International and Korean Students Unite to Overcome Cultural and Language Barriers

Traditional Costumes and Foods from Various Countries Featured, with Opportunities to Experience and Enjoy the Festival

Flea Market Held with Donated Items from University Members; Proceeds Donated to Charity

[October 16, 2024]

 Yeungnam University (President CHOI Oe-chool) hosted the ‘YU Global Culture Festival.’ 

 Organized by YU's International Admissions Support Team and the Daegu-Gyeongbuk Environmental Headquarters of the Korea Environment Corporation, the event was designed to introduce the diverse cultures of international students studying at YU. The festival aimed to foster a sense of global community among young people who will lead the world in the future.

 Held on October 11 around YU’s Cheonmajimun, the event saw over 1,000 participants, including members of the International Student Association, composed of students from countries such as China, Vietnam, Mongolia, and Uzbekistan, as well as students from 28 countries attending the Park Chung Hee School of Policy and Saemaul (PSPS), hailing from Ghana, Cambodia, Kenya, Uganda, and more. Local public institutions and organizations such as the Korea Environment Corporation and the Daegu Beauty Export Association were also in attendance.

 International students set up booths along Cheonma Street, where they showcased their home countries’ cultures and offered opportunities to experience traditional clothing and cuisine, drawing much attention from participants. Additionally, a flea market was held, featuring items donated by students, faculty, and staff, with all proceeds going to YU’s Social Contribution Group. Participants could also enjoy K-Beauty and upcycling experiences, receive admissions counseling for the Graduate School, PSPS, and the Korean Language Institute, and consult on employment and visa matters, which received a positive response from international students.

Ceesay David Alusine, a student from Sierra Leone, said, "It was a great experience to wear traditional costumes and try different foods with many international and Korean students. I look forward to making more memories and experiencing diverse cultures during my time studying abroad."

LEE Chun-young, Director of the International Admissions Support Team and professor of Chinese Language and Culture at YU, who organized the event, remarked, “This festival served as an opportunity for international and Korean students to come together, understand each other's cultures, and communicate. We will continue to support international students at YU, ensuring that they not only succeed academically but also have a variety of enriching experiences.”