Join us this fall at the KCCDC for the Sejong Culture Academy 2026! This global cultural education program organized by the King Sejong Institute Foundation offers a diverse range of one-session workshops and hands-on experiences introducing Korean culture, traditions, and contemporary content to audiences around the world.

In 2026, the Academy will operate in 217 locations across 80 countries, delivering 12 diverse Korean culture courses across multiple fields. This year’s program will feature a series of six cultural workshops at the KCCDC offered to the general public and the King Sejong Institute Washington, D.C. as well as additional private programs for students at American University, George Washington University, and George Mason University.

Participants will learn by experiencing three engaging aspects of Korean culture: Hanbok (traditional attire), K-Beauty, and traditional Korean games. The program aims to help learners deepen their appreciation of Korean cultural heritage by exploring traditional and contemporary aspects of Korean culture and their social contexts.

To register, please first see the schedule below and then select the matching date and time through the eventbrite form (coming soon).

Sejong Culture Academy 2026

September 7 - 18

KCCDC and local universities 

Register for this Event!

Program Overview

Participants are asked to select and register for one session only, to maximize overall participation. Each activity includes two identical sessions at different times. Additional events at local universities will be announced separately to their respective communities. 

Traditional Korean Games

Instructor: Seo-yeong Park (Director, Urinnori Cooperative, a social enterprise)

Experience traditional Korean games featured in the globally beloved Netflix series Squid Game! Through hands-on activities, participants will discover Korea’s unique play culture and the values of community and togetherness, while gaining a deeper interest in and understanding of Korean culture. Activities include Mu-gung-hwa kko-chi pi-eot-seum-ni-da (The mugunghwa flower has bloomed), Ddakji-chigi (Korean Paper Tile Flipping), Biseok-chigi (Stone-Hitting Game), Jegichagi (Korean Shuttlecock Kicking),  and Gonggi (Korean Jacks).

• ●Tuesday, September 8, 5:30–8:00 PM (NEW TIME!)

• ●Wednesday, September 9, 6:00–8:30 PM

Hanbok: Traditional Korean Attire

Instructor: Bo Ryong Jeon (Traditional Hanbok Instructor, Malssaem School)

Discover the history and cultural significance of hanbok, Korea’s traditional attire. Through a hands-on traditional accessory-making activity, participants will experience the beauty and cultural values of hanbok while exploring Korean traditions and fostering cross-cultural exchange. Activities include an introduction to the history and symbolism of Hanbok, introduction to the traditional meaning and use of Daenggi (traditional hair accessory), hands-on Daenggi (traditional hair accessory) keychain-making activity using sewing and Geumbak (gold foil decoration), and decorating and completing the Daenggi keychain.

• ●Monday, September 14, 6:00–8:30 PM

• ●Tuesday, September 15, 2:00–4:30 PM

K-Beauty Workshop

Instructor: Jin-su Lee (Head of the Makeup Pro Team, Amorepacific)

Discover the secrets of K-Beauty! Learn about Korean makeup trends, including signature base makeup techniques and point makeup styles. The class features professional demonstrations and hands-on practice, giving participants an engaging and accessible introduction to Korean beauty culture. Activities include an introduction to K-Beauty (Skincare-first philosophy and the glass-skin look), Base Makeup & Skin Prep (Tone correction, cushion application, and dewy base techniques), Eyes, Brows & Lips (Natural gradient eye makeup, soft brows, and gradient lips), and Wrap-Up (Product guide, daily routine tips, and Q&A). 

• ●Wednesday, September 16, 2:00–4:30 PM

• ●Wednesday, September 16, 6:00–8:30 PM