Friday March 20th 2026
Professor Myung K. Lee during his talk at Danderhall Library
Written by Midlothian View Reporter, Liam Eunson
Danderhall Library’s weekly Korean Club welcomed a special guest speaker on Tuesday 17 March, as Professor Myung K. Lee, MD, PhD delivered an ‘engaging and insightful’ talk to local students and parents on the theme “How to Work with International Organisations.”
The event was organised by Jess Morris of Danderhall Library in collaboration with Rev Dr JunSoo Park of Newton Presbyterian Church in Danderhall. The session, attended by members of the local community, ran from 3:45pm to 5:15pm and was chaired by Grant McVittie from Danderhall Library.
Professor Lee is a distinguished medical professional, owning and working within organisations such as UNHCR and Mercy Corps. During the talk, Professor Lee provided practical guidance for students aspiring to work in international fields. He outlined a wide range of sectors including UN organisations, international development agencies, religious
organisations, health and medical institutions, alongside sharing concrete pathways and preparation strategies needed to enter these sectors.
Drawing on real-world examples from international development work, Professor Lee highlighted key global issues such as water security, health systems, and sustainable development. He also presented future trends, including major Official Development Assistance (ODA) countries leading up to 2030, offering students a forward-looking perspective on global opportunities.
Organisers explained that a particularly ‘thought-provoking part of the session’ focused on the global refugee crisis, with discussion on how conflicts lead to displacement and how international cooperation can help prevent such humanitarian challenges.
Attendees responded positively to the event. Aysha Miah, a parent, commented:
“Thank you for an insightful and engaging presentation which raises awareness of a wide range of topics from health and water issues to international development priorities.”
Students also shared their reflections. Iza Turner (P3), a pupil at Danderhall Primary School, said the talk was beneficial in helping her think about “the role of international organisations and what kind of work is needed in response to global challenges.”
Another pupil, Giana (P6, Danderhall Primary School), added that she appreciated learning “how we can work beyond our local community to make a difference in the world.”
Daniel Park, a student at George Heriot’s School (S5), commented: “It was very helpful to learn how communities can contribute through international organisations.”
Grant McVittie of Danderhall Library added: “On behalf of Danderhall Library, I would like to thank Professor Lee for his very interesting and insightful talk. I would also like to thank him for the kind donation of Korean language textbooks to the library.”
Event organisers Jess Morris and Rev Dr JunSoo Park expressed their hope that such programmes would continue to support young people in preparing for their future, particularly by broadening their understanding of global careers and responsibilities.
At the conclusion of the session, Professor Lee donated Korean language learning books, kindly provided by Key Publishing, to Danderhall Library, further supporting cultural and educational exchange within the community.
The Korean Club continues to run weekly at Danderhall Library, offering a welcoming space for cultural learning, community engagement, and educational enrichment.
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