POSTECH successfully hosted the 2026 Freshmen Orientation (OT)—also known as Saeteo in Korean— from Feb. 8 to Feb. 11. This four-day event was the result of seamless collaboration between the university administration, the Advisory Committee of the Freshmen Orientation, the freshmen guide team, various student clubs, and self-governing organizations. It was their countless efforts that made the successful conclusion of this year’s OT.
A standout feature of this year’s OT was the decision to concentrate all lectures and educational sessions into a single day. Yeojung KIM (SEMI 25), who served as a freshman guide, shared her perspective: “This year’s OT was held in a generally vibrant atmosphere. Grouping the lectures into one day was a very efficient move.” She noted that this streamlined schedule had a positive influence on the new students’ engagement levels.
The highlight of the OT was the club performance session on the evening of the third day. These performances provided vital energy to freshmen during a demanding schedule and allowed them to experience POSTECH’s student club culture firsthand. Furthermore, watching the spectacular performances helped the freshmen become closer and enjoy the night. Joohoon YEO (CE 23), who participated as a performer, remarked, “This is already my third year performing at the OT. Every time, we work hard to showcase our club’s unique charm to impress the newcomers.” He added that the energy from the crowd makes the intense preparation worth it. Also, Heejae LEE (IME 22) emphasized that the event is a special experience where one can directly feel the freshmen’s energy. “The enthusiastic response from the students allowed the performers to enjoy the stage just as much as the audience,” he noted. Behind the scenes, staff members ensured every stage was perfect. Kyoungmin KIM (LIFE 24), who served as a staff member, reflected: “The process of building a stage for the freshmen alongside my club members was incredibly rewarding.” He explained that their passion to deliver a great show helped them overcome a tight preparation schedule and physical fatigue.
The Mission Tour on the final day is a traditional program designed to help freshmen navigate the campus and build teamwork. In 2026, the program’s quality was significantly enhanced by adopting a concept inspired by the popular game “Animal Crossing.” The tour followed a narrative where freshmen completed quests across campus to develop their respective sections. The Advisory Committee of the Freshmen Orientation meticulously blended game elements with reality, providing students with a truly immersive experience. Yeojung KIM praised the initiative, stating, “The concept and quality of the Mission Tour were exceptional,” noting that such creative efforts were instrumental in forging bonds between the new students.
The OT served as a successful starting point for new students to embrace the university’s core values and design their futures. The collective efforts of the Advisory Committee of the Freshmen Orientation, club members, and freshmen guides were more than enough to instill a deep sense of pride in being a Postechian among the freshmen. This success is not just the end of an event, but the beginning of a four-year journey for the freshmen. The achievements of this year’s OT will serve as a milestone for POSTECH’s evolving campus culture. We look forward to an even more improved orientation next year and wish our newest students a bright future.
