As the world’s largest manufacturer of smartphones, Samsung is a household name in many parts of the world. However, it is important to also teach students about the country where this global company is headquartered: South Korea.
South Korea is a small country located on the southern half of the Korean peninsula in East Asia. It is bordered by North Korea to the north, the Sea of Japan to the east, and the Yellow Sea to the west. The country has a population of approximately 51 million people and is known for its high-tech industries, music and entertainment, and cuisine.
One of the most interesting aspects of South Korean culture is the importance placed on education. Students in South Korea are required to attend school until age 18 and the country has a high literacy rate of 97%. In fact, South Korean students are some of the highest performing in the world, consistently ranking in the top five for math and science in international tests like the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA).
Another interesting aspect of South Korean culture is the role of technology in daily life. In addition to Samsung, other major tech companies like LG and SK Hynix are also headquartered in the country. South Korea has one of the highest rates of internet and smartphone usage in the world, with over 96% of the population using the internet and 90% owning smartphones.
When teaching students about Samsung and South Korea, it is important to also discuss the country’s history and politics. South Korea has a tumultuous history, including a period of Japanese colonization, a 1950-1953 civil war that ended in a stalemate, and a period of military dictatorships from the 1960s to the 1980s. Today, South Korea is a democratic country with a presidential system of government and a strong economy.
Discussing South Korea’s culture and history can also be an opportunity to explore the country’s art, literature, and cuisine. South Korean music and entertainment, including K-pop and K-dramas, are popular around the world. The country’s cuisine is also known for its spicy and flavorful dishes, like kimchi and bulgogi.
Teaching students about Samsung and South Korea can also provide an opportunity for them to learn about global citizenship and cultural awareness. It is important for students to understand that the world is interconnected and that companies like Samsung have a global impact. By learning about South Korea’s history, culture, and politics, students can gain a better understanding and appreciation for the country and its people.
