01-03-2025
New Korean Institute at Columbus State
COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL) — Columbus State University is working to deepen its relationship with South Korea as they launch the Korean Institute at Columbus State (KICS).
KICS is not only about sending students abroad and exchange programs rather being a bridge between Georgia and South Korea.
Columbus State University has launched the Korean Institute at Columbus State or KICS.
The university says the institute serves as a way to foster the relationships the school has with South Korean affiliated companies and organizations related to economic development in Georgia.
Dr. Daewoo Lee, a CSU professor who works with KICS says Korea currently ranks Georgia as the third biggest importer and 10th largest exporter.
'KICS tries to support, number one- work force development in the region,' Lee explains. '…to improve fostering a business relationship with South Korean affiliate companies here in the region.'
The University says, 'KICS underscores the schools recently launched five-year strategic plan that includes economic competitiveness and community impact priorities like the military.
According to Lee, Fort Moore is home to the largest South Korean Army training detachment outside of the U.S. .
'We try to build that relationship,' Lee says. '…we are serving a lot of military veterans and military personnel…If we can somehow link our veteran student, military leader's student and become a bridge between for them for their workforce development between South Korean related companies.
Lee says Kics is not all about job opportunities, it also allows local students and the community to experience South Korean culture and vice versa.
'For international students, many of them have never heard of Columbus, Georgia.,' Lee says.' 'So, I want let them know, hey, it's a great city. Why don't you come visit us and spend a year at CSU and learn about Columbus, Georgia, State of Georgia, and City of Columbus and the US overall.'
The University has partnerships with major South Korean Universities within major cities of the country. Lee says these partnerships allow for students who study abroad to have a quote 'eye opening' experience.
The University says KICS was founded by $25,000 worth of donations to create programming and other opportunities.
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