Seongnam Friends : Gumi Middle School

Gumi Middle School is one of the best schools in Seongnam, Gyeonggi-do, S. Korea. 

Let's enjoy cultural and educational exchange together and extend our network into the world.

[From a Student's Perspective] Introducing Gumi Middle School

Hello, I'm Minji Choi, a third-year student at Gumi Middle School and a proud member of the Global Citizenship Club. Since childhood, I had the opportunity to live in Japan, South Korea, and New Zealand, following my father's business trips. Along the way, I met diverse people and explored countless new perspectives, which naturally shaped my global mindset. After returning to Korea, I became part of this amazing club at Gumi Middle School, eager to broaden my horizons even further. Now, let me introduce the school that has helped make me who I am today.

Nestled at the edge of Bundang District in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea, Gumi Middle School is smaller than the surrounding schools. This charming campus offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, embracing a more nature-friendly atmosphere. With each grade consisting of just three or four classes, our relatively small student body fosters a strong sense of cooperation and unity. Though our numbers may be modest, our determination to study, explore, and push the boundaries of knowledge is second to none.

One of the reasons we enjoy such a vibrant school life is the warm, embracing nature that surrounds us. Just behind our school stands Bulgoksan Mountain, which breathes life and warmth through our windows. The occasional birdsong and the gentle rustling of leaves feel like whispers from the mountain, reflecting the lively and passionate spirit of Gumi Middle School.

As you hike up Bulgoksan, you’ll come across Daegwangsa Temple, established in 1997. For years, it has served as a sanctuary for many, offering respite to weary souls. With its easily accessible temple stay programs and occasional festivals, it adds a rich cultural touch to the community. These events bring people together and often spark cheerful conversations among us students as well.

Beyond Bulgoksan lies the Tancheon Stream, a favorite destination for our school outings. Strolling along its banks, we find ourselves captivated by the crystal-clear water and the swaying flowers that help wash away our fatigue and lift our spirits. We lose track of time as we walk, listening to the occasional sounds of local bands performing and the carefree laughter echoing from nearby basketball courts. These little slices of joy are uniquely Bundang, small but meaningful reminders of the happiness found in everyday life.

Bundang itself is full of places to explore. As South Korea’s first planned city, it boasts impressive infrastructure and well-thought-out urban design. From high-tech business hubs like Jeongja-dong and Pangyo Techno Valley to expansive green spaces such as Central Park and Tancheon, Bundang seamlessly blends nature with innovation, creating a dynamic yet balanced environment.

Within this vibrant city stands Gumi Middle School—a modest yet tight-knit community. And within our school, our Global Citizenship Club thrives, proving that a small group can have an expansive view of the world. Through meaningful discussions and activities, we continuously redefine what it means to be global citizens.

Curious about what our next club project will be?

[From a Teacher's Perspective] Introducing Gumi Middle School

Hello, I am Seungjoo Oh, the president of the Global Citizenship Club at Gumi Middle School. I have a dream of expanding my horizons globally and have a strong interest in various countries. As a global citizen, I want to broaden my perspective and contribute, even in small ways, which led me to join this club. My role is to promote environmental awareness by highlighting important days such as Earth Day and World Environment Day. Additionally, I research ways in which we can take action as global citizens.

To introduce our club, we strive to raise awareness about environmental days such as Earth Day, World Environment Day, and other significant occasions dedicated to protecting the planet. We also actively explore ways to contribute to saving the Earth, engaging in research through fun and interactive activities. As global citizens, our members participate in various environmental challenges and, on Earth Day, make efforts to express their thoughts in English to foster international exchange.

Beyond our school, our club is also committed to carrying out environmental protection activities on a global scale. Despite geographical distances, we enthusiastically participate in various environmental campaigns. For instance, five of our members will be traveling to Jeju Island to take part in an Earth Day campaign. Furthermore, we plan a variety of activities to encourage the entire school community to engage in environmental preservation. Each time an important environmental day approaches, we create posters to promote awareness and encourage students to become global citizens.

In addition to our club's initiatives, Gumi Middle School as a whole is dedicated to environmental preservation. To minimize waste, we enforce a rule that prevents students from taking snacks outside of the cafeteria. Moreover, all students take turns maintaining the cleanliness of the school, ensuring a sustainable and responsible environment.

As you can see, Gumi Middle School and the Global Citizenship Club are making every possible effort to protect our planet! Are you interested in learning more about our activities?

OUR ACTIVITIES  TO SAVE THE EARTH 

Hello. I am Jeon Jun-seo, a 14-year-old student attending Gumi Middle School. This year, I joined a club called "Global Citizens." As a global citizen, I will strive to learn more about the world and think of solutions to global issues.

First, Earth Day is a day when people turn off their lights for one hour to help the planet. Second, the solutions I have thought of for the environmental crisis are reducing ink usage and producing electric cars instead of gasoline-powered cars. Third, my personal actions include walking or riding a bicycle instead of using environmentally harmful buses or cars. Additionally, I will turn off all the lights before leaving the house to prevent unnecessary electricity consumption.

Hello! My name is Hanseo Kim. The reason I wrote this is that I joined the Global Citizenship class. Earth Day is on April 22nd. It falls between spring break and exam period, making it an ideal time for students to run campaigns, which is why it's designated as Earth Day. To protect the Earth, first, we must reduce carbon emissions. Second, we should use public transportation. Third, we must avoid littering. My way of practicing this is by recycling more and reducing carbon emissions as much as possible.

Hello, I am Lee Pung-in, a 14-year-old student. I am a member of the Global Citizenship Club. I am Korean. Also, this is the activity sheet I created in the Global Citizenship Club.

Abnormal climate events continue to occur. Due to global warming, sea levels are rising, and heavy rains are causing various weather changes. To help the Earth, even a little, we have created 'World Earth Day.'

On World Earth Day, we practice activities such as recycling, turning off lights, and using public transportation to prevent global warming.

To solve the environmental crisis, we need to use renewable energy, turn off unnecessary lights, recycle, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, take public transportation, and plant trees. These actions help protect our planet.

Therefore, my action plan includes:

1.Reducing the use of disposable products

2.Saving energy

3.Turning off unused lights

Hello, my name is Jung Woo-young, and I am a first-year middle school student. I enjoy soccer, music, and science experiments. I also try to reduce waste and recycle to help the environment.

Earth Day began in the United States in 1970 and later developed into an international environmental movement. In particular, since 1990, around 190 countries have participated in the event, promoting global environmental protection efforts.

The reason Earth Day is celebrated on April 22 is that it falls between college students' spring break and exam periods, allowing them to actively participate in environmental movements. This timing was considered ideal for organizing various activities and campaigns, enabling more effective environmental advocacy efforts.

Good day,

I am Hyesang Yoon, a seventh-grade student at Gumi Middle School. I take Earth's environmental issues very seriously and have joined this club with a determination to address them. Accordingly, I would like to present several examples related to the current state of our environment.

Firstly, Earth Day is an environmental protection movement and campaign that began in the 1970s with the goal of raising awareness about environmental preservation in order to foster societal development and secure a sustainable future for our planet.

Secondly, as an example of the efforts made by Korean companies to combat environmental issues, the Korean snack company Crown has reduced the amount of ink used on the packaging of its flagship snack, Konchak, by approximately 85%. This initiative aims to lessen the chemical emissions produced during the ink manufacturing process.

Additionally, one scientist has proposed a method to reflect solar heat using calcium carbonate—a substance that constitutes about 99% of chalk.

Lastly, I would like to share a personal example of my commitment to saving energy. Every day, before going to bed, I turn off the power to my computer in my room, and when I return from school, I power it back on. By doing so, I reduce unnecessary electricity consumption over an 8-hour period.

Thank you for your attention to my essay.

Hi My name is Juwon Kim, and I am a first-year middle school student. I am currently attending Gumi Middle School in Bundang."

" Earth Day began in the United States and spread worldwide, raising awareness and encouraging collective action for environmental protection. It is commemorated in various ways across approximately 190 countries."

Hello, my name is Moon Chae-won, and I am a second-year student at Gumi Middle School. I am part of the Global Citizens Club, a school club that connects with different countries around the world. Through this experience, I have developed a strong interest in global environmental issues and other international matters. I will introduce about Earth day,solutions to the crisis our planet is facing, my meaningful action for the Earth day.

First,Earth Day is observed on April 22 from 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM, during which people turn off their lights for an hour to give the planet a brief rest. Landmarks around the world, including Namsan Tower in Korea and the Eiffel Tower in France, also participate by switching off their lights. This moment serves as an opportunity for us to reflect on global warming and consider how we can protect our planet.

Secondly, solutions to the crisis our planet is facing, we can use eco-friendly energy instead of coal and oil and plant more trees. Additionally, snack companies are reducing the amount of ink used on snack packaging to cut down carbon emissions.

There is also discussion about spraying calcium carbonate into the stratosphere via airplanes to reflect sunlight, but concerns about its effects on local regions and potential water shortages have prevented its implementation.

Globally, 136 countries have declared their commitment to carbon neutrality, aiming to balance carbon emissions and absorption by 2050. To achieve this, we must minimize carbon emissions while increasing carbon absorption by planting more trees.

Lastly,To celebrate Earth Day, I take several small but meaningful actions.

First, I unplug unused electronics and turn off unnecessary lights to save energy. For short distances, I walk or ride a bike, and for longer distances, I opt for public transportation instead of driving a private car, which is better for the environment.

I also avoid buying unnecessary items, and if I need something, I consider purchasing secondhand products. When using paper, I try to use recycled or scrap paper whenever possible. Additionally, I reduce the use of disposable items and prefer reusable alternatives. For example, I bring my tumbler when going to a café, which helps cut down on waste.

자기소개

Hello! My name is Song Yun-seo, and I’m a second-year student at Gumi Middle School.

I’m an active member of the Global Citizenship Club, where I explore and discuss environmental issues.

I have a deep interest in protecting our planet and enjoy thinking of solutions to help preserve it.

I’m excited to see what more I can do to make a difference for the environment!

Let me know if you'd like any adjustments!

포스터 영어 소개

The International Day for Biological Diversity was established by the United Nations in 1992 to raise awareness of the importance and value of biodiversity. On this day, we are encouraged to take action to protect ecosystems and promote sustainable practices.

Simple steps like reducing single-use plastics and opting for reusable items can make a difference. Additionally, cutting greenhouse gas emissions by using public transportation and conserving energy are small yet meaningful actions that, when combined, can create significant change.

Biodiversity is deeply connected to our lives, and preserving it is a crucial task—not just for us, but for future generations as well. Every small effort counts in building a healthier, more sustainable planet

지구의 날 소개

Earth Day is celebrated on April 22nd, and from 8:30 to 9:30 PM, millions around the world switch off their lights to reduce electricity use—even just for an hour. It's a simple act, but one that serves as a powerful reminder that even small efforts can contribute to protecting our planet.

Some may question whether an hour without lights truly makes a difference. But history has shown that small actions, when multiplied, can lead to meaningful change. Our planet is facing serious challenges, but if we each commit to caring for it in our daily lives, even in the smallest ways, there's hope that together, we can make a lasting impact.

대안

The Earth is currently facing rising sea levels as glaciers melt, and trees—essential for absorbing greenhouse gases—are disappearing due to industrialization. To combat these issues, businesses can take steps such as reducing ink usage. Additionally, minimizing harmful substances like persistent organic pollutants in production processes can benefit both the planet and the companies themselves.

Individual efforts are just as crucial. Simple actions like using eco-friendly bags, cutting back on disposable products, and turning off unnecessary lights all contribute to a greener world. Practicing carbon neutrality is another impactful step. Carbon neutrality means achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions. For example, every time someone chooses to avoid single-use items, they are making a small yet meaningful effort to protect the environment.

There are countless ways to contribute to environmental conservation, but the most important thing is to recognize the current state of our planet and take responsibility for reducing emissions. When these small efforts come together, they pave the way for a better, more sustainable future.

나의 실천 방법

Reducing the use of disposable products and turning off unnecessary lights are practical ways to live more sustainably.

In reality, these small efforts can come together to create significant change.

 I'm Hwiwon Um, a second-year student at Gumi Middle School. I'm Korean and also a member of the Global Citizenship Club.

1. Introducing Earth Day

Earth Day originated on April 22, 1970, when U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson issued a declaration to raise nationwide awareness of environmental issues and launched the first campaign. Since then, it has spread across the globe and is now celebrated in over 190 countries in various ways as a day dedicated to environmental protection. As part of the annual Earth Day observance, the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) leads a global lights-off campaign. Many landmarks around the world, including the Empire State Building in New York and the Eiffel Tower in Paris, participate in this event, while individuals also take part by turning off their lights at home to support environmental conservation. This campaign highlights the importance of energy conservation and raising awareness about climate change.

2. What is the solution to the crisis the Earth is in?

-Blocking sunlight using potassium carbonate(CaCO₃), the main component of chalk.

-Reducing ink usage in snack packaging.

-Restoring ecosystems.

-Expanding renewable energy

3. Individual actions for environmental protection.

-Reducing single-use products

-Conserving electrical energy

-Saving water

-Properly sorting and disposing of recyclable waste

-Using eco-friendly products

-Choosing public transportation or bicycles instead of cars.

Hello, I am Yoora Cho, a second-year student at Gumi Middle School in Bundang, South Korea.

I am a member of the Global Citizenship Club at Gumi Middle School, and I have a great interest in global environmental issues.

Therefore, I watch English news every morning on weekdays.

Recently, I have been encountering more news about the seriousness of environmental issues on Earth, which has deepened my interest.

I will explain how Earth Day came to be and how we can take action to celebrate it.

Earth Day originated on April 22, 1970, when U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson from Wisconsin first declared "Earth Day" to raise nationwide awareness of environmental issues.

The 1970 Earth Day was one of the largest organized protests in American history, with more than 20 million people participating in events, listening to speeches, attending discussions, and taking practical actions to clean up the environment.

Over time, environmental issues began to gain global attention, leading to the United Nations Conference on the Human Environment in Stockholm, Sweden, in 1972, under the theme "Only One Earth."

This conference attracted worldwide interest in environmental protection.

Since then, annual Earth Day celebrations have been organized by private environmental groups.

There are many ways to celebrate Earth Day and protect the planet.

Firstly, individual efforts to protect the planet include saving energy, using public transportation and eco-friendly modes of travel, reducing the use of disposable products, practicing waste separation and recycling, and making environmentally conscious consumption choices.

Secondly, the efforts that society and nations can make to protect the planet include establishing and implementing eco-friendly policies, improving public transportation and expanding green infrastructure, strengthening environmental education, encouraging sustainable business practices, and promoting environmental protection campaigns.

Lastly, international efforts to protect the planet include participating in and implementing global agreements, collective action to address climate change, supporting developing countries, and expanding sustainable global trade.

Earth Day was established to reaffirm the importance of environmental protection and encourage action. Around the world, various efforts continue to tackle the crises caused by climate change and environmental destruction. All these efforts are interconnected. Individuals, societies, and the international community must come together to protect our planet. Only when we all take action can we create a sustainable future. Small changes add up to make a big impact. Let’s work together to safeguard our Earth!

Hello, I'm Seo-jun Park, a student at Gumi Middle School and a member of the Global Citizenship Club. Today, I would like to introduce Earth Day.

Earth Day is celebrated on April 22 every year as a day to take various actions to prevent the destruction of the Earth.

Some solutions to the crisis facing the Earth include, first, not littering to prevent environmental destruction, and second, participating in global 'lights-off' campaigns on designated days to help combat global warming.

Some of the actions I take include not throwing trash on the ground and sorting my waste for recycling properly.

Thank you for watching.

The International Day for Biological Diversity is celebrated every year on May 22 to raise awareness about the importance of biological diversity and to encourage efforts to protect it.

The reasons for preserving biological diversity are as follows: First, a diverse range of species interact with each other to form ecosystems. When biological diversity is rich, ecosystems become more stable and have a better ability to respond to external factors such as climate change or natural disasters. Second, biological diversity provides humans with essential resources, such as food, medicine, raw materials, and various industrial resources, all of which are vital for human life. For example, many medications are derived from compounds found in plants and animals. Third, different plants and animals play an important role in absorbing and storing carbon. By protecting biological diversity, we can help mitigate the effects of climate change.

To preserve biological diversity, individuals can reduce waste and recycle properly, and also help protect wildlife by preventing poaching and preserving their habitats.

Hello, my name is Han-gyeol Park, and I am a first-year student in Class 4 at Bundang Gumi Middle School. I am also a member of the Time Citizen Club.

First, I would like to introduce Earth Day. Earth Day is an annual event where people turn off their lights from 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM to raise awareness about environmental issues. Since the 1990s, it has expanded into a global movement, with over 190 countries celebrating it in various ways.

To help protect the planet, people use eco-friendly technology and reduce the use of ink on snack packaging.

Personally, I take action by using a tumbler, carrying a reusable shopping bag, turning off lights in empty rooms, and reducing the use of disposable items.

I’ve translated your text into English while keeping it natural and accurate. Let me know if you’d like any adjustments! 😊

Hello. I am Lee Yujin, a student in Class 4, Grade 1, at Gumi Middle School in Bundang, and a member of the Global Citizen Club.

Today, I would like to introduce World Earth Day.

World Earth Day is an event held on April 22nd every year, from 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM, for one hour. During this time, people in all countries around the world turn off their lights to give the Earth a moment to rest.

To address global warming, we must continue to practice sustainable habits, just as snack companies have reduced the amount of printed packaging by 70%. Additionally, participating in the lights-off event on Earth Day is one way we can help overcome the environmental challenges our planet faces.

Every year on April 22nd, I will turn off my lights and reduce my use of disposable items by carrying a tumbler. Finally, I will always remember that small actions come together to create big changes.

Introduction to Earth Day, the Crisis Facing Our Planet, and My Action Plan

Hello. My name is Jiwoo Park, and I am a student in Class 1-4 at Gumi Middle School in Bundang. I am currently a member of my school’s Global Citizenship Club. At first, I didn’t choose to join this club, but through my activities, I have learned about global citizenship and environmental issues, making me feel more informed and aware.

Now, I would like to introduce Earth Day, discuss the crisis facing our planet, and present my proposed action plan.

1. Earth Day

Earth Day is observed annually on April 22nd, during the spring season. It was first celebrated in the United States in 1970. April 22nd was chosen because of the pleasant weather during that time of year. The reason Earth Day was established is that human activities have led to an increase in greenhouse gas emissions, such as carbon dioxide and methane, causing global warming. To give the Earth a brief rest, the idea was to reduce electricity usage, even if just for one day. Since its inception, Earth Day has grown into an international environmental movement.

2. The Crisis Facing Our Planet

Global warming is becoming more severe, and as a result, plants and animals are losing their habitats and facing the risk of extinction. The rise in carbon dioxide emissions is accelerating climate change, posing a serious threat to natural ecosystems.

3. My Action Plan and Solutions

1. Reduce waste production.

2. Utilize eco-friendly scientific technologies to support a sustainable lifestyle.

3. Minimize ink usage.

4. Promote the use of ZEB (Zero Energy Building).

5. Decrease the use of disposable products

Hello, I am Han Ji-won, living in Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do. I believe that Earth Day is a day to think about electricity and the environment, at the very least. As for solutions to the crisis facing Earth, I think that since pollution is increasing, even just one person conserving electricity and water can make a difference. My way of taking action is based on the fact that the Earth is becoming increasingly dangerous—if things continue, we could also face

serious consequences. Right now, the planet is in a major crisis. So if we want to survive, we must conserve electricity, recycle properly, and use water wisely. By doing so, we can overcome this global crisis.

Hello, my name is Shin Juhan, and I am a student in Class 3, Grade 1 at Bundang Gumi Middle School. I am part of the Global Citizenship Club and would like to introduce actions we can take to help the Earth.

Every year, people around the world turn off their lights for a certain period to support the planet. On March 30th, there is an event where lights are turned off for one hour to help the Earth.

To reduce greenhouse gas emissions, avoid driving at night and walk or use public transportation for short distances. It is also important to reduce the use of disposable products.

Turn off lights in unused rooms, actively use public transportation, and maintain the appropriate temperature in your home. If possible, participating in a global warming campaign is also a great way to help.

Hello my name is seon woo Lee. I am a middle school student.

My class is 3, and i grade 1.

My school name is bundang gumi middle

school.

World Earth Day was established in 1970 to raise awareness of environmental issues and promote sustainable living.

alternative

1.There are environmental protection

campaigns

2.climate change response efforts,

ecosystem conservation activities,

education on recycling and resource saving

3.tree-planting campaigns My practical measures

1.using public transportation

2.saving energy

3.Reducing single-use products