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The global interest in Korea has been steadily increasing in the past few years. As more and more younger students start learning about the country and the Korean language, the need for more interactive and engaging materials has also become prevalent. With the change in attitude toward the perception of information and knowledge of the younger generation, new forms of educational materials are needed, apart from classical textbooks.

The Board game called ‘HanPanDo’, which we newly developed, involves players actively in perceiving Korea-related content. As a team activity, the Board game not only engages more young people to increase their knowledge about Korea but also supports the formation of groups and communities with common interest in K-culture.

1. How the idea for the creation of the Board game was born?

The idea for the development of a product which presents K-content in an interesting and interactive way came from our long professional experience in teaching Korean language and culture at both school and university levels. We strongly believe that modern education should focus on advancing critical thinking, visualization, imagination and creativity among youngsters in the context of innovative and more flexible content as well as meaningful activity.

The AKS “Development of Educational Materials and Activities for Understanding Korea Support Project” gave us the opportunity to realize our idea as a globally accessible game designed to enhance better and more accurate understanding of Korean culture. Created in three languages (Bulgarian, English, and Korean) the Board game is useful to anyone interested in Korea, regardless of age, gender, or nationality.

2. Description of the Board game

The players take on the roles of explorers of Korea, competing for the title of Ruler. Throughout their journey, each participant purchases cards and makes strategic decisions to build their own village. The player with the most prosperous village bestows the title Ruler which is the ultimate goal of the game.

The game board creatively follows the topography of the Korean Peninsula, guiding players from Jeju Island in the south to the northernmost regions. Along the way, they stop at six distinct locations representing key aspects of Korean history, culture, daily life, and cuisine: Hanok (한옥), Sijang (시장), Hansik (한식), Hagwon (학원), Jeol (절), and Jeontu (전투). At these locations, players collect and exchange among 78 unique cards, each illustrating an essential element of Korean culture. The game also includes a detailed descriptions of the cards, enhancing its educational value. By blending strategy with cultural exploration, ‘HanPanDo’ offers an engaging way to experience Korea while fostering a deeper appreciation for its heritage.

3. Design and outlook of the game

The playing board, the ten characters and all the collecting cards are thoughtfully designed by the creators’ team and creatively hand-painted by our illustrator. The five playing pawns are 3D modelled after the shape of the famous Juju Dolhareubang volcanic rock statues. All the included cultural elements, images and characters’ outlooks are carefully chosen to represent the colorfulness and diversity of Korea.

4. Dissemination and impact of the Board game

Created in three languages and designed for players aged 12 and above, ‘HanPanDo’ is accessible to a broad audience, including both K-culture enthusiasts and board game players.

In the educational sector, ‘HanPanDo’ is introduced at schools and universities as an engaging tool for learning about Korean history, culture, and society. Educators can integrate the game into curricula related to Asian studies, English language and other interdisciplinary subjects, offering students a hands-on, interactive learning experience.

Beyond academic settings, the game is presented at gaming communities such as gaming clubs, board game cafés, and events. By combining strategic gameplay with cultural exploration, ‘HanPanDo’ not only serves as an entertaining board game but also as an innovative educational tool that enhances cultural appreciation and understanding of Korea worldwide.

To expand its reach internationally, copies of ‘HanPanDo’ are being distributed to partner educational institutions in different countries. Further dissemination efforts will include participation in board game conventions, promotional events, and potential collaborations with K-content influencers and educational platforms.