with HeeSuk Chai

I grew up in Seoul, the capital of South Korea. It’s a bustling city with a large population, numerous cars, and plenty of experiences to enjoy.

I took various classes, including Korean, English, math, social studies, arts, and physical education. I particularly remember the handwriting practice class. At the time, I found it boring, but now I realize it taught me the importance of doing something with sincerity and completing it neatly.

Up until high school, the entire student body would gather on the school field once a week for an assembly. The principal would deliver lectures, and occasionally, students would receive awards for their achievements. We also had physical education classes where students from all grade levels participated together. I remember when we all performed the same dance routine as a group to a song by the popular American pop group, “New Kids on the Block.” Reflecting on these days, I realize that Korean school life taught us the importance of community and the value of working together.

I attended elementary school from 1987 to 1992. I remember the school held an “anti-communist poster contest” every June. Because of the global Cold War and the Korean War being under a truce, these types of contests were quite common back then. I heard there was also an "anti-communist speech contest" for elementary students. Although I can’t remember exactly what I drew or my thoughts about North Korea at the time, it was clear that these contests did not encourage me to have an open mind or curiosity about North Korea. We were taught to see North Korea as the enemy of South Korea without really understanding why. This strong anti-communist stance in education began to slowly fade during the mid-1990s, when South Korea elected a democratic government.

Until then, the South Korean government suppressed activism for democracy and freedom of speech, arguing that civil disturbances could provoke an attack from North Korea. As a result, people who stood up for their beliefs and tried to improve society often had to make significant sacrifices. To outsiders, it might seem that South Koreans are always worried about the threat of war with North Korea. However, many of us are actually unconcerned or indifferent to the ongoing division. I believe South Koreans’ view of North Korea is often more problematic than North Korea itself. Furthermore, as the refugee issue gains international attention, I think South Korean society needs to work harder to accept defectors from North Korea without any discrimination.

I like Kimchi-jjim. “Jjim” means slow cooking. Kimchi-jjim needs just two ingredients: kimchi and protein (usually pork or fish). It resembles a thick stew. The fat from the meat or seafood blends beautifully with the seasoning of the kimchi when cooked, creating a harmonious flavor combination. The kimchi itself keeps a soft yet bold taste. Just the thought of it makes my mouth water!

I liked playing “rubber rope hopping,” a game for two to four players. The defensive players stand a short distance apart and hang elastic rubber bands between them. The attacking team must do a specific dance routine by moving between the rubber bands and singing a song without getting their body tangled in the rubber rope. The mix of dance moves and music makes the game very exciting.

My mom loved the Beatles, so she often listened to their songs while driving. When I got access to MTV, I started exploring music from English and American rock bands. I was drawn to the rich sounds of these bands. I watched many movies on TV or rented videotapes, often several times a week. My mom loved watching TV, while my dad liked rented movies, so I had plenty of chances to see films. I enjoyed all kinds of movies except for action films.

The tailor’s family lived on the second floor, while my family lived on the third floor. We had access to the rooftop, where we once tried to grow pumpkins. Although the pumpkins didn’t produce any fruit, the leaves grew very well. Additionally, something unexpected happened—a plant called “kkamajung” sprouted on its own! These plants are smaller and less sweet than blueberries, but still edible. Living on a main street in the city, I didn’t have much access to nature, so the rooftop experience was very precious to me.

I live in Namyangju-si, in Gyeonggi-do. Gyeonggi-do is a large area around Seoul. It mostly has residential neighborhoods filled with families and children, rather than young people living alone. So, the neighborhood is a mix of houses and schools. Even though South Korea is a small country, Seoul has many job opportunities and cultural spaces, attracting a lot of people to the city. Because of this, the areas around Seoul are constantly growing. With the high population in some places, there are many tall buildings. You might be surprised by the impressive skyline that stretches from Seoul to Gyeonggi-do.

Korea is a lively place where many people work hard and take pride in what they achieve. Koreans enjoy socializing, often by eating and singing together—no wonder we have K-pop! I think it’s unique that Koreans often use the word “we” or “our” to emphasize community. For example, we say “our house” or “our mom” instead of “my house” or “my mom.”

This energy is especially clear when people gather in the square during times of social problems, showing their unity for justice. At this moment, while I’m writing this message, South Korea is facing another challenge to its democracy. But the people are peacefully protesting in the streets and squares to protect the democracy they worked so hard to win. We know well that democracy is a constant struggle. I hope you will support us as we gather in the square to help each other and make the country better for everyone.