NEH Magazine October 2011 - HERS by NEH Magazine

NEH

october 2011

10.11

CONTENTS

CULTURE FOR YOUR LIFESTYLE

The Intro 10

Healthy Bulgarian Delight in Itaewon

A couple’s quest to find the perfect meal brought them to Zelen, a Bulgarian restaurant in Itaewon. How was their experience? Read their review to find out!

by tiffanie Caracassis & dennis Pyon

Gwangju Design Biennale: When Design Steps Forward Into Society

Gwangju Design Biennale, among the oldest and prestigious in the Asia International Gwangju Biennale, is currently taking place in Gwangju, located in the South Cheolla province. We take a look at this world scale event.

by adel kim

Satiate the shopaholic within

There are few places that rival Seoul as one of Asia’s shopping capitals. Situated around Seoul you will find an assortment of shopping malls, department stores, high-end fashion streets, and markets which are dispersed among cafés and restaurants, where you can people watch if you need a break from all the spending. by iga motylska

A Flash of Fashion: The Future Faces of Fantasy in Seoul

First-hand runway culture is like diving into the jaws of a beautiful beast, complete with pre-stunt circus music and a gypsy-horn twist. In the jigsaw-world of fashion at Draw Your Fantasy, some pieces didn’t fit…they soared. by todd williams

bartender of the month

It could be due to his confidence or the fact that he’s always smiling, but there is something captivating about Jaecheul. by sae-hee burke

boseong tea

Away from Seoul lies a province where everything is green tea, and everyone takes peace and joy into action. Writer Sae-hee Burke ventures down to Boseong to discover the Boseong green tea fields–for the glory, beauty, and relaxation. by sae-hee burke

short fiction: Naked

I’m a big fan of bathing. Personal hygiene is one of my all-time favorite hygienes. It’s just that spending the afternoon showering with my eight-year-old student and her mother makes me a bit uncomfortable

by sarah katin

Departments 6

Letter from the editor 9

On the Cover record breaking korean female artist bada.

Photography courtesy of

the think tank 10

the intro 28

the forum NEH

october 2011

10.11 CULTURE FOR YOUR LIFESTYLE

(continued from page 3)

The Forum 28

The Cover Story 32

together with bada

Her album sales have broken records. She is recognized as one of the best on the musical stage. She’s involved in cutting-edge business. But what you may not know about Bada is that, next to my mom, she could be the nicest, most genuine person on the planet. by dustin wilshire

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vanessa lopez: A Whiter Shade of Pale

Enter a world of beauty products that dare to take your skin tone to a new level of white. Where department stores highlight areas designated specifically for creams that whiten your skin and their consumers are hooked. 30

marybeth anderson: Survey Says: Do Women Care About Politics? Tzipi Livni. Catherine Ashton. Julia Gillard. Bashar Al-Assad. Don’t recognize these names, or are only vaguely aware of who they are? Don’t feel bad: most women (myself included!) are out of the political loop.

Whisper Chase: Femquility: Utopia or Dystopia?

What would the world be like if only women were in charge? Read along as Whisper Chase highlights “Femquility,” a proposed community whereby all men are subordinated to their female superiors.

WHIsper chase: Is Sexuality Static?

Are we sure that sexual orientation can be defined within the limits of heretosexuality, bisexuality, and homosexuality? Perhaps sexuality isn’t static.

letter from the editor

the beautiful issue Editorial Director Whisper Chase

he Beautiful Issue, or simply “Hers.” How fitting for October as we move from a hot and humid nasty summer season into the glamorous coloration of Autumn, or 가을, as some may call it in Kimchi-land. Let’s pose a relative question, “What is beauty?” Beauty may be defined as something that is aesthetically pleasing to your

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eye, while simultaneously clutching onto your heart strings. Ladies, think about that purse you’ve had your eye on for awhile and when you see it, it’s “Oh, so magical!” You don’t just love the way it looks, but it does something to your core, doesn’t it? Or what about that handsome guy you know who is just so hot, he’s beautiful? What about the scattered clouds on an otherwise sunny day? Sometimes beauty disguises itself and sneaks right up on you. Remember, ladies: beauty is subjective, even though the industry would have you believe otherwise. While we are still reminiscing in our minds about what is beautiful, let’s turn to the flip side and admit what isn’t beautiful. It isn’t beautiful to put down others for your own gain. Judging others so harshly makes you ugly, so remember that. Preying upon other people’s weakness also renders you grotesquely disgusting. Lying, deceiving, and cheating equals hideous. Constant nagging and criticizing everything to death leads to furrowed brows that even Botox can’t help. While we’re at it, Botox isn’t beautiful, people, it makes everyone look like Joan Rivers...five facelifts ago. And lastly, it’s not beautiful to always have to be right. By trying to be right all the time, that in itself puts a chip on your shoulder, which causes bad posture and leaves you with a noxious cloud of ugly hanging right over you. Moving along…“The Beautiful” issue is the embodiment of all things fanciful, lovely, and cutting edge, no ugly here. The feature story is about Bada, former member of S.E.S. and now an up-and-coming thespian. Read Dustin Wilshire’s account on understanding why Bada’s beauty is not only skin deep. While Bada brings all sorts of talents and attributes to the beauty table, beauty for others may mean avoiding the sun at all costs, and bleaching out any impurities. Korea is known for its cosmetic industry and now you’d be hard-pressed to find a line that didn’t offer some sort of whitening or bleaching solution. Follow Vanessa Lopez’s report on skin bleaching in Korea to learn more about this increasingly popular beauty custom. Beauty for others may be a vacation down to see the Boseong Tea fields. Sae hee Burke captures the essence of this verdant landscape in her photo diary. Or how about Todd Williams perspective on “Draw Your Fantasy,” a fashion show held at Ehwa University Iga’s guide to where we can find it? Now that’s beauty in print form! There is so much beauty we can hardly contain it! I’ll leave you with these parting words, “The time is nigh to see all the beautiful sights to behold on this quaint little peninsula and while you’re at it ask yourself what does ‘beautiful’ mean to you?” I’m sure whatever it means, it didn’t fall down the ugly tree and hit every branch. Beautifully yours, Whisper Chase Editorial Director

NEH

october 2011

s l NEH r i g the founding editor

kelly williams

general manager

jinah kim-allen (jinahka@nehmagazine.com)

editorial director

whisper chase (whisperc@nehmagazine.com)

creative director events coordinator public relations consultant

stylist copy editors

lillian rihela (lillianr@nehmagazine.com) maria napitupulu (marian@nehmagazine.com) michele farley

inga aftaeva marybeth anderson, whisper chase, vanessa lopez, cat manabat, milgem rabanera

contributing writers

sae-hee burke, tiffanie caracassis, whisper chase, Adel Kim, Vanessa lopez, iga motylska, maria napitupulu

designers contributing photographers & artists

Lillian rihela sae-hee burke, leah hoelscher, inge kathleen, iga motylska, maria napitupulu, jennifer ross

office address and information

office phone: 032.323.7472 daewoo myville 1160-1 central park 611 jung-dong, bucheon south korea

advertising in q uiries

advertising@nehmagazine.com 032.323.7472 c.j. koster-allen (english service) jinah kim-allen (korean service)

submission in q uiries

submissions@nehmagazine.com contact whisper chase (whisperc@nehmagazine.com)

general in q uiries

info@nehmagazine.com content: editor@nehmagazine.com photography: luc bonnici (lucb@nehmagazine.com) design: lillian rihela (lillianr@nehmagazine.com) events: maria napitupulu (marian@nehmagazine.com) korean assistance: jinah kim-allen (jinahka@nehmagazine.com)

organization

neh media is a division of neh organization neh magazine is published monthly throughout the year. the editors and publishers of this magazine give no warranties, guarantees, or assurances with regard to goods or services advertised in this issue. no part of this magazine may be reproduced, in part or in whole, without the written consent of the publisher. the opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent those of the editors or neh organization.

sarah katin

After graduating with a B.A. in Sociology, Sarah decided to take a sabbatical from her distinguished waitressing career and traveled to South Korea to teach English. This move proved challenging, as she had no formal training in the profession, a disinclination for children with sticky hands and little knowledge on the basic usage of commas. (A problem, she still, has today.) Nine years later, she is still traveling the globe doing cool stuff. She currently divides her time between working as the foreign English language director at Gyeongsang National University in South Korea and writing words on paper. She has recently written her first screenplay.

think tank

A Selection of This month’s contributors

tiffanie caracassis

Tiffanie Caracassis, a recent Broadcasting graduate, decided to chase adventure abroad and teach English as a means to make money and realize her dreams of traveling the globe. Born and raised in Montréal (Québec), Tiffanie is fluent in English and French and hopes to also become fluent in Korean. She loves yoga, public speaking, mountain biking, and...watch out, punching and kicking too (à la UFC), a trait that hurts her main squeeze, Dennis!

vanessa lopez

I was born and raised in Arizona, under blazing sunshine and copper sunsets. I attended Arizona State University for Human Communication and Journalism. Before coming to Korea, I worked for The Arizona Republic and spent way too much time inside a cubicle. I’m interested in studying about the universe and finding new/rare music. My sense of humor is completely off-beat and a little ridiculous. Just ask me about the best joke I ever made! I am an addict for blue drinks, zebra cakes, concerts and owl trinkets. I love going on adventures, documenting my findings and sharing my voice with NEH. NEH

october 2011

food

& dining

Healthy Bulgarian Delight in Itaewon words & photography by Tiffanie Caracassis & Dennis Pyon

directions: by Subway - Itaewon station, Exit 1: Main Street behind the Hamilton Hotel. Walk past Sam Ryanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pub and Zelen is on the 2nd floor on the right.

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HE SAID

SHE SAID atmosphere

Venture up an ascending alleyway to find the rather unassuming door to Zelen. As you cross the threshold, you leave the clamor of Itaewon behind for a tranquil grotto, complete with resident mermaid. The rustic décor, warm earthy tones, and soothing music, combine to create a cozy, comfortable, yet vibrant backdrop for your dining experience. The crowd, which was an interesting mix of Koreans and foreigners, was relaxed and casual, making Zelen an ideal stage for a romantic outing, or a chill evening with friends. If you’re lucky enough to snag a table in one of the two window niches, you’re rewarded with a great vantage point for the live drama of the streets below.

I heard such great things about Zelen that I became intrigued. Once we found it, I noticed immediately that it had a different vibe from other restaurants I’ve visited in Korea. It felt authentic and true to its Bulgarian roots. As soon as we were seated, the mood shifted to a cozy and even, romantic one. The dim candle light, the warm choice of colors, the vines draped across the ceiling, and the open kitchen concept overlooking the dining room and its soothing mermaid fountain, were all unique and original. The owner informed us that these features are traditional in Bulgaria! For a Monday night, it was busy and happy chatter filled the air.

pricing Pricing is typical for foreign restaurants in the area: with a complete meal The pricing is reasonable considering that the food is so good and porcosting, on average, between 25,000W and 35,0000W, and entrees ranging tions generous. There are also specially-priced menu items for couples and from 16,000W to 35,000W. Portions are generous, so sharing is recom- groups. mended if you’re on a budget.

menu The menu consists mainly of traditional Bulgarian fare with a modern twist. We began our meal with the Tarator cold soup: slightly tangy yogurt mixed with nicely minced dill, cucumber, and onions, combine to create a refreshing summery treat that cooled us off while whetting our appetites, and piquing our interest for the courses ahead. The fresh, crispy cucumbers and firm, ripe tomatoes in the Shopska salad didn’t disappoint, and were complemented beautifully by a generous blanket of finely grated Bulgarian white cheese – a real treat for all of you forlorn cheese lovers, stranded here in the land of processed slices. The Pile Na Skara chicken breast was juicy, and grilled to perfection, accompanied by a sparse, yet delicious, serving of crispy grilled veggies. The saltiness of the pickle and smoked cheese stuffing, nicely balanced the flavor of the chicken, and the balsamic reduction garnish was sweet without being overwhelming. To finish off the meal, we indulged in the Bulgarian ice cream, which was a decadent treat of frozen homemade cream with a hint of minced nuts, and topped with a sweet raspberry sauce.

We began our feast with the Tarator soup, which was a delight to my taste buds. I had tingles of pure food pleasure from the first sip I took! It tasted like Tzatziki, but a smoother version with a crunchy texture. I recommend this dish, considering the small price for the large portion! KRW 6,000. Then came the Shopska salad. Served like a small mountain of cheese that explodes with fresh veggies on the inside. Although the salad was advertised to include baked pepper and onion, it contained mostly tomatoes and cucumbers. This is a small detail, because if you’re a cheese lover, the rest is trivial. KRW 13,000. Our main dish, “Pile na Skara,” consisted of two large, moist, and tender grilled chicken breasts, stuffed with mushrooms, pickles, bacon and cheese. It was as pleasing to the eyes as it was to my tummy! The side of potatoes was particularly delicious! KRW 16,500. And finally, the Bulgarian ice cream made with walnuts and sprinkled with raspberry sauce for dessert. I highly recommend it, especially for ice cream or gelato lovers. This homemade dish rivals both. KRW 6,000.

service The service staff was warm, friendly, and as in most venues in the area, The service was quick. We didn’t have to wait long for our food to arrive all spoke English fluently, in case you haven’t been practicing your Korean. with the kitchen in such close proximity. I can easily say that the staff is acThey were attentive and knowledgeable, making you feel right at home in commodating. One of the owners, Philip, was very engaging and ready to this Bulgarian oasis. answer any questions about the menu, and even Bulgarian traditions!

overall The cuisine is proof that you don’t need exotic ingredients you can’t pronounce, or wildly adventurous food pairings, to make fantastic food. So if you’re growing weary of the sauce-and-marinade-heavy hands of Korean cooks, check out Zelen for simple food, made with the highest quality, freshest ingredients, and of course, lots of love. The atmosphere is great, it won’t break the bank, and most importantly of all: your taste buds will be singing.

I will definitely return to this restaurant for its amazing food and great atmosphere. I was not disappointed and now fully understand why it received such high accolades. I give you all carte blanche, dear NEH readers, to go experience this excellent restaurant for yourselves and taste what Bulgarian cuisine is all about. Hey, at least it gives you a break from your daily intake of kimchi!

NEH

october 2011

community

& events

Gwangju Design Biennale: words by adel kim

The 4th Design Biennale is going on now in Gwangju, South Cheolla Province. This small city with a long and sorrowful history was not a popular tourist attraction in the past, but recently it became a part of the world art scene and attracted attention from those in the art society. Currently, the Gwangju Biennale is one of the most well-known art events in the world and the most prestigious contemporary art biennale in Asia. What’s the Gwangju Biennale? The Gwangju Biennale was founded in 1995 in memory of the civil uprising in the 1980 repression of the Gwangju Democratization Movement. The General Biennale, which includes contemporary artwork, opens every two years. The Gwangju Design Biennale started in 2005 as part of the general one. The organizations wanted to promote the design industry in Gwangju and contribute to the development of Korea. An important feature is that the Gwangju Design Biennale incorporates not only the aesthetic and practical value of design, but also socio-cultural relationships. We can definitely see this in the Biennale’s concept for this year. “Design is design is not design” If you were used to thinking that design is just the boring process of everyday objects around us, this event will change your opinion. Sometimes it is much more about concepts, so you can’t really see the border in between

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design and contemporary art. The theme of the Gwangju Design Biennale is “Design is Design is not Design” (dogado bisangdo), which was inspired by the first words in Tao Te Ching by Lao Tzu (patriarch of Taoism): “The way that is the way is not always the way.” The Biennale is divided into six different sections: Thematic, Named, Un-named, Urban Follies, Community, and Biennale City. The sections are mixed into the exhibition space, and some of the works by designers and architects are situated within the city– you can find out where on a map. The main goal of this positioning was to illustrate that Gwangju not only hosts the Biennale, but it changes with the event and shows the appearance of a real Biennale City. The 2011 Biennale emerged through the work of two artistic directors. Seung H-Sang, is famous for the Paju Book City project, DMZ Peace-Life Valley in Korea and many overseas projects. Also he served as a commissioner of the Korean Pavilion for the Venice Architecture Biennale in 2008, and is an important and respected figure in Korea. The other director, Ai Wei Wei, is even more famous, having recently been on the news. This Chinese artist, curator, social commentator and activist has had his own exhibitions in New York, London and other world capitals. In his works, he reflects Chinese realities without embellishments. The Chinese government disapproves of him, and this past spring, he was arrested by police in the airport. The arrest

When Design Steps Forward Into Society elicited a big reaction from the art world, including some of the most famous contemporary artists. Anish Kapoor, Damian Hurst and Olafur Elliason—all of these people actively protested, demanding his freedom. He gained support from museums, galleries and everyday people. Ai Wei Wei was eventually freed, but this incident raised new talks about freedom of opinion and expression for artists. His presence this year will likely raise the same issues. Impressions In my opinion, visiting the Gwangju Biennale is not just for pleasure, but requires work. You cannot simply watch some of the design projects and experience aesthetical joy. You have to see, you have to think, and you have to act. For me, the main feature of this exhibit is that it’s interactive. It’s not just an “artist-viewer,” but more “creator-creator” relationship. For example, you can make your own book about design, donate money for natural disaster victims or just sit and relax in the nature-friendly designed room. Artists try to involve viewers into their work, making them act and create, and only through this exchange can an artwork be completed. Also, this Biennale seemed very humanistic. One of the biggest themes surrounded Japan and the consequences of this past spring’s earthquake and flooding. Reflecting on this tragedy, artists are invoking us to react and not forget about it. Another interesting part is the design of the human body. We don’t really think that things going on within our body are a kind

of design as well. Artists focused on this, and sometimes their works were shocking. Attracting viewer’s interest, designers tried to make an influence on people’s lives. High-level artists, who are in the main flow of contemporary design development, are taking part in this event, so their work may sometimes be very strange to everyday people. During my visit to this exhibition, I heard somebody ask about a particular artwork, “and this is a design, too?” They will not give you an answer. In Taoism philosophy, the way you can name is not the way. It cannot be defined but it’s always is in the process of changing. The same is true of design. The Gwangju Biennale will take place until the 23rd of October. Directions: Take bus #83, 64 from Gwangju station or bus #58, 95 from Bus

terminal. There’s also a shuttle bus service (look for the schedule in tourist information centers). Opening hours: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. Admission fee: 10,000 won (7,000 with online booking) Contacts: 82-62-608-4114 Website: www.gb.or.kr

NEH

october 2011

life

& culture

COEX Mall

Located under the Korea World Trade Center, this 30-acre, underground shopping mall has a multitude of stores. It also boasts one of the largest aquariums in Asia, the Kimchi Museum and a food court that caters to just about any taste. The neighboring convention center hosts numerous conventions and exhibitions on a year-round basis. You can do your shopping at Lotte duty-free store on the basement level of the COEX Intercontinental Hotel. Remember to bring your passport and airline ticket so as not to pay tax. Location: Samseong Station, Line 2, Exit 5 or 6. For further information visit the official website: www.coexmall.com.

Satiate the

shopaholic within words & photography by iga motylska

Seoul is undoubtedly the shopping capital of South Ko-

and is also recognized as a shopping Mecca within Asia. It is not unheard of for visitors from neighboring countries to visit Seoul for a weekend shopping spree; this is due to the fact that it provides high quality and brand-name goods for relatively reasonable prices. Koreans themselves are considered to be very fashion-conscious and trendy. There are numerous places you can go to satiate the desire to shop â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;til you drop, whether it be on the fashionable streets of Gangnam-gu or tucked away local mar-

rea

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kets that can only be accessed by means of side streets. Some of the most popular buys in South Korea include: clothes, leather goods, jewelry, electronics, ginseng, folk art and crafts, traditional liquors and teas, and let us not forget kimchi, of course. If you are planning a trip back home, remember that you are eligible to purchase items at the numerous duty-free shops located around the country. Whatever it is that you are looking for, you will surely find it in Seoul, which has a cornucopia of goods on offer to its shoppers. Do not forget to bargain!

Apgujeong

South of the Han River you will find Apgujeong: the epitome of luxurious living. The rich and famous frequent the exclusive, high-end boutiques and brand name retail stores dotted along the intersecting streets. ‘Rodeo’ Street in Apgujeong and Samsung Street in Cheongdamdong are the places to be seen. Here you can meander between flagships stores such as Gucci, Prada, Armani, and Hugo Boss, to name a few. You can easily splurge an entire month’s pay if you’re not careful! The surrounding area is also well-known for art galleries and museums. Location: walk straight out of Cheongdam Station, Line 7, Exit 8; or 9 along Samsung Street, turn left past Cheongdam intersection into Apgujeong Rodeo Street.

Garosu-gil in Sinsa-dong

You will be forgiven for thinking that you’re ambling along a bustling boulevard somewhere in Europe when you encounter Garosu-gil at first glance. This Ginkgo-lined promenade, which is situated in Gangnam-gu, is home to chic boutiques, brightly colored accessory stores, and home décor stores. People watching appears to be a popular pastime among its regular visitors. The many inviting cafés and ethnic restaurants also provide a well-deserved break from shopping and browsing. Location: from Sinsa Station, Line 3, Exit 2; or 7, walk straight, at the four-way intersection (Sinsa Sageori) turn left into Garosu-gil.

Myeong-dong

Popular among international tourists and locals alike, Myeong-dong is always alive with energy, even during weeknights. This shopping destination attracts more than one million shoppers every day. The best time to come here is during the late afternoon and early evening when vendors switch on their lamps. Customers are drawn to the stalls like moths to a flame. The grid-like streets and alleyways offer new surprises at every turn. They are lined with make-up outlets offering free samples and gifts. The eye-catching trinkets, sparkling jewelry or shoes will capture and sustain your attention. Some vendors use megaphones to promote their products and announce bargains. You can find numerous international clothing brands here and stop for a bite of Korean street food, or a sit-down dinner, if you begin to feel hungry. Location: Myeong dong Station, Line 4, Exit 6. Also a four-minute walk from Euljiro 1-ga Station, Line 2, Exit 6.

Namdaemun Market

One of Seoul’s largest markets is situated a short walk away from Myeong-dong, where you can often find similar items but for slightly less. At this authentic market you can find almost anything your heart desires–from the indoor stores or the hundreds of makeshift stalls– whether it be a leather jacket, soccer t-shirt, sunglasses, kitchenware, or souvenirs. On the outskirts, surrounding the market, you can find ‘Camera Street’ and ‘Eyewear Street.’ A tailor can alter your clothes on the spot while you do your shopping. Don’t be surprised if a shop owner takes you by the hand and leads you to their store. This is a great place to test your haggling skills. You can eat sannakji–raw sliced baby octopus–from the many food stalls located here. Location: Hoehyeon Station, Line 4, Exit 5.

Times Square

Times Square is South Korea’s modern, hybrid mall. Opened in late 2009, it contains an ‘inner’ and ‘outer’ mall and is located near the Marriot Hotel. Its glass ceiling and arching walkways make it an architectural feat. The Shinsegae Department Store plays host to extravagant brand name stores such as Louis Vuitton, BVLGARI, and Cartier. Times Square is equipped with the world’s largest 35mm cinema screen–as certified by the Guinness World Book of Records. Location: Yeongdeungpo Station, Line 1, Lotte Department Store exit. For further information visit the official website: www.timessquare.co.kr/en/

Yongsan Electronics Market

As the name suggests, this large-scale, wholesale shopping mall is composed of more than twenty buildings, has multiple floors, and houses approximately 5,000 shops. Here you will find anything from cameras and lenses to computers, televisions and even hairdryers and electric fans. In fact, it should be called ‘Gadgets Galore.’ If you can plug it into a power outlet, you will find it here. Prices are generally lower than at retail stores, which is why it attracts so many customers. Remember to bargain, as many of the shopssell the same items, and make sure that your purchase works on the spot before leaving. Location: Yongsan Station, Line 1, Exit 2; or Sinyongsan Station, Line 4, Exit 5.

NEH

october 2011

e .

art

& fashion

A Flash of Fashion

The Future Faces of Fantasy in Seoul words by todd E. williams photography by philippe teston

the sweet sound of traditional live gayageum played by Chung Min-ah (a beauty herself ), blended to the ambient beats of a more modern, progressive Korea, each note signifying progress toward a sound to match the style of the night. Far different from the carnival music that had trapped us in a Tim Burton film before the event, the simultaneously smooth and exciting sounds prepared the audience for something new in art. Lights seemed to drip from the walls and beam onto the catwalk as we awaited the strolling, gliding, sometimes floating pieces of art that highlighted the Inha University “Draw Your Fantasy” showcase of fashion. The show was different from most, and took many risks from its very inception as a showcase of art made to invoke imagery of a “fairytale for adults,” as noted by the hosts. Taken backstage before the show, I witnessed firsthand the meticulous preparation that had gone into the event. Models frantically ran about the dressing rooms, making last-minute adjustments, most still in street shorts and t-shirts but still very much models. Many stood above 180cm at the lower end of the scale and very much encompassing a learned, yet somehow natural, beauty that has come to be expected in the world of modern, metropolitan fashion. In addition to the models, there were, of course, the other works of art: draped fabrics flowing, tight ones clinging to their hangers, ready to make their debut to the world, falling into the disarray of loose linens flowing out of the spare parts box awaiting the imagination of a young, enterprising Seoul designer to take them to new heights and become the future of design brilliance in Korea. Behind the scenes I spoke to designer Yoo Joon-yeon, asking a simple question provoked by the theme of the night, “What exactly is your fantasy?” At first I was given a simple answer, “On the beach, making love.” When further provoked about his pieces, gorgeously thin-thread-driven dresses that harkened back to flappers of the Roaring Twenties in the United States, Joon, as he goes by, elaborated. “My pieces are inspired by fog on the [Han] River, and grey, cloudy weather. Not strong, but not too soft.” This imagery was meant to evoke the rough summer weather we had here in Seoul, along the Han and well out in to the suburbs, reaching far and wide across the peninsula. Yet somewhere, within the mess of floods and fog, feathers, covering the piece, which to some may signify a flight away from it all, and perhaps the release from the grip of Mother Nature that was widely yearned for in the summer of 2011. Back on the catwalk, music and lights flowed directly against the overwhelming ambience of the black and white room, and the models were ready to begin. There were several showcases throughout the night, the first of which seemed to pull from 19th century working-class East Asian style and take it in a sexy, exhilarating direction. Male and female models donned modest cloth turned into high-culture manifestos of personal elegance that could have easily bombed if it weren’t for fine-tuned hands guided by keen, sharp eyes. Shortly following was a woodland archer theme, blending green-chic earth tones and taking Robin Hood straight into the big city. There was even what I would call a “whimsical girl scout” involved, showcasing uniformed beauty at its finest, donning simple shorts with a khaki shirt but with the correct accessories to make it flare up in a white-carpet piece of art that would make Ernest Hemingway blush. Sets later, a shocking foil happened. Bright reds combined with whites and grays as we were presented with an Alice theme paired with a Danny Elfman score. This was, perhaps, the most well put together showcase of the night. It followed the story of Alice, from the rabbit’s large tie (no ears to match, fine judgment by the designer), to suits of hearts and diamonds, shocking attire donning chess pieces and an entire cloak made of what had to be five decks of cards; then, the highlight of the segment, Alice and the Queen looking absolutely stunning in contrasting darkness and light. While I would have admired the risk, we were spared a Mad Hatter. The finale came to music from the film Me and You and Everyone We Know, an absolute surprise. Beaming like light from an alien land the models came out in cool-toned, flowing dresses like jellyfish floating through the deep sea, glowing to fight the eternal night in a symphony of sophistication that was well suited for a firework finale. Low-cut backs and a high-cut top wowed the crowd for ten minutes before the flowers came and models and designers were met with a grand ovation from observers and professionals. It was a success for this young team, creating a cohesive event, designing the future of fashion in Seoul.

It started with a whisper,

october 2011

NEH

october 2011

food

& dining

top 3

korean recipes of the month

Vegan Dubu-Beoseot Jeongol (두부버섯전골) Mushroom Tofu Hotpot

Jeongol is a type of elaborate stew in Korean cuisine. It is similar to jjigaes except that jeongol is composed of several different main ingredients, versus one. It is a very healthy type of stew, mixing flavors, varieties of nutritious greens, and several textures. It was once considered a food of the court (due to its richness and variety) even though it was historically made in soldier’s hats. This dish is full of flavor, and is more than satisfying. It’s great to work with because you can throw in anything from your fridge. Jeongal is served with rice and other banchan. Ingredients:

1 (420g) package of firm tofu, sliced 3 fresh king oyster mushrooms sliced thinly (the long way) 1 pack of enoki mushrooms (torn into smaller chunks) 1 large onion sliced thinly 1 cup soy bean sprouts 2 scallions (chopped diagonally) Water Sea salt (to taste) Broth base: 1 tbsp soy sauce ½ tsp kelp powder 1-2 tbsp red pepper powder (start with 1 tbsp, to adjust the spice level) ½ tbsp sugar 2 tbsp sesame oil

Directions:

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

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Slice all of the vegetables and drain the tofu. Cut the tofu into slices and place the tofu pieces on the bottom of a pot. Layer the onions, mushrooms, and bean sprouts over the tofu. In a separate pot, mix the broth and ingredients. Simmer on very low heat for ten minutes. Add the cooked broth base to the main pot, then add enough water to cover all of the vegetables. Bring everything to a boil and then bring it down to a simmer for 20 minutes. If the liquid boils down too much, add more water. Add the chopped scallions to the soup and add salt to taste. Serve with rice. Makes 4-6 servings.

Buchu banchan seungchae (부추승재반찬) chive banchan Seungchae is a type of food preparation that refers to raw vegetables in a sour and spicy sauce. The raw part means that the ingredients are full of nutrients so that they are much healthier than boiled down foods. Buchu (chives) are inexpensive and full of Vitamins A, B, C, calcium, and iron. On top of that, chives are said to have a detoxing effect, naturally cleansing the body. They naturally provide the body with energy and essential nutrients. This dish is served well with rice and other banchans. Ingredients:

2 cups of chives 1-2 tsp minced garlic (adjust to your own taste) 1/8-¼ tsp minced ginger (adjust to your own taste) 1-2 tsp soy sauce ½-1 tsp red pepper powder A little bit of sesame oil Sprinkle of sesame seeds (for garnish)

Directions:

1. 2.

3. 4.

Clean and cut the chives into 2-3 inch lengths. Add the minced garlic, minced ginger, sesame oil, soy sauce, and red pepper powder. (Add more red pepper if you want more spice.) Mix well and garnish with sesame seeds. Serve with rice and other banchan. Makes 3-4 servings.

Kong namul banchan (콩나물) soybean sprout banchan

Kong Namul is a popular banchan that is both easy and quick to make. It is a popular and necessary part of any bibimbap. It requires very little seasoning, allowing the true flavor of the soybean sprouts to shine. It is a low-calorie dish high in fiber and protein. For a quick and easy meal, try serving this with rice, some kimchi and sesame oil. Ingredients:

4 cups of soybean sprouts 2 chopped scallions 3 tbsp sesame oil Sea salt (to taste) Black pepper (to taste) Red pepper powder (optional) Sesame seeds

Directions:

2. 3. 4.

Steam soybeans for 15 minutes, they will appear clear in color. Put them in a bowl until they cool down. Add the red pepper, salt and pepper to taste. Add the sesame oil and mix with your hands. Garnish with sesame seeds. Makes 3-4 servings.

NEH

october 2011

community

& events

Seoul Shakespeare Company’s “Gore and Madness” Promises to Disgust

Severed hands, dismembered tongues, loved ones driven to

suicidal insanity; is this Shakespeare or the set of John Carpenter’s latest Halloween film? Pull your loved ones close, for it is indeed bloody Shakespeare and not for the faint of heart. Just in time for All Hallow’s Eve, Seoul Shakespeare Company dives into four of Shakespeare’s darkest tragedies: Titus Andronicus, Julius Caesar, Hamlet, and Richard III. Titus Andronicus serves as the brutal framework for the production. This blood-splattered journey, focusing on the mutilation and revenge of Titus’ daughter Livinia, is not always easy for audiences to stomach.

Gore and Madness will run for two weekends only, at two different theatres. The first weekend (October 22nd and 23rd) will be performed at the Whitebox Theatre near Hyochang Park Station. The second weekend (October 29th and 30th) will be performed at an international performance festival in Seoul’s theatre district of daehangno) at the 알과 핵 극장 (translated to ‘Egg and Nucleolus Theatre’ in English). Weekend 1

Location: White Box Theatre, Exit 2, Hyochang Park Station (Line 6) www.probationarytheatre.com Saturday October 22 - 8:00 pm Sunday October 23 - 3:00 pm Cost: KRW 15,000 Weekend 2

Location: 알과 핵 극장, Exit 2 Hyewha Station (Line 4) Saturday October 29 - 3:00 pm and 7:00pm Sunday October 30 - 3:00 pm Cost: KRW 15,000 advanced. KRW 20,000 at the door. For reservations please email:

ticketing@seoulshakespeare.com

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In a bar full of widescreen TVs blaring hip-twisting and head-bobbing music, your eyes are naturally guided in his direction when you enter Goldbar 2. It could be due to his confidence or the fact that he’s always smiling, but there is something captivating about Jaecheul. While sitting on the comfy couches, rocking the foosball table, or playing pool, you feel relaxed and energized in this special bar. Although there are several Goldbars, Goldbar 2 is the one worth finding. The atmosphere is loose yet energetic, so it’s impossible not to enjoy yourself. Accurately reflecting Jaecheul and his attitude, there are only good people, simple and great drinks, and fun times to be had. If you’d like to check Jaecheul out in person, visit Goldbar 2 in Sincheon, 070-8157-4655. bartender at: Goldbar 2 in Sincheon Name: Jaecheul Age: 30

Birthday: February 13

Zodiac sign: Aquarius

Chinese Zodiac Sign: Dog Blood type: A

Interests: Psychology, real estate, jetekeu, cars, exercise, business, wakeboarding, driving, swimming. Hobbies: Sports, physical activity, driving my Golf, traveling (I spent one year of my life traveling throughout Asia, to places like Thailand, Cambodia, Japan, etc). Likes: Being active, R&B music (like Anthony Hamilton)...”I ask myself everyday, how will I enjoy this life, I like enjoying my life.” Dislikes: Poverty and pain. What he finds sexy in a woman: Natural beauty and nice skin. Things you don’t know about him: My English skills are my secret! And I don’t like to drink very much! His favorite drink: White sparkling wine, a nice glass of white wine. words & photography by sae-hee burke

nominate a bartender: editor@nehmagazine.com

NEH

october 2011

TRAVEL

& TOURISM

BOSEONG GREEN TEA FIELDS WHERE GREEN BEAUTY ROAMS

In a country where everyone is rushing, there lie ample lands filled with rolling glory where slowing down is the best way to go. WORDS & PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAE-HEE BURKE

An escape from the coffee-rushed streets of Seoul and into the soothing embrace of Boseong’s green tea fields, a childlike wonder washes over you. Accounting for nearly 40 percent of the green tea produced in Korea, the farms that coat Boseong’s slopes and grace the hills are part of the exotic scenery that leaves you uttering, “This is in Korea?” Boseong is in Jeollanum-do, (located five hours south of Seoul). Just 15 minutes from the bus terminal, you can reach the Daehan Dawon green tea farm theme park. A gurgling stream and massive mossy green cedars guide you to the rolling hills of tea bushes. A sweet scent wraps around you in overwhelming relaxation as its stunning presence enthralls you. About 5.8 million tea plants grow in 1.7 square meters of space, while the entire farming area spreads to over 5 million square meters. Green

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tea first grew naturally in the forest during the Chosun dynasty and because of the rich soil, warm temperature, and generous amounts of rain, the plants prospered. Spotted all over Boseong are luxurious fields, beautiful emerald blankets miraculously snuggling up along the mountains and angled lands. Boseong, in short, is a tea lover’s Mecca. You can easily sip on some of the freshest and youngest tea while soaking in the scenery and spooning in some green tea bibimbap. Enjoy the fields any time of the year, though it’s most impressive during the late summer and spring. Even on rainy days, the Boseong green tea fields will blow you away.

NEH

october 2011

LiFe

& Culture

NAKED BY SARAH KATIN

“It’s not that I don’t like being naked,” I had explained. “And I’m a big fan of bathing. Personal hygiene is one of my all-time favorite hygienes. It’s just that spending the afternoon showering with my eight-yearold student and her mother makes me a bit uncomfortable, if you know what I mean.” “Of course. I understand completely,” said Ji Young, my Korean co-teacher, nodding earnestly. A few days later, Mrs. Kim is standing at my door holding a gift bag bursting with fluffy tissue paper. “Thank you,” I say, taking the bag. “Should I open this now?” “Yes, yes,” she says with a bright smile. I rustle through the papery cocoon and retrieve a bottle of jasmine shampoo and a bright pink pouf. I’m confused. “It for shower.” Mrs. Kim says. “You need today.”

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Panic ripples through me. Why would I need jasmine-smelling shampoo and a bright pink pouf today? I was sure this whole business regarding a trip to the public bath was cleared up when I explained to Ji Young that a more suitable activity might involve visiting a Buddhist temple or taking a nice walk in the woods. Koreans do love their mountains. “Um, I thought Ji Young talked to you about…” “Yes.” I wait for her to say more, but she only continues to grin. Maybe she means I’ll need to take a hot shower tonight after my long day of hiking and mingling with mountain monks. “Ji Young say you ashamed body. But okay. In Korea no problem.” First of all, I never said I was ashamed of my body. I silently curse Ji Young and her habit of misusing dictionary words—I’ve told her countless times that you can’t always translate directly. Secondly, it is a problem. In my country,

courtesy of Marcelo Gerpe

it’s a relief to see women who aren’t airbrushed or surgically sculpted, who are real and taking baths with elementary school students generally results in jail time. I’d never make it in the slammer; my cellmates would kill me for being a pervert. fleshy and succumbing I’ve heard convicts can be honorable like that. “We go to sauna. Si Eun wait car. Very happy. Because you come.” to gravity. “But…um... the thing is…” My stuttering isn’t helping my case, nor is it

diminishing Mrs. Kim’s now Joker-esque grin. With great reluctance but feigned enthusiasm, I pack up my pouf and follow Mrs. Kim to her car. I’ve been standing at my open locker for ten minutes, and the only thing I’ve taken off are my socks. “Sarah!” Mrs. Kim calls out, and I see her completely naked body rapidly approaching. She walks without an ounce of insecurity, her steps singing a song of normalcy, as if showering with your daughter’s English teacher is commonplace, like shopping for melons or hailing a cab. I have to do it. I have to take my clothes off. Ironically, it’s the fact that I’m still fully clothed that’s making the situation awkward. I take a deep breath and start stripping with mad ferocity. I pause just briefly when I’m down to my underwear. This is the point of no return: the last barrier between pretending I’m vacationing on a topless beach in Europe and actually being naked. I quickly slip my thumbs under the elastic band, fling my underwear off and stuff them in my locker. I slam the door with a flourish, ostensibly shutting my clotheswearing life behind me. I try to wrap myself in the one towel I was given by the stingy locker room attendant, but let’s face it - calling it a towel is like calling a pothole filled with rain the Pacific Ocean. It’s a glorified washcloth. “Good you ready. Yogurt. Here.” Mrs. Kim says, handing me a little tub of kiwi-flavored yogurt. “Oh, will we be using this on our skin?” I ask, bewildered. “Ha ha, you so funny. Yogurt is snack for hungry!” Of course: that makes sense. I often get hungry in the shower. I don’t know why I’ve never thought to bring snacks before. Why stop at yogurt? Why not an Italian sub or a nice bundt cake? The steam would keep it moist. “Sarah tee-cha!” my student, Si Eun, squeals as she comes barreling at me naked as a jaybird, happy as a lark. Seemingly oblivious to my nudity, she grabs my hand and pulls me toward the shower room. “Come now, let’s go!” I’m shocked. This is the same child who shrieks in horror at the slightest sight of exposed skin when I lift my arm to write near the top of the blackboard. She has even gone so far as to run to the front of the class, tug at the bottom of my shirt, and give me a look as if to say, “Come on lady, let’s keep it decent.” “Tee-cha! This way. Baliwa.” The shower room is hot, steamy, and bubbling over with bodies of all shapes and constitutions: fat, thin, tall, small, flat, pert, saggy, smooth, round, tan, creamy. They are everywhere, a sprawling sea of sitting, squatting, walking, talking, lounging, scrubbing, soapy, sudsy bodies—an explosion of flesh. A little girl lies on the wet tile floor with her head lazily resting in the lap of her mother, who nonchalantly plays with the girl’s hair while chatting to a friend shaving her armpits. Bodies are inching into hot pools, splashing in the cold pools, and brewing in the ones filled with green tea. I try to stand casually but don’t know how. My body betrays me with clumsy gestures that are designed to make me appear confident but achieve the exact opposite effect. Usually when I’m naked, I’m alone. Or, if another person is involved, we’re horizontal and the lights are dimmed. Luckily, I don’t have to continue with this charade for long; Mrs. Kim is already leading me through the tangle of naked masses toward a tiny plastic shower stool, on which she promptly plunks me down. To my dismay, I’m now looking at myself in all my barren glory in the giant mirror facing me. I must mention that crouching on a miniature stool doesn’t produce the most flattering of angles. I’m still letting the image sink in when I feel someone scrubbing my back, hard. “Many spots. No good. Spots bye-bye,” Mrs. Kim says gaily. “Ouch. Um…actually, those are freckles and they don’t come off.” “We make spots come off,” she responds with a sudden fierce determination. “Si Eun, help wash tee-cha!”

“Okay. Really, this isn’t necessary. Si Eun doesn’t need to wash my back. That’s just…weird...” I trail off. But Mrs. Kim isn’t relenting. Finally, I jump up, grab the soap, and begin demonstrating that I’m fully capable of cleaning myself, having done it for twenty-eight years now. Mrs. Kim doesn’t seem pleased but gives up and instead uses her steel glove of death, similar to a cheese grater, to scour Si Eun’s skin raw and red. When her daughter resembles a shriveled red chili pepper, Mrs. Kim is satisfied. “Tee-cha, we play swimming now!” Si Eun says excitedly. “Korea have special water,” Mrs. Kim declares proudly as we come to a warm ginseng pool. “All baths water different. Secret for beautiful skin,” I can’t help but notice that Mrs. Kim does have lovely skin. In fact, most Korean women look ten years younger than their age and have a glow to them. This isn’t the first I’ve heard about the “magical” sauna water, and I’m eager to slide into the mineral-rich magic where I can not only hide, but also emerge sleeker, newer, fresher. My experience with naked women until now has been limited to my exboyfriend’s nudie magazines, and it’s a relief to see women who aren’t airbrushed or surgically sculpted, who are real and fleshy and succumbing to gravity. Strange bodies are everywhere: flat butts, mismatched nipples, jiggly limbs, and way too much hair down south—yet in the myriad variations, I feel a perfect sense of unity, because nobody cares. Slowly, I begin to feel comforted and even a little liberated by the utter lack of modesty of the women surrounding me. I suddenly realize that I like being naked. I like being naked with these women. Instead of quietly slipping into the next pool, instantly submerging myself to my shoulders, I surprise myself and begin splashing about with the others, leaping from pool to pool like some frolicsome sea nymph. “Sarah, shower time!” Mrs. Kim calls out to me. Didn’t we already do that? I think. But who am I to question the system? They’re the ones with the silky skin. Mrs. Kim eagerly ushers me to another area where we get to stand and wash the old-fashioned way. The showers are crowded, some sharing two to a nozzle. I stand back to allow room and wait my turn. “Okay. In Korea no problem,” Mrs. Kim says as she gives me a shove forward. I’m sandwiched between two ladies brushing their teeth, talking and spitting toothpaste down the drain. They’re enamored with the smell of my jasmine shampoo, so they borrow it. They don’t actually ask, but in their defense, they speak no English—and they do give me cursory smiles before taking it. I don’t mind. I smile back – a gesture understood no matter which country your sauna is in. “Coffee?” Mrs. Kim asks from the nozzle next to mine. “Sure,” I answer. “Sounds good. Should we get dressed?” “No, no. Coffee here,” she gestures toward the dry sauna room. “With more mothers!” I can honestly say that not once in my life did I imagine I would someday conduct a parent-teacher conference in the buff. Inside the sauna, the mothers squat shamelessly around a punch bowl on the floor filled with iced coffee. One of them ladles a cup and hands it to me expectantly. They are boisterous, eager, and all at once begin asking about their children. Does my daughter study hard? Does my son pay attention? How is her English progressing? Does he behave? Given the circumstances, and my limited understanding of Konglish, I find it easiest to simply say, “Oh yes, very good student,” which makes everyone happy. As the mothers continue to ply me with questions and iced coffee, I squat beside them, sipping slowly. I am content, unhurried, and the thought of putting my clothes back on now seems constricting. I suppose I’ll have to do it sooner or later, though. NEH

october 2011

MIPA LEE

Domestic Vegan Goddess: Her Odyssey in Search of Healthy, Cruelty-free Foods, and Yummy treats WORDS BY WHISPER CHASE / PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER ROSS

The modest Mipa Lee sits across from me with her hot cup of Americano in tow, just like her Facebook profile pic. She’s a classy little blogger, known for “Alien’s Day Out” and the recent launch of “Alien’s Bakeshop,” who comes from a worldly background. I ask her how she got the interesting name for her blog and bake shop and she recounts the tales of her boarding school days in Africa. “It [the name] goes back really far. My parents were missionaries in Ghana and we lived there for about ten years. I attended boarding school in the Ivory Coast because there wasn’t a really suitable school in Ghana for us. For the students whose parents lived in the Ivory Coast they had a day out with them. For the students whose parents were in another country, we were called ‘Aliens’ and when we got to out of the dorms for the day, it was called ‘Alien’s Day Out.’” Mipa also talks about feeling like an alien in Korea as a gyopo and as a vegan, so the name suits her well. She is open and honest about her shift from omnivore to vegetarian and then to vegan in 2008. Her initial reasons for giving up meat were based on environmental factors and looking at how we can promote sustainable living. When she delved deeper into the animal rights aspect, she realized that she was also adopting the vegan philosophy of a cruelty-free diet. She prepared extensively for this shift by doing research on animal cruelty, factory farming, nutrition and how to live a healthy vegan lifestyle. She urges anyone who is interested in pursuing this lifestyle to do your homework before you make the commitment. 26

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We talk about what it’s like being a vegan in Seoul. She tells me, “It’s not difficult anymore. I can speak and understand Korean so this helps a lot in being able to find what I’m looking for. Most restaurants are very accommodating.” Mipa reminds me that vegan options within restaurants are gaining in popularity and more exclusively vegan shops are also popping up. Thus this makes it easier for the vegan on the go, and those who also enjoy dining out. Though Mipa loves to dine at the Loving Hut Buffet, she enjoys to cook for herself most of the time. She explains that she generally doesn’t encounter much resistance, but rather a curiosity about her lifestyle. With more flu epidemics and meat recalls, she finds Koreans are a lot more interested in the health aspect rather than the philosophy of veganism. She gets more flack from her foreigner friends, and the occasional Korean will urge her to eat seafood, but most people are very respectful of her tastes. Her family has even changed the way they eat and cook at home. When she makes a trip to see her parents, she can always expect to dine on the finest vegan foods and to have a vegan bake off in her mom’s kitchen. Mipa says that becoming a vegan has changed her life for the better. “[There’s] no guilt about what I’m eating and it makes me feel good overall that I’m not contributing to suffering.” She reminds me that she feels great in changing her diet, but also because she began running; what we eat is only a part of the equation.

For her, exercise was an additional force that made her feel better about herself. Choosing to eat a healthy vegan diet also helped to make lasting changes. “You can be an unhealthy vegan, but when I made the switch, I educated myself on how to be a healthy vegan.” She also has regular health check ups to make sure her body is in tiptop shape and this is something she never would have done before. Thus becoming a vegan completely transformed her life into a healthier one. Mipa’s blog, “Alien’s Day Out,” offers tips on how to be a healthy vegan and has many wonderful recipes to choose from. She recently launched the “Alien’s Bake Shop” website, which showcases some fantastic vegan goodies that she makes and sells, and even ships to your home. What is fabulous about this new business venture is that she has a knack for this. Although she is new to this vegan baking world, and modest about how much of a baking goddess she truly is, she continues to excel in the craft of vegan baking and is satiating Seoul’s sweet tooth with cruelty-free yummy treats. She gets her baking gene from her mom. “My mom used to bake all the time when we were living in Ghana. That’s when it started. When we were home [My sister and I] for the holidays we’d bake together. [Now] she bakes occasionally. We like baking together. After I became vegan, she bakes vegan now too.” Her range of baking includes ginger molasses cookies, to spicy chocolate snickerdoodles, to bite-sized coconut macaroons, and her fabulous zucchini and pumpkin breads. One mustn’t forget the oatmeal breakfast bars for the vegan on the go! All of her treats are made with love, compassion, and an artisanal flair of ex-

cellency.For those who are not vegan or may have a misconception of what vegan baked goods may taste like, you may wonder why these treats would appeal to you. Mipa’s reply is: “Try my stuff! Give it a try. Vegan cookies may have a reputation for being dry, but that’s just the recipe. Open your mind! Maybe you haven’t tried a good vegan baked good. Don’t think it’s a matter of veganism, but it’s about making something healthier. When you take a lot of that other stuff out, it becomes dry in trying to make it healthier. You can make a really rich vegan cookie, but it will have more fat.” There we go folks. Mipa has informed us that in choosing vegan you don’t have to sacrifice flavor. You can have a decadent treat that is heavy on the calories a la vegan, or you can shave off some calories and lose some of the fat. It’s your choice and what matters most is what you want in a baked good, and not whether it is laden with dairy or not. I can personally attest to this as her zucchini bread is healthy yet divinely moist, and her cookies do not resemble hockey pucks, but had me questioning where have vegan treats been all my life. Mipa leaves us with some wisdom to pass onto Korea, “Get on board! I really hope that it [veganism] catches on. I think it’s going in the right direction. I just hope people hear about it. I know that when they do, they’ll be interested. Let Koreans understand that there are more options. If Korean companies can cater to vegans and recognize that it’s growing, it’ll be good for them and for business.”

All of her treats are made with love, compassion, and an artisanal flair of excellency.

Mipa gives some tips on how to be a gourmand vegan baker: 1. Know your oven. 2. Learn how to replace eggs using various replacements such flax seeds, tofu, banana, tapioca starch, or corn starch. 3. Replace dairy milk with soy milk and make sure it’s vegan soy milk (not fortified with vitamin D3). 4. Experiment and you’ll definitely learn along the way. Embrace the failures and use different blogs for recipes. 5. Order stuff online!

for more informtion please visit: www.aliensdayout.com / www.aliensbakeshop.com or contact mipa: mipalee@gmail.com NEH

october 2011

the forum VANESSA LOPEZ

A WHITER SHADE OF PALE Enter a world of beauty products that dare to take your skin tone to a new level of white. where department stores highlight areas designated specifically for creams that whiten your skin and consumers are hooked. MIRROR, MIRROR ON THE WALL, WHO HAS THE FAIREST SKIN IN ASIA?

It certainly isn’t me, and for a slew of other residents currently living in Korea, it isn’t them, either. I have to admit, I am fascinated by the skin obsession that is currently dominating this part of the world. This is evident in everything from the ladies who stroll along sidewalks with their fashionable sun umbrellas, the mass amounts of beauty products offered in stores such as The Face Shop or The Body Shop. The lotions and creams on display all guarantee to smooth or (more importantly) whiten your skin. The idea of whitening your skin is as foreign to me as learning a new language. It also served as another form of culture shock, since tanning your skin is so popular in America. However, it’s hard not to notice the different shades of pale in the crowd, and it’s especially difficult to miss the many ads that promise to help you lose those blemish marks and whiten your face. As a consumer and a girl who’s always interested in a new beauty regime, I gave in and dove into learning more about this skinwhitening world. White skin is considered to be beautiful in Asia. Kelly, a twenty-something bar hopper born and raised in Korea, also believes it is more beautiful to have lighter skin and actively tries to avoid being in the sun. She tells me, “Of course I think it is beautiful to have white skin. I really want my skin light.” So for a girl who is willing to take measures to protect her skin from the sun, what else is there to maintain the fairest of complexions? Venture to any of your favorite department stores and you will first be greeted by a helpful sales attendant and then by a grand display of creams, lotions, scrubs, serums, and facial masks. All of these promise to rejuvenate and “provide an even skin complexion,”which is really just a fancy way of saying the concentration of melanin, a chemical that determines skin color, is lessened. You can expect to shell out anywhere from KWR 19,000 to 45,000 for a low-end product. And for higher-end products, such as laser treatments from a dermatologist, expect to pay at least KWR 200,000. But if choosing laser treatments is your preferred method, then shop around online because there are coupons or discounts for certain clinics.

october 2011

NEH

the forum VANESSA LOPEZ

THE BODY SHOP

Highlighted underneath the facial cleansers section was a product called White Tree Snow. The sales clerk told me she uses this line and had me try each tester. With that seal of approval, I assume this is the real deal. After all, the tagline on each product from this line claims to be nature’s brightening solution for luminous skin. Next, I was directed over to the make-up tables, where the clerk showed me the different variations of the famous blemish balm cream (BB Cream). This cream, used by many Korean actresses, doesn’t actually bleach the skin, but helps to even out and brighten your overall skin tone. Etude features a whitening mask pack that is also completely waterbased and suitable for all skin types. This mask is to be worn for 10-15 minutes a day, twice a week. After committing to that routine, users will have radiantly white skin, claims Etude. The promise of translucent skin can be found on the Whitening Revolution serum from Isa Knox. According to www.asianfashioncity.com, Korean celebrity, Lee Hyori, is a fan of this product because it is packed with nourishing ingredients and blasts dark skin pigmentation away. Most of these skin whiteners state their line is “nourishing” or contains only the freshest water available. In reality, the “nourishing” aspect of these creams and masks are nothing more than Vitamin C and E, which can always easily moisturize the skin. Taking care of the skin is what is really happening here. Underneath all the make-up of this fashion trend, I can see that using these products is one way of preventing skin problems in the future. There’s nothing wrong with using a line of moisturizers to keep your face healthy, or staying out of the sun by using an umbrella—especially if that umbrella is super cute and comes with some cosmetic samples.

ARITAUM

ARITAUM is a popular make-up store that can be found every few blocks in larger cities. I asked the glitter-faced saleswoman for products to whiten the skin, and she guided me over to the IOPE display. Each item in this line promises to rid your face of blemishes and to make you feel refreshed. You can also find cleansers and foam washes from this brand. Additionally, I discovered the water-based line, Laneige, a premium brand featuring a whitening series to please beauty-conscious consumers. Laneige is commonly found in many stores offering serums, face washes and various creams. On a small rack by the door was a display for Happy Bath soaps. This soap not only washes away germs each time you wash your hands, but after extended use will actually whiten your hands. Happy Bath also has a line of other skin whiteners; do not use the hand soap on any other part of the body.

NEH October 2011

the forum

MARYBETH ANDERSON

Survey Says:

Do Women Care About Tzipi Livni. Catherine Ashton. Julia Gillard. Bashar Al-Assad. Don’t recognize these names, or are only vaguely aware of who they are? Don’t feel bad: most women (myself included!) are out of the political loop. My own interest in current events sprung up recently, thanks to meeting new contacts who happen to be informed and immersed in such topics. Having read more world news since moving to Korea, and now being more engrossed in international affairs, I noticed a disturbing trend: most op-ed writers and political commentators are men! Is it that women just don’t care, or are we being denied the chance to contribute in a man’s world? How many politically-based conversations can you recall ever having with women? Among my own girlfriends, we generally avoid the subject. Speaking with other women I know, many tell me with a sigh, “Politics are so boring,” or, “I’ve never really been into politics.” Realizing the dangerous potential for such apparent apathy, I grew worried. Are women that ignorant and uninterested about the world around them?! Surely the international stage affects us just as much as it does men. The issue began to gnaw at my prior complacency. Being a complete and utter nerd, I designed a ten-question online survey to identify how women feel about political issues. The response? One hundred ladies, in an entirely non-scientific data collection process, gave me insight into the female perception of the political realm. Most women said they are overwhelmed, jaded, skeptical, or uninformed about world events; it’s not an issue of apathy here. One respondent wrote,

“Oftentimes, I feel informationally isolated from the news (e.g., I don’t have enough background knowledge on most of the subjects in the spotlight). Time is a huge factor, as is the feeling that there’s little an individual can do towards horrible events like genocides and natural disasters.” Many others echoed her sentiments; lack of time and information are formidable opponents to us! It’s not that most women don’t care; we just tend to get lost in the dark underworld of depressing facts and figures. Another item I tested was name recognition. Thanks to the help of Google and some well-informed friends, a list of thirty prominent figures was created. I asked respondents to tick boxes of names they just recognized, then gave them the same list and asked them to tick the boxes only if they knew the title of the person in question. To my dismay (if not surprise), I learned that the headline-heavy characters were not very familiar to the majority of the survey’s participants. Of only six women to recognize Tzipi Livni’s name, three of those could identify her title: former prime minister of Israel and current head of the country’s opposition political party. Keep in mind that this survey had one hundred participants. Of the eight people who knew Catherine Ashton’s name, only one could properly link her to the role as the first-ever vice president of the European Commission. Just seven of twenty-one people knew that Julia Gillard is the prime minister of Australia, and only twelve of forty-one women recognized Bashar Al-Assad as the president of Syria. Even scarier? More ladies recognized Osama bin Laden (100) than Barack Obama (99). Since most of the participants are North Americans, an even more abysmal fact is that only seventy-nine women claimed to know Joe Biden’s role as current vice president of The United States.

Percent of women who recognize the name

Percent of women who know the role

40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0 Eric Cantor 30

october 2011

David Cameron NEH

Jack Layton

Bashar Al-‐Assad

Julia Gillard

Catherine Ashton

Tzipi Livni

CrisEna Kirchner

the forum

MARYBETH ANDERSON

Politics? Maybe the problem comes from women’s information sources. On a list of forty-four choices for news providers, the number one preference – by a large margin – was Facebook: sixty-eight ladies listed this as one of their go-to resources. CNN ranked second with fifty women, followed by forty-four using Google News, forty opting for local newspapers, and thirty ladies choosing NPR. No participant reported reading Esquire or The Washington Times. Truth is another big determiner of women’s informational investment. Sixteen respondents cited lies, lack of facts, or bias as deterrents to political interest. Many ladies said they’d be more interested in the coverage of world affairs if honesty were more readily apparent. One woman quipped, “Things are so spun, it’s hard to find facts. I also have little tolerance for people who comment on news articles when they know nothing about the nuances of the issues.” Another respondent wrote, “All the double speak throws me off, plus I never quite know if the source I’m reading is skewed to make me believe something that isn’t true.” With the vast misinformation, deeply depressing stories, corrupt politicians, and overwhelmingly disenfranchising nature of political prowess, what’s a girl to do? While the results of this survey might be mixed, there are reasons to be optimistic. When asked how they currently raise political awareness, the response was two-pronged. One camp of ladies, numbering twenty-nine, opted for stagnancy. They do little or nothing to get involved with politics. I shudder to think of a world where nearly 1/3 of women are immobilized and unmotivated to learn about current events. However, another group of the respondents said that they are already politically active. Twenty-nine reported having regular political discussions with those around them. Twenty take in news on a regular basis. Eleven post relevant articles on their social networking pages, and eleven more attend rallies and political events. Two others also noted that motherhood can have a profound impact: “[I] attempt to raise five children with an open mind, caring heart, compassion and tolerance for everyone and everything around them. Hopefully some day...they will be better contributors to the human race than the adults currently in that role!” So where do we go from here? Women, making up more than half of the world’s population, need to take action and find their voice. My suggestions are to: read up on articles of interest; have meaningful discussions to evoke change; petition for worthwhile causes; organize events with those around you… DO something, ladies! A political system that represents us needs to include us. Some good starting points are: Online Politics for Women – www.onlinewomeninpolitics.org Political Resources on the Net – www.politicalresources.net Mama Cash – www.mamacash.org Womankind Worldwide – www.womankind.org.uk The Inter-Parliamentary Union – www.ipu.org/iss-e/women.htm Happy reading!

One hundred ladies, in an entirely non-scientific data collection process, gave me insight into the female perception of the political realm. NEH October 2011

the forum WHISPER CHASE

Femquility: Utopia or Dystopia? words by whisper chase / illustration by leah hoelscher

october 2011

NEH

the forum WHISPER CHASE

magine a society where men stay home with the babies and the women go out into the corporate world and rise to the top? Picture men doing all the chores, having dinner ready when you come home, tending to the children and still having energy to make love at the end of each day. If you are a woman, this may sound blissful but too good to be true. On www.femalesrule.com, I stumbled across the stirrings of this enchanted utopia called Femquility. Femquility is a proposed matriarchal co-housing community where women are the leaders, and the men are relegated to the margins as their ideas can only be heard through written suggestion forms or their female companions. Something smells fishy! Their core values are: We come together as a circle of diverse individuals, committed to nourishing ourselves, others, and this planet through a simple, sustainable lifestyle which incorporates and celebrates life, love, play, learning, multi-cultural expression, spiritual growth, matriarchy and female authority. We honor the inherent dignity and worth of all life and of all

people. No one is useless and we believe that everyone has individual skills that could help the community in some way.

We believe that a male is better off with the loving guidance

of a female in his life.

We believe in harmony. When a proper balance exists between the independence of the individual and the interdependence of the community, each serves to enhance and complement the other. While we choose to live in a cooperative community, caring for and supporting each other’s physical, emotional and spiritual well being, we each take primary responsibility for our own actions and needs.

Conflict solutions generated through cooperation and mutual creativity often transcend solutions generated by any single person. Residents may bring any conflicts to the “Wise Woman Council” to mediate.

We believe in discussing problems.

Decision making power is earned by active participation in the shared life of the community. The Wise Woman Council makes the decisions but males will have a way to give their feedback via written suggestion forms or by discussing it with their wife, girlfriend or closest female friend and asking her to consider giving voice to his suggestions or concerns. We believe in living in tune with nature as best as we can.

Sustainability, permaculture, conservation, and alternative energies and ways of thinking are encouraged. We believe that we should live in respect with the land and one another. by everyone showing their talents and energies in the spirit of active commitment to the community. We want to recognize everybody’s individual talents and make use of them where needed.

Sustaining individual involvement in the community

We believe that every woman should be treated like a Goddess by the male in her life.

Femquility is a proposed matriarchal co-housing community where women are the leaders, but the men are relegated to the margins as their ideas can only be heard through written suggestion forms or their female companions. Something smells fishy!

While I agree with the core values of respecting the dignity of everyone and embracing nature, I do not believe that anyone should be made to feel inferior. The idea that a man has to ask for permission to share his ideas is ludicrous. They talk a lot about promoting each individual’s contributions, yet I don’t feel that this could happen if the women are the allgoverning bodies. I think there are a lot of flaws with this vision and so it remains just that. It does leave me to question what would the world be like if all households were female-led? Also Femquility doesn’t really allow for any persons who are transgendered or homosexual. How do they fit in or don’t they? While I love to be treated like a goddess and am lucky to have a partner who honors me in this way, I do not believe that anyone has to lead in the household. Perhaps this is just my free love and equality hippie loving ways, but to me the real paradise is when both parties can put forth their best skills and help build each other up. I am happy to see that women are rising and are creating opportunities where they once didn’t exist. I also believe that it is a women’s right to choose career over family and no one should judge this decision. However, I don’t believe in bullying others because you were bullied. Yes, women didn’t have nearly as many rights as they do today, and things are still improving all over the globe, yet I don’t think it’s right to subjugate men in return. We must learn from history in order to avoid making the same mistakes and I do not think Femquility is founded on harmony and love, but rather subjugation and subordination. My proposed solution is to work towards promoting egalitarian relationships, whereby both parties share the responsibilities together. Everything can’t always be split down the middle completely, but for the most part they can be. This type of approach to the division of labor within the home helps keep things balanced, while respecting that each person has strengths and weaknesses to be considered. If a woman chooses to stayat-home then she is entitled to share in the earnings and should shoulder more responsibilities at home, since she isn’t committed to outside work. If a man chooses to work less, than he should be expected to help more at home to balance the workload. If both people work, than the division of labor requires even more balance to ensure that everyone has their needs met, while tending to the home and outside responsibilities. In governing the family, it is imperative to use an egalitarian approach so as to teach your offspring about the importance that each individual possesses and what their role can be within a group. I may see the world with rose-colored glasses, but my world is one where both men and women are honored and treated likes gods and goddesses everyday and the duties are shared to the benefit of the union.

NEH October 2011

october 2011

NEH

together with

BADA by dustin wilshire

Her producer describes her as pure, uncorrupted, sincere and not naive. Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all that and more.

NEH October 2011

october 2011

NEH

Bada and her producer, J-Path, have a respectful relationship that doesn’t crush creativity.

ven though at this point I shouldn’t be, for some reason I am continually amazed by how welcoming most celebrity types are when you get the opportunity to meet them. It’s natural, I suppose, to assume the worst about a face-to-face with someone famous. In my experience, however, more often than not, the result couldn’t be more to the contrary. Probably the greatest example of this genuine warmth in character I have encountered has been my involvement with Korean mega K-Pop icon, Bada. I’m fortunate to have spent time with Ms. Bada, personally contributing pieces of writing for her latest press kits and upcoming English websites. With her producer helping to interpret, as well as the mix of Korean/English skills we share, Bada and I have had a handful of substantial conversations during which I was repeatedly impressed by her generosity and allencompassing kindness. Don’t just take my word for it. Whether it’s casually hanging out after a musical stage performance, an interview at a coffee shop, or helping on the set of her “Nawagachi” music video, released in September, the steady observation from everyone I’ve been involved with has been, “Could she possibly be any nicer?” On the topic of consistency, if there is a phrase she has continually heard all of her life, it is, “You’re so lucky Bada.” Most remember her as the famed lead vocalist of S.E.S., the record breaking original girl group that established the blueprint for female success in Korean popular music that we still see duplicated today. In addition, her solo music career consists of four albums and two hit singles, while her acting career spans successful runs with renowned stage productions such as 42nd Street and Legally Blonde: The Musical, among others. Her efforts on stage have gained accolades including recognition as Best Actress, Most Popular Actress and Best Newcomer Actress by various korean musical awards associations. If you think that all of this, and more, was achieved merely through luck, you’d be sorely mistaken. Though they may not have had much money, Bada was born into a family rich in Korean musical heritage. Her father was a traditional Namdo Minyo folk singer. Being surrounded by artists and musicians from a young age had a strong influence on her. As a result of this inspirational environment, music and singing came to her very naturally. Through years of respiratory exercises with deep roots feeding the spiritual aspects of musical creation, her father’s guidance lead Bada to the realization that music was something exceptional. It was more than just a pleasurable activity. It was embedded in her, as much a part of her being as breathing. Music had become a way of life. From her humble beginnings in Bucheon, Bada earned the reputation of an extraordinary talent. She recalled to me her first influential moment of self awareness. In second grade, her teacher proposed a challenge to the entire class: whoever can sing better than Bada, step forward. According to Bada, when nobody stepped up, she asked her teacher the reason for making an example of her with such a public request. The response was, “Because you’re just that good. You don’t know?”

This awakening fueled the dedication required to further develop her abilities in both singing and acting. As time went by, years of childhood recognition would eventually lead to an opportunity to attend the prestigious Anyang Art High School to major in acting, further demonstrating her versatility in the arts. Because her family wasn’t financially blessed, this could only happen with the kind of hard work and devotion that would result in the highest marks, which she successfully achieved. Her diligence and work ethic in high school caught the attention of SM Entertainment, which led to the birth of S.E.S. and the rest, is history. S.E.S. would go on to release five full albums, two special albums, and is, to date, the top-selling K-Pop female group in Korea. Fast forward to modern times. Starring in musical stage productions has been very good to Bada. In her words, “Acting in musicals has given vitality to my life.” Not only has she received strong praise and recognition for success in acting at the highest level, but she has learned a lot about herself in the process. Take, for example, the role of Peggy Sawyer, the famous lead in 42nd Street. Often described as a young, naive, starry-eyed chorus girl, Sawyer also possesses the drive and urge to never give up until attaining success. Bada told me that this willingness to work tirelessly in order to achieve greatness reminded her a lot of how she initiated her own career. At a young age, she herself went through the realization that even though she may have wanted to quit, destiny would not let her. This adherence to commitment is something that has never gone away. At the age of 30, she had to take a crash course in tap dancing to prepare for the role of Sawyer in 42nd Street. It’s apparent from speaking with her that jumping through the necessary hoops to so quickly master tap, a distinguished and physically challenging form of dance is something she’s extremely proud of. Take also her current role as Hanbyeol in 200 Pounds Beauty, a musical adaptation of an extremely successful Korean film that was originally based on a Japanese Manga. In a nutshell, Hanbyeol is an overweight singer who is constantly overlooked because of her hefty physical appearance. Her remedy for success is to have full body plastic surgery that, among other attributes, helps her achieve a successful career. NEH October 2011

his is Bada’s second time around with 200 Pounds Beauty. Speaking about the wardrobe required to pull off the role of Hanbyeol in 2008, Bada says “It was very difficult to deliver the role’s character through the costume and the special make-up that I was wearing.” She adds that “The 30kg costume was something that I wasn’t used to. It made it difficult to deliver my facial expression, body language, and details that I perform on stage.” She spoke of the lessons learned by playing a character with image issues. “If you love yourself you will know the true value of you. I believe I was selfconscious about very little things” she says laughing. “Nothing too dominant, but after playing this role, without noticing, a lot of the doubts about myself mostly vanished.” Intrigued by learning the moments of realization that resulted from playing the two previously mentioned characters, I asked Bada what her all-time favorite role has been. “I would have to say Esmeralda in Notre Dame de Paris,”, she replied. “The character’s purity and courage is just magnetically attractive. It made me realize that vulnerability is the ultimate unbeatable power.” Recapping the personal significance of playing this character, she

a truthful exchange of relevant information among members of this social community. Translated, “Nawagachi” means “Together With Me.” The lyrics pitifully portray those who can’t make a subjective judgment in the midst of the overwhelming commercial information that often inundates our senses. Instead of allowing this to cloud our judgments, her words suggest we think for ourselves by clearly recognizing the differences that should appropriately influence our decisions. In doing this, we personally identify with the value of something. Both the song’s sound composition and the visuals of the music video are a throwback to the 1960’s and ’70’s. The drum sounds are similar to The Ronnettes’ 1963 hit “Be My Baby” while the minimal imagery is also reminiscent of TV commercials from that era. Another noticeable quality is a visionary attitude adopted from famous British films like Tommy, a musical based on The Who’s rock opera. The video also borrows color schemes found in Yellow Submarine, based on The Beatles’ music. In speaking with the director Marco Tessiore, less conspicuous influences are drawn from iconic the Trevi Fountain scene in La Dolce Vita, one of his favorite films.

The steady observation from everyone I’ve been involved with has been, “Could she possibly be any nicer?” continued, “Singing Ave Maria on stage was quite personally touching since I come from a Catholic background. The entire stage set and props were brought from Paris when I performed at Sejong Art Center. The gargoyles that weighed over one ton and the huge bell that was installed on stage really made it into a time traveling experience.” On the recorded music side of her career, for the first time she’s working with a creative staff based on in-depth intuition and understanding, rather than focusing strictly on technicalities. In the past, everything had been so systematic. By contrast, this new formula is fueling ingenuity in musical production through education. Bada and her producer J-Path have a respectful relationship that doesn’t crush creativity. Rather than focusing on what doesn’t work, together they are working hard to bring out the hidden antiques; a process of dusting off ideas that have always been there but haven’t been given the opportunity to flourish. This perfect storm of confidence in her abilities, enlightenment achieved through a successful career riddled with ups, downs and hard work, as well as her new staff of creative minds, has landed her exactly where she wants to be. Her newest release is the “Nawagachi EP,” a project in conjunction with her affiliation with Good Buy Selly (GBS), a Korean Do-It-Yourself Social Commerce Networking Service. The premise of GBS is providing a platform for consumers to share information. Rather than being force-fed the concept of value, it’s GBS’ belief that the consumer creates the value of a product or service by sharing their experiences with other consumers. The result is 38

october 2011

NEH

Bada is excited to talk about the “Nawagachi” video process. “It has vintage tone and multi-cultural casting! It was the only way to provide an accurate look at the truthfulness of the song,” she says when discussing the difference between this and past video projects. Some of the props used in the video hold significant value to her. “I brought many of my personal household things to the music video set [so] seeing my tea cups, plates, blankets and even pillows, fills my heart with a warm comfortable feeling when I watch the music video.” Consider Bada’s future aspirations in the metaphorical context of a chef. Abiding by a cookbook’s instructions, and using the best ingredients, will usually result in a delicious dish. However, discovering the meaningful relationship that binds the chef to the particular choice of additives can lead to a dish richer in fulfillment. By achieving this particular state of connectivity, Bada hopes to release the ideas lurking deep within. She aims to create a distinguished main course by carefully selecting the different elements and thereby intuitively influencing the process by which the entree is prepared. Obvious good fortune is not what got Bada to where she is. That’s not to say luck and motivation aren’t common subjects spoken about in her circle. At this point in her career, she describes luck as the opportunity to attach herself to the emotion radiating from the crowd. What motivates her is the ecstatic feeling of performing in front of people. Both are defined by appreciating the joy of her audience as they participate in the performance along with her.

NEH October 2011

Is Sexuality Static by whisper chase

One could say that Kinsey was indeed a voyeur and that his thirst for knowledge was fueled by his own sexual desires, but in order to found the discipline of sexology you’ve got to have a vested interest, right?

Courtesy of Indiana University

october 2011

NEH

Alfred Kinsey is a well known biologist who became the founding father of sexology. Sexology is the study of sex and all things pertaining to; from arousal to zoophilia (bestiality). Kinsey got his start when he began observing the mating patterns of gall wasps. From this he became interested in applying his research abilities to human subjects. Kinsey’s work may have become more mainstream with the 2004 film “Kinsey”, starring Liam Neeson. Kinsey’s research sparked much controversy, as he was known to film participants engaging in various sexual acts within the confines of his home. One could say that Kinsey was indeed a voyeur and that his thirst for knowledge was fueled by his own sexual desires, but in order to found the discipline of sexology you’ve got to have a vested interest, right? A fascinating facet of Kinsey’s research is that he was one of the first to admit that heterosexuality and homosexuality don’t appear as two isolated extremes. Through his research he discovered that not everyone fit nicely into those two exclusive categories, thus giving him reason to develop a theory that supports otherwise. Kinsey claims, “Males do not represent two discrete populations, heterosexual and homosexual. The world is not to be divided into sheep and goats...The living world is a continuum in each and every one of it aspects” (Sexual Behavior in the Human Male, 1948). This seems like common knowledge today, but if we think back to the early 90’s, when queer activism was really starting to get a voice, we can reflect on Kinsey’s research and how he may have paved the way for more acceptance. Kinsey’s scale shows a continuum from heterosexual to homosexual, beginning with level 0, which is completely hetero. These are your men and women who are accepting of homosexuality, but don’t have an interest in it one way or another. Not like the homophobes who usually have a little gay buried in their closet (see level 2). Level 1 is a person who is largely heterosexual but they are a tad bit queer. These are most likely people who are bi-curious but may not necessarily be seeking partnerships. Level 2 represents heterosexuals who are leaning towards bisexuality. They are most likely to have engaged in homosexual acts, and quite enjoyed them but may be put off by the whole queer aspect of their identity. Level 3 houses our bisexuals. They are usually open about their sexuality and don’t have a preference one way or another. In other words, they are the perfect person to invite into a threesome. Level 4 is comprised of homosexuals who are largely heterosexual. This is where you find your ‘beards’ or sham marriages. These individuals may find themselves able to cover up their gay, but not for long! Level 5 is homosexual with only a bit of heterosexual. Meaning that these individuals are embracing their urges, yet sometimes feel drawn to the opposite sex. Level 6 is exclusively homosexual. This is where you find your “queens” and “butches” who love being gay and are proud of it. While I’m aware that this is an outdated scale, I do think it largely reflects the idea that sexuality is not static. Just because you think you are gay, it may mean there is more to it than simply having homoerotic fantasies and not acting on them. Similarly, if you think you are hetero but find yourself curious, look at the scale and figure out where you may be. Whether you identify yourself as a heterosexual or homosexual, it’s all relative. If you are reading this, there’s a good chance you are human; I hope that sexual orientations aside, you have learned to appreciate and respect differences. Remember it doesn’t matter where you fall on this scale or if you defy its limitations. There is no right or wrong way to get your sex on, but remember to always be safe and enjoy it!

exclusively heterosexual behavior

incidental homosexual behavior

more than incidental homosexual behavior

equal amount of heterosexual and homosexual behavior

more than incidental heterosexual behavior

incidental heterosexual behavior

ambisexual behavior

kinsey

heterosexual & homosexual behaviour

exclusively homosexual behavior

Remember it doesn’t matter where you fall on this

scale or if you defy its limitations. There is no right or wrong way to get your sex on, but remember to always be safe and enjoy it!

Kinsey claims, “Males do not represent two discrete populations, heterosexual and homosexual. The world is not to be divided into sheep and goats...The living world is a continuum in each and every one of it aspects.” (Sexual Behavior in the Human Male, 1948)

Ready to take the test? If you’re curious about your kinsey number go online and take this quiz:

www.quizfarm.com/quizzes/new/SarahKiddo/kinsey-test/

NEH October 2011