Over the next 12 weeks, you'll follow the developing story of 용궁포, a coastal fishing village facing development controversies and political upheaval. Each article teaches specific vocabulary and grammar patterns while immersing you in authentic Korean political and social dynamics. But this isn't just any municipal corruption story—it follows the timeless patterns of Korean dragon folklore, where ancient guardian spirits protect sacred places from those who would exploit them for profit. Through four distinct media outlets, you'll witness how the same events can be presented through completely different cultural and political lenses, while learning to navigate the sophisticated language of Korean news media.
Reading the Room – The Korean Media Political Landscape
The Trust Game – Why Koreans Believe What They Believe
Portal Power – Understanding Korea’s Information Gatekeepers
Digital Democracy – New Voices in Korean Media
Act 1, Week 1
"옛적부터 남해 깊은 곳에 잠들어 있던 이무기 하나 있더니, 인간의 탐심 소리 듣고 번뜩 눈을 뜨니라"
Like the legendary dragon using its most precious treasure - the 여의주 that grants all desires - Mayor 서강철 presents 용궁포 with a glittering promise: his ₩3 trillion transformation that will fulfill every resident's dreams of prosperity. "The Dragon's Palace Marina City" project promises luxury hotels and an international casino to replace the multi-generational homes of the village's residents, and a world-class yacht harbor to replace the port from which humble fishing boats launch each morning.
Through 해동일보's breathless, celebratory coverage of this "gateway to Korea's maritime future," 반도신문's careful questioning of the plan's environmental impact, and 애국자TV's eccentric cries of "finally showing Seoul elites what real development looks like," you'll witness that all that glitters is gold, but only shooting stars break the mold.
As opposition organizes and 해녀 grandmothers whisper about "disturbing what should stay sleeping," something ancient begins to stir beneath the waves.
