Gwangju News International Magazine for Gwangju and Jeollanam-do
February 2011 Issue No. 108
Gwangju Theater Independent and going strong
Get your skis on Guide to Muju
960th time’s the charm! A halmeoni’s mission to drive
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Gwangju News February 2011
What’s On
Gwangju News
6 Gwangju Theater:
Cover Photo Photographer: Simon Bond Cover Photo: Muju Resort Publisher: Gyonggu Shin Editor-in-Chief: Maria Lisak Editors: Daniel Lister, Minsu Kim Copy Editors: Kathleen Villadiego Coordinator: Karina Prananto Layout and Design: Karina Prananto, Minsu Kim Proofreaders: Jon Ozelton, Rob Smith, Gabriel Ward, Marion Gregory, Steve McNally, Pete Schandall, Gina Covert, Kathleen Villadiego
Researchers: Jung-kyu Baek, Ki-eun Lee, Hee-seon Yang, Hee-kyung Go, Bo-hui Ka
Address: Jeon-il Building 5F, Geumnam-no 1-1, Dong-gu, Gwangju 501-758, S. Korea
A historical icon that stands the test of time
10 Muju Resort
Phone: +82-62-226-2733 Fax: +82-62-226-2732 E-mail: gwangjunews@gmail.com Registration No.: 광주광역시 라. 00145 (ISSN 2093-5315) Printed by Logos (Phone +82-62-444-8800) Gwangju News Magazine is written and edited by volunteers.
Special thanks to the City of Gwangju and all of our sponsors. Copyright by the Gwangju International Center. All rights reserved. No part of this publication covered by this copyright may be reproduced in any form or by any means - graphic, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise - without the written consent of the publishers. Gwangju News welcomes letters to the editor (gwangjunews@gmail.com) regarding articles and issues. All correspondence may be edited for reasons of clarity or space.
20 Park Nohae
– Poet, Artist, Humanitarian
Gwangju News February 2011
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Contents Featured Articles Feature
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This Month in Gwangju
By Stephen Redeker and Misue Kim
By Jon Ozelton
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By Michael Attard
Compiled by Bo-hui Ka Travel
Muju Resort By Simon Bond
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Community
Jeonlado.com
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Photo Contest
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World News
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Language Study
By Daniel Lister Community
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One Hope, 960 Challenges Health
Suicide
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Ggobdeungee People
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Translated by Chae-Pyong Song and Anne Rashid
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Tips about Moving and Moving Service By Marie Charmaine Pascual Igwe
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Cartoon By Jen Lee
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Book Review
QR Codes
House of Idols
By Gabriel Ward
By Elton LaClare
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Photo Gallery
Movie Review
Memories of Murder
By Jung-kyu Baek, Hee-sun Yang, Hee-kyung Go, Kee-eun Lee
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Living Tips
Dear Korea
Dae-in Market
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Selected Poems by Oh Se-young
By Allen Gray
Community
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Potery
Park Nohae– Poet, Artist, Humanitarian Technology
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Fashion By jjdp
By Seth Pevey
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Letters to KOTESOL
Fash-On
By Mesa Schumacher Wildlife
Home Pages
By Dr. David Schaffer
By Minsu Kim
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Book Review
Justice, What’s the Right Thing to do?
Valentine’s Day Guide to Romance
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Local News
Gwangju Theater Things to do
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Regular Columns
By Seth Pevey
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Restaurant Review
People
Holiday Inn - Hourglass Restaurant Buffet
By Mark Eaton
By Gabriel Ward
Feature
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By Matthew Jenkins
Recipe
Seafood Pancake
Cooling the Competition Korean attitudes towards reforming English Education
By Hee-seon Yang
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Useful Korean Phrases
이다’: to be VS Verb‘아니다’: not to be Verb ‘이 By Soo-a Jung
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Cartoon
Digby By Leroy Kucia
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Things to Do
Art not to be missed By Allen Gray
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Gwangju News February 2011
Dae-in Market
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Upcoming Events
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Community Board
Local News
This Month in Gwangju A brief roundup of news stories from in and around Gwangju
Bird Flu Several cases of Avian Influenza (AI), a.k.a. bird flu, have struck the surrounding Gwangju region, resulting in millions of chickens and ducks being culled at farms as a precautionary measure to prevent the spread of the disease. On December 31, 2010, South Korea reported its first cases of H5N1 bird flu in domestic poultry since 2008, with two farms affected: one in Chungcheong province, and the other in Ik-san, Jeollabuk-do. Both farms were placed under quarantine, and ordered to cull remaining livestock to try to prevent the disease from spreading. However, despite their measures, as of January 22, 2011, 32 cases have been reported nationwide. The disease has been particularly rife in Jeollanam-do. On January 7, 2011, six duck farms in Naju and Yeongam County, Jeollanam-do province, were reported to be affected by H5N1 bird flu. Poultry farms in Hwasun, Jangheung and Yeosu, all also in Jeollanam-do, have also seen suspected cases. On January 10, around 50,000 ducks at three farms in Naju were destroyed. In total, more than 3 million ducks and chickens have been killed in 130 farms in Jeollanam-do alone, as more cases are uncovered, and efforts ramped up to try and halt the spread of the disease. As yet, there have not been any reported cases in Gwangju itself. However, as some farms fell within a 3 kilometer radius of a reported case, so 38,000 fowl will be culled as a precautionary measure, at two duck farms in Daecheong, Gwangju’s South District. The damage to the poultry farming industry is immense. Local governments have suggested that farmers may receive compensation, although at the moment the focus is firmly on containment strategies, as farmers and authorities struggle to stop the disease spreading even further. “We are making every effort to prevent the virus that has already affected South Jeolla province from spreading to other regions,” said a quarantine official. (Quote from usgs.gov) At the same time, South Korea is also in the grip of outbreaks of foot and mouth disease, with 29 cases reported between 6th and 18th January, resulting in 65,400 pigs and 3,468 cattle being destroyed. As yet, no cases have been found in Jeollanam-do. Due to the threat
of both diseases being transmitted during the upcoming Lunar New Year, when many families traditionally travel to visit relatives in their hometowns in other parts of the country, Jeollanam-do’s director of the livestock quarantine, Lee Ki-ho, is requesting people not to travel to the region. "If we can prevent FMD from spreading to our area during the upcoming holiday, we are positive that South Jeolla Province will remain FMD-free. It is not easy to say this but we desperately need people who have family members here not to come this time," he said.
Ongoing SSM Disputes Disputes between socalled SSMs (super supermarkets) and local civic action groups and store owners are continuing. On December 27, a citizens’ association a press Emart protest Gwangju Dream held conference to publicize their efforts to try to prevent a new E-mart store from opening in Gwangju’s Maegok dong. The group say the SSM will be bad for local business and create heavy traffic, amongst other complaints. On January 7, a citizens’ task force undertook a “Pay by a thousand pennies” protest at an existing E-mart. Wearing large sashes proclaiming their cause, participants clogged up the tills of the store by paying for their shopping entirely in 10-won coins, to the annoyance and inconvenience of staff and other shoppers. Elsewhere, on December 9, 2010, Homeplus SSM gave up in its efforts to open a new store near Woosun Market, Gwangsan District, when the local council issued an official recognition of the market. By law, an SSM cannot open within 500m of an existing market.
Toy Story Gwangju-Jeollanam-do Alliance of Progressive Movements opened a “toy library” in Dongnim-dong last December. Now any child can have access to toys, which can be borrowed for up to one week. There are also around 1,000 books available to read. Membership to the library is 30,000 won a month. By Jon Ozelton Gwangju News February 2011
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Upcoming Events
Gwangju Theater: A historical icon that stands the test of time
ave you ever watched a movie in a theater that predates World War 2? Not many of us can say we have. Perhaps you're unaware that such a venue not only exists in Korea, but can be found right here in downtown Gwangju. Most of us living here know that this city is renowned for its various cultural and artistic exhibitions. Amongst the many art galleries, museums, festivals and great restaurants, there lies a pearl of Korean cinematic history.
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The Gwangju Theater (광주극장) first opened its doors on October 1st, 1933. That makes it the oldest movie house in all of Jeollanam-do, and one of the oldest in all of Korea. As soon as you enter the building, you feel like you've been transported back in time to the days of old. Classic movie posters adorn the walls. There are no flashing LED signs or video game arcades to be seen. This theater is not about blockbuster Hollywood movies served with a large popcorn and Twizzlers. It is strictly about the
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Gwangju News February 2011
art of independent films and watching them in a classic movie theater. As the tides of war and conflict have changed the landscape of this city over the past 70+ years, this theater has also seen its share of tragedy and accomplishment. In 1968 there was a terrible fire which badly damaged the cinema. After the remodeling, there were more than a few bright spots in the history of the theater including visits from some of the most acclaimed Korean film directors and movie stars. After the Korean War, in the midst of national instability, political activist Kim Gu gave a speech which ignited political fervor and led to a number of demonstrations. More recently, the theater hosted a martial arts show by action film star Jet-Li back in 1995. The 1980s and 90s was a time when the latest bigbudget Hollywood movies could be seen at the theater. That all changed once the influx of modern
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cinemas hit the city. Since 2002 the majority of films seen here are of the “indie” and “classic” variety. The movies come from all over the world and are not overdubbed; they still contain their native language with Korean subtitles added.
GN: What kinds of food and drinks are served here? Kim: There is only coffee, cans of soda are available in the lobby. We don't serve any snacks here. We ask our patrons not to eat snacks during the movies because it may disturb others.
Gwangju News had the opportunity to speak with Kim Hyung-Soo, the manager and daily operator of the Gwangju Theater:
GN: How do you compete with the newer movie theaters in Gwangju? Kim: We don't compete with the larger multi-plex theaters that show new movies. We offer a different product. Our movies are independent films that cannot be seen in new theaters. Our target audience is a different group of people.
GN: Thank you for taking the time to speak with us. What are your responsibilities working at the Gwangju Theater? Kim: I do pretty much everything here, from the cleaning to the paperwork to the ordering of the movies. I take care of all the daily management of the business. GN: What is the primary demographic of the people who come to watch movies here? Kim: The ages range from mid twenties to late thirties. Many single women come here to watch movies. Most people come here alone. It's easy for them to come at their leisure without making plans with their friends. Our movies cater to a particular taste that not all people share. So, sometimes people come alone to watch a movie that their friends don't care to see. There are also a number of older folk who enjoy watching movies here because they have been coming for a long time. They can reminisce about their younger years by watching movies in this theater.
GN: Given the fact that there is not a huge crowd of people standing in line to buy tickets, is the Gwangju Theater still a viable business? Kim: This theater is very big, there are 856 seats in front of one screen. A smaller “art house” theater may only have 100 seats to fill. It's a challenge for us when only a few seats are filled for our movies. Thankfully, Gwangju Theater is supported by the Korean Film Council to help run the business. There are many things that are special about this particular building. Last year we had a group of French film students who were very impressed with our hand painted movie poster on the large board in front of the theater. This was the old style of movie advertising that is still visible and appreciated today. Also, about five times per year, this theater hosts a Q & A session with film directors where the public can meet, greet and ask questions about movie making. Gwangju News February 2011
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The theater is located downtown about one block behind the Migliore building.
GN: Describe the weekly movie schedule, and what is the cost for a ticket? Kim: There are usually three to five different movies shown per day. Every movie has at least a twoweek run. If a particular film is very interesting and popular, it will be shown for a longer time. Ticket costs are 8,000 won for adults, 7,000 won for students (high school and younger) and 6,000 won for "early birds". This month we're having a movie festival where we show all the most popular movies from 2010. You can purchase a discounted ticket package and watch any three movies, whenever you like. GN: Are there English language movies playing all the time? Kim: It's different every month. We don’t plan what countries our films will come from, or what languages will be spoken. Our website has the schedule and people can check every month to see what is playing. Many of the movies shown come from France, Japan, South America and the USA, as well as other countries. GN: What are some of your personal favorite movies? Kim: It's much too difficult for me to choose a few 8
Gwangju News February 2011
favorite movies since I've seen so many great ones in my time. I recently enjoyed an animated movie called "Fantastic Mr. Fox" with voices from George Clooney and Meryl Streep. I also liked "There Will Be Blood". GN: Anything else you'd like to add to our discussion about the Gwangju Theater? Kim: Technology has developed very rapidly over the past decade, and now people can watch movies on their smartphones and laptops. People are bombarded with advertising about new blockbuster movies. But I think people should consider the type of movies they watch, and give independent movies a chance. Not only is the type of movie important, but how you watch it. Sitting on a bus watching a movie on your cell phone does not give you the same experience as watching a movie in an old theater. Gwangju Theater website with movie schedule: cafe.naver.com/cinemagwangju (Foreigners might want to enlist the help of a Korean friend to translate the information. English movie titles are visible on the movie posters.) The theater is located downtown about one block behind the Migliore building. By Stephen Redeker and Misue Kim
Things to do
Valentine’s Day Guide to Romance ove is in the air, so Gwanju News decided to ask its readers about the best Italian style restaurants in Gwangju to share a romantic meal with one’s lover, or soon to be lover. Here’s what they came up with.
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Grissini
Siete Belli
Siete Belli caters for couples and large groups, offering a wide selection of dishes from their buffet. It is slightly more pricey so you might want to let him pay. It is two floors and can seat a number of patrons. Recommended menu: -Lunch Buffet: 11:30~3:30 23,000 won (27,000 won on weekends) -Dinner Buffet: 17:30~22:00 27,000 won Address: Address: 65 Jisan-dong, Dong-gu, Gwangju. You can take bus 81 and get off at Shinyang Park Hotel Station Tel.: 062-232-1150 Jino's Garden
Jino’s Garden is café serves a variety of dishes described as“Peudo-nouveau gourmet”. It has vintage style furnishings, and a very warm and bright atmosphere. Also, it has a bar where you can see flair bartending. Recommended menu: couple set: 1 (pasta, risotto, pizza) + 2 drinks (28000 won) Location: Downtown above Mr. Pizza Address: Second Floor 55-3 Hwanggeum-dong, Dong-gu, Gwangju Tel.: 070-7572-3713
Offers other cuisines besides Italian, and will be the right atmosphere for Valentine’s Day since they will not be accepting groups. Recommended menu: Steak: Manzo (38,000 won): char-grilled tenderloin with port wine sauce Location: Sagmu opposite the Ramada Address: 1250-3 Chipyeong-dong, Seo-gu, Gwangju Tel.: 062-714-1001 The Firenze
The dishes are surprisingly authentic at Firenze with a cozy and relaxed atmosphere. Recommended menu: couple set: Try one of the salads or a wine-based pasta. Couple set: Spaghetti (1) + Pizza (1) + 2 drinks (26,900 won) Location: Chonnam National University Back Gate Address: 160-6 Yongbong-dong, Buk-gu, Gwangju Tel.: 062-261-3620 Compiled by Bo-hui Ka
Gwangju News February 2011
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Travel
Muju Resort
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Gwangju News February 2011
Travel
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inter is a magical time of the year for many people, and nothing is cherished more than the romantic scenes produced by the winter weather. In the middle of South Korea is Muju ski resort, which is nestled inside the Deogyusan National Park, where there are plenty of these views to treasure. The resort is amongst the most famous in Korea for skiing, and boasts crisp blue skies and several skiing runs. Muju skiing resort is a well setup and slick operation. The area has many restaurants, shops, cafes and even a nightclub. In the winter, once the snow has come and covered the roof tops, the area of the resort with the shops is picture perfect. The resort, of course, is mainly geared to outdoor adventure, and you can go snowboarding or skiing here. It’s also possible to go hiking along some of the mountain trails, although make sure you come prepared with cleats for your shoes as it’s very icy. It’s not necessary to come with equipment for the winter sports on offer, though, because everything you need can be rented at the resort. However, wearing warm clothes
is a good idea because it can get bitterly cold up on the slopes. The resort caters to all levels of proficiency. If you’ve never skied before, there are lessons available for beginners. Indeed there are many learners here, and if you come you’ll find legions of youngsters on exciting skiing camp holidays. Those who are old hands at skiing can take to the slopes slightly higher up where there are several of the advanced level black runs available. Those who don’t know the level of difficulty of a particular run, black is advanced and green is beginner. Those interested in a little hiking can take the gondola to the top of the skiing area from where you’ll find a hiking path that takes you to the top of the mountain, and you’ll also see some striking views along the way. The gondola costs 12,000 won for a return journey, and it’s roughly an hour long walk to and from the top of the mountain. At the top, you’ll discover colder temperatures if it’s a windy day, and there is also a course to hike even Gwangju News February 2011
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Travel
cheap and convenient option, come together with some friends and book rooms at the youth hostel, although be warned there are no beds - just heated floors (ondol), some duvets and some pillows. Equipment rental prices (Prices are for adults): These prices assume you own no equipment yourself. For instance, if you have boots, the price will be less. Clothing – 1 day 25,000 won 2 days 30,000 won 3 days 40,000 won Skiing – 46,000 won daytime 63,000 won daytime + evening Snowboarding – 43,000 won daytime 55,000 won daytime + evening Ski lift prices (Prices are for adults): Ski lift passes range from 54,000 won to 81,000 won per day, depending on how long you wish to ski. Accommodation prices: Hotel Tirol – 280,000won for a room Condominium – 200,000 won Youth hostel – 100,000 won for a 3 person room Other accommodation is available in the village near the entrance of the resort, but there was little accommodation in the town of Muju itself.
further into the mountain range if you so desire. After a day of skiing or hiking, there is a spa available at the resort with a swimming pool and sauna. It should also be mentioned that outside the skiing season this area is a popular hiking location, and in the summer Muju hosts a firefly festival. There are lots of eating options at the resort; the most common is Korean food. The options here vary from canteen style eateries all the way up to the restaurant found in the Tirol Hotel, which offers a buffet option at night. You can also find Domino’s Pizza, Lotteria, Popeyes, Tom n Toms and a host of all the other usual suspects among the Korean fast food eating establishments. As mentioned, there is the Tirol Hotel, and this offers the most expensive accommodations at the resort. Other options include condominiums and a youth hostel. Other choices for places to stay are motels and minbaks found in the tourist town just a short distance from the main resort. If you’re looking for a
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Gwangju News February 2011
Skiing lessons The resort has a range of options for skiing lessons, including the expensive one to one lessons that cost 250,000 won for 2 hours. At the other end of the scale are lessons with a ratio of one to ten for 45,000 won for 2 hours. Getting there and getting away To get to the resort you’ll first have to get to the town of Muju, which is around 30 minutes from the resort. There is a free shuttle bus that goes to the resort from the town of Muju. The shuttle bus can be found by leaving the bus station: 1) Go out of the bus station so that the taxi stand is in front of you and turn right. 2) Turn right up the first street you find and you should arrive at the river. 3) Turn left and walk a short distance until you find DC mart, the bus waits outside of this shop. There are 6 buses a day, the last bus leaves at 5pm from Gwangju and the last return bus from Muju leaves at 5:45pm By Simond Bond
Community
this magazine is about normal people”, said Hwang. There is the old cliché, that everybody has a story to tell, and this magazine really tries to play on that by getting out and about, and finding who and where these people are. Most of the time their reporters go out with no leads or potential stories, they merely descend upon some deep dark corner of rural Jeollanamdo, and find themselves a story through a bit of mingling with Joe public.
Jeoonladoo.coom
“ Everyone’s life is special, we don’t find many people who aren’t worthy of being featured. We just capture peoples’ lives”, said Hwang.
전라도닷컴
A simple procedure, though it seemingly works well for the magazine, attracting a wide readership with 50% coming from outside the realm of Jeolla.
ucked away in Daein market lies a tidy wooden cabin like building, which one might be surprised to discover is the HQ for Jeonlado.com, one of the country’s premier magazines – with just over a thousand copies behind it and a readership of 5000 – such a cozy looking cubby-hole, where middle aged men sip tea surrounded by books, past issues, and Polaroid memories of past interviewees, seems an unlikely base for such a renowned magazine.
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There are of course some people who don’t like to open their lives up to the nation, though generally people feel a sense of belonging since the magazine remains distinctively non-mainstream.
Jeonlado.com steers away from the traditional association one might have with a dotcom company, though they started as an online magazine they later swapped cyber space for glossy paper.
By Daniel Lister
Preserving culture is a huge focus for the editor. In this increasingly westernized society, many of the country’s traditions are quickly being lost, something the magazine hopes to keep these traditions alive through its documentation of all things Jeolla.
The magazine is built on an ideology that has been gaining popularity and momentum in Korea for some time – green living. They tell the story of the area’s people and nature, doing so through an artist’s perspective. The man in charge is publisher Hwang Pungnyeon, playing an active role in a publication that looks to offer something different from most other Korean magazines one might find filling shelf space in their local Ministop. “When you look at other magazines you see famous people, rich people, Gwangju News February 2011
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Community
One Hope, 960 Challenges ast year, many Korean people were touched by the story of a Korean halmeoni trying to earn a driving license. I read her story in the January 2010 issue of Jeonlado.com magazine that interviewed her after she passed the paper test.
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A Korean halmeoni from the countryside became a famous person in world news as well as domestic. Famous US newspapers like the Chicago Tribune and The New York Times covered the touching story of her attempts to get her driver’s license. How special is it that famous international newspapers report it?
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Gwangju News February 2011
Cha Sa-soon is a 69 year-old grandma from a small countryside town, Shincheon-ri, in Wanju, Jeollabukdo. She was born to a poor farmer’s family and had no land and spent most of her childhood working in the fields and studying in an informal school. Her husband passed away when she was 54 years old, and she brought up three sons and two daughters by cultivating peaches and tobacco. She sells home-grown vegetables in an open-air stall in Jeonju and sometimes she collects bottles and boxes. After she raised her five children, she wanted to do something for herself. That thing was taking a driving test. She lives in a small village far from
Community
Her challenge, faced with tenacity and persistence, gives us a good lesson. Now it’s the New Year— 2011 has started. Everyone has got ups and downs and failures and successes. The most important thing is to never give up and to challenge ourselves for our dream. She would feel like driving somewhere wearing red nail polish today, although she may worry about the rising gas prices.
Studying for getting a driving license.
downtown. If she misses the bus, she has to wait for the next bus for two hours. And when she brings heavy luggage, it makes her even more frustrated. She also wanted to drive her grandchildren by herself. Her first challenge was on April 13, 2005. On that day, she went to downtown Jeonju to take the test, transferring buses two times. It was not easy for her, who had only graduated elementary school, and was not used to solving forty multiple-choice questions on road regulations and car maintenance, or marking the OMR card in a limited time, or understanding special terms. However, she passed the paper test, achieving a passing grade of 60 out of 100, on her 950th challenge. She spent 10 million won for transportation and application fees. But she didn’t mind; she was happy attending driving school every day, because to her, it was like going to school. She felt sad because she couldn’t meet the people from the driving school anymore after passing the paper test. After passing the paper test, to take the real driving license she tried ten more challenges for driving skill and road test. Her dream came true in May 2010. She finally got her license and in August 2010 she received a car (a KIA “SOUL”) through the gift-car campaign of Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group, which gives cars to people who have a touching story and who live with hope.
In 2011, she hopes to get a Class 1 License for manual transmission vehicles. Let’s wish her good luck! The Chicago Tribune quoted a sentence from David Shenk’s book, “The Genius in All of Us” while reporting Mrs. Cha’s story. “You can be born smart or rich, but the evidence shows that persistence isn’t genetic: kids learn it from parents, teacher, and friends. In the end, persistence is the difference between mediocrity and enormous success.”
By Kim Minsu Photos by Jeonlado.com
A gift from Hyundai Automotive Group
Gwangju News February 2011
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Health
Suicide ecent statistics report that South Korea has the highest suicide rate within OECD countries, with 31 per 100,000 people taking their lives, compared to 15 deaths per 100,000 people in 1999.
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In the past ten years, suicide rates in South Korea have more than doubled, leading netizens to distastefully refer to it as the “Suicide Capital of the World.” Neighboring Japan previously topped the list but now is a distant second with 24 deaths per 100,000. In the United States the rate is 11 people per 100,000. This makes suicide the forth most frequent cause of death in the country, lead only by cancer, cerebrovascular and cardiovascular diseases. What is most troubling about South Korea is that the rate has continued to rise steadily over the past twenty years, though economically Korea has seen amazing increases in economic growth and individual income and living comforts. What makes Korea different from other OECD countries? “Suicide is not unique to Korea,” says Dr. Kim Hyun-jeong, who works as a clinical psychiatrist working at The National Medical Center and with the Korean Association of Suicide Prevention (KASP.) “Depression is a disease just like diabetes. You have to treat that disease, or it will get worse.” The Korean Association of Suicide Prevention was founded in 2003, following the Korean economic crisis in 1997 and 1998. Korea saw a massive rise in suicide, resulting in many medical and religious professionals pushing for the institution of prevention programs. Unfortunately, the Association is not well funded. “Suicide is not a politically popular issue. Politicians like to focus on economic issues, or promoting childbirth programs. They are worried about Korea’s falling birth rate, but no one acknowledges that there is tremendous loss of life among adults from suicide,” explains Dr. Kim. The prevention center at the National Medical Center was recently funded a small amount, roughly 1 million won, which supports a small staff to run a hotline and modest advertisement. Similar organizations also target suicide promotion sites and forums online. 16
Gwangju News February 2011
Many psychiatrists believe that lack of education and the social stigma attached to mental health present a large obstacle for suicide prevention. There have been progressive reforms in the mental health field following the Mental Health Act of 1995. Unfortunately, there are still memories of white vans taking patients away against their will. This sentiment is exacerbated by a societal distrust of government programs and a lack of model public figures. “Most Koreans view mental health as a matter of willpower. Willpower is very important in Korea and people look poorly on those who aren’t able to study hard or land a good career. Because of this people often hide their problems and don’t seek the help they need. Even when they come in, many patients are very worried about their public reputation. They ask if we’re going to tell anyone that they have been here, or if they might become addicted to the medication we prescribe. Some people hold many superstitions or believe in some demons plaguing them. We try to teach that it is science, and not something to be ashamed of,” says Dr. Kim. Because of their situation and educational background, overcoming these obstacles is often most difficult with elderly patients. The elderly have abnormally high rates of suicide in Korea. This trend mirrors one seen in previous decades in Taiwan and Singapore, countries who also share patterns of rapid economic growth. The rate of suicide in the age group 60-75 years old is four times greater than other age groups. Once a person reaches 75 years old, he or she is ten times as likely to take his or her own life. Dr Kim points out that these statistics can be misleading. “What people don’t realize about high rates of elderly suicide is that they represent success rates. More young people attempt suicide, but fail. Elderly people often live alone. In Korea, they often live in rural areas without good or close medical facilities. Their physical condition is often much worse than a younger person, and even if they do make it to the Emergency Room it is often too late.”
Health
However, despite success or failure rates, the numbers are still disturbingly high. Those over sixty lived through the Korean War, and saw Korea change from a country as poor as West African nations to the world’s fifteenth largest economy. After the Korean War, people made sacrifices. They sold their cows; they sold their land; all so their children could get an education and have a better life. Researchers B.C. Ben Park and David Lester explain that while suicide is a self-destructive act, culture and historical trends can play a part. Korean culture is heavily influenced by Confucianism, where individual desires are not as important as harmony in social relationships. The older generations in Korea don’t live for themselves; they live for their family, and their country. However, younger generations lead increasingly self-directed lives, spending more time on studies, career advancements and adopting a more materialistic lifestyle. Older generations have a harder time adapting to this new way of life, even if they have been encouraging children to adopt it. The elderly often live apart from their children in rural areas and receive infrequent visits from relatives. When family do come, their grandchildren talk about exams and smart phones, which makes communication between them more difficult. The most common suicide method in Korea is ingestion of pesticides or other chemicals, especially in rural areas. Until recently the sales of such substances were not monitored at all, and were often sold in used Coke bottles. Because of suicide prevention efforts and increased awareness, there are now stricter regulations, and now pesticides must be bought by a group, not an individual. KASP feels that countries with similar suicide problems may have curbed rates of success by instituting these reforms when they first identified the problems. Many prevention efforts in Korea have come “way too little way too late.” Suicide of adolescents, especially of high school students with the increased stress of school and entrance examinations is also a large problem. Young people face different problems than older generations, and are more likely to commit suicide for more personal internal reasons. “Students, and most Koreans, are concerned with what is popular, not what makes them happy. Many young people don’t really know who they are. Their parents and teachers have told them that they need to study hard to be a doctor, lawyer, judge or professor, and so they do. Koreans see happiness as being happier than someone else. Until they decide to find happiness inside themselves, they will never be happy,” says one Korean teacher. Schools often don’t have counselors on staff, or only staff them intermittently. “I had a student who continuously tried to jump out of the classroom window at one school where I
worked,” a foreign English teacher reported. “The principal suggested that that particular class be moved to the first floor.” Suicide is also normalized by a high rate among celebrities. Korean celebrities are under constant and relentless scrutiny by the Korean public. Issues which would be happenstance in other countries can cause scandal, such as lying about one’s grades in school. After a Korean celebrity commits suicide, suicide rates spike for the following few months. Though this is not a phenomena unique to Korea, the detail and drama given these stories by the media makes the act of suicide not only seem sensational and alluring, but makes it easily replicable by anyone with a laptop. Korean celebrities may be under more stress, but also seem less like to seek help. “Many psychiatrists report that a celebrity had a visit scheduled for the week following their suicide. What Korea really needs is one celebrity to come out and publically say that they have been to therapy, and that it can help. Then it could start to become normal, and lives would be saved,” says Dr. Kim. In America, celebrities speaking publically about depression and their experience with mental health professionals have greatly helped in normalizing psychiatry. In 2014, Korea will form a National Institute of Mental Health, and it will have a department dedicated to suicide prevention. Recent funding to prevention groups is also a good sign of growing support, though amounts have been small. “It’s sad, but you can’t change culture quickly,” explains Dr. Kim. “What we can do is promote education. Depression is a medical problem, like diabetes, and it is treatable. SSRI’s are a common Depression medication. There are studies which show a negative correlation between SSRI sales and suicide rates. This means when people are taking SSRIs, less people commit suicide. That’s science.” “People should trust psychiatrists. We are the experts on depression and mental illness. You can come in and we won’t just hand you medicine, we’ll talk to you. We know who is at risk, we know the signs. Sometimes just talking helps. Unfortunately, we in the medical profession cannot go door to door testing for depression. People have to come to us. They just need the courage to walk through the door.” If you are suffering from depression or suicidal thoughts or are concerned for someone, please understand that seeking the help of professionals is a courageous and unselfish decision. You can call Korea Association for Suicide Prevention at +82-2-413-0892~3 for anonymous professional help. By Mesa Schumacher Gwangju News February 2011
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Wildlife
Ggobdeungee "Ggobdeungee ggobdeungee swimming in the river, finds the yeongashi and they join together." -Korean children's song
p among the pine rimmed hills of the Korean countryside, in dank and silent caves scattered across the peninsula, in fetid basements perhaps beneath your very feet as you read this- a creature lurks.
U
Imagine, if you dare, a mutant born half cricket, half cockroach. Blind, it uses its long antennae to find its way to the carcasses of less fortunate entities. Nearly impossible to kill without the use of fire, imagine that striking this creature would unleash a giant worm like parasite the length of your arm. Next, imagine that the host could grow to the size of your fist. Also, there is probably one behind you right now. Bad news, this abomination of nature is not born of some cheesy horror movie, but rather what the Koreans call 꼽등이 (ggobdeungee). Local Kiwis might be familiar with a similar insect known amongst their countrymen as a "Weta"; North American or European might have heard it called a "Camel Cricket". The ggobdeungee is a close and equally repulsive relative. From the Orthopteran family Rhaphidophoridae, the ggobdeungee pervades (along with your nightmares) the quiet, damp, and dark places of this world. Thankfully, they tend to shy away from big cities. However, it is not unheard of, particularly during winter, for the bugs to invade a warm and dry apartment complex. This is a tough critter, resistant to most conventional poisons, which I'm told only stun it for a matter of minutes before it continues its reign of terror. Folk wisdom dictates that fire is the best way to deal with the creature, and it is suggested that one use a lighter and a bottle of hairspray to rig a mini-flamethrower, in order to properly combat the beast. Furthermore, because it is fond of eating dead things, ggobdeungee are very often infected with what Koreans call 연가시 (yeongashi) - known in the west as a "Nematomorph" or "Horsehair Worm". These worms
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Gwangju News February 2011
www.whatsthatbug.com
www.mactalk.com.au
can grow over a meter long and typically spring from the body of any vanquished host in what can only be described as, a twisted entomological reenactment of that "Alien" movie. Before you run screaming to the airport, it may be important to mention at this point, that the ggobdeungee/yeongashi has never done any documented harm to a human. A mere nuisance at best, the most interesting aspect of this little horror is the niche it has dug itself in the minds of Korean children, cementing its place in school-yard lore. A Naver search reveals ggobdeungee songs, music videos, flash games, and a variety of comics featuring the bug. Ask a Korean student about the ggobdeungee and you will more often than not be met with a chorus of inexplicable giggles. While it may not be pretty to look at, the ggobdeungee is truly harmless. It doesn't typically eat any of the crops that humans rely on, and only rarely inhabits homes in the city. So, if you see one of these mythical insects be sure to leave it be, at least for the harmony of mother nature and her sick and twisted sense of humor. By Seth Pevey
Book Review
Justice, What's The Right Thing To Do? dialogue to exist if society can really progress harmoniously. His book successfully forces this dialogue upon us.
M
ichael Sandel is a modern day American philosopher. He has written many books and has taught at Harvard University since 1980. His latest book, "Justice, What's the Right Thing To Do?" completed in 2009 has added to his already widespread reputation. Mr. Sandel was in South Korea during the summer of 2010 and he and his book have now become well known here. The book quickly sold over 300,000 copies in South Korea after its release. Philosophy isn't, never has been and I say, "unfortunately," probably never will be widely read. However, Michael Sandel may help change this. In simple language Mr. Sandel explains the basic tenets of widely held moral views and gives us an historical perspective on their origin and development. Many of us adhere at least in part to one or another of these philosophies without being aware of the consistencies of thought that actually determine them as a philosophy–or worse yet, of our own inconsistencies of thought. Using both hypothetical and real life examples, Mr. Sandel presents the reader with questions that hit the core of our own moral reasoning. His examples and anecdotes put the reader into the center of the moral dilemma. It's not really possible to skip over what he says by saying, "that doesn't apply to me or any of my life situations." Mr. Sandel's examples elicit our opinions whether or not we want to state them and no matter how uncomfortable the scenarios might make us feel. Michael Sandel wants there to be a moral dialogue within society. In fact he believes that it is necessary for this moral
In an early chapter Mr. Sandel talks about "Utilitarianism." In my words, this philosophy supports whatever is for the greater good. Mr. Sandel uses the famous hypothetical situation of the runaway trolley. Briefly, five people are on the trolley speeding to a certain death. You can save them by pulling a switch and diverting the trolley to safety. However, in pulling the switch, another person—but one person only–will certainly be killed. Is it morally right for you to pull the switch? Utilitarianism would say "yes." But the moral reasoning is not so simple when you are presented with the second part of the runaway trolley story. No spoiler here. With Libertarianism, which states that "justice" relates to individual freedom, Mr. Sandel is no less provoking. We all want to be free, but should a person be free to sell or buy a human kidney? What about the morality of surrogate motherhood? I quickly run out of space. For some stimulating thought, a better awareness of yourself, and to add to the necessary moral dialogue, I recommend "Justice, What's The Right Thing To Do? By Michael Attard
Gwangju News February 2011
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People
Park Nohae – Poet, Artist, Humanitarian A True Child of Jeollanam-do
I
n this day and age of the subjugation of our collective humanity to the dictatorship of the machine, Jeollanam-do’s gift to the world is to reaffirm to ourselves that we are, indeed, human. For so long derided as the country cousin, Jeollanamdo’s embracing of human values – art, love, justice, peace, camaraderie, frailty, forgiveness – is increasingly being seen as a beacon of inspiration and hope. The seminal moment in this process was probably the May 18, 1980 Democratic Uprising, where citizens of Gwangju demonstrated with their lives
Hitting the bottom of despair
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Gwangju News February 2011
that suppression of justice and humanity cannot be morally sustained. Jeollanam-do, though, has a long history of opposing oppression – the Tonghak Peasant Army of the 1890’s, the 1929 Gwangju students’ uprising against Japanese colonial masters, and the guerilla insurgencies of circa 1948 being more notable examples. Park Nohae was born into this culture of art, peace and justice, and has spent his life extolling its virtue both at home, and wherever injustice and poverty abound abroad. Through his poetry, photography and his innovative social movement Nanum
Banda Aceh, Indonesia, 2005. ⓒ Park, Nohae
People
A family chased from the grasslands to the slums
munhwa (Culture of Sharing) he is spreading wisdom and justice throughout the world. He was born in Hampyeong in 1957, and through his family was imbued with the concepts of faith, arts and social justice. These values were reinforced when, at an early age, his father died and the family became impoverished. In his teens he moved to Seoul, where he was employed as a laborer, in order to finance his evening study. This was the time of the South Korean military government – and this government was quite repressive, and Park Nohae was horrified at the repression heaped upon the laboring poor. This experience found an outlet in 1984, when his first volume of poetry was published. It was entitled Dawn of Labor, and its potential as a rallying call was such that the government promptly banned it. This may have been the spark that lit the flame, for such was its popularity that over 1,000,000 copies were published. The book became an icon for the downtrodden and forgotten, and Park found himself
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, 2005 ⓒ Park, Nohae
in the paradoxical role of being a national hero while in hiding (he became known as “the faceless poet”) as a hunted fugitive. He was arrested 7 years later, in 1991, and sentenced to life imprisonment. From prison, he published his second book of poetry – True Beginning. Then, in 1997, he published a collection of essays – People are the Only Hope, wherein he advocated a social philosophy in keeping with modern times. In this work he argued that the old socialist ideology was no longer relevant. The following year, he received a special pardon from President Kim Dae-jung – another notable son of Jeollanam-do – and upon release set out to realize in practical terms the philosophy he advocated in People. He founded the movement Nanum Munhwa, which advocated “Life, Peace and Sharing” as its main values. This movement evolved from his contention that traditional socialism was no longer tenable as a force that people could believe in. In the face of Gwangju News February 2011
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People
poetry is merely a dictation of the words of the small and powerless people, and my photos are portrayals of their strong prayers of life, and their souls.” Park Nohae was in Gwangju recently, speaking in conjunction with his most recent photographic exhibition: Like them, I am there. These photographs Children singing on the Simien Mountain roads Simien Mountains, Ethiopia, 2008 ⓒ Park, Nohae were among the most direct and orchestrated globalization, he identified 4 crises that powerful I have ever seen. He understands the secret needed addressing. In his own words: of photography as a communicative medium – “For the last 12 years, I have climbed simplicity, with impact. To this end he travels with Many mountains and crossed many rivers. an old film camera with just the one lens – a 35mm As I walked through burning deserts lens that means he has to involve himself in the And wilderness and snowstorms in the highlands, action if the photo is to have impact. Most photos are I have witnessed four great crises of humanity. black and white – again excellent for focusing A global ‘ecological crisis’ and ‘war crisis’, attention, rather than having it dissipated by a A globalizes ‘polarization crisis’ and social surfeit of color. He has taken over 130,000 ‘spiritual crisis’” photographs in his 12 years of travelling – photographs that highlight poverty, despair, Nannum Munhwa has been active for 10 years now. pointlessness – and love. He has photos from Latin It is a focused community of about 3000 people, America, Africa, West Asia, Mongolia – wherever who, in order to maintain their moral integrity, people are poor, and life is hard. cannot accept aid from government or corporate concerns. Park is a poet, and his finesse as a poet Many of the photographs can be seen on the website shines warmly through the 5 missions that Nanum of the exhibition – www.likethem.kr Munhwa sets itself: to seek creative sharing beyond charity to bring peace to the tearful alleys of the planet to lead the good life that saves the earth to evolve a community of friendship and hospitality to protect democracy and save lives
As a part of this community, Park works as a global activist on behalf of the poor and exploited. Integral to this work is his poetry, and, even more especially, his brilliantly evocative photography. As he calls it: “poetry written with light.” “It is not that I photographed the people in my pictures,” he says, “but rather it was they who shot my heart with their truth through the camera. My
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Gwangju News February 2011
They have captions in both Korean and English. A book of the photos is also available through the website (10,000 won), with proceeds going to Nanum Munhwa. More information and photos can be got from www.nanum.com This site is in Korean, but does contain an introduction in English expounding Nanum Munhwa’s vision. By Allen Gray
Technology
QR Codes
N
ot that long ago the Internet was dial-up, slow, and expensive. This meant one needed to be sitting down inside at a computer, with time and money to wait around. Now the Internet is either broadband, or even better wireless, fast, and cheap. Mobile phones, which have had an equally impressive evolution, can now also go online, so a computer is not even a requirement. Thanks to wi-fi now one can be anywhere in the physical world and seamlessly connect to the web, blurring the line between the two. One particular catalyst that is speeding this process up are Quick Response codes, more commonly known as QR codes which are becoming increasingly ubiquitous. I had never noticed them until recently when they were pointed out to me. Now I notice them almost daily on posters in shop windows, in advertisements in magazines, on the side of buses, on receipts. Gwangju News has one on its cover. A QR Code is a small square, that looks analogous to a barcode, but the two differ in many ways. At the fundamental level they are the same in that they store information and are read by a scanner. However a traditional 2D barcode only stores information horizontally. When you’re at the supermarket and the checkout attendant scans the barcodes on the items you are purchasing, it is scanning the horizontal distance between the black lines. This then translates to the relevant price and inventory information stored in a database. A QR code stores information both horizontally and vertically, meaning it can store much more information. The information is usually text, phone numbers, URL’s, and SMS. QR Codes can be read using a computer or mobile phone with a scanner. Some smartphones come with a scanner in-built, and if they do not, they are free to download. QR Codes were invented by Denso Wave, a subsidiary of Toyota in 1994, and were initially used in vehicle manufacturing to track parts. Using the codes for tracking inventory seems to have spread to at least the pharmaceutical world, as I was surprised to notice that a bottle of antibiotics I got some months ago has a QR code on it. Since their original inception though they have permeated the commercial world, and are used in a broader context. The most relevant use to most people is probably in advertising, where as I mentioned they are seen in magazines, on posters, and billboards, and anywhere else advertisements may appear. All one
has to do is scan them using the camera on their mobile phone, to access their information. In true 21st century fashion, one can actually make their own QR Code for free using code generators online, embedding any information they choose to, such as a link to their blog, their favourite band’s website, or anything they want to promote. They can then print out the code and place it wherever they choose to. This quick, easy production of QR Codes allows them to have endless uses. When looking at the use of QR Codes in advertising, it is hard not think of 1984. Everybody who uses Amazon.com, discloses information about themselves such as age, gender, nationality, address, and credit card number. One can garner a vast amount of information about someone solely based on their Facebook profile; through photos one can learn what that person did last Saturday, last summer, or if you like, the summer before that. With QR Codes, one can now disclose that same kind of demographic and personal information while walking past an ad in a shop window, or perusing through a magazine in a café. Alas, Big Brother is watching. Whether this is a good thing is down to personal opinion. Let this not be a bagging of QR Codes though. As well as being useful in inventory tracking, QR Codes bring one undeniably positive aspect when it comes to advertising, and that is that they are relatively eco friendly, compared to say a giant billboard. I have also read of city councils implementing them to ingenious, use, by putting them in public places, where visitors can obtain useful information such as bus and train timetables, and local maps. Apparently in San Francisco, QR Codes have been placed at historic sites, so that tourists can obtain historical information on the site they are visiting. They are also present outside some restaurants, so that patrons have quick, easy access, to restaurant reviews. From these perspectives then, it seems that QR Codes have their place as incredibly useful tools for the dissemination and procuring of information, and their cost coupled with their ease of use and production gives them endless possibilities. On the other hand, whether their use in advertising as another avenue for marketers to garner demographic and personal information is a good thing, is debatable. By Gabriel Ward Gwangju News February 2011
23
Community
‘Zelkova Forest Project’ - Dae-in’s art market vision
L
ocal markets, such as Dae-in market, are making an effort to change by collaborating art and culture with local markets. This is being done through projects such as the ‘Zelkova Forest’ project which was created to reinvent Gwangju’s failing Dae-in market. To better understand, we need to look at how it all began.
local markets. These are losing their business as SSMs have been set-up near local markets. Also, consumers love going shopping at SSMs or other franchises of supermarkets today because they think SSMs are cleaner and their products are cheaper, though it’s not usually the case.
In the 1950s, when poor public transportation existed, the train station was the most crowded place in Gwangju and that place was where Dae-in market started its business. The 1970s was the flourish time for Dae-in market, but recently it has lost its business due to the following reasons.
Today, Dae-in market is experiencing a rebirth as a market where you can enjoy shopping and art at the same time. The Zelkova Forest project, which started in June last year and is scheduled to end this month, aims to provide this kind of environment. The name was inspired by the zelkova tree which has thousands of branches. So what can you do in Dae-in market?
First, there’s Gwangju’s declining population. Second, is the relocation of the train station; the old train station was located near Dae-in market but was moved to Joong-heung dong, Buk-gu in1969. Lastly, the increased number of SSMs (Super SuperMarkets), and the change of consumers’ preference on shopping has had a great effect on
You can visit the museum in the market (시장 속 박물 관 ) which is currently exhibiting items that merchants used in previous decades. Through these things, you can get a sense of what the merchants' lives were like. On the second floor, there is an exhibition that is changed regularly. First, many old signs were displayed. Next, various chairs that merchants used were on show. Now, merchants' business cards are on display. In the last exhibition, various knives will be exhibited. For those who like music, there is Attic (다락). At this place, every Tuesday, middle aged women sing together. They usually sing trot – a form of Korean pop music- songs. And every Wednesday there is a guitar performance. Attic’s manager said that he wanted to communicate with all visitors and vendors through music. There will be a performance of guitar playing and singing on the 15th of this month.
The Market’s Museum
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Gwangju News February 2011
If you get thirsty, why don’t you drop by Swallow’s nest - a manless tea and coffee room. There is no one to serve. You just
help yourself to tea or coffee then pay by putting change into the coin box near the table. However, you have to wash the cups you use. There is also a coffee vending machine there. It is a cozy and comfortable place to relax. If you’re looking to enjoy a meal at the bargain price of just 1,000 won, go to the restaurant (해뜨는식당). There is just one item on the menu – backban (반찬). It consists of a bowl of rice, soup, and side dishes. The soup and side dishes are a little different each day. The manager of this cafeteria likes to offer a warm-hearted meal to every visitor. There is another cafeteria which serves noodles and vegetable pancakes. At that place, you can also have makgeoli ! Now, Dae-in market is not just another local market losing its business; it has been reborn. It has a purpose, but most importantly it has value because it is a part of Gwangju’s history and the lives of its citizens. However, it’s a shame that the Zelkova Forest project will end this month. It took four years to plan but only lasted 9 months which is too short to make it meaningful. Hopefully there will be more long-term art projects in the future, so that art culture becomes permanently fixed in local markets.
By Baek Jung-kyu, Yang Hee-sun, Go Hee-kyung, Lee Kee-eun
Top; the swallow’s nest, middle; 1,000 won restaurant, bottom; the Attic
Gwangju News February 2011
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PHOTO CONTEST Submit your best shot of Korea! To enter the Photo Contest, simply send your name, photo and picture description to gwangjunews@gmail.com.
W I N N E R
Snow covered river
Photo by Lisa Mynhardt
Pinche Friazo
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Gwangju News February 2011
By Paul Sanchez
Photo Contest
This month’s photo contest was judged by Mesa Schumacher. Her works can be viewed at www.mesashumacher.com.
Snow news is good news
Photo by Selina Orrell
Foever Lock
Photo by Rebecca Lee
Gwangju News February 2011
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World News
Home Pages Want to write about news from your country? Contact the Editor for more information: gwangjunews@gmail.com.
Vietnam
Australia
Every year at this time, thousands of immigrants in Ho Chi Minh City pack their luggage to come back to their home towns to enjoy the Lunar New Year with their families. However, many cannot buy bus tickets. They have to wait for days on the platform of the bus terminal until they can receive tickets. “[There is an] excess of demand [during this season],” said the bus terminal officers. Moreover, most of the customers cannot use the train system because it is overbooked, even though the number of trips has been increased in preparation for the demand. This happens every year due to the amount of travelers and a limited supply of public transportation. The Government has established many plans to increase the ability of public transportation but they remain “on plan” and the citizens are still waiting for their tickets home.
It’s enough to dampen anyone’s spirit It’s a sad day when a girl can’t bask in the glory of winning a wet T-shirt competition. A 16-year-old girl in the small town of Broome in Western Australia was robbed of such a glory because she was two years shy of the entry requirement for the competition which was held in a pub. A police investigation was launched after the girl had won and received a $500 cheque for her saturated effort. However, her friend who had lent the 16-year-old year her ID was fined $200, the establishment $1000 for having a minor on their premises and the security contractors $400. And so “renewed calls for such competitions to be banned”, it makes one wonder how else the locals will pass the time.
By Hai Nguyen-Sao Mai
By Kathleen Villadiego
theage.com.au
Ireland New Zealand It’s the calf, or me… New Zealand auctioning website trademe.co.nz (the country’s answer to E-Bay) had a five-legged calf for sale last month. The fifth leg is attached to the calf’s neck and has attracted plenty of attention. In what was previously a done deal, the initial buyer’s husband put a stop to his wife’s impulse purchase of NZ$305 for the calf. Since this first auction fell through, owner Jonathan King has placed the message, “wives “please ask for your husband's permission before bidding" on the website. Here’s hoping the calf has found a new home to impress the neighbours - with permission of the husband, of course. By Julian Raethel
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Gwangju News February 2011
All sides of the Irish community were left reeling last month by the shocking murder of Michaela Harte on her honeymoon in Mauritius. Michaela, 27, was a well known figure in the public eye and the daughter of Tyrone Gaelic Football manager and one of the most respected men in Irish sport, Mickey Harte. Michaela had been having a poolside cup of tea with new husband John McAreavey when she returned to her hotel room to collect some biscuits. She is said to have interrupted three men in the process of burgling her hotel room at which point she was strangled to death. Four men have since been arrested. Michaela was seen as a leading light in the cultural circles of Tyrone and Ireland in general. An Irish language teacher, she was an integral part of the Gael community. Her husband John, too, is a senior footballer for County Down. By Finbarr Bermingham
World News
Scotland Scotch Whisky found in the Antarctic – over 100 years later. When the explorer Ernest Shackleton went on his Antarctic expedition in 1907, he took with him some heart-warming Scotch whisky. However, he left some of the whisky behind, buried under his hut there, where it remained frozen in ice for more than 100 years. But now three bottles of 115 year-old Mackinlay malt whisky that were recovered, have been brought back to Scotland where the distillers who made it, Whyte and Mackay, want to see what they can learn from their whisky-making ancestors, as the original recipe has been lost. James Whyte and Charles Mackay founded the distillery in 1844 and produce their own lable malts, as well as Dalmore, Isle of Jura, Fettercairn and Glayva liqueur. It is estimated a bottle of Shackleton’s whisky would fetch around £43,000 ($70,000 USD) - and that’s without ice. By Steve McNelly
Dead End Friends As Saturday night gently broke into its later hours, a bustling crowd at one of Gwangju's most popular ex-pat nightspots, Speakeasy, awaited a much hyped band. "The best foreign act in Korea" was the tag line being offered, and after a pulsating three hour set which got all in the bar bouncing to a range of classics and a few renditions of their own, not too many party-goers would have disagreed. The band was The Dead End Friends, and for those left scratching their heads with a touch of de ja vu, these guys, playing for the first time as a group in Gwangju, were a fresh look familiar faces. Drums and vocals came from Jim Hockney and Brian Craig formerly of U R Seoul. Jeff Valley also known for his work with the 40 Days was on guitar and vocals, with Korean Choi Cheon the final member of this talented quartet on bass and vocals. With a touch of rock swagger, the band looked relaxed and clearly enjoyed themselves as the on-looking local crowd showed their appreciation whilst they powered through a high-tempo set. Craig's vocals dominated much of the interlude chat, as the Irishman not only showed the ability to get to those notes which most can't, but also to keep at it for the duration with a powerful voice that just seemed to fill the venue.
Tequilaz Fiesta Bar Tequilaz is the first Latino-Mexican Cantina in Gwangju. We are located near Chonnam University. Come and try the best margaritas in town and the best deals in tequilas! Menu: Bean and Chicken Burritos, Quesadillas, Tacos de chorizo, Chimichanga, Enchiladas, Nachos
The band's musical prowess was also worthy of marvel, as the drummer and guitarists banged out tracks that many would not dare perform with air guitar in a norebang, let alone on stage to a packed house. The energy was fantastic, and the sound was awesome. “Best band in Korea” remains to be seen, though there were definitely fewer doubters at the end of the night than there might have been at the beginning.
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 7 p.m. till late!
www.tequilaz.com info@tequilaz.com 062-512-8645
Dead End Friends hope to perform again in Gwangju in the near future - watch this space. By Daniel Lister
Gwangju News February 2011
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Language Study
Letters to KOTESOL
Dear Professor Shaffer, I am having difficulty teaching the reading parts of text books. I’m out of practical lesson plans and tips to teach reading. If you have any good ideas or any websites you know, please share with us. Thank you.
pronunciation and my students are familiar with American. Should I or shouldn’t I use them? Curious Teacher
Dear Curious, Anonymous
Dear Anonymous, Stimulate interest in the reading by first introducing it. Ask the students topic-related questions so that they can draw upon personal knowledge or experience to answer. This will pique their interest and have them wanting to begin the reading. If textbook readings are too difficult, support them with related listening and speaking activities and supplement them with other level-appropriate readings. Provide students with not only intensive reading (reading for detail) but also with extensive reading (reading for general meaning). The latter should be easy, interesting, and pleasurable, without a comprehension test following it. Extensive reading helps form the desire to read and good reading strategies and habits.
The short answer is: use them. One reason that you should use them is because the students are familiar with only American pronunciation. Today’s English learners will be exposed to a variety of English accents in their adulthood (the majority of them non-nativespeaker accents) and will need to be able to understand them. Students will be better equipped to understand them if they are exposed to them by their teachers in their English classes. If your students have a preference for American English, provide enough to keep them happy. You will find that this preference will lessen with time as the students become more familiar with a variety of accents.. Dialectically yours, Dr. Dave
Dear Professor Shaffer, Avidly yours, Dr. Dave
Dear Professor Shaffer, There are lots of good British online resources to teach English. Some of them look quite interesting and useful. But the problem is they all use British
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There are extremely different levels of students in my class – some are very high, whilst others are very low. If I focus on one level, the other level gets bored. What would you do in such a situation? RaRa
Language Study
Dear RaRa, Your situation sounds similar to that of the one-room schoolhouse teacher of a century ago, where one teacher taught half a dozen grades in a single room. What I would do some of the time is have the higherlevel students role play as teachers for the lower-level ones one-on-one. That may get old very quickly, though, if it is over used. What you should also consider doing is creating a split lesson plan where one proficiency level group is working on individual work (supervision-light activities) while you are working with the other group. If textbook materials are too easy or too difficult for one group, supplement them with additional materials that are at their level. With pairwork activities, pair like-level students together. However, be sure that classroom activities also include student-to-student interaction between students of different levels. Remember that praise and encouragement can be very motivating. Encouragingly yours, Dr. Dave
Dear Professor Shaffer, What do you think about online resources? How do I know if I can trust them or not? Do I always have to pay for quality? Off-line and out of control
gateway.htm). Also, if the website is aesthetically pleasing, the quality of its resources is also generally pleasing. Pleasingly yours, Dr. Dave
Dear Professor Shaffer, I was wondering if you could help me. I find it very difficult to make listening lessons stimulating for my middle school students; they don’t seem to be interested, lose focus easily and often complain. What can I do? Ji-won, Pungam
Dear Ji-won, If you have a required coursebook with recordings for listening material, students can easily get bored if the teacher only plays the recording and the students answer the comprehension questions. Try introducing the listening topic by asking your students personal questions related to the topic. Include potentially difficult vocabulary in your pre-listening activity. After playing the recorded material, present it to the students “live,” in your voice. Show off: vary your voice greatly – high and low, fast and slow, loud and soft – for emphasis and interest. You may wish to have the students repeat after you, varying their voice the way you do: “The bear was veeeeerrrry big, and veeeeerrrry scaaaaarrrry!” Attentively yours, Dr. Dave
Dear Off and Out, No, you don’t have to pay for quality online teaching resources. There are a lot of excellent teaching materials available on the web free of charge. As a very general rule, large company sites are reliable, but individually owned and managed websites may vary from poor to excellent. Some international ELT publishers maintain wonderful sites, for example, Macmillan (www.onestopenglish.com/) and Pearson Longman (www.pearsonlongman.com/), and resource networks like TEFL.net (www.tefl.net). The British Council website is also excellent (www.britishcouncil.org/learning-teaching-english-
By Dr. David Shaffer Dr. David Shaffer is a professor of English at Chosun University, where he teaches in the graduate, undergraduate, and TESOL certificate programs. He has served in Korea TESOL for many years and is presently the President of the Gwangju Chapter. He invites you to attend teacher development workshops at their monthly Chapter meetings. Web: http://www.kotesol.org/?q=Gwangju-Jeonnam
If you have a question for Dr. David, please send an email to gwangjunews@gmail.com letting us know your question, student’s age and proficiency level
Gwangju News February 2011
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Fashion
Fash-On with xxl jjdp Basically....... Fash-On and lifestyle with xxl jjdp is a new monthly feature here in the Gwangju News giving you useful and handy tips for living more stylishly in Gwangju (Yes, it can be done!). I will not only aim to inspire creativity through clothing but also in your home. This month’s feature will concentrate on fashion for men and women. This month we will focus on getting the basics right thus building a solid fashion foundation for anyone, which is the key to successful dressing. When shopping always remember quality is key and if you buy the correct items it can last you a lifetime. I refer to these clothing items as investment
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pieces. It might seem pricey now, but bear in mind that it could last you for numerous years, and is thus a sound investment! We will focus on the few elements that every wardrobe should have, seven items that if you don’t already have - go out and get it now. Dark blue denim jeans
Everyone owns jeans. Alas no matter who you are a classic pair of dark denims are a definite benefit to every closet. Cut is very important and a slimmer more tailored fit will usually carry you from office to a more social occasion in an instant. Black Jeans
A controversial style choice as it is usually associated with the grungy emo kids, this is the true dark horse if you will, of a postmodern style revolution. Return back to black. Think of it as your more casual tuxedo bottom. Pair with a grey or black blazer and you are instantly channelling a younger much hipper 007.
Fashion
Chino
A daytime staple. A heavenly beige canvas just waiting to be decorated. A style coup d’etat when paired with a crisp white or blue shirt. An easy A+ for easy dressing. Perk up with an argyle jumper and imagine yourself at a preppy or ivy league institution. Alternatively opt for a more relaxed I’m just going on a stroll in the park look and couple them with a pair of simple loafers. Flat front is the most common limit pockets as they add bulk around your hip area. White or Blue Shirt
Crisp clean and sophisticated. Even the most unlikely or reluctant dresser looks like a million dollars in a great crisp white shirt. Once again - go for quality. I usually have at least three or four in my closet ready to go. While you are at it throw in a light blue poplin shirt for good measure. You can wear these to basics with anything. Add a tie, bowtie, cardigan, scarf. A great basic that never ever goes out of style. The light reflected of the material instantly brightens up your face.
All of these items look great on anyone and provides the easiest base from which to create an entirely new polished look. All of these basics are also available from any UNIQLO store and they offer more foreigner friendly sizes. Stores are located in Geumnam-no as well as Lotte outlets near the world cup stadium. They also offer a free tailoring service which is mostly same day pick-up, just ask. Wow, so much so little time. Next month’s feature will be on layering and taking the info and advice we acquired in this article one step further by personalising it. We take on vintage with a vengeance and choose accessories to heighten your individuality. Till next time, Fash-On By jjdp
Also take good care of your shirts by dry cleaning them - it only costs a few dollars from your local dry cleaner and comes back clean and pressed. A fitted shirt works best as baggy sloppy shirts add unwanted bulk around most areas and generally make you look unkempt.
BEFORE Fitted Blazer
Need to transform from a teacher during the day to a more mature look for evening? A good transition piece is a slim fit blazer. It instantly makes jeans dressier and chinos have more character. The standalone shirt and tie combo always looks very unfinished sans a blazer. A simple dark hue, black, grey or navy is all you need and you can get one tailor made anywhere around town. More info on this in a later feature. Leather Jacket
Fourth and finally is the iconic leather jacket. The ultimate investment piece that if well chosen and taken care of, will be with you for a lifetime. The more you wear it the better the leather becomes and with some after care, it will soon feel butter soft. So there you go, seven essentials that every closet needs, regardless of whether you are male or female.
AFTER Dark brown cord Blazer: 39,900 won Waffle Long Sleeved Tshirt: 24,900 won Slim fit chinos: 39,900 won
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Photo Gallery
PEOPLE Photobraphed by Mark Eaton
Mark Eaton I have been photographing since my days in high school. I learned how to take traditional film photographs using a Canon camera, and that familiarity with Canon products inspires me to use that brand’s digital line. I very much enjoyed rolling and developing my own film, and then printing my work; however, the digital darkroom is much more convenient here in South Korea. I do not consider myself a contemporary photographer, because I’m interested in how my work might be viewed ten, twenty, fifty, and even one hundred years from now. I am not interested in the gimmicks or fads of the profession, but rather the quality of the work. Each of my photos has a metaphor or story. My work is exhibited in the United States and in South Korea. I have been published as well. I am interested in the irony and conflict and beauty of life. What is perceived reality is not always so upon closer inspection and introspection. 34
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Photo Gallery
Gwangju News February 2011
35
Poetry
Poetry Selected Poems by Oh Se-young Translated by Chae-Pyong Song and Anne Rashid
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The Snow Flower Just by observing the snow flower that blooms on winter’s dry boughs, I know flowers are not the only ones that bloom. Across a lifetime, anyone can become a flower if he purifies his hot blood. Throwing away greed, hatred, and pity, standing alone as a dry bare tree at the peak of a harsh winter cold when I cannot step even one step further, the rank flesh of my youth becomes petals, the stiff bone stamens the turbid blood perfume. I can embrace the deep blue sky alone. Just by observing the snow flower that blooms on winter’s dry boughs I know flowers are not the only ones that bloom.
설화 꽃나무만 꽃을 피우지 않는다는 것은 겨울의 마른 나뭇가지에 핀 雪花를 보면 안다. 누구나 한 생애를 건너 뜨거운 피를 맑게 승화시키면 마침내 꽃이 되는 법, 욕심과 미움과 애련을 버려 한 발 재겨 디딜 수 없는 혹독한 겨울의 추위, 그 절정에 홀로 한 그루 메마른 裸木으로 서면 내 청춘의 비린 살은 꽃잎이 되고, 굳은 뼈는 꽃술이 되고, 탁한 피는 향기가 되어 새파란 하늘을 호올로 안느니 꽃나무만 꽃을 피우지 않는다는 것은 겨울의 마른 나뭇가지에 핀 雪花를 보면 안다.
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Erasing Myself On the mountain, to live along with the mountain is to become the mountain. If a tree erases itself, it becomes a forest; if a forest erases itself, it becomes a mountain. On the mountain, to live befriending the mountain is to erase myself. To erase myself is also to erase you, like a bellflower that blooms by burning up longing all night long. When dew erases itself it becomes fog; when fog erases itself it becomes a blue sky. Likewise, on the mountain, to live along with the mountain is to erase myself.
나를 지우고 산에서 산과 더불어 산다는 것은 산이 된다는 것이다. 나무가 나무를 지우면 숲이 되고, 숲이 숲을 지우면 산이 되고, 산에서 산과 벗하여 산다는 것은 나를 지우는 일이다. 나를 지운다는 것은 곧 너를 지운다는 것, 밤새 그리움을 살라 먹고 피는 초롱꽃처럼 이슬이 이슬을 지우면 안개가 되고, 안개가 안개를 지우면 푸른 하늘이 되듯 산에서 산과 더불어 산다는 것은 나를 지우는 일이다.
Poetry
Like the Tree As trees get along with trees, so we should live, as boughs holding each other’s hands endure a long cold season. As trees look upwards to a clear sky, so we should live, as leaves open up their hearts to take in lovely sunlight. As trees grow amid rain and wind, so we should grow, as their deep roots tenaciously withstand a ferocious storm. As trees by themselves can discern each season, so we should live. They know when a flower emerges and a leaf falls, and know simply when to step back.
나무처럼 나무가 나무끼리 어울려 살듯 우리도 그렇게 살 일이다. 가지와 가지가 손목을 잡고 긴 추위를 견디어 내듯 나무가 맑은 하늘을 우러러 살듯 우리도 그렇게 살 일이다. 잎과 잎들이 가슴을 열고 고운 햇살을 받아 안듯 나무가 비바람 속에서 크듯 우리도 그렇게 클 일이다. 대지에 깊숙이 내린 뿌리로 사나운 태풍 앞에 당당히 서듯 나무가 스스로 철을 분별할 줄을 알듯 우리도 그렇게 살 일이다. 꽃과 잎이 피고 질 때를 그 스스로 물러설 때를 알 듯
Oh Se-young (1942~ ) was born in Yeongkwang, Jeollanam-do. He is both a prolific poet and critic. He has published eighteen collections of poetry. His lyrical poetry is known for its simplicity; it is often imbued with Buddhist imagination of the emptiness of self and nonattachment to materialism. After years of shuttling between academia and creative writing, he has recently retired from teaching at Seoul National University. Oh is a recipient of many prestigious awards including the Sowol Poetry Award, the Jung Ji-yong Literary Award, and the Manhae Literary Award.
Quarter Life Crisis His wits grasp for a grip between What’s real and what’s surreal Paperbacks, philosophy, packed Neatly on the shelf This Sartre-son in charge of none Denies that faith is what he lacks Trapped inside an echo-chamber Wholly of the self I am afraid to awake in a few months, a few years Exhausted, disappointed In the midst of fresh ruins Outside, he shines with repartee And cultured tricks, his intellect Though blind to what’s been Underlined, he gets His kicks in high society Inside, he lies, uncertain still While creases on his sheets confirm His course downstream, up dream quick Down scream on the narrow Styx I am gently slipping into the water’s depths Towards fear And he realises too late that He has been reading for far too long
Last night, in… Last night, in a moment light and milky you crossed my mind as I lapsed from eyelash-twitch awake to cotton-sheet asleep
The Debtor From birth was I bound By blood, and that first, fluid cry: My oral signature Not in ounces, but in measures Of guilt, is the debt between us Repaid, and replayed, finely-tuned For your satisfaction and My listening pleasure And though the scales may tip The wayward daughter Need not tremble, for The needle of your law Never wavers in my favour
By Ann Juli James
Gwangju News February 2011
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Feature
Cooling the Competition: Korean attitudes towards reforming English Education
I
n Korea education is of paramount importance. The Korean educational system is often touted in international reviews and is consistently ranked among the world’s leaders in education. Korean parents put their children through an arduous rigmarole in hopes that they will one day climb the ever steeper social ladder to bring pride, prosperity, and a secure future. English education has been the particular focus of both the government and private citizens in a national effort to “globalize” Korea. But the drive to globalize has resulted in intense academic competition and an increasing financial burden on parents, as the cost of private cram schools, or hagwon (학원) , continues to rise.
Lee Myung Bak’s English public education policy ( 영어공교육화정책) In 2008 Lee Myung Bak came to office with a pledge to improve English education in public schools, and simultaneously reduce the need to send children to hagwons and the financial burden it imposes on parents. Lee’s public education policy has three main planks: 1.starting mandatory English classes in the 3rd grade (조기교육), 2. importing native English speakers to assist Korean public school teachers, and 3. teaching English in English (TEE). According to the logic of this policy starting English instruction earlier will help children establish a firm grasp of the language, and hence eliminate the need for private tutoring later on. By having foreign (native English speaking) and Korean teachers work together the students will gain not merely competence in reading and writing, but will be able to speak the language as well. As an English teacher I found some parts of the policy somewhat startling. One would think, for example, that starting compulsory English instruction in the third grade might be cause for controversy as many people believe that learning a 38
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second language too early can confuse and confound young children still in the process of learning their first. In order to get a better idea of the effect of the policy, however, I decided it would be better to ask Korean parents what they thought of the recent changes in English education.
The Survey I surveyed 30 randomly selected Korean parents of school age children, asking them to indicate the extent to which they agreed with the following statements: 1. Starting compulsory English education in the third grade is a good thing. 2. I view positively the increase in foreigner native English speakers brought about by the Korean education policy. 3. It is better to teach English in English than to teach English in Korean. 4. I support teaching other subjects (like math or science) in English. 5. Overall I think that president Lee Myung Bak’s English public education policy (영어공교육화정책) has improved English education in Korea.” The average age of the respondents was 39, and the survey was conducted entirely in Korean over the course of two days in October 2010.
Survey Results Statements 1 -2: Contrary to my expectations an overwhelming majority ( 80%) of the respondents agreed with the idea that compulsory English instruction should begin in the 3rd year of Elementary school, and 90% indicated that the increase in foreign English teachers is a positive thing for Korea.
Feature
Statement 3: “It is better to teach English in English than to teach English in Korean.”
Interpretation On the other hand, 49% indicated that English should be taught in Korean, while 40 % believe it should be taught in English, as Mr. Lee’s policy suggests. Statement 4: “I support teaching other subjects (like math or science) in English.”
As you can see from the chart above, a clear majority of respondents (80%) are opposed to teaching other subjects in English, while 2% responded “I don’t know”. Although this aspect of the policy has not been implemented as widely as others, several universities have received criticism for teaching nonEnglish classes entirely in English. Students at Kyung Hee University, for example, have complained that they cannot understand lectures on their major subjects because they are conducted in English, or a mix of Korean and English. Statement 5: “Overall I think that president Lee Myung Bak’s policy has improved English education in Korea.” According to the survey data, nearly 57% of the respondents think that Lee’s English education policy has not improved English Education in Korea.
While this survey is by no means definitive or entirely scientific, it at least offers us a glimpse of Korean parents’ thoughts about English education in Korea. It seems that they do indeed value English education very highly, and are willing to accept the social changes that accompany systemic reform so long as it can improve their children’s chances of succeeding. Despite this enthusiasm, however, Korean parents do place a limit on the importance of learning English. They oppose it’s encroachment upon other subjects, wanting to avoid exaggerating its importance at the expense of core subjects. Though there are undoubtedly a myriad of reasons why the overwhelming majority of respondents think that Lee’s policies are not improving the English Education system, one might presume that one of main grievances is that starting English instruction earlier does not reduce scholastic competition. Rather, parents merely respond by sending their kids to school even earlier, starting at first grade, Kindergarten, or even preschool. Children of parents who cannot afford private schools or study abroad programs are then at a considerable disadvantage in the race to attain proficiency in time for the all important Suneung (수능), the college entrance examination. It is probably still too early to tell whether Lee’s policies have been successful, or for whom they have been successful. Every country’s educational system is incredibly complex, and systemic change is inevitably highly politicized and slow. Perhaps Lee’s policy will indeed improve the English education system. Otherwise Koreans will have to wait until 2012 to bring about change they can believe in. By Matthew Jenkins
Gwangju News February 2011 39
Living Tips
Tips about Moving and Moving Services sure to secure the valuables inside the box, like using bubble wrap. 4. When contracting a “Packaging Moving” company, they provide services ranging from packaging to unpacking, so there is no need to pack in advance.
Types of Relocation Services 1. Standard relocation service (일반이사) (5 ton truck costs approx. 350,000 won)
The mover packs his/her own things, and the company provides a vehicle and driver. The company will move large items, but the mover must unpack his/her own things. It is the most economical way to make a move; most suitable when you don’t have too many things.
w-wmoving.com
M
oving to a new residence, relocating to another city or even moving your things when you leave Korea for good, is not a complicated task, especially if you know the proper steps to take before moving. Below are some tips that you can to take into account for a convenient move: 1. You have to inform the owner of your current house or apartment that you are from at least one month before you move. This will give the owner of the house some time to find a replacement, and also give you enough time to settle house expenses like water, electricity bill, and of course get your key money. 2. Ten days prior to moving, you should contact the telephone company to have your telephone number moved, changed, or cut.
3. When packing your things, you can buy cardboard boxes (golpanji sangja) which are available in supermarkets for free or retail stores for a small fee. Be
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2. Complete relocation service (포장이사) (5 ton truck costs approx. 450,000 - 500,000 won)
The service provider will pack, transport, unpack, and arrange all your belongings. Large and small items alike will be packed and transported. This method is more expensive, but most suitable for busy people. 3. Store-then-relocate service
Service providers will store your things in a container or garage until you can make the move. It is more expensive than normal relocation. 4. Royal relocation (900,000 - 1,300,000 won)
It is a near-perfect relocation service. The service provider will pack and unpack your things, and also clean your new house when it’s done. It is about twice as expensive as normal relocation, but also means you don’t have to do anything, other than call them.
Moving Estimation When you contract one of these moving services, you have to ask for an estimate. Estimates should be made at least seven days before the day you intend to move. Consultations by moving companies may be given either over the telephone or through a visit by a company employee. If possible, have someone from the company
Living Tips
with the authority to make an estimate visit your home to give you a more accurate estimate. The employee will explain what kind of vehicle will be required to move your belongings, how much the move will cost, the methods the company's employees will use, and how long the move should take. He will also explain the basis used to calculate the overall cost. If you had more than one moving company issue you an estimate, be sure to contact the company with which you have not signed a contract, to make sure everything has been canceled. Otherwise, you may be required to pay a penalty for breach of contract if two moving companies show up the day you plan to move.
Signing a contract If you find the proposed cost and method of moving reasonable, you should then sign a contract with the moving company. There must be a written contract to assure your rights as a consumer are respected. If any of your belongings are damaged or lost in the course of moving, get a written confirmation of the fact there has been property lost at the site in which this has occured, or take pictures of damaged goods if you think it is necessary. Contact the moving company immediately to demand compensation for damages.
disrupting human activity and causing harm, but only on certain days. On the 9th, 10th, 19th, 20th, 29th and 30th day of each month on the lunar calendar, the “son” ascends to the Heavens, so these days are called “days with no son”. Since moving companies have most of their reservations land on days with no son, you should make your reservations as early as possible.
Procedures for moving overseas
The cost of shipped freight is determined not by weight but by size, while the cost of air freight is calculated by weight instead of size. Though there will be differences depending on the shipping company and the time it takes to pass customs in the area you are moving to, shipping usually takes the following time: - Domestic (packing, transportation, customs, shipping, insurance): 7 to 10 days shipping by sea - Southeast Asia: 3 to 10 days, - Western North America: 14 to 20 days - Eastern, middle North America: 25 to 30 days For more information contact the Construction & Housing Affairs Division in Construction Bureau at +82-62-613-4812.
Compilied by Marie Charmaine Pascual Igwe Source: www.korea4expats.com
Days with no Son (손없는 날) In Korea, people prefer to move on “days where there is no son” (손없는 날). It refers to a spirit that is said to wander
Comic
Gwangju News February 2011
41
Book Review
Korean Literature Review
House of Idols
T
here is something inherently interesting about damage. Consider the example of a pair of clocks: one that is functioning normally and one that is out of order. At best, the clock that is working can tell us the time. The clock that is damaged, however, has a story to tell. We wonder: How did it come to such a state? Who does it belong to? Will it ever be restored? Furthermore, a damaged clock compels us to make inferences about the wider context in which it appears. In other words, it becomes a symbol.
The stories contained in Choi In-Hoon’s House of Idols feature damage in a variety of forms: bombed out homes and businesses, ravaged countrysides, broken people. All of these are casualties of the recently-concluded Korean War (though none of the stories take the conflict as its primary subject matter). The title story follows the comings and goings of a group of intellectuals as they await the completion of the postwar reconstruction. Although the nation is now at peace, a sense of normalcy has yet to return, and the capitol is flooded with shiftless people whose livelihoods have been disrupted. It is a time when members of the educated class seem to have inordinate levels of free time in which to indulge their curiosities. Strangely the characters in this story do so by taking undue interest in an incorrigible mental patient whose sole source of amusement comes from beguiling members of the intelligencia with a fabricated tale of sorrow and regret. Unlike the title story, which makes no mention of the continuing presence of foreign forces in the country, ‘End of the Road’ hones in on the lasting dysfunction caused by the outposts of American troops that remain following the armistice. The story chronicles a series of events that take place along a desolate stretch of highway built to service a remote military compound. It is apparent from the outset, however, that the road is more than just a road. Rather it is a symbol of the glossy promises made to the South 42
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Korean people by the liberating forces. Although it may look good on the surface, in reality the road is nothing less than a scar on the land. The final story contained in House of Idols returns to the theme of mental illness first broached in the title story. ‘Imprisoned’ is set entirely within the confines of a psychiatric hospital and is related through the warped perspective of one of the patients. Most interesting about the story is what it seems to say about the troubled sex life of the narrator. The ostensible reason behind his confinement is that he brought home a mannequin that he placed alongside his wife in bed. The insinuation that she is frigid couldn’t be clearer. The story ends with the narrator attempting to persuade his wife to conceal a selfrighting doll beneath the folds of her skirt. I’ll leave it to you to supply the analysis.
By Elton LaClare This article was first seen in the Gwangju Blog
Movie Review
Investigator Park Doo-man (Song Gang-ho) is a somewhat rough around the edges rural cop who claims to have "Shaman Eyes,"meaning he believes himself to be able to read people simply by looking into their souls. Once the murders start, there are a series of blunders during which it becomes obvious that his department is not prepared for such a serious investigation. After mistaking him for a violent criminal, Doo-man is introduced to his foil, Seoul detective Seo Tae-hoon (Kim Sang-kyeong). Unlike the extroverted and pompous persona of Doo-man, Tae-Hoon is quiet, brooding, and thoughtful - not to mention extremely handsome. This somewhat unoriginal and rehashed set-up then plays out in a surprisingly gripping and unique storyline, as the partners must come to terms with the weight of responsibility inherent in their chosen profession, and with each other.
Memories of Murder Director: Bong Jun-ho Release date: April 25, 2003 Starring: Song Gang-ho, Kim Sang-kyeong Runtime: 132 minutes
etween the years of 1986 and 1991, South Korea endured the rampage of its first (documented) serial killer. During this period, the bodies of ten women were found similarly murdered in the Hwaseong area of Gyeonggi province. These events would launch a country-wide manhunt involving 300,000 policemen and federal agents, and would forever change the way violent crimes are investigated on the peninsula.
B
It is these dark circumstances which form the arc of director Bong Joon-Ho's murder mystery/police drama titled "Salineui chueok" or "Memories of Murder." The film's dramatized version of events is driven by two fine actors. The duo portrays a sort of yin and yang of police investigators, or, to cheapen their finely hued performances even more with an oversimplified cliche"good cop bad cop."
What is most striking about the film is the way it separates itself from similar murder films with the use of complete subtlety. It is common for a scene to cut far too early than seems appropriate, often leaving the viewer a little confused about the outcome of certain events, and thus forces the audience to make up their own mind. At times it seems you've missed something, but often the director has simply made the choice to leave out the conclusion of a particular question or situation, and this leaves you glued to the film as you fill in the blanks and try to size up the character's thoughts and motivations for yourself. Another technique the film uses well is cinematography. The camera work here is simply excellent and really lends itself to the mystique of the storyline. Through the camera work the darkness of the film is superbly brought to life. "Memories of Murder" received rave reviews from critics and was screened at dozens of international film festivals. It ranks as the most watched film of 2003 and the 4th most watched film of all time (in Korea). So, butter up your popcorn, turn off the lights and enjoy this unique and original thrill ride - the ending may leave you speechless!
By Seth Pevey
Gwangju News February 2011
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Restaurant Review
Hourglass Restaurant Buffet
recently had the opportunity one evening to try the buffet of the Hourglass restaurant at the Holiday Inn. Upon arriving, the foyer, which is capacious and luxurious, provides a pleasant contrast to the cold I had just come in from. While making my way to take a table at the restaurant, I was greeted by a friendly, professional and well-trained, front of house staff
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Once I was seated, my first round of food lead me to the salad bar, where I could instantly tell that the kitchen staff know what they are doing, as they offered authentic tasting cuisine from around the world, and not Korean interpretations. I happily found the most wide ranging selection of salad greens of any buffet I’ve been to in Gwangju. More importantly their flavour and freshness suggested they had been purchased from the local market that afternoon. Coupled with some of the smoked salmon, capers, and horseradish cream next to the salad bar, I found myself in culinary heaven, and felt this plate alone was almost worth the visit to the restaurant. So after my first helping, I was thoroughly impressed with both the service and the food. Round two continued to please, as I discovered that there were roasted capsicums and eggplant drizzled in the perfect amount of oil on offer. Roasted capsicum and eggplant is one of my favourite dishes and something I have never seen available anywhere in Gwanjgu, so I was absolutely delighted. As if that was not enough, the chef then brought out a massive piece of roast beef. I watched in elated anticipation as he carved me tender, juicy, succulent, slices from it. I had not eaten genuine roast beef in all my time in Korea, so it was almost like a second Christmas. Next I wandered on over to the dessert section, and was amazed to see that the kitchen staff offer crêpes. Without 44
Gwangju News February 2011
hesitation I went for these, and topped them with a dashing of whipped cream and berry compote. Only one word is needed: yum. To accompany the crêpes I had some fruit salad, which was also excellent. The whole dining experience was taken to another level though with the bread. The Hourglass restaurant makes its own bread, and it tastes exactly like you might expect homemade bread to taste. A nice crunch to the crust, with a beautiful fluffy texture to the middle, it was this that really summarised the food at the Hourglass: professional, authentic and delicious. There were a great many things that I did not get to try; California roll, tempura, noodles, and tiramisu to name just four, but unfortunately one can only eat so much. You can also get a superb cheese platter, which like the bread makes one feel as if they’re eating at a restaurant in their country of origin. If you’re looking for an authentic array of international cuisine, with friendly, wonderful service, the Hourglass at the Holiday Inn is the place to go. You will feel like you are eating at home, whether that be the USA, Canada, England, Australia, SA or New Zealand. The lunchtime buffet is 27,000 won, and the dinner buffet is 32,000 won. Both include a glass of wine. They also offer a la carte. The Holiday Inn is located next to the Kim Dae-jung Convention Centre in Sangmu, you really cannot miss it. The easiest way to get there is either by taxi or subway.
By Gabriel Ward
Recipe
Korean Easy-Cook Recipe
해물파전
(Haemul Pa-jeon)
Seafood Pancake How to make Seafood Pancake Things to prepare: green onion 50g, oyster 40g, squid 40g, shrimp 40g, egg 50g, pepper, flour 150g, water 250ml, cooking oil
Cooking method:
oen, also known as buchimgae, involves various ingredients mixed with flour and coated with egg, and is one of most common fried foods in Korean. In the Joseon Dynasty, it was also called jeonyueo or jeonyuhwa.
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Jeon can be made with various main ingredients, such as meat, seafood, or vegetables. The name of the main ingredient is then appended as a prefix to ‘jeon’. For example, if you are using potatoes (gamja) as the main ingredient, it is called ‘Gamja jeon’. Jeon is eaten as an appetizer, as a small side dish, or as anju (side dish for drinking). Jeon is also served as an important food for ceremonial table settings for jesa (ancestor worship). It’s also made in janchi (festival) or holidays like Seollal (Lunar New Year’s Day) and Chuseok (Thanksgiving). Bindae-tteok (mung bean pancake), pa-jeon (green onion pancake), and kimchijeon are the most popular in South Korea. You can use any kind of seafood (haemul) such as shrimp, squid, oyster, clam etc. Seafood pancake (Haemul pa-jeon) is considered the best anju to accompany makgeolli.
1. Wash oysters, shrimp and squid in salt water. After washing the squid, remove its skin and slice it. 2. Cut green onions in half. 3. Mix water, flour, eggs and stir it to make batter. Add little salt. (you can also put pepper powder if you want) 4. Put shrimp, oyster and squid in batter. 5. Oil the heated frying pan. Put batter and spread it. 6. Add green onion and peppers. 7. Pour batter without ingredients or egg. 8. After cooking enough, flip it over. Press it using spatula to be cooked enough.
By He-seon Yang Gwangju News February 2011
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Useful Korean Phrases
Verb'이다' : to be VS Verb '아니다' : not to be Grammar
Dialogue 소라: 안녕하세요? 존씨 [annyeongha aseyo? jonsssi] Sora: Hello, John 소라: 존씨는 누나가 있어요? aga a issseoyo?] [jonsssineun nuna Sora: Do you have an older sister? 존: 네, 있어요. [ne, isseoyo] John: Yes, I have. 소라: 남동생도 있어요? amdongssaengdo issseoyo?] [na Sora: Do you have a younger brother, too? 존: 아니요. 여동생이 있어요. [aniyo. yeodongsaengi isseoyo.] John: No, but I have a younger sister. 존: 소라씨는요? [sorassineunyo?] John: How about you, Sora?
Verb '있다': to be Verb '없다': not to be The verb `있다' indicates existence, possession or location. The opposite verb is `없다'. Example 1(Possession) Q: 동생이 있어요? (Do you have a younger brother/sister?) A: 네, 동생이 있어요. (Yes, I have a younger brother/sister.) A: 아니오, 동생이 없어요. (No, I don't have a younger brother/sister.) Example 2(Location) Q: 교실에 책상이 있어요? (Is there a desk in the classroom?) A: 네, 책상이 있어요. (Yes, there is a desk) A: 아니오, 책상이 없어요. (No, there is not a desk)
By Soo-a Jung Soo-a Jung is an instructor at the GIC Korean Language Class
소라: 저는 언니가 있어요. 하지만 오빠는 없어요. [jeoneun eonniga isseoyo. hajiman oppaneun eobeoyo.] Sora: I have an older sister. But I don't have an older brother.
Reference: 김성희 외. (2009). 서강한국어1A 서울: 도서출판 하우 서강한국어. Retrived January15, 2011 from http://korean.sogang.ac.kr
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2011 GIC Korean Language Class Schedule* For more information, please contact Mun So-eun at (062) 226-2733/4 or e-mail gwangjuic@gmail.com
Vocabulary
2nd March 12 - April 28
남동생[namdongsaeng]: a younger brother 여동생[yeodongsaeng]: a younger sister 오빠[oppa]: a girl's older brother 누나[nuna]: a boy's older sister 언니[eonni]: a girl's older sister
3rd
May 14 - June 30
4th
July 9 - August 25
Gwangju News February 2011
5th
September 5 - October 22
6th
November 5 - December 22
Cartoon
Gwangju News February 2011
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Things to do
Art not to be Missed, but soon Gone Forever KEITH HARING
In his day, Keith Haring was at the forefront of the Pop and Graffiti Art movements. His Radiant Baby became an internationally famous symbol of his style, but he is also well known for his commercial work with Absolut vodka, Lucky Strike and Coca-Cola. Now, Gwangju is privileged to be hosting a large exhibition of his work – Pop Art Superstar. It is on at the Sangrok Exhibition Hall. The easiest way to get there is to take the subway to Nonseong Station, exiting Gate 7, and following the main road for about 300 meters, as it curves to the left. The Hall is on a rise, and set behind a park like landscape. On show are many of his more famous silkscreen series – notably Icons, Pop Shop, Apocalypse, and The Blueprint Drawings. Haring was born in 1958, and died of AIDS in New York, in 1990. New York was Haring’s base, and many of his public murals can be found there. Entrance to Pop Art Superstar is not cheap – it is 10,000 won, but worth it, especially as some of it goes to the Keith Haring Foundation – an AIDS funding organization. And if 10,000 won is not enough, there is a large range of Keith Haring paraphernalia to be bought from the museum shop. But be quick! The exhibition closes on February 27.
DEMOCRACY, HUMAN RIGHTS & GWANGJU
The Democracy, Human Rights and Gwangju exhibition has been on at the Gwangju Museum of Art since August – but if you have not yet seen it, be even quicker! It is excellent, topical and relevant, and closes on February 13. It features three artists: Song Young-ok, who portrays the gloomy reality of a Korean living in colonial and post-colonial times in Japan. Park Bul-dong’s work is satirical, and uses mainly photo-montage to make his point. That point being the pernicious influence of American imperialism on Korean culture. Hong Sung-dam is represented by a wonderful set of woodcuts featuring the Gwangju May 18 1980 Democratic Uprising. The woodcuts are of a deliberate primitive crudity, which drives home the horror of the uprising. The Gwangju Museum of Art is located in the same park as the Biennale Hall, and admission to this exhibition is free. By Allen Gray
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Gwangju News February 2011
Upcoming Events
“1+1=”
[GIC Gallery]
It is a two-part exhibition featuring the artworks of Andrew O’Donnell and Lee Seung-il. Andrew was born in Blackpool, Lancashire, England and studied literature and philosophy in Staffordshire. He first discovered Gwangju, Korea in 2003, and has lived here, on and off, since that time. Recently he joined the Dae-in Market residency program and had several exhibitions with other Dae-in Market artists including Lee Seung-il. Lee Seung-il studied print and media at Chosun University in Gwangju. Since 2004 he has participated many exhibitions in Gwangju and Seoul. In this exhibition Seung-il will show five photos of Burbles while Andrew will present his recent four paintings of Dae-in Market. In the opening Andrew will present the poems which are related to his paintings.
Exhibition period: Feb. 12 ~ March 12 ’s Talk: Opening with Artist’ Feb. 12 (Saturday), 3 ~ 5 p.m. at GIC Gallery
[ GIC Talk ]
Time & Place: Every Saturday, 3-4:30 pm, GIC office (5th floor of Jeon-il Bldg) For more information, visit www.gic.or.kr or contact Mun So-eun at: gwangjuic@gmail.com Check out pictures from previous GIC Talks http://picasaweb.google.com/gictalk Click for the highlight clips of GIC Talk at www.youtube.com/user/GICTALK
February 12 Topic: Opening of an art show ‘1+1=’ Speaker: Andrew O’Donnell, Lee Seung-il February 19 Topic: Louisiana: A rich history of culture, tradition and disaster Speakers: Seth Pevey (ESL Instructor) "Since it was claimed by French explorers in the late 1600s, Louisiana has been an amazing example of a true cultural mixing pot. Distinct and original in tradition, music, cuisine and philosophy Louisiana exists in stark cultural contrast to modern America. From Acadian refugees to African slaves and Native Americans, a true menagerie of people created an oddity amongst the 50 states, an oddity which, in recent years, has been challenged by several severe disasters, real and man made. In this talk a Louisiana native will explore some of the ingredients which contributed to both the rich milieu and devastating tragedy that is Louisiana, with specific reference to New Orleans throughout. "
February 26 Topic: Growing up in 'The Troubles' in Northern Ireland Speaker: Finbarr Bermingham (ESL Instructor) From 1963 until 1998, Northern Ireland was plunged into an ugly ethno-religious civil war that's misunderstood by many, inside and out of the country. Some regard it solely as a series of terrorist attacks, whereas others see it as fully blown war. What exactly was The Troubles? What ramifications did it have on the people of Northern Ireland and what sorts of counter cultures did it spawn? The speaker would like to share his experiences as a young person growing up in the troubles, memories which have been stirred as he has drawn parallels between the situation in Korea and that in Northern Ireland in his youth.
munity. wangju com ven for the G t us know. Le t? GIC Talk is gi ou ab talk om you’d like to gjuic@gmail.c Have a topic Write to gwan
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Upcoming Events
Festival
Performances
Gwangju Museum of Art This is called interactive art which means viewers can enjoy the works to communicate and to share their feelings. In other words, it is a mixture of art, music and technology. There are thirteen works in the gallery. For more information: http://www.artmuse.gwangju.go.kr/
Gu Gu Kim Exhibition Theme: The picture of fingers, What is it? Feb.1~28, 2011 Gallery 108 Special Project Finger Art Gallery108 3F 721-13 Jungheung-dong, Buk-gu, Gwangju Tel. 526-2341
The 8th annual Chum-dan neighbor Kite Flying contest Date: Feb. 20, 2011 Performance 11:30 ~ 5 pm Contests 1 ~ 5 pm Location: Ssang-am park in Cheom-dan For more information: 062-972-0047, http://cafe.daum.net/bibimk Contest applicant fee : 1,000 won
The Shin Seung Hun Show “My way” Feb. 26-27, 2011 Gwangju Culture and Art Center Admission: 55,000–110,000 won 20th Anniversary The Shin Seung-hun’s Show World Tour!!
How to apply : Fill out the application form and submit it to the main reception booth on the contest day. 1. Creative kite contest 2. Fly a kite high contest
Soaring “Youth, put wings on it”
The Traditional European Marionette Wooden Doll Concert Feb. 26, 2011 at Noon, 2pm, 4pm Feb. 27, 2011 at Noon, 2pm Gwangsan Culture Center Admission: 12,000 won
Gwangju Symphony Orchestra Regular Performance Feb.18, 2011 at 7:30pm Gwangju Art and Culture Center Dvorak Symphony No. 9, The New World Herb Islad Light Festival ~ Mar. 31, 2011 Herb Island, Pocheon-shi, Gyeonggi-do Admission: Adult 3,000 won, Others 2,000 won 031-535-6494 www.herbisland.co.kr
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Gwangju News February 2011
Seo Mi-ra Paintings of Japanese Apricot Flowers Exhibition Mar. 3 ~ 9, 2011 One Gallery 51-26 Gung-dong, Dong-gu, Gwangju / T. 062-222-6547 Exhibition Contact_010-9855-9198
The profits earned from this contest will be donated to help unfortunate neighbors. The 19th Daegwallyeong Snow Festival Date: Feb.12 ~ 20 Daegwallyeong-myeon, Pyeongchanggun, Gwangwon-do Admission depends on program 033-336-6112 www.snowfestival.net
Park Don ‘Inaugurate the beginning’ Feb. 26 ~ Mar. 15, 2011 Lotte Gallery Special Project (Gwangju Bank Head Office 1F) 7-12 Daein-dong, Dong-gu, Gwangju Tel. 062-221-1808
Exhibitions Moving Pictures ~Feb.13, 2011
Park Seol, Bak Sang-ok, Seo Yeong-gi, Yang Na-hee, Choi Mi-yeon, Hong Woncheol ~Feb. 7, 2011 * 2/3 holiday Gwangju Sinsaegye Gallery (502-712) 49-1 Gwangcheon-dong, Seogu, Gwangju TEL. 062)360-1630
Life and Taste ~ Mar. 27, 2011 Gwangju Museum of Art It is an exhibition of housing works. Generally, handicrafts have been considered less important compared to sculptures. However through this exhibition, you can see the valuable crafts. http://www.artmuse.gwangju.go.kr/
The Pulitzer Prize Photographs Exhibition ~ Feb. 22, 2011 Mokpo Culture and Art Center Contact: 062-360-2600 Opening Time: 10 am - 5 pm(weekdays);
Upcoming Events
10 am - 6 pm (weekends) Admission fee: 10,000 won (adult), 6,000 won (children) Travel through the 145 award-winning photographs from 1942 to 2010 which have appeared in 27 cities. Mokpo is the final city in the exhibition’s tour of Korea. For more info: 1588-7890 or www.pulitzerkorea.com
TRICK ART ~ Feb. 27, 2011 Kimdaejung Convention Center Contact: 062-360-2600 Opening Time: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. Admission fee: Adult:12,000 won, Children:10,000 won
Keith Haring: Pop Superstar ~ Feb. 27, 2011 (closed every Monday) Sangrok Art Exhibition, Gwangju Art Museum Opening time: 10.30 a.m - 7 p.m. (Monday-Thursday, Sunday); 10.30 a.m. - 9 p.m. (Friday - Saturday) Admission fee: 10,000 won (adult), 6,000 won (children) 2010 marks the 20th anniversary of death of the American pop artist Keith Haring. His exhibition will feature his famous artworks.
2. Winter’s Bone Special Exhibition from Versailles Palace, France Hangaram Art Museum, Seoul Arts Nambu Bus Terminal Station, Line 3, Exits 4 and 5. Transfer to shuttle bus or green bus No.4429 Admission fee: Adult 13,000 won, Student 10,000 won, Children 8,000 won 02-580-1702
Genre: drama, mystery, thriller Starring: Jennifer Lawrence, John Hawkes Language: English (with Korean subtitles) An unflinching Ozark Mountain girl hacks through dangerous social terrain as she hunts down her drug-dealing father while trying to keep her family intact.
Movies Gwangju Theater Chungjangno 5-ga (two blocks back behind Migliore) Phone: 062-224-5858 Films change weekly to bi-weekly. Check online for calendar and prices. Admission fee: 8,000 won for one film, 21,000 won for 3 films, 30,000 won for 5 films, 50,000 won for 10 films The following movies will be shown in February:
3. Dancing Dreams Genre: documentary Starring: Pina Bausch, Benedicte Billet Language: German (Korean subtitles)
Chagall-Magician of Color ~ Mar. 27, 2011 Special Exhibition, Seoul Museum of Art City Hall Station, Line 1, Exit 1 or Line 2, Exits 11 & 12 Walk 5 mins Admission fee: Adult 12,000 won, Youth 10,000 won, Children 8,000 won 1577-8968 www.chagallseoul.com Exposition Speciale de Chateau de Versailles en Coree ~ Mar. 6, 2011
1. I AM LOVE (Io sono l'amore) Genre : drama, romance Starring : Tilda Swinton, Flavio Parenti Language: Italian (with Korean subtitles) A tragic love story set at the turn of the millennium in Milan.
4. Cuban Boyfriend Genre: documentary Starring: Orielvis, Joung Ho-hyun Language: Korean Gwangju News February 2011
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Community Board
GIC News Gwangju Guidebook The Gwangju Guidebook website is compiled to provide information on anything you want to know about living in Gwangju. The information ranges from daily life to travel within Gwangju and Jeollanam-do to law matters to work information. Volunteers are hired to make this website run. If you are interested in becoming one, simply join our Facebook group ‘Gwangju Guidebook Volunteers’. We need volunteers for these positions: - Page/ Sector Editors - Moderators - Fact Checkers - Encouragement Gatekeeper (Host) - Decision Making Supervisors We are looking forward to your participation! Check out the Gwangju Guidebook website in two languages: www.gwangjuguide.or.kr (English) and www.gwangjuzhinan.or.kr (Chinese).
Gwangju News Mailing We are sending Gwangju News to each of you every month but some members do not receive it because of incorrect address or no address at all. If you wish to update your mailing information or if you do not receive Gwangju News, kindly send your current mailing address to gwangjuic@gmail.com
GIC Journal: Social Discourse of Disquiet A new space for writers, artists and photographers. This publication allows people to explore different forms of art in South Korea. We would like to bridge the gap between arts that are perhaps lost in translation.We would like to hear your ideas and opinions. If you would like to get involved then please e-mail at selina.gicjournal@gmail.com Please join our facebook group - GIC Journal: Social Discourse of Disquiet. Please look at the work-in-progress at http://gicjournal.wordpress.com Check out the "What's On" page for art events in Gwangju.
GIC Facebook Page Catch the latest news of GIC and its programs by joining our Facebook page at : www.facebook.com/gwangjuic You can also follow us online in Twitter with our user ID: gwangjuic
Meditation Session There will be Meditation Session offered every Saturday from 5 - 6 p.m. after the GIC Talk. Anyone is welcome to join although RSVP is preferred. Fifteenminute Introduction to Meditation followed with 30-minute sitting. The remaining time will include a reading from ‘The Compass of Zen’. Bring a firm cushion to sit on and a light warm blanket. Jeans are not recommended. Please contact the GIC for more info.
Art Gwangju Artist Collective We are a group of artists and art lovers. We meet up about once or twice a month at the GIC for workshops, discussions and community art events. Look for us on Facebook or send an email to: gicartistcollective@googlegroups.com
Sports Gwangju Men’s Soccer The Gwangju international soccer team plays regularly most weekends. If you are interested in playing, e-mail: gwangju_soccer@yahoo.com.
Gwangju Ice Hockey Team Looking for men and women of all ages to join us every Saturday night from 52
Gwangju News February 2011
7:30 to 9 at Yeomju Ice Rink near World Cup Stadium. If you are interested, contact either Andrew Dunne at atdunne@gmail.com or Chris Wilson at kreeco@rogers.com
Community Sung Bin Orphanage Sung Bin Orphanage is looking for creative/ active/ energetic/ outgoing/ enthusiastic long-term volunteers to join in our regular Saturday program. We would like you to give at least two Saturdays per month. As well as being a friend, you will be asked to teach basic English to girls aged 7 to 14. Meet every Saturday at 1.30 p.m. in front of downtown Starbucks. All are welcome. For more volunteering information please contact Al Barnum at: al_barnum@yahoo.com.
Apostolate to Migrants Center Address: 802-4 Songjeong -2dong, Gwangsan-gu, Gwangju Phone: 062) 954-8004 Subway: Get off at Songjeong Park (송 정공원) Station and walk toward Songjeong Middle School. Busses: 29, 38, 39, 62, 97, 98, 99 Get off at Yeonggwang-tong intersection bus stop and walk toward Songjeong Middle School. Masses: Every Sunday at 3 p.m. at the Migrant Center; 10 a.m.Indonesian Mass; 7 p.m. Vietnamese Mass; 11 a.m. Mass for multicultural families (2nd Sunday)
Gwangju Jumbo Taxi If you’re traveling in a big party or simply need transportation in and around Gwangju, Gwangju Jumbo Taxi provides service to Bus Terminal, Airport and others. With a seat capacity of up to 9 people, you can travel in comfort. Friendy and hospitable, Mr. Kim will help you travel with safety and comfort. Whether you are going from/ to Gwangju Airport or simply to travel around the city, give Jumbo Taxi a call. Call to reserve at 010-5086-7799 (Mr.Kim) or refer to www.gjtaxi.co.kr for the price list.
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Gwangju News February 2011
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GIC was established by the Gwangju City Government and Gwangju Citizens Solidarity in 1999 as a model of government and NGO collaboration. Gwangju City provides financial assistance to help GIC to carry out its missions of - providing services to foreign residents and locals - facilitating civil exchange - promoting intercultural understanding
GIC has administered a number of programs in Gwangju and Jeollanam-do. Its activites of note include the following: - A Monthly Magazine Gwangju News - GIC Talk on Saturdays - Korean Language Classes - Gwangju International Community Day - GIC Library
- GIC Concert - GIC Gallery - Additional Activities: Counseling services Information Service through phone and e-mail
How to be a GIC member
How to Subscribe Gwangju News
To become a member of GIC, please visit GIC office or send an e-mail for information. A membership application form will be sent by e-mail. Simply fill it out and pay the membership fee to the bank account below. Call 062-226-2731 or send an e-mail to Jihyun KIM at gic@gic.or.kr
To subscribe to Gwangju News, please call 062226-2733 or send an e-mail to Minsu KIM at gwangjunews@gmail.com
Please remit membership fee to: Kwangju Bank 134-107-000999 Account name: 광주국제교류센터 The GIC members are privileged to - receive the Gwangju News every month and the GIC newsletter 4 times a year - participate in all events sponsored by the GIC and give a discount
Please include the following information: Sender name, receiver name, shipping address (including zip code), email address, telephone number and the starting month Subscription Rates (monthly issues for 1 year) Asia: 30,000 w0n Australia and Europe: 40,000 won The Americas and Africa: 50,000 won Payment can be sent to our bank account using the information below. Kwangju Bank 134-107-000999 Account name: 광주국제교류센터
- inform GIC news and events - use GIC English book liberary
5th Floor, Jeon-il Bldg, Geumnam-no 1-ga, Dong-gu, Gwangju 501-758, Korea Phone: 062-226-2733~34 Fax: 062-226-2732 Website: www.gic.or.kr E-mail:gic@gic.or.kr Directions: The GIC office is located in the same building as the Korea Exchange Bank (KEB) in downtown Gwangju. The entrance is immediately north of the KEB on Geumnam-no street, across from the YMCA. Subway stop: Culture Complex 문화전당역 Bus no.: 9, 36, 45, 51, 52, 53, 56, 57, 58, 59, 61, 74, 80, 95, 150, 151, 518, 1000, 1187