“Isn’t becoming a father without any effort or preparation ultimately a dereliction of duty toward one’s child?”

Our university's Department of Child Studies classmates from the 2010 cohort, 구민경, 김소리, 신은비, 이혜인, and 정서혜, have drawn attention by publishing a book titled "Men Dream of Becoming Fathers" (Saenggak Nanum Publishing).

The five students participated last year in the student writing encouragement program, implemented as part of the Educational Capacity Enhancement Project, under the team name "A Future with Children," and won first place. With support from the university, they were able to publish their first book.

Reflecting their major, the book is grounded in the "happiness of children." To that end, the students judged that defining the role of fathers was necessary. They especially believed that young men who will become fathers need a proper awareness of and preparation for that role.

Born from this process, the book addresses the role of fathers for men living in contemporary society.

The book examines how the father's role has changed across eras and identifies the roles required in the future. It also presents a model of fatherhood necessary not only for children and the family but also for fathers themselves.

The search for the father's role does not end there. It broadly embraces fathers' concerns and problems, fosters empathy for the pain fathers feel in this era, and encourages children to reflect on their own attitudes.

Above all, the book analyzes portrayals of fathers in familiar dramas, films, and novels with a woman's characteristic sensitivity while maintaining balance. This structure allows readers to better appreciate the importance of the father's role.

While depicting the various roles of fathers as reflected by the media, the students also conducted interviews and surveys with approximately 1,000 individuals—current and future fathers and women who view them—to substantiate their findings. This effort suggests the students' passion and hard work.

Moreover, it includes information necessary for prenatal education and child-rearing, as well as songs and games to enjoy with children. The book serves not only as a preparation guide for fatherhood but also as a lasting handbook for life as a dad.

Student 구민경 said, "This book describes, from a woman's perspective, the role of fathers that prospective fathers—young men—should prepare for," adding, "Just as one cannot survive in an era of relentless competition without qualifications, I hope many readers who encounter this book will have the opportunity to build their qualifications as fathers."