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| ▲ Jean-Yves DuvalThis year is more special than past years to two countries, both Korea and France. Because 2006 is the 120th year, that establishes diplomatic relations with both Korea and France. Therefore, there have been many events in Korea and France to celebrate this commemorative year since January 2006. In addition, more French people are coming to Korea than in the past times. To further know more about the relationship between the two countries, the Chung-Ang Herald (CAH) met Jean-Yves Duval, an editor of West Info, a French magazine, and an invited professor teaching journalism on Chung-Ang University’s An-seong campus this last summer vacation. | ||
CAH: You worked as an international reporter in France before you became an editor. What do you think of current relations between our two nations, Korea and France?
Jean-Yves Duval: It is difficult to say, because the extent of diplomatic relations are very great. However, I think that there is friendship between Korea and France. In Le Mans, where I was located, the French army was there to prepare to participate in the Korean War and help the Korean army. In addition, the French people have good images about Korea and Korean people. Moreover, there have been many friendly exchanges between Korea and France.
CAH: How will the two countries continue in their friendly relations in the future?
Jean-Yves Duval: The world has been in globalization for a long time. In globalization, many companies are finding a larger market abroad. Korean and French companies are the same as other companies who go abroad. In the future, Asia and Europe will be closer than now through enterprises. France will have closer ties with Korea. They will need to tighten economic ties.
CAH: In France, which image do the French people have about Korea?
Jean-Yves Duval: In France, the Korean image is very good. Korean image is dynamic, ardent, and passionate. Most French people think that Korean people are full of enthusiasm about all kinds of things. Korean people are very active, brisk, and energetic. In addition, Korea has been very fast to improve after having a hard time. Now, Korea has many opportunities to develop in Korea. There are a number of potential opportunities to improve more in the future. It is impressive to French people. I think that Korea can be a model to France. Korea is valuable for France in learning economic or society improvements.
CAH: Many Korean people think France is a country they want to go to once in a lifetime. Why do you think of France is attractive like this?
Jean-Yves Duval: France has only French image. France is famous for traveling. In France, there are many famous attractions, for example, the Eiffel Tower, the Arch of Triumph, the Louvre Museum and so on. Because of these famous landmarks, France is the country most travelers visit among the various countries in Europe. If you go to France, you can feel the French artistic atmosphere. I recommend going to France. Maybe French people will welcome us.
CAH: For 5 weeks, you taught Chung-Ang university French Lang. & Lit students In Anseong campus. How did you feel?
Jean-Yves Duval: In France, I am a professor teaching communication in university, so it is not difficult to compare Korean undergraduates to French undergraduates. I think that Korean students are very kind to other people. When I came to the Anseong campus first, they were hospitable to me. In addition, when I taught them, they are always passionate, active in classes. Probably they have strong will to learn journalism. It makes me think Korea’s future is very bright. I firmly believe that Korea’s improvement has it’s origin in its undergraduates.
CAH: Finally, is there anything you want to say to readers leading relations of two nations, Korea and France in the future?
Jean-Yves Duval: The most important thing is language. Language is like a big dish including life, culture, and thought of the country where the language is used. Therefore, it is good to learn other countries language. I propose to learn French to Korean students. If they learn the language, it will be easier and more convenient to have a good rapport between French people and Korean people. In addition, exchange students between Korean universities and French universities are more needed. I hope that there will be more opportunities to exchange student with Chung-Ang University.