Culture plays an important role in fostering mutual understanding and appreciation among diverse communities. As part of our commitment to promoting cultural exchange, the Foreign Language UKM “SAFEL” organized an event called Culture in Action, which this year focused on traditional South Korean culture. This year’s theme was “Back of Youth: Reviving Cultural Through Traditional Korean Games.” The event aimed to introduce participants to traditional Korean games, language, and traditions in a fun and engaging way, and offer an educational and cultural experience. Culture in Action was successfully held on September 29, 2024, at the Student Center UNY, on the 3rd floor. The event was organized by the CCU-LM Department, which is responsible for cross-cultural understanding and learning media programs.
Participants included both the SAFEL crew and members, who were eager to learn more about South Korea’s rich cultural heritage. The event kicked off with an engaging sharing session featuring a special guest, Bian or Kim Boyeon, who came from South Korea. Bian provided valuable insights into South Korean culture, including its historical background, traditions, and modern lifestyle. This interactive session called “Sharing session” allowed participants to ask questions and explore the nuances of South Korean culture directly. These sharing sessions not only served as a platform for cultural exchange but also encouraged open dialog between participants and speakers guided by a moderator.
After the “sharing session”, a traditional South Korean game-making session was introduced. Two popular South Korean games were introduced: Jegichagi (제기차기) and Ddakji (딱지). The session started with a hands-on activity where participants made their own Jegi and Ddakji using simple materials provided by the organizers. Once the games were ready, participants competed against each other, having previously learned the history, rules, and techniques of these games. Jegichagi is similar to Sepak takraw, where players attempt to keep a small object in the air using their feet. Ddakji, on the other hand, involves flipping a folded paper disk by hitting it with another paper disk, a game that requires skill and strategy.
The event also featured a Hangul writing session led by Bian, where participants learned the Korean alphabet and its history. In this session, participants tried to write their Hangul name using ink and paper given. This activity connected participants with Korean culture through language, an important cultural element. The final activity was Mugunghwa kkoci pieot seumnida or in English Red Light, Green Light, a traditional Korean game. This game provided a fun, active conclusion to the day, allowing participants to experience a well-known part of Korean childhood. Culture in Action succeeded in introducing South Korean culture to SAFEL’s crew and members. The interactive games, language learning, and group activities gave participants a hands-on experience of South Korean traditions. 
Special thanks are extended to those who helped with the planning, setup, and execution of CIA 2024. All of your dedication was remarkable in creating a memorable experience in this event.
-Riri
