It’s Your Choice • 37 years of proud history caring for the specialist needs of the women of Busan. • English service is available for OB/GYN and Plastic Surgery departments. • Native English speaking coordinator is available upon request. We can also provide Chinese, Japanese and Russian translators. • Insurance claims can be made on behalf of patients to our partner insurance companies Euro-Center, MSH CHINA, Metlife, Bupa. • 24 hours emergency rooms are available at Good Moonhwa and our partner hospitals Good Gang-an & Good Samsun. Fertility Center
Turning Back the Clock on Your Skin By Dr. Hyung-do Kim
If you would like to get back some of your youthful glow, there is a wide variety of safe, effective methods to help you do just that. Even in the new year, the enthusiasm for having a ‘baby face’ is still in high demand - especially for the middle-aged, who claim, “We’re no longer ma’ams and sirs,” and have a high demand to look younger. With a higher demand for people wanting to regain their youthful look, anti-aging cosmetics and procedures have started to receive a lot of attention. ‘Anti-aging’ literally means ‘preventing from aging,’ or in other words, ‘aging prevention.’ The cause of skin aging is a drop in the moisture and layer of fat. Facial skin wrinkles deepen and the chin line loosens because moisture and layers of fat in the skin decrease, while collagen and elastin also are reduced. In addition, aging of the face diminishes not only skin but also bone density, which causes smaller face bones and loosening skin layers. That is the main reason for sagging skin. Gravity also takes skin down, which can cause wrinkles. But there are emerging procedures - thread lifting and stem cell water light shot - that can help you fight the war against wrinkles.
Dr. Hyung-do Kim
Although the existing wrinkle elimination and ‘facelift’ surgeries are the most effective procedures, in fact, long surgery time and fear of scarring are the drawbacks. Thread lifting, which overcomes these shortcomings, has recently been in the limelight. Thread lifting is a procedure that involves inserting PDO threads, which are harmless to the human body and dissolvable, into the inner skin layers. It directly reduces face wrinkles and does not have an incision process because it is a nonsurgical procedure, which leads to its high preference due to less burden for patients. Lately, the operative technique has improved: there are various new V-line lifting procedures, such as whirlwind lifting, which includes bumps on the threads, and the omega lifting, which smooths furrows and fine lines on the targeted areas. For sagging, wrinkled skin, which is less resilient as it gets older, stem cell water light shot becomes a good alternative along with thread lifting. While normal water light shot usually injects fine hyaluronic acid into the skin, which fills it with moisture to make it more resilient, stem cell water light shot transplants your own stem cells from fat into your skin. Stem cells are extracted by state-of-theart equipment and then injected into your skin. Stem cell water light shot enhances resilience of the skin and is effective on wrinkles near eye rims and fine lines on your face. It also lifts, illuminates and moisturizes the skin, as well as enhancing skin tone. Unlike normal water light shot, stem cell water light shot has semipermanent durability. Plastic surgeries to overcome shortcomings and help recover confidence are effective. However, safety is as important as deciding which procedure to receive. Anti-aging plastic surgery can help you regain your lost youth through simple procedures. However, the way to have a satisfying result is to have a specialist with plenty of experience, knowledge and know-how perform even the simplest procedures.
Dr. Hyung-do Kim is a doctor at the Aesthetic, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Center at Good Moonhwa Hospital. He specializes in aesthetic plastic surgery, reconstruction surgery, micro surgery, liposuction, and transplantation of fat. For more information, contact the department coordinator, Seo Mi-young, at 051-630-0123.
CONTENTS FEATURES
When Culture gets too | 22 Close for Comfort Being Productive this Winter | 24
REGULARS
Events: The Big Five | 12 Word on the Street | 14 In the News | 16 Material World | 18 Style Files: Skin Care 101 | 20
BIZ SPOTLIGHT
TVing App | 34 Business Maker Profile: Yu-ming Sie | 35 Business Maker Profile: Min-Jae Ha | 44 Interview: Sweden Dental’s Dr. Sul | 45
TRAVEL
Ski Korea | 24 Jeonpo Cafe District | 28 Kampot: A Slice of Rural Cambodia | 32
FOOD
Pairing Wine with Korean Food | 36 The Dish: Holiday Spirits | 38
ARTS & CULTURE
Interview: Sage Francis | 40 Pete Demarco Photography | 42 Dammit Janets Music | 44
DIRECTORY/GUIDES Hotel News & Directory | 48 Directory | 50-56 Busan Metro Map | 56 Image on this page courtesy of Ryan Hofer
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EDITOR’S LETTER I recently moved into some new digs in the Jangsan area of Haeundae. I last lived here seven years ago and not much has changed; it’s still the busy, buzzing maze of streets that it was when I left. After a stint in the far more tepid and restrained Marine City area, a place whose streets are mostly quiet beneath the towering skyscrapers, I am happy to be back in Jangsan. As the last stop on the line, on the very outskirts of east Busan, Jangsan feels like everything has been nicely crammed into a few-block radius, making the most of each square meter before the tunnel takes you under the mountains and onto Seongjeong Beach. I missed the buzz; it’s good to be back. James Turnbull is back this issue of Haps, writing about comfort zones, how they differ among cultures and how he had to make some serious adjustments himself. The lovely Jen Sotham is back with some alcohol-infused party treats, Christy Swain dishes out some shopping tips for Busan
and Simon Slater reports back from Cambodia with some great shots and text. As always, there’s a whole lot more. In closing, I should mention the departure from these pages of Jen Sotham and Chris Tharp, both who have been with Haps since the very first issue. Jen will be heading back home to continue her battle against cancer. For all those that know her, she is a woman possessed of a unique glow that often shone through from these pages. She will be missed here in Busan. And yet, as always, she will be loved no matter where she goes. The inimitable Tharp, who you can still run into on the streets of Busan, will also be missed in these pages, but his upcoming books will do well in feeding your fix. Write on, brother.
28 CAFE DISTRICT
WHAT’S INSIDE
JEONPO
Not a lot of you know about this great new area just outside of Seomyeon. Ryan Hofer gives us a peek inside this funky new area of Busan.
ON THE COVER Resist the temptation to hibernate all winter and do something productive with yourself. We’ve got some ideas to get you started.
2014/15 Dec/Jan_ busanhaps.com
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CONTRIBUTORS JEN SOTHAM
Haps culture editor and food writer Jen hails from New York and has been eating her way through Busan since 2006. The first phrase she learned in Korean was chal-mo-gu-sum-ni-da.
SETH FELLENZ
Haps music editor Seth Fellenz has moved from Wisconsin to Busan twice. When he’s not busy playing screen golf or grocery shopping, you can find him around town laughing at his own jokes, some of which are pretty funny.
ANTHONY VELASQUEZ
Anthony claims Steve Perry, lead singer of the band Journey, is the second most famous person ever to come out of Hanford, California. Who’s the first? This guy. “Don’t Stop Believin’.”
JAMES TURNBULL
Since coming to Korea in 2000, James has become widely known for his highly regarded blog The Grand Narrative where he examines gender issues. He lives in Busan with his wife and two daughters, Alice and Elizabeth.
CHRISTY SWAIN
A fashion-loving girl, this Kiwi would like to divide her time between Paris and Milan, but for now, she’ll settle for Busan, browsing the vintage stores of Seomyeon or the High St. in Nampo-dong.
CHRIS THARP
Chris hails from Washington State and has lived in Busan for over six years. When not when banging on a guitar or screaming into a microphone, he likes to write. If you buy him a drink, he’ll tell you all about the times he met Kurt Cobain, but you probably already know the story.
MICHAEL ROY
Michael Roy has been contributing to Haps for the past two years, most notably his bi-monthly illustrations of Chris Tharp’s columns. The Escatawpa, Mississippi native is now in Memphis, but you can check him out at www.birdcap.net.
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PUBLISHER Ju Shin-hye EDITOR IN CHIEF Bobby McGill SALES DIRECTOR Michael Schneider MANAGING EDITOR Jeff Liebsch COPY EDITOR Amy Steele CULTURE EDITOR Jen Sotham
ART DIRECTOR Russell McConnell STYLE EDITOR Christy Swain
WRITERS Chris Tharp James Turnbull Christy Swain Jeff Liebsch Bobby McGill Amy Steele John Dunphy Hal Swindall Murray Cundall Simon Slater Dr. Hyung-do Kim Seth Fellenz Anthony Velasquez
DESIGNER Kelvin Brassbridge II PHOTOGRAPHERS Jen Sotham Jeff Liebsch Bobby McGill Mike Dixon Simon Slater Peter Demarco
ILLUSTRATOR Michael Roy
TRANSLATION Junnie Ahn ACCOUNTS SERVICES Bak Seon-mi INTERN Choi Do-yeon
Follow us @busanhaps Busan Haps Magazine BUSAN HAPS Dec/Jan 2014-15 Issue 34 BUSINESS REGISTRATION NUMBER: 00001 FIRST PUBLICATION DATE: Sept, 2, 2009 OFFICE ADDRESS Pale de CZ, 2-19, Jung Dong1124-2, Haeundae-gu, Busan, Republic of Korea
SUBMISSIONS busanhaps@gmail.com ADVERTISING mikey.busanhaps@gmail.com DISCLAIMER The opinions in the magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. Questions or comments: busanhaps@gmail.com ©2014 Busan Haps Magazine
AROUND KOREA
Cultural Events
The first sunrise is a huge part of the New Year’s celebrations around the country. Here are a couple places you won’t want to miss it.
Credit: Yeosu City
YEOSU HYANGIRAM SUNRISE FESTIVAL
YEOSU, JEOLLANAM-DO, DECEMBER 31-JANUARY 1
Set at the historic Hyangiram Hermitage, which was built in 644, this two-day festival rings in the New Year in traditional style with a fire show, traditional folk music, wish lighting and other activities to keep the family entertained.
Credit: Ulsan MOE
ULSAN GANJEOLGOT SUNRISE FESTIVAL
ULSAN, DECEMBER 31-JANUARY 1
Ring in the New Year a little closer to home at the annual New Year’s Sunrise Festival in Ulsan, which features a fireworks show, traditional music, food and, best of all, a stunning view of the first sunrise of the year.
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Events & Culture
EDWARD KWON
DECEMBER 19-20
The Park Hyatt hotel in Marine City hosts world-renowned chef Edward Kwon for two days of Masters of Food and Wine cooking classes, including a gala dinner on the 20th. Tickets can be purchased for 90,000 won for the cooking class and 190,000 won for the dinner at the landmark hotel.
THE
BIG
FIVE
PHOTO: BUSINESS INSIDER
SANTACON
DECEMBER 20
The third annual Santacon returns for another year of caroling, food and drink, and holiday cheer to raise money to benefit local charities. Starting at 5 p.m. at Sharky’s in Gwangalli for dinner and moving to Kyungsung for the evening, local bars will play host to raffles and quite possibly the most Santas you will see around the city this Christmas season.
BUSAN CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL
PULITZER PRIZE PHOTO EXHIBIT
THROUGH JANUARY 4
THROUGH FEBRUARY 22
The award-winning sixth annual Christmas Tree Festival gets underway in Gwangbokno, Jung-gu at the beginning of December. With this year’s theme, “Love and Healing,” the festival brings the colors and festive mood of Christmas to Nampodong. A variety of street performances and activities are planned for the biggest holiday event the city has to offer. www.bctf.kr/
An amazing display of 234 photographs taken by award-winning photographers capturing some of the greatest moments in history since 1942 are on display at the Walseok Art Hall at the KNN Building in Haeundae through February 22. The exhibit is open from 11 a.m. daily, with tickets costing 12,000 won for adults and 10,000 won for students.
NEW YEAR’S EVE
DECEMBER 31
Throw on your best attire and have a night on the town by attending one of the numerous parties going on around the city. If you’re looking for something more traditional, check out the city’s festivals and join one million other visitors and locals to celebrate Busan’s largest winter gathering. The Dadaepo Sunrise Festival, the Haeundae Beach Sunrise Festival and the traditional “Bell of Hope,” “Bell of Love” and “Bell of Peace” ringing at Yongdusan Park are just some of the many activities available for the family. Check out the Haps website for all the latest info on New Year’s Eve celebrations. 12 HAPS_Dec/Jan 2014/15
PLEASE NOTE: DATES FOR EVENTS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.
Events
WISH WE WERE THERE Great events happening all around the globe. Here’s a couple we wish we could get to.
JUNKANOO PARADE
NASSAU, BAHAMAS, DECEMBER 26, 2014 The major festival from the Caribbean party nation, Junkanoo, is a kaleidoscope of color celebrating life and freedom. Dating back to the 17th century, the elaborately designed costumes lead the parade and party atmosphere, which rival Rio de Janeiro’s Carnival or Mardi Gras in New Orleans.
Photos: fest300.com
WORLD BUSKERS FESTIVAL
CHRISTCHURCH, NEW ZEALAND, JANUARY 16-26, 2015 Since 1993, the World Buskers Festival in Christchurch has been attracting nearly 300,000 guests annually to check out its weird and wild street performers. With nearly 500 performances incorporated into the 11-day festival, which features everything from burlesque shows to vaudeville, there’s plenty to see and marvel at, with, of course, the usual laughter and occasional mayhem.
FIND US ON
THE WEB HERE www.busanhaps.com 2014/15 Dec/Jan_ busanhaps.com 13
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WORD ON THE STREET FAST FACTS SOUTH KOREA’S 5 RICHEST MEN ESTIMATED WORTH (IN BILLIONS) LEE KUN-HEE $12.9 CHUNG MONG-KOO $7.1 JAY Y. LEE $5 CHUNG EUI-SUN $4.1 SUH KYUNG-BAD $4 SOURCE: FORBES
KOREA GRAND SALE RETURNS BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER
OVERHEARD
The 2015 Korea Grand Sale kicked off in early December for an 84-day run, with over 28,000 stores nationwide participating in the event, which runs through February 22, 2015. Discounts of up to 70% at various outlets, hotels, department stores, performance halls and duty-free stores are available throughout the sale, which also features online events and K-pop concerts, though mostly in the capital region. The beginning of 2015 sees three main events: Must See, from January 9-23, which features discounts on non-verbal performances; Must Do, which runs from January 24 through February 7 and offers discounts on amusement parks; and Must Buy, until the end of the promotion and features large discounts at department stores and shops nationwide to coincide with the Lunar New Year holiday. This year’s event is the longest in its five-year history, as the promotion previously ran for only 45 days in years past.
“I hope the foreign ministers of the three countries will meet in the near future leading to a trilateral summit.” President Park Geun-hye proposing a trilateral summit with the leaders of China and Japan at the ASEAN+3 summit in Burma.
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STARBUCKS TO TOUGHEN FREE WI-FI FOR FOREIGN CUSTOMERS
Starbucks has come under fire from its Korean customers over the lax details foreigners need to sign up for its free Wi-Fi service nationwide. Currently, foreign guests at the coffee giant must only register their name and e-mail address to use the free service, while Koreans must enter their name, e-mail address, mobile number and carrier. Starbucks, which uses network partner KT’s service, is looking to toughen its free access, but noted in a statement that foreign guests who are visiting or on short-term stays may not have a phone carrier service in the country, thus eliminating them if similar regulations were in place. The law on information protection and cyber security in Korea also states that all nationals must reveal all the relevant information when using Wi-Fi in a public place; however, the law does not apply to foreigners.
Community & Living
LOTTE GIANTS TO INVEST IN STADIUM IMPROVEMENTS
Sajik Stadium, the home of the Lotte Giants, is set to get a longoverdue makeover this winter as fans have complained about the aging ballpark compared to newer offerings around the country. The city plans to invest 15 billion won next year to replace the stadium lighting, safety nets and broadcasting facilities and improve its water distribution systems, after investing 4.9 billion won in the project this year to change the stadium’s main electronic scoreboard and the sound system. Plans are also in store to remove 7,500 old seats in the nonreserved area, install new seats and paint the floor of the stands after waterproof work has been completed in 2016, while also extending family seating in the B area of third base to create infield lawn seats and an outfield camping zone.
EASIER SECURITY PLANNED WHEN FLYING TO THE UNITED STATES
Less security when flying to the US has been implemented during a trial period at Gimhae International Airport, as the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport has eliminated the second security check until December 14, 2014. If all goes well during the trial period, the second security check at boarding gates will be eliminated from December 22. The ministry plans to replace the check by using a liquid explosive detection system in hopes of easing convenience for outbound travelers to the US. 2014/15 Dec/Jan_ busanhaps.com 15
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IN THE NEWS
IKEA MAKES ITS KOREA DEBUT IN DECEMBER
Swedish furniture giant IKEA makes its foray into the Korean market beginning December 18, opening a 27,668-meter showroom in Gwangmyeong City, Gyeonggi Province, located just south of Seoul. The buzz around the opening has been mixed, with many customers anticipating the arrival, while local furniture makers are preparing to deal with the newest threat to their livelihood. Future customers, however, were a little thrown back when the company revealed its prices on its new website in mid-November, which many feel are much higher than other markets around the world. The company listed prices on over 8,000 items JAPAN DENIES ENTRY TO on its website - one of the most sought after Naver searches upon its release - which KOREAN ENTERTAINER IKEA representatives said were based on the “affordability of the local consumer.” While Japan still remains one of the key Those looking to step into an IKEA store from the southern regions may be in for profitable markets for the growth of a journey, as the company plans to set up more stores around the country, mostly hallyu, or the Korean wave, a recent inlocated around the capital region. cident involving the denial of entry for entertainer Lee Seung-cheul has caused concern among entertainment executives about the future of doing business in the country. The 47-year-old singer was denied entry to Japan in November for what Japanese cited as “unspecified media reports,” though Lee’s management agency claims it was a retaliatory measure for his August 14 performance on the disputed island of Dokdo, which featured him singing a song called “That Day,” which included a choir composed of North Korean refugees who hoped for the reunification of the two Koreas. Lee, who had visited the country 15 times before the denial, has been told THE CHICKEN MAN’S NEW SWAG A South Korean man became the owner of one of former French Emperor Napoleon that his previous arrest for smoking marBonaparte’s hats after his winning bid of 1.9 million euros, nearly $2.4 million, at an ijuana 20 years ago was one of the main reasons he was denied entry. He vows to auction house just outside Paris in November. The two-pointed hat, a style widely worn by military officers at the time, was appar- continue the fight against the “unjust” measure and to continue to publicly ently donned by Napoleon during the Battle of Marengo in 1800. Lee Tae-kyun, manager of food giant Harim, which mostly deals in chicken, pur- campaign for Korea’s sovereignty of the island. chased the unusual headpiece for his boss, said to be Kim Hong-kuk. “I came for my boss, the head of the company. He wanted to buy it because we have Lee is the latest entertainer to be denied a new building and the hat means something there, for the new generation,” said entry, following actor Song Il-guk who was denied after swimming to Dokdo as the bidder, according to AFP. The collection was put together by Prince Louis II of Monaco, the great-grandfather part of a relay during a Constitution Day event in 2012. of current monarch Prince Albert, to raise funds for a palace restoration. 16 HAPS_Dec/Jan 2014/15
Korea & World News
ALL WORK, NO PLAY
A recent study by travel website Expedia found that Koreans rank last in vacation days per year. In the survey based on 24 countries, Korean workers were given an average of a paltry 8.6 vacation days a year, much lower than the world average of 20. Not only did Korea rank last in days off, a staggering 60% of respondents mentioned that they don’t even take many of the given days off, citing work and the inability to coordinate a proper family vacation due to their children’s schedules. The findings are not very surprising locally, as workers have regularly been near the top of the list for most work hours in the OECD. South Koreans ranked second in a survey last year, at 2,136 work hours per year, or just over 44 hours per week. If you’re hoping for more vacation days, Denmark, France, Germany and Spain topped the list with an average of 27 vacation days per year.
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MATERIAL WORLD
A WARM AND COZY WINTER This winter, transform your home into a comfy escape from the chilly outside air with these items, sure to keep you toasty and relaxed from head to toe.
SHARPER IMAGE TEMPERATURE REGULATING PILLOW CASE Sharper Image’s temperature regulating pillow cases let you sleep comfortably by releasing stored heat when your skin temperature drops. Available in sets of two standard pillow cases for 42,000 won, they can warm you up or cool you down, depending on the temperature of your skin. The pillow cases are available
in four different colors and are made with machine-washable 350-thread-count cotton sateen. For the ultimate winter hibernation experience, pair them with a temperature regulating sheet set and mattress pad, also available from Sharper Image. www. sharperimage.com
WILLIAM SONOMA CASHMERE THROW
Wrap yourself inside a pure cashmere throw this winter for a level of soft, luxurious warmth that only exists in your dreams. Quality cashmere will last a lifetime, and it lacks the itchy, bulky feeling of wool, while keeping you just as toasty. William Sonoma offers international shipping on these oversized blankets, available in solid colors for 255,00 won and a variety of prints for 307,000 won. www.williamsonoma.com
YANKEE CANDLE PILLAR CANDLES
Create the illusion of a cozy fireplace with a decorative arrangement of pillar candles in your living room. Yankee Candle offers balsam and cedar, cinnamon vanilla and sparkling pine to fill your home with the scents of the season. Available at Yankee Candle stores around the city, a 28,000-won large pillar burns for 150 hours, while a 23,000-won medium burns for 95 hours. Add the Scroll Pillar Sleeve, a holder to enhance the look of your candle arrangement, for 16,000 won. www.yankeecandle.com 18 HAPS_Dec/Jan 2014/15
BUDDHA BOWL
You’ll want to cup your hands around the Buddha Bowl all winter, with its perfect palm fit to warm both hands simultaneously. Its dual function as a mug and a bowl will inspire you to use it for just about everything you’ll need this winter - from your morning oatmeal to your nighttime mulled wine. A simple, sensible addition to any kitchen, this handmade ceramic is lead-free and microwave safe. The original Buddha Bowl, 37,000 won, holds 18 ounces of liquid, with smaller versions available in 9 or 12 ounces. www.flavourdesign.com
Gadgets & Gear
VOLT HEATED SLIPPERS
Volt’s heated slippers might be the best friend your feet have ever had on cold winter weekends. And there’s no need to limit their comfort to your lazy Saturday mornings. These unisex super socks have a thick recycled rubber sole and offer five hours of heat, so you can spend an afternoon out running errands - or a night out drinking - and never feel a chill. Simply recharge the batteries, cinch the nylon cords around your ankles, and let the automatic temp control work its magic for a day of all-out comfort. Find them on the Volt website in four colors and four sizes for 153,000 won. www.voltheat.com
VALUERAYS HEATED MOUSE
A heated mouse can be just the thing to help relax tired muscles and get feeling back into cold extremities. Using a USB port to power a unique warming sensation, the ValueRays mouse heats the hand with carbon fiber and comes with an adjustable heat control for your custom comfort level, ranging from 37 to 40 degrees celsius. Perfect for the home or office, the 29,000-won gadget comes in nine different colors and is ergonomically designed to fit both left- and right-handed users. www.heatedmouse.com 2014/15 Dec/Jan_ busanhaps.com 19
H Guide
STYLE FILES
BUSAN SHOPPING Oh how times have changed! Shopping in Busan has gone from a constant struggle to find your size to a constant struggle to hold onto your paycheck. Here are five tips for shopping in our fashionable city.
CULTURE
You are going to hear “one size” and “no big size” more than once if you opt for the cheaper stores and independent boutiques. A lot of these stores have fitting rooms, but it’s a very rare thing to be allowed to try something on. Always ask for a receipt (영 수증 yeongsujeung), since returns are possible. Overly attentive (yet genuinely helpful) shop assistants will follow you around stores on more than one occasion, so why not embrace the chance to practice your expert Korean shopping vocab? You might get giggled at a little, but don’t take it personally; Koreans often laugh when they feel embarrassed by their own actions or to ease tension. In our experience, being polite, smiling and using as much Korean as you can muster goes a long way.
THE MAIN SHOPPING AREAS CENTUM CITY
Lotte and Shinsegae department stores stand side by side as shining monuments to retail religion, boasting every Korean and international label you can think of and more.
SEOMYEON
Thanks to the extensive underground connections, you can stroll from luxurious Lotte to the bargains of Daehyeon shopping stores to H&M and even over to the wig stores and diamantes of Bujeon.
NAMPO-DONG
Modern and traditional fuse together to create one great shopping experience in Nampo. For a more Korean experience and mega bargains (including some great vintage stores) head deep into the alleys of Gukje Market. 20 HAPS_Dec/Jan 2014/15
Out & About
STREET STALLS
Around Seomyeon, KSU, PNU and Nampo you’ll find stalls blasting K-pop and hawking products like snapback caps, sunglasses, jewelry, novelty beanies or cell phone cases. These are a great chance to find a quirky gift or pick up a short-lived trend piece without investing in the brand name equivalent. Feel free to browse and try on the cat-eared winter hats or lensless glasses, but just make sure you have cash on hand. You can try out your bargaining skills too, especially if you’re buying multiple items.
SIZES
Korean clothes are definitely on the smaller size, especially in the shoulders, hips, arms, etc. Also don’t expect consistency between stores/brands. For the ladies: trousers/jeans generally go up to a 30, which is a slim-hipped US size 6(ish). Tops vary, but will be smaller in the arms and shoulders. Shoes: 250 (US 8) max. Gents: Korean guys generally like their trousers tight (36-inch waist max). Shirts can be narrow in the shoulders and are often slimmer in the sleeves and waist. Shoes go up to 290, generally. However, there are plenty of size and price ranges in international brands, such as Zara (be aware of the “Asian Fit” tags) and H&M, as well as chain shoe stores like ABC-Mart and LesMore, so if you’ve got options no matter your size, shape or budget.
BEAUTY
Korea is the land of plenty when it comes to beauty supplies. The packaging is cute and the quality is high! Don’t be afraid to experiment with Korean brands like Innisfree, Nature Republic, The Face Shop and Etude House. If you have sensitive skin, tread lightly, and avoid anything with whitening or brightening in the description. Olive Young is a great alternative to a North American drugstore, where you’ll find health and beauty products alongside snacks and drinks from all over the world. 2014/15 Dec/Jan_ busanhaps.com 21
H HSocial Social ISSUE ISSUE
When Culture Gets
Too Close For Comfort By James
Turnbull
Blog posts, forum threads and social media abound with lengthy explanations for cultural misunderstandings between Westerners and Koreans, usually putting the blame on Confucianism. But sometimes, something much simpler is called for, argues James Turnbull.
22 HAPS_Dec/Jan 2014/15
can enter them without making us feel uncomfortable. Step into The very first Korean man I met put his hand on my thigh. I was young, stressed and already freaking out as the enormity the wrong zone though, and people instinctively tense up. That’s of moving to Korea hit me. By the time I’d finally strapped myself why it’s so awkward to talk normally in a crowded elevator or subin on the plane, I was just about ready to snap. So, when the very way, why we never, ever make eye contact with strangers while friendly guy from Daegu next to me introduced himself and sud- we’re on them, and why we feel compelled to stare at our phones or the elevator number until we can - with great relief - leave and denly began groping me? I didn’t snap, because the day before I’d read that Koreans were be ourselves again. They’re all part of the social code that’s devery touchy-feely, including the men; it was all I needed. I was veloped to help people overcome the tension caused when we still wary, of course, but quickly realized he was just being very can’t avoid being squeezed together. (That tension may sound like no big deal, but it’s so explosive friendly, in his own way. Same with a university student of mine last week, who started that, in volatile crowd situations, the first thing the police do is to stroking the hairs on my arm as I was explaining something to split people into smaller groups to calm them down.) her. Or an ex-student of mine who saw me in the corridor the next Now imagine being squeezed together 24/7. It means that your day, and, just delighted to see me, came bounding up to me as if average East Asian, who tends to live in a dense city, usually has to plant a big kiss on her favorite uncle. She seemed surprised at much smaller zones than your average Westerner. So when they my flinching, yet completely unconcerned that she was standing meet, the potential for misunderstandings is magnified before they even speak. closer to me than my wife normally does. Picture this: A Korean woman meets a Western male colleague Koreans, I’m constantly reminded, have a very different sense for the first time. She is friendly and of personal space than that which I KOREANS, I’M CONSTANTLY welcoming, and moves closer to was raised on. But sometimes, such simple expla- REMINDED, HAVE A VERY DIFFERENT him until he’s in her social zone accordingly. But his own social zone nations just don’t seem to cut it, and SENSE OF PERSONAL SPACE THAN is much wider than that, so to him, something deeper seems called for. she’s actually moving into his perWhen your (male) boss gets in your THAT WHICH I WAS RAISED ON. sonal, even intimate zone. face? Perhaps he’s repeating what he Before I came to Korea, I dated most of the women that did that. learned during his military service. When your Western coworkers He may respond positively to her perceived advances, not seem unsociable? Perhaps it’s because they haven’t experienced the months-long induction camp common at Korean companies, helped by any ‘yellow fever’ stereotypes he has and/or if she’s where new trainees live together and get to know each other very touchy-feely, or he may feel uncomfortable and step back to put well. When you’re a woman, and you’re constantly hit on when her in his social zone again. She, wondering why he’s so standyou’re just being friendly? Perhaps it’s because of ‘yellow fever’ offish, may step forward to put him in hers again to keep being friendly; he steps back … and they end up chasing each other or Occidentalist stereotypes. And so on. There is often something to such explanations. But other times, around the room. Likewise, your boss may not be in your face so much as standthey can be quite tortured, and obscure more than they enlighten. When that happens, it can be helpful to remember that Kore- ing at a distance appropriate for Korean workplaces. Or, if you’re ans and Westerners are all just people too and to seek a simpler Korean, and having trouble getting to know Westerners, consider that they’re not necessarily being unfriendly; they may just be explanation accordingly. standing at a distance that’s comfortable for them. Let me give you an example that, well, changed my life. For various reasons, my high school in New Zealand, Macleans Similar examples abound. Often, these are chalked up as inefCollege, probably had (and still has) the highest number of Tai- fable ‘cultural misunderstandings,’ but this is really just a lazy, wanese students in the country. So, naturally, I started hanging catch-all term that covers many simple things that can be learnt out with some of them. But that’s when the problems started: easily and that are of enormous help when navigating a new culI couldn’t put my finger on it, but something about them just ture or meeting foreigners. Knowing about different zones is one, really, really bugged me. I started finding excuses to avoid them. which is still helping me after 14 years in Korea. It’s also good to I got close to deciding that Taiwanese people, and by extension remember that your pushy boss may just be a jerk too, whether all Asians, just rubbed me up the wrong way for some reason. by Korean, Western or any society’s standards. According to the book Culture Shock! Korea, though, Koreans inIn turn, they later admitted to me they were angry how friendly Kiwis appeared at first, yet cold, unwelcoming and really rather vade my space because they think of me as a ‘nonperson,’ all due to - you guessed it - where I rank in their Neo-Confucian hierarchy. racist once you got to know them. My advice? Bin books like that, and read something like The DeFortunately, I figured it out in time: They were standing too close finitive Book of Body Language by Allan Pease instead. You won’t to me. You’re probably aware that we all have various ‘zones’ around regret it! our bodies. Generally speaking, there is the ‘intimate zone,’ ‘personal zone,’ ‘social zone’ and ‘public zone,’ depending on who 2014/15 Dec/Jan_ busanhaps.com 23
HSports
TALK
Ski Korea
Winter has returned, and that means one thing - it’s time to hit the slopes. The peak winter ski season runs from mid-December to mid-February and, as with most seasonal attractions in the ROK, expect a lot of company on the slopes. Here are a few places worth a look.
MUJU RESORT
Standing 1530 meters, Muju features the peninsula’s highest and longest slopes, as well as a Nordic Run spanning 48km from Muju to Chonju. Kangsan Travel, located in Jangsan, sells package trips from Busan including chair lift, transport and rentals at a reasonable price. www.mujuresort.com, 063-322-9000
BEAR’S TOWN
While the chances of seeing a bear are as likely as seeing an ajumma take to the slopes in the buff, there is some decent skiing to be had here. There are also hot springs and good local grub. Several hotels near the resort if you don’t wanna pay resort prices. www.bearstown.com, 031-540-500
SUNGWOO You can take a train to Wonju Station and then hop in a taxi for a 20-30 minutes, or hitch a ride on the local shuttle bus that runs during the day to the resort. There are plenty of hotels near the resort. Not one of the higher mountains, but the runs are good.
www.hdsungwoo.co.kr , 033-340-3600 24 HAPS_Dec/Jan 2014/15
HIGH 1
Stop with the stoner jokes. This is the newest ski resort in Korea, and it has all the modern amenities including those absolute-musts, like a couple casinos. Catch a train from Seoul’s Chongnyangni Station at 9:50 p.m., which arrives at 1:45 a.m., and ski the next day. www.high.co.kr, 033-590-7811
PHOENIX PARK
Near Yongpyong and boasting 1050 meters at its peak, Phoenix Park is considered to be one of the country’s more snowboard-friendly resorts. If you’re looking to whip it around without teeing off the ski bunnies, this is your spot. www.phoenixpark.co.kr 1588-2828
PINE RESORT
If you happen to be up in smog central for a few days, Pine Resort is close to Seoul and offers fair-to-midland skiing for the average Joe or Josephine. But if you’re going all the way from B-Town, pass. www.pinersorts.com, 031-338-2001
YONGPYONG
KT SONIC BOOM SCHEDULE FRIDAY, DECEMBER 12 - SK 7 P.M. SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14 - KCC 2 P.M. THURSDAY, JANUARY 1 - SK 2 P.M. MONDAY, JANUARY 5 - ULSAN 7 P.M. SUNDAY, JANUARY 18 - LG 4 P.M. THURSDAY, JANUARY 22 - KCC 7 P.M. THURSDAY, JANUARY 29 - INCHEON 7 P.M.
Opened in 1976, Yongpyong sits way up in Gangwon Province, so count on a long bus ride or Mugunghwa train from Busan, unless you prefer to jump over from Seoul. It’s worth the trip since it has some great slopes shooting as tall as 1350 meters. www.yongpyong.co.kr, 033-335-5757
EDEN VALLEY
Near Ulsan, Sinbulsan and her seven runs are home to the only ski resort in our very own Gyeongsang Province. You can get there on a bus in a few hours. Two of the slopes are for beginners, three for intermediate skiers and two for advanced. www.english.yangsan.go.kr, 055-379-8000
GANGCHEON
Most notably for featuring ice-climbing on nearby frozen waterfalls for those who want a bit more of an adrenaline rush. It also has a few steep runs, unique location and plenty of accommodations in the nearby town. The train departs from both Cheongnyangni or Seongbuk Station. When you get off the train, turn right to go into town. The local shuttle buses or taxis will get you to the hill in short order. www.gangchonresort.co.kr, 033-260-2000 WHEN TO GO: Resorts open around mid-to-late November, with the peak season for skiing running from December 15 to February 15. It’s generally better, if you can swing it, to hit them on a weekday to avoid the crowds. 2014/15 Dec/Jan_ busanhaps.com 25
Being Productive This Winter
Many of us would just as soon seal ourselves inside the house, make a hot drink, turn on the TV and wait the winter out. Sure, that’s fine, but why not do something productive this winter season? Haps has put together some suggestions for how you might get the most out of the colder months.
Help Those Most in Need
While most of us are fortunate to have a warm place to call home every evening following our day of labor, not everyone in this world is so privileged. And while many of us grew up in a home with a family that cared for us and looked after our most basic needs, some are not so blessed. For those out there less fortunate, the winter season can be the most difficult time of year. This makes it all the more important for you to help. Be it working in a soup line, visiting an orphanage or just taking a few moments to drop some spare change in the cup of the guy on the subway steps, every little bit helps. If you’re not sure where to devote your charity, whether it’s your time or money, look for “Busan Volunteer” on Facebook, and they can point you in the right direction.
Visit Museums and Galleries
There are a ton of galleries and museums around Busan. Winter is a great time to get out your map and start plotting your way around town, taking them all in. Finding what you fancy won’t be too hard, as the city offers something for nearly every taste. If art is what you hunger for, you can hit the expansive Busan Museum of Art or pop in and out of the many galleries that occupy the lovely streets atop Dalmaji Hill in Haeundae and the several areas around town with little pockets of art shops and galleries. If you’re interested in the history of life on the Peninsula, you can trace your way through time starting at the Dongsamdong Shell Midden Museum and its prehistoric collection, then onto ancient history at the Bokcheon Museum and finally Busan Museum with its look at contemporary life in Korea.
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Plan Your Summer Vacation
The old rule goes that you should never shop when you are hungry because you will buy more than you need. But planning your summer vacation during the winter while you’re sealed up indoors avoiding the cold seems like a great idea. The immediate benefit is that you have a lot more time to plan, which allows you to be more creative about where you want to go and what you want to do once you get there. From a more practical perspective, one of the greatest benefits of planning your summer vacation in the winter is that you can likely save a lot of money by booking your flight and accommodations far in advance.
Go to the Spa
To be fair, perhaps all of the previous advice about being productive has no appeal to you whatsoever. This is hibernation time for you and that’s that. Fair enough. So, for you, we recommend taking in a nice long day (or night) at the spa. Chances are, there is a jimjilbang (Korean bathhouse) or sauna within a few blocks of your home, as they are a popular pastime here with one in nearly every neighborhood. If you want to take it up a notch, try one of the upscale locations like Shinsegae’s Spa Land in Centum City or Hurshimchung Spa at the Nongshim Hotel in Oncheonjang. Several of the hot spring spas feature outdoor bathing and, after soaking in the heated water, you can get yourself a soothing aromatherapy massage or scrub and forget about the winter winds outside. For more about spas, check out saunasinkorea.blogspot.kr.
Workout
How many of us have been looking at the calendar as July rolls around and thought to ourselves: “Man, I shoulda been working on this spare tire months ago!” Or, even worse, who among us hasn’t sold ourselves on that old contention that it’s perfectly fine to fatten up in with an extra layer of personal insulation during winter? Let go of all that and get yourself into a gym this season. For around $40 a month, you will not only be doing a great thing for your physical health, but you’ll also be fending off the blues that winter can sometimes bring on. If you’re not into joining a gym, take a few minutes to search online for some great workouts you can do in the house to keep your mind and body in tip-top shape.
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HGoing LOCAL
Jeonpo Cafe District Story and Photography By Ryan
Hofer
This several-square-block, funky little slice of Busan that was once an industrial-residential area is a neighborhood like no other in our port city. As the winter sets in, that warm apartment floor might tempt you to stay inside all day, but there are plenty of cozy places in Jeonpo’s Cafe District that provide a fun day or night of exploring. This relatively new, funky little neighborhood is rich in character and design that you won’t often find in the typical Korean cityscape. Over the past two years, what once was a part of town with machine shops and old houses has turned into an area full of trendy cafes and restaurants. By no means a definitive list, here are a few of the many places worth a visit as you wander the streets of this curious new neighborhood in the heart of Busan. Seoul Kitchen Unassuming with a minimal aesthetic, this 2nd floor cafe feels like a secret with its own integrity. You might feel the urge to read fine literature or be inspired to start your own creative project when the light pours in through the windows. Bring along a friend and enjoy rice bowls with mushrooms, salmon or pork. Especially recommended for vegetarians. Dal Right next to Seoul Kitchen’s entrance, you’ll find Dal - a small bar run by two friends. The inviting atmosphere would be appealing in any part of the world, but especially here in Busan, it stands out with high-quality drinks, friendly service and a conversational vibe. Dal is open in the evenings, when you can meet your friends or your date. Service is prompt, and they’ll be happy to suggest new cocktails for you to try. Farmer’s Burgers Now those of us far from the original location in Nampo have the chance to visit Farmer’s Burgers in a convenient spot! This small shop opened only recently, allowing you to enjoy one of Busan’s best burgers. Stop in for lunch or dinner after shopping in Seomyeon, or for both meals, considering every specialty burger boasts a unique flavor combination. 28 HAPS_Dec/Jan 2014/15
Dala Chocolate Cafe Serving liquid chocolate and truffles, this cafe specializes in converting our other favorite bean into a host of delicious forms. This is the place to feed your chocolate craving; just looking at the cooler full of truffles will transfix casual visitors and chocolate fiends alike. Suda Quirky and fun, Suda is a favorite for studying or chatting in the afternoons and evenings. Another Jeonpo gem, this cafe fills up regularly at night, and the three women who work here are always busy preparing drinks to be presented on small trays in an endearing and personal way. Try the refreshing grapefruitade, or even a simple Americano that feels uniquely Suda when presented with personal warmth and a cup of free snacks. Getting to Jeonpo Cafe District: Take line two to Jeonpo Station. Go straight out exit 7. Walk for two blocks and then turn left, down a slight hill towards Seomyeon.
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HTravel INTERNATIONAL
Kampot:
A Slice of Rural Cambodia Story and Photography By Simon
Slater
More and more people are discovering the joys of traveling to Cambodia for holidays. Simon Slater found a place that is still somewhat of a secret. Too often on the increasingly congested highway of the Southeast Asian banana pancake trail, you hear of some ‘amazing’ place that people have just returned from. Some wide-eyed European will excitedly say the adjective with a head jolt and conviction as if they’d been to heaven and back. I was in Sihanoukville, a rapidly touristed town in southern Cambodia when I got wind of one of these revered places that people insist you have to visit. Kampot, a French Colonial town just two hours away along the coast toward Vietnam is attracting a lot of hype. After realizing that Sihanoukville, which had a fairly rough and ready vibe when I’d visited a few years earlier, had lost a lot of its rustic appeal with increased tourism and hotel developments, my disappointment subsided at the prospect of heading out east. Fast forward a few days, and my brother and I, who had linked up with me on his vacation from England and mine from Korea, were clunking along a dusty road out of Kampot town center and into the rural sticks. Lush green fields of rice paddies dotted with water buffalo surrounded us, as did the country’s distinctive pomesque palm trees sporadically sprouting up into the bold blue sky. If the journey to get there was like a National Geographic magazine come to life, Ganesha, a guesthouse well and truly intertwined with its surroundings, took the exotic escape feeling one step further. We were spellbound by the picturesque riverside yurt we’d booked, and you know when there are mango trees in your backyard, a giant multicolored gecko chilling on the side of your hut, and fireflies acting as nightlights that you’ve found 32 HAPS_Dec/Jan 2014/15
someplace special. Heaven indeed. It wasn’t just Ganesha’s beautifully cultivated environment that was worth the journey; rural Kampot is beyond gorgeous. Rent a scooter or push bike and there is ample opportunity to get blissfully lost along the dirt tracks, passing through small settlements whilst interacting with locals, regardless of spoken language differences. They say that Cambodia is one of the friendliest countries in the world, and I completely agree. Not only did I find myself communicating through hand signals and broken French (they speak a mix of both French and Khmer around Kampot) with people of all ages, but I even spent the day road tripping with a kid who had struck up a conversation with me whilst we were riding parallel to each other. Kampot’s tranquility might not last forever. I even heard stirrings that it’s the ‘next big spot’ for travelers. That’s ok, because no visit to the same place is always identical. Change is inevitable and there’s always another great spot under the radar. What remains, however, is the overwhelmingly warm and open spirit of the Cambodian people, who are usually willing to engage with you if approached. It’s harder to do so in more developed parts of the world with the hectic pace of life and people’s heads glued to smartphones, which is why spending time in a place like Kampot isn’t just a good idea - it’s essential.
YOU KNOW WHEN THERE ARE MANGO TREES IN YOUR BACKYARD, A GIANT MULTI-COLORED GECKO CHILLING ON THE SIDE OF YOUR HUT, AND FIREFLIES ACTING AS NIGHTLIGHTS THAT YOU’VE FOUND SOMEPLACE SPECIAL.
2014/15 Dec/Jan_ busanhaps.com 33
H Sponsored Story
tving APP NOW FASTER AND MORE CONVENIENT Latest update allows the same user interface and user experience on Android, PC Web and iOS. Korea’s No. 1 content provider, CJ Hellovision, re- watching your most recently viewed channel. “Radio Mode,” which allows you to listen to a chancently announced that it has updated the popular TVing app for iOS. The announcement falls in line nel without video, is another great feature for those with the highly popular release of the iPhone 6 and looking to limit the cost of data consumption on their monthly bill. iPhone 6+ in Korea. Click the “Fan” button on your favorite show and you The new update offers some major changes to the online video streaming app. One great new feature will automatically be notified when a new episode is allows you to easily browse other channels or related available. The new design additionally offers a simple video on demand while you’re watching another vid- and convenient interface with easy-to-view thumbnails, which mimic eo on the main screen. This lets you avoid CLICK THE “FAN” BUTTON ON YOUR FAVORITE cover flow and allow the bothersome clos- SHOW AND YOU WILL AUTOMATICALLY BE NO- you to pinch in/out for ing of the main winTIFIED WHEN A NEW EPISODE IS AVAILABLE. easier viewing while browsing content. dow in order to search for other content. This, in addition to the Crayon fea- User experience team manager Jang Ki-hyeong says, ture, allows you to easily navigate to your favorite “Following the previous two updates, one for Android channels without the hassle of switching back and and the other for PC Web earlier this year, this is our third major update for this application. This is part of forth between screens. Another added feature is “Mini-view,” in which you the project that we try to allow the user experience to adjust to the N-Screen service. We expect users to can preview content before you purchase it. The new update also provides a more convenient be satisfied with our efforts to keep our applications and tailor-made interface to match users’ needs. For updated with the new iOS.” example, if you choose “TV Mode” you can resume
34 HAPS_Dec/Jan 2014/15
H Sponsored Story
BUSINESS MAKER PROFILE:
YU-MING SIE
Poll your average job seeker worldwide, and the boxes you’d likely find checked for the ‘ideal business position’ would be a combination of the following: travel, cultural experience, challenging work and a dynamic business environment. Yu-Ming Sie, commercial director of Air France KLM in Korea, is one of those who’s lucky enough to check all of the boxes. The 39-year-old Sie, who graduated with a degree in marketing and international management from the Amsterdam School of Business, is effusive on how much he loves his work. “I am a very curious person, so I love to learn about new cultures and I enjoy a good challenge,” says Sie. Having been in Korea for the past year and a half, he feels he’s found that the pairing of a European company and a Korean team is well-suited to his management style. “As a manager, my goal is to put together the best team possible. I think it’s a great mix to be a European company with a Korean team. In the end, we are both creative and pragmatic and have created an open work environment that seeks to truly empower people. So, I really love that combination and the challenge.”
“AS A MANAGER, MY GOAL IS TO PUT TOGETHER THE BEST TEAM POSSIBLE. I THINK IT’S A GREAT MIX TO BE A EUROPEAN COMPANY WITH A KOREAN TEAM.”
By Jen Ellis
now, the Full Flat. It’s fantastic. It’s two meters, and it feels really good; I mean, you can really sleep.” “One of the most important and unique services is our 24-hour customer service in 10 different languages, which we are especially proud of. Another is our strong presence in social media. Air France KLM is considered the leading airline group in social media.” One innovative promotion the company did recently was “Meet and Seat.” Sie explains, “If you have a LinkedIn profile, you can check in and see who is on the same KLM flight and you can choose to sit next to that interesting person.” THE BURGEONING KOREAN MARKET Considering that an astounding 10 million Koreans traveled abroad last year, the country is on the radar of all the major airlines for being one of the most attractive developing markets. More promising is that it offers a great combination of both business and leisure travelers. “The mix here is very good,” says Sie. “You have corporate travel combined with a good mix of leisure travel. That’s why it’s a very attractive market for Air France KLM.” So what does Sie think about his new home? “I like it a lot,” he says. “I think it’s very trendy and fast. You see that with all the gadgets, but you also see that in the people and the way they work. They react very fast and it’s very positive.”
Yu-Ming Sie joined KLM in 2002, serving in several management positions, such as commercial director of Air France KLM for Belgium and Luxembourg and as a senior inventory analyst for Central and South Europe. But it seems working in the airline industry has always been in the cards for Sie. “During college I worked in the airport as a bartender,” he recalls with a smile. “It was great, I got to meet a lot of people and it was always interesting.” Since Sie has come to Korea, he’s overseen a 15% increase in overall sales for the country. Sie attributes the success of Air France KLM to several different factors. He says that one of the most attractive features for Korean flyers to Europe is the convenience of the night flight of KLM and the combinability option with either Air France and Korean Air. “It allows you to save time and spend maximum time in Europe,” says Sie. “Friday night you can meet for dinner here. Take your time, have a drink. Then you depart at 1 a.m. and arrive in Amsterdam at 5 a.m. You can stay in Amsterdam, if you like, or fly to Paris or London, arriving at 8 a.m. It’s a great way to optimize your travel time.” “I am very proud,” he says. “I think we have one of the best seats 2014/15 Dec/Jan_ busanhaps.com 35
Dining & Food
PAIRING WINE WITH KOREAN FOOD By Anthony Velasquez Photos By Mike Dixon Korean food is famed for its banchan, or side dishes, which, in their own right, are a culinary art of finding the right combination of food that will complement the main course. Anthony Velasquez has done the same thing, only this time, with wine. While there’s no question that more and more Koreans are imbibing the fruit of the vine, the common Western practice of bringing your own bottle of wine to a restaurant that doesn’t serve the vintage you prefer is still as foreign as wearing shoes indoors. So once you’ve decided to do it, what’s the right wine to do it with? No matter the cuisine, the same principles to pairing food and wine still apply. Consider the texture of the protein balanced by the wine’s body. Or, in some cases, the flavors of the sauce and the flavors of the wine may be even more important than the meat itself. An ideal 회 (Raw Fish) and Sauvignon Blanc/Pinot Grigio These light, crisp, citrusy whites pair with raw fish and their peach/passionfruit contrast the soy, wasabi and gochujang on the side. Recommendations: 2013 Mezzacorona Pinot Grigio, Trentino, Italy (E-mart, 9,900 won) 2014 Sileni Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand (Shinsegae, 25,000 won)
조개구이 (Grilled Shellfish) and Chardonnay A good chardonnay balances citrus to tropical fruit along with oak, acid and minerality that loves grilled clams, mussels and scallops. Recommendations: 2012 Cousiño-Macul Antiguas Reservas Chardonnay, Maipo Valley, Chile (E-mart, 14,900 won) 2012 Alfaro Lindsay Paige Vineyard Chardonnay, Santa Cruz, California (E-mart, 39,000 won)
오리구이 (Grilled Duck) and Pinot Noir Duck is often served in France with a fruit sauce, but keep the red berries in the glass with a medium-bodied, earthy Pinot to complement the game flavor. Recommendations: 2011 Kings Ridge Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Oregon (E-mart, 19,900 won) 2013 Tohu Pinot Noir, Marlborough, New Zealand (Shinsegae, 34,000 won) 36 HAPS_Dec/Jan 2014/15
pairing could be to match the main profile of the plate with the profile in the glass (think lobster and drawn butter with a rich, buttery chardonnay). In contrast, there’s the color wheel approach: take the opposite for its mate. Pair a spicy or salty dish with a touch of sweet or ripe fruit flavor to sing in perfect pitch. A bit confused? Don’t be. With quality-to-price ratio and availability in mind, here’s a primer to think outside the soju that’ll impress your date, your in-laws or your boss at your next staff dinner. Salud!
Home Cooking
김치찜 (Pork Roast With Kimchi) and Chianti The acid and spiciness of kimchi meets the inherent acid and spices of sangiovese with bright cherry for an ideal quaff with this dish. Recommendations: 2013 Piccini Chianti, Tuscany, Italy (Shinsegae, 10,000 won) 2011 Ruffino Reserva Ducale, Chianti Classico, Italy (E-mart, 28,000 won)
돼지갈비 (Pork Ribs) and Rhone Blend Grenache brings the smooth red fruit, syrah offers the feral black fruit and body, and mourvedre adds the funk and bite to enhance meatier, marinated grilled pork. Recommendations: 2011 Tesco Plan de Dieu Cotes du Rhone Villages, France (Homeplus, 16,000 won) 2012 E. Guigal Cotes du Rhone, France (E-mart, 29,000 won)
갈비찜 (Braised/Marinated Beef Ribs) and Tempranillo This middleweight champion and Spain’s main grape delivers dusty cherry, tobacco, spice and oak to pair this savory classic. Recommendations: 2004 Anciano “Años 10 Years” Tempranillo, Valdepeñas, Spain (Costco, 11,000 won) 2010 Sierra Cantabria Tempranillo Crianza, Rioja, Spain (E-mart, 23,000 won)
삼겹살 (Pork Belly) and Australian Shiraz A great shiraz has notes of smoky bacon, but a good one at least offers ripe, sturdy, flavorful reds with enough tannin to cut the belly fat. Recommendations: 2012 Kilikanoon The Lackey Shiraz, South Australia (Homeplus, 19,900 won) 2010 Kilikanoon Killerman’s Run Shiraz, South Australia (Emart, 44,000 won)
불고기 (Marinated Beef) and Zinfandel With bulgogi’s marinade of soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, sugar, scallions and pepper, zin’s ripe brambly blackberry and capsicum is the call. Recommendations: 2011 Kirkland Signature Sonoma County Old Vine Zinfandel, California (Costco, 17,000 won) 2012 Gnarly Head Old VIne Zinfandel, Lodi, California (E-mart, 23,000 won)
한우고기 (Korean Beef) and Malbec Argentina’s flagship wine jukes like a nimble fatback with plum, black/blueberry, anise, menthol, heft and grace for premium indigenous beef. Recommendation: 2012 Alta Vista Classic Argentina Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina (Shinsegae, 16,000 won) 2014/15 Dec/Jan_ busanhaps.com 37
Dining & Food
THE DISH:
HOLIDAY SPIRITS
By Jen Sotham Looking for a way to add a kick to your holiday party? Here are three fun ideas to help you infuse your gatherings with a little extra spirit.
Bloody Mary Poppers (makes 30)
Ingredients: 15 small plum tomatoes or extra large cherry tomatoes 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish 1 cup vodka 1/2 cup mayonnaise 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese 2 tablespoons Tabasco 3 tablespoons Worcester sauce 10-12 pimento-stuffed olives, diced 10 large bacon strips, cooked crispy and crumbled Cut each tomato in half, and then scoop out the innards to create a pocket, making sure that the skin isn’t punctured. Mix all of the ingredients (except for the vodka, olives and bacon) until they are evenly distributed. Fill each tomato pocket with the mixture, sprinkling a little extra parmesan on top of each. Bake at 175 C for 10 minutes, or until the tops are slightly browned. Garnish each with the crumbled bacon and diced olives. Take a cooking syringe and inject some vodka into each popper. Serve warm. 38 HAPS_Dec/Jan 2014/15
Home Cooking
Spicy Cucumber Gin Shots (makes 12) Ingredients: 4 English cucumbers (the fatter kind with smooth skin) 12 shots (48 ounces) gin cayenne pepper 1-2 limes, cut into very thin slices
Peel the cucumbers, then cut the very end off of each so that the ends are flat. Cut each cucumber into thirds, then stand each section upright. Use a small paring knife to carve out the insides of each cucumber segment, making sure not to pierce through the bottom. Spread a thin layer of cayenne pepper on a flat surface and dip the tops of the cucumber ‘shot glasses’ in the pepper. Put a slice of lime in each and then fill each with a shot of gin. Gun-bae!
Tequila Shrimp Shooters (makes 12) Ingredients: 6 limes 3 shots (12 ounces) tequila 100 grams of peeled, uncooked baby shrimp 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped 2 tablespoons diced jalapeno 1 avocado, diced 2 pinches each of salt and pepper
Cut each lime exactly in half and squeeze out the juice into a cup without damaging the peel. Use a grapefruit knife to cut the pulp out, saving the peels to use as bowls. Bring a pot of water to a boil, then add the shrimp for 1-2 minutes (until they turn pink). Immediately transfer the shrimp into ice water and let them sit for five minutes. Chop up the shrimp and mix with the tequila, cilantro and lime juice, then put in the fridge to chill for about an hour. Gently add the diced avocado and jalapeno to the mixture, then pour some into each of the lime peel ‘bowls’ and serve.
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Arts & Entertainment
INTERVIEW:
SAGE FRANCIS
By Seth
Fellenz Illustration By Michael Roy
The American hip-hop recording artist and spoken word poet from Providence, Rhode Island has made Korea one of the stops on his two-month tour. Seth Fellenz recently talked to the outspoken artist. What does a former self-proclaimed non stop “rapper, writer, holes occupied by rappers making “music that is solely created label CEO, and song and dance man” do after a four-year break for the sake of booty clapping.” from recording and touring? If you’re Sage Francis, you launch As sensitive as his lyrics generally are, Francis started out as a yourself back into the world with a critically acclaimed album teenage battle rapper, and competition contributes to the tone of his work. and an 80-date world tour. Using the hiatus to get some order back into his life, the sub- “The whole ‘battle’ thing was a part of all the hip-hop I was familiar with while growing up. Hip-hop sequent album release, “Copper I GET A LOT OF ATTENTION FROM had a competitive quality about it Gone,” paints a deeply personal picture of just how successful (or INTERNATIONAL FANS, BUT I HAVE NEVER where everyone had to prove they were better than the next person not) he was and turns his laser PLAYED SOUTH KOREA BEFORE. in one way or another. I’m not sure sharp tongue on some of his many [the competition] shaped me as an grievances. I GUARANTEE AN ENTERTAINING SHOW. artist as much as this is a part of all “After working so hard for so long and touring almost nonstop, I decided I needed to step away art - whether artists admit it or not.” from all of that in order to figure out other parts of my life,” Fran- He pulls no punches when criticizing parts of society and the music industry that rankle him by telling stories peppered with cis told Haps. Though some fans worried that his break was becoming a full- clever compound rhymes. on retirement, he knew that writing and performing was some- On Saturday, December 20, Sage Francis brings the ruckus to Club Realize in Busan. thing he would always come back to. “It makes me feel at ease. I’m comfortable when I’m creating. I “I am going to Korea with zero expectations. I am a virgin to get a sense of reward for that. I never feel completely content, your territory, and I just want to learn as much as I can. I get a lot of attention from international fans, but I have never played but I keep pushing myself to improve my abilities every time.” With a devoted following, the emcee and CEO of Strange Fa- South Korea before. I guarantee an entertaining show.” mous Records has found a comfort zone in the world of indie Judging from YouTube videos and Facebook comments, he has hip-hop - which differs wildly from hip-hop artistry in the main- every reason to be confident. Says Francis, “you’ll want to bring a few friends with you.” stream. “It means you do practically everything on your own, you finance your own releases and you don’t have to answer to anySage Francis Copper Gone Tour body,” he says. That tradeoff is a necessary part of his work, as his December 20 at 10 p.m., Club Realize, KSU, Busan emotional storytelling would be the square peg in those round 40 HAPS_Dec/Jan 2014/15
Artist Profile
2014/15 Dec/Jan_ busanhaps.com 41
Arts & Entertainment
PHOTOGRAPHERS PROFILE:
PETE DEMARCO
Originally from the US, Pete DeMarco has traveled to over 50 countries and lived on three continents. But Busan is the place he’s called ‘home’ since 2007. Haps recently had a chance to catch up with Pete and talk about his photography. Can you talk about a particular image when you said to yourself, “Hey, I might actually be pretty good at this”? When I was in college I took a photography class. For my final project, I put together a series of images with a reflection theme. I shot them on black-and-white film and developed them myself. They came out well. But more importantly, I remember thinking how awesome photography is. It allows me to express myself in ways words can’t. What has been the highlight of your time as a photographer when you felt most proud of the hard work you’ve put into developing your craft? I guess my ego would say the contests I won or seeing my photos published. Really though, my highlights happen almost every time I pick up my camera and go shoot - from taking the photos to processing and sharing them. To put it simply, it’s the act of creating that I’m most proud of. 42 HAPS_Dec/Jan 2014/15
What are some early mistakes you made that you could offer up as advice for amateur photographers to avoid? Copy! Steal! Don’t worry about being original. Seek out creatives that are making cool shit and copy them. In his book Steal Like an Artist, Austin Kleon says, “Don’t just steal the style, steal the thinking behind the style. You don’t want to look like your heroes, you want to see you like your heroes.” You’ll notice that as you try to copy, you’ll end up transforming your heroes’ styles into your own. Your voice, the thing that you and only you can give, will show through naturally. And, buy Austin’s book.
Want to get inspired to travel around Korea and Asia? Follow Pete on Facebook at “TheNomadWithin” or visit his website: www.thenomadwithin.com.
Artist Profile
2014/15 Dec/Jan_ busanhaps.com 43
H Sponsored Story
BUSINESS MAKER PROFILE:
MIN JAE-HA
By Jeff Atkins
Min Jae-Ha is the man behind some of Busan’s most popular nightlife attractions, including the groundbreaking Club Elune back in 2009. Now he’s bringing something completely new to the city - J Sports Pub. If you’ve spent some time dancing in Busan’s hottest clubs or perhaps spent a night on Haeundae Beach, you probably know Min Jae-Ha. He is a jet-setting entrepreneur/bartender/DJ/hotel and club manager/innovator who has transformed the scene here for 20 years running. Even with his success from various popular projects around his beloved Busan, his humility and dedication to exemplary service is what has garnered him quite a following. Though Mr. Min won’t extol his accomplishments, one should. For starters, opening Club Elune in the basement of the Paradise Hotel in 2009, Busan’s first world-class electronic dance club bringing DJs from around the globe to spin, created more than just parties but star-studded events. In addition to Club Elune’s fame, he works in collaboration with the most popular clubs, such as Grid and Fix, to keep the dance floor jumping. And besides importing influences from his travels in Greece, Dubai, Macau, Hong Kong, Japan and Las Vegas as well as the increasingly cosmopolitan Busan, Mr. Min also manages the MS Hotel, featuring 43 well-appointed rooms all with sea views looking out over Haeundae Beach. Now Mr. Min is presenting a new, oneof-a-kind alternative destination: J Sports Pub in Haeundae. Besides offering a full bar featuring deftly crafted cocktails and 44 HAPS_Dec/Jan 2014/15
tasty comfort food, J Sports Pub will feature a wide variety of activities, including basketball, bowling, darts, pocketball, skeeball and state-of-the-art shooting games. He describes his upcoming venture as “a fun healthy venue and with a mixed crowd in a relaxing, friendly vibe with professional service.” While Min has spent his life working hard, first to support his family in Seoul and then to accomplish what most entrepreneurs only dream of, you’ll never hear him complain about the long hours. “I never had a ‘bad job.’ I just love to work. I’ve enjoyed all my work,” says Mr. Min. “I think that dedication to work and the effort to help customers have fun and feel good in a comfortable atmosphere is most important for me.” And what about the sizable success his endeavors have enjoyed? “I think that these are no major feats or accomplishments because I just enjoy everything that I do.” With Mr. Min, a gregarious, creative civic trendsetter, opening J Spots Pub this Dec. 12 at Sfunz Square in Haeundae, one should expect more than just a scene to be seen but an activity-filled time by the sea. If you would like to learn more about J Sports Pub visit them on the web at www. jpub.co.kr.
Sponsored Story H
INTERVIEW: SWEDEN DENTAL’S
DR. SUL Having read quite a bit about Dr. Sul Young-taeg’s credentials before meeting him, I have to admit I am a little bit intimidated as I ride up the elevator in Centum’s Imperial Tower. The pristine lobby of his office could have easily augmented my anxiety, but as I look around, the small personal touches - the mismatched cushions, the plush recliners, the artsy chandelier - make it feel more like a living room in a really nice home than a doctor’s waiting room. I examine the mix of framed pictures on the wall, mostly casual photos of a smiling Dr. Sul with family and friends, and then turn to see the same smiling face - the same casual demeanor. As he sticks out a hand to greet me, I realize that this man is anything but intimidating. After gawking at the state-of-the-art facilities and then landing in Dr. Sul’s comfortable office, we exchange introductions and pleasantries. And then, almost immediately, Dr. Sul launches into an anecdote
Sent to profile the story of Dr. Sul Young-taeg, our writer finds that the history of dental implants is more interesting than first thought.
about how dental implants can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where people replaced missing teeth with wood. He then proceeds to give me what is, essentially, a history lesson in the chronology of tooth replacement. It’s actually quite interesting. Up until implants became viable, when a tooth was lost, it would be replaced with a crown and bridge. The main problem with this method of tooth replacement was that it was incredibly destructive on the surrounding area of the mouth. Enter implants, which were invented in the late 1960s by Dr. P.I. Brånemark, whom Dr. Sul studied under at Sweden’s Gothenburg University. According to Dr. Sul, a tooth implant is a very simple operation. “Just make a hole and screw in the implant.” However, the simplicity and, more importantly, the success of the procedure hangs its hat on something that is too often overlooked: basic bone biology. “When I teach my students,” Dr. Sul explained, “the actual method of doing the implant is only ten percent of what I teach. What I emphasize is that they need to look at the whole picture, to understand the whole of biology. I tell them, ‘You are not a technician - you are a doctor.’ There’s a huge difference.” Sadly, Dr. Sul feels that, in Korea, the whole picture is often overlooked, and implants are done in the quickest, cheapest way. Since coming back to Korea after 18 years abroad, he has seen case after case of failed implant. The significance of this is grave, as when an implant fails, the bone is
lost - meaning that any hope for replacing the tooth is also lost. Dr. Sul is hoping that the ‘cheaper is better’ attitude will change. He holds himself to the highest standard, which he hopes will translate into earning the confidence of his patients. Offering a full range of dental services, near perfect English and convenient, modern facilities, you’d be hard pressed to find a safer place to resolve your dental woes. As our conversation draws to a close, I feel like I’ve just had coffee with an old friend. Though any intimidation I felt a hour before has been dissipated by Dr. Sul’s warmth, I am a bit awestruck by his knowledge of and commitment to dentistry. As ride the elevator down, I do a quick inventory of my teeth with my tongue, knowing exactly where I’ll go if I find anything amiss. For more info on Sweden Dental’s services, contact them at: 051-746-2076. Sweden Dental is a supporter of Haps Magazine.
2014/15 Dec/Jan_ busanhaps.com 45
Education Corner
LEARNING ENGLISH WITH HAPS
FOR THOSE LOOKING TO IMPROVE THEIR ENGLISH OR FOR TEACHERS LOOKING FOR EDUCATIONAL MATERIAL TO USE IN THE CLASSROOM, FOLLOW THE LESSON PLAN BELOW ON ONE OF THIS ISSUE’S FEATURED ARTICLES.
WARM UP! 1. How often do you get away to the countryside? 2. How is your feeling when you are in the countryside and what makes you feel that way? 3. How are the habits, moods or attitudes of countryside people different from city dwellers?
PHRASES PREVIEW a hectic pace of life to be spellbound by to be under the radar out in the (rural) sticks fast forward a few (days)
VOCABULARY PREVIEW 1. sprouting (verb)
new life growing up out of the ground
2. gorgeous (adj.)
extremely beautiful
3. ample
(adj.)
a quantity of something more than I need
4. locals
(noun) people who live in the area of a visited place
5. tranquility (noun) a peaceful and quiet mood or feeling
modern city life where people move fast, follow tight schedules and have high stress levels it has my complete attention and I can’t look away; it is like magic! for something to remain undiscovered or unnoticed by the majority of people (remain a secret) to be out in the countryside and far away from a developed town or city area jump forward in time in a story, skipping time that is unimportant to talk about
KAMPOT: A SLICE OF RURAL CAMBODIA
BY: SIMON SLATER
Fast forward a few days, and my brother and I, who had linked up with me on his vacation from England and mine from Korea, were clunking along a dusty road out of Kampot town center and into the rural sticks. Lush green fields of rice paddies dotted with water buffalo surrounded us, as did the country’s distinctive pom-esque palm trees sporadically sprouting up into the bold blue sky. If the journey to get there was like a National Geographic magazine come to life, Ganesha, a guesthouse well and truly intertwined with its surroundings, took the exotic escape feeling one step further. We were spellbound by the picturesque riverside yurt we’d booked, and you know when there are mango trees in your backyard, a giant multicolored gecko chilling on the side of your hut, and fireflies acting as night lights that you’ve found someplace special. Heaven indeed. It wasn’t just Ganesha’s beautifully cultivated environment that was worth the journey; rural Kampot is beyond gorgeous. Rent a scooter or push bike and there is ample opportunity to get blissfully lost along the dirt tracks, passing through small settlements whilst interacting with locals, regardless of spoken language differences. Kampot’s tranquility might not last forever. I even heard stirrings that it’s the ‘next big spot’ for travelers. That’s ok, because no visit to the same place is always identical. Change is inevitable and there’s always another great spot under the radar. What remains, however, is the overwhelmingly warm and open spirit of the Cambodian people, who are usually willing to engage with you if approached. It’s harder to do so in more developed parts of the world with the hectic pace of life and people’s heads glued to smart phones, which is why spending time in a place like Kampot isn’t just a good idea - it’s essential. 46 HAPS_Dec/Jan 2014/15
Lesson No. 03
CHECK UNDERSTANDING
Preview these questions and reread the article for the answers. The answers are available at the bottom of this page.
FOCUS ON CONTENT
1. Kampot is best described as ______________ and ___________________ . A. urban / hectic B. friendly / peaceful C. hard to find / boring D. peaceful / popular 2. What is NOT true according to the article? A. The hotel they stayed at was near the river. B. The locals were happy to talk with them. C. The locals spoke English very well. D. Kampot remains a secret and not many people visit. 3. What can be inferred from the article or this sentence? A. The author does not like the countryside. B. The locals in Kampot like to communicate with visitors. C. Kampot will remain a secret forever. D. Kampot is not worth the long trip to get there.
TRUE OR FALSE 1. Kampot is a well-known area to visit in the Cambodian countryside. 2. Kampot mostly has small dirt roads to travel on by motorbike or bicycle. 3. Because of its beautiful environment, the general feeling of Kampot is very tranquil.
TRUE TRUE TRUE
FALSE FALSE FALSE
MASTER NEW VOCABULARY complete the following exercise.
Use the new vocabulary you have learned from the article to
sprouting gorgeous ample locals tranquility
1. __________
2. __________
3. __________
4. __________
5. __________
SUMMARY MAPPING Use the main ideas and supporting information to summarize the article. KAMPOT
(1)______________
Environment • Plants are (3)______________ up
• Everyone is friendly to visitors. • Have lots of (2)_____________ because their lives are not hectic and stressful.
everywhere so it’s a lush area. • (4)______________ river scene. • It is still (5)______________ so many tourists don’t visit there often.
DISCUSS AND WRITE
What are your opinions about this article and further into this topic? Try to use some of the new vocabulary in your answers.
DISCUSSION 1. What do you find most interesting/scary about visiting a small town in the countryside of a foreign country? 2. What do you think the people in Kampot do for a living? How might they feel towards foreign travelers in their village? 3. Is the progress that tourism brings to destinations always a good thing for the local people, environment and economy?
WRITING ASSIGNMENT This story was all about discovery and taking the road less traveled. Think back to a time when you found something by accident while you were traveling abroad, in your country or even just in your city or neighborhood. What made this new place such a unique discovery, how did you come across it and was it the same when you returned again at a later date?
ANSWER KEY Focus on Content - B,C,B True or False - F,T,T 2014/15 Dec/Jan_ busanhaps.com 47
Vocabulary - 1.ample 2.tranquility 3.tranquility 4.gorgeous 5.locals Summary Mapping - 1.Locals 2.tranquility 3.sprouting 4.gorgeous 5.under the radar
Hotel Directory & News
Hotel Events and 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
Hotel Nongshim
23, Geumganggongwon-ro 20beon-gil, Dongnae-gu, Busan ph. 051-550-2100 web. www.hotelnongshim.com
Spend a warm and plentiful winter break with the “Warm Winter Package,” where big yet cosy rooms with a view of the winter ocean can be enjoyed with “Hot Cocktail Twists & Sweets” for two.
Choose from a variety of tenderloin steaks as part of your threecourse dinner at the signature Hurshimchung Brau restaurant.
Novotel Hotel
1405-16 Jung-dong, Haeundae-gu, Busan ph. 051-746-8481 web. www.novotel.ambatel.com
Stay in luxury during the week for under 200,000 won during the Winter Holiday package at Novotel, which runs through the end of December.
Paradise Hotel
1408-5 Jung-dong, Haeundae-gu, Busan ph. 051-742-2121 web. www.paradisehotel.co.kr
Relive the feeling of the Swiss Alps with the mouthwatering cheese fondue set at the stylish Crystal Garden.
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Kunoh Seacloud Hotel
287 Haeundaehaebyun-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan ph. 051-742-2121 web. www.seacloudhotel.com
Guests staying at the Kunoh Seacloud Hotel have access to the hotel’s fitness room, with a lovely view of the Haeundae nightscape.
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. PARADISE HOTEL tel: 82-51-742 2121 web: www.paradisehotel.co.kr On the water, with a casino, excellent spa and a pool. SEACLOUD HOTEL tel: 82-51-933-1000 web: www.seacloudhotel.com Luxury stay with great restaurants. Short walk to the beach. CENTUM HOTEL tel: 82-51-720-9000 web: www.centumhotel.co.kr Near Shinsegae and BEXCO. Good subway access. 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. PARK HYATT BUSAN tel: 82-51-990-1234 web: busan.park.hyatt.com Five star quality hotel with stunning views and service.
SEOMYEON 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.
TOYOKO INN tel: 82-51-442-1045 web: www.toyoko-inn.com Across from D City, comfortable, clean and affordable. 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.
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. PHOENIX HOTEL tel: 82-51-245-8061 web: www.hotelphoenix.net Highly trained staff, close to Nampodong. Popular with Japanese tourists. 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.
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.
BUSAN CENTRAL HOTEL [Yeonsan-dong] 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 web: www.arpina.co.kr Opened in 2004, a cheap place to stay for the night. Culture center inside. GOODSTAY THE PLANET GUESTHOUSE [Haeundae] tel: 010-2780-6350 web: www.earthlinghome.com Women-only dormitory across from Haeundae Beach in the Crystal Beach Office Tel. 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. 2014/15 Dec/Jan_ busanhaps.com 49
Nightlife & Dining Directory
GWANGALLI BEACHED CAFE AND SPORTS BAR [Kiwi Sports Bar] open: 6pm - late tel: 051-924-9662 web: www.busanhaps.com/nightlife/ beached-cafe-sports-bar This Kiwi-run sports bar has gained a loyal expat following for its spectacular bridge view and its wide array of Kiwi beer. 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. FOUR SEASONS [Raw Fish Korean] English speaking owner, 2nd fl. Fish Market. FUZZY NAVEL- MILLAK [Food/Bar] open: 11am - 6am tel: 051-754-6349 web: www.fncompany.co.kr
50 HAPS_Dec/Jan 2014/15
It has fabulous views of Gwangalli Beach. 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. GALMEGI BREWING CO. [Craft Brew Pub] open: Mon - Fri 6-1am, Sat 2pm-2am, Sun 2pm-12am tel: 010-4469-9658 fb: galmegi.brewing Galmegi Brewing Co. is Busan’s first craft brew pub right on Gwangan Beach. HQ BAR [American/Sports Bar] open: 6pm on weekdays, 11am on weekends tel: 010-7544-8830 web: www.facebook.com/hq.bar.5 HQ’s new Gwangan location has the same massive selection of craft beers and cocktails. 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. TAP AND TAPAS [Spanish] open: 3pm-5am tel: 051-746-6318 web: www.tapntapas.com Tap and Tapas serves up mouthwatering Spanish cuisine in a beautiful setting looking out to the Gwangalli Bridge. 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. WA BAR [Beer Bar] Wide selection of beer laid out for your choosing.
HAEUNDAE ARUN THAI [Thai] open: 11a.m. - 10 p.m. tel: 051-908-9085 web: www.facebook.com/arunthai.kr In Shinsegae, the chefs at Arun Thai bring you succulently prepared authentic Thai dishes at very reasonable rates. This delightful restaurant, is a great meeting place, whether for a light lunch or large-scale dinner in a stylish environment with friendly service. 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 one. Burgers, pasta and brunch are on the menu in the stylishly decorated restaurant, where you
Dining & Food 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 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. 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. 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. GANGA [Indian] Expect to pay some good money, but it’s worth it. GECKOS [Pub] Beach front bar. Consistently good food. GEN SUSHI [Japanese] tel: 051-740-6630 Affordable sushi. Good stuff. HELLO THAI [Thai] tel: 051-731-5033 Good Thai food in the heart of Haeundae. 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. 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, TBR is 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 [Korean/Expat 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. VAN GOGH TERRACE [Italian] tel: 051-741-3767 Nice view of the water while you eat.
KYUNGSUNG HQ BAR [American/Sports Bar] open: Mon-Sat 6-Late, Closed Tues and Sun web: www.facebook.com/hq.bar.5 HQ Bar is your place in KSU for drunken mistake-making. BEIJING GO-CHI [Chinese] Great skewers, great food, cheap prices. BLUE MONKEY [Dance/Hip Hop] open: 7pm to late tel. 051-611-2888 web: www.busanhaps.com/nightlife/ blue-monkey
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Nightlife & Dining Directory 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. 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. 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,
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or an impressive group meeting place. MONK’S JAZZ CLUB [Jazz Club] Busan’s only jazz club. Tuesday nights are hot.
always in play, as is a busy crowd almost every evening of the week. VINYL UNDERGROUND [Nightclub/Event Bar] www.busanhaps.com/nightlife/vinyl Vinyl Underground is known as the spot for live music in the Kyungsung area.
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 PNU Mic Wednesdays, which are known to CROSSROADS [Live Music/Pub] host the best Korean and expat musiopen: 7pm-late cians in town. tel: 051-515-1181 web: www.busanhaps.com/nightlife/ PAINTED CHAIR CAFE [Cafe/Gallery] crossroads The art, the atmosphere. Good place A small, but atmospheric watering hole to chill. in PNU, Crossroads has been a Busan SHABANA [Indian] institution amongst the expats for years. tel: 051-621-4821 FARMERS BURGERS Good, affordable Indian food. [American/Korean Fusion] THE SUSHI [Japanese] People rave about it. Nominated in Best tel: 051-611-4043 Burger. Affordable, quality Japanese food. THURSDAY PARTY [Korean/Expat Bar] INTERPLAY [Live Music/Event] Live music, hit or miss if you catch on a open: 6pm - late good night. web: www.busanhaps.com/nightlife/ LOVING HUT [Vegetarian] thursday-party2 www.lovinghut.co.kr With ten Thursday Party’s around tel: 051-518-0115 the city, it has become a staple for the young, hip Korean university MOO MONK [Live Music] crowd and expats alike. Beer pong, Can catch some great Korean indie sports on TV and the free curry pop- bands here. corn or salted spaghetti sticks are
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 Good chicken chain, interesting sauces. CLUB FIX [Nightclub] tel: 051-905-5777 web: www.clubfixkorea.info New super club. International DJs and dress code required. DIVISION 9 [Lounge] Pinball, darts, basketball, drinking and good fun.
Dining & Food 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. 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. HANGOVER [Western Pub] open: 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. Tuesday - Sunday tel: 070-7789-5868 web: www.busanhaps.com/freehousehangover From the good folks that brought you the great Italian food at Vito’s, this new 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
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.
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 unique charm, quality service and hip atmosphere amongst the Korean cool.
CELTIC TIGER BAR [British Pub] open: weekdays, 4 p.m.- 2 a.m. weekends, 12 p.m.- 3 a.m. tel: 051-246-8168 Stylish British pub located in Nampodong. Great ambiance and friendly staff.
NAMPO
FARMERS BURGERS [International] Enjoy a quality, fresh-made burger and fries on the roof. HABANERO [Mexican] tel: 051-254-6662 web: www.habanerokorea.com open: 11:30 a.m.-midnight daily Conveniently located in the heart of Nampodong, Habanero specializes in authentic Tex-Mex cuisine. With an extensive menu, 12 beers on tap and classic cocktails, the cantina uses the freshest ingredients and is a great spot for all Mexican food lovers to socialize and enjoy a good meal.
KUHN [Asian] 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.
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Services Directory
SERVICES DIRECTORY AIRLINES AIR BUSAN tel: 051-974-8686 web: www.busanair.com 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,
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Samsung-dong, 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.
548-1 Choryang-dong, Dong-gu tel: 051-468-2845 web: kbces.com.ne.kr BUSAN INTERNATIONAL FOREIGN SCHOOL
798 Nae-ri, Gijang-eup, Gijang-gun tel: 051-742-3332 web: www.bifskorea.org
TESOL TRAINING KOTESOL Email: bgkotesol@gmail.com Facebook: Busan-Gyeongnam KOTESOL Chapter TESOL ALLIANCE tel: 051-818-0502 web: www.tesolalliance.com
EDUCATION
KOREAN LESSONS
FOREIGN SCHOOLS
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
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 web: user.chollian.net/~pusjpnsc BUSAN OVERSEAS CHINESE KINDERGARTEN
email: bangjy77@pusan.ac.kr
INFORMATION EXPAT ASSISTANCE CALL CENTER FOR FOREIGN RESIDENTS IN BUSAN tel: 1577-7716 FREE TRANSLATION SERVICE (BBB) tel: 1588-5644 MULTICULTURAL FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER tel: 1577-5432
INFORMATION CENTERS TOURIST INFORMATION SERVICE tel: 1330 BEXCO TOURIST 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 At New York Smile Orthodontics, we provide specialized orthodontic care for children, teens and adults. We make every effort to provide affordable orthodontic treatment in a relaxed and caring manner to every individual who is unhappy with his or her smile. We use the most technologically-advanced orthodontic methods available including clear braces, self-ligating braces, invisalign, lingual braces and faster braces. 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 HAEUNDAE HEALTH CENTER 1339, Jwa-2 dong, Haeundae-gu tel: 051-746-4000 JUNG-GU HEALTH CENTER 1 Ga 1, Daecheong-dong, Jung-gu tel: 051-600-4741
HERBAL CLINICS
DONGEUI UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL 397-3, Bujeon-1 dong, Busanjin-gu tel: 051-803-5430 GOOD SAMSUN HANBANG 1162-2, Jurye-dong, Sasang-gu tel: 051-325-0300
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 The Korean Federation for HIV/AIDS Prevention offers three locations nationwide with additional services including counseling services to foreigners and migrant workers face to face and by telephone. With a number of foreign languages available to have consultation, KHAP has become one of the most recognized HIV/AIDS information base in the Republic of Korea.
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 Good Moonhwa Hospital has become famous for its success in IVF for the first time as a private medical facility in Busan and
Gyeongnam area. With 36 years experience and service in English, Japanese, Chinese and Russian, this full-service hospital has everything to take care of your medical needs.
HAEUNDAE HYOSUNG CITY HOSPITAL 1094-2, Jaesong 1-dong tel: 051-709-3000 web: www.hshos.com INJE UNIV. HAEUNDAE PAIK HOSPITAL 1435, Jwa-dong tel: 051-797-0100 web: www.paik.ac.kr/Haeundae
JUNG-GU 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 40-1, 41-9, Namcheon-dong tel: 051-625-0900 web: www.gang-an.or.kr
RELIGIOUS SERVICES 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 REDEEMER INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY CHURCH Services: Sundays Busan: 11am Changwon: 4:00pm Phone: 010-8326-1985 Web: www.redeemericc.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. GIFT MINISTRY Myung-nyun-dong, Dongnae-gu tel: 010-7999-8644 web: www.tinyurl.com/lifeisagift Services: Saturdays,10:30 a.m. HOSANNA CHURCH Myeongji-dong, #3245-5 Gangseo-gu, tel: 051-209-0191 web: www.him-busan.blogspot.com Services: Sundays, 12:30 p.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
MUSEUMS 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 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 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 2014/15 Dec/Jan_ busanhaps.com 55
Services Directory 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 BUSAN FRIENDSHIP GROUP www.meetup.com/Pusans ULTIMATE FRISBEE LEAGUE Email: ch.pyles@gmail.com
BTC FOOTBALL FB Group: Busan Transportation Corporation Supporters Fanpage EPIK TEACHERS IN BUSAN Facebook Group: Busan EPIK EXPAT SAILING CLUB Contact: Mark Chi email: Koreasailing@gmail.com web: www.busansailing.com LAOCHRA BUSAN GAELIC ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION CLUB Contact: Peter Bonner email: busangaa@gmail.com Facebook Group: Laochra Busan Members
SPECIALTY STORES SIX PACK CRAFT BEER open: 2-11 p.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. KAI SURF SHOP 183-11 Gwangan-dong, Suyeong-gu tel: 051-753-2746
GROCERIES COSTCO web: www.costco.co.kr
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.
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
Humetro Call Center Lost & Found Center
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Seomyeon Stn.
In Memory of Patrick Lawrence Cole You will be missed 2014/15 Dec/Jan_ busanhaps.com 57
The Last Word
Tharp On:
The End of the Year By Chris
Tharp Illustration By Michael Roy
Chris Tharp recaps 2014, month by month, blow by blow. Well here we are, about to clock out of another one. 2014 is room and sing Pharrell Williams’s “Happy” 1,000 times in a row; if packing its bags and preparing to jump on that train and ride that’s not your thing, shiver until dawn on a local beach to catch into the mists of history, and it’s been a real doozy. This, quite the first rays of 2015. As it sizzles out your retinas, the sunrise’s naturally, is the time of year when we take a breath and meditate beauty will make you forget about the awful state of the world, on everything that has gone down over the previous 11 months; as well as the onset of your hypothermia. However you can, try to take solace in the few flakes of hapfor many, this moment of reflection is a cocktail of elation, depiness floating in an spair and relief. The THERE ARE STILL A FEW THINGS TO CELEBRATE: GOOD BEER IS otherwise soul-eating, very fact that you’re reading this right now NOW WIDELY AVAILABLE HERE ON THE PENINSULA; BOTH BILL black void. After all, there are still a few means that you’re one of the lucky ones. MURRAY AND NEIL YOUNG ARE STILL WITH US; A NEW SEASON things to celebrate: You’re still alive. This is OF GAME OF THRONES IS COMING SOON, AND, MOST HEART- good beer is now widely available here something deserving WARMING, IS THE STORY OF A THAI ORPHAN WHO TURNED on the Peninsula; both of gratitude, but even Bill Murray and Neil a casual glance at the DOWN KIM KARDASHIAN’S ATTEMPT AT ADOPTION. Young are thankfully world around us gives still with us; a new season of Game of Thrones is coming soon; us scant cause for joy. If 2014 is any barometer of the state of humanity and its sur- the Korean government has yet to deport us all, and, most heartroundings, things are going to shit, fast. It’s looking bleak out warming, is the story of a destitute Thai orphan who turned down there, so this New Year’s Eve, do whatever it takes to at least Kim Kardashian’s attempt at adoption. That’s right, the girl just temporarily forget about the brutal, unforgiving reality of the shrugged and said, “Nope.” There is still an iota of hope left on universe: drink yourself quadriplegic at one of this town’s expat this planet. bars (don’t worry, it’s impossible to get cut off); go to a karaoke So let’s look back at the major stories of 2014. Yes, most of them 58 HAPS_Dec/Jan 2014/15
will make you want to collapse on the floor and go fetal, but there must be a few rose petals among the rat droppings. Nothing happened in January, unless you count the country of Latvia adopting the Euro as its currency as an ‘event.’ February started off with a bang. The Seattle Seahawks, a team this writer has been rooting for since the 1970s, ended a long tradition of Seattle sports suckage by decimating the Denver Broncos 43-8 in the Superbowl. However, on that very same day, off-the-charts brilliant actor Philip Seymour Hoffman died of a heroin overdose, proving once again that everything is indeed terrible. The Sochi Winter Olympics also took place in February. They were the most expensive ever, bizarrely held in the only place in Russia that has no snow. Russia, unsurprisingly, took the lion’s share of gold, while a naked Vladimir Putin killed a polar bear with his bare hands in the games’ closing ceremonies. March’s news was dominated by the disappearance of Malaysian Airlines Flight 370. The media was rife with speculation as to what happened (Islamic terrorists? An American missile? Aliens?). We still don’t really know, though the plane is suspected to have plunged into the deep waters of the Southern Indian Ocean, an area that scientists call “really, really big.” Russia was also back in the news. Still awash in Olympic glory, they went ahead and annexed the Crimean Peninsula, since, according to the Kremlin, Ukraine “wasn’t really using it.” Depressing events doubled down in April, with the Sewol catastrophe, in which over 300 passengers, most of them high school students, died when their ferry capsized in cold waters near Jindo Island. This tragedy laid bare a system of incompetence, negligence and corruption here in Korea, and for months afterward the whole of the nation was steeped in a kind of collective, miserable guilt. April was also the month in which the Nigerian terrorist group Boko Haram kidnapped 276 girls, making this the shittiest month for students since the invention of algebra story problems. Nothing much happened in May except for a coup in Thailand, which overthrew the caretaker government of Niwatthamrong Boonsongpaisan, cutting short the career of a prime minister with the world’s most unpronounceable name. Even Thais couldn’t say it, which may have been a partial impetus for the coup. Boko Haram was also at it again, killing more than 400 in two separate attacks, making them officially eviler than Satan. June kicked off what became known as the ‘Great Summer of Fear,’ when the Islamic militant group ISIS suddenly took over most of Iraq and began beheading anyone who couldn’t recite the whole of the Quran from memory. This was also the month of the World Cup, where Germany obliterated the competition, inserting Die Mannschaft into every team that took the field against them. Things got cooking in July with yet another lopsided mini-war between Israel and Hamas, where the body count resembled the score of the Germany-Brazil World Cup match if you just added a few zeros. 2014 was a spectacularly horrible year for Malaysian Airlines, who lost another plane when it was shot down over Ukraine, presumably by pro-Russian rebels. An Algerian Air flight also went down in Mali, killing all 116 people on board. Even if people would have survived the crash, the odds were against them, since the plane went down in an area
so remote that the nearest city was Timbuktu. August saw the continual spread of the Ebola virus in West Africa, an epidemic that no one in the West cared about until a few whites started catching it, proving once and for all that people can even be racist against diseases. August was also the month where we lost Robin Williams, whose incandescent talent and funniness masked a deep sadness. He committed suicide, confirming the theory that most comedians are troubled and damaged people underneath it all. September and October were slow news months, though the Kansas City Royals almost did the unthinkable by making it to game seven of the World Series in Major League Baseball, losing to the mighty San Francisco Giants by just one run with a man on third. Heartbreaking stuff for a small-market team whose Cinderella season was the stuff Hollywood movies are made of. November was one of the few months where anything good happened. The Rosetta spacecraft’s Philae probe successfully landed on comet 67P, a first in human history. But all of our joy was dashed by the news out of US town Ferguson, Missouri, where a grand jury failed to indict Darren Wilson, a white cop who emptied six bullets into Michael Brown, an unarmed black teen. The nation is roiling with anger and protest as I type. November also saw the passing of bartender, friend and all-around listener, Patrick Cole, a staple of the Busan expat scene. He is already missed. All this tumult, passion and conflagration lead us to now, December, a month that will have to write itself. Hopefully we’ll go out on a good note. So here we are at the end … the end of the year and the end for me, here at Haps. I’ve been here since issue number one and it’s been a hell of a run, but like 2014, it’s time for me to pack my bags and move on. I’d like to thank Bobby McGill and everyone at the magazine for giving me this platform to spew and rant, as well as all the folks who have read this column and have given me kind words over the years. I’ve always felt the need to have the last word, so it’s fitting I was given the final space in each issue of this magazine, which has grown from a little pamphlet to a glossy, comprehensive work. In that way, it reflects our community here in Busan, and I am proud to have been a part of it. Cheers.
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