KAIST event preparation committee, Imagination Effect, prepared an alternative event for the postponed Spring Festival. Named Shimpyo (which can be translated to “break” or “rest” in Korean), the event took place on May 28, and The KAIST Herald met with the president of Imagination Effect to learn more about the event.

Please briefly introduce yourself.

Hello. My name is Yeon Kun Lee, and I am the president of Imagination Effect. I am majoring in the Department of Mechanical Engineering.

Can you explain why this alternative event was held?

There have been some unfortunate and lamentable incidents this semester, and upon the decision of delaying this year’s spring festival, we prepared this alternative event instead. There were even some thoughts about canceling the Spring Festival altogether with no substitute at all. However, there seemed to be a greater demand for some type of event to cheer up KAIST students and freshen up the atmosphere. We really wanted KAIST students to get away from the depressed and negative atmosphere that could have been affecting them from the past incidents.

What was this event about? Why was it named Shimpyo?

As the name “Shimpyo” implies, we wanted to provide a resting and relaxing time for students. As a result, we set the main theme throughout this event as healing and taking some time off from academics. This event was not just about enjoying and having fun like other parties or events, but more about taking some time off and getting some rest on the way. We wanted to help students be free of other kinds of worries and regrets regarding school works for at least this one day.

Can you explain about the programs in this event?

There were many programs organized for this alternative event. First, there was a program inside the Creative Learning Building (E11), which had an artificial tree full of message tags that were filled with KAIST students’ wishes of what they would do if they had no class for one day. Furthermore, there were programs for making aroma candles to ease students’ minds and prizes were given out for solving riddles. We also reconstructed a stationery store that resembled those from our elementary school years to recall our childhood memory - with snacks and games we used to enjoy when we were young. Moreover, we installed outdoor camping tents and grills for nighttime, and we even had a program for stargazing to enjoy the nightscape with some coffee and snacks. There were a variety of programs for KAIST students to easily participate on their way to or after class.

How was the reaction and participation from the students?

I would say that participation rate was great, as more than 500 students participated. Some ingredients and equipment for programs ran out, and I heard positive feedbacks from students regarding this event. Many students were most satisfied with the outdoor camping program, and there were a lot of requests for more programs like that even after the event. The purpose of the camping program was for students to gather around with friends, spend some time catching up with each other, and enjoy their time together while having some outdoor barbecue. It seemed like we accomplished this purpose.

What were some difficult parts as you organized this event?

The most difficult part about planning this event was the lack of time and manpower. We were given only two weeks to plan and prepare for all the programs, so we were short on time, especially for promotion. We did not have enough time to focus on publicizing and promoting the event and programs, as all of our members were busy coming up with new ideas and preparing for the details of the programs. We also had a hard time because we had no volunteers except our own members on the day of the event. We were low on human resources, as we had to install, host, and even clean up afterwards, all in one day. However, I think the effort was worth it, especially when we saw many students happy and enjoying their time.

Are there any last comments for KAIST students?

I hope many students will participate and enjoy the coming festival as much as they did for this event. We will try our best to satisfy all students.