KASC Orientation: July 12-14

American and Korean delegates each gathered to meet their own delegations in Washington, DC and Seoul for the first time on Sunday.  Excitement was high as everyone introduced themselves and played name games.  

Meeting in DC the American delegates enjoyed a welcome lunch at Sorak Garden Korean restaurant in Annandale.  Some were experiencing Korean dishes for the first time while others helped teach how to make lettuce wraps with bulgogi, kimchi and garlic.  After check-in the delegates enjoyed an Opening session with JASC alumni discussed their JASC experiences, Korea background information and advice for a successful Conference. 

On Monday the delegates enjoyed a panel on US-Korea relations and economy in the morning and explored DC through a scavenger hunt in the afternoon.  They concluded orientation with a send-off reception hosted by Ambassador HAN Duk-soo and the Korean Embassy.  

Joint Orientation: July 15-17

American delegates arrived late on July 15, happy to be done with the long flight.  They we welcomed by an eager Korean delegation and a surprise domino demonstration.  Roomates found eachother and luggage was lugged up the stairs at Korea University. 

Icebreakers, skits and a campus tour filled the day on July 16th as delegates got to know each other and were introduced to their cultures.  The KEC arranged for a surprise treat as delegates were given the opportunity to try on and model traditional Korean Hanbok.

On Friday July 17th delegates celebrated the start of the 2nd KASC with an official Opening Ceremony.  Korea University's President Ki-su LEE and Public Affairs Officer Patrick Linehan of the US Embassy Seoul gave welcoming remarks.  Delegates were impressed to receive a special message from Korean President Myung-bak LEE and delighted by the pansori performance by Ms. Aeri Park. 

Seoul Site: July 18-24

The 2nd KASC officially kicked off with a formal Opening Ceremony at Korea University on Friday July 17.  On Saturday they enjoyed free time to explore Seoul and then experienced the difficulties of diplomacy in a six-party talks simulation.  On Sunday delegates met in their academic roundtables to begin introducing their research to one another followed by enjoying the cultural performance, Nanta. 

On Monday delegates explored the principles of solciology in a morning panel and learned about global business during a visit to Samsung in the afternoon. 

  Delegates enjoyed learning about Global Business at Samsung Electronics

Briefing with US Ambassador Kathy Stephens at her Seoul Residence

Daejeon Site: July 24 - 28

Delegates arrived at KAIST in Daejeon after a factory tour of Hyundai Motor Companies Asan facility.  They enjoyed time doing community service at a local beach and visiting a green tea plantation.  Members of the KAIST student council also joined the group for some interesting science focused panel discussions.  Last delegates were able to relax and enjoy sharing their cultural skills in a group talent show. 

Jeju Site: July 29 - August 2

After arriving in Jeju and learning about the local community, delegates enjoyed the sights hiking around the island and visiting the beach.  The students could really get a feel for local life and culture through the homestay with families. 

Busan Site: August 3 - 12

In Busan students stayed and Pukyoung National University, visited Kyungju, took a tour of POSCO and presented their projects at the Final Forum.