On January 25, 2025, educators, community leaders, and members of the Hwarang Youth Foundation gathered at the Korean Education Center in Los Angeles for the “Spreading South Korea’s Development” seminar. The event explored South Korea’s extraordinary transformation from a war-torn nation to a global powerhouse, offering attendees a chance to engage with its rich history, culture, and modern accomplishments. The seminar began by focusing on South Korea’s rapid economic development, examining how the country rose from the devastation of the Korean War to become one of the world’s most advanced economies. The discussions expanded to include the cultural elements that shaped South Korea, emphasizing how traditions, language, and values influenced the nation’s success. One of the seminar’s most engaging aspects involved traditional Korean games, many of which gained global attention through the hit series Squid Game. Attendees participated in a game called Mingle, where participants walked in a circle and formed groups based on numbers called out by the facilitator. This activity not only offered a fun, interactive experience, but also provided deeper insight into Korea's traditional pastimes and their evolution in contemporary culture. It gave participants an opportunity to reflect on the intersection of Korea’s rich heritage with the modern world, where traditional games found new relevance in global media. A key highlight of the seminar featured the unveiling of a book created by the Hwarang Youth Foundation. Written by the youth members of the Foundation, [the book] combined historical, cultural, and modern-day perspectives on South Korea, reflecting the diverse knowledge gained while researching the nation’s development. Student speakers presented key themes from the book, sharing insights on Korea’s unique traditions, historical milestones, and the rapid economic transformation that unfolded over the past few decades. Through this project, young participants not only explored their heritage but also gained a sense of ownership over their country’s narrative, making the seminar deeply personal and educational. The seminar’s focus on youth involvement underscored the importance of cultural knowledge in shaping future leaders. The Hwarang Youth Foundation, known for its commitment to empowering youth through cultural education, highlighted how understanding one’s heritage proves essential for navigating the complexities of the modern world. This theme of cultural knowledge resonated throughout the event, particularly during discussions on how South Korean culture shaped global trends. K-pop, for example, exploded internationally, transcending language barriers and setting new standards for music production, choreography, and fan engagement. Similarly, South Korean cinema, with international successes like Squid Game and The Glory, reshaped global perceptions of storytelling, showing how unique cultural narratives can captivate a worldwide audience. The seminar also explored South Korea’s leadership in technology, with discussions on innovations in consumer electronics and digital infrastructure. These technological advancements propelled the country to the forefront of the global economy, while positioning it as a cultural and technological trendsetter. As the event concluded, attendees walked away with a renewed appreciation for South Korea’s development, both past and present. Ultimately, the seminar successfully highlighted the ways South Korea’s history, culture, and technological innovations continue to shape its global influence, while also fostering a deeper understanding of how the younger generation plays a vital role in carrying forward this legacy.
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