APU Strengthens Ties with Korea’s Leading Institutions

Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) has taken a significant step in advancing international collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Korea Entrepreneurship Foundation (KoEF) and nine prestigious South Korean universities.

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This landmark agreement aims to cultivate an innovative and entrepreneurial ecosystem that transcends borders, enabling students and faculty to engage in knowledge-sharing, research collaborations, and start-up initiatives.

As a leader in technology and innovation-driven education, APU consistently fosters academic and industry partnerships that empower its students with global exposure. This newly established MoU with South Korea’s top institutions—Gangwon State University, Keimyung University, Daegu Health College, Daejeon University, Pusan National University, Yeungnam University, Wonkwang University, Ewha Womans University, Chung-Ang University, and KoEF—solidifies APU’s commitment to nurturing entrepreneurship through international collaboration. 

The memorandum of understanding was signed by Professor Dr Ho Chin Kuan, Vice-Chancellor of APU; Mr Nam Kyoo Cho, the proxy for Mr Jeong Hwa Han, Chairman of KoEF; and the Directors of the nine universities. The signing ceremony took place in the Senate Meeting Room of APU, located in Technology Park Malaysia, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, on 22nd January 2025. 

Also presented were Professor Ir Eur Ing Ts Dr Vinesh Thiruchelvam, Chief Innovation & Enterprise Officer (CIEO) at APU; and Dr Beh Ching Yew, Head of Entrepreneurship & Innovation at APU. 

Key Objectives of the MoU

The primary goal of this partnership is to enhance university entrepreneurship education between Malaysia and South Korea through various cross-border initiatives, including:

• Entrepreneurial Exchange Programmes - Facilitating student mobility to encourage cross-cultural learning and entrepreneurial exposure.
• Joint Development of Educational Content - Creating innovative entrepreneurship curriculum and training materials.
• Support for Student Start-Ups - Providing mentorship, resources, and guidance for student-led businesses expanding into both Malaysian and South Korean markets.
• Collaborative Research - Exploring best practices in entrepreneurship education and contributing to policy development in the sector.
• Strengthening Industry - Academia Collaboration - Encouraging partnerships between universities and industries to foster real-world applications of academic research.

Driving a New Wave of Entrepreneurship

This strategic collaboration is expected to enhance students’ entrepreneurial mindsets and provide them with invaluable international networking opportunities. 

By leveraging South Korea’s strong ecosystem in technological entrepreneurship and APU’s expertise in technology-driven education, the partnership will serve as a catalyst for innovation and economic growth in both nations. 

APU remains steadfast in its vision to produce graduates who are not only industry-ready but also equipped to navigate the evolving global landscape. Through this MoU, APU continues to reinforce its reputation as a forward-thinking institution, committed to empowering students with the skills and knowledge necessary for the digital economy. 

This agreement marks the beginning of a dynamic relationship between APU and South Korea’s leading institutions, paving the way for greater collaboration in entrepreneurship, innovation, and education.