Anti-Korean sentiment

Out of 80,000 foreign students studying in Korea, 60,000 are Chinese. They are assets not only for their home countries and Korea but the sad reality is that many of the Chinese students reportedly return home with anti-Korea sentiment.

The government, society and universities need to do extra homework to help foster a pro-Korean feeling among them. It is risky to generalize that all Chinese students share the anti-Korean sentiment.

Students generally love the host country where they study. Many Chinese students have a positive attitude toward such countries as the United States and Japan where they have studied. The situation is different in Korea.

They came to Korea with a dream. Many local universities have been aggressive in accommodating as many Chinese students as possible. This is to offset a sharp reduction in Korean students. Universities accept the Chinese to supplement their budget. They have been lukewarm in devising curriculum, accommodation facilities and adjustment programs.

On arrival many Chinese students are disappointed with the poor services. This lack of preparation angers the guest students.

Since 2000, local universities have launched programs to recruit as many Chinese students as possible. The Chinese have contributed much to strengthening the coffers of the universities suffering a shortage of Korean students. Local universities see admissions of foreign students beyond their quotas.

Universities alone are not blameworthy. Many Chinese students have reportedly flocked to local universities eager to earn money through tuition. Universities should be strict in maintaining academic performances. These students have led to the false generalization that all Chinese students are underachievers.

The situation is similar for 70,000 Korean students in China. Chinese universities are accommodating Korean students to make money. They are allegedly lukewarm in regards to academic standards.

Foreign students are the future policymakers and social leaders. When they harbor negative sentiment toward the host country, Korea and China cannot expect positive development. The two countries need to tackle the situation. Seoul needs a wholesale review of the existing policy on foreign students.