The Korean American Federation of Los Angeles (KAFLA) is seeking students for a cultural exchange program in Korea. The total expenses, including flight fare, room and board, and travel insurance, will be $1,800.
“We are looking for applicants to participate in the International Youth Exchange Program,” KAFLA announced at a press conference held at the Korean American Hall on April 1.
Participants must be in grades 9 to 11 in Los Angeles County, have no health issues, and show an interest in Korean culture, history, security, and community service.
The program is limited to 40 students.
Applicants can download and complete the application form on the KAFLA website at (www.kafla.org/ko) and submit a cover letter (in English and Korean), a passport photo, a copy of a valid passport, and proof of enrollment (student ID) to KAFLA by April 19.
This exchange program, a part of the Youth Exchange Program conducted by KAFLA in partnership with Yeoju and Jeonju, South Korea, welcomed 30 high school students from Yeoju and Jeonju to Los Angeles for an eight-night and nine-day visit in January.
From June 18 to 29, over 10 nights and 11 days, students will visit Seoul, Yeoju in Gyeonggi Province, and Jeonju in North Jeolla Province.
The program aims to provide a variety of experiences, including visits to the Blue House, Gyeongbokgung Palace, traditional markets, the Traditional Culture Training Center, Imjingak, a military tour, classes at a Korean high school of cultural heritage, rice planting, pottery making, water sports, visits to the Korean War Memorial, Mount Namsan, and a tour of a broadcasting station.
“There is no better program for second-generation Korean-Americans to experience Korean history and culture,” said James An, president of KAFLA. “We are currently preparing for this program in Yeoju, Jeonju, and Paju, and we hope many students will participate.”
Air Premia, a hybrid mid- to long-haul airline, has provided a discounted ticket for the program.
“We are proud to be able to play a part in helping Korean-American youth develop a sense of roots and pride in their heritage,” said Brian Kim, branch manager of Air Premia, “and we wish them a memorable trip.”
KAFLA will individually notify the selected students after reviewing their documents. Additionally, applicants must be able to speak Korean due to the program’s nature. If any participants change their return schedule post-program, an $80 fee will be charged, along with the fare difference ($255 to $905) depending on the return time.
For more information: (323) 732-0700
BY YEOL JANG, JUNHAN PARK [jang.yeol@koreadaily.com]
