Photo Credit = X On December 3, 2024, South Korea was once again caught in the midst of a great historical upheaval. President Yoon Suk-yeol declared martial law under the pretext of national security, and the military seized control of major cities. Freedoms of assembly and expression were suppressed, and the daily lives of citizens were strictly monitored. Yet, even under such control, there was a generation determined not to remain silent: South Korea's MZ generation. The MZ generation found their own unique way of resisting—not through traditional means, but with lightsticks in hand, illuminating the darkness of oppression and showing their support for democracy. Lightsticks, symbols of the K-POP fandom, had long represented the unity and passion of music lovers. But that night, they took on a far greater meaning. They became a symbol of hope and support for democracy. In the streets of Seoul, citizens gathered with their lightsticks, creating a stunning display of diversity an...
Photo Credit = Pixabay The College Scholastic Ability Test, commonly known as the CSAT or "Suneung," is one of the most important exams in South Korea, taken by hundreds of thousands of students each year. This test serves as a crucial assessment for college admissions and plays a central role in the Korean education system. The Suneung is often referred to as the "once-in-a-lifetime exam," as it significantly impacts students' futures and career paths, going beyond mere academic evaluation. The Suneung is typically held in November and covers major subjects including Korean, Mathematics, English, and various social or scientific electives. The exam is divided into multiple subjects, each administered at specific times. Many students invest several months or even years in thorough preparation. During this time, they often attend private academies and engage in self-directed study while forming study groups with friends to support and compete with each other. T...