• President of Gachon University
    Lee Gil-ya

    92-Year-Old Medical Professional and Educator, Founder of Gachon University & Gil Medical Center

    Last Updated on Jul 24, 2024

Life Summary

Lee Gil-ya is the founder and president of Gachon University. She is also the honorary chairperson of the Gachon University Gil Hospital.

She aims to elevate Gachon University into a leading institution focused on advanced industries such as bio, battery, and semiconductor, collectively known as BBC (Bio·Battery·Chips).

Since the integration of Gachon University of Medicine and Science with Kyungwon University in 2012 to form the unified Gachon University, she has continuously served as its president.

Lee Gil-ya oversees various institutions including Gachon University, Gachon University Gil Hospital, Gachon University Oriental Hospital, Brain Science Research Institute, Lee Gil-ya Cancer and Diabetes Research Institute, Gyeongin Ilbo, Gachon Cultural Foundation, Gachon Museum, and Shinmyung Girls' High School. Through the Gachon Gil Foundation, she actively conducts activities in education, healthcare, research, and media.

She was born on May 9, 1932 (lunar calendar) in Okgu, Jeollabuk-do.

The name "Gachon" of the university is derived from her pen name.

Starting with the 'Lee Gil-ya Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic' in Incheon, she established the Gil Medical Foundation and Gachon University Gil Hospital.

She is often referred to as the "most self-made woman CEO since the founding of the Republic" and the "female Chung Ju-yung."

She is single with no children. Her elder sister, Lee Gui-rye, who served as the chairman of the Korea Tea Culture Association and was designated as a cultural asset, has children who are involved in university and hospital management.

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