Korean Job Discussion Forums

[whatever]

None of my students, not even the most traveled and advanced, are aware of much of the modern history of South Korea. That's okay, as most will learn of it someday (in depth, I hope), but I don't want them to get all swept up in nationalistic fervor as the World Cup takes place without cautioning them that many countries friendly to theirs are also competing.

I expect and want them to pull 110% for S. Korea, but I want them to remember that it's only soccer/football, and sportsmanship is particularly important in international events such as this. Even if their posititve or negative behavior is only exposed to other Koreans, they've much to learn about respecting other nationalities, countries, cultures, visitors, expatriates, trade partners and in some cases, people who've sacrificed for their well-being, or those of their forebearers.

Take Greece for example, the first opening round opponent. One of my responsibilities is teaching basic world geography, which the students enjoy greatly, as do I. We plan engaging lessons highlighting some of the more colorful cultures, landmarks and cities, and historical achievements of countries around the world. We discussed Greece a few months ago, before the WC draw was announced. The response from the students was positive, intellectually curious, and respectful. A framed picture of the Parthenon is on the wall of the classroom...

...Well, we talked about the workings of the World Cup last week, group play, the opponents and so forth. The reaction from most of the kids was instant and profoundly negative. Greece and Greeks were no longer interesting, they were hostile. Their achievements in the world were no longer valid, they were exaggerated and falsehoods (I might add that we amply, consistently, and gradually over time remind or reveal cool stuff about Korea and its past so they don't feel wierd liking what others have or have done)...hell, even the Parthenon was no longer cool, it was dirty. One student said she'd never be friends with a Greek person if they won the upcoming match. Sheeesh...

I gave them a day to cool off and gathered my facts about the Greek Expeditionary Forces contributions to S. Korea's defense in the Korean War. Here's a starter link: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greek_Expeditionary_Force_(Korea) ...they did a lot of good, and sustained not a few casualties.

They changed thier minds almost instantly, to my relief. I reminded them that the Greeks had fought an awful civil war just prior to their involvement in Korea, and that they surely empathized with the Koreans seeking peace and self-governance. In a way, they had an unfortunate, grave, and fateful brotherhood. I also mentioned how the two countries have remained friends since the conflict and how the Greek forces have been memorialized in Korea, if they ever get the chance to go and check it out (in Daegu particularly, as well as Seoul)...

I also mentioned how fellow WC competitors' forebearers, including many family members of the very people who now teach them here, also made similar sacrifices. In order of qualification for the event, they include:

France
New Zealand
United States
England (UK)
Netherlands
Australia
...as well as others with financial or logistical support

Their minds were blown. They'd never heard of such a thing. Gladly, they listened carefully and took it to heart. I also mentioned that most of the other competing countries had friendly relations with S. Korea and were in cultural exchange programs or were trading partners.

I didn't expect them to know any of this, of course. But, I'm glad I had the chance to, and in a way since I teach them the subjects that I do, maybe they sensed some extra credibility in me, I don't know...

I was very pleased with recovering the positive attitude they had held before. I was proud of them for having an open mind.

Why not try and see what you can do for your students, in whatever way befits their age, level, and interests, to mitigate any possible unhealthy ideas they might develop out of ignorance, or worse the ignorance of other influential people in their lives?

Cheers, and good luck to Korea and your favorite team! Let's hope for a safe and healthy event for all competitors and their fans around the world.

[whatever]

...Interestingly (and surprisingly), my Korean co-teacher told me at lunch today that she's sort of broached the subject of S. Korea not winning the whole thing with the kids. She wanted them to look forward to the event and expressing patriotism, but didn't want them to take it too hard if they fall short of the title.

She re-explained the format and told them that advancing out of the group is a more realistic goal, and something to be proud of if it happens. While I agree with her analysis, I'm not sure if bridling their enthusiasm before the WC begins is so important. I'm quite sure none of them will dwell on disappointment with the Korean team for very long, unlike some adults.

I sort of feel like a 'sky's the limit' enthusiasm at this point is healthy. I want them to be stoked...I am. What do you think?

[Hardy Boy]

whatever

[jdog2050]

[jammo]

flippin ell.

[Waluigi]

[WTP Trust]

As soon as Korea's out of the Cup (first round) the kids will have lost interest in both the Cup and any of the countries and/or significant facts you have taught them and will go about their business of computer games and boy/girl K-poop bands.
Nice to be idealistic, not matter how lofty the intentions are though.

[oskinny1]

[oldfatfarang]

Hi Whatever. Great post, and a really good teaching moment.

Not sure where you are based, but if you ever need some photgraphic proof of the contribution that many countries made to saving the South Koreans from their brothers, go to the Nakdong Bridge (at Waegwan - near Daegu).

The International Forces held the North Korean advance on this bridge. It's been preserved in it's partly damaged state as a reminder of the battle fought there. Last year, the individual countries that fought with South Korea were honored with plaques on the bridge. Each plaque shows the countries name, flag, and the number of citizens from that country that fought in the war.

What I found surprising, was that Thai and Philipine forces fought to help South Korea, and that this sacrifice doesn't seem to be appreciated by many Koreans.

On a side note, when fishing below the Nakdong bridge, I once found an army clip of bullets. These bullets had never been fired, and were covered in rust. They must have been dug up in the recent 'Four Rivers' (Bank Accounts) project.

[atwood]

Are you teaching world geography or preaching?

Why not just have them hold hands and sing?

Kumbaya, my Lord, Kumbaya...

[TheUrbanMyth]

Kinda of funny how people complain that Koreans aren't friendly towards foreigners...but the moment someone tries to attempt to alleviate that in their own small way, people jump all over them.

Kudos to you OP.

[kiknkorea]

[shcforward]

Great job OP.

[atwood]

[kiknkorea]