Department

1. Introduction

Department Development Plan
The Department of Wood Science and Technology focuses on the processing of wood and other forest resources through physical and chemical methods to produce various human-use products, including construction materials, furniture, musical instruments, pulp, and paper. Modern mass production and consumption have caused social problems such as depletion of fossil resources, increased waste, and global warming, highlighting the importance of sustainable resource use. Our department emphasizes eco-friendly wood processing, resource-saving recycling technologies, and the creation of new wood cultures. We aim to cultivate creative professionals who can lead the new era of wood culture and contribute to wood-related industries and research, while providing hands-on training to develop practical skills.
The curriculum covers physical, chemical, and biological aspects of wood and forest resources. Students learn wood physics, wood processing, and wood-based materials, as well as wood chemistry, extraction processes, wood microbiology, and conservation. Specialized courses include Wood Physics, Wood Drying, Wood-based New Materials, Wood Chemistry, Biomass Energy, Pulp and Paper, Traditional Korean Paper, Wood Microbiology, Wood Conservation, Forest Biotechnology, and Wood Culture and Woodworking Recreation.

2. Department Features & Achievements

In the era of global environmental awareness, with growing population and depletion of fossil fuels, sustainable resource use and environmental preservation are urgent issues. Wood remains one of the most familiar and versatile natural materials for humans. Our department is highly competitive, focusing on eco-friendly and human-centered use of wood, research on wood resource development, and creation of wood culture industries.
The Jeonbuk National University Wood Processing Support Center allows students to gain practical experience through hands-on courses and DIY workshops. In 2005, Prof. Seong-Pil Moon founded the venture company Pinux Co., producing high-functionality plant extracts for cosmetic manufacturers. The department also operates affiliated laboratories and research facilities, supporting student research and practice. Professors Seung-Won Oh and Yang-Soo Lee have contributed to local industrial development through RIS (Regional Industry Support) projects.
Participation in LINC and other industry-academic-government coupling programs enhances student practical training and supports professional certifications. Annual field trips for all students improve major understanding and promote customized employment opportunities through industry connections. Due to excellent research performance and employment outcomes, the department has received recognition as a specialized and outstanding department at the university level.

3. Career Prospects

Graduates may pursue careers in:

• Research institutes: National Institute of Forest Science, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Cultural Heritage Administration, Pulp and Paper (including traditional Korean paper) research institutes, Rural Development Administration, Mushroom Research Institutes
• Forestry public service, Forest Cooperatives, Wood Culture and Industry organizations
• Wood processing industries: MDF, plywood, furniture, and wood construction
• Pulp and paper, chemical, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries
• Woodcraft, furniture design, and woodworking program instruction
• Secondary education: middle and high school teachers

4. Professional Certifications

• Forest Products Processing Engineer
• Forest Products Processing Industrial Engineer
• Pulp & Paper Technician
• Woodworking Technician
• Mushroom Spawn Technician
• Forest Engineer
• Forest Industrial Engineer
• Forest Technician
• Plant Protection Engineer
• Plant Protection Industrial Engineer

5. Student Support Programs

• Field visits to industry sites
• Internship opportunities
• Guidance for professional certification exams (Forest Products Processing Engineer, Industrial Engineer)
• Employment seminars and special lectures
• Programs in collaboration with the Agriculture & Life Science Industry-Academy-Government Coupling Project
• Programs in collaboration with LINC Project