Art • Theater • Concerts • Film • Community • Fitness • Dine & Drink • Nightlife • TRAVEL
Korea awaits! • April 2010 VOL. 2 NO. 7
The New Banyan Tree Club & Spa Community: Amateur English Theater Groups Cherry Blossom Festivals Nationwide Tattoo You
Where to
Brunch The 10 Best Brunch Spots In The Country
Printed using 100% soy ink.
Plus our nationwide calendar and directory with hundreds of things to experience all over Korea
subscribe@10magazine.asia Photographed by Jose Valesquez on Jeju Island
Shinhan Bank’s extraordinary new Shinhan Seoul Global Center has been made with Korean visitors and expats in mind. Boasting a beautiful new facility conveniently located in the heart of downtown Seoul and a completely bilingual staff catering specifically to the needs of non-Korean customers, the center is truly the long-awaited answer to the prayers of the foreign community in Korea. With services range from opening new accounts, Internet banking, credit card applications to foreign exchange, the Shinhan Seoul Global Center is your one-stop shop for all your international banking needs.
04 FROM THE EDITOR / A SHOT OF KOREAN 05
CONTRIBUTORS
06
LETTERS / The Reader's 10 KOREA BY THE NUMBERS
08 STYLE The Who’s Who of Tattoo 10
LIFESTYLE NEWS
16
A TASTE OF KOREA Yukhoe: Steak Tartare
18 IN THE KITCHEN Nick Flynn at the Grand Intercontinental 20 10 QUESTIONS David Ruch: Chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce 22
COMMUNITY Expats Take the Stage
24 FEATURE Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul 28 THE 10 HOTEL & RESORT NEWS
8
10
16
22
April 2010 vol. 2 No. 7 30
ART Satire and Social Critique in Korean Art
32
COVER STORY Brunch of Champions
38
LOCATIONS WITH 10
39
CALENDAR & DIRECTORY 40 Nationwide 45 Regional 73 Networking
44 KOREAN DESTINATIONS Pretty Trees with a Cherry Blossom on Top 56
FOODIE FINDS Ho Lee Chow
58
WINE REVIEW Bodega LIVE MUSIC Korean Indie Music
74
A HAPPY ENDING Damn, It Feels Good to Be a Foreigner
32
39
FROM THE EDITOR
The Philosophy of Brunch
W
e’ve been planning on a special feature on brunch for a couple of years now. My brunches are very important to me as I go out with some of my best friends every Sunday to meet up and discuss the week’s events. With the incredibly busy lives that we tend to live here in Korea it’s important to be able to take a few hours each week and enjoy a nice, relaxing meal with friends. Options have skyrocketed over the last few years, although Itaewon is still the center of the brunch world here in Korea, as Koreans still generally are not exactly morning people. (Ask most of the Koreans you know if they eat breakfast, and you’ll get mostly negative answers.) Me, I’m obsessed with a good brunch, particularly one that includes free refills on coffee. The deeply philosophical as well as banal chats that take place during and after a good brunch are as important as the quality of the meal itself, and nothing promotes discussion better than unlimited caffeine. Suffice it to say, we’re very excited about what our resident foodie, Joe McPherson, and his team have come up with to help you enjoy your weekend mornings this spring and summer. Feel free to let us know on our website if you have another discovery to add to our list, or write us at comments@10magazine.asia. This month also sees me taking a turn at the movie review process for the first time. Our great movie reviewer, Frances Darwin, has moved on to San Francisco, hence we’re in between movie reviewers right now. If you have a degree in or have studied film, please feel free to take this job off of my hands by sending a resume and some sample reviews to contribute@10magazine.asia. I don’t claim to know what I’m talking about any better than the next guy or gal, which hopefully gives my reviews appeal to your average joe(sephine). Writing those things was hard and took up much too much time. Do me a favor and let all of your friends know that the spot is available! Stephen Revere, Managing Editor sr@10magazine.asia
A Shot of Korean by Stephen Revere
CEO
Sang-tae Kim sangtaekim@10magazine.asia
Executive Editor
Jai-yoon Kim jaiyoonkim@10magazine.asia Stephen Revere sr@10magazine.asia David Carruth dc@10magazine.asia
Managing Editor Assistant Editor Contributors
R. L. Baldwin, Michael Berry Kyle Burton, David Carruth, Brian Dye, Michele Farley, Dylan Goldby, Joshua Hall, Ciaran Hickey, Shirley Hwang, Davis Jung, Dami Kang, Song Kim, Curtis Lee, Daniel Lenaghan, Kyoung-hee Lim, Simon Magnus, Paul Matthews, Kym Mills, Joe McPherson, Charles Montgomery, Kristin Myers, Anna Orzel, Megan Preece, Stephen Revere Hyeon-seong Ryu, Grace Sun, Margaret Whittum, Alaric Willi, and Agnes Yu
General Manager
Kyoung-hee Lim kl@10magazine.asia Dami Kang dk@10magazine.asia
Coordinators Art Director
Hugh Lee hlee@10magazine.asia Hyang-mi Choi hc@10magazine.asia Ethan James ej@10magazine.asia
Ad Design Photography Marketing Inquiries Calendar Events Contribute Questions/Comments Subscriptions
marketing@10magazine.asia calendar@10magazine.asia contribute@10magazine.asia comments@10magazine.asia subscribe@10magazine.asia Our April cover photograph is a picture of an Eggs Benedict at Suji's Deli & Restaurant, taken by photographer Sean Park.
먹혀. [meok-hyeo] It works. This is the “it’s good enough,” “it works” kind of definition of “to work.” And it’s complete slang. Your Korean friends will tell you I’m a bad guy for teaching you such slang, but me, I’m a rebel. Look at me teaching slang. The original definition of ‘먹히다’ is ‘to be eaten’. That’s not the one we’ll be using today. Be careful, as all of the expressions we’re using today are casual form – use them only with very close friends. 안 먹혀. [an meok-hyeo] – It doesn’t work.
먹힐 것 같아. [meok-hil geot gat-a] – I think it’ll work. (It looks like it’ll work.)
구글 은 한국에서 안 먹혀. [gu-geul-eun han-guk-e-seo an meok-hyeo ] – Google isn’t used much in Korea. (Most Koreans use naver.com or daum.net). Check out Survival Korean and Survival Korean: Basic Grammar Skills for more Korean lessons from 10’s Managing Editor, Stephen Revere. 4 |
10 Magazine April 2010
Please Recycle This Magazine 10 Magazine April Vol. 2 No. 7 등록번호 서울 라 12065 (Registration: Seoul Ra 12065) ©10 Media Inc. Address 서울시 강남구 논현동 10-21 10-21 Nonhyeon-dong Gangnam-gu Seoul 135-010 Phone 02-3447-1610 www.10magazine.asia 10 Magazine is published monthly by 10 Media Inc. All Rights Reserved. Printed by Kyohaksa Publishing. Co., Ltd
CONTRIBUTORS David Carruth is from Arkansas and unlikely to ever return. Over the nearly four years he has been living in Korea, he has tried his hand at teaching, translating, proofreading, and other sketchy jobs. He has been writing about things he usually doesn’t have time to actually do since becoming full-time assistant editor at 10 this past October. dc@10magazine.asia Dylan (WelkinLight Photography) (p.20) is a photographer from a place where the air smells nice. He is driven and inspired to incorporate his surroundings into photographs and is always looking to make the most of a given situation. Most of all, he lives, breathes, and enjoys photography.
Shirley Hwang (p. 44) hails from sunny Southern California, where she majored in economics. Upon graduation, she decided to rediscover Korea through travel, food, culture, and photography. Shirley is especially fond of roaming through Seoul in hopes of discovering new cafes, restaurants, and history. Her current mission: to refrain from drinking perilous amounts of coffee during her Korean odyssey. shirley@10magazine.asia Paul Matthews (p.32) is a sometimes bearded, often befuddled, ukulele strumming British thespian who has been bumbling his way around the Korean peninsula for the past ten years. He is a member of Latt Children's Theatre and Mokwha Repertory Company and his ramblings on food, film and the oddities of life in Korea can be found at Paul Ajosshi (ajosshi.blogspot.com). Anna Orzel (p.42) grew up listening to ABBA records and italo disco mix tapes on the south side of Chicago. She has been listening to East Asian pop and rock ever since discovering X Japan's Jealousy in the ancient architectures of a CD store. After completing her undergraduate work, she returned to school to study Library and Information Science. She writes the Appears music blog at appears.wordpress.com. 10 Magazine April 2010
| 5
LETTERS Dear 10, I am a Turkish-American expat teaching business with a focus on entrepreneurship and innovation management and the like at Solbridge International School of Business in Daejeon. Upon returning from my brief stay in Cambodia, I discovered your magazine online and watched the KBS interview. Thank you for leading this worthwhile effort and kudos to you and your team. One of the basic tenets of entrepreneurship is to "fill a void or fix a problem." I cannot think of a better example than your magazine. Congratulations. I will subscribe as soon as I sort out these stupid online security checks, etc. with my Korean bank. It is driving me crazy. Dr. Alp Malazgirt, Daejeon Thanks very much for your kind words. Please also notice that if you go to our website at 10magazine.asia, in the upper right you’ll see a button that says “Buy Now” to pay instantly by
The Reader’s 10
F
olks, it’s not at all scientific, but we gotta say, this month’s Reader’s 10 was a blast. We’ve never had so much participation, with over 2,000 votes in our poll. You can bet we’ll be doing this again next year. Here are the English blogs on Korea that our readers (and certain bloggers’ avid followers) chose as their 10 favorite blogs in Korea:
credit or debit card.
Hi 10, I just wanted to send you a quick thank you. I look forward to getting your magazine every month from Roofers in Itaewon. Then I go home and go through it and tear out all of the pages containing events that interest me and put them on my fridge so I don’t forget about any of them. As I finish attending each event I take them down. I want my experience in Korea to be as culturally enriched as possible and your magazine allows me to have that experience. Thank you for being the best events magazine in Korea. Janice Moseychuck-Aylward, Seoul
Korea by the Numbers
1. Six in Seoul sixinseoul.weebly.com 2. Korean Modern Literature in Translation ktlit.com 3. Brian in Jeollanam-do briandeutsch.blogspot.com 4. Korean Rum Diary koreanrumdiary.blogspot.com Rated PG-13 for profanity 5. The Marmot's Hole rjkoehler.com 6. Eat Your Kimchi eatyourkimchi.com
7,817,533 9,494,111
The Number of visitor arrivals to Korea in 2009
7. Rip City To Seoul ripcitytoseoul.wordpress.com
The number of Korean trips abroad in 2009.
9. Seoul Eats seouleats.com
13.4
20.9
Percentage of the increase in visitor arrivals to Korea over the 2008 numbers (6,890,841).
Percentage of the decrease in Korean trips abroad compared to the 2008 numbers (11,996,094). Source: Korea Tourism Organization
Subscribe today for over 30% off the cover price! W29,000 for a year • W15,000 for 6 months subscribe@10magazine.asia
6 |
10 Magazine April 2010
8. Gusts of Popular Feeling populargusts.blogspot.com 10. ZenKimchi zenkimchi.com All in all, not a bad list of some of the most popular blogs in Korea – the not-so-small irony being that the top three probably don’t actually get more hits than some of the other blogs, but obviously have some avid followers. To see the entire top 18 blogs, visit 10magazine.asia/2903/ april-readers-10. We hope you’ll all participate in our next Reader’s 10, where we’ll be asking “What’s your favorite coffee shop in Korea?” We need your votes! Of course the major coffee chains will win, but if you have a local coffee shop that you absolutely love and they put out some great coffee - then get your friends to vote them on to the list. We want to know where you can get the best coffee in Korea – and that’s going to require lots of our readers' input!
style
Ink for Your Seoul Words by Grace Sun and shots by Alaric Willi †
F
inding a place to get a tattoo in Korea used to be a feat more difficult than getting your hands on a Hermes Birkin. Even if you could manage to locate an underground artist, you would then be faced with unsanitary conditions. To top it off, the communication barrier made it impossible for foreigners to connect with the artist. That is, until these guys came along. We’re talking real artists, international standards, funky studios, and, best of all, no language barriers. These masters of the trade are so cool we’re just bowled over. Perhaps I say this too often, but Gracie is truly in love!
3 4
on straight away. All our ink is imported directly from the States.” The studio is affiliated with Inkworks Tattoo in California, and Iroc and his artists all hold licenses to attend international tattoo conventions. Tattoo Korea artists have a combined total of 32 years in the industry and can help you develop an idea. Of particular mention is San Lee, the most highly regarded female tattoo artist in Korea. Needless to say, the language barrier is eradicated and in fact 90% of customers are foreigners, ranging from the military, FBI agents, to local and international celebrities like DJ Skumfrog and the Pussycat Dolls. Contact: Iroc 010-8998-1911, iroc@tattoo-korea.com Josh 010-2736-7019, josh@tattoo-korea.com Web: www.tattoo-korea.com www.myspace.com/tattoo-korea www.facebook.com/tattookorea Directions: Take the subway to Cheongdam-dong Station (line 7) and get out at exit 10. Take the first alley to your right, walk up the road for about 300 yards and you’ll see a building that says Baek Seol Heon (백설헌). Tattoo Korea is located on the 3rd floor.
1 2
1. Artwork by Tattoo Korea 2†. Tattoo Korea’s artists 3†. Tattoo Times & Tatist’s artist 4. Artwork by Tattoo Times & Tatist
Tattoo Korea Iroc Kim, a Korean-American with 13 years in the industry, first came to Korea in 1995 as a singer and it was then that he identified a lack of structure and professionalism in the largely underground tattoo scene here. After working in California with Phillip Spearman, currently ranked the No. 5 tattoo artist in the world, his connections enabled him to fulfill his dream to open up a clean, foreigner-friendly tattoo parlor in Seoul. “The thing that sets us apart from the other tattoo parlors is that we follow strict sanitary procedures as set out by LA state law, by the book,” said Iroc. “For each artwork, we take 30 minutes to set up. Everything we use on our customers is brand new and state of the art, including the needles, wraps, sterilizing equipment, and tips for the machine. If we touch something with our latex gloves, we remove it and put a new one 8 |
10 Magazine April 2010
Tattoo Times & Tatist It all began when Jay B, the undisputed leader of tattooing in Korea, returned from the U.S in 2001 and Tattoo Times was born. Not only the CEO and founder of Tattoo Times, Jay B is also the secretary-general of the Korea Tattoo Association. “He changed the concept of tattooing in Korea,” said Danny, in-house manager at Tattoo Times, who is fluent in English, Chinese and Korean. Another artist is also fluent in Japanese. “After majoring in art when he was in university in the US, Jay B spent time in Thailand learning the trade, and continued to educate himself in Korea,” Danny continued. “Now, besides being the main artist in our studio, he also trains new artists and sets them on their tattooing career.” Bringing true artistic soul to your skin – that’s their motto and what they do best. In fact, all of Tattoo Times’ eight artists
majored in art in college and specialize in customized “freehand” tattoos. Once a design has been used, it will not be recycled and used again. “Our studios have tattooed many high-profile celebrities,” Danny went on to say. “Just take a look at the albums on our Facebook and Myspace pages. All our pictures are categorized, and each artwork has the name of the artist underneath the logo so that you can choose which artist you want to work with you.” The studio will be moving later this year to form an alliance with Tatist studio. JP Prodigy, the founder of Tatist, learned how to tattoo from Jay B and has been influential in the new wave of clients from China and Japan due to his work for Korean pop groups like TVXQ (동방신기). Tattoo Times is adamant that they are not trying to be like other tattoo places. As Danny put it, “Tattooing is an art form, and we stay true to that. We don’t offer discounts but we offer the best art. We’re passionate about what we do and we don’t brag – we just prove ourselves through our work.” Contact: Danny 010-6292-8952, tattoo_times@hotmail.com Web: myspace.com/tattootimes, facebook.com/tattootimes, tattootimes.cyworld.com, cafe.naver.com/tattootimes Directions: Sinsa Station (line 3), exit 4. Walk down the street with GS petrol on your right, and turn left at the alley before the overpass bridge. Call Danny for directions.
S
o if you’ve ever wanted to get a new tattoo, cover up an old one, or go for the plunge – these are the best places to go in Korea. There are countless possibilities. For the girls, why not try another color like pale blue or pink? I’m getting a white one done next week. But remember, tattoos stay on your body for life, so communicate well with the artist and make a decision that you won’t regret! More tattoo parlors:
If you’re someone that likes to shop around, here are some other places we recommend. Check out their profiles and pictures online. Please note that not all these guys can speak English, so you may need a Korean friend to help. Memento Tattoo Gangnam-gu, Nonhyeon-dong, 010-3345-1092 Contact Memento: http://club.cyworld.com/mementoz, 3451092@naver.com Hybrid Ink Studio Sinchon St. (line 2, ex. 6), 010-5420-5402 Contact Eru: myspace.com/erutattoo, erutattoo@naver.com, G.T.O Tattoo Hongik Univ. St. (line 2, ex. 2), 011-511-0565 club.cyworld.com/gtotattoo, rafflesia@nate.com King Tattoo Dongdaemun History & Culture Park St. (line 2, 4, 5) ex. 13, 010-6414-0731, kingtattoo.co.kr Kingston Tattoo Itaewon St. (line 6), 010-4756-1213 club.cyworld.com/kingstontattoo Hongik Tattoo Hapjeong St. (line 2 and 6, ex. 7), 010-2054-2244 club.cyworld.com/hktattoo, hongiktattoo.com Studio Tattoo Ewha Univ. St. (line 2, ex. 3), 016-291-4413 tattooby.co.kr, club.cyworld.com/tattooby Ryuhon Studio Hongik Univ. St. (line 2), 010-9425-0737 ryuhon.co.kr, club.cyworld.com/ryuhon Saegimi Sinchon St. (line 2), 010-2618-2859 club.cyworld.com/sagimi, sorry1000@nate.com, Toon Tattoo, Contact Toon (English-speaking): 010-4860-0909
Edited by Kyounghee Lim and Curtis Lee
Bella Coolla 63’s 1st Birthday Party April 24th, 2009 marked the 50th anniversary of Myeongdong’s Astoria Hotel. To mark the occasion, the folks at Astoria Hotel opened their new Italian ristorante, Bella Coolla 63, on that very day. The first-floor eatery will now be celebrating its one-year anniversary by throwing a Grand Party on April 23rd starting at 6 pm. Please join Bella Coolla 63 and the Astoria Hotel for this momentous occasion, as they prepare for even bigger things in the future. bellacoolla@naver.com, 02-2275-7473
Awesome 80’s Prom
The One and Only Miso Over the years Chongdong Theater has seen its share of performances, but starting this month it becomes the home theater for the original Korean musical, Miso. With showings at 4 and 8 pm, there will be two opportunities a day to enjoy this cultural experience. Sporting a total cast of over 80, with 37 dancers and 34 musicians, Miso has three teams in total. The small auditorium, with seating for just 280, makes for quite a spectacle when there are 80 performers participating! There’s not a bad seat in the house. Since 2008, Miso has operated with the theme “Love”, and with its new incarnation, it takes on the Korean representative love story of Chunhyang and Mongryeong. The entirely new spectacular dance numbers are set to an orchestra of Korean traditional instruments, providing a truly unique experience only to be found on Miso’s stage. Miso has been running since its first showing in 1997, and in its 14 years of operation over 550,000 visitors have seen it, making it Korea’s most popular traditional Korean musical. Seats are consistently filled to capacity, with almost 90% of the audience being non-Korean. This new version of an old favorite offers you a chance to see a legendary Korean musical. koreamiso.com, 02-751-1500 10 | 10 Magazine April 2010
Remember prom? Back when nothing was more important to you than who would end up being crowned Prom King and Prom Queen? Who doesn’t? Well here’s your chance to relive those younger days with the Awesome 80’s Prom. There’s a performance to go with this party, which originally started out at Hongdae’s H Club, but now the popular performance has moved to the stage of King Club Lounge in Itaewon. awesomeprom.co.kr, 1544-1681
Rosetta Stone Expands Its Offerings in French, Italian, German and Spanish Rosetta Stone Inc., a leading provider of technology-based languagelearning solutions, announced that the company will enhance its awardwinning Rosetta Stone® Version 3 solutions with the addition of Levels 4 and 5 in French, Italian, German and Spanish (Spain). These new levels include extended, more complex conversations and grammar, expanded vocabulary, and additional opportunities for speaking that prepare the learner for
everyday interactions in their language of study. “We’re excited that Rosetta Stone learners can continue their language learning success with the addition of these new levels,” said Tom Adams, Rosetta Stone CEO. “The new content means that learners can go further in their quest to learn to speak a new language.” In addition to French, Italian, German and Spanish (Spain), Levels 4 and 5 are also available in Spanish (Latin America) and English. rosettastone.co.kr
RE
T
CU
Apr-Dec: 4pm, 8pm (No performance on Monday) Chongdong Theater R: W40,000, S: W30,000, A: W20,000 E
T
CU
R HE
HE
20% OFF Expire: April 30, 2010 *Discount good up to four guests
Chongdong Theater | 02-751-1500 | www.koreamiso.com
Shinhan Bank Opens Foreigner-Friendly Branch Any long-term resident of Korea has at some time had to deal with Korea’s distinctly foreigner-unfriendly banking system. Quite often you will hear, “I don’t think we can do that.” Translation: foreigners need not apply. That’s all changed with the opening of Shinhan Bank’s Seoul Global Center on the first floor of the Seoul Finance Center downtown. This is where you hear, “Sure, we can do that for you.” This is where the tellers speak English, Japanese and Chinese. This is where you can sign up for Internet banking all in English. This is where foreigners who qualify can actually get credit cards made from real plastic with honest magnetic strips and everything! If you’re a new resident to Korea, making the new Shinhan Seoul Global Center your first stop in Korea will make your entire adjustment to this country a whole lot easier.
Executive Chef Sebastiano Giangregorio, the best ingredients, the gracious Italian hospitality and the sophisticated atmosphere make dining at Antonio an evening to remember. Join us for Live Jazz Performances Tuesday — Saturday
starting at 7:30 and Sunday at 1 o’clock.
Gangnam-gu Cheongdam-dong 93-8 Tel 02-3443-4333 www.antonios.kr
On The Border Opens in Apgujeong, Seoul Plenty of us have been making the trip to Sinchon, COEX and Times Square for the delicious Mexican food fix that is served up by On The Border, and now you can tack a run for the border on to your next trip to Apgujeong! Enjoy Mexican favorites like tacos, burritos, fajitas, enchiladas and margaritas at On The Border – always with free bottomless fresh chips and salsa. On The Border Apgujeong is open Sunday to Wednesday 11:30 am to 10:30 pm and Thursday to Saturday until 2 am with a variety of tequilas and late-night snacks, and they offer a special brunch menu on Saturday and Sunday from 9 am to 12 pm. Ask about discounts on takeout! ontheborder.co.kr, 02-518-0682 12 | 10 Magazine April 2010
Advertorial Diet & Health
Nutritious Beef
D
The Other Fish
id you know that Koreans spend $20 billion a year on private education for their kids? They’re just as passionate about education as they are about providing the right “brain food” for their kids, like the omega 3 that is found in fish. But did you also know that you can find a lot of omega 3 in beef? Dietary guidelines recommend that we eat lean red meat three to four times a week. Beef is nutrient-dense, with little fat and few calories, making it an important part of a balanced, healthy diet for adults and children. Check out all the essential nutrients and vitamins it delivers. IRON Iron helps transport the oxygen in our blood to our muscles. This provides the energy to help our brain function, fight off infection and give us a zest for life. Animal sources of iron are more easily absorbed than the iron found in plants. A woman would have to eat 1.75kg of spinach to absorb the same amount of iron she could get from one serving of lean beef! Lean beef also contains higher amounts of iron and zinc than white meats. To absorb the same amount of iron as you would from lean beef, you would have to eat twice the amount of chicken. OMEGA 3 Polyunsaturated fats play an important role in brain development and cardiovascular health, and protect against heart disease. In fact, red meat
is a major contributor of omega-3 fatty acids, so next time remember that instead of going to fish for these nutrients, you can also go to beef. PROTEIN Protein is vital for the growth and maintenance of our skin, bones and muscles. Beef is a primary source of protein that contains all the essential amino acids and is highly digestible. VITAMIN B12 This vitamin is essential for the healthy functioning of the nervous system. It is also required for synthesising DNA, which is important for brain function. As this vitamin is only found in animal foods, beef is a valuable source! ZINC Zinc assists with cell growth and repair, wound healing and maintenance of the immune system. When you eat beef,
So the next time you want a nutritious meal for yourself or your family, remember to toss some beef into your salad, add some to your stir-fry, or cook a tasty steak. Your body - and your tastebuds - will thank you for it! 14 | 10 Magazine April 2010
The CSIRO diet says that healthy weight management is most easily achieved with a nutritionally balanced eating plan that is higher in protein, moderate in carbohydrates and low in fat. Why protein? Higher protein/low fat has a positive effect on your diet. Lean red meat is also relatively low in saturated fat, and if consumed as part of a healthy balanced diet, reduces the incidence of heart disease risk factors such as high blood pressure. * * * * * Tips for How Best to Absorb Iron • Choose foods high in absorbable iron at each meal. Lean rump steak has the highest level of total iron compared to other animal and plant sources, as well as the highest quality of iron, with 20% being absorbed. • Drink tea and coffee in between meals, not with them, as they can inhibit the absorption of iron by 50%. • Combine iron-rich foods with good sources of vitamin C, as it increases absorption by 2-3 times.
about 21-26% of the zinc from beef is absorbed, compared with only about 1114% in wholemeal bread. RIBOFLAVIN Riboflavin helps to metabolise carbohydrates, fats and proteins. It is also vital for healthy skin, nails, hair and eyes. THIAMIN Thiamin has a role in heart health and is needed for proper functioning of the nervous system. It is also important in metabolising carbohydrates, fats and proteins to supply us with the energy to accomplish our daily activities. SELENIUM This antioxidant is involved in maintaining the immune system. Just a single serving of beef provides about 15% of the recommended daily intake of selenium.
A TASTE OF KOREA
Yukhoe
(육회)
Steak Tartare
Words by Ciaran Hickey
R
aw meat. It’s not common, but neither is it unique to Korea since there are few parts of the world where it’s not enjoyed in some shape or form. Beef tartare dishes abound in Europe and have never lost their popularity. We’ve all heard the old joke of the unwitting tourist in France ordering steak tartare for the first time only to be horrified upon being served raw beef. That said, I think I can safely choose yukhoe as my definite favorite in this family of foods. It’s basically a dish of thin strips of raw beef tossed with soy sauce, sesame oil and pear juice and served with pine nuts and slices of pear. As well as being ridiculously easy to make, it captures the real flavors and taste of Korea and has a distinct personality. The thing that sets yukhoe apart for me is the pear. The sweetness and texture are perfectly matched with the other ingredients and give the dish an identity of its own. Pine nuts are another surprise—I had always classified them as an “Italian” ingredient never to be seen anywhere else, let alone Korea. The addition of gochujang (red pepper paste) gives it that unforgettable Korean heat. There are several opinions on which cut of beef to use, with rump steak being the most commonly found, but if you decide to make this dish at home, the choice is yours. Tenderloin will give you a more delicate and softer texture, whereas sirloin, especially a well-marbled Hanwoo steak, has layers of fat running through the meat which provide a more assertive texture and taste. Making this dish is easy as long as you make sure that your beef is absolutely fresh. I know some people put the beef in the freezer for a while to make it easier to cut, but this isn’t necessary unless you are writing a
Korean "Netizen" Picks for Yukhoe Yukhoe Jijon (육회지존)
Yukhoe image provided by Yukhoe Maru www.6maru.com
cookbook and need the dish to look pictureperfect. Koreans cut the beef in thin strips rather than dicing it into the small cubes you may be used to, but they still serve a raw quail egg on top just like their Western cousins. I’ve heard that you can get this dish made with horsemeat in Japan, but I’ll leave that particular gastronomic treat for the braver souls among us. Koreans will sometimes use raw beef liver, tripe and other offal in the same way. I once tried this variant of yukhoe in a small restaurant close to Gyeongdong Market. As I recall, it took a lot of soju to digest the 1 cm square pieces of raw liver. Whatever the final cut, consider having a bottle of soju handy as the perfect complement for this tasty dish.
Yukhoe Recipe Ingredients
• 150 g beef, your choice • 1 quail egg, raw • 1 tsp toasted pine nuts • Crisp lettuce hearts • 1 pear (배, bae) peeled and cut into approx 3 cm pieces
Sauce
• • • •
Directions
3 2 1 1
tbsp soy sauce • 1 tbsp sugar tbsp sesame oil • 1 clove finely minced garlic tbsp finely diced green onion • 1/2 tsp toasted sesame seeds tsp gochujang, more if you like it spicy
Cut the beef into 3 cm strips the size of matchsticks and toss with all the sauce ingredients. On the serving plate arrange the crisp lettuce hearts, put the pear strips on top and finally add the beef mixture on top of that. Separate the egg yolk from the quail egg and put on top, Enjoy!
16 | 10 Magazine April 2010
The name of this restaurant could be translated as “the supreme beef tartare,” and they’re definitely tops at distribution, with stores open in eastern Seoul, Bundang, Anyang, and Daejeon. Stick with the affordable Hanwoo yukhoe (W15,000) or live a little by trying the abalone yukhoe (W30,000), advertised provocatively as “a pretty daughter of the land bedded with a son of the sea.” Myeongil St. (line 5, ex. 2). 02-4264866. Seolleung St. (line 2, ex. 1). 02-562-6464. A Korean can help you find the rest on the web. Sinsa Yukhoe (신사육회)
Break away from the common herd with this classy establishment that’s quite unlike all the other chop shops out there. Try the yukhoe made with top quality Hanwoo beef at W25,000, or join a friend for the yukhoe and beef sashimi combo for W40,000. There’s even a bar here, great for throwing back a glass of sake as you chat. Head out of Sinsa St. (line 6, ex. 4) and go right, left, right, and left. It’s on your left. 02-512-4205
10 Tip Rumor has it that Bulgogi Brothers (p. 57), with locations in Seoul, Busan, Daegu, and Gyeonggi Province, serves up some mean yukhoe bibimbap. by David Carruth
IN THE KITCHEN
G
lancing at the vast cityscape outside the 51st story window of the Marco Polo restaurant in the COEX tower, Executive Chef Nick Flynn of the Grand InterContinental Seoul thinks about the untapped potential of Korea’s restaurant scene. “You have the old chefs, who make sure everything is authentic,” he says. “Then you have these new chefs, who are willing to try new things. Then you have the foreign chefs who advise on palates.” This, he believes, is the working combination to help Korean cuisine reach a world audience. Moving to Korea has been a joy for this Australian-born chef. Having worked in places as diverse as Austria, India and Singapore, Chef Flynn has been most enthusiastic about what he sees in Korea. As he explains, “the local produce is amazing. It’s very seasonal.” Chef Flynn has accomplished quite a few feats, including winning “best new restaurant” for a churrascaria (a meat-heavy Brazilian steakhouse) in vegetarian India. His young team at the Grand InterContinental Seoul has won the difficult Black Box Challenge, which is like an intense episode of Iron Chef. He is amazed by the passion of Korean chefs, which he considers to be Korean cuisine’s great strength.
Along with the strengths are the frustrations. Even though the local produce is superb, it’s not diverse enough to support the types of multi-star cuisine they serve at the Intercontinental. This requires them to depend on imports, which come with choking restrictions. Fresh ingredients die in storage as customs officials decide what to do with them. “The industry is big enough to support everyone,” Nick says. “They’re opening up but new regulations close everything down.” Chef Flynn came to Korea in early 2008, just as the government was picking up speed to promote Korean food abroad. He has observed its actions and has strong ideas on what they’re doing right and wrong. He thinks that gala dinners for dignitaries, like the one held in Washington DC for lawmakers, are a waste of time. The VIPs just have their free meal and move on. The most effective way to cultivate a Korean food movement abroad is to invite high profile and up-andcoming chefs to Korea to show them the beauty of Korea’s homegrown ingredients and teach them how to cook Korean style. He had recently returned from a trip to Chile where the organizers were doing just that. He went from knowing nothing about Chilean cuisine to becoming a passionate enthusiast. “That creates culinary ambassadors,” Nick observes.
Nick Flynn, Executive Chef InterContinental Hotel Seoul
Ingredients • • • • • • • • • • •
500 ml beetroot juice 1/2 tsp sugar 750 gm mero fillet 10 pc cherry tomatoes 10 pc asparagus 100 gm snow pea sprouts 1 pc witlof, or Belgian endive 10 sprigs chervil 20gm white onion 1/2pc red bell pepper Salt, to taste
Chermoula • 1/2 bch parsley • 1 tsp cumin, ground or seeds • 4 cloves garlic • 1/8 bch coriander • 1/8 bch mint • 1/2 large chili pepper • 150ml extra virgin olive oil • 1/4 lemon zest, quickly dipped in boiling water • 1 tsp lemon juice 18 | 10 Magazine April 2010
Citrus dressing • 20 ml lemon juice • 20 ml lime juice • 120 ml extra virgin olive oil Instructions 1. Making the Glaze: Cook the beetroot juice and sugar in a pot over medium high heat. Reduce the liquid until around 50 ml is left and the liquid has a caramel syrup consistency. Allow to cool. 2. Making the Chermoula: Wash the parsley, coriander and mint well and pat dry. Place all chermoula ingredients into a blender Nick Flynn's Seared Mero Fillet with and blend to desired consistency. Season to Chermoula and a Spring Salad taste with salt. 3. Making the Dressing: Add all the dressing ingredients and season with salt to taste. 4. Preparing the Mero Filets: Season the mero filets with salt and sear them quickly on a hot pan. Finish them in a 200 degree C oven. Stick a metal skewer or chopstick in the middle of the mero to check for doneness. It’s ready if the tip of the skewer comes out warm but not hot to the touch. Top the mero with the chermoula and return to the oven for around 1 minute to release the chermoula flavors. 5. Putting it Together: Cut all salad ingredients, season with salt and toss with citrus dressing. Brush glaze on the plate and add the dressed salad. Finish with the chermoula-crusted mero.
Image provided by COEX InterContinental Hotel Seoul
Words and shots by Joe McPherson
10 Questions 1. You’ve been in Korea a long, long time. What brought you here originally? The airline industry brought me to Korea in the early 1980’s at a time when international travel for most Korean citizens was just a dream. At the time, the US government and US business traffic made up most of the passengers between the two countries. In 30 short years, Korea has emerged as one of the most robust sources of international travelers, with more than 30% of the population venturing abroad each year. Today, Koreans represent the 5th largest source of visitors to the USA, thanks to the advent of Visa Waiver status in 2008, which we worked so hard to attain. 2. And what has kept you here for so long? Aside from being a great place to live and raise a family, professionally, it has been this market’s amazing growth and dynamic evolution that has kept my interest so long. I have moved around a bit over these 30 years, with assignments in both Japan and Korea, inside and outside the airline business. But I always seem to come back to Korea. 3. How many different hats do you wear right now? This year I am completing my second term as chairman for the American Chamber of Commerce in addition to chairing the Discover America Committee organization here in Korea. This entity is one of 38 such committees in countries around the world charged with developing travel to the USA. I am also fortunate to serve as a board member on the 201012 Visit Korea Committee to help Korea attain its goal of 10 million foreign visitors within the campaign period. But my primary reason for being in Korea is my position as country manager for United Airlines’ Korea operations.
Chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce and Country Manager for United Airlines Shots by Dylan (WelkinLight Photography) 4. Where do you see the airline industry in Asia headed? Asia represents 60% of the world’s land mass, requiring a network of high value, long haul air routes to connect the continent with other parts of the world. Over 60% of the world’s population lives in Asia, yet to date less than 35% of the world’s GDP comes from this region. But these economies are growing at more than double the rates of the US or EU, so the economic prospects for the airline industry are extremely bright as we ride the momentum of this economic tsunami. 5. What is your role as chairman of the American 6. Do you foresee the US-Korea FTA passing this year? Chamber of Commerce (AMCHAM)? The Obama administration has started to indicate they hope to move the AMCHAM is the largest foreign business agreement forward in 2010, and we are cautiously optimistic. This is the most organization in Korea, with over 2,000 members important trade deal for the US since the North American Free Trade Agreement representing a “Who’s Who” of both American (NAFTA). It is a game changer for the US in the areas of job creation, economic and Korean businesses. I oversee a 20 member benefit and share recovery. We cannot afford to let it fail. The challenging US elected board of governors and a full time political climate in an election year has complicated the President’s game plan, president, Amy Jackson, and primarily serve as but we are confident that the merits of the agreement will overcome the politics. the Chamber’s lead spokesperson and opinion 7. What is your outlook for the Korean Economy? Korea is quite a bright spot on the map. The OECD is calling for a 4.4% GDP shaper for policy issues impacting American growth for Korea in 2010, while the OECD country average is expected to come business in Korea. Over the years, we have been in at only 1.9%, and Korea’s budget balance as a percent of GDP is the 2nd major advocates of the reform movement which best in the OECD. This means Korea will be free of the heavy fiscal burdens started with the 1997 crisis and has really gained that other economies must contend with for decades to come. We’re starting momentum under President Lee’s administration. to see Korea’s export engines perform again at pre-crisis potential, and the The Chamber was also instrumental in lobbying massive government spending on new growth engines, such as green growth, is for Korea’s 2008 entry into the US Visa Waiver just now starting. It appears that the resolve and resilience that brought Korea Program. But the focus of our collective efforts back from the Asian financial crisis in record time is no less present today than over the past 5 or so years has been on the it was 10 years ago. signing and ratification of the US-Korea FTA. 20 | 10 Magazine April 2010
8. It has often been said that Korea is a tough place to do business. How do you see it with your many years of experience here? In the early years of a developing economy, this was truly one of the toughest places on the planet to do business. But as Korea’s industries transitioned from smokestack to technology, from commodity producers to innovative world leaders, the dynamics of doing business in Korea changed. The playing fields started to level out between Korean and foreign businesses, and transparency started to improve. This was further facilitated by the reforms introduced after the 1997 financial crisis and again after the 2008 crisis, which have fostered fair competition. Korea is still a tough market, but it’s now because we are competing against world class products and competitors.
9. Any tips for business people trying to succeed here? Koreans have a much more global perspective today, which bodes well for the global entrepreneur looking to do business here. Koreans seek out and reward innovation and look for the best product regardless of origin. The Korean consumer is impulsive, quality oriented and trend conscious. If you recognize these drivers and go to market with a better mouse trap, you can ride the wave of success. But you always have to look out for that next wave if you want the ride to continue. 10. What’s your favorite part of life here in Korea? Perhaps my favorite part of my life in Korea has been the perpetual change. I see people in other parts of the world, industries, and life modes whose daily routines are repetitive and predictable. Korea is the antithesis of predictability, which makes each day an adventure into something new and different. 10 Magazine April 2010 | 21
community
The Stage Is Yours
“A
Expat Theater Troupes
ll the world’s a stage,” said Shakespeare, “And all the expats in Korea are merely players.” Well, perhaps those aren’t the Bard’s original words, but you might be surprised at how many dramatic opportunities there are today for foreigners in Korea. Groups centered in Seoul and Daegu offer English-language opportunities for you to hone your writing, directing, or acting skills with other folks who got over their stage fright around the same time they stopped being afraid of the dark. See below for plenty of ways to get on stage, work behind the scenes, or sit in the crowd (“as you like it,” Shakespeare might have added). Edited by David Carruth
2 1
Daegu Theater Troupe
3
Words by Kristin Myers The Daegu Theater Troupe was formed in September 2008 by Canadian Kristin Myers, an English teacher in Daegu. Kristin soon noticed a lack of performing arts in local expat clubs. With a university degree in theater, she hosted a meeting for interested artists and was amazed at the turnout. The group immediately planned its first event, in which participants created and performed original works in 24 hours. In March 2009, Kristin registered the Troupe in the International Women’s V-Day event, performing the famous Vagina Monologues and raising money for the Korean House of Sharing. The most recent event held this February, Comedy Cabaret Night, was a comical take on Valentine’s Day with clowning, juggling, and musical acts. The Troupe has performed all of its events in packed venues to supportive audiences and sponsors. Aside from large events, the Troupe also hosts monthly workshops at Buy the Book Café in downtown Daegu. Kristin hopes to continue performing and helping local charities with the Troupe and is organizing an upcoming spring event. Anyone interested in acting, writing, or directing are welcome to join, with no experience necessary. Search for “Daegu Theater Troupe” on Facebook or contact Kristin at daegutheater@hotmail.com.
Root Experience
Words by Simon Magnus There are talented actors, directors, writers, musicians and dancers all over Korea. All they need is a forum where their talents can shine. Here to provide that forum is Root Experience, established in the UK four years ago. This group organizes The Melting Pot, a night for Seoulites with passion or an interest in performance to spend the evening chatting together. This is your chance to find people to help with a performance idea or find a creative outlet for your talent. It's not just for theatre in the traditional sense: dance, opera, performance arts, musical theatre, puppetry, performance poetry, multimedia, improv, physical theatre and plenty more are welcome. Add your creativity to the pot at Roofers in Itaewon the 2nd Tuesday of the month starting at 7 pm.
1. Seoul Players: Shakespeare, shot by Michele Farley. 2-3 Daegu Theater Troupe: Dance Floor Skit (2) and Cabaret (3), shot by Megan Preece. 4 Root Experience, Shot by Kym Mills. 5 The Workshop Division: Scene Cael Anton and Rob King in One of Three rehearsal 22 | 10 Magazine April 2010
4 5
Let’s say you have an idea, people to work with, and enthusiasm exploding from your ears: what next? Put together a snippet and perform it in front of an audience at the Shorts Show, an opportunity for individuals or groups to showcase or try out new work, with each performance under 20 minutes. The next Shorts Show will be on May 22nd. Applications accepted now! To get involved, simply check out the website at rootexperience.com or send an email to roots.korea@gmail.com.
Seoul Players
Words by Margaret Whittum Seoul Players is an English-speaking community theater company established in 2001. This non-profit organization consists of expats and Koreans who delight in bringing Englishlanguage theatre to audiences in Seoul. Recent shows have included Black Comedy by Peter Schaffer, An Evening of Christmas Readings, and A Night of Shakespeare. On April 16th – 17th, Seoul Players will produce its 3rd annual 24-Hour Theatre at Roofers in Itaewon. This event is open to all, and the company encourages everyone to attend, regardless of experience. Everyone will assemble on Friday night at 9 pm, when teams will be formed randomly, with each group having a director, writer and several actors. Teams will draw a few “inspirations” from buckets—first lines, occupations, props, and locations. Teams will then have 12 hours to formulate and write an original script and 12 hours to rehearse it. The curtain goes up at 9 pm Saturday evening. Last year’s show was a grand success, with nearly 70 people participating in 13 short 5-7 minute plays. Seoul Players will also mount its first musical this May. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee will run May 29th June 13th at Roofers in Itaewon. Interested in joining? Seoul Players is always looking for new talent and volunteers! Send an email to seoulplayers@gmail.com.
The Workshop Division
Words by Song Kim The Workshop Division is a cooperative of writers, directors and actors with the purpose of helping to develop original work through scene study. The Workshop also encourages people to experiment in theatrical mediums that have not been their primary focus, with actors directing, writers acting, and so on. The Workshop Division was started to give theater artisans an outlet outside of the setting of a full production. Normally, actors and directors must find a company that is producing a show then hope that they may become attached to the production. Further, there are few if any opportunities for writers to see their drafts performed until they are well within the later stages. In either case, the freedom to experiment and explore are greatly limited. The ideal of the Workshop Division is for actors, directors and writers to stay busy and hone their crafts in an exploratory setting. The end goal of the Workshop is to develop these drafts into performance-ready productions. The Workshop Division welcomes people of any performance background and experience level. For information on how to get involved, contact songisgreat@gmail.com or visit “The Workshop Division” on Facebook.
To inquire about getting your club or group introduced in the 10 Magazine community section, email David at comments@10magazine.asia 10 Magazine April 2010 | 23
Hotels & resorts
Namsan is a sanctuary of silence amid the never-ending rush and bustle of the city. And the Banyan Tree Seoul, located on the slopes of Namsan, is a sanctuary of the senses, releasing you from the stress of your daily schedule. Just as Seoul only has one Namsan, Seoul only has one membership club offering world-class facilities, extensive programs, and unheard-of service, all located in a natural setting. And that’s the Banyan Tree. The Banyan Tree Seoul is the latest project of the boutique resort firm Banyan Tree Holdings. Basing its success on creating an exotic environment while at the same time taking care of the environment, Banyan Tree has opened more than sixty resorts, hotels, spas, and golf courses worldwide from Mexico to the Maldives. When you arrive at the Banyan Tree complex, you’ll find yourself in the middle of three newly renovated structures. These three buildings each represent a major service offered by the Banyan Tree. The Hotel offers luxurious accommodations to weary travelers, the Club provides members access to fine facilities and programs and the Festa is the center of social and sports-related activities.
The Great Escape The Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul by David Carruth
here are more reasons than you might
think why the new Banyan Tree, which officially opens on April 8th, is located on Namsan in Seoul. Take a look from the top of the Hotel at the Banyan Tree (formerly the Tower Hotel). On one side, the Seoul castle walls stretch up Namsan to the Seoul N Tower. On the other side, the view leads from the grounds of this newly constructed urban resort past the National Theater of Korea and down toward Dongdaemun Market. 24 | 10 Magazine April 2010
Left: The Oasis Pool, top: room at The Hotel, bottom: Cabana
ccommodations at the Hotel The first building to catch your eye is the 21-floor Hotel, designed in 1967 by Korean architect Kim Swoo-Geun to commemorate the nations who stood beside South Korea during the Korean War. It contains 16 rooms and 18 suites with floor space ranging from 50 to 105 square meters. Each comes complete with a “plunge pool,” basically the kind of bathtub Solomon might have dreamed of. These rooms include all imaginable amenities, from king-size beds to fully stocked minibars, as well as the flawless Banyan Tree hospitality and service. Step into the Presidential Suites, located on the 18th and 19th floors of the hotel, to get a quick reeducation on what a hotel room was meant to be. The first shock is the staircase, which reveals that these suites have two floors. The plunge pool here is probably larger than some hotel rooms you’ve been in. Especially impressive is the view through the massive suite windows onto Namsan and the Banyan Tree complex below. Vying with other tower-top establishments like N Seoul Tower’s N Grill and Jongno’s Top Cloud is the 3 Sixty Wine Bar on the 20th and 21st floor. Feast your eyes on the twinkling lights of Seoul while you sample tapas, oysters, and gourmet cheese platters as well as judicious wine selections. For a true dining experience, head down to the Granum Dining Lounge on the first floor for a breakfast spread in the morning and à la carte Southeast Asian cuisine for lunch and dinner. Set to open its doors in May, the Hotel is currently offering a special offer for all guests who book a date falling between May 1st and August 31st. Receive free breakfast at the Granum Dining Lounge with packages starting at W402,000, or add an extra night and choose from 90 minutes of a spa massage, a bottle 10 Magazine April 2010 | 25
Our family has always enjoyed the important things in life: preparing food made with fresh seasonal ingredients and sharing simple meals with “abbondanza”. That’s Italian for the passion and poetry of life... We hope you feel this when you visit Sortino’s! Grazie.
Hamilton Hotel 1 2 Subway Itaewon St. 4 3 Fire St.
Itaewon Hotel
Cheil Communications
Weekdays Lunch 12 pm — 3 pm Dinner 5:30 pm — 1 am Kitchen last order 10:30pm Weekends 12 pm —1am Kitchen last order 10:30 pm
www.sortinos-seoul.com • 02-797-0488–9
Hotels & resorts of champagne at 3 Sixty Wine Bar, or lunch for two at the Mori N Japanese Cuisine. ccess to the Club Just across the plaza from the Hotel is the five-story Club, overlooking the National Theater of Korea. While The Hotel is open to everyone, the Club is primarily for members of the Banyan Tree, allowing them to pursue their hobbies and preserve their health. However, guests staying at The Hotel get to be “members for the day,” meaning they get temporary access to all facilities at the Club and Festa. With the variety of programs that the club provides, members hardly need to go anywhere else. Wanna work up a sweat? Head to the gym, with two floors of workout equipment imported from At the Banyan Tree’s signature spa, Italy. Wanna soak in a steam bath? Try the Korean-style sauna. the true sanctuary for the senses, Wanna take a swim? Dive in the tastefully designed indoor pool. you can curl up in your own corner of Wanna read the paper? Stop by the Lounge with drink service and paradise anytime you like. plenty of English-language reading material. Feeling peckish? Dine on delightful Mediterranean cuisine at the Club Members Restaurant. Wanna keep the kids happy? area. The suites are also equipped with a Rainmist room (a signature Banyan Drop them off at the Kids Club for plenty of Tree Spa innovation), a shower/steam room and a bathtub. Once you enter these supervised games and education activities ranging rooms, decorated in an exotic theme to create the perfect mood for renewal, you from the fine arts to martial arts. There are also 16 meet your therapist, who has undergone extensive training at the Banyan Tree suite rooms in the Club only available to Banyan Spa Academy in Phuket, Thailand. After a foot bath, massage, hot tub, and the Tree members, so you don’t have to worry about Rainmist experience, you emerge from your spa treatment a new person. last-minute hotel reservations. Enhancing the experience even more is the Spa’s Banyan Tree Gallery retail Non-members can get a peek inside, too. At the outlet, offering an indulgent selection of spa merchandise. With aromatic Banyan Tree’s signature spa, the true sanctuary essential oils, massage oils and incense, Banyan Tree signature ceramic oil for the senses, you can curl up in your own corner burners and candle-holders, and bath products, you can re-create the spa of paradise anytime you like. The Spa features experience at your own home. In addition, the gallery is a showcase for nine deluxe treatment rooms and two suites, each ingenious handicrafts by artisans from around the world. You can pick out a with a private wardrobe, bathroom and relaxation tasteful decorative item while supporting cottage industries across Asia. Top: treatment room at the Spa, bottom clockwise: Grand Cabana, tennis court, futsal field
26 | 10 Magazine April 2010
ctivities at the Festa Sports fans and socialites will find plenty of fun at the Festa and the surrounding facilities. Just next to the Club, the Festa offers top dining opportunities like the Mori N Japanese Cuisine with its seasonal menu of fresh seafood, robatayaki grill, and sake (rice wine). But the real draw here is not inside but outside with the Oasis swimming pool (which becomes an ice rink in the winter). Splash around in the water during the warm months and paddle over to the poolside Aqua Bar for a cocktail made while you wait. Once you’re all dried off move along to the Festa Bar for more drinks or the Festa Bistro for light European fare. The pool’s not the only sports-related facility at the Festa. A true treasure for sporty members is the two-story driving range supervised by Troon Golf, one of the world’s largest golf management companies. Heading up the Troon Golf Academy here is Australian PGA member Peter Claughton. The academy offer full coaching for members as well as state-of-the-art equipment and even screen golf. “The 3Trak Golf Simulator and the Trackman Radar System are the latest and greatest,” Peter said, “so having these ‘toys’ at our disposal from a coach’s perspective is going to be pretty special.” For Peter, the best part about golfing at Banyan Tree is “the Troon Experience,” which he describes as “a unique level of service…in our golf shop and coaching programs.” This same level of service and specialization carries over to other sports at the Banyan Tree. There’s a tennis court with private lessons available from Korean tennis superstar Hyeongtaek Lee, a futsal (mini soccer) field with programs for kids run by the Myeong-bo Hong Academy, and a basketball court for hoop time. Great facilities and great instruction provide you with a great chance to take your game to the next level.
The Sortino Family Welcomes You to Korea's First Italian Family-owned Cafe, Deli, Pastry Shop and Wine Bar!
hether you’re just spending the night or spending every afternoon there, the Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul offers a taste of a different kind of life. The astounding quality and attention to detail can be seen in everything from the supersophisticated golf equipment to the exquisite stalls in the sauna bathroom that could be entered in a world design contest. True, you don’t have to be a member of the Banyan Tree to have a good time here. The spa and hotel, the 3 Sixty Wine Bar, as well as some of the restaurants in the Festa are open to the public. But it’s only the members who can fully experience this retreat from the city, paradoxically found in the heart of the city. To learn more about the exclusive Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul or reserve a club tour, contact them at foreign@urban-oasis.co.kr, 02-2236-3356 10 Magazine April 2010 | 27
02-790-5907
Br un ch
Edited by Curtis Lee and Dami Kang
It wouldn’t be a real brunch issue without information on what the hotels are offering as well, so this month we’ve asked hotels to theme their Hotel & Resort News along the breakfast/brunch lines, and they have kindly accommodated. Breakfast Buffet Busan Lotte Hotel Peninsula Each morning, the Busan Lotte Hotel’s coffee shop and restaurant The Peninsula offers their exotic breakfast buffet, “Breakfast with a Tiger.” Like dining at the zoo, you’ll be enjoying your American-style breakfast with omelets made to order along with Korean and Japanese favorites next to a real live tiger lounging in the morning sun. Everyday 6:30 - 10:00 am. W22,000 per person. 051-810-6380
Grand Kitchen
Bella Coolla 63
Grand InterContinental Seoul Kitchen director Han-cheol Bae envisions his morning buffet as the place “for those who want to have morning meetings in a relaxing environment without any wait for delicious breakfast treats.” The Grand InterContinental Seoul’s international buffet restaurant Grand Kitchen has nine private dining rooms that can hold from 6 to 52 people, making it the perfect place for that morning meeting. Expect a wide range of fresh buffet offerings. The fresh juice bar offers apple, kiwi, and orange juices made right on the spot. Everyday 6:00 - 10:30 am. W39,325. 02-559-7608
Astoria Hotel Located on the 1st floor of the Astoria Hotel, Bella Coolla’s selection of brunch specialties is both delicious while also being a great bargain. Two Western choices (bacon & eggs and blueberry pancakes) and the chef’s Asian specialof-the-day menu are just W12,000. Or try the Big Breakfast for only W16,000. All breakfast orders include coffee. Bella Coolla 63 is just a 3-minute walk out of Chungmuro Station (line 3 and 4, exit 4). 7:30 - 10:30 am every day. bellacoolla@naver.com, 02-2275-7473
Unlimited Champagne Weekend Brunch Grand Hyatt Seoul Featuring the Bread & Cereal Station for freshly baked pastries, breads and a variety of cereals; the Grilled Dish Station for different meats, seafood and side dishes; the Pasta Station with made-to-order omelets and eggs to your liking and freshly cooked spaghetti and linguini; the Appetizer Station with delicious pastas, salads, spinach tarts; and a decadent Dessert Station as the grand finale to the perfect Brunch. W55,000++ brunch buffet with one glass of Chandon, W68,000++ brunch buffet with unlimited Chandon. Children W29,000++ with no Chandon. 10:30 am - 3 pm. grandhyattseoul.co.kr, 02-799-8161 28 | 10 Magazine April 2010
Fresh Start Breakfast at MoMo Cafe Times Square Courtyard Tired of massive hotel breakfast buffets? MoMo Café from Seoul’s newest international hotel, the Courtyard by Marriott Seoul Times Square, presents the Fresh Start Breakfast. This health-conscious breakfast buffet starts off your day right with madeto-order omelets, grilled vegetables, fresh fruit and pastries. 6:30 – 10 am (starts at 7 on weekends). W23,000++. courtyardseoul.com, 02-2638-3081
+ = subject to 10% VAT, ++ = subject to 10% VAT and 10% service charge
The JW Grill’s Champagne Brunch Buffet
Business Breakfast Buffet at Cafe Amiga IP Boutique Hotel The recently opened IP Boutique Hotel, centrally located in Itaewon, now allows you the opportunity to enjoy an early breakfast meeting any day of the week in the middle of Seoul. With early hours, IP Boutique Hotel offers a welcoming ambience with the warm sunlight streaming in through the massive glass front windows. The buffet includes all your favorites with eggs made to order, a fresh fruit and salad bar, French toast, baked goods, yoghurt, breakfast meats along with Korean/ Japanese options and unlimited coffee and tea refills. Daily 7 – 10 am. W18,000. ipboutiquehotel.com, 02-3702-8000
JW Marriott Seoul Located on the JW Marriott’s 2nd floor, The JW Grill presents its Champagne Brunch Buffet featuring a wide selection of homemade dishes including salad, pizza, pasta, steak, grilled fish and dessert. Special appetizers include fresh sushi, cocktail shrimp, Italian antipasti and hot dishes such as pasta and eggs made fresh and served directly from their open kitchen. Lamb steak, beef rib eye and grilled fish are made with the chef’s secret recipe. This lovely buffet is served with a glass of champagne. Every Sunday and holidays from 11 am to 2:30 pm. W59,000++, W31,000++ for children. 02-6282-6759
Theus Breakfast Buffet Seacloud Hotel Both Korean and Western– style menus are available at Theus, with the Western menu offering a variety of baked goods, scrambled eggs, grilled sausage and bacon. You can also order eggs sunny side up or over easy. The homemade plain yoghurt is one of the popular specialties on the Western side. The Korean menu has variety of side dishes (banchan), soup and rice porridge, while the most popular item is the sweet and juicy bulgogi. 6 – 10 am. Adults W18,000+, W9,000+ for children. 051-933-1600
The Square
Brunch Buffet at The Garden The Ritz-Carlton Seoul The Seafood Bar Station lets you enjoy mussels, octopus, shrimp and seasonal seafood as well as a variety of cheeses and anti-pasta, while the BBQ Station offers grilled items from sea bass to whole lobster and steaks. The Open Kitchen Station offerings range from seafood stew and soup to pastas and pizza, the Dessert Station serves up puddings, cakes, and seasonal fruit, and the Wine Station delivers unlimited quantities of the finest champagne, wine and fresh fruit juices. Weekends from 11 am to 2:30 pm. W55,000++ adults, W30,000++ for children. 02-3451-8271
Novotel Daegu City Center The Square offers you a relaxing and refreshing day with the special brunch featuring everything from fresh-baked bread and waffles with honey and blueberry jam, to omelets, grilled sausage and bacon, and steak grilled to order at our live cooking station. Additionally, you can enjoy a variety of fresh seafood, French-style escargot and pasta that a chef cooks up in front of you. European desserts, including crème brulee and éclairs will complete your fabulous dining experience. Weekends 11 am 3 pm. W35,000+, children 6 – 12 get a 50% discount. Under 6 free. novoteldaegu.com, 053-664-1168 10 Magazine April 2010 | 29
Art
H
aving recently heard that the National Museum of Contemporary Art in Gwacheon was hosting a “modern” art exhibition showcasing solely Korean artists, I was at first doubtful of its potential. In my experience of attending art shows in the strip of so-called modern galleries in Cheongdam and Apgujeong, I found most of the art to err on the conservative side. There were some very excellent pieces of course, but much of it was based more on aesthetic beauty and technical design rather than the semiotics and abstract symbolism that Western modern art has encompassed. Of course, the experimental art scene in the indie sanctuary of Hongdae has certainly started to explore the semantics and performativity of modern art, but I thought it unlikely to find what is relatively a new art form in this state-run museum. What I found, however, was pleasantly surprising. The Peppermint Candy show (Oct 21st, 2009 – Mar 7th, 2010) exhibited a host of thoughtful pieces by Korean artists. While I found some pieces derivative of concepts long established in modern Western art, there was a collection of works that were unafraid to comment on and explore the treacherously fast-paced modernity in Korean culture. Words and shots by Davis Jung A large part of the exhibition actually remarked upon the issue mentioned above of “design” versus “art.” Though this has been a long-standing argument in the global art community, it was interesting to see Korean artists’ perspective on it. With so much of contemporary Korean culture focused on slick images and pure graphic design, it was pleasing to see artwork with the depth to both satirize and critique such culture. Artist Gyeon-taek Hong confronted this issue head-on with his piece Funkchestra. His dizzyingly disorienting use of bright colors and satirical graphics visually obscure the actual subject of individual panels such as “Bach” or “The Look.” Similarly, a series entitled Magical Reality comments along the same line, showing monumental images like the Statue of Liberty in kitsch settings. Additionally, the minimalist sculptures on display in the permanent exhibition hall constitute a thought-provoking series that blurs the line between graphic design and art. Another common motif found in the Peppermint Candy exhibition was commentary on the monotony of Seoul life. Two such pieces were particularly successful in using the blandness of Seoul’s architectural landscape (i.e. the ubiquitous rows of apartment buildings) to reflect the society that constructed it. Jae-ho Jung’s Ecstatic Architecture interposes a triptych of three technically different apartment buildings, showing how identical they really are. Jun-beom Park’s media/digital artworks Puzzle and Tennis Single Channel express the same concept of jaded monotony many Koreans face. His video Puzzle depicts identically dressed students, factory workers, or businessmen literally playing out a meaningless tileshifting puzzle in their workspace; the piece’s execution and concept made it
Modern Korean Art Just South of Seoul
From top: Image provided by National Museum of Contemporary Art, Staircase double by Sun Soho, Bottom: Funkchestra by Hong Kyoung Taek, Next Page top: Drawing the Light by Doh Heung Rok
30 | 10 Magazine April 2010
a highlight in the program. The Peppermint Candy exhibition ended on March 7th, but it’s not the only exhibition to see at the National Museum of Contemporary Art. Its central showcase is Staircase Double by So-ho Sun. Contrary to its name, the piece supposedly offers a different meaning when viewed from each of the three possible angles (from above, mid-level, and from below). While the piece didn’t necessarily strike me that way, I was impressed by its grandiosity. It’s truly a magnificent fabric sculpture that both illuminates and captures an air of diaphanous beauty. Additionally, in the permanent collection of paintings are some excellent pieces of pseudo-modern Asian fine arts. I found Gyeong-gap Min's Mountain Echo to be especially eye-catching, the solidity and boldness of colors in stark contrast to the pastoral scene it represents. In all, the National Museum of Contemporary Art is a definite must-see in the art world of Korea. It’s an interesting space where one can gain an artistic view of the intersection of Korea’s once xenophobic culture with its current open embrace of the outside world. Though not as famous as the Seoul Museum of Art, its mission to foster the valuable and challenging works of modern Korean artists makes it well worth your visit. Location: National Museum of Contemporary Art in Gwacheon. Seoul Grand Park Stn. (line 4, ex. 2). Weekdays 10 am – 5 pm, weekends 10 am – 8 pm, closed Mon. Adults W3,000, minors W2,000. moca.go.kr, 02-2188-6000
Cheongdam Art Galleries Gallery EM: A smaller but well-designed space, Gallery EM is an excellent stop for contemporary Korean photography as well as other media. Tue – Fri 10 am – 6:30 pm, Sat 11 am – 6 pm. galleryem.co.kr, 02-544-8145 PKM Trinity Gallery: The PKM Trinity Gallery has more of a Los Angeles vibe, showcasing modern art that will be well-received by a hipper and younger crowd. Come here for thought-provoking art and the relaxing cafe. Mon – Sat 10:30 am – 6 pm. Closed Sun. pkmgallery.com, 02- 515-9496 Michael Schultz Gallery: World-famous with galleries in Berlin, Beijing, and now Seoul, the Michael Schultz Gallery is the place to go for international art. Often showcases European artists in the fine arts genre in a smaller space with a clean, classy ambiance. Mon – Sat 10 am – 6 pm. Closed Sun. schultzgallery.co.kr, 02-546-7955 Mezzanine Gallery: Well-designed and staffed with friendly folks, this gallery is dedicated to displaying the work of glass sculptor Dale Chihuly. Find it in the Nature Poem Building, just like Michael Schultz. (In fact, this building is dedicated to art galleries and cafes, making it the perfect venue for the art connoisseur.) Mon – Fri 10 am – 7 pm, Sat 10 am – 6 pm. mezzgallery.com, 02-3448-5577 Yoondang Art Hall: This gallery, complete with café and performance hall, manages to be bright and clean without feeling sterile. Visit here for some contemporary fine art from Korean artists, many of whom have studied abroad. 10 am – 8:30 pm. ydart.co.kr, 02-546-8095 10 Magazine April 2010 | 31
The
Most Munch for
Your Brunch Words and shots by Joe McPherson, Paul Matthews and Brian Dye orea has been spending decades catching up with what it perceives as the modern world. It has made it and then some. The great can-do Korean spirit has been going full octane for so long that the concept of leisure time is something new. The Wall Street Journal recently speculated on the vacation dearth on the peninsula. One leisure activity that has picked up in the past couple of years has been brunch. With the five-day work week starting to catch on, Koreans are finding ways to enjoy their hard-earned wealth. Brunch here combines notions of wealth and leisure, and it has gone through its own evolution from a pricey exclusive novelty to a more common outlet for coffee with friends. A few beloved watering holes started serving eggs-and-bacon breakfasts in the mid-2000s, 32 | 10 Magazine March 2010
This page: shot by Aaron Brown at Mo' Better Blues
but the brunch trend truly got started when Suji’s introduced pancakes and attached the “brunch” moniker to them. That’s when the Korean public started paying notice. It was also around this time that Sex and the City had infected the culture, and nouveau riche ladies and their admirers wanted to have that upscale New York experience in Seoul. That also explains why you won’t see a gaggle of ajosshis sipping coffee and sharing pancakes on a Sunday morning. Here are 10’s picks for the ten best brunch spots in Korea (along with a few honorable mentions). We’ve jotted down notes on the aspects we most care about: outdoor seating and coffee service. What better way than brunch to enjoy a well-deserved spring?
9 Gecko's Best Omelet Outdoor seating: small terrace Coffee: W2,000 per cup with brunch Address: 128-5 Itaewong-dong, Yongsan, Seoul. (02-749-9425) Uyeong Plaza, 1266-2 Bojeon-dong Giheung-gu, Yongin (031-262-9974) 2156-3 Saekdal-dong Seoguipo, Jeju (064-739-0845) Gecko's was one of the progenitors of Sunday breakfast. Way back when the news got out that Gecko’s was serving breakfast (something only hotels used to do), people would make the journey from the far reaches of Seoul’s spider web subway network to have that familiar taste of scrambled eggs and coffee. Now it serves breakfast every day. It’s now rare to find an Itaewon pub that doesn’t have some type of breakfast item. Yet Gecko’s continues to be a favorite. Their strawberry French toast piles on the sweet morsels. The omelet is hands down the best in town, loaded to dangerous levels with cheddar cheese. And for brunch, you can't beat the price of their robust coffee.
8 10
Mignon Best Outdoor Dining Outdoor seating: lovely patio Coffee: W5,000 (refills are regular price) Address: 116-14 Itaewon-dong, Yongsan, Seoul Phone: 02-792-7280
Prices are a little steep and portions are a little sparing, but the Belgian fare is excellent, and there’s one unbeatable aspect to Mignon that should have you sprinting there on one of Korea’s glorious Sundays mornings–its beautiful outdoor patio seating. Yes, you’re surrounded by buildings, but it’s a quiet little corner of Itaewon with beautiful wooden trim and plenty of vegetation. The eggs benedict is superb, as they know how to poach an egg and the hollandaise is spot on, although they do sub toast for the English muffin. The side salads that come with the omelets are a delicious healthy alternative to hash browns as well. 34 | 10 Magazine April 2010
A Story Best Buffet Outdoor seating: patio. Coffee: Included with buffet Address: 534-5 Garosu-gil, Sinsa-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul Phone: 02-511-6179
A Story is the spot to satisfy your brunch cravings. The menagerie of pastas, risottos, soups, salads, pizza, omelets, bacon, ribs as well as a bevy of fruits and cakes at their buffet brunch will have you savoring each and every dish multiple times. Yes, the W25,000 price tag is steep, but when you can eat to your heart's content, it's totally worth it. Did we also mention the sparkling wine and the chef who cooks your eggs to order? Indigo Best English Fry Up Outdoor seating: small rear patio Coffee: W3,000 with W1,000 refills Address: 46 Yongsan-dong 2-ga 1st floor, Yongsan-gu, Seoul Phone: 02-749-0508 The brunch menu hits all the bases just shy of a homerun. Pass on the quiche and head towards the more everyday offerings like the English breakfast and omelets. The portions are spot on as well as the service. It's a friendly, laid-back kind of place, and the food comes quickly despite the sizable crowd.
Shot by Shirley Hwang
6
Neal’s Yard Best Coffee Outdoor seating: small terrace Coffee: included with brunch (refills are W1,000 each) Address: 119-19 Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul Phone: 02-794-7278
Street signs, lamp posts, and awnings used for interior decoration give you the illusion of being outside, and it’s particularly nice on a day when the weather’s fine and the front windows are wide open. It’s the perfect Korean young lady’s hangout, with portions to match. The prices are reasonable, however, with a nice brunch going for W14,000, which includes a good-sized coffee. Waffles are good and they have some nice quiches as well. Be sure to add on W1,000 for an extra egg if you happen to eat more than your average 40 kg size 2.
5
The Holy Grill Best Breakfast Burrito Outdoor seating: none Coffee: W2,750 (free refills) Address: 61-5 Gongpyeong-dong, Jung-gu, Daegu Phone: 053-423-4048
This Daegu institution is known for its Tex-Mex and burgers, but it also has a whopping brunch menu, served all day every day. Yet it’s the perfect spot for post-revelry recovery on Sunday mornings in the 2nd floor restaurant or the 3rd floor sports lounge, dubbed “The Recovery Room.” They serve pancakes, full breakfasts and a super breakfast burrito packed with guacamole and smoky Canadian-style hashbrowns. They are also one of the few places in Korea to indulge in granola and yogurt. Despite its name, don’t expect any spam at the Holy Grill.
10 Magazine April 2010 | 35
2 4
Butterfinger Pancakes Trendiest Hipster Joint Outdoor seating: none, Coffee: W5,390 (free refills) Addresses : 9 Jeongja-1-dong Bundang-gu Seongnam (031-785-9994) 85-6 Cheongdam-dong Gangnam-gu Seoul (02-3448-1070) 1317 Seocho-dong Seocho-gu Seoul (02-532-5740)
Suji’s Queen of Brunch Outdoor seating: rooftop terrace Coffee: W4,000 (free refills) Address: 4 locations in Samsung and Apgujeong Hyundai Department Stores, Itaewon, Bundang-gu (visit sujis.net for details) Phone: 02-797-3698
Suji’s takes credit for starting the brunch trend in Korea. Headed by the dynamic and legendary Park Su-ji, the grande dame of brunch has come a long way from its pricey beginnings. The transformation comes complete with specialty cocktails for W8,000, helping you wash down brunch selections such as the french toast-themed Jack and Jill, the more traditional lumberjack pancakes, Mexicaninfluenced breakfast burritos, Denver omelets and New York bagels with smoked salmon. Choices can be made á la carte and are best enjoyed on the rooftop terrace.
Opened in 2006, Butterfinger Pancakes still has a line in the lobby of young Korean hipsters and Westerners waiting for tables. This is one of the priciest of the bunch and has a reputation for Soup Nazi service, but it specializes in comfort foods in a middleAmerican diner atmosphere. The menu is daunting, but favorites include the blueberry pancakes, meatloaf, and macaroni and cheese. Or try The Big Fat Special (W14,900): pancakes, breakfast sausage, white sausage, grilled ham steak, hash browns, choice of egg, choice of butter and choice of syrup. It’s a great place to satisfy one’s sweet tooth.
3
Flying Pan Blue Most Creative Menu Outdoor seating: none Coffee: W4,500 with W2,000 refills Address: 540-22 Sinsa-dong Gangnam-gu , Seoul (02-514-5585) 123-7 Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul (02 793-5285)
Flying Pan Blue playfully brings the whimsy to brunch with unique ingredients and original flavors. Their fluffy perfect pancakes will have you dreaming, topped with caramelized figs, walnuts, bananas and ricotta cheese. Another favorite ride on their playground is the sautéed mushrooms topped with a poached egg served with toast, roasted potatoes, hummus and a grilled tomato.
Honorable Mentions Big Rock Very affordable buffet at W11,000. 818-8 Yeoksam 1-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 02-539-6673 The Waffle Factory Who doesn’t like waffles? 561 Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul 02-790-0447 The Wolfhound Recently expanded breakfast menu, now open every day at 12 pm. 128-15 Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul 02-749-7971 Sam Ryan’s Pick-your-own brunch options because options are good. 116-15 Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul 02-749-7933 Roofers Their new brunch brings us the Southern classic biscuits and gravy. 132-5 3rd floor, Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul 02-749-2970
36 | 10 Magazine April 2010
1
Pancake Original Story
Best Overall Outdoor seating: small patio Coffee: W3,000 (refills are regular price) Address: 261-6 1st Floor, Seoul Building, Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul Phone: 02-794-0508 We have talked about Pancake Original Story in a previous issue and are still raving about it. POS showed that you can have a decent brunch in Korea without the exorbitant price tag. They serve twangy buttermilk pancakes with a wide range of syrups. They make their own perfectly spiced sage patty sausages, and if you order an extra sausage on the side it comes out in hamburger proportions. They also have a killer cloudlike veggie omelet with blue cheese and possibly the most affordable eggs benedict on the peninsula. They have felt the pressure to Koreanize their menu items by adding vegetables to their dishes, and they can suffer from bouts of inconsistency. But they have always been solid on their staples. Be prepared for cramped quarters. The sign jokingly says they can’t seat more than 8,000 when they really can only squeeze three tables inside the dining room. They have a patio out front that can seat a few more.
here you have it, 10 Magazine’s top ten brunch spots in Korea. It’s a sign of how rapidly the restaurant industry and the Korean public’s tastes have been changing. Not too long ago, a “Western” breakfast meant a half-cooked egg, spam and untoasted white bread. Then it exploded as an expensive novelty. If it had been a fad, we’d already be witnessing it fading. Instead, it’s adapting. More affordable places are venturing onto the scene while quality improves so that brunch can move from the realm of wanna-be Sarah Jessica Parkers to any young Park who wants a decent, filling breakfast with an honest cup of Joe. 10 Magazine April 2010 | 37
LOCATIONS WITH 10 The following airlines carry 10 Magazine in their lounges. (Incheon Int’l, Kimpo Int’l).
The following fine hotels provide 10 Magazine in every guest room.
PA L A C E SEOUL
PA L A C E SEOUL
The following fine hotels offer 10 Magazine in their lounges and upon request.
The following establishments offer 10 Magazine to customers.
The following establishments have store copies of 10 Magazine available for viewing.
On Sale at (구입처): Kyobo Bookstore (전국 교보문고), www.kyobobook.co.kr Subscriptions (정기구독 문의): subscribe@10magazine.asia, 02-3447-1611
10 Magazine Needs You for The Reader’s 10 All in all, not a bad list of some of the most popular blogs in Korea – the not-so-small irony being that the top three probably don’t actually get more hits than some of the other blogs, but obviously have some avid followers. To see the entire top 18 blogs, visit 10magazine.asia/2903/ april-readers-10. We hope you’ll all participate in our next Reader’s 10, where we’ll be asking “What’s your favorite coffee shop in Korea?” We need your votes! Of course the major coffee chains will win, but if you have a local coffee shop that you absolutely love - and they put out some great coffee - then get your friends to vote them on to the list. We want to know where you can get the best coffee in Korea – and that’s going to require lots of our reader input!
38 | 10 Magazine April 2010
Chuck Mangione Live in Seoul Best known for “Feels So Good,” the smooth jazz tune that was selected in 1980 as the most recognized melody since the Beatles’ “Michelle,” flugelhorn player and composer Chuck Mangione has been filling concert halls and releasing bestselling jazz albums (more than 30!) since the 1960s. He first got into the jazz scene as a member of the band Jazz Brothers with his brother Gap playing the piano. Continued on page 51
NATIONWIDE
40
SEOUL
45
CHUNGCHEONG PROVINCE
63
GYEONGGI PROVINCE
64
GaNGwon PROVINCE
66
GYEONGSANG PROVINCE
67
JEOLLA PROVINCE
70
JEJU ISLAND
72
NETWORKING CALENDAR
73
NATIONWIDE CALENDAR Precious
NATIONWIDE Precious
Movies
by Stephen Revere
Not yet released
Directed by Lee Daniels Here’s what a movie about crazy people is supposed to be like. Precious is the story of a young woman growing up with mentally and physically abusive parents who bears two children fathered by her step-father as a teen, only to later find out she is HIV positive. Watching her teachers, Mrs. Lichtenstein (Nealla Gordon) and Ms. Rain (Paula Patton), and her social worker, Mrs. Weiss (Mariah Carey), try to help this young girl who is more troubled than any of them realize is frustrating, but you cheer them on nonetheless. Nothing gives you hope more than Precious (Gabby Sidibe) herself, who somehow knows that everything that is happening to her is an injustice and that she can and will be great, if just given the chance. It’s a tough story to watch, but the acting is stupendous and it is a necessary reminder of the desperate lives that some are forced to lead.
Vegetarian 채식주의자
Directed by Woo-seong Lim Yeong-hye (Min-seo Choe) decides to become a vegetarian because of nightmares and then gradually devolves further and further into insanity. The visceral repulsion you experience while watching Vegetarian is instilled by an over-the-top storyline where nothing seems to make sense, but it sure is good at making you squirm in your seat. Yeong-hye is shown eating very healthy food consistently, but she becomes emaciated, supposedly because she is not eating meat. Her family doesn’t help as her father (who is ever-so-transparently implied to be responsible for his daughter’s mental illness by a stomach-turning two-minute flashback showing him beating his wife senseless and then killing the dog) tries to force-feed her meat instead of seeking help. Yeong-hye’s heartless husband bolts shortly after her illness begins. Her older sister’s husband is obsessed with knowing his sister-in-law in the Biblical sense, and goes to extreme lengths to make it happen, painting her body with flowers and then getting his friend to paint his body so that Yeong-hye’s obsession with flora can be met. But at least he has the conscience to cry in the car
on the way to cheat on his wife with her insane little sister. The only decent character, the older sister, has a heart as pure as the driven snow. The perverse storyline here is so in your face that you don’t attempt to understand the characters as much as watch them screw up each others’ lives through the spaces between your fingers.
The Hurt Locker
April, 22nd
Directed by Kathryn Bigelow In the greatest recreation of modern warfare since Blackhawk Down, Sgt. William James (Academy Award nominee Jeremy Renner) has just taken over the leadership of a small ordinance disposal unit, and his seeming complete lack of fear in the face of extreme peril has his soldiers wondering whether to follow his incredible courage or take him out themselves for their own safety. With only three main characters, Bigelow is able to explore the mental strain on these modern-day warriors to give us insight into their strengths and weaknesses and help us understand what can make them heroes one day and rather crazy the next. Sure Avatar was fun and all, but if you want a movie with real depth of characters, The Hurt Locker delivers way more gritty reality. Do not let this movie leave theaters before you see it; the small screen will not do it justice. 40 | 10 Magazine April 2010
New This Month (dates are subject to change) Thursday, April 1st
Clash of the Titans England/USA Sam Worthington, Liam Neeson, Ralph Fiennes; dir. Louis Leterrier. Zeus’s human son Perseus must overcome his fear as well as the forces of Hades before they topple heaven and earth. clash-of-the-titans.warnerbros.com The Class France François Bégaudeau; dir. Laurent Cantet. This docu-drama sheds light on the 21st century multi-cultural French classroom with a real teacher (Bégaudeau) and real students playing themselves. sonyclassics.com/theclass
Thursday, April 22nd Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps USA Shia LaBeouf, Carey Mulligan, Michael Douglas, Charlie Sheen; dir. Oliver Stone. Gordon Gekko returns in this sequel to the 1987 film as a trader trying to make amends with his daughter while saving the stock exchange before the 2008 crash. wallstreetmoneyneversleeps.com Thursday, April 29th
Lovers Vanished 폭풍전야 Korea Nam-gil Kim, Seul-hye Hwang-woo; dir. Chang-ho Jo. Betrayed and framed, Suin (Kim) escapes from prison bent on revenge only to see his target vanish before his eyes. blog.naver.com/lastnight Thursday, April 8th Air Doll Japan Du-na Bae, Arata, Itsuji Itao; dir. Hirokazu Koreeda. Little does middle-aged Hideo know that his beloved inflatable doll (and only companion) Nozomi ventures out into the city while he’s gone and meets a video store clerk. kuuki-ningyo.com Date Night USA Steve Carell, Tina Fey, Mark Wahlberg; dir. Shawn Levy. A date to a trendy bar intended to restore the spark to a stalled marriage leads to mistaken identity and unmistakable mayhem on the streets of Manhattan. datenight-movie.com Happy Killers 반가운 살인자 Korea O-seong Yu, Dong-uk Kim; dir. Dong-uk Kim. With a killer on the prowl, the lousy neighborhood detective and a clever newcomer looking for work both vow to bring him to justice. Runaway from Home 집나온 남자들 Korea Jin-hee Lee, Ik-jun Yang, Moon-sik Lee; dir. Ha Lee. This comedy follows a husband trying to find his runaway wife while his friends tag along. Thursday, April 15th A Little Pond 작은 연못 Korea Sang-gun Moon, Roe-ha Kim, Myoungchul Shin; dir. Sang-woo Lee. During the Korean War, the villagers of a tiny hamlet evacuate their homes as the battle lines approach only to be fired on by American forces. alittlepond2010.co.kr
Iron Man 2
Iron Man 2 USA Robert Downey Jr., Scarlett Johansson, Mickey Rourke, Samuel L. Jackson; dir. Jon Favreau. In the second film of the planned trilogy, billionaire inventor Tony Stark must resist pressure from the military to divulge the secrets of his armor suit. ironmanmovie.marvel.com
TBA Bestseller (베스트셀러) Korea Jeong-hwa Eom, Seung-ryong Ryu, Jinung Jo; dir. Jung-ho Lee. A best-selling novelist accused of plagiarism returns to the cabin where she wrote her latest work to uncover the mystery behind the voices that inspired her. Jasper : Journey to the End of the World Germany/France/Romania Dir. Eckart Fingberg, Kay Delventhal This animation lets you join Jasper the inquisitive penguin, who boards an ocean liner on his quest to see the world. When in Rome USA Kristen Bell, Josh Duhamel, Anjelica Huston; dir. Mark Steven Johnson. Beth (Bell), a successful curator in New York, must fend off multiple suitors and choose her true love after taking some coins from a famous fountain in Rome. touchstone.movies.go.com/wheninrome 10 Magazine April 2010 | 41
NATIONWIDE
As God Commands Italy Filippo Timi, Alvaro Caleca, Elio Germano; dir. Gabiel Salvatores. A neonazi man and his teenage son are the focus of this drama set in a suburban neighborhood.
Leap Year USA Amy Adams, Matthew Goode, Adam Scott, John Lithgow; dir. Anand Tucker. Anna has a change of heart as she races across Ireland to take advantage of a little-known Irish custom that lets women propose on February 29th of leap year. universalpictures.com/leapyear
NATIONWIDE CALENDAR
Music Kp Po
NATIONWIDE BEAST Shock of the New Era CUBE Entertainment BEAST had quite a debut with their first minialbum Beast is the B2ST back in October. With several members already boy band rejects or music video extras, BEAST are sort of an amalgamation of mixed talent and determination, the latter of which actually translates into the follow-up EP Shock of the New Era. BEAST have had steady chart competition with the huge overseas success of DBSK and Big Bang. Playing it safe, Shock of the New Era contains only four new full-length songs, none more reluctant than the shy "Easy," the standard ballad that ends the album on a forgettable note. But the album isn't totally meaningless: regardless of the title of lead single "Shock," BEAST aren’t throwing any musical curves or letting us in on the secret future of pop with their calculated beats, aggressive banter, and well-paced choruses. Instead, they color in the boy band stencils by mourning the loss of girlfriends and finding special new ones, and all in the span of sixteen minutes. It may not take any risks, but it manages to stay as solid as their hairstyles after an intense dance sequence. by Anna Orzel
Nguyen Le Saiyuki ACT “Saiyuki” is a Japanese word that means “journey to the West,” and, as such, is pretty much the perfect title for the latest release from French-Vietnamese guitarist extraordinaire Nguyen Le. This is another album that explores the nexus that links the panorama of world music to the expansive realm of jazz, taking the musical innovations first established by John McLaughlin in his Mahavishnu Orchestra/Shakti days into a new millennium milieu wherein modern complexity musically blends with ancient form to produce a reflective fusion delight to tantalize any and all senses. Seamlessly blending the music and instrumentation of the West (guitar), Japan (koto, pansuri), and India (tables, Indian percussion) with subdued yet curiously emphatic vocals that overlay all the cultural connexions, Nguyen Le has crafted a tantalizing and philosophical musical path that shows just how much we, as humans and regardless of cultural origins, really have in common. by Michael Berry
Soulive Live at the Blue Note Tokyo Royal Family Records
If there’s such a thing as a power jazz trio, Soulive has to be it! Having honed their driving, dynamic, soul-laden jazz sound over the 10 years they’ve been together, the Evans brothers (Alan on drums and Neal on Hammond-B3 organ) and band mate Eric Krasno (guitar) are now firmly established in the front ranks of the hardest-working and attention-riveting jazz trios of this new age, joining contemporaries Medeski, Martin, and Wood, and The Bad Plus, as the flagbearers of footstompin’ jazz. This live album (from a concert on November 28th, 2008) captures them at the apex of performance virtuosity and will leave most listeners agape at how they can sound so full. Right off the bat when the chunky chords of “Outrage” grabs listeners with its gut-thumping power, through an assortment of highly-charged soul-jazz barrages (seven tunes are well over 10 minutes in length) to the climax of “Tighten Up,” the listener knows full well what kind of experience this will be: full-tilt all the way! If you like your jazz loud and proud, this album is a must. by Michael Berry
Books
by Charles Montgomery
Korea Through Western Eyes
Robert D. Neff and Sunghwa Cheong Korea, once known as “the Hermit Kingdom,” was late to accept visitors from the West. Robert Neff and Sungwha Cheong’s Korea Through Western Eyes is an interesting mosaic account (the book collects a series of articles) of what it was like to be one of those early Westerners. Beginning in the late 1880s with colorful and ultimately hapless pioneers like Paul Mollendorf, the authors trace a two-decade path that ends in 1905 as Japanese colonialization descends upon the nation. The mosaic nature of the book is a strength; you read it all in one sitting or episodically and enjoy it either way. Many stories in this book will strongly resonate with the modern experience of Korea—in some ways, this book demonstrates that the more Korea changes, the more it remains the same. Neff and Cheong also include a variety of interesting black and white photos, which amplify the articles. 434 pages, W25,000 (paperback) 42 | 10 Magazine April 2010
The Cleanest Race
B. R. Meyers North Korea may be the most widely misunderstood nation in the world. Brian Myers takes a valiant stab at reducing that misunderstanding in The Cleanest Race. Arguing that North Korea is not communist and does not believe its official ideology (juche, or “self-reliance”), Myers contends that the way to understand North Korea is as a country built on myths of racial purity and history. Basing much of his argument on North Korean propaganda, Myers comes to unusual conclusions—Kim Jong Il is consciously presented as maternal—and explanatory conclusions—an ideology based on internal purity and the “dirtiness” of foreigners means that North Korea cannot give up its fight with the US. It is not always easy to judge Myer’s claims. But even if some are wrong, Myers does a great service by creating a different lens through which we can look at North Korea. This book is a must-have for anyone interested in North Korea and its relations with South Korea, the United States, and the world. 200 pages, W25,450 (hardcover)
Who Ate Up All the Shinga?
Gear
by Alaric Willi
iPad and Netbook Go Screen to Screen The Apple iPad vs the Asus Eee PC 1008HA The iPad should be landing in Korea any day now. But before you go out and spend your hard earned savings on what is essentially a large iPod Touch with iBooks, take a hard look at a netbook. For this article, we’ll be comparing the Apple iPad to the Asus Eee PC 1008HA, chosen as a typical netbook. Without going into the messy details, the iPad and the Eee PC both run hardware with similar performance. The Eee PC runs an Intel Atom N720 and the iPad an ARM Cortex A-9 (inside Apple’s A4 processor). There are differences, but for the average user, the operating system and appearance of the product make the difference. So that’s what we’ll focus on. The iPad operating system is more exciting than Windows. This is mostly thanks to the touch screen on the iPad. You can do cool things like pinch the screen to zoom in on photos. So it’s a lot of fun, but generally low on the productivity scale. Sure, it has all the tools like a word processor and calendar, but they tend to take a little longer than on the Eee PCs Windows XP operating system. The iPad can’t multitask, either. The iPad is much more rugged then the Eee PC. In addition to this, the iPad battery lasts 10 hours compared to 6 hours for its rival. On the flipside, it doesn’t have a keyboard, camera, USB ports, VGA port, Ethernet port or SD card reader. Whilst some of these are available through plug in devices, you can’t connect The Apple iPad more than one at a time. The other big problem is that the iPad can’t stand up on its own like the Eee PC, meaning you have to lean it against something to make good use of the large onscreen keyboard. The iPad comes with a 16GB, 32GB, or 64GB flash drive priced US $499, $599 and $699 respectively. Add $130 to each of those prices for 3G connectivity. The Eee PC has a list price of $429 with Windows XP and a 160GB hard drive. Whilst the iPad has a much better screen for watching movies, there isn’t a lot of space to put those 720p movies on the 16GB model. You could pay $699 for the 64GB model, but then it starts to lose its charm. The Eee PC is a much better value for money and a much better personal computer. However, it doesn’t have any of the wow factor. The iPad, on the other hand, is just plain cool. Pick it up once and you’ll keep twisting and turning it to interact with it in exciting ways. So if you want a computer, buy the Eee PC, but if you want something packed with entertainment and a pinch of Asus Eee PC 1008HA practicality, get the iPad.
nationwide Hotlines Emergency Police Directory Assistance Medical Information Center
119 112 114 1339
This is a 24-hour, nationwide hospital information service available in English, Korean, Chinese and Japanese.
Foreigner Assistance/Translation BBB 24-hour Language Assistance 1588-5644 KTO Tourism 24-hr Infoline 1330 Korea Immigration immigration.go.kr, 1345 Korean Customs customs.go.kr, 1577-8577 Seoul Dasan (city info) 02-120
Transportation Asiana flyasiana.com, 1588-8000 Busan Air flyairbusan.com, 1588-8009 Jeju Air jejuair.net, 1599-1500 Korean Air koreanair.com, 1588-2001 Intercity Express Bus kobus.co.kr, 1588-6900 Korea Railroad Corp. korail.com, 1544-7788 Seoul Interactive Subway Map smrt.co.kr Mobeom Taxi Service Nationwide 1588-2255 The nationwide “black taxi” number will put you in touch with a driver who speaks English, but these taxis cost about twice as much as taxis from the rest of the color spectrum. Otherwise call 1330 for regular taxis in your area.
Investment Assistance KOTRA kotra.or.kr, 02-3460-7114 Invest Korea investkorea.org, 02-3460-7545
Korean Banks The following are the only banks that offer English online banking and international debit cards. Korea Exchange Bank (KEB 외환은행) keb.co.kr, 02-729-0114 SC First Bank (SC 제일은행) scfirstbank.com, 02-3702-3114
Major Foreign Banks American Express americanexpress.co.kr, 02-2000-8100 Australia & New Zealand Banking Group 02-3700-3100 China Construction Bank ccbseoul.com, 02-6730-1718 Citibank citibank.co.kr, 02-3455-2114 Deutsche Bank 02-724-4500 Bank of America 02-2202-4500 Bank of China 02-399-0368 BNP Paribas bnpparibas.co.kr, 02-317-1700 HSBC 02-311-0060 Websites shown are specifically for the Korean branches of listed foreign banks.
Pizza Delivery Order Nationwide English-speaking Service Domino’s Pizza 1577-3082 Papa John’s Pizza 1577-8080 Pizza Hut 1588-5588 Got an idea for info that should be added to our Newcomer Directory ? Send it to comments@10magazine.asia
10 Magazine April 2010 | 43
NATIONWIDE
Park Wan-suh; translated by Yu Young-nan and Stephen Epstein Who Ate Up All The Shinga? is an autobiographical novel by South Korean literary treasure, Park Wan-suh. A loose re-telling of Park’s early childhood, it is also an amusing mother-daughter story and the tale of the author’s development in the harsh environment of post-WWII Korea. Park’s mother is a classic literary character—two-faced, something of a conniver, but resolutely committed to her family’s success. Park veers between love for, disappointment with, and sometimes sheer incredulity at her mother’s antics. In the hands of a lesser author this book could have veered towards Oprahland or descended into the maudlin. Park, thankfully, is a master of telling family tales (many of her short stories are equally brilliant), and this is a novel with broad appeal. 264 pages, W35,280 (hardcover)
KOREAN DESTINATIONS
NATIONWIDE
walk down the 1.7-kilometer Yunjungno. Yeouido is sure to be packed with a sea of people, but don’t let that stop you from enjoying the blossoms in the city. The Hwagae Cherry Blossom Festival HWAGAE takes place from April 3rd to 5th in South Gyeongsang Province. According to legend, if two lovers walk down the beautiful, blossomlined cherry road while holding hands, they will eventually get married and live happily ever after. See for yourself if the legend holds true! From Nambu Terminal in Seoul (line 3), take a bus towards Hadong-gun and get off at Hwagae Terminal. From Hwagae Terminal, a bus or taxi will bring you to the festival site at Hwagae Jangteo.
The Cheongpung Cherry Blossom Festival in Jecheon in North Chungcheong Province takes place from April 10th to 12th with cherry blossoms in full bloom from the 7th to 17th. Expect various handson events such as flower postcard making and lakeside bungee jumping. Some of the prettiest scenery lies at the end of the blossom road at Cheongpung Lake, surrounded by flowers. Other attractions include a visit to the SBS Jecheon film set and water sports on the lake.
CHEONGPUNG
From the Dong Seoul Terminal at Gangbyeon St. (line 2), take a bus to Jecheon Terminal. From the terminal, hop on a city bus or a taxi to reach the festival grounds.
Life Is Just a Bowl of Cherry Blossom Festivals
N
Words by Shirley Hwang
othing signals spring’s arrival better than the delicate, pale pink cherry blossoms that burst in unison from once barren trees across the peninsula. Whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends, take a romantic stroll, or snap scenic photographs, the cherry blossom festivals that take place in April are a sure way to experience Korea’s natural beauty. If there is one thing that you absolutely must see in Korea in the springtime, this is it! You don’t want to miss these opportunities to walk under the ephemeral, fairytale-like canopies of pink and white.
The Jinhae Gunhang Festival (April 1st – 11th) is one Jinhae of the most famous cherry blossom festivals in Korea. Located in South Gyeongsang Province, the city of Jinhae is home to hundreds of thousands of flowering trees and attracts over one million visitors each spring. To get a view of the entire city as well as the ocean next to it, take a hike up Mt. Jangbok, where you’ll see the city blanketed with blossoms and tourists. Another option is a stroll down Anmin Road, a 5.6-kilometer stretch of blossom canopies. For the best photo opportunities, walk along picture-perfect Yeojwacheon, a stream lined with trees and dotted with yellow canola flowers. Yeojwacheon is especially famous for having been featured From Seoul, take the KTX in the 2002 drama Romance. There are plenty of food tents to Miryang. At Miryang, transfer to the Saemaeul dotted throughout the city for food to snack on while you train bound for Jinhae. enjoy the blossoms. From April 6th to 18th, tourists and city dwellers alike are free to roam the SEOUL streets of Yeouido along the Han River, where tree-lined roads are blocked off for pedestrian blossom-viewing. Cultural events Exit at National Assembly including traditional Korean music and dance are scheduled Station (line 9) or Yeouinaru Station to be held from the 9th to the 13th. For a leisurely evening (line 5 exits 1-3). stroll, visit the LED-lit blossoms at night near the river, or 44 | 10 Magazine April 2010
Far from the Madding Crowds
Want to bask in cherry blossom bliss without all of the festive frenzy? Try one of these (relatively) tranquil options. That said, don’t blame us if you have an unpleasant run in with a beondegi stand. This is Korea, after all, and not the Australian Outback. Incheon Grand Park
About 15 minutes by bus from Songnae St. (line 1) or Incheon City Hall St. (Incheon line). grandpark.incheon.go.kr
Lover’s Road at Yeongnam University
Near Daegu in Gyeongsan. yu.ac.kr
Seoul Grand Park
Just south of Seoul in Gwacheon near Seoul Grand Park St. (line 4). grandpark.seoul.go.kr
Yunjung-ro in Yeouido
Take a relaxing stroll down this street while the festivities continue a few blocks away. National Assembly St. (line 9, ex. 3) or Yeouinaru St. (line 5, ex. 3)
From top: shots by Simon Bond, and Dylan (WelkinLight Photography) and night view image from the Department of Culture and Sports, Yeongdeungpo-gu District Office
SEOUL CALENDAR Sixty of Korea’s most promising young artists are included here with two works apiece. Sangsang Madang Live Hall in Hongdae. sangsangmadang.co, 02-330-6200
Design & Fashion Through April 1st Seoul Fashion Week Snag a seat next to the runway to see the couture concoctions in this fall and winter’s Seoul Collection. 11 am – 7 pm. SETEC. seoulfashionweek.org, 02-2222-3811
Through June 4th Joseon Dynasty Art Leeum Samsung Museum of Art near Hangangjin St. (line 6, ex. 1). leeum.org, 02-2014-6901
Through April 7th 10/10: Ten Designers and Ten Styles This is 10’s favorite exhibition this month—bet you already guessed that! Design Gallery near Dongdaemun History and Culture Park Station (line 2 & 4, ex. 1). 10 am – 11 pm. seouldesign.or.kr, 02-3705-0000
April 29th – May 2nd Seoul Jewel and Watch Fair Open to serious buyers only. COEX. 10:30 am – 6 pm. jewelfair.com, 02-600-5823
Art Every Saturday Hongdae Free Market It’s called “free,” not “flea,” because the objects on sale here are hand-crafted by the vendors and not second-hand products. Find everything from hand-bound diaries to hand-stitched dolls. The playground across from Hongik University (line 2). 1 - 6 pm. cafe.daum.net/artmarket, artfreemarket@hanmail.net
SEOUL
April 6th – 8th Expolook Glasses Exhibition The latest in glasses and related products, along with a prize giveaway and announcement of the best eyewear awards. COEX. 10 am – 6 pm. expolook.kr, 02-3432-4555
Through June 13th Exciting World of Animation 3D screenings of Thomas and Friends, Shrek, and other animation favorites along with a claymation workshop. Seoul Art Center near Nambu Terminal St. (line 3, ex. 5). 11 am – 8 pm. W14,000. sac.or.kr, 02-580-1300 Through July 11th “The Moment” Photo Exhibit This selection of shots by some of Korea’s best photographers show the city, nature, and the people living in them. 63 Sky Art at the 63 Building near Yeouinaru St. (line 5, ex. 4). 10 am - 10 pm. Adults W12,000, teens W11,000, children W10,000. 63,co.kr, 02-789-5663 Through July 25th Tomb Paintings of Goguryeo If you’re tired of placid paintings of Joseon women washing their clothes in the stream, head back to Goguryeo (37 BC – AD 667) for these paintings of landscapes and the “four symbols” (dragon, tiger, phoenix, and turtle). National Museum of Korea March 31st – April 6th Feeling and Expression Gwanghwarang Gallery at Gwanghwamun Station (line 5). 10 am – 9 pm. sejongpac.or.kr, 018-252-5953
Through April 25th Ju-hyeong Lee: “Undefined Scene” Sungkok Art Museum Through April 28th Dong-yu Kim: “Figure 2 Figure” Sungkok Art Museum Through May 23rd “Invitation to a Suspicious House” Exhibit Featuring pieces from the permanent collection. Guests can also chat with artists. Seoul Museum of Art Annex Through May 25th Seogyo Sixty: Sangsang’s Archive
Korean-Chinese Calligraphy Exhibition Sejong Center near Gwanghwamun St. (line 5, ex. 8). 11 am – 8:30 pm. sejongpac.or.kr, 011-9068-1035 “Scenes at the Market” Photo Exhibit Catch a glimpse of traditional markets before they’re gone. Sejong Center. 11 am – 8:30 pm. 010-5440-2340 April 5th Workshop with Steve McCurry Serious photo enthusiasts will not want to miss this chance to meet Steve McCurry, the renowned photojournalist, whose exhibit will be opening
VENUES Arko Arts Theater Hyehwa St. (line 4, ex. 2). arko.or.kr, 02-760-4840
Nowon Culture and Arts Center nowonart.kr, 02-951-3355
Chungmu Art Hall Sindang St. (line 6, ex. 9). cmah.or.kr, 02-2230-6600
Sejong Center near Gwanghwamun St. (line 5, ex. 8). sejongpac.or.kr, 1544-1887
COEX Samsung St. (line 2). coex.co.kr, 02-6000-0114
SETEC (Seoul Trade Exhibition Center) Hagyeoul St. (line 3, ex. 1). setec.or.kr, 02-2222-3811
Hoam Art Hall hoamarthall.org, 02-751-9606 LG Arts Center Yeoksam St. (line 2, ex. 7). lgart.com, 02-2005-0114 Mapo Arts Center Daeheung St. (line 6, ex. 2). mapoartcenter.or.kr, 02-3274-8600 National Museum of Korea Ichon St. (line 4, ex. 2). Tue, Wed, Fri 9 am – 6 pm. Wed, Sat 9 am – 8 pm. Sun 9 am – 7 pm. museum.go.kr, 02-2077-9000 National Theater of Korea Shuttle available from Dongguk Univ. St. (line 3, ex. 6). ntok.go.kr, 02-2280-4114
– Expires April 30th –
Seoul Art Center Nambu Terminal St. (line 3, ex. 5). sac.or.kr, 02-580-1300 Seoul Museum of Art City Hall St. (line 1 and 2, ex. 10). seoulmoa.seoul.go.kr, 02-120 Seoul Museum of Art Annex Sadang St. (line 2, ex. 6). Weekdays 10 am – 8 pm. Weekend 10 am – 6 pm. Closed Mon. seoulmoa.seoul.go.kr, 02-120 Sungkok Art Museum Gwanghwamun St (line 5). 10 am – 6 pm. Closed Mon. Adults W5,000, students W4,000. sungkokmuseum.com, 02-737-7650
10 Magazine April 2010 | 45
SEOUL CALENDAR This story of a would-be ballerina who falls for a b-boy street dancer is a genre-bending mash-up of break dance and ballet. Lotte World Art Hall at Jamsil St. (line 2). Tue - Thu 8 pm, Fri 5 & 8 pm, Sat 3 & 6 pm. Dark Mondays. W50,000. showbboy.com, 02-2266-3727 Battle B-Boy Romance at a dance tournament serves as the setting for this exhibition of awesome dance routines and soaring aerial moves. Hongdae. Tue - Fri 8 pm Sat 6 pm, Sun 2 pm. W50,000. Sadly, the website is poorly designed and is in Korean only. sjbboys.com, 02-323-5233
SEOUL
From top: Ship Breaking Yard near Karachi, Pakistan (1985), New York, USA (1994)
at the Sejong Center opening on April 9th. See a screening of Looking for the Afghan Girl a documentary about the search for the girl whose picture made Steve famous, and hear him share stories about his experiences traveling the world taking pictures. Sangsang Madang in Hongdae. 8 pm. W30,000. Seats are limited so reserve yours now. yange@ssmadangm.co.kr, 02-330-6229
Marakech Night Restaurant
Itaewon’s Finest Moroccan Cuisine with Rhiti Mostafa former chef for the Moroccan Ambassador to Korea Weekend buffet only W17,000! Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
Hamilton Hotel
Itaewon Hotel
Noksapyeong Itaewon St. Exit.3
Hannam-dong Fire Station
Marakech Night Cheil Restaurant Communications Building
46 | 10 Magazine April 2010
Drawing Show Art exhibit or performance? The drawing show is as fun to watch as it is hard to classify. Drawing Show Theater in Daehangno in Seoul (Hyehwa Station, exit 1). Weekdays 8 pm. Sat 4 pm, 7 pm. Sun 3 pm, 6 pm. Closed Mon. Adults W30,000, children W20,000. cafe.daum.net/drawingshow, drawingshow@gmail.com, 02-766-7848
April 7th – 11th Korean Contemporary Art Festival Seoul Art Center. 11 am – 8 pm. Adults W5,000, students W4,000 Fanta-stick This slapstick For more detailed venue nonverbal show offers young April 9th – May 30th ones lots of laughs. information, Steve McCurry: “Unguarded Conveniently located at the 63 see p. 45 Moment” Displaying over 100 building in Yeouido. Tue - Sun 8 photos taken by this daring pm. W32,000 - W50,000. No English photojournalist, famous for “Afghan site. fanta-stick.co.kr, 02-789-5664 Girl,” which appeared on the cover of National Geographic. Sejong Center. 10 Jump First performed in 2003, this am – 8 pm. Adults W8,000, teens non-verbal show combines a comic W5,000, children W3,000 story with martial arts moves and impressive visuals. April 14th – 20th W40,000 – W50,000. 02-722-3995 People in This World Sejong Center. 11 am – 8:30 pm. 010-3320-0500 Heart of the East and Todes An exciting performance of Korean April 22nd – 26th traditional dance and song combined Seoul Open Art Fair Last year, this with breathtaking dance numbers by a fair drew 70 art galleries and over two-dozen member dance team from 40,000 visitors. COEX. 11 am – 20 pm. Russia. Sheraton Grande Walker Hill. Adult W10,000, student W8,000. sheratonwalkerhill.co.kr/eng/promotion/ soaf.co.kr, 02-545-3314 show_new_info.php, 02-455-5000 April 29th – May 2nd Seoul Photo and Imaging Industry Show Featuring useful seminars on Photoshop and other imaging software, if you’re Korean’s up to it. COEX. 10 am – 6 pm. W5,000 (free if you preregister). photoshow.co.kr, 02-6000-1068 April 30th – July 24th Cecil Beaton: Beauty of the Century See famous beauties and celebrities of the 20th century such as Audrey Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor, and Marilyn Monroe through the lens of portrait and fashion photographer Cecil Beaton. Seoul Art Center. 11 am – 8 pm. Adults W9,000, teens W8,000, children W6,000.
Theater & Dance Open-run Nonverbal Performances
02-795-9441, marakechnight.co.kr
Bubble World Though geared toward younger children, anyone can enjoy this creative presentation of bubbles, fans, lighting, and lasers. Myungbo Art Hall in Jongno. Wed 3 pm, Thu & Fri 3 pm & 8 pm, weekend 2 & 4:30 pm (and 8 pm on Sat). bubbleworld.co.kr, 02-2263-9742
Ongoing The Ballerina Who Loved a B-Boy
Miso Chongdong Theater, one of the best places to experience Korean culture, presents Miso, a story of one woman’s encounter with love told through traditional dance, percussion, and music. City Hall Station. 8 pm. W20,000 – W40,000. Refer to the English site for more info. http://www.chongdong.com 02-7511-500
EDITOR’S PICK English Staff High light and Low light Cutting Styling Hair spa
Theater & Dance April 5th – 7th
Judith Triumphans: The Oratorio
Nanta This kitchen percussion extravaganza is the non-verbal stage show that nearly everyone sees at least once. Two Seoul locations and performances almost daily. Refer to the website for directions and performance details. W50,000 – W60,000. nanta.ipmc.co.kr/en/index.asp, 02-739-8288 Pan Produced by Deok-su Kim of Samulnori fame, “Pan” is your chance to hear a combination of Korean folk songs, minstrel music, and percussion of all kinds. Gwanghwamun Art Hall. Weekdays at 7:30 pm, weekends at 4 pm, closed Mon and Tue. 90 min. W30,000 – W50,000. ghmarthall.co.kr, 02-722-3416
Center. Fri 8 pm, Sat 5 pm. W30,000 – W70,000
SEOUL
18th century baroque composer Antonio Vivaldi enjoyed ample popularity during his prime but died a pauper, and his work was mostly forgotten until the 20th century. Since then, he has been recognized for his outstanding compositions. Though his series of four violin concerti entitled The Four Seasons is perhaps more wellknown, Judith Triumphans is a striking oratorio, indeed the only one that survives out of the four Vivaldi is known to have written. Based on the story of Judith from the Apocrypha, it was composed in honor of the city of Venice’s victory over the Turks. Chungmu Art Hall, Sindang St. (line 6, ex. 9). 7:30 pm. 150 min. W30,000 – W310,000. cmah.or.kr, 02-2230-6600
Hongik Univ.
Coffee Bean
Samgeori Pocha
Guekdong Broadcast
Line 6 Sangsu St. Exit #2
April 2nd – 4th Line 2 Hongdae St.
Record Shop
Mom & Dad
7-Eleven
Line 6 Sangsu St. Exit #1
407-2 Seogyo-dong Mapo-gu, Seoul, Korea, Tel: 02 t 338 t 2773
Leaving: The Play By former Czech president Vaclav Havel. LG Arts Center April 2nd – 7th
Sa-Choom An exciting non-verbal dance performance telling the story of three friends’ coming of age. Tue – Fri 8 pm. Sat 4 pm and 7:30 pm. Sun 4 pm. W50,000. lovedance.co.kr/eng/01_ sachoom/sub01.html, mr4u@nate.com, 070-8249-3023 Through April 4th The Beat: Non-Verbal Performance Seoul Art Center near Nambu Terminal St. (line 3, ex. 5). Weekdays and Saturday at 7:30pm, Sunday at 5 pm. W30,000 – W300,000. sac.or.kr, 02-580-1300 Through April 18th La Dispute: The Play Pierre de Marivaux’s dark tale questioning the boundary between love and desire. Chungmu Art Hall. Weekdays 8 pm, Sat 4 & 7 pm, Sun 3 & 6 pm. Dark Mon. W25,000 – W35,000 Through April 24th Charlie’s Magic Factory A fusion magic musical for the whole family. Mapo Art Center. Daeheung St. (line 6, ex. 2). Tuesday-Friday 2 pm, Saturday 2 pm and 4 pm. W15,000. mapoartcenter.or.kr, 02-3274-8600 April 2nd – 3rd Chunhyang: The Ballet Seoul Art
Burn the Floor: The Dance The members of the Burn the Floor team tap into their phenomenal foot-work and undeniable skill in this dance-tastic show that has already toured in 74 cities in 16 countries. Sejong Center. Mon – Fri 8 pm, Sat & Sun 3 & 7 pm. W40,000 – W150,000 April 2nd – 19th Dream and Vision Dance Festival The fifteen teams performing over the course of this festival present a panorama of contemporary dance.
10 Magazine April 2010 | 47
SEOUL CALENDAR EDITOR’S PICK
SEOUL
Image from BH Productions’ version of And They Used to Star in Movies
Theater & Dance April 22nd - May 16th
Stones in His Pockets
Two heads are better than one, and in this case two actors are better than a whole cast. Charlie and Jake are two locals employed as extras in a small Irish town invaded by a Hollywood film crew. The two end up playing all 15 characters. Comedy ensues when the romantic expectations of the crew conflict with the reality of this ordinary rural town. This hit play by Marie Jones, a hit in Dublin, London’s West End, and Broadway, is brought to you by BH Productions, a non-profit professional company based in Seoul that has performed great drama such as Waiting for Godot in Korea and abroad. Vin Vino near Itaewon St. (line 6, ex. 2). Thu & Fri 8:30 pm, Sat & Sun 4:30 & 8:30 pm. stonesinkorea@yahoo.com, 016-695-4624 in Itaewon on Friday night to find your team, get a role, and compose and rehearse a play. The show takes place the next evening. Produced by the Seoul Players. seoulplayers@gmail.com April 19th I Am Not Me, the Horse Is Not Mine: The Dance Presented by Festival Bo:m. Arko Arts Theater. 8 pm. W30,000 Hongdae Post Theater. W10,000. 02-704-6420
April 19th – 25th The Bride of Lammermoor: The Opera The Italian writer Donizetti’s take on Sir Walter For more Scott’s novel about a Scottish detailed venue tragedy. Seoul Art Center. information, 8 pm. W10,000 – W150,000 see p. 45
April 3rd – 4th The Corpse Left Behind When the Sea Died: The Dance Presented by The Body Dance Company. Arko Arts Theater. 6 pm. W10,000 – W20,000
April 7th – 8th LDP Dance Company: Laboratory Dance Project Seoul Art Center. 8 pm. W20,000 – W30,000 April 9th – 10th Jesus Chris Superstar: The Musical The Korean lyrics may be unfamiliar, but Andrew Lloyd Webber’s catchy tunes remain the same. Nowon Culture and Arts Center. Fri 7:30 pm, Sat 3 & 6 pm. W20,000 – W30,000 April 9th – 11th Su-jin Gang with “The Ballet” Gala Scenes from a variety of ballets. Seoul Art Center. Fri 7:30 pm, Sat & Sun 5 pm. W40,000 – W140,000 April 16th - 17th 24 Hour Theater Think you can pull off a play in 24 hours? Come to Roofers
48 | 10 Magazine April 2010
April 22nd – 25th Manon Rescaut: The Opera Puccini’s opera combines the usual ingredients of soaring vocals and ill-fated love. Sejong Center. Weekdays 7:30 pm, Sat 3 pm & 7:30 pm, Sun 5 pm. W20,000 – W120,000 April 23rd – 24th A Technical Problem: The Dance Presented by Festival Bo:m. Arko Arts Theater. Fri 8 pm, Sat 5 pm. W20,000 April 23rd – 25th The Sailor (Baebaengigut) Traditional Korean performance. Seoul Art Center. Fri 7:30 pm, Sat 5 pm, Sun 3 pm. W30,000 April 27th – May 5th Coppelia: The Ballet Seoul Art Center. Weekdays 7:30 pm, Sat 3 & 7:30 pm, Sun 3 pm. Dark Mon. W5,000 – W30,000.
April 29th World Dance Day: Green Dance Festival Seoul Art Center. 7:30 pm. W10,000 - W20,000 April 30th – May 1st Little Donkey: Family Musical Nowon Culture and Arts Center. 02-951-3355
Concerts
April 1st – 2nd Seoul Choir A harmonious mix of sacred and secular songs. Sejong Center. 7:30 pm. W20,000 – W30,000 April 1st – 20th
April 3rd – 30th Mapo Arts Center: 2nd Anniversary Festival A month of fantastic performances. 4/3: Osanna. 7 pm. W60,000 – W90,000. 4/8: Moscow Children’s Choir. 8 pm. W20,000 – W30,000. 4/23-4/24: Crying Nut. Fri 7:30 pm, Sat 5 pm. W44,000.
SEOUL
April 1st Brian McKnight Melt into the night with songs from R&B legend Brian McKnight at Jamsil Indoor Gymnasium near Sports Stadium St. (line 2, exits 6 and 7). 8 pm. W50,000 – W110,000. kspo.or.kr, 02-599-5743
concerts to bring in the spring. 4/3: electronic string ensemble Zeta presents crossover classical along with a b-boy performance by the Inside Crew. 4/10: KNUA Brass Band and Saxophone Quartet. 4/17: “Gwangdae,” a performance troupe that dust off traditional acts for a contemporary audience.
4/25: Giovanni Mirabassi Jazz Trio. 6 pm. W33,000 – W77,000. 4/29: Richard “Yongjae” O’Neill Viola Recital. 8 pm. W30,000 – W60,000. 4/30: Naomi & Goro Sweet Bossa Nova. 8 pm. W30,000 – W50,000
Best haircut makes life happier. All staff has qualified by VIDAL SASSOON CUT / PERM. / COLORING HAIR SPA / HEAD SPA MAKE UP / STYLING
Symphonic Music Festival In all, there will be eighteen days of orchestra performances at the Seoul Art Center, giving you the chance to see the potential and diversity of classical ensembles active in Korea today. Weekdays 8 pm, Sun 5 pm. No performance 4/7 and 4/18. W10,000 – W30,000
Mon ~ Sat 10 am ~ 9 pm Appointment only Tel. 02-512-3798~9 51-1 Banpo-dong, Seocho-gu Seoseok Building 5F
JW Marriott
GS Gas St. Seoul National Univ. of Education St. Line 2
St. Line 3,7,9
Mr. Pizza
April 2nd TIMF Ensemble: Eight Colors Hoam Art Hall. 8 pm. W30,000 April 2nd – 3rd From top: Osanna, Giovanni Mirabassi April 4th
Tom Jones Performing in Korea for the first time in 27 years, Tom Jones will sing classic hits as well as songs from his new album, 24 Hours. Olympic Fencing Stadium in Olympic Park near Olympic Park St. (line 5, ex. 3). Fri: 8 pm, Sat: 7:30 pm. W88,000 – W176,000. kspo.or.kr, 02-410-1114 April 3rd Na-gyeong Choe Flute Recital Hoam Art Hall. 5 pm. W20,000 April 3rd, 10th, 17th Free Saturday Concerts The National Museum of Korea is sponsoring free family-oriented
Pulhyanggi The Kings of Convenience The Norwegian indie-folk duo who made it big on an American label. Olympic Hall near Olympic Park Station (line 5, ex. 2). 6 pm. W77,000 – W88,000. info@ privatecurve.com, 02-563-0595 New Musicians Concert Featuring winners of the Sejong Center music competition performing with the Seoul Youth Orchestra. Sejong Center. 6 pm. W20,000
Traditional performances held each night from 7:30 - 8:45
152-60 Samsung-dong Gangnam-gu Seoul, Tel: 02-539-3390 5 minutes from COEX, Open 11 am-10 pm, www.pulhyanggi.com 10 Magazine April 2010 | 49
SEOUL CALENDAR Seed Festival Jazz Tronic, the Cool Kids, Theophilus London, and other live acts. W55,000 presale, W66,000 at the door. Starts 9 pm. Ax-Korea near the W Hotel. seedseoul@gmail.com
April 6th
April 10th
Ars Nova 1: Symphony Concert Sejong Center. 7:30 pm. W10,000 – W30,000 Cinematic Classic LG Arts Center April 6th and 8th
SEOUL Bebel Gilberto This Brazilian popular singer is the daughter of bossa nova legend João Gilberto. Sejong Center. 7:30 pm. W30,000 – W100,000 Secret Garden The Norwegian-Irish new age duo. 4/6: Nowon Culture and Arts Center. 8 pm. W60,000 – W80,000. 4/8: Sejong Center. 8 pm. W40,000 – W120,000 April 7th Joy of Strings: “Arirang” Hoam Art Hall. 8 pm. W30,000 – W50,000
Jamie Cullum Live A jazz pianist who’s not afraid to song a pop song every once in a while, Jamie Cullum offers a concert full of quirky arrangements and improvised surprises. Ax-Hall (Gwangnaru St., line 5, ex. 2). 7 pm. W99,000. 02-563-0595, info@privatecurve.com
What’s Up? in Concert Groove to the April 7th tunes of West Coast math pop trio The Swell Season This folk duo was What’s Up? at their Korean debut. catapulted to fame thanks to their role Live Club Ssam in Seoul. in the surprise hit movie Once. Olympic supercolorsuper.com, Hall near Olympic Park Station (line 5, supercolorsuper@gmail.com ex. 2). 8 pm. W77,000 – W99,000. info@privatecurve.com, April 11th For more 02-563-0595 Libera Alternative boy band or detailed venue choir? You decide. information, April 7th – 12th Sejong Center. 3 pm. see p. 45 Sejong Chamber Festival W30,000 – W50,000 4/7: Sejong Soloists Chamber Love Music School Performance Music Society. 7:30 pm. LG Arts Center W50,000 – W70,000. 4/8-4/9: Violist Paolo Pandolfo. 7:30 pm. W30,000 – W50,000. 4/10: Baritone Seong-hyeon Go 7:30 pm. W30,000 – W50,000. 4/11: Violinist Dmitry Sitkovetsky 5 pm. W50,000 - W70,000. 4/12: Sejong Soloists Chamber Music Society 7:30 pm. W50,000 – W70,000. Sejong Center April 8th Tae-hyeong Kim Piano Recital Hoam Art Hall. 8 pm. W20,000 April 9th Martha Argerich This Argentine concert pianist is widely recognized as one of the greatest living masters of the instrument. Sejong Center. 8 pm. W60,000 – W150,000
50 | 10 Magazine April 2010
April 13th Twist and Shout: Beatles Tribute Band Sejong Center. 7:30 pm. W30,000 – W100,000 April 14th Ars Nova 2: Symphony Concert Works by resident composer Eun-suk Jin and others. Sejong Center. 7:30 pm. W10,000 – W50,000 April 15th Joy of Strings Nowon Culture and Arts Center. 7:30 pm. W15,000 – W20,000 April 16th
SEOUL
Concerts May 2nd
Chuck Mangione Live in Seoul Continued from page 39
Since then, compositions like “Give It All You Got” have been used in multiple Olympics and film soundtracks, earning him two Grammys and thirteen nominations. This will be his 5th performance in Korea. Hear his unforgettable melodies and distinctive jazz style at the Sejong Center near Gwanghwamun St. (line 5, ex. 8). 4 & 8 pm. W60,000 - W120,000. sejongpac.or.kr, 02-548-8690
Concerts April 16th – 17th
BOYZ 2 MEN: 20th Anniversary Tour Their smooth, silky voices and gospel-influenced harmonies have brought this three-man R&B vocal group to the pinnacle of success in their genre with more than 60 million albums sold. Fencing Stadium near Olympic Park Station (line 5, ex. 2). Fri 8 pm, Sat 7 pm. W77,000 – W143,000 10 Magazine April 2010 | 51
SEOUL CALENDAR Julio Iglesias Sejong Center. 8 pm. W88,000 – W250,000 April 17th HIPHOPPLAYA.COM: 10th Anniversary Concert AX-Hall near Gwangnaru St. (line 5, ex. 2). ax-korea.com, 02-457-5114
April 27th Boris Berezovsky: A Night of Concertos Seoul Art Center. 8 pm. W40,000 – W100,000 For more detailed venue Cellist Gyu-sik Kim and the Munus Ensemble LG Arts information, see p. 45 Center
Jazz Pianist Yeong-ju Song Trio: “History With You” Hoam Art Hall. 7:30 pm April 18th
April 28th Albrecht Mayer and Markus Becker Duo Recital: “Music for Oboe” Hoam Art Hall. 8 pm. W30,000 – W50,000 Contrabass Orchestra An orchestra made up of six double basses! Seoul Art Center. 8 pm. W20,000 – W110,000
SEOUL
Yun-chan Gwak Trio: “Jazz Meets Seoul” LG Arts Center April 30th – May 1st 2010
Yo-yo Ma and the Silk Road Ensemble Featuring talented ChineseAmerican violist Yo-yo Ma. Seoul Art Center. 5 pm. W60,000 – W160,000 April 19th – 21st W1,000 of Happiness: Exploring Chamber Music Sejong Center. W1,000 April 20th Noon Concert National Theater of Korea. 11 am. W10,000 April 21st and 22nd Prague Philharmonic Their first visit to Korea. Seoul Art Center. 8 pm April 24th I am Robot and Proud Indietronic artist Shaw-han Liem weaves meticulously arranged electropop melodies into intricate yet accessible songs. Live Club Ssam in Hongdae. More info TBA. supercolorsuper.com, supercolorsuper@gmail.com Seoul City Chamber Orchestra Hoam Art Hall. 7:30 pm. W30,000 – W50,000 April 25th Il-beom Jang’s Classical Café: “New York, New York” Hoam Art Hall. 3 pm. W20,000
Philadelphia Orchestra Sejong Center. 7:30 pm. W40,000 – W200,000
Film April 3rd, 10th, 17th Free Movie Screenings If you didn’t catch one of these movies on the big screen, it’s not to late! Head over to the National Museum of Korea to see Indiana Jones 3 (4/3), 4/10: Indiana Jones 4 (4/10), and Journey to the Center of the Earth (4/17). Stick around for the concerts held at 4 pm each time (also free!).
April 30th
Gary Moore
Irish guitarist Gary Moore, famous for playing “the saddest guitar in the world,” has been a major blues musician since the 1960s. Fencing Stadium near Olympic Park Station (line 5, ex. 2). 8 pm. W77,000 – W143,000
52 | 10 Magazine April 2010
EDITOR’S PICK Family & Community May 8th
ANZA Ball: All That Glitters
SEOUL
Thought that the Seoul expat scene was nothing more than smoke-filled bars, chicken wings, and quiz nights? Think again. ANZA (The Australia New Zealand Association of South Korea) is planning a gorgeous ball complete with divine food, excellent Australian and NZ wines, Australian DJ Scott Pullen, prizes, a raffle, and more. This delightful evening will be held at the ball room of the Grand Hyatt Seoul, located near Namsan. 6:30 pm. Members W220,000, non-members W240,000. RSVP by April 14th. anzakorea.com, anzakorearsvp@gmail.com April 8th – 15th
Festival From April 6th to 18th, tourists and city dwellers alike are free to roam the streets of Yeouido along the Han River, where tree-lined roads are blocked off for pedestrian blossomviewing. Concerts and other cultural events will be held from April 9th – 13th. For more details, see p. 44. National Assembly Station (line 9) or Yeouinaru Station (line 5 exits 1-3). ydp.go.kr, 02-2670-3125 International Women’s Film Festival Programs include New Trends, Asia Spectrum: Indonesia Since 1998, Issue: Questions about Motherhood. Regular films W5,000, early morning screenings are W4,000. Atreon Theater near Sinchon St. (line 2, ex. 4). wffis.or.kr, 02-583-3598 April 11th 63 Years On: Free Screening The award-winning documentary about the survivors of sexual slavery perpetrated by the Japanese military during WWII. 3 pm. Cultural Center at Jogyesa Temple in Insadong (Anguk St., line 3, ex. 5). houseofsharing.org, info@houseofsharing.org
Family & Community April 3rd Seoul Pillow Fight They’ve found the recipe for fun, and it consists of pillows, people, and a good-hearted pummeling. Seoul Plaza near City Hall St. (line 1 and 2). 6 – 7 pm. pillowfightday.com/2010/seoul April 6th – 18th Han River Yeouido Cherry Blossom
April 10th – 11th Seoul Comic World Comic clubs from around Korea will be on site to sell products and participate in a variety of contests. Held at the aT Center in Yangjae-dong (atcenter.co.kr). Sat 10:30 am – 5:30 pm, Sun 10 am – 5:30 pm. W5,000. comicw.co.kr, 02-3142-2137 April 24th Star King Bubbleman This bubbleblowing champ is so good he’s mentioned in the Guinness Book of World Records. Nowon Culture and Arts Center. 2 & 4 pm. W25,000. 1544-9164 April 24th – May 21st Lotus Lantern Festival These colorful lotus lanterns stream down the streets of Seoul in a massive parade. The main events take place on May 3rd – 4th in celebration of Buddha’s birthday. Near Jogyesa Temple and Insadong in downtown Seoul. Free. culture.seoul.go.kr, 02-120 April 29th – May 3rd Seoul Photo Fair Asia’s first photo art fair is held alongside the Seoul Photo and Imagining Show at COEX. 11 am – 8 pm (Mon till 6 pm). seoulphotofair.com, 02-736-1214
10 Magazine April 2010 | 53
SEOUL CALENDAR Education & Conferences April 14th – 16th Clean Air and Green Environment Exhibition Exhibits on recycling technology, pollution treatment, and green building materials reveal the growing interest in taking better care of our planet. COEX. icatech.org, 02-555-7153 April 15th – 18th EDUCARE: Children’s Education Fair COEX. 10 am – 6 pm. W5,000 Register in advance for free admission. educare.co.kr, 02-3453-8887
SEOUL
April 27th Accentuating the Visual: Reimaging Korean Traditional Music Hilary V. Finchum-Sung, an ethnomusicologist specializing in Korean music and culture, will be speaking about how more attractive visual presentation is important for making traditional Korean music a more marketable product. Somerset Palace near Anguk St. (line 3). W5,000. raskb.com, 02-763-9483
Sport & Fitness Ongoing Free Climbing Clinics Through June, Sanirang Alpine Networks offers free top-rope artificial wall climbing clinics for beginning and intermediate climbers. Gear is free for the day. Daechi-dong Outdoor Physical Fitness Facility. 9 am –12 pm. sanirang.net, info@sanirang.net April 8th – 11th Korea Golf Show Koreans love them some golf, as indicated by everything from the numerous screen golf outlets in Seoul to successful Korean golfers like Michelle Wie. Dozens of golf product purveyors show off their wares at this COEX expo. 10 am – 6 pm. W5,000. kogolf.co.kr, 02-2000-2182 April 16th – 18th Festa on the Ice Korea continues its love affair with ice skating with this gala featuring Olympic gold medalist Kim Yuna, Gwak Min-jeong, and many others. Gymnastics Stadium at Olympic Park. Fri 8 pm, Sat 5 pm, Sun 6 pm. W44,000 – W198,000. festaonice.com, 1566-5701
April 3rd - 4th LG Twins vs Nexen Heroes Jamsil Stadium at 5 pm April 6th – 8th Doosan Bears vs Hanhwa Eagles Jamsil Stadium at 6:30 pm April 9th Doosan Bears vs LG Twins Jamsil Stadium at 6:30 pm Nexen Heroes vs SK Wyverns Mokdong Stadium at 6:30 pm April 10th – 11th Doosan Bears vs LG Twins Jamsil Stadium at 5 pm Nexen Heroes vs SK Wyverns Mokdong Stadium at 5 pm April 13th - 15th LG Twins vs Samsung Lions Jamsil Stadium at 6:30 pm Nexen Heroes vs Lotte Giants Mokdong Stadium at 6:30 pm April 16th Doosan Bears vs Lotte Giants Jamsil Stadium at 6:30 pm April 17th – 18th Doosan Bears vs Lotte Giants Jamsil Stadium at 5 pm April 20th – 22nd Doosan Bears vs SK Wyverns Jamsil Stadium at 6:30 pm Nexen Heroes vs LG Twins Mokdong Stadium at 6:30 pm April 23rd LG Twins vs Hanhwa Eagles Jamsil Stadium at 6:30 pm Nexen Heroes vs KIA Tigers Mokdong Stadium at 6:30 pm April 24th – 25th LG Twins vs Hanhwa Eagles Jamsil Stadium at 5 pm Nexen Heroes vs KIA Tigers Mokdong Stadium at 5 pm April 27th – 29th LG Twins vs Samsung Lions Jamsil Stadium at 6:30 pm April 30th Doosan Bears vs Nexen Heroes Jamsil Stadium at 6:30 pm
Travel
K-League Soccer
April 4th FC Seoul vs Suwon Samsung Bluewings 3 pm April 18th FC Seoul vs Ulsan Hyundai 3 pm KBO Baseball
10 Tip The Heroes baseball team , formerly affiliated with Woori Tobacco, is now being sponsored by Nexen Tire. April 1st LG Twins vs SK Wyverns Jamsil Stadium at 6:30 pm Nexen Heroes vs Doosan Bears Mokdong Stadium at 6:30 pm April 2nd LG Twins vs Nexen Heroes Jamsil Stadium at 6:30 pm
54 | 10 Magazine April 2010
April 3rd - 4th South Sea Island and Cherry Blossom Tour Spend the weekend on an island adventure exploring Namhaedo Island on the Korean peninsula’s southernmost coast and Jinhae, the most famous place in the country for famous cherry blossoms. Depart from Sinyongsan St. (line 4, ex. 1) at 7:30 am. Non-members W238,000. raskb.com, 02-763-9483 April 10th Gaya Mountain Hiking and Daegaya Festival Tour Take a hike—on Gaya Mountain—and then stop by world-famous Haeinsa Temple. The next day, learn how to make iron armor at the Daegaya festival. Depart from Hongik Univ. St. (line 2) or Express Bus Terminal St. (line 3, 7, and 9). W93,000. adventurekorea.com, 018-242-5536
April 11th Suwon Fortress Tour Mr. Peter Bartholomew, who has conducted extensive research into the architecture of the Joseon Dynasty, will lead this fascinating tour of various sites in Suwon including the Hwaryeongjeon shrine, the Haenggung summer palace, and of course Hwaseong Fortress. Sinyongsan St. (line 4, ex. 1). 9 am - 6 pm. Non-members W43,200. raskb.com, 02-763-9483
April 16th SIWA Sajik Royal Altar Park Tour Join David A. Mason on this guided tour of the center of shamanic shrines and practice in Seoul, along with a park containing relics of the Joseon Dynasty’s royal heritage. 9:30 am - 1 pm. Nonmembers W18,000. siwapage.com April 17th – 18th Rock Climbing and Ridge Hiking On Saturday, learn the basics of rock climbing at the Songnisan Adventure School in Boeun (North Chungcheong Province) and put your training to good use the following day at Joryung Mountain. Depart from Hongik Univ. St. (line 2) or Express Bus Terminal St. (line 3, 7, and 9). W94,000. adventurekorea.com, 018-242-5536 April 18th RAS Magnolia Tour Over 380 different kinds of magnolia are included in the extensive collection at the Chollipo Arboretum, and they will be in their prime at the end of April. The tour also will stop by Mallipo Beach, known for its white sand, blue water, and sunsets. Sinyongsan St. (line 4, ex. 1). 8:30 am - 8 pm. Non-members W58,200. Transportation and admission included. raskb.com, 02-763-9483 April 24th – 25th Jiri Mountain Trip This trip to Jeolla Province includes a hike up Jiri Mountain, a soak in the hot springs, and a tour of historical Hwagae Market. Depart from Hamilton Hotel, Itaewon St. (line 6, ex. 1). W89,000. koreansafari.com, 019-542-2955 April 28th Eco-Tour to Dobong Forestvville Join SIWA for a trip to the Bukhan Mountain area where you can enjoy the beautiful spring scenery along the Uiryeong trail, reopening after 40 years. Tour includes an English guide and the Dobong Forest Ville eco-education center. 8:30 am - 4 pm. Non-members W45,000. siwapage.com
Dine & Drink Ongoing Toque Diner’s Turkey Dinners Get your turkey fix with help from Toque Diner. Groups of 15 or more who call a week in advance can get their own traditional turkey buffet set up at Toque Diner, or if you’d prefer, you can order half or whole turkeys with all of the fixings and have your own turkey dinner with friends at home. 02-794-3834
April 8th – 10th Seoul Seafood Show From the seafood pulled out of the briny deep to the freezers used to store tonight’s dinner, all of your seafood needs are offered at this expo. 300 exhibitors with 400 booths expected. COEX. 10 am – 5 pm. seoulseafood.com, 02-6000-2800 April 14th – 18th World Tourism and Food Expo Based on the theme of taking Korean food worldwide, this expo offers up a mouthwatering buffet of the latest in culinary developments as well as a cooking competition. Ten countries are expected to participate including the USA, India, Japan, China, Italy, and Russia. aT Center in Yangjae-dong. kfkt.co.kr, 02-737-2210
SEOUL
April 14th RAS Gyeonggi-do Cherry Blossom Tour Explore some of the best places to see cherry bloosoms, those heralds of warmer weather, at throughout Seoul and Gyeonggi Province. Sinyongsan St. (line 4, ex. 1). 8:30 am - 6 pm. Non-members W42,000. raskb.com, 02-763-9483
April 3rd Exclusive Provence Wine Party Ms. Valerie Riboud-Rousselle, winemaker at Chateau Roubine, will introduce five wines. Baguettes provided. Vinestock in the French Village. 5:30 - 7 pm. W75,000. thomasscheidt@ yahoo.co.uk, 02-536-6081
April 24th Italian Wine Tasting Showcasing five premium wines from Abrate Winery, a leading boutique winery from the Piedmont. Baguettes provided. Vinestock in the French Village. 5:30 - 7 pm. W49,000. thomasscheidt@yahoo.co.uk, 02-536-6081
Nightlife April 1st Stand Up Seoul Comedy Night Korea’s finest English language comedians deliver monologues and rants about expat life and other topics. New acts are welcome! 9 pm the first Thursday of every month at the Rocky Mountain Tavern in Itaewon. Facebook: Stand Up Seoul, brianaylward11@ hotmail.com April 10th Paul Oakenfold This trance legend who some say is the greatest DJ alive makes his first appearance in Korea at Club Volume in Itaewon. W45,000 limited early bird, W55,000 at the door. partyluv.com, 1544-2635 April 30th Club Day The best night to experience the Hongdae disco scene. On the last Friday of each month, W20,000 gets you into 20 clubs. 11 pm – 5 am. Buy tickets at participating clubs like NB, M2, and Q-vo. One drink included. theclubday.co.kr May 8th Seoul World DJ Festival Bring your sunglasses and glowstick to Nanju Park to kick off your Korean summer at the 4th Seoul World DJ Festival. This year’s DJ line-up features an eclectic concoction of local and international favorites hailing from Korea, Japan, Australia and Europe. Through April 5th get a discount on your tickets at W33,000 each. 4/6 - 4/20 W44,000, W55,000 at the venue. myspace.com/worlddjfestival, doodibob@hotmail.com
10 Magazine April 2010 | 55
Foodie finds
SEOUL
Good Ole American Chinese Food Ho Lee Chow Words and shots by Joe McPherson Sweet and sour pork
O
ne of the debates in the globalization of Korean food How’s the taste? Perfect! The hot and sour soup coats is whether it should travel overseas with no changes the tongue with bold acidity and pungent spice, populated or adapt to local palates the way that Chinese food by dancing mushrooms, egg and pork. It’s reminiscent of has done all over the world. By now you must have heard a kimchi jjigae, which is funny because my first impression thousand times that chop suey, pink sweet and sour of kimchi jjigae was that it was similar to hot and pork and fortune cookies are more a part of sour soup. The sweet and sour pork glows with American cuisine than Chinese. The dishes that neon pink that evokes a bygone era of that Koreans consider Chinese, like gaudy Polynesian Tiki bars. Where’s a jjajangmyeon and japchae are known as flaming tropical rum drink in a deityKorean food in other parts of the world. shaped vessel when you need one? The The same is true for American Chinese Shanghai noodles really taste like food. You won’t find General Tso’s Chinatown. Glistening in stir-fry oil Chicken at a Korean Chinese restaurant, and packed with tender pork and hearty but you will find it in one advertising singed cabbage, you can tell it was itself as “New York” Chinese, or as Ho cooked in a molten hot wok. It gives off Lee Chow describes itself, “Chinatown” that smoky aroma that is the trademark cuisine. of quality wokeries. Ho Lee Chow has endeared itself to the There was a slight tendency to overuse expat crowd for years now. It’s funny that going starch, but it’s a difficult balance to strike. I to a Chinese restaurant can make a Westerner feel also was instinctly hunting for a fortune cookie, but Hot and sout soup at home. It unapologetically feeds diners those wokapprently those haven't crossed the Pacific. fried favorites that they used to eat out of paper boxes. Just a The next time you're feeling homesick, rely on Ho Lee quick glance at the menu, and our old friend General Tso is Chow to give you that taste of Chinese restaurant memories there, along with his buddies Kung Pao Chicken and Mongolian without feeling hungry thirty minutes later. Beef. The menu items are even numbered, just like Chinese 10 Magazine reimburses reviewers for their meals and restaurants back home. never notifies restaurants that they will be reviewed. English and Korean menus
11:30 am – 10:30 pm
Not Permitted
W9,900 to W24,900 plus wine
Vegetarian menu section
02-749-7971
On street level but no ramps Terrific Chinese food that tastes like home Missed my fortune cookie Optional 56 | 10 Magazine April 2010
128-15 Itaewon 1-dong Yongsan-gu, Seoul holeechow.co.kr 10 Tip: In addition to the Itaewon branch reviewed here, you can also find Ho Lee Chow in Apgujeong, Jamsil, Bundang and Dogok.
Shanghai noodles
I
SEOUL
Galbi Taco Sighting
by Joe McPherson
f you are in the American military or have military connections, you really have a great option in Seoul. The Dragon Hill Lodge in Yongsan is a massive operation that doesn’t skimp on quality, bringing even the latest food trends from America like galbi tacos, kimchi quesadillas and deep fried cheesecake. They have figured out the rocket science behind actually keeping bacon crispy on a buffet—something other buffets have trouble with. Their deli serves American favorites like carrot cake. But they hit a grand slam in their Oasis restaurant with cold smoked pulled pork barbecue, barbecued beef brisket, corn muffins that would make a Southern boy cry and a decent homemade amber draft beer. 02-790-0016
Go with the Flo
D
by Paul Matthews
own the back alleys of the French quarter in Banpo-dong is the charming French-Asian restaurant Kitchen Flo, offering a fantastic five course lunch for only W20,000. The Cordon Bleutrained chef changes the menu often, so you’re sure of a new experience each time. My meal’s highlights included candied salmon with cucumber and wasabi sorbet, a leek and bread pudding, an extraordinary miso dwoenjang spaghetti and a pork confit with “mille-feuille” potatoes. Portions may be small, but you’ll leave the restaurant feeling very satisfied. Just remember to ask nicely if the “mille-feuillle” potatoes are available: you won’t regret it! Located on the right hand side in the alley opposite the Paris Croissant bakery in Sorae Village. 02-3481-0010 www.stickyfingers.co.kr Contact Yoon Park 02-542-9274
No Butter, No Milk, No Egg No Trans Fat Gyeongnidan Gets Capital New Deli
G
by Charles Montgomery
yeongnidan Street (near Noksapyeong St., line 6) is an up-and-coming neighborhood, and Leo’s Deli reflects that. Featuring real deli food, Leo’s makes its own breads, pastrami, and corned beef. You can choose the bread, meat, cheese, and condiments that go on your sandwich, and all the ingredients are fresh and tasty. Full sandwiches come with salad, fries, and pickles. On Sundays, as a special treat, Leo’s bakes bagels and serves them with cream cheese and lox. Get there early, or the bagels will be sold out! Prices are reasonable: the soup of the day is W3,000 and a Reuben sandwich is W10,000. Leo’s serves soft drinks, wine and beer, as well as great coffee for only W2,000 a cup with a meal. If you’re looking for a traditional deli experience with great food and friendly service in English, Leo’s might well be your best bet in Seoul. 02-749-1210
100% Vegan Bakery from Washington D.C. t 4IJOTFHZF %FQBSUNFOU 4UPSFT @ Myungdong (B1) @ Gyeonggi (B1) t )ZVOEBJ %FQBSUNFOU 4UPSFT @ Mokdong (B2), @ COEX (B1) t -PUUF %FQBSUNFOU 4UPSF @ Gangnam, @Jamsil t ", 1MB[B @ Bundang
Enjoy
Three locations serving original Turkish kebab. The healthy fast food. Enjoy your meal guilt free! Itaewon Main Branch: 127-28 Itaewon-dong Yongsan-gu, Seoul 02-749-3890 Nakseongdae Branch: 1687-23 Bongcheong-dong Gwanak-gu, Seoul (Nakseongdae St. Ex #8) 02-887-8555 Guri Branch: 486 Sutaekdong Guri, Kyonggido 031-567-2340 sultankebab.co.kr
10 Magazine April 2010 | 57
Nightlife
SEOUL
Bodega Wine Bar and Restaurant
Words and shots by Joshua Hall
Words by by Joshua Hall and shots by Shawn Parker
S
panish music, flamenco and wine in the suburbs of Seoul? No, it’s not a kimchi western but a bar called Bodega in Jamsil. And the wines are shocking—shockingly cheap! I enjoyed a great sparkling brut for W55,000 and a lovely albariño blend for W80,000 (Spanish white wine). They also have a wide selection of tapas, seafood and cold cuts, which are also incredibly inexpensive. Bodega is owned by a Korean fishing company with connections to Spain so they import the wine and food directly and pass on the savings. While it may be out of the way for some, Bodega offers a quiet and informal atmosphere for a date or dinner meeting. Located next to Seokchon Lake in Jamsil, it has a large open pub-like space and three private dining rooms for groups or couples. Twice a month, there’s a flamenco dance performance with a set menu. You get salad, steak, tapas, dessert and glasses of house white and red wine for W60,000. Best to check the website for performance times. Bodega is Spanish from top to bottom, so if you’re looking for French wines or Italian pastas you’ve come to the wrong place. It’s Spanish wine and food only. The food could be better: the desserts lacked imagination and the fried prawns were simple and rather boring. However, the grouper steak with clams was a great hunk of white flesh. Fresh, satisfying, and a good match with the albariño blend from Terras Gauda (D.O. Rias Baixas). The prices here are great but the downside of Bodega is finding the place. Once you get there, the wines speak for themselves. And don’t forget about the flamenco. Graffigna Malbec Grand Reserve 2005 This value-for-money sparkling had a touch of sweetness on the bouquet and creamy chocolate mousse notes that were very enticing. A structured flavor profile and clean line from entry to finish. Composed with some minerality. Fresh citrus and grapefruit on the finish, slightly yeasty and creamy. Very moreish. W55,000 a bottle. Getting There It’s a 10 minute walk from Jamsil St. (line 2) behind Lotte World. Take exit 2, walk 5 min towards Seokchon lake, then turn left after crossing the Seokcheon lake bridge. Turn right at the next intersection. Cross diagonally at the next intersection to your left. It’s in the basement of the Inter-Burgo building. Open every day 11:30 am 11.30 pm. bodega.co.kr, 02-3432-8686 58 | 10 Magazine April 2010
Korea Indie Music Sampler SEOUL
Words by Daniel Lenaghan
T
he Korean indie landscape is full of familiar songs simply sung in another language. Though new and a little unusual, the music there is every bit as evocative and visceral as the beats you know and love. You may even find an opportunity to put your Korean conversation skills into practice. To that end, I present my choices for the top five most interesting Korean indie bands performing today, perfectly matched to your musical preferences.
You like ambient melodies, long songs, and psychedelic influences focused by rhythmic structure. 10 suggests Vidulgi Ooyoo. This female-fronted shoe-gazing band will give you the lush textures of the past woven into a modern form as spare as a Danish dining room. www.myspace.com/vidulgiooyoo (English) club.cyworld.com/ClubV1/Home.cy/52654743 (Korean) You like bouncy, poppy but rebellious music with an accessible dose of rock star ego. 10 suggests Phonebooth. Borrowing heavily from groups such as The Libertines, this guitar-driven band will get you moving and satisfy your inner angst without sacrificing a good melody. myspace.com/myphonebooth You like strange noises, fleeting rhythms, and atmospheric textures that would feel at home in a David Lynch film. Plus a toy accordion. 10 suggests Itta (image above), who is best with her other half, Japanese noise artist Marqido. Collectively called 10 (no kidding), they’ll give you as much to talk about afterwards as to listen to at the show. myspace.com/weare10, 10rgb.com Top image (Itta) shot by RL Baldwin, Phonebooth image courtesy of the band
You like accessible pop but hate cheesy music to no end. Originality's fine, but well-done is better. 10 suggests: Bit Gwa Soum, a Korean indie quartet evoking the Pixies and Air. Smooth, distorted guitars and gentle rock beats drive the mostly English vocals, sung so clearly I can understand the lyrics perfectly well. No "Gosship Gull" here. myspace.com/bitgwasoum (Korean, some English) club.cyworld.com/noisemusic (Korean) You like beats, volume, and thumping bass, preferably in a loud, dark, smoky room. 10 suggests NAKION of VU Records. This innovative DJ piles on heavy layers (not just mashed-up samples) of polyrhythmic drums, polyphonic melodies, and bizarre vocal samplings to keep your brain awake while your feet stay busy. myspace.com/naxnaxnax (English), nakion.tumblr.com (images) 10 Magazine April 2010 | 59
SEOUL DIRECTORY Religious
Travel Agency
Buddhist Seoul International Zen Center 02-900-4326
Seoul Foreigner Assistance
Seoul Dasan (City Info) Seoul Global Center global.seoul.go.kr,
02-120 02-1688-0120
Yeoksam English 02-3453-9038 02-6406-8151
Yeonnam Chinese
02-570-6009
Seorae French
Vairocana International Buddhist Meditation Center 02-735-5347
Dr. Andrew Park offers the best treatments to restore balance to your body. Stop in for a free consultation if you have symptoms including neck pain, sore back, head-aches, scoliosis, numbness, wrist pain, sports injuries (golf) etc. Seochodong 1307-7 Center Plaza 5F 510. 02-533-5124. seoulchiropracticinfo.com
Jetavana Meditation Center jetavanacenter@gmail.com 02-595-5115 Catholic
Hannam International Church English, Italian, Spanish, French
SEOUL
Philippine Center Tagalog 02-765-0870
International Taxi (English Speaking) 1644-2255
Pastral Center for Labor English, Vietnamese, Thai 02-924-2721
Jumbo Taxi Service (more expensive) 02-888-2000 smrt.co.kr
FM 101.3
TBS eFM American Forces Network
AM 1530 / FM 102.7 Medical Services
COEX
Buildinf No. 437
02-3442-7616
Hus Hu Dental & Skin Clinic 02-514-8013 Korea Counseling Psychological Association krcpa.or.kr, 02-498-8293 Korea HIV/AIDS Prevention & Support Center khap.org, 02-927-4322 Ra Dental Clinic
Design your smile with a licensed American dentist. Tufts Dental
A Plus Dental aplusdental.co.kr,
02-569-8745
Seolleung St.
Hyungdai Department Store Subway Line 2
Samseong St.
Posco Center
Tufts Dental Clinic Tufts Dental Clinic ADA member Dr. Gina Sohn is a Tufts University graduate licensed in MA, CT, and NJ. Near COEX at the POSCO intersection. tuftsdental.net, 02-553-7512
Catholics in South Korea Facebook Group, Annamarie at sunshineamore25@gmail.wcom Islam Seoul Central Masjid
02-794-7307
Protestant Gwanglim Church
02-2056-5732
International Lutheran Church ilcseoul.net 02-794-6274 Jubilee Church
02-569-2293
Kumnan Church
02-490-7000
Myungsung Presbyterian Church 02-440-9000 Onnuri Church
02-793-9686
Somang Presbyterian Church
02-512-9191
Classes
Bellydance Lessons with Eshe Morning, afternoon, and evening classes, plus Sunday classes at the Well Being Studio. navah@live.com
Dr. Andrew Park Sin-nonhyun St. Exit #6 Subway Line 7 Kyobo bldg.
Hannam Bridge
(02) 533-5124
APPOINTMENT FREE consultation by appointment
www.seoulchiropracticinfo.com
60 | 10 Magazine April 2010
019-542-2955
Royal Asiatic Society Korea Branch raskb.com, 02-763-9483 USO DMZ Tours affiliates.uso.org/Korea, 02-795-3028 WOW Corea Tour wowcoreatour.com,
02-739-3337
Museums
02-741-0466
Kyung-in Museum of Fine Art Kyunginart.co.kr, 02-733-4448 Leeum Samsung Museum of Art leeum.org, 02-2014-6901 Museum of Korean Traditional Music ncktpa.go.kr, 02-580-3130 National Folk Museum nfm.go.kr,
02-3704-3114
National Museum of Korea museum.go.kr, 02-2077-9000 National Palace Museum of Korea gogung.go.kr, 02-3701-7500 Seoul Art Center sac.or.kr, 02-580-1300 Seoul Museum of Art seoulmoa.seoul.go.kr,
02-120
Seoul National Science Museum ssm.go.kr, 02-3668-2200 War Memorial warmemo.or.kr,
02-709-3139
World Jewelry Museum wjmuseum.com,
02-730-1610
Hotels/Accommodations
4-5 Star Hotels
Jai Center for Yoga and Health Vinyasa yoga classes near Apgujeong St. (ex. 4, line 3). English lessons Sat at 11 am and Sun at 3:30 pm. jaicenter.co.kr, 02-3443-9642
Subway Line 2
Gangnam Chiro-Pilates Chiropractic & Pilates If you’re dealing with joint and muscle ailments, English-speaking chiropractic doctor
018-242-5536
Korean Safari koreansafari.com,
Fine Art Class Myeongdong. 7 -1 pm Fridays. cafe.daum.net/artd, 02-771-2026 International Guides of Korea Courses in ice climbing, rock climbing and more. iguidekorea.com
r 6 4 /BUJPOBM #PBSE $IJSPQSBDUJD %PDUPS r $FSUJĂ FE *#5 r $FSUJĂ FE &YFSDJTF SFIBC
Gangnam St. Exit #6
Adventure Korea adventurekorea.com,
Kimchi Field Museum kimchimuseum.co.kr, 02-6002-6456
Bellydance Lessons with Belynda Azhaar W20,000 per 90 minute session. azhaardance.com
BodyShop
Korean Tours
Yoksam-dong Church 02-553-0801
Yongsan Baptist Church 02-796-0284
CHIROPRACTIC & PILATES
Woori bank
02-795-7771
Gahoe Museum gahoemuseum.org,
Yeouido Full Gospel Church 02-782-4851
CHIRO-PILATES
BurgerKing
02-792-0606
Xanadu Travel xanadu.co.kr,
Sung-dong Social Welfare Center Tagalog 02-765-0870
Seoul Union Church 02-333-7393
GANGNAM
Center Plaza Bldg 5F,510
02-755-5470
Unique Travel Itaewon uniquetravel.co.kr,
Salesio Labor Center Tagalog, Daelim 1 dong 02-765-0870
Radio
02-764-0221 (press 6) 02-928-2049/02-924-2706
Keumchon 02-928-2049/02-924-2706
Transportation
02-793-2070
Jinjob
Interactive Subway Map
02-765-0870
Chunma
Dongducheon 02-928-2049/02-924-2706
Hyewha-dong Catholic Church
Itaewon/Hannam English 02-796-2459
02-318-0345
Fides Travel fidestravel.co.kr,
Bomun 02-928-2049/02-924-2706
Ichon Japanese 02-760-2018
Cosmo.jin Tour cosmojin.com,
Jaseng Hospital of Oriental Medicine Are you suffering from back or neck pain? Visit the non-surgical spinal specialists. jaseng.net, 02-3218-2167
Sanirang Alpine Networks This climbing service offers lessons, clinics, and guided tours. sanirang.net/about. html, info@sanirang.net Suseonjae Meditation and Deep Breathing Classes jihye@suseonjae.org, 019-201-5958
Astoria
02-2268-7111
COEX InterContinental 02-3452-2500 Courtyard
02-2638-3000
Grand InterContinental 02-555-5656 JW Marriott
02-6282-6262
Millenium Hilton
02-753-7788
Renaissance
02-555-0501
Ritz-Carlton
02-3451-8000
Hostels Bebop Guesthouse Hongdae bebop-guesthouse.com, 070-8261-4835 Kim’s Guesthouse Hongdae kimsguesthouse.com, 02-337-9894 Namu Guesthouse Hongdae namugh.co.kr, 070-8291-4878 Olympic Parktel Jamsil parktel.co.kr/english,
02-410-2114
Bars/Lounges/Pubs
Wine Bars
Vin Ga Apgujeong Immaculate service and a subdued atmosphere make this the wine bar of choice for dinner parties and business meetings. Podo Plaza building Near Apgujeong St. podoplaza.co.kr. 02-516-1761
Vin Vino Itaewon Wines by the bottle and the glass plus a menu of salads, pastas, and even kangaroo steaks. 02-711-9171 3 Alley Pub Itaewon Rub shoulders with long-term Seoul expats and try your hands at darts or pool in this comfortable foreigner-owned pub. 116-15 Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu. 3alleypub.com, 02-749-3336
Mike’s Cabin Sinchon This Western bar has a casual atmosphere and holds special events. Near the Yonsei University front gate. 02-325-7808 Monghwan Sinchon Come for the nice décor, live art and music events, and the signature cocktail soju. club. cyworld.com/monghwan, 02-325-6218 Monkey Beach Apgujeong Thailand is just a subway ride away if you head to Monkey Beach. 7:30 pm – 5 am. 02-548-7930 Mix Lounge Garosu-gil It may look like a white greenhouse, but it’s actually a bar serving killer mojitos, lychee martinis and more. 6 pm – 3 am. Closed Sun. 011-9650-7055 Noxa Lounge Noksapyeong Great home-style Italian cuisine with late night cocktail lounge. 02-790-0776 Platoon Kunsthalle Apgujeong Showcasing underground artists and a fine selection of cutting-edge performances. 11 am – 1 am. Closed Sun. 강남구 논현동 97-22 Gangnam-gu, Nonhyeon-dong. kunsthalle.com, 02-3447-1191 Rocky Mountain Tavern Itaewon Canadians feel right at home with all the hockey jerseys hanging on the walls and great live music and events, along with some of the best buffalo wings in Korea. Don’t miss the Stand Up Seoul comedy night the first Thursday of each month. rockymountaintavern.com, 010-5775-2327
and live music nights. 6 pm – 2 am. club.cyworld.nate.com/wattsontap, 02-3142-8439 Wolfhound Itaewon Terrific Irish/British classic food in a true Irish Pub atmosphere, including shepherd’s pie, toad in a hole, fish n’ chips, bangers n’ mash along with Guinness and Kilkenny on draft. wolfhoundpub.com, 02-749-7971 Woobar (W Hotel) Seoul’s trendiest hotel also boasts one of its trendiest bars, with professional bartenders who really know how to make a drink. 02-2022-0333 Restaurants
American
SEOUL
Dulce Y Suave Garosugil Stop by this classy Sinsa-dong wine bar for an extensive wine list that won’t break your budget. 5 pm - 3 am. club.cyworld. com/dulceysuave, 02-515-6750
Jane’s Groove Hongdae A good place to relax over a drink. 7:30 pm – 3 am. Closed Mon. janesgroove@gmail.com, 02-336-1664
Terrific Burgers, Hot Dogs and Homemade Chili Nike
Itaewon St. Exit.1 Outback
Chili King Itaewon Beefy burgers and chili served up by owner Kevin Cyr. 02-795-1303
Berlin Noksapyeong Combining a restaurant, cafe and lounge, Berlin boast a varied menu, plus wines and all types of music. Noksapyeong St. (line 6). 용산구 이태원동 457-1 Itaewondong, Yongsan-gu. awakeinseoul@gmail.com, 02-749-0903 Bliss Itaewon Fresh beats by DJ Shine and a reasonably priced menu. Itaewon. 4 pm – 4 am. 02-798-1125 BricX Hongdae, Itaewon Chill out at either of BricX’s two locations. Hongdae 6 pm – 5 am, 마포구 서교동 409-1, B1, 02-3141-5571. Itaewon 7 pm – 5 am, 용산구 이태원동 119-10, B1, bricx.com, 02-795-5572 The Bungalow Itaewon This quirky beach-themed bar has sand on the floor, swinging chairs, and candle-lit rooms. 02-793-2344 Coffee Bar K Cheongdam-dong A Japanese franchise, they may just have the best bartenders in town. Mon – Sat 6 pm - 2 am. 02-516-1970 Ghetto Vox Itaewon The Hive’s sister venue, this is Itaewon’s first art and music space. 용산구 이태원동 132-5 (3rd floor) Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu. ghettovox.com, 010-3370-2979
Pita Time Haebangchon The salads, pitas and pizzas here provide a lowcalorie, healthy meal. 11 am - 10 pm. pitatime.co.kr, 02-790-8891 Suji’s Itaewon Great American fare in a New York-style bistro atmosphere. 02-797-3698
Roofers Itaewon Come hang out in a warm, friendly atmosphere. Sample the mouthwatering menu, relax on the spacious rooftop and enjoy numerous expat events. Facebook: Roofers Rooftop Bar. 02-749-2970
Pancakes Original Story Itaewon The complete American-style brunch spread you’ve been waiting for. Brunch special only W6,800. UN village. Mon – Sat 9 am – 10 pm. Sun 9 am – 4 pm. 02-794-0508
B1 Itaewon One of the most hopping bars in Itaewon on any given night, with guest DJs and a good vibe. 7 pm - 3 am. 02-749-6164 Bar Rouge Itaewon Luxurious wine and tapas bar in the basement of the JW Marriot in Gangnam. Happy hour Tue - Thu 6 - 9 pm. 02-6282-6763
Gecko’s Garden Legendary for its gorgeous home-style atmosphere, Gecko’s Garden has now started offering a delicious buffet, with steaks and pasta made to order. Don’t worry; the tapas menu is also still alive and well. geckosterrace.com, 02-790-0540
Sam Ryan’s Itaewon This newcomer to the Itaewon scene offers sports fans eight flat screens throughout the bar along with the meanest plate of pork ribs to be found in Seoul. samryans.com, 02-749-7933
Toque Itaewon
02-794-3834
Austrian Chef Meili Itaewon
02-797-3820
BRAZILIAN
Scrooge Pub/Dicken’s Lounge Itaewon A great little sports bar with pool, darts, delicious food and plenty of English-speaking staff. 02-797-8201 Serein Garosu-gil This secluded spot just off Garosu-gil serves brunch by day and wicked drinks by night. 7 pm – 4 am. 02-515-9797 Seventy Four Cheongdam-dong A beautiful date spot featuring exotic drinks such as cheese martinis, banana mojitos and cuba libres. 7 pm – 4 am. 02-542-7412 So Much More Apgujeong Combining a hip interior design with the hottest music and the coolest drinks. Noon - 2 am. blog.naver.com/so_much_more, 02-3447-7890 Tony’s Aussie Shop Itaewon Authentic Australian food and beer. Open mic night held every Wednesday 8 pm – 11 pm. 455-35 Itaewon-dong Yongsan-gu. writers.meetup.com/779, 010-460-54326 Watts on Tap Sinchon Check out the parties, language exchange nights,
Bonji Bistro Just behind Itaewon Hotel and under Gecko’s Garden, Bonji Bistro offers a terrific menu of salads, sandwiches, pastas and classic tapas along with an unbeatable bar. The floor-to-ceiling window door-walls open wide, making it the perfect place to be for their delicious weekend brunch. geckosterrace.com, 02-795-9656 Gecko’s Terrace The original Itaewon foreigner hangout, with a comfortable atmosphere, delicious food including great sandwiches, salads and pasta, and an English-speaking staff that knows how to make cocktails and shots right. geckosterrace.com, 02-749-9425
“All You Can Eat” My Chelsea COPACABANA GRILL
KFC
Hamilton Hotel
Subway Line 3 Itaewon St Ex. #1
Copacabana Itaewon For only W29,000 you get all-you-can-eat of 7 different cuts of roasted meat and a
10 Magazine April 2010 | 61
SEOUL DIRECTORY tremendous Brazilian buffet. Make your reservations today! 02-796-1660 Bulgarian Zelen Itaewon
02-749-0600
French La Cigale Monmartre Itaewon 02-796-1244 Le Saint-Ex Itaewon
02-795-2465
Italian Antonio’s Apgujeong Join chef Sebastiano Giangregorio for an authentic Italian culinary experience. Cheongdam-dong. antonios.kr, 02-3443-4333
On the Border The #1 American chain hits that craving for fajitas, chimichangas, tacos, burritos, enchiladas and even margaritas. ontheborder.co.kr Sinchon: 02-324-0682 COEX: 02-565-0682 Times Square: 02-2672-0682 Taco Amigo Itaewon 02-749-5253 Tomatillo Grill Locations at Jonggak St. (line 1), Samseong St. (line 2), and Yeoksam St. (line 2) tomatillo.co.kr, 02-734-9225 Middle Eastern Istanbul Noksapyeong 02-796-0271
Eden Gangnam New mega club with top DJs, sizzling sound, and model nights. 역삼동 602 Yeoksam-dong, Gangnam-gu, Ritz Carlton Hotel. eden-club.co.kr, 010-9913-3919 Elec Cheongdam-dong A two-floor small but chic lounge and club. Weekdays 9 pm – 6 am, weekends 9 pm – 10 am. No cover. club.cyworld. com/eleclounge, 02-6326-1320 Function Itaewon The boutique club hidden in the fancy Macaroni Market restaurant. Tue, Wed, Thu 6 pm – 2:30 am; Fri and Sat 6 pm-3:30 am. 용산구 한남1동 737-50 Hannnam-dong Yongsan-gu. 02-749-9181
SEOUL
Heaven Gangnam The newest member of Seoul’s club scene combines top-notch technology with divine DJs spinning house and electro beats. W30,000 general admission, W40,000 for after club hours. Near Yeoksam St. clubheaven.co.kr, 02-3444-4997
Marakech Night Restaurant
Itaewon’s Finest Moroccan Cuisine
Fradia Gangnam Gaze out on a panoramic view of the Seoul skyline as you dine on choice Italian food at this cafe floating on the Han River. fradia.co.kr, 02-3477-0033
Marakech Nights Itaewon Terrific Middle Eastern cuisine from Rhiti Mostaffa, former chef for the Moroccan ambassador to Korea. 02-795-9441 Petra Itaewon
02-790-9441
La Bocca Itaewon We can’t decide whether it’s a cafe, pastry shop, deli, or wine bar, but what we are sure about is that the food is fresh and the taste is divine. labocca.co.kr, 02-790-5907
Thai
Sortino’s Cucina Itaewon Classic Italian trattoria cuisine in a comfortable, homey atmosphere. 02-797-0488
Eat Me Itaewon Thai fusion dining and lounge, late night kitchen in Itaewon. Relax in the intimate yet casual dining area and outside patio. Sophisticated atmosphere is sure to please. 070-7624-3149
Noxa Lounge Noksapyeong 02-790-0776 Villa Sortino’s Itaewon An incredible Tuscan Villa interior matches perfectly with some delicately prepared Italian flavors. Just across from the Itaewon fire station. 02-553-900
Buddha’s Belly Itaewon A lounge atmosphere with full bar and cocktails along with great authentic Thai food. 02-796-9330
My Thai Itaewon
02-517-1135
Thai Garden Itaewon
02-792-8836
korean Bulgogi Brothers Delicious Koreanstyle barbecue at locations throughout Seoul including Gangnam, Myeongdong, Seoul Station, and Times Square. 11:30 am - 10 pm. bulgogibros.com, 02-319-3351 (Myeongdong)
02-794-8090
Thai Orchid Itaewon
Live Music
Jazz All That Jazz Itaewon
02-795-5701
Cheonnyeondongando (천년동안도) Daehangno chunnyun.com, 02-743-5555 Club Evans Hongdae clubevans.com,
02-337-8361
Club Palm Hongdae clubpalm.co.kr,
02-336-9016
Once in a Blue Moon Apgujeong onceinabluemoon.co.kr, 02-549-5490 Rock Freebird Hongdae cafe.navercom/ clubfreebird, 02-335-4576
Pulhyanggi Gangnam A tasty concoction of traditional Korean dishes and a contemporary slow-food sensibility, plus performances in the evenings. Close to COEX. 11 am – 10 pm. pulhyanggi.co.kr, 02-539-3390 Mexican Amigos Itaewon
02-795-9711
Pancho’s Itaewon
02-792-4767
62 | 10 Magazine April 2010
Jammers Hongdae jammers.co.kr,
02- 325-3914
Just Blues Apgujeong justblues.co.kr,
02-542-4788
SoundHolic Hongdae cafe.daum.net/SoundHolic, 02-3142-4233 Clubs
Answer Cheongdam-dong After a short-lived stint as gala restaurant Le Nuit Blanche, the club we all know and love is back. clubanswer.co.kr, 02-514-4311
Hive Itaewon Art shows, live music, DJs, classes, and more. 137-8 용산구 이태원동 137-8 (Basement 1) Itaewondong, Yongsan-gu. thehiveuniverse. blogspot.com, 010-3994-6694 J.J. Mahoney’s The drinks don’t come cheap, but this nightclub at the Grand Hyatt is a favorite with the over-30s crowd. 747-7 Hannam 2-dong. seoul.grand.hyatt.com, 02-797-1234
Saab Hongdae Fashion-conscious twenty-somethings congregate here for a wide variety of music styles. Weekdays 6 pm – 4 am, weekends 6 pm – 6 am. W10,000 cover on weekends. 02-324-6929 Vera Hongdae Come for a fun night of funky house, electro-house, trance, and psychedelic music. 10 pm – 6 am. 마포구 서교동 356-1 Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu. 02-338-0957 Via Hongdae Combines local DJs and VJs, the full spectrum of electronic dance music, and a pinch of Western party flair. 011-257-5154 Volume Itaewon A true “music lovers” club, Volume is found in the basement of Crown Hotel. Fri and Sat 9 pm - 6 am. W15,000 - W30,000. 용산구 이태원 동 34-69 크라운호텔 지하 1층 Crown Hotel B1 34-69 Itaewon-dong, clubvolume.com, 1544-2635 W Hotel Check out the split-level lobby lounge for cool music and exclusive parties. No cover charge. 21 Gwangjangdong wseoul.com, 02-465-2222
Florists
Joker Red Hongdae Minimal, techno, trance and underground electronic for those who dare to be different. Fri and Sat 9 pm – 5 am. W10,000 includes a free drink. jokerred.co.kr, 0 19-345-7122 Koo Bar Apgujeong Formerly known as Club Air, Koo Bar caters to a classy crowd. 664-11 Sinsa-dong, Gangnamgu. partyluv.com, 02-518-5115 M2 Hongdae This long-running club is party central for college students. Sun – Thu 8 pm – 4 am, Fri and Sat 7:30 pm – 6 am. Cover starts at W10,000. 마포구 서교동 367-11 Seogyo-dong Mapo-gu. ohoo.net/m2, 02-3143-7573 Mansion Hongdae This new club pumps out sizzling house, electro, and nu-disco grooves, bringing in quality acts like Roni Size and Goldie. mansionseoul@gmail.com, 02-3143-4037 Mass Gangnam The dance club for the “masses.” 9 pm – 6 am. Sun – Thu W15,000, Fri and Sat W20,000. clubmass.net, 02-599-3165 Miro Gangnam Be ready for a long night (or morning) at this stomping afterhours club. Fri and Sat 11 pm – 8 am. Seolleung St. (line 2). 02-544-9930 Naked Gangnam Leading the Gangnam club scene into the early hours. 10 pm – 8 am. W15,000 before 1 am, W20,000 after. 010-5417-4417 NB Hongdae, Gangnam Supposedly the first hip-hop club in Korea, it has one bar, two stages, and a packed crowd. Locations in Hongdae and Gangnam. clubnb.com, 02-326-1716 Pulse Itaewon This chilled-out club pumps out danceable tunes in all genres of electronic music until sunrise. Everyday 8 pm – 7 am. Fri W10,000, Sat W15,000. 02-792-6662 Q-vo Hongdae A popular hip hop club with strobes pulsing above the dance floor. Mon, Tue, Thu, Sun 8 pm – 4 am and Wed, Fri, Sat 8 pm – 6:30 am. W10,000 - W15,000. 121-210 Ohoo B/D 367-1 Seogyo Dong. clubqvo.co.kr, 02-3143-7573
Oxana Garden You are invited to the botanical life. Enjoy the fresh aroma and the cozy environment these plants will bring to your home. Find the perfect flower among the various options on sale here. Hannam St. (Jungang line). oxanagarden.com, 02-798-6787 Massage
Healing Hands Massage Studio healinghands.co.kr, 070-7504-8090 Charity
Salvation Army Thrift Store Donate your used goods or shop at the stores. All proceeds support the Adult Rehabilitation Center. nanumistore.org, 02-365-7084
To inquire about getting a logobox for your business, email to us at marketing@10magazine.asia
CHUNGCHEONG CALENDAR EDITOR’S PICK
ranging from Schubert to Strauss. Daejeon Culture and Arts Center. 7:30 pm. W50,000 – W170,000. 1544-1751 April 9th Daejeon Philharmonic Orchestra: Masters Series 3 Featuring Mahler’s Symphony No. 5 and Chopin’s Piano Concerto No. 2. Daejeon Culture and Arts Center. 7:30 pm. W5,000 – W30,000. April 11th Symphonic Music Festival The Cheongju Philharmonic Orchestra perform Schumann’s Piano Concerto in A Minor and Brahms’ Symphony No. 4. Cheongju Arts Center. 5 pm. W10,000 – W30,000. 043-200-4487 What’s Up? Live in Korea Groove to the tunes of West Coast math pop trio What’s Up? at their Korean debut. Daejeon (TBA). supercolorsuper.com, supercolorsuper@gmail.com
Sport & Fitness May 9th
This is one running event that doesn’t require fancy shoes, or any shoes at all for that matter. Go barefoot at this “eco-healing cultural festival” with 5k and 13k races along paths on Gyejok Mountain near Daejeon. All ages and genders welcome, and socks are allowed (though barefoot runners get a head start). Musical performances are planned if you want to give your feet a break. 10 am. Koreans: W5,000/W13,000 for 5k/13k. Non-Koreans: free. Sign up by April 23rd. masaimarathon.com, sey@seychellestour.co.kr, 042-527-1880 Art Ongoing Painter’s Portrait Exhibit Daecheong Lake Art Museum. Cheongwon-gun. 9 am - 6 pm. Closed Mon. Free. museum.puru.net, 043-251-3275 Through May 16th Digital Landscapes Landscapes as a theme have been around just as long as artists have. To see how the idea of a landscape is sustained and subverted in the contemporary art scene, see these nine pieces by Myeong-geun Go, I-nam Lee, and Jeong-ju Jeong. Daejeon Museum of Art
with choreography by their director Seong-su An. Daejeon Culture and Arts Center. 7:30 pm. W20,000 – W30,000. April 16th – 17th Miyal: Comedy Dance Routine Daejeon Culture and Arts Center. Fri 7:30 pm, Sat 7 pm. W10,000 – W30,000
VENUES
Cheongju Arts Center cjac.or.kr, 043-200-4421 Daejeon Museum of Art 10 am – 6 pm. Fri till 9 pm. Closed Mon. Adults W500, minors W300. dmma.metro.daejeon.kr, 042-602-3200 Daejeon Culture and Arts Center djac.or.kr, 042-610-2222
April 23rd – 24th Between II: The Dance Performed by the Daejeon Dance Troupe. Daejeon Culture and Arts Center. Fri 7:30 pm, Sat 5 pm. W5,000 – W20,000. April 29th – May 4th A Journey into Fairy Tales: The Dance Cheongju Dance Troupe. Cheongju Arts Center. Thu 7:30 pm, Fri 11 am & 7:30 pm, Sat & Sun 5 pm, Mon – Tue 7:30 pm. W5,000.
April 6th – June 6th There Is Laughter Tired of Gongju Culture and long faces and beard-stroking Art Center April 30th – May 1st acc.gongju.go.kr, on a day at the museum? Onegin: The Ballet With 041-840-2467 Finally, an exhibit that takes the Universal Ballet Troupe. humor seriously. This modern Daejeon Culture and Arts Center. Fri 7:30 and contemporary Korean art will bring pm, Sat 7 pm. W10,000 – W70,000. a smile to your face. Divided into four sections: novel wit, pleasing humor, Concerts biting satire, and serious jokes. Daejeon Museum of Art April 2nd Portrait of Great Composers With the Theater & Dance Arco Diabolo Chamber Orchestra playing pieces by Mozart, Schostakowitsch and April 2nd others. Daejeon Culture and Arts Center. The Bremen Musicians: Children’s 7:30 pm. W10,000 – W30,000. Musical Colorful costumes and catchy rhythms turn the famous Grimm Brothers tale into a stage success. Korean. Daejeon Culture and Arts Center. Fri 11 am & 1 pm, Sat 11 am & 2 pm. 1 hr. W10,000 – W20,000. April 9th “The Twinkling Stars”: English Puppet Show Based on the Korean folk tale explaining how the sun and moon came to be. Gongju Culture and Art Center. Free. 7 pm. 1 hr. April 13th – 14th “Rose” and “Mating Dance” These two dances feature the Pick Up Group
April 4th Gyula Kiss Piano Recital Born in Budapest, this outstanding Hungarian pianist offers a program including Mozart’s Fantasia No. 3 and Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition. Daejeon Culture and Arts Center. 5 pm. W20,000 TJB Symphony Orchestra Daejeon Culture and Arts Center. 7:30 pm. 042-281-1135 April 7th Soprano Su-mi Jo: “Ich Liebe Dich” Joined by the German Lieder Ensemble, Jo presents splendid songs by composers
April 28th South Chungcheong Gugak Center Performance Gongju Culture and Art Center. Free. 041-852-7800
Family & Community April 2nd – May 16th Korean Dinosaur Discovery Zone This exhibit follows up on the wildly popular EBS documentary on the terrible lizards. Kotra Trade Exhibition Center in Daejeon. 10 am – 7 pm. Adults W13,000, children W15,000. hellodino.com, 1688-3693 April 22nd – 25th Eumseong Pumba Festival No, not Simba’s buddy the singing warthog, though there is singing involved. Pumba refers to itinerant beggars who used to sing for their supper. Find out more at the festival. pumba21.com, 043-873-2241 April 28th – May 2nd Asan Admiral Yi Sun Shin Festival See Yi Sun Shin (or a costumed lookalike) in a parade arranged for his honor along with other events. Sinjeong Lake Resort near Asan. rdtest.cafe24.com, 041-540-2602
Education & Conferences April 2nd – 18th Leonardo Da Vinci Exhibit When he wasn’t fiddling with Mona Lisa, Da Vinci was putting his genius to work on ingenious inventions. Through the models displayed here, his designs and ideas come to life. Eumseong Culture and Arts Center. Tue – Sun 10 am – 6 pm. Closed Mon. W2,000. esart.kr, 043-871-3883
Dine & Drink Through April 2nd Camellia Flower Baby Octopus Festival A smorgasbord of sumptuous seafood dishes with an especially nice selection of freshly caught baby octopi. Seocheon-gun. seocheon.go.kr, 010-9254-6891 Through April 11th Baby Octopus and Flounder Festival An unlikely pairing, perhaps, but just wait until they’re both on your plate. Muchang Harbor Beach in Boryeong. ubtour.go.kr, 041-932-2023 April 8th – 11th Nonsan Strawberry Festival Putting the “raw” in strawberries with a strawberry cosplay party, a strawberry hanbok show and more. Next to the stream in Nonsan and in the strawberry patches. nsfestival.co.kr, 041-733-0861
April 18th Cheongyang Chilgap Mountain Marathon 15k at the Chilgap Mountain near Cheongyang-gun, to begin at 10 am. They’re not kidding about the mountain part. W20,000. Sign up by April 10th. korcmc.org, 041-942-0007 May 9th Pink Ribbon Love Marathon 5k and 10k at the Daejeon Expo Park, to begin at 9:30 am. W10,000 for all courses, with all proceeds going to the Korea Breast Cancer Foundation. Sign up by April 30th. pinkmarathon.com, 02-1688-9744
To list an event, e-mail coordinator@10magazine.asia
CHUNGCHEONG PROVINCE Religious Services Central Presbyterian Church Nonsan 041-736-1002 Presbyterian Church Cheonan 041-675-2008 Central Presbyterian Church Gongju 011-382-1862 Sanseong Church 042-585-8111 Daejeon jungwonh@hotmail.com,
Classes Yegok Natural Dye Workshop Okcheongun Dye clothing or make natural soap. yegok.co.kr, 043-733-0978
Entertainment O-World Amusement Park Daejeon oworld.kr, 042-580-4820 Kumdori Land Daejeon kumdori.co.kr, 042-862-4000
Museums Alcohol Museum: Liquorium Chungju liquorium.com, 043-855-7333 Gonam Shell Mound Museum Taeangun Anmyeon Island. Closed Mon. museum.taean.go.kr, 041-670-2337 Jincheon Bell Museum Jincheon-gun 9 am – 6 pm. Closed Mon. jincheonbell.net, 043-539-3850 Korea Traditional Architecture Museum Yesan-gun Closed Mon. English site. ktam.or.kr, 041-337-5877
Hotels/Accommodations Yuseong Daejeon
Golden Wave Taean
042-822-9591 041-675-2008
The Sky Blue Bird Seosan 011-382-1862 Onyang Hot Spring Hotel Asan 041-543-2141 New Korea Hotel Asan 041-542-8151 Cheonan Central Hotel Cheonan 041-564-9100
Medical Services Sun Hospital Daejeon 042-220-8000 Konyang International Health Care Center Daejeon kihcc.kyuh.co.kr, 042-600-9978
Restaurants/Supermarkets Gasan Korean, Cheonan 041-561-9500 Spain House Spanish, Cheonan 041-571-7474 Olive Farms Buffet, Cheongju 043-215-3311
Live Music Venues Bars/Lounges/Pubs Barker’s Live Bar Gyeryong 042-841-0470 Blue Moon Cheongwon 043-285-0399 Rolling Stones Cheonan 041-562-9824
10 Magazine April 2010 | 63
CHUNGCHEONG
Sunyang Masai Festival
Sport & Fitness
GYEONGGI CALENDAR EDITOR’S PICK
April 23rd – 25th Incheon Opera Company Incheon Culture and Arts Center. Fri & Sat 7:30 pm, Sun 5 pm. W30,000 – W150,000. 032-429-0248 Through April 4th
Miss Saigon: The Musical The moving story of an American GI and a Vietnamese bar girl. Korean. Aram Nuri Arts Center. Inquire for times. W22,000 – W99,000. miss-saigon.co.kr
Family & Community March 2nd – 3rd
April 6th – 18th Musicians of Bremen: Puppet Show Bucheon Citizen Center, W8,000
Goyang Korea Flower Show
GYEONGGI
An outstanding ensemble of some of Germany’s finest musicians, the PKB presents an exciting musical program featuring Bela Bartok’s Divertimento for Strings, selections from Tosca by Puccini, and Mozart’s Piano Concert No. 9. With Michael Zukernik conducting, soprano Seon-ju Lee and pianist Se-jin Song. Mar 2nd: Aram Nuri Arts Center in Goyang. Jeongbalsan St. (line 3, ex. 3). 7:30 pm. W10,000 – W80,000. artgy.or.kr, 02-2277-6516. Mar 3rd: Gyeonggi Arts Center in Suwon. 7:30 pm. W10,000 – W30,000. ggac.or.kr, 031-230-3440
Art Through April 25th
Theater & Dance April 1st – 4th “Wanseung in Music”: Rock Ballet Indie rock band meets neoclassical ballet. Seongnam Arts Center. Weekdays 8 pm, weekend 3 & 7:30 pm. W30,000. 010-7220-6105 April 13th Jong-ho Park’s Opera Glasses Seongnam Arts Center. 2 pm. W10,000.
Pasion: In Search of Contemporary Art A glimpse into developments in contemporary Latin American art. Yeongeun Museum of Contemporary Art in Gwangju. 10 am – 6 pm. Adults W5,000, students W3,000, children W4,000. youngeunmuseum.org, 031-761-0137 Through June 30th Mirror, Mirror: The People in the Pictures Designed to help children enjoy their visit to the museum. National Museum of Contemporary Art. Seoul Grand Park St. Weekdays 10 am – 5 pm, weekends 10 am – 8 pm, closed Mon. Free. moca.go.kr, 02-2188-6000
April 10th Carmen’s Temptation: Gala Concert The best arias from one of the most popular operas ever written. Hanam Culture and Arts Center. 7 pm. W20,000 – W35,000
April 16th – 17th Swan Lake: The Dance With the Universal Ballet Troupe. Gwacheon Citizen’s Center. Gwacheon Government Complex St. (line 4, ex. 9). Fri 8 pm & Sat 6 pm. W30,000 – W50,000. gccs.or.kr, 02-500-1200
Bucheon Citizen Center Jungdong St. (line 1), ex. 2. bcf.or.kr, 032-320-6300 Gyeonggi Arts Center Suwon. Free. ggac.or.kr, 031-230-3440
April 9th – 15th Looking at Spring Exhibit Presenting the artwork of art students graduating from Sookmyung Women’s University this year. Incheon Culture and Arts Center. 10 am – 7 pm. Free. 010-5663-0666
April 1st Genre Painting Notebook: The Dance The Incheon Dance Company presents a dance based on the story of Chunhyang, the faithful lover. Incheon Culture and Arts Center. 7:30 pm. W10,000
April 8th “Some Spring Day” with Sang-jin Kim This violist performs pieces by Rachmaninov, Brahms, and Sibelius. Ansan Arts Center. 11 am. W15,000 April 9th Soprano Su-mi Jo: “Ich Liebe Dich” Singing great German lieders. Aram Nuri Arts Center. 8 pm. W90,000 – W150,000 April 11th
April 3rd – 4th Ppororo and the Chamber of Secrets The boy wizard has apparently been magically transformed into Ppororo the penguin. Ansan Arts Center. 11 am, 2 & 4:30 pm. W20,000 – W30,000. 1688-6675
Aram Nuri Arts Center Goyang Jeongbalsan St. (line 3, ex. 3). artgy.or.kr, 1577-7766
April 8th – 17th Namsong International Art Show Seongnam Arts Center. 10:30 am – 7:30 pm
64 | 10 Magazine April 2010
April 3rd – 4th The Little Mermaid: Family Musical Korean. Hwaseong Art Hall. Sat 11 am, 2 & 4 pm, Sun 1 & 3 pm. W15,000 – W20,000. hcf.or.kr, 031-267-8800
April 3rd The Ballerina Who Loved a B-Boy See what happens when a scrappy street dancer VENUES meets a snooty ballet dancer. Ansan Arts Center Hanam Culture and Arts ansanart.com, Center. 3 & 7 pm. W25,000 – 031-481-4000 W40,000
April 3rd – 4th Kids Nanta: Wizard of Oz Version PMC Production (the folks behind Nanta) combine everyone’s favorite kitchen pot-pounding drum extravaganza with L. Frank Baum’s timeless tale. Gyeonggi Arts Center in Suwon. Sat 11 am, 2 & 4 pm; Sun 11 am & 2 pm. W25,000 – W30,000.
April 1st – 6th Hwaseong Calligraphy and Painting Exhibit Gyeonggi Arts Center in Suwon. Free
April 23rd – May 9th Alice in Wonderland: Family Musical For kids, by kids. Korean. Bucheon Citizen Center, W8,000
8 pm. W10,000 – W100,000. Apr 9th: Incheon Culture and Arts Center. 8 pm. W30,000 – W50,000. Apr 10th: Gunpo Culture and Art Center. 7 pm. W60,000 – W80,000. gunpoart.net, 031-390-3501
Hanam Culture and Arts Center hnart.or.kr, 031-790-7979 Incheon Culture and Arts Center near Arts Center St. (Incheon line). art.incheon.go.kr, 032-427-8401 Seongnam Arts Center near exit 1 of Imae St. on the Bundang line. snart.or.kr, 031-783-8000
Concerts April 3rd Bobby Kim Concert: “My Soul” Seongnam Arts Center. 4 & 8 pm. W44,000 – W88,000.
Su-mi Jo Spring Concert Incheon Culture and Arts Center. 4 pm. April 14th Traditional Korean Instrument Experience Incheon Culture and Arts Center. 10:10 & 11:10 am. W15,000 April 15th Matinée Concert Pieces by Brahms, Chopin, and Dvorak. Seongnam Arts Center. 11 am. W24,000. 1544-8117
Cologne Chamber Ensemble Aram Nuri Arts Center. 7 pm. W20,000 – W30,000
April 16th Incheon Symphony Orchestra: “Music and Nationalism” Pieces by Smetana, Tchaikovsky, and Dvorak. Incheon Culture and Arts Center. 7:30 pm. W5,000 – W10,000.
Moscow Children’s Choir Uijeongbu Arts Center. 5 pm. W15,000 – W30,000. uac.or.kr, 031-828-5841
April 17th Italian Pianist Giovanni Allevi Ansan Arts Center. 5 pm. W10,000 – W70,000. 070-8821-0910
April 5th Cologne Chamber Orchestra F. Devienne’s Flute Concerto No. 7, C. W. Gluck’s Scene des Champs Elysees, and other pieces. Gyeonggi Arts Center in Suwon. 7:30 pm. W10,000 – W30,000. 031-230-3440
April 22nd Featuring Music Directory Yeongsim No With the Amore Philharmonic Orchestra. Aram Nuri Arts Center. 7:30 pm. W20,000 – W80,000.
April 7th, 9th - 10th Secret Garden in Korea This Norwegian-Irish new age duo wrote the global hit “You Raise Me Up,” which has been covered more than 100 times. Apr 7th: Aram Nuri Arts Center.
April 24th Sa-ik Jang: “Looking at Flowers on a Warm Spring Day” The Korean Bob Dylan, Jang combines poeticism with folk melodies. Hanam Culture & Arts Center. W44,000 – W80,000. April 29th Concerto Night for Youth Incheon Educational and Cultural Center for Students. 7 pm. Free. iecs.go.kr, 032-777-9140
EDITOR’S PICK
Apr 24th – May 16th: Icheon Pottery Festival ceramic.or.kr, 031-644-2944 Apr 24th – May 9th: Yeoju Pottery Festival. ceramicexpo.org, 031-887-2282
Education & Conferences April 21st – 24th “Science Boom” Show Scientists use a time machine to enlist great minds of the past in future problems in this mix of scientific experiment and sensational performance. Korean. Bucheon Citizen Center. 11 am, 4 pm. W10,000.
Education & Conferences
April 30th – May 5th
Ansan Aviation Fair
Matinee Concert: “Bach, Born for Music” Aram Nuri Arts Center. 11 am. W15,000
Family & Community All Month Flower Festivals Pick a flower, and there’s probably a festival for it. And since they take place throughout the month, there’s probably one that matches your schedule.
and performances on the schedule. Aram Nuri Arts Center in Goyang. Jeongbalsan St. (line 3, ex. 3). artgy.or.kr, 1577-7766 April 24th – 25th Eun-gyeol Lee Magic Show Sleight of hand, tricks of the light, and more fun ways to be fooled. Incheon Culture and Arts Center. Sat 3 & 7 pm, Sun 2 & 6 pm. W30,000 – W50,000. 1566-6551 April 24th – May 24th
Apr 2nd – 4th: Yangpyeong Japanese Cornel Festival. ypfestival.com, 031-770-3342
Museums
Central America Culture Center Goyang. latina.or.kr, 031-962-7171 Elvis Presley Memorial Hall Paju paju.go.kr, 031-948-3358 Face Museum Gwangju (Gyeonggi Province). visagej.org, 031-765-3522 Korean Lamp (Deung-Jan) Museum Yongin deungjan.or.kr/eng 031-334-0797 Waltz & Dr. Mahn Coffee Museum Namyangju wndcof.com, 031-576-6051 Transportation
International Taxi (English speaking) 1644-2255 Jumbo Taxi Service (more expensive) 02-888-2000
Frog and Toad Ilsan On La Festa’s main strip, Frog and Toad is a favorite for darts and the Wednesday late-night open mic. frogandtoadilsan@hotmail. com, 010-9950-7399 West Island Have a chat with the friendly staff or kick back and watch the fire show on Fri and Sat. 6 pm – 5 am. club.cyworld.com/westisland, 031-917-2225 Indie Suwon Suwon Get your groove on at Suwon’s premier live music stage, home of the Suwon Open Mic Night held every 4th Saturday. Facebook group, edwardjorgensen@gmail.com The Big Chill Chill out in a big way with the friendly crowd while enjoying a game of pool, darts, or wii. Opens 8 pm on Wed – Sat and 4 pm on Sun. Facebook group, edwardjorgensen@gmail.com Clubs
Club Psycho Anyang Proud location of the only open mic night in Anyang. Right next to the GS25 just outside ex. 5 of Anyang St. (line 1). bcmusicworld.com, 010-7754-0409
Radio
Sushi Mom Bucheon Free sushi delivery in the Bucheon area. English service. letseat.at/ sushimom, 032-332-0058 La Mia Cucina Ilsan The kitchen is always open at this English-friendly Italian pub with great outdoor seating dreaming all set for the summer months. 7 pm – 4 am. 010-2327-8882 First Nepal Restaurant Incheon Bringing you the authentic flavors of India and Nepal. firstnepal.com, 032-525-8771
Through May 2nd: Everland Tulip Festival in Yongin. everland.com, 031-320-5000
April 22nd – June 5th Goyang Artists Festival Events are taking place nearly every night in Goyang. Call to find out the details of the puppet shows, concerts,
Grace & Truth Church Anyang, Ansan, and Suwon Sunday 9:30 am, 11 am, 1 pm, grace-truth.org, 031-443-3731 Dongsan Church Ansan Sunday 11:30 am, 010-2910-7809
favorite of Bucheon’s expats. Behind the CGV in Jung-dong. Open at 4 pm on Mon – Fri, 11 am on weekends. Facebook group, 032-323-0131
Restaurants
Apr 30th – May 2nd: Guri Rape Flower Festival. guri.go.kr, 031-550-8354.
April 17th – 18th Star King Bubble Man Bubble the fun with this legend of the sudsy stage. Hanam Culture and Arts Center. Sat 3 pm, Sun 1 & 3 pm. W25,000. 1544-9164
Religious Services
May 1st Oh My News Ganghwa Sea Marathon 5k, 10k, half and full at the Gilsang Municipal Stadium on Ganghwa Island, to begin at 9:30 am. W20,000 for 5k and W30,000 for the other courses. Sign up by April 9th. marathon.ohmynews.com, 02-733-5505
US Armed Forces Network Dongducheon AM 1197/FM 88.3 Pyongtaek AM 1440/FM 88.3 Songtan AM 1359/FM 88.5 Uijeongbu AM 1161/FM 88.5
Apr 16th – 18th: Suwon River Tulip Festival. ksun.suwon.ne.kr, 031-228-6114.
April 2nd – 4th Icheon Baeksa Japanese Cornel Blossom Festival Songs, shows, and more activities to celebrate the onset of spring and the blooming Japanese cornel flowers. Icheon. 2104sansooyou.com, 031-633-0100
gyeongGI province
April 25th Adidas MBC Han Gang Marathon 10k, half and full at the Misari Rowing Stadium, to begin at 9 am. W40,000 for full and W35,000 for the other courses. Sign up by April 1st. mbc-marathon.co.kr, 02-338-6564
Image provided by Gwangju Royal Ceramic Festival
Pottery Festivals If you’ve taught kids English, you’ve probably been on a field trip to one of the ceramic workshops in Gyeonggi Province. Learn more about this thriving art at these three festivals. Apr 25th – May 24th: Gwangju Royal Ceramic Festival at the Gyeonggi Pottery Museum. goodceramic.or.kr, 031-760-2104
Bars/Lounges/Pubs
The Park Bucheon There are three kinds of draft beer and cocktails for your thirst, Western food for your hunger, and four LCD TVs for your sports fixation. Jung-dong in Bucheon. Facebook group, 010-3136-0153 Rhythm & Booze Open mic nights, movie nights, sports, concerts, and parties make this a
Jukjeon Geckos Yongin Bundang and Yongin expats should be ecstatic to know that the famous Geckos chain is expanding south. Near the Shinsegye department store. geckosterrace.com, 031-262-9974
10 Magazine April 2010 | 65
GYEONGGI
Ride a hang glider simulation, board a plane, hop on a hot air balloon—no, this isn’t air force boot camp, it’s the Ansan Aviation Fair (officially known as “G-Global Aviation”). Cruise through the Air World Exhibit to learn more about how planes work, and make sure you stop by the air show (10 am – 12 pm & 2 – 4 pm) to see trick flights, experimental aircraft, and more. Of course, no festival can take place without some booths selling local products! South of Hanyang University in Ansan. 9:30 am – 6 pm. Adults/kids W3,000/W2,000 in advance, W2,000/W1,000 at the door. skyexpo.or.kr, 031-401-0649
Sports & Fitness
GANGWON CALENDAR EDITOR’S PICK
Nature Activities at Takjangsa Village Outdoor activities like fishing with rods and nets, nature walks and pottery making are available at this rustic village in Yangyang-gun. takjangsa.go2vil.org, 010-4248-6746 Through April 4th
“Infinite Challenge” Photo Exhibit See a set of photos starring the hosts of the infinitely popular Korean variety show Infinite Challenge (무한도전). Chuncheon National Museum. Weekdays 9 am – 6 pm, weekend 9 am – 7 pm. Free. chuncheon.museum.go.kr, 033-260-1500
Family & Community April 23rd – 25th
Danjong Festival
You know about Sejong the Great, but what about his rather less glorious grandson? In a series of events that sound remarkably like Shakespeare’s tragedy Richard III, the young Danjong is supplanted by his conniving uncle, who gradually kills off the relatives and advisors that his illustrious grandfather of W10,000 won fame had appointed. Finally Danjong is dethroned, banished, and killed. Learn the rest of the gory details at the festival, which includes a reenactment of key events, a memorial service for the unlucky lad, and more upbeat events such as tug-of-war. Arrive on Friday from 2 – 4:30 pm for the Queen Jeongsun Beauty Contest, or see award-winning play Gyeongsuk and Gyeongsuk’s Dad. Around the royal tombs in Yeongwol-gun. ywfestival.com/danjong, 033-370-2226
Art
GANGWON
Ongoing Outside Sculpture Exhibit The International Museum of Contemporary Art has 60 large-scale works by artists from various countries on display in its sculpture garden. Yeongweol-gun. ywmuseum.com, 033-375-2752
Theater & Dance Through April 11th The Reckless Kid Wizard: Original Musical By the Ro.Gi.Narae Company. Chuncheon Puppet Theater. W5,000 presale, at the door W7,000. theatre.cocobau.com, 033-242-8450 April 13th – 25th “Three Little Pigs” and “The Golden Axe in the Pond Land” By the Little Prince Company: Chuncheon Puppet Theater. W5,000 presale, at the door W7,000. theatre.cocobau.com, 033-242-8450 April 16th – 17th Mr. Yu the Undertaker: The Play In Korean. Fri 7:30 pm, Sat 4 & 7:30 pm. W6,000 presale, W8,000 at the door. Taebaek Arts and Culture Center. taebaek.go.kr, 033-550-2781 April 27th – May 9th Show by the Chuncheon Puppet Troupe Chuncheon Puppet Theater. W5,000 presale, at the door W7,000. theatre.cocobau.com, 033-242-8450
66 | 10 Magazine April 2010
Concerts April 10th
April 1st Independence Movement Festival Commemorating Gangwon Province’s first organized protest against the Japanese colonial government. Parade, performances, and a historical reenactment to be held at Samil Park and Samil Plaza in Hoengseong-gun. tour.hsg.go.kr, 033-340-2224 Early April Gyeongpodae Pavillion Cherry Blossom Festival All of the fun you’ve come to expect from Korean festivals, plus a scenic castle located on the shore of Gyeongpo Lake in Gangneung. gntour.go.kr, 033-640-5420
gangwon PROVINCE Foreigner Assistance Chuncheon Online Info tour.chuncheon.go.kr/eng
Libraries Chuncheon City Library iccl.or.kr, 033-254-3887 Taebaek Municipal Library tbmlib.or.kr, 033-550-2755
Moscow Children’s Choir in Concert They’re not from Vienna, but we bet they’re still pretty good. Chuncheon Culture and Arts Center. 7 pm. W20,000 – W30,000. ccac.or.kr, 033-251-3474 April 22nd Happy W1,000 Concert You’ve heard of dollar stores, but dollar concerts? On the 200th anniversary of the birth of Schumann and Chopin. Thu 7:30 pm. W1,000 (obviously). Taebaek Arts and Culture Center. taebaek.go.kr, 033-550-2781
Family & Community Ongoing Migratory Bird Watching in Cheolwon-gun Tour departs from Goseongjeong People’s Resort at 10 am Wed, Sat, and Sun. Adults W7,000, teens W6,000, children W5,000. Call to reserve your spot at least three days in advance. tour.cwg.go.kr, 033-450-5365
Amusement Parks Dreamland Amusement Park With a large zoo and plenty of rides, there’s lots of fun to be found at this park at Chiak Mountain near Wonju. W20,000 for adults, W18,000 for children. mydreamland.co.kr, 033-732-5800
Museums Arari Puppet House Jeongseon-gun arari.net, 033-563-9667 Bangsan Porcelain Museum Yanggu-gun bangsanm.or.kr, 033-480-2664 Byeolmaru Observatory Yeongwol-gun yao.or.kr, 033-374-7460 Chuncheon Animation Museum animationmuseum.com, 033-245-6444 Chuncheon Makguksu Museum m akguksumuseum.com, 033-250-4134 Forest Art Museum Hoengseong-gun jjsoup.com, 033-342-6833 Haslla Art World Gangneung haslla.kr, 033-644-9411 Ilhyeon Art Museum Yangyang-gun ilhyunmuseum.or.kr, 033-670-8450
April 3rd – 4th Hoengseong Hoedaji Song Festival Hoengseong-gun’s Hoedaji is a traditional tune that was registered as an intangible cultural heritage after winning several traditional music contests in Gangwon Province. This festival also gives you a chance to try local products and fly old-fashioned kites. Jeonggeum Culture Village in Hoengseong-gun. tour.hsg.go.kr, 033-340-2114 April 10th – 11th Yucheon Culture Festival What began as a benefit singing contest for victims of a 2003 typhoon has become a stand-out spring festival for the region. Near Chorok Hill in Donghae. dhtour.go.kr, 033-533-2741 April 10th – 19th Seorak Mountain Cherry Blossom Festival What could be more romantic than making your own rice cake while the cherry blossoms whisper overhead? Local delicacies to try here include kimchi and buckwheat jeon (pancakes) and traditional makkeolli. Sandomun 1-ri in Sokcho. sokchotour.com, 033-633-3171 April 10th – 19th Samcheok Rape Flower Festival Folks who like flowers and fun will want to see what’s on the schedule at this huge festival. You could also visit Samcheok before or after the festival if Korean families out for the day aren’t really your thing. Sangmaengbang-ri in Samcheok. tour.samcheok.go.kr, 033-575-1330
To list an event, e-mail coordinator@10magazine.asia
Institute of Traditional Korean Cooking Pyeongchang-gun ktfce.com/ktfce.pdf, 033-333-1012 Joseon Folk Painting Museum Yeongwol-gun minhwa.co.kr, 033-375-6100 Marisorigol Musical Instrument Museum Hongcheon-gun great.go.kr, 033-430-2016 Mooee Arts Center Pyeongchang-gun mooee.co.kr, 033-335-6700 Sokbong Ceramic Museum Sokcho dogong.net, 033-638-7711 Sokcho Museum Sokcho sokchomuse.go.kr, 033-639-2977 Teddy Bear Farm Sokcho teddyfarm.net, 033-636-3680
Medical Services Gangwon National University Hospital Chuncheon knuh.or.kr/html/index.asp, 033-258-2000 Gangnam Hospital Chuncheon ekangnam.co.kr, 033-240-7000 Hyundai Animal Clinic Chuncheon dog7582.co.kr, 033-256-7582 Ye Dental Clinic English-speaking service available everyday but Wednesday. ccye.co.kr, 033-262-2078
To inquire about getting a logobox for your business, email to us at marketing@10magazine.asia To list your English friendly business or service, email to us at coordinator@10magazine.asia
GYEONGSANG CALENDAR Art Ongoing Architectural Ceramics: Now and New Displaying hybrids of ceramics and other genres of art. Clayarch Gimhae Museum in Gimhae. 10 am – 6 pm. Adults W2,000, students W1,000, children W500. clayarch.org Modern Interpretations of the Human Body Head to the plaza to see this sculpture exhibit. Gyeongnam Art Museum in Changwon. gam.go.kr, 055-211-0333 Shivering: Perceiving Space All of a Sudden The installations, drawings, and art objects of Hodeuk Kim. Cyan Museum in Yeongcheon. 10:30 am – 6:30 pm. Closed Mondays. cyanmuseum.org, 054-338-9391 Through April 11th Regional Artist Retrospective Forty pieces by local artists Seon-taek Jeon, Jin-tae Kim. Daegu Art Center. Free Through April 18th Contemporary Taiwanese Art Gyeongnam Art Museum in Changwon Modern and Contemporary Japanese Art Fifty-three pieces by thirty-four Japanese artists from the collection of Ok-jin Shin. Busan Museum of Art. 051-740-4248 Recent Acquisitions Gyeongnam Art Museum in Changwon Single Channel Video: Taiwan Exhibit Gyeongnam Art Museum in Changwon
Performances on 4/2, 4/4, 4/6, 4/8, and 4/11. Korean. W8,000 – W10,000. Ulsan Culture and Art Center
April 2nd – 12th Busan Theater Festival An assortment of plays and musicals to entertain the whole family. Note that these are all in Korean. 4/2-4/3: The Solar System. Fri 7:30 pm, Sat 6 pm. W10,000. 051-242-8198. 4/54/6: Bangoe Jisa Iok. 7:30 pm. W10,000. 051-646VENUES 0326. 4/10-4/12: Hansel Masan 3.15 Art Center and Gretel Find Happiness. 315art.net, W16,000. Sat & Sun 1 & 5 055-220-6670 pm, Mon 10:40 am. BEXCO (Busan Exposition 051-611-8518. Busan and Convention Center) Cultural Center bsculture.busan.kr, 051-120 Busan Museum of Art 10 am – 6 pm. Adults W700, students W300. art.busan.go.kr, 051-740-4241 Daegu Citizen Center dgcitizencenter.or.kr, 053-252-6401 Daegu Culture and Arts Center 10 am – 8 pm. Closed Mon. artcenter.daegu.go.kr, 053-606-6114 EXCO (Daegu Exhibition and Convention Center). excodaegu.co.kr, 053-601-5000 Geochang Education Culture Center gcwc.go.kr, 055-940-3531 Gumi Art Center gumiart.or.kr, 054-451-3040 Gyeongnam Art Museum Changwon 10 am – 6 pm. Closed Mon. Adults W1,000, teens W700, children W500. gam.go.kr, 055-211-0333 Seongsan Art Hall Changwon sungsanart.or.kr, 055-268-7900
April 7th – 8th The Hunchback of Notre Dame: Play Korean. Daegu Culture and Arts Center. 9:30 & 11 am. W9,000. 010-9095-4435 April 10th – 11th Chicago: The Musical Jazz and murder make for one rousing good show. Seongsan Art Hall in Changwon. Sat 3 & 7:30 pm, Sun 2 & 6:30 pm. W40,000 – W120,000 April 16th – 17th Contact: The Musical This dynamic “dance play” by Susan Stroman and John Weidman combines aspects of the ballet and musical genres. Gyeongnam Art Museum. Fri 7:30 pm, Sat 3 & 7:30 pm. W20,000 – W40,000 April 17th – 18th “Mu”: The Dance Four pieces expressing thanks for the universe and everything in it. Ulsan Culture and Art Center. 7 pm. W10,000. 051-647-7889
April 18th Sun of Dance Troupe This Latin American dance performance includes tango, swing, cha cha, samba, and more. Busan Cultural Center. 6 pm. W30,000 – W50,000. 010-2983-3849
Ulsan Culture and Art Center ucac.or.kr, 052-275-9623
April 27th – May 2nd Daegu Calligraphy Exhibition Works by members of one of Korea’s representative calligraphy associations. Daegu Art Center. 053-592-7777
Theater & Dance Ongoing Jump In its second decade, this popular martial arts comic show shows no signs of slowing. Lotte Art Hall. Tue - Fri 8 pm, Sat & Holidays 5 pm & 8 pm, Sun 6 pm. W40,000 – W50,000. hijump.co.kr, 051-744-4885 The Ballerina Who Fell in Love with a B-Boy This b-boy-meets-ballerina story is a genre-gending mash-up of break dance and ballet. Seomyeon BB Theater in Busan. Mon - Fri 8 pm , Sat 4 and 8 pm, Sun 3 and 6 pm. W40,000 W50,000. bbtheater.co.kr, 051-804-2252 April 2nd – 11th Ulsan Theater Festival The qualifying round for the national theater festival.
GYEONGSANG
The Transformation from Matter to Art See how everyday materials can become artwork through pieces by Korean and Japanese artists. Busan Museum of Art
The Temptation of Five Ballets The Adagio Ballet Group presents five dances. Bongsan Cultural Center. 6 pm. Adults W10,000, children W5,000. bongsanart.org, 010-5492-6542 April 22nd – 24th La Traviata: The Opera Verdi’s most popular opera, performed by the Daegu Orchestra Company. Daegu Culture and Arts Center. Thu & Fri 7:30 pm, Sat 4 pm. W20,000 – W70,000. 053-623-5859 April 25th Busan and Yeongnam Dance Art Festival Busan Cultural Center. 9 am – 5 pm. 02-886-8880
Concerts Ongoing Daegu Gugak Company Tuesday Performance Classics of traditional Korean music every Thursday (4/8, 4/15, 4/20, 4/27). Daegu Culture and Arts Center. 5 pm
10 Magazine April 2010 | 67
GYEONGSANG CALENDAR EDITOR’S PICK
April 1st Moscow Children’s Choir Geochang Education Culture Center. 3 & 7:30 pm. Adults W10,000, children W5,000. 055-940-3531 April 3rd
Berlioz, and others. 4/22: Seongsan Art Hall. 4/23: Gumi Art Center. 7:30 pm. W40,000 – W120,000. gumiart.or.kr, 054-451-3040
Su-mi Jo: “Ich Liebe Dich” Concert Masan 3.15 Art Center. 7:30 pm. W40,000 – W120,000 Tone in Free Wind Orchestra Busan Cultural Center. 7:30 pm. Adults W10,000, students W5,000. 010-2559-7569
Family & Community April 1st – 11th
Jinhae Gunhang Festival
With cherry blossoms running riot, martial tunes, and a tribute to a famous historical figure, Jinhae has got ten great days of festival planned. Throughout the festival, there are a variety of events including a parade, mini movie festival, face painting, and even free caricatures of you as Admiral Yi Sun-shin. From April 2nd – 4th, this is also the location of the International Military Band and Honor Guard Festival (jinhaetattoo.com, 055-548-2114). Thirteen military bands and honor guards will perform starting at 7 pm on each of the three evenings at the Jungwon Rotary. Other events are held at Marine Park. For the cherry blossom information, see page 42. gunhang.jinhae.go.kr/main, 055-548-2433
April 7th Prime Philharonic Orchestra Featuring Haydn’s Trumpet Concerto in Eb Major and Dvorak’s Cello Concerto in B Minor. Ulsan Culture and Art Center. 7:30 pm April 8th Ulsan YMCA Choir “Moon River,” “Take Me to the River,” and more. Ulsan Culture and Art Center. W5,000 – W10,000. 052-288-8500 April 8th – 9th What’s Up? Groove to the tunes of West Coast math pop trio What’s Up? at their Korean debut. 4/8: The Basement in Busan. 4/9: Club Heavy in Daegu. April 9th Daegu Symphony Orchestra Mozart’s Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 23 and Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 5. Daegu Culture and Arts Center. 7:30 pm
GYEONGSANG
Santo Toman Singers From the Philippines. Daegu Citizen Center. 7:30 pm. W10,000 – W30,000 April 16th Busan Symphony Orchestra in “BBB Concert” Beethoven and Brahms in Busan! Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 5 in Eb Major and Brahms Symphony No. 1 in C Minor. Busan Cultural Center. 7:30 pm. W5,000 – W10,000 April 17th Laonjena Symphony Orchestra Busan Cultural Center. 7:30 pm. 011-488-1398
Family & Community April 8th – 11th
Goryeong Daegaya Festival Step back into an age of cunning warlords and political alliances with this festival dedicated to Daegaya, a city state in the Gaya confederacy about 1500 years ago. You have plenty of chances to get a taste of life as a feudal warrior including booths where you can make knifes, helmets, bows, and armor. You’ll even have a chance to be knighted as a Daegaya warrior. Near the Daegaya Museum in Goryeong-gun. fest.daegaya.net, 054-954-2201 68 | 10 Magazine April 2010
April 22nd – 23rd I am Robot and Proud Indietronic artist Shaw-han Liem weaves meticulously arranged electropop melodies into intricate yet accessible songs. 4/22: Basement in Busan. 10:30 pm. W16,000. 4/23: Club Heavy in Daegu. 10:30 pm. W15,000. supercolorsuper.com, supercolorsuper@gmail.com Philadelphia Orchestra Visits Korea The 100 musicians of the Philadelphia Orchestra, directed by Charles Dutoit, perform pieces by Rachmaninoff,
April 23rd Geon-u Baek Piano Recital Pieces by Ravel, Chopin, and Brahms. Daegu Culture and Arts Center. 8 pm. W10,000 – W40,000 April 23rd – 24th Modern Korean Music Project Gugak updated and upgraded for today’s audiences. Ulsan Culture and Art Center. Fri 8 pm, Sat 7 pm. W10,000 April 24th Children’s Choir Concert Sponsored by World Vision. Ulsan Culture and Art Center. 5 – 7 pm. W5,000. 052-249-0223 April 27th Classical Music in Movies Ulsan Culture and Art Center. 7:30 pm. W10,000. 052-247-7751 April 29th Classical Guitarist Aleksey Sokolov Seongsan Art Hall. 7:30 pm. Adults W20,000, students W10,000. 010-8701-5551 Morning Concert: Power Classic Season 3 Yun-beom Jo and the Quartet X perform pieces by Vivaldi including L’Estro Armonico and Flute Concerto No. 3. Ulsan Culture and Art Center April 30th Violist Richard “Yongjae” O’Neill Recital Hyundai Arts Center in Ulsan. 8 pm. W10,000 – W60,000. hhiarts.co.kr, 052-235-2100
Family & Community April 17th – 18th Hyeon-u Choe Magic Show Daegu Citizen Center. Fri 4 & 7 pm, Sat 3 & 6 pm.W33,000 – W55,000. 1599-2005 April 18th Mister & Miss Busan Beauty Pageant Do you have what it takes to head to head (bum to bum, etc.) with the dudes and dames of Busan-town? If not, it’s only W5,000 to watch the fun! Busan Citizen’s Hall. 2 pm. 051-500-7966 April 22nd – 25th Ulsan Whale Festival Ulsan, which styles itself as the “city of the cavorting whales,” has learned a lesson from widespread opposition to Japanese whale-hunting by trying to foster the ocean mammals’ recovery. Events held by the Taehwa River and at Jangsaeng Harbor. whalekorea.com, 052-226-2994 April 23rd – 25th Gwangalli Eobang Festival What started as a simple ritual for fishermen heading out to sea has become a big festival with net dragging, parades,
performances, and lots of fish-filled food. Gwangalli Beach in Busan. festivaleobang.suyeong.go.kr, 051-610-4061
April 29th – May 9th
May 2nd Water and Mud Marathon 2k, 5k and 10k around the Naeseong River in Yecheon-gun, to begin at 10 am. W30,000 for 10k and 5k and W20,000 for 2k. Sign up by April 17th. ycma.co.kr, 053-756-7980
April 28th – May 2nd
Nightlife Busan International Motor Show Let’s get this show on the road! Displaying personal cars, company cars, and motorcycles representing 150 companies from ten countries (and of course racing girls). BEXCO. bimos.co.kr, 051-740-7467
Gaya Culture Festival A perfect chance to get introduced to the art and culture of an ancient civilization. Daesongdong Gobungun in Gimhae. gcfkorea.com, 055-335-3382 April 29th – May 2nd Yeongcheon Starlight Festival See what’s at the end of the universe, or near enough, from the observatory at Bohyeon Mountain near Yeongcheon. star.yc.go.kr/main, 054-330-6068 April 30th – May 9th Mungyeong Traditional Tea Bowl Festival This yearly ceramics celebration focuses on Mungyeong’s rich history of being a center of production for tea implements. Near Mungyeong Saejae. sabal21.com, 054-550-6395
Education & Conferences April 7th – 9th Green Energy Expo Paint the town green tonight with Korea’s annual renewable energy expo. Wed & Thu 10 am – 6 pm. Fri 10 am – 5 pm. W6,000 (register to get in free). EXCO. energyexpo.co.kr, 053-601-5375
Dine & Drink
gyeongsang province Foreigner Assistance Busan Foundation for International Activities bfia.or.kr, 1577-7716 Geoje Foreign Resident Association gfra.net, 055-687-9332 Ulsan Global Center 052-229-2810 Ulsan Online ulsanonline.com
Religious Services Bujeon Church Busan 051-807-3331 Suyeongno Church Busan 051-740-4500 Podowon Church Busan 051-333-3736 Baekangro Church Busan 051-898-3740 Pusan University of Foreign Studies Busan 051-640-3445 Okpo Joonang Presbyterian Geoje Island 010-2586-7520, 010-3873-1652 Sumgim Presbyterian Church Geoje Island sumgim.org, 017-577-3096
Buy the Book Western This bookstore and café is your source for free yoga, theater, and parties. Downtown Daegu. Open weekends. buythebookcafe@yahoo.com Café Francesco Italian Italian cuisine and good coffee. Near Rodeo Street. 053-252-9625 Dijon French Up-market French and Mediterranean cuisine. 053-422-2426 Hami Mami’s American One of Daegu’s best brunches. 50m from the US base. 8 am – 10 pm. 053-475-5242
Education
4 – 5 Star Hotels Busan Lotte Hotel Novotel Ambassador Seacloud Daegu Novotel Ambassador
April 17th – 22nd Gyeongju Alcohol and Rice Cake Feast As if Gyeongju didn’t have enough going for it, now it’s hosting the “Most Creative Rice Cake” bakeoff (or pound-off, maybe?). Around Hwangseong Park in Gyeongju. guide.gyeongju.go.kr, 054-779-6395
TBS eFM Busan FM 90.5 American Forces Network Jinhae AM 1512 / FM 88.5 Daegu AM 1080 / FM 88.5 Pohang AM 1512 Waegwan AM 1080 / FM 88.5
051-740-3228 010-8722-1530
2nd Floor Restaurant 3rd Floor Sports Lounge
Restaurants
Gumi Waegook Cook American Gumi’s
Live Music Venues Club Interplay Busan cafe.daum.net/interplaycafe 051-517-4773 Club Heavy Daegu cafe.daum.net/clubheavy96 010-2338-1340 Club Metal Boys Gyeongju cafe.daum.net/metalboys 011-9599-8370
Bars/Lounges/Pubs Busan Aligote Wines, cheese platters, and excellent service. Haeundae. 6 pm – 3 am. aligote-busan.com, 051-731-3322 Basement Open mic nights on Tuesdays and parties galore. Pusan National University. cullivan@hotmail.com, 011-9294-2391 Fuzzy Navel Great drinks and great Mexican food as well. Four locations. 011-1757-6349 The HQ Bar Kyungsung’s only foreignerowned bar with sports and dart games. busankart@yahoo.com
Daegu Ping Bar Great drinks, a pool table, and music upon request. Samdeok Catholic Church. 7 pm - 5 am. withhyk@hanmail.net, 053-422-7708
Clubs Daegu Club That Located on the rodeo just down from the Samdok fire station. clubthat.co.kr, 010-6587-4147
Radio Stations
Busan Ganga Indian Opposite Haeundae Beach. ganga.co.kr, 051-740-6670 Kebabistan Russian Uzbeki restaurant serving kebabs, soups and stews. Busan Station. 051-581-4050 Sunset Lounge American Drinks, Western food and fun delivered next to Haeundae. 051-742-2959
South St. Western Philly cheesesteaks and cold cuts in Suseong-gu. blog. naver.com/southst105, 053-768-7867
Sosa Bar A cozy latin bar close to Pusan National University. 051-513-0070
051-810-1000 051-743-1234 051-933-1000 053-664-1101
Samarkland Russian Daegu station. 053-252-4021 Siji Taco Mexican Spicy tacos at competitive prices 053-791-5050
Rock ‘n’ Roll House Western-style bar with darts and pool and a great view of Haeundae. 051-742-5553
Hotels/Accommodations
Hostels Busan Arpina Zen Backpackers
April 18th Pink Ribbon Marathon 5k and 10k at the Busan Yacht Stadium, to begin at 9:30 am. W10,000 for all courses (the entire fee will be donated to the Korean Breast Cancer Foundation). Sign up by April 9th. pinkmarathon.com, 02-1688-9744
Daegu Berkeley Italian Hof Street. 053-421-8577
Ayurveda Yoga Academy Certification course for would-be yoga teachers in Daegu. Sat 10 am – 7 pm. Call Yatren at 011-9547-5181
Mid April (TBA) Masan Fireworks and Sea Squirt Festival Sea squirt by day and fireworks by night! Gwangam Harbor in Masan. festival.masan.go.kr, 055-220-3030
Sports & Fitness
original foreign-owned and operated restaurant, serving steaks, hamburgers, seafood, pastas, and German cuisine. waegookcook.com
April 23rd Make the Girl Dance As their name suggests, this French DJ duo spin electro-house to “make girls dance.” Club Pasha in downtown Daegu. Contact Scott Fuzion for details. 010-6587-4147
Old Skool Hip hop bar great for dancing, socializing or drinking. “Old SkooL: Daegu Muzik Club Bar” on Facebook.
053-423-4048 The Holy Grill Western Owned and operated by Canadians, the Grill provides expats with fantastic sandwiches, burgers, Tex-Mex and breakfast in a chilled-out environment that feels more like a lounge than a burger joint. Move up to the 3rd floor to catch major sporting events. 053-423-4048 Leo Chow Mexican A decent selection of burritos and tacos. 053-255-7111 Maya Indian Gyeongbuk University. 053-214-1916
Busan Elune Lots of international acts. Paradise Hotel, 010-5525-4055 Maktum Club dancing, events, launching shows, sports parties. 9 pm – 6 am. maktum.co.kr, 051-742-0770 NEO Starface “Latin Club” Free salsa classes weekdays from 8 pm. Saturdays boast a live band and/or DJs. Haeundae. neostarface.com 051-746-1746 Vinyl Underground Delivers fresh breaks, house, funk, electro, tech house, hip hop. B2 Han La Building. 9 pm - 6 am. 051-628-0223
10 Magazine April 2010 | 69
GYEONGSANG
April 3rd – 5th Ulsan Gangdong Seafood Festival Harvest seaweed from the water, nab an eel with your bare hands, or get a glimpse of a whale. Near Jeongja Harbor in Ulsan. seafood.bukgu.ulsan.kr, 052-289-9999
April 3rd Stand Up Seoul Showcase Four of Korea’s best comics head down to Busan. Drag queen bingo begins at 8 pm, and the real show gets underway at 10 pm. W15,000 (free if your tab exceeds W40,000). “Stand Up Seoul” on Facebook, brianaylward11@hotmail.com
April 17th Adult Entertainment Vol. 2 Presented by the Better Magic Music Co., a DJ consortium who play an eclectic mix of new and old dance jams. Vinyl Underground in Busan. W5,000 presale, W7,000 at the door. 010-5728-1986, geoffreydegrasse@gmail.com
JEOLLA CALENDAR EDITOR’S PICK
stage in Jeolla Province. Korean. Sori Cultural Arts Center. 7:30 pm. Adults W15,000, minors W10,000. 063-277-7440 April 21st – 25th Just Spring: The Play Korean. Chonbuk National University Cultural Center in Jeonju. 4 & 7 pm. W15,000. cnucc.chonbuk.ac.kr, 02-765-8880
Concerts April 1st, 8th, 22nd and 29th Thursday Gugak Art Stage Singing, dancing, and string pieces are all included in this contemporary take on traditional Korean music (gugak). Sori Cultural Arts Center. 7:30 pm. 063-254-2391 April 2nd Virtuoso Singer Concert Featuring the Jeonju Gugak Company with pieces featuring traditional Korean songs and instruments. Sori Cultural Arts Center. Adults W5,000, students W3,000. 063-281-2766
Film March 30th – April 1st
Jeonju International Film Festival
Bibimbap’s not the only thing worth trying in Jeonju. Along with its bigger brother in Busan, Jeonju’s yearly week-long film fest is one of your best chances to catch up with recent developments in Korean cinema. More serious film buffs might want to see some entries in Jeonju’s signature short film competition or less accessible experimental features available through the “Stranger than Cinema” program. eng.jiff.or.kr, 063-288-5433 Art
JEOLLA
Through April 11th Early Spring Exhibit Fifty paintings, installations, videos, and sculptures depicting the flowers just now starting to bloom. Gwangju Museum of Art. Through May 30th Jeong-ung Ha Collection: Poetry of Stillness Artwork that reflects on the meaning of tranquility and stillness. Gwangju Museum of Art. Through May 23rd Twelve Animals of the Chinese Zodiac Various works of art representing the animals found in the Chinese zodiac. Gwangju Museum of Art.
April 16th – 22nd Seeking Out Expression Exhibit Fifteen Korean-style paintings, fifteen Western-style paintings. Sori Cultural Arts Center. 010-655-8876 April 23rd – May 6th Jeonju Photo Festival An international exhibit with 200 works on display. Sori Cultural Arts Center. 010-5338-7071
Theater & Dance April 2nd – 3rd Beauty and the Beast: Family Musical We doubt they’ll have the talking teapots or Gaston in this one. Korean. Sori Cultural Arts Center. Fri 1:30 & 4 pm, Sat 11 am, 2 & 4:30 pm. 1 hr. W25,000. 02-707-1132
Through May 30th New Acquisitions See last year’s additions to the permanent collection of the Gwangju Museum of Art. Through May 30th New Acquisitions Exhibit Gwangju Museum of Art Jeong-ung Ha Collection on Display Gwangju Museum of Art April 7th – 27th The Paintings of Su-Nam Song The work of this master of Korean painting is presented to celebrate the 45th anniversary of the opening of MBC in Jeonju. Sori Cultural Arts Center. 063-220-8110
April 3rd Musical Theater Company Shubabing Presenting the oneact comic operas The Old VENUES Woman and the Thief and The Gwangju Telephone (L’Amour à trois) by Museum of Art Gian Menotti. 4 & 7 pm. W10,000 9 am – 6 pm. Adults – W20,000. Sori Cultural Arts W500, teens W300, Center. 010-9472-6844 children W200. artmuse.gwangju. go.kr, 062-510-0149
Kim Daejung Convention Center Gwangju. kdjcenter.or.kr, 062-611-2000 Sori Cultural Arts Center Jeonju sori21.co.kr, 063-270-8000
April 10th International Collaboration Work 2010 Collective Dance Project and Isle-no-ko Company collaborate to illustrate how a choreographer and composer work together to create a dance. Sori Cultural Arts Center. 6 pm. Adults W20,000, students W10,000. 010-7633-6679
April 9th – 15th Illia Croquis: The Aesthetics of Lines The third exhibition by this diverse group of artists. Croquis refers to a quick sketch. Sori Cultural Arts Center. 010-4936-8028
April 15th Performance By the Provincial Gugak Center Dance Company Gugak is traditional Korean classical music. Sori Cultural Arts Center. 7:30 pm. 063-710-1395
April 9th – 15th Donghaeng Calligraphy Exhibit Sori Cultural Arts Center. 010-5342-0769
April 20th – 25th North Jeolla Province Theater Festival See what’s happening on the
70 | 10 Magazine April 2010
April 4th and 9th – 10th Moscow Children’s Choir in Concert Originally named the “Young Lenins,” they’ve gotten rid of the trappings of communism but retained the excellence of their fifty year history. Apr 4th: Sori Cultural Arts Center. 5 pm. W20,000 – W30,000. Apr 9th – 10th: Suncheon Culture Arts Center with the Suncheon Children’s Choir. 7:30 pm. Adults W10,000, students W5,000. scart.or.kr, 061-749-3516 April 6th Jeonju Choir Concert Sori Cultural Arts Center. 7:30 pm. Adults W5,000, students, W3,000. 063-281-2786 April 7th Chopin: The Third Meeting Sponsored by Virtuoso, ten pianists tackle ten of Chopin’s pieces. Sori Cultural Arts Center. 010-6525-6242 Cologne Chamber Orchestra Sori Cultural Arts Center. 7:30 pm. 02-2277-6516 April 8th Jeonju Symphony Orchestra Prokofiev’s Sinfonia Concertante and Bruckner’s Symphony No. 7 in E Major. Sori Cultural Arts Center. 7:30 pm. W7,000 – W10,000. 30% off for students. 063-281-2748 April 11th A Night in Your Hometown A selections of songs by choral ensemble Song of My Heart. Sori Cultural Arts Center. 5 pm. 010-9472-6844 April 15th International Folk Music Exchange Concert The Russian Bayan Trio uses this accordion-like instrument to perform an exciting variety of Russian folk songs. Sori Cultural Arts Center. 7:30 pm. 063-858-0471 April 18th Jeonju Philharmonic Saxophone Ensemble: “Wind, Wind Wind” Old and new favorites including “Ave Maria,” “O Fortuna” from Orff’s Carmina Burana, and highlights from Rocky. Sori Cultural Arts Center. 6:30 pm. 011-674-6886
the Hardy Boys, but it’s actually a phenomenally low tide that has been called a contemporary parting of the Red Sea. See the sea floor and walk on dry (okay, damp) ground. This modern-day miracle takes place in Jindo-gun, south of Mokpo.tour.jindo.go.kr, 061-544-0151 Through April 2nd Pasque Flower Festival Jangheunggun invites you to join in the games at this festival, held each year as the pasque or “granny” flower (할미꽃) begins to bloom. Hanjae Park has over 20 gorgeous acres of wildflowers for you to marvel at. jangheung.go.kr, 061-860-0610 Through April 4th Gwangju Spring Flower Expo Spring’s in full bloom at this month’s Flower Expo at the Kim Daejung Convention Center. Along with the overpowering fragrance of halls full of flowers, the expo features a decorative flower function contest. 10 am – 6 pm. Adults W4,500, children W2,700. flowershow.kr, 062-611-2124 April 2nd – 4th Yudal Mountain Flower Festival Dozens of performances, exhibits, and other special events near Yudal Mountain in Mokpo. tour.mokpo.go.kr, 061-272-2171 Yeongchwi Mountain Azalea Festival Admire the azaleas stretching across the slopes of Yeongchwi Mountain north of Yeosu, along with concerts, dances, and a Miss Azalea beauty pageant. jindalrae.or.kr, 061-691-3104 April 3rd – 6th Yeongam Wangin Culture Festival Head to Yeongam-gun, south of Gwangju, to learn about Dr. Wangin, the Korean who traveled to Japan over 1600 years ago taking with him knowledge of Chinese characters and the Analects of Confucius. wanginfs.yeongam.go.kr, 061-470-2347 April 3rd - 12th Cherry Blossom Art Festival Ready to see some cherry blossoms? Check. Pumped to see some live performances? Check. Gunsan’s Cherry Blossom Art Festival has got all you want and more with plays, concerts, traditional Korean music, a Ms. Cherry Blossom beauty contest, dance, and b-boy shows. Note that the flowers will be in full bloom on April 9th and 10th. Eunpa Resort and Wolmyeong Sports Complex. tour.gunsan.go.kr, 063-450-6125 April 9th – 11th Moak Mountain Cherry Blossom Festival Make cookies, fling around some tteok (rice cake), and try out traditional games at Moak Mountain near Jeonju— not to mention the cherry blossoms. tour.gimje.go.kr, 063-540-3031 Starting Mid April (TBA) Gochang Green Barley Field Festival Barley, the other grain. Gochang-gun’s monthlong festival offers lots of fun events like learning how to blow a barley flute, walking down paths in the barley fields, and sampling barley-based cuisine. And for good measure there’s a dinosaur time machine exhibit. chungbori.gochang.go.kr, 063-561-1699
Family & Community
Starting Mid April (TBA) Soyang Cherry Blossom Road Step (or drive) into this 2 km-long stretch of road and enter a world in white. With forty-year-old cherry trees arching over the road. Soyang-myeon in Wanju-gun. tour.wanju.go.kr, 063-243-8005
March 30th – April 1st Jindo Mysterious Sea Road Festival It may sound like something from
April 16th – 25th Shinan Tulip Festival It’s a bit of a trek getting to Daegwang Beach on Imja
April 30th Jeonju Orchestra Children’s Concert Sori Cultural Arts Center. 7:30 pm. W7,000 – W10,000. 063-281-2748
Island, the location of the festival, but once you’re there you’re sure to enjoy the concerts and performances in Shinangun. shinantulip.co.kr, 061-240-8145 Late April (TBA) Dolmen Festival Korea may be more famous for Dokdo than dolmens, but it has a surprisingly large number of these Paleolithic artifacts. Visit this festival to learn more about these big rocks and the lives of our ancient ancestors. Dolmen Park near Hwasun-gun, southeast of Gwangju. hwasun.go.kr, 061-374-0001 April 23rd – 24th Wan Island Bridge and Sea Festival Wan Island Bridge, completed in 1965, was the first link between Wan Island and the mainland. The festivities will include fireworks, traditional games, and more near Gunoe-myeon. tour.wando.go.kr, 061-550-5114 April 23rd – 25th Yeong-rang Cultural Festival Performances and more at the home of 20th century poet “Yeong-rang,” penname of Yun-sik Kim, killed during the Korean War. Don’t miss the picturesque hanok (traditional Korean houses). Gangjin-gun. gangjin.go.kr, 061-434-0103 April 23rd – 26th Namwon Chunhyang Festival Namwon makes the most of the fact that it’s the fictional location of the classic Korean love story “Chunhyang” with this festival dedicated to the famous pansori. Events held in Namwon on the banks of the Yo River, Love Plaza, and Namwon Plaza. chunhyang.org, 063-632-5801
Ongoing GIC Talks The Gwangju International Center organizes a lecture in English nearly every Saturday from 2:30– 4 pm. Typical speakers include professors, writers, and diplomats. See website for this month’s lectures. gic.or.kr, 062-226-2733 April 13th – 15th International Photonics Exhibition The only photonics expo in Korea offers an insider’s view on networking, marketing, and technology in the industry. Kim Daejung Convention Center. photonicskorea.org, 062-605-9640 April 15th – 18th International Buddhist Culture Expo Just as fun as a temple stay, and you don’t have to get up at the Buddhacrack of dawn. Kim Daejung Convention Center. inbex.kr, 062-383-6322
Dine & Drink Through April 1st Gunsan Seafood Festival Buckets of octopus, clams, and flopping fish ready to be diced into sashimi—at this point, you’re either disgusted or delighted. At the fish market in Haemang-dong in Gunsan. tour.gunsan.go.kr, 063-460-4410 April 9th – 11th Yeongsan Harbor Manta Ray Festival Bet you never guessed that the menacing manta ray you saw through the glass at the aquarium would someday be on the menu! Athletic Park near the Yeongsan River in Naju. tour.naju.go.kr, 061-330-8106
Sport & Fitness April 10th – May 2nd
Family and Community April 2nd – May 9th
Gwangju World Light Expo
The spotlight’s on Gwangju as it gets set for a fantastic festival that aims to shed some light on light. A nice mix of scientific adventure and pure fun, there are seven standout attractions here. Highlights include the return module of the Soyuz capsule that took astronaut So-yeon Lee into space, a real F-5 fighter that you can board, a virtual reality simulator of the Korean-designed T-5 supersonic aircraft, the 3D animation Seed Light, and the light fountain with 200 LED bulbs and orchestral music. There’s even an opening concert with Super Junior, Yun-jeong Jang, and other artists at 9 pm on Apr 2nd. Held at Sangmu Citizens Park and around Geumnam-ro in Gwangju. photonics-expo2010.org, 062-611-3731 Radio
JEOLLA PROVINCE Foreigner Assistance
Restaurants/Supermarkets
Gwangju International Center gwangjuic.or.kr, 062-226-1050
First Nepal Restaurant firstnepal.com, 062-225-8771
Religious Services
Tequilaz Gwangju’s first Mexican cantina serves up your south-of-theborder favorites with magical margaritas and, of course, killer tequilas. tequilaz.com, tequilaz@gmail.com
Antioch Presbyterian Church Jeonju andiok.kr, 063-274-3228 Iri Joongang Church Iksan 063-851-4311 Musangsa Muan-gun 042-841-6084
April 23rd – May 9th
Museums
Hampyeong Butterfly Festival Got butterflies in your stomach? Actually, you’re not supposed to eat them. Watch the butterflies flutter by you and join in one of the numerous activities and games planned at this mostly outdoor festival. The butterfly, bee, dragonfly, and beetle exhibits give you an up-and-close look at these mostly friendly creepycrawlies. Hampyeong Expo Park, west of Gwangju. inabi.or.kr, 061-322-0011
Cheongsan Island Slow Walking Festival Cheongsan Island (in Wandogun), the first city in Korea to be designated as a “slow city” (in a good sense), is preparing sights, sounds, and savory foods for you to enjoy along your stroll across the island. Join in the treasure hunt for notes hidden across the island, which you can redeem for prizes when you depart. Korean website. slowcitywando.com, 061-550-5114
April 24th Heukseok Mountain Rhododendron Festival Performances all day starting at 9 am, including the Pyeongyang Folk Art Troupe (not actually from Pyeongyang). Near Gahak Mountain Recreational Forest near Heukseok Mountain in Haenam-gun. tour.haenam.go.kr, 061-530-5919
May 2nd Jangseong Hong Gil-dong Marathon 5k, 10k, half at the Municipal Stadium in Jangseong-gun, to begin at 9 am. W30,000 for half and 10k and W10,000 for 5k. Sign up by April 16th. marathon. jangseong.go.kr, 061-393-3633
April 24th - May 23rd Barae Mountain Rhododendron Festival Around the end of April, the slopes of Barae Mountain just west of Namwon turn bright pink as the rhododendrons begin to come into bloom. tour.namwon.go.kr, 063-620-6601
May 16th Gunsan Saemangeum Marathon 5k, 10k, half and full around the Saemangeum Seawall in Gunsan, to begin at 8:30 am. W35,000 for full, W30,000 for half and 10k and W10,000 for 5k. Sign up by April 12th. smgmara.com, 063-452-7731
TBS eFM Gwangju FM 98.7 US Armed Forces Network Gunsan AM 1440/FM 88.5 Gwangju FM 88.5
Gochang Dolmen Museum 9 am – 5 pm. Closed Mon. Adults W3,000, teens W2,000, children W1,000. gcdolmen.go.kr, 063-560-2576 Iksan Jewel Museum 10 am – 6 pm. Closed Mon. Adults W3,000, students W2,000, children W1,000. jewelmuseum.go.kr, 063-859-4641 Jeonju Oriental Medicine Cultural Center 10 am – 6 pm. Closed Mon. hanbangcenter.com, 063-232-2500 Jeonju Traditional Alcohol Museum 9 am – 6 pm. Closed Mon. Free. urisul.net, 063-287-6305 Jeonju Traditional Cultural Center jt.or.kr, 063-280-7045 Mokpo Natural Museum 9 am – 6 pm. Closed Mon. Adults W3,000, students W2,000, children W1,000. museum. mokpo.go.kr, 061-294-3655 Mokpo Ceramic Livingware Museum 9 am – 6 pm. Closed Mon. Adults W3,000, students W2,000, children W1,000. doja.mokpo.go.kr, 061-270-8480
Hotels/Accommodations Gwangju Youth Hostel 062-943-4378 Ramada Plaza Gwangju ramadagwangju.com, 062-717-7000
Underground Grocers Foreigner owned and operated, Gwangju’s local imported food shop has all of those hard-to-find cheeses, taco shells and other delicacies foreigners in Korea crave. One minute from the McDonald’s in Hwangguem-dong. 062-232-2626
Live Music Venues Bars/Lounges/Pubs Led Zeppelin Art Space Jeonju It just opened in February, but it’s already hosting lots of fun underground bands both expat and Korean. cafe.daum.net/k250073, 018-607-6321 Art & Travel Cafe Jeonju Open mic nights every Wednesday from 9 pm. Facebook group, 011-9437-0208 Deepin Jeonju Popular expat bar with Texas Holdem on Sundays. 019-9646-1028 Speakeasy Gwangju The fun never stops at this fantastic bar owned and operated by honest Irishman Derrek Hannon in the heart of Gwangju. 010-4713-3825 San Antonio Latin Bistro Suncheon Suncheon bids farewell to Harold and McCarthy’s and welcomes in this new Latin-themed restaurant and hangout in their place. Facebook group, pyroz@hotmail.com
10 Magazine April 2010 | 71
JEOLLA
April 23rd – May 2nd Saemangeum Flag Festival In April 2006, the 33km-long Saemangeum Seawall was finally constructed after nearly 15 years of construction (and obstruction by environmental groups). This festival celebrates its completion with flag-themed exhibits, performances, and more. Events take place from Apr 23rd – 25th, but the flags are on display through May 2nd. Near Gunsan. flagfestival.kr, 063-280-3355
EDITOR’S PICK
Education & Conferences
JEJU CALENDAR EDITOR’S PICK
communist insurgents and government forces. Jeju Culture and Art Center. 4 & 7 pm. W5,000. 064-721-4967 April 20th Nayuta Choir from Geumbung-sa Temple In memory of the Ven. Juji, the monk who was killed along with his apprentices during the turmoil of the Jeju Uprising in 1948. Jeju Culture and Art Center. 7:30 pm. 010-3694-3767
Family & Community
Sports May 1st – 2nd
Jeju Gnarly Nines Ultimate Frisbee Tournament No balls, no refs, no gear, and no reason not to join in the high-spirited, low-contact fun of Jeju Island’s annual ultimate tournament. Players from all over Asia including China, Japan, Taiwan, Singapore, and the Philippines will be present in the events. This is your one chance to compete on some of the most beautiful grass in Asia (or just cheer on your team of choice and then party it up after). Teams must include a mixture of men and women at a ratio of 5 to 2. Gang Chang-hak Sports Complex in Seogwipo. koreaultimate.net, 064-747-7688
Art Ongoing Heung-su Kim and Gwang-jin Park Exhibit These two Korean painters’ works are featured in the permanent collection at the Jeju Contemporary Art Museum. 9 am – 6 pm. Adults W1,000, students W500. jejumuseum.go.kr, 064-710-7801
Theater & Dance Ongoing
JEJU ISLAND
72 | 10 Magazine April 2010
April 16th – 18th Woo Island Turban Shell Festival Just off the east coast of Jeju Island, this island is less than 6km 2 in size. You’ll find plenty of shellfish to try as well as good vigorous outside activities including a bicycle parade and a health walk. 064-783-0004 April 17th – 18th Mt. Halla Fern Festival Learn about the many folk uses of gosari, an edible kind of fern, which grows profusely on the eastern side of Halla Mountain. Along Namjo-ro in Namwon-eup, Seogwipo. culture.jeju.go.kr, 064-760-2662
JEJU ISLAND
Classes Woodcarving and Engraving Workshop Jeju Museum of Art. Weekdays 10 – 11:30 am, 2 – 3:30 pm; weekends 10 – 11:30 am, 2 – 4 pm. Yoga Classes Milana Hall in Shin Jeju. Mon 5:45 - 6:45 pm, Wed 7:30 - 8:30 pm. See the Jeju United Clubs group on Facebook for info on this and other classes. W15,000. bryantka55@hotmail.com
Nanta on Jeju Island Nanta, the nonverbal performance that got started ten years ago, is a feast for the ears that turns ordinary kitchen pots and pans into a rhythm section. Jeju Media Center in Samda (三多) Story: Wind Art Exhibit Jeju City (064-727-7800). 90 min. Sun 8 Referring to the old saying that Jeju has pm, Tue – Fri 8 pm, Sat 4 pm, 8 three things in abundance— VENUES pm. W40,000 - W50,000. ticket. women, rocks, and wind. This Jeju Culture and interpark.com, 1544-1555 exhibit focuses on the wind. Jeju Art Center. jejuculture.or.kr, Museum of Art. April 16th 064-710-7605 Jeju Museum Cats for Kids: Family Musical April 3rd – 7th of Art. Korean. JCAC.10:10 & 11:20 am, Hanmuk Society Exhibit 9 am – 6 pm. 1:10 pm. W16,000 in advance, Jeju Culture and Art Center. jmoa.jeju.go.kr, 010-5142-5258 W20,000. 010-8300-2410 061-710-4300
April 29th – May 3rd Korean-Vietnamese Calligraphy Exchange Exhibit
Dine & Drink
Religious Services
Through May 30th Econotest: Between Art and Language Work by 15 Korean artists examines the reciprocity between art and language and between image and text. Jeju Museum of Art.
April 13th – 18th Bu-eon Gang Exhibit On the 100th anniversary of the annexation of Korea by Japan. Jeju Culture and Art Center. 010-696-1100
April 10th – 11th Rape Flower Festival Head to this festival, taking place just as the rape flowers come to full bloom, covering the island with a blanket of brilliant yellow. Top picks include the flower parade and rock concert. Citizens Welfare Center in Jeju City. culture.jeju.go.kr, 064-760-2653
Sport & Fitness April 8th – 16th Seogwipo Men’s Tennis Tournament The municipal tennis courts in Seogwipo. seogwipo.go.kr, 064-763-2662
Jeju Anglican/Episcopal Church Sinjeju, 010-2500-6780
Through April 2nd Baengnokdam Exhibition Jeju Culture and Art Center. 010-2699-2150
April 13th – 17th “Island, Emptiness” Exhibit Jeju Culture and Art Center. 010-2699-2150
April 2nd – 4th Seosara Culture Street Festival Walk down streets lined with cherry blossom trees in this neighborhood festival located along Jeonnong-ro in Jeju City. 064-728-4531
April 14th – 16th International Green MICE Week Call it a meta-conference, since it’s a conferencing conference (MICE refers to the meetings, incentives, conferencing, and exhibitions industry). The theme refers to conserving energy, not radioactive rodents. International Convention Center Jeju. iccjeju.co.kr, 064-740-6076
Jeju Culture and Art Center. 016-695-0607
Through April 1st Jeju Green Picture Society Exhibition Jeju Culture and Art Center. 017-692-5026
April 8th – 12th Joint Exhibition of Jeju Island Photo Societies Jeju Culture and Art Center. 011-694-9000
April 1st – 5th Gapa Island Barley Festival To the north rise the gentle slopes of Halla Mountain; to the south, Mara Island, the southernmost point of Korean territory. After wandering around the island (which takes an hour at tops), join in festival events such as a dance performance by the Jeju Dance Company, free shellfish tasting, and more. jeju.go.kr, 064-760-4021
Education & Conferences
April 24th Nunsense: The Musical Korean. JCAC. 4:30 & 7:30 pm. W30,000 – W40,000. 080-005-0050
Concerts April 8th CBA Agape Choir Jeju Culture and Art Center. 7:30 pm. Free. 010-3699-8817 April 17th Jeju Uprising Concert Titled “Living on Wildflowers,” the songs at this concert are inspired by the heartbreaking struggle that began on April 3rd, 1948, between
Hotels/Accommodations Hotel Lotte Jeju 5-Star hotellotte.co.kr, 064-731-1000 Jeju Hiking Inn Hostel hikinginn.com, 064-763-2380
Medical Services Dr. Chung’s Pediatric Clinic chung56@pednet.co.kr, 064-748-1546 Hanna Women’s Clinic hannaobgy.com, 064-711-7717 Pyeonhan Dental Clinic e-pretty.co.kr, 064-758-2800
Radio Arirang Radio Jeju City Seoguipo City
FM 88.7 FM 88.1
Restaurants Bagdad Cafe Indian. Delicious, authentic Indian food made from local ingredients in a gorgeous atmosphere. Near City Hall in Jeju City. 064-757-8182 Dom Jang Japanese. Absolutely spectacular sushi and sashimi in several fabulous locations all over the island. By far the best atmosphere is in Jungmun. 064-738-2550 El Paso Mexican. Rather bland but adequate Mexican food in a central location in Jeju City. 064-752-8252
Island Gecko’s Western. A varied menu of terrific Western food, plus maybe the best cocktails and service on the island. The BBQ nights every weekend will blow you away with ribeye steak, sausages, and more for only W19,000. Jungmun. 064-739-0845
Bars/Lounges/Pubs Boris Brewery The brewer at the successful Modern Time Brewpub is opening up another shop with beer and Spanish sangria based on a 30-year-old recipe. 064-726-4141 Bull’s Darts Bar As the name suggests, they’ve got five dart boards, a variety of games, and even a women’s dart league. Near City Hall in Jeju City. 064-759-5559 La Vie No one’s quite sure whether it’s the company, the conversation, or arguably the best burger in Jeju that makes this such a popular watering hole for local expats. 064-700-1138
NETWORKING CALENDAR
Sponsored by Allied Pickfords Thursday, April 1st EFK International Seminar and EUCCK Monthly Luncheon Learn about the current business buzzwords “green” and “CSR” (corporate social responsibility). Simultaneous translation available. Grand Hyatt Hotel in Seoul. 9 am – 1:30 pm. Seminar only W40,000, luncheon only W70,000, both W100,000 (for non-members). eucck.org, 02-725-0382 Thursday, April 1st SIWA Newcomer’s Meeting New in Seoul, or looking to expand your network? This is your perfect chance to learn more about this great social and charitable organization. Seoul Club at 10 am. W8,000. siwapage.com Tuesday, April 6th AMCHAM General Members Meeting with General Walter Sharp Meet the commander of USFK, along with the rest of the AMCHAM membership. Grand Hyatt Hotel Regency Room, 11:30 am – 1:30 pm. W71,000 non-members. RSVP required by the 5th. amchamkorea.org Tuesday, April 6th AWC Coffee Morning The Kyung Woon Dancing Group will perform three classical dances. Check-in 9 - 9:30 am, enjoy socializing from 9:30 - 10 am and the program begins at 10 am. Grand Ambassador Hotel, 19th floor, W12,000 members, W15,000 nonmembers. Childcare free if you make your reservation in advance. awckorea.org Tuesday, April 6th EUCCK Luncheon with the Prime Minister of Belgium Belgian Prime Minister Yves Leterme will speak on the topic “Why and How to Invest in Belgium.” 12 – 1:40 pm. Grand Hyatt Grand Ballroom in Seoul. W60,000. eucck.org, 02-725-9887 Tuesday, April 6th SIWA Flower Arrangement Class Now that the flowers are out, wouldn’t it be nice to be able to do something with them?
Mrs. Hea Kim, who has been teaching floral arrangements and design for more than thirty years, will introduce you to the wonderful world of floral art. Dongbinggo-dong. W45,000 including materials and refreshments. siwapage.com
Representatives from the Suseonjae mediation program are here to show you the road to health, well-being, internal strength, and will-power. Grand Ambassador Hotel, 9:30 - 11:30 am. Members W12,000, non-members W17,000. siwapage.com
Saturday, April 10th 2S2 Expat Community Meetup Showing expats that the drinking circuit isn’t the only way to get connected. Held at various locations on the second Saturday of each month at 2 pm (hence the name). Search Facebook for 2S2 Community or visit 2s2community.blogspot.com. roboseyo@gmail.com
Sunday, April 25th ANZAC Day Luncheon A day of remembrance for the members of the Australia and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) who fought at Gallipoli during WWI. To be held at the Millennium Hilton Oak Room, 11:30 am - 4 pm. RSVP by April 23rd. austchamkorea.org
Tuesday, April 13th ANZA Global Cafe Mary-Jane Liddicoat will share about some personal tools and techniques that she has developed to help you deal with obstacles in your life and have more fun. Grand Hyatt Hotel Paris Grill & Bar at 10 am. Non-members W15,000. anzakorea.com Tuesday, April 13th R ASKB Lecture with Robert Neff Historian Robert Neff shares insights gleaned during his many years living and working in Korea. Somerset Palace, 2nd Floor. W5,000 for non-members. raskb.com, 02-763-9483 Saturday, April 17th AWC Spring Fling at Palazzo Due A seven-course gourmet dinner with choice of beef tenderloin or sea bass at Palazzo Due Italian restaurant in Insadong. W75,000 for non-members. RSVP to awcsocial@yahoo.com. awckorea.org Wednesday, April 21st SIWA Coffee Morning 2S2: 2nd Saturday at 2 PM ANZA: Australian and New Zealand Association of Korea AUSTCHAM: Australian Chamber of Commerce in Korea AWC: American Women’s Club BASS: British Association of Seoul
Tuesday, April 27th BASS Monthly Meeting at the Seoul Club The British Association of Seoul is hosting its monthly get together. Members and nonmembers are welcome at this relaxed morning tea. The Seoul Club, 10 am - 12 pm. basseoul@yahoo.co.uk
2010 May
THU
8 th
ANZA Ball: All That Glitters
ANZA is planning a gorgeous ball complete with divine food, excellent Australian and NZ wines, Australian DJ Scott Pullen, prizes, a raffle, and more. This delightful evening will be held at the ball room of the Grand Hyatt Seoul, located near Namsan. 6:30 pm. Members W220,000, non-members W240,000. RSVP by April 14th. anzakorea.com, anzakorearsvp@gmail.com
EFK: Europe-Korea Foundation EUCCK: European Union Chamber of Commerce in Korea RASKB : Royal Asiatic Society Korea Branch SIWA: Seoul International Women’s Association
NETWORKING CALENDAR 10 Magazine April 2010 | 73
Damn, It Feels Good to Be a Foreigner Words by Adam Boothe and artwork by Hyeon-seong Ryu
I
n Korea, I know what it’s like to be a hot chick. Don’t misunderstand; I am a red-blooded American male, complete with woefully placed patches of body hair and a stubborn gut. But here I get all the special treatment that is normally reserved for sexy ladies. Doors are opened and people give me attention that I don’t deserve. Not just attention, people also just give me things, all kinds of things. On a recent trip to the optometrist with my gyopo friend, I asked to buy a cloth for cleaning my glasses. Instead he gave us both free cloths and free glasses cases. My friend, bummed out because he never gets that kind of service, remarked “Damn man, you have foreigner powers.” I shrugged. All it takes is some white skin and big eyes, I told him. My best score to date was a free root canal. The dentist told me he wanted to give a good image to foreigners. God bless him, he did. I have accidentally gone to the head of a line, unknowingly cutting in front of dozens of people, only to be told "Uh, it's okay, just go in." They smile at me the same way you would a child. The smile says "Aww, he doesn't know any better. How cute." It must be nice to be an attractive woman and get this kind of VIP treatment everywhere. Being sexy (foreign) means never having to say I'm sorry. When I realized I had these new found powers, I wanted to push the limits. Like Peter Parker waking up to realize he was different, I wanted to crawl up some proverbial walls. Basically, I wanted to see what I could get away with. The answer is: a lot. I've always known that getting forgiveness is always much easier than asking for permission, but this was ridiculous. "I don't think we can go in that door." It's okay, we're foreigners. "Those seats are reserved." It's okay, we're foreigners. "We have to buy food if we want beer." It's okay, we're foreigners. Living here I have
free rein to ignore local laws, customs and all social etiquette. I have never felt more American in my life. This must be how beautiful women must feel all the time. Imagine a world where you never have to say please, never have to wait for anything, and never have to beg your way out of a speeding ticket. It's a wonderful thing. But like all great power, there is a dark side. Much like a pretty woman, I realized that people don't always take me seriously. What I mean is that my opinion is never really considered (or even asked for) when my Korean friends make plans. Usually I am just pulled from one place to the next with little to no input in the matter. It's like my ideas are not valid. I am just some sort of a foreigner bimbo. I'm a fimbo. And just like a bimbo, I am often times nothing more than arm candy, a mere photo op. I have had friends of friends (almost total strangers) pose for pictures with me. I can imagine the cyworld caption: “Hey, look at me with this white dude.” Can I blame them? I would be tempted to do the same if I were in the company of an attractive woman for the first time. I guess being a hot chick is not so easy after all. These powers are a blessing and a curse. To all the sexy ladies out there, I feel your pain.
Contribute to 10 Magazine Become a part of Korea’s one and only nationwide English-language magazine. • Share your knowledge with our readers • See your work on the printed page • Receive vouchers, tickets, and other perks 10 Magazine is currently looking for contributors all over Korea to assist with the directory and to provide articles. If you’re interested in gaining valuable writing experience and sharing your experience here with readers all across Korea, contact us at contribute@10magazine.asia. 74 | 10 Magazine April 2010
The 1st Annual
Itaewon Charity Bowling Classic HERE’S YOUR CHANCE TO SUPPORT YOUR FAVORITE ITAEWON ESTABLISHMENT and get out and do some good for our community. Contact one of the sponsors if you wish to join a team or simply come by to cheer on your contestants. There will be a cash bar, raffles, and giveaways throughout the afternoon.
Location: Hannam Lanes Date & Time:
Sunday, April 11th from 1 to 6 pm
Charity:
Proceeds go to “Another Home”, a safe house for abused women.
Information:
kevin@chilikingkorea.com or alryan@3alleypub.com
If you can't attend, but would like to contribute to "Another Home" (anotherhome.co.kr) you can deposit money to the following bank account: Kookmin Bank: 766-01-0013-310, Account Holder's Name: 또 하나의 집 ('another home' in Korean)
Our Gracious Sponsors:
Dillingers
Dolce Bless U Hollywood Grill Vita