Seungmin Kang is a fourth-semester M.S. student in the Sustainable Resource Processing Laboratory (SRPL) within the Department of Earth Resources and Environmental Engineering at Hanyang University. Her research focuses on recycling spent lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) using hydrometallurgical methods to recover valuable metals and mitigate environmental pollution caused by spent LIBs. Seungmin is dedicated to developing an efficient and effective recycling plan that can be applied industrially. Additionally, she is passionate about inspiring the next generation of engineers, a passion reflected in her role as an undergraduate teaching assistant for the experimental course on leaching spent lithium-ion batteries.

During her undergraduate years at Hanyang University, Seungmin was actively involved in contributing to both her school and the environment. Her interest in environmental issues led her to work as a research assistant at the Geological and Environmental Disaster Research Center, part of the Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM). She was an active member of the Global Green Growth Supporters of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Korea, and the ‘Purumi’ college student reporter group of the Korea Environment Corporation. Her commitment to environmental sustainability is demonstrated by her participation in activities such as cliving (cleaning + diving) and plogging (picking up litter while jogging). Seungmin also served as a reporter and deputy editor for the Hanyang University College of Engineering Newspaper. Furthermore, she promoted her department as a ‘Hanyang University Major Manager (HUMM)’ under the admissions office and was an active member of ‘Hanol’, a donation and sharing supporter group at Hanyang University, etc.

Seungmin Kang is known for being self-motivated, creative, and curious, with a strong passion for learning and challenging herself. Her cheerful personality makes her friendly and sociable, allowing her to maintain a broad network. Outside of the lab, Seungmin enjoys traveling and scuba diving, with over 100 logged dives. She enjoys new experiences, whether they involve seeking new adventures outdoors, reading books, poetry, or writing. Her open-minded nature means she always welcomes new relationships and is keen on expanding her horizons.