2026.06.11
Student from the Ube National College of Technology Interact Club (IAC) participated in the Japan–Korea IAC Exchange Program’s study tour to South Korea, where her interacted with Korean Interact students in Seoul during the spring break.
The student who participated in this study tour to South Korea was Ichika Oshima (fourth-year, Department of Management Information). Ms. Oshima applied for the study tour to South Korea organized by the Rotary International District 2710 (Yamaguchi and Hiroshima) and visited Seoul, South Korea, for three days (March 28–30, 2026) along with eight other Interactors from different high schools, such as the Noda Gakuen and the Xavier High School.
The National Institute of Technology, Ube College IAC has been active since the 2025 academic year, with the Ube Nishi Rotary Club serving as its sponsor club. We will continue to actively participate in activities organized by Rotary Clubs such as this one.
Interact members visit Bukchon Hanok Village |
Ms. Oshima (center) |
Ms. Oshima (right) strolling through Pocheon |
The Main Gate of the Gyeongbokgung Palace |
Oshima Ichika’s Training Report
On the first day of the training, I had the long-awaited reunion with Seo Hye-won from the IAC in South Korea. We have been in touch ever since they visited Yamaguchi Prefecture as part of the Japan–Korea exchange program this January. Since we have been keeping each other updated on our lives via social media, we hit it off immediately and reconnected just as intimately as before.
After participating in the Japan–Korea exchange event, we both took a bus to Seongsu in Seoul. We had dinner at a café run by Hye-won’s older brother, took photos at a photo booth, and browsed through various shops, creating fun memories while experiencing the local trends firsthand.
After returning to Pocheon, we met up with another pair and went to a karaoke club, where we deeply bonded despite the brief time together. Later, we reunited with Hye-won’s parents and went to a café together. The caricatures they drew of us there have become a lifelong treasure for both of us. We received many souvenirs during our visit to Yamaguchi in January, and this time as well, we were given numerous gifts along with warm hospitality. Experiencing the kindness of everyone who treated us like family filled our hearts with gratitude.
On the second and third days, we participated in a study program to obtain a deeper understanding of Seoul’s history and culture. At the Gyeongbokgung Palace—the main palace of the Joseon Dynasty—we marveled at its majestic architecture and learned about its history. At the Bukchon Hanok Village, we toured the streets that preserve traditional residences to this day. It was an enriching experience to see artifacts reflecting deeply cherished traditions amid Seoul’s modern skyline.
We also visited the bustling Myeongdong district and the Gwangjang Market, which is over 100 years old. At the market, mountains of ingredients and energetic shouts of the vendors afforded us an intimate experience of the richness and vitality of Korean food culture. It was a profound learning experience that transcended mere sightseeing.
Participation in this Japan–Korea exchange program exposed me to Korea’s true culture and the warmth of its people—something I could have never experienced as a tourist. Although I slightly regret my brief stay, I am delighted that we promised to meet again, and I am hopeful that this relationship will continue in the future. Drawing on the valuable experiences and bonds formed during this program, I intend to continue actively engaging in international exchange activities.