25 May 2025, Busan, South Korea - The Philippine Embassy and Dr. Chang Soon Heung, President of the Busan University of Foreign Studies (BUFS), signed a Deed of Donation on 23 May 2025, marking the second phase of the “Advancing Philippine Studies Program” (PSP) at the BUFS Campus in Busan, South Korea.

The joint initiative aims to further develop academic programs, projects, and/or activities related to Philippine history, cultures, language, and society. The main program is to develop a Filipino Micro Major Program in BUFS.

In his welcoming remarks, President Chang expressed his appreciation for the active engagement of the Philippine government in advancing the development of the Philippine Studies Program, particularly in the fields of language, culture, and heritage. He further proposed expanding the program to include the Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics in future projects. Notably, BUFS is one of the leading universities in Korea in AI and robotics research and development, offering specialized programs for international students in Korea. 

Ambassador Dizon – De Vega welcomed President Chang’s proposal and expressed support in exploring new areas of collaboration, including AI integration, expanded research partnerships, student and faculty exchanges, and other joint projects that promote and strengthen PH-Korea relations. 

Present during the signing ceremony were Deputy Head of Mission and Consul General Edwin Gil Q. Mendoza and Cultural Officer Mr. Anthony Z. Cornista. Representing BUFS were Vice President Dr. Shin Kyoo Jae; Dean of International Affairs, Dr. Kwon Sun Hee; Director of Korea Institute for ASEAN Studies Dr. Kim Donh Yeob; Philippine Studies Faculty Member Professor Cecil Hwang; International Exchange Team Leader. Mr. Kim Taejin; and International Relations Coordinator, Mr. Sanghoon Jeon. Also in attendance were faculty and students of BUFS.