Representatives from the University of Missouri, the state of Missouri and the Mizzou Korean Alumni Association.
Oct. 28 2025
Contact: Christopher Ave, Christopher.Ave@missouri.edu
The University of Missouri and the Mizzou Korean Alumni Association continued their proud legacy of international partnership during the 16th Harry S. Truman Conference, recently held at the National Assembly (Korea’s Congress) of the Republic of Korea in Seoul — one of the nation’s most historically significant venues.
The event brought together university leaders, distinguished Korean alumni, policymakers and scholars to celebrate shared progress and explore new horizons in research, technology and global collaboration.
“We are proud of the strong legacy of collaboration and friendship between Mizzou and South Korea,” University of Missouri President Mun Choi said. “Together with our many Korean alumni and partners, we continue to share the power of Mizzou to transform communities around the world while also bringing the latest, state-of-the-art innovations to the people of Missouri. I was also moved by the reverence for President Truman and his seminal role in the liberation and defense of Korea."
Conference sessions examined evolving political and economic ties between the U.S. and the Republic of Korea and future opportunities for bilateral research and innovation — including discussions on the University of Missouri Research Reactor (MURR) and Mizzou’s plans to increase production of cancer-fighting radioisotopes through NextGen MURR.
“International collaboration between Missouri and Korea continues to enhance our shared knowledge, technology and well-being,” UM Board of Curators Chair Todd Graves said. “NextGen MURR will have a global impact because we’re constructing a facility with world-class support and expertise. When completed, NextGen MURR will save the lives of Missourians and patients around the world.”
In addition to President Choi and Curator Graves, speakers included MURR Executive Director Matt Sanford and NextGen MURR Program Director Michael Hoehn, as well as Missouri Speaker of the House Jonathan Patterson.
Strengthening ties through NextGen MURR
A key highlight of the conference was the NextGen MURR Ceremonial Signing, signifying the initial design studies phase of NextGen MURR. The signing symbolized an important step forward in nuclear science collaboration between Mizzou and leading Korean institutions, including the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI) and Hyundai Engineering Company (HEC).
During the trip, the Missouri delegation visited HEC headquarters in Seoul and KAERI headquarters in Daejeon, touring key research and fabrication facilities. The delegation also toured KAERI’s Busan Kijang Research Reactor — a new facility focused on radioisotope production and advancing Korea’s isotope supply chains.
“These facilities provided important insight into the foundational nuclear technology that will be integrated into the NextGen MURR facility,” Hoehn said. “Collaborating with our international partners ensures NextGen MURR will serve as an asset of national and global strategic significance.”
While at KAERI headquarters, President Choi and KAERI President Han Joo signed a collaborative agreement expanding joint efforts in nuclear science and technology, radioisotope applications, neutron beam utilization, nuclear energy and materials research, and advanced computing.
The agreement is expected to open interdisciplinary opportunities across Mizzou’s 13 schools and colleges — and directly support the launch of the Energy Innovation Center, which will drive research into new energy solutions, including nuclear energy.
Honoring a legacy, inspiring the future
Named for President Harry S. Truman — who was instrumental in the liberation of Korea in 1945, the defense of South Korea during the Korean War and support for Korean students to study at Mizzou — the Truman Conference has become a symbol of the enduring friendship between the university and its Korean alumni.
What began as an exchange of ideas has grown into a model of academic and cultural partnership, advancing innovation, mutual understanding and global impact. The 16th Truman Conference reaffirmed that spirit — celebrating shared history, strengthening vital research partnerships and charting a bold vision for the future of Mizzou collaborations with Korean collaborators.
