South Korea – 20 October 2026. The USU Faculty of Engineering conducted an institutional visit and Research Collaboration Discussion at Hanbat National University (HBNU), Daejeon. This activity was part of efforts to strengthen international cooperation and follow up on institutional relations between Universitas Sumatera Utara and Hanbat National University.

The USU Faculty of Engineering delegation consisted of Prof. Ar. Ir. Nurlisa Ginting, M.Sc., Ph.D., IAI, Adj. Prof. Asrul Mahjuddin Ressang, Ar. Selly Veronica, S.T., M.T., IAI, and Utari Ardha Damanik, S.Ars. The delegation was received by representatives of the Hanbat National University Office of International Affairs, namely Prof. Min-Wook Oh, together with Ms. Park Jae Hee and Mr. Hwang Seon Pyo.

The visit began with discussions on follow-up actions regarding the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two institutions. The meeting also included the signing of an Implementation Arrangement (IA) as an operational framework for implementing cooperation programs to be developed in more concrete terms.

The signing of the IA marks an important step in translating institutional commitments into academic activities that can be jointly implemented. Through this document, collaboration can be directed toward programs that provide direct benefits to the development of education, research, and academic mobility.

The academic visit provided the delegation with an opportunity to observe the learning environment firsthand and discuss potential cooperation in construction, environmental studies, planning, and design. The meeting also served as a platform for bringing together the academic expertise of both institutions.

Strategic discussions focused on several collaboration opportunities, including joint research, the development of visiting lecturer programs, and student exchange programs between Universitas Sumatera Utara and Hanbat National University. These programs are expected to broaden the academic community's experience, enhance the international recognition of lecturers, and create opportunities for cross-border research.

Through this strengthened cooperation, the USU Faculty of Engineering continues to encourage international relations to move beyond institutional documents and develop into measurable and sustainable academic programs. Collaboration with HBNU also opens opportunities to expand research networks, particularly in fields that represent the strengths of both institutions.