/Photography by Kim Seong-hyeon
Dongguk University’s student union building has long been a subject of controversy due to issues with facility discomfort and safety. Despite ongoing discussions, these problems remain unresolved. So, what is the current state of the student union’s facility safety? How are students enduring these inconveniences?
Between clutter and cracks: life in the student union facility
One of the promises made by the student union, “Dongbaek,” was to establish a “student union remodeling committee” to address the deteriorating facilities. This initiative was proposed as the first step toward improving the aging infrastructure, but many challenges still remain. A student who uses the student union building shared their experience: “The building has cracks, and when it rains, water leaks inside. The windows are large, and in the summer, the heat becomes unbearable. Although we could install curtains, they would get soaked when it rains, so it is difficult to install them. The walls leak water, so we cannot place instruments near them. In the winter, the heating system does not work well, making it very cold during activities. In the summer, the air conditioning is insufficient, and we are barely managing with just one air conditioner that a senior bought for us.”
In addition to these ongoing concerns, the lack of facility upkeep creates an unpleasant atmosphere. Throughout the student union building, unnecessary chairs and desks are often left in the hallways, further congesting the space. The lack of proper facility management has also led to poor hygiene, making it difficult for students to feel comfortable. The building consists of six floors, but there is no elevator, which causes inconvenience for students who must rely solely on the stairs. Students with physical disabilities or heavy loads find this especially difficult, making it an accessibility issue that has not been addressed. In addition, students often report feeling frustrated by the lack of updates and the perceived slow pace of change, which has contributed to a growing sense of dissatisfaction.
Still unresolved facility problems
The "Talbang," a practice room that clubs can freely rent and use, had previously raised complaints due to a mirror that was barely hanging on the wall. The mirror has since been repaired, but the room still suffers from poor ventilation due to the small windows. The large space makes it difficult to regulate the temperature with the current heating and cooling system. Additionally, the worn-out wallpaper remains unchanged, highlighting the need for further improvements. These issues in the practice rooms reflect a broader pattern of neglect throughout the building, further exacerbating the discomfort faced by students.
Because of the building’s age, it is difficult to promptly repair things like the air conditioning system or the cracked walls promptly. The university has indicated plans to address these concerns, but the speed of implementation remains a point of concern. While minor improvements have been made in some areas, students feel that more significant upgrades are necessary to ensure their safety and comfort. The lack of consistent attention to these problems has led many students to feel that their concerns are not being taken seriously, despite repeated requests for action.
Issues and complaints related to the facilities can be submitted through Dongguk University’s online civil petition system, or by phone. Given the continued attention and demands from students, it seems urgent that improvements to the student union’s facilities be addressed without delay. The lack of proper maintenance and safety infrastructure has become a barrier to student’s full enjoyment of their academic and extracurricular experiences, highlighting the need for immediate and comprehensive action. Without these changes, the student union will continue to be a source of frustration rather than a supportive space for student activities and development.