On August 3, the university held its 2025 graduation ceremony, awarding degrees to 18 doctoral candidates, 152 master's students, and 1,335 bachelor's graduates. Among the new PhDs, Ko Dong Hyun stood out as the first South Korean to complete a doctorate at the institution.

Previously, Ko earned his bachelor's and master's degrees in Labor and Employment Relations from Rutgers University in New Jersey, USA. Speaking to VietNamNet, he expressed pride in graduating from VNU’s University of Economics, calling it a significant honor.

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Truc Le (left), Chairman of the University Council, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Trung Thanh (right), Rector of the University of Economics - Vietnam National University, Hanoi, present a doctoral degree to Mr. Ko Dong Hyun. Photo: Thanh Hung

He explained his choice to pursue doctoral studies in Vietnam stemmed from the country’s vibrant economy, rich cultural identity, strong social aspirations, and welcoming atmosphere. In October 2018, he enrolled in the university’s International Economics PhD program with a vision to expand his intellectual horizons and contribute meaningfully to educational reform, sustainable development, and economic policymaking.

Ko’s doctoral research focused on South Korea’s green growth policies and their relevance to Vietnam’s sustainable development goals. The interdisciplinary study combined environmental economics, labor policy, and educational reform, offering a comparative lens between the two countries.

At the ceremony, Associate Professor Le Trung Thanh, Rector of the University of Economics - VNU, encouraged graduates to embrace the vast possibilities that lie ahead.

“Holding this degree, you’re now fully equipped to compete on equal footing with graduates from top universities around the world. The future is wide open, with nearly limitless potential,” he said.

He advised the new bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD graduates to stay proud of their achievements but remain committed to growth and lifelong learning. “The road ahead includes both challenges and opportunities. To thrive, you must remain determined, continue learning, and face the future with resilience,” he added.

Thanh Hung