In an effort to enhance global awareness among youth in Gyeongsangbuk-do, the NEAR Secretariat dispatched two Japan specialists to conduct a special educational session titled “Understanding Japan” for approximately 100 students at Pungsan High School in Andong on Friday, May 16. The session also included an introduction to the Association of North East Asia Regional Governments (NEAR) and a Q&A session with the students.
The Japan specialists provided detailed explanations of Japan’s administrative system and culture, as well as unique aspects of the Japanese language, the university entrance examination system, and school life in Japan.
Students responded positively, saying the lecture provided a valuable opportunity to gain a better understanding of Japanese food, housing, language, and education systems.
Meanwhile, the NEAR Secretariat is implementing its 2025 Global Citizenship Education Program, visiting four selected high schools in Gyeongsangbuk-do — Gyeongbuk Foreign Language High School in Gumi, Pungsan High School in Andong, Korea Future Industry High School in Yeongju, and Gyeongju Information High School — which were chosen through an application process managed by the Gyeongbuk Office of Education. The program introduces the cultures of Northeast Asian countries such as China, Japan, Mongolia, and Russia.
Following its sessions at Gyeongbuk Foreign Language High School and Pungsan High School, the NEAR Secretariat plans to conduct the China-focused session at Korea Future Industry High School in mid-July and the Russia/Mongolia-focused session at Gyeongju Information High School in early October.