New Lifers Bag Awards in the 11th Yale Model UN Korea

Thirteen New Lifers competed at the 11th Yale Model United Nations in Korea last November 24-26,  with Amanda Dana Chiong and Charlize Gail Chua both getting Honorable Mentions in the committees of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the United Nations Disarmament and International Security (DISEC), respectively. 

Held at the Korea International Exhibition Center (KINTEX), the conference featured 10 committees with over 400 delegates originating from 15 varying nations. 

“The opportunity to interact with people from other countries helped me learn to adapt, as I’m used to the way local delegates talk, speak, and debate. Overall, [going to] Korea was a super fun experience and great bonding time with my fellow MGCNL delegates.” Chua remarked. 

Chiong added, “The atmosphere of YMUNK this year felt welcoming as you could see people from all walks of life discussing relevant issues and crafting solutions towards them. I loved being able to bond with the [MUN] varsity in a way that we wouldn’t have been able to if it was any other conference. Things like running in the rain and cold, and forgetting our things made [this trip] an unforgettable experience.”

The opening and closing ceremonies included representatives from local and international organizations who delivered speeches on sustainability and modern diplomacy in line with the conference’s theme, “At the Juncture”. 

YMUNK is a fundamental program under the Yale International Relations Association (YIRA), the largest student organization on the Yale campus in New Haven, Connecticut.