To enhance cultural exchange and provide immersive experiences, the Korea Development Institute School (KDIS) continued its longstanding Home Visiting Program for students, faculty, and staff during the spring semester break, in which Professor Changkeun Lee participated. In an insightful conversation with him, he shared his experiences and the profound impact of this enriching initiative. Below is the conversation:

Please introduce yourself.

My name is Changkeun Lee. I work at KDIS as a professor. I teach economic development from a historical perspective and microeconomics of artificial intelligence. I love working with students.  

Is this your first time doing the Home Visit Program?

Yes, it is my first time. 

What inspired you to take part in this program?

Well, it has been on my mind for a long time. I could not participate in it previously because I have been busy researching and attending conferences overseas. This time around, I had some spare time and decided to invite PhD students who engage in research with me. It would be nice to spend time with them, build personal rapport, and discuss common ground for future research.

Can you briefly share your experience?

Initially, we considered visiting far locations but settled on neighbouring places. So, the first places we visited were drama sets replicating the 1900s, when Korea was still a dynasty. Most students know the Korean drama ‘Mr. Sunshine’, so I thought it would be an excellent opportunity to show them where it was shot and remind them of good memories of Korean pop culture.

One of the students from Mexico was particularly excited, so he took pictures and sent them back to his mother, who was also happy because she loves K-Drama. We also played survival activity games just next to these fantastic drama sets.

We also went to another place. We took many beautiful pictures in Buyeo, an old capital of the dynasty (1500 years), and the students had lots of fun taking many photos. 

We came back to Sejong, and by chance, we realized that a falling flower festival was taking place, so we spent most of the night together there. 

I wanted something different and unique because most people love to visit famous places like Seoul, Jeonju or Busan. I wanted them to experience something different, like drama sets and Korean military camp experiences.

Did you encounter any challenges in organizing this program?

Selecting restaurants for students can be challenging as some have certain food restrictions. I always want students to try Korean food, which is part of the experience, but some prefer something else. It is challenging to accommodate different food tastes, preferences or food restrictions.

Is it a program you recommend to the school to continue?

This opportunity allows professors to learn more about other students as people, colleagues, and friends. So, I recommend it.  Also, exchanging ideas and asking in-depth questions about their country, Korea, and personal background/experiences is more accessible in a casual atmosphere.

Furthermore, students have personal desires and aspirations that they cannot share in a classroom; this relaxed setting affords them that opportunity.

Do you have any other thoughts you would love to share with us about the Home Visit Program?

The school can enrich the program by encouraging and letting professors know how mentally and emotionally rewarding it is. It is a fantastic opportunity to get to know others better and share ideas and thoughts. Graduating from KDIS does not mean relationships should end; we need personal ties to keep these relationships going. The home visiting program is a good use of time. It's a significant, considerable investment in building social networks.

It is very special to me because I like discovering what's inside every person. I hope other people can join this initiative and find their own stories.