Welcome to Solar Society of Pohang!
About Us
Imagine a place where a neuroscientist, opera singer, AI researcher, environmental lawyer, and quantum physicist sit down together to solve humanity's biggest challenges. That's the Solar Society of Pohang.
We're proud of what we're building:
- True interdisciplinary exchange — From Stanford to POSTECH, from Seoul to Silicon Valley, from research labs to concert halls
- No barriers to entry — Your passion and kindness matter more than your degrees
- Global cultural embrace — We welcome virtually any culture, as long as they honor humanity
- 37.5% women and growing — We're actively working toward 50% or higher because gender balance isn't just a goal, it's a commitment we take seriously
Inspired by historical societies like the Lunar Society of Birmingham (which sparked the Industrial Revolution through interdisciplinary dialogue), we're building something transformative for the AI age. Just as the Lunar Society gathered during the full moon, we convene as the sun rises over Korea's eastern coast—symbolizing new beginnings and illumination through shared knowledge.
We are particularly interested in exploring the transformative potential of artificial intelligence and its impact on various aspects of human life—from climate change and healthcare to ethics and education, from industry innovation to cultural preservation. Our focus isn't just on technology itself, but on how emerging innovations can truly benefit society while staying grounded in humanities and ethics.
Our Vision
We envision a future where:
- Technology serves humanity, not the other way around
- Diverse voices shape how innovation develops and is deployed
- Scientists and artists collaborate to solve complex problems
- Ethics and efficiency go hand in hand
- No one is left behind in the technological transformation
- Cultural diversity enriches rather than complicates progress
- Curiosity and kindness drive decision-making
This isn't just idealism—it's necessity. The challenges we face (climate change, healthcare crises, AI ethics, social inequality) are too complex for any single discipline to solve alone. We need the physicist's rigor, the artist's creativity, the lawyer's precision, the philosopher's wisdom, and the engineer's pragmatism—all working together.
Recent posts
- Reflections on Our Inaugural Gathering - Bridging Disciplines Through AI @ 17-Mar-2025
- Solar Societies Rising Together - When AI meets Plasma, Poetry, and Music! @ 28-Jan-2025
Our Mission
The Solar Society of Pohang brings together diverse experts to foster innovation and address contemporary challenges, with a focus on how emerging technologies can benefit society.Sun Rising Alliance
The South Korean coastal cities of Ulsan, Pohang, and Gyeongju, located along the eastern seaboard, have established the "Sun Rising Alliance." This collaborative initiative aptly reflects the name of our society, given these cities' strategic position to greet the dawn.Who We Are
We are exceptional individuals united by curiosity, compassion, and commitment to making the world better. Our members represent an extraordinary diversity of expertise and perspectives:
- Sciences: Neuroscience, Physics (Plasma & MHD), Mathematics, Medicine (Ophthalmology), Biology, Chemistry
- Technology & Engineering: AI & Machine Learning, Semiconductors, Biotech, Quantum Computing, 5G/Wireless Communications, Chemical Engineering
- Law & Policy: Environmental Law, Intellectual Property, Corporate M&A, Administrative Law, Biotech Regulation, AI Policy
- Arts & Humanities: Opera Performance, Orchestra Conducting, Music, Philosophy, Literature
- Business & Strategy: Marketing Communications, Strategic Planning, Venture Capital, Entrepreneurship
From Stanford Law School to POSTECH, from Silicon Valley to Seoul, from Genentech labs to opera stages—our members bring world-class expertise combined with genuine humility and openness to learn from others.
But here's what truly matters: We believe the best solutions to humanity's challenges come from diverse perspectives working together. A physicist might spark an idea that helps a biotech researcher. An opera singer's insights on human emotion could inform AI ethics. An environmental lawyer's regulatory knowledge could shape how we build sustainable technology.
→ Meet our extraordinary members
Membership — Join Us in This Exciting Journey!
We're Looking for YOU
Here's the beautiful truth: You don't need a PhD. You don't need publications. You don't need industry credentials. You don't even need to be an expert in anything.
The only qualifications we require!
- ✓ Willingness to contribute to meaningful conversations — Bring your perspective, ask questions, challenge assumptions
- ✓ A kind heart and genuine desire to make the world better — We're building something positive for humanity
- ✓ Curiosity to explore ideas beyond your usual field — The magic happens at the intersections
That's it. Really. No prerequisites. No gatekeeping. Just bring your passion, your unique perspective, and your commitment to positive change.
Why Diversity Matters to Us
We're not just talking about diversity—we're actively building it!
- 37.5% women and actively working toward 50% or higher — Women especially encouraged to apply!
- Multiple disciplines represented — From hard sciences to arts, from law to music, from tech to humanities
- International perspectives — Members from Korea, USA, and beyond
- Academia and industry — Researchers, professors, attorneys, scientists, artists, entrepreneurs
- All cultures welcome — As long as you honor humanity, there's a place for you here
Who Should Join?
Are you a
- Student or lifelong learner curious about the world?
- Professional wanting to explore beyond your field?
- Artist interested in technology's impact on culture?
- Scientist curious about ethical and societal implications?
- Teacher or educator passionate about interdisciplinary learning?
- Entrepreneur building solutions for real problems?
- Simply someone who cares deeply about humanity's future?
Then you're exactly who we're looking for.
What Members Gain
- Intellectual stimulation — Conversations that challenge and inspire
- Diverse network — Connect with brilliant minds across fields
- New perspectives — See your work through different lenses
- Collaborative opportunities — Work on projects that matter
- Community — Find your tribe of curious, caring changemakers
- Impact — Contribute to solving real-world challenges
We carefully curate our membership to ensure diverse perspectives and genuine commitment to our mission. But don't let that intimidate you—if you're reading this and feeling excited, you probably belong here.
What We Do
Our gatherings are where ideas collide, perspectives merge, and innovation happens. We create a space for genuine intellectual exchange that goes beyond academic conferences or industry networking events.
Our Activities
- Bi-annual interdisciplinary meetings — Engaging presentations, lively discussions, and interactive workshops where members share knowledge across traditional boundaries
- Lightning talks on "Intersections with AI" — How does AI impact plasma physics? What can music teach us about AI? How should law evolve with technology?
- Collaborative project development — Bridging academia and industry to create real-world impact
- Public lecture series — Sharing insights with the broader community and making complex ideas accessible
- Open dialogue on societal implications — From AI ethics to climate solutions, from healthcare innovation to cultural preservation
- Future-focused exploration — How can we ensure technology serves humanity, not the other way around?
What We're Exploring
- AI's transformative potential and ethical implications across industries
- Climate change solutions and sustainable technology development
- Healthcare innovation through biotech and AI convergence
- Education transformation in the age of intelligent systems
- Cultural preservation and artistic expression in digital contexts
- Regulatory frameworks for emerging technologies
- Social justice and equity in technological advancement
- How diverse disciplines can collaborate to solve complex global challenges
Our first formal gathering (March 2025) brought together physicists, AI researchers, musicians, and more for deep conversations about technology, society, and humanity's future. The energy was electric, the insights profound, and the connections genuine.
Ready to Join This Amazingly Exciting Journey?
The Solar Society of Pohang is growing, and we want YOU to be part of it.
If you're passionate about interdisciplinary collaboration, curious about technology's role in society, and committed to making a positive difference in the world—we'd love to hear from you.
How to Apply
Email us at: sunghee.yun@gmail.com
Subject line format: Start with "[SSP] ..."
Examples:
- "[SSP] Application from [Your Name]"
- "[SSP] Excited to Join!"
- "[SSP] I Want to Contribute!"
- "[SSP] Count Me In!"
In your email, tell us:
- Who you are (no resume required—just introduce yourself naturally)
- What draws you to the Solar Society
- What perspectives or passions you'd bring to our conversations
- Why you care about building a better future
Remember: We care about your curiosity and commitment, not your credentials. Write from the heart.
Questions?
Feel free to reach out to us at sunghee.yun@gmail.com with any questions about the society, our meetings, or membership.
Stay Connected
Website: https://solar-society.github.io/
Our Members: https://solar-society.github.io/members/
🌅 "Just as the Lunar Society gathered during the full moon, we come together as the sun rises over the eastern coast of Korea, symbolizing new beginnings and illumination through shared knowledge."
Join us in building a future where diverse minds illuminate the path forward—together.