South Korea’s Wonkwang University shared interest in collaboration with the Papua New Guinea (PNG) Universities, following PNG Minister for International Trade and Investment Richard Maru and his delegation’s visit to South Korea.

The progressive news was announced during a meeting while visiting the Wonkwang University between Minister Maru, his delegation and the President of Wonkwang University, Mr. Park Sung Tae and his executives on Monday 27th October 2025.

Minister Maru’s visit to Wonkwang University followed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ministry of International Trade and Investment and Wonkwang University in September, outlining cooperation in vocational training, talent development, research, trade, and industrial collaboration.

Meanwhile, the meeting revealed South Korea’s Wonkwang University stands attentive to a cooperative effort with the Papua New Guinea University of Technology and the new Papua New Guinea University of Medicine and Health Sciences, especially in the agriculture and Health space.

According to Minister Maru, the Wonkwang University will be introduced to the Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology to discuss and establish a path forward.

“With Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) to open its office in PNG, we hope to work them to identify what programs Wonkwang University can assist us with through our universities,” said Minister Maru.

Moreover, Mr. Sung Tae also announced that Wonkwang University will be sending a medical team to Port Moresby late this year to provide free medical services to reinforce the relationship between the two countries.

Minister Maru thanked the university for their drive and passion in pushing to enhance the relationship between PNG and South Korea.

“I will put them in contact with the Chief Executive Officer of Port Moresby General Hospital to arrange for their visit,” he said.