Recent Trends in Social Gatherings Among Young People in Korea

In 2022, an edition of Sisa Journal reported a rising trend among young people in Korea to prefer meetings which focus on specific hobbies and activities. Many people now come together through shared activities such as football, badminton, reading, or climbing. According to the article, expanding one’s experiences and finding joy in small, certain moments were a central theme of interest even before the pandemic. During the pandemic, the absence of social interaction led people to reflect on their preferences and the kind of life they wanted to lead. As a result, the trend of forming groups based on shared interests deepened, especially through various online platforms.

Shedding New Light on Tea Among Young People in the UK

A recent headline in the popular British tabloid The Sun read: “Young Brits turning to TEA rather than alcohol when stressed out, new study shows.” A poll of 2,000 UK adults born after 1997 found that tea (42%) was preferred over alcohol (23%) as the go-to beverage during times of stress. The article also notes that nearly one in three (31%) had attended a tea party in the past year, with 66% of respondents expressing interest in attending one. A new trend seems to be emerging among young people in the UK: using tea instead of alcohol as a social bridge to connect with friends.

Members of the International Tea Club



The International Tea Club at SeoulTech

For those interested in the taste, history, and culture of tea there is an international tea club at SeoulTech, which was opened in 2024. It all began when two international students, who are now co-presidents, were talking about tea. One of them shared the tea leaves he had to the other and they decided to invite other students. As of yet the club is not an official part of SeoulTech’s club roster, but Lily, one of the presidents has confirmed with The SeoulTech that official registration is planned for the fall semester of 2025. The club’s main activities include members sharing their favourite types of tea and enjoying conversations over a cup together. They also teach how to make tea correctly. Students sometimes bring tea from their home countries to introduce to others. For example, there was a student who brought orange tea from Finland. The club president noted that, even with today’s trend of young people forming groups around shared interests, tea has a special charm that draws people together. When asked what makes tea special compared to coffee or alcohol, she said it’s the diversity. With so many varieties available, it’s easy to find a blend that suits one’s personal preferences in aroma, colour, and even nutritional value, she ex- plained. Lastly she expressed her hope for more participation in the tea club. The Instagram address of the club is as follows: @tea_club_seoultech

Reporter

Seongbeom Hong

hongsb@seoultech.ac.kr

Reporter 홍성범

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• e-mail : s0204b@seoultech.ac.kr