Go Legend Lee Sedol Visits Ulsan Elementary School for Special Class

In a heartwarming event that brought a legendary figure into the classroom, Go grandmaster Lee Sedol visited Cheongsol Elementary School in Ulsan, South Korea. The visit, part of a broader initiative supported by the Ulsan Metropolitan City and the Korea Baduk Association, saw Lee engaging directly with 5th and 6th graders. He didn't just observe; he actively participated, offering encouragement and insights as the young students played. The atmosphere in the classroom was electric, filled with a mix of curiosity and focused intensity as the children interacted with a true master of the game. Lee Sedol, known for his historic matches against AI, shared the intricacies of Go and the world of professional play in a way that resonated with the students' level, turning the session into a lively 'mini Go talk show.' Questions ranged from how he could foresee moves so far ahead to his feelings during the matches against AlphaGo. This initiative, currently running in 36 schools across Ulsan, aims to elevate Go beyond a mere game, positioning it as a 'brain sport' that cultivates logical thinking. For these students, meeting a 'legendary player' they'd only seen on TV was a profound experience, sparking a desire to delve deeper into the game. As Principal Kim In-ju noted, this program is a valuable opportunity for children to enhance their thinking and concentration skills, with the school committed to expanding such creative problem-solving education.

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It was really amazing to meet the player I'd only seen on TV and even ask him questions.