"Assignment: Take a Photo of Cherry Blossoms?"...Engineering Professor Goes Viral on SNS

Cherry blossoms blooming in Yeouido, Seoul. Photo by Jinhyung Kang

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A professor at the College of Engineering at Chungbuk National University has been drawing attention for assigning a "cherry blossom photo shoot" assignment for the sixth consecutive year.

According to social networking services (SNS) on April 12, Dongwoo Kang, a professor in the Department of Industrial Chemistry at Chungbuk National University, announced on March 25 an assignment for the first semester course "Engineering Mathematics." Students were instructed to "visit a cherry blossom hotspot in April, take a photo, and submit it."

The announcement explained that the purpose was to "enhance the parched and withered sensibilities of engineering students" and suggested, "Wouldn't it be nice to enjoy the season for at least one day on a warm spring day instead of studying?" The professor emphasized that students must visit a well-known cherry blossom location, not simply take pictures of cherry blossoms near their homes or on campus.

The announcement went viral on SNS, recording a high number of views. Netizens responded positively, posting comments such as "I can feel the professor's sincerity; he seems like a true mentor in life," "Universities should teach romance," and "What a wonderful professor who cares about the students’ emotional well-being."

As the topic gained traction, Professor Kang personally addressed the matter. In the comments section on SNS, he explained, "I assigned this task out of concern that students are drifting away from the vibrant image of college life, preoccupied with worries about employment, obtaining certifications, and an uncertain future." His comments received enthusiastic responses, including, "Please be my professor."

In an interview with Yonhap News Agency, Professor Kang stated, "From the very first year at university, students are so busy building their resumes in the library that they neglect to enjoy themselves. Frankly, the early twenties are the prime of one's youth, so I assigned this task to force them to go outside and enjoy it."

He added, "For about six years up to this year, I have announced this assignment, and not a single student has failed to submit it during that time."

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