PROJECTS

2023.07.14

Korea National University of Arts (KARTS) Partners with Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) to Launch Advanced Convergence Project

The Korea National University of Arts (KARTS, President Daejin Kim) has partnered with Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)—a top-tier U.S. research institution renowned for its arts programs—to launch a cutting-edge multidisciplinary convergence project.

VCU Provost Fotis Sotiropoulos visited the KARTS School of Film, TV & Multimedia to encourage VCU students participating in a preliminary workshop, observe the advanced convergence education environment, and sign a formal academic exchange agreement between the two institutions.

Under this agreement, a joint research initiative will be led by the industry-academic project team of Professor Cho Choong-yeon (KARTS Dean of Planning and Professor of Multimedia Arts)—a pioneer in technology-based convergent arts—and VCU students from the School of the Arts and College of Engineering, led by Professor Semi Ryu of VCU's Kinetic Imaging department (an alumnus of the 1st graduating class of KARTS School of Film, TV & Multimedia).

Project Overview & Focus

The project centers on collaborative research in technology-driven immersive content:

• XR Performance & Interactive Storytelling: Utilizing metaverse platforms to deeply explore interactive storytelling and new media performance directing at the intersection of art and technology.

• Joint Remote Classes: Conducted in collaboration with the KARTS AT Lab, remote classes will run independently through experimental, topic-based team projects.

• Future Expansion: Plans are underway to extend the collaboration between the KARTS School of Visual Arts (Design Department) and the VCU School of the Arts (Design Department), further broadening KARTS' global exchange network.

Key Quotes & Outlook

"This advanced convergence project with VCU is particularly meaningful as KARTS acts as a frontier, actively realizing the artistic values required on a global scale in the era of AI and VR. We will continue to pioneer the future of convergent arts on the world stage."

— Daejin Kim, President of KARTS

Through close collaboration with leading global institutions, KARTS continues to strengthen its pioneering role in international arts-and-technology education and creation. Moving forward, the KARTS AT Lab will continue to explore new possibilities for exchange while producing innovative research and creative projects that bridge art and technology.