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simona spirea's avatar

Your reflections resonate deeply with me, especially in considering the epidemic of mass suicide and depression in South Korea. During my travels in South Korea and other Asian countries, I was struck by the intense focus on academic achievement and the limited space given to play and creativity. It felt heartbreaking to see how this pressure could suppress opportunities for joy and connection—basic needs that we often overlook but are so essential for mental health and overall well-being.

I’ve often wondered if this lack of unstructured play, both for children and adults, contributes to the widespread struggles with mental health. To me, it seems tragic that both Western and Far East Asian societies have shifted so much toward valuing academics and productivity while ignoring ancestral knowledge about the importance of play, creativity, and moments of flow.

Your idea of creating intergenerational play spaces rooted in cultural storytelling and history really struck a chord with me. I love the idea of these spaces not only as places for fun but as sanctuaries where people can reconnect with themselves, with others, and with their cultural heritage. It makes me hopeful to think that something as simple as designing spaces for joyful interaction could be a step toward healing and rebalancing these societal pressures.

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Seoyeon's avatar

Born and raised in South Korea, I had a lot of thoughts reading this.

Especially, reading this part, "Once you have done all your studies, you are welcome to play." almost brought me sadness, as I was one of those suppressed kids who did not know what to do with hormones whirring yet tied to the chair 15 hours a day. The agony brought me a lot of so-called "success," but honestly, I don't know if it was worthwhile, as I can never go back to being a child while you can start studying any time you want (maybe this could be my privilege -- Idk). I think that long-term suppression (or lack of natural release) often brings a lot of problems in adulthood among Koreans, again, my hypothesis.

I wonder, have you been to a "Kids' Cafe" in Korea? I wonder what you think about that too :)

Also, I did not know you were located in Korea! It is a wonderful place packed with a long history, resilience, and traditional and unique culture. Hope you are enjoying your time there!

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