KDI School provided a great opportunity for both Korean and international students by holding ‘Home Visiting Program’ in summer 2012. KDI School matches the families of Korean students, faculty and staff with international students to provide a chance for international students to understand Korean culture and to enhance friendships and networking. It gives as much pleasure and great experience to Korean host families as it does to the international students.

In summer, Bo Bae Lee (2012 MDP, Korea) hosted two international students, Laura from Honduras and Stilson from Uganda. Ms. Lee said that it was one of the best days she ever had at the KDI School, and that sharing different cultures around the world was the key to stimulate mutual understanding. Even though the students are studying together at the KDI School, it is not always easy to get to know each other intimately as the academic commitments are generally very demanding. The “Home Visiting Program” offered them this chance, and they would cherish its memories for a long time.

Jihye Lee (2012 MPP, Korea), another host of this year’s ‘Home Visiting Program’ also shared with the Globe her experience with her guests. Thanks to the ‘Home Visiting Program,’ she and her friend, Leila from Bolivia not only visited Jihye’s home, but also went to the Caribbean Bay in Yongin city. They also had the opportunity to visit various cultural sites and tourist attractions such as Insa-dong and Buckchon Korean village. From this program, she has broadened her understanding of Latin America, an important asset in this global era.

The ‘Home Visiting Program’ has brought many international and Korean students unforgettable and valuable memories. This is a very unique event you can experience only at the KDI School. I strongly encourage other students to participate in this program and seize the opportunity to gain precious memories!

By Inja Jeon (2012 MDP, Korea)