It is now the dawn of a globalized society. Numerous universities have carried out measures relevant to this trend and they have made agreements on international exchange programs with schools from different countries in order to provide opportunities for students to access a broader academic horizon. In line with such, Kookmin University also made agreements on international exchange programs with 107 schools from 22 countries, and is currently expanding the program. Many exchange students are currently attending Kookmin University. We have interviewed these 'other members of Kookmin' in order to shed light as to their thoughts about Kookmin University, based on their unique cultures and perspectives. We interviewed Okada Moe (22) and Matsu Yasuko (24), both are students at the Japanese Language department of Kookmin University.

1. How did you become interested in Korea? Why did you choose Kookmin University?
   
   Moe: By chance, I happen to learn Samulnori (Korean traditional percussion quartet) in high school. Such experience made me decide to come to Korea. When I was in my second year in high school, I came to Korea and participated in a home stay program to learn Samulnori (Korean traditional percussion quartet). The more I learned about Korean culture, the more I started to like Korea. So when I went back to Japan, I applied for a Korean language major. My school had an exchange student program with Kookmin University, Kyunghee University's Suwon campus, and a school in Masan. I chose Kookmin University because it was located in Seoul. When I saw that the campus was so large and attractive, I knew I made the right decision. The cherry blossoms in spring are remarkably beautiful.
   
   Yasuko: I came to Kookmin University as an exchange student from Saga University. Since my school required a second language, I thought about it seriously and finally decided to choose Korean. Our department divided us into teams and we took a trip to Korea, where so many kind people taught us. I also liked that Koreans were more passionate than Japanese people, so I had a great impression of Korea. While I was preparing to study abroad, there was an exchange student from Kookmin University at Saga, and through the help of that friend, I was able to enter Kookmin University.
   
   
2. What was it like when you first came to Korea and Kookmin University?
   
   Moe: When I first came to Korea, I was surprised by the student culture. I thought it was strange that the students would gather after class and go drink together. Such culture is rarely seen in Japan. So at first, I liked the drinking culture of Korea. When I first came to Korea, I was feeling lonely because I didn't speak the language and didn't have any friends. Whenever I went to such gatherings, I was able to learn the language and make friends with many people. Also, I came to Korea in March, and I missed the deadline for registering for the classes. The school tried to notify me, but none of the staff spoke Japanese and there were many times when my appointment was cancelled or when I was called on suddenly. Later on, I got help from the teaching assistant at the Japanese Language department and finally succeeded in registering for my courses. I am very grateful for his help.
   
   Yasuko: When I first came to Kookmin University, I was surprised that there were so many cafés and stores inside the campus. Japanese schools have them too, but not this many. I was also surprised that none of the buildings were old, since the university I attended back home had a lot of old buildings. Unfortunately, it was hard to difficult to obtain the information about the school and schedules of undergraduate students. Also, I had a difficult time registering for classes and finding the classrooms. I hope they pay a little more attention to the exchange students.
   
   
3. What impression did you get from the students of Kookmin University?
   
   Moe: It's been a little more than a month since I've arrived to Korea. I haven't been able to make a lot of friends yet, but I want to say 'the pungmul club, ohlimpae is the best!' I can't speak Korean well, so it may tend to be burdensome. Thankfully, my friends explain everything to me in a patient and fun manner. They also comfort me when I face hardships and difficulties, so I am very grateful to them.
   
   Yasuko: The thing that really touched me the most was that Koreans cherish their families. Although Japanese people also treasure their families, they don't express it as directly as Koreans because they tend to feel embarrassed. I have been trying to learn a lot since I came to Korea, and I try to tell my family that I love them whenever I call. Also, I am part of the global buddy program, and the friend I found through the program takes care of me. I feel so much gratitude and I think it is a really great program.
   
   
4. Do you have any resolutions or anything else to say to your friends in Kookmin University?
   
   Moe: I want to become a Korean language teacher when I return to Japan. That is why I want to try to immerse myself in the Korean culture and get to know Korean friends. So if you see me around or happen to know me, just call out my name! I want to make as many friends as possible to have a fun campus life.
   
   Yasuko: I have already been at Kookmin University for 6 months. I have to go back to Japan after this semester, but I really don't want to go back. I told my parents that I want to continue studying in Korea, but since I am their only child, they are too worried for me. Unfortunately, I have no choice but to go back to Japan. Nevertheless, I want to create a lot of fun memories in the remaining time of my stay at Kookmin University. When I go back to Japan, I will tell my friends how great it was to study abroad in Korea.