April 1, 2009. Shanghai campus - Although it was held on April Fools’ Day, Korean Night at CEIBS was certainly no joke. The event was hosted by Korean students with strong support from Korea Tourism Office’s Xujiahui location.

Korea was brought to life on the campus through various decorative wall hangings and brochures that showcased all that the Land of the Morning Calm has to offer. Mannequins dressed in the graceful hanbok were on display and the outfits were also available for fittings and commemorative photos.

And that wasn’t all: In collaboration with the Film Club, there were three famous Korean films shown leading up to the grand night. The movie which generated the most interest was Scandal.  Set  in the Chosun dynasty with beautiful traditional Korean costumes, Scandal looks at the passion between a man and a woman, which was considered taboo during those times.

Bearing in mind that Korean pop culture has gained popularity in China through songs and TV dramas, the night began with the sounds of some of the latest music videos, followed by all the Korean students performing jeol -- a formal Korean bow -- to welcome and honour all the guests that had attended.

Brett Hwang, the representative of the Korean students, provided a brief introduction of the country, pointing out its deep rooted history and cultural highlights. A feast is certainly not complete without delicious food, and Korean kimchi (pickled cabbage) and jeon (assorted mini-pancakes) were some of the tasty dishes offered.  Alcohol is traditionally a part of any real Korean feast, and makgulli, a thick sweet rice wine, was introduced in addition to the familiar soju. Although lower in alcohol content than soju, the after effects of makgulli are quite debilitating, so all were warned to just indulge in a taste.

Korean students showcasing their culture. From left: Jennifer Han, Jay Kim, Sam Son, Joo Yi, Charlotte Jung, and Jake Lee.

Korean night was a great blend of the richness of the country’s culture with the friendly spirit of all the CEIBS students and faculty that turned up to share the experience. The event was initiated by the International Club along with the Student Committee, Music Club and Film Club as they continue to unveil the diversity of our CEIBS community for all to share -- and enjoy. 

-- Article by Joo Yi, MBA 2008