Korea University hosts ISC graduation ceremony


Korea University held the 2023 International Summer Campus (ISC) graduation ceremony at the Inchon Memorial Hall auditorium on August 3 (Thursday) at 7:00 PM.

ISC 2023, the largest of its kind in South Korea, drew the participation of over 2,000 students from 312 universities in 43 countries, including the US, the UK, Australia, the Netherlands, Singapore, Hong Kong, and China.

The six-week program, starting from June 27, saw the participation of university students from both home and abroad, as well as prospective international students. Renowned professors from esteemed foreign universities, such as the University of California and Cornell University, delivered lectures on 97 subjects, covering areas including business management, economics, humanities, the sciences, and the Korean language.

In addition, students participated in a range of activities such as K-pop flash mobs, K-cooking, and Taekwondo, immersing themselves in various aspects of K-culture. The program also included events like K-Movie Day and K-Sports Day, which provided students with firsthand exposure to local culture. They had the chance to enjoy films, attend special lectures, or watch sports games at the theater or stadium.

The ISC graduation ceremony held, winding up the six-week journey
Korea University hosted the graduation ceremony of the 2023 International Summer Campus (ISC), the largest of its kind in Korea.

Korea University held the 2023 International Summer Campus (ISC) graduation ceremony at the Inchon Memorial Hall auditorium on August 3 (Thursday) at 7:00 PM.

ISC 2023, the largest of its kind in South Korea, drew the participation of over 2,000 students from 312 universities in 43 countries, including the US, the UK, Australia, the Netherlands, Singapore, Hong Kong, and China.

The six-week program, starting from June 27, saw the participation of university students from both home and abroad, as well as prospective international students. Renowned professors from esteemed foreign universities, such as the University of California and Cornell University, delivered lectures on 97 subjects, covering areas including business management, economics, humanities, the sciences, and the Korean language.

In addition, students participated in a range of activities such as K-pop flash mobs, K-cooking, and Taekwondo, immersing themselves in various aspects of K-culture. The program also included events like K-Movie Day and K-Sports Day, which provided students with firsthand exposure to local culture. They had the chance to enjoy films, attend special lectures, or watch sports games at the theater or stadium.


The graduation ceremony began with opening remarks and introductions of distinguished guests, followed by a congratulatory speech from the ISC dean Song Sang-Ki. “Over the past six weeks, I have been pleased to witness your efforts and dedication,” Song said, extending his heartfelt congratulations to students and professors. He added, “I hope that your academic journey will continue after returning to your home country and school.”

Speaking on behalf of the ISC professors, Professor K. Praveen Parboteeah from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in the US stated, “It is truly astonishing how swiftly the past 6 weeks have flown by. Students from different backgrounds, cultures, and experiences came together at ISC to share knowledge and forge friendship. Your journey has only just commenced. Move forward, and I wish you success in your future endeavors.”

Representing the students of ISC 2023, Allison Danielle White, a student from Western Ontario University in Canada, delivered her speech, saying, “Like many, my introduction to South Korea was through K-pop and K-dramas. The excitement and eagerness sparked by K-content are unparalleled, setting the nation apart from other countries. The ISC lived up to these high expectations. As we bid adieu, may these 6 weeks be etched in our memories, and I hope our paths cross again someday.”

Paulina Molina Valerio, representing pre-college students, stated, “Today holds a unique significance as we gather to celebrate the ISC graduation. When I applied for the ISC, I envisioned it as a chance for self-discovery and personal growth. That vision has been fully realized. Over the span of six weeks, I unearthed facets of myself and evolved. I extend the hope that each of you continues to progress and flourish, enriched by the experiences gained from ISC.”

Subsequently, attendees viewed a video encapsulating the official activities of the past six weeks, followed by an overview of academic achievements and grades, dormitory life, and the International Winter Campus (IWC) program.

The ISC graduation ceremony concluded with the Best Buddy Awards and a screening of the ISC activity video. After the ceremony, students joyfully tossed their caps into the air, applauding one another and commemorating the fulfillment of ISC. Even after the ceremony, they captured the final moments of ISC by taking photos with peers and professors.