BIGBANG’s G-Dragon has been appointed as a visiting professor at the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST).

The appointment, which was announced on June 5, aims to harness the synergy between Korean culture and cutting-edge science and technology developed at KAIST.

G-Dragon, whose real name is Kwon Ji-yong, received his letter of appointment after participating in the Innovate Korea 2024 talk show held at KAIST’s headquarters in Daejeon, South Korea.

The event, hosted by KAIST and the National Research Council of Science and Technology (NST), featured discussions on future technologies related to artificial intelligence (AI) and K-pop. Other notable participants of the event were Galaxy Corporation’s CEO Choi Yong Ho and KAIST President Lee Kwang Hyung.

G-Dragon expressed his enthusiasm and stated: “I am honored to be a visiting professor at KAIST, a school that produces many scientific geniuses. I look forward to the great synergy between the best science and technology experts and my entertainment expertise.”

KAIST officials highlighted that G-Dragon will collaborate on innovative research projects, particularly focusing on digital twin technology for Hallyu artists, and the convergence of K-Culture with technologies such as AI and the metaverse.

The establishment of the KAIST-Galaxy Corporation Enter-tech (Entertainment & Technology) Research Center within the mechanical engineering department is also in the pipeline.

The singer's appointment as a visiting professor is valid for two years, until June 4, 2026. During this period, G-Dragon will also serve as a global ambassador for KAIST, aiding in the institution’s international promotion efforts.

He is set to deliver special lectures on leadership to both undergraduate and graduate students, sharing his experiences and providing insights into the entertainment industry.

G-Dragon's involvement with KAIST reflects his ongoing engagement with technological advancements. Earlier this year, he made a surprise appearance at CES 2024, the world’s largest IT and consumer electronics show in Las Vegas, alongside Galaxy Corporation.

In addition to his academic role, G-Dragon is preparing for a highly anticipated comeback with a new solo album, his first in seven years. The album, set to be released in the latter half of this year, follows his last mini-album Kwon Ji Yong released in 2017.

— By Samantha Prats