본문 바로가기 사이트 메뉴 바로가기 주메뉴 바로가기

[News] A New, Introductory Course on Korean Culture2016-12-16Hit:1363

  • Writer주선희
포토갤러리


The comprehension of a culture different from the one in which we grew up includes analyzing, living and interacting with the actors and factors that shape it along history. It not only represents a challenge to create a course aimed to understand the existing cultural differences between people, but also an endeavor to find the right tools to achieve the introduction of the important factors that distinguish and differentiate the new culture. The course: “Introduction to Korean Culture and Finance”, headed by Professor Abraham Shragge, made it possible. KGSF offered this new course for international students who joined this fall 2016. Through the coexistence and development of traditional activities, combined with the study of Korean history and precedents, students were able to become acquainted with the manners and customs of people from Korea.

Walking along the streets, landscapes, and representative places of the South Korean capital, Seoul, was crucial for international students to analyze important aspects such as urban design, organization, developmental milestones, and behavior of Korean citizens. The infrastructure of the city, along with the simple behavior of people in their daily lives, showed students crucial details such as respect, order, organization, and hierarchy. Moreover, sharing the reflection of each of the members who were part of the experience, allowed them to build a clear idea of the main features of Korean culture based on their different points of view and opinions.

The students pointed out that the traditional activities that were the focus of the course were fundamental for understanding and comprehending the unique aspects of Korean culture. Through the elaboration of traditional establishments and distinctive culinary dishes, international students experienced their significance in today’s society. Beyond cultural activities, for some students this course even represented an opportunity to experience activities such as riding a bike for their first time.

Despite the fact that the selection of the right tools was a challenge for KGSF, the guidance of Professor Shragge and the activities such as field visits and the elaboration of traditional landmarks, helped the course participants learn to appreciate and understand a new culture. This resulted in a high level of satisfaction given their new capacity to function and interact in Korean society.



Contact : Kim, Jihye ( jaimekim@kaist.ac.kr )
TOP