Hyundai Motor Chung Mong-Koo Foundation Announces Scholarship Opportunities for Graduate Students
The Hyundai Motor Chung Mong-Koo Foundation is currently accepting applications for its Global Scholarship program, offering comprehensive support to graduate students pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees. The foundation aims to foster next-generation leaders with a commitment to tackling global challenges through innovation and impactful research.
Scholarship Details and Support
The Hyundai Motor Chung Mong-Koo Global Scholarship provides substantial financial assistance, covering entire tuition fees for up to 4 semesters for master’s students (including a research semester), 8 semesters for doctoral students (including a research semester), and 10 semesters for combined master’s and doctorate programs (including a research semester). In addition to tuition coverage, scholars receive a learning support fund of 6 million won per semester (equivalent to 1 million won per month), a one-time settlement subsidy of 2.5 million won, and a graduation incentive of 1 million won. CMK Foundation
Focus Areas and Eligibility
The scholarship program prioritizes students in the fields of business/economics, STEM future industries, Korean language/Korean studies, and public policy. It is specifically designed for applicants from eight ASEAN countries: Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, Laos, Myanmar, and Cambodia. Chung Mong-Koo Foundation
Commitment to Research and Development
The foundation emphasizes support for cutting-edge research, providing opportunities for scholars to present their work at international academic conferences and publish in renowned journals. Recipients of the CMK Science and Technology Scholarship benefit from a growth roadmap focused on researcher-centered development, fostering a collaborative ecosystem to encourage “convergence thinking” and address complex social problems. Korea JoongAng Daily
Success Stories and Impact
Scholarship recipients have achieved significant recognition in their respective fields. Notably, Yunchan Lim, a scholarship student, gained international acclaim by winning the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition in 2022. Other recent achievements include awards for Hyun-seo Kim (violin), Da-yeon Yeom (ballet), Young-ho Shin (piano), Si-heon Yoo (double bass), Melody (piano), Kyeong-sik Shin (viola), and Han Jae-min (cello) at prestigious international competitions.
Networking and Growth Programs
The Hyundai Motor Chung Mong-Koo Foundation offers a range of programs to support the holistic development of its scholars. These include networking opportunities with Korean scholars, participation in global summer camps and cultural experiences, and mentorship programs. Upcoming opportunities include participation in music camps with the Berlin Staatsoper and the Verbier Festival, and attendance at the UKC 2026 (Korea-American Science and Technology Conference). CMK Foundation
Application Process and Updates
The foundation announced in December 2025 that applications for the Hyundai Motor Chung Mong-Koo Global Scholarship for first-year graduate students will now open only once a year, with a narrowed focus on eligible fields of study. Interested candidates can identify more information and apply through the official scholarship website: www.cmkfoundation-scholarship.org.
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