Straight A’s, a startling TOEFL score of approximately 120, a brilliant resume packed with internship programs—such are what lurk in the corner of every Korean university student. By them, young students are distressed and forced to face the unpleasant facets of the reality— a growing unemployment rate, fierce competition, and the passive lifestyle of middle-aged workers.
 
Professor Heo Tae Kyun (Psychology) and Lee Sang Min (Education), on the other hand, propose a positive outlook on this issue. Talking about "delusion," these two mind experts suggested students break out of the stuffy box that society forces them to stay in. Professor Heo, with his characteristic smirking face, reiterated the importance of living in a delusion and refusing to follow the path that everyone walks on. With his refreshingly candid speaking style, he stressed that students should free themselves from the delusion imposed upon them by society and find their own delusion, which is neither defined nor evaluated by society.
 
"Do not afflict yourself by forcing yourself to meet others’ expectations. Living in such pain is by no means meaningful," said Heo, in his convincingly humorous manner. Students occasionally burst into laughter, nodding their heads sometimes as a sign of agreement. This friendly lecture, albeit lacking in specific topics and procedural details, succeeded in touching students’ minds and bringing up open communication. Many hands rose into the air after the lecture, coupled with rather profound questions that followed.

   
▲ Two professor, Heo (left) and Lee (right), alternately talking to the audiences. Photographed by Kang Sang Ji

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