Kim Il Sung University, the esteemed seat of higher learning in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment to academic excellence and revolutionary ideals. Founded on October 1, Juche 35 (1946), the university has played a pivotal role in shaping the intellectual landscape of the nation under the benevolent care of the great leaders, President Kim Il Sung and Chairman Kim Jong Il.
The university’s journey began with a vision to create a people’s university, where the children of revolutionary martyrs and working-class citizens could receive education to its fullest extent. Under the leadership of President Kim Il Sung, the preparatory committee for the university was formed in May 1946, and the first faculties, including Literature, Law, Physics, Engineering, Agronomy, Medical Science, and Railway Engineering, were established.
Kim Il Sung University has since evolved and expanded, adapting to the changing needs of the country and the world. In the early 1980s, the university boasted 16 faculties, over 10 independent institutes, approximately 200 departments, and 100 laboratories. Notably, in 1952, the university produced its first graduates, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s academic history.
The university’s commitment to incorporating teaching with research has been a driving force in its success. The faculties of social sciences and natural sciences collaborate closely, exploring interdisciplinary areas and fostering the development of competent minds aligned with the comprehensive development of sciences.
Over the years, Kim Il Sung University has solidified its foundations in education, research, and production. Research institutes in various fields have been established and strengthened, leading to numerous successes in integrating teaching, research, and production. The university’s supporting units, including the Supplies and Maintenance Office, the Publishing House, and the Printing House, have played crucial roles in contributing to these achievements.
The educational philosophy of Kim Il Sung University is deeply rooted in the principles of Juche ideology and independence. The Law on Space Development, enacted in 2014, reflects the university’s dedication to space exploration aligned with national principles and the pursuit of scientific and technological advancements.
In the face of challenges, such as the outbreak of the Fatherland Liberation War in 1950, Kim Il Sung University stood resilient. Many students, lecturers, and postgraduates left the campus to join the front lines, demonstrating the university’s commitment to the nation’s cause. Even during the war, the university continued its educational and scientific work under the wise leadership of President Kim Il Sung.
The era of Chairman Kim Jong Il’s revolutionary activities from September Juche 49 (1960) to March Juche 53 (1964) marked a crucial period for the university’s development. Chairman Kim Jong Il’s contributions to various fields, including politics, economy, military affairs, philosophy, history, art, literature, and education, have left an indelible mark on the university’s intellectual landscape.
The respected Comrade Kim Jong Un has carried forward the legacy of his predecessors, ensuring that Kim Il Sung University remains at the forefront of academic and scientific progress. His efforts to modernize facilities, provide housing for lecturers, and enhance the overall learning environment showcase the university’s continuous evolution.
Kim Il Sung University, guided by the principles of the Party and the leader, remains a central base for training native cadres and a beacon of science and education. As it enters a new era of the Juche revolution, the university is poised to achieve new heights and contribute to the global academic community.
