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Learning How To Bridge Gaps Between Countries During My Summer at Yonsei
Learning How To Bridge Gaps Between Countries During My Summer at Yonsei

Yonsei International Summer School student Iroha from Japan


Name: Iroha Joy Richman

Home University: International Christian University (Japan)


"I first came to study at Yonsei University for the summer to gain a broader perspective and see more sides of Korean life and culture. Because of the past history and cultural differences between Korea and Japan, I had expected to feel a sense of initial awkwardness when arriving in Seoul. But after coming to Yonsei and talking with the local students from the summer school as well as outside the program, I came to understand how people can overcome history and have a flexible mind about different issues. 


My Contemporary Korean Culture Wave class was eye-opening. It was taught by an American professor who had been living in Korea for 30 years, and it was interesting to learn about Korea from an American academic’s perspective – he perceived Korea both from the inside and the outside, and therefore had a broad view of Korean society and culture. It made me more interested in finding out more sides of Korea in a deeper way. I am currently doing my liberal arts coursework and so I had not decided on my major yet, but after taking this course I made up my mind to take Asian Studies as my major. With this major, I can explore the culture, history and international relations around Asia.


My encounters with Korean people led me to think that when I returned to Japan and if I tried enough, I could change people’s minds if I showed them what I experienced here. Instead of thinking that I can’t do anything because I am just a student, I want to help the two countries bond together and change the mindsets of people. It would not be easy, but if I could help improve the relationship between the two countries, I would be very happy."



* Yonsei International Summer School (YISS) is an integral part of campus life based on a unique blend of Korean and global cultures. The 2019 program  offers over 100 courses and over 50 corporate/research internships, with activities including a field trip across northeast Korea, Mud Festival, Folk Village Tour, SM Town tour and DMZ tour. Students can choose from 6-week and 4-week options. Experience the legendary “Yonsei Spirit” by spending an unforgettable summer in the heart of Seoul, Korea.

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