Mapo-gu Launches 'Silppuri Baeumt'eo' Lifelong Learning Programs

Mapo-gu, led by District Mayor Park Kang-su, will run its 2026 second-half directly operated education programs at the "Silppuri Baeumt'eo" neighborhood lifelong learning centers from July through October.

The Silppuri Baeumt'eo centers form Mapo-gu's network of neighborhood-level lifelong learning hubs, established to bring learning opportunities within residents' daily living areas so people can access a wide range of education without traveling far from home.

This round of programs will be offered at eight neighborhood lifelong learning centers in Yonggang-dong, Sinsu-dong, Seogang-dong, Seogyo-dong, Hapjeong-dong, Mangwon 1-dong, Yeonnam-dong and Seongsan 1-dong, with a total of 16 courses on offer.

The programs are open to Mapo-gu residents and workers employed within the district. Registration for courses beginning in July and August opens Monday at 10 a.m., while registration for courses starting in September and October opens Aug. 18 at 10 a.m.

The curriculum spans five areas: digital skills, humanities and reading, health and lifestyle, cultural arts, and family communication.

In the digital category, a course titled "Can Your Smartphone Really Do That?" targets middle-aged and older residents, helping them build confidence with digital devices and develop practical smartphone skills for everyday life.

The cultural arts lineup includes a digital drawing, emoticon and goods design course, a beginner calligraphy class, and a healing flower arrangement class — all designed to let participants enjoy creativity and learning.

The health and lifestyle category features courses such as "The Right Medicine and Health Management for You, Explained by a Herbal Pharmacist" and a Level 2 home-care certification course, offering both practical health information and a pathway to professional qualification.

Family and children's programs — including "Food Therapy for Our Family" and a psychology-based parenting communication course — aim to strengthen empathy and communication within families and support healthy relationships.

In the humanities category, courses such as "Reading and Talking About Myself" and a read-ask-discuss book club give participants a space to share ideas through books and connect with fellow residents.

Residents wishing to enroll can apply through the Mapo-gu Lifelong Learning website or by calling the district's Lifelong Learning Division. Registration closes once a course reaches capacity.

All courses are free of charge, though participants may be responsible for materials, textbook or examination fees depending on the course.

"Lifelong learning is the driving force that improves quality of life and energizes our community," a Mapo-gu official said. "We will continue to develop a diverse range of tailored programs so that residents can learn and grow close to home."