Mind of Endless Passion: Professor Cho, Won Kyong

Professor Cho Won-Kyong, the chief researcher of BIO-FD&C and the professor of the iconic Sungkyun Classics Book Club lectures, is known for his considerate, friendly personality. His lectures deliver more than knowledge; his engagement allows students to ponder and discover interests. This winter, the Sungkyun Times (SKT) will dive into Professor Cho’s infinite enthusiasm.

All About Professor Cho, Won Kyong

Q1. Please introduce yourself.

Hello, I am Cho, Won Kyong, the chief researcher at BIO-FD&C and also a professor of the Sungkyun Classics Book Club. I entered Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) in 1997, majoring in Architecture and Landscape Architecture. I completed my master’s degree in Genetic Engineering at SKKU and earned my Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Biology from Ludwig Maximilians University (LMU) in Munich, Germany.

Q2. What kind of student were you at SKKU?

I was a student who appreciated both my social and private time. I enjoyed interacting with diverse people from different majors. This eventually led me to serve as the president of the dormitory student council for one year, where I learned countless life lessons. Beyond campus life, I enjoyed my personal life. My hobbies were watching movies alone and exploring different parts of Seoul City. I was a self-disciplined student who maintained a steady routine. I aimed to go to bed by 9 p.m., wake up at 6 a.m., and jog each morning. This discipline helped me to achieve my goals to this day.

Q3. You completed your PhD in Germany. What inspired you to study abroad?

My parents spent five years in Germany as agricultural trainees, where they learned advanced farming techniques. This experience sparked my interest in studying in Germany. When I first discovered an exchange student program at LMU, I noticed none of the majors aligned with my field of study. To take advantage of the opportunity, I decided to study biology, which was a completely different field for me. Although this was clearly a challenge, the support and encouragement from my friends and family fueled my motivation. Looking back, this was one of the best decisions of my life. Life as an exchange student in Germany was like a dream. It was the best time of my life and ultimately led me to apply for the doctoral program at LMU.

Q4. How did studying abroad impact you?

Having studied for five and a half years in Korea, I did not understand the true meaning of learning. It was only when I first started learning German I experienced real learning. Thanks to my doctoral program advisor, I learned that the teacher’s role is not simply to share knowledge but also to inspire students to acquire knowledge for themselves. In fact, learning cannot be a passive process. It has to be an active process to search, develop, and achieve the skills in need. Gaining a proper understanding of learning was my most significant takeaway from studying abroad.

Q5. You have changed your major from architecture to biology. What made you change majors in graduate school?

As a child, I had many opportunities to practice and develop agricultural skills thanks to my parents. Helping my parents build the family house as a child has especially inspired me to pursue architecture studies. Although I genuinely enjoyed majoring in architecture, I had a strong desire for deeper learning. While seeking a new path, I encountered the exchange student program, where I majored in biology. This experience has truly satisfied my intellectual curiosity and completely aligned with my vision and strengths. Eventually, I found myself choosing genetic engineering as my next path.

Q6. What is the source of your passion?

I used to enjoy competition in this competitive world since I believed that high achievement would lead to my ultimate goal, financial security. However, my belief has completely changed since my father’s passing. Instead of pursuing a safe life, I now pursue challenges. Instead of securing my career as a lecturer, I aim to contribute to scientific research. My motivation for challenges is the source of my continuous passion for research.

The Master of Communication

Q7. Do you have any students who stand out in your memory?

One of the most memorable students was an international student from China. Although she had studied Pharmacy in college, she enrolled in the Department of Energy Science for her doctoral program. We met regularly after my lectures and conducted experiments together. Another memorable student, who originally majored in education, was inspired by my stories and decided to pursue biology-related studies abroad. I wrote several recommendation letters for her, and she successfully enrolled in a pharmacy program at a university in Australia.

Q8. Do you have any key focus areas in your class?

I first started lecturing Sungkyun Classics Book Club in 2020, during coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Many students participated online and were not actively engaging in class. One day, instead of sticking to the planned lecture material, I decided to have a conversation with the students. They responded with great interest, which led me to shift the focus of the class toward more student participation and engagement. I maintained the core purpose of the lecture but incorporated activities that required students to prepare and interact with one another. This change significantly boosted their creativity and passion. It also allowed students to discover and share their hidden talents. Through these activities, I aim to provide room to learn about each other’s future careers, concerns, and interests.

Q9. What motivates you to actively communicate with your students?

I genuinely enjoy talking with students and getting to know them personally. During COVID-19, I had the chance to share tea or lunch with a small group of students, which was a memorable experience. To continue this tradition, I started organizing a meal with the students at a restaurant on the last day of class. Beyond actively participating in the university, I hope students can make lasting memories through enjoyable meals and conversations. In the future, I hope they also connect with their junior colleagues when they find themselves in a similar position.

Next Chapter of Professor Cho, Won Kyong

Q10. Are there any other fields you would like to explore?

As a scientific researcher, I want to study more about plants, microorganisms, and environments. Specifically, I am interested in researching how microorganisms infect plants and cause diseases. Research facilities with optimal conditions are essential in this field. Therefore, I am currently interested in conducting these experiments abroad, which commonly has a greater diversity of perspectives and the chance for collaboration. Ultimately, I wish to address the challenges of future climate change and better understand its impact on ecological systems.

Q11. Do you have any words for Kingos?

To truly learn and succeed, you must take the initiative, gain hands-on experience, and become familiar with the process. Understanding the value of hard work helps you recognize your skills and appreciate the efforts of others. Dear Kingos, try to meet people from all walks of life and embrace new experiences. I encourage you to work or study abroad when you are young. The world is vast; broadening your perspective opens up opportunities for growth. Love what you do, and always live with gratitude. Feel free to discover your interests and follow them.