[467 Culture] University Drinking Culture at Semester Start

   As the new semester begins, freshmen and returning students alike adjust to campus life once again, which often includes welcome events, orientations, and student gatherings. In many of these settings, drinking is more than just a pastime. It has become an established social practice, helping students connect with peers and navigate new social environments. Beyond its role in fostering friendships, alcohol is also used to relieve academic stress and ease social pressures. In this article, The Dongguk Post explores how drinking culture has become embedded in university life and its impact on students, examining its benefits and

drawbacks to understand its role in shaping student experiences.

Means of socializing, but not without its problems

   For university students, drinking is often seen as an important means of building relationships, serving as a common way to bond with people. Especially orientation’ week, with club activities, social gatherings, and departmental events in full swing, drinking frequently accompanies these occasions. Beyond being a source of enjoyment, alcohol strengthens social connections and fosters a sense of camaraderie. For example, it is common to see freshmen and upperclassmen sharing drinks during club orientations or departmental welcome events, solidifying bonds in the process. In these situations, alcohol is a social catalyst, helping students integrate into university life and understand different cultures through social exchanges.

   However, this drinking culture is not without its risks. Excessive drinking can negatively impact both physical and mental health, sometimes leading to accidents or conflicts. In addition to harming academic focus, some students experience regret after drinking, especially during times when academic performance is crucial. Arguments or aggressive behaviors arising from alcohol use can also damage social relationships, highlighting the importance of maintaining a balanced approach to drinking. Reckless drinking can lead to serious personal and community issues, including drunk driving or long- term health problems. Therefore, while drinking can play a role in strengthening social bonds, students need to drink responsibly and be aware of the potential consequences.

   Ultimately, while drinking culture remains a traditional part of university life, its impact is far from trivial. To create a healthier and more enjoyable drinking culture, students must recognize their limits and adopt self-restraint. Universities also have a role to play by implementing educational programs and institutional support to promote responsible drinking. Drinking, when done properly, can hold positive value, and it is important to remember that it is not just a recreational activity but a practice that demands careful consideration.

Establishing a culture of responsible and healthy drinking

   Alcohol consumption among university students has long been an established tradition, deeply embedded in social interactions. However, recent discussions have raised concerns about the need for change. While drinking serves as an important tool for forming social connections, its negative side effects, particularly those caused by excessive consumption, cannot be ignored. As a result, there is growing emphasis on the need for a responsible drinking culture, with ongoing efforts within universities to address and improve the situation.

   Some universities are already taking proactive steps to create a safer drinking environment by offering preventive education programs and promoting a healthier social gathering culture. For example, certain universities have implemented campaigns to raise awareness of the potential risks of excessive drinking, encouraging students to understand the importance of moderation and self-restraint. In these universities, students are also being encouraged to create spaces, such as student clubs and departmental events, where excessive drinking is not pressured. This proactive approach is proving effective in creating an environment where students can socialize responsibly, balancing enjoyment with caution.

Dongguk university started implementing the human rights bracelet culture in 2017. This culture has been in place since the past, and while the designs vary across different departments and schools, the intent remains the same. The bracelets are used as a means for students to express their refusal to engage in drinking alcohol or unwanted behaviors during campus events. During freshman MT, these human rights bracelets are often distributed to everyone, allowing only those who wish to use them. When wearing the bracelet, seniors are encouraged to refrain from offering alcohol and instead provide water or other beverages, fostering an atmosphere of mutual consideration and avoiding discomfort. This practice not only helps create a safer environment for freshmen but also promotes respectful interactions among students. By signaling their preferences through the bracelet, freshmen can feel more empowered to assert their boundaries, leading to healthier social dynamics during campus events. The initiative aims to cultivate a supportive community where everyone’s choices are respected, and where students can enjoy gatherings without feeling pressured to partake in drinking. However, the program is currently limited to only a few departments, and there is insufficient education regarding the bracelets, which has resulted in less than satisfactory outcomes. To ensure that the initiative achieves its intended goals, it is essential to address these issues and provide comprehensive training and awareness for all students involved. This would help create a more consistent understanding of the program and its benefits.

   In conclusion, while university drinking culture has evolved beyond mere entertainment to become an important factor in social interaction and building a sense of community, the negative consequences of excessive drinking remain a serious concern. A more responsible drinking culture is crucial. Students must acknowledge their limits and practice self-control, and universities must provide educational programs and institutional support to foster a healthier drinking environment. When enjoyed responsibly, alcohol can have positive value, and with the combined efforts of both individuals and the community, it can become a more constructive and balanced aspect of university life.