Chugye University of the Arts has launched a unique fusion humanities project by renting out an entire cinema to enhance students' foundational academic skills and career exploration. The event, held on September 3, invited not only students and faculty but also the often-overlooked facility support staff and local residents, fostering a warm sense of community.
The university announced that the '2026 Fusion Humanities Concert: Experiencing the Classic Odyssey and the Film Odyssey for My Nostos (Return Home)' took place at the Lotte Cinema World Tower's Super MX4D theater. Approximately 220 attendees, including current and former students, faculty, and staff, participated in the event. Additionally, about 10 local residents from the nearby Chung-hyeon-dong area joined the viewing group.
This project aims to lower the barriers to understanding classical literature and connect with students' real academic concerns.
The university drew parallels between the narrative of Odysseus's return to Ithaca and the lives of modern college students, encouraging them to reflect on their current challenges and future career goals. The initiative seeks to help students actively redefine their life roadmaps.
Furthermore, the program integrated excerpts from Homer's Odyssey with the 2026 film Odyssey, exploring literature, philosophy, history, and cinematic language to cultivate critical thinking skills.
Before the film screening, Professor Jeong Jae-min from the College of Liberal Arts delivered a special lecture titled 'Youth! Row Towards Ithaca (Your Goal)!' adding academic depth to the program. Attendees then experienced the film in a 4D environment enhanced with motion seats, wind, and scents, allowing them to see how classical texts are translated into visual language.
The event included follow-up programs, such as the 'My Career Nostos (Return Home) Contest,' where students will write reflection journals and create AI-assisted short films. The university aims to support students in expanding the questions posed in the works into their own career development stories.
Most importantly, the event highlighted the warm consideration of the university community beyond educational achievements. Professor Jeong noted, 'We invited the facility support team, including security and cleaning staff, to this screening. It was heartwarming to see them enjoy the experience like schoolgirls on a picnic.' He added, 'Since they were all adults, the theater was unfamiliar to them, and they had difficulty finding their seats, so I enjoyed guiding them around.'
Additionally, the university did not forget to engage with the local community by inviting residents from the Chung-hyeon-dong community center.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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