When the New Year begins, many people set new resolutions and goals. However, these resolutions often do not last long and quickly lose momentum. In Korea, there is a term that describes this phenomenon: “Jakshim Samil (作心三日).” This phrase literally means “a determined mind lasts only three days,” humorously capturing the tendency for resolutions to…
Sejong Annual Year Plan
2025 We are open every day except Fridays, and the following holidays / designated school breaks! 2024 We are open every day except Fridays, and the following holidays / designated school breaks! 2023 We are open every day except Fridays, and the following holidays / designated school breaks! 2022
Squid Game: Anticipating Season 2
In 2021, Netflix’s Squid Game became a global sensation, bringing Korean dramas into the spotlight. With its intense survival games and social commentary, the show left a strong impression. Now, Season 2 is set to premiere on December 26. Here’s a quick look back at Season 1 and why it became so popular. Squid…
The Korean SAT: A Serious Test with Some Fun Superstitions
In South Korea, the College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT), known as Suneung (수능), is a significant milestone each November, shaping students’ university prospects and even influencing their future careers. Similar to Singapore’s A-Levels, it’s a high-stakes test that demands years of preparation and countless hours of study. At Singapore Korean Language School, we understand the…
Golden Bell Challenge: Test Your Knowledge of Korea!
‘Challenge Golden Bell’ is a quiz program aired on KBS in South Korea, where middle and high school students compete, and only the last person standing earns the honor of ringing the “Golden Bell.” The show is typically held in school auditoriums or special venues, where students gather to solve quiz questions together. Each participant…
Trash Balloons and Broadcasts to North Korea: A New Conflict in Inter-Korean Relations
South Korea and North Korea have repeatedly sought peace and cooperation through various dialogues in the past, but tensions and conflicts continue to arise. In 2018, the summit between President Moon Jae-in and Chairman Kim Jong-un raised hopes for peace on the Korean Peninsula. However, the stalemate in denuclearization talks and military clashes have since…
Independence Day and Taegukgi: Their Significance
Singapore observes its National Day on August 9th each year. On this day in 1965, Singapore gained its independence from Malaysia. For the people of Singapore, it is a momentous day full of pride, happiness, and festivities. August holds great significance for Koreans as well, since August 15th is their Independence Day. South Korea…
Surviving the Korean Summer: Boknal Traditions and Activities
Boknal is the hottest period during the Korean summer, divided into Chobok (the first hot day), Jungbok (the middle hot day), and Malbok (the last hot day) between July and August each year. In 2024, Chobok falls on July 15, Jungbok on July 25, and Malbok on August 14. Chobok marks the beginning of the…
Understanding Korea’s National Vocational Training Card and Singapore’s SkillsFuture
Korea’s National Vocational Training Card System (내일배움카드) and Singapore’s SkillsFuture are similar initiatives that promote lifelong learning and skill development for its citizens. With the National Vocational Training Card, workers and job seekers can get up to 3 million KRW in educational support, which they can use to enrol in a variety of courses like…
May: A Month to Celebrate Family and Relationships in Korea
May is aptly referred to as the Month of Family in Korea. With a slew of holidays such as Children’s Day, Parents’ Day, and Teachers’ Day, it’s a time for families to gather together in celebration and sincere gestures. Imagine the streets filled with the sound of children laughing, the aroma of fresh flowers, and…