Thailand Day Held on November 18 at the Global Lounge On November 18, the Thailand Day event was held at the Global Lounge. The event was sponsored by the Office of International Affairs and planned by the student group “Yonsei Global.” This was the second global day event of the year, the first being Japan Day in May. In the Global Lounge, a model of a Thai palace was set up, creating an atmosphere much like Bangkok, with quiet Thai music flowing in the background. Under dim lights, the tables were set with purple tablecloths and candles. In the booths at the event hall, information and services to give information about Thai culture were provided. Visitors were able to taste Khao Phat, a dish made with vegetables, rice, and meat, and Thai tea. They also exchanged Korean currency with Thai “Baht” to make donations to various causes. Visitors experienced the Loi Kratong ceremony. “Karthong” is a piece of banana tree decorated with banana leaves and flowers, whereas “loi” means “to float.” Beautifully decorated pieces of banana tree wood are sent down the river with candles to ask forgiveness from Khongkha, the water god, and to fend off bad luck. In the modern day, plastic or paper cups are used instead of banana trees. The visitors put pieces of paper with their wishes written on them in the paper cups, decorating them with colored paper and putting candles in them. They then floated the paper cups. The Kratongs moved along the waterway and sparkled under the candle light. In other booths, visitors made Sepaktakraw balls. “Sepak” means “to kick,” and “takraw” means “ball.” Sepaktakraw is a type of volleyball played with the feet. It is a highly popular sport in Southeast Asia and began around the year 1400 in Thailand. From 1 p.m., free Thai massages were offered, and various magazines and fliers were made available. The highlight of the event was the traditional dance performance, when two women dressed in traditional costumes and danced to traditional music. The audience was enthralled, clapping with great enthusiasm when the performance was over. After the performance, members of the audience were able to take pictures with the dancers. The event was an opportunity to experience and accept the colorful culture of Thailand.