Astana International University and Hankuk University of Foreign Studies Expand Cooperation

On September 14, 2026, a delegation from Astana International University, led by President A. B. Myrzagaliyeva, visited Hankuk University of Foreign Studies (HUFS). During the visit, the delegation met with Professor Son Young-hoon, Director of the Institute of Central Asian Studies and a renowned scholar and promoter of the Kazakh language and culture.

The meeting carried special symbolism due to a significant event: on the very same day, the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, awarded Professor Son Young-hoon the Order of Friendship (Dostyk) II degree. Astana International University extends its heartfelt congratulations to the Professor on receiving this prestigious state award—a well-deserved recognition of his long-standing contributions to the study and promotion of the Kazakh language and culture abroad, as well as to the strengthening of friendship between the peoples of Kazakhstan and the Republic of Korea.

During the visit, AIU representatives toured the educational environment and modern infrastructure of HUFS. The delegation was deeply impressed by the scale of the university campuses and its rich library, surrounded by lush trees and flowers. HUFS is ranked among the top 600 universities globally and holds 46th place in the "Modern Languages" subject area, while also maintaining strong positions in Arts and Humanities, Social Sciences, and Management.

One of the warmest and most memorable highlights of the visit was attending a Kazakh language class conducted by Professor Dulat Khangereyevich Bakishev. The high level of instruction and the students' achievements left a lasting impression on the guests: despite being only first- and second-year students, they already demonstrate a solid understanding of spoken Kazakh and converse with confidence. AIU President A. B. Myrzagaliyeva interacted with the students in Kazakh. Their genuine interest in Kazakhstan and eagerness to deepen their understanding of the nation's culture transformed the meeting into a true dialogue of cultures.

Professors Kim Seon-cheol and Kim Jae-min contributed significantly to organizing the visit. Thanks to their attention and hospitality, the meeting was conducted at a high level, while the introduction to Seoul and traditional Korean cuisine added special warmth to the program.

Following the discussions, the parties identified promising areas for joint collaboration: enhancing the teaching of Kazakh and Korean languages, implementing academic, scientific, and educational projects, as well as promoting student and faculty exchange programs.

This new partnership opens broad opportunities for the exchange of knowledge and expertise. It will serve as an important milestone in strengthening academic and cultural ties between Kazakhstan and the Republic of Korea, as well as fostering intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding among the youth of both nations.