For the KDI School Spring 2013 international students, our first introduction to Seoul was the blast of cold air that greeted us as we stepped out the airport. Since then we have been thrust into a world of new: New weather, new culture, new language, new foods, new friends.

To help international students navigate this strange new world, the KDI School staff turned to the Korean Spirit and Culture Promotion Project to give a crash-course presentation in Korean history and culture. The KSCPP volunteers were more than happy to oblige, giving a very enlightening and hands-on
presentation.

Students learned how Koreans interact with each other, important observances such as the Sebae and the traditional dress, Hanbok. Many eagerly tried on the clothing and participated in performing the bowing ceremony, Sebae. There was also a sampling of delicious Korean foods.

Through documentary videos, we discovered the history of the Korean alphabet (Hangeul) and the very dedicated King Sejong the Great; the remarkable origins of Korea''s national treasures: the Buddhist scriptures (Tripitaka Koreana) and Bronze Mirror; as well as the humble beginnings of the shipping industry through the Hyundai corporation to becoming a world leader in the industry. Korea''s remarkable economic growth after the war and Japanese occupation, as well as its growing influence in the world has been dubbed Hallyu or Korean Wave.

The day made quite an impression on students... “I am impressed by Korea. Not the buildings and cars and material things but by the true wealth of this country, by its people. They exhibit a resilience, fortitude, strength and warmth of spirit that is usually only found in those that have pass through the fires of
forge of hardship.

By Kendra Griffith (2013 MDP, Belize)