Core Points - The chairman of New Oriental, Yu Minhong, clarified the cost of a trip to Antarctica, stating that prices range from 50,000 to 300,000 yuan, with the specific cruise he took costing between 200,000 and 250,000 yuan for 12 days, contrary to the rumored 1.48 million yuan [1][3] - Yu Minhong expressed gratitude for the support from friends and emphasized the company's culture of allowing employees to voice their concerns, indicating a commitment to addressing any issues within the organization [3][4] - On the occasion of New Oriental's 32nd anniversary, Yu Minhong reflected on the company's journey and future aspirations, aiming for New Oriental to be a "sower of hope" and for its tourism segment to help people appreciate the world [4] - Following the internal letter, there was a mixed reaction from employees, with some expressing difficulty in empathizing with the CEO's vacation, leading to discussions on social media [7] - In a video response, Yu Minhong highlighted the importance of nature education for children and announced plans for a youth exploration center, aiming to foster a love and understanding of nature among young people [7]

Core Insights - The company is planning to establish a dedicated youth exploration center to promote natural education for children, aiming to foster a love and understanding of nature through scientific methods [1] - A special Antarctic expedition for teenagers is expected to commence in the winter of next year, highlighting the company's commitment to experiential learning [1] Group 1 - The founder, Yu Minhong, shared a video on social media discussing the beauty of nature and the future of natural education for Chinese children during a trip to Antarctica [1] - On November 16, Yu Minhong released an internal letter celebrating the 32nd anniversary of the company, reflecting on its journey and the contributions of its staff [3] - The letter emphasized the company's dual role as a knowledge provider and a hope cultivator, while also highlighting the importance of its subsidiary, Dongfang Zhenxuan, in representing merchant integrity [3] Group 2 - The anniversary letter sparked controversy among employees, with some expressing difficulty in empathizing with the CEO's experience while he was traveling [4] - Employees criticized the letter's tone, suggesting that practical actions such as salary increases would be more effective motivators than inspirational messages [4]

Core Viewpoint - The recent activities of Yu Minhong, founder of New Oriental, including his trip to Antarctica and the internal letter sent to employees, have sparked discussions and mixed reactions among staff and the public regarding company culture and leadership [2][5][7]. Group 1: Yu Minhong's Activities - On November 18, Yu Minhong shared 10 videos from his trip to Antarctica, emphasizing the importance of natural education for children and announcing the establishment of a youth exploration center by New Oriental [2][5]. - The company plans to launch a specialized Antarctic exploration program for teenagers, expected to commence in the winter of next year [2]. Group 2: Internal Communication and Employee Reactions - On November 16, during his Antarctic expedition, Yu Minhong sent an internal letter to all employees, reflecting on the company's journey and encouraging unity and perseverance in the face of challenges [5]. - The internal letter received mixed feedback, with some employees expressing difficulty in empathizing with their boss while he was on vacation, and others highlighting their workload during the anniversary [7]. Group 3: Travel Details - Yu Minhong traveled to Antarctica aboard the Shagu No. cruise ship, which departs from Paris and offers a 20-day journey costing approximately 300,000 yuan per person [12]. - The cruise ship only visits Antarctica every two years, indicating that the next opportunity to board will not be until 2027 [12].