
The PKKMB Gempita POLIJE 2025 welcomed new students with a vibrant celebration at GOR Perjuangan 45 Politeknik Negeri Jember (POLIJE) on August 11, 2025. A special highlight of this year’s event was the cultural performance presented by students from Kyungpook National University (KNU), South Korea, who are currently participating in the World Friends Korea-ICT Volunteering Program (WFK-ICT) 2025 in collaboration with POLIJE.
The KNU students captivated the audience with four diverse performances, showcasing both Korean tradition and modernity while also honoring Indonesia’s national identity. Their participation not only entertained the audience but also symbolized the strong bond of cultural exchange between the two institutions.
The first performance featured a Taekwondo demonstration, highlighting the strength, discipline, and artistry of Korea’s world-renowned martial art. The audience enthusiastically applauded as the performers executed precise movements and dynamic routines, symbolizing resilience and respect.
Following the martial arts display, the students presented a traditional Korean dance, bringing elegance and grace to the stage. Dressed in cultural attire, the performance introduced POLIJE’s new students to Korea’s rich heritage and emphasized the importance of preserving traditional values amidst modernization.
The energy level rose once again when the group performed a K-Pop dance, reflecting the global popularity of contemporary Korean culture. This performance resonated strongly with the audience, many of whom were familiar with K-Pop, and created an atmosphere of excitement and joy within the sports hall.
Adding a meaningful and emotional note, the KNU students formed a Group Choir, performing both the Indonesian national anthem and the Korean national anthem. This act of respect moved the audience deeply, reinforcing the spirit of unity and friendship between Indonesia and South Korea.
According to the organizers, the KNU students’ involvement in PKKMB Gempita POLIJE 2025 reflects more than cultural entertainment—it represents the essence of internationalization. By sharing culture, values, and traditions, both Indonesian and Korean students foster mutual understanding, respect, and global collaboration.
The performances concluded with a warm standing ovation from the audience, leaving a lasting impression on POLIJE’s new students. The collaboration between POLIJE and KNU during PKKMB highlighted not only academic cooperation through the WFK-ICT Program but also cultural diplomacy, ensuring that the bonds between Indonesia and South Korea grow stronger both in the classroom and beyond.