Busan recruits students for 'Haha Edu Program' this fall

Busan city is accepting applications through Aug. 21 from residents aged 50 and older for its "2026 Second-Half Haha Edu Program," the city announced Monday. Classes run from Sept. 7 through Dec. 11 at the campus education building and university sports facilities on the theological campus of Catholic University of Pusan, offering 38 courses in total — 18 in sports and 20 in education.

The sports program covers pickleball, tennis, billiards, pocket billiards, table tennis and ground golf, each divided into beginner and intermediate levels. The lineup also includes autumn trail walking and "Meports" (a portmanteau of medical and sports), a fitness program tailored to specific health conditions.

The education program features group experience courses — chorus, line dance, nanta percussion and taekwondo — alongside digital literacy classes such as practical smartphone AI use and an AI video workshop. Self-development offerings round out the program, including a barista certification course, a senior modeling class and a home organization course.

Any Busan resident aged 50 or older may apply through the Catholic University of Pusan website (hhc.cup.ac.kr) or by scanning the QR code on promotional materials. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Tuition is 30,000 won ($21) per course, with the exception of the trail walking class at 10,000 won. People with disabilities, near-poverty households and national merit recipients — including bereaved family members — receive a 50 percent discount, while basic livelihood recipients are fully exempt. Students may enroll in up to three courses per semester. For more information, contact Catholic University of Pusan at 051-519-0351 or 051-519-0440.

Meanwhile, the city signed an MOU with Kosin University in April to expand education and welfare programs making use of idle university facilities. Nineteen courses linked to university infrastructure, including Kosin University Gospel Hospital, are being offered, with a separate student recruitment drive planned for September.