"I became interested in senior modeling and decided to participate in a university lifelong education program. I enjoy walking with my fellow students, and thanks to the physical activity, I feel healthier. I am working hard in the training so that I can stand on stage."
This is what Yoon Youngja (70, resident of Geomdan-dong, Buk-gu, Daegu) shared during an interview at a classroom at Youngjin College in Bokhyeon-dong, Buk-gu, Daegu, in early May 2025. She added that she feels revitalized since joining the 'Youngjin Active Model' course offered by the Youngjin College Lifelong Education Center this spring.
On that day, about 30 students, including Yoon, most of whom were around 60 years old, practiced walking and performed team routines in beautiful hanbok, displaying enthusiasm comparable to that of younger models. Both first- and second-term students are working hard together to prepare for the stage at the 'Daegu Powerful Festival' scheduled for May 10.
For the spring semester of 2025, the Youngjin College Lifelong Education Center has significantly expanded learning opportunities by launching a wide variety of lifelong learning programs for local residents.
This semester, a diverse range of practical and engaging courses are being offered, including oil painting, Youngjin Active Model, trot singer instructor, senior gymnastics, tarot, wild herbs, real estate auction, Saju Myungrihak (Korean fortune-telling), hospital companion manager, Neulbom Classroom, organizing and storage, feng shui, and docent ballet. Each course runs for an average of 10 to 15 weeks, and most are operated with small class sizes to ensure intensive, participant-centered instruction.
In particular, the 'Youngjin Active Model' course, which was first launched in November 2024, saw 34 students complete the first term, and currently, about 20 second-term students are expressing the elegance of court attire and the beauty of traditional hanbok through walking and performances. This course is highly popular among students as it simultaneously promotes health, boosts confidence, and provides leisure opportunities for middle-aged and older women.
Additionally, the 'Visiting Nurse Assistant' program, aimed at training professionals in the healthcare sector, is also attracting attention. Recruitment is underway for the ninth term, with a class size of 40, and applications are open until May 11. The curriculum is designed to enhance on-site adaptability by focusing on practical skills.
Furthermore, the Lifelong Education Center is actively running a social integration program, providing administrative and legal support, as well as social adaptation education, to international students, members of multicultural families, and learners at Daegu's two major learning centers.
A representative from the Youngjin College Lifelong Education Center stated, "We are committed to continuously offering courses that people from various backgrounds can participate in, so that local residents can enjoy the joy of learning," and added, "We will further strengthen our role as a hub for lifelong learning through ongoing, close cooperation with the local community."
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