Korean University Student Culture
Orientation
Most universities organize orientation programs to welcome new students. These events provide essential information about campus life, academic policies, and often include fun activities to help you meet other students.
MT
"MT" stands for "Membership Training." It's a common term used to refer to group outings or trips organized by student clubs or organizations. MTs are social gatherings where members of a club or group get together to bond, relax, and engage in various activities. These events often include team-building exercises, games, outdoor adventures, and sometimes drinking or socializing. Some people joke that this means 마시고 토하고 (drink and throw up) as students usually drink a lot of alchohol with their seniors and professors. MTs play a significant role in fostering camaraderie and building strong relationships among club members in Korean universities.
Cultural Events
Korean universities often host cultural events, festivals, and performances showcasing traditional and modern aspects of Korean culture. These are excellent opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Seonbae-Hoobae Relationships
In Korean culture, seniority is highly valued. Seonbae (선배) refers to a person with more experience or higher seniority, while Hoobae (후배) refers to someone with less experience or lower seniority. Hoobae are expected to show respect to their Seonbae, and Seonbae, in return, often provide guidance and support to their Hoobae. Seonbae often serve as mentors to Hoobae, offering advice on academic and career matters, as well as personal issues. They can provide valuable insights and connections.
Club Activities
Many Korean universities have numerous student clubs and organizations covering a wide range of interests. Joining a club can help you make friends and engage in extracurricular activities.
Student-Teacher relationships
Respect for teachers is a fundamental aspect of the student-teacher relationship in Korea. Students are expected to show deep respect to their teachers and address them with honorific titles, such as "선생님" or "교수님". The relationship is hierarchical, and students are expected to obey and follow instructions from their teachers without question. This hierarchical structure extends to the broader education system.
Exam weeks
Expect a rigorous academic environment with regular exams and assignments. Studying and time management will be crucial for success.
Hwesik
"Hwesik" is a company or group dinner or gathering where members of an organization, club, or workplace get together outside of their usual activities. It's a form of socializing and team-building that often involves eating and drinking together. Hwesiks are similar to the concept of work-related social gatherings, but they also occur in university clubs and organizations as a way to build strong social bonds and camaraderie among members.
School Festivals
Universities usually have a few days set for students to have fun and ignite the school spirit. School and university festivals in South Korea, known as "Haksaeng Hwahae" (학생 화해) or "Daehaksaeng Hwahae" (대학생 화해) or even just plain 축제, are lively and vibrant events that offer a unique blend of academic and cultural experiences. The activities range from freindly games with rival schools, or kpop concerts on campus, talent shows, booths and games, food stalls and more!
Career Support
Universities may offer career services to help students with internships and job placement. Take advantage of these resources to prepare for your future career.
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