The 2023 International Summer Campus (ISC) graduation ceremony was hosted at the Inchon Memorial Hall auditorium by Korea University. ISC 2023, South Korea's largest of its type, gathered over 2,000 students from 312 institutions in 43 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, the Netherlands, Singapore, Hong Kong, and China. University students from both home and abroad, as well as potential foreign students, took part in the six-week program, which began on June 27. Renowned experts from prestigious overseas universities such as the University of California and Cornell University provided lectures on 97 topics ranging from corporate management to economics, arts, sciences, and Korean. Students also took part in events such as K-pop flash mobs, K-cooking, and Taekwondo, immersing themselves in many parts of K-culture. The curriculum also featured activities like K-Movie Day and K-Sports Day, which exposed students to local culture directly. They might view movies, listen to special lectures, or watch sports games in the theater or stadium. Korea University conducted the graduation ceremony of the 2023 International Summer Campus (ISC), the largest of its type in Korea, to conclude the six-week voyage. Opening comments and introductions of notable visitors were followed by a congratulations address from ISC dean Song Sang-Ki. "I've been pleased over the last six weeks." I have been pleased to witness your efforts and dedication,” Song said, extending his heartfelt congratulations to students and professors. He added, “I hope that your academic journey will continue after returning to your home country and school.”
Professor K. Praveen Parboteeah of the University of Wisconsin-Madison in the United States commented on behalf of the ISC faculty, "It is truly amazing how quickly the past 6 weeks have flown by." At ISC, students from all origins, cultures, and experiences came together to exchange information and form friendships. Your trip has only just begun. Move on, and best of luck in your future undertakings." Allison Danielle White, a student from Western Ontario University in Canada, offered the ISC 2023 students' address, saying, "Like many, my introduction to South Korea was through K-pop and K-dramas." The passion and anticipation produced by K-content are unrivaled, distinguishing the country from others. The ISC exceeded these lofty expectations. As we bid adieu, may these 6 weeks be etched in our memories, and I hope our paths cross again someday.” Paulina Molina Valerio, representing pre-college students, stated, “Today holds a unique significance as we gather to celebrate the ISC graduation. When I applied for the ISC, I envisioned it as a chance for self-discovery and personal growth. That vision has been fully realized. Over the span of six weeks, I unearthed facets of myself and evolved. I extend the hope that each of you continues to progress and flourish, enriched by the experiences gained from ISC. Subsequently, attendees viewed a video encapsulating the official activities of the past six weeks, followed by an overview of academic achievements and grades, dormitory life, and the International Winter Campus (IWC) program. The ISC graduation ceremony concluded with the Best Buddy Awards and a screening of the ISC activity video. After the ceremony, students joyfully tossed their caps into the air, applauding one another and commemorating the fulfillment of ISC. Even after the ceremony, they captured the final moments of ISC by taking photos with peers and professors.
