Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) inaugurated its “2024 POSTECH AutumnFest” on October 1. (Image courtesy of POSTECH)
POHANG, Oct. 3 (Korea Bizwire) – Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) inaugurated its “2024 POSTECH AutumnFest” on October 1, marking a departure from traditional university festivals in South Korea. The two-day event showcased German culture, drawing inspiration from Munich’s famous Oktoberfest.
This initiative marks the beginning of what POSTECH envisions as an annual festival, each year highlighting a different country’s culture. The move aims to foster a more internationally-oriented campus atmosphere and engage the local community in cultural exchange.
“University festivals have faced criticism for straying from their essence due to competition for popular entertainers and the resulting exorbitant costs,” a POSTECH official stated. “We aim to set a new direction for university culture by hosting a sophisticated global festival that involves the local community.”
The festival’s program kicked off with screenings of the German films “Good Bye, Lenin!” and “The Lives of Others” on the evening of October 1. Events on October 2 included a German food culture experience, a special lecture by German journalist and producer Anton Scholz, and a quiz event testing knowledge about Germany.
Highlighting the diplomatic aspect of the festival, Martin Kasperek, a counselor from the German Embassy in Korea, is participating in a talk show with students. The event will conclude this evening with a music concert by conductor Gum Nanse and the New World Philharmonic Orchestra.
Looking ahead, POSTECH has already set its sights on next year’s festival, announcing that Swedish culture will be the focus of the 2025 AutumnFest.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
