Interview with Inhwan Ko (CS of USNSC)

Inhwan Ko, a rising sophomore at Yonsei University, is the Committee Secretariat of YMUN 2012 in USNSC. He currently graduated open major and is planning to study international studies and environment. Even with no experience studying abroad, he has chaired in seven MUNs, including MUNOS. He has also participated in the Youth Assembly in the United Nations Headquarters in New York as a representative of Korean Commission for UNESCO. Just as his experiences depict, his motto for MUN is,  'What's important is not your ability to speak English, but your enthusiasm.' He is more than excited to deliver this motto to all participating in YMUN 2012.

1.) Do you have any MUN experiences you’d like to share?

Since 2009, I've participated in 13 MUNs or conferences including YMUN 2012 this year. The one that I would like to recommend is Global Model United Nations. In 2011 it was the 3rd annual conference in (fortunately) Incheon, so I was really glad to introduce the Korean culture to foreign colleagues. It is held by the United Nations, inviting the Secretary-General Ban as a guest speaker and Under-Secretary-General Kiyotaka Akasaka for the supervisor; you may notice how significance GMUN is considered by the United Nations. Having this representative value, GMUN is one of the most renouned and biggest MUNs in the world--about 800 delegates from more than 50 countries gathered in Incheon. If you have a chance to challenge GMUN later, please feel free to ask me any questions--from the application process to preparation!

2.) What are some challenges you faced when participating in MUN? 

Since I was not familiar with some important notions or concepts of international relations, it was really hard to behave in accordance with the nation's interests while acting as a delegate. Rather, I was always looking for some idealistic approaches that will in turn have little impact on the global society. I simply lacked a 'realist point of view.' After I start studying international politics  in university, the way to be a real 'delegate' became much clearer.  But I still prefer topics that need a little idealistic approach such as environment; and I'm going to specialize in that field so as to both utilize my strong point and at the same time reinforce what I usually lack.

3.) What aspect of MUN do you consider most valuable?

A valuable factor is the depth of knowledge that students get to possess through the experience. Researching prior to the conference is the most significant part of participating in MUN.

4.) What are your top 3 tips for a successful YMUN experience?
First, do a lot of research. MUNs are all about researching. Your performance will be based on how much you've researched.

Second, know thyself! Are you a person who needs a script for a perfect speech? Or can you just improvise your speech? Don't worry if you are not good in English - just prepare as much as you can (wih key words and etc.) prior to the conference. Are you a person who likes to write a resolution? Or are you so sociable that you would prefer gathering with fellow delegates and share your ideas with them? Knowing yourself defines the strategy you must pursue during the conference.

Last, alway keep your manners. Although MUN cannot be a real UN conference, it is definitely a place where people gather and talk about serious matters. Discussion always needs an order and not only student officers but participants must keep that in mind. So be cooperative to what student officers advise to you, and please remember your ettiquette will be the most important aspect for the evaluation.

5.) Any last words for this year's YMUN delegates? 

Again, your confidence is built up on your research, and that preparation must begin by knowing yourself. Your performance should always be in accordance with manners. We look forward to your wonderful experience with us. Good luck with your MUNs!

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