Dr Julie Choi’s research examines how collaborative bookmaking with Korean creative workers helps diverse Australian children appreciate Korean language and culture while developing positive multilingual identities through community-based creative expression.
The problem
The project explores how Australian children from diverse linguistic backgrounds develop appreciation for Korean culture and multilingualism through creative workshops involving Korean cultural storytelling, arts-based activities, and collaborative bookmaking. Children’s perspectives are documented to understand how Korea-focused community creative processes foster positive attitudes toward linguistic and cultural diversity.
The proposed research
Through interactive workshops exploring Korean culture, Australian children from diverse backgrounds will engage in collaborative bookmaking that celebrates multilingual identities and Australia-Korea connections. Using arts-rich approaches including Korean folktales, cultural traditions, and collaborative publishing with Korean creative partners, the research examines how Korea-focused community projects help children develop positive relationships with linguistic and cultural diversity. The project documents how children navigate their own multilingual identities while exploring Korean cultural connections. The international component involves presenting outcomes at Korean children’s book festivals, establishing Australia-Korea networks for ongoing multilingual education research and strengthening bilateral cultural understanding through creative collaboration.
The intended impact
The project strengthens Australia-Korea relations while advancing multilingual education by demonstrating how Korea-focused creative approaches foster children’s linguistic and cultural appreciation. The resulting resources will inform educational practices supporting positive multilingual identities and provide a replicable model for Australia-Korea cultural exchange through collaborative creative expression.