CAMP HUMPHREYS, South Korea -- A group of college students, from the University of Idaho and Kyung-Hee University, in Seoul, visited here, May 23.
The students were given a tour of the installation, followed by lunch at the Air & Air Force Exchange Food Court.
"I'm teaching a class called 'Geopolitics of Korea,'" said Steven Radil, a University of Idaho geography professor. "We are here (in South Korea) for two and a half weeks, to visit major sites associated with Korean foreign policies and Korea's relations in the wider region."
Radil explained the importance of why they visited Camp Humphreys.
"Camp Humphreys, being the largest U.S. military base outside of the continental U.S., clearly represents a focal symbol of the U.S.-Korean relations," he said. "It is a perfect site to help our students understand the partnership between the U.S. and the Republic of Korea, and why the U.S. maintains presence on the Korean peninsula."
The students said that Camp Humphreys reminded them of being in America.
"It feels like America, walking into a big mall and into Walmart," said Nicole Moon, a University of Idaho student, referring to the Exchange Mall. "Seeing the U.S. Soldiers at Camp Humphreys makes me feel supported and welcomed; and it's really good to have them here."
The Korean and American students exchanged their geopolitical points of view ideas on current political situations in Korea and shared the value of ROK and the U.S. alliance. They also learned more about the partnership between the two countries, which dates back more than 69 years, since the Korean War.
"Our universities are partnering together on issues like this to share educational opportunities and have cultural exchanges with our students," said Sang-Hyun Chi, a Kyung-Hee University geography professor. "This trip is very helpful for both the Korean and American students to understand the U.S. military's role in the Republic of Korea."
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