The Evolution of Graduation Memories in Korean Universities
As August approaches, many university students are preparing for the final steps of their academic journey. From completing thesis work and attending graduation ceremonies to receiving diplomas, the list of tasks is extensive. However, one tradition that may be fading is the university graduation album. These albums, which traditionally feature individual portraits of graduates in their caps and gowns, have long been a cherished way for students to remember their time on campus. Yet, with changing student preferences and modern technology, this practice is becoming less common.
A Shift in Demand
Universities have historically created graduation albums that include photos of all graduating students, often accompanied by group shots and images of faculty members. These albums were typically distributed during February graduation ceremonies, featuring graduates from the previous two semesters. Students who graduated in August would take photos around May or June, while those from February would do so in the following September or October.
However, demand for these large-scale albums has declined significantly. For example, Kangwon National University decided not to produce graduation albums for its August graduates due to low participation. Similarly, Sun Moon University stopped creating yearbooks starting from the 2024 academic year, citing decreased interest as students graduated at different times and preferred digital options.
Chungbuk National University also halted the production of graduation albums after only 253 out of 2,800 graduates purchased them in 2021. Chung-Ang University still prints a large album, but sales have steadily declined over the years.
Changing Student Lifestyles
One reason for the decline is the increasing number of students taking semesters off or deferring graduation. According to Statistics Korea, 46.8% of surveyed university graduates in 2024 had taken a semester or more off. Many male students did so for military service, while female students often took breaks to prepare for certification exams or internships.
Deferring graduation is also common among students who want to maintain their student status while applying for jobs or internships. In 2024, 17,939 bachelor’s students deferred graduation, a 17.4% increase from the previous year.
This shift in academic timelines makes it harder to create cohesive graduation albums, as students graduate at different times and may not even know each other. As one graduate noted, “I deferred graduation and was working as an intern during the semester before I actually graduated, so it didn’t make sense to take photos for the album.”
Personalized Albums and New Trends
While traditional large albums are becoming less common, universities are adapting by offering more personalized options. Sungkyunkwan University, for instance, no longer creates a single album for all graduates. Instead, students can choose between personal albums, group photos, or digital files. Kyung Hee University also focuses on smaller, custom-made albums for individuals or groups of friends.
Sogang University offers similar options, allowing students to create solo or group albums within select friend circles or opt for digital files or framed prints. These changes reflect a growing preference for individualized memories rather than mass-produced albums.
Alternative Ways to Capture Memories
With the decline of traditional graduation albums, students are turning to other ways to capture their memories. Many now hire photographers for customized photoshoots, known as “graduation snaps.” These sessions, which can cost between 70,000 won and 250,000 won, often take place on campus and include edited photos for social media.
Some students prefer vintage-style photos using film cameras, while others bring along plush mascots of their universities for fun shots. Additionally, photo booths have become a popular and affordable option, with brands like Life4Cuts offering special graduation-themed frames.
Life4Cuts released a graduation frame designed like Instagram’s question sticker layout, complete with congratulatory messages. This frame was used in over 4,800 photos in February, and the company plans to expand its offerings for upcoming graduation seasons.
Conclusion
Graduation albums, once a staple of university life, are evolving alongside student preferences and technological advancements. While they may not disappear entirely, their role is shifting toward more personalized and flexible options. Whether through professional photoshoots, digital files, or creative photo booth experiences, students continue to find meaningful ways to celebrate their academic achievements.
