Gonzaga is located in Spokane, a city that National Geographic Traveler magazine named one of the “Best Cities in the United States.” (Image courtesy of Gonzaga University)
SEOUL, June 21 (Korea Bizwire) —Gonzaga University, renowned for its dominance in National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) basketball, witnessed an extraordinary academic expedition as its students embarked on a journey to South Korea to immerse themselves in the study of Korean culture.
This educational endeavor took a compelling turn as the students partook in a demand protest near Seoul’s former Japanese Embassy on Wednesday, June 21.
The university drew attention from basketball fans in Korea due to the enrollment of Yeo Jun-seok, a talented South Korean basketball player whose aspirations of reaching the NBA led him to choose Gonzaga University for his education.
Professor William A. Hayes, the visionary behind Gonzaga’s esteemed “Korea Studies” course.
At the heart of this enlightening endeavor is Professor William A. Hayes, the visionary behind Gonzaga’s esteemed “Korea Studies” course. With an impressive three decades of dedicated research on Korea, Professor Hayes has emerged as a notable pro-Korean intellectual.
Accompanied by two fellow faculty members and a cohort of 14 enthusiastic students, Professor Hayes embarked on a month-long journey to South Korea, exploring the nation’s remarkable landmarks and engaging in a range of cultural experiences.
Their collective commitment to understanding Korea was highlighted by their active participation in the protest on Wednesday, garnering attention from the South Korean media.
The protest, aptly titled “Demand Demonstration to Resolve the Issue of Japanese Military Sexual Slavery,” marked its 1,600th iteration on June 14th, symbolizing a steadfast commitment to the cause for over three decades.
In a poignant display of solidarity, the 14 Gonzaga University students joined numerous others today in urging the Japanese government to issue an official apology and provide reparations for the victims. This historic event added a new dimension to the students’ immersive experience, fostering a deeper understanding of the complex historical issues between South Korea and Japan.
Students from Gonzaga University’s “Korea Studies” course in the U.S. hold a sign as they participate in the 1601st Demand Demonstration to Resolve the Issue of Japanese Military Sexual Slavery near the Japanese Embassy in Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea, on Nov. 21.
Prior to their involvement in the protest, the students engaged in a series of educational activities. Their visit to the War and Women’s Rights Museum provided valuable insights into the topic of Japanese comfort women, a harrowing chapter in history.
As part of their comprehensive curriculum, the students enrolled in the six-credit “Korea Studies” course, commonly referred to as the Korean Wave, led by Professor Hayes during the spring semester. It is worth noting that the students willingly invested over $10,000 per person to partake in this extraordinary journey, seeking to absorb every lecture and fully experience the essence of the Korean Wave firsthand.
Gonzaga University’s foray into South Korea exemplifies the institution’s commitment to fostering global perspectives and cultivating a holistic educational experience. Through their participation in the demand protest and their comprehensive study of Korean culture, these students will undoubtedly return to Gonzaga University with a profound appreciation for the interplay of history, culture, and activism.
Gonzaga University students at Hwarang Village in Gyeongju, Korea
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
