The Korea University Phase 4 BK21 Psychology Education and Research Group aims to advance psychological science research and talent development with a focus on addressing social inequality and promoting sustainability. Its vision is to grow into a globally recognized education and research group that contributes to alleviating social imbalances and advancing sustainability through psychological science.
"The Korea University Phase 4 BK21 Psychology Education and Research Group is grounded in the recognition that individual psychological
imbalances are closely intertwined with broader social inequalities and cannot be studied independently or in isolation. Building on
this perspective, the group seeks to develop into a world-class psychology education and research hub that integrates research and
training across multiple levels, from biological mechanisms underlying homeostasis, to individual psychological imbalance, and further
to their dynamic interactions with social imbalance.
Drawing on psychology’s strong tradition of interdisciplinary integration and scientific methodology, the group introduces an education
and research paradigm that bridges disciplines and connects academic inquiry with real-world practice. By fostering a balanced and
reciprocal exchange between basic and applied psychological research, the group aims to cultivate both psychological science researchers
who address social inequality and sustainability, and practice-oriented experts equipped with evidence-based, practical problem-solving
capabilities.
Ultimately, the group promotes scientific research on sustainability grounded in psychological theories and empirical findings, supports
the development of educational programs and policy-relevant research to enhance sustainability, and systematically shares its
educational and research outcomes with local communities. Through regular engagement with the public and the collection of feedback on
research findings, the group seeks to establish a virtuous cycle that connects education, research, and practice."
"The education and research group has consistently demonstrated outstanding performance across both. Educational competitiveness has
been significantly strengthened through integrated bachelor’s–master’s and master’s–doctoral training pathways, interdisciplinary
curricula incorporating AI, big data, and programming, and the expansion of field-oriented extracurricular programs.
Participating faculty members have published extensively in leading international journals, demonstrating high research productivity and
quality. Interdisciplinary research, including studies integrating AI, neuroscience, and solutions to social challenges, is actively
pursued, and international research networks have been substantially expanded through global collaborative projects and international
training programs.
In addition, the group has achieved meaningful impact by ensuring that research outcomes are applied in real-world and societal contexts
through industry–academia collaboration, problem-solving research, public lectures, and broader social engagement. Overall, the
education and research group has steadily achieved excellence across education, research, and social contribution, firmly establishing
itself as a leading institution shaping the future of psychological science."