[469 Campus] Stepping into Celebration, A Festival That Lights Up Campus Life

   As the weather gets warmer, the flowers filling the campus begin to bloom in full force. Along with this seasonal change, various external events are set to take place around the midterm period. Through these events, students have the opportunity to gain new experiences beyond academic activities and participate in various programs held both on and off campus. In particular, Dongguk University, as a Buddhist institution, organizes Buddhist-related events that set it apart from other universities. Students can also deepen their understanding of Buddhist philosophy and culture, gaining valuable opportunities for spiritual growth. Additionally, the university provides various programs that allow students to spend relaxing moments in the romantic campus atmosphere and experience something new. These events not only go beyond academic activities but also add depth to students’ lives, helping fill everyday moments on campus with richer, more meaningful experiences.

Honoring democracy, 4.19 hiking event, a walk that links history and today

   As covered in a previous issue of The Dongguk Post, during the April 19 Revolution, Dongguk University students took to the streets to fight for the country’s democracy, many of whom made great sacrifices in the process. Their courage and spirit of resistance have become a powerful legacy that continues to resonate with current students. To honor this history, Dongguk University holds an annual mountain climbing event every April, beginning with a memorial ceremony at the April 19 National Cemetery and followed by a hike on Bukhansan National Park.

   This event is not solely about maintaining a solemn atmosphere, it also aims to celebrate the noble spirit of past students and promote student engagement through activities like group prizes and raffles. What begins as a day of remembrance soon transforms into a lively gathering where students can bond, reflect, and recharge together in nature. To encourage participation, the university even provides excused absences, allowing students to join without academic concerns. Participants often form groups based on their departments, creating opportunities to deepen friendships and share meaningful experiences outside the classroom.

   Over time, this tradition has grown into more than just a memorial; it now serves as a bridge between generations, fostering unity, reflection, and a renewed appreciation for the values of democracy and solidarity. It also strengthens students’ sense of belonging to the university by connecting them with its historical identity. It reminds students that the freedoms they enjoy today were hard-won, and encourages them to carry those values forward.

Dongguk Lantern festival, night to wish and shine

   As students walk around campus, they can easily spot lanterns hanging in various places. Beneath the lanterns, there are spaces where students can write their wishes or hopes, and many students share their diverse dreams. Some pause quietly under the glow, writing down heartfelt messages, while others simply take in the gentle ambiance. In doing so, they momentarily step away from the pressures of academic life and focus on personal reflection.

   This event, one of the major ones organized by the Buddhist school, is filled with festive activities, including celebratory performances that raise the atmosphere even more. The campus transforms into a place of quiet celebration and joy, where tradition meets youthful energy. Through this blend of the sacred, the festival becomes a gentle yet powerful reminder of the importance of hope. After the sun sets, the lit lanterns shine softly in the dark night sky, creating a beautiful nighttime view.

   According to Buddhist teachings, the lanterns represent providing light to those in need, and they offer hope and positive energy to many students. The lanterns become more than just decorations; they become symbolic figures that shed bright light on the hearts of the people. Students can spend special night with friends, lovers, or family, taking photos with lanterns and enjoying a romantic atmosphere like a scene from a movie. The soft light becomes a shared memory, lingering even after the night ends. Dongguk Lantern Festival is not only a visual spectacle but also a meaningful event that conveys warmth and hope to people’s hearts.

Filled with energy and excitement, School Festival

   The university’s biggest event, often referred to as the main festival of the university, is just around the corner. During the festival, each department sets up booths and bars where students can enjoy a variety of themed activities, letting go of the stress accumulated from studies and daily life. It is an event that allows students to have fun with friends, or even meet new people, and is eagerly anticipated by many. The entire campus comes alive with music, laughter, and energy, turning ordinary spaces into a festive celebration. Even students who do not usually participate in campus activities often find themselves drawn into the excitement.

   In addition, well-known celebrities often perform at these festivals. For last year’s school festival, big-name celebrities like Psy and NewJeans participated, drawing a large crowd of students. These performances are the highlight of the festival, offering unforgettable memories to students. The main stage becomes a place where everyone gathers, cheering and singing along as one.

   After receiving feedback on some of the issues that occurred last year, student council will make various efforts to improve the festival. This year’s event is expected to be even grander, with more programs and performances. It will provide students with more opportunities to participate and enjoy, creating moments that may become the most cherished memories of their university life.

   The various events held at Dongguk University offer students more than just enjoyment and new experiences; they provide opportunities for deeper value. The 4.19 hiking event helps students remember the noble spirit of their predecessors, the Dongguk Lantern Festival conveys hope and positive energy, and the school festival creates unforgettable memories. These events are not just enjoyable parts of campus life. They are important moments for students to feel a sense of community, communicate with each other, and understand the university’s history and values. Beyond academic achievements, these meaningful experiences allow students to embrace richer and more diverse opportunities. Furthermore, many other events are planned, and it is expected that students will take an interest and have a joyful time, gaining valuable experiences. It is hoped that students will continue to have a meaningful and fun university life while learning important values through these experiences.