A Leader Driving the Growth of People and Organizations, the Glorious Completion of CHRO Class 1 

The graduation ceremony for the 1st Class of the Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) Program at Korea University Business School was held on Friday, October 31, at the Cuckoo Seminar Room, located on the 6th floor of the LG-POSCO Hall. The event was attended by the graduates, Dean Eonsoo Kim, Associate Dean Gangseog Ryu, Program Director Kwanghyun Kim, Professors Daesoo Kim and Seung-Weon Yoo, as well as the families of the graduates. 

The ceremony began with a video presentation that reflected on the seven-month journey shared by the participants. As they watched, the graduates looked back on their experiences together, sharing smiles and heartfelt emotions while revisiting memorable moments on screen. 

In his congratulatory remarks, Dean Eonsoo Kim commended the graduates for their passion and perseverance in completing the seven-month program while balancing both work and study. “The title of ‘first class’ always carries a special meaning — you have pioneered an uncharted path, set new standards, and by completing this challenge, you have already proven yourselves to be true winners,” he said. 

Dean Kim went on to note that “Commencement” does not signify an end but rather a new beginning. “I hope today will mark a fresh starting point,” he added, “and that you will continue to build a strong network that supports one another’s growth. Even as the autumn winds deepen, may your passion remain ever bright.” 

Next, Program Director Kwanghyun Kim shared his reflections, saying that he felt deeply moved to stand at the graduation ceremony, which had once seemed so far away. “Thank you for courageously taking on this challenge as the very first class,” he said. “Although there were some trials and errors along the way, this journey has been especially meaningful precisely because it was the ‘first.’ Based on your valuable feedback, we will continue to refine the program and offer an even better experience for future cohorts.” He added, “I am proud that we have created new experiences together, such as the graduation trip planned immediately after the ceremony. I hope you will continue to stay connected with future participants and serve as inspiring role models.” 

Representing the graduates, Class President Heechan Noh delivered a closing address on behalf of his peers. “On behalf of the 14 members of our class, I express my heartfelt gratitude,” he said. “At the beginning, excitement and apprehension coexisted, but as time went by, our question marks turned into exclamation points. ”Noh went on to say, “The professors’ lectures were not just lessons, but moments of deep insight. From workshops and overseas training to the laughter we shared in our late-evening sessions, every moment has become a precious memory. I will carry the pride of being part of the first class for the rest of my life.” 

A surprise appreciation segment prepared by the graduates followed. Class President Heechan Noh presented a plaque of appreciation and a bouquet of flowers to Program Director Kwanghyun Kim, expressing gratitude on behalf of the class. The student council also prepared commemorative gifts—umbrellas and handkerchiefs—symbolizing the role of HR management in protecting and nurturing members of an organization. Treasurer Youngsoo Lee shared a heartfelt message, saying, “Your teachings have deeply resonated with us. Thank you for being a steadfast presence, like a sturdy umbrella.” 

Dean Eonsoo Kim and Program Director Kim then presented certificates of completion and plaques to the graduates. Each of the ten graduates was called to the stage individually to receive their certificate and take commemorative photos. Following the group photo, special awards were presented: the Dean’s Award went to Heechan Noh, while Youngsoo Lee received both the Achievement Award and the Top Honors Award, and Sunmi Lee received the Honors Award. After the formal proceedings, the ceremony concluded with the singing of the school song and a final group photo. Participants then joined a celebratory luncheon, reminiscing about their seven-month journey and sharing lasting friendships. 

This graduation ceremony marked not the end of a program, but the beginning of a new era of leadership. The Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) Program is designed to cultivate top-level executives capable of leading corporate human resource strategies. Beginning with this inaugural class, the program will continue to produce leaders who combine professional expertise with strong leadership in HR and organizational management. Looking ahead, Korea University Business School plans to further strengthen its commitment to developing leaders who drive organizational growth amid a rapidly changing business environment—providing them with practical insights and opportunities to expand their professional networks. 

Building on the success of the first class, Korea University Business School will launch the 2nd Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) Program, which will run from April to October 2026 for approximately seven months. Applications open on Monday, January 12, 2026, and interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications within the designated period. Selected participants will take part in a diverse range of activities, including courses on global HR trends and key case studies, workshops, company visits, and overseas training. The program will be led by a distinguished faculty of domestic and international scholars and industry experts. 

For further information, please contact the KUBS Executive Education Center (EEC) by phone (02-3290-2707) or email (kubseec@korea.ac.kr).