The IAFOR Undergraduate Research Symposium (IURS), previously the Asian Undergraduate Research Symposium (AURS), provides students with a motivating and thought-provoking opportunity to present their research. IURS takes place in a supportive and collegial environment at IAFOR’s renowned international conferences where students can network with other undergraduates and academics from around the world.
We invite all delegates to join us! Come and support the next generation of scholars with your presence and attention, with your great questions and guidance. See you at the IURS Poster session!
Symposium Schedule | Monday, October 28, 2024
09:30-10:00: Student Participant Check-in | Premier A Lobby
10:00-10:10: Welcome from IAFOR Chairman | Room 104
Joseph Haldane, IAFOR, Japan
10:10-11:00: Final Briefing Session | Room 104
Grant Black, Chuo University, Japan & Vice President, IAFOR, Japan
11:00-11:40: Poster Set Up and Practice | Premier A Lobby
11:40-12:00: Break
12:00-13:00: Poster Presentation Session | Premier A Lobby
13:00-13:15: Concluding Remarks
Poster Presentations
40001 | The Relationship Between Trust and Effective Use of ChatGPT Among L2 Writers
Hyebin Yu, The University of Utah, South Korea
Carina Pals, The University of Utah, South Korea
Matthew Pecsok, The University of Utah, South Korea
Large language models like ChatGPT have shown potential for assisting second language (L2) writers by providing personalized feedback to improve their writing proficiency. However, the effectiveness of such AI tools depends on users accurately aligning their expectations with the tool's capabilities and limitations. This process, known as trust calibration, aims to reduce the risk of misuse of a tool. This study investigated the efficacy of training intervention to calibrate L2 writers' trust in ChatGPT. Participants included 28 L2 undergraduate writers of English, divided into two groups: one receiving training on effectively using ChatGPT for writing (Workshop Group, N=13), and the other not (Non-Workshop Group, N=15). We compared pre- and post-workshop trust levels and post-workshop confidence in the tool between these groups using Mann-Whitney U test. Quantitative analysis revealed no statistically significant differences in trust levels or confidence levels between groups after the workshop, though the workshop group showed increased suspicion of ChatGPT. Qualitative data indicated the workshop may have facilitated the Workshop Group to recalibrate trust and gain more nuanced perspectives on ChatGPT. The potential pedagogical implications of these findings are discussed, including the early implementation of trust calibration interventions.
40002 | Sustainable Waste Valorization of Seafood Biowaste in Korea Using Hydrothermal Carbonization
Ahyeon Kim, Ghent University Global Campus, South Korea
Sein Kang, Ghent University Global Campus, South Korea
Tatwadhika Rangin Siddhartha, Ghent University Global Campus, South Korea
Philippe Heynderickx, Ghent University Global Campus, South Korea
This study explores an innovative way to turn Korean seafood waste into valuable products through hydrothermal carbonization. Seafood biowaste, which is often discarded, poses environmental challenges and represents a loss of potential resources. Our research aims to address this issue by converting seafood waste into hydrochar, a charcoal-like material that has multiple practical applications. Hydrothermal carbonization is an eco-friendly process that transforms seafood biowaste into hydrochar by subjecting it to high temperatures and pressure in the presence of water. This method not only effectively manages waste but also creates a product that can improve soil health, filter water, and generate energy. Our study involved collecting seafood waste, processing it through hydrothermal carbonization, and analyzing the resulting hydrochar for its properties and potential uses. We found that hydrochar derived from seafood waste exhibits excellent adsorption properties, making it ideal for water filtration. Additionally, its nutrient content can enhance soil fertility, and its energy content can be harnessed for fuel. The main findings indicate that this method significantly reduces the environmental impact of seafood waste disposal while producing valuable materials that can contribute to environmental protection and economic growth. Our results suggest that implementing hydrothermal carbonization on a larger scale could provide a sustainable solution for waste management in Korea. In conclusion, this research demonstrates the potential of hydrothermal carbonization to turn seafood waste into beneficial products, paving the way for a greener and more sustainable future. By transforming waste into resourc, we can reduce environmental harm and promote sustainability in waste management practices.
40003 | The Impact of Bilingualism in Reading Comprehension of Native Language Among Undergraduate Students
Myeongryun Lee, The University of Utah, United States
Kaeon Lee, The University of Utah, United States
Sieun Shin, The University of Utah, United States
Yeonseo Kang, The University of Utah, United States
In our globalized world, bilingualism affects around 3.3 billion people (Preply, 2023). Research often shows a positive link between bilingualism and academic success, especially in children’s language development (Carlson et al., 2008). This study examines how bilingualism impacts reading comprehension in university students' native language, focusing on the role of executive functions in reading (Nouwens et al., 2021). Our study, titled ‚ÄúThe Impact of Bilingualism on Native Language Reading Comprehension among University Students,‚Äù hypothesizes that bilingual students will have better reading comprehension in their native language compared to non-bilingual students. We employed an empirical approach with sixty students from the IGC campus, divided into bilingual (Korean and American) and non-bilingual groups (Korean and American). Reading skills were assessed using the Korean SAT (Suneung) Korean language section for Korean students, and the Korean SAT English language section and TOEIC for American students, ensuring a diverse range of reading topics. Participants were given ample time without constraints to complete their tests, allowing a comprehensive assessment of their reading skills. We anticipate that bilingual students will perform better, demonstrating the potential cognitive advantages of bilingualism. This study aims to highlight the benefits of bilingualism in enhancing reading comprehension skills among university students, thus contributing to the ongoing discussion on how bilingual education impacts academic achievement. Our findings may provide valuable insights for educators and policymakers in promoting bilingual education programs.
40004 | Silicon from Diatoms – Economic Possibility or a Dream for Batteries?
Terry Park, Ghent University Global Campus, South Korea
Minseo Kim, Ghent University Global Campus, South Korea
Soebiakto Loekman, Ghent University Global Campus, South Korea
Philippe M Heynderickx, Ghent University Global Campus, South Korea
This research aims to show the feasibility to utilize the silicon, harvested from unicellular microalgae, termed diatom, which procured from local source, as a novel, alternative and renewable source to improve the performance of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Diatom produces ca. 20% of the total oxygen every year. The unique feature of these microalgae is its intricate and highly structured cell wall, called frustule, which composed mainly of silica (SiO2). In the scope of LIBs, silicon has gained lots of attention to serve as an improvement to conventional graphite as anode material due to its high theoretical capacity to store lithium ions and due to its abundant availability. Furthermore, using silica-based materials can minimizes the environmental impact due to its non-toxicity and thus, such technology aligns with the sustainability goals of future technology development. Our research objective is to highlight the environmental-benign aspect of using diatom-derived silicon, in comparison with conventional silicon sources, by emphasizing its renewable and biodegradable nature. Comparison of several technologies, available to process and refine the silica from diatom, will grasp the full potential of this renewable source for the LIBs application. This study also intends to capture the revolutionizing effect of this silicon towards advancing energy storage technologies, shaping the future of LIBs by actively dismantling issues faced by battery technology currently. The pinnacle of this research and technological innovations is the development of LIBs technology towards sustainability and low environmental impacts for the future.
40005 | Adsorption Properties of Stacking-Type Complexes with Triazine atGraphene Surface: A Test Case For Cu2+ Ion Adsorption
Joonyoung Lee, Ghent University Global Campus, South Korea
Keshab K Adhikary, Ghent University Global Campus, South Korea
Philippe M Heynderickx, Ghent University Global Campus, South Korea
Water is a vital resource for all organisms, including humans. However, it can also serve as a medium for transporting heavy metal pollutants such as copper, lead, arsenic, mercury, cadmium, and others. Among these pollutants, the concentration of copper in water has been increasing due to human activity. Unfortunately, high concentrations of copper cause adverse effects on human health and the ecosystem. Therefore, a sustainable copper removal method is required. As a copper removal method, adsorption was studied in this project. Adsorption is a method of removing pollutants (adsorbate) by attracting them onto the surface of the adsorbent. Adsorption technology is recognized as one of the most promising methods for water treatment by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). Nonetheless, the high cost of adsorbents and their limited regeneration capabilities present significant challenges. To deal with this problem, triazine-embedded graphene is under study as an adsorbent. Graphene is a 2D honeycomb structure consisting of carbon. The adsorption property of graphene was tuned by embedding triazine, a 2D hexagonal ring consisting of three carbons and three nitrogens. The triazine was embedded in the graphene layer by π-π stacking by ultrasonic force. Stacking is an intermolecular interaction between triazine and graphene. This project aims to establish the ability of triazine-stacked graphene to adsorb copper metal ions from water. The experiment studies the effect of varying the concentration of pollutants, and temperature. The adsorption maximum capacity and rate of triazine-embedded graphene and only graphene was studied by Langmuir modeling and Pseudo modeling.
40006 | Potential of Triazine Embedded Graphene for Arsenic Removal: Insights from Recent Studies
Seorin Kim, Ghent University Global Campus, South Korea
Hyeran Choi, Ghent University Global Campus, South Korea
Keshab K Adhikary, Ghent University Global Campus, South Korea
Philippe M Heynderickx, Ghent University Global Campus, South Korea
Arsenic is widely recognized as a hazardous substance with significant impacts on both human health and environmental safety globally. It often contaminates water systems through industrial discharges, agricultural runoff, geological tectonic-plate actions, mines, and other natural sources, affecting drinking water supplies and posing serious risks to public health and the environment. Community gatherings aimed at sharing information about arsenic contamination and its effects are essential. They encourage dialogue among members and promote collective action toward finding effective solutions. One promising solution is the adsorption of heavy metal ions. The use of graphene for arsenic removal via adsorption has emerged as an innovative and effective approach. This poster provides an overview of arsenic contamination worldwide and it examines the potential application of graphene in remediation, offering key insights to support future experimental efforts and implementation on larger scale.
40008 | Clay Through Korean Ages: Innovation and Tradition
Areum Lee, Ghent University Global Campus, South Korea
Hyewon Lee, Ghent University Global Campus, South Korea
Muhammad Kashif, Ghent University Global Campus, South Korea
Philippe M Heynderickx, Ghent University Global Campus, South Korea
Clay has played a diverse role in Korean history, encompassing various scientific applications that have driven technological progress and cultural development. Clays are formed via the crushing of rocks, and they are abundant on the earth, making them one of the most common and versatile raw materials. Since ancient times (8000 BC), clay has been essential for the construction of kilns and furnaces, which were crucial for ceramic production and enabled the refinement of pottery techniques and styles such as high-fired earthenware and delicate celadon during the Goryeo Dynasty (918–1392). Clay's heat-insulating properties, such as hanok, were crucial for traditional Korean architecture, not only for ceramics but also for construction of adobe walls for defense engineering. Scientific research has deepened the understanding of chemical composition and physical properties of clay. Clay's unique structural properties, such as its large surface area and ability to form stable material, make it an excellent material for various scientific applications, including catalyst carrier and environmental remediation. In addition, the versatility and natural properties of clay have made it a valuable ingredient in cosmetics. Its ability to absorb excess oils and impurities has contributed to its recurring use in modern skincare products. Overall, the evolution of clay from a basic material in pottery to a crucial component in various scientific disciplines underscores its enduring importance to both cultural practices and scientific advancement in Korea's history. Ongoing research is investigating new uses for clay-containing minerals, particularly in the development of nanocomposites and organoclays.
40009 | Decisions to Access Peer Support Among Adolescents and Young Adults with a Difference of Sex Development
Tyler David Beeston, The University of Utah, United States
Alexandra Britt, The University of Utah, United States
Raven Burton, The University of Utah, United States
Mallorie Crissler, The University of Utah, United States
Ellie Powell, The University of Utah, United States
Kristina Suorsa-Johnson, The University of Utah, United States
Background: Differences of sex development (DSD) is an umbrella term used for a variety of congenital conditions resulting in differences in chromosomal, gonadal, or anatomic sex development. Those with DSD benefit from peer support related to their condition; however, a limited number of individuals with DSD access peer support groups. As part of a larger study examining decision-making among adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with DSD, participants were asked about their experience with peer support. Methods: Qualitative interviews were completed with 20 participants recruited from a children’s hospital in the United States (mean age=16 years; range=11-24 years). Sixty-minute interviews covered condition-specific decision-making topics. Prompts also focused on peer support (e.g., “Have you connected with anyone with your condition?”) Results: Twelve participants (60%) sought peer support. Of those who had not, 7 were asked if they were interested in seeking it out in the future; 5 (71%) said “yes.” A follow-up question asked in 6 (30%) of the interviews inquired if offering peer support during interdisciplinary DSD Clinic visits would be beneficial, to which all respondents said “yes.” Discussion: Results suggest that most of the AYAs with DSD sampled in this study have either received peer support or are interested in pursuing this option. Of those asked, there was interest in having peer support available at the interdisciplinary DSD Clinic. This data supports the implementation of a peer support program at Primary Children’s Hospital in Utah. Incorporating this type of program would benefit AYAs with DSD and their families.
40010 | The Possibility of Introducing AI to Accounting Departments in Big Companies in Japan
Yuki Kurita, Chuo University, Japan
If companies could find the best way to use AI in accounting, they would be able to optimize limited domestic management resources and acquire maximum profit. Distributing the profit to workers, who are also consumers at the same time, would lead the whole society to economic growth and maximized efficiency in the end. This project aims to assess the possibility of introducing AI to accounting departments in large companies in Japan. Qualitative methods will be used to gain deep insight into understanding of the present situation and a future expectation about using AI in accounting departments. The data is collected from a review of recent literature on AI society and a survey conducted with Chuo University accounting professors. I will analyze the risk involved, the capabilities of AI, the requirements for companies to introduce it, and the cases of success and failure along with their proportions. In conclusion, in accounting departments in large companies, the main risks caused by using AI are the obscuring of the judgement process and data security. The abilities they expect are business efficiency and expectation. The essential requirements are re-deploying human resource & skill enhancement and the selection of proper AI tools. Many companies have been obtaining the benefits of introducing AI, but the success rate varies depending on the industry, even if they are large companies. And, there are many failures due to trial and error in the early stages of introduction, but the number of successful cases is increasing due to continuous improvement.
40011 | The Potential Benefits of Spiritual Practices for Young Adults in South Korea
Chaeeun Yang, The University of Utah Asia Campus, South Korea
The mental health crisis among university students is one of the most pressing issues in South Korea. Yet presently, little research centers on the ways mental health can be managed through healthy coping strategies linked to spiritual practices, which potentially improve mental health by promoting a positive state of mind and enhancing self-communication. Most existing research connecting spiritual practices and mental health has been conducted in Westernized settings or highly religious countries, illustrating the need for a study in a broader cultural context like South Korea to ensure that its positive impacts are widely applicable and can help more people in need. This study centers on the question of whether university students in South Korea report improved mental health from spiritual practices. To explore this question in depth, I will conduct a case study using archival research and semi-structured interviews in English and Korean, focusing on adults who have actively engaged in spiritual practices in South Korea. Interviews will be conducted with a sample population ranging from avid spiritualists such as professional meditators to university students who follow more informal spiritual practices. Initial findings claim that both religious and non-religious people involved with various spiritual activities like reading religious texts, practicing mindfulness, doing yoga, writing, drawing, or walking in nature report positive mental health benefits. This suggests that students potentially receive positive effects such as relieving anxiety, depression, and stress about academics, future careers, and interpersonal relationships from doing these spiritual activities.
40012 | Toxic Filipino Traits: A Study on How “Filipino Time” Affects the Professional Life of Filipinos
Clark Fredrich Jindani Barcelona, University of the Philippines, Philippines
Althea Mycka Ella Nepomuceno, Bong, University of the Philippines, Philippines
Juliana Rocillio Garcia, University of the Philippines, Philippines
The practice of "Filipino Time" and its impact on the professional lives of Filipinos has been a recurring concern in the Philippines, driven by cultural influences and the need for improved punctuality, productivity, and reputation in the workplace. This study aims to investigate the effects of "Filipino Time" on the professional lives of Filipinos, specifically focusing on reputation, punctuality, and productivity. Using a mixed-method approach, the study combines quantitative data from a survey questionnaire and qualitative data from interviews. A total of 200 respondents participated in the online survey, providing insights into their awareness and engagement with the concept. The results indicated that practicing “Filipino Time” negatively impacts reputation, punctuality, and productivity. Furthermore, Pearson-Correlation results showed a significant association between “Filipino Time” and punctuality, while the correlation between “Filipino Time” and productivity was insignificant. Thematic analysis of the qualitative data revealed patterns in personal perceptions of the causes and effects associated with “Filipino Time.” This study endeavors to assist Filipinos in changing this toxic societal norm embedded in the country's culture, which continuously affects the perception of individuals.
40013 | Sentient Beings, Not Things: Improving the Legal Status of Animals in South Korea Through an Appropriate Ethical Framework
Arden Jang, The University of Utah, United States
Ian Hwang, The University of Utah, United States
South Korea’s commitment to animal rights is rooted in the Animal Protection Act of 1991, which endorses the Five Freedoms, an ethical framework preventing certain animals from experiencing negative states and allowing them to express “normal behavior." However, this framework may be too narrow and ambiguous to ensure the flourishing of sentient animals whose needs and rights are increasingly enumerated in light of advancements in science and philosophy. This research examines differing ethical perspectives on animal rights, such as Kantian, Capabilities, and Utilitarian approaches to search for the most effective ethical framework for bolstering the legal situation of animals in South Korea. By examining proposed amendments to Article 98 of the Korean Civil code, which advocate that animals are not “things,” and comparing them to Quebec’s Act to Improve the Legal Situation of Animals and the United Kingdom’s Animal Welfare (Sentience) Act 2022, this research explores the potential impact of recognizing animal sentience in South Korean law. Through archival research and comparative case studies on Korean and global animal rights laws, it aims to highlight areas for improvement and discourse in the treatment of animals in South Korea and worldwide. Perspectives from activists, legal scholars, and organizations aid this study’s assessment of laws' effectiveness. Scholars interested in the legal situation of animals in South Korea can benefit from the comprehensiveness of this research and pinpoint areas for improvement according to different ethical, legal and philosophical lenses.
40015 | The Effect of Verbal vs Non-Verbal Auditory Distractors on Encoding Constructed Vocabulary in Long-Term Memory
Jihyeon Moon, The University of Utah, United States
Riley Jo, The University of Utah, United States
Preparing for exams requires a high level of memory and attention, and many students use sound as a study strategy for many reasons. Inconsistent explanations of the relationship between auditory conditions and memory-retrieving tasks were reported while studies mainly focused on short-term memory. The research aimed to examine the effect of auditory conditions on academic performance particularly on long-term memory by defining auditory conditions as distracting sound conditions. 93 participants were randomly assigned either Music or ASMR and memorized each of 10 constructed vocabularies under Silence, Non-verbal, and Verbal sound conditions. Participants then typed memorized vocabulary as the response of open questions and chose the multiple-choice answer when they typed incorrectly. The proportion of correct responses for the open questions shows a significant main effect of distractor type (Music vs ASMR) which appears to be mainly driven by the difference between the two groups in the “Non-verbal” sound condition, not in the silence or verbal condition. The proportion of error responses for multiple-choice questions shows a similar significant main effect of distractor type, yet error responses for the open questions and correct responses for the multiple-choice questions do not indicate a significant effect. Despite inconsistent tendencies of statistical analysis results, it could be concluded that Music tends to be more distracting than ASMR. Further research is still required to exclude possible confounding variables and investigate the true effect of auditory conditions on academic performance.
40019 | Future of PhD in Japan: The practical ways to increase PhDs
Aoi Ishihara, Chuo University, Japan
In 2024, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) announced a plan to triple the number of Ph.D. 's by 2040, which is very similar to the policy they had tried in the 1990s that had come under criticism. The aim of this research is to propose the practical way to increase the number of Ph.D. 's in order to avoid repeating the same mistakes from the 90s. I did this research by using a case study method. First, I analyzed the 1990s' policy. And then, I conducted the questionnaire survey for Japanese undergraduate students to reveal what is really needed to achieve the goal. Finally, based on these results, I considered the proposal. From the questionnaire, I found some interesting opinions. For example, some students mentioned the Japanese social system with no connection between university major and job. Another issue noted is the problem of the slow start of specialized study at university. Many other problems were raised, but more than half of the students agreed with the policy itself. In conclusion, I can say it is essential to review the Japanese graduate school system. However, the plan announced by MEXT is not the best for the future of Ph.D. in Japan. I am sure that just increasing the number of PhDs does not make sense. I think the government should ensure that the number of PhD students increases as a result of better education policies.
40022 | The Cause and Effect of Schoolification in Early Childhood Education (ECE) on Preschoolers’ Well-Being in Urban China: A Multi-Dimensional Analysis
Ruitong Li, University College London, United Kingdom
Recent decades have witnessed increasing emphasis on preschool-aged children's school readiness in ECE settings. However, previous studies have primarily focused on Western countries while overlooking the Chinese ECE context, especially China’s urban regions where academic pressure is relatively distinct. As such, drawing on the concept of schoolification, this paper aims to explore the possible drivers behind urban Chinese kindergartens' growing incorporation of pedagogy and curricula of formal schooling as well as its impact on preschoolers' well-being. Based on analyses of secondary sources, including surveys among Chinese parents, educational policies formulated by the Ministry of Education of China, and published government reports, this paper reveals the complex interaction between social-cultural, market, and policy-related factors, and the potentially detrimental effects of schoolified ECE on preschoolers' well-being and early learning experiences. Results show that parental expectations, market competition between public and private kindergartens, and government policies jointly influenced the rising demand and supply for academically focused kindergartens. Possibly resultant physical and mental health issues include 1) decreased physical fitness from reduced playtime and exercises and 2) increased anxiety levels and low self-confidence due to the stress of meeting academic demands. The current paper contributes to the field by viewing the schoolification phenomenon in ECE in urban China from a multi-dimensional perspective and highlighting the significance of considering children's holistic and sustainable development. Implications are also proposed for pedagogical enhancement of Chinese ECE (e.g., developing more age-appropriate, play-based educational curricula) and for policy-practice refinement (e.g., strengthening the regulation of policy implementation in practice).
40023 | Kinetic Analysis of Korean Thermoplastic Waste for the Optimization of Sustainable Recycling and Waste Management
Yoonjee Kang, Ghent University Global Campus, South Korea
Juyeon Kang, Ghent University Global Campus, South Korea
Clovis Awah Che, Ghent University Global Campus, South Korea
Phillipe M Heynderickx, Ghent University Global Campus, South Korea
South Korea consumes the most plastic per capita globally at 98.2 kg. To promote sustainability, converting waste plastic to hydrochar via hydrothermal carbonization is vital. To optimize this technology, understanding the thermal properties of waste plastic is essential. This study analyzes the thermal properties of PET, HDPE, PVC, LDPE, PP, and PS using TGA under nitrogen and oxygen at various heating rates. In nitrogen, PET onset temperatures ranged from 375°C to 430°C, while in oxygen, they ranged from 350°C to 440°C. Peak degradation rates occurred at lower temperatures in oxygen, demonstrating its accelerating effect. PET degradation rates ranged from 0.12 to 0.266 %/°C in nitrogen and 0.068 to 0.49 %/°C in oxygen. Similar trends were observed in other polymers with oxygen enhancing degradation rates. Activation energies from model-free isoconversional methods showed that PET activation energy ranged from 74 to 232 kJ/mol in nitrogen and from 95 to 178 kJ/mol in oxygen, decreasing with higher conversion degrees. This trend was consistent across other polymers, with lower activation energies in oxygen due to enhanced degradation. Thermodynamic parameters, including enthalpy (ΔH), Gibbs free energy (ΔG), and entropy (ΔS), indicated higher energy requirements and non-spontaneity in nitrogen. HDPE showed higher ΔH in nitrogen, reflecting greater degradation energy needs. Model fitting revealed that F1 kinetics described HDPE and PP degradation well, while F2 and R2 models suited more complex pathways in PVC and PET. This analysis underscores the significant impact of atmospheric conditions on thermoplastic degradation, offering insights for optimizing recycling and waste management.
40061 | Evaluating the Limitations of Public Transportation in Songdo International City
Min Park, The University of Utah, South Korea
Romi Kim, The University of Utah, South Korea
This study explores the limitations of public transportation in Songdo International City, a rapidly developing urban area in Incheon, South Korea. As Songdo has evolved into a hub of residential, commercial, and educational activities, the demand for efficient and reliable public transportation has significantly increased. However, despite the city's modern infrastructure and strategic planning, significant gaps remain in its public transportation network. The primary objective of this research is to identify and analyze these limitations, focusing on accessibility, frequency, and coverage of bus and subway services within the city. To achieve this, a mixed-method approach was employed, combining quantitative data analysis of public transportation usage patterns with qualitative surveys of Songdo residents. The study also included a comparative analysis of Songdo's public transportation system with those of other similar-sized cities, both within South Korea and internationally. The results indicate that while Songdo benefits from a high-tech urban layout, its public transportation system is insufficient to meet the needs of its growing population. Key findings include the limited reach of subway lines, infrequent bus services, and inadequate connections between different modes of transportation. These limitations contribute to increased reliance on private vehicles, exacerbating traffic congestion and reducing the city's overall sustainability. In conclusion, the research underscores the need for a more integrated and expanded public transportation network in Songdo. This would not only enhance mobility for residents but also support the city's vision of being a global leader in smart and sustainable urban living.
40062 | Impact of Urban Transportation Noise and Pedestrian-Friendly Environments of Residents' Health: A Case Study in Seoul, South Korea
Hyein Kim, The University of Utah Asia Campus, South Korea
Yubin Han, The University of Utah Asia Campus, South Korea
Jisoo Ooh, The University of Utah Asia Campus, South Korea
Urban transport noise is a significant environmental stressor that impacts citizens' well-being, especially in highly populated places such as Seoul, South Korea. This case study investigates how transport noise and pedestrian-friendly settings affect people's physical and emotional well-being. Noise pollution from cars, trains, and other modes of transportation adds to stress, sleep difficulties, and cardiovascular illness, resulting in a worse quality of life. In contrast, pedestrian-friendly zones, which have vegetation, walking streets, and lower traffic congestion, provide a respite from these detrimental impacts. These spaces inspire physical exercise, which is good for your health, and promote social contacts, contributing to better mental health and community cohesiveness. This research examines data from several areas in Seoul, including noise levels, pedestrian infrastructure quality, and health results for the local population. The findings indicate a strong link between high levels of transport noise and negative health effects, whereas pedestrian-friendly locations are associated with reduced stress levels and improved cardiovascular health. The study emphasizes the necessity for urban planners and politicians to prioritize noise reduction measures and the creation of pedestrian-friendly zones to promote healthy urban living. Seoul is a paradigm for other cities seeking to reconcile transit needs with citizens' health and well-being.