Hwarang Day
Embracing the serenity of Craig National Park, social relationships and a tighter-knit community was formed as we, the Hwarang Youth Foundation, hosted Hwarang Day, one of our biggest events, on October 28th, 2023. The event, attended by around 200 people, was a vibrant celebration of tradition and companionship. Hwarang members and parents from all around southern california came together to immerse themselves in Korean culture and traditional games, forging a sense of unity and connection. Hwarang Day’s activities consisted of various traditional games like "윳놀이" (Yutnori, board game with sticks), "제기차기" (Jegichagi, attempting to keep a jegi in the air), “무궁화 꽃이 피었습니다” (red light, green light), “족구” (soccer volleyball) and “줄다리기” (tug of war). Hwarang members and parents had the opportunity to compete against each other, work their minds, engage in a board game that requires luck and teamwork, and showcase their agility, footwork, and balance in kicking games. In addition, raffles and prizes were given to the winners, creating exciting competition. The joyous occasion served as a platform for young, future leaders to engage with their culture white starting new friendships and strengthening existing ones. These weren’t just simple activities, they meant more than that, they acted as bonds, drawing the community of Hwarang closer together. The purpose of Hwarang Day was ultimately to create an area of pure enjoyment for us. “The purpose of Hwarang Day is to commemorate October 10th being known as Hwarang Day. It is also to bring all the chapters and members of Hwarang together, whether they be from LA or OC, and make members comfortable with one another. Especially because Hwarang does so much volunteer work, this is a day solely dedicated to the people who make up Hwarang.” As stated by Madison Park, the Summit President of Hwarang. Hwarang Day 2023 was truly a pleasant experience for us all. The enjoyment of playing traditional games together has made this event something many members will eagerly anticipate for every year. It emphasized the values of friendship, society, unity, and culture that the Hwarang Youth Foundation stands for.
