Arirang Culture Connect has shed light on a fascinating initiative from Korea's Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism: the ‘Beautiful Storytelling Grandmothers’ program. This unique endeavor aims to build intergenerational bonds while preserving Korea’s rich traditional culture. Women aged 56 to 70 visit kindergartens and daycare centers to share traditional Korean folktales, bridging the gap between generations through storytelling.

Established with the dual goals of enhancing emotional connections between the young and the elderly and preserving traditional narratives, this program has been met with widespread participation and acclaim. As of 2023, around 2,000 grandmothers actively participate, engaging children nationwide in cultural education and providing a valuable social role for the storytellers themselves. The initiative not only offers grandmothers an opportunity for meaningful social interaction but also enriches children's understanding of their cultural heritage.

Illustration from the Storytelling "[Gyeongbuk] The King's Ear that Listens to the People's Hearts"

In 2022, the program captured public imagination with the "Storytelling Battle" competition, further highlighting its significance and drawing attention to the storytellers' art. This event, organized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, underscored the program's impact on cultural preservation and intergenerational engagement.

Looking forward, the ‘Beautiful Storytelling Grandmothers’ program has several exciting initiatives planned. Cultural exchange events will continue to promote the preservation and transmission of traditional cultures, showcasing the program's ongoing impact. Multilingual promotional materials, including videos and brochures in English, Chinese, and Japanese, are being developed to reach a broader audience. The program will also engage with media, issuing press releases to highlight its achievements and significance to both domestic and international outlets.

Collaborative projects with organizations like UNESCO are on the horizon, aiming to jointly promote efforts focused on cultural preservation. These collaborations will elevate the program's profile and broaden its reach, emphasizing the global importance of preserving traditional narratives.

Through these diverse activities, the ‘Beautiful Storytelling Grandmothers’ program not only continues to foster intergenerational exchange but also plays a crucial role in preserving Korea's cultural heritage. This initiative is a testament to the power of storytelling and its ability to connect people across generations. We look forward to seeing the program thrive and inspire future generations to cherish and uphold their cultural traditions.

Arirang Culture Connect Seong-Mi Park info@arirangculture.news Seong-Mi Park의 기사 더보기

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