Live and in Stereo with Professor Lee Seyoung

A distinguished professor at the Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Professor Lee Seyoung, has been honored with the prestigious SKKU Teaching Award this year. As the Director of the Knowledge Center for Innovative Higher Education, he plays a pivotal role in advancing SKKU’s educational standards. He also made a memorable appearance on the popular web variety show JEONGWAJA, where his video garnered an impressive six million views. The Sungkyun Times (SKT) proudly introduces Professor Lee Seyoung from the Department of Media and Communication.

Today’s Guest is Professor Lee Seyoung!

Q1. Please introduce yourself.

Hello, I am Professor Lee Seyoung from the Department of Media and  Communication at SKKU. My academic journey at SKKU began in 1999 as an undergraduate majoring in Journalism and Mass Communication. Currently, my research centers on interpersonal and human communication, particularly how interactions shape and sustain social relationships. In addition to teaching, I serve as the Director of the Knowledge Center for Innovative Higher Education, overseeing programs like the Co-Deep Learning Project and the S-Global Challenger. These initiatives provide students with valuable hands-on experiences beyond the classroom and encourage them to embrace new challenges for personal growth.

Q2. Could you share your childhood with the SKT?

I grew up in a rural community, where I was fully immersed in nature and learned the value of communal living. Cooperation and interdependence among neighbors were central to our way of life. Effective communication among villagers was essential, and this environment sparked my interest in the field of communication. My experiences in this close-knit community taught me how vital interpersonal communication is for building relationships and resolving conflicts, ultimately igniting my passion for communication research.

Q3. What kind of student were you at SKKU?

I was a student with a strong passion for my studies. My primary interest was in applying theoretical concepts to real-world situations. I often sought to connect the theories I learned in class with actual issues and engaged in lively discussions with my professors to deepen my understanding. Additionally, participating in academic debates with my peers, where we shared and expanded our perspectives, was an invaluable experience. I believe my strong academic performance was driven not merely by a desire for high grades, but by a genuine passion for fulfilling my intellectual curiosity.

Q4. What are some of the most memorable experiences from your time at SKKU?

I had an unforgettable experience when Lee Chang-sub from the boy group BTOB, the host of the web variety show JEONGWAJA, participated in my Communication in Interpersonal Relationships class. His appearance, along with other BTOB members who surprised the students with a wonderful performance, created a truly memorable atmosphere. The joy on the students’ faces — filled with astonishment and radiant smiles — was something I will always cherish. The episode quickly became a sensation, amassing over six million views on YouTube. This experience deepened my connection with my students and provided an incredible platform to showcase our university and department. It left me with special memories I will treasure for years.

A Scholarly Life Unplugged

Q5. What inspired you to apply to doctoral programs at foreign universities?

At the time, many students opted to start anew with another master’s after completing their master’s degrees in South Korea. In contrast, I chose to apply solely for doctoral programs. Having gained valuable research experience during my master’s studies, I believed that directly entering a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program would provide an excellent opportunity to delve deeply into my research topic. Eventually, I enrolled in the PhD program in Communication at the University at Buffalo, The State University of New York. While it may have seemed like a bold move to apply only for a PhD, this decision significantly expanded my academic perspective and enriched my research endeavors.

Q6. What was the greatest challenge you encountered when you began your studies abroad?

My biggest challenge was adapting to the unfamiliar environment and the new academic system. The differences in teaching methods, interactions with professors, and approaches to research projects were quite striking compared to what I experienced in Korea. To overcome these challenges, I actively sought to immerse myself in the academic community. I regularly attended discussions and seminars, engaging with professors and fellow students, which helped me adjust to the new system more swiftly. I believe the key was maintaining an open mind toward these changes and committing to continuous self-directed learning. Over time, I naturally acclimated to the academic landscape, creating an environment that allowed me to focus more on my research.

Q7. What inspired you to focus on Interpersonal Communication and Human Communication?

I chose Interpersonal Communication and Human Communication as my primary research area because I believe that communication is essential in shaping human relationships. I am convinced that understanding how interpersonal communication styles foster trust, cooperation, and social bonds can significantly contribute to solving broader societal issues. I found it particularly fascinating to study how interpersonal communication has evolved in the digital media age and the wider impact these changes have on society.

Q8. What research project stands out as the most memorable for you?

The most memorable research I have conducted examines the Identifiable Victim Effect, which reveals that people are more inclined to help specific, identifiable victims than statistical victims. This study explored the circumstances under which helping behaviors occur — specifically, when, how, and why they manifest. By integrating insights from both interpersonal and human communication, I found that individuals experience greater empathy and a stronger sense of responsibility when the victim is concrete and identifiable, promoting helping behaviors. Additionally, the research uncovered boundary conditions indicating that helping behaviors may decrease when multiple victims are involved, offering valuable insights into the complex interplay between communication, emotions, and human behavior.

Ongoing Journey of Lee Seyoung

Q9. What was it like transitioning from academic research to teaching as a professor?

When I started teaching as a professor, I faced a sense of responsibility and challenges quite different from those in academic research. While researchers primarily focus on educational questions, professors must consider how to help students understand and apply these concepts effectively. Inspiring academic curiosity in my students and guiding them to reflect on their learning processes presented a new challenge for me. Although I initially felt a bit nervous, the fulfillment I experienced from witnessing my students’ growth made it all worthwhile.

Q10. How do you prepare your lectures to consistently captivate students?

I prepare my lectures with great diligence. I begin by researching the latest studies and papers relevant to the lecture topic, incorporating engaging examples that capture students’ interests of focusing solely on theoretical concepts. I present practical cases and problem-solving strategies that students can apply to real-life situations, encouraging them to think independently and participate actively. I also prioritize creating an open environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, ensuring that the lecture fosters two-way communication rather than being a one-sided presentation.

Q11. Do you have any advice for Kingos?

The most valuable advice I can offer Kingos is to continually ask questions and embrace challenges. The academic journey is a process of ongoing exploration and experimentation. While one may encounter failures along the way, the key is learning and growing from those experiences. Moreover, cultivating the ability to view problems from multiple perspectives and seek innovative solutions will be a crucial asset in tomorrow’s world. Do not be afraid of failure; instead, view challenges as opportunities for growth and learning.