Hansamo Continues Awards and Scholarships for PVA Students’ Creative Folktale Project

For the third consecutive year, Hansamo has proudly supported Korean classes at Pleasanton Virtual Academy (PVA), continuing its mission to promote Korean language and culture in the community. Through this ongoing partnership, Hansamo awarded certificates and scholarships to students whose creative work demonstrated outstanding effort, originality, and cultural understanding.

This year, students in Korean 4 Honors completed a project that reimagined traditional Korean folktales in modern settings. By adapting these folktales to contemporary situations, students explored how timeless themes remain relevant today while further developing advanced Korean language proficiency and storytelling skills.

First place was awarded to 10th grader Jimin Jung, who transformed Kongjwi and Patjwi into a story centered on the challenges of preparing for Korea’s college entrance exam, the Suneung. Her work effectively conveyed the emotional depth of the characters, incorporated thoughtful literary techniques, and successfully preserved the original theme while presenting it through a modern narrative.

Second place went to 11th grader Soyoung Jang, who reinterpreted Heungbu and Nolbu by connecting the story to contemporary real estate investment issues. Her project stood out through the original illustrations she created herself, elevating the overall quality and completeness of the story.

Third place was awarded to 12th grader Jayden Kim, who creatively retold Kongjwi by placing its characters in a modern café setting. Using the café as a central space, he explored character relationships and conflicts in a way that felt engaging and relatable.

Hansamo’s support for the third year in a row has not only elevated this project beyond a typical classroom assignment, but also provided students with opportunities to be recognized by a community organization. The scholarships and awards encouraged students to produce their best work and gave them a meaningful sense of achievement, highlighting the value of dedication and creativity.

Through this continued sponsorship, Hansamo plays an important role in strengthening Korean language education and fostering a supportive learning community. This partnership continues to make a lasting and positive impact on both students and the broader school community.