On July 23, 2026, the familiar classroom space at HUFLIT transformed into a colorful multicultural journey from West to East without requiring flight tickets or complex visa procedures. Directly instructed by Ms. Jeong Youngju (Cyber Hankuk University of Foreign Studies – CUFS, South Korea) and Ms. Malwina Zuzanna Siecińska (Adam Mickiewicz University, Poland), the series of activities provided students with practical insights and deeply meaningful connection moments.

Roundtable discussion on bridging cultural differences

Kickstarting the morning activities, the classroom was filled with European cultural colors through the appearance of Polish Dumplings — a traditional Polish dish specially prepared by Ms. Malwina. During the discussion, students gathered to share openly about everyday etiquette and communication culture.

At the roundtable discussion, dining etiquette became a lively topic of exchange. Ms. Jeong Youngju shared the subtle beauty of food-serving customs in South Korea as well as many Asian countries — where serving food to someone is not merely sharing a delicious dish, but also expressing care and respect for others. Meanwhile, open perspectives on Western culture from Ms. Malwina and HUFLIT students added multi-dimensional depth to the session. All language barriers and geographical distances seemed to fade away, giving way to genuine listening and hearty laughter.

The closing moment of the morning class left a profound impression as the entire room applauded together, sending words of gratitude in four interwoven languages: “감사합니다” (Kamsahamnida), “Xin cảm ơn”, “Dziękuję”, and “Thank you”. This linguistic harmony created a truly heartwarming atmosphere, fully demonstrating the spirit of mutual respect and international connection.

Showing off crafting skills with Korean knot-tying art

Moving on to the afternoon class on the same day, the atmosphere shifted to a more contemplative and skillful tone with an experiential workshop on traditional Korean knot-tying (Maedeup). Under the dedicated and meticulous step-by-step guidance of Ms. Jeong Youngju, students got hands-on experience in crafting artistic knots. Patience and dexterity paid off as adorable little creations were gradually completed in each student’s hands, resembling vibrant cord bouquets rich in Korean cultural identity.

Unlocking integration skillsets for HUFLITers

Passing by without dry textbooks or pure theory lectures, this series of multicultural classes offered HUFLIT students the opportunity to expand their practical horizons by directly engaging with the customs, daily habits, and traditional arts of Poland and South Korea. Beyond enhancing cross-cultural communication competence through openness and active listening, the activity also strengthened student community bonds, created beautiful memories, and fostered a spirit of mutual learning.

Sincere thanks to Ms. Jeong Youngju and Ms. Malwina Zuzanna Siecińska for bringing HUFLIT students a complete, inspiring, and meaningful multicultural experience!