The Nobel Prize in Literature awarded to alumna Han Kang (Korean Language and Literature, '89) was an incredibly special joy for the Yonsei community. Beyond the symbolism of being the first Korean and the first Asian woman to receive the award, the writer's message about "humanity and healing" resonated globally, which makes it even more significant. Han Kang's question, "Can the past help the present? Can the dead save the living?" which intersects life and death, has become a golden thread that connects generations and transcends borders, spreading warmth, empathy, and love through the language of literature.

Yonsei University commemorated and celebrated the values Han Kang created as an author and provided students with an opportunity to experience and be inspired by humanity's great achievement, the Nobel Prize, by sending the "Nobel Week Student Delegation" to Sweden. From December 5 to 13, the delegation visited Stockholm, and we met with Professor Song In Han, Vice President for Student Affairs and Services, Lee Eun-chae (YBS), and Kang Da Eun (Inyon), to hear their reflections on the visit.

Following the announcement of Han Kang as the 2024 Nobel Laureate in Literature on October 10, and just two months before the award ceremony on December 10, the planning and organization of the Nobel Week delegation at the school was tight schedule. How did the idea for the delegation begin, and how was the student selection and itinerary planned in such a short period?
 

The Nobel Prize in Literature awarded to alumna Han Kang (Korean Language and Literature, '89) was an incredibly special joy for the Yonsei community. Beyond the symbolism of being the first Korean and the first Asian woman to receive the award, the writer's message about "humanity and healing" resonated globally, which makes it even more significant. Han Kang's question, "Can the past help the present? Can the dead save the living?" which intersects life and death, has become a golden thread that connects generations and transcends borders, spreading warmth, empathy, and love through the language of literature.

Yonsei University commemorated and celebrated the values Han Kang created as an author and provided students with an opportunity to experience and be inspired by humanity's great achievement, the Nobel Prize, by sending the "Nobel Week Student Delegation" to Sweden. From December 5 to 13, the delegation visited Stockholm, and we met with Professor Song In Han, Vice President for Student Affairs and Services, Lee Eun-chae (YBS), and Kang Da Eun (Inyon), to hear their reflections on the visit.

Following the announcement of Han Kang as the 2024 Nobel Laureate in Literature on October 10, and just two months before the award ceremony on December 10, the planning and organization of the Nobel Week delegation at the school was tight schedule. How did the idea for the delegation begin, and how was the student selection and itinerary planned in such a short period?
 

Song: "At the end of October, President Yoon Dong-Sup decided to send the delegation to convey Yonsei's congratulations to Han Kang and spread the significance of the Nobel Prize within the university. The delegation was formed with Provost Sohn Young-Jong as the leader, along with Professor Lee Sam Youl, Executive Editor of Yonsei Chunchu, Annals, and YBS, representatives from the student government, media organizations, and ambassadors, as well as students from the Department of Korean Language and Literature and the Yonsei Culture Award winners. Although the preparation period was only a month, we intensively read Han Kang's works and researched the Nobel Prize and Nobel Week. However, just before our departure, unforeseen circumstances like the Dec. 3 emergency martial law declaration led to the student government representatives having to remain for the student assembly, and the vice president could not leave due to important school matters. Ultimately, the delegation, consisting of seven students and two professors, set off with a solemn heart. I vividly remember the heavy atmosphere at the departure. Fortunately, hearing the news from our homeland that we were overcoming the crisis and restoring democracy, thanks to the unique dynamism of our society, gave us a great sense of relief. Most importantly, the delegation's journey started with an unexpected stroke of luck. We were able to meet alumna Han Kang at Frankfurt Airport during a layover. After a long flight, the conversation between the author and the students was moving and inspiring. This was not just a visit; it became a special journey that none of us will ever forget."

The Nobel Week delegation held their send-off ceremony at 5 p.m. on December 3 at Underwood Hall, just two days before their departure on December 5. However, within just five hours, a state of emergency was declared, and it became uncertain whether the delegation would be able to carry out their scheduled Nobel Week visit. As a result, some members of the delegation were unable to participate. Yet, an unexpected miracle occurred. During a layover at Frankfurt Airport, the delegation had the chance to meet alumna Han Kang. It was truly a chance encounter, a "Happy Encounter." The delegation had been formed to celebrate Han Kang's Nobel Prize but given that she was visiting Sweden as a guest of the Swedish government and had a busy schedule, it was uncertain whether they would be able to meet her, even from a distance.

Kang: "While walking through the airport, our professor recognized alumna Han Kang first, and I’m truly grateful that the professor made it possible for us to meet her. Just before boarding the flight to Stockholm, we all sat together in the lounge and had a conversation with the author. One of the students cautiously asked if the author could just sign a small dot, and she kindly signed all our books. It felt unbelievable to meet her by chance at such an unexpected moment, almost like fate, and we were simply grateful."
 

The Nobel Week delegation held their send-off ceremony at 5 p.m. on December 3 at Underwood Hall, just two days before their departure on December 5. However, within just five hours, a state of emergency was declared, and it became uncertain whether the delegation would be able to carry out their scheduled Nobel Week visit. As a result, some members of the delegation were unable to participate. Yet, an unexpected miracle occurred. During a layover at Frankfurt Airport, the delegation had the chance to meet alumna Han Kang. It was truly a chance encounter, a "Happy Encounter." The delegation had been formed to celebrate Han Kang's Nobel Prize but given that she was visiting Sweden as a guest of the Swedish government and had a busy schedule, it was uncertain whether they would be able to meet her, even from a distance.

Kang: "While walking through the airport, our professor recognized alumna Han Kang first, and I’m truly grateful that the professor made it possible for us to meet her. Just before boarding the flight to Stockholm, we all sat together in the lounge and had a conversation with the author. One of the students cautiously asked if the author could just sign a small dot, and she kindly signed all our books. It felt unbelievable to meet her by chance at such an unexpected moment, almost like fate, and we were simply grateful."
 

Lee: "We all sat around and had a conversation for about 30 minutes. I remember her saying that she wanted to hear the voice of each student in the delegation. She signed the students' books and paid full attention to every conversation, responding thoughtfully to all of our questions."

Song: "Despite the fatigue from the long flight, she genuinely listened to the students’ stories and empathized deeply, which made me feel once again her human side and her dignity as a writer. Not only did she appear serious, but her witty remarks and sense of humor made me think, ‘We are really talking to Han Kang the author!’ The students asked various questions about her writing style and the meaning of literature, and the author gave warm and profound answers. Personally, being a student from the class of ‘89, though we studied in different majors, it was meaningful to share the experience of having spent time on the same campus during the same period. Given the exhaustion after the long flight, we thought taking photos would not be so appropriate, so instead, we captured the moment with a ‘hand photo,’ which is a popular trend among students these days."
 

Lee: "We all sat around and had a conversation for about 30 minutes. I remember her saying that she wanted to hear the voice of each student in the delegation. She signed the students' books and paid full attention to every conversation, responding thoughtfully to all of our questions."

Song: "Despite the fatigue from the long flight, she genuinely listened to the students’ stories and empathized deeply, which made me feel once again her human side and her dignity as a writer. Not only did she appear serious, but her witty remarks and sense of humor made me think, ‘We are really talking to Han Kang the author!’ The students asked various questions about her writing style and the meaning of literature, and the author gave warm and profound answers. Personally, being a student from the class of ‘89, though we studied in different majors, it was meaningful to share the experience of having spent time on the same campus during the same period. Given the exhaustion after the long flight, we thought taking photos would not be so appropriate, so instead, we captured the moment with a ‘hand photo,’ which is a popular trend among students these days."
 

During Nobel Week, Stockholm truly embodied the phrase "City of the Nobel Prize." Various events, such as lectures by Nobel laureates, Nobel Week Lights, media facades, and literary readings, were held throughout the city, and the delegation had the opportunity to visit key landmarks, including the Nobel Prize Museum, to experience the excitement firsthand.

Kang: "As soon as we arrived in Stockholm, we visited the Nobel Prize Museum and began our schedule by exploring various materials related to the 2024 Nobel Prize winners. Through the 'Nobel Week Lights Tour,' we had the opportunity to appreciate the various light installations around the city and learn the stories and meanings behind each of the works. Particularly memorable was when a media facade at Stockholm City Hall displayed photos of Nobel laureates along with a line from the novel The White. Seeing Han Kang’s image projected so prominently brought a rush of emotion. On the third day, we participated in 'Literature Night,' an event where works awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature were read in their original language and Swedish. Hearing a passage from Han Kang’s I Won’t Let You Go in Korean in Sweden was far more moving than I had imagined."

Lee: "The most memorable experience during Nobel Week was the reading session. Before, the Nobel Prize had felt somewhat abstract, but when Korean was heard resonating through the open streets of Stockholm, it became something tangible. Watching the Swedish audience listen attentively, I realized that, even in a different language, the fundamental emotions of a text can be conveyed."

On December 10, the day of the Nobel Prize ceremony, the delegation watched the ceremony live at the Nobel Prize Museum, where the records of countless Nobel laureates come to life, celebrating Han Kang’s achievement and sharing in the joy of her award.
 

During Nobel Week, Stockholm truly embodied the phrase "City of the Nobel Prize." Various events, such as lectures by Nobel laureates, Nobel Week Lights, media facades, and literary readings, were held throughout the city, and the delegation had the opportunity to visit key landmarks, including the Nobel Prize Museum, to experience the excitement firsthand.

Kang: "As soon as we arrived in Stockholm, we visited the Nobel Prize Museum and began our schedule by exploring various materials related to the 2024 Nobel Prize winners. Through the 'Nobel Week Lights Tour,' we had the opportunity to appreciate the various light installations around the city and learn the stories and meanings behind each of the works. Particularly memorable was when a media facade at Stockholm City Hall displayed photos of Nobel laureates along with a line from the novel The White. Seeing Han Kang’s image projected so prominently brought a rush of emotion. On the third day, we participated in 'Literature Night,' an event where works awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature were read in their original language and Swedish. Hearing a passage from Han Kang’s I Won’t Let You Go in Korean in Sweden was far more moving than I had imagined."

Lee: "The most memorable experience during Nobel Week was the reading session. Before, the Nobel Prize had felt somewhat abstract, but when Korean was heard resonating through the open streets of Stockholm, it became something tangible. Watching the Swedish audience listen attentively, I realized that, even in a different language, the fundamental emotions of a text can be conveyed."

On December 10, the day of the Nobel Prize ceremony, the delegation watched the ceremony live at the Nobel Prize Museum, where the records of countless Nobel laureates come to life, celebrating Han Kang’s achievement and sharing in the joy of her award.
 

Apart from attending Nobel Week events, the delegation also visited Uppsala University, Stockholm University, and the Stockholm School of Economics. At Uppsala University, they explored valuable rare books and discussed potential collaboration opportunities with the university's administration. At the Stockholm School of Economics, they engaged in discussions about the Nordic education system and research approaches and had the chance to meet a Yonsei exchange student, touring the campus and conversing about their experiences.

Apart from attending Nobel Week events, the delegation also visited Uppsala University, Stockholm University, and the Stockholm School of Economics. At Uppsala University, they explored valuable rare books and discussed potential collaboration opportunities with the university's administration. At the Stockholm School of Economics, they engaged in discussions about the Nordic education system and research approaches and had the chance to meet a Yonsei exchange student, touring the campus and conversing about their experiences.

Kang: "I visited the Stockholm School of Economics and had the chance to meet with a fellow Yonsei student who is studying there as an exchange student. We toured the campus, and I was struck by the efficient use of space and the design, which is filled with elements of nature, giving it a very different feel compared to the architecture of universities in Korea. I nLee: "I visited the Department of Korean Studies at Stockholm University, and I was amazed by the passion of Swedish university students majoring in Korean literature. I learned a lot from how they study deep topics such as visual impairments in Korean literature and the characteristics of works by Korean female writers. I was particularly impressed by one student's response about reading the same book in its original Korean, as well as in Swedish and English translations. They compare the three versions, paying attention to the differences in details and nuances. Learning from this, I plan to try reading the same book in different languages multiple times as well."oticed many scenes where students were sitting together and discussing, and it was interesting to see that most students were working on　group projects and studying together. Through these experiences, I felt the free-spirited and progressive aspects of Swedish universities. The structure of the buildings seemed to harmonize with the educational approach, reminding students of the importance of collaboration and helping activate it. It made me realize just how significant the impact of space and education is in shaping student culture."

Kang: "I visited the Stockholm School of Economics and had the chance to meet with a fellow Yonsei student who is studying there as an exchange student. We toured the campus, and I was struck by the efficient use of space and the design, which is filled with elements of nature, giving it a very different feel compared to the architecture of universities in Korea. I nLee: "I visited the Department of Korean Studies at Stockholm University, and I was amazed by the passion of Swedish university students majoring in Korean literature. I learned a lot from how they study deep topics such as visual impairments in Korean literature and the characteristics of works by Korean female writers. I was particularly impressed by one student's response about reading the same book in its original Korean, as well as in Swedish and English translations. They compare the three versions, paying attention to the differences in details and nuances. Learning from this, I plan to try reading the same book in different languages multiple times as well."oticed many scenes where students were sitting together and discussing, and it was interesting to see that most students were working on　group projects and studying together. Through these experiences, I felt the free-spirited and progressive aspects of Swedish universities. The structure of the buildings seemed to harmonize with the educational approach, reminding students of the importance of collaboration and helping activate it. It made me realize just how significant the impact of space and education is in shaping student culture."

Lee: "I visited the Department of Korean Studies at Stockholm University, and I was amazed by the passion of Swedish university students majoring in Korean literature. I learned a lot from how they study deep topics such as visual impairments in Korean literature and the characteristics of works by Korean female writers. I was particularly impressed by one student's response about reading the same book in its original Korean, as well as in Swedish and English translations. They compare the three versions, paying attention to the differences in details and nuances. Learning from this, I plan to try reading the same book in different languages multiple times as well."

Lee: "I visited the Department of Korean Studies at Stockholm University, and I was amazed by the passion of Swedish university students majoring in Korean literature. I learned a lot from how they study deep topics such as visual impairments in Korean literature and the characteristics of works by Korean female writers. I was particularly impressed by one student's response about reading the same book in its original Korean, as well as in Swedish and English translations. They compare the three versions, paying attention to the differences in details and nuances. Learning from this, I plan to try reading the same book in different languages multiple times as well."

In addition to visiting local universities, the student delegation also spent time at the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Kingdom of Sweden and the Korean Cultural Center, gaining a deeper understanding of Sweden’s welfare system, the spread of Hallyu, and bilateral exchanges between the two countries. These activities went beyond simple sightseeing, offering a unique opportunity to directly experience the cultural, academic, and diplomatic depth of Sweden. What began as a journey centered around the Nobel Prize ultimately became a rewarding time, full of meaning and value beyond what was initially expected.

Lee: "What I felt during my visit to Stockholm was a ‘wider world’. To be honest, I didn’t know much about Nobel Week as an event beyond the Nobel Prize ceremony. Through this opportunity, I was able to broaden my perspective on the global stage and expand my knowledge. I feel a strong sense of responsibility to make the most of this great opportunity and give back. I will work hard in my place to be a Yonseian who can live up to the trust placed in me!"
 

In addition to visiting local universities, the student delegation also spent time at the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Kingdom of Sweden and the Korean Cultural Center, gaining a deeper understanding of Sweden’s welfare system, the spread of Hallyu, and bilateral exchanges between the two countries. These activities went beyond simple sightseeing, offering a unique opportunity to directly experience the cultural, academic, and diplomatic depth of Sweden. What began as a journey centered around the Nobel Prize ultimately became a rewarding time, full of meaning and value beyond what was initially expected.

Lee: "What I felt during my visit to Stockholm was a ‘wider world’. To be honest, I didn’t know much about Nobel Week as an event beyond the Nobel Prize ceremony. Through this opportunity, I was able to broaden my perspective on the global stage and expand my knowledge. I feel a strong sense of responsibility to make the most of this great opportunity and give back. I will work hard in my place to be a Yonseian who can live up to the trust placed in me!"
 

The greatest achievement of the Nobel Week delegation program was that it brought the Nobel Prize closer to reality. What once seemed distant has now become something that researchers and students can aspire to. In particular, being able to celebrate the accomplishment of alumna Han Kang together and feeling a sense of pride was a highly meaningful experience.

Professor Song In Han shared a quote from Alfred Nobel: "If I come up with 300 ideas in a year, and only one of them is useful, I am content." He emphasized the message that true achievements come from consistently conducting research without fear of failure. He conveyed that the Nobel Prize should not be the goal, but rather the result that follows. It is important to create a culture of trust where research can be done steadily, and the Nobel Prize itself should not become the ultimate goal.

Professor Song also shared, "The successful completion of the Nobel Week delegation activities was thanks to the 'strength of Yonsei.'" The event was coordinated by the Institute for Global Engagement and Empowerment which oversaw all preparations, with generous support from the Office of External Affairs and Development and the Department of Korean Language and Literature, among other departments. The leadership of Vice President Son Young-jong, the students' exceptional abilities and responsibility, and the strong support from alumni in Sweden all came together to form a perfect team. Most importantly, the Nobel Week delegation project was made possible thanks to the generous support of Jeong Seo-jin, Chairman of Kwangju Broadcasting Company. The combined efforts and dedication of everyone involved, each contributing in their own way under the name of Yonsei, made this special journey possible.

Yonsei University plans to continue sending a student delegation to Nobel Week every year, with the following delegation being the first attempt and a pilot project initiated to celebrate Han Kang's Nobel Prize in Literature. Due to the short preparation period, the delegation was formed with representatives from the student government and key institutions. However, in the future, selection criteria will be established to allow students with more academic relevance to participate, and academic and cultural value will be enhanced through preparatory learning programs and specific activity plans. Recognizing the great potential of this visit, the university aims to develop the Nobel Week delegation program into a sustainable opportunity that provides students with the chance to grow into global leaders, beyond just a simple experience.
 

The greatest achievement of the Nobel Week delegation program was that it brought the Nobel Prize closer to reality. What once seemed distant has now become something that researchers and students can aspire to. In particular, being able to celebrate the accomplishment of alumna Han Kang together and feeling a sense of pride was a highly meaningful experience.

Professor Song In Han shared a quote from Alfred Nobel: "If I come up with 300 ideas in a year, and only one of them is useful, I am content." He emphasized the message that true achievements come from consistently conducting research without fear of failure. He conveyed that the Nobel Prize should not be the goal, but rather the result that follows. It is important to create a culture of trust where research can be done steadily, and the Nobel Prize itself should not become the ultimate goal.

Professor Song also shared, "The successful completion of the Nobel Week delegation activities was thanks to the 'strength of Yonsei.'" The event was coordinated by the Institute for Global Engagement and Empowerment which oversaw all preparations, with generous support from the Office of External Affairs and Development and the Department of Korean Language and Literature, among other departments. The leadership of Vice President Son Young-jong, the students' exceptional abilities and responsibility, and the strong support from alumni in Sweden all came together to form a perfect team. Most importantly, the Nobel Week delegation project was made possible thanks to the generous support of Jeong Seo-jin, Chairman of Kwangju Broadcasting Company. The combined efforts and dedication of everyone involved, each contributing in their own way under the name of Yonsei, made this special journey possible.

Yonsei University plans to continue sending a student delegation to Nobel Week every year, with the following delegation being the first attempt and a pilot project initiated to celebrate Han Kang's Nobel Prize in Literature. Due to the short preparation period, the delegation was formed with representatives from the student government and key institutions. However, in the future, selection criteria will be established to allow students with more academic relevance to participate, and academic and cultural value will be enhanced through preparatory learning programs and specific activity plans. Recognizing the great potential of this visit, the university aims to develop the Nobel Week delegation program into a sustainable opportunity that provides students with the chance to grow into global leaders, beyond just a simple experience.