is Kwon Ji-yong, is conducting special lectures centered on leadership skills for undergraduate and graduate students at the university and is also contributing to the school's cultural events.

The artist will also be involved in research and development of digital technology for K-pop artists, converging AI, robotics and metaverse technology with Korean culture by setting up a research center focused on technologies applicable to the entertainment industry. KAIST will also be involved in developing top-notch avatars of artists, which rely on motion capture and haptic technologies.

Singer G-Dragon [KAIST]

G-Dragon's appointment took place Wednesday morning during the "Innovate Korea 2024" event held at KAIST Sports Complex in Daejeon.

“I hope that the best science and technology experts and my entertainment expertise will come together to create a large synergy, or ‘Big Bang,’” said G-Dragon. “Through the AI avatar developed by Galaxy Corporation and KAIST, I want to communicate more closely with fans around the world I don’t get to meet often.”

“Through Professor Kwon's activities, KAIST's science and technology will contribute to the spread and growth of K-culture in the global arena,” said KAIST President Lee Kwang-hyung. "Sharing the experience and spirit of Professor Kwon, who is the world's trendsetter, will also be a great asset for KAIST, which is aiming to be a global top university."

The appointment follows a memorandum of understanding signed last month between G-Dragon's agency and metaverse developer Galaxy Corporation and KAIST. The two entities had agreed to collaborate on finding ways to apply various technologies to the K-pop industry.

To find out more about G-Dragon, visit Celeb Confirmed!

BY KIM MIN-YOUNG [kim.minyoung5@joongang.co.kr]