Along with the endemic, the opening of the “2022 Hanyang Global Fair” marked the restoration of in-person events at Hanyang University (HYU). The fair booths, run by exchange students, took place in front of the HYU Lion Statue on May 19, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

     The Office of International Affairs (OIA) conducted the student participatory fair to enrich the connectedness of exchange and visiting students, and to promote the exchange programs as the number of international students increased, compared to last year. “‘2022 Hanyang Global Fair’ served as an opportunity for both exchange and enrolled students to interact with each other,” said Kim So-yeon of OIA, who managed the program. Unlike programs centered on conveying information via online seminars, “2022 Hanyang Global Fair” was planned to revitalize face-to-face events that were sparse since the outbreak of the pandemic. 

     Fair booths featured three main themes: culture, food, and play. While the booths were open to HYU students, the visitors could also gain information on the exchange program as well as the home universities of exchange students, and enjoy a myriad of cultures through takeout foods and various games. Among 11 different booths, Kim especially looked forward to the food booths, in which students shared their homeland snacks or exotic foods from countries, such as Peru and Denmark. Kim added, “I hope students have visited the booths around the university festival season, felt the vibrant atmosphere of May, and made meaningful memories with friends.”

     OIA is planning various subsequent events as the COVID-19 situation gets better. For those looking for additional events, keeping track of the upcoming summer seasonal programs is recommended.