The second cohort of the Global Future Strategy Executive Program in Vietnam, jointly organized by Seoul National University Asia Center and Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City, held its opening ceremony on Friday, February 28th, at Lotte Hotel Saigon in Ho Chi Minh City. With this expansion, the program now encompasses both northern and southern Vietnam. The program previously graduated 54 participants in its first cohort in Hanoi in late 2024, and the second cohort marks its first entry into southern Vietnam, making it particularly significant.

Strong Support from the University and Korean Community in Vietnam

The successful launch of the second cohort was made possible through strong institutional support from Seoul National University and enthusiastic participation from the Korean community in southern Vietnam. The program received an overwhelming response, with approximately 70 applicants exceeding the designated capacity. To maintain the quality of education, the program office finalized the cohort size at 57 participants, many of whom are key figures in the Korean business community who have significantly contributed to the local economy.

A Practical, Industry-Focused Curriculum

In his congratulatory remarks, Suhong Chae, Director of the Asia Center, reflected on his first visit to Ho Chi Minh City as a doctoral student in the 1990s, stating, “The economic status of the Ho Chi Minh metropolitan area has remained solid over the years. We will do our best to provide a window for the Korean community here to gain a deeper understanding of the global landscape.”

This executive program consists of 15 core courses across four fields, six supplementary courses, and a special field study session. The faculty includes 10 professors from Seoul National University, four domestic and international experts in specialized fields, and two Vietnamese experts. The curriculum covers key topics such as the U.S.-China strategic competition and global economic changes, an in-depth analysis of Vietnam from seven perspectives—politics, economy, society, culture, history, demography, and migration—and forecasts on future technological innovation and the “Next Vietnam”.

Among the six supplementary courses, four will be held in Hanoi. This initiative aims to provide ongoing education opportunities for the first cohort while also accommodating executives operating businesses in both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Strengthening Korea-Vietnam Cooperation

Le Thi Ngoc Diep, Secretary of the Party Committee at Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City, emphasized the value of the collaboration, stating, “Through close educational cooperation with Seoul National University, we have the opportunity to better understand both the global environment and Vietnam, alongside Korean corporate and institutional leaders. This program will further enhance economic cooperation and mutual understanding between our two nations.”

Moving forward, the Global Future Strategy Executive Program in Vietnam is expected to establish itself as a flagship initiative of SNUAC, promoting economic and cultural exchanges between Korea and Vietnam while fostering mutual prosperity.