We warmly welcome your participation in the 28th Hokkaido University-Seoul National University Joint Symposium. On behalf of Hokkaido University, I am delighted that this significant and long-standing event, will be held on our Sapporo campus this year.

Since its inception in 1998, this symposium has symbolized the camaraderie and collaboration between our universities. Held annually, alternating between Sapporo and Seoul, it now marks the 28th anniversary and stands as one of the finest examples of academic exchange in Hokkaido University`s history with its partner institutions. This achievement is a direct result of the enduring efforts of researchers, students, and staff from both universities to foster close and meaningful ties.

The theme of this year’s Joint Symposium is "Academic Innovation and Societal Engagement - Advancing Research and Education through Collaboration with Society and Industry." As I’m sure you are aware, the world today faces a multitude of challenges on not only local but also on a global scale. This year’s theme conveys the message that universities should take a leading role in addressing these issues. It also reflects the expectation that a positive cycle of collaboration will emerge－where universities work together with society and industry to advance academic research and education, foster innovation, and contribute meaningfully to both.

The fact that Hokkaido University and Seoul National University are able to exchange knowledge and experiences across a wide range of research fields under this year’s theme demonstrates that our academic collaboration is both expanding and deepening. I hope that active interactions among researchers, students, and university staff will continue to flourish across diverse academic disciplines and university activities.

Finally, I hope all participants will enjoy the beautiful autumn colours on the Sapporo campus. I trust that each of you will engage in active discussions across various disciplines, leading to fruitful academic exchange.

It is my great pleasure to extend my most sincere congratulations on the occasion of the 28th HU-SNU Joint Symposium, hosted by Hokkaido University—an institution celebrated for its distinguished academic legacy and the beauty of its natural surroundings. On behalf of Seoul National University (SNU), I am deeply honored to convey our warmest congratulations and best wishes for a most successful and inspiring event.

Since the signing of our academic exchange agreement in 1997, our two institutions have fostered a profound academic partnership grounded in mutual trust, respect, and enduring friendship. This 28th Joint Symposium stands as a momentous milestone in our long-standing collaboration, commemorating nearly three decades of academic exchange while charting new pathways for joint advancement in an era of unprecedented transformation.

The theme of this year’s symposium, “Academic Innovation and Societal Engagement: Advancing Research and Education through Collaboration with Society and Industry,” clearly outlines the most critical mission facing higher education today. We firmly believe that the research and education conducted at our universities must not remain within the confines of the ivory tower. Rather, their core value lies in actively contributing to the solution of real-world challenges in society and industry, thereby enriching human life. Through this Symposium, we sincerely hope that the collective wisdom and creativity of both institutions will converge to produce innovative and actionable solutions for a sustainable future.

Furthermore, it is my earnest wish that this Symposium will serve as an invaluable platform for scholars from both universities—especially our young researchers—to broaden their international perspectives and build robust academic networks that will lead the way forward. Such vibrant exchanges will form the most solid foundation ensuring the sustainable development of our two academic communities.

SNU is committed to deepening and expanding the scope of our collaboration with Hokkaido University, based on mutual respect, trust, and shared vision, while jointly addressing the pressing global challenges of our time. I am confident that this Symposium will further strengthen the friendship between our two universities and inspire the next generation of scholars to pursue excellence and global engagement.

Finally, I wish to express my deepest gratitude to all faculty members and administrative staff from both Hokkaido University and Seoul National University for their dedicated efforts and meticulous preparation in organizing this important event. I sincerely wish all participants an enriching and stimulating experience, filled with intellectual inspiration, fruitful discussions, and enduring friendship.