National Symbols & Identity of Korea

Worldwide, countries use various symbols and ways of expressing their identity as a unique nation. Flags, songs, flowers and monuments are all ways to represent the people of a particular country. National identity and the symbols which nations use to express their ideals are explored on pp 16-19 of Voices & Values: Citizenship in Asia. The national flag and national flower of Korea are used as examples.

Visit the following websites to find out about more about the ideals of the people of Korea, their constitution and hopes for a re-unified Korea.

1 Korean holidays

http://www.lifeinkorea.com/calendar/holidays.cfm

What do Korean national holidays indicate about what the people value?
Make a list of Australian national holidays. Are there similarities between these and the Korean holidays? What do they tell us about what we value?
In small groups, create a new national holiday for Australia. What should it celebrate and why should it be a national holiday? Present your case.

2 The Korean constitution

http://www.oefre.unibe.ch/law/icl/ks00000_.html

Using the description of the Constitution, create a hanging mobile which highlights aspects of the constitution.
List the citizen rights that the Korean Constitution guarantees. Select one of these rights and develop a speech or presentation exploring why such a right would be important to Koreans.

3 Reunification

http://www.koreascope.org/english/sub/3/ks3.htm

Read the information provided in the article 'Seoul's Fundamental Concept of Unification'.
When and why did North and South Korea divide?
Write a brief newspaper column reporting how it is hoped that unification of the North and South will occur and outlining the principles of reunification?
Design a reunification banner or emblem, to be used at all government meetings, using the policy slogan: 'peace, reconciliation and cooperation' as the motto of the emblem.
Draw a diagram which illustrates the programs of the North-South Agreement.
Hold a class forum to discuss what factors might prevent the reunification of Korea.
In small groups, discuss and outline what national symbols would need to change in the event of reunification. Consider what new national symbols could be adopted to reflect a reunified Korea?

Voices & Values | Citizenship | Environment | National Identity
Access Asia | Resources

vests in Curriculum Corporation and The University of Melbourne.

http://www.asiaeducation.edu.au/voices/national/natstud2.htm