This article discusses how the current Korean lifelong learning, led by citizens, is connected with cultural learning, citizenship learning, and community engagement, rooted in the community and combination of active community building projects. It also introduces the structure and policies of lifelong education in Korea, the background and recent trends of community building projects, through three cases of grassroots community building centering on local village schools, called "Maeul Hakkyos". Key themes are explored using the critical theory lens--Habermas poses in the Theory of Communication Action regarding contemporary social issues. In conclusion, the structure and role of adult and lifelong learning resulting from grassroots community building is essential in building community awareness and a civil society.