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International Summer Session

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Gwangju Hyanggyo: Confucian School

Gwangju Hyanggyo is a confucian school where visitors can immerse themselves in Korea's traditional culture. In 1985, the school was designated as Gwangju City Tangible Cultural Property No. 9. after being rebuilt due to a burndown caused by the Japanese army during the Japanese Invasion of Korea in 1597. The school continues to hold memorial ceremonies for Confucius twice a year. It can be a good opportunity to try Korean traditional costume try-outs, have some hands-on learning experience in traditional etiquette, and experience traditional wedding ceremony.

Gwangju KIA Baseball Game

Do not miss a chance to catch a game of the Kia Tigers, the 2024 Korean Baseball Series champions, in action! At the heart of the Gwangju-Kia Champions Field, the audience will be able to witness an intense, thrilling baseball game, cheering for the team alongside thousands of passionate fans.

Yeosu Night View Tour

Yeosu is a city located in the southern part of the Korean peninsula, situated along the coast of the South Sea. One of the most popular attractions in Yeosu is the night tour, which offers a breathtaking view of the city and its beautiful night sea. Apart from the night tour, Yeosu offers various other attractions. Food enthusiasts can also enjoy a variety of local delicacies in Yeosu, including fresh seafood and traditional Korean dishes.

May 18 Memorial Park

The May 18th National Cemetery is a significant destination for anyone interested in Korean history and democracy, and it serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom and democracy in South Korea. As visitors arrive at the May 18th National Cemetery, they can walk through the commemoration passage and continue on towards the Memorial Tower. Under the tower, there is an area where visitors can burn incense to pay their respects to the victims and honor their sacrifice.

Glamping

Glamping, short for glamorous camping, offers the charm of outdoor camping with amenities and comforts. Enjoy a relaxing evening with a barbeque, some fun group activities, and more.

Taekwondo Training

Taekwondo, the most recognized form of Korean martial arts, is a sport that emphasizes a sense of morality, humility, and a respect for one's opponent. It has become a globally recognized sport where practitioners improve both their physical ability and mental strength. This martial art teaches both defensive and offensive techniques without using weapons, putting more emphasis on defense because of the taekwondo spirit of respecting peace and justice.

2024 CNU International Summer Session

Gangjin: Heart of Traditional Korean Celadon 

Gangjin is a county known as a center for production of traditional Korean celadon ceramics with some of the finest and most elegant pottery pieces since ancient Goryeo Dynasty. The county is also home for several temples, and Gangjin-eup holds a birthplace of Yeongrang Kim, a well-known Korean poet of the 1930s and 1940s. Gaudo, the only inhabited island of the eight islands in Gangjin Bay, was named after its cow-head shaped island. The whole Gangjin Bay can be seen from Gaudo in all directions. Via a suspension bridge, visitors can enjoy this beautiful coastal scenary with natural resources such as silver magnolia, cypress colony, and Japanese black pines. At the top of the island, visitors can find a giant Korean celadon shaped observatory called Cheongja Tower which is 25m high.

 

Yeosu: Marine Tourism and Recreational City

Yeosu is a city located in the southern part of the Korean peninsula, situated along the coast of the South Sea. One of the most popular attractions in Yeosu is the night tour, which offers a breathtaking view of the city and its beautiful night sea. Additionally, visitors can take a cable car ride to see the scenic views from above. Apart from the night tour and cable car ride, Yeosu offers various other attractions. The nearby island Odongdo, known for its beautiful flowers, is a must-visit destination. There are also numerous other islands that visitors can explore, each with its own unique charms. Food enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of local delicacies in Yeosu, including fresh seafood and traditional Korean dishes.
 

 

Gwangju Hyanggyo: Confucian School

Gwangju Hyanngyo is a confucian school where visitors can immerse themselves in Korea's traditional culture. In 1985, the school was designated as Gwangju City Tangible Cultural Property No. 9. after being rebuilt due to a burndown caused by the Japanese army during the Japanese Invasion of Korea in 1597. The school continues to hold memorial ceremonies for Confucius twice a year. It can be a good opportunity to try Korean traditional costume try-outs, have some hands-on learning experience in traditional etiquette, and experience traditonal wedding ceremony. 

 

518 Memorial Park

The May 18th National Cemetery is a significant destination for anyone interested in Korean history and democracy, and it serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom and democracy in South Korea. As visitors arrive at the May 18th National Cemetery, they can walk through the commemoration passage and continue on towards the Memorial Tower. Under the tower, there is an area where visitors can burn incense to pay their respects to the victims and honor their sacrifice. Visitors can also gain a deeper understanding of Korean history by viewing exhibits and works related to the democratic uprising.
 

 

Seoul: Capital of South Korea

Seoul is the capital and the largest metropolis of the Republic of Korea. Seoul forms the heart of the Seoul Capital Area and includes the surrounding Incheon metropolis and Gyeonggi province, altogether home to roughly half of the country’s population. Seoul Capital Area contains five UNESCO World Heritage sites: Changdeok Palace, Hwaseong Fortress, Jongmyo Shrine, Namhansanseong, and The Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty. Moreover, Seoul has been recently elected as the major site of modern architectural construction-major modern landmarks including N Seoul Tower, Dongdaemun Design Plaza. Experience the rich history and vibrant modernity of Seoul through our exclusive tour that takes you to some of the city's most iconic landmarks. With us, embark on this captivating journey through Seoul, where the past meets the present, and modernity coexists with tradition.

 

Sunchang: Home of Korean Chili Paste

Sunchang county has cherished its unique style and taste, it is widely known as the main producer of Korean traditional soybean products. Moreover, it has recently become more famous as one of the three longevity villages around the world. We will be making pizza with Gochujang(Korean hot pepper paste). The flavors and memories that await you are truly special. We will be also visiting Gangcheon mountain park, designated as the first provincial park in Korea in 1981, presents a different yet elegant view every season.

 

2023 CNU International Summer Session

Mudeungsan National Park

Mudeungsan Mountain, located in Gwangju, South Korea, is a UNESCO World Geopark and was selected as a representative mountain of the city. It is also mentioned in the BTS song "My City." The mountain is home to several natural wonders, including Ipseokdae Cliff and Seoseokdae Cliff's Columnar Joints. This rare geological formation, where columnar joints are created by weathering at an altitude of more than 1,000m, has been designated as Natural Monument No. 465. In addition to its natural beauty, Mudeungsan Mountain is also surrounded by cultural landmarks. Jeungsimsa Temple, Wonhyosa Temple, and pavilions like Hwanbyeokdang and Sikyeongjeong Pavilion are just a few examples. For those interested in exploring the mountain and its surrounding cultural properties, a nature-friendly program is available. It provides an opportunity to hike on the mountain while learning about its rich history and culture.

Yeosu, Marine Tourism and Recreational City

Yeosu is a city located in the southern part of the Korean peninsula, situated along the coast of the South Sea. One of the most popular attractions in Yeosu is the night tour, which offers a breathtaking view of the city and its beautiful night sea. Additionally, visitors can take a cable car ride to see the scenic views from above.Apart from the night tour and cable car ride, Yeosu offers various other attractions. The nearby island Odongdo, known for its beautiful flowers, is a must-visit destination. There are also numerous other islands that visitors can explore, each with its own unique charms. Food enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of local delicacies in Yeosu, including fresh seafood and traditional Korean dishes.

Gwangju Traditional Culture Center

The Gwangju Traditional Culture Center is a space that aims to preserve and promote Jeollanam-do's rich traditional culture. It serves as a creative workshop where visitors can learn and create together. Here, visitors can enjoy traditional Korean music performances and experience various aspects of Korean culture, such as traditional folk games, hanbok experience, and making traditional crafts.The center offers a diverse range of programs and activities that allow visitors to immerse themselves in Korea's traditional culture. The hanbok experience, for example, provides an opportunity to dress up in traditional Korean clothing and take pictures. Visitors can also learn to make traditional crafts, such as pottery, or participate in traditional folk games like Yunnori.

518 Memorial Park

The May 18th National Cemetery is a significant destination for anyone interested in Korean history and democracy, and it serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom and democracy in South Korea. As visitors arrive at the May 18th National Cemetery, they can walk through the commemoration passage and continue on towards the Memorial Tower. Under the tower, there is an area where visitors can burn incense to pay their respects to the victims and honor their sacrifice. Visitors can also gain a deeper understanding of Korean history by viewing exhibits and works related to the democratic uprising.

Damyang

Damyang is a peaceful and scenic town that offers a healing experience in nature. One of Damyang's representative tourist attractions is Juknokwon, a bamboo forest filled with sky-high bamboo and clear bamboo leaves. Visitors can take a relaxing stroll through the forest and enjoy the tranquil ambiance. Under the theme of "Damyang Tour to Heal in Nature," visitors can enjoy a variety of programs and activities designed to help them unwind and recharge. One of the popular activities is glamping, which allows visitors to stay in luxurious tents surrounded by nature. Visitors can also visit other representative tourist attractions in Damyang, such as the beautiful and serene Damyang Soswaewon Garden.

Shinan

Sinan is a beautiful coastal town that offers stunning natural scenery of the Dadohae. One of the must-visit tourist attractions in Sinan is Purple Island, which was selected as the world's best tourist village by the UN World Tourism Organization. Visitors can see the BTS sculpture of "I PURPLE YOU," a newly coined word created by V, installed on the island. Sinan is also known as the "Island of Angels" and is famous for its beautiful beaches. Ujeon Beach and Jeungdo Beach are two popular beaches in Sinan that offer fun water play programs, making it a great destination for families and anyone who loves water activities

CNU International Summer Session Video

The Korean Seal - Injang

Whether made of ivory, metal, stone or wood, a Korean seal or “injang” has a long history dating as far back to 4000 B.C. (Source: The National Museum of Korea ). These unique stamps come in different shapes and sizes with letters or patterns. It can also have symbols or pictures that depict a person’s life and personality. A special red paste is used for transferring the impression onto your document. During the Joseon Dynasty (1392 - 1910), artists and scholars used them officially on their paintings or calligraphy as their signature and today they are used for financial or business transactions or for other official documents such as living wills. During the program, you can make your own Korean seal. You are able to learn about the history of the injang and even carve one yourself with your own design of your name.

Korean Traditional Costume Try-outs

Gwangju Confucian School is where we will be trying out Korean Traditional Costumes and learn about Korean mannerism. The school looks like a country woman who appears to be blushing and waiting to welcome visitors. In 1985, the Gwangju Hyanggyo, the Confucian School was designated as Gwangju City Tangible Cultural Properties No. 9 after being reconstructed from a burn down caused by the Japanese army during the Japanese invasion of Korea in 1597. Along with a tour around the school, you will be given an opportunity to try Korean traditional outdoor activities, costume try-outs, learn how to show respect to elders, and experience traditional marriage ceremony.

Korean Food Cooking

CNUISS participants will be visiting JS Cuisine Culinary Academy to try-out cooking the most well-known and beloved Korean dishes to many people, Bibimbap. Bibimbap can be translated into “mixed rice with meat and assorted vegetables” and you can make endless variations to this dish depending on your preference and dietary requirements. As an original style of Bibimbap, it is suggested to have at least five different colour toppings on the rice such as mushrooms, shredded cucumber, julienned carrots, sliced courgette, bean sprouts, dried seaweed, and even daikon radish. Therefore Bibimbap is not only delicious but highly recommended for also containing a wealth of nutrients.

Songgwangsa Temple Stay

Songgwangsa Temple is located on the west side of Jogyesan Mountain known as a famous sambosachal in Korea. Sambo means “Three treasures” in Korean, and in Buddhism there is Bulbo, Beopbo, and Seungbo. Songgwangsa Temple qualifies as a Seungbo Temple, which refers to the disciples and practitioners of Buddhism at the temple. Songgwangsa has produced many high monks since the Joseon Dynasty and is famously known for three great treasures: the Bisari Gusi, Ssanghyangsu, and Neunggyeonnansa. The road to the temple is covered by beautiful tall trees and you will be able to cross the valley by the bridge called Cheongryanggak with a pavilion on top of it for you to have a rest.

Yeosu Odong-do

The base point of Hallyeohaesang National Park, Odongdo Island is famous for colonies of camellia found on the island. In addition to the camellias, there are 70 species of wildflowers and 200 species of evergreen trees that flourish here. The island is known to be most beautiful in mid-March when the camellias are at its peak. To get to the island, it takes around 10 minutes by car from Yeosu downtown. Other options include the Dongbaek Train, a ferry or motorboat.

518 Memorial Park

The May 18th National Cemetery is the symbol of freedom and democracy and is the grave of victims during the contention for democracy in May 1980. Victims were carried and buried by handcarts and garbage trucks in 1980. However in 1997, the cemetery was exhumed and reburied at this memorial. May 18th became a national holiday of commemorating our desire for democracy. As you arrive at this national cemetery, you will reach the commemoration passage and as you continue walking toward the Memorial Tower, under the tower, you will be able to burn incense to show respect for those of who sacrificed themselves for the democracy and understand the Korean history by viewing their works.

Taekwondo, the Traditional Martial Art of Korea

Taekwondo, the most recognized form of Korean martial arts, is a sport that emphasizes a sense of morality, humility, and a respect for one's opponent. It has become a globally recognized sport where practitioners improve both their physical ability and mental strength. This martial art teaches both defensive and offensive techniques without using weapons. However, taekwondo puts more emphasis on defense because of the taekwondo spirit of respecting peace and justice. Continue reading to find out where you can experience this traditional Korean martial art yourself.

K-Pop Dance

Did you know that a BTS member, J-hope was born and raised in Gwangju? If you listen to ‘Ma City’ by BTS, you will hear J-Hope rapping ‘Press 062-518, everyone.’ 062 is the area code of Gwangju and 518 is referring to Gwangju Democratic Uprising happened on May 18, 1980. J-hope's dance teacher of his chilhood in Gwangju will join our program and will teach you how to dance like BTS.

K-beauty

Participants will be able to learn the basic trends of Korean makeup and how to do it without needing professional techniques

CNU International Summer Session Video

K-Pop Dance

Did you know that a BTS member, J-hope was born and raised in Gwangju? If you listen to ‘Ma City’ by BTS, you will hear J-Hope rapping ‘Press 062-518, everyone.’ 062 is the area code of Gwangju and 518 is referring to Gwangju Democratic Uprising happened on May 18, 1980. J-hope's dance teacher of his chilhood in Gwangju will join our program and will teach you how to dance like BTS.

The Korean Seal - Injang

Whether made of ivory, metal, stone or wood, a Korean seal or “injang” has a long history dating as far back to 4000 B.C. (Source: The National Museum of Korea ). These unique stamps come in different shapes and sizes with letters or patterns. It can also have symbols or pictures that depict a person’s life and personality. A special red paste is used for transferring the impression onto your document. During the Joseon Dynasty (1392 - 1910), artists and scholars used them officially on their paintings or calligraphy as their signature and today they are used for financial or business transactions or for other official documents such as living wills. During the program, you can make your own Korean seal. You are able to learn about the history of the injang and even carve one yourself with your own design of your name.

Hotteok

Hotteok is a type of filled Korean pancake; it is a snack from Korean cuisine and is a popular street food in Korea. During the program, you will make Hotteok together with your buddy.

CNU International Summer Session Video

Naganeupseong

Naganeupseong Folk Village is located in Jeollanam-do Province, and contains a town castle that is over 18,000 pyeong, which each pyeong equals to 3.3.sq m in size. Within the east south and west of the castle, about 100 families still reside and the castle area has been very well preserved. It’s possible to observe the daily dwellings indigenous to the South provincial area such as the kitchen area, clay rooms, and Korean-style of verandas. At every first full moon of the New Year, they hold a ritual ceremony and celebration at the general Im Kyeong-Eop monument, with games such as seesaw jumping, swings, and other folk activities.

Songgwangsa Temple Stay

Songgwangsa Temple is located on the west side of Jogyesan Mountain known as a famous sambosachal in Korea. Sambo means “Three treasures” in Korean, and in Buddhism there is Bulbo, Beopbo, and Seungbo. Songgwangsa Temple qualifies as a Seungbo Temple, which refers to the disciples and practitioners of Buddhism at the temple. Songgwangsa has produced many high monks since the Joseon Dynasty and is famously known for three great treasures: the Bisari Gusi, Ssanghyangsu, and Neunggyeonnansa. The road to the temple is covered by beautiful tall trees and you will be able to cross the valley by the bridge called Cheongryanggak with a pavilion on top of it for you to have a rest.

518 Memorial Park

The May 18th National Cemetery is the symbol of freedom and democracy and is the grave of victims during the contention for democracy in May 1980. Victims were carried and buried by handcarts and garbage trucks in 1980. However in 1997, the cemetery was exhumed and reburied at this memorial. May 18th became a national holiday of commemorating our desire for democracy. As you arrive at this national cemetery, you will reach the commemoration passage and as you continue walking toward the Memorial Tower, under the tower, you will be able to burn incense to show respect for those of who sacrificed themselves for the democracy and understand the Korean history by viewing their works.

Trip to Seoul

Seoul is the capital of Korea and the largest metropolis of the Republic of Korea. Seoul forms the heart of the Seoul Capital Area and includes the surrounding Incheon metropolis and Gyeonggi province, altogether home to roughly half of the country’s population. Seoul Capital Area contains five UNESCO World Heritage sites: Changdeok Palace, Hwaseong Fortress, Jongmyo Shrine, Namhansanseong, and The Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty. Moreover, Seoul has been recently elected as the major site of modern architectural construction-major modern landmarks including N Seoul Tower, Dongdaemun Design Plaza, which we will be visiting for our 2 days trip to Seoul.

Korean Traditional Costume Try-outs

Gwangju Confucian School is where we will be trying out Korean Traditional Costumes and learn about Korean mannerism. The school looks like a country woman who appears to be blushing and waiting to welcome visitors. In 1985, the Gwangju Hyanggyo, the Confucian School was designated as Gwangju City Tangible Cultural Properties No. 9 after being reconstructed from a burn down caused by the Japanese army during the Japanese invasion of Korea in 1597. Along with a tour around the school, you will be given an opportunity to try Korean traditional outdoor activities, costume try-outs, learn how to show respect to elders, and experience traditional marriage ceremony.

Free Time; Home Stay

Home stay is a program can be a great chance for you to experience the different aspects of Korea’s great culture and learn more about the daily life in Gwangju, while being part of a new family. Program participants will be assigned with families that has been selected as the program host after a thorough examination of their homes. After a brief orientation in the morning to introduce about the program, participants will have chances to introduce themselves along with information about their countries. Moreover, everyone will have time to discuss on cultural similarities and differences between Korea and their home country to make short presentations at the end. Afterward, everyone will follow along with the schedule that host families has prepared earlier for the rest of the day. Students who does not apply for its program will be given a free day.

Korean Food Cooking

2018CNUISS participants will be visiting JS Cuisine Culinary Academy to try-out cooking the most well-known and beloved Korean dishes to many people, Bibimbap. Bibimbap can be translated into “mixed rice with meat and assorted vegetables” and you can make endless variations to this dish depending on your preference and dietary requirements. As an original style of Bibimbap, it is suggested to have at least five different colour toppings on the rice such as mushrooms, shredded cucumber, julienned carrots, sliced courgette, bean sprouts, dried seaweed, and even daikon radish. Therefore Bibimbap is not only delicious but highly recommended for also containing a wealth of nutrients.

Boryeong Mud Festival

Of the numerous festivals in Korea, Boryeong Mud Festival attracts the largest number of international visitors. During the festival period, tourists flock to the area to experience the benefits of Boryeong’s mud while making their experience the best out of it. Fully immersed in both the mud and festival’s great atmosphere, visitors enjoy mud wrestling, mud sliding and even swimming in the giant mud bath. In the evening, music and fireworks continue to have the party going at the beach.