What kind of student were you in high school?

Looking back, I think I was a somewhat rebellious student (laughs). I went to a high school that focused on physical education, where I preferred playing over studying. After school, I enjoyed bicycle rides with friends. However, throughout high school, I consistently read newspapers and various books. This habit laid the foundation that allowed me to enter Korea University after retaking the entrance exam only once.

What led you to choose Korea University?

Since high school, I admired Korea University’s dynamic image. My Korean SAT score was good so I could choose between Korea University and a rival school, but I quickly made my decision. Once I got here, I felt Korea University was the right choice. The school is indeed dynamic and very welcoming. Especially in Yeouido, where I work, there are many Korea University graduates who look after junior alumni members. Seeing them inspired me to develop the mindset of also being a graduate who can be helpful to younger Korea University graduates.

Did you enjoy your university life?

Even in college, I was not the type of student who studied diligently (laughs). However, I had a strong desire to gain experiences, so I worked part-time jobs during the semester and used the money I saved to travel during the breaks. My grades were not good, but I got along well with my schoolmates and really enjoyed my life at university. I am the type of person who enjoys being spontaneous and does not plan much ahead, so I often heard others say they wondered what I would do with my life in the future. Despite this, I was one of the first among my schoolmates to find something I wanted to do and get a job. It was just like when people say that you never know what will happen in life (laughs).

We have heard that you were very active in the Real Investment Society of Korea University.

The Real Investment Society of Korea University (RISK) has been a valuable part of my school life and a great help to me. I joined it to continue my financial and stock studies, which I started during my military service. I learned a lot while participating in it, and more importantly, met great friends. We still maintain strong bonds. I am proud that the connections students made at Korea University continue afterward in society, where they support and encourage each other. The camaraderie and tradition of mentorship are very strong among Korea University graduates. I occasionally go to RISK meetings to meet younger students. The Korea University spirit, as I see it, is “to love people and be a support to each other.” There are many Korea University alumni at my company, and beyond being colleagues, we share strong bonds, discuss deep concerns, and enjoy our time together. It is truly extraordinary that people can unite so closely under the banner of their school. The Korea University spirit is indeed fascinating.

Mr. Park with a senior member of staff at the company, who is a Korea University graduate

Your donation marked the largest student donation in the history of Korea University.

I was surprised by the wide attention it received, but I do not think my donation is particularly special. Of course, it is a significant amount of money for me. I always had the intention to donate, and the opportunity came sooner than I expected. I wanted to show that enrolled students can also make donations and that it is not very difficult to do. I believe that how you spend money is more important than how you earn it. I was convinced that donating to my university as a student was the most meaningful way to spend my money, so I decided to make the donation in the spring semester of my fourth year at Korea University. Some people have asked me if I regret having donated the money, but if I had any reservations, I would not have done it in the first place. The thought of sharing some of what I received from Korea University with younger students made me feel even more fulfilled.

Was there a specific reason you chose to donate to the Humanities Building construction fund?

The Humanities Building holds a special place in my heart (laughs). Shortly after I entered Korea University in 2018, the old Communications Building was demolished, and our department room was moved to the International Studies Hall. While serving in the military, I hoped I would be able to study in a new Humanities Building once I was discharged, but I was disappointed because the construction progress was slow. I sometimes complained that departments in the humanities do not attract funding, unlike the Business School, which has three buildings. However, I happily decided to donate because I had received so much from the school. I wanted my money to be used meaningfully and where it was needed, and I believed that was the construction of the Humanities Building. Although it will be completed after I graduate and I will not be able to study there, I will be very proud if Korea University students can study comfortably and strive to achieve their dreams in that space.

What is your dream?

I do not like speaking in vague terms, but that is how I must put it. I still consider myself to be young, so rather than aiming for a specific outcome, I want to handle the tasks that come my way diligently, embrace experiences positively, and live happily with the people around me.