OKIS High School Graduation Ceremony Held with 230 Attendees

On January 31, 2026, the 64th commencement ceremony of Osaka Korean International School (OKIS) was held, marking a significant milestone for the school as it approaches its 80th anniversary. Approximately 230 people, including 24 graduating students, parents, faculty, staff, representatives from the Consulate General of Korea in Osaka and members of the Korean Residents Association in Japan, attended the event.

A Legacy of Identity and Education

OKIS, recognized by the South Korean government as the world’s first overseas Korean school, was established in 1945. Its founding purpose was to preserve Korean identity through education for the Korean diaspora. OKIS Chairman Choi Yoon of OK Financial Group emphasized the importance of this “authentic” heritage during his address to the graduates.

A Gift of Pride and Belonging

Chairman Choi presented each graduate with a surprise gift: a jacket emblazoned with the ‘OKIS’ emblem. This gesture, stemming from his history of supporting sports like rugby, volleyball, golf, and deaf baseball, aimed to instill a sense of school spirit and pride in the students as they embark on their next chapter.

A Choice and a Challenge

Chairman Choi acknowledged the unique path taken by the graduating class. He noted that despite having access to Japan’s free public education system, these students chose to attend a Korean school, a decision he described as walking an “unconventional path.” He encouraged them to embrace their identity and prove the value of their choice through their future accomplishments.

Did You Know? OKIS was founded in 1945, making it the world’s first overseas Korean school.

Educational Innovation at OKIS

The graduation ceremony also served as a showcase for the reforms implemented under Chairman Choi’s leadership since his appointment as the 11th president of OKIS in 2019. These changes include the establishment of a trilingual (Korean, English, Japanese) education system, the introduction of immersion education and a non-grade system, the expansion of native English-speaking teachers, and the enhancement of after-school programmes and extracurricular activities.

Expert Insight: The emphasis on a trilingual education system and innovative teaching methods suggests a strategic effort to prepare OKIS graduates for success in an increasingly globalized world, while simultaneously reinforcing their cultural identity.

These advancements have positioned OKIS as a leading institution providing advanced global education for Korean children residing in Japan.

Looking Ahead

Chairman Choi concluded his remarks by urging the graduates to maintain their pride in being OKIS alumni and to demonstrate the school’s values through their future endeavors. The school will continue to refine its innovative educational programmes, potentially attracting more students and further solidifying its position as a premier educational institution for the Korean diaspora. The school may also seek to expand its partnerships with other educational institutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the current chairman of OKIS?

The current chairman of OKIS is Choi Yoon of OK Financial Group.

When was OKIS established?

OKIS was established in 1945.

How many students graduated in the 64th commencement ceremony?

24 students graduated in the 64th commencement ceremony.

As these graduates embark on their individual journeys, what role do you believe cultural identity plays in shaping future success?