As a Japanese person living in Korea, married to a wonderful Korean woman, I find myself often reflecting on the rich cultural tapestry that our twin babies, now 10 months old, are growing up in. In this blog post, I want to explore and share some of the traditional childhood games from both Japan and Korea, highlighting their significance and the beautiful blend of cultures our children are exposed to.
**Japan: The Land of Amusing Traditions**
Japanese games are not just about fun; they are steeped in history and culture. A game that stands out is ‘Kendama’. It’s a wooden toy that tests dexterity, involving a ball and string connected to a hammer-like object. The goal is to catch the ball in one of the cupped surfaces of the hammer. Kendama teaches patience and focus, values deeply ingrained in Japanese culture.
Another favorite is ‘Daruma Otoshi’, a game of skill involving a wooden block tower and a small hammer. The aim is to knock out the lower blocks without toppling the tower, symbolizing perseverance and precision.
**Korea: A Blend of Joy and Learning**
In Korea, traditional games are a delightful mix of physical activity and strategic thinking. ‘Yut Nori’, a board game played during the Lunar New Year, is a family favorite. It involves throwing sticks and moving markers across a board, teaching children about strategy and the importance of family bonding.
Another popular game is ‘Jegichagi’, similar to the Western game of Hacky Sack. It involves kicking a jegi (a shuttlecock-like object) and keeping it in the air as long as possible. This game is not only fun but also promotes physical fitness and agility.
**Bridging Cultures Through Play**
As our babies grow, I look forward to introducing them to these games. It’s a way for them to connect with their heritage from both Japan and Korea. These games are more than just play; they are stories, lessons, and traditions passed down through generations.
In a world that’s rapidly modernizing, it’s vital to keep these traditional games alive as they offer a unique window into our respective cultures. They are a way for our children to understand and appreciate where they come from, giving them a sense of identity and belonging.
I believe that by exposing them to the richness of both Japanese and Korean traditional games, we are not only preserving our heritage but also fostering a deep respect and understanding for each other’s cultures in our family.
In conclusion, as we navigate this beautiful journey of raising multicultural children, I am excited about the many ways we can use play to teach them about their heritage. It’s through these simple yet profound traditional games that they’ll learn about the values, history, and culture of Japan and Korea, creating a unique blend of identities that they can proudly carry forward.
Atsushi's Life in Korea 