When making New Year's resolutions, studying for exams, or starting self-improvement, the scariest enemy is giving up after three days.
At such times, what we need is not cold advice, but stories of our own that offer a heartwarming sense of camaraderie.
I recommend 9 movies that motivate studying, filled with the 'tenacious spirit' and 'family love' that any Korean can relate to.
These are verified works that even the College Entrance Exam Research Institute and education experts recommend to students.
The first half, in which the protagonist Tae-su—formerly a delinquent—realizes that "power is scarier than fists" and studies like crazy to become a prosecutor, is the ultimate motivational video for studying.
In particular, the scene in the library where he is so engrossed that he gets a nosebleed is a real wake-up call for those who have become lethargic.
Depicts the meeting between 'Chang-dae,' a young man thirsty for learning, and 'Jeong Yak-jeon,' a scholar exiled to the land.
Pose the question, "What do you intend to use what you have learned for?" It is a masterpiece that awakens the true joy and purpose of studying, rather than mere rote memorization.
Speaks of the importance of the 'process of finding the answer' rather than the correct answer. It offers warm comfort, saying "It's not your fault, let's try again," not only to those who have given up on math but also to all learners exhausted from obsessing over results.
Knowledge is power. The process of learning to read and write and creating a dictionary to preserve our language demonstrates the noble value that learning holds, transcending personal advancement.
It resonates deeply with the 40-60 generation who are starting to learn something new.
The sight of high school graduate employees studying at an English academy at dawn to uncover corporate corruption serves as a powerful source of motivation for office workers living their 'real lives.'
It is filled with positive energy that says, "We can do it."
It portrays the process of discovering and honing a genius talent, as well as the sacrifices of the family standing by that side.
It makes you contemplate what your own potential is and shows the truth that it is never too late.
Chowon, who has the intelligence of a 5-year-old, completes a 42.195km marathon. Studying is also a marathon.
No other film demonstrates the value of running a little bit every day until the very end as well as this movie.
This is a movie you must watch when you feel your perseverance waning.
The protagonist returns to their hometown after failing the teacher certification exam. However, that time is not a failure, but merely a 'season to rest for a while.'
It provides emotional nourishment to help those frustrated by exam results start anew.
Although not directly related to studying, it teaches you 'how to turn fear into courage.'
Admiral Yi Sun-sin's fighting spirit of believing in himself and moving forward even in the face of overwhelming disadvantage is necessary for all of us facing the great test of life.
