Episode 5: Games and Nostalgia – A Deep Dive into Korean Childhood Traditions 🎮🇰🇷

In today’s newsletter:

• Rock-Paper-Scissors One-Out (가위바위보 하나빼기): Discover the regional variations and songs that add unique charm to this beloved game. 🎵✋

• The History of Korea’s School Sports Day: How it began and its evolution into a cherished tradition. 🏅

• Traditional Games Explained: Learn the rules of Ttakji-Chigi, Biseok-Chigi, Gonggi, Paeng-i Doligi, and Jegichagi. 🎯 

• The Origins of 둥글게 둥글게 (Round and Round): The nostalgic story behind this classic song. 🎶

KOREAN CULTURE

Rock-Paper-Scissors One-Out (가위바위보 하나빼기) 🎵

In Korea, this game is more than just quick reflexes—it’s a cultural experience enhanced by unique regional songs. Before the game starts, players chant localized lyrics that reflect their hometown’s flavor:

• Seoul & Incheon:
  "감자에 싹이 나서 잎이나서 묵찌빠! 하나 빼기!"
  (gma ja-e ssak-i na-seo, ip-i na-seo, muk-ji, bba, hana-bbae-gi, il!)

• Chungcheongnam-do:
  "감자에 싹이 나서, 잎이 나서, 감자, 감자, 뿅!"
  (gma ja-e ssak-i na-seo, ip-i na-seo, gma ja, gma ja, bbong!)

• Gyeongnam:
  "감자에 싹이 나서 잎사귀에 고구마 고구마씨! 하나 빼기!"
  (gma ja-e ssak-i na-seo, ip-i na-seo, go-gu-ma,go-gu-ma ssi hana bbae-gi!)

• Jeollanam-do:
  "감자에 싹이 나서, 잎이 나서, 싹 싹 싹"
  (gma ja-e ssak-i na-seo, ip-i na-seo, ssak ssak ssak!)

These chants give a playful twist to the game and bring in local cultural nuances. Simple yet charming, they turn an everyday activity into a shared nostalgic memory.

The History of Korea’s School Sports Day 🏅

Known as 운동회 (Undonghoe), school sports day began during the Japanese colonial era (1910–1945) as a means to promote physical fitness. By the 1960s, it had transformed into vibrant community events where families gathered to cheer for their children.

These events often featured not just athletic competitions but also group games, performances, and traditional activities, making them a vital part of Korean culture. While less common today, sports days remain a nostalgic memory for many.

Games of the Schoolyard – Rules and How to Play 🎯

Korea’s traditional games are as rich in culture as they are in fun. Here’s how to play some of the classics:

1️⃣ Ttakji-Chigi (딱지치기):

• Fold a square paper tile (ttakji) into a sturdy, stackable piece.

• Slam your tile onto your opponent’s to flip it over.

• The player who flips the most tiles wins!

2️⃣ Biseok-Chigi (비석치기):

• Stack a small stone upright as the target.

• Players take turns throwing stones to knock it down.

• Pro tip: Step carefully—stepping over the line disqualifies your turn!

  

3️⃣ Gonggi (공기놀이):
Played with five small stones, Gonggi has multiple levels of difficulty:

• Level 1: Toss one stone in the air and pick up one at a time.

• Level 2: Toss one stone and pick up two at a time.

• Level 3: Pick up three stones, then one.

• Level 4: Grab all four stones at once.

• Final Stage (꺾기): Flip your hand over, balance stones on the back, and catch them all!

  

4️⃣ Paeng-i Doligi (팽이돌리기):

• Wind a string around the top (paeng-i).

• Throw it to the ground and pull the string to keep it spinning.

• The player whose top spins the longest wins.

5️⃣ Jegichagi (제기차기):

• Kick a weighted object (jegi) into the air repeatedly without letting it touch the ground.

• This game tests your balance, rhythm, and stamina!

The Origins of 둥글게 둥글게 (Round and Round) 🎶

A staple of Korean playgrounds and school events, "둥글게 둥글게" originated in the 1960s. Its lyrics encourage unity and teamwork, making it a favorite at community gatherings:

This song was often paired with circle games, symbolizing harmony and cooperation among participants. It remains an enduring piece of childhood nostalgia, still sung by kids today.

Your Conversation Starter 💬

Bring these nostalgic games into your next chat with friends:

• "Did you know Rock-Paper-Scissors One-Out has different songs depending on the region in Korea? Which version would you sing before starting the game?"

• Follow up with: "What was your favorite schoolyard game growing up? Would you try Ttakji-Chigi or Gonggi if you had the chance?"

These simple questions are sure to spark fun, laughter, and a trip down memory lane!

Coming Up Next: Episode 6! 🥢🔥

Ever wondered why Koreans eat spicy food when they’re stressed? Or why certain dishes are considered “healing food”?

In Episode 7, we’ll explore:
🍜 The psychology behind spicy food cravings.
🔥 How Korean comfort foods like tteokbokki and samgyetang became cultural staples.
💡 The connection between food, nostalgia, and emotional well-being in Korea.

👉 Stay tuned—it’s going to be spicy, hearty, and delicious! 🔥