Memorizing Korea's Tragic May: 5.18 Democratization Movement

I read a book, which was recommended by RM from BTS, whom I greatly admire. When I first picked up this novel, recommended by a friend, I knew it would be no ordinary read. As I flipped through the pages, I felt a mixture of anticipation and hesitation. It was a profound and challenging narrative, one that compelled me to write this heartfelt review.   This book is about  This remarkable book delves into the events of the 5.18 Democratization Movement, shedding light on a significant period in history. Every word, every sentence evoked a sense of pain and anguish. It is not a book to be read casually, but one that demands to be embraced fully. The events of May 18, 1980, unfolded when students gathered at the main gate of Jeonnam National University in Gwang-ju, Korea. On May 27, 1980, martial law troops indiscriminately attacked the citizens gathered at Jeonnam Provincial Office, bringing a tragic end to the situation. Over the course of ten days, the official casualties ...

Empowering Parents and Self: The Mind-Map Marvel

The 6th session of the Mind Map class has come to an end. During my work-from-home period, my buddy introduced me to this awesome class. Gotta love those recommendations that come at just the right time!



So, what is a Mind Map? 

It's a cool way to visually organize your thoughts and ideas. You start with a central idea or topic and then branch out with related ideas or subtopics. Mind Maps help you see the connections between things and make it easier to remember stuff. You can use colors, symbols, images, and keywords to make it more fun and interesting. Maps are great for brainstorming, note-taking, planning, and problem-solving. They're super flexible and help you understand complex things in a simple and visual way. For example, imagine planning a trip and starting with the main destination in the middle. Then, you can branch out with different things like places to visit, things to pack, and activities you want to do.


Leonardo da Vinci, Albert Einstein, and Steve Jobs... they loved it! 

Mind mapping has been around for a long time, with roots in ancient history. However, it was popularized in the 1970s by British psychologist and author Tony Buzan. Famous thinkers like Leonardo da Vinci, Albert Einstein, and Steve Jobs used Mind Maps to explore ideas and visualize complex concepts.


Mind map it a turbo boost for your brain!

Activate your brain with mind maps! It's like a turbo boost for your thinking. By using visuals, colors, and connections, mind maps engage your creative side and stimulate different brain areas. They make information easier to absorb and remember, sparking genius moments. Unleash your brain's full potential with mind maps!



Mind Maps are still widely used today, not only by kids but also by adults and businesses. The 6-week Mind Map class I took was designed for parents to help their children with studying and career goals. Each week covered a different aspect, from communication to setting goals.

Week 1: Mind Maps for Self-Exploration 

We learn about mind maps, their benefits, and real-life examples. Then, we create a simple mind map about why we joined this class, our current concerns, and our interests. The mind maps below are all mine. 

(yes...it's in Korean!)




Week 2: Mind Maps for Studying (Level 1 Comprehension)

Children can read but struggle to understand the content. But is difficulty with context understanding limited to children? We read a part of a textbook and create our own mind maps.

very simple mind map about blood


Week 3: Mind Maps for Studying (Level 2 Comprehension)

Building on Week 2, we explore how to read context, select keywords, divide paragraphs, summarize, memorize, and engage in repetitive learning.

a mind map about a certain period of Korea

Week 4: Mind Maps for Studying (Level 3 Comprehension)


Week 5: Goal Setting with Mind Maps (Reflecting on parenting goals and envisioning the kind of parent we need to be for a happy child)



Week 6: Problem-solving with Mind Maps (Creating a mind map about ourselves, focusing on our desires, specific plans, and self-coaching)







The journey of participating in this mind map course began with concerns about my adolescent son. However, as I attended the classes, I gained ideas on how to support my younger child's learning as an elementary student. I also delved into my own parental emotions and, in the end, had the opportunity to examine myself and create plans for my own well-being. Above all, applying what we've learned in our lives and taking action is crucial. I will continue to reflect on the lessons and integrate them into my daily life.


Don't think it's just for certain people, though. Imagine having a paper and colorful pens on a little book in your living room all the time, where you can mind map your daily life. What movie should we watch? What will we do on our trip? Why did our family get upset? Imagine sitting in a circle with your family, doodling and sharing stories. It'll make conversations flow much smoother, don't you think? And hey, why not try drawing a mind map about my own life as well, not just for the kids? Oh, and remember, using colorful pens and drawing by hand is way more beneficial for your brain than using a computer. Even if it's a simple doodle, incorporating visuals makes it even better! Give it a try!