Polar Outreach Catalogue

IPY(2007~2008) was a great leverage to attract the public's and policy makers' attention on polar science. KOPRI drew a public awareness program, 'Pole-to-Pole Korea' including on-site education, lecture, exhibition and artist program. Annually 6~8 middle & high school students had visited the Arctic Dasan station and Ny-Alesund since 2005. The selection process of the students opened and released for the media. In a short period this program positioned as one of the best outreach program in Korea. During the IPY period some experts from the media visited polar research station and produced science documentaries which released in the TV prime time. Also, photographers and artists visited the Antarctic station and held special exhibition in the National science museum. KOPRI, also, held Korea IPY Launching Ceremony at the National Assembly Hall in 19 April 2007, which is designated as the annual science day by the government. Scientists from 6 countries, Korean congressmen and governmental officials, citizens etc, took part in this ceremony. KOPRI was designated as one of the Science Ambassadors by the Korea Foundation for the advancement of science and creativity (KOFAC) in 2006. KOPRI scientists and experts gave lectures to the students and publics in the schools and government offices. Polar science was the permanent theme for the annual 'Korean Science Day' exhibition. Especially during 2009/10 winter season, the reproduction of the Antarctic King Sejong station was installed in the Seoul square for the public experience. As a major output, 'Pole to Pole Korea' has affirmative impacts on public awareness of adolescents. Students who participated at the programs went to universities to major in basic science. And a Korean young student got the 3rd Place Winner of Association of Polar Early Career Scientists Essay Contest at Antarctic Treaty Summit 2009 and had a opportunity to have a presentation at plenary session.