Food, music, costumes, and dances filled Korea University (KU)’s red-brick plaza last Thursday. On May 11, 2023, Korea University Buddy Assistants (KUBA), KU's foreign exchange program volunteer group, held its International Student Festival (ISF) at the Minju Square. The event featured various interactive programs designed to give participants a glimpse into the diverse cultures of international students at KU. A total of 19 countries from across Asia, Europe, the Americas, and Oceania set up booths at the festival, each offering a unique experience highlighting aspects of their culture. The festivities culminated with an enthralling fashion and talent show, where participants showcased traditional outfits and captivating dances from their respective cultures.

This semester marks the 20th anniversary of the biannual festival, with an impressive participation of over 1500 international students. Numerous students expressed their excitement and awe at the festival's offerings. In an interview with The Korea University Weekly, Admek Hanna (’23, Chinese Language and Literature) shared how as a foreigner immersed in an unfamiliar environment, they greatly appreciated having a festival that celebrated the diverse cultures from around the world. President Kim Dong-One of KU also voiced similar sentiments, expressing his delight in witnessing students from around the world forging meaningful connections.