The members in Misdirection have one common interest that they are passionate about—magic—and together, they want to spread the magic around the campus. “Specifically, we discuss and learn magic together, and perform what we have practiced on campus,” said Kim Sunwoo (’09, Computer and Communications Engineering), the president of Misdirection.

One of the most important activities is the performances that are held two times annually. Kim said, “In some way, our club is in the performing arts department. We perform from close-up magic where the magician, using a table, gets closer to spectators and to stage magic.” Therefore, the club usually focuses and spends most of the time preparing for the performance. Kim added that any member who can participate in the performance. Each member can be either a performer or the staff.

Misdirection is an enthralling, bubbling cauldron of delights and enchantment. It is also a regular society that has the humble aim of teaching and sharing with members, the skills and tricks of the performance art that is magic. Misdirection members have weekly meetings on Thursday 7:00 P.M. in their club room. The club meets to discuss new techniques, and the meetings also provide a place for members to demonstrate their skills and share them with other club members. The seniors of the group usually teach magic skills to the juniors. By exchanging information and techniques with other students, members can learn new things, improve their weaknesses, and share their strong points. After practicing their own skills, some members get to participate in several amateur contests in Korea.

“We can see many magic-related activities these days. While most of us enjoy watching magic shows, it looks too difficult to learn, so most of us do not even dare to try. However, learning magic is not difficult,” explained Kim Seung-keun (’12, Chemical and Biological Engineering). Most of the techniques are simple, but it requires effort and practice; these skills do not develop over night.

When asked about why he is so into magic, Kim answered, “It is true that magic is trickery, but the tricks make people happy. If you believe in what you hear and see as miracles, dreams and fantasy do come true. Do not be suspicious. Open your mind and believe. Not only will magic entertain you, but it can give you hope and joy.”

Misdirection is also part of an alliance with other universities’ magic clubs called The Society of Korean University Magic (S.K.U.M.). To foster exchanges among student clubs in Korea, a meeting is held regularly to exchange information on each other’s school magic club operations. The meetings help students to improve themselves, and they also stimulate interest among university student amateurs, and contribute to and develop the Korean magic industry.

It would be a hasty generalization to think and expect the atmosphere of Misdirection to be geeky and nerdy. Misdirection has luxurious Membership Trainings (MT) and fun alcohol consuming sessions that act as an ice-breaker, enabling the members to bond. From these activities, it seems that Misdirection desires a family-like and amiable atmosphere.

How to Get Involved with Misdirection: