In Korea, May is referred to as “Family Month” because there are many events and holidays related to the family. For example, throughout May are Children’s Day, Parents’ Day, Coming-of-Age Day, and Married Couples’ Day. Among these holidays, the most meaningful day for the children of parents is May 8, Parents’ Day. On Parent’s Day, people thank their parents for bearing and raising them. People usually give carnations, letters, or gifts to their parents in order to express their gratitude and respect. 

On the subject of Parents’ Day, Kookmin University held an event to celebrate the parental holiday on May 7 and 8 in front of Yongduri Statue. This event was held especially for international students who are studying at our university. The event took the shape of students writing thank-you letters to their parents, adults who might be worried about their children who are studying outside of their homeland. About 100 international students wrote sincere thank-you letters to their parents. Kookmin University enclosed thank-you cards in envelopes, written in diverse languages corresponding to students’ native tongues. After the event, the thank-you letters were mailed to the students’ respective home countries. 

Through this event, international students were able to learn about Korean ‘hyo’ culture, that is the culture of filial duty. Kookmin University was also able to show international students’ attention and solicitude for their parents.

An authority from the Center for International Student Services (CISS) said: “Kookmin University plans diverse programs for international students to have good and stable lives studying abroad. In addition, in the case of the students’ parents’ visit to our school by themselves, Kookmin University will provide various services, such as campus tour, reception at the airport, counsel about supporting international students, and treating them to a meal inside the school. Through these kinds of services, we can reinforce the ties between them and us.”

Furthermore, as the authority said that they do their best to support international students, many events are held by the CISS. One upcoming event, to be held on May 22, is a barbecue party at the basketball court beside the Playing Field ― the event is called Yu's BBQ Kitchen. The purpose of the event is to encourage and cheer for the international students. The president and faculty will don the chef’s hat and provide barbecue to students. Please check our school’s website for additional information concerning the event. 

There is a lot of information concerning the school from the CISS. Anyone can contact the center and get information that is helpful to academic life.  

▲ International students were participating in the thank-you letter event
held by the Center for International Student Service having Parents’ Day in Korea.

Ju-yeong Kim
The Kookmin Review Cub-Reporter
kimjy9321@kookmin.ac.kr