How to really Celebrate Hangul Day: Learn, Dive, and Enjoy!
A Day for Hangul! How to celebrate it properly
October 9 marks a special celebration in Korea – Hangul Day! This day shines a light on Hangul, the Korean alphabet, showcasing its creation by King Sejong the Great in the 15th century. It’s a time to appreciate how Hangul has shaped Korean culture and identity, especially since it made reading and writing accessible to everyone, not just the elite.
The Journey of Hangul
Hangul’s story began in 1443, a revolutionary script designed for simplicity and efficiency. King Sejong’s invention was aimed at giving all Koreans a voice, a radical idea at the time. Despite challenges, Hangul persevered, becoming a national symbol of pride and culture, especially after Korea’s liberation from Japanese rule in 1945. Hangul Day, first celebrated in 1926, honors this enduring legacy.
Jump into Hangul Day Celebrations
1. Learn the Basics of Hangul: One of the best ways to celebrate Hangul Day is to begin learning the Korean alphabet itself. There are countless resources available online, including videos and tutorials, that can help you get started. Familiarizing yourself with Hangul will give you a deeper appreciation for its elegance and simplicity.
2. Play “Speak Only in Korean” Game: If you know Korean, why don’t you challenge yourself to a “Speak Only in Korean” game. This is a popular game played among Koreans, especially as a drinking game(술 게임). You can play it by yourself, but it’s much more fun if you play with your friends. The rules of the game are simple. For a set period of time, all participants are not allowed to speak in any language other than Korean. The instant you speak in another language, you are out of the game. The person who maintains the conversation entirely in Korean until the end wins the game. It’s a fun way to immerse into the language, and I think it’s a great game to play on Hangul Day.
3. Visit Cultural Institutions: Many museums and cultural institutions in South Korea host special exhibitions and events on Hangul Day. These exhibitions often provide insights into the history of Hangul and its evolution over time. Visiting such places can be a great way to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Korea. Below is a list of places that I recommend:
– National Hangeul Museum (국립한글박물관): Located in Seoul, this museum is dedicated to the history and development of Hangul. It features interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, and resources for learning about Hangul.
– King Sejong the Great Memorial Hall (세종대왕기념관): This memorial hall in Seoul is dedicated to King Sejong the Great, who played a pivotal role in the creation of Hangul. It houses exhibitions and displays related to Hangul’s history and the achievements of King Sejong.
– Cheongju Early Printing Museum (청주고인쇄박물관): This museum in Cheongju showcases the history of early printing techniques, including the printing of Hangul. It’s particularly interesting for those interested in the history of Hangul printing.
4. Attend Hangul Day Festivals: Hangul Day is often celebrated with festivals and events across South Korea. These festivals feature various activities, such as calligraphy demonstrations, traditional Korean performances, and food stalls. Attending a local Hangul Day festival can be a fun and educational experience.
One festival you can check out is the Dobong Hangul Festival.
5. Immerse in Korean Culture: How about spending the day challenging yourself to Korean literature or watching Korean movies? Or you could listen to your favorite K-pop song and try translating the Korean words. I personally recommend you trying out <The King’s Letters (나랏말싸미)>. It’s a well-made historical drama revolving around King Sejong the Great’s creation of Hangul and the challenges he faced. It provides a fascinating look at the development of the Korean writing system.
6. Enjoy Korean Cuisine: Food is an essential part of any cultural celebration. On Hangul Day, savor traditional Korean dishes and explore the diverse flavors of Korean cuisine. You might want to try kimchi, bulgogi, bibimbap, or Korean barbecue at a local Korean restaurant.
Hangul Day is more than a holiday; it’s a tribute to Korea’s rich heritage and the power of language to unite a nation. By engaging with Hangul’s history, culture, and, of course, the celebrations, you’re not just observing a day; you’re connecting with the heartbeat of Korea. Whether you’re learning the alphabet, exploring cultural sites, or enjoying Korean cuisine, Hangul Day offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrancy of Korean culture. Let’s celebrate the alphabet that changed a nation and continues to inspire pride in the hearts of Koreans. Here’s to a memorable Hangul Day!
