Korea for Kids
Korea for Kids An intro to Korea for young readers
Korea for Kids Contents
Chapter
1
Chapter
2
Welcome to Korea
Traditional Culture
004 012 013 016 018
024 029 030 032 034
Meet Ara and her friends Seoul, International City Namsan Mountain Map of Seoul Folk Tale: The Old Men with Lumps
Korean Folk Village Samulnori Insadong Delicious Korean Food Folk Tale: The Brother and the Sister Who Turned into the Sun and the Moon
Chapter
3
Chapter
4
Chapter
5
Chapter
6
Gyeongju, a Historic City
Education and Royal Palaces
Remarkable Economic 2018 PyeongChang Development
040 The National Museum of Gyeongju 044 The Divine Bell of King Seongdeok the Great 045 Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto 048 Let’s Learn about Bulguksa Temple 050 Korea’s History at a Glance 060 Folk Tale: The Fairy and the Woodcutter
064 Daehangno 066 Changgyeong Palace 070 Folk Tale: The Tiger and Grandma’s Red Bean Porridge
074 A Divided Nation 080 The World Cup Stadium
084 086 087 088 090 092
Origin of Olympic Winter Games PyeongChang 2018 Emblem Mascot Sports Folk Tale: The Bride Who Openly Farted 094 Talk Talk Korea 2016 winner : webtoon
Korea for Kids 2017 Edition ISBN 978-89-7375-611-7 43910 For further information about Korea, please visit : www.korea.net
002 Korea for Kids
003
Korea for Kids Contents
Chapter
1
Chapter
2
Welcome to Korea
Traditional Culture
004 012 013 016 018
024 029 030 032 034
Meet Ara and her friends Seoul, International City Namsan Mountain Map of Seoul Folk Tale: The Old Men with Lumps
Korean Folk Village Samulnori Insadong Delicious Korean Food Folk Tale: The Brother and the Sister Who Turned into the Sun and the Moon
Chapter
3
Chapter
4
Chapter
5
Chapter
6
Gyeongju, a Historic City
Education and Royal Palaces
Remarkable Economic 2018 PyeongChang Development
040 The National Museum of Gyeongju 044 The Divine Bell of King Seongdeok the Great 045 Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto 048 Let’s Learn about Bulguksa Temple 050 Korea’s History at a Glance 060 Folk Tale: The Fairy and the Woodcutter
064 Daehangno 066 Changgyeong Palace 070 Folk Tale: The Tiger and Grandma’s Red Bean Porridge
074 A Divided Nation 080 The World Cup Stadium
084 086 087 088 090 092
Origin of Olympic Winter Games PyeongChang 2018 Emblem Mascot Sports Folk Tale: The Bride Who Openly Farted 094 Talk Talk Korea 2016 winner : webtoon
Korea for Kids 2017 Edition ISBN 978-89-7375-611-7 43910 For further information about Korea, please visit : www.korea.net
002 Korea for Kids
003
Meet Ara and her friends Carlos Valdez (Age 10) A boy from the United States who lives in China with his parents. He currently attends an international school there but will return to the U.S. soon. He got interested in Korea after learning the Korean martial art taekwondo.
Ara Shin (Age 10) A Korean girl who lived in China for a brief period because of her father’s job. She is learning piano now and is very lively and sociable.
Hyunsoo Kong (Age 27) Ara’s uncle. He majors in international relations at his university. He is preparing to resume his studies after completing his mandatory military service.
Marina Schiller (Age 11) A German girl who has returned to Germany after spending a year at an international school in China, where she became friends with Ara and Carlos. She began learning Korean after watching the famous Korean drama Daejangkeum.
004 Korea for Kids
Ara’s grandmother (Age 68) Ara’s grandmother runs a guesthouse in Bukchon Village. She loves gardening, so she likes to call the guesthouse her Big Garden.
005
Meet Ara and her friends Carlos Valdez (Age 10) A boy from the United States who lives in China with his parents. He currently attends an international school there but will return to the U.S. soon. He got interested in Korea after learning the Korean martial art taekwondo.
Ara Shin (Age 10) A Korean girl who lived in China for a brief period because of her father’s job. She is learning piano now and is very lively and sociable.
Hyunsoo Kong (Age 27) Ara’s uncle. He majors in international relations at his university. He is preparing to resume his studies after completing his mandatory military service.
Marina Schiller (Age 11) A German girl who has returned to Germany after spending a year at an international school in China, where she became friends with Ara and Carlos. She began learning Korean after watching the famous Korean drama Daejangkeum.
004 Korea for Kids
Ara’s grandmother (Age 68) Ara’s grandmother runs a guesthouse in Bukchon Village. She loves gardening, so she likes to call the guesthouse her Big Garden.
005
Chapter 01
Welcome to Korea My name is Ara Shin. I went to an international school in Beijing for about two years while my father was working there.That is where I met some very special friends.This summer, Marina and Carlos are coming to Korea to visit me. As a matter of fact, today is the day!
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007
Chapter 01
Welcome to Korea My name is Ara Shin. I went to an international school in Beijing for about two years while my father was working there.That is where I met some very special friends.This summer, Marina and Carlos are coming to Korea to visit me. As a matter of fact, today is the day!
006 Korea for Kids
007
Chapter 01 Welcome to Korea
Bukchon Traditional Hanok Village
Ara hurries to her grandmother’s guesthouse. It’s going to be one busy week for Ara since she will be hosting some very special guests. “Grandma, I’m here!” “Good to see you, Ara. But where’s your uncle, Hyunsoo?” Grandmother shouts toward uncle’s room. The guesthouse is located in historical Bukchon, the heart of the ancient capital. Grandmother’s guesthouse is famous for her beautiful flowers and the guests here call the place the Big Garden. “Please, Mom. The flight is supposed to arrive at 10 o’clock. We still have a lot of time,” Hyunsoo answers. “We shouldn’t make our guests wait, Hyunsoo. It’s always better to be there earlier.”
008 Korea for Kids
“Don’t worry. I won’t be late. Besides, I haven’t recovered from jet lag myself, you know. Remember, I just returned home from volunteer work in Africa yesterday? Well, I guess we’d better get going Ara, if we’re to avoid a lecture.” Ara followed her uncle Hyunsoo with a smile. He has offered to be the guide for her friends. “So, these are your friends from Beijing International School? You must be excited to see them again.” “I used to teach them Korean in the Korean language club. I’m going to see if they forgot what I taught them.” “Why are they bothering to learn Korean in the first place anyway?” “It just shows how Korea is becoming popular nowadays, uncle!” 009
Chapter 01 Welcome to Korea
Bukchon Traditional Hanok Village
Ara hurries to her grandmother’s guesthouse. It’s going to be one busy week for Ara since she will be hosting some very special guests. “Grandma, I’m here!” “Good to see you, Ara. But where’s your uncle, Hyunsoo?” Grandmother shouts toward uncle’s room. The guesthouse is located in historical Bukchon, the heart of the ancient capital. Grandmother’s guesthouse is famous for her beautiful flowers and the guests here call the place the Big Garden. “Please, Mom. The flight is supposed to arrive at 10 o’clock. We still have a lot of time,” Hyunsoo answers. “We shouldn’t make our guests wait, Hyunsoo. It’s always better to be there earlier.”
008 Korea for Kids
“Don’t worry. I won’t be late. Besides, I haven’t recovered from jet lag myself, you know. Remember, I just returned home from volunteer work in Africa yesterday? Well, I guess we’d better get going Ara, if we’re to avoid a lecture.” Ara followed her uncle Hyunsoo with a smile. He has offered to be the guide for her friends. “So, these are your friends from Beijing International School? You must be excited to see them again.” “I used to teach them Korean in the Korean language club. I’m going to see if they forgot what I taught them.” “Why are they bothering to learn Korean in the first place anyway?” “It just shows how Korea is becoming popular nowadays, uncle!” 009
Chapter 01 Welcome to Korea
“Well, I admire their effort.” It was almost 11 when Ara could finally see her friends. Marina came all the way from Germany while Carlos, who still attends the Beijing International School flew in from China. Marina and Carlos introduced themselves to Ara’s uncle in Korean. “Hello, I’m Marina Schiller. I’m from Germany.” “Nice to meet you, sir. I’m Carlos Valdez and I’m from the United States of America.” “Wow, you guys are truly international friends. Ha-ha, it’s good to meet you all. I’m Ara’s uncle Hyunsoo Kong. You must be tired after a long flight?”
Bibimbap Literally means “mixed rice meal.” The dish is served with seasoned vegetables, sliced meat and various garnishes.
Marina shook her head in reply. “The staff on the Korean airline were so friendly, and I love what Incheon International Airport Passenger Terminal
they served on the flight. The bibimbap was so delicious that I feel reinvigorated.” The thought of bibimbap made Marina’s mouth water once again. “The airport here is simply awesome!” said Carlos as he looked around the airport. All along, Carlos had thought that the biggest and nicest airports were those in his home country. But the sheer size and the state-of-the-art facilities at Incheon International Airport changed his view completely.
Hi, Ara! Kids! Look at me. Nice to see you! Long time no see!
010 Korea for Kids
With all the signs marked in English, it was easy to get around as well. Ara’s uncle spoke looking into the eyes of the three children. “Call me your captain for the week. I’ll be taking you to every corner of Korea.” 011
Chapter 01 Welcome to Korea
“Well, I admire their effort.” It was almost 11 when Ara could finally see her friends. Marina came all the way from Germany while Carlos, who still attends the Beijing International School flew in from China. Marina and Carlos introduced themselves to Ara’s uncle in Korean. “Hello, I’m Marina Schiller. I’m from Germany.” “Nice to meet you, sir. I’m Carlos Valdez and I’m from the United States of America.” “Wow, you guys are truly international friends. Ha-ha, it’s good to meet you all. I’m Ara’s uncle Hyunsoo Kong. You must be tired after a long flight?”
Bibimbap Literally means “mixed rice meal.” The dish is served with seasoned vegetables, sliced meat and various garnishes.
Marina shook her head in reply. “The staff on the Korean airline were so friendly, and I love what Incheon International Airport Passenger Terminal
they served on the flight. The bibimbap was so delicious that I feel reinvigorated.” The thought of bibimbap made Marina’s mouth water once again. “The airport here is simply awesome!” said Carlos as he looked around the airport. All along, Carlos had thought that the biggest and nicest airports were those in his home country. But the sheer size and the state-of-the-art facilities at Incheon International Airport changed his view completely.
Hi, Ara! Kids! Look at me. Nice to see you! Long time no see!
010 Korea for Kids
With all the signs marked in English, it was easy to get around as well. Ara’s uncle spoke looking into the eyes of the three children. “Call me your captain for the week. I’ll be taking you to every corner of Korea.” 011
Chapter 01 Welcome to Korea
Seoul, International City The vehicle picked up speed on the long express-way. After a while, the streets of Seoul came into sight. “There are so many people and high-rises!” said Carlos. “Seoul is rapidly growing and is quikly emerging as an international city. As the capital, Seoul is the center of Korea’s politics, economy and culture. Seoul is home to the Presidential Office, Cheong Wa Dae, and many government offices, as well as financial institutions, museums, art galleries and other various cultural institutions.” “I remember seeing Seoul on TV.”
Seoul Olympics
“Seoul hosted the 1986 Asian Games, 1988 Summer Olympics and 2002 World Cup games among other global events. Koreans are known for their passion and spirit of cooperation. That’s probably
Korea hosted the 24th Summer Olympics in 1988.
why Korea was able to develop so fast in such a short span of time.” Ara’s uncle smiled with a sense of pride. “There’s the Han River!” A long and wide river appeared before the children’s eyes. Some people were fishing and others were riding bicycles listening to music with their earphones on. Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves.
Namsan Mountain Cheongwadae Korea’s Presidential Office and Residence in Jongno, Seoul.
012 Korea for Kids
Soon as dusk set on the Han River, lights on the bridges and buildings along the riverside began to light up. Bridges over the Han River looked even more beautiful with lighting.
013
Chapter 01 Welcome to Korea
Seoul, International City The vehicle picked up speed on the long express-way. After a while, the streets of Seoul came into sight. “There are so many people and high-rises!” said Carlos. “Seoul is rapidly growing and is quikly emerging as an international city. As the capital, Seoul is the center of Korea’s politics, economy and culture. Seoul is home to the Presidential Office, Cheong Wa Dae, and many government offices, as well as financial institutions, museums, art galleries and other various cultural institutions.” “I remember seeing Seoul on TV.”
Seoul Olympics
“Seoul hosted the 1986 Asian Games, 1988 Summer Olympics and 2002 World Cup games among other global events. Koreans are known for their passion and spirit of cooperation. That’s probably
Korea hosted the 24th Summer Olympics in 1988.
why Korea was able to develop so fast in such a short span of time.” Ara’s uncle smiled with a sense of pride. “There’s the Han River!” A long and wide river appeared before the children’s eyes. Some people were fishing and others were riding bicycles listening to music with their earphones on. Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves.
Namsan Mountain Cheongwadae Korea’s Presidential Office and Residence in Jongno, Seoul.
012 Korea for Kids
Soon as dusk set on the Han River, lights on the bridges and buildings along the riverside began to light up. Bridges over the Han River looked even more beautiful with lighting.
013
Chapter 01 Welcome to Korea
“It was at first, but now that I learned the basics, it’s actually quite simple. One sound per syllable. Once you learn the 14 consonants and 10 vowels, it’s really fun to learn Korean.” “Actually, that’s true. Many world renowned linguists have praised the Korean alphabet as a brilliant language system. Oxford University in Britain once evaluated diverse languages of the world and it ranked Hangeul, the Korean alphabet, as the most scientific, rational, creative and pragmatic of all alphabets.” “I want to improve my Korean more, so that next time I visit Korea, I can bring my family with me and be their guide.”
Han River
“Now, we’re going to the heart of Seoul, Namsan Mountain.”
“If you keep practicing, your Korean will improve quickly. Anyway, shall we go down now? Your grandmother called just a while ago and told me that dinner’s ready.” The Captain and the kids walked to the parking lot.
“I can see the whole city from here.” “Originally, the N Seoul Tower was Korea’s first radio tower and was one of Korea’s tallest structures. Today, it’s more famous as a tourist site for its beautiful night view of Seoul.” Looking out the window at the N Seoul Tower, the kids stood speechless. The Captain pointed at the soaring structure and told them that it was the 63 Building. He explained that it was one of Korea’s tallest structures with an observatory, aquarium and a cinema complex. He added, however, that a 123-story building was built in Korea, Lotte World Tower. “Isn’t it difficult to speak Korean?” asked the Captain all of a sudden. 014 Korea for Kids
015
Chapter 01 Welcome to Korea
“It was at first, but now that I learned the basics, it’s actually quite simple. One sound per syllable. Once you learn the 14 consonants and 10 vowels, it’s really fun to learn Korean.” “Actually, that’s true. Many world renowned linguists have praised the Korean alphabet as a brilliant language system. Oxford University in Britain once evaluated diverse languages of the world and it ranked Hangeul, the Korean alphabet, as the most scientific, rational, creative and pragmatic of all alphabets.” “I want to improve my Korean more, so that next time I visit Korea, I can bring my family with me and be their guide.”
Han River
“Now, we’re going to the heart of Seoul, Namsan Mountain.”
“If you keep practicing, your Korean will improve quickly. Anyway, shall we go down now? Your grandmother called just a while ago and told me that dinner’s ready.” The Captain and the kids walked to the parking lot.
“I can see the whole city from here.” “Originally, the N Seoul Tower was Korea’s first radio tower and was one of Korea’s tallest structures. Today, it’s more famous as a tourist site for its beautiful night view of Seoul.” Looking out the window at the N Seoul Tower, the kids stood speechless. The Captain pointed at the soaring structure and told them that it was the 63 Building. He explained that it was one of Korea’s tallest structures with an observatory, aquarium and a cinema complex. He added, however, that a 123-story building was built in Korea, Lotte World Tower. “Isn’t it difficult to speak Korean?” asked the Captain all of a sudden. 014 Korea for Kids
015
Chapter 01 Well come to Korea
Map of Seoul
Dobong Mountain
Surak Mountain
Surak Mountain
Seoul is the capital of Korea. It is surrounded by four mountains. The downtown area is like a forest of buildings. With an endless number of cars. Seoul has been the center of Korea’s politics, economy, industry, culture and transportation for many centuries. Although it was mostly destroyed in the Korean War, Seoul has quickly emerged as an international city.
Korea National Training Center
Korea National Training Center
Bukhansan National Park
Gyeongbok Palace
Bukhansan National Park
Changdeok Palace
Cheong Wa Dae
Cheong Wa Dae
Changgyeon Palace Changdeok Palace
Jongmyo Shrine
Sejong Center for the Peforming Arts
Changgyeon Palace
Gyeongbok Palace Gwanghwamun Gate
Jongmyo Shrine Gwanghwamun Gate
Sejong Center for theBosingak
Hanuel Park
Peforming ArtsPalace Deoksu Independence Gate
Seoul World Hanuel Park Cup Stadium
Gimpo Airport
Namdaemun Market
Seodaemun Gate Prison
Seoul World Cup Stadium
Independence Gate
National Assembly
BosingakDongdaemun
Cheonggyecheon Deoksu Palace Stream
Namdaemun Market
Seodaemun Gate Prison
Dongdaemun
Namsan Hanok Cheonggyecheon Stream Village
N Seoul Tower
Gimpo Airport
Seoul Forest
Namsan Hanok Village
Seoul Station
National Assembly
Amsadong Prehistoric Site Seoul Children’s Grand Park
National Museum N Seoul Tower of Korea
63 building
Seoul Arts Center
Seoul National University Gwanak Mountain
Seoul Children’s
Jamsil Stadium
Supreme Court
Seoul National Cemetry
Amsadong Prehistoric Site
Lotte Grand World Park
National Museum of Korea
63 building Seoul National Cemetry
Seoul National University
Seoul Forest
Apgujeong
Seoul Station
It’s a map of Seoul with major sites marked. You can see Seoul at a glance!
Dobong Mountain
COEX
Olympic Park
Apgujeong
Lotte World
Jamsil Stadium Supreme Citizen’s Forest Court
COEX
Olympic Park
Seoul Arts Center Citizen’s Forest
Gwanak Mountain
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017
Chapter 01 Well come to Korea
Map of Seoul
Dobong Mountain
Surak Mountain
Surak Mountain
Seoul is the capital of Korea. It is surrounded by four mountains. The downtown area is like a forest of buildings. With an endless number of cars. Seoul has been the center of Korea’s politics, economy, industry, culture and transportation for many centuries. Although it was mostly destroyed in the Korean War, Seoul has quickly emerged as an international city.
Korea National Training Center
Korea National Training Center
Bukhansan National Park
Gyeongbok Palace
Bukhansan National Park
Changdeok Palace
Cheong Wa Dae
Cheong Wa Dae
Changgyeon Palace Changdeok Palace
Jongmyo Shrine
Sejong Center for the Peforming Arts
Changgyeon Palace
Gyeongbok Palace Gwanghwamun Gate
Jongmyo Shrine Gwanghwamun Gate
Sejong Center for theBosingak
Hanuel Park
Peforming ArtsPalace Deoksu Independence Gate
Seoul World Hanuel Park Cup Stadium
Gimpo Airport
Namdaemun Market
Seodaemun Gate Prison
Seoul World Cup Stadium
Independence Gate
National Assembly
BosingakDongdaemun
Cheonggyecheon Deoksu Palace Stream
Namdaemun Market
Seodaemun Gate Prison
Dongdaemun
Namsan Hanok Cheonggyecheon Stream Village
N Seoul Tower
Gimpo Airport
Seoul Forest
Namsan Hanok Village
Seoul Station
National Assembly
Amsadong Prehistoric Site Seoul Children’s Grand Park
National Museum N Seoul Tower of Korea
63 building
Seoul Arts Center
Seoul National University Gwanak Mountain
Seoul Children’s
Jamsil Stadium
Supreme Court
Seoul National Cemetry
Amsadong Prehistoric Site
Lotte Grand World Park
National Museum of Korea
63 building Seoul National Cemetry
Seoul National University
Seoul Forest
Apgujeong
Seoul Station
It’s a map of Seoul with major sites marked. You can see Seoul at a glance!
Dobong Mountain
COEX
Olympic Park
Apgujeong
Lotte World
Jamsil Stadium Supreme Citizen’s Forest Court
COEX
Olympic Park
Seoul Arts Center Citizen’s Forest
Gwanak Mountain
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017
The Old Men with Lumps One upon a time, there lived two old men each with a lump on his cheek. One was a good man and the other was greedy. The greedy old man was very mean. That’s This is mine, mine! too!
Folk Tales at Grandma‛s Knee
The greedy old man went to the empty house and sang as loud as he could so that the goblin could hear him. Finally, the goblin showed up. But he was very angry because he had learned that the lump was not really a song pouch. Would you like my song pouch, too?
Oh, my...
You liar!
One day, the good old man sought shelter from the rain in an empty house. As day turned into night, the good old man felt lonely and scared. The goblin became so envious that it exchanged the old man’s lump forprecious So, he began to sing. And all of a sudden, gold and silver. After a goblin that, the good appeared old man became before him. rich. The greedy old man heard about this story. My beautiful voice comes from my song pouch.
I’m going to get rid of my lump, too!
Take your lump back! Please, give me gold and silver! The goblin attached the good man’s lump to the greedy man’s cheek, and the greedy old man ended up with two lumps on his face, one on each of his cheeks. Oh, no! I have two lumps now.
Hey, you old man! where did you get that beautiful voice from? The greedy old man dropped to his knees and cried his heart out. 018 Korea for Kids
019
The Old Men with Lumps One upon a time, there lived two old men each with a lump on his cheek. One was a good man and the other was greedy. The greedy old man was very mean. That’s This is mine, mine! too!
Folk Tales at Grandma‛s Knee
The greedy old man went to the empty house and sang as loud as he could so that the goblin could hear him. Finally, the goblin showed up. But he was very angry because he had learned that the lump was not really a song pouch. Would you like my song pouch, too?
Oh, my...
You liar!
One day, the good old man sought shelter from the rain in an empty house. As day turned into night, the good old man felt lonely and scared. The goblin became so envious that it exchanged the old man’s lump forprecious So, he began to sing. And all of a sudden, gold and silver. After a goblin that, the good appeared old man became before him. rich. The greedy old man heard about this story. My beautiful voice comes from my song pouch.
I’m going to get rid of my lump, too!
Take your lump back! Please, give me gold and silver! The goblin attached the good man’s lump to the greedy man’s cheek, and the greedy old man ended up with two lumps on his face, one on each of his cheeks. Oh, no! I have two lumps now.
Hey, you old man! where did you get that beautiful voice from? The greedy old man dropped to his knees and cried his heart out. 018 Korea for Kids
019
Chapter 02
Traditional Culture My name is Carlos. I didn’t know about Korea that well before becoming friends with Ara. I just knew it was a country in Asia, but now that I’m here, there’s so much to explore. I was especially impressed by the beautiful parks along the Han River where people came to enjoy themselves. Today, I’m going to experience Korea’s traditional culture.
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Chapter 02
Traditional Culture My name is Carlos. I didn’t know about Korea that well before becoming friends with Ara. I just knew it was a country in Asia, but now that I’m here, there’s so much to explore. I was especially impressed by the beautiful parks along the Han River where people came to enjoy themselves. Today, I’m going to experience Korea’s traditional culture.
020 Korea for Kids
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Chapter 02 Traditional Culture
Geojunggi
The Suwon Hwaseong Fortress
It was still early in the morning, but the guesthouse was already bustling. During breakfast Carlos was telling his friends about an interesting dream he had the night before. He said that he somehow turned into a goblin when returning home. The story of the goblin and the old men with a lump probably left a strong impression on him. Ara and her friends left Suwon and headed to the Korean Folk Village. After about an hour’s ride, they could see the walls of a fortress. “What’s that castle we see?” “Oh, that’s the Suwon Hwaseong Fortress. It’s one of Korea’s most representative fortresses and is registered at UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage.”
A type of crane devised to assemble and transport large stones.
Ara remembered climbing up the Great Wall with her friends at the international school in China. She remembered how tough it was for her to get to the top, especially on such a windy day. “Well, it’s a little different. The castle here’s kind of like a town where the king and the people used to live together in early times. Besides, it took less than three years to build this fortress.” “Geez, it must have been really difficult to build such a castle back then,”said Carlos. “That’s right. Building a structure is no easy job. But a famous scholar named Jeong Yak-yong invented a piece of equipment called Geojunggi, a traditional Korean crane, to move heavyrocks. Now, that was 200 years ago.”
“Like China’s Great Wall?” 022 Korea for Kids
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Chapter 02 Traditional Culture
Geojunggi
The Suwon Hwaseong Fortress
It was still early in the morning, but the guesthouse was already bustling. During breakfast Carlos was telling his friends about an interesting dream he had the night before. He said that he somehow turned into a goblin when returning home. The story of the goblin and the old men with a lump probably left a strong impression on him. Ara and her friends left Suwon and headed to the Korean Folk Village. After about an hour’s ride, they could see the walls of a fortress. “What’s that castle we see?” “Oh, that’s the Suwon Hwaseong Fortress. It’s one of Korea’s most representative fortresses and is registered at UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage.”
A type of crane devised to assemble and transport large stones.
Ara remembered climbing up the Great Wall with her friends at the international school in China. She remembered how tough it was for her to get to the top, especially on such a windy day. “Well, it’s a little different. The castle here’s kind of like a town where the king and the people used to live together in early times. Besides, it took less than three years to build this fortress.” “Geez, it must have been really difficult to build such a castle back then,”said Carlos. “That’s right. Building a structure is no easy job. But a famous scholar named Jeong Yak-yong invented a piece of equipment called Geojunggi, a traditional Korean crane, to move heavyrocks. Now, that was 200 years ago.”
“Like China’s Great Wall?” 022 Korea for Kids
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Chapter 02 Traditional Culture
“Two hundred years back would be even before my grandfather’s great grandfather’s time.” When Carlos tried to figure out how far back it was in time, everyone burst into laughter. It’s so nice and warm!
Korean Folk Village The Korean Folk Village was bustling with people though the place had opened only an hour before. With a variety of traditional games like neolttugi, jegichagi, samulnori staged during the day, the folk village is a popular tourist site. There were clusters of thatched cottages and at the gate of the village stood a totem pole that’s supposed to ward off evil spirits. The children walked into a thatched cottage like the ones early Koreans used to live in.
chimney ▼
▼ furnace ▼ floor of the room
◀ flue of an ondol
“That’s called a thatched cottage. Early Koreans used clay to build walls and thatched straw to make roofs. There are many rice farms in Korea so they had plenty of rice straw.” “Wouldn’t the roof leak when it rained?” “Actually, it doesn’t. Did you know that thick layers of rice straw provide protection against the cold in the winter and heat in the summer? They replaced the old straw with new straw every two years. And the used straw was used as fertilizer afterwards.” “Recycling roofs! What a great idea!” Carlos carefully looked around the cottage. He noticed lumps of fermented soybeans hanging beneath the eaves. “But Captain, how did they keep themselves warm? There’s no fire-
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Chapter 02 Traditional Culture
“Two hundred years back would be even before my grandfather’s great grandfather’s time.” When Carlos tried to figure out how far back it was in time, everyone burst into laughter. It’s so nice and warm!
Korean Folk Village The Korean Folk Village was bustling with people though the place had opened only an hour before. With a variety of traditional games like neolttugi, jegichagi, samulnori staged during the day, the folk village is a popular tourist site. There were clusters of thatched cottages and at the gate of the village stood a totem pole that’s supposed to ward off evil spirits. The children walked into a thatched cottage like the ones early Koreans used to live in.
chimney ▼
▼ furnace ▼ floor of the room
◀ flue of an ondol
“That’s called a thatched cottage. Early Koreans used clay to build walls and thatched straw to make roofs. There are many rice farms in Korea so they had plenty of rice straw.” “Wouldn’t the roof leak when it rained?” “Actually, it doesn’t. Did you know that thick layers of rice straw provide protection against the cold in the winter and heat in the summer? They replaced the old straw with new straw every two years. And the used straw was used as fertilizer afterwards.” “Recycling roofs! What a great idea!” Carlos carefully looked around the cottage. He noticed lumps of fermented soybeans hanging beneath the eaves. “But Captain, how did they keep themselves warm? There’s no fire-
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Chapter 02 Traditional Culture
After taking a thorough look at the folk village, the children walked along the unpaved path. Soon, they spotted the grand mansions where upper class nobles lived. They learned that an entire cluster of houses with black tile roofs was for a single family. The houses had numerous rooms. Some of the wealthier families owned houses with as many as 99 rooms. Carlos thought the roofs looked kind of like armor. “Has anyone found the secret of hanok?” Tall Gate The gate at a nobleman’s house. It’s easy to spot as the tall post stands out, symbolizing the status of the owner.
place,”said Carlos.
“What secret?”asked Marina. “Traditional Korean houses are made by assembling wooden pegs instead of using nails. You can deconstruct a hanok by undoing the wooden pegs and reassemble them again later.” “Just like Lego blocks?”
“Come on over here.” The Captain took the kids to the kitchen and pointed at the furnace. “This is where they lit the fire using firewood.” “But, this is the kitchen where they cooked.” “That’s right. They cooked with the fire here but the heat and smoke of the fire was used to warm the floors of the rooms. Under the floor, Koreans built special flues to channel the heat from the low-lying kitchen stoves. This unique heating system is called ondol. That way, they could save energy while keeping themselves warm in the winter.” Wooden door frames covered with Hanji
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After taking a thorough look at the folk village, the children walked along the unpaved path. Soon, they spotted the grand mansions where upper class nobles lived. They learned that an entire cluster of houses with black tile roofs was for a single family. The houses had numerous rooms. Some of the wealthier families owned houses with as many as 99 rooms. Carlos thought the roofs looked kind of like armor. “Has anyone found the secret of hanok?” Tall Gate The gate at a nobleman’s house. It’s easy to spot as the tall post stands out, symbolizing the status of the owner.
place,”said Carlos.
“What secret?”asked Marina. “Traditional Korean houses are made by assembling wooden pegs instead of using nails. You can deconstruct a hanok by undoing the wooden pegs and reassemble them again later.” “Just like Lego blocks?”
“Come on over here.” The Captain took the kids to the kitchen and pointed at the furnace. “This is where they lit the fire using firewood.” “But, this is the kitchen where they cooked.” “That’s right. They cooked with the fire here but the heat and smoke of the fire was used to warm the floors of the rooms. Under the floor, Koreans built special flues to channel the heat from the low-lying kitchen stoves. This unique heating system is called ondol. That way, they could save energy while keeping themselves warm in the winter.” Wooden door frames covered with Hanji
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“Exactly, and Koreans used paper for windows, doors and the floor. Paper is good for ventilation and maintaining a moderate temperature.” “Look! Someone stuck their finger through it,”said Marina. “Ha-ha! Some naughty children must have done it to look inside the room.” “Wouldn’t the floor rip if paper is used?”
What was unique about this korean seesaw (neolttugi) was that instead of sitting on it, the riders had to stand at each end and take turns jumping.
Samulnori Ara and her friends heard a boisterous sound as they were having fun on the long Korean swings. “It must be the samulnori! Let’s go and take a look!”shouted Ara.
“No worries. Soybean oil is painted over it to make it shiny and durable.” Carlos touched the floor wondering how that’s possible. As he lay on the main floor of the house, he felt as if he could smell the soybean oil. After visiting the hanok, Ara and the kids began teeter-tottering on a seesaw.
Everyone turned around to see where the sound came from. Donning white traditional costumes with colorful bands around their shoulders and waists, the samulnori players were creating a festive mood. Some of the elderly in the crowd joined the group and began dancing along. “Is it okay to just jump in and dance with the performers?” asked Carlos. “Samulnori is all about mingling with other people. It’s supposed to make people feel happy and reenergized. Come on, feel free to join them,”said the Captain. “No, thank you. It’s kind of embarrassing,”said Carlos. Even though the Captain encouraged Carlos, he felt too shy to join the crowd. When the twelve players began spinning their hats with long ribbons, Carlos started clapping. The ribbons attached to their hats were several meters long. Yet they could do such amazing things like rope-jumping with their hats on. All the onlookers got excited and began clapping to the rhythm too.
Samulnori performance
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“Exactly, and Koreans used paper for windows, doors and the floor. Paper is good for ventilation and maintaining a moderate temperature.” “Look! Someone stuck their finger through it,”said Marina. “Ha-ha! Some naughty children must have done it to look inside the room.” “Wouldn’t the floor rip if paper is used?”
What was unique about this korean seesaw (neolttugi) was that instead of sitting on it, the riders had to stand at each end and take turns jumping.
Samulnori Ara and her friends heard a boisterous sound as they were having fun on the long Korean swings. “It must be the samulnori! Let’s go and take a look!”shouted Ara.
“No worries. Soybean oil is painted over it to make it shiny and durable.” Carlos touched the floor wondering how that’s possible. As he lay on the main floor of the house, he felt as if he could smell the soybean oil. After visiting the hanok, Ara and the kids began teeter-tottering on a seesaw.
Everyone turned around to see where the sound came from. Donning white traditional costumes with colorful bands around their shoulders and waists, the samulnori players were creating a festive mood. Some of the elderly in the crowd joined the group and began dancing along. “Is it okay to just jump in and dance with the performers?” asked Carlos. “Samulnori is all about mingling with other people. It’s supposed to make people feel happy and reenergized. Come on, feel free to join them,”said the Captain. “No, thank you. It’s kind of embarrassing,”said Carlos. Even though the Captain encouraged Carlos, he felt too shy to join the crowd. When the twelve players began spinning their hats with long ribbons, Carlos started clapping. The ribbons attached to their hats were several meters long. Yet they could do such amazing things like rope-jumping with their hats on. All the onlookers got excited and began clapping to the rhythm too.
Samulnori performance
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ing Arts Festival and the players won global recognition for their performance.” When the performance was over, rounds of applause echoed in every corner of the village. Afterwards, the children watched a traditional wedding ceremony and even tried on traditional costumes. Marina put on a striped women’s jacket and headpiece. Carlos, meanwhile, struggled to put on a pair of traditional cotton socks. When the sun set, Ara and her friends headed to Insadong for dinner.
Insadong Giggling at the pictures they had taken over at the Korean Folk Village on the way back, the children didn’t realize that they had already arrived at Insadong in Seoul.
“Let’s all hop out for another adventure!” The sight of a long side street with small shops full of interesting goods resembled the site of a market place back in early times. “This place is called Insadong. It used to be the center of Seoul during the Joseon Dynasty. There are traces of old government buildings and houses of famous people here. But what makes Insadong so famous is the lines of shops with handcrafts,” explained the Captain. “It’s become a popular cultural venue for Seoulites since there are many art fairs and galleries here. Besides, it’s easy to get here, conveniently located downtown with three subway stations nearby,”the Captain said. “Well, foreigners seem to like Insadong too,”added Ara. The beautifully embroidered bookmarks caught Marina’s attention. Carlos, meanwhile, burst into laughter at the sight of the Hahoe Mask. “Carlos, you look just like the smiling mask,”said Ara. Carlos took the mask and made a funny face trying to imitate the smile. “Now, since we’re here in Insadong, which is famous for its traditional cafes and restaurants, we should try out various Korean foods and snacks,”said the Captain. “Oh, we’re starving!”shouted the kids.
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ing Arts Festival and the players won global recognition for their performance.” When the performance was over, rounds of applause echoed in every corner of the village. Afterwards, the children watched a traditional wedding ceremony and even tried on traditional costumes. Marina put on a striped women’s jacket and headpiece. Carlos, meanwhile, struggled to put on a pair of traditional cotton socks. When the sun set, Ara and her friends headed to Insadong for dinner.
Insadong Giggling at the pictures they had taken over at the Korean Folk Village on the way back, the children didn’t realize that they had already arrived at Insadong in Seoul.
“Let’s all hop out for another adventure!” The sight of a long side street with small shops full of interesting goods resembled the site of a market place back in early times. “This place is called Insadong. It used to be the center of Seoul during the Joseon Dynasty. There are traces of old government buildings and houses of famous people here. But what makes Insadong so famous is the lines of shops with handcrafts,” explained the Captain. “It’s become a popular cultural venue for Seoulites since there are many art fairs and galleries here. Besides, it’s easy to get here, conveniently located downtown with three subway stations nearby,”the Captain said. “Well, foreigners seem to like Insadong too,”added Ara. The beautifully embroidered bookmarks caught Marina’s attention. Carlos, meanwhile, burst into laughter at the sight of the Hahoe Mask. “Carlos, you look just like the smiling mask,”said Ara. Carlos took the mask and made a funny face trying to imitate the smile. “Now, since we’re here in Insadong, which is famous for its traditional cafes and restaurants, we should try out various Korean foods and snacks,”said the Captain. “Oh, we’re starving!”shouted the kids.
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Delicious Korean Food As a peninsula surrounded by water on three sides and fertile farmland inland, Koreans have always had easy access to fresh seafood and vegetables. The availability of such ingredients allowed for the creation of a wide variety of dishes. Most notably, Koreans developed various fermented condiments such as soybean paste and pepper paste.
Bulgogi Beef barbecue cooked with vegetables and soybean sauce. Bulgogi is popular all over the world now.
Different Types of Kimchi Kimchi is an excellent fermented food that is served with all sorts of Korean dishes. With its origin dating several hundred years back, there are more than 200 different types of kimchi.
Nutritious Bibimbap Typically made by mixing rice with various vegetables, some meat and an egg. Pepper paste can be added for those who prefer a spicier taste.
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Delicious Korean Food As a peninsula surrounded by water on three sides and fertile farmland inland, Koreans have always had easy access to fresh seafood and vegetables. The availability of such ingredients allowed for the creation of a wide variety of dishes. Most notably, Koreans developed various fermented condiments such as soybean paste and pepper paste.
Bulgogi Beef barbecue cooked with vegetables and soybean sauce. Bulgogi is popular all over the world now.
Different Types of Kimchi Kimchi is an excellent fermented food that is served with all sorts of Korean dishes. With its origin dating several hundred years back, there are more than 200 different types of kimchi.
Nutritious Bibimbap Typically made by mixing rice with various vegetables, some meat and an egg. Pepper paste can be added for those who prefer a spicier taste.
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The Brother and the Sister Who Turned into the Sun and the Moon Once upon a time, a mother of three children was on her way home from the market with a basket full of rice cakes. I will save you But up in the mountains, she came if you give me across a tiger. a piece of rice cake!
Folk Tales at Grandma‛s Knee
The tiger tried to climb the tree. The brother and sister prayed to God, asking for a life line to be sent. Then, a thick rope suddenly came down from the sky saving the brother and the sister. Oh, God! Help us.
Woo! Please spare me! Asking the tiger to save her life, the mother gave him a piece of rice cake every time the tiger stopped her. But when she ran out of rice cakes, the tiger ate the mother instead. Her children must be just as yummy.
Oh, no! It’s a rotten rope!
And the brother and sister became the sun and the moon in the sky.
Oh, no~ Disguised as their mother, the tiger ate the youngest child up upon arriving at the house. That’s when the other two children, a boy and a girl ran out to the backyard and Now, climbed up a tree. let me gulp down the remaining two kids! Let’s hop up the tree!
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Bang! Help me, please!
The tiger also prayed for a rope. But this time, a rotten rope came down and when the tiger tried to cling to it, the rope snapped. Down fell the tiger and died.
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The Brother and the Sister Who Turned into the Sun and the Moon Once upon a time, a mother of three children was on her way home from the market with a basket full of rice cakes. I will save you But up in the mountains, she came if you give me across a tiger. a piece of rice cake!
Folk Tales at Grandma‛s Knee
The tiger tried to climb the tree. The brother and sister prayed to God, asking for a life line to be sent. Then, a thick rope suddenly came down from the sky saving the brother and the sister. Oh, God! Help us.
Woo! Please spare me! Asking the tiger to save her life, the mother gave him a piece of rice cake every time the tiger stopped her. But when she ran out of rice cakes, the tiger ate the mother instead. Her children must be just as yummy.
Oh, no! It’s a rotten rope!
And the brother and sister became the sun and the moon in the sky.
Oh, no~ Disguised as their mother, the tiger ate the youngest child up upon arriving at the house. That’s when the other two children, a boy and a girl ran out to the backyard and Now, climbed up a tree. let me gulp down the remaining two kids! Let’s hop up the tree!
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Bang! Help me, please!
The tiger also prayed for a rope. But this time, a rotten rope came down and when the tiger tried to cling to it, the rope snapped. Down fell the tiger and died.
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Chapter 03
Gyeongju, a Historic City It’s already our third day here in Korea.We had a great time at the Korean Folk Village yesterday. It’s amazing how early Koreans used paper and rice straw to build houses. I was really surprised to learn how koreans developed the ondol system to keep themselves warm in the winter. I think people around the world could take advantage of the ondol system because it can help protect our environment. Today, our Captain is taking us to the city of traditional culture, Gyeongju.
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Chapter 03
Gyeongju, a Historic City It’s already our third day here in Korea.We had a great time at the Korean Folk Village yesterday. It’s amazing how early Koreans used paper and rice straw to build houses. I was really surprised to learn how koreans developed the ondol system to keep themselves warm in the winter. I think people around the world could take advantage of the ondol system because it can help protect our environment. Today, our Captain is taking us to the city of traditional culture, Gyeongju.
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Chapter 03 Gyeongju, a Historic City
The children woke up to the smell of food that filled the entire house. Grandma was preparing picnic food called gimbap for the kids. Grandma spread rice evenly on a piece of dried black seaweed that looked like paper and then put various vegetables on top of it, all different colors. Then she rolled up the seaweed paper with the rice and vegetables in it. “Is it going to be a long ride?” asked Carlos with water dripping from his hair as he came out from taking a shower. “Yes. There’s lots to see in Gyeongju so take a good look at the ancient city, children,” said Grandma. Just when Carlos was about to get a bite of gimbap, the Captain rushed back into the house, returning from a gas station. “Kids, the car is filled to the brim with gas and everything’s set. Get ready now and meet in front of the gate by 8 o’clock.
Yummy!
Gyeongju
Got it?” shouted the Captain. Then, as if starving, he threw three pieces of gimbap into his mouth and munched on them. They were lucky: there was little traffic on the Gyeongbu Expressway. After about four hours, the car arrived at a tileroofed toll gate in Gyeongju. “Tell us about Gyeongju, Captain,” said Marina. “It’s a city that’s kept the history of Silla intact. Silla is the name of a kingdom that once ruled Korea. Gyeongju was the capital of Silla for one thousand years from (BC 57-AD 935).
I’m starving!
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There are only few cities throughout the world that had been the capital for such a long time: Athens in Greece and Rome in Italy are two examples.
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Chapter 03 Gyeongju, a Historic City
The children woke up to the smell of food that filled the entire house. Grandma was preparing picnic food called gimbap for the kids. Grandma spread rice evenly on a piece of dried black seaweed that looked like paper and then put various vegetables on top of it, all different colors. Then she rolled up the seaweed paper with the rice and vegetables in it. “Is it going to be a long ride?” asked Carlos with water dripping from his hair as he came out from taking a shower. “Yes. There’s lots to see in Gyeongju so take a good look at the ancient city, children,” said Grandma. Just when Carlos was about to get a bite of gimbap, the Captain rushed back into the house, returning from a gas station. “Kids, the car is filled to the brim with gas and everything’s set. Get ready now and meet in front of the gate by 8 o’clock.
Yummy!
Gyeongju
Got it?” shouted the Captain. Then, as if starving, he threw three pieces of gimbap into his mouth and munched on them. They were lucky: there was little traffic on the Gyeongbu Expressway. After about four hours, the car arrived at a tileroofed toll gate in Gyeongju. “Tell us about Gyeongju, Captain,” said Marina. “It’s a city that’s kept the history of Silla intact. Silla is the name of a kingdom that once ruled Korea. Gyeongju was the capital of Silla for one thousand years from (BC 57-AD 935).
I’m starving!
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There are only few cities throughout the world that had been the capital for such a long time: Athens in Greece and Rome in Italy are two examples.
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Chapter 03 Gyeongju, a Historic City
Many relics have been unearthed in Gyeongju and it has been designated as a World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO,” explained the Captain. “So in other words, it’s a treasure city,” said Marina. “Ha-ha, that’s a good way to describe it. It’s like an enormous living museum!”
The National Museum of Gyeongju The National Museum of Gyeongju was divided into several exhibition halls. There was an antique gallery showcasing relics of the people of Silla, Anapji gallery with relics from Anapji and an art gallery with exquisite art works of the Silla dynasty. Ara and her friends first headed to the antique gallery. Marina couldn’t take her eyes off the gold crown and ornaments.
Gold waistband and ornaments
“They used to call Silla the land of gold. In fact, a total of six gold crowns have been excavated in and near Gyeongju,” explained the Captain. “Oh, beatiful!” shouted Marina. “The top of the crown looks kind of like a pointed leaf,” said Carlos. “Wow, Carlos, you’re really sharp. You’re right, indeed. It was designed after the shape of a leaf. It symbolized a tree that lived for a thousand years connecting the sky and the land. It was created to wish for the king’s prosperity and good governance.” Ara and her friends headed to the art gallery. At the art gallery stood a monument with the history of Silla written on it.
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Chapter 03 Gyeongju, a Historic City
Many relics have been unearthed in Gyeongju and it has been designated as a World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO,” explained the Captain. “So in other words, it’s a treasure city,” said Marina. “Ha-ha, that’s a good way to describe it. It’s like an enormous living museum!”
The National Museum of Gyeongju The National Museum of Gyeongju was divided into several exhibition halls. There was an antique gallery showcasing relics of the people of Silla, Anapji gallery with relics from Anapji and an art gallery with exquisite art works of the Silla dynasty. Ara and her friends first headed to the antique gallery. Marina couldn’t take her eyes off the gold crown and ornaments.
Gold waistband and ornaments
“They used to call Silla the land of gold. In fact, a total of six gold crowns have been excavated in and near Gyeongju,” explained the Captain. “Oh, beatiful!” shouted Marina. “The top of the crown looks kind of like a pointed leaf,” said Carlos. “Wow, Carlos, you’re really sharp. You’re right, indeed. It was designed after the shape of a leaf. It symbolized a tree that lived for a thousand years connecting the sky and the land. It was created to wish for the king’s prosperity and good governance.” Ara and her friends headed to the art gallery. At the art gallery stood a monument with the history of Silla written on it.
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Chapter 03 Gyeongju, a Historic City
I swear to Heaven. I pray that I will be loyal to the country and make no mistakes for the next three years. If I don’t keep my word, I will gladly be punished for my sins. The Captain read the writings on the monument. “This was written by Hwarang. Back then in Silla, there was a community of selected young men who lived together and learned martial arts. Known as the Hwarangdo, this group of young men was trained to fight for their people and country.” “So the purpose of creating the Hwarangdo was to recruit talented men for national prosperity, right? By the way, did those Hwarangs also learn taekwondo?” “Ha-ha. No, taekwondo is a sport that came about much later. But I think the spirit of the Hwarang has been passed on to taekwondo Hwarangdo An elite group of young men in Silla. Members of this group were called Hwarang. They received education in academic and martial arts. They were trained to fight with loyalty for justice, the king the nation, and their friends.
This is hwarang’s uniform. Cool, isn’t it?
Yeah, take a picture of me, please.
Taekwondo
in that its goal is to protect the weak in a just way,” said the Captain. “I learned taekwondo, you know?” said Carlos, getting into the primary stance. Then, Ara jumped out with a big shout and posed as if she was getting ready for a match. Its origin dates back 2,000 years. Taekwondo is the Korean traditional martial art that has become a global sport today. It was selected as an official Olympic sport during the 2000 Sydney Olympics. Taekwondo is known for its philosophy of combat only for self-defense and its use of bare feet and hands. Taekwondo can be translated into “the way of foot and fist” or “the way of kicking and punching.”
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I swear to Heaven. I pray that I will be loyal to the country and make no mistakes for the next three years. If I don’t keep my word, I will gladly be punished for my sins. The Captain read the writings on the monument. “This was written by Hwarang. Back then in Silla, there was a community of selected young men who lived together and learned martial arts. Known as the Hwarangdo, this group of young men was trained to fight for their people and country.” “So the purpose of creating the Hwarangdo was to recruit talented men for national prosperity, right? By the way, did those Hwarangs also learn taekwondo?” “Ha-ha. No, taekwondo is a sport that came about much later. But I think the spirit of the Hwarang has been passed on to taekwondo Hwarangdo An elite group of young men in Silla. Members of this group were called Hwarang. They received education in academic and martial arts. They were trained to fight with loyalty for justice, the king the nation, and their friends.
This is hwarang’s uniform. Cool, isn’t it?
Yeah, take a picture of me, please.
Taekwondo
in that its goal is to protect the weak in a just way,” said the Captain. “I learned taekwondo, you know?” said Carlos, getting into the primary stance. Then, Ara jumped out with a big shout and posed as if she was getting ready for a match. Its origin dates back 2,000 years. Taekwondo is the Korean traditional martial art that has become a global sport today. It was selected as an official Olympic sport during the 2000 Sydney Olympics. Taekwondo is known for its philosophy of combat only for self-defense and its use of bare feet and hands. Taekwondo can be translated into “the way of foot and fist” or “the way of kicking and punching.”
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Chapter 03
The Divine Bell of King Seongdeok the Great After looking at statues of Buddha and other various relics from Anapji Pond, Ara and her friends left the museum and headed to the place where the Divine Bell of Seongdeok the Great stood. Marina and Carlos were curious to find out about the bell’s secret that Ara had talked about earlier. “Ara, tell us about the secret behind this bell.” “There’s a really sad story behind this bell, nicknamed the Emille Bell. It’s said that the bell they had made did not toll at first. That is, it didn’t make any sound. Then one day, a Buddhist monk had a dream telling him that for the bell to toll, a baby had to be melted in there. And so a poor mother who had nothing to pay her dues had no choice but to give her baby away. That’s why the bell makes this mournful sound emille, emille which means mom.”
Marina and Carlos seemed saddened to hear the story. “Well, they say people came up with this story because they were greatly moved by the bell’s beautiful yet melancholy sound,” added Ara. “I want to hear the bell toll,” said Marina. “You will, in a bit. The museum tolls the bell every hour,” said Ara. Soon thereafter, a staff member from the museum came out and walked to the bell. When he chimed the bell with a round piece of wood, the ponderous bell started to move slowly. Then, a solemn yet beautiful sound from the bell began to resonate throughout the museum grounds.
I’m sorry. Let’s go now.
Marina felt her heart pound at the sound. The legend related to the bell made it sound all the more sorrowful. Please give my baby back!
Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto The following day, Ara and her friends went to Bulguksa Temple on Toham Mountain after breakfast. Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto are famous cultural assets in Gyeongju that have been designated as a World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.
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Chapter 03
The Divine Bell of King Seongdeok the Great After looking at statues of Buddha and other various relics from Anapji Pond, Ara and her friends left the museum and headed to the place where the Divine Bell of Seongdeok the Great stood. Marina and Carlos were curious to find out about the bell’s secret that Ara had talked about earlier. “Ara, tell us about the secret behind this bell.” “There’s a really sad story behind this bell, nicknamed the Emille Bell. It’s said that the bell they had made did not toll at first. That is, it didn’t make any sound. Then one day, a Buddhist monk had a dream telling him that for the bell to toll, a baby had to be melted in there. And so a poor mother who had nothing to pay her dues had no choice but to give her baby away. That’s why the bell makes this mournful sound emille, emille which means mom.”
Marina and Carlos seemed saddened to hear the story. “Well, they say people came up with this story because they were greatly moved by the bell’s beautiful yet melancholy sound,” added Ara. “I want to hear the bell toll,” said Marina. “You will, in a bit. The museum tolls the bell every hour,” said Ara. Soon thereafter, a staff member from the museum came out and walked to the bell. When he chimed the bell with a round piece of wood, the ponderous bell started to move slowly. Then, a solemn yet beautiful sound from the bell began to resonate throughout the museum grounds.
I’m sorry. Let’s go now.
Marina felt her heart pound at the sound. The legend related to the bell made it sound all the more sorrowful. Please give my baby back!
Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto The following day, Ara and her friends went to Bulguksa Temple on Toham Mountain after breakfast. Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto are famous cultural assets in Gyeongju that have been designated as a World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.
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They say that it was designed this way so that people looked up to the temple with sincerity. As we walked further up Toham Mountain, we came to Seokguram Grotto, a temple made of stone. Surrounding the grotto were 14 sculptures. Even Ara looked at the exquisite statues with awe. But the most remarkable sculpture of them all was the Bonjon Buddha, the main Buddha. It was a majestic and dignified figure, yet it had the face of a generous and benevolent grandpa. Marina felt as if the Buddha statue would move its lips and talk to her. Ara, who had read about these statues and relics only in books, was also surprised to see them first hand.
People in Silla are said to have worshipped Buddha regardless of their social ranks at the time. Built 1250 years ago, Bulguksa means “Land of Buddha Temple.� Carlos was startled at the sculptures (the four heavenly guardians of Buddhism) standing at the entrance to the temple. These sculptures are said to be the guards defending Bulguksafrom all sides. At Bulguksa, you can almost feel the dedication that went into building each and every structure of the stone steps and pagodas. It is like you are on an excursion to the world of Buddha. What is really impressive is the temple is sitting on top of a stone wall as if placed above a cloud. 046 Korea for Kids
Bonjon Buddha (Principal Image of Buddha)
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Chapter 03 Gyeongju, a Historic City
They say that it was designed this way so that people looked up to the temple with sincerity. As we walked further up Toham Mountain, we came to Seokguram Grotto, a temple made of stone. Surrounding the grotto were 14 sculptures. Even Ara looked at the exquisite statues with awe. But the most remarkable sculpture of them all was the Bonjon Buddha, the main Buddha. It was a majestic and dignified figure, yet it had the face of a generous and benevolent grandpa. Marina felt as if the Buddha statue would move its lips and talk to her. Ara, who had read about these statues and relics only in books, was also surprised to see them first hand.
People in Silla are said to have worshipped Buddha regardless of their social ranks at the time. Built 1250 years ago, Bulguksa means “Land of Buddha Temple.� Carlos was startled at the sculptures (the four heavenly guardians of Buddhism) standing at the entrance to the temple. These sculptures are said to be the guards defending Bulguksafrom all sides. At Bulguksa, you can almost feel the dedication that went into building each and every structure of the stone steps and pagodas. It is like you are on an excursion to the world of Buddha. What is really impressive is the temple is sitting on top of a stone wall as if placed above a cloud. 046 Korea for Kids
Bonjon Buddha (Principal Image of Buddha)
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Let’s learn about
Bulguksa Temple Bulguksa Temple was created as an imaginary world in which Buddha lived. In the front court, the Seokgatap and Dabotap monuments symbolize the body of Buddha. They are Korea’s representative pagodas showcasing Korea’s excellent architectural skill and beauty.
Bridges Cheongun & Baekun National Treasure #23. Beneath is the Cheongun Bridge symbolizing a green youth and above is the Baekun Bridge symbolizing a white-haired old man.
Seokgatap
Dabotap
Pagoda made with layers of squarely cut and filed stone. A simple yet sturdy stone pagoda.
As if made from clay, the stone is exquisitely crafted with each and every piece assembled carefully. With its unique shape with arious designs, the pagoda is a good example of how different aspects create a balanced harmony with consistent length, width and thickness.
Geungnakjeon (Hall of Paradise) The figure of the seated Amida Buddha in gilt bronze, one of the three major Buddha statues of the Unified Silla Period, is stored here.
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Let’s learn about
Bulguksa Temple Bulguksa Temple was created as an imaginary world in which Buddha lived. In the front court, the Seokgatap and Dabotap monuments symbolize the body of Buddha. They are Korea’s representative pagodas showcasing Korea’s excellent architectural skill and beauty.
Bridges Cheongun & Baekun National Treasure #23. Beneath is the Cheongun Bridge symbolizing a green youth and above is the Baekun Bridge symbolizing a white-haired old man.
Seokgatap
Dabotap
Pagoda made with layers of squarely cut and filed stone. A simple yet sturdy stone pagoda.
As if made from clay, the stone is exquisitely crafted with each and every piece assembled carefully. With its unique shape with arious designs, the pagoda is a good example of how different aspects create a balanced harmony with consistent length, width and thickness.
Geungnakjeon (Hall of Paradise) The figure of the seated Amida Buddha in gilt bronze, one of the three major Buddha statues of the Unified Silla Period, is stored here.
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Korea’s History at a Glance
Korea’s History at a Glance
The Foundation Myth of Gojoseon Long ago, Hwanung, the son of the King of heaven, descended from the skies to Taebaek Mountain. One day, a bear and a tiger
Gojoseon
ent to Hwanung and begged that they be turned into human eings.
Gojoseon is the first nation ever to be founded on the Korean Peninsula. A tribe in the northern region called cheongdong (bronze) which used metal, came down south and conquered many tribes and founded the first nation. Gojoseon made weapons and ornaments with bronze.
Hwanung promised hat he would do so if the bear and the tiger lived only on mugwort and garlic for one hundred days in a dark cave. So the bear and the tiger tried to do what Hwanung had told them. But the tiger got impatient and ran out of the cave. Even though the bear also wanted to leave the cave with the tiger, it didn’t because the bear really wanted to become a person. Finally, after 100 days, the bear turned into a beautiful woman. Called Wungnyeo, she got married to Hwanung and had a baby. The baby was Dangun, the founder of Gojoseon. Yuck, yuck! What a rotten taste.
Korean-style bronze sword Plain earthenware
I can’t give in if I want to become a person!
Dolmen A stone grave representative of the bronze age. Dolmen were used for men of power and wealth in ancient times.
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Korea’s History at a Glance
Korea’s History at a Glance
The Foundation Myth of Gojoseon Long ago, Hwanung, the son of the King of heaven, descended from the skies to Taebaek Mountain. One day, a bear and a tiger
Gojoseon
ent to Hwanung and begged that they be turned into human eings.
Gojoseon is the first nation ever to be founded on the Korean Peninsula. A tribe in the northern region called cheongdong (bronze) which used metal, came down south and conquered many tribes and founded the first nation. Gojoseon made weapons and ornaments with bronze.
Hwanung promised hat he would do so if the bear and the tiger lived only on mugwort and garlic for one hundred days in a dark cave. So the bear and the tiger tried to do what Hwanung had told them. But the tiger got impatient and ran out of the cave. Even though the bear also wanted to leave the cave with the tiger, it didn’t because the bear really wanted to become a person. Finally, after 100 days, the bear turned into a beautiful woman. Called Wungnyeo, she got married to Hwanung and had a baby. The baby was Dangun, the founder of Gojoseon. Yuck, yuck! What a rotten taste.
Korean-style bronze sword Plain earthenware
I can’t give in if I want to become a person!
Dolmen A stone grave representative of the bronze age. Dolmen were used for men of power and wealth in ancient times.
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Three Kingdoms Era
Unified Silla
After the fall of Gojoseon, different tribes created small tribal states. Among them, three emerged as powerhouses that conquered neighbors and saw progress in civilization. Laws and systems were instituted to govern the people. These three became the kingdoms of Goguryeo, Baekje and Silla.
With the help of the Tang Dynasty in China, Silla overthrew Goguryeo and Baekje and unified the three kingdoms. Unified Silla built a new palace in Gyeongju and devised a new system to better govern its people and expand its economy and culture.
Mural paintings of tiger hunting in Goguryeo Muyongchong mural painting in today’s Jillin, China. It depicts a warrior on horseback, drawing a bow on a tiger.
Baekje ornamental edgings from a coffin National Treasure #152.
Toyongdo Carved figures of clay put inside tombs. They indicate the kind of clothing and daily lives people had in that period.
Silla Cheonmachong The tomb of Silla King Jinung. It was excavated in 1973.
Three-Story Goseonsa Stone Pagoda National Treasure #38 housed at the Gyeongju National Museum.
Earthenware with seal patterns
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Three Kingdoms Era
Unified Silla
After the fall of Gojoseon, different tribes created small tribal states. Among them, three emerged as powerhouses that conquered neighbors and saw progress in civilization. Laws and systems were instituted to govern the people. These three became the kingdoms of Goguryeo, Baekje and Silla.
With the help of the Tang Dynasty in China, Silla overthrew Goguryeo and Baekje and unified the three kingdoms. Unified Silla built a new palace in Gyeongju and devised a new system to better govern its people and expand its economy and culture.
Mural paintings of tiger hunting in Goguryeo Muyongchong mural painting in today’s Jillin, China. It depicts a warrior on horseback, drawing a bow on a tiger.
Baekje ornamental edgings from a coffin National Treasure #152.
Toyongdo Carved figures of clay put inside tombs. They indicate the kind of clothing and daily lives people had in that period.
Silla Cheonmachong The tomb of Silla King Jinung. It was excavated in 1973.
Three-Story Goseonsa Stone Pagoda National Treasure #38 housed at the Gyeongju National Museum.
Earthenware with seal patterns
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Balhae
Goryeo
After its collapse, Goguryeo’s territory came under the rule of Silla as well as China’s Tang Dynasty. Many people from the former Goguryeo were forced to live difficult lives under Chinese rule. Among them was a man named Daejoyoung who became the leader of the former Goguryeo people and established a new nation, Balhae, in Manchuria and the northeastern part of the Korean Peninsula.
The royal family and nobility in Unified Silla continued to struggle for power, and many discontented forces in the country revolted. The country was divided into small kingdoms again, Wang Geon, a descendant of Goguryeo, founded Goryeo and then reunified the nation. Tripitaka Koreana Buddhist scriptures carved into more than 80,000 wooden printing blocks. It is the world’s most comprehensive and oldest intact version of the Buddhist canon.
Tiles with lotus flower pattern Most of the tiles used at the edge of eaves on roofs in Balhae had lotus flower patterns. Balhae adopted this tradition from Goguryeo.
Celadon porcelain with bamboo and crane Goryeo, 12th century, National Treasure #92.
Goddess of Mercy 14th century
Dragon head ornament A pair of lion statues made of stone. They were symbolic guards of Balhae’s capital. The black one looks more like a bulldog ready to bite someone.
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Jar decorated with lakeside scenery
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Balhae
Goryeo
After its collapse, Goguryeo’s territory came under the rule of Silla as well as China’s Tang Dynasty. Many people from the former Goguryeo were forced to live difficult lives under Chinese rule. Among them was a man named Daejoyoung who became the leader of the former Goguryeo people and established a new nation, Balhae, in Manchuria and the northeastern part of the Korean Peninsula.
The royal family and nobility in Unified Silla continued to struggle for power, and many discontented forces in the country revolted. The country was divided into small kingdoms again, Wang Geon, a descendant of Goguryeo, founded Goryeo and then reunified the nation. Tripitaka Koreana Buddhist scriptures carved into more than 80,000 wooden printing blocks. It is the world’s most comprehensive and oldest intact version of the Buddhist canon.
Tiles with lotus flower pattern Most of the tiles used at the edge of eaves on roofs in Balhae had lotus flower patterns. Balhae adopted this tradition from Goguryeo.
Celadon porcelain with bamboo and crane Goryeo, 12th century, National Treasure #92.
Goddess of Mercy 14th century
Dragon head ornament A pair of lion statues made of stone. They were symbolic guards of Balhae’s capital. The black one looks more like a bulldog ready to bite someone.
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Jar decorated with lakeside scenery
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Joseon Dynasty The Joseon Dynasty came about after the collapse of Goryeo. King Sejong the Great, the 4th king of the Joseon Dynasty created the Korean alphabet Hangeul and further developed farming, science and technology. He also paid special attention to improving studies in medicine, law and music. Practical studies and Western culture were introduced during this period.
White porcelain decorated with maewha blossoms
Courageous tiger
Daedong Yeojido (Hunminjeongeum) Theoretical Explanation of Han-geul, the Korean Alphabet
Farming
Sundial
Geobukseon (Ironclad war ship in the shape of a turtle)
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Joseon Dynasty The Joseon Dynasty came about after the collapse of Goryeo. King Sejong the Great, the 4th king of the Joseon Dynasty created the Korean alphabet Hangeul and further developed farming, science and technology. He also paid special attention to improving studies in medicine, law and music. Practical studies and Western culture were introduced during this period.
White porcelain decorated with maewha blossoms
Courageous tiger
Daedong Yeojido (Hunminjeongeum) Theoretical Explanation of Han-geul, the Korean Alphabet
Farming
Sundial
Geobukseon (Ironclad war ship in the shape of a turtle)
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Japanese Colonial Period
Prosperous Modern Korea
Japan forced Joseon’s last king. Gojong, to step down and gradually began assuming authority. In 1910, Japan completely took over sovereignty of Joseon and colonized it. Many Koreans struggled to regain independence and established a provisional government in Shanghai, China. While many Koreans struggled to regain sovereignty from Japan, World War Two broke out. Japan surrendered on August 15, 1945 and retreated from Korea after 35 years of rule. Koreans were liberated and regained their independence.
After gaining independence, there were two different political forces on the Korean Peninsula. Influenced by the United States, people in the south wanted to establish a democratic government. People in the north, however, wanted a communist government based on socialism, like in the former Soviet Union. And in 1950, the North attacked the South and thus began the Korean War. At the end of the Korean War, the entire nation was in ruins and people suffered from poverty and hunger. But Koreans, with over 5000 years of history, knew that they could rebuild the nation if they worked tenaciously. Koreans built ports, expressways, factories and apartments on the devastated land.
Jubilant Koreans on Liberation Day
Celebrating North-South reconciliation
Monument Commemorating Korea’s Independence 058 Korea for Kids
Prosperous Seoul 059
Japanese Colonial Period
Prosperous Modern Korea
Japan forced Joseon’s last king. Gojong, to step down and gradually began assuming authority. In 1910, Japan completely took over sovereignty of Joseon and colonized it. Many Koreans struggled to regain independence and established a provisional government in Shanghai, China. While many Koreans struggled to regain sovereignty from Japan, World War Two broke out. Japan surrendered on August 15, 1945 and retreated from Korea after 35 years of rule. Koreans were liberated and regained their independence.
After gaining independence, there were two different political forces on the Korean Peninsula. Influenced by the United States, people in the south wanted to establish a democratic government. People in the north, however, wanted a communist government based on socialism, like in the former Soviet Union. And in 1950, the North attacked the South and thus began the Korean War. At the end of the Korean War, the entire nation was in ruins and people suffered from poverty and hunger. But Koreans, with over 5000 years of history, knew that they could rebuild the nation if they worked tenaciously. Koreans built ports, expressways, factories and apartments on the devastated land.
Jubilant Koreans on Liberation Day
Celebrating North-South reconciliation
Monument Commemorating Korea’s Independence 058 Korea for Kids
Prosperous Seoul 059
The Fairy and the Woodcutter Once upon a time, there lived a woodcutter. One day, a deer came up to the woodcutter and told him that a group of fairies were taking a bath at a nearby pond. The woodcutter stole the robe of feathers of one of the fairies.
Folk Tales at Grandma‛s Knee
The woodcutter kept on crying. Then a bucket came down from the sky to draw water from the pond. You stupid woodcutter, why didn’t you do as I told you.
If you want to get married, steal one of the fairies’robe of feathers, and hold on to it until you have a third child.
After some time had passed, the woodcutter confessed to the fairy tha the had stolen her robe of feathers. The fairy was so upset that she put on her robe of feathers and flew back to heaven.
When the bucket came down, the woodcutter quickly jumped into it.
When the fairy and the children saw the woodcutter, they welcomed him and hugged him out of happiness, and they lived together happily ever after.
I missed you!
Where is my robe of feathers?
When the youngest fairy realized that she couldn’t fly back home, she cried out aloud. That’s when the woodcutter went up to her and proposed that she live with him. 060 Korea for Kids
I’m sorry. Let’s stay together forever.
I miss my home!
My darling, please don’t go!
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The Fairy and the Woodcutter Once upon a time, there lived a woodcutter. One day, a deer came up to the woodcutter and told him that a group of fairies were taking a bath at a nearby pond. The woodcutter stole the robe of feathers of one of the fairies.
Folk Tales at Grandma‛s Knee
The woodcutter kept on crying. Then a bucket came down from the sky to draw water from the pond. You stupid woodcutter, why didn’t you do as I told you.
If you want to get married, steal one of the fairies’robe of feathers, and hold on to it until you have a third child.
After some time had passed, the woodcutter confessed to the fairy tha the had stolen her robe of feathers. The fairy was so upset that she put on her robe of feathers and flew back to heaven.
When the bucket came down, the woodcutter quickly jumped into it.
When the fairy and the children saw the woodcutter, they welcomed him and hugged him out of happiness, and they lived together happily ever after.
I missed you!
Where is my robe of feathers?
When the youngest fairy realized that she couldn’t fly back home, she cried out aloud. That’s when the woodcutter went up to her and proposed that she live with him. 060 Korea for Kids
I’m sorry. Let’s stay together forever.
I miss my home!
My darling, please don’t go!
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Chapter 04
Education and Royal Palaces Today is the fifth day that I’ve been taking Ara and her friends around Korea. It’s strange how we got so used to each other over the past week. I’m really happy to see Marina and Carlos enjoy Korea’s cultural heritage.Today, I’m going to take the kids to Daehangno and Changgyeong Palace.
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Chapter 04
Education and Royal Palaces Today is the fifth day that I’ve been taking Ara and her friends around Korea. It’s strange how we got so used to each other over the past week. I’m really happy to see Marina and Carlos enjoy Korea’s cultural heritage.Today, I’m going to take the kids to Daehangno and Changgyeong Palace.
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Chapter 04 Education and Royal Palaces
Daehangno “Shall we head to Daehangno?”said Ara. For the first time in Korea, Marina and Carlos got on a bus. On the streets, buses traveled much faster than other vehicles. That’s because the first lane of the road was reserved for buses. After about 40 minutes on the bus, they arrived at Daehangno. “Welcome to Daehangno, filled with the passion of college students!”said the Captain. “Captain, Daehangno means the street of colleges. But why did it ended up with such a name when there aren’t any universities on this street?”asked Ara. “Well, Korea’s top university, Seoul National University, used to be here before,”the Captain answered.
B-boys
“Seoul National University?”repeated Ara. “That’s right. You see Marronnier Park over there? That’s where Korea’s first national university, Seoul National University used to be. Since many college students gathered here, they named the area “the street of college students.” When Seoul National University relocated to the Gwanak Mountain region, they created this Marronnier Park, attracting many art and performance-related organizations to the area,”explained the Captain. “Look over there!”yelled Carlos when he saw a group of Bboys performing at Marronnier Park. Several young boys were showing off their skills, dancing to the music.
Various street performances held at Daehangno
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“They are professional break dancers. Korean B-boys are becoming more famous throughout the world and have already won major international B-boy battle awards,”said the Captain. 065
Chapter 04 Education and Royal Palaces
Daehangno “Shall we head to Daehangno?”said Ara. For the first time in Korea, Marina and Carlos got on a bus. On the streets, buses traveled much faster than other vehicles. That’s because the first lane of the road was reserved for buses. After about 40 minutes on the bus, they arrived at Daehangno. “Welcome to Daehangno, filled with the passion of college students!”said the Captain. “Captain, Daehangno means the street of colleges. But why did it ended up with such a name when there aren’t any universities on this street?”asked Ara. “Well, Korea’s top university, Seoul National University, used to be here before,”the Captain answered.
B-boys
“Seoul National University?”repeated Ara. “That’s right. You see Marronnier Park over there? That’s where Korea’s first national university, Seoul National University used to be. Since many college students gathered here, they named the area “the street of college students.” When Seoul National University relocated to the Gwanak Mountain region, they created this Marronnier Park, attracting many art and performance-related organizations to the area,”explained the Captain. “Look over there!”yelled Carlos when he saw a group of Bboys performing at Marronnier Park. Several young boys were showing off their skills, dancing to the music.
Various street performances held at Daehangno
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“They are professional break dancers. Korean B-boys are becoming more famous throughout the world and have already won major international B-boy battle awards,”said the Captain. 065
Chapter 04 Education and Royal Palaces
“King Sejong the Great, who created the Korean alphabet Hangeul, ordered the construction of Changgyeong Palace for his father. Though smaller than Korea’s representative palaces like Gyeongbok and Changdeok, it has its own charm. It’s a shame it had to be rebuilt after the war with Japan during the Joseon Dynasty,”said the Captain. Impressed by the story of the Suwon Hwaseong Fortress a few days ago, Marina wondered how the palace would look inside. Honghwa Gate looked quite different from the tall gate at the nobleman’s grand mansion. “This bridge leads to the Palace where the king used to live,” said the Captain. Changgyeong Palace
There was a small bridge called Okcheon Bridge past Honghwa Gate.
When the performance was over, people gave the group a big round of applause. Carlos stepped up and even took a picture with one of the B-boys. The Captain took the children to Saemteo Parangse Theater, which has performances for children.
Changgyeong Palace Beyond the busy streets, there was a path along the stone wall. Carlos ran along the path saying that it looked like a nobleman’s house with 99 rooms at the Korean Folk Village. The Captain began talking about Changgyeong Palace to Marina and Ara. Okcheon Bridge
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Chapter 04 Education and Royal Palaces
“King Sejong the Great, who created the Korean alphabet Hangeul, ordered the construction of Changgyeong Palace for his father. Though smaller than Korea’s representative palaces like Gyeongbok and Changdeok, it has its own charm. It’s a shame it had to be rebuilt after the war with Japan during the Joseon Dynasty,”said the Captain. Impressed by the story of the Suwon Hwaseong Fortress a few days ago, Marina wondered how the palace would look inside. Honghwa Gate looked quite different from the tall gate at the nobleman’s grand mansion. “This bridge leads to the Palace where the king used to live,” said the Captain. Changgyeong Palace
There was a small bridge called Okcheon Bridge past Honghwa Gate.
When the performance was over, people gave the group a big round of applause. Carlos stepped up and even took a picture with one of the B-boys. The Captain took the children to Saemteo Parangse Theater, which has performances for children.
Changgyeong Palace Beyond the busy streets, there was a path along the stone wall. Carlos ran along the path saying that it looked like a nobleman’s house with 99 rooms at the Korean Folk Village. The Captain began talking about Changgyeong Palace to Marina and Ara. Okcheon Bridge
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“It’s a monster!”Carlos stepped back, frightened. The sculptures of goblins looked as if they were staring at him. “The sculptures are there to ward off bad spirits from entering the palace,”said the Captain. “Oh, that’s what they are. They look kind of cute, now that I take another look at them,”mumbled Carlos. “Embarrassed, huh?”teased his friends. When they crossed Okcheon Bridge, there was a wide garden covered with white stones. At the end of the garden was Myeongjeong Hall, known to have been the place for politics. “Myeongjeong means good politics, proper politics and wise politics,”said the Captain.
Chundangji at Changgyeong Palace
It took quite a long time to tour every structure beyond Myeongjeong Hall. The four of them decided to rest by the pond that reflected the clear sky. The sun hung over the edges of Chundangji Pond. “Korean palaces are not huge like China’s Forbidden City. Yet, they look simple and cozy to me,”said Marina. “Next time I come here, I’m going to go on an all-day palace tour. I want to visit other palaces as well,”she added. Marina felt attracted to Korean palaces.
Myeongjeong Hall
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Chapter 04 Education and Royal Palaces
“It’s a monster!”Carlos stepped back, frightened. The sculptures of goblins looked as if they were staring at him. “The sculptures are there to ward off bad spirits from entering the palace,”said the Captain. “Oh, that’s what they are. They look kind of cute, now that I take another look at them,”mumbled Carlos. “Embarrassed, huh?”teased his friends. When they crossed Okcheon Bridge, there was a wide garden covered with white stones. At the end of the garden was Myeongjeong Hall, known to have been the place for politics. “Myeongjeong means good politics, proper politics and wise politics,”said the Captain.
Chundangji at Changgyeong Palace
It took quite a long time to tour every structure beyond Myeongjeong Hall. The four of them decided to rest by the pond that reflected the clear sky. The sun hung over the edges of Chundangji Pond. “Korean palaces are not huge like China’s Forbidden City. Yet, they look simple and cozy to me,”said Marina. “Next time I come here, I’m going to go on an all-day palace tour. I want to visit other palaces as well,”she added. Marina felt attracted to Korean palaces.
Myeongjeong Hall
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The Tiger and Grandma’s Red Bean Porridge Once upon a time, there lived an old grandma. She was working on her red bean farm when a tiger suddenly jumped before her. The tiger suggested that they play a game and said that it would eat her up if she lost.
Folk Tales at Grandma‛s Knee
Soon thereafter, a turtle, a piece of dog poop and a gimlet came along asking for a bowl of red bean porridge as well. Then a mortar, straw mat and a carrying rack followed suit. Grandma gave everyone a bowl of red bean porridge.
I’m going to eat you up if I finish weeding your red bean farm first!
When night fell, the tiger came to eat up the Grandma. As the tiger headed toward the kitchen in search of a light, the shelled chestnut struck the tiger’s eyes. And when the tiger reached for some water, the turtle bit the tiger’s paw. Startled, the tiger stepped on the dog poop and slipped, falling on the gimlet.
Please spare me! The tiger finished weeding the farm in a blink of an eye and was about to gulp Grandma down. Then the Grandma suddenly offered to make red bean porridge for the tiger once she harvested the red beans in the fall.
I guess the tiger would come and eat me in the fall
Grandma was worried that it will soon be fall and the tiger would come again. One day, she heard a shelled chestnut drop while making the red bean porridge.
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You can find embers in the kitchen stove. The tiger fell on the straw mat when the mortar dropped from the shelf. Then, the straw mat rolled the tiger up and placed it on the carrying rack. Then the carrying rack took the tiger to the river and dropped him in.
If you give me a bowl of that red bean porridge, I will save you from the tiger.
Oh, no! It’s so hot! Errrrrrrr!
You saved my life!
Oh, help yourself. Help me please!
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The Tiger and Grandma’s Red Bean Porridge Once upon a time, there lived an old grandma. She was working on her red bean farm when a tiger suddenly jumped before her. The tiger suggested that they play a game and said that it would eat her up if she lost.
Folk Tales at Grandma‛s Knee
Soon thereafter, a turtle, a piece of dog poop and a gimlet came along asking for a bowl of red bean porridge as well. Then a mortar, straw mat and a carrying rack followed suit. Grandma gave everyone a bowl of red bean porridge.
I’m going to eat you up if I finish weeding your red bean farm first!
When night fell, the tiger came to eat up the Grandma. As the tiger headed toward the kitchen in search of a light, the shelled chestnut struck the tiger’s eyes. And when the tiger reached for some water, the turtle bit the tiger’s paw. Startled, the tiger stepped on the dog poop and slipped, falling on the gimlet.
Please spare me! The tiger finished weeding the farm in a blink of an eye and was about to gulp Grandma down. Then the Grandma suddenly offered to make red bean porridge for the tiger once she harvested the red beans in the fall.
I guess the tiger would come and eat me in the fall
Grandma was worried that it will soon be fall and the tiger would come again. One day, she heard a shelled chestnut drop while making the red bean porridge.
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You can find embers in the kitchen stove. The tiger fell on the straw mat when the mortar dropped from the shelf. Then, the straw mat rolled the tiger up and placed it on the carrying rack. Then the carrying rack took the tiger to the river and dropped him in.
If you give me a bowl of that red bean porridge, I will save you from the tiger.
Oh, no! It’s so hot! Errrrrrrr!
You saved my life!
Oh, help yourself. Help me please!
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Chapter 05
Remarkable Economic Development Today is the last day of their trip here in Korea. So I’m going to try and show them a little about Korea’s modern history. They’ll be able to see how hard Koreans worked in the aftermath of the war, to accomplish what they have today.
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Chapter 05
Remarkable Economic Development Today is the last day of their trip here in Korea. So I’m going to try and show them a little about Korea’s modern history. They’ll be able to see how hard Koreans worked in the aftermath of the war, to accomplish what they have today.
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A Divided Nation “DMZ? What is it, Ara? Is it a fun place to be?” Carlos asked as he munched on a cob of corn when he heard that they would be going to the DMZ, the Demilitarized Zone, the following day. He couldn’t understand why they would visit such an odd place. Ara looked at her grandma. Grandma’s hometown is Pyongyang in North Korea. But she has never been able to go back to her home-
Demilitarized Zone
town ever since she left Pyongyang when she was eight. What she
According to the cease-fire agreement after the Korean War, the country was divided into two parts, the South and the North, along the 38th parallel.
could do, however, was to visit the DMZ, the de facto borderline between South and North Korea. Grandma wanted Marina and Carlos to see the DMZ themselves. “Korea has a very unique history. The Korean War left many families separated, and people could not go to either the South or the North
even if they wanted to. Just like how Germany was divided into the West and East before,” explained Grandma. Marina, who was dozing off, woke up all of a sudden when Grandma mentioned Germany. “Can’t Koreans in the South visit North Korea?” asked Marina. “Why not? You can go anywhere you want if you have a passport and a visa.” Ara smiled after hearing what Carlos had just said. “That is, only if you get special permission from North Korea. And
Tunnel #3 The North Korean army secretly dug a tunnel under the DMZ to infiltrate into South Korea.
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not everyone is eligible, either. Besides, even with special permission, you can only go to places designated by the North Korean government,” said Ara. 075
Chapter 05 Remarkable Economic Development
A Divided Nation “DMZ? What is it, Ara? Is it a fun place to be?” Carlos asked as he munched on a cob of corn when he heard that they would be going to the DMZ, the Demilitarized Zone, the following day. He couldn’t understand why they would visit such an odd place. Ara looked at her grandma. Grandma’s hometown is Pyongyang in North Korea. But she has never been able to go back to her home-
Demilitarized Zone
town ever since she left Pyongyang when she was eight. What she
According to the cease-fire agreement after the Korean War, the country was divided into two parts, the South and the North, along the 38th parallel.
could do, however, was to visit the DMZ, the de facto borderline between South and North Korea. Grandma wanted Marina and Carlos to see the DMZ themselves. “Korea has a very unique history. The Korean War left many families separated, and people could not go to either the South or the North
even if they wanted to. Just like how Germany was divided into the West and East before,” explained Grandma. Marina, who was dozing off, woke up all of a sudden when Grandma mentioned Germany. “Can’t Koreans in the South visit North Korea?” asked Marina. “Why not? You can go anywhere you want if you have a passport and a visa.” Ara smiled after hearing what Carlos had just said. “That is, only if you get special permission from North Korea. And
Tunnel #3 The North Korean army secretly dug a tunnel under the DMZ to infiltrate into South Korea.
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not everyone is eligible, either. Besides, even with special permission, you can only go to places designated by the North Korean government,” said Ara. 075
Chapter 05 Remarkable Economic Development
“See over there? That’s Unification Lake. The bridge over it is called Freedom Bridge. South Korean and UN soldiers who were taken as POWs (Prisoners of War) by North Korea had to cross that bridge to return to the South,” said the guide. According to illustrations on display, the Korean War, started by North Korea on June 25, 1950, lasted until the ceasefire in July 1953. In support of the South, a total of 16 countries, including the U.S., Great Britain and Turkey, fought in the Korean War as allied UN forces. “It must have been quite a big war with so many countries taking Freedom Bridge
“Do we have permission to travel to the DMZ then?” asked Carlos. “We’re only allowed to visit the DMZ on the South Korean side. We can’t go to the North Korean side at all. The DMZ is a cease-fire
part,” Carlos spoke to himself. “Imjingak was built so that people could see North Korea from here. That’s why a lot of separated families come here when they get homesick,” said Ara.
region. South of the DMZ, there is a region where civilians are prohibited from entering. Left untouched for decades since the Korean War, that region has turned into a natural habitat for wildlife.” Ara remembered everything she had seen on a special TV documentary about the DMZ. Marina and Carlos got curious about the DMZ after hearing what Ara had told them. The following day, the bus to the DMZ set out early in the morning. After about an hour and a half, the bus arrived at Imjingak. There were many brochures about the Korean War and the guide explained about the Korean War. 076 Korea for Kids
Scenes of separated families at a reunion event
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Chapter 05 Remarkable Economic Development
“See over there? That’s Unification Lake. The bridge over it is called Freedom Bridge. South Korean and UN soldiers who were taken as POWs (Prisoners of War) by North Korea had to cross that bridge to return to the South,” said the guide. According to illustrations on display, the Korean War, started by North Korea on June 25, 1950, lasted until the ceasefire in July 1953. In support of the South, a total of 16 countries, including the U.S., Great Britain and Turkey, fought in the Korean War as allied UN forces. “It must have been quite a big war with so many countries taking Freedom Bridge
“Do we have permission to travel to the DMZ then?” asked Carlos. “We’re only allowed to visit the DMZ on the South Korean side. We can’t go to the North Korean side at all. The DMZ is a cease-fire
part,” Carlos spoke to himself. “Imjingak was built so that people could see North Korea from here. That’s why a lot of separated families come here when they get homesick,” said Ara.
region. South of the DMZ, there is a region where civilians are prohibited from entering. Left untouched for decades since the Korean War, that region has turned into a natural habitat for wildlife.” Ara remembered everything she had seen on a special TV documentary about the DMZ. Marina and Carlos got curious about the DMZ after hearing what Ara had told them. The following day, the bus to the DMZ set out early in the morning. After about an hour and a half, the bus arrived at Imjingak. There were many brochures about the Korean War and the guide explained about the Korean War. 076 Korea for Kids
Scenes of separated families at a reunion event
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Chapter 05 Remarkable Economic Development
“Does your Grandma come here often, too?” asked Marina. “I heard that she used to come here at least once a year when she was younger. But she doesn’t any more,” Ara answered. Marina could kind of imagine what Koreans had to go through as she learned how Germany had suffered after World War Two. The Captain told them that Koreans were left on a land of devastation with nothing to eat in the aftermath of the war. Though they had to start from scratch, Koreans managed to pull themselves together and rebuild their nation in a short span of time.
With everything destroyed, the black and white pictures of Korea taken 60 years ago had a bleak image. Marina couldn’t believe that Korea completely transformed itself in just 60 years. “I feel a little depressed today, talking so much about unhappy events,” Ara said to her uncle, sighing. “Me, too, but that’s all a part of what Korea is, Ara,” said her uncle to cheer her up. “When Korea becomes reunified, I’m going to invite my friends and go on a trip to Sinuiju by train,” said Ara.
“I guess that’s probably why U.S. President Barack Obama made a speech saying that countries in Africa should try to emulate Korea’s Saemaeul Movement, or the new community movement that helped its country move from rags-to-riches.”
“What a great idea, Ara! By then, you should be able to travel from Sinuiju to Europe via Siberia. What a wonderful trip that would be!” her uncle said with excitement. Tired, Ara closed her eyes and tried to imagine the day she would hop on the trans-continental train traveling from Seoul to Pyongyang and then to Europe passing through Russia.
Panmunjeom
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“Does your Grandma come here often, too?” asked Marina. “I heard that she used to come here at least once a year when she was younger. But she doesn’t any more,” Ara answered. Marina could kind of imagine what Koreans had to go through as she learned how Germany had suffered after World War Two. The Captain told them that Koreans were left on a land of devastation with nothing to eat in the aftermath of the war. Though they had to start from scratch, Koreans managed to pull themselves together and rebuild their nation in a short span of time.
With everything destroyed, the black and white pictures of Korea taken 60 years ago had a bleak image. Marina couldn’t believe that Korea completely transformed itself in just 60 years. “I feel a little depressed today, talking so much about unhappy events,” Ara said to her uncle, sighing. “Me, too, but that’s all a part of what Korea is, Ara,” said her uncle to cheer her up. “When Korea becomes reunified, I’m going to invite my friends and go on a trip to Sinuiju by train,” said Ara.
“I guess that’s probably why U.S. President Barack Obama made a speech saying that countries in Africa should try to emulate Korea’s Saemaeul Movement, or the new community movement that helped its country move from rags-to-riches.”
“What a great idea, Ara! By then, you should be able to travel from Sinuiju to Europe via Siberia. What a wonderful trip that would be!” her uncle said with excitement. Tired, Ara closed her eyes and tried to imagine the day she would hop on the trans-continental train traveling from Seoul to Pyongyang and then to Europe passing through Russia.
Panmunjeom
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Marina and Carlos had seen the Red Devils root for the Korean team on TV. It was amazing how they filled the stadium and the streets with red. World Cup Stadium was spacious indeed. The field was covered with green grass. The Seoul World Cup Stadium was built for the 2002 Korea Japan World Cup. When viewed from above, the stadium resembled the shape of Korea’s traditional shield kite. The four of them sat in the stands for a World Cup quiz game. “Now, the first question! How far did Korea make it during the 2002 Korea-Japan World Cup?” said Ara. Seoul World Cup Stadium
“I know, I know! To fourth place!” shouted Carlos. “I knew it, too!” sighed Marina.
The World Cup Stadium After about an hour’s ride on the Freedom Road from Imjingak, Ara and her friends arrived at Seoul’s World Cup Stadium. They entered the stadium which resembled a vast square with a sailboat beside it.
Being a soccer fanatic, Carlos answered four of the five questions and won the quiz. He got a football as a prize. Red Devils Official cheering squad for Korea’s national football team.
Carlos ran around as if he were dribbling a soccer ball across the field. Then he motioned a kick toward the goal post. As if he made a goal, Carlos kissed his fist in celebration. “I feel as though I can hear the roaring of the Red Devils. Dae-hanmin-guk!” said Carlos, excited. “Clap, clap, clap clap, clap.” The four of them clapped their hands with the same beat as if they had planned it in advance. 080 Korea for Kids
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Chapter 05 Remarkable Economic Development
Marina and Carlos had seen the Red Devils root for the Korean team on TV. It was amazing how they filled the stadium and the streets with red. World Cup Stadium was spacious indeed. The field was covered with green grass. The Seoul World Cup Stadium was built for the 2002 Korea Japan World Cup. When viewed from above, the stadium resembled the shape of Korea’s traditional shield kite. The four of them sat in the stands for a World Cup quiz game. “Now, the first question! How far did Korea make it during the 2002 Korea-Japan World Cup?” said Ara. Seoul World Cup Stadium
“I know, I know! To fourth place!” shouted Carlos. “I knew it, too!” sighed Marina.
The World Cup Stadium After about an hour’s ride on the Freedom Road from Imjingak, Ara and her friends arrived at Seoul’s World Cup Stadium. They entered the stadium which resembled a vast square with a sailboat beside it.
Being a soccer fanatic, Carlos answered four of the five questions and won the quiz. He got a football as a prize. Red Devils Official cheering squad for Korea’s national football team.
Carlos ran around as if he were dribbling a soccer ball across the field. Then he motioned a kick toward the goal post. As if he made a goal, Carlos kissed his fist in celebration. “I feel as though I can hear the roaring of the Red Devils. Dae-hanmin-guk!” said Carlos, excited. “Clap, clap, clap clap, clap.” The four of them clapped their hands with the same beat as if they had planned it in advance. 080 Korea for Kids
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Chapter 06
2018 PyeongChang PyeongChang was selected as the host city of the 2018 Olympic Winter Games after receiving a majority vote at the 123rd IOC Session held on 7 July 2011 after three consecutive bids. The Olympic Winter Games will be held in Korea for the first time in 30 years after the Seoul Olympic Games in 1988.
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Chapter 06
2018 PyeongChang PyeongChang was selected as the host city of the 2018 Olympic Winter Games after receiving a majority vote at the 123rd IOC Session held on 7 July 2011 after three consecutive bids. The Olympic Winter Games will be held in Korea for the first time in 30 years after the Seoul Olympic Games in 1988.
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Chapter 06 2018 PyeongChang
become known as a “skating powerhouse.” At the Olympic Winter Games Vancouver 2010, KIM Yuna became the first Korean figure skater to win a gold medal. At the Olympic Winter Games Garmisch-Partenkirchen 1936, which was held in Germany during the period of Japanese colonial rule in Korea, three Korean athletes competed as Japanese citizens. In 1948, before the official establishment of the ROK government, three speed skaters and two executives were sent to the Olympic Winter Games St. Moritz 1948, marking the first time that Korean athletes participated in the Olympic Winter Games as Korean citizens. Korea won its first medal at the 16th Olympic Winter Games (Olympic Winter Games Albertville 1992), where it participated in five sports and received two gold medals, one silver medal, and one bronze med-
Let’s learn about the origin of the Olympic Winter Games
al. It is particularly remarkable that the first medal Korea managed to win was actually a gold medal!
When was the first Olympic Winter Games? The first Olympic Winter Games was held about 90 years ago, in 1924, in Chamonix, France, with athletes from a total of 16 countries participating. Since then, the Games have been hosted 22 times, including the most recent Games in Sochi in 2014. The 23rd Olympic Winter Games will be hosted in PyeongChang. In the 90-year history of the Winter Games, Korea’s participation has been relatively limited. However, having recently earned numerous medals in sports such as short-track and speed skating, Korea has
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Chapter 06 2018 PyeongChang
become known as a “skating powerhouse.” At the Olympic Winter Games Vancouver 2010, KIM Yuna became the first Korean figure skater to win a gold medal. At the Olympic Winter Games Garmisch-Partenkirchen 1936, which was held in Germany during the period of Japanese colonial rule in Korea, three Korean athletes competed as Japanese citizens. In 1948, before the official establishment of the ROK government, three speed skaters and two executives were sent to the Olympic Winter Games St. Moritz 1948, marking the first time that Korean athletes participated in the Olympic Winter Games as Korean citizens. Korea won its first medal at the 16th Olympic Winter Games (Olympic Winter Games Albertville 1992), where it participated in five sports and received two gold medals, one silver medal, and one bronze med-
Let’s learn about the origin of the Olympic Winter Games
al. It is particularly remarkable that the first medal Korea managed to win was actually a gold medal!
When was the first Olympic Winter Games? The first Olympic Winter Games was held about 90 years ago, in 1924, in Chamonix, France, with athletes from a total of 16 countries participating. Since then, the Games have been hosted 22 times, including the most recent Games in Sochi in 2014. The 23rd Olympic Winter Games will be hosted in PyeongChang. In the 90-year history of the Winter Games, Korea’s participation has been relatively limited. However, having recently earned numerous medals in sports such as short-track and speed skating, Korea has
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Chapter 06 2018 PyeongChang
Olympic Winter Games medal count for Republic of Korea Year
1992
1994
1998
2002
2006
2010
2014
Total
Gold
2
4
3
2
6
6
3
26
Silver
1
1
1
2
3
6
3
17
Bronze
1
1
2
-
2
2
2
10
Let’s learn about the Olympic Winter Games PyeongChang 2018 The XXIII Olympic Winter Games will be held for 17 days from 9 to
in 1988. PyeongChang will be the stage for the Opening and Closing
25 February 2018 in PyeongChang, Gangwon Province, the Republic
Ceremonies and most snow sports. Alpine speed events will take place
of Korea. The PyeongChang 2018 Paralympic Winter Games will be
in Jeongseon, and all ice sports will be competed in the coastal city of
held for 10 days from 9 to 18 March in PyeongChang. PyeongChang
Gangneung.
was selected as the host city of the 2018 Olympic Winter Games after receiving a majority vote at the 123rd IOC Session held on 7 July 2011 after three consecutive bids. The Olympic Winter Games will be held in Korea for the first time in 30 years after the Seoul Olympic Games
Let’s learn more about the emblem of the Olympic Winter Games PyeongChang 2018 The emblem symbolises a world open to everyone, It combines the image of ice and snow, winter sports stars, and people from the global Olympic Village, all coming together in - PyeongChang where heaven and earth merge. The symbol ‘ㅍ’ represents the first consonant of the first syllable of PyeongChang in the Korean alphabet, Hangul, and expresses the harmony of Heaven, Earth and Man. ‘ㅊ’ depicts the first Korean consonant of the second syllable of PyeongChang in Hangul, and represents snow, ice, and winter sports stars (athletes)
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Chapter 06 2018 PyeongChang
Olympic Winter Games medal count for Republic of Korea Year
1992
1994
1998
2002
2006
2010
2014
Total
Gold
2
4
3
2
6
6
3
26
Silver
1
1
1
2
3
6
3
17
Bronze
1
1
2
-
2
2
2
10
Let’s learn about the Olympic Winter Games PyeongChang 2018 The XXIII Olympic Winter Games will be held for 17 days from 9 to
in 1988. PyeongChang will be the stage for the Opening and Closing
25 February 2018 in PyeongChang, Gangwon Province, the Republic
Ceremonies and most snow sports. Alpine speed events will take place
of Korea. The PyeongChang 2018 Paralympic Winter Games will be
in Jeongseon, and all ice sports will be competed in the coastal city of
held for 10 days from 9 to 18 March in PyeongChang. PyeongChang
Gangneung.
was selected as the host city of the 2018 Olympic Winter Games after receiving a majority vote at the 123rd IOC Session held on 7 July 2011 after three consecutive bids. The Olympic Winter Games will be held in Korea for the first time in 30 years after the Seoul Olympic Games
Let’s learn more about the emblem of the Olympic Winter Games PyeongChang 2018 The emblem symbolises a world open to everyone, It combines the image of ice and snow, winter sports stars, and people from the global Olympic Village, all coming together in - PyeongChang where heaven and earth merge. The symbol ‘ㅍ’ represents the first consonant of the first syllable of PyeongChang in the Korean alphabet, Hangul, and expresses the harmony of Heaven, Earth and Man. ‘ㅊ’ depicts the first Korean consonant of the second syllable of PyeongChang in Hangul, and represents snow, ice, and winter sports stars (athletes)
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Chapter 06 2018 PyeongChang
Soohorang, the mascot of the PyeongChang 2018 Olympic Winter Games took its motif from the white tiger. Soohorang not only has a challenging spirit and passion but also is a trustworthy friend who protects the athletes, spectators and all participants in the Olympic Games. Can’t wait for Soohorang’s remarkable activities!
Bandabi The Asiatic black bear or “ban-dal-ga-seum-gom” (the bear with a half-moon mark on the chest) symbolises
strong willpower and courage in the Korean folklore. This bear now has been selected as a friendly mascot for the Paralympic Games in 2018. “Banda” is derived from “ban-dal,” the Korean word for the half-moon. “Bi” stands
Let’s learn more about the mascot of the Olympic Winter Games PyeongChang 2018 Soohorang
for celebration of the Games. Bandabi, the mascot of the PyeongChang 2018 Paralympic Winter Games took its motif from the Asiatic black bear. Bandabi has strong willpower and courage. It is a warm-hearted friend who takes the lead
The white tiger, now the trustworthy mascot for the Olympic Win-
for equality and harmony and encourages athletes to push themselves
ter Games in 2018, has been long considered Korea’s guardian ani-
beyond their limits. We will look forward to Bandabi’s amazing activ-
mal. “Sooho,” meaning protection in Korean, symbolises protection
ities.
offered to the athletes, spectators and other participants in the 2018 Games. “Rang” comes from the middle letter of “Ho-rang-i,” the Korean word for “Tiger,” and is also the last letter of “Jeong-seon A-rirang,” a cherished traditional folk song of Gangwon Province, where the Games will be held.
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Chapter 06 2018 PyeongChang
Soohorang, the mascot of the PyeongChang 2018 Olympic Winter Games took its motif from the white tiger. Soohorang not only has a challenging spirit and passion but also is a trustworthy friend who protects the athletes, spectators and all participants in the Olympic Games. Can’t wait for Soohorang’s remarkable activities!
Bandabi The Asiatic black bear or “ban-dal-ga-seum-gom” (the bear with a half-moon mark on the chest) symbolises
strong willpower and courage in the Korean folklore. This bear now has been selected as a friendly mascot for the Paralympic Games in 2018. “Banda” is derived from “ban-dal,” the Korean word for the half-moon. “Bi” stands
Let’s learn more about the mascot of the Olympic Winter Games PyeongChang 2018 Soohorang
for celebration of the Games. Bandabi, the mascot of the PyeongChang 2018 Paralympic Winter Games took its motif from the Asiatic black bear. Bandabi has strong willpower and courage. It is a warm-hearted friend who takes the lead
The white tiger, now the trustworthy mascot for the Olympic Win-
for equality and harmony and encourages athletes to push themselves
ter Games in 2018, has been long considered Korea’s guardian ani-
beyond their limits. We will look forward to Bandabi’s amazing activ-
mal. “Sooho,” meaning protection in Korean, symbolises protection
ities.
offered to the athletes, spectators and other participants in the 2018 Games. “Rang” comes from the middle letter of “Ho-rang-i,” the Korean word for “Tiger,” and is also the last letter of “Jeong-seon A-rirang,” a cherished traditional folk song of Gangwon Province, where the Games will be held.
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Let’s learn about the sports of the Olympic Winter Games Alpine Skiing Alpine skiing is a discipline where the skier slides down snow-covered slopes on skis with fixed heel bindings.
Biathlon Biathlon is a sport that combines cross-country skiing and rifle shooting, two events that are very different from each other.
Bobsleigh In bobsleigh, athletes ride a steerable sled down an ice track. The pilot uses the inner steering rope to drive the sled. And the brakeman puts on the brake to bring the sled to a halt after it has passed the finish line.
Cross-Country Skiing Cross-country skiing is about gliding across a snow-covered field on skis in the shortest possible time frame.
Curling Two different teams take turns to throw eight stones each (each athlete throws two stones per end, one stone at a time). The equipment includes the curling stone, brush /broom. Figure Skating Figure skating is an ice sport where athletes wearbladed skates and perform different specific acrobatic movements.
Freestyle Skiing Freestyle skiing is an artistic competition performing aerial acrobatics while freely gliding down a slope, and because of its diversified nature, an analogy is often drawn with a circus on the snow.
090 Korea for Kids
Ice Hockey Ice hockey is a sport where two teams face off, each of which may carry a maximum of 22 players and three goaltenders on their roster. Up to five players may skate on the ice at one time for each team and normally the goaltender is used as their sixth on-ice player.
Luge A luge is a small sled on which the athlete sleds down 1,000 to 1,500m while lying down face up and feet-first.
Nordic Combined Nordic Combined brings cross-country and ski jumping together.
Short Track Speed Skating Short track speed skating is a skating competition that takes place on a 111.12m track in a 960x30m ice rink.
Skeleton Skeleton is one of the sliding types of speed sports events and the athlete, lying head first face down on the sled, speeds down a 1,200 - 1,500m ice track.
Ski Jumping Ski jumping is a form of Nordic skiing where the skier glides down a (35 - 37°) ramp at 90Km/h to jump and fly as far as they can go from the launching zone to make a stable landing in the landing section.
Snowboard Snowboard is a sport that uses a board attached to rider's feet to speed down a slope.
Speed Skating Speed skating involves two athletes wearing skates that start simultaneously and compete speeding on a 400m ice track.
091
Let’s learn about the sports of the Olympic Winter Games Alpine Skiing Alpine skiing is a discipline where the skier slides down snow-covered slopes on skis with fixed heel bindings.
Biathlon Biathlon is a sport that combines cross-country skiing and rifle shooting, two events that are very different from each other.
Bobsleigh In bobsleigh, athletes ride a steerable sled down an ice track. The pilot uses the inner steering rope to drive the sled. And the brakeman puts on the brake to bring the sled to a halt after it has passed the finish line.
Cross-Country Skiing Cross-country skiing is about gliding across a snow-covered field on skis in the shortest possible time frame.
Curling Two different teams take turns to throw eight stones each (each athlete throws two stones per end, one stone at a time). The equipment includes the curling stone, brush /broom. Figure Skating Figure skating is an ice sport where athletes wearbladed skates and perform different specific acrobatic movements.
Freestyle Skiing Freestyle skiing is an artistic competition performing aerial acrobatics while freely gliding down a slope, and because of its diversified nature, an analogy is often drawn with a circus on the snow.
090 Korea for Kids
Ice Hockey Ice hockey is a sport where two teams face off, each of which may carry a maximum of 22 players and three goaltenders on their roster. Up to five players may skate on the ice at one time for each team and normally the goaltender is used as their sixth on-ice player.
Luge A luge is a small sled on which the athlete sleds down 1,000 to 1,500m while lying down face up and feet-first.
Nordic Combined Nordic Combined brings cross-country and ski jumping together.
Short Track Speed Skating Short track speed skating is a skating competition that takes place on a 111.12m track in a 960x30m ice rink.
Skeleton Skeleton is one of the sliding types of speed sports events and the athlete, lying head first face down on the sled, speeds down a 1,200 - 1,500m ice track.
Ski Jumping Ski jumping is a form of Nordic skiing where the skier glides down a (35 - 37°) ramp at 90Km/h to jump and fly as far as they can go from the launching zone to make a stable landing in the landing section.
Snowboard Snowboard is a sport that uses a board attached to rider's feet to speed down a slope.
Speed Skating Speed skating involves two athletes wearing skates that start simultaneously and compete speeding on a 400m ice track.
091
The Bride Who Openly Farted
Folk Tales at Grandma‛s Knee
The daughter-in-law began passing the gas that she had been
m
!!
saving for the past three years. The sound of the fart was like thunder and had a toxic smell.
Bo o
One day, a young woman who openly farted married into a family with a pear orchard. The parents-in-law were very fond of the bride. As days passed by, the bride’s face turned pale. The father-in-law got worried.
What’s bothering you dear? You don’t look well. Our daughterin-law is such an angel. She is so pretty, too. The father-in-law told the bride that it was okay to break wind but she was reluctant to do so. Then one day, the bride spoke to the entire family.
O
The astonished parents-in-law had decided to send the bride back to her parents. But one day, as he walked beneath the pear Well, it’s because I haven’t farted since marrying.
Prepare yourselves! Boom! 092 Korea for Kids
After that incident, the father-in-law brought the bride back home, thinking that her fart was a blessing.
tree, the father-in-law wanted to get a bite of the pear hanging high on the tree.
I wish I could quench my thirst with that pear. I’m going to fart now.
o
g my h,
!
ess
n od
I’ll get the pear for you.
Our daughter-in-law’s farts bring good fortune to our family.
Ever since then, one could hear wind breaking whenever the family harvested pears.
093
The Bride Who Openly Farted
Folk Tales at Grandma‛s Knee
The daughter-in-law began passing the gas that she had been
m
!!
saving for the past three years. The sound of the fart was like thunder and had a toxic smell.
Bo o
One day, a young woman who openly farted married into a family with a pear orchard. The parents-in-law were very fond of the bride. As days passed by, the bride’s face turned pale. The father-in-law got worried.
What’s bothering you dear? You don’t look well. Our daughterin-law is such an angel. She is so pretty, too. The father-in-law told the bride that it was okay to break wind but she was reluctant to do so. Then one day, the bride spoke to the entire family.
O
The astonished parents-in-law had decided to send the bride back to her parents. But one day, as he walked beneath the pear Well, it’s because I haven’t farted since marrying.
Prepare yourselves! Boom! 092 Korea for Kids
After that incident, the father-in-law brought the bride back home, thinking that her fart was a blessing.
tree, the father-in-law wanted to get a bite of the pear hanging high on the tree.
I wish I could quench my thirst with that pear. I’m going to fart now.
o
g my h,
!
ess
n od
I’ll get the pear for you.
Our daughter-in-law’s farts bring good fortune to our family.
Ever since then, one could hear wind breaking whenever the family harvested pears.
093
Talk Talk Korea 2016 winner : webtoon
094 Korea for Kids
095
Talk Talk Korea 2016 winner : webtoon
094 Korea for Kids
095
Talk Talk Korea 2016 winner : webtoon
096 Korea for Kids
097
Talk Talk Korea 2016 winner : webtoon
096 Korea for Kids
097
Talk Talk Korea 2016 winner : webtoon
Please visit and join Talk Talk Korea Contest http://talktalkkorea.or.kr 098 Korea for Kids
099
Talk Talk Korea 2016 winner : webtoon
Please visit and join Talk Talk Korea Contest http://talktalkkorea.or.kr 098 Korea for Kids
099
Korea for Kids
Korea for Kids An intro to Korea for young readers