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“Beyond Regions, Toward Glocal” Korea Maritime & Ocean University Strengthens International Cooperation with Major U.S. Maritime Universities
Expanding the Global Maritime Network Through Alumni Engagement
Korea Maritime & Ocean University (KMOU), which is charting a course beyond regional boundaries toward becoming a “glocal” university (global + local), has taken meaningful steps to strengthen its collaboration with leading U.S. maritime institutions and expand its global maritime network.
On June 3 and 4 (local time), the KMOU delegation visited the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) and the State University of New York Maritime College (SUNY Maritime College), respectively, where they held discussions on concrete measures for cooperation, which included student exchange programs and joint research initiatives.
The delegation included KMOU President Ryoo Dong-Keun and Kim Jung Hoon, Director of the Office of International Affairs.
During the meetings, the institutions shared a mutual vision for collaboration rooted in the common value of the maritime domain, transcending differences in education, industry, and culture. Strong consensus was also achieved on hosting joint academic seminars in the near future.
This visit was strategically designed to open new pathways for global cooperation amid the shifting landscape of the international maritime industry.
Of particular significance is the broader context of Korea-U.S. collaboration in maritime sectors, encompassing shipbuilding, shipping and logistics networks, and strategic military cooperation. These partnerships transcend mere economic interests. The U.S. Congress recently introduced the SHIPS for America Act. The bill aims to significantly expand the commercial and merchant marine fleet, improve shipbuilding infrastructure, and foster maritime workforce development as part of a national strategic agenda, ultimately reinforcing the overall capabilities of the U.S. maritime sector. Hence, maritime cooperation between South Korea and the United States has direct implications for enhancing the two nations’ foundational security and economic alliance.
As part of the visit, the KMOU delegation also met with alumni active across the Americas.
These meetings offered opportunities to gain firsthand insight into global industry practices and to discuss future directions for the next generation of maritime professionals.
KMOU alumni are currently making significant contributions in a wide range of sectors worldwide, from traditional fields, like shipping, ports, and shipbuilding, to emerging industries, such as maritime digital technologies and marine energy.
A particularly symbolic example of KMOU’s robust global network is the active support of overseas alumni, who sponsor scholarships for students participating in exchange programs.
With the support of this alumni network, KMOU is committed to supporting students in seamlessly transitioning into the global maritime industry after graduation, ensuring their careers develop in step with international opportunities.
Following this visit, the university plans to accelerate its efforts to enhance its global network and solidify a comprehensive international cooperation framework.
President Ryoo Dong-Keun remarked, “The maritime domain is not just an industrial field. It is a global platform that connects education, culture, and technology. Through this visit, we aim to expand substantive cooperation with major maritime universities in the United States and provide our students with broader opportunities to engage with the world.”
He added, “If we can organize seminars with experts who possess deep knowledge and passion for the maritime field, it will positively impact both the global standing of our university and the advancement of international maritime cooperation.”
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