International Corner

Simon Weihofen from Germany




Name: Simon Weihofen
Nationality: German
Age: 22
Major: International Business and Management Studies
School: Fontys University of Applied Sciences, the Netherlands


1. Why did you choose to study at Keimyung University?

When I decided to spend one semester abroad, I had a meeting with the coordinator of the partner universities. He told me about a newly established partnership between FUAS and Keimyung University. At first, I was a bit scared since nobody who I could talk to went to Keimyung yet, but since the coordinator was very excited about this university, I started research about Korea, Daegu, and Keimyung. After my research I was very excited and decided to spend my semester abroad here.

2. Could you tell us some differences between universities in Germany and Korea?

Since I study in the Netherlands and not in Germany, I can only compare Dutch universities and Korean ones. In the Netherlands, everything tends to be small. Our campus in Venlo is also very small, which provides a very personal learning environment. Students know each other and the relations to the professors are much closer than in Korea. All students are known personally by the professor and are allowed to visit the professor’s office at any time. This learning environment is very popular. Since the campus in Venlo is located close to the border to Germany, nearly 70% percent of the students are German. Together with the Dutch students and the exchange students, the campus in Venlo has a quite international character.

3. What was your biggest culture shock in Korea?

I read some books about Korea and Korean culture in advance, which is why there was no big cultural shock for me. I knew about most of the cultural differences and how to assess them. The one thing which hits me harder than expected is the Korean food. I like it, but I cannot eat soup, rice, and kimchi every day. However, I have learned how to get along with it, and I also found some places where I can eat Western food from time to time.

4. What do you want to achieve during your stay in Korea?

First of all, I want to have a good time in Korea. I want to experience as much as possible from the Korean culture. This semester is a great chance for me to open my mind for different cultural perspectives and to develop myself. I also love to meet and talk to people from different nations to get an impression of the world’s cultural diversity.

5. Could you please say something to Keimyung students?

First of all, thank you so much for being helpful, and for the great hospitality, openness, and understanding! I am having a great time in Korea and especially at Keimyung. Sometimes I wish you had a bit more self-confidence. Every one of you is a smart person who is blessed with a great potential. The fact that you managed high school and now are able to study shows that. So get your heads up, use your potential, and start rocking all over the world!