The Secretariat of the Association of North East Asia Regional Governments (NEAR) visited Korea Future Industry High School in Yeongju on Tuesday, August 19, to deliver a special lecture on “Understanding Chinese Culture” aimed at enhancing global awareness among youth in Gyeongsangbuk-do. Two China experts, together with a China-based officer from the Secretariat, participated in the session and engaged in meaningful exchanges with the students.
This session was specially designed for approximately ten students preparing for employment in Singapore, where frequent interaction with Chinese communities is expected. The lecture provided offering tailored education to help them better understand the local environment. Through the lecture, students expanded their knowledge of Chinese culture and society while cultivating practical international sensibilities applicable to real-world settings.
The lecture began with an introduction to NEAR member governments and proceeded to address a wide range of topics, including: regional cultures and characteristics of China, traditional customs, cultural differences between China and Korea, and the lifestyle and cultural traits of overseas Chinese clients. During the Q&A session, students actively participated, noting that the program “helped develop international awareness and would be useful in both work and daily life.”
Meanwhile, the NEAR Secretariat is operating the “2025 International Understanding Education Program” to cultivate global talent and strengthen international awareness among high school students in Gyeongsangbuk-do. In cooperation with recommendations from the provincial office of education, the Secretariat is visiting four selected high schools, Gumi Gyeongbuk Foreign Language High School, Andong Pungsan High School, Yeongju Korea Future Industry High School, and Gyeongju Information High School, to introduce the cultures of key Northeast Asian countries, including China, Japan, Mongolia, and Russia.
Earlier this year, special lectures were held at Gumi Gyeongbuk Foreign Language High School and Andong Pungsan High School. Following the lecture at Korea Future Industry High School, the Secretariat will conclude the 2025 program with a final lecture on Russia and Mongolia at Gyeongju Information High School in mid-September.