On October 1st, in Tongui-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, the 'Jeongdong Mahjong Classroom - Sunday Social' showcases a lively game of mahjong, an ancient Chinese four-player game that has gained recent popularity in South Korea. Organized by cultural critic Lee Myung-seok, this program invites anyone interested in mahjong to join after a lecture for practical play sessions. Among the attendees, many, like Kim Ha-kyung and Hwang Hye-rim, became fascinated with the game through various forms of media and personal recommendations, attesting to mahjong's ability to engage individuals from diverse backgrounds.

The allure of mahjong stems from its complex rules that resemble familiar board games like Rummikub. The event brings together participants who have recently embarked on their mahjong journey, creating a supportive environment. Players like Kwon Yeong-mok, who started learning at the behest of his daughter, illustrate the intergenerational appeal of the game as they gather for shared enjoyment, fostering community spirit in the process.

Mahjong, traditionally overshadowed by other games like Hwatu in Korea, is experiencing a resurgence as newcomers discover the balance of skill and luck it provides. With cultural roots that spread across East Asia, the game serves not only as entertainment but also as a medium for social interaction among players of all ages, indicating a potential for further growth in its popularity within Korean society.