Our latest installment of our kids' magazine explores the remarkable story of the Korean peninsula. In Issue 27 | Between Republics, kids can uncover the lasting legacy of Korean history and culture, from the creation of Hangul to the rise of K-Pop.
With this issue, we were lucky enough to work with many incredible academics and experts. We want to thank our advisor, Minyoung Song, and her colleagues at the University of Michigan’s Nam Center for Korean Studies for their guidance and contributions.
As always, we’re sharing additional resources to help kids and parents dive deeper into Korea’s rich history.
Researchers and Aspiring Academics
Use these academic texts to research the topics in Issue 27 | Between Republics.
The Korean Alphabet: Its History and Structure by Young-Key Kim-Renaud: Did you enjoy learning about Hangul in Issue 27? Discover the history and structure of the Korean alphabet with this detailed resource. It explores the science behind its creation and features a section on Hangul’s famed inventor, King Sejong.
Korea’s Divided Families: Fifty Years of Separation by James Foley: This book is essential for understanding the Korean War's lasting consequences. Foley’s work brings to light the deeply personal stories of families separated for decades due to war. It offers students a powerful perspective on a conflict that continues to shape the Korean peninsula.
K-Pop: Popular Music, Cultural Amnesia, and Economic Innovation in South Korea by John Lie: Curious to learn more about K-Pop? This book provides a scholarly look into the popular subject. Explore the rise of the musical tradition, its cultural significance, and its role in South Korea's economy.
The Jamnyo of Jeju, The Women Divers of Korea and Neo-Confucianism, a Dual Mythology by Ok-Kyung Pak: In Issue 27, the anthropologist Ok-Kyung Park introduced young historians to the remarkable world of Jeju’s haenyeo. Park’s academic research is the perfect place to start for those looking to dive deeper. Her book explores the female divers’ unique social role and traditions in Korean society.
“Haenyeo preparing for the dive” by Hans Hillewaert is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.
Parents and Educators
We’ve put together free, digital resources to help you create lesson plans for your home or classroom.
The Korea Society: The Korea Society's educational resources offer a wealth of information for learners of all ages. You can find lesson plans on history, art, geography, and culture. This is a great starting point for anyone looking to teach or learn about the Korean peninsula.
Korean Cultural Center, NY: Here’s another helpful resource for parents and educators. The Korean Cultural Center in New York provides accessible learning resources that cover various aspects of Korean culture, from history and language to art and cuisine.
World History Digital Education: This online resource offers a range of lesson plans on topics including geography, religion, economic development, culture, history, and the Korean War. You can search the WHDE lesson plans by grade level and topic to find the right fit for your classroom. We recommend this set of free social studies resources, created in partnership with the National Council for Social Studies.
Google Arts and Culture: Explore the DMZ: In Issue 27, we explored the complex legacy of the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). Here’s a great educational tool for kids interested in learning more. The digital exhibit offers a unique virtual experience where kids can uncover the history, nature, and heritage sites of the area.
Map of the Korean peninsula showing the DMZ. Photo from Wiki Commons.
Young Historians
Explore the history and culture of the Korean peninsula with these engaging children’s books.
King Sejong Invents the Alphabet by Carol Kim, illustrated by Cindy Kang: This children's book tells the story of King Sejong's creation of Hangul, the Korean alphabet. Both accessible and engaging, this picture book is a great way to introduce younger children to the history of the Korean language.
My Freedom Trip: A Child’s Escape from North Korea by Frances Park and Ginger Park, Illustrated by Debra Reid-Jenkins: This moving children's book recounts a young child's harrowing escape from North Korea. The story is based on the memories of the author’s mother, who journeyed to South Korea before the outbreak of the Korean War. The book offers a thoughtful way to teach kids about the complex history of the Korean peninsula.
Tomorrow Is New Year's Day: Seollal, a Korean Celebration of the Lunar New Year by Aram Kim: Celebrate the vibrant traditions of Seollal, the Korean Lunar New Year, with this heartwarming children's book. The joyful story provides a fun and educational way for kids to learn about Korean culture, complete with a glossary of terms and pronunciation guide.
The Royal Diaries: Sŏndŏk, Princess of the Moon and Stars by Sheri Holman: Jump into Korea’s ancient history with this historical fiction novel. Aimed at ages 9–12, the story explores the fascinating life of Korea’s first ruling queen: Seondeok of Silla. Kids get a glimpse into daily life during the seventh century and discover Seondeok’s enduring legacy.
