Answering Tough Questions: Korean War History for Kids Through Play and Exploration

Welcome back to the Intentional Learning Corner. We hope you are enjoying the cooler days and soaking in the beautiful fall sights here in Korea.

When the Questions Feel Too Big to Answer

Recently I have noticed that for some parents and teachers, it is difficult to have big-idea conversations with children. Many have stated they just pray their child forgets that they had a question or they just give them half of the answer, out of fear that they do not know how to explain the full answer at their child’s level.

It is important to remember that the truth is best even when uncomfortable and that it can be done through exploring while learning through play.

When Kids Ask: "Why Are We in Korea?"

Has your child asked you, “Why are we in Korea?” or “Why are North and South Korea not one country?” Instead of saying, “Because the military sent us here,” “it’s mommy/daddy’s job,” or “They just are,” it’s important that you do a bit of research to ensure that we are teaching our children the truth and expanding their worldly knowledge.

It can feel overwhelming to explain big topics, but there are wonderful resources in Korea that make Korean War history for kids both engaging and approachable. I encourage you to explore one of the many books written about the Korean War or visit museums that present this history in thoughtful, age-appropriate ways. With the right tools and experiences, learning about Korea’s past can become a meaningful journey for the whole family.

Where to Start: The Children’s Museum at The War Memorial of Korea

If you have small children and you find that it is challenging to present answers to their tough questions about Korea at a child-appropriate level, we have a great way to answer those questions in a kid-friendly environment through play.

The Children’s Museum at The War Memorial of Korea was created to help children understand the war history of Korea and to teach them the importance of freedom and peace. The Children’s Museum at The War Memorial of Korea is a free reservation-only museum open Tuesday through Sunday each week. Reservations can be made at https://www.warmemo.or.kr:8443/KidsEng/index.

Making Sense of Korean War History for Kids Through Play and Exploration

The first exhibit area explains war, weapons, building strong fortresses, and hero stories. There are blocks that the children use to build/repair the fortress and interactive videos that celebrate war heroes.

As you move to the next exhibit area the children are able to explore through activities that explain that Korean families lost everything and had to work hard to make Korea what it is today. When you navigate through the museum, the division between North and South Korea is explained at an age-appropriate level, encouraging the children to promote peace and work together.

The last exhibition room is all about the animals that helped during the war. There are puzzles, stamps, coloring, games, and more that help the children understand that everyone has a unique role. It’s a powerful way to introduce Korean War history for kids in a way that they can relate to and enjoy.

For Older Kids: The Full War Memorial Museum Experience

If you are unable to make a reservation at the children’s museum or your children are older, The War Memorial Museum is absolutely amazing. This free museum can be explored most Tuesdays through Sundays other than Korean Holidays opening at 0930. The exhibits within the museum explain in great detail the Korean War history including the international collaboration with the United Nations and the establishment of the United Nations Command.

The museum does a wonderful job explaining Korean War history and honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Throughout the main museum, there are interactive exhibits that allow one to get close to planes, tanks, ships, and more. The static displays outside the museum are a lot of fun and include a ship that can be explored. Fish food can be purchased for $1 or 1,000krw for feeding the many fish at the pond in front of the museum. There is also a playground for children. This museum will take all day to explore and is worth visiting more than once.

Intentional Learning While Living Abroad

We are all blessed to have the tools to teach our children about the culture of the beautiful country we are in during this season of life. I encourage you to use your time in Korea to learn and teach your family as much as you can about Korea through intentional learning experiences.