The Mass Games

Hello,  7th grader pen pal!

       As you are aware of, I am your pen pal from North Korea. I am assigned the Mass Games, or the  more  descriptive name, the Arirang Festival. This is a festival for all types of gymnasts! The skills vary from “gymnastics, dance, acrobatics, and dramatic performance. Also, accompanied by other music and effects” (Wikipedia).  This yearly event since 2002 has taken place in Pyongyang, North Korea. In this letter, I will be telling you all about this amazing event!

       Imagine people over crowding the prodigious stadium. Yelling, cheering, and shouts of enthusiasm all around you. Imagine thousands of people below you, dancing to the music. Imagine seeing people in chromatic assortments of attire. They are doing flips and bending their bodies you thought no way possible. Imagine the angelic patterns the gymnasts down stage form in one rhythmic movement. It was alluring; the dancing patterns. It was relaxing and almost satisfying to watch. The practice it must’ve taken was horrifying, grueling hours. Imagine training three months for five hours after school. Imagine practicing another three months during the summer, every day, all day, until the Mass Games begin. What you’re imagining? That’s all real and happens to the people who participate in the Mass Games.

         The Mass Games is not something to mess around with. Have you ever heard of the best seller “The Hunger Games”? If you are foreign to that specific series, then you might’ve thought the Mass Games sounded committedly as if it was the Hunger Games. Regrettably to disappoint, the Mass Games does not involve killing. A broken arm or leg is reasonable as they train adamantly! Over 100,000 teenagers are picked to dance and train for the seasonal games. If you are asking how I know this, no, I am not one of those fortunate teens. In fact, some teens may see it unlucky. You have school and then hours of practice. Though, I must admit the show is a complete transfixer! Although I am here in North Korea and you in the United States, that does not stop you from visiting here and watching the amazingly broadcasted games! Some may not be playable to make it, but there are some favorite YouTube videos! This one is extravagant!

       Well, I’m sorry to say I’d be going now. Although my writing stops here, doesn’t mean your imagination has to! Most definitely try to come here to learn about the Mass Games!

     Signed,

      Your mystery pen pal from North Korea.