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September 2012 Issue No. 127
On The Cover:
Jen Lee
A sketch of an artist
Gwangju World Music Festival Chatting with the talent
Mixing it with Travvy G GFN’s colorful host
www.gwangjunewsgic.com
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www.gwangjunewsgic.com
September 2012
ON THE COVER Cover Photo: Jen Lee. Jen is famous for her comic “Dear Korea” which highlights Korean culture and its people through the eyes of a foreigner. The comic is featured every month in Gwangju News. Photograph: Courtesy of Jen Lee Read full article on page 12
THE EDITORIAL TEAM Publisher: Shin Gyonggu Editors: Kathleen Villadiego, Kim Minsu Online Editors: Caitlin Jacobs, Maeve Storey Assistant Editor: Stephen Redeker Creative Consultant: Warren Parsons Copy Editors: Darren Bean, Jon Ozelton, Bradley Weiss Coordinators: Karina Prananto, Jung Jayeon Layout Designer: Karina Prananto Online Technical Manager: Carl Hedinger Assistant Site Administrator: Nathan Fulkerson Proofreaders: Heinrich Hattingh, Daniel Lister, Andrew Sweeney, Eva Ryan, Bradley Weiss
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Researchers: Kim Jiwon, Kim Wooyeon, Hwang Yeongwook Gwangju News is published by Gwangju International Center Address: Jeon-il Building 5F, Geumnam-no 1-1, Dong-gu, Gwangju 501-758, South Korea
Phone: +82-62-226-2733~4 Fax: +82-62-226-2731 Website: www.gwangjunewsgic.com E-mail: gwangjunews@gmail.com Registration No.: 광주광역시 라. 00145 (ISSN 2093-5315) Registration Date: February 22, 2010 Printed by Logos (Phone +82-62-444-8800)
Travel Documents: The How-tos
wikipedia
Publication Date: August 29, 2012 Gwangju News is a monthly English magazine written and edited by volunteers. We welcome your contributions for proofreading, copy editing, administration, layout/design and distribution. Please write to gwangjunews@gmail.com and tell us your area of interest.
Special thanks to the City of Gwangju and all of our sponsors. Copyright by the Gwangju International Center. All rights reserved. No part of this publication covered by this copyright may be reproduced in any form or by any means - graphic, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise - without the written consent of the publishers. Gwangju News welcomes letters to the editor (gwangjunews@gmail.com) regarding articles and issues. Articles and submissions may be edited for reasons of clarity or space.
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The Origins of Han Gwangju News September 2012
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Contents regulars
features 11
Event Preview The 18th Gwangju International Community Day By Karina Prananto
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Local News This Month in Gwangju By Carl Hedinger
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Feature Fields of Opportunities: Expats Branch Out in Gwangju By BreeAnn Cowger
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Upcoming Events
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Photo Essay By Ken Lee
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Photo Contest
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Home Pages
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Culture Pure Bloodlines By Stephen Redeker
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Event Preview The Gwangju International Media Arts Festival By Adam Hogue
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Interview Sousou & Maher Cissko and Nueva Manteca By Adam Hogue
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Interview Yang Bang Ean By Andrew Sweeney
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Event Preview Daein Night Market By Angie Hartley
Language Study Letters to KOTESOL By Dr. Dave Shaffer
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Music In the Mix By Stephen Redeker
Language Study At the Bank By Jung Soo-a
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Art Korean Animation By Wil Rawlins
Literature Poems Inspired by Jiri Mountain Translated by Song Chae-pyong and Anne Rashid
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Travel Hiroshima/ Genbaku Dome By Matt Furlane
Food and Drink Kimchi Noodles By Kim Wooyeon
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Travel Travel Documents: What You Need to Know By Karina Prananto
Food and Drink Sangmu Lunch Specials! By Kim Sera
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Culture What’s in a Name? By Adam Volle
Fashion Fash-on with xxl jjdp: Hong Kong Hoodie-lums By jjdp
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Community Board
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Culture The 2012 Jisan Valley Rock Festival Review By Matthew Jenkins
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Perspective Did You Serve Your Time? By 8ball (Kim Dong-hun)
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Gwangju News could not be as great as it is without the help of our regular volunteers, and we’re always looking for new contributors and proofreaders. We invite
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Gwangju News September 2012
you to join us!
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Gwangju News September 2012
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This Month in Gwangju A brief roundup of news stories from in and around Gwangju
By Carl Hedinger
Gwangju World Music Festival In case the summer music festivals were too pricy or far away for you, feel free to visit Gwangju World Music Festival this month! Chonnam University will serve as the venue for the 3rd rendition of the GWMF for 2 days starting on September 7th. The Hub City of Asian Culture (HCAC) will host and wants to transform this jamboree into a “representative festival of the Asian Culture Complex.” Artists from around the world are planning to participate in this festival. There is no need to worry about finding a ticket online because admission is free. Enjoy! The M Orchestra On the 4th floor of the Bitgoeul Citizens’ Culture Center in Gwangju Multicultural (M) Orchestra practice room, one can hear orchestra members playing their instruments. These members are elementary students having an afterschool practice along with some ladies who have moved to Korea through marriage. The Gwangju M Orchestra was founded in October 2010, and now has eighty members from thirteen different countries. The orchestra owes its success to Kim Yoo Jung – a cellist who leads both the M Orchestra as well as the Gwangju Women’s Philharmonic Orchestra. After taking an interest and forming the M Orchestra in 2009, Kim started the “Talent Donation Music Sharing Project” in conjunction with the Gwangju Multicultural Support Network. The project served to help second-generation multicultural families facing difficulties in Korea. After organizing the orchestra, she opened the Gwangju Multicultural Music School for beginners in January of this year. Thirteen Gwangju Women’s Philharmonic Orchestra members and five volunteers help teach members how to play. The M Orchestra received gracious applause recently for a beautifully harmonious performance titled “Finding the way in Asia.” Through their tireless and dedicated work, Kim and her fellow volunteers certainly epitomize the idea of giving back and strengthening community ties. Projecting Past Ideas Toward the Future On August 8, the Reverend Paul Schneiss received a meritorious award given by the Gwangju May Mothers’ House and directed his acceptance speech towards the memory of May 18th. While the topic has thoroughly been covered in the news, the Reverend warned people that May 18th could easily be
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Paul Schneiss (front row, middle) on the May Mother’s Award Ceremony Photo courtesty of Kwangju Maeil Shinmun
forgotten. Reverend Schneiss explained, "Gwangju supports people to resist against violence and injustice through an awake consciousness and active inner voice. Gwangju is the starting point of a new history against violence, war and death." With that, he stressed we should remember what happened in the past. Before and after May 18th, he and his wife have been pondering over what should be valued in their lives. When the events of May 18th transpired, Rev. Schneiss and his wife were working as missionaries in Japan. In his speech, the reverend outlined his hopes that the memory of May 18 can serve to increase energy towards Korea’s unconditional unification. Regarding historical apathy, the reverend thinks we should reconsider the way to future generations. With a fresh approach, children will find it more difficult to forget about what has happened in their own country as well as throughout the world.
Ki Bo-Bae (right) posed after the award ceremony with fellow archers on the Team competition Photo courtesty of Kwangju Maeil Shinmun
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Ki Bo-bae and her Second Home Ki Bo-bae, originally from Anyang in Gyeonggi Province, won a gold medal in archery at the London Olympics. Normally, news about an archer from Gyeonggi Pronvice would not feature in the Gwangju News but there’s a twist here. While her hometown is Anyang, many Gwangjuites regard her as “Gwangju's daughter.” This is because she graduated from Gwangju Women's University, and now belongs to Gwangju as an archer. She possessed a gift in archery when she was young, but as she grew older, Ki’s skills
started to decline. The young Ki decided to leave home and entered GWU after high school. Outside of her studies, Ki continued to practice archery and finally came out of the long slump. Afterwards, Ki swept the board at several archery championships and eventually made it to London. Judging from her performances in the 2012 Olympics, you can see that Ki’s career in archery is still quite promising. Maybe she’ll claim Gwangju as home just as so many people here have proclaimed Ki Bo-bae as a Gwangju citizen.
[ GIC Talk ] Time & Place: Every Saturday, 3:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., GIC office (Jeon-il Bldg 5th Fl.) For more information visit www.gic.or.kr or contact gic@gic.or.kr Check out pictures from previous GIC Talks at http://picasaweb.google.com/gictalk Watch highlight clips of previous GIC Talks at www.youtube.com/GICTALK
September 1 Topic: Indonesia: Visiting The Biggest Archipelago in 30 Minutes Speaker: Ganis Zulfa Santoso (Indonesia)
A country with 300 distinctive ethnic groups and 700 different languages and dialects scattered throughout 17,000 islands. Each ethnic group is armed with their unique traditional clothes, food, ceremonies, buildings and dances making it one of the most cultured civilizations in the world. The beautiful and natural scenery of Indonesia will take your breath away as we will sit through the view of Bali, Lombok, Lake Toba and many more places. Indonesia is also home to a pile of unique flora and fauna such as the mesmerizing Komodo Dragon, Orangutan, Rafflesia Flower and many more that only exist in Indonesia. The history, politic, language and economy will also be discussed so you are well prepared if you want visit Indonesia as 30 minutes is not enough to enjoy Indonesia in its full beauty.
September 8 Topic: My Business Life Visiting 60 Countries and Living in 10 Speaker: Michael Raymond Wilson (Australia)
Michael has been in the International Hotel business since 1968. He did all his training with the InterContinental Hotels Group commencing in his home town of Melbourne Australia. Michael is married to a French painting artist, lady Gilda and has two sons. Michael has been a Board member of the Tahiti Tourist Bureau and the New Caledonia Tourist Authority. He has been Chairman of the Clark Visitor and Tourist Development Group and Chairman of the Tourism Advisory Council for the University of the South Pacific Michael and his family have lived in over ten countries and visited over sixty. Michael wishes to share his personal and professional journey highlighting some of the more challenging times and incidents as well as some of the more humorous encounters in their diverse life.
September 15 Topic: South Africa: Alive with Possibility
Speaker: Lynne van Lelyveld (South Africa)
Since the World Cup was held in South Africa in 2010, a lot more is known about this African country. However, there is still much confusion about the culture of this diverse country. What do South Africans look like? There are three capital cities? How many official languages did you say? This talk will introduce the culture and try to answer as many questions that you might have about this young country. There will not be much discussion and a Powerpoint presentation. The speaker will attempt to teach a South African dance and how to play a couple of musical instruments. Therefore members of the audience should prepare for a more interactive, handson experience. The most popular South African herb tea will be also shared with the audience.
September 22 Topic: The Intersection Between Computer Science and Government Speaker: Robert S. Wang (USA)
This presentation discusses how many of the common things we take for granted today such as networking, packet switching, interactive graphics, and time-sharing, were all funded and led by the Information Techniques Processing Office (IPTO) of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). It will also discuss, how forward thinking government scientists like Vannevar Bush and J.C.R. Licklider designed post-war institutions that allowed basic research to flourish in partnership between the government, scientists, and universities. This presentation argues that computer scientists should work in partnership with social scientists, who have insights into norms, institutions, and political power. Together, a timely balance must be negotiated between computer scientists and social scientists for citizens to live in a more stable, secure, and free world.
September 29 No GIC Talk due to Chuseok holiday
Gwangju News September 2012
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Upcoming Events Contributors: Kim Jiwon, Kim Wooyeon, Hwang Yeongwook (GIC Gwangju News Team)
Movies @ Gwangju Theater Address: Chungjangro 5-ga (two blocks behind Migliore) Phone: 062-224-5858 Films change weekly to bi-weekly. Check online for more movies, schedule and prices. For more info: http://cafe.naver.com/cinemagwangju (Korean) Carnage 대학살의 신 Genre: Comedy, Drama Starring: Jodie Foster, Kate Winslet Language: English Synopsis: One afternoon, 11-yearold Zachary swings a bat and breaks Ethan's front teeth while fighting. Zachary's parents Nancy and Alan and Ethan's parents Penelope and Michael gather for an amicable settlement. Things start rationally but soon turn to childish arguments. The fighting leads to one of the worst afternoons of their lives. L'enfant d'en haut 시스터 Genre: Drama Starring: Léa Seydoux, Kacey Mottet Klein Language: French Synopsis: Set in a ski resort at the foot of the beautiful Alps. A young boy, Simon, earns a living by stealing clothes and bags from tourists, while his older sister, Louise, seemingly earns an allowance for doing nothing. Simon thinks that if he looks after his sister, his estranged mother will return. PADAK 파닥파닥 Genre: Animation Starring: Hyeon-ji Kim, Young-mi Ahn Language: Korean Synopsis: A mackerel, named “Padak Padak” is caught by fishermen and held captive in the sushi restaurant's aquarium. In that fearful and hopeless place, there is an old halibut. He is a “fish of power” and everyone wants to know his survival tactic. However, Padak Padak doesn't give up his dreams to go back to the ocean and always tries to escape unlike the other fishes. Grape Candy 청포도 사탕 Genre: Mystery, Drama Starring: Jin-hee Park, Ji-yoon Park Language: Korean Synopsis: Seon-ju leads a placid life, and she is about to marry her longtime love Ji-hoon. She meets her childhood friend Sora unexpectedly and recalls a forgotten truth.
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Gwangju News September 2012
Exhibition Eternal Smile Exhibition 영원한 미소 작품전_미소전 Location: U-Square Culture Center (Kumho Gallery 1st and 2nd Hall) Date: Until September 5 Admission: free Phone: 062-224-7220 For more information: www.usquareculture.co.kr Special Exhibition for 2012 Gwangju Biennale "Desks are Desks." 2012 광주비엔날레 기념 특별전 "책상은 책상이다" Location: Gwangju Biennale Exhibition Hall, 111 Biennale-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju Date: September 9 – November 11 Admission Onsite: Single Day Ticket: Adults 14,000 won/ Youth 6,000 won (13 18 years old)/ Children & Senior 4,000 won (4 - 12 years old) Exhibition Pass: Adult 30,000 won/ Youth 20,000 won/ Children 10,000 won Phone: 062-608-4114 For more information: www.gwangjubiennale.org/eng/ 아트 : 광주 : 12) Art: Gwangju: 12 (아 Location: Kimdaejung Convention Center (Sangmunuri-ro 30, Seo-gu, Gwangju) Date: September 5 – 9 Admission fee: Free Phone: 062-670-7983 For more information: www.artgwangju.com International Climate & Environmental Fair Location: Kimdaejung Convention Center Date: September 13 –15 Time: 10 a.m – 6 p.m. Admission fee: Free Phone: 062-611-2122~3 Asia Content & Entertainment Fair in Gwangju Location: Kimdaejung Convention Center Date: September 20 –23 Admission fee: Free Phone: 062-611- 2241~4 For more information: www.acefair.or.kr Children's Picture Book, Happy Imagination 어린이 그림책전 (행복한 상상 ) Location: Gwangju Museum of Art Date: Until October 14 Admission: 500 won Phone: 062-613-7100 For more information: www.artmuse.gwangju.go.kr Gwangju Alive Gallery 광주 살아있는 미술관 Location: Gwangju Culture Art Center (Annex Exhibit Hall) Date: until December 31, 2013 Admission: 13,000 won for 14 years old and over / 11,000 won for 13 years old and under Phone: 1544-0412 For more information: www.alive-gallery.com
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Festivals 2012 Gwangju World Music Festival 광주월드뮤직페스티벌 Date: September 7 – 8 Venue: Chonnam National University, Yongbong-dong, Buk-gu, Gwangju Directions: Take the city bus (No 7, 18, 26, 30, 57). Get off at Chonnam National University. For more information: gjwmf.com Gwangju Imbangul Traditional Music Festival 광주임방울 국악제 Date: September 14 - 17 Venue: Grand Theater, Gwangju Culture and Art Center (광주문화예술회관 대극장) Program: Pansori (traditional Korean music), Gayageum performance, instrumental performance, etc For more information: www.imbangul.or.kr
This Month at Holiday Inn Gwangju Welcome to the September Edition about what’s happening and new at Holiday Inn Gwangju ITALIAN CORNER – 10TH FLOOR CLOUD LOUNGE Offering authentic Italian cuisine Choose from seven appetizers from 8,500 won, seven fresh pasta dishes from 17,500 won, three types of pizzas from 18,000 won and seven dessert selections from 9,000 won.
Gwangyang Gizzard Shad Festival 광양 전어축제 Date: September 7 – 9 Venue: Mangdeokpogu (Mangdeok Port), Jinwol-myeon, Gwangyang-si, Jeollanam-do Activities: Pansori (traditional Korean music), fishing, fireworks, concert. Directions: Take the bus to Gwangyang from U-square. For more information:www.gwangyang.go.kr/tour_culture Jeonju International Sori Festival 제11회 전주 세계 소리축제 Date: September 13 – 17 Venue: Sori Arts Center of Jeollabuk-do, 31 Sori-ro, Deokjin-gu, Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do. Features: Kim Hyeongseok with Friends, Pansori Five Batangs, Evening for Sanjo. Directions: Take the bus to Jeonju bus terminal from Uspuare, take the city bus number 165 at Jeonju University or Jeonju Zoo and get off at Sori Arts Center of Jeollabukdo. For more information: www.sorifestival.com Bulgapsan Lycoris Squamigera Festival 제12 회 영광 불갑산 상사화축제 Date: September 21 – 23 Venue: Bulgapsa (Bulgap temple), Bulgapsan (Mt. Bulgap), Bulgap-myeon, Yeonggwang-gun, Jeollanamdo. Activities: Memorial ceremonies, tea ceremonies, Hanji (Korean traditional paper) craft, writing contest Directions: Take an intercity bus to Yeonggwang from Usquare and take a city bus to Bulgapsa. Jangsu Hanurang Sagwarang Festival (Jangsu Korean Beef and Apple Festival) 제6회 장수 한우랑 사과랑 축제 Date: September 21 – 23 Venue: 472, Dusan-ri, Jangsu-eup, Jangsu-gun, Jeollabukdo. Activities: Madangnori (traditional Korean outdoor performances), fireworks, tightrope walking, magic show, local food streets, an apple show. Directions: Take an intercity bus to Jangsu from U-square. For more information: www.jangsufestival.com
Flame Grilled Australian Rib Eye Steak
Add 5,000 won to the price of the buffet and we’ll flame grill this great steak for you. Regretfully… Ex-pat Chef, Mr Eddy Willen had to return to his family in Vietnam. His replacement will be announced shortly. Thank you as always and we all look forward to welcoming you here at Holiday Inn Gwangju. Best wishes, Michael Wilson General Manager Holiday Inn Gwangju Michael.Wilson@ihg.com
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Performance Gwangju Municipal Chorus, Concert III 광주시립합창단 기획연주회 III Venue: Small Theater, Gwangju Culture and Art Center (광주문화예술회관 소극장) Date: September 6 Time: 7:30 p.m. Admission: Seat 10,000 won (50% discount for students under 19) Phone: 062-613-8245 Gwangju Symphony Orchestra – The 278th Regular Concert 광주시립교향악단 제 278회 정기 연주회 Venue: Grand Theater, Gwangju Culture and Art Center (광주문화예술회관 대극장) Date: September 21 Time: 7:30 p.m. Admission: Seat R 30,000 won / S 20,000 / A 10,000 won Phone: 062-524-5086 Musical - Marionette 뮤지컬 마리오네트 Venue: Democracy Hall, May 18 Memorial Culture Center (5.18기념문화관 민주홀) Date: September 7- 9 Time: Friday 8 p.m. / Saturday 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. / Sunday 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. Admission: Seat VIP 66,000 won / Seat R 55,000 won / Seat S 44,000 won Phone: 062-376-5197 Play - One-eyed Clown 연극 애꾸는 광대 Venue: Dongsan Art Hall, Gwangju U-Square (광주 유스퀘어 동산아트홀) Date: September 18 Time: 7:30 p.m. Admission: Seat R 10,000 won Phone: 062-959-6363 Gwangju Piano Duo Association – Gwangju, Jeju Exchange Concert 광주 피아노 듀오협회 – 광주 , 제주 교류 연주회 Venue: Keumho Art Hall, Gwangju U-Square (광주 유스퀘어 금호 아트홀) Date: September 22 Time: 7:00 p.m. Admission: Seat R 10,000 won for adult / 5,000 won for students under 19 Phone: 010-3642-1621
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Sports KIA Tigers Baseball Team September Match Schedule Date
Opponents
Time
1- 2 8 9 11 12
SK Samsung Hanhwa Doosan Lotte
5 p.m. 5 p.m. 5 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m.
Venue: Gwangju Mudeung Baseball Stadium (무등경기장) Directions: Take buses 16, 38, 51, 53, 58, 89, 95, 98, 151 and get off at Mudeung Stadium bus stop Ticket Price: Adults 7,000 - 13,000 won; Students (13 - 18): 4,000 - 9,000 won; Children (under 13: 2,000 - 6,000 won) Website: www.tigers.co.kr
Gwangju FC Soccer Team has no matches scheduled in September
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event preview
The 18th Gwangju International Community Day – A Preview Written by Karina Prananto Photos courtesy of Gwangju International Center EVENT OVERVIEW Name: The 18th Gwangju International Community Day Date & Time: October 6th, 2012 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Venue: TBA Highlighted Events: Country Pavilion, Community Booth, Stage Performance, Flea Market, Admission: Free!
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ne of the best annual events held in Gwangju, the Gwangju International Community Day (GIC Day) is an event where world cultures meet and share their unique characteristics with the local community. This year is no exception. The GIC, as the organizer, promises to bring forward a much bigger, better and more unique event featuring: the Country Pavilion, where international communities gather and present their traditional foods and exhibits as well as photos and souvenirs; the Community Booth, which will be more diverse than ever thanks to the ever-growing expat communities in Gwangju; a Flea Market, where you will find a vast range of items for sale; Performance and Experience Programs, where international communities can come and participate in an exciting atmosphere. The event itself will run for the whole day from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
As this is a community event, GIC also wishes for the participation from the community itself. We hope for your participation by joining the event programs itself, or if you are interested in joining as a volunteer, we open up positions for documentation (photography, videos), promotion or even helping us setting up or cleaning up the venue. Any kind of help will be much appreciated here. Interested individuals can join us by simply writing to us at gic@gic.or.kr and stating their areas of interest. Let’s make this day a day to celebrate the cultural diversities in Gwangju and the harmony of its citizens. We are looking forward to meet you at GIC Day!
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feature
Fields of Opportunities: Expats Branch Out in Gwangju Written by BreeAnn Cowger Photos by Heidi Haley and David Cowger Illustrations courtesy of Jen Lee
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“A
re you a teacher?” or “Are you a tourist?” are two of the most common questions that foreigners living in Korea may be asked, especially if they’re riding public transport with a backpack slung over one shoulder. While teaching or tourism may be some common reasons to be in Korea, they certainly aren’t the only opportunities available. As Korea continues to emerge on the global stage, more expats will continue to join the workforce alongside Koreans, and the range of jobs that foreigners occupy will continue to expand. As some expats on the frontlines are already discovering, jobs outside of the education realm can provide some unique added benefits. Twenty-five-year-old artist Jen Lee, from Houston, Texas, is working for a branch of Neon Pumpkin here in Gwangju. The Gwangju branch is called Neon Creation. Neon Pumpkin, and its branches, is an animation company with the primary goal of creating memorable, quality work for various clients. It also serves as a place for learning for those with a passion for animation. Neon Creation moved to the Gwangju Computer Generated Imagery (CGI) Center in April 2012 and is known for recently hiring many Gwangju citizens right out of college, as well as some promising talent right out of high school.
Jen is learning the ins and outs of the business with the hopes of one day stepping into the role of producer and, eventually, an art director. Jen has wanted to be an artist as far back as she can remember. Her mother was an artist, and Jen would watch her mother create when she was just a child. “According to my mom, I was drawing before I could talk. I grew up watching cartoons and I’ve always loved stories, but I was never much of a writer. So, I figured if I can’t write it, I might as well draw it.” The awe and admiration turned into sketches and art classes by high school, and became a full-blown talent once she graduated. Jen also applies her skills by creating the “Dear Korea” comic strip, which is featured in Gwangju News. Jen’s mother is originally from Seoul, so Korea seemed be a comfortable next step for Jen, after living briefly in Japan. Once in Korea, Jen worked for a kindergarten for a short time, before a series of extraordinary circumstances landed her at Neon Creation. Jen’s mother came to visit Gwangju the same time that the owner of Neon Creation was in the city. It turns out that the owner and her mother are old friends, and once Neon Creation saw how
Jen had flourished as an artist in the last few years, they had to have her. In a typical day of work, Jen has various projects she attends to. She works on designing characters and also does 3-D modeling on the computer. While she keeps a sketchbook filled with personal art, most of her portfolio work these days is done on a computer screen. She describes her workplace as casual and laid-back, and loves that she can wear what she wants to work. Jen is quick to point out some of the perks of the job. “In America, when you are on the clock, you have to be working and look busy. But here, I was surprised at how casual the atmosphere was.” Since it is a company full of artists and forward thinkers, the office atmosphere is relaxed and comfortable. There is also a lot of trust in her office, and Jen enjoys the independence that comes
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Photo by: David Cowger
Photos by Heidi Haley
along with it. No one looks over her shoulder, instead, just periodic progress checks to see how her projects are moving along. The close relationship Jen shares with her coworkers is another plus. They enjoy spending time with each other and when the new Diablo 3 came out, they even shared the experience of a new computer game together.
any job experience, and for Jen, the most obvious one rings true for most foreigners in Korea: the language barrier. Jen points out that most workplaces in Korea are also seniority-based, and the oldest guy is always right. She knows that you can’t question your superiors, and it is better to go along with whatever it is they may ask you to do. Jen’s advice to anyone looking for work as an artist in Korea would be to “know the culture, speak the language, and always have a good collection of your work with you.”
Even though she is the only foreigner at her job, she feels this title can sometimes provide positive added attention and interest in her. It also means that she can speak English, and can act as a liaison between her company and potential connections to American companies. She also can share the perspective of the Western mindset. Jen finds herself in a unique position as a Korean American, and this background brings with it some added responsibility. “A lot of Koreans expect me to follow Korean social cues, but I consider myself American, so sometimes there are more expectations placed on me.” There are some challenges that come along with 14
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Jen’s long-term goals while in Korea are fairly simple. She hopes that by the time she moves into her next phase of life, she will have created something permanent that will be memorable and recognizable in Korea. “While I’m here, I want to learn as much as I can, so I can take it back to America. I also would like to create something as a way of giving back to Korea, as a way of saying thanks.” The Gwangju community waits in anticipation to see what Jen’s next creative contribution will be.
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event preview
The Gwangju International Media Arts Festival Written by Adam Hogue Interpretation by Kim Wooyeon Photos courtesy of the Gwangju International Media Arts Festival
A
man in a suit wears a Che Guevara mask. Marilyn Monroe eats Che Guevara, Hitler eats Marilyn Monroe and then there is nothing at all. This is my recollection of Kim Gwangcheol's performance art piece on display at the Gwangju Museum of Art. It was tucked away in a corner right as you entered the exhibit. It was quiet, it was slow and it was fascinating. There was a certain anticipation that kept me rooted to the spot. I did not completely understand why, I was just fixed in a moment waiting to see what happened next. It simply was. This is what performance art does. It puts the art in real time; moldable, present, and open to instantaneous change. It invites people in and holds them there. Here's the good news: Performance art will be coming to Gwangju. It is art that is present and it is contemporary and it will be one of kind. As summer comes to an end, Gwangju will once again live up to its name as the City of Art here in Korea. From September 5th until the 10th, Gwangju will host 42 artists from over 15 countries for the first Gwangju International Media Arts Festival. The festival will be a mixture of video media and performance art that will take place throughout the downtown area. The title and theme of the festival is Comradeship: Amplification Network. Amplification is an explosion of potential energy, something which the festival sets out to explore. Kim Gwang-cheol is a contemporary Korean performance artist. He has performed his work in New York City, Miami and Austin and he currently has an installation on display in the Jin Tong Exhibition at the Gwangju Museum of Art. Kim is the director of the Gwangju International Media Arts Festival and an artist who
Arai Shinichi (Japan)
will be showing work in the festival that will take place here in Gwangju and in Anyang (near Seoul). A well known performance piece by Kim is a piece he has shown abroad many places called "20 Cigarettes." The piece shows the artist moving around an open space in silence and slowly he fills the space with crumpled paper, vertical and horizontal lines or tape. Over time, music comes into the piece and Kim himself becomes filled with the pieces he has thrown to the ground. This intriguing piece and it gives an idea of what is in store for the Media Festival. Another notable artist at the festival will be a Polish performance artist named Antoni Karwowski. Karwowski appears on the flyer for the event and Gwangju News September 2012
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Rocio Boliva (Mexico)
Yuen Kin-Leung (Hong Kong)
he will be one of the artists in residence, living and making art here in Gwangju during the festival.
modernism and post-modernism. As he explained, if modernism is a vertical line, exploring what is here and now, and post-modernism is the horizon line, exploring the freedom that exists in discovering what lies beyond, the festival will unite the two lines. It is a discussion about what is here now and what lies beyond the horizon underneath.
Performance art is itself an explosion of potential energy and anticipation of what will happen next. It is all at once mysterious, entertaining, amusing and thought-provoking. It is a message that doesn't always need a "why" question answered and it could easily just be or it could provoke action and response. The festival will use harmony and connection to explode the potential energy that exists and people are invited to take part in it. Kim, along with the other designers of the festival, is working with the idea that media is a connector and performance art is in the present. Each person has a message with the art and the artist is there showing it and explaining it. Kim explained that the use of digital media in the festival, while largely a 21st Century innovation, works hand-in-hand with performance art to unite elements of both
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To use Kim's example, the festival is like cubism. It is one event and you will see one event, but as you watch it, you will see many sides. We live in an accelerated society of accelerating capitalism and accelerating materialism. The idea of comradeship works to take art and contemporary artists from around the world and have each artist show a piece of the message of harmony. Each viewer will take a piece of that message away with him or her. The works are focused on the human body and about asking the intrinsic questions about our physical relationships and our physical communication in a superficial world.
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Myk Henly (Ireland - USA)
Performance art is about the now, not what will happen or what we should have or should do. It celebrates a connection that is always there between human beings, and between the artist and the viewer; it brings that connection to life. Kim says that “seeing and thought” are very important for both the viewers and the artist. It makes both sides listen and then depart with something bigger than they had before. The festival seeks to further the discourse and perception of performance art as more than something merely strange and entertaining. Performance art, media art and the arts in general have tremendous power in society. According to Kim, the Gwangju International Media Arts Festival sets “performance art as an esthetic body” to explore uncovered questions through the genuine functions of art such as various expressions, identities of society and individuals, and global exhibitions. The Gwangju International Media Arts Festival is being brought to Gwangju with the help of the Gwangju Biennale, Daein Market and the Lotte Gallery. The event will lead up to the Gwangju Biennale Round Table and it will add variety to the resurgence of artists and art festivals here in Gwangju.
The Gwangju International Media Arts Festival will take place from September 5 - 10. The festival is in the downtown area. Arti Grabowski (Poland) Performances and installations will be at the following locations: September 5 - 6 at the Lotte Gallery (in the Lotte Department Store near Daein Market) September 7 at Gungdong Art Theater in Art Street September 8 at the Biennale and Daein Art Market September 9 at the Biennale and Media X Gallery September 10 at either Chonnam or Chosun University (currently undecided) Exact times and schedules of the performances and installations will be posted as the event draws nearer. Keep your eyes peeled for posters in the downtown area and online. This is an exciting time to be in Gwangju; art is very much alive in this city, don't let anybody tell you otherwise. Come and check out the Gwangju International Media Arts Festival and become part of art in real-time. The festival is free and for the benefit of art for the public. Gwangju News September 2012 17
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interview
Gwangju World Music Festival:
Sousou & Maher Cissoko and Nueva Manteca Written by Adam Hogue Photos courtesy of Gwangju World Music Festival
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n just a few short weeks the world will be coming to Gwangju. On September 7th and 8th the Gwangju World Music will be taking place in venues throughout the city. Gwangju will continue to live up to its name as the “art city” as bands and artists flood into the city to show a glimpse of their home through music. Gwangju News had the chance to interview two of the groups who will be playing the festival this September. Music is a universal language that also carries within it great differences. Music is living history. It is the influences of culture that run deep wherever we come from, told and shared in song. In one place we can hear the wonderful diversity this world has to offer in a language we can all understand. It is what music does best. Sousou & Maher Cissoko is an afro-pop duo from Sweden and Senegal (half and half). Take a trip to their Myspace music page and one is met by an image of a vibrant van parked at what appears to be a festival. This serves as a testament to the music they make – vibrant music that everyone can enjoy. Sousou & Maher Cissoko are a couple that came together over the shared instrument they play. Maher came from a kora-playing family in Senegal. The kora is a stringed-instrument with a 700-year history. Sousou is from Sweden and she began playing the kora when she was 19. She went to study the instrument in Gambia and some time later she met the Cissoko family and Maher. The duo made a debut album Adouna in 2008 and they have been touring the world ever since. For a taste of their music, check out the song “Idong.” It is an optimistic and light song that shows what the duo is all about. Gwangju News (GN): Music listeners, especially Korean music fans, have been interested in such genres as acoustic and folk since as early as 1970s. Upon reflecting on folk music of the 70s, could you please explain in detail your acoustic and 18
Gwangju News September 2012
folk–based music by comparing and contrasting it to old folk music? Sousou & Maher Cissoko (SS & MC): Time. That’s the difference. Music with roots in the tradition and its head in today and tomorrow will change when today and tomorrow have changed. Before it was now-then, now it’s now-now. And also every tradition is different. One tradition could be similar to another one but not the same, never quite the same. The tradition from one part of or even one village in a country is not the same as the music from another part or village. And each family has their traditions. We both grew up in musical families where music was a part of the daily life – Maher in a kora-playing griot family in Senegal and Sousou in a folk, pop, blues and soulful family in Sweden. So our music is our music, our traditions mixed together with our personalities, and the time we play and live in, and also with different other music we´ve been listening to. In the griottradition that has been inherited in Maher’s family for over 700 years it is a part of the tradition to break the traditional “rules,” renew and to find your own way and that is what we are doing today. GN: As you know, we are hosting the 3rd Gwangju World Music Festival this coming September. Still, many people are not familiar with what “world music” means in terms of genres, sounds, meanings, etc. I think your nationality and musical style, which is Senegal and Afro-beat, respectively, fits well to the concept of our festival. So could you please tell me more about your music in terms of ethnic elements of your country and the nowpopular genre, afro-beat or afro-rhythm? SS & MC: We see “world music” as music without borders, music that brings people together. You can say that world music is different traditions, two or more, mixed together or just meeting and saying hello to each other. Or really any tradition from one part of the world playing together with any other tradition from another part of the world.
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Sousou and Maher Cissoko
So world music can sound in a 1000 different ways. If you ask 100 or 200 people what world music is you may get 100 or 200 different answers. For us no music or all music in the world is world music. It’s all depending on your perspective. We sing in different languages – Mandinka, Swedish, Wolof, English and French and we use instruments such as kora, djembe, guitar and bass. We create music from our hearts and souls with inspiration from our musical backgrounds with beats and rhythms from Africa and all over the world. Come and you will see! Nueva Manteca is a Latin-jazz group founded by Jan L. Hartong. He founded the group in 1983 and they have been blending Cuban music and jazz since then. They have the big band jazz sound with glimpses of Latin music and some great improvisation. One look at a live performance of the group online shows that they can really cook. Each member of the group adds elements to the sound that pushes the music further and further into places unknown. They play mostly original arrangements, and their music has been celebrated all over the world. They regularly top US radio playlists for top jazz albums and their success and abilities as a group is only getting better with time. They are not called “Europe's Finest in Latin Jazz” for no reason. Gwangju News: I heard that your group is praised as “Europe’s finest band in Latin jazz,” presenting a style, performance, and repertoire that are unique from other many Latin bands. So could you please elaborate more on these aspects for common music fans? Nueva Manteca (NM): Nueva Manteca is mixing all kinds of Afro – Caribbean traditions with other music such as Latin American or jazz or in this case rock
Nueva Manteca
music. We make our own unique blend, but we always have respect for the Latin traditions. The band started in 1983, so we have a long musical history together, which is what makes us a tight musical family. And another important thing is that we stay true to ourselves and never lose ourselves in a sort of trendy imitation of somebody else. GN: Your group is made of seven people, including two trumpets, a bass, an organ, and a sax, which looks to me like quite a large band. In comparison to pop or rock bands, what are the advantages of having more players in the group, or how effectively or harmoniously can these many players work together to make albums or perform at concerts? NM: The line-up is a mix between rock and Latin. The rock part is the electric guitar and the Hammond organ and the Latin part is the rhythm section. It is not very common in Latin music to have this combination. It combines the swing from salsa and the power of rock. Latin bands have originally always had horns and a lot of rhythm, so eight people in the band is quite a normal size. The music takes care of the harmony in the band so all the people in the band are just following the music. Come check out these two acts at the Gwangju World Music Festival and see the world of music as it should be seen – live and outside. Gwangju News September 2012 19
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interview
Gwangju World Music Festival:
Yang Bang Ean
Written by Andrew Sweeney Photo courtesy of Gwangju World Music Festival
With the Gwangju World Music Festival nearly upon us, I had the opportunity to interview one of the musicians playing, Yang Bang Ean (Kunihiko Ryo). The Japanese native, now 52, a multiinstrumentalist and prolific writer, speaks about his music, his excitement about playing in Gwangju and that mighty decision he made many years ago....
T
he decision he had to make happened almost 30 years ago. His family is landscaped by the profession of medicine as opposed to the world of music. His father was a doctor, as indeed are his siblings (he is the youngest of five children), thus his career path seemed to be pre-destined to say the least. While studying to become a doctor, however, music kept coming back to him to pursue. He tells very openly of the promise he made to his father that he would obtain a medical doctor’s licence before making any final decision, which he did receive. He graduated, he says, “by putting aside music for a while”. By keeping to his promise to his late father, he was now able he says “to judge both jobs objectively”. As a result it became possible for Yang Bang Ean to “choose” his career path, and he decided upon music. Since that decision, Yang Bang Ean has become extremely educated in the workings of music. He is a musician, composer for orchestra and commercial soundtracks, singer and producer, who has released nearly 10 albums, covering a myriad of musical genres. When asked about his music he speaks very passionately about his collection of work and sees his songs, admirably, as his “cute children” returning when he hears them being played on commercials or being used for video games. When his music has been used within the public and commercial world he states that “these are moments I became 20
Gwangju News September 2012
refreshed with the feeling that my music has returned to me like this”. It is something he is very proud of. The music of Yang Bang Ean covers many themes and emotions, the most prominent being hope. While he accepts that sadness and gloominess are important to express in music, “the message in the end is to look forward”. His music becomes “a strength” to him. It is this message he hopes to translate to his audience with the goal that his music will “fill up the heart and that energy is gained” for the listener. Yang Bang Ean has been to Gwangju several times and he sees it as “one of [his] favourite cities”. He is already looking forward to playing his set and when pressed upon what we can expect from his live show, he has some advice for us. Rather than analyze what is happening he asks us to “not think too much and enjoy the music”. Mirroring the sense of joy and hope he receives from being the creator and craftsman of his work, this performer emphasizes that “it is important that your body feels the music rather than head”. Yang Bang Ean will perform at the main stage of Chonnam National University for the Gwangju World Music Festival from 8:40 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on September 7.
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event preview
Daein Night Market Words and photos by Angie Hartley Acknowledgements: Andrea Edwards, Arts Editor William Andersen, Resident Artist: http://williamjandersen.blogspot.kr/search/label/MITE Lee Nan-young, Program Manager Sunny Kim, Translator: http://98b.tumblr.com/post/17470192033/cho-talks-at-98b-seungki-cho-an-intermedia-artist
I
f you pass through Daein Market on a normal day, you may not notice anything special about it right away. You will see the usual vegetable stands, smell the salty air preserving dried fish and hear the friendly calls of elderly shop owners. However, upon closer examination of this archeological site, one can also feel the vibrations of new life pulsing through the veins of each alleyway. During summer, the Daein Night Market invites Gwangju's citizens to consider the purpose of this market as a gateway to Art Street. In 2008 the Gwangju Biennale commissioned a group of artists to live and work in Daein Market. Since then, the metropolitan and federal governments have supported this residency project. Assisted by director, Cho Seungki, artists and coordinators work year-round
로). This is where community members gather nightly not only to bask in the air-conditioning, but also to share tools, ideas, and yeah, a few drinks. The romance of it is overwhelming and its seclusion only heightens the mystery and enticement. Although the veil of the market provides privacy to the artists, everything is “aired out” at the end of each summer month. The Night Market is the time and place for normal citizens, market owners and artists to collaborate on an event that suits everyone's tastes. Patrons can sample blue lemonade in a bag, browse the crafts, and if they look closely, experience the fine arts. to produce and present art right inside the market. This year, nine artists are sharing seven gallery spaces. As they are publicly funded spaces, these art spaces, including a cafe and library are open to visit any day. You just have to know where to look. So how did we find it? William Andersen is Gwangju Art Market's newest resident. An American national teaching in Kuwait, William was looking for a residency in Korea where he could spend summer break working alongside his friend who is making a film set in Korea. William found what he was looking for, and we found him there. As our very gracious, adopted host, he led us down graffiti-painted alleys to Mite-Ugro (미테 우그
The Daein Night Market epitomizes Gwangju as the “City of Art”. It's delicately interwoven with the fibers of tradition. Quietly calling to citizens, it asks them to participate in art however they see fit; dancing to live music, buying handmade crafts or visiting a few galleries. Art in Gwangju does not attempt to compete with the neon signs and K-pop blasting on every city corner. It lies like hidden treasure waiting to be found. Dates for future night markets are as follows: September 7th, 8th, 21st, and 22nd, and October 19th and 20th opening at 7:30 p.m. and closing at midnight each day. For more information follow http://blog.naver.com/2010ntnamu (Korean language only).
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Written by Stephen Redeker Photos courtesy of Travis Groves
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hen was the last time you tuned your radio to the Gwangju Foreigners’ Network at GFN 98.7FM? If you haven’t done so recently, then what are you waiting for? You’re missing out on some exciting broadcasting! Earlier this year GFN revamped its lineup of daily radio programs and one such program, “In the Mix,” is hosted by Travis Groves. “Travvy G” (as he’s known on the radio) has a colorful background in Korea and a rich history working in the media field. Originally from Queensland, Australia, Travis studied fashion and media in college. He received training for a career as a television reporter. His first big break came in England as an advertising executive for Harrods Knightsbridge of London. While there, he was able to work with celebrities such as David and Victoria Beckham, Liam Gallagher, Kylie Minogue, Kate Bosworth and Georgio Armani. Travis then spent three years in Seoul where he worked for two broadcasting companies as a writer for music and fashion and also as an entertainment reporter. It was during this time that he had the pleasure of interviewing stars such as Brad Pitt and K-Pop acts like Girls Generation and 2PM’s Park Jae-beom at major events such as Seoul Fashion Week and the Daejon Film Awards. Earlier this year he moved to Gwangju from Seoul to host “In the Mix.” There are some o b v i o u s
differences between living in Gwangju and living in Seoul. For Travis, it’s the not-soobvious differences that stand out the most: “I've been in Gwangju for over six months now and find the expat and Korean community to be very intimate and friendly. Also, there is a good live music scene and plenty of watering holes to wet the whistle and have a good laugh!” says Travis. He also commented on the activities of foreigners: “Socially, I've found that expats here are more open to developing friendships with other foreigners. In Seoul, most expats walk past each other without batting an eye. The other difference is the love of nature. I've met heaps of wicked people here and they often go hiking, camping, biking, hit up the beach, and enjoy outdoor activities more. In the big city, the weekends generally consist of a dark room followed by the ol' hair-of-the-dog routine!” Fortunately for Gwangju and the surrounding areas, Travis has brought his talents and expertise to the airwaves to entertain us all. “In the Mix” is written, hosted and promoted all by Travis. Tune in daily from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. and you’ll hear a mix of Grammy music, rock, indie, hip hop, electronic, folk, pop, classics, and more. The show is open to anyone who wants to join the program just for fun or to promote their music. So far, many artists, from rappers to rock bands, have been interviewed on “In the
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Mix”. You can call in, email, or send a text message to request songs. The phone lines are open nightly to discuss anything from relationships, experiences in Korea, news events, movies or anything else. Hosting his radio show every night, Travis has lots of memorable (and sometimes embarrassing) moments on the air and with his special guests. He says, “Mind blanks are always embarrassing during live shows! I’m finally realizing that alcohol does actually cause memory loss! Or, it’s embarrassing when my guests don't laugh at my cheesy jokes and there's an awkward silence. But seriously, all of my guests are worth tuning in for, there's Dan Lloyd (“Indie Hour,” on Wednesdays), John Gaska (“House Party,” on Fridays), and Erin Stewart (“Folkin' Around,” on Sundays). We enjoy a bit of banter…I think.” Travis makes a big effort to set his show apart from the rest. Thus, “In the Mix” features great promotions and sponsors. For example, Club Volume in Gwangju previously sponsored the show with a VIP room for fans and listeners to join with free entry and free drinks. More parties will be hosted by Travis in the near future! Recently Travis gave out over 20 tickets to UMF Korea, one of the premiere electronic music festivals in the world featuring DJs such as Tiesto, Carl Cox and John Digweed. Travis is really excited about the
program and promotions for “In the Mix”: “Working at GFN has been a sick experience! I have full creative control over my program, therefore I try to seek out good sponsors for prizes because, let’s face it, with advances in technology nowadays people don't listen to the radio as much as they used to. So, on my show people can win tix to festivals like UMF, VIP rooms at Club Volume, restaurant vouchers, and more (as opposed to ‘a calendar or a pen!’ What is that?). Also, I play music that foreigners want to hear, and Koreans want to learn about. If music and entertainment is your thing, keep in touch with the show for chances to win prizes and attend great events.” As mentioned previously, GFN programming has changed and a new lineup of shows, other than “In the Mix,” has hit the airwaves. Check out www.gfn.or.kr to see GFN’s list of programs including shows like “City of Light,” “Hello Korea” and “K-Popular,” to name a few. “In the Mix” can be heard evenings from 8 p.m. to10 p.m. and you can find GFN on your radio at 98.7FM in Gwangju and 93.7FM in Yeosu. Visit their website for live streaming audio. Facebook and Twitter: GFNinthemix
In The Mix, proudly sponsored by:
gfninthemix
SMS #9870
TuneIn Radio App
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art
Korean Animation Words and photos by Wil Rawlins
“D
on't have a cow, man," "Go Joe!" and the ever-popular "Hello Nurse!" These are famous catch phrases some of our favorite cartoon characters. As familiar as most are with the hilarious antics and compelling adventures of animated characters, many are not aware of how they come to be. What exactly is the process involved to make an animated series? Furthermore, where is it made and who is making it? Fortunately all these questions can be answered right here in Gwangju. Recently the Gwangju CGI (Computer Generated Imagery) Center has opened in the Pungam area. This is the home of some well-established animation companies that are the invisible hand behind some of America's and other countries' most popular animated series.
What exactly has the Korean animation industry contributed to the world of cartoon series? Well for fans of the series The Simpson, Animaniacs and Transformers you should thank AKOM (Animation Korea Movie), which animated them. That's not all; Rough Draft Studios produced Futurama and Star Wars: Clone Wars 1 and 2. Also, King of the Hill, Rugrats, Recess and Lilo and Stich are the works of Anivision and Sunwoo Entertainment. The Korean animation industry is not just limited to western animated series. Popular Japanese Anime like Cowboy Bebop, Death Note, and Pokemon were made possible by DR Movie, a Korean animation studio with an exclusive partnership with the Japanese animation studio Madhouse. These are just a few examples of Korean contributions to animation. Actual involvement in many animated series by Korean companies is wide, in-depth and diverse. Most of the Korean animation companies and studios are headquartered in Seoul. That is where you can find an up-and-coming company called Neon Pumpkin. Founded in 2006, Neon Pumpkin is a full service Animation Company that provides 2D, 3D and Flash animation services worldwide. Although new to the scene, this company has done work for Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon, Moonscoope, Toonzone and Xilam. Some of their projects include Dora's Explorer Girls TV Special (USA), Three Little Daughters (Japan) and Oggy
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and the Cockroaches (France). Providing excellent leadership by demanding quality and creativity, Han Ok-rye brings twenty years of animation experience to her company. Recently Han has decided to open a subsidiary company in the Pungam CGI building called Neon Creative. Here is where we can get a better understanding on how the animation process works in Korea. One of the best ways to get futher insight is from the animators themselves at Neon Creation. Gwagju News has interviewed the hard working people at this company from the most junior to the most senior staff, as well as the CEO herself.
CEO, Ms. Han GN: What has changed in the animation industry over the years in Korea? Ms. Han: In Korean animation, they usually were made for American, European, and Japanese 2D OEM until 1990. In the early 2000s, 3D animation companies started to make children’s TV series and creative work; since then the production environment has started to change. After 2004, early animation companies developed creative abilities and techniques and they started to work with other countries. They realized that project investment and licensing are very important so they focus on extending their reach in world markets. Recently they have communicated and worked with China, which has been growing fast. If the animation businesses put all their energy and ability in a dramatically changing market and they are supported well financially, then I believe that the Korean animation business will strongly develop. GN: Why did you decide to open Neon Creation in Gwangju? Ms. Han: We expected that we would have a lot of support and get contracts with other animation companies because of the GwanjuGwangju CGI Center. We also believed that we can hire a lot of talented workers here, so we opened Neon Creation in Gwangju.
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Left: Animation works Bottom left: Gwangju CGI Center building Below: History of GITCT in pictures Most below: Staff at work
Manager, Mr. Nam GN: Is the animation process very laborious and physically demanding? Mr. Nam: 3D animation work requires a lot creative ideas, so I have more mental stress than physical stress. Although sometimes I experience physical stress when we do lots of overtime work. Overall, the animation work demands a lot of a person mentally.
Senior 3D animator, Ms. Shin GN: Why do you work at animation studio? Ms. Shin: I challenged myself to work in an animation company when I saw the animation work in theaters. Since then it has been my dream to work in this kind of job. It gives me great excitement and joy to do this work. It is amazingly creative to make nothing into something.
Junior 3D animator, Ms. Lee GN: What did you prepare for work here? Ms. Lee: I thought that it would be very important to have as much general knowledge and qualifications in animation as possible. I majored in animation in college and also took 3D animation classes where I learned Maya. I also attended a 3D animation class at Gwangju Information and Culture Industry Promotion Agency (광주정보 문화산업 진흥원) and made a short story animation portfolio. The animation industry in Korea is very interesting indeed. The new investment into the city of Gwangju through this industry can be seen as a testament to the ever-growing recognition the city is getting. Ideally, this will result in a creative, colorful and animated future for Gwangju.
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photo essay
Sun S eeker
By Ken Lee
“I
’ve been living in Gwangju for nine months now. With photography, it all started when I used my sister’s “fancy” camera to help her take outfit shots for her professional blog. I never really thought seriously about taking up photography as a hobby until some of her photographer friends said I had some sort of talent. Since then I purchased my very own “toy” to capture defining moments here in Korea. I enjoy taking sunset and sunrise shots the most. They really bring a sense of wonder, don’t you think?” You can view more of Ken’s work at: www.seoulstateofmind.wordpress.com
Sunset Blaze
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Gwangju News September 2012
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PHOTO CONTEST Submit your best shot of Korea! To enter the Photo Contest, simply send your name, photo and picture description to gwangjunews@gmail.com. The Photo of the Month will be displayed at the GIC for that month.
Photo of the Month
Gwangju News’ photo contest was judged by Mark Eaton. Mark Eaton has exhibited his photographic work in art galleries as well as other public and private venues in the United States and South Korea. You can view his photography at eatonmark.com
Here Comes the Summer Sun Photo by Lorryn Smit
Remembering May 18 Photo by Angie Hartley 28
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Surrounded Photo by Jannies Le
A Nice Day at the Park Photo by Maya Thompson
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travel
Atomic Bomb Dome
Hiroshima/ Genbaku Dome Words and photos by Matt Furlane
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here to go? Seoul, Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Tokyo and Taiwan all looked like good destinations. I just couldn't decide. I contacted some friends that teach English in Tokyo and they said they would give me a place to stay. So that settled it, destination Tokyo, Japan. But on the map that I had in front of me I noticed something along the way‌Hiroshima. After a sunny jet ferry crossing of the East Sea I disembarked in Fukuoka and boarded one of the famous Shinkansen bullet trains at Hakata station. As it hurdled through the countryside toward Hiroshima I realized that I was going to see something that few people would ever see in their lifetimes. Formally known as 'The Hiroshima Prefecture Industrial Promotion Hall', today it is known as the Genbaku (Atomic) Dome. Upon arriving I headed out to the Dome by tram in a city with a solemnity only understood in the light of history. In 1945, after numerous bloody battles in
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Gwangju News September 2012
the Pacific, US Democrat President Harry Truman ordered the dropping of "Little Boy" on Hiroshima on August 6th at 8:15 a.m. It killed 80,000 people immediately and destroyed 75% of the city. Over the next year the only structure within the immediate blast left standing was the Industrial Promotion Hall built in 1915. Today it stands as a post-apocalyptic ruin and as a reminder of the horrors of war. Thousands of tourists and Japanese citizens come to visit this sight every year and Harry Truman’s grandson would be arriving in a few days on the 67th anniversary to pay respects to the dead and call for world peace. When I arrived I walked the perimeter of the monument to the side facing the river. It was closer to the structural ruins and you could see broken concrete and the remaining steel framework up close. The ground slightly rumbled below my feet. The electric tram cars were going over a bridge nearby. Hiroshima city is unique in
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Wikipedia
Hiroshima after the atomic bomb attack
Hiroshima today, modern and thriving
500 yen. I returned to the Dome to find it lit up with flood lights. The park was still busy with pedestrians and school children walking about and people biking to and fro. It was surprisingly serene, a testament to the fact that despite Hiroshima’s painful past there was an enduring spirit of peace. It was too dark to find the Phoenix trees though, so I just sat on a nearby park bench and watched people come and go.
Cemetery near the Atomic Bomb Dome
that it held on to this system of transportation. The trams, like buses in Korea, can easily be used to go around the entire city. Several train cars are circa 1940s and it's rumored that cars 651 and 652 actually survived the war and are still used today. As I watched an older tram go over the bridge I felt transported back in time. It was a sky blue sunny day, about 95 degrees, and the cicadas were chattering, maybe exactly like it was in 1945. I looked up into the sky in the direction where the bomb was dropped. It detonated about 2,000 feet in the air just southeast from where I was standing. A blast of heat incinerated everything. War is hell. Later I walked through Peace Memorial Park with its eternal flame and then to one of the bridges nearby just to look out over the water. A tour boat went by and people walked about through the park. Somewhere there were the famous Chinese Parasol survivor trees (aka Phoenix Trees) that were completely shredded by the blast. They sprouted leaves the following spring in 1946. But I was tired and getting hungry and decided to head back to my hotel and return later. At about 8 p.m. I rented an electric bike for about
Later that night as I looked out my hotel window I could see the bullet trains heading in and out of their station. I could only marvel at the spirit of the Japanese people. When you look at the ravages of war, earthquakes, tsunamis, and typhoons it seems very few countries have experienced more hardship on a regular basis than Japan. And to think that it wasn't but 19 years after the bomb dropped that Japan hosted its first Olympics in 1964 (the 1940 Tokyo Olympics were notably canceled). Some have even noted that parts of Hiroshima in 2012 look similar to the booming 1970s city of Detroit in its architecture and skyline. Surprisingly, with its 1.2 million people, baseball team, soccer team and being home to Mazda Motor Company, I found it to be a burgeoning industrial city similar in size, character, and population to Gwangju. The next morning I hopped on the next Shinkansen train headed to Tokyo to meet up with my friends. Over the next few days I would hit the more popular tourist destinations like the Asakusa Temple, Edo Palace, and the immense Edo museum. It provided a good introduction to Japan and it's culture but I only scratched the surface. As much as I loved Tokyo I think Hiroshima is an equal destination of importance not only because of its current status as the first city to suffer an Atomic bomb attack but because of its resilience in recovering and it's newer mantra as a City of Peace. Gwangju News September 2012
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travel
Travel Documents: What You Need to Know Written by Karina Prananto
S
ummer vacation is the busiest time of the year for travel. While most people can easily go anywhere without restrictions, some people have less opportunity to travel due to visa restrictions. For example, Indonesians, Vietnamese, Filipinos, Chinese, along with other nationalities. have less freedom to travel which can be very frustrating and even make travel to certain countries impossible. If you have to go through a visa application process, you might want to read the recommendations below: 1. Plan your trip well ahead of the time The longer the trip and the further the country, I suggest you to set aside more time to do research on visa application and planning for your trip. This is very important as many countries in Europe and America require a lot of paperwork for visa application. 2. Contact the embassy of your destination Call the embassy to confirm whether you need a visa to enter the country. If you do, ask them whether you need to make a reservation for application. Some countries in Europe or America require you to reserve an appointment and this can be fully booked in an instant. Give a minimum two months preparation time in advance before your travel date to give you more time to reserve a spot. 3. Prepare your itinerary All embassies will require a full and detailed itinerary as part of the visa application process. Although this might sound like a hassle, it is actually quite useful as you also need to plan where you want to go. This will make things easier later, instead of being a burden. 4. Book tickets and hotels in advance All embassies will require you to show bookings for the hotel and transportation (flight and sometimes 32
Gwangju News September 2012
land transport as well, such as Eurail ticket reservation). Many people delay until the last minute but if you do, the price will become more expensive. Try booking through http://tour.interpark.com (Korean) or www.booking.com. In my experience, both have good and prompt customer service. Make sure you check out the terms and conditions on cancellation policies. Some hotels won’t mind if you cancel the booking up to two days before your arrival, giving you less risk in case your visa is rejected and you have to cancel your booking without paying any cancellation fees. 5. Prepare all the necessary documents This is where all the work begins. Below are the standard documents needed to apply for a visa: i. Passport with more than 6 months validity until the last day of your travel ii. Alien registration card also with expiry date much longer than your intended travel time iii. Proof of employment or a student card iv. Photo (make sure the photo matches the standard regulation: white background, taken recently within 3 months. All photo studios will know when you ask them to take ‘visa application’ photos) v. Proof of financial means: e.g.: Bank balance within 3-6 months or your bank deposit. The more detailed the better the chance of successfully receiving a visa. If your travel is supported by your spouse or your parents, you need to provide their bank balances. Korean banks provide a certificate called 잔고증명서 which shows the balance of the accounts that you have. This certificate can be issued in Korean and English and sometimes in other languages.
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vi. Family Relation or Marriage Certificate (check whether they are okay with Korean documents or if they need to be translated into English) vii. Payment Slips (급여대상): 3-6 months old for those who are employed viii. Itinerary: The flight dates and hotel reservations have to match the itinerary. Don’t forget to attach proof of accommodation and flight reservation confirmation letter too. Please refer to each country’s embassy for full details and a complete list of documents you may need and make sure you have the original ones ready with you when you go to the embassy should they ask you to show them.
agent represent you to apply for your visa, such as China or Japan. Ask them whether you have to come again in person to retrieve the passport or if you can have them deliver it to you. Some of the embassies also let a representative pick up the passport for you but it is strictly for the travel agency or your immediate family members (who will need to show the family a registration certificate). Dress neatly when you come to the embassy. Regard this like a formal interview where first impressions are very important. Lastly, be prepared mentally for the worst. I believe that going through all the complicated process will make your travel more rewarding. Happy travels!
6. Dress to impress Most embassies require you to come in person and sometimes there will be an interview. For those of us who live in Gwangju, we usually have to go to Seoul and this means extra transportation expenses. But sometimes you can have a travel
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Home Pages Want to write about news from your country? Contact the Editor for more information: gwangjunews@gmail.com.
Ireland By Patrick Conway
Nunday, bloody Nunday They say there's none better than the Irish in the works of charity and so it was proven again on a summer's day in Listowel, County Kerry. Apart from raising money for a self-harm and suicide prevention charity, all and sundry were there to break a world record for the most 'nuns' in one place. Interestingly, 200 people were turned away for not being in the correct attire (the mind boggles, but we are talking about Kerry). Whoopi Goldberg wouldn't have had a look-in as men and women alike got into the habit. One participant worked up quite a thirst and gave a good mug shot, sinking a pint at the local establishment.
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India By Sreejith
India Celebrates Independence day! On Wednesday, August 15, India commemorated the 65th anniversary of its independence from British rule in 1947. The official celebrations were held at the majestic Red Fort in New Delhi where Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh hoisted the national flag and addressed the nation. The sport of kite flying symbolizes Independence Day. The skies are dotted with countless kites flown from rooftops and fields to symbolize the free spirit of India. One fact that remains is that India shares its Independence Day with South Korea.
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U.S.A. By Stephen Redeker
Dark Knight Wanna-be New Jersey resident Matthew Argintar is facing criminal charges of disorderly conduct and unlawful possession of handcuffs after he was arrested for hanging around a Home Depot store wearing a Batman-like superhero costume. He claimed he was trying to bring hope to his community by dressing as his character “Beast,” part of the “real life superhero” movement of vigilantes who help innocent people and attempt to thwart would-be criminals. The outfit consisted of a black mask, bulletproof vest, elbow pads, combat boots and a pair of handcuffs. He was unarmed. According to police, Argintar was roaming around the parking lot asking shoppers whether they needed any help. Some people enjoyed seeing the costumed man and had their kids pose with him for pictures. Others got scared and fled the scene thinking he was trying to copy the July 20th Colorado massacre which took place in a theater where the murder suspect was dressed in combat gear with hair dyed orange. Argintar’s lawyer said the police overreacted when they arrested him because there is no law against wearing a costume. Story courtesy NY Daily News
Vietnam By Nguyen Thi Le Hoa
September is one of the most important months in Vietnam. It is the month in which the people celebrate the birth of Vietnam (Sept. 2nd, 1945), and students all over the country are eager to start a new school year (September 5th) after about two months of summer vacation. There is also the anniversary of President Ho Chi Minh’s death, who declared the Independence of Vietnam establishing the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. The President’s death had previously been announced to be on Sept. 3rd, 1969. In 1989, the Vietnamese government decided to acknowledge that Ho Chi Minh actually died exactly on the National Day, Sept. 2nd, 1969. The announcement was delayed one day in order not to break the rejoicing of the Vietnamese people on the National Day at that time.
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culture
한 H
What’s in a Name? Written by C. Adam Volle
ere’s an oddity you may not have noticed if you’re not fluent in the Korean language.
When the Germans were formally split into two separate nations in 1949, their respective governments naturally took on different names for themselves: the Federal Republic of Germany assumed responsibility for Western Germany, while Eastern Germans found themselves ruled by the German Democratic Republic. Likewise, the division of the Vietnamese people into two countries from 1954 to 1975 resulted in the rise of a northern regime named the Democratic Republic of Vietnam and a southern one named the Republic of Vietnam. And if you read their official titles in English, you might think North and South Korea have followed this same Cold War era naming convention. Read in the Koreans’ native script instead, then a curious disparity pops up: each country has a different word for Korea itself. It was the Korean Communists who made the natural choice, in 1948, of referring to their people as Joseon (조선) when asked by the Russians, whose democratic republic they would be. Joseon, after all, had been the name of the land for most of the last 543 years (and if you believed the ancient myths, a total of over 2700). But new president Rhee Syngman offered a different word for his newly formed country, when he proclaimed South Korea’s first republic: Hanguk (한국), lit. “the country of the Han people”. The full name of this republic would be Daehanminguk (대한민국), “the Republic of the Great Han People.” This wasn’t a big surprise either. In choosing Daehan Minguk, President Rhee and the National Assembly were only preserving the name under which Korean freedom fighters had fought the Japanese colonizers for 35 years. The freedom fighters, in turn, derived their moniker from Daehanjeguk (제국), “the Empire of the Great Han People”, because that happened to be the name that the very last emperor of Joseon abruptly gave their homeland before his death.
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That was a surprise. Mind you, Emperor Gojong’s heart was in the right place. The change reflected his overall effort at rebranding his dirt-poor kingdom as a modern nation-state, in the high hope Japan would think twice about gobbling it up. He even bought trendy Western outfits for everybody. Sadly, the plan didn’t work; Japan simply decided to eat faster, annexing the peninsula in 1910. Yet the Emperor’s spirit has this consolation: he may be remembered far less for failing to continue one of the world’s oldest dynasties than for gifting his country with a wonderfully appropriate sobriquet it may wear forever. True, on a surface level “the country of the Han people” seems an uninspired choice for the name of…well, a country full of people who’ve always called themselves the Han. It was like renaming Israel “the Country of the Jews” (Dear Prime Minister Netanyahu: This is not a suggestion). But the emperor’s placement of his subjects’ name on the national marquee was in itself, a revolutionary and empowering act, an acknowledgement of their stake in his state – and regardless, Han is far more than a mere label of an ethnic group. Han once meant “great,” “country” and “leader”. Although the word was first written in Chinese letters and the Chinese also call themselves “the Han people” (although using different letters), most scholars agree the Korean Han is not a loan word from China. Koreans may have inherited the word from their Altaic ancestors, from whom the Mongolians have also descended. In fact the word “han” is a Sino-Korean cognate of the famous “khan”, and not only that, but the Korean word for the number one is hana (하나). Consider how “being first” is identified with leadership in every culture (e.g. our First Ladies) and you’ll understand why there likely is a phonetic connection. More importantly, though, the word Han is also used by Koreans to describe a particular emotional burden that they believe is endemic in Korean culture, even synonymous with it. It has no direct English equivalent, but it’s essentially a deep regret
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for a terrible loss, whether incurred by duty or disaster. A Korean man’s decision to marry the woman his parents want for him, rather than the woman he loves: this creates Han. So too did the crushing poverty many Koreans once fought to survive. It’s slightly more complicated than that, though. Central to the idea of Han is a lack of reconciliation to the pain. It’s nothing like a vague, immature belief that everything will somehow be right in the end, nor is it a desire to actively seek justice. It’s just a grim conviction not to resign one’s self to what has happened, to never acquiesce in your heart to whatever evil you are otherwise helpless to resist. This has proven a valuable national trait for Koreans in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries. Since Emperor Gojong’s failed attempt to save their homeland, they’ve endured 38 1 years of foreign rule, a terrible civil war, and nearly 60 more years of division, with half their people trapped in a Communist dystopia. It is almost as if the old ruler realized the inevitability of his defeat and re-named his lost country as a future reminder to his subjects of whom they must be: a nation capable of enduring such misfortunes, but never accepting them. Intentionally or otherwise, South Korea has preserved this message in its name and language ever since, and almost a hundred years after they were last independent and whole, the Han retain their Han.
Wikipedia
1This figure includes the years in which Korea was administered by the Soviet Union and U.S.A. as well as those it spent as a colony of Japan.
Emperor Gojong
[GIC Tour]
Yeongam Tour with Warren GIC Tour with Warren
Date: September 22 (Sat.), 08:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Itinerary: Wangin Baksa Museum - Wolchulsan (Wolchul Mountain)- Lunch: Farm Raised Chicken - Dogapsa (Temple) - Fig Orchard Fee: 35,000 won for GIC members / 45,000 won for non-members Registration: Please sign up on GIC website (www.gic.or.kr) by September 19 (Wed.) For more information: gictour@gic.or.kr
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event review
The 2012 Jisan Valley Rock Festival: A Review Words and photos by Matthew Jenkins
O
f the handful of music festivals held in hot and humid Korean summers, Jisan stands out for precisely one reason: location. Tucked away in the inner folds of Incheon city, the Jisan Forest Resort presents an idyllic landscape; a winding strip of land surrounded on either side by lush green walls with a cool stream flowing around its circumference. Indeed, the valley itself was one of the little compensations for the overall disappointment in which the festival resulted. Sure, it had all the accoutrements that usually accompany a music festival: good tunes, booze, an eclectic variety of food booths and an array of companies using variegated displays and
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giveaways to lure festival goers. Yet the two main themes of age and evolution seemed to dominate the scene. On Friday, Elvis Costello rescued the festival from a droning James Iha (former Smashing Pumpkins guitarist) to put on one of the most energetic and entertaining shows of the weekend. Taking the final stage was Radiohead, who were clearly the most anticipated act. They put on a good show, drawing mostly from their most recent album, King of Limbs. It was a funky set of quasi-psychedelic tunes that showed neither their sorrowful nor angstridden side which fans have come to adore.
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Concert goers saw a more grown-up and refined version of Radiohead, if not the one they might have hoped to see. Saturday afternoon offered perhaps the brightest moments of the festival, opening with a smattering of Korean punk, hardcore, and shoegaze (The Strikers, Hallow Jan, Apollo 18, respectively), followed by Motion City Soundtrack, a rather pleasant pop-punk act from Minnesota. However, Saturday headliner James Blake’s monotonous beeps-and-clicks were both anti-climactic and painfully incongruent with the day’s lineup. Sunday presented a quixotic – if sad – selection of aging British Rockers. Following a blasé Japanese rocktronica and a few Korean alternative bands were Beady Eye and the final big act of the weekend, The Stone Roses. While the latter two bands were entertaining, it was hard to ignore the fact that the music was overshadowed by the careerist striving of aging and/or disaffected rockers. Another factor that polluted the event’s atmosphere was the blasting of a sickeningly catchy tune singing the praises of a particular brand of soda being pushed by an advertising stand located directly behind the audience. Let’s hope for a more rockin’ time at next year’s festival.
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culture
Behind the Myth: Exploring Korean Tradition This series of articles will shed light on some Korean myths, folklore, traditions and superstitions. Every country has their own share of beliefs, fact or fiction, and many foreigners living in Korea are yet to hear or understand the basis of various Korean beliefs as they become apparent.
Pure Bloodlines Written by Stephen Redeker
M
ost people love their country. You’ll hear many reasons why people think their country is the best in the world. Maybe it’s the delicious and healthy food. It could be the beautiful landscape and architecture of the buildings. Perhaps it’s the friendly, good-looking people. Korea possesses such beliefs about its country as well. There is a strong nationalistic feeling in Korea. One of these particular beliefs is about their heritage and ethnic identity. Some Koreans think that as a nation and as a race of people, they are a “pure blooded” population and Korea has descended from a unified group of ancestors with no racial mixing. Scientific study has revealed that the earliest settlers on the Korean peninsula may have arrived some 500,000 years ago. Since then, early migrations came from the Siberian plains, then Mongolia and through the Manchurian area of eastern China. DNA sample studies also show strong similarities in traits between southern Koreans and the Japanese. To truly understand this Korean myth, you have to recall history spanning the past century. In the very early 20th century, the “pure bloodline” belief came about when historian Shin Chae-ho wrote about the Korean “minjok”, which he described as a warrior group who fought off invaders to preserve the Korean ethnic identity hundreds of years prior. He decried that since the minjok movement had been in decline, it was necessary to reinvigorate the cause, especially due to Japanese colonization and assimilation at that time. This belief was a strong way for the Korean people to resist
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Japanese rule and unite the people during a time of serious national crisis. As time continued, the “pure bloodline” myth remained a steadfast ideology. Despite the fact that the beliefs in a pure race declined after the World War II defeat of Germany and Japan, Korea (both North and South) kept on teaching this philosophy. It was used as a political campaign by former presidents Rhee Syngman and Park Chung-hee as a means to make the citizens more obedient and support an antiCommunist agenda. North Korean propaganda declared Koreans as “the cleanest race”. These beliefs continue on today and help shape political and foreign relations. Also, it provides Koreans motivation for national pride and further fuels hope for a reunified Korea. Times are changing and Koreans are forced to reassess their beliefs in a single-blood population of people. Korea is increasingly becoming more multi-cultural, as many foreign workers and international couples are calling Korea their home. Multiculturalism was highly publicized in Korea by Hines Ward, American football player and Superbowl MVP. Ward’s father is African American and his mother is South Korean. After travelling to Korea, he preached acceptance of mixed-raced children and donated USD $1 million to found the “Hines Ward Helping Hands Foundation” for helping mixed-race children in Korea. But not all Koreans have accepted an international and multi-cultural presence in Korea. Many migrant workers and other immigrants still face discrimination and prejudice. Xenophobic concerns arise from many Koreans when foreigners
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(including United Nations committees) attempt to refute these claims about a pure race. Some Koreans believe a challenge to this national belief may dilute the strong national pride of the people and weaken the desire for Korean reunification. All things considered, believing in single, pureblooded ethnicity was an integral ideology during the past century, given the many challenges that Koreans faced. Maintaining a sense of nationalistic pride was essential during times of invasion by other forces which threatened the well-being and culture of Korea. Now in the modern era, Korea must deal with the increasing number of multicultural families living here as many Koreans are building families with partners from foreign nations. The number of people moving to Korea and raising
multi-cultural children is continually increasing as well. In fact, roughly 15% of children born in Korea are from a mixed marriage. Love and acceptance for non-Koreans living in Korea is something that will hopefully be a widespread reality and, despite those with conservative beliefs, will strengthen the Korean nation both in the eyes of its people and in the rest of the world. Sources: Shin Gi-wook, Ethnic Nationalism in Korea: Genealogy, Politics, and Legacy (Stanford University Press, 2006); Pai Hyung-il, Constructing "Korean" Origins (2000), p. 6; Shin Hae-in, The Korea Herald, 3 August 2006; Historical Atlas of Korea Sakyejul Publishing Co.
2012 GIC 5th Korean Language Class
(Sept. 1 - Oct. 20)
Enrich your life in Korea by studying Korean and learning Korean culture with the GIC! Regular Class (Weekdays and Saturdays) Available Levels: Intensive Beginner, Beginner 1-2-3-4, Intermediate 1, Advanced Time and Day: Intensive (Tue~Fri - 4 times a week) 10:30 a.m ~ 12:30 p.m., Regular Weekdays (Tue, Thurs - twice a week) Morning Class: 10:30 a.m. ~ 12:30 p.m.; Afternoon Class: 3 ~ 5 p.m. Regular (Saturdays - once a week) 10:30 a.m. ~ 12 p.m. Price: Intensive: 150,000 won; Regular Weekdays: 80,000 won; Regular Saturdays: 50,000 won (excluding textbook and GIC membership fee)
K-Entertainment Class
Learn Korean through K-pop and K-Drama!
Available Levels: Intermediate Time and Day: Sat (once a week) 1:30 p.m ~ 3 p.m. Price: 50,000 won (excluding textbook and GIC membership fee)
TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) Class
Specially designed for preparation for the test
Available Level: Level 2 Time and Day: Tue, Thurs (twice a week) 7 p.m. ~ 9 p.m. Price: 100,000 won (excluding textbook, GIC membership fee and registration for TOPIK)
Reading Class
Learn Korean through fairy tales, poetry and articles!
Time and Day: Sat (once a week) 1:30 p.m. ~ 3 p.m. Price: 50,000 won (excluding textbook and GIC membership fee)
Speaking Class Available Levels: Beginner and Intermediate Time and Day: Tue to Fri (4 times a week) 9 a.m. ~ 10 a.m. Price: 50,000 won (excluding textbook and GIC membership fee)
GIC Kindergarten
Available for kids aged 3 to 8 years old
Available Level: Introduction to Hangeul Time and Day: Tue & Thurs (twice a week) 10:30 a.m. ~ 12:30 p.m. Price: 100,000 won (excluding textbook, GIC membership fee for parents)
Tutoring Tutoring is available for one hour once a week for seven weeks. If you’d like to receive tutoring for more than 1 hour a week, please contact GIC. Fee: 100,000 won
Please contact Boram Lee at boram@gic.or.kr or by phone 062-226-2733/34 and www.gic.or.kr for more information.
Gwangju News September 2012
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language study
Letters to KOTESOL By Dr. Dave Shaffer
If you have a question for Dr. Dave, please send an e-mail to gwangjunews@gmail.com letting us know your question, students’ age and proficiency level.
ways. For example, it is not uncommon for institutions to consider all Korean staff to be in positions above that of the foreign faculty. What needs to be done from the beginning of an English teacher’s employment is to make it clear who the teacher’s boss or bosses are and who is support staff, and who they should deal with for different types of problems. All too often, the administration does not bother to explain to the foreign teacher the administrative ladder and its procedures and processes, leaving the teacher feeling very, very frustrated. Dr. Dave Hello Dr. Dave, I have to do many evaluations over the next few days which requires sitting through many, many face-toDiscussion during the breakout session of a professional development presentation at the August meeting of the Gwangju-Jeonnam Chapter of Korea TESOL. face interviews. Apart from drinking high amounts of caffeine how can I survive this? I appreciate this is my profession, and Dear Dr. Dave, should act accordingly, though come interview No. I have read some questions about how you 99, and asking questions that have repeatedly been recommend for foreign teachers to cope with Korean asked already, I challenge anyone to do so co-workers, considering cultural differences at work. I enthusiastically. Could you recommend a way to am in a management job, and my question is what evaluate the conversational skills of mass amounts of advice do you give to Korean employers when we students effectively? have problems with foreign teachers? My English is Trying to stay awake. good, but not perfect and I think this gives Dear Trying, disadvantage when having problems with native I would agree that end-of-course interviews are speakers. Thank you for your consideration. usually not a very effective way of evaluating English SP learners. I would also ask you to consider whether “evaluating the conversational skills” of your English Dear SP, learners is a fair way to distribute grades. It is usually I think cultural conditions should always be taken into the case that the English proficiency of a member of consideration. I also think that when working in a a class stays pretty much the same, relative to the Korean institution, it is important to follow all wellother members of the class, from the beginning to the intentioned policies of that institution. It is true that end of a course. So the most proficient students at some native-speaker teachers may take advantage the beginning of the course will be the most proficient of their superior English proficiency, but it is also true at the end of the course, and the least proficient at that they may be at a distinct disadvantage in other 42
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the beginning, the same at the end. Therefore if you are grading based on conversational skills, you are grading on little more than their proficiency level upon entering the course. What I suggest is to grade more on the student’s effort to improve their English proficiency. To do this is to evaluate throughout the course the student’s degree of participation, their degree of challenging themselves by using less-thancompletely-acquired vocabulary and structures, their motivation. Yes, they will be making mistakes by challenging themselves in this way, but they will also be the ones who are making the most progress at language acquisition, and should be rewarded grade-wise for their efforts. Dr. Dave Dear Dr. Dave, I’m a university instructor and someone looking towards a career in ESL. Though this may be a little too late, I wonder what advice you would give for someone to build on their qualifications in a short amount of time. I already have a CELTA certificate though am lacking the amount of free time required for a DELTA. I’m wondering what you could recommend as a practical resume booster that could be done in a 4-week summer or winter break rather than simply sitting on a south-east Asian beach getting sun burnt. Best regards. Dear Best, The CELTA is a very good foundation certificate to have, but it is of course a general certificate in teaching adults (CELTA = Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults). However, many English instructors find themselves teaching specialized courses of various types. Many university instructors are also required to teach young learners classes in their language centers, or Business English, or TOEFL courses. There are quite a few good courses available online offering specialized TESL certificates in teaching young learners, Business English, grammar, etc., as well as advanced TESL certificates. TESOL International Association also offers a number of online courses, including leadership and online teaching. Some universities in Korea also offer faceto-face as well as online vacation courses. There is really quite a lot available. A good internet search will help you find what you may want or need. Dr. Dave Dear Dr. Dave, Being lucky enough to work in the Korean public school system, I keep hearing this acronym “NEAT” being bandied about, and that it’s going to affect what we teach and how we evaluate students in the
future. Despite trying, I’ve yet to find a suitable explanation of what NEAT is – would you be kind enough to tell me? Thanks, J Dear J, “NEAT” stands for “National English Ability Test.” Its purpose, if or when the kinks are ironed out, is to replace the present university entrance examination. It is planned that high school English assessment is to take place through an Internet-based test divided into a test for examining students’ ability to use the basic academic English needed for university studies (called “Level 2”), and a test for assessing the practical English skills necessary for day-to-day English usage (Level 3). An additional test (Level 1) is designed for adults. The Level 3 test focuses on English skills rather than English knowledge, which is the focus of the present university exam. Accordingly, if productive English skills such as speaking and writing are tested, they will need to be included in the high school English curriculum. This would be a huge change in the way English is taught in high school and could lead to an increase in student proficiency in the four skills before they enter university. Dr. Dave
“Dr. Dave” is David E. Shaffer, current President of the Gwangju-Jeonnam Chapter of Korea TESOL (KOTESOL). On behalf of the Chapter, he invites you to participate in the teacher development workshops at their monthly meetings. Dr. Shaffer is a professor of English at Chosun University, where he has taught, graduate, undergraduate, and postgraduate courses for many years. He has recently received the KOTESOL Lifetime Achievement Award.
Upcoming Gwangju KOTESOL Events Suncheon Outreach Workshop Date & Time: September 1 (Sat.), 1:00 p.m. Place: Suncheon National University October Chapter Meeting Date & Time: October 6 (Sat.), 1:30 p.m. Place: Chosun University Facebook: Gwangju-Jeonnam KOTESOL Website: http://koreatesol.org/gwangju Email: gwangju_kotesol@yahoo.com
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language study
은행에서(At the Bank) By Jung Soo-a Dialogue 은행원 : 어서 오세요. 뭘 도와드릴까요? [ eoseo oseyo. mwol dowadeurilkkayo? ] Banker : Hello. May I help you? 소라 Sora
: 통장을 만들고 싶어요. [ tongjangeul mandeulgo shipeoyo.] : I’d like to open a new account.
은행원 : 먼저 이 신청서를 작성해 주세요. [ meonjeo i shincheongseoreul jakseonghae juseyo. ] Banker : First, please fill out this application form. 여기에 성명과 연락처, 비밀번호를 적고 서명하시면 됩니다. [yeogie seongmyeonggwa yeollakcheo, bimilbeonhoreul jeokgo seomyeonghasimyeon deomnida. ] Please write down your name, address, pin number and sign here. 여권이나 신분증 가져 오셨어요? [yeogwonina sinbunjeung gajyeo osyeoseoyo? ] Do you have a passport or ID? 소라 Sora
: 네, 여기 있어요. 그런데 현금 카드도 지금 만들 수 있어요? [ne, yeogi isseoyo. geureonde hyeongeum kadeudo jigeum mandeul su isseoyo? ] : Yes, here it is. By the way, can you give me a cash card now?
은행원 : 물론입니다. 여기에 성명을 쓰시고, 서명해 주세요. [m u l l o n i m n i d a . y e o g i e s e o n g m y e o n g e u l s s e u s h i g o , s e o m y e o n g h a e j u s e y o . ] Banker : Of course. Write down your name and sign here. Reference: 김성희 외. (2009). 서강한국어 2B. 서울: 도서출판 하우 서강한국어. Retrieved July 8, 2012 from http://korean.sogang.ac.kr
More useful expressions - 이 돈을 잔돈으로 바꿀 수 있어요?[i doneul jandoneuro bakkul su isseoyo?] Can I break this money? - 신용카드 신청할 수 있어요? [shinnyongkadeu shincheonghal su isseoyo?] Can I apply for a credit card? - 환전 좀 하려고 합니다.[hwanjeon jom haryeogo hamnida.] I’d like to exchange some money. - 미국 달러로 바꿔 주세요. [miguk dalleoro bakkwo juseyo.] I’d like it exchanged into American dollars. - 이 백만원쯤 바꿔 주세요. [i baengmanwonjjeum bakkwo juseyo.] I’d like to exchange 2,000,000 won. - 캐나다에 돈을 좀 보내고 싶은데요. [kaenadae doneul jom bonaego shipeundeyo.] I’d like to send some money to Canada. - 700달러를 보내고 싶어요. [chilbaekdalleoreul bonaego sipeoyo.] I’d like to send 700 dollars. - 캐나다에서 이 돈을 언제쯤 받을 수 있어요? [kaenadaeseo i doneul eonjejjeum badeul su isseoyo?] When will (she/he) receive the money?
Vocabulary 입금[ipgeum] deposit 출금[chulgeum] withdraw 송금[songgeum] sending money 저금[jeogeum] savings 계좌[gyejwa] account 수수료[susuryo] remittance charge 통장[tongjang] bankbook 현금카드[hyeongeumkadeu] cash card 현금자동지급기[hyeongeumjadongjigeupgi] a cash machine 비밀번호[bimilbeonho] secret number, pin number 계좌(를) 개설하다[gyejwa(reul) gaeseolhada] to open an account
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literature
Poems Inspired by Jiri Mountain Translated by Song Chae-Pyong and Anne Rashid Photos courtesy of eimoberg (www.flickr.com/photos/eimoberg) Jiri Mountain is located in the southern region of South Korea, spanning three provinces: North and South Jeolla, as well as Gyeongsang. Throughout Korean history, the mountain has taken up a variety of different meanings, reflecting many writers’ desires and needs of different moments in time. For some Korean writers, Jiri Mountain is a tragic figure of tumultuous modern Korean history. For others, it has been a figure of the magical, the sacred, the abundant, and the motherly. For others, Jiri Mountain has been metaphorized as a mountain of the people and resistance, but also as a mountain of death and resentment, where fierce battles were fought between the end of Japanese colonial rule and the Korean War, slaughtering many Koreans. And still yet, for others, the mountain is a space of life and hope that renews the lives of today and tomorrow.
Climbing Over Jiri Mountain by Kim Jun-tae
智異山을 넘으며/ 김준태
I need to talk to the clouds. I need to talk to the wind. I need to talk to the stepping stones by the stream. I need to talk to the trees. I need to talk to the cigarette butts. Even though my words may, absurdly, become clouds or wind, or shake as trees at the end of December, or fly away as sleepless birds, or even if they become cigarette butts that one throws away without any thought, I need to name my words, like the water in a kettle that overflows when it boils, I need to scatter all of my words over every corner of the world. In fact, my words are their words; my songs are their songs.
나는 구름에게 말해야 한다 나는 바람에게 말해야 한다 나는 시냇가 디딤돌에게 말해야 한다 나는 나무에게 말해야 한다 나는 담배꽁초에게 말해야 한다 내가 한 말이 어처구니 없이 구름이 되거나 바람이 되거나 저무는 12월 나무로 흔들리거나 혹은 불면의 새로 날아가버릴망정 무심코 던져버리는 담배꽁초가 될망정 나는 나의 말에게 이름을 붙여주어야 한다 주전자에 물이 끓으면 넘치듯이 그렇게 그렇게 나의 모오든 말을 세상 곳곳에 뿌려주어야 한다 사실은 그들의 말인 나의 말을 사실은 그들의 노래인 나의 노래를.
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Spring of Jiri Mountain: Part Four —Climbing Over the Rocky Plateau by Koh Jung-hee Beautiful they are— azaleas rolling over the Rocky Plateau. Giddy is the pink river water that flows like shimmering fresh blood. Washing off the sweat flowing from my forehead, I look down upon the ridges beneath my feet, and wonder, where does history flow? The longing gathering on the mountaintop is getting greener, and the wind of Moojin Field* is weeping in a choked voice in the forest of dried-up trees silenced, like Heaven’s punishment. Again I have to climb over that ridge following the winding, uphill road. I have to climb, treading with my whole body the ridges of death that lie quietly face down. I have to climb over those ridges of despair, holding a knife against that world, but keeping the longing within that paints the western sky. Beyond this desolate life, beyond this gushing love, I should arrive at the field of Home filled with wild milk-vetch, listening to that ice-covered mountain breaking up that nobody can tread upon. Tearful they make me— azaleas rolling over the Rocky Plateau. Giddy is the pink river water that flows like shimmering fresh blood. *A former term for the region of Gwangju
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Gwangju News September 2012
지리산의 봄 4--세석고원을 넘으며 / 고정희 아름다워라 세석고원 구릉에 파도치는 철쭉꽃 선혈이 반짝이듯 흘러가는 분홍강물 어지러워라 이마에 흐르는 땀을 씻고 발 아래 산맥들을 굽어보노라면 역사는 어디로 흘러가는가, 산머리에 어리는 기다림이 푸르러 천벌처럼 적막한 고사목 숲에서 무진벌 들바람이 목메어 울고 있다 나는 다시 구불거리고 힘겨운 길을 따라 저 능선을 넘어가야 한다 고요하게 엎드린 죽음의 산맥들을 온몸으로 밟으며 넘어가야 한다 이 세상으로부터 칼을 품고, 그러나 서천을 물들이는 그리움으로 저 절망의 능선들을 넘어가야 한다 막막한 생애를 넘어 용솟는 사랑을 넘어 아무도 들어가지 못하는 저 빙산에 쩍쩍 금가는 소리 들으며 자운영꽃 가득한 고향의 들판에 당도해야 한다 눈물겨워라 세석고원 구릉에 파도치는 철쭉꽃 선혈이 반짝이듯 흘러가는 분홍강물 어지러워라
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The Sea of Clouds in Jiri Mountain by Bok Hyo-geun Again Mother appears to make a blanket, spreading the new cotton wide. Throughout the autumn she collects the cotton from the upper field of the mountain ridge. Mother remembers how she sent out the first, the second, the third, without even a patch of farmland to pass along, without even a worn-out spoon. At dawn, the frosty wind is still chilly. With new blankets, she wishes for sweet dreams for her sons and daughters, and for all the offspring in this world till the world gets warm with the generous morning sunlight.
지리산 운해/ 복효근 어머니는 또 햇솜을 저리 넓게 펴 놓으시고 이불을 지으려나보다 가으내 산마루 별밭에서 목화를 따시더니 묶어보낸 전답 하나 없이 닳아진 숟가락 하나 없이 제금 내보낸 첫째 둘째 셋째... 아직 새벽 서리 바람 차운데 넉넉한 아침 햇살 잘 펴져서 세상일 따뜻해질 때까지 내 딸 내 새끼 이 세상 모든 짐승 새끼들도 새 이불 펴 덮고 꽃잠 자라고 지리산 어머니 섬처럼 홀로 서서 햇솜을 펴 널고 계신다
Mother of Jiri Mountain hangs up the new cotton, standing alone like an island.
The Moonrise Hill by Lee Sung-bu The moon that rises over Jiri Mountain doesn’t illuminate grass and trees and roads, but she shines upon the traces of tears that won’t come off from inside people’s hearts. The stars of early autumn look closer and the sky is a deep blue mirror. The hearts touched by this moonlight have disappeared in a row, intermittently, into the mountain’s shadow, and today, even the ghosts have stopped their wandering and shouting and pass between shadows, dropping their heads. I only glimpsed the moon that rises over the hill-a moon that has seen me in the midst of quiet and yet has not spoken-and I have collapsed on the grass to catch my breath. Every time brightness and shadow rustle together, I hear lost love, sorrow, and anger rushing in again.
달뜨기재/ 이성부 지리산에 뜨는 달은 풀과 나무과 길을 비추는 것이 아니라 사람들 마음속 지워지지 않는 눈물자국을 비춘다 초가을 별들도 더욱 가까워서 하늘이 온통 시퍼런 거울이다 이 달빛이 묻은 마음들은 한줄로 띄엄띄엄 산그림자 속으로 사라지고 귀신들도 오늘은 떠돌며 소리치는 것을 멈추어 그림자 사이로 고개 숙이며 간다 고요함 속에서 나를 보고도 말 걸지 않는 고개에 솟는 달 잠깐 쳐다보았을 뿐 풀섶에 주저앉아 가쁜 숨을 고른다 밝음과 그림자가 함께 흔들릴 때마다 잃어버린 사랑이나 슬픔 노여움 따위가 새로 밀려오는 소리를 듣는다 *달뜨기재 지리산 동쪽 웅석봉과 연결된 산줄기의 고개 이름
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perspective
Did you serve your time? Written by 8ball (Kim Dong-hun)
A
s many of you know, all Korean men are obligated to serve in the military – Army, Navy or Air Force. Korean society believes they should fulfill their duty as a Korean citizen as long as they are physically and mentally sound.
studyon.co.kr
When they are assumed to be ready to serve in the military (in their early 20s), they are given a thorough physical examination at the Military Manpower Administration (MMA), to determine whether they are fit to serve in the military or not. However, some of them try to dodge the military draft by failing the check-up by having numerous tattoos on the body, pulling out some teeth or alleging to be mentally unstable. Also, there are people who don’t have to serve in the military due to links to officials in government. Those young men with government connections are often called "Sons of God." You can probably guess why they are called so.
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I didn’t fall into such a category. Having terrible eyesight, I had to cheat on my eyesight test by
Gwangju News September 2012
learning what is written on the test board so that I could be deemed fit to serve in the military. I really have no idea what inspired me at that moment, but I have never regretted that decision. As a result, I served in the military as a "KATUSA," Korean Augmentation To United States Army, for 26 months from 2001 – 2003. As a KATUSA, I could experience both sides during my military service – the ROK Army and the US Army. But even if I was given a chance to turn back time I would never go back to the days when I was in boot camp. I wasn’t allowed to go use the latrine, take a shower, sleep or rest unless I was told to do so. I had to be a robot programmed to do whatever I was instructed to do. If someone asks me if my military service was good and satisfactory, I would say, “yes” and “no”. While serving in the military, I became physically quite fit and learned a lot. Furthermore, I had the honor of working for my country during my service. But there were downsides, too. I was stuck in the Army in the heyday of youth, which interrupted my academic years and delayed my graduation. It is a duty we all should observe. So don’t be afraid and man up! After all, two years will elapse quickly and you will become a better person physically and mentally during and after the military service. So go ahead! The country wants YOU!
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food and drink
Kimchi Noodle 김치 말이 국수 Words and photos by Kim Wooyeon
I
n Korea, hot weather continues outside from June. In this weather, to do grocery shopping everyday is hard for all mothers. And all family members prefer cold and plain dishes more than heavy ones. Here is that cold and tasty "Kimchi Noodle" which can satisfy all of you. As a garnish, besides kimchi, you can add anything you want to the noodle soup. For example, I add cucumber and an egg because I have them. And if you have broth in your refrigerator, the cooking time will be shorter. If you don't have it, don't worry about it. You can buy it at any market in Korea.
Things to prepare
Plain noodles 130g, vegetable broth ⅓ cup, kimchi 100g, ½ egg, kimchi liquid ½ cup, sugar 1tsp, sesame oil 1tsp
Cooking Method
1. Sieve kimchi liquid, pour broth into the bowl and freeze it until it cools down. 2. Season kimchi with sugar and sesame oil. 3. Boil plain noodles and rinse them with cold water. (Tip. while the noodles are boiling add cold water and the noodles out when the water boils again. This makes the noodles stringy.) 4. Put noodles in the bowl, pour broth in it, add a garnish on top of the noodles, and serve it.
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food and drink
Sangmu Lunch Specials! Words and photos by Kim Sera
F
ind Gwangju’s hot places! Are you looking for awesome restaurants for lunch in Gwangju? In the late morning when you wake up with your growling stomach and tired body, cooking is annoying. In the Sangmu area, there are many places you can please your taste buds during lunch hour with special prices; these restaurants are gaining popularity among Gwangju citizens. Restaurant traveling is always pleasing, and there are a lot more fabulous places you can visit at nice prices, especially during lunch hour in Gwangju. Now, are you ready for your happy lunch? Bon appetit!
안압지) – Duck meat Ahn Ahp Ji (안 *Price: 8,800 won per person (Single person order unavailable) *Location: Behind Sangmu E-mart In this restaurant, smoked duck meat and two kinds of pork belly are served as part of the lunch special with some salad, a plate of okonomiyaki (Japanese pancake) and Korean side dishes. They also offer five options to have after the meal: bibimbab, hotpot rice, scorched rice stew and two kinds of naengmyeon (cold noodles), with spicy sauce or beef broth. What is more surprising is you can enjoy this special lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., regardless of day of the week or if it is a holiday, at the price of 8,800 won per person. Moreover, they refill all the side dishes on your table whenever you want and you can get your peach iced tea waiting for you in a corner anytime for free. Isn’t this restaurant a generous version of a buffet?
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Weishik Myeongga 외식명가 – Bulgogi This restaurant, located on the street of Sangmu’s Starbox Sauna, next to the SK gas station, serves you an amazing amount of bulgogi in a big boiling pot with mushrooms and some vegetables. You can get your salad whenever you want more. The price is 7,000 won per person (single person order unavailable).
California Roll 캘리포니아 롤 – Sushi If you are a movie person, here is the ideal restaurant for you. Be it on weekends or weekdays, with your movie ticket from Sangmu Columbus cinema of the same day, you can be served a plate of fabulous pork cutlet for free in this restaurant. The prices on the menu are around 6,000 – 13,000 won, it’s located opposite Columbus Cinema, on the street of Park Seung Chul’s hair studio. Various lunch set menus are available, the food is fresh, and the kitchen is open to see.
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fashion
Fash-On with xxl jjdp
Hong Kong Hoodie-lum Words by jjdp Photos by xxl jjdp and Michele Sevior
W
ell, it is official, the end of summer is near and well, we have to get ready for the cool, cool fall and winter time. For many it is also the end of the vacation season so here is hoping that you had a great one. As the southern hemisphere prepares for the blooming of daffodils and cherry blossoms we are ready for the amazing Korean autumn foliage turning from green to bright yellow and vivid orange. Are you ready to say goodbye to the summer rain, humidity and crazy fizzy hair with cooler mild days that are lovely and dry without the persistent sweat stains? Yes, please! So get ready to layer up for some really hot days in between that will start cool and end cool but the most important factor is for you to look cool while going about your daily affairs. Cheer up, and instead of being really sad about the sombre browns and oranges that are soon to be overtaking your wardrobe, say goodbye to summer with a bright splash of color that screams: “I really had an amazing time with you summer and thanks for the memories!” Therefore, in this month’s edition of Fash-on with xxl jjdp we take a look at the late summer hoodie. Don’t worry about splashing out on expensive items just yet as T-shirts and shorts are still very much still appropriate, you are just transitioning by layering up with a light jumper or a light as a feather hoodie. For me, and many out there when we think of hoodies we think thick and heavy, always comfortable winter wear used for snuggling in bed or on the couch or just trying to protect your ears from the freezing cold. However, I found some fantastic brightly colored light gauze ones perfect for those cool crisp autumn dusks and dawns that will take you from boring to bonanza in one second. Shot in Hong Kong which by day is all business and
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at night party, party, party, I created looks that can easily be adapted for anywhere. For the first day look I paired a basic tangerine v-neck with my signature homemade cut-off jeans shorts to which I added a hoody in an electric blue to contrast. Very easy and takes virtually no thought at all. Note that I have mixed and matched vibrant hues from opposite sides of the color spectrum in order to create the most visual contrast so that you can be the most electric and energetic wherever you go to party your nights away. Summer is also all about sandals and letting your feet be free. Usually as the temperatures rise we reach for generic thong flip flops but be different and take your footwear to another level with a Roman-inspired gladiator sandal. Feel like a warrior as you take to the streets, ready to battle it out with the urban jungle and make people actually notice your feet with style. As a general style rule, if I find something that works in an item of clothing I always purchase it in various colors because you can always mix and match and make the most of your own signature style. For instance, I got the featured v-necks which are relatively inexpensive in a host of colors; maroon, navy, grey, white and black. I also worked it with the hoodies starting with a safe electric blue and
then venturing out into shocking neon peach and highlighter green for when you are feeling extra adventurous. The latter are perfect for a night out dancing and partying or just for making sure you don’t get lost in the crowd, but just have fun and enjoy the last of the summer heat with vibrant shocking colors that you can easily create effortless comfortability with to keep you in a vacation frame of mind for a while longer. So there you have it, some ammunition to carry you through the inbetween time from summer to autumn in three easy steps. Bright t-shirt, contrasting hoodie and gladiators. Just make sure to wash your colors separately from whites or otherwise you will end up with a rainbow on your favorite white shirt. Have fun, experiment, stand out and enjoy the skin you are in. Shot on location at the W Hotel Kowloon, Hong Kong To check out more of JP’s photos please check out his site at: http://jacimages26.carbonmade.com/ Clothing Cut off denim shorts - Abercrombie and Fitch V-neck t-shirts - Trugen / H&M Gauze Hoodies - Mr Street on gmarket.com Gladiator sandals - Asos.com
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Community Board Have something you want to share with the community? Gwangju News’ community board provides a space for you to announce your club’s activity, special events and so on. Please send us the information in 200 words or less to gwangjunews@gmail.com.
Dance
mu:m English Academy – Bongsun-dong Run by Principal Jun Im and with teachers Kay Kim and Julie Jang, mu:m English Academy is for elementary and middle school students. In addition to a wellestablished learning system featuring native speakers and mu:m eye (reading pen) technology, special online programs and reading, writing, and listening materials are used. We are NOT your ordinary hagwon! With an electronic keyboard and a movie projector, and featuring special cooking and activities classes, our goal is to make English learning fun! 062-655-3405 http://cafe.daum.net/mumEnglish Fun classes, Experienced teachers, and Effective Techniques!
gju Ice Gwan Team y omen Hocke for men and w ery
g ev Lookin es to join us g 7:30 m o fr of all a t e y nigh mju Ic a o rd e Y tu Sa .m. at p p 9 to d Cu p.m. ar Worl Rink ne . If you are ither m Stadiu d, contact e te s intere ne at or w Dun Andre @gmail.com e n n u atd t: ilson a Chris W rogers.com @ kreeco
Come Try Yoga!
Vinyasa/Ashtanga style yoga class (either continuous flow or set series of postu res). All levels welcome. Teacher Rebecca Moss was trained in Vinyasa yoga in 2008 and has taught all ages and levels. 5,000 won suggested donation if you have it. Money is donated to charity Wednesday Morning Class 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. or 12:00 p.m. Sunday Evening Class 7:15 - 8:15 p.m. Place: Above the Underground Grocer in Migliore (in the alley across from Zara). Email rabigalemoss@gmail.com for more info. Facebook page: Gwangju Yoga . Join Facebook group for updates/c hanges.
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Kittens to have
They are free, but you need to vacinate them. They are Korean short hairs. The kittens are 5 months old. Contact Lynne at 0108692-9101 or e-mail lelie0072003@yahoo.com
phy h o to g ra P ju g n The Gwa b is a Club raphy Clu ple ju Photog eo
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Gwangju Inter FC
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The Gwangju international soccer team (Gwangju Inter FC) plays regularly most weekends. If you are interested in playing, e-mail: gwangju_soccer@yahoo.co m or search ‘Gwangju Inter FC’ on Facebook.
Sung Bin Home for Girls Sung Bin Home for Girls is looking for creative/ active/ energetic/ outgoing/ enthusiastic long-term volunteers to join in our regular Saturday program. We would like you to give at least two Saturdays per month. Meet every Saturday at 1p.m. in front of downtown Starbucks. All are welcome. For more volunteering information please contact Daniel Lister at: daniellister7@hotmail.com.
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Midway between Kunsthalle and the Grand Hotel, across the main street at the traffic lights from the Crown Bakery. On the 3rd floor of the T World building.
Gwangju News September 2012
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Sept 2012_4 2012.8.30 10:5 AM Page 56