Indiana State University has signed an official Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Chicago Korean Education Center, a branch of the Korean Consulate General in Chicago and the Ministry of Education of the Republic of Korea (South Korea), establishing a new international partnership that expands cultural engagement and global learning opportunities for students.
Through the agreement, Indiana State University will receive funding to host cultural programming, including an annual Korean Culture Festival that will be open to the Terre Haute community and audiences across the state of Indiana. The partnership also strengthens academic and international pathways for Indiana State students by creating new opportunities to study at colleges and universities in South Korea.
Students will be provided with expanded opportunities through access to information about short-term study abroad programs and long-term degree options. In addition, students may apply for scholarships or tuition reduction programs offered by the Government of the Republic of Korea.
“This agreement reflects the Bayh College of Education’s commitment to preparing globally minded educators and leaders,” said Carrie Ball, interim dean of the Bayh College of Education. “By partnering with the Chicago Korean Education Center, we are creating meaningful opportunities for cultural exchange, academic collaboration, and community engagement that will enrich the experiences of our students and the broader region.”
Seonjin Song, Director of the Korean Education Center in Chicago (KECC), also highlighted the significance of the partnership.
“Indiana State University has already demonstrated strong global engagement through its ongoing collaboration with Korean universities, and this MOU represents an important milestone in deepening ties between Korea and the university,” said Song. “The KECC is committed to actively supporting the expansion of study abroad opportunities in Korea and helping students strengthen their global competencies. We also look forward to working together to promote Korean language and culture throughout the local community.”
University leaders emphasized that the partnership aligns with Indiana State’s broader focus on global engagement and student success.
“This memorandum of understanding opens doors for our students to engage in high-impact international learning experiences while strengthening Indiana State’s global academic partnerships,” said University Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Brad Balch. “These opportunities help our students develop the cultural awareness and global competencies that are increasingly essential in today’s interconnected world.”
Indiana State University President Mike Godard emphasized the broader significance of the partnership for both students and the Wabash Valley.
“This agreement represents a powerful example of how Indiana State is advancing its Strategic Plan through collaboration, innovation, and global engagement,” Godard said. “By partnering with the Government of South Korea, we are expanding opportunities for our students while enriching the cultural and educational landscape of our community and our state.”
The MOU underscores Indiana State University’s continued focus on building strategic partnerships that enhance access, foster cultural understanding, and create lasting academic and community impact—key pillars of the University’s long-term vision.