Korea Aerospace University (KAU) organized a social dining event on September 12 at Eunik Hall with the Goyang Council for Sustainable Development's Sustainable Society Committee. The event was held for participants of the ICAO Global Aviation Policy Fellowship. Attendees from diverse cultural backgrounds came together to share a meaningful meal, fostering cultural exchange and understanding.

◌ Social dining, a platform for building connections and cultural exchanges

Social dining is an activity that fosters communication and interaction over a shared meal, serving as a vital means of enhancing social engagement and promoting cultural exchange beyond the act of eating. This event embraced the concept of social dining, bringing together 25 ICAO Fellowship participants and five Korean KAU students. They discussed various topics while sharing their cultures and personal experiences.

In his welcoming speech, a representative from the Goyang Council for Sustainable Development likened social dining to “two wings that connect lives through food and conversation,” explaining that one wing represents "cooking" and the other "talking." He highlighted how the event would expand participants' social networks and offer a meaningful experience. Originally launched as a program for individuals living alone during the COVID-19 pandemic, the initiative has since evolved into a cultural dining experience for international students. Since last year, it has been regularly held for international students at universities in Goyang.

◌ Making songpyeon and baramtteok, a traditional Korean food experience

A highlight of this social dining event was the hands-on activity where participants crafted their own songpyeon and baramtteok rice cakes. Organized in celebration of Chuseok, Korea's signature holiday, this program allowed attendees to engage with traditional Korean cuisine firsthand. Songpyeon, an iconic dish for Chuseok, was personalized by participants who kneaded rice cake base and added fillings.

Baramtteok, another beloved Korean rice cake, was made collaboratively, deepening participants' understanding of Korean culture and culinary traditions. Throughout the process, Korean students shared the significance and customs surrounding songpyeon and baramtteok, fostering a space for cultural exchange through food. . This activity offered more than just a culinary experience; it provided participants with the chance to bond and appreciate cultural diversity

◌ Time of conversation, sharing global stories of Chuseok and the holiday season

An integral part of the event was time set aside for conversation, where participants from various countries shared their stories about Chuseok, introduced their own festivals, and explored each other's cultures. Discussions included the origins and significance of Chuseok, as well as insights into Korea's family-oriented culture and traditions. Participants exchanged details about their own holiday customs and special foods, fostering a rich space for cultural exchange.

In particular, ICAO Fellowship participants recounted how they celebrate holidays, traditional foods, and family gatherings in their home countries, highlighting both differences and commonalities. This conversation provided a meaningful moment for participants to grasp the true essence of social dining, as they listened to each other’s stories rather than merely enjoying the meal.

This event not only offered international students at KAU a chance to experience Korean holidays and traditional cuisine, but also exemplified efforts to strengthen social ties and respect cultural diversity as part of the Goyang Council for Sustainable Development's commitment to building a sustainable society.