Hwang Yu-na, grand prize winner of the 13th Global Korea Youth Awards, poses in front of her school building at Cheongshim International Academy in Gapyeong, Gyeonggi Province, Nov. 28. Korea Times photo by Shim Hyun-chul

Hwang Yu-na, a 16-year-old student at Cheongshim International Academy in Gapyeong, Gyeonggi Province, has an inspiring vision to become a globally recognized innovator. With a strong passion for science and math, she is carving out her path toward achieving her dreams.

"The mysteries of space have always fascinated me," Hwang said.

Born to a Chinese mother and Korean father, she grew up watching documentaries that sparked her curiosity about the universe. Her fascination with space began at an early age, influenced by her parents' shared interest.

"Both my parents are captivated by the vastness of space, particularly its infiniteness and the possibility of extraterrestrial life," she said.

While Hwang initially dreamed of becoming an astronomer, she recently shifted her focus to a more practical future. She now envisions a career as a scientist and entrepreneur, combining her passion for exploration with a desire to make a tangible impact.

Her academic interests span various scientific fields, particularly physics and chemistry.

"Physics is fascinating because it translates everyday phenomena into equations, while chemistry intrigues me for how it brings scientific precision to the unimaginable," she said.

Hwang has been actively working toward her goals by participating in programs like the entrepreneurial course at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology. The program provided her with in-depth scientific training, coupled with insights into entrepreneurship.

"The experience showed me that science doesn't just end in the lab — it can drive innovations that make daily life more convenient and connected," she said.

Hwang Yu-na speaks during an interview with The Korea Times at Cheongshim International Academy in Gapyeong, Gyeonggi Province, Nov. 28. Korea Times photo by Shim Hyun-chul

Among her most memorable projects was designing a hospital and funeral facility for use in space. Drawing on the unique properties of microgravity, her team proposed medical rehabilitation and other services tailored to such an environment. The idea won the team an award for creativity and innovation during the program.

Beyond her scientific endeavors, Hwang has shown strong leadership and commitment to her school community.

As vice president of the student council, she took the lead in organizing major events, including the school's annual festival.

"Working with department heads and resolving conflicts between them was challenging, but it taught me a great deal about responsibility," she said.

"Seeing the festival become a success was one of the most rewarding moments of my school life."

As vice president of the student council, one of Hwang's notable achievements was launching "Sandwich Day," an event created to enhance breakfast options for dormitory students.

"Dorm life often meant limited breakfast choices like rice or cereal," she said.

"I suggested a day where students could make their own sandwiches, creating a more enjoyable and nutritious start to the day."

The initiative was widely praised by both students and staff, with nutritionists applauding it as a creative and engaging approach to promoting healthy eating.

Hwang's leadership extends beyond her role in the student council. Since her first year, she has been an active member of the school's peer counseling club, guiding younger students through academic and personal challenges.

"As a senior, I've been able to share my study methods and personal experiences," she said.

"It's incredibly rewarding to see others grow and improve after our conversations."

Even when she was in elementary school, she helped a newly arrived Chinese classmate who was struggling with the Korean language, drawing on her own multicultural background.

"Even though my Chinese wasn't perfect, I did my best to help her adapt to the new environment," Hwang said.

"Society has grown more accepting of multicultural families, and I hope people can see their diverse backgrounds as strengths rather than weaknesses," she added.

Hwang Yu-na poses after proposing her team's project during the IP-CEO program at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) in Daegu, Nov. 16. Courtesy of Hwang Yu-na

Her commitment to global perspectives is reflected in her active participation in CSIAMUN, her school's Model United Nations program.

As a delegate representing countries like South Africa and China, she debated on pressing global issues and sharpened her understanding of international affairs.

"Representing a country requires a strong sense of responsibility. It also gave me the chance to network and engage with diverse viewpoints, which greatly enriched my worldview," she said.

While Hwang's academic and leadership achievements are noteworthy, her aspirations extend far beyond Korea. She hopes to make an impact on the global stage.

"During my high school orientation, I learned about an alumna who gave a speech in Silicon Valley," she said. "That inspired me to aim for global recognition."

She was recently accepted into Daegu Science High School, a prestigious institution known for nurturing talented students in math and science.

"I believe my diverse cultural background and experiences will play a key role in helping me achieve that," she said.