RpNation

Good, and sleepy lol

Haha but it’s norning for you

I'm always sleepy lol doesn't matter what the time is XP

Haha I guess XD

What are you up to?

Just relaxing in bed ^^ you?

Currently sitting at my work computer with a coffee XD We don't have classes for a few more hours, so I'm just chill'n.

Haha sounds exhausting XD

lol believe me, I need every second of these three hours =u= Once classes start they don't stop till it's time to leave, and the kids have WAY too much energy. It's their winter break right now, so they're even more lively than usual XP

They’re in school for winter break?

I work at a private school, so they're off from public school and their parents send them here (and usually a couple other private schools as well).

That’s lame, let the kids go outside and play, not school

Welcome to Asia lol Some kids actually get breaks from all their studies, but most parents send their kids to at least one private school (I know some kids who go to several private schools as well as their public school).

That sounds like hell, childhood is meant for developing your creativity

Unfortunately, most kids are not encouraged to be creative here (at least in Korea). They also have a hard time expressing their own opinions, and tend to struggle if I ask them open questions : (

See! That’s why! They don’t develop free thinking!

Yeah, it's kind of a cultural thing. Since Korean society is very hierarchical, free thinking and expression isn't usually encouraged. Most kids are raised to listen to those in authority and study/work hard to prepare them for adulthood (Korean work life is intense, much like Japanese). Which is why they focus much more on things like math, science, etc. rather than focusing on art, creative writing, etc.

The exception is probably music. Lots of Korean children (especially girls) have a strong interest in dance and singing (K-pop is a huge industry).

If you’re not free then you’re almost a slave

Eh, I wouldn't equate it to slavery, but I do find it sad. There are definitely kids who are more creative here, but it's not something a lot of parents will encourage them to pursue. In fact, I've had a hard time finding art supply stores here. There is one in Busan that I know about, but considering how many people live there it's kind of insane that I haven't found more.