More than 250 attendees, including students, family members, faculty, staff, and distinguished guests gathered for the Mason Korea's Spring Convocation at the Incheon Global Campus Small Theater.
“Mason Korea upholds the identity of George Mason University, while blending unique Korean elements, offering the best of both worlds," Mason Korea Campus Dean Joshua Park told the assembled group.
"Admission to Mason Korea is becoming increasingly competitive each year, driven by our distinctive programs and global network," said Kelley Chung, associate dean of admissions and enrollment at Mason Korea. "As a leading American educational institution in Korea, we are dedicated to both expanding our reach and enhancing the quality of our programs."
Mason Korea students benefit from a unique academic curriculum, spending three years at the Songdo campus in Korea and one year at the Fairfax Campus in Virginia. The campus upholds the same academic standards as the U.S. campus while offering more affordable tuition and awarding the same degree.
In an recent interview with Incheon Ilbo, Park emphasized collaboration with international universities to attract global talent to the Incheon Global Campus.
Since assuming office in July last year, Park has highlighted Mason Korea’s role as an extension campus of the U.S. institution, stating, “Mason Korea has boundless potential in terms of growth and internationalization. We will preserve the core identity of George Mason University while shaping a campus that uniquely reflects Korean characteristics.”
A key priority for Mason Korea is internationalization. Currently, students from more than 20 countries are enrolled at the campus. To further increase the number of international students, Park plans to expand partnerships with international universities, aiming to raise the proportion of international students to 40–50% within the next five years.
In particular, Mason Korea has been forming Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with universities across Asia. As a result, international student enrollment is expected to increase from next year.
“We are not just looking to collaborate with any university; we are focused on partnering with top-tier institutions,” Park stated. “Through this initiative, we seek to attract the top 1–5% of outstanding students to Songdo, providing them with education and supporting their transition to Incheon.”
Given its location in the major city of Incheon, Mason Korea also prioritizes collaboration with local schools and businesses. “Introducing American culture to Incheon’s government, businesses, and students is one of our primary missions,” said Park. “To support this, we have established MOUs with Inha University and the University of Incheon, jointly developing various programs.”
As part of this effort, Mason Korea is developing programs and workshops to help students from Inha and Incheon National universities build global competencies without needing to study abroad.
Additionally, Mason Korea collaborates with startups in Incheon. The business school works with George Mason University’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) to assist local companies facing challenges in entering the U.S. market.
“Our business school provides practical support, such as courses in business-level English writing, to actively assist local businesses,” Park explained.
Ultimately, Park envisions Mason Korea deepening its integration with the local community and business sector while leveraging its strengths.
"Mason Korea will not be confined to a single field but will continue to evolve in response to corporate and regional needs, continuously improving its academic programs," he said.
“Last year, Mason Korea celebrated its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of establishing strong roots in the region. Over the next decade, we will focus on achieving tangible results and broadening our reach—attracting global talent and cultivating internationally competent professionals who can contribute both locally and globally.”