The West Sea's Own Dokdo: Meet Gyeokryeolbiyeoldo

By Seung-hyun Oh, Taean High SchoolDo you know the three small islands that guard the West Sea?What is Gyeokryeolbiyeoldo?About a two-hour boat ride west of Anheung Port in Taean, three small islands sit in a neat row: Bukgyeokryeolbido, Donggyeokryeolbido, and Seogyeokryeolbido. Born from volcanic activity some 70 million years ago, they're named for their resemblance to wild geese flying in formation — Gyeokryeolbiyeoldo, "the islands where geese fly in a line."Every year, July 4 is "Gyeokryeolbiyeoldo Day," marking the date in 2022 when the government designated the islands' port as a state-managed coastal port. Since 2024, Taean has thrown a proper festival for it. No one lives on these islands, and most people have never heard the name, but Taean has good reason to make a fuss.Why It Matters: Economic and Diplomatic ImportanceGyeokryeolbiyeoldo islands aren't just beautiful, uninhabited islands. They’re some of the baseline islands that define South Korea's territorial waters, sitting right at the edge of the exclusive economic zone — a genuine front line for national security and maritime sovereignty.It's economically appealing too. The surrounding waters are rich in fish, and the scenery — shared with nearby islands like Ongdo, Nando, and Byeongpungdo — gives it real tourism potential. The government plans to spend about 47.8 billion won by 2030 on a pier, breakwater, and helicopter pad.Diplomatically, there was a genuinely nerve-wracking moment: word got out that Chinese buyers had tried to purchase Seogyeokryeolbido, which is privately owned. Buying land doesn't hand over sovereignty, but the episode was a wake-up call about how seriously border islands need to be managed. That's why Taean's county council now calls Gyeokryeolbiyeoldo the "Dokdo of the West Sea" and is pushing for special national legislation and support.Marine Ecological DesignationLately, Gyeokryeolbiyeoldo has been in the news for a different reason. The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries recently designated a 1,050.18 km² zone — covering the waters around Gyeokryeolbiyeoldo along with Daeryeongdo, Gadeokdo, and Mokdeokdo near Incheon — as a new marine protected area, the second-largest in the country.The waters are a prime habitat for the finless porpoise, an endangered small whale, and a resting spot for seabirds like the Rhinoceros Auklet and Streaked Shearwater. It's a move that also feeds into the global "30-by-30" push to protect 30% of the ocean by 2030.Suggestion: So, What's Next?Being uninhabited makes Gyeokryeolbiyeoldo genuinely hard to manage — there's no proper docking facility yet, and no dedicated national management system in place. Figuring out how to grow tourism there while still protecting the ecosystem is the real challenge ahead. How about visiting Gyeokryeolbiyeoldo yourself?

Generative AI in the Classroom: Learning Assistant or Crutch?

By Hye-yeong Chung, Onyang Girls' High SchoolAs generative AI becomes common in high school study, it is changing how students learn while raising concerns about overreliance on technology.These days, it is easy to spot students using generative AI to study in schools. In the past, students often searched the internet or asked their teachers and friends directly when faced with unfamiliar concepts. Recently, however, a growing number of students are turning to AI platforms like ChatGPT and Gemini to grasp complex ideas or verify step-by-step problem-solving processes. While AI is gradually reshaping students' learning methods, concerns regarding its proper use are also surfacing.The primary reasons students turn to AI are time efficiency and convenience. AI can re-explain difficult concepts tailored to an individual’s learning level, translate English sentences, and organize ideas for performance assessments. During exam periods, many students rely on AI to study topics they find challenging. As it allows users to access needed information rapidly, more and more students are adopting AI as a supplementary learning tool.However, the technology cannot be viewed entirely through a positive lens. Students may develop a habit of copying AI-generated content directly for assignments or simply checking answers without engaging in deeper critical thinking, leading to overreliance. Furthermore, since the information provided by AI is not always accurate, cross-referencing with other reliable sources remains essential. Ultimately, how appropriately AI is utilized will determine its effectiveness in learning.Students hold diverse perspectives on this issue. A 2nd-year student at Onyang Girls' High School who's interested in digital media emphasized the growing necessity of media literacy education in the AI era. "As the number of students using AI increases, media literacy education becomes paramount," she noted. "Rather than blindly trusting AI-generated responses, students need to cultivate the ability to verify facts and compare multiple sources. If schools provide structured guidance, students will be able to use AI much more responsibly."On the other hand, another 1st-year student from the same school shared how actively using AI has benefited her self-directed learning, especially without private tutoring. "I study mostly on my own without attending private academies, so whenever I hit a wall, I ask AI to clarify things for me," she explained. "I also use it frequently to gather materials and brainstorm for performance evaluations. While it cannot fully replace human instruction, it serves as an invaluable tool for students studying independently." Although these two students view AI from different angles, both agree that when used correctly, AI can exert a positive influence on education.Educators also suggest that AI should be treated as a supportive guide rather than a tool that merely hands out answers. Maximum educational benefits are achieved when students first use AI to understand fundamental concepts, and then review textbooks and reference materials to solve problems independently. In the end, AI holds the greatest value not when it studies for students, but when it empowers students in their own learning journeys.AI technology will undoubtedly become more embedded in educational settings. Rather than unconditionally adopting or completely rejecting this new technology, students should proactively leverage its advantages while critically addressing its limitations. What is truly essential in the age of AI is not merely the skill to operate AI, but the capacity to critically comprehend and wisely evaluate information.

Hongseong High School Explores Humanities Through Five Senses

By Tae-il Ju, Hongseong High SchoolHongseong High School hosted its 2026 Humanities Education Week from July 14 to July 15, offering students an immersive cultural experience that brought literature, music, and art to life across campus.Sensory Stage Performances Highlight Day OneThe festival opened on July 14 in the school auditorium with dynamic visual and acoustic performances tailored for different grade levels. During the morning sessions from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM, second-year students attended Yun Dong-ju Literary Restaurant, a dramatic poem-recitation performance presented by the Chungcheongnam-do Office of Education Student Education Cultural Center. The theatrical interpretation seamlessly combined poetry readings with stage acting, allowing students to connect deeply with the historical spirit, emotional depth, and poetic legacy of Yun Dong-ju.Later that afternoon, from 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM, first-year students enjoyed Concert Humanities with Opera led by professional vocalists Jang Ho-young and Yoon Hye-jin. The live vocal performance combined classical opera pieces with accessible commentary and explanations. This interactive approach guided students on an insightful musical journey, demonstrating how opera can express complex human emotions and storytelling.Student Creativity and Rock Melodies Take Center StageOn July 15, the focus shifted to direct student participation, self-reflection, and creative expression. During the first three periods of the morning, first- and second-year students participated in a school-wide essay writing event held in their respective classrooms under the theme "Self-Growth and the Humanities." Students dedicated time reflecting on their personal identities, school experiences, and inner growth. Outstanding essays that showcased thoughtful philosophical insights received special recognition and gift certificates.At lunchtime around 1:00 PM, the first-floor lobby transformed into an energetic concert venue. Hongseong High School's student rock band, Byeol-ak, performed a lively mini-concert featuring popular tracks, including Psy's "It's Art." The powerful live music brought enthusiasm and a welcoming sense of relaxation to students and teachers alike, filling the central campus building with vibrant sound.Interactive Lobby Booths Engage CampusThroughout the two-day event, interactive booths operated in the first-floor lobby from 1:00 PM onwards, encouraging students to experience the humanities through touch, scent, and visual art. The Book Curation booth explored the concept of "reading with scent" by introducing custom book perfumes. Participants engaged in fragrance workshops and preference surveys, connecting subtle scents with specific literary themes, book characters, and emotional memories. Snacks were also provided to encourage student participation. At the "Time to Read Myself" booth, an interactive display wall allowed students to post sticky notes finishing the phrase "To me, a book or library is..." to share personal reflections. This activity created a shared space for the school community to exchange ideas about reading and personal growth. Additionally, the Oil Pastel Exhibition displayed student-created oil pastel still-life artworks. These colourful visual pieces showcased diverse artistic perspectives, giving visitors a chance to pause and appreciate the creative talents of their peers.The 2026 Humanities Education Week successfully demonstrated that humanities go far beyond textbooks and lectures. By engaging all five senses, the event offered Hongseong High School students a truly memorable opportunity to listen, observe, feel, and appreciate art in their everyday school lives.

Smoke, Flavor, and Local Pride: Hongseong Global BBQ Festival Draws National Attention

By Min-seong Kim, Hongseong High SchoolAs autumn approaches, excitement is building across Hongseong County. The question arises: Can a local food festival become a driving force for regional growth and national recognition?The Hongseong Global BBQ Festival, one of the county's signature events, is scheduled to take place this fall. Known for showcasing high-quality local products such as Hongseong Hanwoo(Korean beef) and Hongseong Handon(Korean pork), the festival has attracted increasing attention from visitors across the country.For many residents, the festival is more than just a chance to enjoy delicious food. It provides an opportunity to introduce Hongseong's agricultural strengths, local culture, and tourism attractions to a wider audience. As the number of visitors grows each year, expectations for the festival's economic impact continue to rise. The event will feature a variety of barbecue experiences, cooking demonstrations, cultural performances, and family-friendly activities. Visitors will be able to taste local specialties while learning about the region's farming traditions and food industry.The benefits to local businesses cannot be overlooked. Restaurants, cafés, accommodations, and traditional markets often experience increased sales during the festival period. Many residents believe that the event plays an important role in supporting the local economy and promoting sustainable regional development.However, organizing a large-scale festival is not without challenges. Ensuring visitor safety, managing waste, and maintaining smooth transportation systems require careful planning and cooperation among local government officials, volunteers, and community members. During interviews conducted with local residents, many expressed optimism about the festival's future. One resident commented, "The festival helps people discover what makes Hongseong special and encourages them to visit again." Another resident stated, "It is exciting to see our local products receive recognition from people outside the region."Therefore, continued community participation and effective event management will be essential for the festival's long-term success. By combining local traditions with modern tourism experiences, the Hongseong Global BBQ Festival has the potential to strengthen regional identity and attract even greater attention in the years ahead. As Hongseong prepares to welcome visitors from across the nation, the festival serves as a reminder that local culture and community spirit can become powerful tools for growth and connection.

A Clean Ride, A Long Wait: The Two Sides of Cheonan’s Green Buses

By Ye-won Jo, Cheonan Sindang High SchoolWhile Cheonan’s eco-friendly buses and free bus rides for teenagers have brought many benefits, long waiting times in outer areas and a lack of charging stations still remain important challenges.As many students take the bus to school in the morning, it is becoming easier to see which buses in Cheonan are electric or hydrogen-powered. Unlike old diesel buses, they do not create dark puffs of smoke or loud noises. Because of this, the air is cleaner and bus stops are more pleasant. Riding these buses may seem like a small thing, but it helps protect the environment every day.In the past, buses often produced polluting smoke that polluted the air, which was not good for people’s health or for the Earth. Now, more eco-friendly buses are running on the roads, producing much less air pollution and fewer greenhouse gases. As more people use these buses, Cheonan can become a cleaner and healthier city.Another good change is the free bus policy for youth in Chungcheongnam-do. Thanks to this policy, middle and high school students can ride local buses without paying. Many students can now go to libraries, academies, sports centers, or meet their friends after school without worrying about bus fares. This also helps families save money. For many teenagers, the bus is no longer just a way to get to school. It has become an easier way to enjoy daily life.These two changes are helping students in different ways. The free bus rides make traveling around the city easier, whilst helping keep the air clean, and eco-friendly buses also help protect the environment. As a result, more students may choose to take the bus instead of asking their parents for a ride, which can help reduce traffic and protect the environment.However, there are still some problems, as students who live in outer areas often have to wait much longer for buses than students in the city. Sometimes buses come only every 20 or 30 minutes, so if a student misses one bus, they may be late for school or an academy. Waiting outside for a long time on rainy, snowy, or very hot days can also be difficult, which can make traveling uncomfortable. Additionally, as the number of electric and hydrogen buses increases, more charging stations are needed, but if there are not enough charging stations, some buses may not run on time. This can cause delays and make passengers wait longer than expected.Cheonan has already made a good start, but there is still room to improve. The city should make buses more frequent in outer areas and build more charging stations. These changes will make bus service more convenient for everyone.Eco-friendly buses and the free bus policy for youth are making a positive difference in Cheonan because they help protect the environment, make traveling easier for students, and improve everyday life. If the city continues to improve its bus system, more students will be able to travel safely, comfortably, and fairly, which will make Cheonan an even better city for both people and the environment.

Curriculum Fair: Connecting the Future

By Hyewon Ryu, Cheonan Sindang High SchoolAt Cheonan Sindang High School, students spent a meaningful time exploring elective courses suited to their aptitudes and career paths, as well as concretely planning their futures, through a curriculum fair and an event featuring alumni who introduced various academic fields.On July 9, Cheonan Sindang High School held a curriculum fair and an event featuring alumni who introduced various university majors, all aimed at supporting students in selecting elective courses and planning their career paths. The event was organized to help students choose electives aligned with their aptitudes and career goals, as well as to deepen their understanding of university majors, thereby enabling them to formulate more concrete career plans.The curriculum fair was held in the school auditorium, featuring a format where teachers personally introduced all the elective courses offered by the school. Each teacher provided detailed explanations - tailored to the students’ level of understanding - covering course content, teaching methods, assessment criteria, and connections to future career paths. Students were able to freely ask questions about topics that interested them and compare the characteristics of different courses. Furthermore, the information was highly reliable as it was based on Cheonan Sindang High School’s actual curriculum. This event provided students with practical assistance in selecting elective courses that align with their interests and aptitudes.At the same time, alumni conducted sessions in each classroom to introduce university majors to current students. Drawing on their own experiences, the alumni provided details about their universities and academic programs - covering curricula, campus life, key characteristics of their majors, and potential career paths - while answering the students’ questions. By hearing firsthand accounts that are difficult to find in books or online, the students gained a more realistic understanding of university life and majors, and were able to lay the groundwork for planning their own career paths in concrete terms.The curriculum fair and the department introduction event featuring alumni served as a meaningful opportunity for students to explore their aptitudes and career paths while planning for their futures. By gaining accurate information about elective courses and hearing firsthand accounts from alumni currently in university, students were able to further refine their academic and career plans. Cheonan Sindang High School plans to continue offering diverse programs centered on student-focused career education and curriculum management - to help students realize their dreams.

The 9th Dangjin Hapdeok Lotus Festival Draws Many Visitors

By Kyum-ju An, Hapduk High SchoolHave you ever walked through a field of beautiful lotus flowers? If not, the Dangjin Hapdeok Lotus Festival is the perfect place to experience their beauty.The 9th Dangjin Hapdeok Lotus Festival was held from July 3 to July 5. Hapdeok Reservoir, the festival venue, has long been famous for its beautiful lotus flowers. It is one of Korea's historic irrigation reservoirs and has played an important role in farming and water management since ancient times. This year, the beautiful lotus flowers once again attracted many visitors and gave them a chance to enjoy the beauty of summer.On the first day of the festival, visitors enjoyed an opening parade, an opening ceremony, a celebration concert, and a drone light show. They also took part in many hands-on activities, such as making paper lanterns, tasting Jehotang, a traditional Korean herbal drink, learning about farming and astronomy, and watching an EDM performance. On the second and final days, more exciting programs were held. Visitors enjoyed a traditional Nakhwa fire performance, mini train rides, water activities, making rice cooked in lotus leaves, making gochujang (Korean red chili paste), an ecology stamp tour around Hapdeok Reservoir, performances by local artists, a flea market, and educational programs. Among these programs, the traditional Nakhwa fire performance was especially memorable. Glowing sparks fell from the burning Nakhwa, creating a beautiful scene that looked like a waterfall of fire.This year's festival featured an improved Nakhwa fire performance compared to last year. Visitors also attached their wish notes to the fire sticks, making the performance more meaningful. The food area was redesigned with the theme of a traditional Korean tavern. Visitors enjoyed traditional Korean foods and took part in making rice cooked in lotus leaves and Haptteok, a local rice cake. Despite the hot summer weather, many visitors came to Hapdeok Reservoir to experience the festival. They enjoyed the beautiful lotus flowers, willow trees, and the rich natural environment, which is home to many different species of plants and animals.Hong Seong-rok, the head of the festival committee, said, "We sincerely thank everyone who visited the festival despite the hot weather. We will continue to improve the festival with even more exciting programs so that it can grow into one of the leading summer festivals in the region." Overall, the festival brought local residents and visitors together through a variety of cultural experiences and activities. It also showed its potential to become one of the region's leading summer festivals in the future.

Students Helping Students: The Elective Subject Fair

By Jisoo Yoon, Cheonan Buldang High SchoolCheonan Buldang High School held an Elective Subject Fair to help students better understand elective subjects and make informed choices.From July 13th to 14th, a student-led "Elective Subject Fair" took place at Cheonan Buldang High School. A fair was held to help high school students with one of their biggest concerns: choosing elective subjects. As students pass the halfway point of their high school year, they must begin exploring future careers and selecting the courses that they will take next year. However, because students can now choose from a wider variety of subjects under the revised curriculum, many find it difficult to decide that courses are best suited for their goals. Since many students found it difficult to understand the actual classroom atmosphere or learning content through brochures alone, the Elective Subject Fair was held to address this issue.The biggest advantage of the fair was that senior students operated the booths and shared information based on their own experiences. They carefully prepared the presentations so that students could easily understand the characteristics of each subject. At each booth, visitors could learn about what is taught in each subject, the main topics of each unit, performance assessment methods, and grading systems, including whether credits and rank grades are reflected.In addition, activity sheets that had actually been used in class were displayed, giving students a better idea of what the lessons would be like. A student who attended the fair said, “I was confused just by looking at the subject names, but after visiting the booths and receiving explanations from the seniors, I felt much more confident about choosing my subjects.”Several events that made the fair more engaging also attracted students’ attention. QR codes were provided at each booth so that students could ask subject teachers questions directly if they could not find the answers through the seniors’ explanations. To encourage participation, students collected stamps by visiting different booths and received snacks as rewards. There were also career counseling and “Career Tarot” booths. Among them, the Career Tarot booth was the most popular because it gave students a fun and unique way to explore their interests and aptitudes.The Elective Subject Fair was highly appreciated because it allowed students to share information and communicate with one another instead of simply listening to presentations. It helped juniors feel more confident about choosing their subjects and planning for the future, while giving seniors an opportunity to reflect on their own learning experiences by sharing them with others.

Where Cultures Meet: The Korea-China Youth International Culture and Arts Festival

By Yun-hwa Kang, Cheonan Ssangyong High SchoolThe 10th Korea-China Youth International Culture and Arts Festival held for Korean and Chinese teenagers on August 2, 2026On August 2, 2026, at the Cheonan Youth Complex Community Center, the 10th Korea-China Youth International Culture and Arts Festival was held for Korean and Chinese teenagers. The festival gave teenagers a chance to meet new people, interact, and learn about each other’s cultures and helped them learn about different cultures.During the first session, Korean and Chinese students presented many performances. They performed music, dance, singing, and traditional arts. Korean students and the Chinese Shanhai Art Troupe presented special performances. introducing their own culture. The students watched the performances with interest, enjoying the different music, clothes, and movements.The festival was not only about performing on stage, but also a time for communication and friendship. The students could meet teenagers from another country and share their own unique experiences. They also learned that people can understand each other through art. The festival was organized to help students respect cultural differences, aiming to develop their international understanding. Through the event, the students could see the world from a wider point of view, and had a chance to grow as global citizens. Jang Gi-su, chairman of the Cheonan Youth Foundation, said that culture and art are important ways of communication. He said, “Culture and art can help people understand each other beyond language.”At the end of the program, certificates which celebrated their participation in the festival were given to the students. The students took pictures together and shared their final greetings, expecting the next meet. More cultural performances will continue during the remaining sessions.The festival is expected to bring Korean and Chinese teenagers closer by giving them more opportunities to understand and respect each other. It will also give them more chances to understand and respect each other. The event can connect people, even if their languages are different, because music and dance can be understood by everyone.

Tarot, Tips, and Future Tracks: Navigating Elective Courses at Buldang High

By Heewoo Lee, Cheonan Buldang High SchoolHow was the 2026 Curriculum Fair, hosted by Cheonan Buldang High School, conducted, and was it helpful to the students?Cheonan Buldang High School held a 2026 Curriculum Fair, giving first- and second-year students the opportunity to learn about elective courses. The subjects offered included science, English, math, computer science, art, physical education, social studies, home economics, Korean language, foreign languages, and classical Chinese.To participate, students visited the booths for each subject. The event was conducted in a format where student presenters who had received presentations from the Office of Education and modified them themselves explained the subjects to participating students.The event was structured so that second-year students explained the subjects to first-year students, and third-year students explained the subjects to second-year students. Many students participated, and the event featured helpful activities such as explanations of performance-based assessments, exam difficulty levels, and credit systems, as well as sample exam questions for each subject.There were also booths where students presented their in-depth career exploration topics. The event followed a format where students collected stamps after listening to the explanations. Once they had collected all the stamps, they received a small prize and had the opportunity to get a career tarot reading. There was also a session where career counselors provided academic track counseling. In addition, an online Q&A session for the Curriculum Fair was held, where students asked questions and teachers provided answers. There were also many banners with detailed descriptions of elective courses, allowing many students to learn more about them.One participating student said that since it was a course they hadn’t heard of before, they had many questions, but they were glad to have gained a better understanding after listening to the explanation. They also mentioned that having a career tarot reading was a fascinating and positive experience. One of the student presenters said that since they rarely have the opportunity to explain things to other students like this, it felt like a new experience for them.I hope all of you will also pay close attention and listen to this excellent curriculum fair.

Cheonan City Takes Action to Prevent Lonely Deaths

By Dahyun Kang, Bugil Girls’ High SchoolWith increasing cases of single-person households, loneliness has become one of the most serious social issues in Cheonan City.It has been reported that approximately 43 percent of the households in Cheonan are single-person households. As the number of one-person households continues to grow, Cheonan City is making efforts to prevent lonely deaths and create a safe environment for everyone.In order to solve the problem of loneliness, Cheonan City introduced the 2026 Lonely Death Prevention Plan. This plan aims to identify people at risk of social isolation and connect them with their communities through various programs. One of the programs is Happy Check-in 365, which connects middle-aged individuals living alone with community volunteers through visits and phone calls. The city has also introduced an ICT (Information and Communication Technology)-based safety network.A Cheonan resident (Kyu Yeon Son) said, “I think people living alone can easily feel isolated because they may not have someone to talk to regularly. Even a simple phone call or visit could make them feel that someone cares about them. So, I think this policy is very effective to prevent lonely deaths.”Cheonan City also provides support for different age groups. Socially isolated young adults can receive counseling and participate in programs that help them connect with society, while people aged 65 and older can receive individual care and emergency safety services. Rather than only responding to crises, the city’s strategy also focuses on preventing loneliness before it develops into a major issue.In light of the continuous increase in single-person households, the prevention of lonely deaths goes beyond governmental measures. Cheonan City’s ICT-based safety network also plays an important role by using technology to monitor the safety of people living alone and respond quickly when unusual situations are detected. However, technology alone cannot solve the problem of loneliness. Simple actions, such as reaching out to neighbors, making regular phone calls, and building stronger connections within the community, can also make a meaningful difference. Cheonan City’s strategy demonstrates that preventing social isolation requires both effective support systems and strong human connections.

Students United on the Court at the Gongju School Volleyball League

By Shinhye Kang, Kongju National University High SchoolThe 2026 Gongju School Sports Club Volleyball League brought together students from three schools for two days of exciting matches, teamwork, and sportsmanship.The 2026 Gongju School Sports Club Volleyball League was held on the 14th and 15th of July at the gymnasium of Gongju Information High School. The league gave students an opportunity to show the skills they had developed through their school sports club activities while enjoying friendly competition with students from other schools. From the moment the first match began, the gym was filled with excitement as players, classmates, and teachers cheered enthusiastically, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the event.The girls’ division was held on July 14 and featured Gongju National University High School, Gongju Information High School, and Gongju Geumsung Girls’ High School. Although many players looked a little nervous at the beginning, they quickly settled into the game and became more confident as the matches went on. Long rallies and close matches kept everyone focused until the final point, while excellent saves and well-placed attacks drew loud applause from the crowd. The players continued to encourage one another and worked together as a team until the end. After several closely contested matches, Gongju Geumsung Girls’ High School were crowned champions.The boys’ division on July 15 brought even greater excitement to the tournament. Students from Gongju National University High School, Gongju Information High School, and Gongju High School played with determination, giving their best from the first serve to the final point. Strong serves, quick attacks, and determined defensive plays kept the pace of the matches high, resulting in the lead constantly changing, making every point important. Whenever an exciting play unfolded, the stands erupted with cheers and applause. Students waved, clapped, and called out words of encouragement, while the players on the bench cheered just as passionately as those on the court. The energy inside the gym never faded, and after an intense competition, Gongju High School won the final championship game.The league was about more than simply winning matches. Throughout the event, students showed respect for one another both on and off the court. Teammates celebrated each other’s successes, offered encouragement after mistakes, and continued to support one another until the end. After every match, players from different schools exchanged handshakes and congratulated each other with smiles. These moments showed how the competition brought students together, something that was also reflected in their thoughts after the games. Lee ○○, a student from Gongju National University High School, said, “You could really feel the passion of the students from Gongju throughout the games.” Kang ○○ added, “The matches were exciting and nerve-racking from start to finish. It was a great experience, and I would love to take part again if I get the chance.” Their comments captured the excitement of the competition and the positive experience shared by the students. Spectators also applauded outstanding plays regardless of which team made them, showing that sportsmanship and mutual respect were valued just as much as victory.The 2026 Gongju School Sports Club Volleyball League was a meaningful event where students competed, encouraged one another, and created lasting memories together. The passion shown on the court and the enthusiastic support from the stands made the two-day tournament even more memorable. More importantly, the league reminded everyone that teamwork, respect, and shared effort make school sports truly special.

Small Daily Steps, Lasting Academic Growth: Inside KNUHS’s School-Led Programs

By Yul Kang, Kongju National University High SchoolKongju National University High School (KNUHS) is reducing reliance on private education and fostering genuine learning through unique, student-centered academic programs like "Susemi (수세미)" and "Banditburi (반딧불이)"In an era where many students depend on private academies for academic success, Kongju National University High School (KNUHS) is proving that public education can offer even more. Through innovative and proactive initiatives led by dedicated teachers, KNUHS provides students with valuable opportunities to build strong study habits, enhance communication with teachers, and foster a true passion for learning.At the heart of these initiatives is "Susemi", an abbreviation for the "Three Math Problems Mission". Every day, students attempt to solve three math problems before meeting their teacher to explain their solutions and receive personalized feedback. For the students who are looking for a difficult challenge, the "Cheol susemi (철수세미)" allows them to solve more advanced problems and share their own problem-solving methods with peers, expanding their mathematical horizons together.Math teacher Kang Da-hee shared her perspective on the program, saying, "I hope students gain a sense of accomplishment and confidence by tackling three problems consistently every day. By explaining their solutions and comparing them with their friends, they can truly understand the concepts and broaden their mathematical perspective." Student Kim Gyu-Min also shared his thoughts, saying, "Receiving daily one-on-one feedback helps me figure out how to approach problems and develop flexible problem-solving skills. Moreover, sharing solutions and communicating with friends creates a deep learning process where we are not afraid of what we don't know, but instead actively strive to learn."In addition to “Susemi (수세미)”, KNUHS offers a variety of other creative programs designed to boost academic confidence, such as "Ubeop Jjikmeok (어법찍먹)" for daily grammar practice, "Weeklinglish (위클링글리쉬)" for weekly reading comprehension, and "Banditburi (반딧불이)," which provides small group tutoring to help students close knowledge gaps through close communication with teachers.These programs provide more opportunities for communication between teachers and students, encouraging a genuine learning mindset. Rather than relying on private academies, KNUHS students are achieving remarkable academic growth and gaining valuable life lessons through the strength of public education. Looking ahead, these daily learning experiences at KNUHS are expected to help students become confident, independent learners who are ready to take on any challenge on their own terms.

Do You Know What the Model United Nations Is?

By Min-kyung Kim, Nonsan Girls’ High School The Model United Nations (MUN) is an educational program that lets students emulate a UN conference. Every student takes on a role representing a different country and speaks on behalf of that country to discuss proposals on international or global issues.The Model United Nations is an educational activity where students represent different countries and discuss various international issues while exploring possible solutions. Participants research the country they represent and prepare speeches based on its position. Students are allotted a certain amount of time to prepare for their speech. While the conference is in progress, they share their opinions through debates and presentations, gaining a deeper understanding of global issues from different perspectives while improving their communication, teamwork, and critical thinking skills.At Nonsan Girls’ High School, Model United Nations is held every year. During the Model United Nations event, each student represents a different country and takes part in debates and presentations on a selected topic. By listening to different opinions, respecting each country’s perspective, and working together to find solutions, students learn the importance of international cooperation and effective communication. The event also provides a valuable opportunity to develop confidence in public speaking and expressing ideas.The Media team also plays an important role in the event. They capture the moments from the debates and presentations by taking photos and videos. This not only highlights the conference but also preserves memorable moments and the lively atmosphere of the event.The photos and videos created by the Media team can also be used to introduce the event to other students and encourage future participation. By recording important moments throughout the conference, the team helps preserve meaningful memories while showing the value of Model United Nations. Their work allows the experience to be shared with a wider audience and highlights the effort and cooperation of everyone involved.

Street Karaoke Brings Music, Memories, and Community to Seolhwa

By Si-hyeon Park, Seolhwa High SchoolSometimes, all it takes to turn an ordinary school lunch break into a memorable one is a microphone, music, and students willing to step onto the stage.Seolhwa High School held a ‘Street Karaoke’ event where students could sing freely and enjoy music together. The student council, which organized this event, recruited participants in advance through its social media account and school posters. At lunchtime on the day of the event, a stage was set up in an open area in front of the Seolhwa Dormitory. Even before the event started, many students gathered around the stage, and those just passing by also stopped to see what was happening.Participants who had signed up in advance took turns performing songs of their choice. The audience applauded enthusiastically after each performance, and some even sang along. Whether they were confident singers or first-timers, their performances, featuring a variety of musical genres and unique personal styles, created a lively atmosphere throughout the event.One performance that especially caught everyone’s attention was a duet by two first-grade male students. Singing a rock band song, they energized the crowd by running toward them and giving high-fives. Despite making several mistakes during the song, they kept smiling and persevered until the very end. Their boundless energy was met with laughter, encouragement, and clapping from the audience, making it one of the highlights of the event.A second-grade student who watched this event said, “I was exhausted because final exams were approaching, but during the ‘Street Karaoke’, I was able to forget about the pressure of the exams for a while. I think this will be a pleasant memory that I’m going to cherish for a long time.”The ‘Street Karaoke’ event ended successfully with enthusiastic participation and support from students. Through this event, students could showcase their singing and enjoy each other’s performances. For students tired from preparing for exams, it also offered a chance to take a break from the academic pressure and make new memories. This student-centered event contributed to a more uplifting atmosphere across the whole school and strengthened students’ sense of community.

Splashes of Youth: Haeoreum Sports Day

By A-jin Im, Bugil Girls’ High SchoolOn May 23rd, under a clear summer sky, the school grounds were filled with laughter, energetic cheers, and warmth. The annual Haeoreum Sports Day brought the entire school community together. Wrapped in bright smiles and friendship, every corner of the field painted a beautiful picture of youth.The athletic competitions were both intense and beautiful to watch. Across the grounds, students poured their hearts into every game, from fast-paced dodgeball and strategic netball to energetic soccer, badminton, one-bound volleyball, and synchronized group jump rope. Yet, the true magic of the festival shone brightest during the tug-of-war and the final relay race. In these signature events, first-year, second-year, and third-year sister classes joined hands as one team. Gripping the heavy rope together and sprinting down the track side by side, students shouted encouragement until their throats grew sore, creating an enduring bond between seniors and juniors.To keep the festive spirit alive between the matches, the Student Council hosted three popular activity booths that brought even more life to the day: The Refreshment Booth: An absolute savior in the rising heat! Long lines of students held out their tumblers to receive sweet, icy tea to cool off and recharge. The Mystery Challenge Booth: Laughter never stopped around this lively spot. Students tackled fun mini missions such as taking a funny picture with a friend who had dyed hair and earned tasty treats as rewards. The Decoration Booth: Adding a touch of sparkle to the festival, students decorated their faces and hair with colorful heart and star stickers, filling the campus with bright, shining expressions.As the afternoon sun reached its highest point, the excitement soared to new heights right after lunch. The school’s two famous dance clubs stepped into the spotlight and delivered a mesmerizing performance. With powerful choreography, flawless rhythm, and unstoppable confidence, they completely captivated the audience. The audience sang along and danced together, turning the open field into a magnificent outdoor concert filled with pure adrenaline.The ultimate highlight of the day came right after all the official events ended. Normally, there would be a brief warning announcement before the sprinklers turned on, but this time, giant sprinklers on the main field suddenly came to life without any notice! Surprised by the sudden cool spray, students gasped in shock before bursting into joyous screams. Quickly grabbing their water guns, everyone from every grade rushed into the refreshing mist, splashing each other, laughing out loud, and running without a single care in the world.Recalling this joyful moment, one student shared: "Getting soaked in the unexpected water sprinklers with my friends was the absolute highlight of my school life! I'll never forget this day. "Filled with laughter and excitement, this unexpected event became one of the most memorable moments of the day's celebration.

A School That Carries on Tradition: Gongju Geumsung Girls’ High School

By Ji-min Lim, Gongju Geumsung Girls’ High SchoolHow does Gongju Geumsung Girls’ High School help students experience and appreciate traditional Korean culture?What do you think about traditional culture? Some people regard it as a relic of the past, while others believe it should be preserved through reinterpretation. However, some people believe that modern culture should be promoted more than traditional culture. Let’s take a closer look at the Traditional Culture Day event at Gongju Geumsung Girls’ High School, and let us think about how you perceive traditional culture.Traditional Culture Day is held twice a year, once each semester. After the morning classes end, students use lunchtime to prepare for the Traditional Culture Day activities. The students begin by dressing up in hanbok that they have borrowed or rented. After that, full-scale activities begin. Students have the opportunity to experience traditional Korean games, such as Yutnori and Jegichagi. They can also enjoy these activities together with their teachers. So why does this school hold a day for traditional culture?First of all, it gives us a rare chance to feel and experience our culture, which helps us take pride in our heritage and keep it alive for the next generation. On top of that, playing traditional games together builds great teamwork, a sense of belonging, and mutual consideration among students.Gongju Geumsung Girls' High School’s Traditional Culture Day provides students with opportunities to collaborate and engage with one another through traditional games and various hands-on activities. These collaborative activities help foster students’ sense of belonging and teamwork, thereby promoting a sense of community. Traditional culture must be both preserved and remembered. What does traditional culture mean to you?

High-Satisfaction Curriculum Fair Helps Students Plan Elective Subjects

By Hayun Hong, Nonsan Girls’ High SchoolNonsan Girls' High School held a high-satisfaction, peer-led Curriculum Fair for elective course planning.The ‘Curriculum Fair’ event took place at Nonsan Girls’ High School, allowing students to make well-informed choices about the courses they plan to take in high school and beyond. The fair began with a guided session explaining the core structure of the elective courses. Senior students, who had set up their booths, provided a special and informative consultation service to fellow students, sharing their experiences of studying the subjects and effective study methods.This curriculum fair, which encourages communication between senior and junior students, shows that students can make informed decisions about their future careers. By incorporating the senior students in this fair, real-life experiences can be used by the juniors to help navigate through their subject choices and motivate them in their future studies at the same time.Before the fair, a student stated that she thought it was difficult for her to understand the importance of choosing subjects. However, after the fair, she stated that she was able to identify courses that were more suitable for her career path. The enthusiasm of students to participate throughout the fair was high. A second-year student who participated in event said, “I was confused about which subjects would actually help me on the road to my dream job.” However, she mentioned that she was able to find a clear path by talking to seniors who had already taken the class.Another student said, “I was able to make a course plan with confidence by sharing tips such as exam preparation and how to manage the amount of study, not just explaining the course content.”This curriculum fair ended with all counseling sessions and feedback surveys. This event, which was conducted through direct mentoring between seniors and juniors, increased students’ understanding of academic career paths.