echo The hallyu or Korean Wave strikes across the globe in a short span of time. Not only has it captured the people’s hearts on the good looking k-pop idols, but its food and culture as well!
On the 19th of October 2020, Sunway’s Cultural Exchange Society launched the Global Cultural Cafe. Its aim is to give participants a better insight into Korea’s culture through sharing sessions from expertise. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the organizing team conducted the event via ‘zoom’.
The event began at 8.05 pm with a warm welcome from Joey Lim, the coordinator of Sunway’s Cultural Exchange Department in Student Life . The participants were introduced with a video that shows the community’s effort in venturing countless nations such as South Korea, Lancaster and many more. The event is then passed to Miss Munira, the representative of Korea Plaza of Korea Tourism Organization who gave a brief introduction of her workplace which is located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. Korea Tourism Organisation has over 31 branches in over 19 countries across the globe. She shared her experience in Korea to break the ice and enlighten the atmosphere. She also gave the participants a trivia on the current ambassador for “share your Korea”, aka the K-pop group “ITZY” which received countless responses.
Following on a short history session about Korea, participants understood the origin of the Korean syllables or Hangeul which was created by King Sejong, the fourth king of the Joseon dynasty of Korea. South Korea has taken part in being the host country for the 2002 Fifa World cup as well as The Pyeongchang 2018 Winter Olympic Games. Not only that but Korea is also rich in its technological development such as branded goods ( Kia, Samsung, LG and Lotte ).
Touring around South Korea virtually, Miss Munira reveals various events celebrated throughout the 4 seasons. There was also a quick lesson on pronouncing the seasons in Korean. Spring- 봄(bom), Summer- 여름(yeoleum), Autumn- 가을(ga-eul) and lastly winter-겨울(gyeoul). The session also highlighted sceneries for those instagram picturesque, listing from The Jinhae Gunhangje Festival, Busan International Fireworks Festival and The International Flower Fair Goyang Korea . Some fun activities such as attending the Boryeong Mud Festival, visiting the Haeundae Beach in Busan and The Hwacheon Tomato Festival were also highlighted. Besides that, participants were reminded of Korean delicacies that make one mouth waters. From traditional cuisine to comfort street food, it is a must try to explore one’s taste buds. Ranging from the classic ramyeon to the side dish kimchi. As well as ice shaved with red beans ( Patbingsu) for dessert.
Moving on with a Korean Language workshop to learn a few Korean expression by a fellow international student in Sunway University, Miyeon Cho. A few phrases to use in daily conversations:-
Participants then were divided into breakout rooms to have a closer conversation with the facilitators who have a better insight into South Korea. With laughter-filled conversation for about 15 minutes, the event came to an end with giving thanks to the fellow facilitators and the team for the lovely evening. Rest assured that Sunway’s Cultural Exchange will return with more interesting events in the future!
Written by: Nivhya
Edited by: Maki
