Korea Polytechnic University holds first national soccer tournament for students and alumni

The labor ministry said Wednesday that Korea Polytechnic University held its first national soccer tournament, bringing together students, faculty and alumni from across the country. The inaugural Chairman's Cup took place at the Asan campus on Sept. 16, hosting approximately 300 participants representing more than 40 campuses.

The university organized the event to implement its declared shift from pure technical education to 'technical person' education, prioritizing communication and collaboration outside the classroom. One hundred twenty student representatives, selected through preliminary rounds in each of the university's eight regional divisions, played under banners bearing their regional names.

Students from the broadcasting and media department at the Asan campus managed the entire production of the event video, including planning, drone aerial photography and live YouTube streaming, applying skills learned in class to a real-world scenario watched by the national community.

Lee Cheol-soo, chairman of Korea Polytechnic University, emphasized that human values such as empathy and collaboration grow increasingly vital as technology advances. "Just as a healthy body supports a healthy mind, the experience of running and colliding together to understand one another is the starting point for growing into skilled professionals who know both technology and people," Lee said.

Park Geun-jong, head of the university's general alumni association, noted the significance of veterans from industrial sites cheering for current students, adding that the association intends to continue expanding its role connecting the university with its graduates.