Sejong News
Opening New Doors to the Future: The Department of Defense AI and Robotics Convergence Engineering and the Department of Quantum Intelligence Information
김유리
2026-07-07
Our department operates a Project-Oriented Education (POE) curriculum that incorporates real-world operational constraints into engineering education. Combined with military studies courses covering topics such as amphibious operations and tactics, the program is designed to cultivate both technical expertise and leadership capabilities.
Could you briefly introduce the Department of Defense AI and Robotics Convergence Engineering, which will be established in the 2026 academic year?
Our department is a military contract department established through a strategic partnership with the Republic of Korea Marine Corps. Its goal is to cultivate professionals equipped with advanced defense science and technology expertise, as well as military professionalism, to support the Marine Corps’ vision of becoming a “SMART National Strategic Maneuver Force.” Rather than simply teaching technology, the department seeks to integrate engineering knowledge and leadership, nurturing “officer-engineers” who can both accomplish missions in operational environments and solve technical challenges in the field.
What is the biggest difference between your department and existing AI and robotics programs?
The key difference is that our educational framework begins with the realities of operational military environments. While conventional AI and robotics programs often emphasize efficiency and performance, defense applications prioritize reliability and stability under extreme conditions. To address these requirements, our department adopts a Project-Oriented Education (POE) approach that incorporates real-world operational constraints into engineering projects. In parallel, students receive military studies education, including amphibious operations and military tactics, enabling them to develop both technical and command capabilities.
What led to the development of this specialized educational system in partnership with the Marine Corps?
Modern warfare is rapidly evolving through the integration of unmanned systems and AI technologies. For the Marine Corps to become a “SMART National Strategic Maneuver Force” capable of responding quickly to multidimensional threats, it needs officers who can design combat capabilities through technology and translate those capabilities into operational concepts. The department was established by combining the Marine Corps’ strategic needs with the experience our university has accumulated through operating military contract programs with the Navy and Air Force.
What qualities or attitudes are expected of students in order to realize the department’s vision?
Students should aspire to become leaders who accomplish missions through technology while guiding organizations effectively. Technical competence alone is not enough. Teamwork and leadership must be cultivated intentionally. Even the most advanced technology ultimately functions through people and organizations, so students need the ability to combine individual strengths and achieve results collectively.
What advice would you give to prospective students considering the Department of Defense AI and Robotics Convergence Engineering?
I hope students will grow into the “Iron Men” who protect the Republic of Korea. Fundamental skills in mathematics and programming will form the framework that supports your “suit,” while AI will serve as your “JARVIS,” helping you make the best decisions. If you never lose sight of the mission that “the technology I create helps protect Korea,” you will be able to grow into a true defense AI professional with both technical excellence and a strong sense of responsibility.
Interview with the Head of the Department of Quantum Information Science and Engineering
In step with these global trends, Sejong University has established the Department of Quantum Information Science and Engineering. Quantum information technology is based on quantum mechanics and information theory, and the development of commercial technologies such as quantum computers, quantum communication devices, and quantum sensors requires both scientific and engineering thinking.
Could you briefly introduce the Department of Quantum Information Science and Engineering?
Quantum computing has become a global focus because it can solve problems that are difficult for conventional computers and improve the efficiency of drug development. In the United States, companies such as Google, IonQ, and PsiQuantum are driving industry growth, while Europe is promoting national-level development through the Quantum Europe Strategy.
In step with these global trends, Sejong University has established the Department of Quantum Intelligence Information. Quantum information technology is based on quantum mechanics and information theory. The development of commercial technologies such as quantum computers, quantum communication devices, and quantum sensors requires both scientific and engineering thinking. The department aims to cultivate talented individuals who will lead these emerging fields.
Could you tell us about the industry-academia-research collaboration programs offered by the department?
We are currently conducting research in collaboration with the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), and several graduate students are participating as interns. We also collaborate with companies such as QSIMPLUS, creating industry-academia partnerships in which working professionals can pursue both research and academic studies simultaneously. In addition, individual faculty members are actively engaged in collaborative projects with industry and research institutions, and we plan to expand these efforts into a more systematic departmental curriculum.
What are the goals of the Department of Quantum Information Science and Engineering?
Our first goal is to ensure that students remain competitive in established industries such as electronics and computer engineering after graduation. At the same time, we place strong emphasis on training key personnel for emerging industries, including quantum computing, quantum communication, and quantum sensing. Because these fields offer tremendous growth potential and flexibility, our focus is on equipping students with skills that can be applied across a wide range of industries rather than limiting them to a single career path.
What advice would you give to incoming students or those considering the department?
I encourage students to build a strong foundation in theoretical knowledge while actively seeking hands-on experience. Participating in campus projects or pursuing internships at companies and research institutes can be highly beneficial. In particular, I recommend consulting with faculty members and exploring opportunities to work as research interns in laboratories.
I would also advise students not to become overly dependent on AI. Even when experiments are difficult, it is important to persevere and see them through to completion. AI is only a supporting tool—the true driver of experimentation is the student. I hope students will actively seek out opportunities and take ownership of their own growth.