End-of-School Celebrations: Traditions from South Korea
Hello, fellow parents who are curious about the diverse cultures and practices around the world! As the end of the school year draws near, excitement fills the air for our children, heralding the onset of warm and thrilling summer adventures.
Ever pondered how students in South Korea bid adieu to their academic terms? Today, I’m thrilled to share my personal journey through the end-of-semester rituals in Korean lower schools. Since 1995, the academic year in Korean lower schools has typically spanned from April to September for the first semester, and October to March for the second. Interestingly, our summer and winter vacations align closely in duration with those in many other countries. Summer holidays fall between July and August, while winter breaks extend from December to January.
Upon relocating to Finland, I was taken aback by the disparity in academic schedules. Finnish schools boast a lengthier summer break, stretching from early June to August, while winter vacations are comparatively shorter, lasting around two weeks between December and January. This revelation was quite surprising, given my preconceived notions of Finland as a wintry wonderland. However, experiencing Finland's delightful blend of sunny summers and snowy winters broadened my appreciation for extended vacation periods. End-of-semester festivities in Korea were always brimming with excitement, albeit tinged with the diligence of exam preparations. While end-of-semester exams were a staple during my schooling days, they have since been phased out for lower and middle school students since 2019. Nonetheless, I vividly recall poring over textbooks alongside my grandmother, mastering essential concepts and strategizing for challenging exam questions.
But amidst the academic hustle, vacations in Korea were an enchanting blend of family bonding and exploration. From cherished moments with friends and relatives to a plethora of engaging activities, my vacation experiences were diverse and enriching. However, looming over these joyous moments was the ubiquitous "banghak homework" – assignments designed to reinforce learning during the break.
Banghak homework encompassed a myriad of tasks, from practicing language skills to delving into scientific explorations. One recurring assignment that sparked joy was the drawing diary—a delightful endeavor where students illustrated memorable vacation moments and penned accompanying narratives. Equipped with specialized diary notebooks, students chronicled their adventures, receiving personalized feedback from teachers upon their return.
Reflecting on my formative years in Korean lower school, these memories of end-of-term traditions and vacation escapades hold a special place in my heart. As educational practices evolve, I'm keenly intrigued by the experiences of present-day students in South Korea. I trust this glimpse into Korean school culture has piqued your curiosity and enriched your understanding of global educational landscapes.
Chris Hong, Game Designer at Moi Panda
