In the expectation that its graduates will need specialized study, along with cutting-edge professional skills and knowledge, Handong Global University purposes to support dynamic and progressive research programs. We seek to provide our students with the most advanced, technologically sophisticated, and essential tools for their scholarship and career preparation. Handong also seeks to assist society by providing practical solutions to real-world problems and needs. And to advance theoretical knowledge in each of its respective fields of study. With these goals in mind, Handong has established specialized research institutes in all of its major schools of learning. Though the primary effort of each institute is directed toward research, almost all of them are actively engaged in practice as well; that is, in applying the results of their research to the everyday problems and needs of government and industry. Following is a list of current Research Institutes, including a brief description

The Institute of Construction and Environmental Research
The Institute of Construction and Environmental Research exists to develop and promote the use of advanced technology for construction and city development. It also advocates controlled and responsible growth at both the city and national levels. It conducts environmental impact studies and assists local governments and city planners in assessing the impact of potential development projects. Specialized areas of research include: development of construction technology; city and environmental planning; environmental impact studies; water resource management, and more.


The Institute for Functional Food and Food Safety
The Institute for Functional Food and Food Safety researches the development of foods to be used in the prevention of disease. For example, foods used in the fight against such conditions as high blood pressure and certain cancers. It also works to develop new and superior food safety technology.


The Geographical Information Systems (GIS) Institute
In preparation for the influence that information and technology will continue to have on the 21st century, the Geographical Information Systems Institute was established to develop and apply GIS technology, and to provide GIS education. GIS technology can be used in a variety of fields and for a variety of important purposes: chiefly it provides complex and sophisticated data analysis for geographically referenced data. Some examples include satellite imaging and digital mapping; urban planning and environmental engineering; demographic and political analysis; utility and facility management; road systems planning and traffic control, and much more. This GIS Institute frequently partners with both local and national governments, and a variety of companies and industries, to assist them in applying GIS technology to their current systems of operation and special project needs.


The Communication and Information Technology Institute (CITI)

CITI is comprised of about ten faculty members from the School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering. Professors engage in team research projects in the areas of wireless communication, data communication, medical imaging, multimedia, and artificial intelligence. CITI has ambitious plans for its future and intends to develop into a world-wide leader for research in its areas of expertise.


The Institute for Biomedical Research
The Institute for Biomedical Research conducts research into the development of pharmaceuticals for the treatment of AIDS and hepatitis, antibiotics, prescription drugs, and more. It studies the activity of the AIDS virus and cancer cells, lecithin separation, immunity, and other related areas. The Institute has been awarded a patent from the United States government for its AIDS research.


The Institute for Neo-energy Research
In provision for the modern age's problems of environmental pollution and fossil fuel depletion, the Institute for Neo-energy Research has been established to research new sources of energy. Solar power, wind power, ocean energy, biomass, and space energy are among the subjects being researched and developed by the institute. In addition, the institute works to develop anti-pollution measures needed in the development and consumption of existing energy sources.


The Institute of Foreign Language Education

The Institute of Foreign Language Education is being established to research more efficient methods of foreign language acquisition. Led by international faculty from the School of International Studies, Languages & Literature, the institute will engage in language program evaluation, curriculum and program development, and application and trial of current language-acquisition theories. Languages currently under consideration are English, French, German, Japanese, Chinese, and Spanish. As part of Handong Global University's contribution to the education of the local community, specialized training programs for teachers of English in local primary and secondary schools are also being offered.


Industrial and Information Design Institute

The Industrial and Information Design Institute of Handong has a formal alliance with the Korean Institute of Industrial Design Promotion (KIDP). Together we assist small and medium-sized industries with improving the design of their products in order to increase their competitive market power. Considering the specific needs of each client, we help identify current trends in design that can boost their sales and market appeal.The Design Institute also researches and analyzes current design trends to produce new teaching materials and methods. A frequent focus is on "interactive design" techniques. We also offer student internship programs during the summer and winter holidays.