Haps Magazine Issue 18 by Haps Magazine

2012 spring_ busanhaps.com

HAPS_spring 2012

Thursday Lottery Event Date: Every Thursday at 10:00pm Tickets: Given out Monday ~ Thursday Prize: 10 people will each receive 100,000won worth of Lucky Chips (total prize 1,000,000won).

Slot Machine Lottery Date: Prize:

Paradise Hotel 1F 1408-5 Joong-dong, Haeundae-gu, Busan, Korea www.paradisebusan.com Tel +82-51-749-3550 (Information Desk) +82-51-749-3386

The last Saturday evening of each month. Win designer luxury items and up to 5,000,000won in Lucky Chips.

Toyota Dealership Novotel Hotel

2012 spring_ busanhaps.com

HAPS_spring 2012

2012 spring_ busanhaps.com

CONTENTS On the Cover:

Kim Min-ah

FEATURES

Hit The Streets | 18 Celebrity Obsession | 20 Inside Story: The Art of Being Martin | 28 Kim Min-ah: Mamma Min-ah! | 26

REGULARS

SPORT

The Boys are Back | 24 Schedules: Lotte Giants & IPark | 33

TRAVEL

International: Nairobi | 30 Korea: Festivals | 32 Ask a Local | 32

DIRECTORY/GUIDES

HAPS_spring 2012

EDITOR’S LETTER As with my confusion of whether the millennium was in 2000 or 2001, I am sometimes at a loss when it comes to celebrating things at the right time. Should I congratulate someone on his or her divorce? Should I drink a toast to a friend becoming a lawyer? A relative turning ninety-five? A co-worker surpassing 1,000 Facebook “friends?” It’s all so confusing. When I realized that this was Issue 18 of our bi-monthly rag, I thought, “Hey! Third anniversary!” But no, that is not until Issue 19. Fooled again. Of one thing I am sure; much like myself on my 18th, this issue looks incredibly fresh and clean. The design duo of Russell and Kelvin has really done an excellent layout job, there’s some great content inside from our regulars, as well as a few new faces, and it’s all packaged up with expanded listings, events and more. Happy Spring. I think.

PUBLISHER

Ju Shin-hye

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Bobby McGill

MARKETING DIRECTOR

Michael Schneider ART DIRECTOR

Russell McConnell MANAGING EDITOR

Jeff Liebsch

WEBMASTER

Danny Himes MANAGER

Jeong Jin-bong WRITERS: Jen Sotham Michael Fraiman Hilary Kimuyu Brian Kilrain Mike Edmunds Daniel Panozzo Chris Tharp James Turnbull Bobby McGill Jeff Liebsch ILLUSTRATORS: Sarah Elminshawi

PHOTOGRAPHERS: Lee Byung-ryul Michael Fraiman BMC Peter DeMarco DESIGNERS: Kelvin Brassbridge INTERNS: Bae Hae-jin Kim Hyun-ah

TRANSLATION Kim Hyun-ah Jeong Hye-won

SUBMISSIONS busanhaps@gmail.com ADVERTISING busanhaps@gmail.com (English) j.busanhaps@gmail.com (한국어) Follow us @busanhaps Busan Haps Magazine BUSAN HAPS Spring 2012 Issue 18 BUSINESS REGISTRATION NUMBER: 00001 FIRST PUBLICATION DATE: Sept, 2, 2009 OFFICE ADDRESS: Ocean Tower #1726, 760-3, Woo 1 Dong, Haeundae-gu, Busan, Republic of Korea 612-822 www.busanhaps.com DISCLAIMER: The opinions in the magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. Questions or comments: busanhaps@gmail.com ©2012 Busan Haps Magazine

2012 spring_ busanhaps.com

H Regulars

CONTRIBUTORS

JEN SOTHAM

New York native, Jen Sotham, has been living in Busan since 2006. Her writing has appeared in magazines, guidebooks and anthologies, including Travelers’ Tales: Best Women’s Travel Writing 2008.

MICHAEL FRAIMAN

As a journalism school graduate, Michael is qualified to do many things with English – excluding teaching it to small children, which is what he’s actually paid to do.

CHRIS THARP

Chris hails from Washington State and has lived in Busan for over six years. When not when banging on a guitar or screaming into a microphone, he likes to write. If you buy him a drink he’ll tell you all about the times he met Kurt Cobain, but you probably already know the story.

HAPS_spring 2012

HILARY KIMUYU

Hilary Kimuyu lived in South Korea for six years and is now back home translating Korean in the Kenyan Law Court. He also regularly contributes to the People Newspaper in Kenya.

JAMES TURNBULL

Since coming to Korea in 2000, James has become widely known for his highly respected blog The Grand Narrative. He lives in Busan with his wife and two daughters, Alice and Elizabeth.

THE

Events & Culture

BIG

FIVE

THE MOTOR SHOW (GIRLS) ARE BACK

MAY 24TH - JUNE 3 RD The Busan International Motor Show returns this year under the theme “The Voyage of the Green Car Across the Ocean.” Though the name sounds like a children’s tale of a car with inflatable tires on an adventurous ocean trek, the Busan International Motor Show is not that. It is, as most motor shows around the world, a great place to check out the latest offering from the auto industry and take photos of hot ‘spokesmodels.’ The bi-annual event that alternates venues every other year between Busan and Seoul will be held at BEXCO from May 24th through June 3rd. tickets: 7,000 won @ eng.busanmotorshow.co.kr

HEAVYWEIGHT GLOBAL GROOVES: BASSMENT AT ALMOST FAMOUS

THE STAGE IS SET FOR BIPAF

GWANGAN BRIDGE WALK

MORRISSEY IN SEOUL

APRIL 21ST & MAY 12TH Big things are happening for the BASSment crew! The months of April and May will witness the arrival of some of Japan’s top-name DJs and MCs playing alongside residents Malbool, Griff and Professor. On tap for April 21st is DJ Yahman and Hajime Oishi, followed by BunBun the MC on May 12th. For more info, keep your eyes peeled to the Haps calendar and bring only good vibes!

MAY 6TH You’ve traversed it by car or bus, but now you can walk it during the annual Gwangan Bridge Walk. The BYOB event will feature Korean rock band Mudbrain, as well as an assortment of other entertainment all on the 7.5 km long Gwangan Bridge aka “The Diamond Bridge.” You can get more info on the Facebook group “Lovable Busan,” or check out the Korean language only site www.kookjetrail.com.

MAY 4TH - MAY 13TH The Busan International Performing Arts Festival is in its ninth year of entertaining audiences around the city. Performance teams from New Zealand, Taiwan, Belgium, Italy, Japan, China, and Korea come together under this year’s theme of “Hello Asia!”. Venues for the shows include the Busan Cultural Center, Busan Citizens' Hall, Kyungsung University (Concert Hall, Yeno Hall, Outdoor Stage), and Culture Alley Yongcheon Jiral Theater. You can get more information about tickets and performance times @ bipaf.org

MAY 6TH Named one of the most innovative indie musicians in history by New Music Express, former lead singer of The Smiths, Morrissey, will be performing at Ax Korea in Seoul at 7 p.m. on May 6th. The controversial singer has widely criticized leading musicians and politicians throughout his career, as well as caused media controversies about his statements on race and staunch views on animal rights and vegetarianism. tickets: 99,000 won @ interpark.co.kr 11 2012 spring_ busanhaps.com 9

H Regulars

WORD ON THE STREET

BASEMENT CELEBRATES TEN YEARS

VAGINA MONOLOGUES ARE BACK

It’s time to paint the town red! This will be Busan’s third year hosting V-Day, a global campaign to stop violence against women. 90% of the funds from all events will be donated to the Busan Nurim Women's Shelter in Yeonsan and 10% to the women and girls of Haiti. Come out, have fun, and support a good cause! V-DAY EVENTS: Thursday, April 22nd: V-Men, monologues written from the male perspective discussing violence against women. HQ Kyungsung, 4th floor, 5PM and 7PM. Tickets 8,000W in advance, 10,000W at the door. Thursday, April 26: Vagina Trivia at HQ Kyungsung, 8-11 PM. Cost is 2,000W per controller per game. Food and drink specials and a 50/50 raffle! Friday, April 27: Voices for Vaginas at Eva’s from 10 PM - 1 AM. Drink specials and door prizes along with some of Busan’s hottest female musical talent. Saturday, April 28th, 7PM and Sunday April 29th, 2PM and 7PM: The Vinyl Underground proudly presents three performances of Eve Ensler’s The Vagina Monologues. Tickets 12,000W in advance, 15,000W at the door. Advance tickets for V-Men and TVM will be on sale April 1st at HQ (Kyungsung & Jangsan), Eva’s, Fully Booked, and Crossroads. Check Haps Calendar for more details.

CHINESE WIVES RECRUITED AS TOUR GUIDES As the number of Chinese tourists visiting Busan grows, the city has gotten creative in addressing their needs. To give Chinese travelers to Busan a more convenient level of service, the City of Busan is recruiting Chinese brides who have married Korean men to show Chinese tourists around. The city initially chose 20 Chinese wives in March, and have placed them around the city at major tourist sites. According to the city newspaper Dynamic Busan, “Those who are selected will receive training to improve their general knowledge of the city and its tourism assets and history. They will also be instructed on local culture.” Chinese tourism ranks second in the city, next to Japanese visitors. 10 HAPS_spring 2012

Not a lot of bars, or many other service establishments in Busan for that matter, can lay claim to having survived ten years. Basement, the jewel of PNU, has not only survived, but has flourished, and anyone who has been in Busan for more than 15 minutes has some sort of Basement story to tell. Head down to PNU Saturday, April 14th and drink a toast to a Busan expat institution. As usual, there will be great live music on tap, cheap drinks, and general mayhem. www.busanhaps.com/nightlife/basement

BREEZE BURNS DONE, BURGER AND PASTA TAKES OVER Breeze Burns around the city are closing down, and the increasingly popular Burger and Pasta (brought to you by the same owners of Thursday Party) will be opening their third restaurant, in Breeze Burns old digs in Haeundae, across from Fuzzy Navel near the beach and will open April 12th. Burger and Pasta, which opened its first location in Kyungsung a few years back, is considered by many to make a much better burger and offers a wide variety of pasta dishes and a good selection of wine. www.busanhaps.com/food/burger-andpasta-haeundae

Community & Living

NEW BUSAN PORT CELEBRATES FIRST ANNIVERSARY From Friday June 1st to Sunday June 3rd, various locations in Busan are to be transformed into family-friendly seaside tourist attractions, as the city celebrates its 5th annual port festival. This year, the Busan Port Festival’s theme is “Marine Theme Park” with events split into categories including entertainment, education, and history and innovation. Mr. Park, Busan Port’s Marketing Director, says “In light of the port’s record breaking achievements, this year’s festival is set to be bigger and better than ever.” For more information on the festival schedule, visit www.festival.busan.co.kr or www.busanpa.com

KAI SURF SHOP OPEN FOR BUSINESS

While you may not think of Busan as a surfing destination, it attracts a dedicated amount of surfers who brave the waters in Gwangan, Haeundae and Songjong daily. Kai Surf Shop, the newest pro shop for everything surf carries a great selection of apparel and anything you need to get your surf on. Located in Gwangan-li, they provide lessons and rentals in English and carry top quality brands such as Surfer Girl, Spider and Ocean & Earth. www.kaiyoung.com or call 051-753-2746

FULLY BOOKED

Looking for a good selection of English books and a nice spot to sit and enjoy them? Fully Booked in Kyungsung-dae has a wide variety of books for your reading pleasure, as well as board games which you can play while enjoying a soft drink, beer, or a glass of wine. www.busanhaps.com/fullybooked 2012 spring_ busanhaps.com 11

H Regulars

IN THE NEWS FOREIGN BASED AIR CARRIERS ON THE RISE The number of overseas carriers plying air routes to and from Korea has surged in recent years, which should bode well for reducing fares as competition grows among airlines looking to snatch a greater share of the local aviation market, which last year saw nine million inbound passengers and 42.7 million headed out. The number of foreign carriers operating routes in and out of Korea has risen from forty-five in 2001, to seventy-three as of February this year.

LOCAL NUCLEAR POWER PLANT COVER UP According to South Korea’s nuclear safety authority, several engineers are being charged for covering up an electricity failure at the aging Gomi nuclear plant outside of Busan in February. During the incident, main power to the reactor was lost for 12 minutes and the emergency generator failed to kick in. Power was eventually restored and there was no radioactive material released into the atmosphere according to officials. In a released statement, the Nuclear Safety and Security Commission (NSSC) expressed “regret” that the incident had been covered up for more than a month until coming to light. The fact that engineers would cover up an electricity failure created a stir across the country, raising questions of what would happen in the event of a more serious incident. During a televised press conference, NSSC chairman Kang Sang-sun said that, “A chief engineer and his colleagues had covered it up for more than a month. They will be thoroughly held responsible, legally and administratively as well.”

KOREA DROPS IN PRESS FREEDOM RANKINGS

‘PLEASE LOOK AFTER MOM’ WINS MAN PRIZE

South Korean novelist Shin Kyung-sook’s Please Look After Mom, a story of a vulnerable mother who goes missing in Seoul, has won the annual Man Asian literary prize. Shin is both the first woman and the first South Korean to take the $30,000 award, and was chosen over well-known contenders including Haruki Murakami, Amitav Ghosh, Tahmima Anam and Banana Yoshimoto by a panel of judges who choose the best novel written by a citizen of an Asian country, either published in English or translated into English. 12 HAPS_spring 2012

According to the annual Press Freedom Index compiled by Reporters Without Borders, South Korea ranks 44th in the world just below South Africa and Botswana. The drop in ranking comes at a time when reporters at Korea’s two largest networks, MBC and KBS continue targetted work boycotts demanding that the CEOs of both news organizations step down for what they claim is biased news coverage of the Lee Myung-bak administration. Over the course of the strike, which started in late January, three of the six main MBC news programs have been suspended due to walkouts by reporters.

Korean & World News

SOUTH KOREAN NOODLE MAKERS FINED FOR PRICE-FIXING The government’s fair trade watchdog recently slapped fines totalling $151.3 million on the country’s four major noodle makers for price-fixing. Nongshim, Samyang Foods, Ottogi and Korea Yakult were charged with fixing the price of instant noodles on six different occasions from 2001 through 2010, according to South Korea’s Fair Trade Commission. The FTC’s investigation found that the four companies, whose combined market share is almost 100 percent, systematically exchanged information for setting the market price of instant noodles, a staple in the Korean diet. Nongshim took the lion’s share of the fine for its key role in the price-rigging. The company, which accounts for around 70 percent of the country’s $1.8 billion instant noodle market, was fined $94 million.

DR. HWANG BACK WITH A WOOLY MAMMOTH A private South Korean research institute led by disgraced stem cell scientist Hwang Woo-suk recently announced their collaboration with a Russian university to clone a woolly mammoth. A spokesperson for the Institute of Applied Ecology in Siberia’s Yakutsk told reporters, “The egg will then be placed into the womb of the elephant,

who will bear the fetus for 22 months before hopefully giving birth to a live baby mammoth.” Hwang has been hard at work trying to rebuild his reputation after evidence of fabricated data and embezzlement of research funds came to light in 2006, causing his dismissal from Seoul National University.

2012 spring_ busanhaps.com 13

H Regulars

Style & Beauty

BEAUTY GUIDE BOBBI BROWN POT ROUGE FOR LIPS AND CHEEKS

KIEHL’S CLEARLY CORRECTIVE DARK SPOT REMOVER

If you are starting to get some age spots or just have a touch of discoloration you would like to rid yourself of, Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective has gotten good reviews on many independent skin care blogs. Instead of Vitamin C (which is great for skin brightening but tends to be unstable), Kiehl’s labs have formulated what’s called Activated C, which can swiftly break apart discolorations and prevent formation of new discolorations while remaining active for a longer time. It is available at the four Lotte Department Stores around the city.

BENEFIT BROW ZINGS SHAPING KIT

Benefit Brow Zings includes all the accessories you need for clean, smooth, perfectly-defined brows. The easy on your pocket kit includes a soft, pigmented wax for defining and shaping brows and a color complementing setting powder to keep them looking just right, plus discreet tweezers for those pesky little stray hairs. There is also a hard angle brush, and a blending brush to complete the set. 14 HAPS_spring 2012

Bobbi Brown’s top-selling Pot Rouge is a multi-tasking cream that gives cheeks and lips a healthy, natural-looking flush. This cream-based formula is great for a sheer, stained finish and is available in a wide array of color choices for a variety of skintones. Rub a little between your fingers to warm it up and then apply it to the apples of your cheeks for a fresh glow. Apply it to your lips with a clear gloss over for maximum color richness.

PEAR FECTO TANNING LOTION

One concern for industries hoping to benefit from reduced FTA tariffs, is that vendors sometimes pocket the difference rather than passing the savings on to consumers. We give you: Pear Fecto tanning lotion. The Swedish-made bottle of skin-nourishing-goodness retails for about $16 on Amazon.com and you can get it here in Korea online and in selected shops for just under $70. While you are getting severely burned by local retailers, you at least won’t be burned by increased exposure to the sun in the coming months.

CHANEL ILLUSION D’OMBRE EYESHADOW

Chanel’s Illusion D’Ombre has a very soft texture and feels nothing like your average cream shadow, which is why its become so popular since its release. The pigmentation is rich and the colors transfer to your eyes very well. You should apply an eyeshadow primer first for maximum hold, and then apply a powder shadow on top for extra depth. The metallic finish is beautiful, and it truly gives you luminous eyes.

2012 spring_ busanhaps.com 15

H Regulars

MATERIAL WORLD

SAMSUNG SERIES 5 ULTRABOOK Samsung’s answer to Mac (aren’t they all really just that?) is a cheaper alternative to the Samsung’s Series 7 and Series 9, which were both hits in the PC review-o-sphere last year. Though the $1,000 Series 5 doesn’t match up in head-to-head performance tests with similar brands in its price range, the 15” configuration is actually lighter than smaller 14” competitors and promises five hours of battery life. If you’re not a gamer looking for highend performance, it’ll do just fine. And, it’s DJ Chad approved!

THE CULLIGAN RAINDISC SHOWERHEAD As the weather warms, you’re going to be sweating more and (hopefully) taking more showers. Go ahead and replace that water spigot of a showerhead you have now and install something that’ll make you want to stay in there all day. For a mere $50, you could soon be basking ‘neath the flow of a Culligan RainDisc showerhead. It also has a wider spread than most others on the market – in the event your loved one stinks too and you want to share the cleansing experience together.

CANARD FLEECE DUCK BOOTS

A HOUSE PLANT Many of our readers are teachers in Korea. And many of those are living in cramped, subsidized studios that often lack, shall we say...comfort? Sprucing your place up with a few plants is a cheap and effective way to liven up su casa and bring some of the good growth vibes of spring inside. Which, come June, you will be seeing a lot of when the rainy season rolls in.

Thanks to the recently passed KORUS FTA, we are happy to report that the previously outrageous prices for top of the line import sportswear is set to take a tumble. To assure that you don’t take a tumble when you’re out there enjoying Korea’s great spring weather on mountain high, get yourself a good pair of hiking boots. You can pick up a pair of Timberland Canard Fleece Duck Boots around town or online for about $100.

A GYM MEMBERSHIP Come on, admit it. You’ve been putting off the promise to exercise all winter. The lame excuses of needing ‘insulation’ have played out and before you know it, you’ll be beachside at the water’s edge trying to get an inner-tube around your inner-tube, while your in-shape chingu’s strain to maintain eye contact during beach blanket conversations. Monthly gym fees are cheap, and there’s one in nearly every neighborhood, often with in-house saunas and all the amenities. Go. Now! 16 HAPS_spring 2012

Gadgets & Gear

LG 50 INCH PLASMA TV The LG 50 (model no. 50PA6500) offers up an incredibly crisp, Full HD 1080 image with superior picture quality over standard HDTV. You’ll see colors and details that are vivid reminders of why only those with really good skin can cut it in the high-def modern age of broadcast media. What is neither clear nor vivid is why, in the whacky world of Korean domestic sales, the $1,200 price tag in the ROK is nearly $300 more than what you would pay abroad.

A JUICER While the warming weather is good for goings-on outside, don’t forget that your inside life just got better too as the seasonal fruits start making their way back to market and the long winter of luxury-item priced produce is over. Depending on your budget, a good juicer will run you anywhere from $100 to $500 and are available at all the major grocery chains.

MOSQUITO DEFENSE You’re not the only one that enjoys the good weather. Humanity’s arch nemesis, the female mosquito (“mo-gi” in Korean), will be making her debut soon enough. While her mate will be off doing the useful work of pollinating flowers, she will be hard at work trying to spread the plague. There are several counter-measures available, ranging from incense-like, caveman smoke remedies to wall-socket sonic frequency emitters. Our favorite line of defense, and the most fun, is the zapper tennis racket, which you can pick up just about anywhere for about ten bucks. It’s a guilt free way to go on a killing spree and work out your inner Dexter. After all, the “mo-gi” is designed for little more than a human population check and deserves its fiery fate. 2012 spring_ busanhaps.com 17

HStreet GUIDE

HIT THE STREETS: SIX RULES TO SHOP BY WHEN SHOPPING UNDER AN UMBRELLA WRITING & PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL FRAIMAN

early every morning, an old Korean man sits on a white plastic stool near the southbound Bomnaegol bus stop and sells apples. Business suits hurry by while he sits patiently, in his tackle vest and fleece, occasionally pounding his thighs as older Koreans do, to keep the blood pumping. I call him the “Apple Man”, because when I first noticed him his cart was filled with apples, which he sells seven for 3,000 won. My first purchase from the Apple Man was entirely unremarkable until I got home and took that first bite, realizing how literally life-changingly good it was, and how all seven of those red, unwaxed beauties cost nearly half the price of what I’d found in most supermarkets. Buying fruit off the street – or fish, or ironing boards, or whatever – can be a daunting experience for a myriad of reasons. But it’s worth it. A head of broccoli should cost 1,000 won, not 2,500; a bunch of bananas is 3,000; a giant radish is 1,000 – and the food’s often fresher to boot. On that note, here’s some stuff I’ve figured out based on my naive experiences dealing with wizened Koreans in aprons: 18 HAPS_spring 2012

1. DON’T BE INTIMIDATED. Remember: you’re dealing with human beings. Asking the price of something is as easy as slurring out your best “Eeh-goh, ohl-mah-yeh-yo?” Vendors will often show you with their fingers since they assume you don’t speak Korean. If you think 3,000 won is too much for cabbage (it is), or the cabbage is browning (it might be), just walk away and find another vendor. No one will chase after you (not a guarantee), and you’ll find someone else selling cabbage within the radius of a city block (98% guarantee). 2. NUMBERS ARE A UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE. I once tried to buy a cucumber from a woman around the corner from me, and she confidently charged me 5,000 won. I asked her again, and she stuck five fingers at me, rapidly saying other things I did not understand. I now refer to her as “Racist Cucumber Lady” and we glare at each other when I walk past her shop twice a day. The lesson: if you want to avoid confrontations, stick to products with handwritten price tags. No rip-offs, no inflation: you pay what everyone else pays.

3. IF IT LOOKS BAD, IT PROBABLY IS. “Supermarket fresh” is a term Westerners have been raised to be wary of, which implies that a street purchase is automatically the healthier, greener choice. This is untrue. Just because a man is selling tomatoes on the street, it does not mean those tomatoes are a) locally grown, b) healthier, or c) pesticide-free. Produce can be sold out of season, so if it looks off, trust your judgment and walk away. 4. IF IT COMES FROM A CART, YOU’RE (PROBABLY) GOOD TO GO. For whatever reason, homogeneity in a wooden box with wheels often leads to a cheaper and tastier product. Don’t ask why. 5. TAKE TIME TO FIND THE SWEET SPOTS. I have the “Apple Man” for apples, the “Miscellaneous Dried Food Lady” for peanuts and onions, and the “Old Lady Who Sometimes Wanders Off Leaving Me Standing Like An Idiot Alone For Five Minutes” for eggs and bean sprouts. It took a few weeks of walking home from school to discover which routes lead to which vendors, and which vendors have the best products and prices, but my bank account has thanked me.

6. YOU’LL FEEL MORE LIKE A KOREAN. I’m a sucker for cultural immersion, and refrained from eating Western-style food for the better part of my first two months here. Yes, shopping at E-Mart and HomePlus can be culturally challenging in its own way, but just a walk through Seomyeon’s market alleys has made me feel more like a citizen who actually lives here. In these moments, I’ve seen Busan for what it is: a beautiful, intricate city made up of thousands of people trying to make a living, strike a deal, coming together in clusters to talk and shop and drink until the next day, when they do it all again. To ignore these people is – for me, anyway – to ignore people like the Apple Man, who helps make up this city in small doses by just sitting on his white plastic stool all day. I have never seen him come or go, but I know that he has been here long before me, and will remain here long after I travel on.

OPPOSITE: A WOMAN SKINS AN EEL IN THE JAGALCHI FISH MARKET LEFT: A GRAIN VENDOR IN NAMPO-DONG RIGHT: A FISH VENDOR SEOMYEON MARKET.

2012 spring_ busanhaps.com 19

HSocial

ISSUE

THE AD INDUSTRY’S CELEBRITY OBSESSION BY JAMES TURNBULL

I’VE JUST SEEN A FACE. AGAIN AND AGAIN AND AGAIN. If you’ve spent any significant length of time in Korea, then it may be to assume so. Rather, using celebrities works because you’ll have noticed the same celebrity faces in ads time and it exploits two universal, interrelated human instincts – that we time again. Whether it’s Kim Tae-hee, Girls’ Generation, Gong have a natural inclination to associate in groups; and that, to Yoo, or 2PM, you just can’t escape them. Be it ads on public aid in this, we generally trust the opinions of people that we transportation, billboards or on TV, they’re seemingly every- feel are similar to us, and/or that we know well. Whether we’ve where you turn. met them in person, or only know them from TV. In fact, roughly two-thirds of Korean ads have celebrities, as Consider the effects this has on our decision making with a opposed to 10% in most other developed countries. And it’s practical example. been like that for over a decade. Redundancy seems to be the Back when I first joined Facebook, I soon got addicted to rule when it comes to advertising. ‘friending’ new people. If they were women, and if they were But is this an entirely negative thing? Not necessarily. hot, then, well, I couldn’t click fast enough. But then one day, Many Koreans are just as tired of seeI suddenly realized that I’d actually ing the same celebrities everywhere. on one woman’s profile mostly “IT’S HOLDING BACK clicked Also, it’s easy to see how an over-relibecause her birthday was close to mine. THE REPUTATION OF Two other recommendations had been ance on them would stifle creativity in the Korean advertising industry. In the KOREAN ADVERTISING equally attractive, but I’d ignored them words of Bruce Haines, the current and OVERSEAS.” [AND] “IN because theirs weren’t. first foreign president of Korea’s largAnd once I checked, it turned out a ITS CRUDEST FORM, disproportionate number of my new est advertising agency, Cheil Worldwide, “it’s holding back the reputation of KOREAN ADVERTISING “friends” likewise had birthdays in March. Korean advertising” overseas, and that Was that due to Facebook deliberately DEGENERATES TO “in its crudest form, Korean advertising recommending fellow Pisceans to me, or BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE was that due to my own self-selection? I degenerates to beautiful people holding HOLDING A BOTTLE.” can’t say. But either way, what was hapa bottle.” On the other hand, endorsements by pening sounds a lot like a phenomenon Girls’ Generation, the most prolific of the lot, have generally known as “basking in reflected glory,” as described by author resulted in huge sales increases for the companies that hire Jake Halpern in his 2006 book Fame Junkies: them. After they advertised Woongjin Conway water puri…In [a] study, students – there were several hundred of them fiers in April 2011, for instance, sales rose 400% compared to – read a short biography of Rasputin…you know, the villain the same period a year earlier. Likewise, Manchester United of Russian history. For half of them they customized the tests partner Shinhan Bank has managed to sell over a million credit so that Rasputin had the same birthday as you – without you cards with Park Ji-sung’s face emblazoned on them. knowing. So you’re like…imagine that your actual birthday is What’s more, these huge successes are not necessarily due to July 28th, so Rasputin is born July 28th…whenever. So [stuanything unique in the Korean psyche, no matter how natural dents] that had the same birthday as Rasputin were, across the 20 HAPS_spring 2012

board, more likely to say “Rasputin was a misunderstood man in history. He was notorious but he was great and he played an important role, and that shouldn’t be forgotten.” And this is just because they share a birthday! Halpern was speaking in the U.K. documovie Starsuckers (2009), in which the narrator then went on to comment: The power of association, with someone who’s famous or even infamous, is far more potent than we even realize. In other words, if we’re all more likely to pay attention to someone simply because they’re born at the same time as us, then it to stands to reason that our favorite celebrity’s endorsement of a product would carry much more weight than that of an anonymous model or actor. This also explains the abundance of “making of” videos here in Korea, too – they’re a means of persuading viewers that celebrities are just like us, to encourage us to make associations with them in our minds. After all, why else would companies willingly ruin the fantasies they’ve tried to create in their expensive commercials? Or present celebrities in such unglamorous situations as getting food all over their faces while slurping noodles, or running for the bathroom? Heck, it’s no wonder that Koreans generally don’t hold celebrities on a pedestal, and will often judge them severely for even the slightest of misdemeanors. So, the next time you sigh at seeing a familiar face in a Korean ad, consider the fact that they’re probably the reason you’re paying any attention to it at all. Ultimately, the question may not be why Korean advertisers use celebrities so much, but rather why Western advertiser’s don’t! James Turnbull’s popular blog, The Grand Narrative, discusses Korean sociology through gender, advertising, and popular culture, and has become one of the leading Internet sources on those topics, with mentions in Time Magazine, The Washington Post and Jezebel. 2012 spring_ busanhaps.com 21

HInside

STORY

THE ART OF

BEING MARTIN BY BOBBY McGILL PHOTOGRAPHY BY PETER DEMARCO

EVERY EXPAT HAS A STORY TO TELL. MARTIN VERMEULEN HAS AN ESPECIALLY GOOD ONE.

It’s a cool, mid-March afternoon on the third floor of the Netherland Art Gallery on Haeundae’s Dalmaji Hill. Unlike its uninspired charcoal grey exterior, the Netherland on the inside is awash with sunshine and style. It resembles a small lighthouse, squeezed square in the center, stretched out on either end and terraced going up. There is living space and gallery rooms atop a steep spiral staircase that ascends white walls on the outskirts of hardwood floors. On a large glass table, in a paintbrush reach of an easel, the curator, Leeann, lays out coffee and tea and a plate of brownies cut into perfect little squares. I am sitting across the table from the gallery’s proprietor, Martin Vermeulen. He’s on the phone. He’s speaking in his native Dutch peppered with the occasional mildly-spoken American expletive. Both our languages descend from the West Germanic tongue, so I am able to recognize a few words here and there, but I already know what he is talking about anyway. Apologizing after taking the second of two calls, Martin explained that his guest for the week, the head of Indonesia’s largest mining concern, had been detained by immigration in Seoul after plying the gates to Korea with an Indonesian passport. He’s come to purchase tens-of-millions of dollars in Korean-made machinery, but there will be no special exceptions at Incheon Airport today, he’s been ordered out of the country. Have a nice flight, thank you for coming. On the three or four occasions I have met Martin Vermeulen over the past few months, I’ve come to find his personality best described as ‘buoyant.’ There is a sunny air about him; he’s quick to smile, quicker to laugh and at light speed headed for the handshake. Yet, as he deals with the dilemma of having one of Indonesia’s wealthiest men being held at Korea’s front door with blank check in hand, I am waiting for a 22 HAPS_spring 2012

crack in the Dutchman’s facade. Perhaps Martin is the inverse of this gallery he opened last November; bright and sunny on the outside but dark and grey within. My conjecture proves wrong. He hangs up the phone, emits something short of a sigh, and then smiles. “Well, it looks like my schedule for next week just opened up, we should grab some dinner on Thursday!” Perhaps it’s the boyish grin, or the slightly unkempt hair, but he comes across as well short of his fifty-five trips around the sun. And yet, if life experience were the gauge of age, he would look much closer to one hundred. Martin Antoon Vermeulen was born in Utrecht, the Netherlands in 1957. His father was a man of adequate means, but decided that upon finishing high school young Martin should make his own way sans fatherly funding. He put himself through Cambridge, doing his undergraduate work in mechanical engineering and his graduate studies in automotive engineering. After leaving Cambridge he took a job as a junior design engineer with a small Dutch auto parts firm. Whereas most stories of an engineer, stepping out into the real world, would coast right along to a middling “the end,” this is where much of what makes Martin Martin begins. After Cambridge, he spent his twenties working up the company ladder, eventually garnering the attention of international automotive giants, who would later hire him away for his innovations, his fluency in seven languages and his gift for gab in each. While his bread and butter would always be engineering, his work after work would be much of what would come to define him. His first venture was restoring old cars and reselling them. “We would take cars that were totalled by the insurance companies, fix them up and then sell them for a really good profit,” he says, with a smile that implies it was a business at times a

bit shady and the characters involved even more so. All the while he was still working as an engineer, over the years In the 1980’s, using his engineer’s salary and the money made earning respect for his innovative work in the automotive field. from selling cars, he started buying houses near universities With the golden tongue of a salesman and technical credentials with the intent of renting them to students. To call them “hous- to back it up, he was soon hired away by the century-old Geres” might cause you to summon up an image of habitability. man conglomerate, Bosch, to push their newly developed AntiThat they were not, says Martin. lock Braking System. “The houses were derelict, most of them were singled out by The role of traveling salesman wasn’t easy on his family life. “I the government to be torn down. Labor was very expensive and was always on the road back then,” he recalls. “When my son no one wanted to invest to restore them, was a little boy he told his classmates so I did.” “I WAS ALWAYS ON THE that I was working at Amsterdam Airport, After bringing a house to code, he because he always picked me up and ROAD BACK THEN,” would divvy it up into separate rooms brought me there.” with communal kitchens and showers, After six years traveling to eighty-six HE RECALLS. “WHEN and pack as many students in as regulacountries and bringing millions in sales MY SON WAS A LITTLE to Bosch, he decided it was time to go tion would allow. Before long he owned seven houses in all, generating a tidy sum freelance and pocket more for himself. BOY HE TOLD HIS of monthly rental income. “It was then,” as Martin says, “I had way CLASSMATES THAT Thomas Edison famously spoke of inspitoo much money coming in, a decent ration and perspiration, but the inventor, amount in the bank and that’s when I WAS WORKING AT in his wealth of wisdom, neglected to things went wrong.” factor in luck. Good luck for Martin was AMSTERDAM AIRPORT, Though the analogy sounds trite for an The Netherlands’ infamous housing bubautomotive he took to life in BECAUSE HE ALWAYS the fast lane.engineer, ble. So extreme was the rise in the Dutch He mixed expensive whisPICKED ME UP AND housing market that The Economist then key with expensive cars; one of which he called it “the most overvalued housing in into a river and a three-day stint in BROUGHT ME THERE.” drove Europe,” with analysts as recently as 2010 the pokey. He bought a yacht, shot lions pegging it at over 100% above actual value. Boom, suddenly in South Africa and partied around the world until finally, much Martin was loaded. to his surprise, his marriage was over and he had spent more By now he was married with a young son at home, living the money than he had. very definition of a comfortable life. Great job, nice car, big “I was in the Bahamas and the bank blocked my credit card. I house and more money than he could spend. Ever the entre- had to borrow money for a plane ticket from an American I had preneur, Martin then started a soup and bagel restaurant, ex- just met to get back to Holland. We’re still good friends today.” panding to several locations before selling it off as a franchise, One-hundred grand in debt, he mined his connections back building even further on his financial success. home for engineering work. CONTINUED ON PAGE 47 2012 spring_ busanhaps.com 23

HSports

TALK

THE BOYS OF SUMMER

ARE BACK

BUSAN’S FAVORITE BOYS OF SUMMER ARE BACK FOR ANOTHER SHOT AT THE KOREAN BASEBALL ORGANIZATION TITLE.

aseball season is once again upon us, and in Busan that means one thing – the Lotte Giants are back. Busan’s favorite boys of summer once again hit the field at Sajik Stadium starting April 7th for another grueling 132 game schedule, and coach Yang Seungho is back for his second season at the helm. Lotte finished second in the standings last year after a huge second half surge, but failed to make the finals losing to eventual runner-ups, the SK Wyverns. This season will feature a huge change for Lotte, as MVP Lee Dae-ho has packed his bags to move to Japan’s Orix Buffaloes. They do still have most of their core players intact with Hong Seunghoon, Kang Min-ho, Cho Seung-hwan, Sohn Ah-seop and Jeon Joon-woo, and are counting on new first baseman Park Jung-woo to pick up where Lee Dae-ho left off. The pitching staff looks to be improved

over last year with Go Won-joon, Ryan Sadowski, Song Seung-joon, and new import Shane Youman. Lotte also bolstered their staff by adding former Baltimore Orioles prospect Jeong Dae-hyeon and Lee Seung-ho to help bolster the bullpen with Kim Sa-yeol and Lim Kwang-won. The loss of last year’s ace Jang Won-joon to the army may hurt, but Lotte is confident that they will be able to win the close games this year. The season runs from April through October, and if you have never been to a Lotte game, it is truly one of the more exciting events to do during the summer in Busan. Whether you like baseball or not, the atmosphere of the games is electrifying, and it’s easy to get swept up in the moment, especially when drinking, eating and singing are all encouraged, and it’s one of the best places that expats and locals alike share a common bond. Tickets for the games are very reasonable, starting at 7,000 won a piece.

LOTTE GIANTS SCHEDULE Saturday, April 7 - Hanwha Sunday, April 8 - Hanwha Friday, April 13 - Doosan Saturday, April 14 - Doosan Sunday, April 15 - Doosan Tuesday, April 17 - SK Wednesday, April 18 - SK Thursday, April 19 - SK Friday, April 27 - LG Saturday, April 28 - LG Sunday, April 29 - LG Tuesday, May 8 - Samsung Wednesday, May 9 - Samsung Thursday, May 10 - Samsung Tuesday, May 15 - Nexen Wednesday, May 16 - Nexen Thursday, May 17 - Nexen Friday, May 18 - KIA Saturday, May 19 - KIA Sunday, May 20 - KIA Tuesday, May 29 - LG Wednesday, May 30 - LG Thursday, May 31 - LG

MATT MCKAY JOINS IPARK

BUSAN IPARK SCHEDULE

Wednesday, April 11 - Seoul FC Saturday, April 21 - Gangwon Saturday, May 5 - Gyeongnam Sunday, May 13 - Daegu Monday, May 28 - Chunnam 24 HAPS_spring 2012

Aussie Footballer of the Year Matt McKay has joined the Busan IPark, replacing Iain Fyfe on the squad for 2012. The 1.71m Brisbane-born midfielder joined the club from Rangers in Scotland. The 29-year-old led the Brisbane Roar to their first ever A-League championship and premiership in the 2010-11 season. He’s also been capped 23 times for the Socceroos.

RUGBY FEVER

It’s been a great 12 months for rugby, with the All Blacks winning the Rugby World Cup last year and the conclusion of the recent Six Nations, but that doesn’t mean the excitement of the sport will wane anytime soon. If you’re looking to catch some games on the screen this year, Beached Bar in Gwangan-li is known to be the spot to watch. Though the bar is very pro-All Black, Kiwi native Craig Morrison shows all kinds of games ranging from major tourneys to pro leagues, as well as provides great Kiwi beer and a delicious New Zealand-style menu unique to Busan. The Wolfhound in Haeundae is also a great spot for rugby lovers, and it’s a great spot to get a real rugby vibe, while also indulging in their extensive menu. The Wolf opens at 11 a.m. on the weekends and serves an all day breakfast, and are well-known for their famous “no bullshit” pour policy.

KIM YU-NA RETURNS

2010 Vancouver Olympics gold medalist Kim Yu-na returns to the ice for the first time in nine months in May, featuring in the “E1 All That Skates Spring 2012,” scheduled from May 4 to 6 at Seoul Olympic Stadium. The 23-year-old is making her first skating appearance in the country since last August. She will also be joined by 2010 men’s gold medalist, American Evan Lysacek. 2012 spring_ busanhaps.com 25

HCover STORY

26 HAPS_spring 2012

MAMMA

MIN-AH! BY JEFF LIEBSCH

TRANSLATION BY JEONG HYE-WON AND KIM HYUN-AH

SHE’S SMART, SHE’S BEAUTIFUL, AND SHE KNOWS HER SPORTS. MBC SPORTS+ ANNOUNCER MIN-AH KIM OPENS UP ABOUT HER PATH TO BECOMING A FIXTURE IN THE KOREAN SPORTS JOURNALISM FIELD.

2012 2012spring_ spring_busanhaps.com busanhaps.com 27

HCover STORY

rowing up as a kid near the Windsor/Detroit border, I was afforded the luxury of growing up with one of baseball’s best broadcasters of the game ever – Ernie Harwell. Harwell was considered so good at announcing that he is the only announcer ever to be traded for a player. (In 1948, the Brooklyn Dodgers traded catcher Cliff Dapper to the minor-league Atlanta Crackers in exchange for Harwell’s broadcasting contract.) Listening to Harwell announce the Tigers games made me a baseball fan from a very young age, which led me to watch Mel Allen hosting “This Week in Baseball” religiously. TWIB, as it is commonly referred, focused simply on giving weekly highlights of games before the onslaught of ESPN and 24-hour sports entertainment began. So when moving to Korea nearly 15 years ago, I was pleased to find out that baseball, or ya-gu in Korean, was at the time, one of the more popular sports on the peninsula. As 24-hour sports broadcasting grew, so did the persona’s of some of the games best callers, and hosts of the programs. Erin Andrews for instance, a sideline reporter for ESPN known for her stunning beauty, has about 1,200,000 Twitter followers – more than most athletes. Albert Pujols, arguably one of the best baseball players in the world, has 37,000. 28 HAPS_spring 2012

Recently, sports broadcasting in Korea is on the rise, as the domestic sports leagues gain in prominence. The announcers and hosts of shows haven’t reached the status of thoset of major U.S. networks, but they are experiencing a rise in popularity here on the peninsula. Min-ah Kim is one of the new wave of sportscasters who are changing the face of sports in Korea. And she’s not just the everyday piece of eye candy – she’s equipped with a knowledge of sports and a determination to succeed. The 28-year-old announcer for MBC Sports+, is most recognized for her work on Baseball Tonight, a 30 minute highlight show which follows nightly games, and one of the most popular sports shows in the country. With baseball being the most attended and watched sport in the country, she is a rising star in the field of sports journalism. The Yonsei University grad didn’t always have sports journalism in her blood, though her interest in sport started at a young age as she was once was an amateur figure skater. She graduated from the prestigious school majoring in French Literature, and didn’t decide to become an announcer until her junior year of college, a decision many of her fans are glad she made. “I used to think about being an educator. I’ve learned more when I’m teaching someone. I have completed a course in

“SOME PEOPLE TREATED ME COLDLY AT FIRST. OF COURSE, SOME PEOPLE HAD SOME PREJUDICES AGAINST ME BUT I’VE BEEN DOING THIS FOR FIVE YEARS, SO PEOPLE KNOW ME NOW.”

ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF KIM MIN-AH

teaching so I have a licence to teach middle and high school students. I dreamed about being an announcer since I started to go to an academy, but I just applied for fun because it’s such a hard field to get in.” Kim has covered a variety of different sports during her five year tenure with the station. She’s also hosted Kim Min-ah’s European Goals, and has covered basketball, ssireum (Korean wrestling), marathons, and figure skating to name a few. But it hasn’t always been an easy task. Working as a woman in sports media can be incredibly intimidating, especially in a male-dominated market. While women are becoming regular fixtures on TV sets and on the sidelines at sporting events, as Kim says, there is still a need to prove yourself before you are taken seriously. “Some people treated me coldly at first. Of course, some people had some prejudices against me but I’ve been doing this for five years, so people know me now. With this development of sports broadcasting, my job is being spotlighted.” Kim has been recognized by her fans not only for her ability as a host and her knowledge of the game, but also for her beauty. She appeared in a photoshoot for Korea Maxim last year though her beauty is, however, a trait she wants to downplay. She admits there is some discrimination based on appearance in the

broadcasting field, but it’s not all negative. “I would rather say that there’s some positive discrimination. In America, there are so many programs with sexy reporters that interview the athletes. But there are also some programs hosted by reporters in their late thirties who used to be players. Especially in the NBA. I just want to be a reporter who can interview players, not a sexy reporter.” Kim’s schedule is like most reporters – hectic. She works 11 months of the year, and during the season she puts in a 12 hour work day. Being in the spotlight is something she has learned to accept, but she has no regrets with her choice. “Everyday is something new, so, I can feel this job is more worthwhile than hard. I get a lot of confidence because I don’t have to be compared to anyone. My parents always encouraged and I always think I’m lucky person.” With the KBO about ready to begin another long season, she does remain neutral when asked if she supports a certain team and players, but does have some special players she would like to interview. “I can’t wait to interview Park Chan-ho, Lee Seung-yeop and Kim Byung-hyun. They will make baseball games much more interesting this year,” she said. 2012 spring_ busanhaps.com 29

HTravel

INTERNATIONAL

NAIROBI: Jewel in a Concrete Jungle BY HILARY KIMUYU

ONE OF THE JEWELS OF KENYA, THE NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK IS A PLACE YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS.

t was a chilly morning and we were all prepared for a quiet, but fun day at the Nairobi National Park. Located some eight kilometers from the central business district, the Nairobi National Park is the only park in the world that is situated within a city, and yet one where you can find zebras and giraffes browsing against the silhouettes of apartment buildings and office skyscrapers. This unique mix of environments teems with wildlife and is home to more than 400 species of birds, 80 species of mammals, 40 species of reptiles, and more than 500 species of plants. This notwithstanding, the surroundings are serene and boast miles of rolling grass plains, making them suitable locations for solitude and meditation. Situated in the Lang’ata suburb, the Nairobi National Park is about a 10 minute drive from the city center if you are lucky enough not to encounter the often irritating traffic jams. There are buses that run there all day, known as ‘matatus’ in Swahili, taking you directly to the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) headquarters gate. Once you are there, KWS provides transport within the park, complete with a guide for a nominal fee. Small cars can be used, but four-wheel-drives are preferable considering the scenic route is on all-weather rough roads. Being in the company of an experienced driver and professional guide, we eagerly anticipated the day ahead. The first signs of wildlife were fresh water buffalo droppings. Further ahead, a herd of zebras quietly grazed against the magnificent backdrop of the city. We could make out the silhouettes of the Kenyatta International Conference Center and Times Towers.

have lunch. These designated areas are the only places where you can get out and safely walk around. The Kingfisher picnic site for instance, is a cool, green-shaded area with picnic tables and is ideal for morning bush breakfasts, lunchtime relaxation or evening sundowners. Guests are free to bring their own meals, as well as BBQ at any of the picnic sites. Hippo pools are on the eastern side of the park (although it relatively easy to lose your bearing) but we weren’t lucky enough to spot any. We did see a lot of favorite wild animals, but we failed to locate the king of the jungle – the lion. The lions, hippos and rhinos are located in a different location called “Safari Walk.” Most of the animals are in a fenced area where you can walk through and see them. Sadly, the Ivory Burning site stands out, perhaps because it sits closer to the main gate. It is here where, in 1989, former president Daniel Moi set fire to 12 tons of stockpiled ivory in what was then an aggressive campaign to stop the mass slaughter of Africa’s elephants. The ashes of the burnt ivory still speckle the earth.

ABOUT NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK The Nairobi National Park was opened in 1946, after just a few years before serving as firing range during World War II. Before that, it was a traditional grazing ground for the Maasai and Somali herdsmen. Covering an area of 117 sq. km, of the “big five”, only the lion, water buffalo, leopard and, rhino can be found here, though you will find a wide diversity of wildlife. The national park opens daily to both domestic and international tourists. Part of the park's beauty lies in the dry highland forest at the western end, riverine forested areas to the south and rolling grassland vegeIN THE HEART OF THE PARK tations. The road network goes on for more than 250 km, and is Our driver maneuvered the harsh terrain and made straight for well maintained. Sign posts are placed strategically all over the the zebras to get us a better view. Suddenly, a male ostrich ap- National Park, making it impossible for anyone to lose their way peared as if it had been summoned by the sound of our engine. through this vast savanna. Although the park looks safe to take He looked up at us, then sideways, and walked away casually. a walk, this is highly prohibited because you never know when We took a break at one of the specially created picnic spots to the wild animals will appear. 30 HAPS_spring 2012

COW BLOOD:

THE MAASAI HANGOVER CURE

Traditionally, the Maasai rely on meat, milk and blood from cattle for their dietary intake of protein. Cattle blood is prominent on many occasions. It is given to a circumcised person (esipolioi), a woman who has given birth (entomononi) and the sick (oltamueyiai). It is also believed that the blood helps alleviate intoxication and hangovers. Hence, it’s not unusual to find drunken elders (ilamerak) drinking blood to cure their woes from the night before. The process of extracting the blood involves a simple process. A blunt arrow is shot at close range to puncture the jugular vein of the cow. The blood is drawn into a skin gourd and later mixed with fresh or curdled milk to be drunk by a gathering. The appearance is something similar to a strawberry milkshake. The wound on the animal’s neck is sealed with a blob of manure, until it fully heals. The drink is an indication of one’s place in the society. For example, it is a privilege to be served with the first blood from a slaughtered bullock. The drinking of cattle blood is done for both practicality and occasion. The Maasai drink blood during the dry season when they run short on milk. People with a tendency to worry too much, often drink blood in the belief that it gives them strength. At childbirth, the mother is given a drink of honey and the father or his representative is mandated to get blood to mix with milk for the mother to drink. But the source of the blood depends on the sex of the newborn. If the baby is a boy, the blood is obtained from the jugular of a bullock, but if the baby is a girl the blood is taken from a heifer. The drink also plays an important role during circumcision. After days of dancing in the wild, an age-set leader (ol-aiguenani) is selected from among the more mature initiates. He receives a special black club called an ‘o-rinka’ as a sign of office and a bullock is slaughtered. He then drinks the first warm blood of the slaughtered animal. During graduation to a junior elder in the eunoto ceremony, a warrior with good reputation and without physical blemish, temperate and good natured is selected to ‘open the way’ for the other initiates. It is he who leads in drinking the blood from the animal’s jugular. The Maasais believe blood makes the body stronger and warmer and that it is good for children and the elderly to build up their strength. But you are simply traveling in Kenya and need a little something to take the edge off from the night before, you know where to turn. ~ H.K. 2012 spring_ busanhaps.com 31

HTravel KOREA

THE HAPS FESTIVAL PICKS SPRING HAS ONCE AGAIN ARRIVED ON THE PENINSULA, AND THAT MEANS ONE THING – FESTIVAL SEASON IS BACK. HERE ARE SIX FESTIVALS AROUND THE COUNTRY YOU MAY WANT TO CONSIDER VENTURING OUT TO OVER THE COMING WEEKS.

NONSAN STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL APRIL 13 - APRIL 15 A short couple hours drive away in Cheongchung province, Nonsan is the capital of the strawberry growing industry in the country. Almost anything you can do or make with strawberries are on the bill, and the festival, now in its 14th year, is a sure sign that spring has arrived. nsfestival.co.kr

GWANGANLI EOBANG FESTIVAL APRIL 24 - APRIL 27 The Eobang Festival is a Korean traditional festival which celebrates Busan’s fishing history. It includes various events such as street performances, an opening parade, Eobang re-enactments, candle wishes, fireworks and a closing performance. festival-eobang.suyeong.go.kr

GIJANG ANCHOVY FESTIVAL APRIL 19- APRIL 22 The Gijang Anchovy Festival is held in Daebyeon Port, a famous fishing village regarded for their unique recipes for raw anchovies. The harbor is known as the largest anchovy fishing ground on the east coast of the country. english.gijang.go.kr

CHEONGDO BULLFIGHTING FESTIVAL APRIL 18- APRIL 22 Home of the largest bullfighting festival in the country, the tradition spans 1000 years highlighted by the over 100 bulls competing against each other in the ring. Other highlights include the United States rodeo team and a genius rodeo featuring members of the U.S. Armed Forces. www.xn--hq1bj5xh5aw0hv6i.kr

BUDDHA’S BIRTHDAY BEOMOSA TEMPLE APRIL 28 Set in a serene setting at the base of Mt. Geumjeongsan, Beomosa Temple is adorned with colored lotus lanterns in one of Busan’s more beautiful, traditional events. The day is usually celebrated with a free breakfast/lunch of sanchae (mountain vegetable) bibimbap and tea.

ULSAN WHALE FESTIVAL APRIL 26 - APRIL 29 The Ulsan Whale Festival is different in the fact that it focuses on the traditional whale fishing, while at the same time raising support for whales rights to live. Historically, Jangsaengpohang Port in Ulsan became an outpost of whalers, making it a central city for whale fishing in Korea. www.whalekorea.com

32 HAPS_spring 2012

ASK A LOCAL HAPS ASKS SOME SEASONED LOCALS ABOUT WHAT THEY LIKE ABOUT KOREA AND WHAT THEY WOULD RECOMMEND TO PEOPLE LIVING AND VISITING HERE.

NAME: Tang Chien Kuo AGE: 40 OCCUPATION AND COMPANY NAME: Hi View Eye Clinic HOW LONG HAVE YOU LIVED KOREA? 40 years

WHERE WERE YOU BORN? I was born in Korea and have lived here my entire life.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE AND DISLIKE MOST ABOUT LIVING IN KOREA? I like Korea's weather, the kind people and the spicy food. The thing I don't like is Korea’s education system. WHAT “MUST SEE” PLACES WOULD YOU SUGGEST TO NEWLY ARRIVING EXPATS THAT THEY MIGHT NOT KNOW ABOUT? I hope people will enjoy going to Jagalchi in Busan, Bulguksa Temple in Gyeongju and Deoksugung in Seoul. HOW LONG DO YOU SEE YOURSELF STAYING IN KOREA IN THE FUTURE? I will stay here for the rest of my life.

NAME: Amy Lim AGE: 27 OCCUPATION: I work for T'way Air. HOW LONG HAVE YOU LIVED KOREA? Over 10 years.

WHERE ARE YOU FROM? I was born in Korea and left the country when I was 13 for Japan and have been back living here since 2011.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT LIVING IN KOREA? I like that Korea has the fastest Internet connection in the world and free WiFi everywhere. WHAT “MUST SEE” PLACES WOULD YOU SUGGEST TO NEWLY ARRIVING EXPATS THAT THEY MIGHT NOT KNOW ABOUT? Jeju island is the great place to visit in Korea. It has palm trees, mountains, volcanic tubes and amazing beaches. You can go scuba diving, hiking, sightseeing, museum-hopping, horseback riding, water-sliding, or a million other adventures. It's truly a must-see if you're in Korea for work or travel. YOU LIVED IN JAPAN MUCH OF YOUR LIFE. WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST ABOUT IT? I miss the Hanabi Festival. I wore a traditional Japanese summer dress called a "Yukata" and dance "Bon Odori" around a bonfire with friends. All of these memories are very precious to me. HOW LONG DO YOU SEE YOURSELF STAYING IN KOREA IN THE FUTURE? Well... I love Korea, but I have already decided to go back and live in Japan before I am 30. For now I just want to enjoy myself in Korea until I go back. 2012 spring_ busanhaps.com 33

Hotel Directory & News

HOTEL NEWS

WESTIN CHOSUN

67, Dongbaek-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan ph.051-749-7000 web.www.westinchosun.co.kr

NOVOTEL AMBASSADOR 1405-16, Jung-Dong, Haeundae-gu, Busan ph.051-746-8481 web.www.novotelbusan.com

The Novotel has plenty of dining packages this spring at their six restaurants, so why not stay in comfort for an evening enjoying their Healing in Suite package? Complimentary access to the fitness center, hot spring, EF Lounge, in-room wine and a host of other goodies await, with the promotion lasting until the end of May.

If you want to take a camping trip in style without having to leave the city, the Westin Chosun has a Camping and Grill Package running through the end of June. Overlooking the Secret Garden, premium barbecues and equipment are available for use, as is the fitness center and swimming pool for free.

GRAND HOTEL

651-2, U Dong, Haeundae-gu, Busan ph.051-740-0610 web.www.grandhotel.com

The Grand Hotel has a simple breakfast set available on its first floor lobby lounge. An americano coffee with either maple pecans, a muffin or bagel run between 4,000 to 6,000 won, and is available from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. Hotel packages are also available.

NONGSHIM HOTEL NAMES FOREIGN CEO

John Erksin Banta has been named as the CEO of the Hotel Nongshim, an affiliate of the Nongshim Group. Banta was chosen for his transformation of the hotel's recent renovations, and proven marketing strategies. He's been working as a consultant for the hotel for the past 15 months. He is only the third foreigner to hold the CEO position of a hotel in the country, after the Grand Hyatt Seoul, the Millennium Hilton Seoul, and the Best Western Incheon.

SEACLOUD HOTEL 287 Haeundaehaebyun-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan ph.051-933-1000 web.www.seacloudhotel.com

In celebration of the Korean Tourism Organization’s “Visit Korea Year 2010-12” campaign, the Seacloud Hotel is offering a 4+1 promotion, where if you stay for four consecutive nights, the fifth night is free. The offer is subject to room availability and may not be used in conjunction with other special packages. The offer lasts until December 31, 2012.

LOTTE HOTEL

772 Gayadae-ro, Jin-gu, Busan 051-810-1000 web.lottehotelbusan.com

The Japanese restaurant Momo Yama has a Red Snapper Festival running until the end of May. Located on the 43rd floor of the hotel, the restaurant offers spectacular views of the city, as well as a delicious course menu for 130,000 won. 34 HAPS_spring 2012

Accomodation Guide

PARADISE HOTEL

1408-5, Jung Dong, Haeundae-gu, Busan ph. 82-51-742-2121 web.www.paradisehotel.co.kr

There are plenty of events and happenings at the Paradise Hotel this spring, but none are more exciting than the grand opening of the Cimer Ocean Spa. Daytime and nighttime specials are available, or you may want to indulge in the “Be Waterful” package and rejuvenate your body with SUNDÃRI, a distinctive collection of anti-aging skincare products created from the purest ingredients and rarest essences distilled from nature.

HAEUNDAE THE WESTIN CHOSUN Do it right and crash in the same room George W. Bush did. 82-51-749-7000 www.starwoodhotels.com PARADISE HOTEL On the water, with a casino, excellent spa and a pool. 82-51-742 2121 www.paradisehotel.co.kr SEACLOUD HOTEL Luxury stay, with great restaurants. Short walk to the beach. 82-51-933-1000 www.seacloudhotel.com CENTUM HOTEL Near Shinsegae and BEXCO. Good subway access. 82-51-720-9000 www.centumhotel.co.kr SUNSET HOTEL 72 rooms with, according to the site, “individual design concepts.” 82-51-730-9900 www.sunsethotel.co.kr NOVOTEL AMBASSADOR On the beach. Great ocean view, Murpii Nightclub. 82-51-743-1234 www.novotelbusan.com GRAND HOTEL One of the cheaper spots on the strip, but still at the beach. 82-51-740-0610 www.grandhotel.co.kr HOTEL ILLUA Lovely hotel with stunning views from its perch on Dalmaji Hill.

82-51-744-1331 www.hotelillua.com HANWHA RESORT Beautiful views of Oryuk-do, the bridge and close to the beach. 82-1588-2299 www.hanwharesort.co.kr BUSAN YOUTH HOSTEL ARPINA Opened in 2004, a cheap place to stay for the night. Culture center inside. 82-51-731-9800 www.arpina.co.kr BUSINESS AND BEACH HOTEL Located in central Haeundae, with easy access to the local historical sites. 82-51-742-3219 www.bnbhotel.co.kr

SEOMYEON LOTTE HOTEL Lotte runs a tight ship and it shows in the generous customer service here. 82-51-810-1000 www.lottehotelbusan.com TOYOKO INN Across from Migliore, comfortable, clean and affordable. 82-51-442-1045 www.toyoko-inn.com CROWN HOTEL Mid-range hotel decorated in Korean style, good for travellers. 82-51-635-1241 www.fnetravel.com/english/ pusanhotels/crown.html

GWANGAN HOMERS HOTEL Right on Gwangan beach amidst the myriad of cafes, bars and restaurants. 82-51-750-8000 www.homershotel.com AQUA PALACE Beautiful view of the Diamond Bridge, right in the middle of the beach. 82-51-756-0202 www.aquapalace.co.kr

JUNG-GU COMMODORE HOTEL Beautifully designed traditional hotel. Close proximity to Busan Station. 82-51-461-9703 www.commodore.co.kr BUSAN TOURIST HOTEL Conveniently located next to the train station. Good for a cheap night’s rest. 82-51-241-4301 www.pusanhotel.co.kr TOYOKO INN Affordably priced hotel, clean and 10 minutes away from the train station. 82-51-442-1045 www.toyoko-inn.com PHOENIX HOTEL Highly trained staff, close to Nampodong. Popular with Japanese tourists. 82-51-245-8061 www.hotelphoenix.net ELYSEE HOTEL Affordable hotel with good amenities. Close to Nampodong. 82-51-241-4008

www.elyseemotel.com

BUSAN STATION GUKJE HOTEL About 3 km away from the train station, close to Citizen’s Hall. 82-51-642-1330 www.hotelkukje.com TOYOKO INN The second location, this one is a minute away from the train station. 82-51-442-1045 www.toyoko-inn.com

OTHER AREAS PARAGON HOTEL (SASANG-GU) Business comfort, with close proximity to Gimhae International Airport. 82-51-328-2001 www.hotelparagon.com INDY HOUSE (KYUNGSUNG UNIVERSITY) Super cheap, dorm-style room right in the heart of Kyungsung. 82-70-8615-6442 BUSAN CENTRAL HOTEL (YEONSAN-DONG) Adjacent to Yeonsan rotary, located 10 minutes away from City Hall. 82-51- 866-6225 www.centralhotel.co.kr HOTEL NONG SHIM (ONCHEONJEONG) Great area around the hotel, head north to PNU for original Busan nightlife. 82-51-550-2100 www.hotelnongshim.com 2012 spring_ busanhaps.com 35

Music Scene

BUSAN MUSIC THE POSITIONS

HAJIMAMA

Every time the Positions hit the stage, you can never be sure who they’re actually going to be. Bandleader and songwriter, Mike Edmunds, anchors the often eclectic mix, flanked by core bandmates Im Gook on bass and Jack Colish on drums. But beyond that, the musical textures and the faces behind them continually change – much like the name ‘position’ implies. It’s not a question of disorganization or an unwillingness to commit, but simply a network of top-shelf musician friends stepping in from time to time for a drink, a smoke and an evening of really good tunes. On any given night, a gig might feature Patrick Carle on violin, One Drop’s Vasana Haines on keys, Klickitat’s Gino Brann on guitar, Eaguelson Legagneur or Jeffrey Beattie on percussion, or even sometimes all of the above. While the lineup may alter and the faces may change, what remains the same is the palpable energy and passion that each carnation of The Positions brings the audience with every show. ~ M.E.

Originally, Hajimama were those ‘kids’ in bright Korean shirts singing anthems about Bachus D, hagwons and other expat themes that mirrored the reckless abandon of the newbie ESL teacher just arrived in Korea. Their first album, “Banned in North Korea,” and their live shows inspired the audience to dance amongst spilled beer, memories and the comfort of an afternoon schedule. Having been here a few more years, the band has shifted towards a more serious and introspective light, ditching the happy-go-lucky newbie feel for the ROK. Their songs now touch on themes such as “How long can the fun go on teaching here?” and the accompanying music has turned more textured and atmospheric. Their 2nd album, "Abandon Seoul" is a timepiece; a reminder of kimbap, whiny girls and nights in PNU. Musically they’ve matured, sounding much more confident in their pop-punk skin than before and they still have one of the best bass players in town. Considering their music’s maturation, no doubt in five or six years if they’re still here, we’ll hear them singing of investing in the Korean market, finding a good school for their kids and which brand of hiking boot to buy. But it will all still be in good fun. ~ D.P.

LONDON SCAT PARTY You liked it better when London Scat Party was YOUR band. You had a bloodsoaked setlist in your wallet and a scar to prove you were there. Your friends hadn't seen them play, or if they had, they weren't in a state to remember the show, much like the band themselves. LSP was, and still is, the chaos collective in Busan's expat music scene. Playing an obscure mix 70s Brit-punk that builds, their nights on stage take on chaotic, yet orchestrated forms, until lead singer Mike McArthur ditches his shirt, jumps into the crowd and there’s still several hours to go. Die-hard Scat fans, known as “Scat-Faces,” enjoy the passion on stage and bar owners cringe at the prospect of the sound equipment exploding at any time. And yes, they remain Busan's best "Patrick Swayze" cover band. Only now, they are not that band that your friends didn’t know about, now they're in demand and you have to share LSP with others. At least you're still the only fan amongst your clique who knows they were originally called "Douche Nozzle!" ~ D.P.

Hajimama plays Metal City April 13th, and Soultrane April 21st. Facebook: "HajiMama"

HOT PEPPER PASTA Hot Pepper Pasta is the 18-year-old scotch in the liquor cabinet of Busan’s thriving music scene – well-crafted, and best enjoyed in celebration with good friends. Their sound is selfdescribed as “Funky Salsa Jazz”, but you would be remiss to peg them with simply one label. At a Hot Pepper Pasta show, expect to hear funk, latin, reggae, and of course, jazz. Above all, expect to dance. The band roster reads like a who’s who of Korean Jazz musicians. Nationally acclaimed saxophonist, Lee Byeong Ju, who also doubles on sax with local favorites One Drop East, is joined by Choi Gun Shik, Choi Soo Jeong and Kim Jeong Hoon, giving Hot Pepper Pasta one of the tightest rhythm sections you’ll hear in Asia. When HPP trumpet player and front-man, Ahn Woo Sung was asked what people should expect at their show, he said: “When you go to a Hot Pepper Pasta concert, you’ll hear jazz, but from a different perspective. We don’t ever want to play boring music, so we make sure the crowd dances the whole time!” You can catch Hot Pepper Pasta regularly at venues around town such as Monk in KSU and most Saturday nights at Billie Jean in Haeundae. ~ B.K. 36 HAPS_spring 2012

Nightlife Directory

KYUNGSUNG

HAEUNDAE

THURSDAY PARTY tel: 051-744-6621 www.busanhaps.com/nightCLUB REALIZE BILLIE JEAN life/thursday-party The home for metal and rock. tel: 051-742-0297 Great sound. www.busanhaps.com/night- Always consistent. A Busan cornerstone, and great curry life/billiejean ALMOST FAMOUS A Haps favorite. Great decor. popcorn. Funky atmosphere, great staff, Ladies drink for free Thursday U2 BAR live music. nights. Caters more to the Korean crowd these days, but still BLUE MONKEY CLUB ELUNE tel. 051-611-2888 Busan’s super club. A must see good to lounge out. www.busanhaps.com/night- at least once. GWANGANLI life/blue-monkey Ladies drink ½ price 7-9. DJs on FUZZY NAVEL the weekend. Usually packed on weekends. BEACH BIKINI Spacious club with dancing Good grub. and such. CAFE RADIO Great atmosphere. Relax with GECKOS a book. Beach front bar. Consistently BEACHED CAFE AND SPORTS BAR good food. tel: 051-924-9662 CLUB FABRIC www.busanhaps.com/nightLive music, warm cozy decor. HQ JANGSAN Great bar to get your drink on life/beached-cafe-sports-bar Kiwi run. Has in a short time EVAS with some wings. become hugely popular. Great Been around awhile, and still service, awesome view on the packs them in. MAKTUM If Elune is packed, head to beach. FULLY BOOKED Maktum. CLUB 3F Used book store, bar, cafe. Dance club looking out over Great concept. MIAMI 88 On the beach. Patio and good the water. Elegant. HQ BAR service. FUZZY NAVEL Where the real mean go to On the beach. Usually packed. drink and BS. MURPII In the Novotel. Dancing, drink- Good mexican food. KINO EYE ing, business class. PARIS Dark atmosphere. Live music Half coffee shop, half bar. Food on occasion. ROCK N’ ROLL HOUSE Great atmosphere. Two pool is good too. LONG. T BAR tables, great view. THURSDAY PARTY Large bar with cheap Long Iswww.busanhaps.com/nightland’s. Pool table and darts. SHARKY’S life/thursday-party tel: 010-4038-2907 MONK’S JAZZ CLUB www.busanhaps.com/night- Two great locations on the beach. Enough said. Busan’s only jazz club. Tuesday life/sharkys-bar night’s are hot. One of the most popular bars in Haeundae. Great food and WA BAR OL’ 55 staff, and winner Best Burger Wide selection of beer laid out for your choosing. tel: 051-627-5645 in Busan 2011. www.busanhaps.com/nightPNU life/ol’55 STARFACE The best open mic in town on tel: 051-742-0600 Wednesdays. www.busanhaps.com/night- CROSSROADS tel: 051-515-1181 life/starface PAINTED CHAIR CAFE A classic. Great atmosphere, www.busanhaps.com/nightThe art, the atmosphere. Good excellent staff, trivia on Sun- life/crossroads The first foreigner bar. Still goplace to chill. days. Pool and darts. ing. Open mic Thursday’s. THURSDAY PARTY SUNTORY JAPANESE www.busanhaps.com/night- Food and drink in a classy set- INTERPLAY Live music, hit or miss if you life/thursday-party2 ting. Bonzai! catch on a good night. A staple around Busan. Great service. Beer pong and darts. THE WOLFHOUND PUB MONKS tel: 051-746-7940 Can catch some great Korean VINYL UNDERGROUND www.wolfhoundpub.com www.busanhaps.com/night- No bullshit pours and great indie bands here. life/vinyl food on the menu. RED BOTTLE Consistently the best spot for Good spot to get a drink, and live music.

play some darts. SOULTRANE www.busanhaps.com/nightlife/soul-trane One of the area’s oldest and well-known foreign bars. Great live music. THE BASEMENT www.busanhaps.com/nightlife/basement One of the most popular bars in the area. Always a great time, and anchors the PNU scene.

SEOMYEON CLUB FIX tel: 051-905-5777 www.clubfixkorea.info New super club. International DJs and dress code required. DIVISION 9 Pinball, darts, basketball, drinking and good fun. FOXY Dance club, usually packed on the weekend. FUZZY NAVEL Similar to the others around the city. Good food. JUDIE NINE BRAU Good place for home-brewed beer. METAL CITY Pool, darts and live music. ROCK N’ ROLL BAR A true dive. Good atmosphere and pool and darts. THE OLD RECORD BAR Good place to listen to some old vinyl. THE SPOT Bottle service, recently under renovations. THURSDAY PARTY www.busanhaps.com/nightlife/thursday-party Consistently busy and good spot to meet new people.

HAVE A LISTING? CONTACT US @ BUSANHAPS@GMAIL.COM

2012 spring_ busanhaps.com 37

Dining News

LEFT: CHEF AHMAD ‘OSCAR’ MANSOUR TOP RIGHT: MANAGER LEE MI-BONG ‘MIYA’ BOTTOM RIGHT: SHARKY’S TASTY TACOS

SHARKY’S SHAKES IT UP BY JEN SOTHAM

ince Sharky’s opening in May 2010, the comfy bar and grill on Haeundae Beach has had a steady stream of loyal customers. A lot of proprietors would look at this kind of success and think, “Leave it be. Why fix something that’s not broken?” But when owner, Rick Schneider met chef, Ahmad ‘Oscar’ Mansour, he saw an opportunity to take Sharky’s to the next level. And when Lee Mi-bong ‘Miya’, a previous employee, returned from a year in Australia seeking work, the trifecta was complete. Miya had just returned from spending a year in Sydney, working as a bartender, barista and waitress, and she became enthralled by the variety of cuisines on offer, the fanciful coffee culture and the level of ingenuity that went into mixing cocktails at the local bars. But the thing that stood out to her most was the lack of a ‘yo-gi-yo’ button on restaurant tables as is quite typical in Korea. She was shocked when a waiter approached her table on his own accord and actually asked her how her day was going. Miya returned to Busan wanting to introduce her hometown to what she learned about both mixology and western-style service. You can see it in her approach to managing the staff at Sharky’s and in her killer Bloody Mary's and chocolate martinis. Though Ahmad ‘Oscar’ Mansour didn’t attend culinary school until 2007, his enthusiasm for the art of cooking dates back to his youth. Raised in Kuwait in a family of twelve, Oscar attributes his love of food to his mom for whom he says, “there is NO competition” in the kitchen. His family relocated to Los Angeles when Oscar was fourteen, and it was there he began the slow, steady journey to his true calling. Though they all became truck drivers by trade, Oscar and his brothers opened a Middle Eastern restaurant in San Diego, which was voted the best three years in a row by a local TV station. Preparing meals at the local Islamic center during Ramadan, the Mansour brother’s reputation for good food would sometimes draw as many as 1,500 people. Despite his passion for cooking, Oscar still didn’t consider it a viable career path. Several years later Oscar met his wife, a Russian-born Korean. Soon after that, on a visit to his in-laws, he was asked to prepare 38 HAPS_spring 2012

a meal for the family, and as everyone licked their plates clean, Oscar’s mother-in-law pulled him aside and made a suggestion. She was so sure that cooking professionally was what he was meant to do that she offered to foot the bill for culinary school. After graduation he did some catering and worked in several restaurants in Southern California. Eventually, he and his wife decided to make a move to Korea, where she began working as a teacher at Busan Foreign School. With nothing but time on his hands, Oscar began working as a volunteer chef at the school, simply for the joy of being able to expose students to an international menu. When he met Rick, their fast friendship led to a job offer, which led to the rumors I began to hear about “that new chef over at Sharky’s.” When Oscar served me my first course, a Mexican five-layer dip, it wasn’t the scrumptious-looking dish topped with a homemade chipotle sauce that got me excited – it was the look in Oscar’s eyes. Like a proud papa, he watched with raised eyebrows as I took the first bite. He gave me a knowing nod as the chips, carrying a perfect blend of homemade refried beans, spicy beef, cheddar, sour cream and salsa quickly began to disappear. He then retreated into the kitchen to prepare dish number two: chicken fajita tacos. I was fairly certain I had reached my limit by the time I finished the last bite of tender chicken (his trick is marinating it in yogurt) until Oscar returned from the kitchen carrying a Chicken Philly Sandwich. If there’s one thing I absolutely cannot refuse, it’s blue cheese dressing – especially when, like Oscar’s, it is homemade. As I sopped up the last of the dressing with the perfectly toasted baguette, I wished I had an extra stomach to accommodate Oscar’s offer of shawarma. I’ve always been a fan of Sharky’s, but I’m also kind of a KSU rat, so my visits there have been sporadic. But with their 50% off all menu items on Mondays, “California Steak n’ Fries Burrito” special on Tuesdays, 5,000 won Mexican Cantina menu on Wednesdays, Miya’s weekend drink specials and 10,000 won chicken fajitas on Sundays, I’m pretty sure I’ll be spending a little more time in Haeundae. www.busanhaps.com/food/sharkys-bar-and-grill

Dining & Food

DINING EXTRAS BIWA CHARITY EVENT GOES FRENCH

The Busan International Women’s Association and the Haeundae Grand Hotel are presenting a spring fundraiser under the theme “A Night in Paris” on April 28th. Starting at 6:30 p.m. until midnight, welcome drinks, hors d'oeuvres, and an elegant five course dinner with wine and a charity auction start the evening, which will conclude with dancing to a live band. Tickets are 80,000 to 100,000 won, and can be purchased by contacting Lynn Baratta at 010-2065-8395 or email at biwakorea@gmail.com

JAMBA JUICE HITS BUSAN

Jamba Juice, the Emeryville, California juice franchise has finally hit Busan. The U.S. franchise, which boasts over 750 locations in five countries, opened its first Busan location in Haeundae recently. Located on the 1st floor of the Doosan We’ve Building behind the HomePlus in Woo Dong, the freshly made Smoothies, freshly squeezed juices and boosters are sure to become a new staple on the peninsula. tel: 051-747-8246 www.jambajuice.co.kr

VEG OUT AT HQ

From the guys who don’t know the meaning of small portions, the HQ Bar in Kyungsung University is adding a Vegetarian Burger to its menu, among the many recent additions. The homemade delight was put together by none other than local foodie Jen Sotham. The burger comes with a side of fries or vegetables and is on promotion for 7,000 won. tel: 010-2857-2367 www.thehqbar.com 2012 spring_ busanhaps.com 39

Dining Directory

KYUNGSUNG WESTERN AUSSIE BURGER Burgers, fries and Aussie pies. BURGER AND PASTA Open: 11 am - 11 p.m. www.busanhaps.com/nightlife/burger-pasta tel: 051-625-6651 The original. Great burgers and pasta. Same management as Thursday Party.

O’TACO tel: 051-627-8358 Good Mexican food and lunch specials.

GINZA tel: 051-751-7077 Pricy, but good quality food.

GWANGAN-LI

MEXICAN

WESTERN

FUZZY NAVEL tel: 051-754-6349 Solid burritos and tacos. Good party atmosphere.

BEACHED CAFE AND SPORTS BAR Open: 6 pm - late www.busanhaps.com/nightVIETNAMESE life/beached-cafe-sports-bar tel: 051-924-9662 SAIGON PHO Good bar fare, great view, lots tel: 051-755-4205 of rugby and good times right One of the few non-chain VietEVAS namese sports in town. Great Good grub and taco Wednes- on the beach. food. days. BURGER AND PASTA Open: 11 am - 11 p.m. SEOMYEON HQ BAR www.busanhaps.com/food/ tel. 010.2857-2367 WESTERN Solid American style pub grub burger-and-pasta-gwangan tel: 051-751-6631 and dinners. Solid burgers on the beach FRESH FRIES FACTORY with good wines. Service al- Some good fish n’ chips and CHINESE ways friendly, and food consis- other tasty foods. tently good. BEJING GO-CHI JUDIE NINE BRAU Great skewers, great food, GUESS WHO RESTAURANT tel: 051-667-7979 cheap prices. tel: 051-757-1213 Good beer and tasty side dishAlways busy with a nice patio es. NI HAO CHINESE Good Chinese at affordable deck. T.G.I. FRIDAY’S prices. ITALIAN tel: 051-805-3164 Two locations in Seomyeon to INDIAN BELLA CITTA choose from. www.busanhaps.com/food/ AYUTA bella-citta-italian ITALIAN Friendly staff, good food. tel: 051-711-0010 Incredible interior, top notch BUONA OVEN PIZZA SHABANA menu and indoor garden seat- tel: 051-904-8239 tel: 051-621-4821 Nice, oven-baked pizza and Good, affordable Indian food. ing. spaghetti. PASTA E VINO ITALIAN tel: 051-746-2500 FLORIAN’S Intimate beachside sport with Buffet with a wide selection of BON BON good Italian cuisine. dishes. tel: 051-621-0906 Great little spot next to KyungKOREAN VITO sung U. Open: Early for lunch, late for SHIM HAE RAW dinner GRAZIOSO www.busanhaps.com/food/ Dirt cheap Italian located in FISH MARKET tel: 051-753-6868 vito the Sparx Building. Everything seafood, all in one tel: 051-806-5868 place. Great Italian food at even betJAPANESE ter prices. FOUR SEASONS RAW FISH CHIBI CHIBI OKNOMAYAKI English speaking owner, 2nd KOREAN tel: 051-904-8257 Good Japanese at affordable fl. Fish Market. BUFFALO CHICKEN rates. KOREAN NATURAL FOOD tel: 051-805-3512 tel: 051-751-5534 Good chicken chain with sevTHE SUSHI eral interesting sauces. tel: 051-611-4043 JAPANESE Affordable, quality Japanese DRAGON DREAM food. SHINSEN (THE CAVE BAR) tel: 051-627-9191 tel: 051-646-5924 MEXICAN Good Japanese dishes. Very interesting decor with a 40 HAPS_spring 2012

nice selection of food. GOLM OK Korean BBQ. Beef and pork selections.

VEGETARIAN LOVING HUT Open: 12pm - 10pm (closed Wednesdays) www.lovinghut.co.kr tel: 051-808-7718 The veggie lovers paradise.

PNU WESTERN FARMERS BURGERS People rave about it. Nominated in Best Burger.

INDIAN GANESH Small spot with good Indian fare on the menu. SHABANA tel: 051-517-1947 Nice Indian food for cheap.

VIETNAMESE PHO Nice Vietnamese food in PNU.

VEGETARIAN LOVING HUT www.lovinghut.co.kr tel: 051-518-0115

HAEUNDAE WESTERN BURGER AND PASTA Open: 11 am - 11 p.m. www.busanhaps.com/food/ burger-and-pasta-haeundae Opening early April, same great food as the other two around the city. GECKOS BAR AND GRILL tel: 051-747-3069 Solid food and drink on the beach. HQ JANGSAN tel: 010-2857-2367 Great pizza and wings in the Jangsan area. SHARKY’S Open: 6 p.m - 2 a.m. www.busanhaps.com/food/

Dining & Food sharkys-bar-and-grill tel: 010-4038-2907 Winner of Busan Best Burger in 2011, also well-known for Chef Oscars delicious specials. STARFACE www.busanhaps.com/food/ starface-dalmaji tel: 051-742-0600 British and Indian cuisine on Dalmaji Hill. Good fish n’ chips and curries. T.G.I. FRIDAY’S tel: 051-740-6531 Good reliable chain in the Harbor Town Building.

Affordable sushi. Good stuff. SUNTORY JAPANESE tel: 051-742-5788 Great location and delicious food. UMI tel: 051-741-4337 Good selection, big price.

KOREAN AN GA tel: 051-742-7852 Very popular bbq meat restaurant in Haeundae.

CHEOLMA HANWOO THE WOLFHOUND PUB BULGOGI Open: Weekdays 5 p.m. - 1 tel: 051-709-4000 a.m., Weekends 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. www.wolfhoundpub.com HURGSIRU tel: 051-746-7913 tel: 051-722-1377 Great menu, excellent variety of food, pub grub and plenty JAGALCHI EEL of sports on the TV. tel: 051-742-5387

INDIAN

ph.1600-5252 for delivery www.mcdonalds.co.kr LOTTERIA ph.1600-9999 for delivery www.lotteria.com BURGER KING No delivery www.burgerking.co.kr POPEYE’S CHICKEN No delivery www.popeyes.co.kr KFC No delivery www.kfckorea.com QUIZNOS No delivery www.quiznos.co.kr DUNKIN DONUTS No delivery www.dunkindonuts.co.kr

MARIS tel: 051-704-8870 MISTER DONUT GANGA Great seafood buffet. Across No delivery Expect to pay some good from Primus in Jangsan. misterdonut.gsretail.com money, but it’s worth it. SOMUNNAN BASKIN ROBBINS NAMASTE tel: 051-746-0003 tel: 051-746-1946 Good traditional Korean food. No delivery www.baskinrobbins.co.kr Indian fine dining. Good prices and great food. MEXICAN

OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE ph.1577-0500 www.outback.co.kr T.G.I. FRIDAY’S ph.1588-2590 www.tgif.co.kr VIPS ph.1577-0700 www.ivips.co.kr

HAVE A LISTING? CONTACT US @ BUSANHAPS@GMAIL.COM

RECOMMENDED RESTAURANT

ANGA

PIZZA

GANESH Small place but it’ll do the trick.

ITALIAN BELLA CITTA tel: 051-747-6351 Delicious, real Italian cuisine with a nice interior. CINE DE CHEF tel: 051-745-2880 In Shinsegae, enjoy a good meal and a movie. EL OLIVE ITALIAN tel: 051-752-7300 Delicious Italian, close to Costco. VAN GOGH TERRACE tel: 051-741-3767 Nice view of the water while you eat.

JAPANESE GEN SUSHI tel: 051-740-6630

FUZZY NAVEL tel: 051-746-6439 Good burritos and tacos, fun at night when it’s busy.

THAI HELLO THAI tel: 051-731-5033 Good Thai food in the heart of Haeundae.

VEGETARIAN

DOMINOS 1577-3082 www.dominos.co.kr PAPA JOHN’S 1577-8080 www.pji.co.kr PIZZA HUT 1588-5588 www.pizzahut.co.kr

MR. PIZZA LOVING HUT 1577-0077 www.lovinghut.co.kr www.mrpizza.co.kr tel: 051-747-2979 All organic, all good. Veggie paradise. PIZZA ETANG 1688-3651 VIETNAMESE www.pizzaetang.com PHO KIM tel: 051-740-4868 Good food at a good price. Great soup, located in SFUNZ.

FAST FOOD

An Ga is well-known in the city for their delicious food and for good reason. They’ve been featured in CNN Go, as well as a host of other food magazines, and are known to serve the best meat in the city. Give it a go the next time you’re in Haeundae. Open Daily, 051-742-7852

FAMILY RESTAURANTS BENNIGANS ph.1577-4800 www.bennigans.co.kr

MCDONALDS 2012 spring_ busanhaps.com 41

Service Directory

AIRLINES AIR BUSAN Tel: 051-974-8686 www.busanair.com ASIANA AIRLINES - DOMESTIC Tel: 051-972-4004 flyasiana.com ASIANA AIRLINES - INTERNATIONAL Tel: 051-971-2626 flyasiana.com CEBU PACIFIC AIR Tel: 051-462-0686 www.cebupacificair.com JEJU AIR Tel: 070-7420-1502 www.jejuair.net KOREAN AIR - DOMESTIC Tel: 051-970-3314 www.koreanair.com

Korea, as well as an array of social networking events.

EDUCATION FOREIGN SCHOOLS

BUSAN FOREIGN SCHOOL 1366-3 Jwa-dong, Haeundaegu Tel: 051-747-7199 www.busanforeignschool. org BUSAN JAPANESE SCHOOL 173-8 Millak-dong, Suyounggu Tel: 051-753-4166 user.chollian.net/~pusjpnsc BUSAN OVERSEAS CHINESE KINDERGARTEN 548-1 Choryang-dong, Donggu Tel: 051-468-2845 kbces.com.ne.kr

KOREAN AIR - INTERNATIONAL Tel: 051-970-3227 www.koreanair.com

INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF BUSAN 798 Nae-ri, Gijang-eup, Gijang-gun Tel: 051-742-3332 www.bifskorea.org

LUFTHANSA AIR Tel: 070-8686-2531 www.lufthansa.com

KOREAN LESSONS

TRANSASIA AIRWAYS Tel: 051-463-0093 www.tna.com.tw

BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS

BUSAN FOUNDATION FOR INTERNATIONAL ACTIVITIES Tel: 051-668-7900 www.bfia.or.kr Email: busanglobalcenter@ gmail.com

AMCHAM #4501, Trade Tower 159-1, Samsung-dong, Gangnamgu, Seoul Tel: 02-564-2040 www.amchamkorea.org An independent association of American and international businesses, the role of the American Chamber of Commerce is to promote business and trade between the United States and Korea.

KLIFF Tel: 051-513-0131 kliff.co.kr Email: jennakang@hanmail. net

EUCCK Paradise Hotel (Main Bldg.), 1408-5 Jung-dong, Haeundae-gu Tel: 051-744-6711 eucck.org The European Chamber of Commerce aims to provide an effective network of business associates together with discussion forums and seminars on how to do business in

TESOL ALLIANCE Tel: 051-818-0502 www.tesolalliance.com

42 HAPS_spring 2012

PNU LANGUAGE EDUCATION CENTER Tel: 051-510-1983 ili.pusan.ac.kr Email: bangjy77@pusan.ac.kr

TESOL TRAINING

INFORMATION EXPAT ASSISTANCE CALL CENTER FOR FOREIGN RESIDENTS IN BUSAN Tel: 1577-7716

FREE TRANSLATION SERVICE (BBB) Tel: 1588-5644 MULTICULTURAL FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER Tel: 1577-5432

INFORMATION CENTERS TOURIST INFORMATION SERVICE Tel: 1330 BEXCO TOURIST INFORMATION CENTER Tel: 051-740-7300 BUSAN GLOBAL CENTER Tel: 1577-7716 BUSAN INT’L PASSENGER TERMINAL TOURIST INFORMATION Tel: 051-465-3471 BUSAN STATION TOUR INFORMATION Tel: 051-441-6565 GIMHAE INT’L AIRPORT TOUR INFORMATION (DOMESTIC) Tel: 051-973-4607 GIMHAE INT’L AIRPORT TOUR INFORMATION (INTERNATIONAL) Tel: 051-973-2800 HAEUNDAE TOURIST INFORMATION CENTER Tel: 051-749-5700 INTERNATIONAL FERRY INFORMATION CENTER Tel: 051-465-3471 NOPODONG BUS TERMINAL TOURIST INFORMATION Tel: 051-508-9400 UN MEMORIAL CEMETERY TOURIST INFORMATION Tel: 051-625-1608

MEDICAL HEALTH CENTERS DONGNAE HEALTH CENTER 702-54, Myeongryun-2 dong, Dongnae-gu Tel:051-555-4000 Gangseo-gu Health Center 2009-1, Daejeo-2 dong, Gangseo-gu Tel: 051-972-6101

HAEUNDAE HEALTH CENTER 1339, Jwa-2 dong, Haeundae-gu Tel:051-746-4000 JUNG-GU HEALTH CENTER 1 Ga 1, Daecheong-dong, Jung-gu Tel: 051-600-4741

HERBAL CLINICS DONGEUI UNIVERSITY KOREAN MEDICAL HOSPITAL 45-1, Yangjeong-2 dong, Busanjin-gu Tel: 051-867-5101 DONGEUI UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL 397-3, Bujeon-1 dong, Busanjin-gu Tel: 051-803-5430 GOOD SAMSUN HANBANG 1162-2, Jurye-dong, Sasang-gu Tel: 051-325-0300

HOSPITALS BUK-GU/DONGNAE BUMIN HOSPITAL 380-4, Deokcheon 1-dong Tel: 051-330-3000 www.buminhos.co.kr DONG EUI MEDICAL CENTER San 45-1, Yangjeong 2-dong Tel: 051-867-5101 www.demc.kr DONGNAE BONG SENG HOSPITAL 766, Anlak 1-dong Tel: 051-531-6000 www.bongseng.com DONGRAE WOORIDUL HOSPITAL 205-10, Nakmin-dong Tel: 051-559-5000 www.dongrae.wooridul.co.kr INJE UNIVERSITY BUSAN PAIK HOSPITAL 1435, Jwa-dong Tel: 051-890-6114 www.paik.ac.kr

HAEUNDAE HYOSUNG CITY HOSPITAL 1094-2, Jaesong 1-dong Tel: 051-709-3000 www.hshos.com

INJE UNIV. HAEUNDAE PAIK HOSPITAL 1435, Jwa-dong Tel: 051-797-0100 www.paik.ac.kr/Haeundae

JUNG-GU HAEYANG HOSPITAL 80-8 Jungang-dong 4-ga Tel: 051-469-4456 www.haeyang.net MARYKNOLL MEDICAL CENTER 12, Daecheong-dong 4-ga Tel: 051-465-8801 www.maryknoll.co.kr

NAM-GU BUSAN ST. MARY'S MEDICAL CENTER 538-41, Yongho 4-dong Tel: 051-933-7114 www.bsm.or.kr

SEO-GU DONG-A UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER 3-ga, #1 Dongdaeshin-dong Tel: 051-240-2400 www.damc.or.kr PUSAN NATIONAL UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL 10, Ami-dong 1-ga Tel: 051-254-0171 www.pnug.co.kr

SUYEONG

Admission Fee - Free BUSAN MODERN HISTORY MUSEUM 104, Daechung-ro, Jung-gu, Busan Tel: 051-253-3845 modern.busan.go.kr Opening Hours - 09:00 ~ 18:00 Closed - Jan.1, Every First Monday Admission Fee - Free BUSAN MUSEUM 63, UN Peace-ro, Nam-gu, Busan Tel: 051-610-7111 museum.busan.go.kr Hours of operation - 09:00 ~ 20:00 Closed - Jan. 1, Every First Monday Admission fee - Free BUSAN UN MEMORIAL CEMETERY AND PARK 779, Daeyon 4 dong, Nam-gu, Busan Tel: 051-625-0625 www.unmck.or.kr Hours of operation - 09:00 ~ 17:00 Open Year Round Admission fee - Free

RELIGIOUS SERVICES AL-FATIH MASJID MOSQUE Namsan-dong, #30-1 Guemjeong-gu Tel: 051-518-9991 www.busanislam.or.kr Services: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily

BUSAN CENTUM HOSPITAL 1077-1, Gwangan 3-dong Tel: 051-760-5000 BUSAN CHINESE CHURCH www.centumhospital.com Choryang1-dong, #548-2, Dong-gu BUSAN HANNAH Tel: 051-467-0275 WOMAN'S HOSPITAL 304, Namcheon-dong GIFT MINISTRY Tel: 051-625-2300 Myung-nyun-dong, Dongwww.hannah4u.co.kr nae-gu Good Gangan Hospital Tel: 010-7999-8644 40-1, 41-9, Namcheon-dong www.tinyurl.com/lifeisagift Tel: 051-625-0900 Services: Saturdays,10:30 a.m. www.gang-an.or.kr HONGBEOPSA TEMPLE MUSEUMS Dugu-dong, #1220-1, Guemjeong-gu BUSAN MUSEUM OF ART Tel: 010-8771-6265 40, Apec-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan HOSANNA CHURCH Tel: 051-740-2602 Myeongji-dong, #3245-5 art.busan.go.kr Gangseo-gu, Opening Hours - 09:00 ~ Tel: 051-209-0191 20:00 him-busan.blogspot.com Closed - Jan. 1, Every First Services: Sundays, 12:30 p.m. Monday

INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY CHURCH Minerva Hall, Pusan University of Foreign Studies Tel: 010-8326-1985 www.iccbusan.org Services: Sundays, 10:30 a.m. ONNURI ENGLISH SERVICE Jangsan, Haeundae-gu Tel: 010-7570-9171 Services: Sundays, 10 a.m..

SHOPPING DEPT. STORES LOTTE DEPT. STORE www.lotteshopping.com Open: 10:30 ~ 20:00 Four Locations CENTUM CITY 1496, U Dong, Haeundae-gu, Busan Tel: 051-730-2500 DONGNAE 502-3, Oncheonjeong, Dongnae-gu, Busan Tel: 051-605-2500 GWANGBOK 20-1, 7 ga, Jung-ang Dong, Jung-gu, Busan Tel: 051-678-2500 SEOMYEON Bujeondong, Busan-jingu, Busan Tel: 051-810-2500 HYUNDAI DEPT. STORE 62-5, Beomil-dong, Dong-gu, Busan Tel: 051-667-2233 Open: 10:30 ~ 20:00 SHINSEGAE DEPT. STORE (CENTUM CITY) 1495 Wu-dong, Haeundae-gu, Busan Tel: 1588-1234 english.shinsegae.com Open: 10:30 ~ 20:00

CLOTHING/SPORTS KAI SURF SHOP 183-11 Gwangan-dong, Suyeong-gu Tel: 051-753-2746

SOCIAL/NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS

BUSAN BANDITS RUGBY Facebook Group: Busan Bandits BUSAN BEACH VOLLEYBALL Facebook Group: Busan Beach

Volleyball BUSAN BOOK SWAP Facebook Page: Busan Book Swap BUSAN BOWLING LEAGUE Contact: David Alderman tel:010.7919.1223 Facebook Group: Busan Bowling League BUSAN FOUNDATION FOR INTERNATIONAL ACTIVITIES tel: 051-668-7900 www.bfia.or.kr BUSAN FRIENDSHIP GROUP www.meetup.com/Pusans BUSAN SCUBA Facebook Group: Busan Scuba BTC FOOTBALL FB Group: Busan Transportation Corporation Supporters Fanpage EPIK TEACHERS IN BUSAN Facebook Group: Busan EPIK EXPAT SAILING CLUB Contact: Mark Chi Koreasailing@gmail.com www.busansailing.com FIELD HOCKEY Facebook Group: Field Hockey in South Korea LAOCHRA BUSAN GAELIC ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION CLUB Contact: Peter Bonner tel: 010-8344-1410 busangaa@gmail.com FB: Laochra Busan Members ROKD ROLLER DERBY koreaderby@gmail.com FB: ROKD Republic of Korea Derby SALSA DANCING www.busansalsa.blogspot. com SOCRATES CAFE Facebook Group: Busan Socrates Cafe ULTIMATE FRISBEE Facebook Group: BusanUltimate WORDZ ONLY Facebook Group - WordZ Only 2012 spring_ busanhaps.com 43

Regulars

Around Town

SCENE MAKERS

SCENE & HEARD ALL OVER BUSAN

KAI SURF SHOP

SHARKY’S

BLUE MONKEY

BASEMENT

STARFACE

BEACHED

44 HAPS_spring 2012

2012 spring_ busanhaps.com 45

The Last Word

THARP ON: MUSIC

BY CHRIS THARP ILLUSTRATION BY SARAH ELMINSHAWI

AN AGING ROCKER COMES TO GRIPS WITH BECOMING A MIDDLE-AGED MUSIC DINOSAUR . British heavy metal titans, Judas Priest, recently played in Seoul as part of their official “Farewell Tour” but I was out of the country at the time, so alas, I couldn’t go. Missing the show depresses me thoroughly, since Judas Priest is the first real rock band I ever saw live: Defenders of the Faith tour, 1984 baby! I went to the Tacoma Dome with my friend Joe Crossland and his sweet, but hopelessly uncool dad, who served as chaperon for our twoplus hours of straight middle-school headbanging. The concert was huge, rowdy and loud as hell, delivering all the goods plus some: there were booming drums, shooting lasers, walls of amplifiers, dueling guitars, metal robots, and even a real Harley Davidson that lead singer Rob Halford – in his leather-daddy glory – rode on to the stage. It was pure adrenaline and joy – spectacle on the highest level – and I knew right then and there that one day, I too would play rock and roll. I went on to keep that promise, playing in a string of bands that continues to this day: The Leaky Sewer Pipes, Bad Water, Brave New World, Naugahyde, Blanche, MV and the Exterior, Christ Analogue, F Plus, The Gargles, The Rice Paddys, Kimchi/ DC, The Headaches, and Los Kimchileros. Some of these bands fork out wads of cash to attend these shows and proclaim their were pretty good and others were atrocious miscarriages of awesomeness, but I don’t and probably never will. I am far too music, but I’ve always carried the torch of rock and roll, at least grumpy. To the kids, these acts are cutting-edge and cool. “Cutin my own head. ting edge and cool?” To me, they’re Not only have I been a player of music, just a couple of emaciated vegan hip“CUTTING EDGE AND but I’ve also been a great fan. I had two with a keyboard, a laptop, and COOL?” TO ME, THEY’RE sters older brothers who were passionate questionable facial hair. I just can’t get about music. They collected records JUST A COUPLE OF EMA- down and would rather blow my thirty and turned me on to stuff that I would CIATED VEGAN HIPSTERS bucks on soju and cat food. have never had come across until far But what of the home grown scene WITH A KEYBOARD, later in life. Because of them I was alhere in Busan? Even with the deparA LAPTOP, AND QUESways up on some cool tunes. I was then ture of Poko Lambro, things are still lucky enough witness the explosion of TIONABLE FACIAL HAIR. rich. The reigning kings are reggae the Seattle music scene firsthand in the One Drop East, who not I JUST CAN’T GET DOWN supergroup early 90s and saw bands such as Mudonly have more members than the AND WOULD RATHER honey, The Melvins, Soundgarden, and E Street Band, but play for twice as Nirvana in very small venues, before BLOW MY THIRTY BUCKS long. With them, I don’t know where some of them became bigger than ON SOJU AND CAT FOOD. the crowd ends and the band begins. God. I used to listen to new bands all There’s London Scat Party, who have the time. I went to shows as much as possible. I sang the praises improved massively, but are still known to clear a room faster of the music that I loved and wickedly condemned that which than a suicide bomber. Klickitat are great musicians who play I hated. Music coursed through my veins and kept me alive. It music that no one wants to hear; Hajimama keeps cranking out was my sustenance. their schtick like Borscht-belt comedians, so eager to please; the And then something happened: I got old. One day I just local Korean punks keep rockin’ it, though I have yet to see one stopped listening to new music. I became that crotchety dude of those guys get up on stage without the punk rock “uniform”. whose musical tastes completely calcified around the age of Sometimes they can be all sizzle and no steak, if you know what twenty seven. You know, the old hippy at the bar, who, after I mean… two or three beers always proclaims: “There hasn’t been any So yeah, I’m a dinosaur. I’m an irrelevant man plowing headgood music made since 1978, man. I saw Grand Funk Railroad first into middle age, already nostalgic for something that probplay the Filmore in ’72 after scoring a whole lid of Thai sticks! ably was never that cool to begin with. So don’t listen to me. Now that was groovy.” I used to hate that guy, but now I’ve Make a band, even it if requires the use of a Macbook. Go supturned into him. port music. And if you see me up on stage attempting to bang Case in point: It is possible to go and see real music in Korea on a guitar and while bellowing the lyrics to “Breaking the Law”, these days? One promotion company in particular goes out of try not to throw a beer in my face. its way to bring in hot acts from North America. Many people You can check out Tharp’s blog: www.homelyplanet.wordpress.com 46 HAPS_spring 2012

Continued Story

THE ART OF BEING MARTIN

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23.

His reputation as a bon vivant followed him and few firms would take a chance. A few months later, he was once again employed. He was glad for the second chance, but things weren’t quite the same. “They stuck their neck out because they knew my reputation. They started me at a really shitty salary with a lot of commision. I said ‘ok, I will accept that. I’ve got a history and you’re very careful. Give me just enough money to live and a chance to make more.’” He worked his way back to esteem, built more connections through corporate training for the Dutch embassy, and was on the road traveling again, spending much of his time in Korea, doing the work he loved with less of the reckless lifestyle that he had loved so much before.

an he first met at an automotive trade show and she gave birth to their son two days after the Netherland Gallery’s opening last November. When not introducing wealthy foreign businessmen to Korean manufacturers, he imports coffee and the machines that make it, while planning his next big venture – building a retirement home just outside of Busan. As with most things in the life of Martin Vermeulen, there is always a bit more than a simple plan. “I have some property about an hour west of Busan and I have designed what I call a ‘zero emission house,’ all green,” he says, with that characteristic inventor’s excitement. “It will be the first house in Korea that is completely self-supporting. I am actually going to produce more energy than I need in both electric and heat.” As we wrap up our interview, the sun shines through a skylight SETTLING DOWN IN BUSAN down on the easel, which casts a long shadow across the studio For the past 20 years, working on the peninsula with different floor. I ask him, looking back on his life, what he learned most players in the auto industry, he came to love the life in Busan – from his failures and his successes, and what advice he would though he can’t really explain why. give to others. “I don’t know, I just feel it,” he says. He emphasizes that regardless of the failures, a measure of “Many years ago I had a Sunday off so I went to Sasang bus success is always there to be found. station. I couldn’t read where the bus was going, but I got “If you take a machine gun with 100 rounds in it and you hit on and I sat three hours. I ended up in a village in the middle one guy that wants to kill you that’s ok, you don’t need the of nowhere. I walked the streets, I felt very relaxed and the other 99. Sure, I had some failures, but at the end I still progpeople were really friendly, though I didn’t speak one word of ress. People are afraid to make mistakes, but I don’t care. For me Korean. It was summer so I had short sleeves and children were it’s just all the same thing, I just do what I like and that’s it.” coming up and touching the hair on my arm, so I thought, ‘this We help ourselves to the last of the brownies. is special.’” Twenty years on, and a long road behind, he’s finally settled in For more on the Netherland Gallery, check out the Haps Gallery to life in Korea. A year and a half ago he married a Korean wom- Page: www.busanhaps.com/poi/gallery .

Dong-eui Medical Center

Advertorial

FIGHTING FAT WITH ORIENTAL MEDICINE

Most westerners have seen all manner of diet fads back home, but few are aware of the benefits of traditional Oriental treatments for reducing weight. Dong-eui Medical Center’s Oriental Esthetic & Obesity Center offers people great options for not only shedding excess weight, but for actually restoring muscle tissue and body shape back to its original state. According to nurse Lee Hei Sung, the weight loss program focuses on the long term rather than a quick fix. “This program helps reduce the ‘yo-yo effect’ of dieting by ensuring natural weight loss,” she said. “Our program keeps the the body slim without any of the side effects by correcting unhealthy habits.” Along with herbal therapy, the Oriental method includes several types of painless acupuncture that infuses the body with herbal remedies that stimulate the lipolytic processes that occur in the body naturally. There is also a very interesting form of acupuncture to the ears which acts to suppress hunger by stimulating the region of the brain where hunger occurs. Along with a regiment of multi-vitamins and herbs to help

the body better do what occurs naturally, there are other herbal mixtures that help stimulate body metabolism, as well as increasing your body’s ability to absorb essential nutrients into the system. While this all sounds good, don’t think that you are getting off easy with an effortless weight loss program — there is exercise involved, too. The program at Dong Eui includes a personally designed exercise program that can be done in the exercise therapy room at the hospital or at home. Finally, the program includes remedies to help your skin look younger. “With this treatment, we can improve the shape of your face, as well as reduce wrinkles by helping the circulation in your muscles and skin,” said Hei Sung. So, if you have been putting off that New Year’s Resolution to rid yourself of those extra pounds, contact Lee Hei Sung at Dong Eui Medical Center to get started looking better right away. The medical center offers complete English service and is located near the Yangjeong subway station on line 1. You can contact Hei Sung for an appointment by phone, 051-850-8941 or 010-9457-8941 or by email at imc8941@demc.or.kr. 2012 spring_ busanhaps.com 47

HAEUNDEAREA

PNUAREA

48 HAPS_spring 2012

GWANGANAREA

KYUNGSUNGAREA

SEOMYEONAREA

2012 spring_ busanhaps.com 49

BUSAN METRO MAP Humetro Call Center Lost & Found Center

50 HAPS_spring 2012

Seomyeon Stn.

www.7luck.com Tel. 051.665.6000

Busan Lotte Hotel 2F

2012 spring_ busanhaps.com 55

56 HAPS_spring 2012