Humphreys Middle School 6th Graders Experience the Best of Korean Culture Through Hyanggyo
PYEONGTAEK, South Korea – During the beautiful spring days of April, filled with mild temperatures and blooming scenery, 6th grade students at Humphreys Middle School were given an incredible opportunity to participate in Hyanggyo classes, a meaningful program focused on Korean culture and traditions.
Hyanggyo (향교) is a traditional Korean Confucian school and cultural program. With the support of Ms. Tremarco and the Hyanggyo instructors, all 6th graders were able to take part in this experience over a two-week period. Students learned traditional Korean bowing, etiquette, and customs while gaining a deeper appreciation for Korea.
"My class went to the Hyanggyo, which means traditional school. It was one of the best field trips I have ever been on," said Calla P.
Students proudly wore traditional scholar attire and participated in memorable hands-on activities, including learning different forms of greetings, experiencing a traditional tea ceremony, practicing Korean archery, and trying arrow throwing. Each activity brought Korean history and traditions to life in an exciting way.
"After putting on our hanboks, (traditional Korean clothing) our guides led us to a very large gate. The sign said, 'Everyone must get off their horse,' meaning that even a visiting king had to walk on the temple grounds to show respect," said Meghan G.
The Hyanggyo experience gave students an authentic look at Korean values such as respect, tradition, and community. The engaging lessons made the experience enjoyable and meaningful, leaving students with a strong connection to the culture around them.
"Next, we went to another traditional Korean building. It was a dormitory, and it surprised me because they were really small, but I think it would be cool to live in," said Aiden D.
The Hyanggyo program was a highlight for Humphreys Middle School 6th graders. Opportunities like this help students better understand Korea and create lasting memories during their overseas experience.
"Then we had a tea ceremony. Before we ate and drank, we had to learn how to bow, how to pour the tea, and how to hold the cups. I liked the traditional tea, and I loved the cookies!," said Jaqulynn B.
"We did archery, which I did before, but not the Korean version. I loved this field trip. It was fun, and I learned a lot more about the Korean culture," said Eleora C.
Humphreys Middle School is proud to offer enriching experiences like Hyanggyo that support cultural understanding and global citizenship.
