Haps Magazine Issue 36 by Haps Magazine

REGULARS Events: The Big Five | 12 Word on the Street | 14 In the News | 18 Material World | 22

TRAVEL A Moveable Foodie Feast in Osaka | 32 Shark Diving in Haeundae | 34

ARTS & CULTURE Book Review: The Worst Motorcycle | 35 in Laos: Rough Travels in Asia Michael Kazemi Photography | 42

EDUCATION Using YouTube in the Classroom | 46

DIRECTORY/GUIDES Hotel News & Directory | 48 Directory | 50-55 Busan Metro Map | 52

Photography by Francisco Fuentes

EDITORS LETTER I recently happened upon this wonderful song about the coming of spring. Penned, played and crooned by Korean singer Roy Kim, Bom Bom Bom (봄봄봄), or in the anglais, Spring, Spring, Spring, is an utterly lovely tune about the pain of love lost in winter and the hope for its return before the season’s end. Once again, spring, spring has come After the winter of heartbreak without you had passed I sit on this bench and reminisce like cherry blossoms blooming There are times when feelings grow dull But now I finally realize that even those times are part of love The song refrains with Roy wailing his willingness to put the past behind and begin again if given the chance.

My dear, be with me before this spring ends What does this have to do with Issue 36 of Haps? Absolutely nothing, other than I really like the song, spring is indeed here and another issue of the magazine has blossomed. In it you will find James Turnbull on the American “thigh gap” trend, Anthony Velasquez writing about some great spots in Osaka, Stacy Austin’s cover story about tea in Busan, Simon Slater with a profile on the fascinating art of Sarah DeRemer, and myself with a piece about a nearly middle-aged Canadian taking a shot at being a K-pop star (a story that we could, regretfully, only allot two pages to). Of course, there’s more, and all in all it’s another fine issue released at arguably the best time of the year in Korea. Enjoy.

My dear, I knew right away when I first saw you

THE

(RE)BIRTH OF

CHA SANGGU

Canadian-born singer Sanggu has fallen in love with Korea. Though he hasn’t been here yet, he’s aiming at being a K-pop star - at 39-years-old.

on theCOVER How about a great alternative to Korea’s saturated coffee scene? Stacy Austin has some great places to indulge in that other hot beverage.

who’sHAPPENING

CONTRIBUTORS JOHN DUNPHY

Before moving to Korea in February 2013, John Dunphy was a local editor for Patch Media in New Jersey, where he was born. He is a lover of food, ranging from fish n’ chips to all things Korean. Read more of his work at jpdunphy.wordpress.com.

ANTHONY VELASQUEZ

Prior to moving to Busan in 2009, Anthony Velasquez worked in the Alexander Valley of Northern California as a winery lab tech and nearly a decade serving, bartending and teaching wine in the finest farm-to-fork restaurants in Sacramento, CA. Now he brings his expertise to the page.

PUBLISHER Ju Shin-hye EDITOR IN CHIEF Bobby McGill SALES DIRECTOR Michael Schneider MANAGING EDITOR Jeff Liebsch ART DIRECTOR Russell McConnell COPY EDITOR Amy Steele WRITERS

Stacy Austin, James Turnbull John Dunphy, Christy Swain Marié Joubert, Jeff Liebsch Bobby McGill, Amy Steele Murray Cundall, Simon Slater Anthony Velasquez PHOTOGRAPHERS

Stacy Austin, Wendy Nind Michael Kazemi, Simon Slater Amy Fleming, Alex Mann Bosdal Photography, Vichie81 ACCOUNTS SERVICES

Bak Seon-mi

SIMON SLATER

Simon Slater is a freelance journalist and photographer currently based in Seoul. As well as contributing to various media outlets, he writes photo-led stories about Korea and the rest of Asia in his blog ‘The Secret Map.’

INTERN

An Sil-oh BUSAN HAPS Apr/May 2015 Issue 36 BUSINESS REGISTRATION NUMBER: 00001 FIRST PUBLICATION DATE: Sept, 2, 2009

STACY AUSTIN

Hailing from Portland, Oregon, writer, photographer and artist Stacy Austin keeps herself busy getting into lots of adventures in Busan, South Korea. You can find various ways to socially stalk her at her website, stacylaughs. com.

OFFICE ADDRESS Pale de CZ, 2-19, Jung Dong1124-2, Haeundae-gu, Busan, Republic of Korea DISCLAIMER The opinions in the magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher.

MICHAEL KAZEMI

A native of Iran, Michael Kazemi has been living and doing business in Korea since 2008. His love of photography has led to his work being featured in several newspapers and magazines here.

what’sHAPPENING

UP, DOWN &ALL AROUND GREAT EVENTS ARE HAPPENING AROUND THE PENINSULA THIS SPRING. HERE ARE A FEW SUGGESTIONS TO CHECK OUT THIS SEASON.

GOYANG INTERNATIONAL FLOWER SHOW Held annually at the Goyang Flower Exhibition Center since 1991, the festival showcases the first signs of spring, a wide range of activities and, of course, nature’s beauty at scenic Ilsan Lake Park. Date: April 24-May 10 Location: Goyang, Gyeonggi-do

BOSEONG GREEN TEA FESTIVAL One of the most anticipated festivals each spring, the Boseong Green Tea Festival provides an array of activities, including the very popular hands-on experience programs, which celebrate the region’s love of tea. Date: May 22-26 Location: Boseong, Jeollanam-do

JINHAE CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL APRIL 1-10 | JINHAE

the big five

Regarded as the best place in the country to catch the cherry blossoms, the historic city of Jinhae greets millions of guests to its pink-lined streets for a 10day festival complete with arts and culture performances.

BUSAN INT. PERFORMING ARTS FESTIVAL APRIL 29-MAY 10 | BUSAN CINEMA CENTER

The Busan International Performing Arts Festival introduces great theater with performance teams from around the world. Categories include 10-minute plays and a street showcase at various theaters and locations around the city.

BUSAN INTERNATIONAL SHORT FILM FESTIVAL APRIL 24-28 | BUSAN CINEMA CENTER

Started in the 1980s, the Busan International Short Film Festival has transformed into a major film festival that actively discovers and introduces outstanding short films from around the world.

PAUL MCCARTNEY LIVE IN CONCERT MAY 2 | JAMSIL SPORTS COMPLEX, SEOUL

The legendary Paul McCartney returns to Korea after an illness canceled his scheduled performance last May as part of his world tour that started in Brazil last year and has been staged in 23 cities in Europe, Japan and South America.

BUSAN INTERNATIONAL DANCE FESTIVAL MAY 29-JUNE 2 | BUSAN CITIZENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S HALL

The five-day festival, which takes place around Haeundae Beach, combines the beauty of body movements and the ocean with over 200 teams participating in the hopes of uniting cultures through the language of dance.

what’sHAPPENING

WISH WE WERE THERE GREAT EVENTS ARE HAPPENING ALL AROUND THE GLOBE. HERE’S ONE WE WISH WE COULD GET TO.

CREDIT: FEST 300

ST. LUCIA JAZZ AND ARTS FESTIVAL Though situated on the tiny Caribbean island, the St. Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival is still considered one of the best in the world with a fantastic lineup of musicians and an even better vibe. With hundreds of performers and art exhibitions, the festival is surrounded by scenic mountains that provide the perfect backdrop to the carnival-like atmosphere. Date: April 30-May 10 Location: Pigeon Island, St. Lucia

WORD ON THE STREET KOREAN FOOD JUST “SO-SO”? A recent survey taken by the Korean Culture and Tourism Institute showed that the Korean culinary experience the government hopes to promote to the world is just not cutting it with foreign visitors to the country. The survey taken last year on 810 guests visiting the country showed that Korean food scored only 74.4 points out of 100, sure to disappoint locals who have hoped the recent trend of Korean food popularity overseas would churn more tourism won for the country. By region, North Americans and Europeans preferred bulgogi, while Japanese preferred kalbi, Chinese favored samgyupsal and Southeast Asians picked bibimbap. Americans rated Korean food the highest, at 82% favorable, while the Chinese gave it the lowest score, at 70 points. Grilled fish, naengmyeon, gukbap, ssambap and doenjang jjigae were the dishes that ranked the lowest on the survey.

OVERHEARD

“There wasn’t any particular reason that I struggled in the US. I just didn’t play well. I have nothing else to say.” South Korean pitcher, Yoon Suk-min, upon returning to Korea after a failed MLB bid with Baltimore and signing a four-year, 9 billion won contract with KIA.

SPRECHEN SIE DEUTSCH? Those interested in German culture and language in Busan now have an excellent option to learn, as the world-famous Goethe-Institut opened its doors at the end of February on the 6th floor in the Germany Building, in Daechang-dong, Jung-gu. Founded in 1951, the Goethe-Institut is a nonprofit organization with 159 centers worldwide to promote cultural exchanges and the German language. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., the institute provides classes in German language, cultural lessons, reading rooms and exam preparation for A1 to C2 levels on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFL). For more information, contact the Goethe-Institut Korea Busan Language Center at 051- 441-4115, or visit their homepage at www.goethe.de/korea.

FAST FACTS Top 5 Ranked Universities in Busan 1. Pusan National University 2. Pukyong National University 3. Dongseo University 4. Kyungsung University 5. Dong-A University Source: www.4icu.org

COMMUNITY & LIVING

BIWA CELEBRATES

50 YEARS

The Busan International Women’s Association celebrates 50 years as a nonprofit organization this year with a spring ball to be held at the Haeundae Grand Hotel on April 25. Tickets, which cost 110,000 won for members with a spouse and 120,000 won for a nonmember, include a welcome drink, hors d’oeuvres, an elegant five-course dinner, a silent auction and dancing until midnight. Established in 1965, BIWA encourages friendship, support and cultural exchange between its international and Korean members by organizing a wide variety of social and cultural activities as well as raising money for local charities in need. For women interested in joining BIWA, you can check out their Facebook page at “Busan International Women’s Association (BIWA).” Image Credit: Bosdal Photography

FOO FIGHTERS HEADLINE AVRF After last year’s cancellation of the Ansan Valley Rock Festival, due to the tragic Sewol ferry accident, one of Korea’s biggest rock festivals returns with the legendary rock band the Foo Fighters tabbed to headline this year. The three-day festival is set to take place July 2426 at the Daebu Sea Breeze Theme Park. The 10-time Grammy-Award-winning band from Seattle, founded by ex-Nirvana drummer Dave Grohl after the death of Kurt Cobain in 1994, has recorded eight studio albums with sales of over 12 million copies worldwide.

16 CULTURAL INSIGHT

THE THIGH GAP There’s a disturbing new body image fad in America: the thigh gap. James Turnbull gives us the skinny (quite literally) on this latest obsession. Unless you’re a teenage girl, or the parent of one, you may not have heard of the latest weight loss obsession: the ‘thigh gap,’ in which the upper middle thighs do not touch when standing with both feet together. Once you learn that, short of starvation, it’s impossible to get for all but the very small percentage of girls with both slender legs and wide hips, perhaps you couldn’t care less. So what if it’s so popular it has its own Twitter hashtag, through which users show off their successful transformations as ‘thinspiration’ to others? Or that girls chronicle their lack of change on dedicated Tumblrs, bemoaning the ineffectiveness of expensive and time-consuming diet and exercise regimens? Advertisers are only too happy to target the young, gullible and insecure, and teenage obsession with appearance is as old as the concept of the teenager itself. (That’s why advertisers invented it.) What

then, makes this trend any different, and something everybody should take notice of? First, whereas most trends are invented by the media and advertisers, blind luck normally determining which few take a hold on consumers, the success of this one stands out for largely being driven by teenage girls themselves. Primarily, it’s grown through their use of social network services (SNS), their 24/7 smartphone access to judgmental peers and celebrity role models increasing their exposure to negative body image messages to an extent that adults shouldn’t presume to fully appreciate the impact of. Caryn Franklin, fashion editor of style magazine i-D in the 1980s, claims that the changes have led to greater homogenization, arguing that back then, “fashion culture was busy celebrating diversity. There was no media saying ‘get the look’ and pointing to celebrities as style leaders

WRITTEN BY JAMES TURNBULL

because there wasn’t a homogenized fashion look, and there weren’t digital platforms that meant that I was exposed to more images of unachievable beauty.” Knowing the means however, does not explain the motive. Part of the thigh gap’s appeal lies in how readily it fits into pre-existing discourses and beliefs about body image – i.e., the slimmer you are, the more successful you will be in life – and it’s easy to be deceived that whatever helps you lose weight will help reduce your thighs too. Unlike with general slimming goals though, you either possess a thigh gap or you don’t, thereby providing an easy yardstick for girls to judge themselves and their peers. (This explains its natural affinity with SNS, and why so many success stories prove to be photoshopped.) In response to criticism, some girls point out that they have one despite not even being skinny. Or, if they are skinny, that they exercise and eat healthily and resent accusations that they have eating disorders. That said, the correlation with underweight girls is obvious, apropos of what was originally a standard of thinness among models. Model Naomi Shimada argues that the trend “comes partly from a fashion industry that won’t acknowledge that there are different ways a woman should look, and it comes from the pro-anorexic community. It’s a path to an eating disorder.” The UK’s Advertising Standards Authority agrees. In December, it forced US clothing company Urban Outfitters to remove a photo of a model with a thigh gap from its website, on the basis that it was “irresponsible and harmful.” Specifically, because the model was “noticeably underweight,” which, given the young target market, was “likely to impress upon [them] that the image was representative of the people who might wear Urban Outfitters’ clothing, and as being something to aspire to.” Kate Sullivan, contributor to Allure, applauded the decision, but wondered if it was acceptable to effectively ban a body type. She concluded: “No offense to the model in this ad, but to me, the answer is a resounding yes. Without some protest and industry standards, it’s impossible to encourage the model diversity customers want or ensure the safety of working models and impressionable customers.” This raises questions about appropriate strategies to combat advertisers’ roles in body image problems and eating disorders, and the responses will have a big impact on how the advertising, fashion, beauty and dieting industries

will develop in the future. Partially, it’s because of the ineffectiveness of this case: While Urban Outfitters did indeed switch to a curvier model in the specific offending photo, the company is unrepentant, and retains many other photos of models with thigh gaps on its website. But mostly, it’s because, whereas my gut instinct is to join the chorus in applauding restrictions of underweight models, legislating against one particular body type smacks of hypocrisy in an era of fat acceptance and celebrating body diversity. It seems equally plausible to demonize, say, women with large busts also (oh, wait – people do do that), and restrict the use of D-cup models on the exact same basis that the ASA censured those with thigh gaps. It’s better, perhaps, for consumers to boycott companies that don’t present a range of body types (or races, sexual orientations and age groups, for that matter), as Kate Sullivan also suggests. Finally, there are insights to be gained about Korea, where the last decade has seen the rise of a veritable alphabet soup of ‘bodylines’ and labels (‘S-line,’ ‘V-line,’ ‘bagel girl,’ and so on), which likewise have provided well-defined body-image goals for women to latch on to. In my previous writings and research, I’ve ascribed that rise to a backlash against Korean women’s increasing financial power in the 2000s, à la Naomi Wolf’s The Beauty Myth and Susan Faludi’s Backlash about similar developments in Western countries in the 1970s and ‘80s. Indeed, I still think that - but the how has remained a mystery. Crucially, however, the example of the thigh gap suggests that Korea’s early start in SNS, with Korean women taking pictures of what they ate – or rather, didn’t eat – is an intriguing possibility as to the means. After all, a 2011 study at the University of Haifa found that adolescent girls who spent the most time using Facebook had a greater chance of developing a negative body image and an eating disorder. Time to find a 2001 study of Korean girls using Cyworld?

MOST TRENDS ARE INVENTED BY THE MEDIA AND ADVERTISERS, BUT THE SUCCESS OF THIS ONE STANDS OUT FOR LARGELY BEING DRIVEN BY TEENAGE GIRLS THEMSELVES.

James Turnbull is a writer and public speaker on Korean feminism, sexuality and pop culture. He can be found at thegrandnarrative.com.

IN THE NEWS

BREAKFAST TO-GO CATCHING ON kay, a show of hands: How many of you skipped breakfast this morning or grabbed something from the local convenience store? For the majority of Koreans, breakfast is still considered the most important meal of the day; however, making enough time to sit and have a proper breakfast daily has been on the decline, as many tend to leave the house before 7:30 a.m. to set out upon their busy days. A usual Korean course of rice, soup and fish used to be a staple of breakfast, but with hectic schedules and a lack of time, a majority have turned to simpler meals such as bread and milk, and to even newer trends, such as breakfast-to-go options at 7/11 and CU Mart, which are capitalizing on the newest trend by offering everything from sandwiches, pasta meals and the always-loved kimbap options. With morning sales now accounting for nearly 20% of all daily sales, convenience stores have upped their game to offer a wide variety of healthier options to meet the demand of the nearly onetrillion-won rapidly growing industry.

NUMBERS IN THE NEWS

81.7

billion dollars - Samsung’s brand value, making it the 2nd most important brand in the world.

AMBASSADOR’S ATTACK TIGHTENS ALLIANCE he surprising March attack of US Ambassador Mark Lippert sent shockwaves around the world after he was attacked by 55-year-old extremist activist Kim Kijong with a knife, causing the need for 80 stitches to the envoy’s right cheek and the reattachment of a severed nerve on his left hand. The attack, however, has bolstered the resolve of the bilateral agreement between the countries, and promises to tighten the alliance have been pledged by both the ambassador and the Foreign Ministry. “We resolved to work again toward a South Korea-US alliance that will not be fazed by any threats and will overcome any crisis or challenge,” said Yun Byungse, Korea’s Foreign Minister, upon returning from a Middle East trip after the attack. An outpouring of sympathy and encouragement to the ambassador from people from all walks of life also poured in after the attack with the ambassador receiving hundreds of messages, vigils and gifts for a speedy recovery. Lippert, a close friend of US President Barack Obama, was about to deliver a speech at a breakfast, being held at Sejong Hall in Seoul, when Kim pushed Lippert down on a table and started attacking him.

KOREA & WORLD NEWS

62-YEAR-OLD ADULTERY LAW ABOLISHED n a move that shows a sign of a change in attitudes in conser vative va lues that Korea has been wellknown for, the Constitutional Court of Korea struck down a law that imprisoned philanderers for up to two years. “It has become difficult to say that there is a consensus on whether adultery should be punished as a criminal offense,” five of the court’s nine justices said in a joint opinion. “It should be left to the free will and love of people to decide whether to maintain marriage, and the matter should not be externally forced through a criminal code.” Since 1985, when records began

being kept, nearly 58,000 people have been charged with the crime, though most usually received a suspended sentence. The law, established in 1953 to protect women, who, at the time, lived in a much more maledominated society, has outlived its usefulness, said three major women’s groups in Seoul, who lauded the decision. The law had previously failed four times to be rescinded, last in 2008 by actress Ok So-ri after she was convicted for having an extra-marital affair with a singer but also avoided jail time after receiving a two-year suspended sentence.

20 INSIDE STORY

THE ANIMAL INSTINCTS OF

SARAH DEREMER Expat English teacher, photographer and digital artist Sarah DeRemer created Animal Food, a series that went viral around the world last year and was featured everywhere from Time Magazine to The Guardian. Her latest series, You Are What You Eat, brings us more of her wonderfully creative mind and wholly unique creations.

WRITTEN BY SIMON SLATER PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH DEREMER

“I THINK THEY WENT VIRAL BECAUSE THEY WERE UNUSUAL AND UNPRECEDENTED IMAGES THAT CAUSED PEOPLE TO THINK, AND I’M HAPPY TO INSPIRE DISCUSSION OF ANY SORT, WHETHER SUPPORTIVE OR NOT."

WHEN DID YOU START TO GET INTO PHOTOSHOP CREATIONS? I started Photoshopping a little over a year ago when my friend in Korea introduced me to the Internet community of Hybrid Animals. I started making the Hybrid Animals as a way to practice the program. It was my first introduction to the genre of digital work, and from there I started developing more of my own projects as well as a stronger love for the field of digital art.

WHAT INSPIRED ANIMAL FOOD? One of the initial ways I started learning photomanipulation was through practicing with animal hybridizing. From there, I noticed the potential for a series stemming from an interesting juxtaposition between live animals and produce, rather than just different animal species. I found the combination of forms interesting and realized that it made a visually strong image that people would have strong opinions about. A lot of the project was a study in color and negative space, as well as creating a cohesive image through hybridizing, but I also just enjoyed creating something both amusing and potentially thought provoking.

WHY DO YOU THINK YOUR IMAGES HAVE HAD SUCH VIRAL APPEAL? I think people like seeing realistic-looking and believable photographs of animals that are actually fantastically fictitious. I believe that Animal Food had a viral appeal due to the fact that nobody had combined animals and

produce in such a way before. Overall, people have received it well and enjoyed the hybrids. On the other hand, I have had some people comment that the series was “creepy” or sent the wrong message about animals and meat. I think they went viral because they were unusual and unprecedented images that caused people to think, and I’m happy to inspire discussion of any sort, whether supportive or not.

WHAT DO YOU THINK MAKES PHOTOSHOP SUCH A UNIQUE FORMAT FOR IMAGE CREATION? Photoshop allows people to create completely realisticlooking images that could never actually occur. With the complexity of the program, people are able to push boundaries that are harder to push in traditional art. I will always stand behind the fact that nothing is as true as pencil on paper, but the digital realm does have so much to offer. One of my favorite quotes by Dr. Seuss is, “I like nonsense, it wakes up the brain cells. Fantasy is a necessary ingredient in living.” Photoshop allows people to create realistic-looking fantasy images, which I think fascinates people. It’s also just an incredibly practical mode of image creation - with all the tools, it’s almost limitless, and in many instances, it just takes a lot less time with more capability for fixing errors and reworking. You can see more of Sarah DeRemer’s work on her Facebook page.

MATERIAL WORLD

PICNIC PROVISIONS EVA SOLO TABLE GRILL

It’s that time of year to get outside and enjoy Korea’s plentiful picnic destinations. As the weather warms, take a day trip to one of Busan’s lesser-known beaches, find a quiet pavilion in the mountains or catch some live outdoor music, and throw yourself a bad-ass picnic - with a little planning and the perfect gear.

If some gourmet cooking is in your repertoire, it’s time to take your picnic game to the next level. Pack some meat and veggies in the cooler, and grill your favorite tapas with The Eva Solo Table Grill. The 30-cm-diameter porcelain bowl, stainless steel grill and simple carrying handle create a beautiful design with practicality in mind. This sleek addition to your picnic is available from Finnish Design Shop for 235,000 won. www.finnishdesignshop.com

VIVO BENTO BOX Organize your spread in three separate sections with the reusable Vivo Bento Box, available for 35,000 won. This brightly colored, stackable set is spacious enough to pack food for four yet is small enough to throw in a cooler, should you need to keep your cargo chilled. Pack, stack, latch and go. www.amazon.com

BAMBOO 21-PIECE

INSULATED PICNIC BASKET Round out your picnic experience with this classic basket, made from bamboo, seagrass and banana leaves. The interior functions as an insulated cooler, and it comes fully equipped with a set of four plates, mugs and utensils for 40,000 won. The comfortable double handles make it easy to pick up and find a nice spot to enjoy your lunch. www.bedbathandbeyond.com

GADGETS & GEAR

REI FESTIVAL MINI BAR This cooler is the coolest. The perfect accessory for a day on a Busan beach or a night camping in Namhae, the Mini Bar comes with a built-in pop-up table, complete with two cup holders so your beach beers stay safe from the sand. The 50,000-won cooler sits on a firm foundation and comes with a sturdy handle and option for shoulder strap. Separate pockets allow for storing eating utensils, and its insulation keeps your food cool for hours of picnicking enjoyment. www.rei.com

GLACIER STAINLESS NESTING WINE GLASS Add a touch of class to any picnic with stainless steel wine glasses, from GSI Outdoors. The stem of each glass unscrews from the bowl, and the base snaps into the rim, forming the handiest of ways to transport a set to any picnic locale. Available for 14,000 won, the sturdy yet lightweight glass is the ideal companion for your beach sangria or posthike pinot. www.gsioutdoors.com

tea time IN BUSAN

WRITTEN BY BY STACY AUSTIN PHOTOGRAPHY BY STACY AUSTIN & WENDY NIND

Whether you’re seeking a light meal, a beautiful view or just an alternative to Korea’s typical lackluster over-priced coffee, here are some great places to indulge in that ‘other hot beverage.’

25 ROUND HAEUNDAE GRAND HOTEL After being served three tiers of savory and sweet bitesize morsels and a pot of tea in this charming cove, you’ll forget that you’re across the street from the ocean. With both the menu selection and music consistently classical, you’ll even forget what season it is. I guess what I’m saying is you should go here to get away, as it offers the perfect atmosphere for quiet reflection. Price range: 42,000 won for two people Opening hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m., daily Contact: 051-740-0611, 217 Haeundae Beach Road, Haeundae-gu

PANORAMA LOUNGE WESTIN CHOSUN Westin Chosun is Busan’s first five-star hotel and the place to stay for most VIPS and dignitaries. They’ve been teasing me with the promise of an afternoon tea set (something their Seoul counterpart offers), and when that wish is granted I may never leave. Until then, we can order tea and pastries a la carte. Tables circle like covered wagons around a transparent Grand piano, an exotic aquarium and a majestic glittering chandelier. With oceanfront windows, the entire area is beautifully lit. Price range: 11,000-50,000 won (approx.) Opening hours: 8 a.m.-midnight, daily Contact: 051-749-7435, Dongbaek-ro, Haeundae-gu

coverSTORY

NAE GO HYEONG JUN TONG CHAT JIB (내고형전통찻집) BUJEON DONG, BUSANJIN-GU If you’re looking for something distinctively less Western, go to this busy teahouse located near the well-known Yeonggwang Bookstore in Seomyeon. The place is constantly bustling with older Koreans slinging business deals and gossip. Maneuver yourself around the numerous pots and into a papasan chair of sorts. The menus are stained and peeling off the walls, but that’s part of its charm. Lightly sweetened and seasoned with clean-tasting ginger and aromatic jujubes from Korean tradition, these medicinal teas have an interplay of sharp and rich flavors that seem to evolve with each sip. If you can speak Korean, the workers will talk your ear off on the benefits, ignoring the dubious look on your face. For example, unprompted, I was told that omeeja-cha was good for colds and diarrhea, but daechu-cha would be good for my stomach, skin and insomnia. Price range: 5,500-6,000 won Opening hours: noon-7 p.m., Mon.-Sat. Contact: 051-809-2789, 259-3 Bujeon 1-dong, Busanjin-gu

LOUNGE PARK HYATT The afternoon tea set at Park Hyatt Hotel is as lively as the view. Full-length windows extend from the floor to the ceiling, offering one an awe-inspiring view of the ocean from the 30th floor. The theme changes every two months, ranging from chocolates to fruits. There is a selection of small savories, sandwiches, homemade scones and assorted pastries. Add premium champagne if you’re feeling extra indulgent. Price range: 60,000 won for two people; 105,000 won includes two glasses of champagne Opening hours: 2-6 p.m., Mon-Sat; 3-6 p.m., Sun Contact: 051-990-1300, 51 Marine City, 1-Ro, Haeundae-gu

27 THE LOUNGE LOTTE HOTEL Seomyeon is an area of Busan that never seems to sleep, as its bright lights never go out. At the center of this noise and excitement is Lotte Hotel. Their lounge has an open floor plan with a square theme: square tiles, square windows, square tables and chairs, and square bookcases. The menu is distinctly outside the box, though. Here you will find the greatest selection of teas, including black, herbal, iced and traditional. If you also want to indulge in coffee and price is no concern, this is the only place I’ve found in Busan that serves Indonesian kopi luwak, or civet coffee, in which the seeds of coffee berries were once eaten and defecated by the Asian palm civet. Price range: 17,000-78,000 won (approx.) Opening hours: 7:30 a.m.-1:30 a.m., daily Contact: 051-810-6430, 772 Gaya-daero, Busanjin-gu

DA HAE JEONG (다해정) NAMPO-DONG, JUNG-GU Flickering candles warm each cup at this tranquil haven, accented with cushy seats and the sweet smell of black tea. Pu-erh tea (보이차) is what is most often sold in Korean teahouses, but I have to say that this one is the best. I recommend allowing the shop owner to do the two-step tea-steeping process for you. Her hands expertly pour hot water among several bowls as she just as quickly questions you about where you’re from and what you do. Be

prepared to order and converse only in Korean. Tea is served with various Korean snacks, such as crystallized ginger and sweet potato pastries. You’ll find this place on the second floor in an alley that is across from the Yongdusan Park escalators in Nampo-dong. Price range: 5,000-10,000 won (approx.) Opening hours: 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m., Mon.-Sat. Contact: 051-242-7211, 4 Nampo-dong 2-ga, Jung-gu

coverSTORY

CAFÉ OGADA (오가다) MIRAENA HOTEL, GWANGAN-DONG To be upfront, this place is part of a chain all over Korea, but there are only two in Busan and the view at the Gwangan location is stellar, as it is directly across the street from the beach. The slogan “Korean Tea & Time” is difficult to decipher, but their menu is not. With minimal or no Korean skills, one can easily order fun teas flavored with pomegranate, ginseng, asian pear and more. Price range: 5,000-11,000 won (approx.) Opening hours: noon-11 p.m., Tues.-Sun. Contact: 070-7749-7432, 196-3 Suyeong-gu Gwangandong, Miraena Hotel 2nd floor

HANA BANG (하나방 전통다원) BUJEON DONG, BUSANJIN-GU The interior of this teahouse is similar to most Uzbek restaurants in Korea: comfy, multi-patterned seating around big tables. Their menu has a lot of range. They serve black, medicinal and flower teas. And, while their staff doesn’t speak English, they do have a printed menu with several pictures. Price range: 5,000-10,000 won (approx.) Opening hours: 10 a.m.-11 p.m., daily Contact: 051-806-0011, 516-2 Bunji Bujeon 2-dong, Busanjin-gu

29 DA JEON (다전) BUJEON DONG, BUSANJIN-GU This is more popularly known as a vegetarian restaurant, but the name actually translates to ‘tea field.’ I even have a non-vegetarian Korean friend who claims that this restaurant serves the best bibimbap he’s ever eaten because the ingredients in the charcoal bowl are so good that they don’t need meat. The restaurant boasts the motto “be veg, go green, save the planet” while also advertising as proponents for organic farming. Takeout cups of tea are a bit cheaper, but if you have time, I suggest having a seat. Da Jeon is located on the 4th floor, above WA Bar, behind the Seomyeon Lotte Department Store. Price range: 3,000-11,000 won (approx.) Opening hours: noon-11 p.m., Tues.-Sun. Contact: 051-808-6363, 240-12 Bujeon 2-dong, Busanjin-gu

YEO UI GA (여의가) JEONGGWAN-MYEON, GIJANG-GUN If Studio Ghibli designed a teahouse, this would be it. It is a two-story cabin with large windows, surrounded by perpetually blue skies and green mountains. Every dish and mug is expertly laid out. Portions are large, with fresh ingredients and vibrant colors. Keep in mind that this location is far north of Busan-proper and would require a car to get to. Price range: 7,000-11,000 won (approx.) Opening hours: 10 a.m.-10:50 p.m., Tues.-Sun. Contact: 051-727-0740, 934-2 Dalsan-ri, Jeonggwanmyeon, Gijang-gun

30 HAPS_Dec/Jan 2014/15

2014/15 Dec/Jan_ busanhaps.com 31

QUICK EATS

FOODIE TRAVEL REPORT

A MOVEABLE FOODIE FEAST IN OSAKA WRITTEN BY ANTHONY VELASQUEZ PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY FLEMING & VICHIE81

The next time you’re in Osaka, make sure you take in the great food at Kuidaore area. Anthony Velasquez gives us a review of what to look for when you’re there. It’s no coincidence that Osaka and San Francisco are sister cities: They’re both densely populated with food-obsessed citizens. Sure, Osaka has a lovely castle and temples, but its number-one destination is Dotonbori Street - with its vast neon and restaurants featuring Godzilla-like plastic models of their house specialties hanging above the front door - the epicenter of what’s known as kuidoare. Kuidaore, which means to eat into financial ruin or eat ‘til you drop, is so synonymous with this city that it even has its own clown for a mascot. Over the New Year’s holiday, I savored a three-day food tour of Osaka, topped off with a side trip to nearby Kyoto for a little nature and culture. In Osaka, I patiently lined up with the locals for okonomiyaki, takoyaki, yakitori, kushikatsu and, with tickets in hand waiting to cash in, a bowl of ramen at the counter. The lively eat streets around the Namba Station are great fun, but the best food I found was off of Dotonbori Street. If you’re looking for a weekend-dining dash to Japan, here are a few places worth seeking out.

CHIBO Walking through the bustling shopping arcades between Nipponbashi and Namba Subway stations, I came across Chibo. While Hiroshima may object, Osaka claims to be the origin of okonomiyaki, a saucy, savory pancake. On my first attempt to experience an authentic Osakan taste, which Chibo is known for, the line was deep, so I went two blocks west and found Kaiten Sushi. Perhaps it has a different name, since kaiten sushi translates to rotation or conveyor belt sushi, but with its large signage and distinct black awning with 回転寿司 and “Kaiten Sushi” repeated along the border, it’s well-marked and deserves an honorable mention for its cheap, fresh fish and outstanding fried octopus. The next day I decided to give Chibo another shot. Just after the 11 a.m. opening, I managed to beat the crowd and scored a spot at the counter in front of the teppanyaki or ‘iron griddle.’ Chibo’s okonomiyaki has the texture and flavor of a cross between pancake batter and brioche. The batter is then mixed with diced vegetables, cheese, cuttlefish, shrimp and a few chunks of beef. Then

topped with two sauces, strips of bacon, and katsuobushi (dried, smoked bonito flakes), somehow these disparate components strike a surprising balance. It was the priciest (1,480 yen) of those I sampled but the most delicious one I’ve ever had.

GOSAKUDON NISHITANABETEN If you’re a baseball fan, sushi connoisseur, or follower of the best selling author and former Les Halles chef Anthony Bourdain, then you want to ride the Midosuji Line down to Nishitanabe Station for Gosakudon. It is a hard table to get, so be persistent. But once in; you’re in. This ‘sports bar’ was featured on the popular Travel Channel show No Reservations, where Bourdain was impressed by the ardent supporters of the Hanshin Tigers baseball team and Gosakudon’s stellar sushi. Gosakudon’s toro (medium-fatty tuna belly) was melt-in-your-mouth perfection and the hotate (scallops), with its succulent meaty texture and subtle sweetness, certainly were mighty impressive. Besides the delicious and very reasonably priced menu, head chef Satoko and her husband, who manages the floor, know how to make a visitor feel right at home. Complemented by the gracious patrons, the whole atmosphere of this friendly pub, or izakaya in Japanese, creates a truly memorable experience. Arigato.

HONKE OWARIYA A few blocks from Kyoto Imperial Palace Park, there’s Honke Owariya. Opened in 1465 as a confectionary shop, this elegant yet inexpensive traditional washitsu (Japanese-style rooms) restaurant has been serving soba (buckwheat noodles) to zen monks and the Emperor’s family for centuries. Soba is a simple unadorned dish of cold noodles with wasabi, leeks, shiso leaf chiffonade and a special homemade dipping sauce on the side. These plain handcut noodles feature the finest buckwheat flour imported from Hokkaido and reveal a delicate refinement. Their kake soba (hot noodle) is served in a soup flavored with mirin (sweet sake), dashi (dried bonito-flake broth) and nori (seaweed) for that umami taste. Speaking of sake, the Momo no Shizuku sake brewed in Kyoto and served here, is akin to the soba itself: light, delicate, refined.

goingLocal

WRITTEN BY MARIÉ JOUBERT

SHARK DIVING IN HAEUNDAE People depart from Korea with a variety of tales from their time here. Here’s a truly unique one to add to the list. I haven’t even seen the movie Jaws, and neither have many of my friends, but you only need to start with the soundtrack’s pounding “dahn-dahn-dahn-dahn,” and we all get a shiver down our spines. Still, I couldn’t pass on a chance to take a dip with the marine monsters - if for nothing else than to send my mother the pictures. When I arrived at Busan Aquarium in Haeundae, I was set up with gear and joined by one of the aquarium interns. I first made sure all my under-water gadgets worked properly. Any diver knows you can do everything through your regulator under the water, as long as you keep it in your mouth - even scream. And that’s exactly what happened when I poked my head under the water for the first time in the small tank. Little Miss Zebra Shark was curious about me and apparently wanted to know who was invading her personal space. Suddenly we were face to face; eye to eye. Leaving me - actually the bigger of the two - screaming a trail of bubbles in hip-deep water. On to the big tank, where, with each step, this whole thing felt more and more like an absolutely stupid thing to do. My heart raced, my knees went wobbly and my brain seemed to dissolve into a black hole. The more fear crept in, the louder it whispered: “they can smell fear…” The first sight underwater was the alarmed faces of the Busan Aquarium visitors on the other side of the glass. Waves were exchanged, photos were posed for and

hopefully a silent prayer said. Within five minutes in the tank, most of the bigger sharks (one around three meters long) came over for a chat … or a bite … or a scare-off. But they weren’t too fond of my bodyguard and his air gun and quickly decided we weren’t worth the trouble. The longer you are in the same space with these great souls of the big blue, the more respect and awe they gain and you are overtaken with the utmost fascination. Swimming within reach of these creatures makes you feel very small and insignificant. The shark has been around for millions of years with hardly an equal in its underwater world. Yet, there I was, a potential meal for 20 minutes. Afterward, I stepped out of the water feeling as if I had been stirred from a dream. How could I leave a world where all I can hear is my own breathing, I feel the water currents pushing and pulling me along, and I look a strange, yet wonderful and powerful, fish in the eye without even feeling remotely afraid? I must be nuts.

For more information about booking a dive with the sharks at the Busan Aquarium, you can visit www.aquaticfrontier.com or www.busanaquarium.com, or call the aquarium at 051-740-1700. The dive dates are pre-scheduled but are usually held on Saturdays and Sundays. Price: 150,000 won (includes 70,000 won deposit)

bookReview

WRITTEN BY CHRIS BIRDSONG

THE WORST MOTORCYCLE

IN LAOS: ROUGH TRAVELS IN ASIA Busan-based writer Chris Tharp is back with another entertaining book - this time documenting his travels and travails across Asia.

Second books are often like second albums. Too many musicians and writers pour their heart into their first work and then simply dial it in for their sophomore release. Local ma instay a nd long time Haps contributor Chris Tharp manages to avoid this pitfall with a follow up to his enjoyable first book, Dispatches from Korea: Six Years on the Peninsula (2011), with a travelogue, this time beyond the Korean borders, in The Worst Motorcycle in Laos: Rough Travels in Asia (Signal 8 Press. 386 pages). In his second collection of essays, Tharp gives us a glimpse into what many would argue is the proper way to travel. If you’re looking to read up on yoga retreats, luxury spas or Full Moon parties, you’re flipping through the wrong pages. Tharp’s adventures fall right in that beautiful in-between where the potential for a brawl in a Japanese punk rock bar sits just two or three chapters away from a two-day trek through one of the poorest regions of western China. Tharp weaves his way through 10 years of Asian vacations, sampling the local tastes while avoiding the well-beaten traveler cliché at every turn. As Tharp works his way across the continent, he’s accompanied by a varying group of friendly faces. These sidekicks provide a collection of distinct voices that help to humanize the experience and emphasize the jarring differences between each location. The sprinkling of a little local history and backstory also gives each of Tharp’s escapades a stronger foundation, allowing the reader to become more deeply immersed in the journey. If it weren’t for the dates in the chapter headers, The Worst Motorcycle in Laos could easily have come across as tying together one long, meandering trip around Asia. CONTINUED ON PAGE 53

36 ENTERTAINMENT

The (Re)Birth of CHA SANGGU 차상구 Reborn and repackaged, Cha Sanggu has never been to Korea but refers to himself as a “synthetic Korean.” Now he is looking to become a K-pop star at almost 40 years old. Considering his backstory, it’s not as crazy as it sounds.

WRITTEN BY BOBBY MCGILL PHOTOGRAPHY BY FRANCISCO FUENTES & ANDY KANG

“THE DISCOVERY OF K-POP HAS CHANGED MY LIFE TREMENDOUSLY, AND I CONSIDER IT A GIFT FROM THE KOREAN PEOPLE. I’LL KEEP PUSHING UNTIL KOREA ACCEPTS ME AND MY GRATITUDE THAT I CAN ONLY RETURN AND EXPRESS THROUGH MUSIC.”

I recently received an email from a publicist that read: “We have an artist named Cha Sanggu (차상구) in our network who is a non-Korean K-pop singer working with a multiplatinum, Grammy & Oscar nominated producer on his first music release in Korea.” The pitch went on to say that Sanggu would soon make his debut and that he had garnered the interest of some major Korean media outlets. I Googled him. It was there, within the borders of my browser, that the story got interesting. Up popped highly stylized photos of an attractive, 6-foot-4, 39-year-old Canadian of the typical European mutt variety - hardly the person one would expect to crack the youthful, plasticized, monoethnic world of K-pop. I toyed with the idea that this all might be an elaborate joke, but I emailed back a few questions to flesh the story out a bit more. Then it got more interesting. “I know it’s crazy, but I’ve never been to Korea,” the reply read, this time directly from Sanggu. “I have dreamt of it every day since starting as a K-pop singer, and didn’t want to set foot on Korean soil until I was proficient enough in the language.” Again, the thought of this being a joke tickled at my

cranium. But I proceeded with the interview, slightly inebriated at the possibility of committing some interesting journalism. With a little more digging I learned that Sanggu (who asked that I not reveal his given name as he forges his new identity) has worked with, and at times lived with, an impressive list of talent. Back at the turn of the millennium, the Vancouver native worked with acts such as Collective Soul, the late Lisa ‘Left Eye’ Lopes and most recently Ronnie King. Like most who take a shot at the big time, Sanggu’s career in music never fully panned out, and by 2008 he went to work in game design at Sanrio & Typhoon Gaming before most recently settling into a management post at BroadbandTV in Vancouver. Life goes on. And then, in what his tenor makes seem an almost religious experience, Sanggu “discovered” South Korea - her history, her language and her K-pop. “When I first discovered K-pop, I was really mesmerized by the beauty and flow of the language, and the more I learned about [the language’s] history and creation through Sejong the Great, it became an obsession.” Perhaps this was his artistic destination all along. “I truly feel that Hangul is the instrument I’ve been looking for to truly express myself as an artist. Each day as

entertainment

my language proficiency increases, I get closer to reaching my full potential and creating the music that my heart has been longing to deliver.”

THE LONG ROAD TO KOREA Sanggu’s musical journey began in 1999 when he moved to Atlanta armed with a $1,000 vocal demo financed by his parents. Some diligent door-knocking got his tape in the hands of a rep at Atlanta Mix Factory who liked what he heard and immediately set up an audition with the boss the late Lisa ‘Left-Eye’ Lopes of TLC fame. After waiting several hours in a nightclub, Left-Eye finally arrived. “We went outside and there she was, sitting in her white Range Rover,” recalls Sanggu. “I almost passed out at first, but we got in and popped in my demo. She took one listen and smiled at me and said ‘I want you.’” “The next day, I was sent a production deal contract through Left-Eye Productions and Sony Music. A few days later, I moved into her house where some other artists were staying too, and the journey began. Sounds crazy, but all true.” Not a bad start for an aspiring young singer from Vancouver, and yet, by Sanggu’s own admission, he lacked the chops to go further. “I didn’t have the ability at that time to deliver a product that she could take to Sony and get on the radio; I was too green.” At a photoshoot during this time, Sanggu caught the attention of Collective Soul manager Farshid Arshid. He too liked what he heard, and Sanggu soon joined the Georgiabased band on tour where he became a close study of lead singer Ed Roland. Unfortunately, timing was not on Sanggu’s side. “The Collective Soul era ended right as it was about to really begin,” he says. “When the tour [Roland] was on was

over, we were supposed to go into the studio and work on the six songs we had done together at the conceptual stage. Literally a week before, some major drama happened between him and another bandmate that led to him kicking that band member out of the group and divorcing his wife. Not surprisingly, my project was delayed.” Sanggu then spent several years as an A&R scout and talent coach at Feel Me Records, followed by his stint at Sanrio & Typhoon and then BroadbandTV. And now, he’s back trying to forge his original musical path - only this time, not as an aspiring R&B oddity but as an aspiring K-pop oddity. For his friends and family, it’s not such an odd thing. “All my friends, Korean and non, think I’m crazy anyway, so they’re not surprised, but they’re also not in the business of doubting me anymore. When I go for it, I go for it hard.” This time he’s tapped the production talents of Ronnie King (of Tupac, Snoop Dogg and Mariah Carey fame) who says that Sanggu “has the voice of an angel.” For Sanggu’s K-pop material, acclaimed Korean poet, Sangrim, has helped pen the Korean lyrics - a language Sanggu is still diligently acquiring. Though some might view his K-pop aspirations with a serious scratch of the head, you gotta give the guy credit for taking another shot at the dream. And if doesn’t work out, Sanggu, a man draped lavishly in optimism, is just fine with that. “Whatever happens, I’ve already been blessed beyond measure, and feel like I’ve already been so successful. Will I get famous, sell a million records? I have no clue, but I’d be happy being a lounge singer at a little bar in Busan, too.”

You can learn more about Sanggu at www.mawheyo.com.

sponsoredSTORY

KBO FEATURED ON CJ HELLOVISION TVING

Watch your favorite teams with ease on your mobile device, PC or TV.

With the expansion of KBO, this is the first year that 10 teams will vie for the crown, and you can see them all through CJ HelloVision TVing - which allows you to view a wide selection of content on your mobile device, PC or TV. Just plug in your TVing Stick and access video-ondemand content, TV and apps exclusively for smartphones and personal computers. Also stepping up to the plate is the new, exclusive easyto-navigate menu, which allows users to quickly access and move around the interface. The service is available on both PC and mobile in high-definition quality - and it’s all free for TVing subscribers. You can also enjoy the game on a popup screen within the app. This great feature allows you to multitask while you’re watching. If the boss is around and you still want to catch the action, you can just listen to the game with audio only. Along with having easy access to game schedules, you can watch highlights from the broadcast anytime after the game.

Starting May 1, try to predict the score of the game, and you can win a variety of different gifts and prizes - so take your best shot at guessing the score! CJ HelloVision spokesperson Jeong Ji-hyun said, “TVing has been bringing baseball to people every year, but this is the first year that Korea has 10 teams, so we’ll do our best to help fans enjoy all the games.” Visit CJ HelloVision on the web at www.cjhello.com.

HELLOMOBILE OFFERS INEXPENSIVE REFURBISHED IPHONE 5S CJ HelloVision Releases iPhone 5s with one-year warranty Now you can get the long-popular iPhone 5s from HelloMobile. CJ HelloVision-owned HelloMobile is the first to offer this service in cooperation with Softbank’s giant retailer Brightstar Korea. Currently, a refurbished iPhone 5s with full warranty is available for 649,000 won, including tax, from HelloMobile Direct (www.cjhellodirect.com) or from a HelloMobile retail shop. Though the iPhone 6 has been quite popular since its release, many people long for the smaller and highly popular iPhone 5s, which was released in 2013, with fingerprint recognition technology. Finding a new model of the iPhone 5s is near impossible, making the official Apple refurbished model a great option. The phones are available in champagne gold, with the silver option soon to follow. All accessories are included with the phones. If you have any problems with the phone, there are 14 KT M&S service centers located across Korea.

Find out more at www.cjhello.com. CJ HelloVision is an advertising partner with Haps Magazine.

sponsoredSTORY

BIFS - THRIVING IN OUR DIVERSITY Busan International Foreign School is celebrating a remarkable five years at its beautifully designed campus in Gijang. School principal Kevin Baker tells us more about the school’s remarkable success. WRITTEN BY KEVIN BAKER

Busan International Foreign School is thriving as it approaches the conclusion of its fifth year on its new campus in Gijang. It is incredible how much Busan’s largest and most international school has grown and how it is poised to shape the future of education in Busan and beyond! BIFS is about innovation, learning personalization and student success. It is a school that lives its mission and has a strong and inspiring vision for the future. It is a school that is already well on its way toward growing from good to great for all of its students. Here are just some of BIFS’ accomplishments this past year under the leadership of their new Head of School, Kevin Baker: • The launch of a new mission and vision for the school • The awarding of a new management contract for BIFS from Busan Municipal City • Achieving the highest enrollment in school history • Celebrating the diversity of the 44 nationalities in our school through a comprehensive program of school-wide internationally minded assemblies. • Successful completion of CIS and WASC accreditation and IB MYP authorization • Strengthening of our outreach and involvement in the Busan community through participation in a record number of City of Busan events and community service activities

•

The launch of a dynamic PTA who provided leadership for incredible community-building events, such as Fall Family Festival and International Day • Outstanding placements at prestigious universities around the world for our graduating seniors • The provision of the best professional training possible to further develop our world-class teachers • KISAC and SKAC sport championships and student participation in international fine arts performances • An international service trip to Cambodia • Innovative programs for students: the launch of our robotics program and the hosting of a student TEDx event BIFS’ vision is to continue to be the international school of choice for Busan and its surrounding community. We aspire to be the intellectual hub of international education innovation in South Korea and beyond. Our desire is for our students to develop and pursue their passions, be successful and contribute to a positive global future. To this end, we live our mission as a diverse, supportive and dynamic international school, inspiring and challenging our students to explore, discover and thrive in the global community to which we all belong. We enthusiastically invite all of Busan to join us as we continue to be “United in our Diversity, Thriving in our Individuality.”

sponsoredSTORY

REDEEMER INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY CHURCH Where do you go when suffering comes? One thing is inevitable: we are all going to, in some form or fashion, experience suffering in this world. Try as hard as we might to shelter and protect ourselves in one way or another, we will taste the bitter reality of suffering, pain and loss. Unfortunately, we live in a world that is becoming increasingly incapable of handling suffering. In the mind of the modern man, where all too often the world and all that we experience is the result of cosmic chance, there is little to no room to explain suffering. So, as a result of this, we are left unable to explain and define suffering. But the truth is that deep down we all long to know why there is suffering, and we long for there to be some reason for it. What we find as we look to the Bible is that there is a reason for suffering. According to the Bible, suffering serves a purpose because all creation serves a wonderful purpose. Psalm 19 writes, “The heavens declare the glory of God and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.” Creation is not the result of random chance but rather the purposeful creation of a loving God. And what takes place within God’s creation has a purpose, and this includes suffering. The apostle Paul says in Romans 8:28, “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good;

for those who are called according to his purpose.” This is a wonderful promise from God that all things, which includes suffering (because if there was one thing not included in all things, then “all things” could not be all things), work together for good, for those who love God. The truth is that the world does not have answers to address the suffering that you are dealing with, but the Bible does. God promises to work all things for good for those who love God. So we invite you to love God. Repent of your sin and believe the gospel. For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son that whoever would believe in Him would not perish but have eternal life. “If you will confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved; for everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Romans 10:9,13) If you are interested in knowing more about God and His word, then we invite you to join us any Sunday at Redeemer International Community Church in Millakdong, Nobel Sky Building, 3rd Floor, or visit us online at redeemerbusan.org.

EXPERIENCE SPORTS

FOR THE LOVE OF BTC EXPATS EXPLAIN THEIR UNYIELDING SUPPORT FOR THE BUSAN TRANSPORTATION CORPORATION FOOTBALL CLUB.

STORY & PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN DUNPHY

Expats might hope to find familiar comforts to ease the transition of living abroad. Sometimes, it’s a familiar food. Sometimes, it’s their native language. Sometimes, it’s sports. For Charlie Robinson, it was the Busan Transportation Corporation Football Club. When the English teacher arrived in Busan in July 2009, he quickly sought a local team he could support. “I was befriended by some ajusshis in the stands who were sharing their picnic with me,” the England native recalls. “It was a really great, friendly experience and quickly made me realize how much more of a personal experience it was.” The BTC began its 10th anniversary season on March 14 at Gudeok Stadium in Dongdaeshin-dong. Founded in February 2006, the BTC play in the National League, the third tier of Korean football (or soccer, depending on where in the world you’re from). Despite, or in part because of, the club’s lower status on the totem pole of Korean leagues, its fans have remained steadfastly supportive for years. Adrian Lord, an English teacher here since February 2010, met Robinson while watching Busan IPark, which competes in the K League Classic, Korea’s highest football league. “Charlie told me about the Busan Transportation Corporation Football Club and invited me to their next home game,” Lord says. “The description he gave sounded very similar to my hometown team, Havant & Waterlooville, a small club with a loyal community following.” Hoping to gather more like-minded fans, Lord began posting invites to games on Facebook. “Many people who started coming to games were just like me, expats who followed a team at home and were looking for a Korean equivalent,” he says. “Others were new to football and became caught up in our enthusiasm.” American Alexander Mann learned about the BTC soon after he arrived in February 2011. “There was a good group of people who would show up to every game,” he says. “We have slowly developed a series of chants and songs to sing during the matches. Everyone sits on the same side of the stadium, so it feels louder than it really is.” Rhiannon Lewis, a teacher in Korea since August 2011, says the opportunity to meet other foreigners besides those she worked with was an immediate selling point, as well as free entry, “the attempt by BTC fans to make enough noise to fill a largely empty stadium, and the never-say-die attitude of the players,” the Wales native says. The loyalty of its foreigner contingent has not been ignored by the club. “When we go on away trips, the manager will often invite us to ride the bus back to Busan,” Mann says. “The team let us pick the red-and-black

stripe away uniform they’ve used the last two seasons. [Their home colors are blue and white.] The company has presented beautiful plaques of appreciation to Adrian and me. And, so many more things I don’t have space to list.” And, there was the cardboard cutout of Charlie Robinson. “What a great surprise,” Robinson says of the life-size likeness the club debuted at a home game several years ago. “The first game they had it, I was there with 50 students from my school. They found it really funny, so it was a lovely moment for us all.” Park Seung-min, infielder for the BTC, says the club’s foreign supporters have stuck with them through good games and bad. “I’m impressed that the foreign supporters will still cheer us on even if we are playing horribly,” he says. “Really, thank you.” Park recalls an SBS TV report that aired in 2013 praising the BTC’s passionate foreigner fanbase. “The other team’s players were jealous,” he says. “I, personally, am very thankful for the support, and I always feel proud when I see them in the stands during away games. Personally, their support helps me play harder.” Lord encourages everyone to check out the club. “Even if you don’t consider yourself to be a football fan, many come for the social side of things over the game itself,” he says. “If you do consider yourself to be a football fan and are the kind of person who enjoys not only the game itself, but the matchday experience and the camaraderie that comes with it, you will love the Busan Transportation Corporation Football Club.” Even though some foreign fans are no longer in Korea, many continue to cheer the team to victory. Robinson, who took a teaching position in Hungary in 2013, says he has remained a fan from afar “because the club and all the people involved with it have left a footprint on my heart that can never be washed away. I’ll bleed blue and white until the day I die,” he says. Busan Transportation Corporation Football Club home games are played at Gudeok Stadium, in Dongdaeshin. Take subway line 1 to stop 108, Dongdaeshin. Exit 2, walk straight for five minutes. Entry is free, and outside food and drinks are permitted. For more information, search “Busan Transportation Corporation Supporters Fanpage” on Facebook.

arts &CULTURE

MICHAEL KAZEMI PHOTOGRAPHER PROFILE

WRITTEN BY BOBBY MCGILL

A native of Iran, Michael Kazemi has been living and doing business in Korea since 2008. His love of photography has led to his work being featured in several newspapers and magazines here. CAN YOU TALK ABOUT A PARTICULAR IMAGE YOU TOOK WHEN YOU SAID TO YOURSELF, “HEY, I MIGHT ACTUALLY BE PRETTY GOOD AT THIS”? Well, I love most of my photos, but I was most proud of myself the first time I printed two of my photos for sale. When I saw them in large size with all the details, I was very happy with my photography skills. Later, I realized that printing photos gives a greater sense of joy than just seeing them on a computer monitor or a tablet. WHAT HAS BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR TIME AS A PHOTOGRAPHER WHEN YOU FELT MOST PROUD? Usually, people become happy or excited when their photo receives an award in a photo contest, but I was most happy when I had a group photo exhibition with veteran pro photographers and my photos were there among them and almost all of the visitors appreciated my work. After that show, when I meet photographers around Korea, in photography sites and on occasions, they respect me and try to help me. WHAT ARE SOME EARLY MISTAKES YOU MADE THAT YOU WOULD OFFER UP AS ADVICE FOR AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHERS TO AVOID? I think the first mistake that photographers make is in choosing the right camera and lenses. Second, is the importance of choosing the right photography genre. This can

help you progress more quickly. To avoid these mistakes, I recommend consulting with a pro photographer in advance, investing in good lenses and taking at least a basic digital photo course. ANY OTHER ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO NOVICE PHOTOGRAPHERS? First of all, I would like to congratulate them that they chose photography either as a profession or hobby, because it is an exciting and challenging job or hobby. Enjoy your photography every day, and never put your camera in your drawer for a long time either, or your camera will be rusted. Look at lots of photos and compare them with yours, and find out what is different than yours and how can you improve your photography skill. Join a photo club; it makes you to challenge with other photographers and makes you to improve your photography skill, and also you ask any question that you may not know the answer or you may have doubt. Try to have a photo show at least once a year; you can join a group photo show if you can’t make it by yourself. It makes you to improve your photography and also gives you enough confidence in your photography career. Take a lot of photos in all genres, but choose one genre as your major one but you may later change your photo genre and style. Therefore, you can find it just by shooting different genres and styles.

proFILES

46 educationCORNER

USING YOUTUBE IN THE CLASSROOM

Modernize your lessons with a little bit of tech. The easiest way to catch your students’ attention and jump start their motivation is to deliver an interesting lesson wrapped around a cool YouTube video.

YOUTUBE.COM YouTube can be a huge resource for ESL teachers and students. It is full of highly produced content that is interesting and relevant to our lives. That makes good teaching content! The tricky part is how to harness this content beast and channel it into good learning for your students. Like anything else in the classroom, a methodical, thought-out approach can make pretty much anything teachable. So let’s take a look at a few ways we can design some lesson plans using content we find on YouTube.

1. WHAT TOPICS SHOULD I USE? Survey your class on some topics they would like to study and discuss beforehand. Or preview your session’s syllabus to see what you need. The possibilities of topics are endless, but here is a short list to get you thinking: New Tech Gadgets Movie Trailers Travel Destinations Science Tidbits Natural Disasters Environment Issues

2. WHAT ABOUT VIDEO LENGTH AND DIFFICULTY? Surf the ‘tube and select some appropriate videos. Keep the time digestible; three to five minutes is ideal as you will show it two or three times. Check that it is level-appropriate for your class.

Current Issues in the News Top 5 or Top 10 Lists

3. NOW, HOW TO SHOW THE VIDEO? 1. Give the URL to students to load up on their devices. Make a Kakao talk group with everyone and paste the link there. 2. Save the video to your iPad or laptop. Just type “ss” right before “youtube” in the url in the address bar (example: http://www.ssyoutube.com/watch?v=opRMrEfAIiI). Choose what file type to download and it’s yours forever!

Rule of Thumb: 70% understandable with no help is level-appropriate.

4. WHAT IS THE LANGUAGE FOCUS, THEN? STEP 1 - Watch the video on your own a couple of times and create a class handout full of target language to pre-teach before you watch the video that has some or all of these following things: 1. An introduction to the context of the video (warm-up questions work well). 2. A list of difficult vocabulary you pull from the video (eight new words is a nice digestible amount). 3. A couple of phrases or idioms you pull from the video. 4. A grammar point that can help discuss the content of the video. STEP 2 - The first viewing should be done after the target language handout has been taught. You should make the first viewing tasks communicative in nature. Of course show the video a second or third time if your students request it. It may take two or three views to have students complete the “first viewing activities.” STEP 3 - Then in multiple viewings, you can assign different tasks for comprehension and listening for details. And no YouTube lesson is complete without having a good general discussion at the end of all the activities (pre-plan about five to ten questions for this) to let the students use the target language in more fluency-based speaking production. STEP 4 - Wrap it all up with a homework handout that reviews the target language you pulled and pre-taught.

5. WHAT ARE DIFFERENT METHODS FOR THE FIRST VIEWING, THEN? For the first viewing of the video, you can employ some great methods to have communication stimulated by the video itself. Here is a variety of ways to get their lips flapping as students work together in pairs or groups!

PAUSE & PREDICT Stop the video at predetermined moments and have the students predict what will happen next and explain why they feel that will happen. Be sure to pick pause points right before major turns of events or plot points in the video.

TALKING PAIRS Play the video with the sound off in three or four segments. Partner A is watching the mute video and partner B has his back turned to the screen. Partner A explains what he is seeing to partner B, who can take notes. Then, pause the video and let partner A recap what he saw and they can both make a quick note together of the action in that segment of the video. Have them switch roles and play the video for the second segment. Repeat this until the video is done. They can then work together to make a spoken/ written summary of the entire video.

SILENT SCREENING Play the video with the sound off. Pause the video at opportune times every 30 seconds to one minute. Discuss as a group what the video showed, what students think it means or was talking about, and what they think will happen next (kind of a combination of Pause & Predict with Talking Pairs).

CATEGORIZE DATA SETS TOGETHER Play a single video (Top 5 destructive earthquakes) or a series of short videos (5 different videos on destructive earthquakes). Give the students a table to fill out on categories related to earthquakes. The data points to be collected could be: place quake occurred, date of quake, Richter scale measurement, number of deaths and total cost of damage. Students fill out the table together as they watch, pausing the video(s) when they like.

TELL US THE PROCEDURE Show a video that outlines the steps of how to do something, like how cellphone-to-cellphone calls work. Have students listen to the video and decide on how to explain the procedure to another group. This is great to use passive grammar! (â&#x20AC;&#x153;The signal is sent to the satellite by the cellular mast on the building.â&#x20AC;?)

OTHER MORE SILLY & FUN METHODS Dubbing - Play the video silently and let students make up the dialogue that the characters in the video are saying. Karaoke - There are lots of music videos with lyrics on YouTube! Produce Your Own - Anyone can upload anything to YouTube; have your students make their own video to upload.

HOTEL DIRECTORY & NEWS

Events & News Whether you are looking for a comfortable place to lay your head, somewhere to enjoy a good meal or throw back a few cocktails, here’s what’s happening at some of our favorite local hotels.

PARK HYATT BUSAN

51, Marine City 1-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan ph. 051-990-1234 web. busan.park.hyatt.com

NOVOTEL HOTEL

1405-16 Jung-dong, Haeundae-gu, Busan ph. 051-746-8481 web. www.novotel.ambatel.com

KUNOH SEACLOUD HOTEL

Lumi Spa’s Pure Spring package offers 90 minutes of cozy relaxation and physical and mental recovery consisting of a facial treatment, a body massage and a Turkish foot scrub.

Seascapes, the hotel’s lobby-level restaurant, offers a scrumptious spring lunch bibimbap complete with the freshest spring vegetables.

Enjoy a night just a stone’s throw from the beach during the Space Clearing Special, with rates beginning at 77,000 won per night through the end of April.

PARADISE HOTEL

HOTEL NONGSHIM

287 Haeundaehaebyun-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan ph. 051-742-2121 web. www.seacloudhotel.com

WESTIN CHOSUN

1408-5 Jung-dong, Haeundae-gu, Busan ph. 051-742-2121 web. www.paradisehotel.co.kr

23, Geumganggongwon-ro 20beon-gil, Dongnae-gu, Busan ph. 051-550-2100 web. www.hotelnongshim.com

67 Dongbaek-Ro, Haeundae-gu,Busan ph. 051-749-7000 web. www.echosunhotel.com

Add a free dessert buffet to any lunch menu order, or add 15,000 won to an a la carte order, at the Paradise’s second floor Nyx Grill & Wine.

Cool off this spring with some fresh apple cinnamon tea or fresh deodeok juice at the hotel’s first floor restaurant, The Lounge.

Sheobul, with new tempting traditional Korean dishes, has breathtaking views and great specials through the end of June.

48 directory

ACCOMODATION GUIDE

Hotel Directory Looking for a place to stay when visiting Busan? Find it with the Haps hotel directory, your local English guide to accomodation in the city.

HAEUNDAE THE WESTIN CHOSUN tel: 82-51-749-7000 web: www.echosunhotel.com Do it right and crash in the same room George W. Bush did.

PARK HYATT BUSAN tel: 82-51-990-1234 web: busan.park.hyatt.com Five star quality hotel with stunning views and service.

SEOMYEON

PARADISE HOTEL tel: 82-51-742 2121 web: www.paradisehotel.co.kr On the water, with a casino, excellent spa and a pool.

LOTTE HOTEL tel: 82-51-810-1000 web: www.lottehotelbusan.com Lotte runs a tight ship and it shows in the generous customer service here.

SEACLOUD HOTEL tel: 82-51-933-1000 web: www.seacloudhotel.com Luxury stay with great restaurants. Short walk to the beach.

TOYOKO INN tel: 82-51-442-1045 web: www.toyoko-inn.com Across from D City, comfortable, clean and affordable.

CENTUM HOTEL tel: 82-51-720-9000 web: www.centumhotel.co.kr Near Shinsegae and BEXCO. Good subway access.

CROWN HOTEL tel: 82-51-635-1241 web: www.fnetravel.com/english/pusanhotels/crown.html Mid-range hotel decorated in Korean style, good for travellers.

SUNSET HOTEL tel: 82-51-730-9900 web: www.sunsethotel.co.kr Seventy-two rooms with, according to the site, “individual design concepts”. NOVOTEL AMBASSADOR tel: 82-51-743-1234 web: novotel.ambatel.com On the beach. Great ocean view, Murpii Nightclub. GRAND HOTEL tel: 82-51-740-0610 web: www.grandhotel.co.kr One of the cheaper spots on the strip, but still at the beach. KUNOH SEACLOUD HOTEL tel: 82-51-933-4300 web: www.seacloudhotel.kr Luxury stay with great restaurants. Short walk to the beach. HANWHA RESORT tel: 82-1588-2299 web: www.hanwharesort.co.kr Beautiful views of Oryukdo, the bridge and close to the beach.

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

JUNG-GU COMMODORE HOTEL tel: 82-51-461-9703 web: www.commodore.co.kr Beautifully designed traditional hotel. Close proximity to Busan Station. BUSAN TOURIST HOTEL tel: 82-51-241-4301 web: www.pusanhotel.co.kr Conveniently located next to the train station. Good for a cheap night’s rest. TOYOKO INN tel: 82-51-442-1045

web: www.toyoko-inn.com Affordably priced hotel, clean and 10 minutes away from the train station.

web: www.arpina.co.kr Opened in 2004, a cheap place to stay for the night. Culture center inside.

PHOENIX HOTEL tel: 82-51-245-8061 web: www.hotelphoenix.net Highly trained staff, close to Nampodong. Popular with Japanese tourists.

GOODSTAY THE PLANET GUESTHOUSE [Haeundae] tel: 010-2780-6350 web: www.earthlinghome.com Women-only dormitory across from Hae-undae Beach in the Crystal Beach Office Tel.

ELYSEE HOTEL tel: 82-51-241-4008 web: www.elyseemotel.com Affordable hotel with good amenities. Close to Nampo-dong.

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

OTHER AREAS PARAGON HOTEL [Sasang-gu] tel: 82-51-328-2001 web: www.hotelparagon.com Business comfort, with close proximity to Gimhae International Airport. BUSAN CENTRAL HOTEL [Yeonsandong] tel: 82-51- 866-6225 web: www.centralhotel.co.kr Adjacent to Yeonsan rotary, located 10 minutes away from City Hall. HOTEL NONGSHIM [Oncheonjeong] tel: 82-51-550-2100 web: www.hotelnongshim.com Great area around the hotel. Head north to PNU for original Busan nightlife.

BUDGET BUSAN YOUTH HOSTEL ARPINA [Haeundae] tel: 82-51-731-9800

INDY HOUSE [Kyungsung Uni] tel: 82-70-8615-6442 Super cheap, dorm-style room right in the heart of Kyungsung. MARUB GUEST HOUSE [Haeundae] tel: 010-6322-3194 web: www.marubee.com Well-placed near restaurants, commercial area in Haeundae. POBI GUEST HOUSE [Haeundae] tel: 051-746-7990 web: www.guesthousekoreabusan.com Renovated guest houses three minutes from Haeundae Beach. SUM GUEST HOUSE tel: 070-8837-0700 web: www.sumhostel.com Renovated in 2011, they guarantee guests a pleasant stay whether in Busan for business or pleasure. HELLO GUEST HOUSE [Haeundae] tel: 051-746-8590 web: www.facebook.com/helloguesthousehello Friendly, clean and cozy atmosphere. Outdoor patio for your enjoyment. HI KOREA HOSTEL tel: 070-4409-3132 web: www.hikoreahostel.com email: hikoreahostel@gmail.com Your home away from home, Hi Korea Hostel offers you an affordable and comfortable accommodation just a stone’s throw away from Haeundae Beach.

busanhaps.com 49

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

GWANGALLI 6 PACK CRAFT BEER open: 6 p.m. -1 a.m. daily tel: 010-2937-6751 (Busan) 052-911-6751 (Ulsan) web: blog.naver.com/6packbt With locations in Busan and Ulsan, Six Pack Craft Beer brings over 170 craft bottled beers from around the world to your fingertips. Open daily, enjoy perusing the wide variety of reasonably priced beer to take home and drink at your leisure without having to make a trek to Seoul. BLUEDIAMOND CAN:D [Club/Dance] open: 10 p.m. - 8 a.m. tel: 051-756-3213 web: www.facebook.com/bluediamondcandy The newest chic offering on Gwangalli Beach, dance the night away or lounge while imbibing on a great cocktail and marveling at the beautiful view of the Gwangan Bridge. The stylish new club offers friendly service and a fantastic atmosphere for the young, hip crowds who want to dance the night away ‘til the wee morning hours. FOUR SEASONS [Raw Fish Korean]

50 directory

English speaking owner, 2nd fl. Fish Market.

BURGER AND PASTA [International] open: 11am - 2am tel: 051-751-6631 web: www.busanhaps.com/food/burgerand-pasta-gwangan The second of the Burger and Pasta shops around the city, this international eatery offers a great view of the bridge while you enjoy your day on the sand. Burgers, pasta and brunch are on the menu in the stylishly decorated restaurant in the middle of the main drag of Gwangalli Beach. FUZZY NAVEL- MILLAK [Food/Bar] open: 11am - 6am tel: 051-754-6349 web: www.fncompany.co.kr It has fabulous views of Gwangalli Beach. Facing the Diamond Bridge, come enjoy a drink and some tacos on our patio. Great staff serve fresh made Mexican cuisine and will mix up your favorite cocktail. GALMEGI BREWING [Craft Brew Pub] open: Mon - Fri 6-1am, Sat 2pm-2am, Sun 2pm-12am tel: 010-4469-9658 fb: galmegi.brewing HQ BAR [American/Sports Bar]

open: 6pm on weekdays, 11am on weekends tel: 010-7544-8830 web: www.facebook.com/hq.bar.5 FUZZY NAVEL- GWANGALLI [Bar] open: 7pm - 6am web: www.fncompany.co.kr Located on the ground floor, offering a great view of the beach and bridge. Friendly staff serve excellent cocktails at the vintagelooking bar. Make sure you take advantage of the outside seating in the summertime. SHARKY’S [American Sports Bar] open: 6 p.m. weekdays, 2 p.m. weekends tel: 010-4038-2907 (call for reservations) web: www.sharkysbusan.com Ranked highly on tripadvisor. com and as having the best burger in Busan by Haps, Sharky’s is a smoke-free environment where families or singles can enjoy a great drink and a fine meal. With premium-cut steaks, burgers, fresh gourmet salads and vegetarian options, Sharky’s has something for everyone. THURSDAY PARTY [Korean/Expat Bar] open: 6pm - late web: www.busanhaps.com/nightlife/ thursday-party

A summer staple on Gwangalli Beach for the past couple of summers, Thursday Party has two locations situated next to each other on the east side of the beach. Both bars are similar to the Thursday Party city-wide theme, and offer a variety of American style pub grub to tempt your palate.

HAEUNDAE ARUN THAI [Thai] open: 11a.m. - 10 p.m. tel: 051-908-9085 web: www.facebook.com/arunthai.kr ANGA [Korean] tel: 051-742-7852 Very popular bbq meat restaurant in Haeundae. BILLIE JEAN [Lounge/Live Music] tel: 051-742-0297 web: www.busanhaps.com/nightlife/ billiejean A Haps favorite. Great decor. BURGER AND PASTA [International] open: 11am - 2am web: www.busanhaps.com/food/burgerand-pasta-haeundae Recently opened, this Western/ Korean fusion style restaurant has been packing them in since day

DINING & FOOD GUIDE

one. Burgers, pasta and brunch are on the menu in the stylishly decorated restaurant, where you can also imbibe yourself to a glass of wine, a cocktail or beer after your day on the beach. CHEOLMA HANWOO BULGOGI [Korean] tel: 051-709-4000 Bulgogi done at its best. CINE DE CHEF [Italian] tel: 051-745-2880 In Shinsegae, enjoy a good meal and a movie. SHARKY’S [American Sports Bar] open: 6 p.m. weekdays, 2 p.m. weekends tel: 010-4038-2907 (call for reservations) web: www.sharkysbusan.com Ranked highly on tripadvisor.com and as having the best burger in Busan by Haps, Sharky’s is a smokefree environment where families or singles can enjoy a great drink and a fine meal. With premium-cut steaks, burgers, fresh gourmet salads and vegetarian options, Sharky’s has something for everyone. Located on the second floor of Pale de Cz, next to the Paradise Hotel. EL OLIVE [Italian]

tel: 051-752-7300 Delicious Italian, close to Costco.

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

FUZZY NAVEL [Food/Bar] open: 11am - 6am tel: 051-746-6439 web: www.fncompany.co.kr Great location set on two floors near the beach, other bars, and clubs. Amazing Mexican food is served from lunchtime until the early hours of the morning. Friendly staff and outside seating makes Fuzzy Navel a place to hit when the weather is good.

GECKOS [Pub] Beach front bar. Consistently good food.

GANGA [Indian] Expect to pay some good money, but it’s worth it. J PUB SPORTS tel: 051 2324-4324 web:www.JPS.co.kr Haeundae’s newest all-in-one fun stop offers an evening of fun with delicious cocktails, mouthwatering food and games galore. Boasting over 1,000 square meters of space, JPub offers a restaurant and unique entertainment that features bowling lanes wrapped in a stimulating atmosphere of drink, music and an energetic crowd. HELLO THAI [Thai]

MERCADO [Brazilian Steakhouse] open: 11:30 a.m. - 24:00 tel: 051-744-8807 web: www.mercado.co.kr An authentic southern Brazilian Churrascaria, Mercado is the perfect dining experience for family and friends. NAMASTE [Indian] tel: 051-746-1946 Indian fine dining, for a great price. PHO KIM [Vietnamese] tel: 051-740-4868 Good food at a good price. Great soup, located in SFUNZ. TBR [Cocktails] open: 3pm-5am tel: 051-746-6318 web: www.tapntapas.com With an extensive menu of upscale cocktails and a tap room, it’s a great place to meet for an informal meeting, or out for a night on the town to impress. T.G.I. FRIDAY’S [CHAIN]

TEL: 051-740-6531 Good reliable chain in the Harbor Town building, across from the beach. THE WOLFHOUND PUB [Irish Pub] open: 6pm - 2am weekdays, 11am - 2am weekends tel: 051-746-7940 web: www.wolfhoundpub.com THURSDAY PARTY [Bar] tel: 051-744-6621 open: 6pm - late web: www.busanhaps.com/nightlife/ thursday-party A staple of the Busan landscape, Thursday Party Haeundae offers a casual, yet comfortable option after a day at the beach. With a patio for outdoor sitting, this open-aired spacious pub brings the usual quality service the locals and expats have come to expect from the Thursday Party empire. U2 BAR [Lounge] Great place to chill, awesome service, a Haeundae institution.

KYUNGSUNG HQ BAR [American/Sports Bar] open: Mon-Sat 6-Late, Closed Tues and Sun

busanhaps.com 51

BUSINESS DIRECTORY web: www.facebook.com/hq.bar.5 BLUE MONKEY [Dance/Hip Hop] open: 7pm to late tel. 051-611-2888 web: www.busanhaps.com/nightlife/ blue-monkey CAFE RADIO [Cafe] Great atmosphere. Relax with a book. EVA’S TICKET [Western/Sports] Eva and the HQ fellas new super bar offer tons of things to keep you occupied. BURGER AND PASTA [International] open: 11am - 11pm tel: 051-625-6651 web: www.busanhaps.com/nightlife/ burger-pasta With three locations around Busan, Burger and Pasta offer a solid menu, and reasonable prices that make them a hit with young Koreans and expats. Set in the traditional Thursday Party wooden decor, they offer pasta, burgers and a brunch with a small patio to enjoy the street catwalk on sunny days. GHETTO [Korean/Expat] open: 8 p.m. - 6 a.m. tel: 051-4488-4697 web: facebook.com/ghettohiphoplounge

52 directory

Kyungsung’s favorite Hip-Hop bar. Cheapest drink specials in Busan. With a mix of Koreans and expats it’s the best spot to party till sunrise in the KSU area. Darts, Table soccer and beer-pong. It plays all of the hottest old and new Hip-Hop music. LE JARDIN [French] open: lunch 11:30 - 3:30 dinner 5:30 11:30 (last meal order 9:30) 11:30 - 10:00 Sunday tel: 051-611-0937 web: www.busanhaps.com/dir/le-jardin This French restaurant puts an emphasis on hearty home cooking by chef Guillaume Strub. With courteous service and an affordable wine selection, Le Jardin is the perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening escaping to a European atmosphere for a romantic dinner, or an impressive group meeting place. THURSDAY PARTY [BAR] open: 6pm - late web: www.busanhaps.com/nightlife/ thursday-party2 With ten Thursday Party’s around the city, it has become a staple for the young, hip Korean university crowd and expats alike. Beer pong, sports on TV and the free curry pop-

corn or salted spaghetti sticks are always in play, as is a busy crowd almost every evening of the week. OL’ 55 [Live Music/Event] tel: 051-627-5645 web: www.busanhaps.com/nightlife/ol’55 Ol’55 is located in the heart of Kyungsung University and is noted for its Open Mic Wednesdays, which are known to host the best Korean and expat musicians in town. SHABANA [INDIAN] tel: 051-621-4821 Good, affordable Indian food. THE SUSHI [JAPANESE] tel: 051-611-4043 Affordable, quality Japanese food.

PNU CROSSROADS [Live Music/Pub] open: 7pm-late tel: 051-515-1181 web: www.busanhaps.com/nightlife/ crossroads A small, but atmospheric watering hole in PNU, Crossroads has been a Busan institution amongst the expats for years. FARMERS BURGERS [Fusion]

People rave about it. Nominated in Best Burger. INTERPLAY [Live Music/Event] Live music, hit or miss if you catch on a good night. MOO MONK [Live Music] Can catch some great Korean indie bands here. PHO [Vietnamese] Nice Vietnamese food in PNU. RED BOTTLE [Korean/Expat Bar] Good spot to get a drink. RISTORANTE [Italian] Great Italian fare at the Nongshim Hotel. SHABANA [Indian] tel: 051-517-1947 Nice Indian food for cheap. THE BASEMENT [Korean/Expat Bar] web: www.busanhaps.com/nightlife/ basement One of the most popular bars in the area. Always a great time, and anchors the PNU scene.

SEOMYEON BUFFALO CHICKEN [Chicken] tel: 051-805-3512

DINING & FOOD GUIDE Good chicken chain, interesting sauces.

kitchen.

CLUB FIX [Nightclub] tel: 051-905-5777 web: www.clubfixkorea.info New super club. International DJs and dress code required.

FUZZY NAVEL- SEOMYEON Il [Bar] open: 5pm - 6am tel: 051-817-2242 web: www.fncompany.co.kr On the ground floor with a sliding window for when the weather is good, an excellent mix of Koreans and foreigners makes this a good place to make new friends. A comfortable atmosphere, where you will be looked after by the friendly staff, who will even give you a fireshow if you are celebrating a special occasion.

DIVISION 9 [Lounge] Pinball, darts, basketball, drinking and good fun. DRAGON DREAM (The Cave Bar) [Korean] tel: 051-646-5924 Very interesting decor with a nice selection of food. FOXY DANCE [Club] Dance club, usually packed on the weekend. FUZZY NAVEL-SEOMYEON I[Food/Bar] open: 5pm - 6am tel: 051-808-1007 web: www.fncompany.co.kr Check out the newly refurbished bar offering a variety of entertainment including, soft darts, pool, and table soccer. Awesome DJs and a wide floor make this place to be at night. Also, new to Seomyeon, the same amazing Mexican food as served at the Haeundae Fuzzy Navel is prepared in our large renovated

HANGOVER [Western Pub] open: 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. Tuesday - Sunday tel: 070-7789-5868 web: www.busanhaps.com/freehousehangover This eatery/bar located in the prime of Seomyeon brings delicious western food and fine tasting beer with its unique refrigeration system. LOVING HUT [Vegetarian] tel: 051-808-7718 www.lovinghut.co.kr ROCK N’ ROLL BAR [Rock] A true dive. Good atmosphere and pool and darts.

T.G.I. FRIDAY’S [Chain] tel: 051-805-3164 Two locations in Seomyeon to choose from. THURSDAY PARTY [Korean/Expat Bar] open: 6pm - late tel: 051-818-6621 web: www.busanhaps.com/nightlife/ thursday-party-1 You can expect more of the same from the Seomyeon Thursday Party, which caters to a young, eclectic mix of Koreans and expats. Nestled amongst a slew of bars and restaurants behind Judie’s Taewha, Thursday Party stands out for their quality service and hip atmosphere amongst the Korean cool. VITO [Italian] tel: 051-806-5868 web: www.busanhaps.com/food/vito Fashioned in the tradition of the small Italian trattoria, Vito brings back a taste of the old country.

NAMPO FARMERS BURGERS [International] Enjoy a quality, fresh-made burger and fries on the roof.

Hosts a variety of Southeast Asian dishes at good prices. NEW LITTLE INDIA [Indian] open: 11am- 10pm tel: 051-245-4127 web: www.busanhaps.com/food/newlittle-india Situated on the second floor in the heart of Nampodong, New Little India specializes in the finest authentic Indian cuisine. THE PAN [Brunch] Nestled amongst a slew of outdoor terrace restaurants. THURSDAY PARTY [Korean/Expat Bar] open: 6pm - late web: www.busanhaps.com/nightlife/ thursday-party-1 The Thursday Party Nampo store offers a slightly varied atmosphere than the others around the city, though by no means is it less exciting. A slightly more mixed crowd of expats and young Koreans is to be expected, as well as the great service that TP has become renowned for.

KUHN [Asian]

THE WORST MOTORCYCLE IN LAOS: ROUGH TRAVELS IN ASIA CONTINUED FROM PAGE 35 Tharp has a great knack for leading us to the gray in a black/white situation. Which came first: the rioting of the Islamic Uighurs in western China or the open discrimination they receive every day from the dominant Han? At one point, Tharp witnesses the utter destruction of Little Boy at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. The following stroll through the city takes him to a four-story porn shop where man’s depravity is on display in another form altogether. Each level of the shop gets more decrepit and perverse in a sort of mirror image of Dante’s descent. The H-bomb and that shop represent two of man’s most contemptible acts. Or does that shop (and the sexual attitudes it represents) act as a release valve that allows Japan’s pristine beauty to thrive in every other corner of the country? It’s these large, existential questions that I myself most enjoy in Tharp’s prose. Don’t expect answers or even strong opinions. Tharp presents the trip, the stories and a little history behind them, but he thankfully steers away from passing too much judgment on the people he meets along the way. busanhaps.com 53

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

AIRLINES

web: user.chollian. net/~pusjpnsc

INFORMATION CENTERS

HERBAL CLINICS

AIR BUSAN tel: 051-974-8686 web: www.busanair.com

BUSAN OVERSEAS CHINESE KINDERGARTEN 548-1 Choryang-dong, Dong-gu tel: 051-468-2845 web: kbces.com.ne.kr

TOURIST INFORMATION SERVICE tel: 1330

DONGEUI UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL 397-3, Bujeon-1 dong, Busanjin-gu tel: 051-803-5430

AIR FRANCE tel: 02-3483-1033 web: www.airfrance.co.kr ASIANA AIRLINES - INTERNATIONAL tel: 051-971-2626 web: www.flyasiana.com CEBU PACIFIC AIR tel: 051-462-0686 web: www.cebupacificair.com JEJU AIR tel: 070-7420-1502 web: www.jejuair.net KOREAN AIR - INTERNATIONAL tel: 051-970-3227 web: www.koreanair.com LUFTHANSA tel: 02-2019 0180 web: www.lufthansa.com KLM ROYAL DUTCH AIRLINES tel: 02-3483-1133 web: www.klm.com

BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS AMCHAM #4501, Trade Tower 159-1, Samsungdong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul tel: 02-564-2040 web: 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. ECCK 102-2903 WBC The Palace 1523, Haeundae-gu tel: 051-959-9695 web: www.ecck.eu 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 Korea.

EDUCATION FOREIGN SCHOOLS BUSAN FOREIGN SCHOOL 1366-3 Jwa-dong, Haeundae-gu tel: 051-747-7199 web: www.busanforeignschool. org BUSAN JAPANESE SCHOOL 173-8 Millak-dong, Suyoung-gu tel: 051-753-4166 54 directory

BUSAN INTERNATIONAL FOREIGN SCHOOL 798 Nae-ri, Gijang-eup, Gijang-gun tel: 051-742-3332 web: www.bifskorea.org

RECRUITMENT ET AGENCY open:8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Office Hours 8 a.m. - 11 p.m. Service Hours tel: 051-553-9282 web: www.etagency.net ET Agency is the bridge between ESL teachers and English schools near Busan Metro City and provides ESL teachers with more personalized and local base recruiting services.

TESOL TRAINING KOTESOL Email: bgkotesol@gmail.com Facebook: Busan-Gyeongnam KOTESOL Chapter TESOL ALLIANCE tel: 051-818-0502 web: www.tesolalliance.com

KOREAN LESSONS BUSAN FOUNDATION FOR INTERNATIONAL ACTIVITIES tel: 051-668-7900 web: www.bfia.or.kr email: busanglobalcenter@gmail.com KLIFF tel: 051-513-0131 web: www.kliff.co.kr email: jennakang@hanmail.net PNU LANGUAGE EDUCATION CENTER tel: 051-510-1983 web: www.ili.pusan.ac.kr email: bangjy77@pusan.ac.kr

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

BEXCO TOURIST INFO. 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 DENTAL CLINICS NEW YORK SMILE ORTHODONTICS open: Mon-Wed, Fri 10:00am – 7:00pm, Sat 10:00am – 5:00pm tel: 051-702-6677 web: www.nycdortho.com BOSTON DENTAL tel: 051-554-2879 Located in Sooang-dong in Dongnae, Dr. Sim Kyeong-mok leads the team at Boston Dental for all your dental needs.

HEALTH CENTERS DONGNAE HEALTH CENTER 702-54, Myeongryun-2 dong, Dongnae-gu tel: 051-555-4000

FREE TRANSLATION SERVICE (BBB)tel: 1588-5644

HAEUNDAE HEALTH CENTER 1339, Jwa-2 dong, Haeundae-gu tel: 051-746-4000

MULTICULTURAL FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER tel: 1577-5432

JUNG-GU HEALTH CENTER 1 Ga 1, Daecheong-dong, Jung-gu tel: 051-600-4741

GOOD SAMSUN HANBANG 1162-2, Jurye-dong, Sasang-gu tel: 051-325-0300

RADIOLOGY CLINICS THE ONE MRI CLINIC open: Mon - Fri 11 a.m. - 7 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. tel: 051-937-0303 web: www.mriclinic.net The most trusted name in Korean Medical Imaging, you can enjoy quick, reliable and trustworthy English service for all your medical needs.

OTHER CLINICS KHAP open: 10 am - 4 pm weekdays tel: 02-927-4322 web: www.khap.org

HOSPITALS BUK-GU/DONGNAE BUMIN HOSPITAL 380-4, Deokcheon 1-dong tel: 051-330-3000 web: www.buminhos.co.kr DONG EUI MEDICAL CENTER San 45-1, Yangjeong 2-dong tel: 051-867-5101 web: www.demc.kr DONGNAE BONG SENG HOSPITAL 766, Anlak 1-dong tel: 051-531-6000 web: www.bongseng.com DONGRAE WOORIDUL HOSPITAL 205-10, Nakmin-dong tel: 051-559-5000 web: www.dongrae.wooridul.co.kr INJE UNIVERSITY BUSAN PAIK HOSPITAL 633-165, Gaegum 2-dong tel: 051-893-7761

DONG-GU GOOD MOONHWA HOSPITAL open: 24 hours tel: 051-630-0123 web: www.moonwha.or.kr

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

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

40-1, 41-9, Namcheon-dong tel: 051-625-0900 web: www.gang-an.or.kr

JUNG-GU

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

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

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

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

SUYEONG BUSAN CENTUM HOSPITAL 1077-1, Gwangan 3-dong tel: 051-760-5000 web: www.centumhospital.com BUSAN HANNAH WOMAN’S HOSPITAL 304, Namcheon-dong tel: 051-625-2300 web: www.hannah4u.co.kr GOOD GANGAN HOSPITAL

RELIGIOUS SERVICES

REDEEMER INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY CHURCH Services: Sundays Busan: 11am Changwon: 4:00pm Phone: 010-8326-1985 Web: www.redeemerbusan.org Redeemer International Community Church is a body of believers from all over the world, gathered together to worship Jesus Christ. Here at Redeemer ICC, we are committed to the preaching and teaching of the Word of God. Every Sunday at 11 a.m. we gather to worship Christ and experience community. HOSANNA CHURCH Myeongji-dong, #3245-5 Gangseo-gu, tel: 051-209-0191 web: www.him-busan.blogspot.com Services: Sundays, 12:30 p.m. GIFT MINISTRY Myung-nyun-dong, Dongnae-gu tel: 010-7999-8644 web: www.tinyurl.com/lifeisagift Services: Saturdays,10:30 a.m. NEW PHILADELPHIA CHURCH Suyeong-gu Gwangan 2-dong 199-6 (8th floor) tel: 051-932-6832 web: www.newphilly.cc Services: Sundays, 2:30 pm

BUSAN MODERN HISTORY MUSEUM 104, Daechung-ro, Jung-gu, Busan tel: 051-253-3845 web: www.modern.busan.go.kr Opening Hours - 09:00 ~ 18:00 Closed - Jan.1, Every First Monday Admission Fee - Free

EPIK TEACHERS IN BUSAN Facebook Group: Busan EPIK

BUSAN MUSEUM 63, UN Peace-ro, Nam-gu, Busan tel: 051-610-7111 web: www.museum.busan.go.kr Hours of operation - 09:00 ~ 20:00 Closed - Jan. 1, Every First Monday Admission fee - Free

LAOCHRA BUSAN GAELIC ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION CLUB Contact: Peter Bonner email: busangaa@gmail.com Facebook Group: Laochra Busan Members

BUSAN UN MEMORIAL CEMETERY AND PARK 779, Daeyon 4 dong, Nam-gu, Busan tel: 051-625-0625 web: www.unmck.or.kr Hours of operation - 09:00 ~ 17:00 Open Year Round Admission fee - Free

SOCIAL/NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS BUSAN BANDITS RUGBY Facebook Group: Busan Bandits BUSAN BOOK SWAP Facebook Group: 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 web: www.bfia.or.kr

MUSEUMS

BUSAN FRIENDSHIP GROUP www.meetup.com/Pusans

BUSAN MUSEUM OF ART 40, Apec-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan tel: 051-740-2602 web: www.art.busan.go.kr Opening Hours - 09:00 ~ 20:00 Closed - Jan. 1, Every First Monday Admission Fee - Free

ULTIMATE FRISBEE LEAGUE Email: ch.pyles@gmail.com BTC FOOTBALL FB Group: Busan Transportation Corporation Supporters Fanpage

EXPAT SAILING CLUB Contact: Mark Chi email: Koreasailing@gmail.com web: www.busansailing.com

SPECIALTY STORES KAI SURF SHOP 183-11 Gwangan-dong, Suyeong-gu tel: 051-753-2746

GROCERIES COSTCO web: www.costco.co.kr E-MART web: www.emart.com HOMEPLUS web: www.homeplus.co.kr MEGAMART web: www.megamart.co.kr

INTERNET GROCERIES EZSHOP KOREA web: www.ezshopkorea.com HIGH STREET MARKET open: 24/7 online, Seoul in-store 10am to 10pm daily. tel: 02-2201-0652 web: highstreet.co.kr email: hsmonline@authenticgroup.co.kr High Street Market has all your favorite foods from home ready for delivery to your workplace or doorstep for just W3,000! Hard-to-find western foods, sliced-to-order deli meats, imported premium cuts of meat, gourmet cheeses, variety of spices, homemade vegan & gluten free foods and more.

WHAT’S ON THE MENU TONIGHT? FIND ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT DINING OUT IN BUSAN AT

busanhaps.com

busanhaps.com 55

56 HAPS_Dec/Jan 2014/15