Ellie Loethen

Intern - GSIS Newsletter

Yonsei University has a long history starting in April 1885 when it was founded initially as a hospital, what we now know as Severance Hospital.  We know many things about our school ranging from the kinds of classes it offers, the events it holds on campus, the concerts it puts on, and even what Korean dramas were filmed here!  However, there are plenty of things not known by the average student or the general public.  Yonsei, like many universities, has its quirks and mysteries for those who are interested to discover.  We have compiled a list of interesting trivia to share next time someone asks about Yonsei!  The first installment will cover the history of the Yonsei eagle!

There's a persistent myth that Yonsei University's mascot was once a bear, which was supposedly replaced by an eagle sometime in the 1950s or '60s. However, there's no evidence to support this claim. Instead, the eagle has long been the symbol of Yonsei, representing the core values of truth and freedom that are central to the university's identity. This symbolism aligns with the university's motto, "The Truth Will Set You Free" (John 8:32). As a Christian university founded by a missionary, Yonsei uses the eagle to symbolize the truth and strength often associated with this majestic bird in the Bible.

It sits on top of a staggering 12.3 meter (approximately 40 feet) concrete pedestal.  The bird itself is much bigger than it looks!  Cast in bronze, the eagle is 2.6 meters (8.5 feet) tall and boasts a 5.2 meter (17 feet) wingspan.  

The eagle statue on campus, which sits above The Commons (백양누리) and to the south of the Central Library was unveiled in 1970 in order to commemorate Yonsei’s 85th anniversary.  This is perhaps where the myth of a new mascot to replace the bear came from, however this was simply in order to iconify the eagle, which has been the official mascot of the university for quite some time.  The statue was funded by students who had a pride for their university and carved into the base is an engraving that honors those who contributed. 

Not only does this majestic creature represent the truth and freedom of Yonsei, but the students who contributed to the statue itself brought a new sense of pride to the Yonsei student body, especially in regards to the long-standing academic rivalry between Yonsei and Korea University.  Every fall semester, the two schools meet for a series of sporting events in a friendly display of showmanship and to determine who is the better private school:  The YonKo Games (or KoYon if Korea University is hosting).  Five sports (hockey, rugby, soccer, basketball, and baseball) are played over the course of a week or so and the best out of five determines who is the champion for the fiscal year.  These games are the perfect opportunity for Yonsei students to express their “Eagle Pride”, dress in Yonsei blue, and cheer for their team on the field (or court! Or ice!). 

While Yonsei University is proudly represented by the eagle, Korea University shows its pride through the tiger.  Each fall, the Eagle vs Tiger spirit brightens the student body and offers an opportunity to show off what makes their school great!