Hi buddies! I’m Diana Zhanakulova, a senior student at Solbridge International School of Business, located in the heart of South Korea, in Daejeon. This semester, I had the incredible opportunity to take the course Contemporary Korean Culture taught by the amazing and professional Professor Johan Reiners. I’m thrilled to share my experience and recommend this class to all Solbridgers, especially those interested in Korean culture.

Why Take This Course?

If you’ve ever wanted to dive deep into Korean culture, history, and society, this course is a fantastic starting point. Designed for students who may not have prior knowledge of Korea, it provides a comprehensive overview of the country’s traditions, beliefs, etiquette, modern society, and more. Even local Korean students join this class, which speaks to its depth and engaging nature.

What I Learned

The course covers a wide array of topics, starting with ancient Korean history and leading up to modern societal structures. Some highlights include:

• Ancient Korean myths and legendary figures.
• The concept of "bone and spoon classes" (a reference to social stratification).
• The evolution of religions in Korea, such as Shamanism, Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism.
• Modern societal trends, including the rise of K-culture (K-pop, dramas, and movies).

As someone who has lived in Korea for over two years, I thought I already knew a lot about the culture. However, this class introduced me to fascinating new insights that deepened my understanding and appreciation of Korean traditions and their global influence.

Course Structure

The class is held once a week for three hours, which allows for in-depth discussions and explorations of the topics. Professor Johan Reiners brings a wealth of knowledge and personal anecdotes to the lectures, making them highly engaging and relatable. His long-term experience of living and teaching in Korea adds a unique perspective to the material.

Assignments

1. Cultural Identity Paper: An individual assignment where students describe their cultural identity through a mind map. This was a reflective and eye-opening exercise that encouraged me to think deeply about my own culture and beliefs.
2. Team Project: A group assignment where students choose a topic covered in class, conduct research, and present their findings. My partner and I explored the global impact of Korean movies and dramas, which was both fun and educational.

Exams

The exams consist of 40 True/False questions for both midterms and finals. They are straightforward and assess basic understanding of the course content. If you keep up with the lectures and readings, you’ll find the exams manageable.

My Overall Experience

This course exceeded my expectations in every way. Even as someone familiar with Korean culture, I learned so much more about the nuances of its history and modern-day dynamics. Professor Reiners’ teaching style is approachable and interactive, and he ensures that every student feels included and valued.