Blogs

I read an article about the 기업 브랜드 (corporate branding) and its significance in contemporary marketing strategies. While I was familiar with the concept of 브랜드 (brand) in Korean, it was my first encounter with 기업 브랜드. Through the article, I gained insight into how it is widely utilized in business discussions to emphasize the importance of building and promoting a company's brand identity. Another term that caught my attention was 브랜드 선호도 (brand preference), indicating consumers' preferences for one brand over others. From this article, I learned that there’s brand hierarchy within the corporate branding which is generally seen in a vertical structure. The corporate brand 기업브랜드 is typically the branding of the company name which is what we are familiar with (Samsung) and following that would be the master brand, (사업 브랜드), family brand (패밀리 브랜드), and modifier. Learning about these marketing-related terms provided me with valuable exposure to specialized vocabulary used in Korean business contexts, enriching my understanding of marketing strategies and enhancing my language skills in the field. This article was definitely harder to read than the normal ones because it was more educational based on learning about what corporate branding was in Korean. I had to ask my language partner and use a translator multiple times as I was reading this article to have a true understanding of what corporate branding was. 

To focus more on grammar, we used Yonsei University’s Korean writing textbook. I had to fill in blanks in the sentences with the proper words and was able to find which areas I was lacking in. I kept getting 되 and 돼 mixed up with each other, which are different conjugations of the same verb 되다 which means “to become” or “to be done/ to be completed.” The difference between them is in their usage in different contexts. I learned that 돼 is a contraction of 되어  while 되 is the uncontracted form of 되어 in the present tense. I also learned the proper difference between 한테 vs 에게. Both are often used to indicate the recipient of an action, similar to English’s preposition of “to” or “for.” However, 한테 is typically used in informal settings or when you are speaking. But when writing, it’s important to use the more formal and written language which would be 에게. I noticed that in a lot of my writing, I tend to be more informal with my vocabulary and grammar choices since I tend to speak and listen in Korean more than read and write. 

We also talked about the changing entertainment industry in Korea as entertainment has been moving onto YouTube instead of the typical broadcasting shows. We noticed that there would be less new TV shows coming out and more YouTube channels and programs and how this would impact the entertainment industry of Korea. 

During our recent Korean lesson, we also talked about what topic I want to focus on for the final cultural presentation. Because my main topic of learning this semester was very business and marketing focused, I decided to focus my presentation on chaebols, which is a large conglomerate or business group in South Korea that is typically owned and controlled by a single family. We both thought this topic would be the best way to wrap up my Korean learning experience this semester. 

This month, Isaac and I focused on advancing my Korean grammar and the structures that follow. The categories we went over are honorifics (존댓말), causative form, passive voice, complex sentence structures, advanced particles, subjunctive mood, advanced verb endings, and extended hanja learning.

For honorifics, I was already quite familiar with the concept because of my parents and relatives. Most sentences end with -요 and -다 and answers of 네. We went through many different verb endings such as 했어요, 합니다, and 습니다.

For the causative form (사동), I learned that I just have to add -게 하다 or -게 되다 to the end of the verb stem. This translates to the causes and influences of the verb due to an occurrence or someone. Passive voice, 피동태, -이/히/리/기 gets added to the verb stem to indicate that the subject is being acted upon.

We went over a lot of advanced sentence structures and particles to improve my writing skills. For sentence structures, I practiced using relative clauses, conditional clauses, and conjunctions like -면서, -기 때문에, -지만, which translates to: with, because, although.

For particles, phrases like -에 대하여, -에 따라서, -에 의하면, -만으로도 are used to express the relationship between words. The direct translation would be about that, because of that, according to that, just with that. I am able to explain in depth with these particles in my writing.

Although practicing these grammar structures improves my Korean language skills, the best practice is communicating with my partner. Having open conversation and continuous corrections, I can find my Korean improving in small increments.

This SDLAP journey that I took for three semesters has really helped me improve my Korean skills and prepare me for further language advancement. Although I will not have a Korean language partner, I continue to plan on finding sources and ways to improve my professional and advanced Korean language. I am hoping that I will be able to visit Korea soon to show my improvement and explore all the things that I have learned and seen in the media. I am glad I got this opportunity to join this class and not only learn Korean but also the optimal way of learning a language.

Currently, Isaac and I are finishing reading a few chapters from a children's book “The Tiger & the Persimmon.” We also have been watching more Korean media, in order to progress my reading and comprehension skills. This has been a great success and one of my favorite parts of this whole learning journey. We have really gone above and beyond to accomplish my goals for this semester, we have made great progress with learning Hangul and also my pronunciation. Isaac and I have been working very well with each other, he has been really taking his time with me during points where I get stuck whether its with pronunciation or with my comprehension. We also made it a goal for me to use my Korean in everyday situations, which we have been really focusing on. We also have spent a lot of time making cultural dishes this semester, in addition to that he also explains the history of the dishes and why they are important to Korean culture. Some strategies we have incorporated recently are using more Korean that I have learned, using basic greetings along with short phrases. We also have been reading a lot more then we did earlier in the semester. This has enhanced my communication skills and comprehension greatly. I feel as if the new strategies we have implemented have skyrocketed my learning, by using Korean and real situations, I have been practicing and gaining the confidence that I need in order to pronounce phrases correctly. The reading has also helped me, by using short stories I am able to gain more vocabulary but also add to my comprehension and reading ability as I mentioned before. At the beginning of my journey, there was a bit of frustration when I was not able to pronounce words correctly, but as time went on, I got better and better at my pronunciation which was a key element of my learning plan. I feel like moving forward my time with my next instructor will be focused on these strategies that I know work for me, but in addition also adding more writing exercises because we did lack on that end this semester. I am very happy with the progress I've made this semester although it has not been a linear route Isaac has helped me get to a point where I am comfortable and happy with my Korean ability. I hope to continue my learning at the same pace but I am prepared for any roadblocks that come along the way. 

I do have one more meeting with Isaac, but I would say that, overall, this semester and my experience have been extremely successful. Not only did I achieve what I set out to do, I went beyond my expectations. I realized that when there is no stress from academics/testing, I thrive. I was able to retain knowledge a lot better and also loved learning about things I wanted to learn about rather than being forced. I also really enjoyed working with Isaac, he made things very low stress and helped me get thought complex tasks. One of the hardest things for me was pronunciation, while Korean does not have a lot of letters in the Hangul alphabet there are some tricky rules you must learn in order to master the language. One aspect I enjoyed was the collaborative aspect of the class, Isaac was able to make it very interaction based instead of just having me do pen and paper asssigments, we watched videos, read stories and much more in order to make learning fun. My plan for next semester is to continue learning Korean, that being said I am planning on working with Emily or Jason, I hope to keep checking off goals on my learning plan. Isaac and I spent a lot of time reading childrens stories at the end of the semester, these stories were very simple which made using context clues easy. I was able to work on my pronunciation along with fluency while gaining more vocabulary. One thing I would like to work on more is my writing, while we did do bit of writing this semester it was mainly focused on reading and speaking which was awesome! I am looking forward to next semester to continue my Korean journey. 

I stumbled upon Hanji earlier this week actually, as I was looking through traditional artwork which was what I initially wanted to do. The way the backing gave the art a certain emotion, a spirit that was uniquely Korean made me realize that this particular type of paper surrounded me my whole life, and yet I knew virtually nothing about it.

 Hanji has been an integral part of Korean culture for over a thousand years, with the earliest records dating back to the Three Kingdoms period (57 BC – 668 AD). After a perfunctory google search, I discovered that the inception of Hanji dates back to the early historical era of Korea, with some of the first references appearing during the Three Kingdoms period. Scholars generally agree that papermaking techniques were likely introduced to Korea from China around the 3rd century AD, during the Goguryeo dynasty. This period saw the initial adaptation of Chinese papermaking methods, which were then refined to suit local conditions and materials.

Its production flourished during the Goryeo and Joseon dynasties, when it was used for books, documents, and artworks. The meticulous process of making Hanji, involving the harvesting, boiling, and beating of mulberry bark, followed by the careful layering of the fibers on bamboo screens, showcases the craftsmanship and patience characteristic of Korean artisans. Hanji is renowned for its durability, which is attributed to the long fibers of the mulberry tree. Hanji began to flourish during the Unified Silla period (668–935 AD), as papermaking techniques became more refined and widespread across the Korean peninsula. However, it was during the Goryeo dynasty (918–1392) that Hanji truly came into its own. The Goryeo period is renowned for the production of high-quality paper that was used not only within Korea but also exported to Japan and other parts of Asia. During this time, Hanji was used extensively for government documents, Buddhist scriptures, and books, indicating its esteemed status in Korean society. The quality and production of Hanji reached its zenith during the Joseon dynasty (1392–1910), driven by a cultural emphasis on scholarship and the arts, which were heavily supported by the royal court. Hanji was essential in the propagation of Confucian classics and literature, as well as in administrative documentation, reflecting its integral role in both the cultural and daily life of the Korean people.

The paper is known to last for over a thousand years, a testament to its exceptional quality and the alkaline materials used in its production, which prevent decay. Its texture and translucency make it an excellent material for various artistic and practical applications—from window coverings that allow natural light that you can even find in modern-day restaurants to diffuse softly into a room, to its use in traditional lanterns during festivals.

The use of Hanji extends beyond mere functionality. It has been deeply embedded in Korean traditions and daily life. Hanji was traditionally used in the creation of doors and windows in Hanok (traditional Korean houses), which contributed to the aesthetic and environmental aspects of these structures. The paper's ability to regulate humidity and allow for airflow made it an ideal material for such uses in Korea's variable climate.

In the arts, Hanji is a favored medium for calligraphy and painting, valued for its absorbency and texture which enhance the artistic expressions. Moreover, the art of Hanji is not just limited to paper making but also includes crafting objects such as dolls and boxes, and in contemporary times, has been incorporated into fashion and home décor.

For my final cultural artifact, I wanted to look at some of the more historic celebrations in Korea. During my investigation, I stumbled upon “Seollal” or the Lunar New Year's Day. Seollal is one of the largest celebrations in Korea that really represents Korean culture. During the Lunar New Year, many people and their families gather together and eat. The foods they eat are also specific to the Korean culture. This includes things such as tteokguk, which is usually considered special to the Lunar New Year. One key component of Seollal is the emphasis on family tradition and coming together. Korean families are known to travel great distances in order to come together during the Lunar New Year, which is typically the busiest time of the year for Koreans. Another part of the Lunar New Year is the tradition of wearing the “Hanbok,” which is essentially a traditional Korean outfit worn on special occasions. The Hanbok is a key element in the Lunar New Year because it displays Korean culture along with heritage, each Hanbok is a bit different and they are customizable to display relationship status. Another essential aspect of Seollal is the ancestral rites, which are called Charye. This is a tradition in which families gather to pay respect to their ancestors. Families will typically offer respect and gifts to their ancestors; these include things such as fruit, tea, rice, and various traditional dishes from Korean heritage. As I mentioned before, traditional foods are prepared during the New Year. These are essential to having a good time; in addition to tteokguk, dishes like yakgwa and jeon are prepared in order to feast and enjoy time with family and friends while munching on delicious food. Sebae is another part of traditional behavior, which is also known as the “New Year’s Bow.” This is when younger family members conduct a deep, traditional bow to their elders to show respect during the holiday. Luckily, the younger generation receives gifts from the elders in their family, which can include blessings along with money and other gifts. I found the new year really interesting because of how deeply it is involved with the culture of Korea. We really do not have anything close to this, we have our version of the new year where people gather with family and friends to watch the ball drop but is not nearly as historic as Seollal. I would love to travel to Korea one day to see the Lunar New Year in full effect; it seems to be an unbeatable experience. With the fantastic food and folks around you, it would be an incredible experience. 

Esports%20in%20Korea.pdf

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fWstDcOXCAMMXSE9mbhbDjuBGApn3uMq/view?usp=sharing

Link to podcast^

Piggybacking off of my cultural post, this is also something that my language partner and I were talking about as well. We were watching interviews of international students on the life living in Korea. One of the things mentioned was that Koreans were at first rude, but later they found out that it was just a part of Korean culture nowadays. There was even someone who said that they wouldn't date a Korean because of this cultural difference. However when Korean students were interviewed, they said that living in Korea was good or normal. Both types of students mentioned that there was a lot of good food in Korea. Anyways, my language partner and I were discussing how this modern culture ties into tv shows and dramas because in dramas, we always see people being well-mannered. Maybe it is because directors know that the drama will be going global so they want to display Korea in a positive light? Or maybe it's to try to influence the younger generation into being more well-mannered because they know that younger Koreans are watching these dramas? We don't know the exact reason, but we noticed the difference and thought it was interesting. Through observing the Korean culture, we were able to discover and learn new things about the younger generation of Koreans.

This week, I went to a boba store with some of my Korean friends and had a chat. One of the things we talked about was the social culture of Korea. Nowadays, apparently the younger generation of Koreans are becoming more and more disrespectful and ill-mannered. However, that is in the lens of Korean Americans. The cultural difference between Koreans and Korean Americans is getting larger. One example is that Koreans don't open the door for the person behind them, it's just normalized not to. I thought that was very interesting because in the United States, we are always keen on having good manners. It's normalized to open the door for someone behind you. Another example is that Koreans don't say excuse me when trying to get through tight spaces or when bumping into someone. This is due to a large population on small land (50 million people in land that is smaller than Virginia). Here, we once again say excuse me, sorry, and thank you in order to be well-mannered. I just thought this was an interesting conversation that was brought up in our tea time.

Spring 2024 Podcast (Justin & Joseph)

   In my language journal #4, I have decided to talk about some of the complex Hungarian prefixes. In Hungarian grammar, prefixes such as "el-", "meg-", "fel-", and "le-" are used to modify verbs, indicating various aspects of action, direction, completion, or intensity. Let me explain the difference between them in more detail. 

• "El-" (Direction, Completeness):

1. 1. • The prefix "el-" typically indicates the direction of movement away from the speaker or the starting point of an action.
      • It can also denote the completion or accomplishment of an action.
      • Example: "Elindulni" (to depart, to start), "Elolvasni" (to read through, to finish reading), "Elhagyni" (to leave behind).

• "Meg-" (Completion, Intensity):

1. 1. • The prefix "meg-" often expresses the completion or thoroughness of an action.
      • It can also indicate intensity or emphasis.
      • Example: "Megcsinálni" (to complete, to finish), "Megvárni" (to wait for complete), "Megért" (to understand thoroughly).

• "Fel-" (Direction, Beginning):

1. 1. • The prefix "fel-" usually indicates the direction of movement upwards or the starting point of an action.
      • It can also denote the beginning or initiation of an action.
      • Example: "Felmenni" (to go up, to climb), "Felébredni" (to wake up), "Felhívni" (to call up, to initiate a call).

• "Le-" (Direction, Completion):

1. • The prefix "le-" typically indicates the direction of movement downwards or completion of an action.
   • It can also denote diminishment or reduction.
   • Example: "Lemenni" (to go down, to descend), "Lecsukni" (to close down, to shut), "Leírni" (to write down, to record).

   These prefixes are highly used in Hungarian grammar and can be added to a wide range of verbs to modify their meanings. I personally sometimes get confused between the usage of "el-" and "meg-". In some cases, "el-'' signifies the completion or achievement of an action. For instance: "Elvégezni a feladatot" (to finish the task) OR "Elérni az álmait" (to achieve one’s dreams). On the other hand, the prefix "meg-" often indicates the completion or thoroughness of an action, or it can emphasize the intensity of the action. Examples include: "Megnézni a filmet" (to watch the movie completely) OR "Megijedni valamitől" (to get scared of something). Most probably you can see how in the above examples these prefixes are similar, and a little bit confusing. I find this topic pretty challenging but at the same time very fascinating!

   For my cultural post #4, I have decided to write and tell you about the Royal Palace in Budapest which is also known as Buda Castle or the Buda Castle Palace. It is a historic palace complex located on the southern tip of Castle Hill in the Castle District of Budapest. It is one of the most iconic landmarks of the city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and simply one of my favorite places in Budapest. 

   First, let me start with some of the important historical facts about the Palace. The history of the Royal Palace dates back to the 13th century when the first royal residence was built on Castle Hill. “Over the centuries, the palace underwent various reconstructions, expansions, and renovations, signifying different architectural styles from Gothic to Baroque to Renaissance” (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buda_Castle). Throughout its history, the Royal Palace served as the residence of Hungarian kings and queens, as well as the seat of power for various ruling entities, including the Habsburgs during the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Today, it houses several museums, including the Hungarian National Gallery, the Budapest History Museum, and the National Széchényi Library. The Budapest History Museum offers insights into the city’s rich history, from its medieval origins to modern times. There you can explore some archaeological finds, historical artifacts, and interactive exhibits that highlight Budapest’s cultural heritage and evolution over the centuries. The National Széchényi Library which is housed in the eastern wing of the Royal Palace, is Hungary’s largest library and a repository of national treasures. It houses millions of books, manuscripts, maps, and other documents, including rare and historically significant items (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buda_Castle). I have visited the Museum and the Library a few times while I was in Budapest, and I would love to do it again because there are endless things to see, and explore. 

   It is important to mention that the palace has suffered significant damage multiple times in its history, most notably during the sieges of Budapest in World War II. After the war, extensive reconstruction efforts were undertaken to restore the palace to its former glory. Nowadays, the Royal Palace is a major tourist attraction in Budapest. It attracts visitors from around the world to admire its architecture, explore its museums, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from its elevated position on Castle Hill. Also, the palace complex is a venue for various cultural events, including concerts, exhibitions, and festivals, adding to its vibrancy and appeal. The Royal Palace and the Buda hill on which it is located are my one of the most favorite places. I hope you enjoyed learning more about it!

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buda_Castle 

PS. Below you can find a picture of me with the Royal Palace in the background :)

A figure that many people might know about in Korea is 신사임당 (Shin Saimdang). Real name 신인선 (Shin In-seon) and also known as 어진 (Eojin: Wise Mother) was a female Korean artist, writer, calligraphist, and poet during the Joseon Dynasty. She was born in 1504 and was regarded as a model for her Confucian ideals on women, the main belief system in Korea during the Joseon Dynasty.

However, she’s mostly known as being the devoted mother of her son 이이 (Yi I), who became one of the most prominent Confucian scholars of the Joseon Dynasty. His mother was able to set a strong foundation for Confucian values, emphasizing the importance of education, moral integrity, and piety. Her teachings to him provided the ethical framework that guided Yi I's personal and intellectual development. Shin Saimdang's own artistic talents also inspired Yi I and fostered his appreciation for the natural world. Her paintings and calligraphy likely influenced his own artistic sensibilities and aesthetic philosophy as he became a scholar. 

Furthermore, Shin Saimdang was able to influence women in Korean Confucianism during the time. Through her persistence, commitment to education, and artistic achievements, she challenged traditional gender roles and stereotypes, demonstrating that women could maintain Confucian values while pursuing intellectual and creative achievements as well. As a devoted mother, she imparted Confucian ethics of piety and family harmony to her children, emphasizing the importance of moral responsibility and respect for elders. However, while doing this she was able to break through with her work in art and poems. Part of this was because she had no brothers, allowing her to live at her father’s home who helped and taught her how to do these things. 

Shin Saimdang's legacy continues to be celebrated in South Korea, where she is revered as a national icon and an inspiration for women in the arts and academia. She has been honored on South Korean currency, and her image is depicted on the 50,000 won bill. In fact, her son Yi I is also on the Korean paper currency as the 1000 won bill. On the back of the currency, her art work is also displayed, enabling people to remember her not as just the mother of Yi I, but also as someone who was able to be independent and choose her own life. Additionally, her life and achievements have been portrayed in various works of literature, film, and television, further cementing her place in Korean cultural history.

50000 won bill
Top: front of the bill
Bottom: back of the bill

Podcast%20lee.m4a

Wrapping up the semester, my partner and I have been focusing on articulating ideas presented in shows using Korean, forcing me to analyze and explore ideas (within the context of the show) using Korean. Whereas before I had been improving my comprehension by watching shows, now I took it a step further and tried to assess the contents using Korean. This was interesting, as it seemed redundant to repeat the plot/pretense of what my language partner and I had just watched, but it was fun as we would end up discussing hypotheticals or interesting parts of the show, which helped me expand my usage of vocabulary and overall ease of speech. 

Some shows we have watched was the second season of Physical 100, as mentioned on my previous language journal, but as we were watching, we also talked about what we would do in that scenario, discussed which contestant/team would be more likely to win in a certain competition, etc. We also would look up certain contestants, who had their own respective youtube channels, and we would go into rabbit hole of content to watch. We did all this speaking Korean, and it really helped my practicing of speaking/comprehension.

My plan is to continue to do this after the classes, and although I may not have someone to do this with, it'd be a good practice to monologue internally.

Learning a new language is a journey filled with challenges and discoveries, and my adventure with Korean has been no exception. As my vocabulary expanded and my understanding of Korean grammar deepened, my language learning sessions evolved significantly, especially with the help of my language partner, who has been instrumental in refining my skills.

At the beginning of the semester, my focus was heavily on acquiring vocabulary and understanding basic grammar. However, as my foundation solidified, my sessions with my language partner became more dynamic. We began constructing sentences together, a practice that not only tested my knowledge but also enhanced my ability to use Korean in practical scenarios. My partner's patience and insight were crucial during these exercises; he meticulously corrected my grammar and diction, ensuring that I not only knew the words but understood how to use them effectively.

One fascinating aspect of learning Korean is the context-sensitivity of certain vocabulary, which underscores the importance of having a knowledgeable language partner. For instance, the word 당신 ("dangsin"), which translates to "you," illustrates this well. Using 당신 can be overly formal or even inappropriate in casual conversations, whereas 너 ("neo") is informal and typically used among close friends or to younger people. However, 당신 is often used affectionately between married couples, highlighting the nuanced usage based on the relationship dynamics. This kind of nuance is not immediately obvious to learners and can lead to miscommunication if misused. My language partner plays an invaluable role in explaining these subtleties, ensuring that I not only learn the language but also understand the cultural context in which specific words are appropriately used. Another example is the use of honorifics in words like 드시다 ("deusida") for "to eat," which is respectful and formal compared to just 먹다 ("meokda").

Grammar, too, came with its complexities. Korean sentences follow a Subject-Object-Verb order, which was a shift from English and Mandarin. Additionally, understanding special grammatical rules like verb conjugation depending on the level of formality was challenging. For example, the verb "to do" can be 해("hae") in informal settings, 하세요 ("haseyo") in polite settings, and 합니다 ("hamnida") in formal communications. These nuances were pivotal in making my Korean sound natural and respectful.

Thanks to these tailored sessions, I noticed a significant improvement in my ability to form coherent and contextually appropriate sentences. Each correction my partner made was a learning opportunity, highlighting nuances I might have missed otherwise. This feedback was not just about language accuracy but also about cultural appropriateness, which is essential in real-life interactions. The progress I made over these months has been incredibly rewarding. Starting from basic greetings to now being able to participate in simple conversations, my confidence in speaking and writing Korean has soared. Reflecting on this journey, I realize how each step, each mistake, and each correction contributed to my current proficiency.

Overall, the journey of learning Korean has been as much about understanding the culture as it has been about mastering the language. Each session brought new insights into how deeply intertwined language and cultural norms are, and how mastering both is crucial for truly understanding and appreciating this beautiful language. With continued practice and help from my language partner, I look forward to becoming even more proficient and eventually fluent in Korean.

Diving into Korean cuisine has been an eye-opening part of my cultural journey. I’ve discovered that in Korea, food isn’t just sustenance—it’s a communal bond, a blend of flavors that tells stories of tradition and innovation. Here’s a look at some classic Korean food pairings that showcase the harmony and depth of this vibrant cuisine.

One of the first pairings I fell for was **Kimchi (김치) and Bossam (보쌈)**. Bossam features tender, boiled pork belly wrapped in a crisp lettuce leaf with spicy kimchi. This combo balances the rich pork with kimchi’s crunch and tang, making every bite a celebration of contrast.

Then there's the well-loved pairing of Samgyeopsal (삼겹살) and Soju (소주). Picture this scene: you're gathered around a sizzling grill with friends, cooking slices of pork belly and dipping them in a mix of salt, pepper, and sesame oil. Accompany this meal with a sip of soju, a clear spirit akin to vodka but considerably milder. This pairing is celebrated widely, and rightly so. The soju not only enhances the flavors of the rich pork but also facilitates digestion and promotes lively conversation.

Another heartwarming dish is **Bibimbap (비빔밥)** served with **Gochujang (고추장)**. This mixed rice dish with vegetables and meat gets its kick from gochujang, a spicy chili paste. It’s a symphony of flavors that exemplifies the Korean knack for balancing taste and health.

Street food enthusiasts must try **Tteokbokki (떡볶이)** with **Sundae (순대)**. Spicy rice cakes alongside blood sausage make a popular snack, offering a mix of sweet, spicy, and savory notes that are truly addictive.

Not to forget the famous **Chimaek (치맥)**, a combo of crispy Korean fried chicken and beer. This pairing is perfect for social gatherings, where the crunch of the chicken and the coolness of the beer complement each other beautifully.

Korean dining is not just about the food; it's about sharing. Meals often come with several side dishes, *banchan*, shared by everyone at the table, which enriches the dining experience and fosters a sense of togetherness. Respect is a key ingredient too—elders are served first, reflecting the culture's deep-seated reverence for age and experience.

The principle of balance is crucial in Korean cuisine, not just in flavors but in nutrition. Meals are crafted to offer a diverse range of tastes and health benefits, making every dish a well-rounded feast for the senses.

Exploring these food pairings has deepened my appreciation for Korean culinary practices and the culture's emphasis on harmony and community. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or new to Korean cuisine, these pairings offer a delightful entry into the heart of Korea’s culinary art. So, the next time you sit down for a meal, maybe introduce some Korean pairings and see how food can bring us all a little closer. Happy eating!

In South Korea, the pursuit of academic excellence is not just a priority; it's a national obsession. This cultural imperative has given rise to a robust private education sector dominated by "hagwons," which have become an integral part of the educational landscape. Written as 학원 , this term directly translates to "learning institute" or "academy". These institutions are more than just supplementary educational facilities; for many South Korean families, they represent a crucial component of their children's educational journey, one that often takes precedence even over regular school activities.

The financial implications of enrolling children in hagwons are substantial, with costs varying widely. Fees can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand per month depending on the subject, the institution's reputation, and its geographical location. High-end hagwons, particularly those specializing in university entrance exam preparation or advanced English language instruction, can be exceptionally pricey. This financial burden underscores the high stakes placed on education, as parents invest heavily in the hope of securing their children's academic and, subsequently, professional success.

Hagwons typically operate after school, in the evenings, and on weekends, aligning their schedules with the standard school day to accommodate students. However, during school holidays, these academies often offer intensive courses that can consume much of a student's day. The extensive hours spent in hagwons can lead to a significant conflict with regular school responsibilities, with students sometimes too exhausted to engage effectively with their schoolwork. This situation can create a vicious cycle where day schools become less effective in their educational role, prompting even greater reliance on hagwons.

Many South Korean parents view hagwons as more beneficial than traditional schools. This preference stems from several factors. First, hagwons typically offer more specialized and personalized instruction than is available in public schools. They are results-oriented, focusing intensely on preparing students for examinations that are crucial for advancing to higher educational levels. Moreover, the quality of teaching in hagwons is often perceived to be superior, with instructors who are specialists in their fields and whose compensation may be linked to the success of their students in competitive examinations.

This intense focus on academic achievement through hagwons has several implications. On the one hand, it can lead to high levels of stress and pressure among students, contributing to issues of mental health and well-being. On the other hand, it exacerbates educational inequality, as not all families can afford the costs associated with hagwon education. Those who can invest in these services often provide their children with a significant competitive advantage, further entrenching social divisions based on educational access and success.

The situation in South Korea is mirrored to some extent in China, where "bǔxí bān," or tutoring centers, serve a similar function. However, recent regulatory changes in China have sought to mitigate the pressures of after-school tutoring, contrasting sharply with the less regulated hagwon industry in South Korea. These changes reflect differing governmental approaches to managing the education sector's challenges and the societal pressures that drive the demand for supplementary education.

In conclusion, while hagwons play a critical role in supporting South Korean students' educational achievements, they also highlight broader societal issues, including the relentless pressure on young people to succeed academically, the financial strain on families, and the deep-seated inequalities within the education system. The debate continues as to how these challenges can be addressed without compromising the quality of education and the well-being of students.

A mukbang (먹방), also translated into an eating show/ eating broadcast in English, is an internet-based audio and visual broadcast where a host consumes a variety of food items while engaging with viewers. The term "mukbang" is a combination of two Korean words: "muk" (먹), meaning "to eat," and "bang" (방), meaning "room" or "broadcast." In essence, mukbang involves hosts broadcasting themselves consuming large amounts of food while engaging with their viewers through live streaming platforms. Mukbang originated in South Korea in the early 2010s, and it quickly gained worldwide popularity by the late 2010s worldwide. Mukbang first got introduced on South Korea’s TV service, AfreecaTV in 2009. It has now become a trend in cable channels, along with social media platforms. Early mukbang videos often featured individuals showcasing their ability to eat large portions of food, ranging from traditional Korean dishes to fast food and exotic cuisines. As viewers tuned in to watch these eating broadcasts, the trend quickly spread across social media platforms like YouTube and Twitch, garnering millions of views and followers.In addition to entertainment, mukbang content sometimes serves an educational purpose, showcasing regional delicacies or highlighting gourmet dining experiences to the audience.

Although mukbangs have gotten popular worldwide, mukbangs have faced criticism about its potential promotion of unhealthy eating habits and food waste. The content's nature can potentially exacerbate disordered eating behaviors in vulnerable individuals. Additionally, mukbang creators themselves face numerous health risks as well. There have been instances of Korean mukbang youtubers that got canceled for faking their content. The most well-known incident was when a popular youtuber, Eat with Boki’s Moon Book he, got exposed for editing her videos to cut the moments where she spits out her food after chewing. She reportedly used a secret signal to make editing clips easier for herself where she subtly held up a finger to indicate a stopping point for the transition. Before this incident, she had about four million subscribers in a little over a year and this incident, along with accepting under the table food sponsorship deals has gotten her canceled from the mukbang scene. 

Viewers find mukbang appealing because of the visual spectacle of watching someone consume vast quantities of food but also in the sense of connection it fosters among viewers. Mukbang hosts often interact with their audience in real-time, responding to comments, answering questions, and even taking food requests. This interactive element creates a sense of intimacy and community, as viewers feel like they're sharing a meal with a friend or loved one, despite being miles apart. As mukbang gained traction globally, it evolved beyond mere eating broadcasts to encompass various themes and formats. Some mukbang creators focus on ASMR elements, which stands for autonomous sensory meridian response, enhancing the auditory experience with sounds of chewing and slurping, while others incorporate storytelling, cooking tutorials, or food challenges into their videos. Mukbang has become not just a form of entertainment but also a platform for exploring cultural cuisines, culinary trends, and personal narratives. In conclusion, Korea's mukbang phenomenon exemplifies the intersection of entertainment, cultural exploration, and digital connectivity through shared experiences of food consumption.