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Korean students learn about local culture
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Posted on Jan 18 2012
»Mayor says exchange students to serve as CNMI liaison
By Clarissa David
Reporter
Reporter
Fourteen visiting students from Moon Deok Elementary School in Korea gained knowledge about the local culture from Saipan Mayor’s Office staffers yesterday morning.
Executive secretary Vinycia Seman and Rina Teuira taught the students, who arrived on island last Dec. 26, about lei-making using fresh hand-picked plumeria, orchids, and hibiscus leaves. The students also learned how to make bead accessories.
Yesterday’s activities held at the Sugar King Park were part of the cultural exchange program of the Korean students, said Teuira.
“We wanted to teach the visiting students about local culture and extend the spirit of Hafa Adai and Tiro Wami to them,” Teuira told Saipan Tribune. “I really like them because they’re so into it.”
Seman said the visiting group will meet with the island’s man’amko today and learn about weaving tomorrow.
Kwon Jung Ean, 11, said she preferred lei-making over bead-making but had fun doing both.
Kim Byoung Hoon, for his part, said he’s enjoying his first visit to Saipan. “I like Saipan. I like the beach because it’s very clean.”
Ten-year-old Noh Han Min said he will tell his family and friends back in Korea about Saipan’s beautiful waters and coconut trees so they, too, can visit the island and see it for themselves.
Mayor Donald G. Flores, who took time to check on the students, said he is pleased to see the students enjoying the activities and expressed full support for cultural exchange programs between CNMI and other nations.
“We’re very grateful that they are here on island. We should be accommodating these exchange students because they serve as our liaisons to their families and friends back home,” said Flores in an interview.
Flores said that cultural exchange students can be another good tourist market for the Commonwealth since they share with others their worthwhile experience which in turn encourages them to also visit the islands.
