Students from the University of  Málaga, studying as exchange students at  Incheon National University, hold the Spanish flag.

This year marks the 15th anniversary of the partnership between Incheon National University and the University of Málaga, with both institutions aiming to strengthen their ties.

Incheon National University established a sisterhood relationship with the University of Málaga in 2009, celebrating their 15th anniversary this year. As part of the partnership, Incheon National University sends around 30 students to study at the Spanish university every year. Both universities maintain an office on each other’s campus, responsible for assisting exchange students and organizing various events abroad.

The University of Málaga is the only Spanish university with a Korean Studies program, and Incheon National University's office at the Spanish university is in charge of organizing several events that promote Korean culture.

The annual Korean Week event, held every November for about 10 days, allows people to enjoy Korean literature, film and performances. This year’s event, running from Tuesday until Nov. 27, will celebrate Korean author Han Kang’s Nobel Prize in literature through plays, exhibitions and seminars. 

A performance held during last year's Korean Week event

"The University of Málaga holds a special place in our hearts, with one of the most active partnerships among our European sister universities," said an official at Incheon National University's Office of International Affairs. "There are also many exchange students from the University of Málaga who developed a strong affection for Korea and studied hard here, even keeping in touch after they returned home."

"Among them, I particularly remember Patricia Chica, who came as an exchange student in 2018 and participated in various activities."  

Although Patricia Chica initially knew little about Korea, she became interested after studying in the country. Antonio J. Doménech, then head of Incheon National University's office at the University of Málaga, recommended Korea to her.  

"Although I had never been to Asia and knew little about it, Korea was welcoming and left me with many memorable experiences," Chica said. "I was particularly impressed by the support provided by Incheon National University's Office of International Affairs, which helped me adapt to life in Korea."