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MAY 2016
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May 2016 Issue No. 171 Published on April 30, 2016 Cover Photo: Jürgen Hinzpeter Cover Art & Design: Joe Wabe Photographed by: Lorryn Smit Gwangju News is the first local English magazine in Korea, first published in 2001. It covers local and regional issues, with a focus on roles and activities of the international residents and local English-speaking communities. Copyright by 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 publisher. Gwangju News is published by Gwangju International Center 5, Jungang-ro 196 beon-gil (Geumnam-no 3 Ga), Dong-gu, Gwangju 61475, South Korea Tel: (+82)-62-226-2733~34 Fax: (+82)-62-226-2731 Registration No. 광주광역시 라. 00145 (ISSN 2093-5315) Registration Date February 22, 2010 Printed by Join Adcom 조인애드컴 (+82)-62-367-7702
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May 2016
THE EDITORIAL TEAM PUBLISHER Shin Gyonggu EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Joe Wabe MANAGING EDITOR Katrin Márquez ONLINE EDITOR Callum Holmes COORDINATOR AND LAYOUT EDITOR Minsu Kim & Joe Wabe PHOTO EDITOR Lorryn Smit CHIEF PROOFREADER Bradley Weiss ONLINE EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Jacqui Page, Sam Page COPY EDITORS Kelsey Rivers, Victoria Lee, Brian Fitroy, Timm Berg, Robert Hinderliter, Laura Becker PROOFREADERS Carrie Levinson, Stephen Redeker, Jon Olsson, Jannies Le, Teri Venable, Gabrielle Nygaard RESEARCHERS Shin Hyerin, Lee Tae-beom, Lim Byeong-ji, Park Seong-yeol, Lee Hye-yoon
Volunteering Inquiry and Feedback: gwangjunews@gic.or.kr Advertising and Subscription Inquiry: minsu@gic.or.kr or 062-226-2733~34 Special thanks to the City of Gwangju and all of our sponsors.
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Letter from the Editors I usually spend Saturday mornings attending an English conversation group for young adults. We recently discussed how Koreans often view Gwangju residents as troublemakers. One participant recalled of how large companies used to refuse to hire people from Gwangju due to the belief that they were rebels or Communists. The Korean participants in the group thanked the foreigners for learning the truth of May 18th. We left the discussion moved by the continued importance of May 18th. Thus, I am honored to have worked on this edition of Gwangju News. No prior issue I have worked on feels as important. As the May 18th Uprising fades into memory, it is increasingly important to recognize the brutality, sacrifice and even hope that sprang from this much-too-often forgotten story. In this issue we consider May 18th alongside contemporary issues in order to highlight how Gwangju has helped shape the Korea many of us love. I hope this issue will inspire Gwangju’s foreigner community to recognize its role in shaping our adopted city’s future. I hope these articles inspire Koreans to reflect on the importance of their history. I present this issue knowing that it is insufficient in telling the truth of May 18th and its impact on Korea, but hoping it arouses further learning.
Katrin Márquez MANAGING EDITOR
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Contents May 2016 32
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May 2016
GWANGJU NEWS 5. Gwangju City News 6. GIC Talk 8. Upcoming Events 12. 10th Annual ACF 13. GIC Tour COMMUNITY 10. May Concert 14. New in Tow: Sanjar Numonzoda 15. Yakult Ajumma 16. Meet Kelly & Jeff 18. KakaoTaxi 19. Yellow Dust is Back! FEATURE 20. Jurgen Hinzpetter 22. May 18 National Cemetery 24. Interview: Dr. Kang Yong-Ju
TRAVEL 26. Discovering Boseong 31. Lost in Gwangju: 5.18 Memorial Park FOOD & DRINKS 28. Monday Off Please 30. Korean Food: Japchae
SPORTS 44. Volunteer Dog Walking EDUCATION 46. KOTESOL 52. Talk to me in Korean OPINION 50. On Happiness
ARTS & CULTURE 32. Photo Esssay: Dylan Goldby 36. Photo of the Month 38. Community Theather: Discovery 40. Movie Review: I’m a Cyborg 42. Buddha’s Birthday 48. US involvement in the May 18 Uprising
issue
#171
Gwangju City
News
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Compiled and Edited by Lee Tae-beom, Lim Byeong-ji, Park Seong-yeol, Lee Hye-yoon
Owol Gwangju, Promote Remembrance! Maintain Peace!’ Designated as the Slogan for May 18th Democratic Movement Commemoration Event The slogan for this year’s May 18th Democratic Movement commemoration event has been designated as ‘Owol Gwangju, Promote Remembrance! Maintain Peace!’. The commemoration event organizing committee explained that the slogan includes expressions in memory of democratic activists and goes against history distortion. It has also pointed out that the slogan conveys strong messages and will help actualize peace on the Korean Peninsula. The committee will start their formal activities after the inauguration ceremony on the 6th at the May 18th National Cemetery.
Gwangju to Create South Gwangju Night Market Within the Year Gwangju Metropolitan City released its plans to establish a night market based on “Asia Foods”, consisting of multicultural and southern Korean foods, and “Hyangto Foods”, made from the local produce, in the South Gwangju Market. The Night Market creation project is funded 500 million won each from the national and the city treasuries, and to insure proper creation, the Dong-gu District Office started working in coalition with the South Gwangju Market ㆍNam gwang ju hae tteu neun si jang Merchant Guilds, forming a night market creation committee from February last December, and began working on basic designs since February.
Gwangju to Start City Tour Bus and Bichgo-eul Nam-do Tour Bus
May 2016
The Gwangju City Tour Bus will move from a reservation based system to a city circulation system. To increase selections for tourists, the ‘Bichgo-eul Nam-do Tour Bus’ will change from an consumer based tour of the 5 outlying cities and districts to 3 themed courses. Tourists wishing to use the Gwangju City Tour or the Bichgo-eul Nam-do Tour can make reservations at Gwangju Tourism Association’s homepage (www.gjtravel. or.kr) or call (062-233-3399). If unable to make reservations, the City Tour Bus can be boarded from any of the major tourist attractions, and the Bichgo-eul Nam-do Tour Bus can be boarded from the Gwangju Songjeong Station, U-Square, or the Asian Culture Center if seats are available.
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Gwangju’s economic welfare manager says “The creation of the South Gwangju Night Market will bring forth a distinct night time tourist attraction connected with the Yangnim-dong Historical Cultural Village, Asian Culture Center, Gwangju Greenway. And it will also provide various eateries, easily accessible cultural shows and experience programs, start-up spaces for local youths full of ideas and spirit, and workplaces with a strong backbone for multicultural families.” And he also stated “The South Gwangju Night Market will grow into becoming a national market where South Gwangju’s memories and scents can
be felt, surpassing Jeonju Nambu Hanok Maeul Sijang and Busan Bupyeong Kkangtong Yasijang, and we will not hesitate in spending as much resources to promote it.”
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May Schedule
GWANGJU NEWS
GIC Talk Monthly Theme: “Turn the Ignition for a Better Life” This GIC Talk Monthly Theme will showcase GIC Talks from Speakers who would like to share their areas of expertise to GIC Talk audience. Time & Location: Saturdays from 3 p.m. – 4 p.m., GIC Auditorium (1st Floor) For more information, contact gictalk@gic.or.kr
:: May 7
Speakers: Lee Yeon Topic: Creation comes from enthusiasm from work During this GIC Talk, you will have a chance to hear about how Gwangju City government created the NYMBY facilities including a crematory, cemetery, and public landfill. The City Hall Officials had to strive very hard because of the residents’ resistance against the construction of these facilities. This difficulty would not have been overcome without the ingenious ideas of a city government. The Speaker will also explain how Gwangju City government also constructed the baseball stadium KIA Champions Field and a multipurpose sports center for the disabled for the first time in Korea thanks to the subsidies from the central government.
:: May 14
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May 2016
There will be no GIC Talk, due to Buddha’s Birthday. Enjoy the time with your family and friends, and we will see you on May 21st!
:: May 21
Speaker: Lisa Crone and guest Heo Jiseong Topic: Become an Animal Rights Activist! During this talk we will educate the listeners about information related to dogs and cats in Korea and the issues surrounding them such as dog meat industry, illegal breeding, reasons to adopt animals and reasons not to, responsible pet ownership, changing perspectives. The main purpose is to show participants how they can get involved in animal rights activism through education and action.
:: May 28
Speaker: Billie Pritchett Topic: The Korean Economy and the Korean People The Korean economy has been called the “Miracle on the Han River.” But how did Korea come to be the economic miracle that it appears to be? The answer is contained in Korea’s approach to its economy and people. Historically, Korea has grown through government regulation and learning from world competitors, and it has improved the wellbeing of its citizens by being responsive to citizens’ needs.
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Gwangju News Always Needs Volunteers We have plenty of opportunities for writers, copy editors, photographers, web and blog editors as well as graphic artists and creators. Please contact our managing editor at gwangjunews@gic.or.kr for volunteering inquiries. www.gwangjunewsgic.com
May 2016
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Upcoming Events 전주 한지 문화 축제
Jeonju Hanji Culture Festival 2016 곡성 세계 장미 축제
International Rose Festival Gokseong Gokseong-gun, famous for the its train village, has been holding annual event of Gokseong Rose Festival at the Rose Park located within the train village complex. Rose varieties from different parts of the world under the three themes of love, scent and dream will be on display during the festival at 1004 Rose Park.
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Dates: May 20 ~ 29 Venue: Seomjingang Train Village Admission Fees: 2,000~ 3,000won. Directions: Take the intercity bus at Gwangju Bus Terminal and get off at Gokseong Terminal (1 hour, 10 minutes). From the Gokseong Bus Terminal, take a taxi to Seomjingang Train Village(about 4minutes)
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May 2016
Website: simcheong.com Telephone: 061-360-8252
Organized to promote the excellent qualities of Korea’s traditional paper Hanji, the previous Jeonju Paper Culture Festival was renamed the Jeonju Hanji Culture Festival. As the name suggests, the festival’s main specialty is paper, featuring all kinds of products made from Hanji as well as contests, exhibitions, hands-on programs for visitors, and a traditional market.
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Dates: May 5~ 8 Venue: 20, Hyeonmu 1-gil, Wansangu, Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do Admission Fees: Free Directions: Take the intercity bus at Gwangju Bus Terminal and get off at Jeonju Terminal (1 hour, 20 minutes), take bus 79 or 119. Get off at Jeondong Cathedral (Hanok Village) Bus Stop. Walk 450m to arrive at Jeonju Hanok Village. Website: jhanji.or.kr Telephone: 063-271-2503
보성 다향제
Boseong Green Tea Festival Boseong is considered the birthplace of the commercial tea industry and is the largest producer of tea in the country. At the Boseong Green Tea Festival, some of the most popular festival events (most of which are held out in the green tea fields) are the hands-on experience programs such as picking tea leaves, making tea, and sampling green tea snacks. Other events such as the tea exhibition & sale, and a number of celebratory performances are also scheduled to be held during the festival period.
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Dates: May 4~ 8 Venue: 775, Nokcha-ro, Boseonggun, Jeollanam-do Admission Fees: Adult: 4,000 won, Child: 3,000 Directions: Take the intercity bus at Gwangju Bus Terminal and get off Boseong (1 hour). * Bus schedule: 06:30, 07:10, 08:30, 09:40, 10:30, 11:30, 12:30, 13:35, 14:30, 15:30 Website: dahyang.boseong.go.kr Telephone: 061-850-5211~4
9 UPCOMING
ACC - ASIAN CULTURE CENTER
GWANGJU
THEATHER
Chungjang-no 5-ga 62, Dong-gu, Gwangju (two blocks behind NC WAVE) TICKETS: 8,000 INFORMATION: 062-224-5858 cafe.naver.com/cinemagwangju
MAY 1 Tale of Tales <2015> (Fantasy, Horror, Romance) (Matteo Garrone) 125 min Salma Hayek, Vincent Cassel, Toby Jones Once upon a time there were three neighboring kingdoms each with a magnificent castle, from which ruled kings and queens, princes and princesses. One king was a fornicating libertine, another captivated by a strange animal, while one of the queens was obsessed by her wish for a child. Sorcerers and fairies, fearsome monsters, ogres and old washerwomen, acrobats and courtesans are the protagonists of this loose interpretation of the celebrated tales of Giambattista Basile
Il Ritorno d’Ulisse
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Dates: May 28 ~ 29 Location: Asia Culture Theater 2 Artist: William Kentridge Website: acc.go.kr
There is just one week until Kate Mercer’s forty-fifth wedding anniversary and the planning for the party is going well. But then a letter arrives for her husband. The body of his first love has been discovered, frozen and preserved in the icy glaciers of the Swiss Alps. By the time the party is upon them, five days later, there may not be a marriage left to celebrate.
A Hard Day’s Night <1964> (comedy, Musical) (Richard Lester) 87 min John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, Ringo Starr The year is 1964 and four young lads from Liverpool are about to change the world - if only the madcap world will let them out of their hotel room. Richard Lester’s boldly contemporary rock n’ roll comedy unleashes the fledgling Beatles into a maelstrom of screaming fans, paranoid producers, rabid press and troublesome family members, and reveals the secret of their survival and success: an insatiable lust for mischief and a life-affirming addiction to joy.
After getting into a fight, teenage gymnast Dohyeon is sentenced to community service. Filling his service hours as a librarian, he is attracted to a girl who checks out a huge number of books. They become close and share their secrets.
May 2016
MARCH 12TH Over Man <2015> (Seo Eun-young) (Drama, Romance) 103 min Kim Go-woon, Kim Jung-hyun, Seo Young-hwa
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One of South Africa’s best-known artists, William Kentridge brings back to vivid life Homer’s Odyssey, in a highly political yet poetic work on Il Ritorno d’Ulisse (The Return of Ulysses). Created in 1998, this version of Monteverdi’s classic opera combines sublime music and libretto with Kentridge’s animated charcoal drawings and Handspring Puppet Company’s wood carved puppets. The music is interpreted by the Ricercar Consort under the direction of early music specialist Philippe Pierlot.
MAY 5TH 45 Years <2015> (Drama, Romance) (Andrew Haigh) 95 min Charlotte Rampling, Tom Courtenay, Geraldine James
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Gwangju International Center 2016
May Concert
COMMUNITY
By Boram LEE
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
May 2016
G
wangju International Center (GIC) has held the May concert since 2003 to carry out cultural exchanges with local and international people through music and culture. The concert will be a collaboration between professional local and talented foreign musicians. All the proceeds from past concerts have been donated to charities supporting refugees, countries that have faced natural disasters and intern exchange programs to human right organizations in third world countries.
The audience could notice familiar French songs such as songs from the original sound tracs of ‘Les Misérables’, ‘Les filles de Cadix’, the theme song of ‘Don Quixote’ In addition, famous Korean performances ‘Arirang’, ‘Sae TaRyeong (Birds song)’, ‘Bat Nore (Boat Song)’, and Korean traditional dances will also be performed with the Gayageum. The French song’s medley will be performed by Gwangju orphanage children choir and ‘Marching for our beloved’ will be sung by all musicians at the end of the concert.
Last year, a famous, democratic Korean song, ‘Marching for our beloved’, as well as Germany’s ‘Die Beiden Grenadiere’ and Italy’s ‘O’Patria mia’ were performed. ‘Marching for our beloved’, a song which was originally dedicated to the wedding for two spirits of civil resistance fighters Yoon Sangwon and Park Kisoon, who both died during the May 18th Gwangju Democratic Uprising of 1980, was played for the audience. In addition, Nepalese students studying at Chosun University raised funds for the Nepal earthquake of 2015, one of the worst natural disasters that year.
The May Concert 2016 will be held on Sunday, May 15th at 5 p.m. at the Bitgoeul Cultural Center. Admission to the May Concert is free of charge and you can reserve your seats through the GIC website. If you have any questions or request more information, please contact gic@gic.or.kr or 226-2733.
The May concert this year is to celebrate 130th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and France.
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May 2016
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May 2016
GWANGJU NEWS
By Katrin Márquez
10th Annual Asia Culture Forum
In
July of 2014 the United Nations released a report stating that, for the first time in human history, a greater portion of the world population lives in urban rather than rural communities. Alongside this major demographic shift, an important economic shift occurred as aspects of the traditional manufacturing industry continue to be replaced with new growth models. When considered together, these changes signal the need for reconceptualizing the role of cities in the increasingly cross-cultural global economy. It is these issues that the 2016 Asia Culture Forum attempts to address. In collaboration with the national Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Gwangju Metropolitan City will host the 10th annual Asia Culture Forum on June 21th and 22th. The forum is part of the larger Hub City of Asian Culture Project which seeks to transform Gwangju into an international center of Asian culture development and promotion. According to the published concept note, the organizers hope the forum will allow both scholars and practitioners to discuss the increasing importance of “the role of culture in achieving development” through the theme of “Culture, Technology and Creativity: Creative Industry and City.” The event is meant to serve as “open forums for researchers, administrators and organizations to share their research results and experiences in utilizing culture and
creativity for urban regeneration and urban life enrichment.”
focus will be on the identification of practical solutions.
In order to promote productive discussion concerning the role of creativity and culture in development, ACF 2016 will include two plenary sessions as well as special sessions and a youth camp. The first of the plenary sessions revolves around the concept of “The Future of the Culture Industry.” This session will integrate different viewpoints concerning the uniqueness of the growing culture industry in creating not only products and services, but also “lifestyles and identities far beyond [mere] economic benefit.” These new modes of economic growth create particular difficulties for which the session organizers seek to “provide Asia-specific models.”
The special sessions will be held in collaboration with the Literature Translation Institute of Korea, the Gwangju Biennale Foundation and the Gwangju Cultural Foundation. These sessions will allow citizens to present relevant works in the forms of oral presentation, posters or symposia. Such presentations proposals require the approval of the ACF 2016 Advisory Committee.
The second plenary session is themed “Creativity within Cities” and it deals with how the concept of creativity is becoming increasingly important in developing sustainability models. However, even as creativity is being recognized for its importance in improving urban life, current models are insufficient for adoption at a municipal level. As such, the goal of this session will be to identify how ideas concerning the use of creativity to “[promote] social inclusion, cultural diversity and environmental sustainability” can be “locally translated, performed and implemented in actual policy-making and contested by different social groups in different institutional models.” The major
The last major aspect of ACF 2016 is the ACF Youth Camp. In order to engage and inspire the younger generation to understand these issues the Youth Camp—which will be held June 19-22—invites young people to “participate in online discussion groups on urban regeneration issues” as well as to perform “team projects at some of the urban regeneration spots in the city” during the actual camp. In addition to the certificates of participation to be distributed, the best team will also win a trip to an Asian UNESCO-designated creative city. ACF 2016 is an event being held partly in support of the 7th Asia Europe Culture Ministers Meeting that it precedes. Together these events show that Gwangju Metropolitan City is seeking to lead the way in reimagining the role of cities in a globalized world that continues to change rapidly.
GIC Tour May
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Suncheon Songgwang Temple -Lunch (Cockle Jeongsik) -Suncheon Bay Eco Park -Nakaneupseong Folk Village
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
May 2016
Date&Time: Saturday, May 28 09:00-18:00 Registartion: By Sunday, May 22 Participation fee: 45,000 won (GIC members) 55,000 won (Non-members) / 30,000 won (Pre-schoolers) More Info: Jeongmin Lee 062.226.2733 / gictour@gic.or.kr
COMMUNITY
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Interview by Joe Wabe Photo by Hee seung Kim
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
May 2016
U
zbekistan is a Central Asian nation and a former Soviet republic known for its rich culture of more than two millennia and multiple amazing sites linked to the Silk Road, the ancient trade route between China and the Mediterranean Sea. This wonderful country is the home of Sanjar Numonzoda, born in the city of Fergana. Sanjar is currently pursuing a masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree in History at Chonnam National University, with a dream of one day being able to build close ties between South Korea and Uzbekistan both in terms of culture and history. He shared with Gwangju News a little bit of his life.
New In Town Sanjar Numonzoda
How do you spend your free is a big chance to make friends from other countries. Now I have friends time? from more than 10 countries.
Whenever I have free time, I try to spent it in a properly way, for instance, [by] playing soccer with friends, surfing the Internet and watching various movies. These activities make me busy whenever I am tired of studying. I am an amateur blogger and it can be said [it is my] hobby. Learning foreign languages are also interesting for me, but nowadays I am busy with my research. I do not have much time to do my hobbies.
What is the hardest thing to get How did you decide to come to used to in Korea? Korea? Nothing was difficult except for Actually, when I was about to graduate my University in Uzbekistan, we had a Korean language teacher and once she told me about the history of Korea. From that point I found the culture and history of Korea is really interesting. At that time I decided to continue my study in South Korea.
food. For the first time, Korean food seemed to me sour but [adaptation] did not take too much time.
What is something you enjoy doing the most here? The international atmosphere. That
What advice will you give to other international students that want to come to Korea. Korea is an educationally friendly country and promoting higher education in every possible manner without discrimination of race, gender and religion. On top of that, Korea has one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most comprehensive quality education systems. More importantly, Korea offers an academic, social and cultural experience of the finest quality. I would highly [advise] Korea for those who are going to continue [their] education abroad.
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Yakult ajumma: Yellow-clad yogurt saleswomen By Katrin Marquéz
B
etween the complexity of the drinking culture, the prevalence of sweet potato everything and multiple levels of speech, newcomers to Korea encounter all manner of culture shock. Incoming foreigners usually prepare themselves with a culture guide or two, but one phenomenon still mystifies: the yogurt ladies. Witnessing for the first time an ajjumma rushing past pedestrians on what can best be described, as a motorized refrigerator is a sight like none else. While these ladies may cause confusion at first, their work has a surprisingly long history in Korea.
Only about a year ago, the yogurt ladies began using their motorized carts. According to the Wall Street Journal, the change came about due to increased competition from companies delivering similar products on trucks. Yakult wanted to improve delivery speeds, while retaining its yogurt-lady model. Some adjustments required giving many yogurt ladies driver training, so they would not intimidate or endanger the surrounding foot traffic. Yakult Ladies have attained cult status with many comics drawn and articles written that predicting the next generation ladies will use a self-driving cart or computerized full-body armor to satiate that summer thirst.
May 2016
The opportunity also presented a challenge. Because the Korean dietis not heavy on dairy, some consumers worried about this new food, especially since the public mistakenly believed that the bacteria in yogurt were harmful rather than helpful.
Over the years, the means of yogurt-lady delivery has changed. At first, they used the original insulated bags. The yogurt had become increasingly popular as yogurt earned a reputation as a health food, so it became necessary to transport larger amounts. For a time, the yogurt ladies pushed the large, insulated carts when delivering yogurt to individual homes and selling it on the street.
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According to an article in the Joongang Daily, an earlier version of these ladies first appear in Korea during the 1970s when outside vending machines to purchase cold drinks were rare. Because refrigeration in such circumstances was not what it is today, the Korea Yakult company saw an opportunity – a fortune could be made in selling cool, refreshing yogurt drinks on the street.
In 1971, Korea Yakult hired about 50 women to sell yogurt from insulated bags. Though Koreans were unsure of this new dietary development, the yellow-clad yogurt saleswomen proved successful. Mere months after Yakult launched the program, the number of “Yakult Ladies” had jumped to 13,000.
COMMUNITY
16 COMMUNITY LEADERS
Meet Kelly and Jeff Global Families of Gwangju (GFOG)
story By Namhee Cho Photo by lorryn Smit
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
May 2016
The
number of internationals in Gwangju such as Easter and Halloween, which were a prime part of has grown significantly. Whether they their cultural upbringing. The gatherings gradually grew are temporary tourists or permanent as more colleagues at the Language Education Institute in residents of the city, nowadays internationals have cre- Chosun University settled in Gwangju. ated more opportunities for Koreans to speak foreign languages on the streets of Gwangju. A few areas in town “There are more than 20 staff members in the university even resemble Itaewon by attracting more people from who have a Korean-International family” said Kelly withabroad than locals. Often these hot out a surprise. Since 2009, they have orplaces become a birth place of some ganized regular gatherings among those of the foreign groups and communi“We are now at the multinational families in order to inteties that develop from sharing comboth Korean and other cultures tobreaking moment” grate mon interests and goals. gether. It was 2013 when they had their first event involving more than a few hunThe founders of Global Families of dred not only international but also local Gwangju(GFOG), Kelly Kim and Jeffrey Hamilton have residents. Kelly and Jeff found last year’s Halloween was apparent common grounds. They are both married to a great fun and fruitful. With the support from Robert HolKorean spouse, they share the office together, and they ley, the founder and head of Kwangju Foreign School who love and frequently think about Gwangju. At first, the provided the venue and facilities for the event, the Harry group was only a small gathering, a barbeque for five Potter-themed Halloween celebration was a big hit. international families within their office. Their primary intention was to integrate western family culture into During the day, children could participate in various Korean society and, thus, celebrating big western events, events such as costume plays, guessing flavors of Bertie
17 Bott’s Jelly Beans (magical beans from Harry Potter) and watching the Gwangju Performance Project’s performance. It was like a festival for both local and international families, especially for children to get along together and exchange culture. Because all events are held in English, it gained attention from Korean families hoping their children be exposed at an environment where they can meet people from abroad. Kelly and Jeff are the only members of the organizing committee and it seems that they do all the work from planning to organizing the events. Of course, their friends and colleagues give them plenty of hands. However, the events would not be possible without the help of the Korean volunteers - mainly their students from the university. “75%~80% of the participants are Korean and some of them are our regular Korean families joining the event. We always seek more assistance, especially for administrative issues in Korean,” said Kelly. “We are now at the breaking moment,” said Jeffy with a little concern. To decide whether to expand the group or not, Kelly and Jeff need more hands. Organizing such big events twice a year requires commitment and sacrifice. However, Kelly and Jeff have dedicated themselves to creating better community. At first, all the funds for the events were coming out of Kelly and Jeff ’s pockets. It has been only two years since GFOG first received subsidies from the Global Community Support program of
the Gwangju International Center. They still seek more assistance from the community of any sort. On Saturday, April 23rd April, “GFOG’s GREAT EGG HUNT” was held for Easter at the Chosun University Amphitheater. To enjoy various games like potato sack races, fishing, and egg hunts as well as crafts and decorating activities, children and their parents could gather and have a pleasant family time. No other organization in Gwangju offers international family oriented events like GFOG.
Find out more about GFOG on Facebook or website, https://gfog.wordpress.com/
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
May 2016
18 EXPAT LIVING
COMMUNITY
KakaoTaxi
By Hyerin Shin
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
May 2016
The
chat application Kakao Talk has been downloaded by over 100 million users worldwide. In March 2015, Kakao Talk launched its new service, Kakao Taxi. Unlike other taxi reservation services, this application is cost-free. As twothirds of the Korean population has downloaded Kakao Talk, it was easy for Kakao Taxi to get 5 million downloads in its first year. On the day I tried out Kakao Taxi for the first time, the driver, Mr. Hong, explained how the service works. “Whenever you send a request via this service, an alert is sent to the driver who is nearest to you. So, it means that I was the one who was nearest to your location when you requested a ride.” He said, “Most of my customers who use Kakao Taxi are in their twenties and thirties. They commonly use the application at rush hour and on late weekend nights.”
A step-by-step guide to using Kakao Taxi: The first time you start the application, you will be required to enter your phone number to confirm your usage of the application. The application shows your starting point by tracking your phone’s location. Pin the destination on your map. As soon as the nearest taxi driver checks your registration, his name, license plate number and location will pop up on your phone. When your taxi arrives, check the license plate number to be sure it is the correct one. You can also send your taxi driver’s information to a friend as an additional safety precaution.
Caution: You may cancel your registration if you grab another taxi before your reservation arrives, but keep in mind that this inconveniences the driver. If you cancel your reservation frequently, Kakao Taxi will block you from using the service temporarily.
HEALTH
19
Hide Your Children, Hide Your Respiratory Systems, Yellow Dust Season Is Back! by Tayani van Eeden
What is “yellow dust season?” For generations in Korea, spring has meant the approach of “yellow dust season”, which is a climatic phenomenon originating in the dry deserts of China and Mongolia. Dense clouds of fine soil particles are picked up by strong winds and blown across Eastern Asia.
So how worried should people really be? And, what can we do to protect ourselves?
Environmental ministers from China, South Korea and Japan meet annually, but thus far the talks have not resulted in much more than tree planting projects. China has independently increased its renewable energy investments by over 400 percent during the last decade, but even so, it is estimated that pollution cost China roughly 3.5percent of its GDP in 2010, and the country’s life expectancy has decreased by almost 6 years. Korea has made significant strides in combatting air pollution, resulting in Seoul’s average concentration of PM-10 falling to almost half its usual numbers in 2012. But until China matches its efforts, Korean residents will have no choice but to continue to seal up their windows and close their doors.
May 2016
As with most matters in Korea, it all depends on age. Yellow dust can create visibility problems, irritate soft tissues in the eyes, nose and throat and can cause respiratory and cardiovascular problems in the very young and elderly. Korea has a three-tiered warning system run by the KMA (Korea Meteorological Association) that can be checked for appropriate safety recommendations on a daily basis – albeit in Korean and using Internet Explorer. Alternatively, “Asia Air Quality” is a free and easy-to-use app. When a dust storm hits, residents are advised that sensi-
Sadly, not just any mask will do. Most masks are insufficient in protecting against the truly harmful particles in yellow dust. PM-10 are airborne particles 10 micrometers or less in diameter which slip right through cloth masks and are the main cause of respiratory problems. To be safe, you can go to your local pharmacy and request a mask that meets KFDA standards. Look for the Yellow Dust Mask (황사마스크) on the packaging. Dr. Kang also stresses the importance of disposing masks after a single use.
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
Due largely to increases in industrialization and deforestation in China, dust storms have become much worse in recent years, often carrying harmful oxides and toxic waste. These storms used to occur mainly between the months of March and May, but according to local physician Dr. Seung Gwan Kang, of Geo Med, an increase of patients are suffering from yellow dust pollution recently. Worst, storms are being reported all-year-round now, with some clouds dense and strong enough to travel as far east as the United States.
tive groups (the young and the elderly) remain indoors, and that everyone in the general population drink a lot of water, remove their contact lenses if used, avoid strenuous outdoor activities and wear long sleeves and facemasks outdoors.
20
..
Jurgen Hinzpeter By Katrin Mรกrquez
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
May 2016
In Memorium, for the Keeper of May 18
ter struggling to gain approval from his superiors—who were away on assignment and thus hard to contact, Hinzpeter left for Korea anticipating that reaching Gwangju would be difficult. A day after arriving in Gimpo Airport he and two colleagues made their way to Gwangju with the assistance of a Korean driver. In a 2008 feature titled “An Eyewitness Report of the Kwangju Citizen’s Uprising” Hitzpeter recalled how, in order to be allowed into Gwangju, he lied that he and his colleagues were looking
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
May 2016
enough to reach Gwangju for a secA German cameraman then working ond time on May 23, when he filmed out of Japan, Hinzpeter filmed the a rally during which a crowd of more only known footage of the May 18 than 15 thousand residents sang the Massacre—an event that would have national anthem and the mother of a significant impact on his life. a victim spoke through tears. RepreOn January 25 Jurgen Hitzpeter died sentative of the citizens would at the age of 79 following a batlater attempt to negotiate with tle with illness. The experience of the government; negotiations bearing witness to the massacre “Greatest Threat to Democracy failed and the city was stormed proved transformative for Hinon May 27th. is uneducated citizenry.” zpeter even more than a quarter of a century later. Though he Images of abuse remained passed away in his hometown of logged in Hinzpeter’s head as Ratzeberg in northern Germany, he for their boss who they had lost in the years passed and he continued to wished to be buried in Gwangju. the city. Once allowed into Gwangju visit Gwangju—often time to speak despite the martial law restricting with the May 18 Memorial Foundapress access, Hitzpeter was confront- tion and other such organizations. It ed with masses of people explaining was the images in his film, however, that the military had killed civilians that most mattered for the people of through the night. Gwangju—images that validated the stories of citizens even as the governHitzpeter filmed throughout May ment tried to suppress knowledge of 21 and 22. During that time, he had the massacre. For years most Korean Amnesty International representa- new little about those days, but Hintives describe the human rights vio- zpeter’s footage proved irrefutable lations they had seen on camera and proof of what really occurred. While documented how the military had Hinspeter’s work was essential in tellHitzpeter started his work in ARD- taken over a government building ing the world the story of Gwangju, it NDR—a German television net- to use it as a central office. Bodies is perhaps most meaningful because work—in 1963. Even though he had were piled around the building. At it continues to teach new generations years of experience by the time he least one of the local news stations— of Koreans about their own history. travelled to Korea to cover the up- MBC 9—had been destroyed by fire. In 2003, the film Blue-Eyed Witness, rising and subsequent massacre, Fearing that he would not be able May of 1980, was shown on KBS. Ushe once told The May 18 Memorial to distribute the footage if he didn’t ing Hinzpeter’s footage, it tells the Foundation that the Gwangju mas- personally take it to Tokyo, he left for story of the May 18 Massacre. After sacre remained the most horrific Seoul with the intention of returning watching it, one blogger aptly wrote event he had seen. “I reported from as soon as possible. He smuggled the that the “Greatest Threat to Democthe Vietnam War and from the war film out of Korea by disguising it as a racy is uneducated citizenry.” in Cambodia, but I had never seen wedding gift in a large tin of cookies. anything like what I saw in Kwangju Mere hours after sending the footage While Hinzpeter may have passed, - young people, school children and to Germany from Tokyo Hitzpeter his impact on Gwangju and thus Kostudents were deliberately shot in the flew back to Korea. Hoping to show rea, has not. head” he said. the people of Gwangju what the outside world knew, Hinzpeter atHinzpeter decided he wanted to cover tempted to smuggle-in Japanese the uprising while stationed in Tokyo and Western newspapers when he as a cameraman for ARD-NDR. Af- returned. Hinzpeter was fortunate
FEATURE
The
brutality of the May 18 Massacre is perhaps only fully understood by those of us who were not there through the images that remain. Those images are the work of Jurgen Hinzpeter.
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22
A Pain Unscathed The May 18 National Cemetery
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
May 2016
Story By Carol Smith photos by Lorryn Smit
Korean
patriotism is commendable and admirable. Many places in Korea uphold the country’s unique culture and forbearance. Older folk regularly sing old tunes to express their genuine love of country, plainly visible in their eyes and tone. Korea remains a nation that has surpassed many painful struggles, one of which is the seemingly forgotten May 18 Democratic Uprising. The May 18 National Cemetery is refuge for almost two thousand souls, the estimated death toll during that time, as well as to more than three thousand people who were either injured or went missing during the uprising. It was established to commemorate the victims and give province residents the peace they wanted. The uprising was so tragic that to these days many still leave the cemetery teary-eyed after learning about Gwangju’s not-so-longago plight. People who visit these places often end up awed and mystified by the beautiful scenery and landscapes which uphold the victims of the so called “o-il-pal” (오일팔) revolution. For foreigners and those who visit the outskirts of Gwangju, the erection of the monument and management of a haven for the souls sacrificed during the uprising is quite commendable. It may seem fitting and sufficient for visitors. Yet, for those who reside in Gwangju and especially for those who witnessed the chaos, it is not.
“Only a few people in Gwangju know about the ‘o-il-pal’. Many Koreans often simply shrug it off because they know little about it”
FEATURE
23
Many survivors still grieve the loss of a child, relative or friend. The sight of their names in templates of silver or gold or on mounds of soil cannot eradicate their pain or sooth their spirit. For many Koreans, the consequences of the uprising are a sad, forgotten truth or a lost memory. “Only a few people in Gwangju know about the ‘o-il-pal’. Many Koreans often simply shrug it off because they know little about it” said a professor. Though the number of sacrificed lives during the uprising is accounted for, the cemetery remains a symbol of the struggle that claimed young souls—souls that created a better Gwangju, a better Korea. May the cemetery be a place of reflection and learning for the younger generation. The cemetery should not just be a place to flaunt seasonal luxuries. It should be a place that speaks to Korea’s courage and unified goal- Let it be a pain unscathed.
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
May 2016
24
Jeju
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
May 2016
Lessons From The Past:
Interview by Murdock Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Mooney photos by Lorryn Smit
25
An Interview with May 18th Survivor and Social Activist
Dr.
Kang can still remember the first gunshots of the Gwangju Uprising. He wasn’t Dr. Kang then, but 18-year-old Kang Yong-ju. It was May 18th, 1980 and he was sitting in a bakery on Chungjang street in downtown Gwangju. He was meeting some girls from Chonnam Girls High School, when he says he not only heard the first shots, but felt the concussions from them as well. It was in that instant, Dr. Kang said, that he “felt a rage well up inside and decided to take action.” That was around 2pm. “By 5pm” he said, “There were helicopters in the sky and military troops on the ground.”
mind, he was standing up for democracy and honoring the victims of May 18th, by continuing their struggle. This strength and determination cost Dr. Kang his freedom, as he was sentenced to life in prison in 1986, under a National Security Law. He was considered an enemy of the state. “I was the only one of my mother’s 9 children to go to college,” he told me. “You can imagine how hurt she was to see me go to prison.”
FEATURE
Dr. Kang Yong-Ju
In all, Dr. Kang spent 13 years and 8 months in prison before being released by presidential pardon in 1993. But one would never know he had endured such hardship by meeting him. He is friendly, even jovial, and tries to make those around him feel at ease. We met in a busy cafe near the Asia Culture Center. He arrived dressed smart yet casual, in a sport coat and jeans. He made jokes and smiled often.
The next day at school, he met his friends and discussed what he had seen. Terrible stories of shootings and beatings circulated. The more they talked, the angrier they became. The school took notice, and Dr. Kang and his friends “Until human rights are rewere called into the principal’s office and told not to join the garded obviously, like flowers in protest. It was dangerous and the field, or the air we breathe, they had no place there.
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
May 2016
It became clear to me that Dr. Kang wants to create positive change in the world, through the lessons of his hardship. He there is work to be done.” does this in a number of ways. Despite the principal’s warnBesides being a medical docing, Dr. Kang and his friends tor, he is also the director of the left school after 4th period and headed downtown. When Gwangju Trauma Center (GTC)- a facility devoted to asked why they didn’t stay away from the protest, Dr. helping victims of May 18th overcome physical, psychoKang explained “We were young and so we were brave logical and emotional challenges. and courageous.” He also uses his experience to educate others about deI didn’t get the full account of what Dr. Kang experienced mocracy, social activism and human rights. during the Gwangju Uprising, but know that it included gun battles with Korean Special Forces and witnessing Looking forward, Dr. Kang would like to see more scholthe bloody uprising firsthand. In an interview for Torture arship on May 18th. “If you don’t remember the lessons Magazine in March of this year, Dr. Kang said that at one of the past,” Dr. Kang warned “there is always a chance point during the fighting he “threw his gun to the ground of repeating.” He claims that while there exists a May 18 and ran away.” The guilt of this action haunted him and Institute at Chonnam National University, they haven’t led him to activism as soon as he entered university. published much in recent years. He also says democracy in Korea is healthy, but he would like to see greater rights Once there, he became involved in a Gwangju activist given to minorities and the working classes, as well as group called “People’s Struggle,” or Mintu in Korean. Dr. more “creativity” in politics. This creativity includes more Kang was a vocal leader and called for the boycotting of negotiation between political parties (not just majority presidential elections across Korea. This act led to his ar- rule) and more grassroots movements in Korea, such as rest in 1985 by the Agency for National Security Planning the $15 per/hour movement in the USA. (ANSP). For 35 days Dr. Kang was brutally tortured, and deprived of food and sleep by the ANSP. They wanted When asked what aspect of the Gwangju Uprising peohim to confess to his involvement in a “foreign student ple should reflect on this May 18th, Dr. Kang’s answer spy ring”- a false accusation. was simple: “Human rights.” He explained, “Until human rights are regarded obviously, like flowers in the field, or But Dr. Kang refused to admit any wrongdoing. In his the air we breathe, there is work to be done.”
26 AROUND KOREA
Beyond Tea
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
May 2016
TRAVEL
Discovering Boseong
Photos and Story By Ryan and Stephanie Hedger
27
C
overed in stunning countryside and sprawling farmland, South Jeolla Province boasts a number of picturesque small towns. Best known for its green tea fields, Boseong is a wonderful place to visit for a relaxing weekend surrounded by natural beauty. Boseong is largely driven by the green tea production industry, but has capitalized on the popularity of green tea by promoting the town as a tourist destination as well.
Green Tea Fields
The largest and most-visited green tea plantation in South Korea is Daehan Dawon (보성녹차밭 대한다원) in Boseong. Open year-round, the terraced hedgerows of tea plants are beautiful in any season. In the summer you can enjoy cold foods like green tea ice cream and buckwheat noodle soup from various venders within the grounds, and in the wintertime you can sip a cup of hot green tea after walking the snow-covered paths between the tea shrubs. There is also a lovely, serene bamboo grove near the entrance to the tea fields, which provides a peaceful departure from the small crowds of people visiting Boseong.
Tea Museum
A bus or short drive away from the famous tea fields lies the beautiful south coast of Korea and Yulpo Beach. Not only is the beach surprisingly long, stretching over a kilom-
You can find most necessities in the town near Yulpo Beach, as well as the fitting Yulpo Green Tea Spa. With saline water pumped from deep under the bedrock, this spa infuses the water in its baths with green tea extracts and oils. A trip to this spa is not only relaxing, but very healthy and enriching to your overall wellbeing. While not famous for nightlife or shopping, Boseong offers respite from fast-paced life in Korea’s densely populated major cities. Long after you leave this beautiful town, the delicate flavor of the local specialty will bring back memories of Boseong.
“While not famous for nightlife or shopping, Boseong offers respite from fast-paced life in Korea’s densely populated major cities”
About the authors: Two wanderlusts from Oklahoma, Ryan and Stephanie sold all of their belongings and moved to South Korea in 2013. They are the duo behind Hedgers Abroad and have fallen in love with travel, photography, and South Korea. Be sure to head over to their blog for more of their travels. Blog www.hedgersabroad.com Facebook: /hedgersabroad Instagram: /hedgersabroad
May 2016
Yulpo Beach
Yulpo Green Tea Spa
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
To complement the visual beauty in this agricultural area of South Korea, the Tea Museum of Korea (한국 차 박물관) is located next to Daehan Dawon and provides excellent information on the history of the tea fields. Since the Baekje Era, Boseong has been an important producer of Korean green tea, which was used for international trading and commerce. Within the museum, visitors can experience the different stages of tea production from field to cup.
eter, but the sand is finer and softer than many of the beaches on the southwestern coast. The swimming is excellent in warmer months.
28 WHERE TO EAT photos by joe wabe
#mondayoffplease
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
May 2016
by sean dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;angelo
Eat, Drink, Dance
A music school graduate with a passion for Euro lounge, street culture, and everything chill, Park is omnipresent in his little restaurant. With an open kitchen, open walls, and a massive open patio, you get to see every move Park makes no matter where you sit. About the only thing more open than his kitchen is the ever-jovial Park himself. Alternating between spinning sizzling pies behind the counter and spinning cool tracks on the weekends, he works double-time to bring his own affable rhyme and rhythm to the table with every meal; fostering an environment conducive to fun, laughter, and perhaps even love… crispy, cheesy love.
Address: 광주광역시 동구 장동로 7 Open Tuesday-Friday 3pm-1am, Saturday and Sunday 1pm-1am. Reservations and takeout available, 010-4415-0084. On Facebook, Twitter and Instagram #mondayoffplease.
May 2016
But what about the food? Much like you would expect at an Italian trattoria, the pizzas are small, liberally sauced with a scattering of toppings, the polar opposite of the Chicago deep dish. Like a tortilla, the crust holds the sauce, and one pizza per person is a good rule to follow
Indoor seating is limited, so visit during the warmer months to take full advantage of the patio. Though the restaurant’s cozy charm is its defining feature, take-out is also an option for those willing to order forty minutes in advance. To find the new Monday Off Please, head to the back of the Asian Culture Complex near the huge solar array; cross the street towards Kunst bar; enter the alley near the curvy street art; and then, take the first little turnoff to your left.
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
At first glance, the place looks like a pizza-by-the-slice pit stop - a good place to grab a bite to go. This illusion of the common is complete with self-service pickup at the bar, a menu of generic beers served in clear solo cups, modestly priced pizzas at 12-18,000 won, and sides like fries, wings, and hot dogs. Upon closer inspection, the modern décor, candlelit patio, selection of fine wines, imported moonshine, and hip, youthful clientele, bespeak a haven built for the socially mobile, artistic elite. One of Gwangju’s most venerable expats dubbed it “the Starbucks of Pizza”, and you would be hard-pressed to find a more apt analogy. The staff ’s attention to culinary excellence — from the daily ritual of making fresh dough, to the crisp fresh ingredients and homemade sauces — is a cut above professional. This is a restaurant that caters to all tastes and budgets, from the aspiring student artist to the upper crust business professional. And that is all part of Park’s grand vision: affordable food, lasting friendships, priceless memories.
when ordering; or sample them all as a group. Park has been perfecting his version of the Neapolitan close to seven years now, and has honed his menu to the essentials. Cheese, margherita, diavola, and carbonara pizzas hearken their classical roots. While, Hawaiian, jalapeno, and spinach salami pizzas are the international crowdpleasers. The Gorgonzola pizza is pure deliciousness with no honey drizzle or cranberries in sight. And, for a touch of humor there is the bacon potato, but loaded with fries and bacon bits instead. Paired with an affordable 5,000 won glass of table wine (or a 130K bottle of Moet & Chandon if you prefer), any of the pizzas would make an admirable lunch or late evening affair with the ladies. Or, just order a Heineken and a slab of bacon steak with your buddies.
FOOD & DRINKS
What
do you get when you mix pizza with jazz? Pizzazz. If you have been in Gwangju over a year, then you may already know Monday Off Please for its modern aesthetic and simple but smashing menu of Neapolitan-style pies, glistening with freshly drizzled olive oil. It is a restaurant at the cutting edge of Korea’s love affair with authentic European cuisine. Moreover, Monday Off Please is rather atypical among Italian fusion joints outside the capital. The focus is threefold: good pizza, good ingredients, and great atmosphere. Now with a new space in Dongmeungdong, owner Park Jaeman is updating his restaurant, creating a venue that combines café, restaurant, club, and bar. Park has big dreams for this rising cultural hub, and it all starts with his slogan “Eat, drink, dance.”
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30
Japchae: Tangled Delight
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
May 2016
By Namhee Cho photo by Joe Wabe
F
early 17th century, he was allured by the taste of Japchae created by one of his lieges, Yi Chung, consequently rewarded him by promoting him to the position of hojo panseo (equivalent to the Secretary of the Treasury).
In the hierarchy of Korean noodles, Japchae solidly stands on the top. The royal dish is always present at the scenes of Korean birthday parties, wedding receptions and one’s 60th birthday party (A full cycle of the Chinese Sexagenary taking sixty years makes the birthday significant). From the Diaries of Gwanghaegun, the king of the Joseon Dynasty in the
At the time, the original Japchae did not resemble what we are familiar with. As stated in umsikdimibang (飮食知味方), the best Korean cuisine recipe of the past and the first Korean recipe to be written by a woman in East Asia, Japchae was made out of thinly shredded vegetables and mushrooms, such as cucumber, daikon and shiitake. Not until 1912, the first dangmyeon (glass noodles made from sweet potato starch) was adopted from China and manufacturing factory was built in Pyeongyang by a Japanese resident, and since then,
rom the Korean staple -Ramyeon(라면)- to rice noodles, it is hard to find a Korean who is against noodles. Last year, South Koreans ranked number one in the world in terms of instant noodles consumption per year according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. It clearly shows that we are living in the kingdom of noodles.
the versatile noodles became the primary ingredient of Japchae. Glossy noodles with a colorful mix of vegetable and sesame seeds sprinkled on top, a single serve of Japchae contains all 5 essential nutrients thus making it nutritionally rich and healthy. It is a pity that there are not any Japchae-specialized restaurants in town. However, there is no need to feel disappointments. We still consider Japchae a royal food but we have only put aside on the table. Look for Japchae at side dish stores in your neighborhood. Once you get used to conventional Japchae, try other variations without noodles such as green chili pepper, Korean chives and soybean sprouts. And see if you can feel its regalness.
31
LOST IN GWANGJU
5.18
Memorial Park
By Calen Cygan photos by Lorryn Smit
In
the bustling neighborhood of Sangmu, you will find the treasure that is 5.18 Memorial Park. Created as amemorial to the students who lost their lives while ting a stand in the country’s democratic movement, the park features a stunning monument and sculpture garden along with a mausoleum in remembrance of those students. Around the base of the mausoleum, you can find the names of the nearly 250 who lost their lives.
For those looking for a thrifty souvenir to remember their time in Gwangju, the free market in 5.18 Park is a mustsee. Boasting a wide array of vintage items from Buddhist
This area is also very convenient, not just for its location in relation to Pedro’s House, but also for the many large shops and department stores in the area. Anything you may be searching for can be found at two of the large chain stores, E-Mart and LotteMart, both a short walk. The 5.18 Memorial Park and surrounding neighborhood of Sangmu provide experiences that make Gwangju interesting and unique. Pedro’s House and Voyagers Café are located in Ssangchon-dong, Seo-gu. Pedro’s House is a comfortable and convenient guesthouse for friends from out of town or family visiting from abroad. Come check out Voyagers Café for a getaway experience without leaving Gwangju. Check out the travel books while enjoying a wide variety of beverages and snacks from around the world” www.pedroshouse.com
May 2016
Another wonderful component of the 5.18 Memorial Park is the teahouse. It is a great place to visit while walking through the park, to relax with a fresh cup of tea and to watch people enjoy the park for gatherings and picnics. Or, bring a blanket of your own and take your tea to-go and relax in the lush greenery that is the central park of Gwangju.
As night falls, head up to the observation deck to get gorgeous views of Gwangju, as the city lights up. Head into the neon streets of Sangmu to grab dinner or a drink at the multitude of cafes, restaurants, and bars; or catch a film at nearby Lotte Cinemas. Uncheon Reservoir is close and an ideal spot to watch the sunset color the water oranges and reds. www.gwangjunewsgic.com
The uprising and subsequent loss experienced in 1980 has been turned into a beautiful commemoration in the form of a little forest tucked inside the big city. Within this sprawling green space, you can find a variety of entertaining activities. A gorgeous Buddhist temple is complete with a bookstore full of essential Buddhist literature and other wonderful souvenirs. Inside the temple resides a handful of monks and nuns, including a Canadian nun who holds a weekly mediation class Saturday. The temple also has delicious Buddhist cuisine which you can learn to cook yourself during cooking courses.
artifacts to antique tea sets, you are bound to find something unique. And for those sports enthusiasts, the park also hosts a sports complex where you can play basketball, badminton, ping-pong, or even swim without breaking the bank.
32
Photo Essay
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
May 2016
It’
s two o’clock in the afternoon of a random Tuesday in Seoul. I stroll through the streets, looking out for a man I made a photograph with last week. We shared a moment as he sanded back an old guitar. I watched him work, and asked him about his day. We chatted for a few minutes, and I asked if he would mind me photographing him. Permission was given, and I shot three frames of film. We shook hands, and that was the end of our encounter that day.
“
This was not the first, nor the last, time I would give a print to a complete stranger.
”
33
â&#x20AC;&#x153;
May 2016
Story and photos By Dylan Goldby
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
Searching for a Story
34
As I hand him the print I have made, his eyes light up, and the smile that crosses his face does not leave for the next half hour. He quickly locks up his shop and insists that I join him for lunch and a drink. As we eat a mixture of vegetables and pork drowned in a fair dose of gochujang, I get to know more about a man who has lived through the entire development of his city, and watched his culture change in the face of modernity.
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
May 2016
This was not the first, nor the last, time I would give a print to a complete stranger. Whenever I photograph in the street, I will carry a small printer with me, or return with a print for those I have photographed. Without fail, this has led to deeper experiences and human connections than I could have hoped for. I do the same thing while traveling, which again has shown me a side of the people I meet that I could not have seen without sharing what I have to offer. From small villages in Myanmar to fish markets in Japan, the reaction is the same. If you take the time to craft an image of a person, and then the few seconds to share it with them, you open yourself up to so much more than just a quick frame for your own collection.
35
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
May 2016
36
Photos of The Month
S
Words by Lorryn Smit
pring in Korea, what an amazing experience! The icy cold winds and freezing cold temperatures have finally left us. Nature is back to life. A wide range of beautiful flowers appear from everywhere and colors are painted all over. This year the blossoms were particularly beautiful and wonderfully timed, blooming all at once in a harmonious wave across the city. In this issue we decided to embrace the beauty of spring and therefore a collection of local, spring-themed photographs have been selected instead of just one. I hope you find inspiration in the vibrant colors and reckless blooming of spring. Enjoy!
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
May 2016
Photo Joe Wabe
Photo Jocelyn Wright
Photo Lorryn Smit
37
Photo Abhishek Sahu
Photo by Thin Phat Cao
Photo Jaypee Capiral
Photo Duy Quang Nguyen
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
May 2016
38
Community Theater:
Discovery By Boipelo Seswane
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
May 2016
Last
year I, along with Joey Nunez,(a former intern from GIC) had the immense pleasure of being part of the team that worked to bring The Truth About Love, Gwangju’s first community theatre project to life. The Truth About Love was conceptualised by Tori Brown and Jamie Oliver Jones through their Unpuzzled Theatre Company (UTC). Joey and I were on the team as their facilitators. It was the beginning of my return to theatre and I was more than glad to be able to be part of something that worked for the purpose of inclusivity, freedom and creativity. We worked on the project; an exciting, creatively inspiring 10-week long workshopping collaboration with members of the community from all walks of life, culminating in a performance at the end of the 10 weeks. With that collaboration, we worked at finding our truth in our experience of love. This year, we are discovering ourselves as humans and our relationships with the world. When Tori and Jamie left, they passed the baton on to Joey and I. And soon enough the time came for Joey to
bid Gwangju and Korea goodbye and he in turn prepared to hand the baton to me. When people ask me about the community theatre project, time and time again, I can’t find words better than these;The purpose- raison d’êtreif you will, of the community theatre project remains as strong as before: to bring together people from all walks of life to collaborate, share, create,, learn and hopefully walk away with new friends and having lived an enriching experience through the performance. One where they purposefully rediscover themselves and their role and place in the space of the community of Gwangju. This is how the theme for this year, Discovery (Self), was born. With changes and growth, you begin to recognise life as a place of constant change and discovery regardless of planning- sometimes it goes according to plan and sometimes it doesn’t and lessons are learnt, and experiences earned along the way. Life is this massive once-off trial; no manual. Just jump and go. Discovery: how we define ourselves and are defined by the world around us is a result of how we improvise when it’s required.
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Discovery will perform at Barim on May 7th at 5pm.
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
Workshop rehearsals began on February 14th with five of the ten weeks being open to allow participants to get comfortable with one another with preparation for the workshop having begun in 2015 and finalised in January 2016. The relationships established during The Truth About Love have been carried through; rehearsals have been taking place at the Haewa Space in the Chonnam University Backgate area with assistance from Kim Eunkyoo and support from the Gwangju Performance Project (GPP). Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been exciting and wonderful as a few participants from last year have returned to take part in this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s workshop.
May 2016
40
Korean Film Review
ARTS & CULTURE
By Martin Miller
I’m a Cyborg, But That’s OK
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
May 2016
In
the fall of 2006, Park Chan-wook released a romantic comedy which was unlike other films of the genre. Additionally, this film was profoundly different in scope than his earlier productions, and perhaps more noteworthy revenge-porn films, such as Sympathy for Lady Vengeance, and the cult classic, Oldboy. As we shall see, while revenge in its “purer” forms allows for a certain linearity in plot, this is not exactly the case in ‘I’m a Cyborg, but That’s OK.’ The film takes place almost entirely within a mental hospital in some remote region of South Korea, revolving around a troubled protagonist named Im Soo-jung, played by Cha Young-goon, and an electrician-turnedpatient Park Il-soon, played by the pop-star Rain. Younggoon is convinced that she is, in fact, a cyborg, thus setting the stage for a conflict of identities and institutions which the film slowly acknowledges. It is very easy to talk about pluses and minuses in this film. Production-wise, the color and sound schemes
are very well thought out, and the wide-swooping camera shots from inside the hospital heighten our sense of slightly archaic wonder at the action unfolding. (The first appearance of Young-goon in the hospital hallway is masterful in this respect.) However, it is also important to note how the mentally ill are visualized. Throughout the film, patients are set upon the hospital grounds and interior acting is exhibited in the most “expected” ways. Arms flailing, walking backwards and wearing strange masks, the characters reveal the worst stereotypes which have been exported from the West. It is unclear whether the director is attempting to blow these stereotypes out of proportion or to pander to them in an effort to benefit the main plot as it unfolds. This film is deceptive in plot as the relationship between the cyborg and her friend progresses towards greater tenderness and affection. Marketing or reviewing this film as a love story would seem accurate up until its latter stages. For example, Il-soon does, through sweet and sappier means, enable Young-goon to eat by pretending to install
41 a device within her which can convert food to electrical energy. Additionally, there are other smaller acts of couple-sque kindness which can be found in popular South Korean visual marketing cultural techniques. However, to its credit, the film slowly subjugates this relationship under a larger scheme, and more nebulous relationship between Young-goon and herself emerge. The latter 30 minutes of the film reveal a series of flashbacks and visions in which Young-goon attempts to hear the ending of the phrase which her grandmother utters as, “... the meaning of life, is …” With the help of Il-soon, she deciphers the ending of this sentence and sets out to make good on this secret oration. While attempting to actualize this scene, the film is showing the lead character’s ability to become essentially more human by asking the toughest of existential questions. This desire to know herself is made possible only after she has reconciled her cyborg identity within the confines that her world has given her. Once she breaks through her own taboos about revealing her true robotic identity, she begins the quest to find out what it really means to be herself: a cyborg in the world today. It does not matter who or what she is, but rather that she continues on this journey of self-discovery. Thus, the title of the film rings truer than ever. She is a cyborg, and she is okay.
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
May 2016
42
Buddha’s Birthday The Voice of
“Han”
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
May 2016
ARTS & CULTURE
by Kelsey Rivers
Photos By Lorryn Smit
43
W
ith the warmth of spring upon us, trees and plants are bursting into a profusion of leaves and blossoms. Flowers, however, are not the only colorful herald of spring and the coming heat of summer, for whimsically multi-colored paper lanterns that dance in the breeze are beginning to ornament the typically spartan grounds of Buddhist Temple complexes throughout Korea. Not only is this a sure sign of the arrival of spring, but a reminder to all that Buddha’s Birthday is just around the corner.
Those who are not Buddhist can also participate in the celebration, as the temple grounds are open to anyone, and all are heartily welcomed. On this auspicious day, curious visitors may well be kindly treated to a delicious meal, perhaps “bibimbap”, a healthful vegetarian mix of rice and fresh vegetables, itself a seemingly culinary celebration of the end of winter and the abundance of spring. And with some luck, the air will be warm and the sky a clear blue on May 14th, so Buddha’s Birthday can be happily celebrated by Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike in the wonderful spring sunshine.
May 2016
From an outsider’s perspective, one of the most striking sights during the spring season is the displays of lanterns which begin to adorn temple buildings, gateways and surrounding streets in preparation for the holiday. On the holiday itself, these strings of cheerful lanterns tantalize passersby to enter the temple
grounds to enjoy the festivities during the day, while in the evening, lotus lanterns light up the night, which are symbolic of Buddha’s compassion and wisdom as a light in the darkness of the suffering world. Lanterns play a central role in this celebration. Visitors to temples may attach a tag inscribed with their hopes and wishes to the simple lanterns strung up in temple courtyards, and processions of intricately-worked and elaborate lanterns are the main event of many of the spectacular parades organized in celebration of Buddha’s birthday. The soft glow of these lanterns truly contributes to the magical ambience of the parades and festivities.
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
Buddha’s Birthday, known in Korean as either 부처님오신날 (“the day when the Buddha came”) or 석가탄신 일 (“Buddha’s Birthday), is one of the most important holidays in Buddhism, and celebrates the revered life and teaching of Siddhartha Gautama, that is, Buddha. Although the exact date of his birth remains unknown and open to speculation, in Korea it is celebrated on the eight day of the fourth month of the lunar calendar. This year, according to the Western Gregorian calendar, the holiday falls on Saturday, May 14th. As one of the most important religions practiced in Korea, Buddhism has had a profound effect on the country. Designating the birth of Buddha as a National Holiday is but one such minor effect of its influence, allowing both Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike to enjoy a day off from work. Unlike Christmas, another (ostensibly religious) holi-
day which is now marketed in Korea more as a couples’ holiday than anything else, Buddha’s Birthday is a festive occasion that seems to strike closer to a religious foundation, with temples organizing events and activities that showcase traditional Korean culture, and inspire practitioners to reflect on their faith and their adherence to Buddha’s teachings.
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Gwangju Animal Shelter: Volunteer Dog Walking
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
May 2016
SPORTS & ACTIVITIES
by Douglas Baumwoll Photos by Brian Kim
If
you know dogs, then you know that a key pleasure to their lives is the daily time spent walking with their owners. Nose to the ground, they relish their daily escape, sniffing at the life they find encoded in the odors covering asphalt and grass alike. Imagine then, what it is like for these sentient, emotional beings when this basic part of life is denied them. Unfortunately, for the 200 or so animals who currently call the Gwangju Animal Shelter home, this is their reality. Now, the shelter does provide an acceptable home for these abandoned animals, but it is no Shangri La. Due to funding and staff shortages, these furry friends are not walked on a daily basis, sometimes going for a full week without leaving their cages or pens. To help mitigate this problem, the shelter has accepted Lisa Crone’s offer of volunteers walking the canines. In early 2016, Crone created the Gwangju Animal Shelter Volunteering group (see the Facebook group), which boasts 70 members. About 10 foreigners show up every Sunday to walk the dogs, as many as 40 or 50 of them in one day, to relieve the stress and pent-up energy that comes with these dogs’ lives in a cage. Crone observed, “When we arrive at the shelter, the dogs are all barking and jumping up and down against their cages, but after we walk them, as we leave the place, they are all resting quietly, usually lying down and seem, for the moment at least, to be visibly content.” Crone’s group has focused on walking the 30 bigger dogs, mostly Jindos, who are a notably wilder breed than smaller breeds also housed at the shelter. “We don’t know if these dogs will be euthanized or find loving homes, but
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Please check the Facebook group page for more informa-
May 2016
The shelter manager’s name is “Papa,” so called because he is like a father to all of the dogs. He has a helpful, dedicated staff and some Korean volunteers as well. The shelter also houses about 25 cats and kittens, cared for by the “cat mother” on staff.
tion. If you like walking and cuddling dogs and cats and crave a bit of loving animal contact and companionship, come to a weekly walking event (usually Sundays). There are plenty of dogs who particularly crave human contact. Finally, if you are interested in short-term fostering of a shelter animal (up to one year) who will eventually be permanently adopted by a third party, contact Crone through the Facebook group for further details.
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
we can at least improve the immediate quality of their lives by walking them,” says Crone.
46 can be handled via email or group documents that can be shared for simultaneous interaction. LH: I agree: technology is amazing! In-person group projects, though, did generate some wonderful camaraderie. Interaction with and feedback from professors?
Comparing Distance and Face-to-Face
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
May 2016
EDUCATION
Master’s Degree Programs By Lindsay Herron and Maria Lisak Are you thinking about pursuing a master’s degree? Summer courses are starting for many distance programs, so now is the perfect time to take a course online to see if you like it. And if you are not sure whether to earn your degree in person or through distance learning, there are a few key differences. Maria Lisak earned an MBA in person at Loyola University (New Orleans, USA) as well as an MSEd in Instructional Systems Technology (IST) by distance from Indiana University (USA). Lindsay Herron completed an in-person MA in cinema studies at New York University and an MSEd in Literacy, Culture, and Language Education (LCLE) by distance at Indiana University–Bloomington (USA). Both are currently completing distance EdD degrees in LCLE at Indiana University.
How Do Face-to-Face and Distance Programs Compare in Terms of… Interaction with peers and social support? LH: I definitely feel closer to my classmates at NYU. I think there are more opportunities for personal con-
versations in a face-to-face program; even brief exchanges commiserating about the weather or a particular TV show can deepen a sense of personal connection. Online interactions tend to be more focused and on-topic. ML: I did my MBA at night school, so social interaction was limited because people worked. I only got close to people who were also full-time students. Online, it was a mixed bag, ranging from the amazing (insights from people already working in our field) to the awful (I had a group member chastise me in front of our group on Skype). Another difference was how I was taught to work in groups. There was no coaching in my face-to-face courses; the instructors just expected students to have good people skills. In my online courses, they gave prompts and guidelines for how to do successful group work online.
Ease of completing group projects? ML: Online, group projects were easy to complete technologically. The learning management system, Oncourse, had live chat, and I have used Skype at all hours of the day and night for meetings. But most things
ML: Amazing, for my online program. Face-to-face was a mixed bag; how much time they would give you depended on what value you added to their research interests. LH: The professors in my distance program were very responsive, sending quick and helpful replies to emails. The professors at NYU were also fantastic, and their office hours ensured that they were very accessible.
The format, workload, and assessment? LH: The workload was approximately equal for me – about 8–10 hours per week per class. The in-person cinema studies program mostly included readings, film screenings, and lectures, with assessment through essays, presentations, and in-class discussions. The distance program had a greater variety of formats: video lectures, non-synchronous forum discussions, synchronous video chats, group projects, online quizzes, essays, and more. For most classes, we were expected to synthesize and cite class readings in forum posts each week, then respond to each other’s insights. This, I think, is a key difference: for an in-person class, if you do not finish the reading, you can usually sit quietly in class and just listen. In an online class, your forum posts can easily reveal your lack of effort or understanding.
47 ML: My face-to-face program focused on declarative knowledge with a little bit of on-the-job training and experiential learning. Assessments in the form of tests and grades were rarely helpful. In-class feedback on my work and others’ work was more helpful, though. My online program was amazing, but I studied a major that taught how to teach online! Lots of projects and tasks were incorporated into the larger semester requirements. Assessment was frequent to help you improve, so you could always resubmit assignments. It was not just a grade to get, a test to pass, or a credential to obtain. I studied because I wanted the knowledge to help me be a better scholar, teacher, and citizen.
Recognition of the degree (e.g., by potential employers)? LH: People sometimes look down on distance degrees, but only because they do not know how rigorous and challenging online programs can be. But so far, I have not had any problems getting either degree recognized. (My distance degree was just for my own personal development, though. It has not affected my position or salary at all.)
ML: I was 28 years old with no substantial work experience and a newly minted MBA in 1993. I could barely get interviews, and I found internships on my own, not through any university-related organization or contact. However, when I applied to teach in Korea, my MBA was very attractive to Sisayongosa, and I got hired for many prestigious teaching courses. My online degree has been seen by my employers, past and present, as very prestigious. My university is well known in Korea. My department, IST, has an extraordinary number of wellconnected Korean graduates here. And IU is one of the best schools in the United States for a master’s in IST. I think I have my current job partly because of my university affiliation.
Cost? LH: A lot depends on the university, the cost of living, and the funding the program offers. I did not receive funding for either degree, but for the distance program, I had a reliable income and a reasonable cost of living in Korea, so it was not difficult to pay approximately $550 USD per credit. (The degree was 36 credits total, usually 3 credits per class). By contrast,
Place: Gwangju National University of Education
•Presentation 1 by Justin Ancheta: social issues arising in the EFL
For more details: Website: http://koreatesol.org/gwangju
Overall personal preference? LH: Each has advantages and disadvantages, and people will have different preferences and priorities. Personally, I will complete my doctorate degree by distance. ML: I would love to go back to the slow life of cafes and beer halls and socializing that goes with face-toface master’s degrees. Preference, I think, is about lifestyle. Do you need to work? Are you living in a foreign country? Then an online program is a great advantage. Do you have the resources to leave your career to go back to school? Most people cannot afford that, but the life of a full-time student-scholar is enticing.
Lindsay Herron is Treasurer of the Gwangju-Jeonnam Chapter of Korea TESOL (KOTESOL). Lindsay is a visiting professor at Gwangju National University of Education, where she has taught for the past six years. She is also presently the National President of KOTESOL. Maria Lisak is a past President of Gwangju-Jeonnam KOTESOL. She is currently an assistant professor at Chosun University. On behalf of the Chapter, they invite you to participate in the teacher development workshops at their monthly meetings and special events.
May 2016
classroom •Presentation 2 by Jessica Ives: Language learning activities for the EFL classroom •Swap-shop Session: Present your own ideas, activities, and advice •Reflective Practice Session (11:00 a.m.)
ML: I think in 1993 a semester at my face-to-face program with four courses cost me $30,000 USD. My online degree was free, except for any books I needed to buy, because of a state scholarship.
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
Gwangju-Jeonnam KOTESOL Monthly Meeting Date & Time: May 21, 2016 (Saturday), 1:45 p.m.
the in-person program cost more per credit and had a higher cost of living in New York City. I worked part-time, but I still wound up owing nearly $30,000 USD in student loans.
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Inside Korean Culture
Was the US Government Involved in the May 18th Democratic Uprising?
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
May 2016
by Stephen Redeker
The
month of May is sacred in Gwangju and the Jeollanam-do region as a month to remember the May 18th Democratic Uprising which occurred on that date in 1980. Citizens of Gwangju protested against a government led by Chun Doo-hwan, after he took power through military force. Martial law had been imposed by the government and at that time, universities had been shut down due to pro-democracy discussions and marches. Freedom of the press was all but non-existent. Years of political discontent had come to a boil. The people wanted democracy. On May 18th, students and soldiers began fighting at the gate of Chonnam National University. Protests became violent and hundreds of people (including innocent bystanders) lost their lives in the battles between Chun’s soldiers and Gwangju protestors - still controversy exists because
many facts are unknown. Tim Shorrock, a Washtington, DC-based investigative journalist, grew up in Japan and South Korea. Gwangju Mayor Yoon Jang Hyun awarded him an honorary citizenship for his research into the United States’ connection to the May 18th Uprising. This was a proud honor for a decades-long quest to publish the truth about the event that has shaped the country we live today. Under the Freedom of Information Act, stacks of documents from the US State Department, Pentagon and CIA were collected and studied by Shorrock. In them, it clearly shows how President Carter’s administration had given the go-ahead to South Korea’s military leaders to dispatch the special forces from the DMZ and quell the peoples’ uprising in Gwangju (as carried out by General
49 John Wickman, commander of the Korea-US Combined Forces Command). This had already been known following the years after the event took place, thus leading to a strong anti-USA movement with many Koreans during the 1980s. Only recently though, has the extent of US involvement been unearthed. Secret plans and orders from the US government sent to William Gleysteen, the US envoy to Korea in 1980, codenamed the “Cherokee Documents”. The Korean-US joint Command, approved ten days prior to May 18th to maintain law and order through military force if needed. . Prompted by massive protests that had already begun at universities nationwide. In one document, containing the detailed minutes of a White House meeting on May 22nd, President Carter agreed that Gwangju Uprising required military force to stop it. This decision came despite the knowledge that the situation had escalated because of the killing of unarmed protestors. On May 27th, before dawn, South Korea’s army returned to the city and took back Gwangju, which was known as Operation: Fascinating Vacations. Shorrock also commented on the allegations that North Koreans were behind the Gwangju revolt against the government. He claims the US observed no North Korean activity or troop movement at that time. During those years, heavy surveillance by US intelligence would have noted if there were any North Korean involvement. Also,
the possibility that six hundred North Korean troops had secretly infiltrated Gwangju to carry out the uprising was a preposterous idea. Given this information and proof that the US government sided with the rule of Chun Doo-hwan (and Park Chung-hee before that), it certainly leaves a black mark on history, especially when, the Gwangju people hoped for US intervention as they fought oppression. Instead, the USA sided with authoritarian rule and martial law enforcement. Coming from an ideology claiming to support human rights, US’ choice was shocking indeed to many Koreans. Thankfully, democracy prevailed to restore Korea after 1987. The lessons of the May 18th, 1980 Democratic Uprising will never be forgotten. It may have been a short campaign; it may have been crushed by a USbacked Korean government ; but it will have always been a righteous and necessary movement. Everyone believed that democracy and freedom were worth the fight. Today, we honor the memories of those and know their sacrifices are not in vain.
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
May 2016
50
On Happiness
OPINION
by Choi Shi-Yong
I www.gwangjunewsgic.com
May 2016
ask my Australian friend out of curiosity about what makes her happy.
to be happy.
She is willing to tell me that she is so pleasant when she reads the Bible. It means a lot to her. It is like eating a juicy fruit such as an apple and a pear. In other words, she eats spiritual foods day after day. She never misses attending “Discipleship” and “The truth project” every Sunday which are the group meeting for the Bible study.
My Korean friend who is an elementary school teacher complained to me the other day that he wants to quit his job because he cannot stand the rudeness of the unruly students during class. However, when his some students he taught visited him when he was at the hospital, he was happy. When he found a bunch of flowers on the desk from students on Teachers’ day, he decided to stick with his job forever.
My Canadian friend speaks to me proudly that she has made New Year cards by handwriting and that she has sent them to her 150 friends with warm wish. When I got her card in January without any expectation, I was moved to tears. She made my day without doubt. Her card was incredibly amazing.
My American pastor who lives close to my house within five minutes eagerly suggests me that we take taxi to go to the church. However, I want to walk to the church for ninety minutes on the calm Sunday morning. While I know that walking uphill on the way to it is physically demanding, I need my own time on Sunday mornings.
My British friend likes to play basketball all day long, even during the chilly winter season. Some people may blame him that he doesn’t study a lot at the library, because he will graduate university soon and must get a job. However, everyone has his own way of finding happiness. He tells me frankly that he is happy at the basketball court without being obsessed with worries about his life. I am sure that he is responsible of his future. He shoots the ball
For me, walking is praying. I want to be oblivious of my worries and pray for a better solution. Walking is mediating. While I walk on foot, I hum along to my favorite Gospel songs. During the walk to church, the breeze softly touches my
51 face and the skies seem to look higher and higher. The clouds are flowing faster. The air around me smells more balmy. The nature enlivens my spirits. When I entered the service hall at church, I hear worship teaming singing “Amazing Grace.” My Sunday morning is more than perfect!
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Gwangju News.
Attorney Attorney Park’s Park’s Law Law Firm Firm We're ready to serve your best interests in legal disputes. www.gwangjunewsgic.com
We provide affordable consultation & representation.
▶ Areas of Specialty contracts, torts, family law, immigration, labor ▶ Civil & Criminal Attorney Park, Duckhee
Services available in Korean, English & Chinese
#402 Simsan Bldg, 342-13 Jisan-dong, Dong-gu, Gwangju Location: next to Gwangju District Court
Tel: 062) 222-0011 Fax: 062)222-0013 duckheepark@hanmail.net
May 2016
former judge, GIC board member
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Talk to Me In Korean Coffee Shop
Common Phrases
사이즈 어떤 거 드릴까요? [ssaijeu eotteon geo deurilkkayo?] :What size would you like? Many cafes in Korea use the English words for sizes, but the smallest size is often called “tall” and a bigger size is often called “grande”, which is similar to a very wellknown and internationally recognized cafe chain. Although the words “small”, “medium”, and “large” are often used for other types of sizes, for example, clothing, and are widely understood, these terms are not commonly used in cafes. 따뜻한 걸로 드릴까요, 차가운 걸로 드릴까요? [ttatteutan geollo deurilkkayo, chagaun geollo deurilkkayo?]: Would you like it hot or cold?
Answers:
따뜻한 거요. [ttatteutan geoyo] = Hot, please. 차가운 거요. [chagaun geoyo] = Cold, please. 음료 나오면 진동벨로 알려 드릴게요. [eumlyo naomyeon jindongbello allyeo deurilkkeyo.] : When your drink is ready, we will let you know through the pager. Most larger cafe chains in Korea will give patrons a pager that signals when an order is ready. Most pagers just light up and vibrate, but some have a screen that shows advertisements, which unfortunately cannot be turned off. Here are the names of some popular beverages and snacks that are relatively easy to remember. Many of them are actually Konglish (Korean-English).
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May 2016
아메리카노 [amerikano] café americano; long black 에스프레소 [eseupeuresso] espresso 카페 모카 [kape moka] café mocha 카페 라떼 [kape ratte] café latte 카푸치노 [kapuchino] cappuccino 핫초코 [hatchoko] hot chocolate 레몬차 [lemoncha] lemon tea
녹차 [nokcha] green tea 머핀 [meopin] muffin 샌드위치 [ssaendeuwichi] sandwich 케이크 [keikeu] cake
This is an extract from the book, Survival Korean, available at MyKoreanStore.com
Talk To Me In Korean and Seoulistic are proud to present to you: Survival Korean! Survival Korean includes the most essential Korean phrases you need to know while traveling or living in Korea. The expressions come with detailed explanations as well as fun and useful information about the situation where they are used.
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Community Board Have something you want to share with the community? Gwangju News community board provides a space for the community to announce clubs’ activities and special events. Please contact gwangjunews@gic.or.kr for more information. GWANGJU INTER FC The Gwangju International Soccer Team (Gwangju Inter FC) plays regularly every weekend. If you are interested in playing, email: gwangju_soccer@yahoo.com or search ‘Gwangju Inter FC’ on Facebook. UNESCO KONA VOLUNTEERS Our group is a registered organization that helps underprivileged kids to learn English Independently through storybooks and story-maps. We are looking for long-term volunteers who desire to enrich their lives. We are asking volunteer to commit to helping at least once a month.
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APRIL 2016
For more information please visit http://café.daum.net/konavolunteers or our Facebook group UNESCO KONA VOLUNTEERS or contact Kim Young Im 062-434-9887 email konacenter@gmail.com
COMMNUNITY CLASSES AT GIC Weekends
2016 GWANGJU INTERNATIONAL CENTER KOREAN CLASS
Art Club – Room 5, 2F 12:30 - 3 p.m. Saturdays Participation fee varies depending on Class theme and material FB page: Gwangju Art Class *The regular class will resume in midFebuary.
The Gwangju International Center (GIC) provides Korean classes to international residents in Gwanjgu and Jeolla provinces. which help them learn Korean and understand Korean culture. Please join our Korean classes to improve your Korean skills with our awesome Korean teachers! Tuition Fee: Weekdays classes 120,000 won (100,000 won for GIC Members) Saturdays classes 90,000 won (70,000 won for GIC Members - How to register: Try online registration through the GIC website www. gic.or.kr or drop by the GIC - More information: Jeongmin Lee, the GIC coordinatior (email: language@gic.or.kr / phone: 062.226.2733)
GWANGJU Petit à Petit 쁘띠 따 쁘띠 프랑스 그룹 – Room 5, 2F 4 - 6 p.m. Saturday, December 5 FB page: GWANGJU Petit à Petit 쁘띠 따 쁘띠 프랑스 그룹
GIC Book Club – Room 3, 2F 4 - 6 p.m. Saturdays FB page: GIC Book Club COMMUNITY GROUPS IN GWANGJU
Gwangju – 광주 Gwangju Flea Market Gwangju Pets Gwangju Freecycle Gwangju Performance Project Global Families of Gwangju Gwangju EPIK Teachers Gwangju-Jeolla Job Bank Ladies of Gwangju and Vicinity Gwangju Yoga Gwangju Veggies
WE ARE LOOKING FOR WRITERS! Get involved and make Gwangju News an outlet for you to express yourself. For more info: gwangjunews@gic.or.kr Gwangju News is only as great as it is because of the community it serves, and the writers, photographers, layout designers and proofreaders within it who regularly volunteer their services.