The Hyundai Motor Group’s philanthropic arm, the Hyundai Cha Jeong-gu Foundation, is now accepting applications for its next cohort of Cha Jeong-gu Scholars. This highly competitive scholarship program, established in memory of the late Hyundai Motor Group Chairman Chung Mong-koo, aims to cultivate the next generation of impact leaders in South Korea and beyond. Seventy students pursuing studies in science, technology, and the arts will be selected to receive substantial financial support and a range of opportunities designed to accelerate their academic and professional growth.
Since its inception in 2011, the Hyundai Cha Jeong-gu Scholarship has invested approximately 80 billion Korean won (roughly $60 million USD as of November 21, 2024) in over 1,200 students across high school, undergraduate, and graduate levels. The foundation’s approach is rooted in the late Chairman Chung’s belief in fostering individuals who “act justly, demonstrate consideration for others, and are not afraid to fail in pursuit of excellence.” This commitment translates into a comprehensive package of benefits for scholars, extending far beyond tuition assistance.
The scholarship offers varying levels of financial aid: 4.5 million Korean won per semester for high school students, 6 million won for undergraduates, and 7 million won for graduate students. But the benefits don’t stop there. Scholars gain access to funding for international conference participation, overseas study opportunities, and recognition for globally significant achievements. A unique “Scholar Fellowship Program” further supports their development through mentorship and networking opportunities.
Investing in Scientific and Technological Innovation
The ‘CMK Science and Technology Scholarship’ is specifically designed to nurture future leaders capable of tackling complex societal challenges through scientific and technological advancements. The foundation emphasizes a “convergence of thinking” – encouraging scholars to break down disciplinary silos and collaborate across fields. This represents reflected in the program’s support for participation in international academic conferences and publication in leading scholarly journals. The foundation actively fosters an ecosystem where researchers can exchange ideas and build connections both domestically and internationally.
The impact of this investment is already evident. As of 2025, scholars supported by the CMK Science and Technology Scholarship have collectively authored 282 first-author papers in SCI-level international journals. Notably, research has been published in prestigious publications such as Nature Communications, Science Advances, PNAS (Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America), CVPR (Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition), and NeurIPS (Conference on Neural Information Processing Systems), demonstrating a commitment to cutting-edge research across diverse fields.
Cultivating the Next Generation of Artistic Talent
Alongside its commitment to STEM fields, the Hyundai Cha Jeong-gu Foundation recognizes the vital role of the arts in shaping society. The ‘CMK Arts Scholarship’ focuses on identifying and supporting exceptionally talented young artists, specifically in classical music and ballet. The program is open to middle and high school students (including those in homeschooling) and undergraduates specializing in these disciplines.
Selection for the CMK Arts Scholarship involves a rigorous audition process, both in-person and via video submission. Successful applicants receive financial support for participation in international competitions, as well as access to the CMK Young Arts Program, a comprehensive suite of resources designed to enhance their artistic skills and professional development. The foundation’s investment has already yielded remarkable results, with scholars achieving international acclaim.
Pianist Lim Yun-chan, a 2022 scholarship recipient, gained global recognition by winning the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition at the youngest age in the competition’s history. Other recent successes include violinist Kim Hyun-seo (a 2025 finalist in the Paganini International Violin Competition and a 2024 prize winner at the Viotti International Music Competition), ballet dancer Yeom Da-yeon (a 2026 finalist at the Swiss Lausanne Competition), and pianist Shin Young-ho (a 2025 semi-finalist at the Dublin International Piano Competition). A full list of recent awardees and their accomplishments can be found on the foundation’s website.
Beyond Financial Support: A Holistic Approach to Development
The Hyundai Cha Jeong-gu Scholarship isn’t simply about providing financial assistance; it’s about fostering a community of ambitious, globally-minded individuals. The foundation organizes a three-day camp for Korean and international scholars to promote cross-cultural understanding. A mentorship program connects current scholars with alumni, creating a valuable network for career guidance and collaboration. This summer, scholars will have the opportunity to participate in music workshops linked to the Berlin State Opera, the Hanns Eisler School of Music, and the Verbier Festival in Switzerland, as well as the UKC 2026 conference hosted by the Korean-American Scientists and Engineers Association (KSEA).
The foundation also hosts an annual “Homecoming Day” where scholars from all years gather to strengthen their bonds and share experiences. These initiatives underscore the foundation’s commitment to nurturing not just individual talent, but a collaborative ecosystem of future leaders.
How to Apply
Applications for the Hyundai Cha Jeong-gu Scholarship are currently being accepted through the scholarship website. The deadline for submissions is not yet specified, but interested students are encouraged to visit the site for detailed eligibility requirements and application instructions. The foundation is seeking students who demonstrate not only academic or artistic excellence, but also a commitment to making a positive impact on the world.
The Hyundai Cha Jeong-gu Foundation will continue to accept applications and announce the selected scholars in the coming months. The foundation’s ongoing commitment to investing in the next generation promises to shape the future of innovation and artistic expression in South Korea and beyond.
Disclaimer: This article provides information about a scholarship program and is not financial or educational advice. Please consult with relevant professionals for personalized guidance.
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