Campus News
BREAKING: Fire breaks out at Ewha Campus Complex (ECC), no casualties reported
On March 31, a fire broke out at the Ewha Campus Complex (ECC) near the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) unit on the B6 floor at 14:05. 22 firetrucks and 89 firemen rushed to put out the fire. Six people had to evacuate directly from the vicinity of the fire, and no casualties were reported.
Hak-gwan returns after more than two years of reconstruction
On Aug. 30, Hak-gwan, located near the Back Gate of the campus and traditionally home to the College of Liberal Arts, commenced its lectures and activities in the 2023 fall semester after its completion of reconstruction. The renovation had continued for more than two years since February 2021 and was delayed due to overlap of the COVID-19 outbreak. Students and professors expressed excitement over future usage of its new facilities.
Social Issues
Protecting wildlife through education, working for animal rights: How is Australia working for wildlife conservation?
As cases of pet abuse and cries for animal rights arise in South Korea, Ewha Voice visited Australia for insight on methods of protection and conservation of animals. Zoos such as Featherdale Wildlife Park Sydney and WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo are engaged in the well-being and conservation of many wild animals native to Australia, while the Animal Defenders Office is actively working to provide legal assistance for animals as a non- profit organization.
South Korea’s falling teaching rights finally surface
On July 18, a young teacher at Seoul Seo2 Elementary School took her own life, leaving the nation shaken and giving rise to widespread protests to better protect teaching rights in the classroom. Several teachers, professors, as well as university students voiced their concerns and made suggestions for the improvement of teachers’ rights in South Korea.
Social Issues
ChatGPT opens a new paradigm to AI chatbots
The artificial intelligence company OpenAI’s AI chat model ChatGPT, launched last November, has created a sensation in professional fields including automatic translation, summarization, software development, medicine, and law. Professor Park Hyeong Yong from the Department of AI Convergence at Global Cyber University believes education is an essential step for the young generation to learn the proper use of advanced technology.
Study Korea 300K Project: Is securing more international students beneficial?
On Aug.16, the Ministry of Education proposed the “Study Korea 300K Project,” a government- backed initiative to secure an additional number of international students and help them settle in South Korea with a guarantee of stable jobs. Despite potential advantages from the perspective of education and immigration, there have been less favorable reactions to the project, especially over the loosening of some requirements in order to secure an additional number of students from abroad.
Culture
Netflix original “Siren: Survive the Island” changes female narratives in media
The Korean Netflix survival program “Siren: Survive the Island” showcases physical battles and strategic mind races between women from six different job groups, many of which are generally considered to be male professions. Eun Kyung Lee, the producer of the show, expressed the need to stop differentiating male and female in physical survival reality shows to encourage a healthy exercise culture for women. Yang Min-yeong, the author of “Feminism Met in the Gym,” disclosed that she hopes that by showcasing active women more frequently in the media, women enjoying sports can be normalized and celebrated.
Underage K-pop idols may need more protection
Social concerns have risen as K-pop idols continue to make their debut at a steadily younger age, sometimes leading them to devote their irreplaceable youth as trainees while success as an idol is not guaranteed. Several Ewha international students and avid K-pop fans, as well as the culture critic Kim Hern Sik, expressed their worries on the topic, pointing to possible manipulation of these youth by their agencies, as well as the current lack of laws for protection.
Travel
Gyeongju, a walk through Korea’s history
Gyeongju is a treasure trove of cultural richness and historical marvels, and a must-visit for travelers craving a peaceful retreat away from the fast- paced urban landscape of Seoul. A perfect destination for all seasons, consider a planning your next Korean journey through the soul of Gyeongju, where every step is a dance with history.
Winter wandering in Wien
Vienna, or Wien in its native German, is home to a vast collection of famous royal palaces and cultural monuments, whether it be art, music, or architecture. This city is a beautiful travel destination for all seasons, especially during the cozy, festive winter months.
World
Earth Day 2023: Words of advice from climate experts around the globe
Ewha Voice interviewed three climate experts to discuss the ongoing climate change consequences. Professor Lee Sang-Don explained the drastic long-term consequences of climate change and extreme weather on the Korean peninsula. Nicky Hutley expressed the need for further support for new industries, while Dr. Chunping Xie emphasized the significance of more ambitious targets to achieve carbon neutrality.
Where do electric vehicles stand in UN’s net zero 2040?
Whereas the United Nations has G20 countries to aim for net zero “as close as possible” to 2040, the hit of the post- pandemic economic crisis has led to decreased subsidies and changes in major environmental plans, leading to the recent decreased sales of eco-friendly vehicles. Seohyun Lee from KATECH explained the status quo of eco-friendly vehicles worldwide, along with some potential economic and environmental downsides. Byunguk Kang from KEEI delivered his thoughts on the economic aspect of eco-friendly vehicles in relation to the UN net zero. Professor Sanghun Lee shared his perspective on the same issue in terms of energy engineering.
People
KryptoSeoul CEO Erica Kang shares her crypto rabbit-hole story
KryptoSeoul is a community-building brand based on highlighting solid projects in the crypto space, hosting the annual BUIDL Asia since 2018. Erica Kang, an Ewha alumna and founder of KryptoSeoul, reminisced on her journey to find her passion in blockchain technology.
Ageless beauty: A candid conversation with senior model Yoon Young Ju
Yoon Young Ju, a senior model and artist, defied ageism and stereotypes to achieve success in the modeling industry at the age of 70. Through her experience of pursuing education despite financial challenges and family responsibilities, and later finding her passion for modeling, Yoon emphasized the importance of pursuing one’s dreams regardless of circumstances, with individuality and uniqueness.