Jeonbuk National University (JBNU) Department of Political Science and Diplomacy launched an effort to strengthen students' global competencies through an international exchange program involving on-site visits to local universities and diplomatic institutions in Vietnam.

The Department of Political Science and Diplomacy at JBNU said it successfully conducted an international exchange program in Hanoi, Vietnam, from December 26 to 30 as part of JBNU's Glocal University Project, visiting the Hanoi National University of Foreign Languages followed by the Vietnam National Academy of Diplomacy.

Twelve students, led by Professor Kim Jun‑hyeop, participated in the program. The students visited local universities and diplomatic training institutions to experience Vietnam's educational system and the practical environment of diplomatic work firsthand.

At the Hanoi National University of Foreign Languages, they exchanged learning experiences and career perspectives with students majoring in Korean, and reviewed examples of student exchange program operation and the campus educational environment. In particular, they listened to local students' firsthand accounts regarding the status of Korean language education in Vietnam and perceptions of Korea, and followed up with a question-and-answer session to deepen mutual understanding.

At the Vietnam National Academy of Diplomacy, they heard explanations about Vietnam's diplomatic education system and the training process for diplomats, and attended a special lecture on international affairs and Vietnam's foreign policy. Following the lectures, students engaged in an in-depth Q&A on diplomatic issues and career paths, experiencing firsthand how theories learned in the classroom are applied in actual diplomatic settings.

An Ji‑yeon, a second-year student in the Department of Political Science and Diplomacy who participated in the program, said, 'It was very impressive to see and hear about diplomacy and international relations, which we had only encountered in textbooks, directly at local institutions. It greatly helped me to think concretely about my future career.'

Professor Kim Jun‑hyeop said, 'This visit to Vietnam was designed to help students gain a multidimensional understanding of the ASEAN region and Vietnam and to develop international awareness and critical perspectives.' He added, 'We will continue to expand exchanges with overseas universities and public institutions to provide ongoing field-based educational opportunities.'

Meanwhile, the Department of Political Science and Diplomacy at JBNU continues to operate international exchange and field study programs focused on the ASEAN region, actively promoting the enhancement of students' global competitiveness.