University History and Motto

History

Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) was established at the beginning of the Joseon Dynasty in 1398 as the national institution of the highest educational level in Korea. As the oldest university in East Asia, it has fostered distinguished leaders of our society for over 600 years.

Motto

SKKU was founded on the principles of Neo-Confucianism, embodying its four cardinal virtues: Humanity, Righteousness, Propriety and Wisdom. These virtues represent an expression of humankind's four inherent elements of spirit, action, conscience, and intellect.