Asian Youth Camp unites teenagers from around the globe

A group of students from 24 Asian nations recently gathered in Korea to attend a summer camp and to learn more about each other's countries. The Youth Camp for Asia's Future 2014 event was hosted by the Ministry of Gender Equality & Family, and took place over two weeks from August 7 to 19.

Hailing from across the Asian continent -- from Southeast, Southwest, Northeast and Central Asia -- the students were involved in sharing creative ideas about a wide variety of mutually interesting topics, all to better understand each other's cultures. This year's theme was, "Asian Youths! Start a New Innovative Era".

A group of teenagers participates in an ice-breaking game on August 7 during the opening ceremony.

The teenagers showed particular interest in pop culture -- the so-called, "Korean wave" -- and took an active part in a wide range of programs and cultural offerings.

A special lecture was offered by Alexander Lee Eusebio, a former member of the bandU-Kiss, about Korea's history, culture and natural beauty, receiving rave reviews.

During one of the events, the K-pop Summer Concert, the teenagers were able to get up on stage and put on their own performances, mixing Korean pop music with music and dance from their own nations.

Participants listen to the stories of Alexander Lee.

A group of teens dances during the K-pop Summer Concert.

Over the course of two weeks, the students were given opportunities to build solidarity and friendship with each other, regardless of national background. They paid visits to Seoul, Jeonju and Jejudo Island, where they explored historic sites, visited museums and enjoyed the local delicacies.

On August 10, while in Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do (North Jeolla Province), they were given the chance to visit a conventional market to learn about how local people live. They also took part in a fan-making session and saw a traditional percussion performance.

Following the Jeonju trip, they headed to Jeju Island where they made stops at the Jeju Folk Village Museum and at the Seongsanilchulbong, a UNESCO natural heritage site, to get a glimpse of both the cultural and natural landscape. In addition, they were able to participate in making naturally dyed handkerchiefs.

Minister Kim Heejung of the Ministry of Gender Equality & Family said, "As leaders of the next generation, young people are expected to play a pivotal role in bringing about world peace and global prosperity, stretching beyond Asia".

Summer camp participants take part in making naturally dyed handkerchiefs while on Jeju Island.

Students learn how to play the janggu, a traditional musical instrument, and take part in a traditional drum performance.

Students gain a better understanding about each other's culture by sharing traditional foods from each country.

Students put on taekwondo and samulnori performances, a traditional style of percussion music.

(All photos courtesy of the Ministry of Gender Equality & Family)

By Lee Seung-ah
Korea.net Staff Writer
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