Wonkwang universities set to merge by 2026 after Glocal University 30 project selection

Wonkwang University and Wonkwang Health Science University announced their goal to launch a merged university by 2026 on Monday after being selected for this year's Glocal University 30 project.

Fourth from left: Wonkwang University President Park Sung-tae and Wonkwang Health Science University President Baek Jun-hum pose for a photo after agreeing to launch the merged university in March 2026 during a meeting on Oct. 4. [WONKWANG UNIVERSITY]

Wonkwang University and Wonkwang Health Science University announced their goal to launch a merged university by 2026 on Monday after being selected for this year's Glocal University 30 project.

The two universities held a meeting on Oct. 4, where their presidents signed an agreement to establish the merged university by March 2026.

The merger follows their selection for the Glocal University 30 project in August, contingent on the merger. This government funding scheme aims to support universities outside the greater Seoul region, with selected institutions each receiving 100 billion won ($74.6 million) over the next five years.

Wonkwang University and Wonkwang Health Science University will continue discussions on restructuring the academic system and faculty changes for the new university.

While specific details have not yet been announced, the universities aim to become a leading life sciences institution following the merger.

The coalition of Changwon National University, University of Gyeongnam Geochang and University of Gyeongnam Namhae is another group selected for this year's Glocal University 30 project, which also requires a merger.

These universities signed a memorandum of understanding in April to complete all merger-related procedures by December 2025. Korea Lift College is part of the coalition but will only join a joint decision-making body, not merge.

BY LEE TAE-HEE [lee.taehee2@joongang.co.kr]