Just like other Korean classes, if you are not interested in Korean literature and movies, this class can be painful. However, if interest, this class will be very enjoyable. The professor goes over multiple literature and movies that have common themes or contrasting themes. She specifically picks literary works and movies closely related to significant historical events in Korea, making these more engaging and fun. This class does have quite a lot of readings, but it is very manageable if you are on top of work. There is no exam, and the grade is heavily based on weakly reflection postings on readings and movies, which are 300 and 200 words each. There is no midterm, and the final is a 7-page essay, which is not so hard to get good marks on.

That said, if you are thinking of taking this course just for GE req, it may be a great idea to look for other courses.

This was one of the best class that I've taken in this entire spring quarter! The overall class itself was interesting as we sit and listen to the professor's lectures which she teaches us many historical facts about Korea. She does have a strict stance towards the usage of cellphones and laptops during class as she prefers not to see them being used during her lectures which was reasonable and she was a very fair professor. Her workload was mostly to write two short response papers (200 and 300 words) every week based on a film and book that we viewed that week, however, the professors and TA were fair graders and as long as you showed efforts in your assignments, you will not be graded harshly, based on my experience. There is also presentations during discussion classes and every student has to do it once, so it is best to keep that in mind. There was also a final paper. Overall, the professor was a wonderful person and will offer great advice for your finals during office hours. I had such a great experience and would totally take another class with this professor again when given the chance!