60 elementary and middle school students to be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis — applications open through Oct. 8

[Provided by Gwanak-gu]
[Provided by Gwanak-gu]

Gwanak-gu announced Monday that it is recruiting participants for the "Starlight Expedition," a youth program tied to the Science-Arts Convergence Playground: Byeollicht Naerin Cheon PlayStreet event.

The event will be held Oct. 31 at the waterfront stage area along Byeollicht Naerin Cheon. Now in its second year, the festival drew about 280 participants last year and has expanded to include science programming alongside its existing arts activities. The district organized the program in partnership with Seoul National University's College of Education and several other universities to help children develop creativity and imagination through hands-on science and arts experiences.

Applications are open to 60 elementary and middle school students in Gwanak-gu on a first-come, first-served basis through Oct. 8. Interested students can apply by completing and submitting the registration form via the QR code on the event notice. Results will be announced to individual applicants on Oct. 13.

The district is staging the event as a showcase for the arts, physical education and music mentoring outcomes of its Seoul National University SAM Mentoring program, which provides tailored academic instruction and hands-on activities for elementary, middle and high school students in Gwanak-gu.

After an opening ceremony, Starlight Expedition participants will explore various stations along Byeollicht Naerin Cheon, collecting stamps as they go. The Arts Experience Zone and Acting Experience Zone will offer brass rubbing and resin deep-art workshops run with Seoul National University's fine arts education club, sports rhythm training, and traditional Korean archery with Chung-Ang University's archery club Ssonsal.

The new science program, added this year, features Chung-Ang University's Advanced Materials and Nano-Convergence Innovation Convergence University project team and the university volunteer club "Visiting Mentor Service Corps." Children can explore scientific principles through activities including making artificial snowmen, creating chemical gardens using osmosis, crafting bead bracelets and trying 3D pen drawing.

Elsewhere at the venue, university clubs and parent communities from across Seoul will run additional hands-on programs — cosmetics and perfume making, floral decoration and sock-yarn crafts. A book camping area will also be set up along Byeollicht Naerin Cheon where students, parents and local residents can read and relax outdoors.


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