Amateur Radio & International Friendship: Hosting DS1UPG from Korea in Waikiki

Amateur radio has a unique way of bringing people together, no matter where in the world we’re from. This month, I had the pleasure of meeting Hongjun Na (DS1UPG), https://www.qrz.com/db/DS1UPG also known as Brian, who was visiting the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa for three weeks as part of a job tour organized by his school in Korea and the UH Mānoa Office of International Programs.

As a UH Mānoa graduate myself, I felt lucky to spend some time with Brian and hear about his experience on campus. It was great to connect with someone who shares a passion for amateur radio while also having a connection to my alma mater.

Beyond his academic pursuits, Brian is deeply involved in amateur radio. He serves as president of the amateur radio club (DS0KEB) https://www.qrz.com/db/DS0KEB  at his school Eulji University Bio Medical Engineering Seocho, Seoul, South Korea and is also the secretary of the Youth Committee of the Korean Amateur Radio League (DS0YIC). With so much in common, we couldn't pass up the opportunity for an eyeball QSO while he was here in Honolulu!

Brian stopped by Tiki’s Grill & Bar, where we had the chance to chat before heading out in my truck—fully equipped with amateur radio gear. It turns out Brian also holds a U.S. callsign, so I gave him the opportunity to get on the air while he was here.

We started with VHF repeaters, where he made a few contacts, followed by a UHF DMR session. I also showed him my Icom 7300, which I use for HF contacts right from my truck. He was able to experience firsthand how I have my mobile setup configured—one of the best ways to showcase the versatility of amateur radio.

Swapping QSLs & Enjoying the Aloha Spirit

After getting on the air, we headed back to Tiki’s, where I hosted Brian for a cocktail and pupu to complete the experience. Of course, we also exchanged QSL cards and stickers, a tradition that helps strengthen the connections we make over the air and in person.

Meeting Brian was a great reminder of how amateur radio can bridge cultures and create friendships across the globe. Whether through HF, repeaters, or digital modes, our shared passion for radio communication unites us—no matter the distance.

Mahalo, Brian, for the QSO and visit! Hope to catch you on the air again soon—perhaps on HF from Korea!

73!
Michael 
KH6ML