Bridge Issue #06

all lis

p a p e r z in e

special theme

Bridging the past & present Chunghie Lee

Jiyoung Chung

Bridge people

Taru salminen Singer

coffeeboy S pa c e & P e o p l e

Lee gyu-taeg

ￌ2,000

/ us $2.00

#06 www.bridgezine.com

Cover Artist

hi kyoung

we support korean artists

h

E N G L I S H

eng

c u r a t e d

in

BRIDGE

c

o

n

t

e

n

t

s

issue

06 bridging between past & present

2

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

06

special theme

12

food

14

Travel

16

life style

18

e n t e r ta i n m e n t p e o p l e

20

cover artist

24

bridge people

28

s pa c e & p e o p l e

30

n o w o n m y w ay to m e e t yo u

31

Column

32

t h e s e d ay s

33

ta l k to m e i n ko r e a n

34

i'm music

36

r e c o m m e n dat i o n

chunghie lee & jiyoung chung

a little more comfort food options in korea?

a journey to the world of money

seoul safari: off-your-feet micro tourism

coffeeboy

chosen daily life by artist "hi kyoung"

taru salminen

lee gyu-taeg

moving towards reunification one laugh at a time

and it's not over yet

soul searching in temples of south korea

word that starts with 'ă„ą'

music that reminds me of my first love

go in style even in the rain

ANYTIME,ANYWHERE [Bridge paperzine] now in local bookstores & mobile application

You can purchase Bridge Paperzine at locations of Kyobo Bookstore, Bandi&Luni's, Youngpoong Bookstore.

Now at anytime, anywhere, you can read BRIDGE for FREE through "더매거진" [The magazine] App.

Iphone

ANDROID

정기구독 및 광고문의 byon@roking.co.kr / http://bridgezine.com/

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

3

There are nearly two million expats living in South Korea. People who make up the expat community vary from those who are here for a short term to the ones who have been here for decades. But not all of expats feel at home here. From time to time you might cannot but feel like a complete outsider, out of touch with what’s going on in Korea.

CEO HANS LEE & SARAH BYON

PUBLISHER HANS LEE

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR SARAH BYON

That’s where [Bridge] Paperzine comes in. Unlike other English magazines that focus on either tourist information or limited inner circles, we have created a media outlet where everyone can come together. Through [Bridge] Paperzine expats and Koreans can communicate, collaborate, and stay connected to each other.

We are excited to bring you lively and interesting stories told by unique people around Korea. One thing we promise you is that we won’t be just another same old tour guide around Korea. With fresh stories and thoughtprovoking ideas, we hope to grow as the favorite read by expats in Korea.

We would love to hear directly from you.

Please feel free to tell us what you think about [Bridge] Paperzine.info@roking.co.kr

[Bridge]

EDITOR IN CHIEF SANG - AA PARK

EDITORIAL DIVISION WRITER / TRANSLATOR EDITOR

JUNG - YOON CHOI (jyc@roking.co.kr)

NA - YOUNG KANG (2nayoung.kang@gmail.com)

ASSISTANT

MIN - JUNG CHOI (choi@roking.co.kr) CONTRIBUTORS

EDITOR

LYMAN MCLALLEN (mclallen.hufs@gmail.com) Jenny Kim (jkim22@ucla.edu) lilian lee

WRITERS

TOM WALSH & JEN MOELLER (tomeatsjencooks.com) Matt Kelley (discoveringkorea.com) PHOTOS

MONT

DESIGN DIVISION ART DIRECTOR DESIGNER

DA - WOON YI (dwjjat@roking.co.kr) HYUN - JIN YOO (hjy@roking.co.kr)

MANAGEMENT DIVISION DIRECTOR MANAGER

JUN - HO LEE JEONG - A AHN

FINANCE MANAGER

SU - JUNG LEE

PR & MARKETING DIVISION MANAGER

JI - HOON SUN (sun@roking.co.kr)

PARTNERSHIP seminar review (www.dseri.net) RELEVANT MATTER (www.relevant-matter.com) F.OUND (www.foundmag.co.kr) SEOULIST (www.seoulistmag.com) talk to me in korea (www.talktomeinkorea.com) a company (www.a-company.kr)

subscribe today!

EVENT

6 months (12 issues) for 24,000 won.

12 months (24 issues) for 48,000 won.

To subscribe, email us at info@roking.co.kr or go to bridgezine.com, click subscribe, and pay through Paypal.

Donations are also welcome at our Paypal site.

Where you can get [Bridge]

50,000 won worth cosmetic products by Klairs for 12 month subscriber.

You can purchase Bridge Paperzine at locations of Kyobo Bookstore, Bandi&Luni's, Youngpoong Bookstore. Also you can find our magazine at major hotels and airports, coffeechains, universities, tourist information center and global centers.

Web version of this magazine and other on-line contents are provided on our website at www. bridgezine.com. You can also find our contents on 'The magazine' application for your mobile device such as Galaxy Tab and iPad. If you want to subscribe to our magazine, you can do so by visiting our website(www.bridgezine. com) and signing up for home delivery.

The contents of our publications are protected by copyright law and violation of copyright laws can subject you to criminal and civil penalties.

[Bridge]

ONLINE & mobile From our website, www.bridgezine.com, you can enjoy reading more contents beside offline BRIDGE paperzine, and watching fun videos along with an article. Our strength is made at CONN[EK]TED (on our website), where expats in Korea and Koreans are connected by sharing their experiences and perspective on-line. Please visit our official website www.bridgezine. com.

ANDROID

Now at anytime, anywhere, you can read BRIDGE for FREE through "더매거진" [The magazine] App. Click the very right side of the menu, and it's called "Culture and Economics". Simply, download the provided QR code on the right. It will walk you through.

Iphone

MONT STUDIO

PUBLISHED BY ROKING KOREA inc.

5F Kukje B/D, 561-16, Sinsa-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, Korea (135-890) TEL 02 6925 4454 FAX 02 6925 4453 INFO@ROKING.CO.KR

for ad inquiry & partnership TEL 02 6925 4454 FAX 02 6925 4453 INFO@ROKING.CO.KR

facebook BRIDGE PAPERZINE의 글, 그림, 사진 등 모든 자료는 사전 허락 없이 옮겨 쓸 수 없습니다.

Bridge Paperzine is published by Roking Korea inc.

Reproduction without permission is prohibited. Printed in South Korea

4

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

Bridge paperzine

2012 Korea 국제적 갈등의 이해와 해결을 통한 국제적 리더십을 키워줄

글로벌 리더쉽 토론 캠프

100% 영어진행 / 사회인사 특강 / 저널리스트 체험 및 프리젠테이션 활동 /참가자 전원 수료증 & 인증서 발급

특전 및 시상

Lecture

Lyman McLallen 교수 한국외국어대학교 대학 영어학과 교수

우수학생을 대상으로 콜로라도 대학의 Conflict online 강좌를 청강할 수 있는 자격이 수여됩니다 (대학 학점 인정) Beyond Intractability Korea Consortium 웹사이트 메인 페이지 소개

Jeffery Ahn

코리아헤럴드 신문 케이스 에세이 게재

現 EPS ACADEMY 원장 University of Colorado 졸업 생물학, 화학 전공 교육대 과학 전공 / 논문 'Big Ideas' Beyond Intractability, Conflict Research Consortium

브릿지(영자문화신문) – 케이스 에세이 게재 YJI (Youth Journalism International) 웹사이트 게재 100% 영어로 진행 되는 이번 캠프는 CRITICAL THINKING과 다양한 토론과 발표를 요구 하는 캠프로서, 인터뷰를 통해 선발된 학생들만 참여하실 수 있습니다.

M i s s i o n S tat e m e n t

글로벌 스탠다드에 맞는 리더를 양성하고자, 콜로라도 대학 (University of Colorado)에 서 실시된 "CONFLICT CONSORTIUM"을 2012년 여름, 한국에서 진행 합니다. 최근 이슈가 되고있는 국제적 갈등에 대한 이해와 그 해결 과정을 통해 New 글로벌 리더를 양성합니다. 이번 CONSORTIUM에 세계를 이끌어 갈 꿈이 있는 인재들을 모집 합니다.

특전 및 시상

수료증 및 인증서[참가자 전원]

수상팀 특전

- 코리아헤럴드발급 활동 수료증 - Beyond Intractability - 락킹코리아 인턴십 수료증 Korea Consortium 웹사이트 - 갈등 해결 트레이너 레벨1 자격증 메인 페이지 소개 - 그룹 프레젠테이션 Beyond Intractability - 코리아헤럴드 신문 케이스 Korea Consortium Website에 개재 에세이 게재 브릿지(영자문화신문) – 케이스 시상 에세이 게재 - 갈등 케이스 프레젠테이션 우수상 – 1팀 - YJI 웹사이트 게재 - 갈등 모의 해결 우수작 – 1팀

(Youth Journalism International)

Pa r t i c i pa n t s

100명

10명씩 10개 팀으로 구성 (각각의 팀 리더 선출)

10명의 멘토

미국명문대학 재학생들로 이루어진 멘토 그룹 UPenn, Yale, U of Washington, UCLA, etc

주최: Fair Education Group <EPS & [ROKING KOREA]> 후원: 헤럴드경제 / KLC한국리더십센터 / LCM 기간: 2012년 7월27일-7월29일 (금-일) / 2박 3일 장소: 한국러닝리조트 (경기도 안성) http://resort.eklc.co.kr 인원: 선착순100명 *참가신청서 작성 필수 참가대상 및 자격: 중학교3학년 ~ 고등학교 3학년 캠프활동비: 전형료 10만원 / 참가비 60만원 신청접수: prep.koreaherald.co.kr 접속 후 온라인 신청서 작성

Skype Lecture

“국제적 갈등이란 무엇인가?” “왜 글로벌 이슈가 되었나?” “이러한 갈등을 어떻게 해결할 수 있는가?” “국제적 갈등을 해결하기 위해선 어떠한 노력이 필요한가?”

Heidi Burgess 교수

University of Colorado 교수 Professor of Sociology Conflict Research Consortium Director

최근 지속적으로 야기되고 있는 사회/국제적 갈등을 주제로, 이와같은 문제들이 어떻게 세계적 이슈가 되었는지를 다양한 방법을 통해 이해하고, 그 해결 방안을 찾고자 합니다.

삶의 갈등과 해결 스토리를 이야기해줄 GUEST SPEAKER

본 프로그램은 영어 학습을 기본으로 하여, 최근 이슈가 된 다양한 사회/국제적 문제들을 학생 스스로 고민해 봄으로서, 논리적 사고를 길러주고자 하는데 목적 을 두고 있습니다. 리서치, 토론, 글쓰기, 역할극, 발표 등의 다양한 활동을 통해 학생들에게 체험의 장이 될 "CONFLICT CONSORTIUM"은 단순한 영어 사용 목적의 캠프가 아닙니다. 세계 유수 학생들, 즉 미래 글로벌 리더들과 함께 생각을 공유 하며 해결해 나가는 새로운 교육의 장이 될 것입니다.

송벽

캠프 이후 운영 되는 "CONFLICT CONSORTIUM" 웹사이트'를 통해 학생들의 리서치 자료 및 결과물, 해결방안 등이 업로드 되어 학생들의 성취감을 고취 시키 고, 전 세계 유수 학생들에게 본 자료들이 소개/공유 됩니다. 이를 통해 세계 글로 벌 리더들이 함께 생각을 펼칠 수 있는 새로운 커뮤니티 공간이 마련 될 것입니다.

& 한국계 미국인 배우

-탈북 후 미국과 한국을 오가며 활동하는 북한팝아티스트 -CNN 출현

Skill Developing Program Research Skills

다양한 국제적 갈등과 이슈들을 리서치를 통해서 인식.

다양한 기사(News)를 통해서 Key points 찾는 방법과 브레인 스토밍, 구성 및 실행하는 법을 배운다.

Team Work Skills

팀을 구성하여 문제해결을 위한 역할토론.

학생 스스로가 팀의 구성원으로서 활동에 참여하여 조화와 리더십을 키운다.

Writing Skills

자신의 리서치 내용을 바탕으로 문제해결 방안을 글로 작성.

글을 구성하고 작성하는 방법을 배우면서 직접 저널리스트로의 경험을 쌓는다.

Presentation Skills

자신들의 의견 및 작성사항을 대중 앞에서 발표.

Presentation 활동을 통해 효과적이고 논리적인 스피치 능력을 향상시킨다.

Debate & Speech Skills

토론을 통해 갈등 해결 속에서의 다양한 역할을 체험하고 의견을 발표.

자신의 역할 내에서 리스크를 최소화하며 합의로 이끌어내는 설득의 기술을 터득한다.

Problem Solving Skills

학생들은 프로그램 활동을 통해 다양한 의견을 공유하며 가능한 문제 해결들을 찾는다.

모든 활동을 통해 가장 합리적인 해결방안을 도출하는 방법과 그에 따른 방안을 실행하는 실행력을 배운다.

상담 및 문의

서울 강남구 신사동 561 -16 국제빌딩 2층

Tel. 02 541 9177 / Fax. 02 541 9178 / Mail.info@roking.com

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

5

s

p

e

c

i

a

l

t

h

e

m

e

Chunghie Lee

Bringing Bojagi Art to the U.S. BY_ SANG-AA PARK / IMAGES PROVIDED BY_ Chunghie Lee

Throughout the history of korea, bojagi, the traditional wrapping cloth has been used by the people. Simply versatile, every household owned bojagi and used it for various purposes.

Artist Chunghie Lee explains that because bojagi was an everyday item for such a long time, its value has always been underestimated.

And it is true: people didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t quite pay attention to the beauty of the detail of the wrapping cloths they used daily.

Chunghie Lee chose the bojagi to express the historical sentiments of Korea.

Bridge spoke with Lee on the beauty of the bojagi and her creative expression through this unique art form.

6

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

s It’s been quite a while since your last visit to Korea. What a great day for an interview!

I’ve been working in the U.S. for quite some time now. I don’t come to Korea often.

It’s great to come out in this weather, enjoying the sun and the breeze.

While preparing for the interview I researched you and your art. I felt embarrassed that I didn’t know much about bojagi.

Oh, don’t think like that. We can’t know everything about Korea just because we are Koreans. I know about bojagi because it’s my art. But I don’t know everything about the rest of Korean culture. But it’s nice to hear that you read a lot about bojagi.

p

e

Basics of bojagi Normally people think of a big and soft square-shaped piece of cloth when they hear the word Bojagi.

Its purpose is to wrap objects. It is refreshing to see you turn such a mundane object into art. I’m curious to know if Bojagi vary in shape besides the square ones we know.

The ones that we use the most are hotbo, a single cloth bojagi.

These are the ones that we use in traditional weddings or picnics, to wrap things. But there are a variety of bojagi. There is gyeopbo , which is layered bojagi with an outer shell and lining. Subo is embroidered bojagi, and if you sew multiple bojagi together, you get a jogakbo [jogak = piece].

c

i

a

l

t

h

Sewing together different cloths… I’m thinking quilt. Is that close to jogakbo?

To put it simply, jogakbo is a patchwork of bojagi. Quilts are a little different. You put cotton in between the outer shell and lining.

Could you compare bojagi to something that non-Koreans can understand as well?

Patchwork may be the closest thing. But creating patchworklike bojagi is just one style of bojagi. So it’s not accurate to say bojagi is patchwork.

What are the things you have to look at when appreciating bojagi?

Needlework? Color coordination?

The delicate needlework is of course an important factor.

But what really moves me about a bojagi is when I can feel the utmost sincerity of its creator. On the piece I can

e

m

e

make out how much care the artist took to sew together the cloths. Individually, the pieces may look plain, but when put together, the bojagi is reborn as a masterpiece. And that’s the greatest thing about bojagi.

From ragged ones patched up together by a caring mother to embroidered ones that express the maker’s affection towards her lover, bojagi is a pure work of love. And that’s the true charm of this art. It transcends time and purpose and carries the devotion of the person who made it.

I guess it’s an ordinary people’s art, then. It requires more than just technique.

Yes. We could say bojagi is a mother’s art. Also, it could be our generation’s art, very close to our life and accessible as an art form.

I heard that it’s the oldest form of art that was passed down by the Korean women. Aren’t you overwhelmed by its long history?

Rather than pressure, I feel regret. Hmm… How could I explain? Take air, for example. We cannot live without air. Air is so precious, but it’s so natural that we take it for granted. We have it all the time, and we’ve never lost it before. I think bojagi is like that. It’s a precious Korean artifact but because it’s such an ingrained part of our daily lives, we didn’t think that it was worthy of being treated as art. So now Koreans don't know much about the history and types of bojagi. I feel regretful about that. But the responsibility I feel to promote bojagi motivates me.

About the Artist 1945 Born in Bukcheong, South Hamkyeong Province 1968 Earned M.F.A. in Textile Arts from Hongik University. A fiber artist and writer, Chunghie Lee currently lectures at Rhode Island School of Design. Her works are in the Victoria & Albert Museum’s collection in London, the American Museum of Art and Design in New York, Walker Hill Art Center in Seoul, etc.

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

7

s

Bojagi reaching out to the world Currently you are teaching a bojagi class at Rhode Island School of Design. I’m curious to know how foreign students react to bojagi when they see it for the first time.

On the first day of the class, I just lay out a bunch of bojagi in different colors and shapes.

And I tell the students to just do whatever they want with them. They pick up the bojagi and go crazy with them. They wrap them around their heads, make skirts, and just play with them. I guess their unfamiliarity frees them. They feel the different textures and are sometimes taken aback by the vivid primary colors. Actually in that process I am inspired by them, because they use the bojagi in ways I’ve never imagined before.

p

e

You’ve been teaching for a number of years now. Are there any memorable anecdotes you'd like to share?

There are some students who left a strong impression on me.

This one student in particular really got into bojagi after taking my class, so much so that he focused on it as his art form. Later on he did a bojagi project at Harvard. He called me to tell me about a kind of project that I didn’t even get to do myself. He thanked me and said that because of my class he was able to exhibit an amazing work. I felt more grateful to him because I was so proud of him. Thanks to him, I got to travel abroad and have many new experiences.

Just listening to you I can tell that you and bojagi are meant to be.

When did you first come across bojagi and think of the idea to make art with it?

I majored in fiber art in both undergrad and graduate school. While I was studying, I didn’t study bojagi. During my graduate school days, there was a Korean artists' exhibition held in the U.S.A professor at my school recommended me and some other classmates.

This was when I went back to graduate school after raising children, so I didn't even dream of going overseas as an artist. My generation was quite

c

i

a

l

t

h

conservative then, too; in this seemingly hopeless situation, I thought hard about what area I should work in. Then my professor suggested doing something with bojagi. That's when I started to visit libraries and galleries to research it, and that's how it all got started.

It's amazing that everything happened by chance. Were there any difficulties as you got more into it?

Though I got started in bojagi art by accident, in retrospect, I think it was just meant to be.

It was my true calling, indeed.

I don't think I went through any difficult times because of bojagi. Rather, I experienced a miracle through bojagi. Why? Because the results were always amazing. Though bojagi is not really appreciated by Koreans, for foreigners it was something that was entirely new and exciting. Those who saw my work were intrigued by the traditional colors of Korea and the fabric’s unique texture. Additionally, they were impressed by the long history of bojagi. Whenever I felt these sentiments by way of my viewers’ reactions, I felt like I was experiencing a miracle.

We often say, "What is uniquely Korean is what is international."

I agree with that statement, one hundred percent.

e

m

e

You've been working hard to promote bojagi art. How do you feel when you see foreign artist making artwork with bojagi?

People ask me if I feel resentful when I see foreign artists integrating traditional Korean art into their work. The truth is, I don't feel resentful at all.

If they can create even better bojagi art, I am satisfied.

Actually, these days we have lost Koreanness in a crazy rush to become more westernized.

How can we preserve our own culture?

Like I said earlier, what is uniquely Korean could be the most international thing.

Unfortunately, the younger generation believes things from overseas are the coolest.

I understand them, though.

It’s easy to see how amazing traditional Korean things are when you’re abroad, but when you are living here you can't quite recognize it. That's why I feel regretful. So the priority is coming to realize and appreciate the beauty of Korean art.

You can only protect it if you know it. That kind of mindset should come first.

What is the ultimate goal you hope to achieve through bojagi art?

I want to build a school where underprivileged children can

Korea bojagi Forum AUGUST 22-26

2012

Location: Seven galleries in Heyri, Paju Workshop: Art Factory, Porcelain House Exhibitions: Nonbat Art Center, With Artist Gallery, Moa Gallery, Lee and Park Gallery Seminar: Heyri Art Village community house Director: Chunghie Lee, Independent international art exhibition curator and visiting professor at Rhode Island School of Design Host: Art Factory in Heyri Art Village (artfactory4u@hanmail.net)

•Looking for volunteers We are looking for foreign language volunteers who can help out non-Korean speakers. Please contact us at 2012kbf@gmail.com if you are interested.

8

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

come and learn art for free. I wanted to build it in Korea, but things didn't go as I hoped, so it could be somewhere else.

I believe that this is my other mission in life. My purpose in life is not just creating bojagi, but also being able to share my talent with others. This is what I feel is my duty, my ultimate dream.

I heard that you are preparing for the bojagi forum scheduled to be held in Heyri this August. What can we expect from the event?

We have planned different programs for the international bojagi forum this year. There are various lectures by speakers around the globe, and you will get to experience bojagi in various, interesting ways. We have invited one foreign performance artist that I was deeply impressed with before. I hope people will come and see the many different ways bojagi are materialized.

And lastly, do you have anything you'd like to say to our readers?

I hope you experience many aspects of Korean culture while you are here. It would be fun to get into the traditional culture and art. And please come to the bojagi forum at Heyri and enjoy the various art spaces there.

p

e

c

i

a

l

t

h

e

m

e

Whisper-Romance His Tear

s

Jiyoung Chung

Sharing the beauty of Hanji

Joomchi BY_ SANG-AA PARK / IMAGES PROVIDED BY_ jiyoung chung

Even for many koreans, the unfamiliar word, joomchi, often doesn't ring a bell.

Despite its relative obscurity, artist Jiyoung Chung has been working hard to preserve this traditional art.

Creating beauty with the delicate movements of her fingers, Jiyoung Chung promotes the joomchi art around the world.

Joomchi is a Korean traditional art form, but the word sounds quite strange. I even thought it might be a foreign word.

The word “joomchi” originated from the Korean word to make pockets, joomeoni.

Joomeoni and joomchi—sound similar, right? Joomchi is an archaic word, so it’s no surprise that it sounded unfamiliar to you.

Korean traditional mulberry paper

I am worried that our traditional culture is increasingly fading. Perhaps some of it has been lost to other countries.

How about the case of joomchi?

There are two ways aspects of Korean culture become obsolete. Either it's lost to other countries or we failed to recognize its importance and carry on the legacy. I don't know if this is a good or bad thing, but

joomchi falls in the latter case.

Many parts of our culture have been stolen by Japan and other countries, but that is not the case with joomchi. Because it is such a precious art, our ancestors didn't even leave written accounts on it, but just passed it down by word of mouth. So there is almost no joomchi-related data. I did a lot of research myself, but it wasn't easy. This is also why I wrote a book in English on joomchi.

Could you give us a simple explanation of joomchi?

In short, it's making a strong fabric using hanji and water.

You apply water to hanji, rub it, and layer several sheets together. The original material is paper, but the joomchi technique makes it very durable, not tearing or softening easily.

You can make household items or fashion items with this.

Actually our ancestors made joomchi garments instead of using expensive fabric. It's still possible nowadays. One interesting thing is that these garments become softer with wear, like leather. Records on joomchi exist from the early Chosun period, but my guess is that they existed way before then. But unfortunately there is no written account.

Joomchi is the unique Korean traditional way of making textured and painterly imagery hand made paper just by using water. The terminology originated from meaning, “making a Joomoney (Pouch in English)”.

It creates strong, textural, and painterly surfaces. As time goes, the surface becomes more and more elegant like leather. It can be applied to make self-standing or suspended sculpture, new way of creating painting, surface design, collage making, drawing as well as functional daily life objects like basket, lamp, purse making, etc.

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

9

s

p

e

c

i

a

l

t

h

e

m

e

Whisper-Romance Blessed

Joomchi, a textile between pa p e r & fabric So if joomchi art is made with hanji, would it be categorized the same way as hanji art?

No, it is different from hanji craft, because the base material for these two crafts are different. Hanji craft is made with paper, but joomchi is neither paper nor fabric. Joomchi itself is a transfigured material, from

paper to something close to fabric. So it is not paper, but it wouldn't be accurate to say that it's fabric. So it's somewhere between the two materials. It's a new concept.

That is so fascinating.

Did you feel the same way when you first learned about joomchi?

While majoring in painting at university, I was always fascinated by papers. No matter what country I went, I always visited the papermakers. I looked for quality papers and attempted making them on my own. But you need expensive devices to make paper. At paper factories there were huge

machines that produced papers, which didn’t really appeal to me. But as I studied papers more I naturally came across joomchi. And I knew that was the thing for me. Because all you need are water, hanji, and two hands. And making joomchi that is solid and durable like leather with hanji was an amazing, rewarding experience.

Since you said you traveled the world and researched papers in different countries, I am curious about something. Why do you need to use only hanji when making joomchi?

Can't you use papers

from other countries?

Wouldn’t papers from other East Asian countries work as well?

Actually this was something that I was surprised by while studying joomchi. Other countries including Japan, China and countries in Southeast Asia all have their own traditional papers. But hanji is made with the longest fibers.

The fiber is eight times longer than that which is used in the average paper. So it doesn't break or separate as easily, and it can be bound more strongly.

I have experimented with other papers, so I say this with confidence. Whenever there's an exhibition or conference I explain this to foreigners, and they are all surprised by this superb quality of hanji.

Now that I know how special hanji is, I'm even more drawn to joomchi.

Do you have any interesting anecdotes from your history of making joomchi art?

Actually there were a lot of funny incidents. You remember the necessary materials for joomchi, right? Hanji, water and two hands. So I can practi-

Blessing-Haystack

10

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

cally make joomchi anywhere I want. One time I was waiting for a plane at the airport, and I had several hours to kill. So I started to make joomchi in the airport bathroom, of all places!

When you think about it it's just hilarious. But that's the charm of joomchi. You can make it anytime you feel like it. That's quite something.

You look so excited when you speak about joomchi-making.

Whenever I finish a piece, I always feel something: joomchi never lies. Joomchi moves according to my feelings and the movements my hands make; it is honest. The end result reveals the mentality I had while making it. So if I don't put all of myself into the work, the joomchi comes out poorly. If I am upset while making it, it is bound to go wrong.

Sometimes when I have ill feelings, the joomchi will come out grossly misshapen. And I’d tell myself, “Are you going to keep working like this? Are you not going to put your heart and soul into it?” while working for hours, and in the end, it would tear apart. It’s an honest craft that truly shows the sincerity of the maker.

s

p

e

c

i

a

l

t

h

e

m

e

Making art with joomchi It truly is an art of sincerity. You must get exhausted after hours of rubbing and spreading hanji. Isn’t the work physically taxing?

My arms hurt a lot when I work. Not only the wrists, but all the muscles in my arms ache. When I first wet hanji, the papers rebel. They resist coming together. But I have to use force on the paper and start making joomchi, step by step. Of course, as time passes it becomes softer and easier to manipulate, but the amount of force required varies according to the layer and the size of the paper so you have to constantly adjust the strength.

That sounds quite complicated. How much time do you need to put in to finish one piece of joomchi art?

It depends on the size and the kind, but to give an example, for a big piece I need to put together twenty layers of hanji.

It means I need to work with water for about eight hours. I rub and unfold it slowly, and this job takes almost a whole day. Since just hardening the joomchi takes so long, detailed works can take up to a month to finish.

Whisper-Romance_The Life

About the Artist Jiyoung Chung Earned B.F.A in Painting at Rhode Island School of Design Earned M.F.A. in Printmaking at Cranbrook Academy of Art Currently travels back and forth from the U.S. to Korea, promoting joomchi through university lectures, international conferences, etc. (above information is by courtesy of Jiyoung Chung, http://www.jiyoungchung.com/)

So what are some practical items that can be made out of joomchi?

You can make garments using joomchi as the fabric, and you can also shape it into a hat.

Plus if you roll joomchi into a pea shape and fix it on a pin, you can make earrings, too.

Also, you can make curtains and picture frames. And why not make bokjoomeoni (traditional silk pouch), since, after all, the word joomchi originated from joomeoni.

Your works incorporate a lot of cracks and holes. Do these symbolize anything?

I was inspired by holes left behind by needles when you sew. In a way, these holes harbor pain, but they are also a passageway that connects one thing to another. When I saw this, I realized that human relationships work the same way. Even through painful, stabbing experiences, you feel something new, and in turn, you reach another point.

When you look back, you can recognize that the times of struggle have brought you to

where you are, which makes it appear beautiful. So that is why there are a lot of cracks and holes in my pieces. Through those holes and cracks you can meditate on the meaning of relationships and life. In a bigger sense, such things are not limited to human relationships but also related to the relationship between nature and human, and also God and human.

With your explanation, I now have a whole new perspective in understanding your work.

What is one work that reflects your intentions best?

My favorite is WhisperRomance: His Tear. The holes in this work symbolize the tears God shed for the human beings. When Jesus died, big drops of rain came down. The holes represent the thick raindrops. That is God's will and the marks of his love for us. I wanted to present that. When I exhibit the piece I leave a little space between it and the wall so that the shadows that form behind it are visible. Because love, especially God's love, is incomparable to anything else in the world.

In one word, what are you trying to show through joomchi?

Romance! One might think that romance means love between you and your lover, but I want to expand that to include love between nature and humans and between God and humans. Such great love can be explained with the word “romance.” Also, I would say “whisper,” because God tells us about his love in whispers, and us humans fail to hear it and do not know about it. So I hope people will be able to feel such things when looking at my work.

What are your plans and goals?

I want to create more different kinds of artwork with joomchi.

Last time, I made a lamp. This time I want to challenge myself in making something new.

There's no limit to what you can do with joomchi, so I want to explore it more and share it with others.

Lastly, what would you like to say to our readers?

You might unfamiliar with joomchi, but I hope you got to know a little about it through this interview. I hope you take interest in it. At the Heyri Bojagi Forum there will be a joomchi exhibition as well.

Please come and experience the beauty of Korean art.

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

11

f

o

o

d

A little more

comfort food options in korea BY_CHANG-HO YOO

will admit right now. I'm not a "foodie." I'm probably considered a rather boring and uneducated eater by many of the food bloggers that you read about all over the internet. However, I've been living in Korea for the past several years and seem to find myself surrounded by so-called food experts. These experts are my foreign friends who grew up washing dishes and waiting tables in restaurants to owning their own food catering businesses back in the States. When they begin talking about brining a chicken or using a pinch of rosemary, they might as well be talking about astro-physics to me.

However, during random musings about the food options and restaurant choices in Seoul, a common complaint is often made about the true "lack of diversity" outside of Itaewon when it comes to foods and recipes that aren't endemic to the Republic of Korea. Having moved here from Manhattan, where the food culture is as amped as a puppy chasing his chew toy, I probably couldn't disagree. But hey, I'm no professional food critic!

Of course, it isn’t hard to get a little taste of back home when you make a trip to Itaewon. Whether you’re hankerin’ for some Seattle-style teriyaki or a giant Mexican burrito, your money is on this foreign mecca of dining. Heck, you can even gulp down an amazing micro-brew that you’d swear was made in some tiny brewery in Montana. Most of these restaurants are owned or operated by foreigners that finally gave up on finding some authentic meals and decided to take matters into their own hands.

It’s a pretty eclectic treat for the foodie that loves to indulge in a sea of ethnic cuisines, but what about the rest of Korea?

I think for many foreigners like myself, who sit somewhere between a recreational eater that’s too lazy to make a trip across town to Itaewon for a slice of NY, the pickings are pretty slim. At the so-called “pizzeria” down my street, the pizza comes with corn, potato and some sweet creamy

12

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

sauce that is somewhere between cake frosting and mayonnaise. However, I’m hopeful that the scene is slowly starting to take on a different form as more Korean entrepreneurs are quickly adapting to foreign foods, collaborating with foreign chefs and products are becoming more easily available.

For example, La Cuisine, a well-known cooking school that boasts a successful Cafe Management program is helping lead this foreign food campaign with a variety of summer events that connect foreigners with Korean foods but also openly embrace the community of foreign chefs living and cooking in Seoul.

Beginning on Friday, June 8th, La Cuisine will be hosting an exclusive series of private dinners featuring accomplished foreign chefs in an open-kitchen cooking show combined with perfectly paired cocktails. The dinners, appropriately named, “Chef Night In” allow guests to experience authentic cuisine like the way you might if invited over to a friend’s home for dinner while drinking some cocktails and sharing childhood stories.

While I don’t know the exact line-up, I’ve heard that chef Darren Vaughan will kick off this event. Vaughan hails from Melbourne, Australia, and before coming to Korea, he worked in the kitchen of what may be considered the most luxurious hotel in the world at the Burj Al Arab in Dubai, so considered because of the fleet of Rolls-Royces and private butlers that are on-call around the clock. In Korea, he was selected by Korea’s most famous celebrity chef, Edward Kwon, to head the kitchen at The Spice.

With such high culinary distinction, it would be easy to assume that the event will offer some pretty impressive dining, however, La Cuisine isn’t trying to simply create luxury fine dining – that’s already being done. It’s about promoting real authenticity and diversity in foreign foods, therefore, chef Vaughan has been asked to prepare several of his comfort foods that remind him of his childhood. He’ll cook and share his thoughts on food and the significance of the dishes he selected for the evening. And what is a private dinner without some drinks? The evening will also be paired with cocktails, wines, craft beers and other beverages as well.

To offer a bit of a teaser, Bombay Sapphire, the VIN csr, Craftworks Taphouse, and Tavalon Tea Company have been extremely generous sponsors, from what I’ve heard.

This is a private dining event that I’m really excited about because a few more comfort foods from back home that aren’t in Itaewon would be a welcome addition to the current dining scene. This is one ticket that I’m definitely not going to miss.

f

o

o

d

EVENT SPONSORS:

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

13

t

r

a

v

e

l

a Journey to the world

of money BY_ Min Jung Choi / PHOTOS PROVIDED BY_ Confucianism Newspaper, Cultural Heritage Administration

Currency means more than just money.

Whichever country you go to, their bills capture the history and philosophy of the country.

But to truly understand the meaning behind the bills, you have to take a closer look at each character, place or symbols.

For this issue Bridge broke down the Korean banknote to help you better understand South Korea.

Myung-ryun-dang and Gye-sang- jeong-geo-do The character and place on 1,000 won bill The front picture: Myung-ryun-dang in SungKyunKwan University

Historical elite school of Chosun Dynasty in Seoul Built in the 13th century, Chosun's national university SungKyunKwan was hailed as the best educational institution in the country. Among the many buildings of SungKyunKwan, Myung-ryundang, which emphasized the importance of ethics education, won the front of one thousand won bill. Designated as national treasure no.141, Myung-ryun-dang is located in SungKyunKwan University near Daehakno. Myung-ryun-dang was the place where top elites gathered to study and master the basic Confucian teachings, and it is still preserved the way it was since the Chosun period. Visit Myung-ryun-dang and SungKyunKwan to feel the history of South Korean education.

Address: Myung-ryun-dang, SungKyunKwan University, Myungryun3-ga, Jongno-gu, Seoul The back picture Gye-sang-jeong-geo-do Gye-sang-jeong-geo-do is a landscape painting by Chosun painter Jung Sun. Dosan Seowon and areas surrounding the place were the model for the piece.

Dosan Seowon includes Dosan Seodang where Yi Hwang taught students, and Gyesan Seodang was a small study of Yiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. Dosan Seowon is known for its beautiful scenery with mountain and water stream flowing nearby. There are picturesque hanoks around the Dosan Seowon as well. Visit Dosan Seowon to experience the scene you've only seen on the back of 1,000 bill.

Bonus_ Toegye Yi Hwang,

the character of the portrait on 1,000won A Sungrihak or Neo-Confucianism scholar of the Chosun period, Toegye Yi Hwang was a renowned educator who taught 340 prominent scholars. Also an accomplished poet, he wrote over 2,000 poems including 'Twelve Songs of Dosan' and 'Drunken Song of Blossoms.'

14

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

t

r

a

v

e

l

Character and place of the 10,000 won bill G y e o n g b o k Pa l a c e and King Sejong t h e G r e at M e m o r i a l

The front picture: Gyeongbok Palace, King Sejong the Great's residence

The King's residence, Gyeongbok Palace has been the center of Chosun dynasty politics and ruling.

In its 500-year history, Gyeongbok Palace saw the rise and fall of the Chosun dynasty. The palace was finished in 1395 and served as the central agency of the kingdom.

Now it is open for tourists to learn about Koreaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history.

Gyeongbok Palace was the biggest and oldest palace among the five built in the Chosun period, and it has still maintained its grandeur. During Japan's invasion of Korea and killing of Empress Myeongseong, Gyeongbok Palace was burnt down. It has since been rebuilt, and is a place where you truly can get a sense of the history of Korea.

Address: Gyeongbok Palace, 16 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul Tour information: 02 - 3700 - 3900 English tours: Starts at Gyeongbok Palace information center at 11am, 1:30pm, 3:30pm. Lasts about an hour.

Bonus_ King Sejong the Great, Character on the back of the 10,000 won bill Hailed as the most respected figure in Korean history, King Sejong the Great was an innovative leader. One of his achievements was the creation of Hangeul, the Korean alphabet.

Ojukheon, residence of Yulgok Yiyi and Shinsaimdang A house with beautiful black bamboo trees It is unprecedented to have both mother and son on one country's banknote.

Korea is the first country to bear Shinsaimdang, the mother, on the 50,000 won bill, and her son Yulgok Yiyi on the 5,000 won bill.

Shinsaimdang is the representative mother figure of Korea. Her son Yulgok Yiyi is hailed as the most prominent scholar of the Chosun period. Ojukheon in Gangwon province is where Yiyi was born and raised under Shinsaimdang's love and care. A popular tourist destination in Gangwon province, Ojukheon is famous with its scenery. Designated as National Treasure no. 165 in 1963, the name Ojukheon derived from the black bamboo, or ojuk in the back yard. The black bamboo harmonized with the blue, clear sky of Gangwon province is a not-to-be-missed sight while you are in South Korea.

Address: 201 Jukheon-dong, Gangneung, Gangwon Province Bonus_1 Yulgok Yiyi, character of the 5,000 won bill The third son of Shinsaimdang, Yulgok Yiyi was known as a child prodigy in early years.

Later, he passed nine civil service exams and became the most renowned scholar of the Chosun period.

Bonus_2 Shinsaimdang, character of the 50,000 won bill A genius painter who was also an accomplished poet, Shinsaimdang is remembered as the most respectable woman of the Chosun period. Dubbing someone as Shinsaimdang is still a compliment nowadays as it suggests the person is bright, wise, and feminine.

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

15

life style

Courtesy of

Seoul safari: off-your-feet micro-tourism A seoul veteran's day of rest & relaxation in chungmuro BY_ Vivian Lee / PHOTOGRAPHS BY_ Meagan Mastriani, Sonja Swanson

No trip to Korea is complete without an open grill—this time, at Ddoong-bo Meat Restaurant (뚱보통고기) Photo by Sonja Swanson for Seoulist

Namsan Hanok Village is a lovely place to wander and enjoy the babbling brook, graceful hanok wood work and lush foliage. Photo by Meagan Mastriani for Seoulist

MEET BEATA She’s a 25-year-old American manager for Exxon living in Japan who loves jjimjilbang, shopping and Korean BBQ. When Beata told us she’d be staying in Chungmuro this weekend, we were intrigued.

Sandwiched between the shopping meccas of Myeongdong and Dongdaemun, Chungmuro is gritty, industrial, and rarely featured on the pages of tourist guidebooks. And while Beata’s hostel gets rave reviews from customers (nearly all Japanese tourists), it sits squarely in the midst of a busy industrial street (literally—the building itself functions as the divider in a backalley boulevard).

But the more we thought about Beata’s business needs, the more we realized Chungmuro was exactly the right place for her allday Seoul Safari. For one, Beata’s a Seoul veteran, having been here four times already. She’d also planned several days of backpacking around the Korean countryside before arriving in the capital. She wanted to use

16

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

one of her three days in Seoul for some power-shopping in Myeongdong (less than 10 minutes away by foot) and possibly also Dongdaemun (10 minutes in the other direction).

Being on both line 3 and line 4 gave her the option to swing down south for some Apgujeong high-class rolling or eastward to Hyehwa for more cultural pursuits (and shopping). With all this backpacking and shopping and traveling planned, Beata admitted that she was looking forward to a more slow-paced day.

Enter Seoulist’s very first hyperlocal Seoul Safari: Centered in a single neighborhood with no public transport required and 5 minutes or less of walking at a time, it’s an on-foot micro-tour experience.

It’s perhaps not quite as thrilling as other tours might be (we never thought we’d find ourselves recommending Paris Baguette, for example), but it is an everyday itinerary focused less on sightseeing and more on the hyper-local experience.

Let’s begin, shall we?

The Digs Jung-gu, Chungmuro 4(sa)-ga120-3, 4th floor 02-2277-8490

Beata’s hostel, Metro Spa Cabin, is actually better described as a vamped-up jjimjilbang reminiscent of Japanese capsule hotels. Sleeping quarters are gender-segregated and feature cozily-enclosed cedar-scented bunk “beds” (single 32,000 won/night, double 41,000 won/night).

This might be the closest you can get to sleeping in a tree house in Seoul.

Metro Spa Cabin is 60 meters (200 feet) from exit 4 of Chungmuro Station. Walk until you see the Paris Baguette Cafe in the tall white building on your left that recalls Soviet-era architecture. Duck into the covered pathway just to the left of the building, passing a flower shop, blanket vendor, and hanbok (traditional Korean dress) store. You’ll see signs for a “Sauna” in English, Korean and Japanese.

Follow them to the fourth floor of the building. At the end of this rabbit’s hole is a really cozy place, we promise.

www.seoulistmag.com

Jung-gu, Cho-dong 53-20 / 02-2266-3208

Morning Munchies First off, sleep in and/or enjoy a long, hot morning bath— you’re in a jjimjilbang after all! Like all jjimjilbang, Metro Spa Cabin has a small café where you can order noodles, stews, and other simple fare for pocket change. But if kimchi jjigae isn’t your idea of breakfast, stock up on Paris Baguette the night before. Plus, Shin’s Coffee, recently opened right next door, offers simple treats, decent coffee, and a clean modern interior for a caffeine-laden start to your day.

She also loves super spicy food, and since j jukkumi (baby octopus doused in red pepper sauce) is about as spicy as you can get, head over to Bul-jjukkumi (“Fire Jjukkumi,” a nod to just how spicy it gets) for lunch. Recommended by a local camera shop owner, Bul-jjukkumi’s interior is small and unremarkable, with both table and floor seating. It’s a bit further than five minutes from our last stop, but at 6,000 won a pop, the fresh and flavorful entrees are well worth it. Spicy pork (jaeyuk-bokkeum) is a tasty non-seafood alternative here. During weekday lunches, this place is packed to the gills with employees from local offices and the nearby Maeil Business Newspaper, so head over closer to 1pm to avoid long waits.

To get here from Namsangol Hanok Village, cross the street and pass exit 6, walking 130m until you see The Korea Times on your left. Turn left here, walk 140m to a busy pedestrian intersection—wing a right (almost a U-turn) at Mapo Mandu (마포만두) and Bul-jjukkumi will be 40 meters down the alley on your right.

Photography aficionados take note: Chungmuro also happens to be densely packed with photo and printing shops! RJ Koehler has an excellent guide to photo shops in the area here.

Treat Yourself Jung-gu, Chungmuro 2(i)-ga 62-10 / 02-3789-4750

Traditional Wonders Note: Namsangol is closed every Tuesday.

One of Chungmuro’s main draws is the Namsangol Hanok Village, whose entrance is right across the street, by exit 4.

In the early 90s, five hanok of varying social classes, from peasant to nobility, were moved here and the park and gardens were constructed. Though not exactly an accurate representation of a typical Joseon-era neighborhood, the hanok have been meticulously restored and the village offers a wide variety of cultural activities like mock Joseonera weddings, traditional music concerts, and traditional children’s games. If you’re really feeling up for a walk, the park is a lovely place to wander and enjoy the babbling brook, graceful hanok woodwork and lush foliage (be forewarned: weekends this season draw picnickers in droves).

Naturally, there is no better way to expunge fatigue and road dust than a little spa pampering. Once lunch has sufficiently digested, head back to Metro Spa Cabin for the one-hour basic course (it’s best to make this reservation before you leave in the morning). For 32,000 won (42,000 for nonguests), you’ll get just over an hour of a spa soak, body scrub, full-body massage, facial and shampooing. Of course, at that point, you have the option to extend your stay and relax in the sauna for as long as you like.

Though it breaks the 5-minute walk rule, we also like Hugo Spa by Myeongdong Station, exit 9. Try out the basic facial (1 hour, 55,000 won) or the foot care package (70 minutes, 55,000 won), or go big with the four-hour luxury treatment (335,000 won). Call in advance to make your reservation.

Dinner: 30-year-old Ddoong-bo Meat Restaurant Jung-gu, Pil-dong 1 (il)-ga 3-19 / 02-2267-1801

We recommend making the rustic Gwaneojeong Pavilion your destination, heading a bit further up the right-hand path and settling in for an hour or so of well-shaded reading, journaling or day-dreaming. Be sure to take off your shoes before stepping in, and keep in mind that consuming food and drinks are not permitted within.

A Leisurely Lunch Jung-gu, Pil-dong 2(i)-ga 80-2 / 02-2266-9101~ ext. 3

Beata is a huge fan of Korean dramas, so a menu straight from Daejanggeum ( Jewel in the Palace) is a natural first choice. Korea House, adjacent to Namsangol, has two special lunch set menus (30,000 and 45,000 won respectively) for a sumptuous and artistically-arranged feast.

Catch a Flick After Dinner Jung-gu, Cho-dong 61-1 / 02-2277-2877

In addition to photography and printing, Chungmuro is also known for its role in Korea’s cinema industry. Once considered the hub of Korean film, Chungmuro’s reputation as a cinematic destination has faded some, as evidenced by the closing of classic theaters like Geukdong Theater and Skara Theater. But the memories live on in places like Movie House, a café/theater created by two grandfatherly cinema buffs (one of whom is a director). The older generation of film industry greats still gathers around here—you never know who you might be sitting next to in this neighborhood.

Jung-gu, Chungmuro 4(sa)-ga 125-18 / 02-3393-3500

Movie House is a bit of a walk, but Daehan Cinema, a neon confection of lights and modern designs, stands just down the street from dinner (there’s also an entrance from the subway). Grab a bag of popcorn, lean back, and get lost in the story before your eyes with the generations of Seoulites around you.

Tip: On weekend evenings, it’s best to stop by and pick up your tickets earlier in the day.

Right by Chungmuro exits 1 & 2.

Last but not least, head back to Metro Spa Cabin, get nestled in your timber cubby, and get a full night’s beauty sleep before another busy day of traveling.

Additional Information Metro Spa Cabin 02-2277-8490 Jung-gu, Chungmuro 4(sa)-ga 120-3, 4th floor.

Korea House Jung-gu, Pil-dong 2(i)-ga 80-2. 02-2266-9101~ext. 3 Bul-jjukkumi 02-2266-3208 Jung-gu, Cho-dong 53-20.

Hugo Spa 02-3789-4750 Jung-gu, Chungmuro 2(i)-ga 62-10.

Ddoong-bo Meat Restaurant 02-2267-1801 Jung-gu, Pil-dong 1(il)-ga 3-19.

Movie House 02-2277-2877 Jung-gu, Cho-dong 61-1.

Daehan Cinema 02-3393-3500 Jung-gu, Chungmuro 4(sa)-ga 125-18.

With the arrival of dinnertime, it’s time to feed Beata’s addiction to Korean barbeque. One of Chungmuro’s most well-known restaurants is the oddly-named Ddoong-bo Meat Restaurant (뚱보통고기). The prefix “뚱” references owner Song Pil-su’s generous frame (뚱뚱이, or ddoong-ddoongee, means “fatty” in Korean) and the suffix “보” is a verbal tic that gives off a feeling of friendliness. Open since 1981, Ddoong-bo keeps its menu simple with three kinds of pork: moksal, steak-like neck meat (200g for 11,000 won); galbi, ribs (300g for 11,000 won); and ggeopdaegi, slices of skin and fat (220g for 9,000 won). They’re best known for moksal, so don’t pass that up, but if you’re feeling a little extra hungry, ggeopdaegi is a crunchily sweet addition to the meal.

Once you’ve ordered, they sear your meat over red-hot coals outside before bringing it to your table grill. The result: you don’t walk out smelling quite as much like smoke and meat as you do at other meat restaurants. Plus, it cooks a bit faster, and you can wrap the steaming morsels up with lettuce and fixings before hunger compels you to start eating raw garlic (we’ve all been there).

Wash it all down with a bottle of cold soju, preferably with the help of a friend or two.

Ddoong-bo is just around the corner from exit 5.

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

17

interview/Entertainment

1 4

Scan here Play music

indie band

coffeeboy on roasting the music BY_ SANG-AA PARK

Coffeeboy cultivates the fruits of his music from his everyday experiences.

Once a month, he carefully processes the beans with just the right amount of heat.

The products are his music, sometimes sweet and sometimes bitter, but always warming our heart, just like a cup of coffee.

Waiting for Coffeeboy at a café in Hapjeong-dong, I imagined what he would be like.

I imagined someone quiet and sensitive, maybe even a bit boring.

But as soon as he walked in, I was pleasantly surprised by his energy and disposition, brighter and more pleasant than any other.

"Hello, I'm Coffeeboy. I am a one-man indie band that writes music and performs it, too.” (laughs) After talking to him, I realized that his stage name, Coffeeboy, says it all: Coffeeboy is a warm person who makes music that heals.

You are entirely different from what I have imagined.

I thought that you might be a quiet person with a touch of gloom. Right?

Everyone says that. Sometimes I think maybe I shouldn't meet anyone. (laughs) My music is quiet, but I am a quite chatty and delightful person, so I’m not surprised people have misconceptions about me.

COFFEEBOY'S MUSIC & LOVE You are entirely different from what I have imagined.

I thought that you might be a quiet person with a touch of gloom. Right?

Everyone says that. Sometimes I think maybe I shouldn't meet anyone. (laughs) My music is quiet, but I am a quite chatty and delightful person, so I’m not surprised people have misconceptions about me.

There isn't much information about you on the Internet. Even your age

18

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

is unrevealed. Are you consciously trying to be mysterious?

At first, I didn't know how to update my information on websites. As time went by, I just left it as is. And people interpreted that as me being mysterious.

I didn't intend to be, but in retrospect, this is good. It's comfortable. If people know my personal information before listening to my music, they build preconceptions about me. People judge me by my age and the school I graduated

from before listening to my music.

So I don't update any personal info these days. There aren’t many photos of me on the web either.

Since I don't know much about you, the questions might be clichéd. But here goes: first of all, how did you come up with your stage name, Coffeeboy?

It's a long story, but there are two reasons behind it.

The first is the choice of the word “coffee.” The lives of modern

people are quite fast and busy. I wanted to comfort their hearts, so I chose the word “coffee”; I wanted them to know that my music is refreshing, just like coffee.

And the reason I chose the word “boy” is because of my voice. I am a little off when singing. But some say they are reminded of youthful days when they listen to my voice.

Hence, I combined the two words and came up with Coffeeboy.

And the second reason is because of my first love. I had an unrequited love for this girl. She loved coffee very much so I started to gulp down bitter black coffee to impress her. I continued drinking coffee and came to appreciate the taste. Most of my songs were inspired by her, which made me the Coffeeboy I am today.

I checked out your website.

It had stories about you: your daily life, your love.

Also the story of your first love, the one who made you into Coffeeboy.

Did you start making music because of her?

I’d been making music for a while, but never attempting to make popular music. I wasn't young, and I didn’t think I had what it took. I didn't even think that I could make a debut. But when I thought about what I could do for her, music was the only thing I had. I started to write a lot, even two or three songs a day. I went to a café and wrote songs all day. And I started

to record music to use at special events I’d throw for her. I recorded and mastered the music, which is pretty much what you to when recording an album. I did it all to impress her. I wasn't trying to become a singer but ended up preparing everything for a full-length album.

And luckily, in the midst of all this, I met my manager and made a debut under the name Coffeeboy.

Looking back, I realize that I was very lucky.

People go through so many challenges to become a singer, but you seem to have been very lucky. Any luck with the unrequited love?

I really was lucky, but unfortunately, there was no luck for my one-sided love. I made a debut as a singer with the album I made for her. I still remember the anxiety I felt when I prepared a special event for her on my very first stage. Two weeks after that, she gave her answer, which was rejection. A little later I heard news about her marriage. I learned a lot while going through this series of sad events.

young man. Through her, I matured and my life changed. I am thankful for that. Actually, many people helped me become Coffeeboy. I couldn't give up music thinking of all help I received. So I resolved to put out just one more song, and that was “Could I get married?“ which came out on Christmas Eve last year.

“Could I get married?“ was the song that made you famous. How was it received when you first put it out?

I played the song for a friend and he said, "Is this really a song?" (laughs) He was laughing in disbelief, and I asked him, "Do you really think you can get married?" Though people around me didn't take it seriously, the song gained popularity on the web. I was surprised by the explosive reaction.

You have accomplished all, except the one thing you wanted most.

Looking back, I am happy that I had someone to lay everything out for, that I got to love with all my heart.

I was heartbroken but I let her go with my best wishes. Until then, I was an indecisive and unemployed

ROASTING THE MUSIC You've been putting out music regularly since then. You are quite a natural composer.

It's quite ironic. When I try hard to write music, it doesn’t come out. When I'm not trying so hard, the music just comes to me. It's easier when there is a motif. What I learned through making music is that the most important thing is honesty. Honest feelings that are drawn naturally from life. Everything that surrounds me sometimes comes to me as music. My music was limited to my life and love at the beginning. But now, I get inspired by everything around me. These days I am moved to write lyrics while watching Human Theater on KBS. Human Theater? You were inspired by that?

I saw one episode that featured an old lady. Her daughter got married and gave birth to a child, but the baby died shortly due to illness.

This old lady said, "I know it's hard to get over it because it was your first love." Those words brought an aching feeling to my heart and echoed in me for days. I thought about the mother who had to part with her baby who was like her other self. For two weeks I worked on the lyrics and made a song called, “I can't get over it because it's my first love.”

It's amazing that there is a real life story behind each song. I think your voice delivers their mood well, too. It makes the lyrics that much more meaningful.

Really? I never thought that I had a nice voice. Before I debuted, I didn't know I could make a living with music. Actually, I felt inferior [because of my voice]. Now I’m encouraged by people telling me they like my voice, so I keep on singing. I still get nervous, though.

What are you trying to tell people through your songs?

There are too many things I’d like to tell. In the song, “Pimples,” I am trying to say that we need to love ourselves. People nowadays don't love themselves enough; they are self-conscious. Everyone is different and unique, but many still feel inferior. I wanted to say that your life gets happier if you truly love yourself. Ultimately I want to talk about fundamental happiness. And I still long to learn what true happiness is. I want to find the answer through creating songs.

In the song, “The moment you come to me,” you say that true love is pure without any greed. I think that sends a strong

message to people of our generation.

It's all the same. We have to recognize the essence of a person and fall in love with that. Looks fade and money is exhausted as time passes. For me, love is deeply longing with all your heart. Everything besides that is unnecessary. I don't know very well myself, but that’s what I’m working towards. My dad once said, "The greatest purpose of a man's life is finding a woman, loving her forever, and making her happy." Is that too sentimental? (laughs) “Calorie song,” on the other hand, is quite entertaining. Many women can relate to it and reflect on their common experiences. What made you write this song?

I processed the stories people sent to the radio, roasted the music, and made this song. I really like the lyrics. Actually, there are quite a number of songs based on the stories that I received on the radio station. My music comes from my stories and others' stories. There is a limit to how much of my story I can tell. So I am thankful that I work for radio. I get inspired.

What is your favorite song that you’ve written?

I like all of them… Well, among the published ones, I'd say “Pimples” is my favorite. But honestly, I am fond of all of my songs. I feel like they are my babies.

I'm sure there are times when you get exhausted from all the work.

There's no such thing as easy work.

But I think I am the happiest person in the world. I wake up whenever I want to, work on my projects, and go to coffee shops or go for a walk.

But I don't hang out with people much. I try to spend all of my day on music.

That's quite surprising. You're so outgoing, and I imagined that you would really like spending time with people.

I try to focus on music. If the music is good, you’re set. It doesn't need any promotion. Word-of-mouth is a powerful thing; it’s how I became known to the public. So I try not to get distracted. I take music-making seriously and give it my all.

You give live shows often. Could you describe your dream live performance?

There is one thing that is always a part of my performances: coffee.

Coffee and music, and a small group of people who can enjoy them together; that’s a perfect show for me. Pretty soon, I am going on tour around Korea. I am going to load the car with coffee and gifts and visit local cafés and give performances, as if I'm on a trip. That's my dream and goal for me this year.

Coffeeboy on a trip with coffee and musical equipment in a car… that sounds quite romantic! What are your dreams besides giving concerts?

From the beginning, my purpose in making music was to make my listeners happy. So my ultimate dream is focusing on music and giving the best live performances I can possibly give. And I want to continue making music and giving concerts for those who enjoy my music.

Last words for Bridge readers?

We are living in a time of conflict.

Between countries, generations, sexes, there is conflict everywhere.

I hope we can be forgiving and supportive of each other. And please continue showing your love and support for Coffeeboy.

Thank you.

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

19

맞닥뜨리기 전이 좋아 Before the Encounter)_oil & acrylic on canvas_72.7X91cm_2009

cover artist

Chosen Daily Life by Artist

HI Kyoung KOREAN CONTENT PROVIDED BY_ A COMPANY / IMAGES PROVIDED BY_ HI Kyoung

Someone once said that one feels the meaning of existence because he has a freedom of choice.

We all stand in the middle of choices. Depending on what you choose the result may take you to high points or low points. The choice will also lead to another choice.

There is no right or wrong answer in choosing, and no one can tell you which choice is better. You are solely held responsible for the choices you make.

Artist HI Kyoung chooses images from daily life and focuses on why she has decided on such an object. She tries to reflect her personal experiences and feelings in the images she chooses. HI Kyoung takes seemingly mundane subjects from daily life and makes it into something special, drawing empathy from people.

20

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

두고간 자리_ Laying Down _oil & acrylic on canvas_72.7X91cm_2009

interview/cover artist

2 4 A choice as an artist What's the story behind Chosen Daily Life?

I think our daily life is pieced together by the choices we make.

It goes the same for myself. I have chosen to live a life as an artist, mother, and wife. People daydream about deviation from day-to-day life, but they choose not to because they are used to the comforts of mundane life. They choose not to deviate. And that's the story behind my series.

Can you tell us about your works The Place Left Behind and Laying Down?

I made pieces titled The Place Left Behind in 2009 AND 2010. The meanings are the same. Piece of cloth or bag taken off from somebody and left hanging on the wall, a chair where someone has sat on and left… The way things are left behind reminded me of my past memories and inspired me, and I tried to express the lingering feel.

Was there a special incident that made you choose the subject of 'choice'?

Let me take the piece Chosen Daily Life, the eponymous piece of my exhibition. It's an image of an Izakaya in a high-rise building.

It's a bar run by a friend of mine.

He had a very desirable job before.

He used to jokingly say 'I just want to open up a bar,' and I thought he wasn't for real. A little while later, he really did quit his job and became a bar owner. That went well with the exhibition subject, chosen daily life.

Besides him, just observing people around me inspired the series.

Laying Down is a piece on my cell phone resting on a corner of the sofa. Cell phones represents reality the most, and I wanted to express my hopes of laying down the reality of life and doing whatever I want to do.

It's not easy to make that thought into an image.

What does the process of taking such subject and visualizing it mean to you?

If I can draw sympathy from people and move them with my work, in turn I can obtain solace from that.

It’s not easy to think about visualizing the idea of 'choice,' but I tried to express the weary and distant feel that comes from trying to sincerely live your routine life. So I valued the emotion and experience while making my thoughts into images.

After seeing your work, I became aware of things around me. My cell phone, bag, shoes, and the seat I just sat on seemed to look so precious and unfamiliar at the same time. So I'm curious, what kind of objects do you choose from your daily life?

Everything that I see in my day-today life. Before 2009 my works portrayed indoor scenes. Around 2010 I expanded it to outdoors. Come to think, I realize that it was around the time where I started to work at a studio. Like that, I just choose subjects from little things from daily life.

As you explore daily objects I believe things will appear more meaningful to you. Are there any occupational harms that come from such a process?

Physically chronic backache and lack of exercise, I'd say.

In my daily life, the camera on my cell phone has become another me. Wherever I go if I encounter a scene I like, I think about the structure, take a lot of pictures and just gaze at the scene.

Your works such as Red-shoes or Before the Encounter is Better invokes curiosity. What's the story behind those?

I worked on those between 2008 and 2009. I remember that I was frustrated and pressured during that time. I wanted to sneer at myself with tensenes in Red-shoes.

Before the Encounter is Better is quite literal. When a woman is off to see someone or goes somewhere she is jovial, imagining the experience to be exhilarating. But in reality that is not the way things go. So I was sneering at myself in that piece as well. I wanted those works to express the empty, cynical feelings I had.

Also another thing that invokes curiosity is the composition of the works.

In works such as Wall the Blue-chair or Before the Encounter is Better you have cut part of certain images. It makes one wonder what the rest

might look like. Are those intended?

If you tell it all there's no room for imagination. I want to tell people that 'In my case it goes like this.

How about you?' I wanted to leave it open so that it wouldn't be a limiting image.

Tell us about your recent works. What are some of the subjects that have your attention these days?

It's still about serenely observing the daily life around me. I look at my life as a third person. Sometimes I stay remote, as if someone's looking inside from outside. The subject may be everything I encounter in my day-to-day life.

The mood of your works changed quite a bit.

Compared to previous works, your recent works' colors feel like they are wet from the rain. Also the works feel more mature with your unique brush pattern.

In previous works, I deliberately didn't show what's inside me from a sense of camouflage. Now my works are evolving into a direction where I flatly tell all of my story.

What are some reactions from your friends or fellow artists?

Honestly, older folks say, “Why is your work getting darker and darker?”But my artist friends say that they like my recent works more. I don't have to be fixed into one thing. I just want to go with the flow and do the work I want to do at the moment.

What are some advices you can give to those who are younger?

I want to tell them to view things from a long-term perspective. I, too, had a period where I felt impatient and anxious. I was too fixated to achieving the goal right before my eyes and was not able to find the center. But eventually I came to be quite brazen and realized that I will be doing this work forever. That freed me and helped me to have more open perspective and gain confidence.

선택한 일상_ The chosen daily life_oil on canvas_130.3X162cm_2012

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

21

HI Kyoung as an artist and herself What is artist HI Kyoung like?

Publicly or privately I like humane ways.

I feel happy for being able to create. I feel thankful and try to stay grateful and enjoy the working process.

How about HI Kyoung in daily life? From your work I imagine that you might be a quiet person.

There is a cheery side and a melancholy side in me. Sometime in the past I wondered which side is more me, but now I think both sides are who I am.

Tell me about your daily life. How do you spend your time outside of working hours?

I take care of my husband and kids and start working in the morning. It's not so much time, but I can focus the most. Besides that I look after the kids and run the household, just like any other Korean homemaker.

What are some of your other interests besides working?

To be honest, nothing! I enjoy working at the studio the most.

If I have appointments I try to take care of it all in one day. The rest of the days I am cooped up in the studio.

스미다3 _oil & acrylic on canvas_90x40cm_2010

Future steps for HI Kyoung I am so excited for your next works. What are some of the subjects that you are hoping to explore next?

It's all along the same line as my previous works. Right now I'm working on a series called Gilbadak (the road) Project where I minify certain objects as walls and floors.

What are your wishes as an Artist?

It's not easy to continue in life as a full-time artist.

So if I could have it my way, I hope that I can continue working.

Could you tell us when and where your next exhibitions are?

The next one is at Busan BEXCO in June. My works were selected for Busan Art Show's Asia Artist Award, and it will be exhibited there. Early July I am giving a small solo exhibition at a gallery cafe in Banpo. With the works that I'm currently working on I plan to hold a solo exhibition in May 2013.

red-shoes_oil on canvas_60.5X45cm_2008

Curated from

22

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

그린 그루브 페스티벌

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

23

interview/[bridge] people

3 4

[bridge] people

Taru Salminen A Finnish Makgeolli Aficionado BY_ SANG-AA PARK / PHOTOS PROVIDED BY_ Taru Salminen

Taru Salminem is well-known by South Koreans, especially among those who have watched popular KBS TV show " Talking with Beauties. " With her endless praise of makgeolli, Korean traditional rice wine, Taru is instantly recognized as the Finnish makgeolli lover.

Now, with her own makgeolli tavern 'Taru Jumak ,' Finland-born Taru has started a new chapter in life in South Korea.

Taru's life in south korea It's been more than ten years since you got here.

What brought you to South Korea?

While I was attending Helsinki University I exchanged letters with South Korean pen-pals. I first came to Seoul to meet those friends, and I really enjoyed my visit, so I decided to become an exchange student. After that I came here for work. So my relationship with Korea has been built up over the years through all of these experiences.

Do you remember what it was like when you first got here? How did it feel?

Man... it was like being in an sauna.

I still remember it clearly. It was

24

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

1998, end of July. When I got off the airport, it was such a shock.

I had spent all my life in Finland and never visited anyplace warm.

I sweated a lot for a while. But besides the surprising heat, I felt that people were really kind. And back then there weren't many foreigners, so I got a lot of attention, but it was positive attention; people were kind to me.

Wow, so you got here and struggled a lot because of the weather. How about the food, then?

First I couldn't get used to a lot of the local food. Now I can't live without it.

But there are still some things that I don't eat, for example, samgyeopsal . Strange, huh? Because generally people who love alcohol also love samgyeopsal. When I tell folks that I don't eat samgyeopsal, they look at me strangely. (laughs) I can't eat pork fat. First I didn't eat it at all, but I started eating it two years ago. I don't enjoy it, but I can accompany friends on samgyeopsal outings. When we go out to barbecues I eat galmaegisal, which is leaner.

Just listening to you I feel like listening to a native Korean. You are not only proficient in the standard language but have a perfect command of slang as well.

No, I'm not quite there yet. Actually I learned a lot of the language at drinking sessions. Of course learning the basics is important, but for me, being involved in student organizations and being active helped out a lot. And these days it’s even easier because the Internet is such a great resource, for instance, the Korean dramas that you can watch online. But I still struggle with the honorifics. There are different honorifics for different purposes and I have yet to get a handle on them.

Could you share some funny or unforgettable episodes of mistakes you made early on? Maybe you don't even remember them now?

Actually I really don't. I hardly recall the mistakes I made. Maybe I really became a Korean. When my expat friends in Korea say, “I don't understand such and such things about people here,” I think, “That's strange, because I can totally understand it.”

Oh but there's one thing I do remember - when Koreans say, “Let's hang out next time,” or “I'll

call you,” I thought they said it to really set up a meeting. But then I realized that wasn’t the case, so I’ve learned to wait for the other person to contact me again to set up a time.

They say that you become a patriot when you go abroad. Would you agree with that statement? I mention this because I feel that you try to promote Finland in Korea.

I agree, I am that way, too. I give lectures a lot these days, because more and more Koreans are becoming interested in Finnish education.

I also translate Finnish books during the day. I mostly translate children's books, because Finnish education has become famous in Korea. The publishers here are introducing more and more Finnish books. This year I am working on four different books.

I believe that the education systems in Finland and South Korea are very different?

I didn’t major in education, but I do see how the educational culture is different. South Korean education is more about cramming. Finland, on the other hand, focuses on cultivating one's own studies.

How about cultural differences in general?

Hmm... Actually there are more similarities, I'd say. First, people of both countries enjoy drinking. Also I think the emotional foundation is similar. Both countries have experienced colonial suppression. Things that are different - well, one thing is that in Finland they rarely eat side dishes while drinking. They just enjoy alcohol by itself. And also they don't drink much during the week.

They only drink on weekends, and if you drink during the day they'll say, "Wow, are you alcoholic or something?”

And another thing is that in Finland there aren’t any hofs. They go to restaurants to order drinks and meals, or just go to a bar. At bars, they don't order side dishes.

Other than the historical similarities or alcohol appreciation, the people of Finland take their career seriously. Also, the men are somewhat similar to the South-Kyeongsang province men here. They don't say much, but they are kind at heart.

Korean word for tavern

Pork belly barbeque

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

25

Finish Jumo , Taru Salminen A Finnish makgeolli enthusiast! I find it quite unusual.

Koreans love to drink. And I drank a lot with friends, trying all kinds of alcohol. I eventually settled on makgeolli for my favorite. It's been more than 10 years [since I've enjoyed makgeolli].

Before discovering makgeolli, what did you drink?

When I first came to Korea, I realized that Koreans drink a lot. So while hanging out with friends I started to drink, too. It's been fourteen years since I started drinking in Korea. That was the beginning of my life with alcohol (laughs). I still prefer makgeolli over soju or beer.

It's been more than a year since you opened up the makgeolli bar. I'm sure that by now you have a lot of dangol (regulars). It must be a different experience to go from a simple makgeolli lover to a makgeolli bar owner, though.

I started this business because I liked makgeolli so much. So I attended school to study it more seriously. I thought hard about what kind of makgeolli I should sell but also wanted to just challenge myself. Plus, I imagined people would be drawn to a makgeolli house run by a foreigner. I had already spoken so much about makgeolli on TV, I believed that it would work.

It wasn't easy, though, when I was first starting out and dealing with construction. But now, it's so much fun. It was quite slow in the winter because it was cold, but now that the weather is warm, it's the perfect time to sell makgeolli.

They say that you were the top student at the makgeolli school. Could you tell us what you learned there?

I took a series of classes for two and a half months. Things we learned included the history of makgeolli and other traditional South Korean drinks. I also went to a brewery and learned how to make makgeolli. I really enjoyed the tastings there!

Did anything interesting happen while you were studying at the school?

One time, we were learning about the makgeolli-making and fermentation process. After class, the students went out to eat. While fermenting, the makgeolli must be kept at 20~25 degrees Celsius.

But it was summertime, so the makgeolli started to boil up and just went crazy. While eating my food I tried to prevent the makgeolli from fermenting too quickly by stirring it constantly. But other students' makgeolli all boiled up and finally exploded. Makgeolli is really sensitive to temperature.

You’ve tasted many kinds of makgeolli in class. I hear that makgeolli are different from region to region. Could you tell me how it is different?

Actually the taste differs not by the region but by the brewery. Maybe there are regional influences, but the most important thing is where the makgeolli has been brewed.

Rice and water are important factors that decide the flavor of makgeolli. The percentage of water and the kind of rice used determines the sweetness. There are seven hundred some breweries in South Korea, and all of them produce different makgeolli.

What would you recommend to the makgeolli beginners?

Think of it as wine. Start with sweet makgeolli, and then try a variety of them, sour or bitter. For the beginners, I want to recommend makgeolli with a toasty flavor, such as the ones made with black bean, chestnut or corn.

You also sell Finnish vodka and Japanese sake besides makgeolli at your bar. What are the characteristics of these drinks?

Finnish vodka has the highest alcohol percentage among these three. It is distilled liquor, so you don't feel hung-over the next day.

And sake is in the same family as makgeolli. You brew makgeolli, and the clear liquor on top becomes sake, while what has sunken to the bottom becomes makgeolli. Sake is popular in winter. Its unique flavor is best enjoyed warm.

But I love makgeolli the most.

Some say that you get a headache the day after drinking makgeolli, but that's because you didn't drink a real makgeolli. If you drink a properly made drink, you won't get any headache the next day.

What's the best way to enjoy makgeolli?

The best way is drinking it with people you like. That is most important.

And personally, I think fermented skate is the best match for makgeolli. Makgeolli and hongeo together are so delicious!

Do you have any plans to open up a Taru's tavern in Finland?

Yes! I really want to. Maybe in five to ten years. Would it be successful? Well, Finnish people who have visited Korea all liked it, so I think they will like it. But I can't say for sure. I will have to see.

Is there anything that you'd like to try out besides makgeolli and TV work?

I need to write a book. I have signed a book deal with a publisher but haven't finished writing yet. I am writing about my experience in Korea. And now I'm trying to find work that I can do while traveling back and forth between South Korea and Finland. I don't know about the details, but maybe I could sell makgeolli. I want to start planning for that.

What is the best thing about South Korea? And what is one downside?

I think it's the people. I tell my friends back home that I can't leave here because of the great food, etc., but also it's the people that keep me staying. I was quite lucky with people. Actually I got to be on Talking with Beauties because a friend signed me up for it. Quite funny, huh?

How would you describe what South Korea means to you in a word?

“Second home” would be a cliché, right? (laughs) Well, to put it in one word, it would be hongeo (fermented skate)!

Skate? Where did that come from?

I know it sounds strange, but when you think about it, it really is a metaphor for living in South Korea.

When you first put skate in your mouth, it stings, and it's quite hard to swallow. But as you become accustomed to it, it grows on you and you come to appreciate its charming taste. So that's why I say 'skate!'

Lastly, could you give your two cents on life in Korea to the expats here and Bridge readers?

If you are here for longer than a short visit, try to learn the language.

It might be hard at first, but to really learn the language you have to put in an effort to make Korean friends. Spend time with them and ask for help. I think there are several stages of getting used to a new culture. You might run into difficulties every now and then, but if you try to understand the cultural reasons behind it and the history, you'll get over the challenges.

Taru Jumak Korean word for a woman who runs the tavern

26

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

Address: B1 339-1, Seokyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul Phone: 02-325-3322 / Hours: Monday-Saturday 5pm-2am (closed on Sundays)

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

27

interview/space & peop le

4 4

s pa c e & p e o p l e

Do you want to know more about

photography? owner lee gyu-taeg of mapo magazine land tells you how BY_ NAK-HYUNG JU / PHOTOGRAPHS BY_ NAK-HYUNG JU Do you stay up late at night, rubbing your tired eyes and checking out camera reviews or photos on the computer?

Congratulations, you've officially joined the photography addicts’ circle. You must already follow famous domestic and overseas photographers’ blogs and twitters. Hungry for more, you read and collect foreign books on photography.

But what are the best ones to pick up? Lee Gyu-Taeg, the owner of Magazine Land in Seokyo-dong, Mapo, has some suggestions for you.

Well, there's no secret to it. Maybe it's because of our wide selection.

We have about 40,000 volumes of magazines in 1000 different kinds. Because we have such a variety of magazines, there are a lot of people coming by to check them out. They can choose from a large pool, which is my advantage.

An unchangingly reliable bookseller with a warm heart and wide selection of books you've been working in the imported book business for quite some time now.

I've been selling imported books since I was twenty-three, so about thirty years now. My customers who were students back then are now married and have kids.

28

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

Before we get into talking about the books, let's talk about your business. Your bookstore is consistently busy, and your regulars from back then still shop at your store. Do you have any particular business strategies?

You run both on-line and off-line bookstores. Which one is more profitable?

People prefer shopping in-store.

The prices on-line are cheaper, but the joy of flipping through different books is lost. The fun of negotiating the price in person adds some charm, too. Even non-Koreans come here and negotiate the price, which is fun. Sometimes I just give away books. You've got to offer discounts. (laughs) When are the days that you just give away books for free? I should come on those days.

I shouldn't be telling you this… (laughs) Maybe on rainy days or on days when I've sold a lot of books.

I give discounts on Saturdays. In short, it depends on my mood.

had my favorite British artist's work on the cover.

I bought it because the bookstore wouldn't let me open up the plastic. After I opened it up, I regretted buying it. I realized I was fooled.

Often people can't check out books because they are wrapped in plastic. But here, customers just rip off the plastic to look inside. Without feeling guilty or anything.

If you let people rip off the plastic, it might feel like it affects the book sales for the time being. But in the long run, it's actually helpful for the sales. In the past there was one female customer who browsed for over an hour, asking all kinds of questions and poking through everything. She left the store a mess.

How infuriating.

Yes. I was so angry, but I resisted all the things I wanted to say and just said, "Thank you, come again." And the next day, she came back and spent 800,000 won on books.

Really?

Yes. And I did a lot of reflection after that incident.

I often stock graffiti artists' books.

One day I found a book which

Fooled?

Because I was fooled by the cover.

I had bought a book for 35,000 won that didn’t have much inside. It was too expensive to just throw out, so I used it to study English. (laughs) Oh my. By the way, why are the books stacked over here so cheap? Are they used?

No, those are new magazines, but back issues. Regardless of the field or area, we sell them at 30~70% reduced prices. It's cheaper than the mega bookstores. Image hunters often say the older the magazine, the more valuable it is.

They put in orders for back issues that are a couple years old.

I see why you have loyal customers.

Many young people use the store as a casual meeting spot. They comfortably browse the books and then leave, saying goodbye.

I can see how it makes a better waiting place than a café. Now, could you introduce some books that might be helpful for Bridge readers?

Black & White Photography (Country: Australia)

aperture (Country: U.S.A.) Published quarterly The print condition and quality of the paper are superb.

Perfect for those who love fine art photography.

Photo (Country: France)

Published ten times a year Published in France, this technical magazine covers a broad range of genres. Each page is filled with unique and powerful images.

Photographie (Country: Germany) Published ten times a year A technical magazine published in Germany, Photographie has critiques of famous photographers and cutting edge technology.

fine-art photography magazine

B&W (Black&White Magazine) (Country: U.S.A.)

Published nine times a year.

February and August issues are special issues. B&W is a must for black and white photography lovers.

Published six times a year Specializing in black and white nude photography, this magazine features beautiful nude photos, graphic designs, and typography.

Recommended for artists who work with nudes.

b&W photography magazine

Monocle

(Country: Japan)

Wallpaper (Country: England) Published

twelve times a year Wallpaper covers a variety of areas including photography, architecture, interior design, advertisements, merchandise, and fashion. Recommended for those who need a variety of visual information.

Published quarterly The Japanese have always been brilliant when it comes to making the most out of small spaces. If you are interested in the Japanese' unique sense of color, charming objects and DIY solutions, Come Home is the magazine for you.

Published 10 times a year Tyler Brule, founder of Wallpaper, founded Monocle in 2007. Targeting top businessmen, this magazine aims to provide independent perspectives on business, international trends, culture, and design. Monocle provides unique content in a stunning visual style. It is also published on-line.

(Country: U.S.A.)

Published twelve times a year This magazine is so famous that it requires no explanation. It covers all corners of the world and features them entertainingly.

If you love natural science and landscapes, you have to get this magazine.

DOCUMENTARY & Traveler magazine

ARCHIVE

(Country: England)

Come home

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC TRAVELER

(Country: Germany)

Frame (Country: Netherlands)

Published six times a year.

An exemplary magazine on interior architecture. The magazine not only features different genres of interior architecture but also photos of various styles of fashion, displays, and interior design.

interior design magazine

COMMERCIAL PHOTO (Country: Japan)

Published 12 times a year This extremely popular monthly magazine has long been favored by experts.

Commercial Photo is recommended to those who aspire to be a true professional.

Published six times a year The world's best commercial design magazine, Archive is a must-read for commercial photographers.

Always featuring the cream of the crop in commercial photography, this magazine is perfect for those who need a variety of visual materials.

commercial photo magazine

Thank you for coming to the interview. Do you have anything you'd like to say to Bridge readers?

Picking up images and contents from the art or hobbies section of bookstores is a hobby of photographers. But a broader, more far-reaching study is necessary. You have to put in this effort forever.

I felt the joy of finding the ‘just right’ bookstore. Though the interview was interrupted by endless customers, I felt happy and proud. Happy that I have found a bookstore that really takes the customers’ needs into consideration.

It's not easy to find a store where the owner can recommend just the right books to customers with different tastes and interests.

Magazine Land (CEO: Lee Gyu-Taeg) www.eyebook.co.kr Address: Magazine Land, 369-11, Seokyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul (CPO Box #119) Contact:02-3142-6460 / FAX : 02-3142-6461 Hours: 10am-8pm Monday through Saturday, closed on Sundays

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

29

n

o

w

o

n

m

y

w

a

y

t

o

m

e

e

t

y

o

u

moving towards reunification

one laugh at a time BY_ JUNG-YOON CHOi / PHOTOGRAPHS BY_ Matt douma

Every Sunday night, Song-Ae's family gathers in front of the TV. This has been a ritual for them for several months now.They are waiting to watch a unique entertainment program called, Eje Mannaro Gapnida, or "E-man-gap," which airs on Channel A.

Many North Korean citizens escaped the country in search of food and freedom. Now it is estimated that there are some 100,000 illegal North Korean immigrants and defectors in China.

In South Korea, there are more than 25,000 defectors.

E-man-gap, which translates to, "Now on my way to meet you," is part talent show and part talk show, a common format for South Korean entertainment programs.

But one thing that stands out about the show is that its featured panel consists of a dozen or so female North Korean defectors.

The defectors were the ones who acted as a window to the closed society of North Korea to the world.

But generally, the media has only cast their story in a solemn light.

Although it features no major celebrities, the program has been quietly gaining attention among South Korean viewers.

"We never miss an episode because it's entertaining and touching at the same time," said Song-Ae, a defector who came to South Korea in 2007 with her husband and children. "Everyone ends up crying at the end of the episode."

For South Koreans, North Korea still remains an unknown place.

Sixty-two years have passed since the ceasefire of the Korean War, and the disparity between the Koreas has only been deepening.

While South Korea became Asia's economic powerhouse, the North Korean economy crashed, leaving its people to starve and suffer.

30

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

E-man-gap's approach is different.

The main focus of the show is still North Korea, but there is humor.

The hosts and panelists draw amusement while comparing the two Koreas' differences. "Plastic surgeries are quite common in South Korea," one panelist says, and the hosts' eyes grow wide with surprise. "I got a double-eyelid surgery done too when I was nine by an unlicensed ajumma in my village." The crew invited some of the very talented and outspoken North Korean female defectors to the show. Now into production of their eighth episode, each week there is at least one new defector contributing her own flair and stories.

Each one of them is uniquely beautiful and has many different talents. A number of them were performers in the North who sang and danced in front of Kim Jong

Il. Other skills range from voice impersonation of the infamous North Korean anchorwoman to sketch comedy. They are not shy while exchanging banter with South Korean male panelists.

Now working as business owners, professionals and students in pursuit of their dreams, these women seem like they've got nothing to fear.

However, every single one of them has a sad story inside. All of them left family members behind in the North. While defecting, some lost their parents and children. Some were swindled by human traffickers and sold as slaves and wives to the Chinese. Some were caught by the Chinese police or North Korean soldiers and were forced to repatriate.

But such stories are saved for the latter part of the show. Each moment is filled with laughter bursting out from the panel's comedic delivery and sarcasm while talking about their life in North Korea.

"As a member of propaganda squad in North Korea, I encouraged the workers each morning, shouting 'The scared cowards may run away.

We will all stay here and forever guard socialism'," said a panelist in one episode.

"Having said that one morning, I defected the very next day."

The show's MC Nam Hee-seok said he learned a lot through hosting the show. "I worried about how to unravel the stories before we started the show," he said. "But after meeting these women, I realized that I had no reason to worry. I also came to understand why we need to reach reunification through listening to these women's stories."

Producer Lee Jin-min explains that the show helps bridge the disparity between South Koreans and defectors. "The defectors say that they feel anonymous, like a seed of grain dropped from the sky in a foreign place, when they first arrive in South Korea," said Lee. “Hearing the stories from such people makes it more personal to the viewers.”

Towards the end of the show, the panelists share their heartbreaking stories, reducing the studio to tears. “My cousin was caught by the Chinese police while attempting to get into the embassy and was repatriated,” said Seo Yeon-joo, a 26-year-old Chinese language and literature student. "She must have been sent to the prison camps; just the thought agonizes me."

Each week, one panelist presents a gift she'd like to give to someone back in North Korea. Some do not even know if the intended recipient is alive or dead, but they still bring a heartfelt gift in the hopes of being reunited someday. Then the

gift and video message are buried in a peace-themed park near the demilitarized zone at the North and South Korean border.

"You must be twenty-two now, an age where a woman wants to dress herself the most," said one panelist as she presented a pair of heels to her lost younger sister. "I do not know if we will meet again, but I wish I could give this gift to you. Take care until then."

The panelists, now living in freedom and pursuing their dreams freely, say that they hope to bring attention to people that this is still an on-going issue.

"As for me, I can now smile when I look back. I've been healed here," said Seo. "But what’s agonizing is that this wound of separation lives on for my family, my friends, our nation, and us."

Airtime: 10:40pm on Sundays on Channel A

Webpage: http://bbs.ichannela.com/ ch/cboard.cha?tcode=meetnow

C

o

l

u

m

n

A

S h o r t

a n d

I n c o m p l e t e R e f l e c t i o n 6 . 2 5

o f

t h e

W a r

BY_ LYMAN MCLALLEN

On June 25, 1950, Kim Il Sung’s army crossed the 38th Parallel, invading the ROK, by which the Great Leader intended to make Korea one nation under his rule.

Thus began the 6.25 Upheaval (Yugi-o-dongnan) or as it’s known in in the DPRK, the Fatherland Liberation War, what we Americans know as the Korean War. The attack came almost five years after the Japanese had finally been forced out of Korea at their defeat in WW2, after they’d brutally occupied Korea for almost forty years.

The American army entered the war on July 1, 1950, one week after the North Korean invasion. By that fall – November, 1950 – the first units of the Chinese army of a million or more soldiers crossed the Yalu River, joining the fight in what the Chinese called the War to Resist America and Aid Korea. The war raged on for three years, with the armies advancing and retreating up and down the peninsula, leaving in their wake piles of rubble, millions of corpses, and untold heartache.

Joseph Stalin’s Soviet Union supplied weapons and materiel to

Kim Il Sung but Stalin didn’t commit the Soviet army to fight in Korea, for he was saving his forces for another project more important to him. It would have pleased Stalin had Kim Il Sung’s military campaign succeeded, but failing that, Stalin wanted the North Korean invasion to lure the US into a full-scale war with China, which would then let him take Europe with his Soviet army against little resistance.

Though the 6.25 War began as a civil war between the two Koreas it had significant import for the world and its two super powers of the time, and later for China, and would shape the course of history beyond the borders of Korea, right up to the present.

Every war is atrocious and the 6.25 War couldn’t have been worse for the Koreans had it been WW3. You can find facts, figures, grotesque and grisly pictures, first-hand accounts, and analysis of the war at hundreds of websites (go to Google and YouTube and enter “Korean War”) but even after sixty years and volumes of documentation, there is still much discrepancy as to who did what to whom, and how many fought and died.

What’s certain is that Kim Il Sung started it. What’s also certain is that planes of the U.S. Air Force carpetbombed troop concentrations of the Chinese and North Koreans with napalm, burning to death in terrible agony many soldiers in both armies – over a million-and-a-half enemy deaths combined, and no telling how many women and children.

(Many websites report that more bombs were dropped on Korea in those three years than in the whole Pacific theater in all of WW2.) And what’s also certain is that as many as one in four Koreans got killed in the war – which ranks it as one of the most horrible catastrophes of history, as bad as what Hitler did to the Jews in Europe, which was horrible enough. We should all remember the Holocaust, but the torment, torture, and slaughter of the Koreans under the Japanese for forty years, plus during the 6.25 War for another three, devastated Korea as much or more – and we should remember that too.

The war didn’t go anybody’s way, not completely. It never came to an end but the best that all sides could agree to was to halt the fighting, if only temporarily. (So far, it’s held.)

Stalin died a few months before the Armistice and failed to realize his dream of taking Europe. THE DMZ is still a four-kilometer strip of no-man’s land that bisects the peninsula and is the most heavily armed border in the world. It’s also one of the great nature preserves of the planet, which has clearly been an unintended result.

The US Army is still stationed in Korea and though China and the US are still rivals, they have good diplomatic relations and trade vigorously with each other to the benefit of both, and they’re the two largest trading partners of the ROK. Stalin’s Soviet Union (a relic of the Czarist Empire from its start) fell apart twenty years ago and Russia no longer supports the DPRK militarily or in other ways. The ROK went from being the poorest country in the world to being one of the richest and most modern with one of the highest standards of living. Kim Il Sung’s grandson, Kim Jong Eun, is the current ruler of the DPRK, while the ROK and the US provide more than half of all aid North Korea receives.

In 1953, nobody could’ve known that the 6.25 War would still be playing itself out in 2012 in a world of entirely different circumstances that nobody then could’ve ever imagined. It’s maybe even a miracle, too, that despite the tensions between the two Koreas, and the occasional unpredictable but not unexpected attacks by North Korea, the hostilities haven’t escalated into a full-scale hot war in all that time.

The Koreans must all go on from here in their ancient homeland in this most vital part of the world, and how they ultimately resolve the 6.25 War – this oldest conflict in the world today – is important to all of us.

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

31

T

h

e

s

e

D

a

y

s

Soul searching in temples of

South Korea BY_ JUNG-YOON CHOI On May 28 South Korea observed Buddha's birthday. A national holiday, it is the biggest event for Buddhists in South Korea. Lotus lanterns are hung in the streets, and the festive mood intensifies as the day nears.

But this year's celebration was marred by reports of misbehavior of a number of monks belonging to the Jogye Order, the largest in South Korea. A former member of the order's executive committee, Monk Seongho, obtained footage of eight monks drinking and gambling in a hotel suite and publicized it in mid-May. The news shocked Buddhist society and the public alike. Six members of the executive committee of the order resigned. The Jogye Order is still in turmoil, and the issue remains unresolved.

In the midst of troubled times Buddha's birthday memorial service was carried out in some 20,000 temples across South Korea. I visited Jogyesa, a temple located in downtown Seoul known as the center of Korean Buddhism, to report on the celebration. Despite the recent scandal, visitors seemed to be in high spirits and unaffected by the recent rumble.

32

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

Standing amongst thousands of people under the sea of colorful lotus lanterns, my mind traveled back to May of 2010, when I had my first real encounter with Korean Buddhism.

My parents told me to not eat the food that had been once offered to the diseased or false gods because it was tainted by spirits. Prostrating down to Buddha's statue was out of question.

Two years ago I was traveling across South Korea on foot. Starting out from Land's End village on Korea's southern tip, my goal was to reach the peace observation tower at the DMZ in Gangwon province.

On third day I reached Daeheungsa, a historical temple in Haenam. I walked into the temple, introduced myself, and was accepted to stay.

For the next five days I stayed there and helped out in the kitchen while getting a glimpse of life of Buddhist followers.

And I did exactly all of those while staying in Daeheungsa. As this was my first introduction to Buddhism I didn't want to miss out on a single thing.

This five-day stay was quite a significant experience for me, as I had never stayed at a temple for more than an hour in my life. Born and raised as a hardcore Christian, my life never crossed paths with Buddhism. Though Buddhism is still widely believed in South Korea, counting 22 percent of the 50 million population, I never took Buddhism and temples as more than a historical artifact. I was never told to denounce Buddhism, but I came to believe that it was an alien practice.

As Korean Buddhism was influenced by shamanism, every morning a bowl of rice was offered to mountain gods. Then the bowl of rice was mixed into the pot of rice, which the people ate from. When I ate the meal for the first time I couldn't help but think that I was accepting something unkosher.

It took me awhile to get rid of the awkward feeling.

Prostrating was more overwhelming. In my household we didn't hold traditional jesa, or ancestral rites. We would hold memorial service to honor the diseased, but would not offer food or prostrate because it meant something else.

As I went to bed at 9pm on the first day I was told that the morning service would be held at 3:30am.

Next morning, glancing up at the giant golden Buddha at the main

temple I felt lost. Why do people come to temples and prostrate in front of just mere statues? 108 bows or 1000 bows, what does it all mean?

I decided to not think anymore and just go along with the service. As I prostrated and lowered my body, I eventually came to understand why you do it. The act of prostration is a humbling experience. In the world of troubles, you are in search to find something that can comfort your mind. In efforts to lay down your burdens to a superhuman being, I found peace. I realized that from the temple's architecture to the daily practice, everything in Buddhism was a reflection of Buddha's teaching of benevolence.

My favorite part of the stay was interacting with women in the kitchen. They reminded me of many women I had met at church.

I happened to be staying at the temple two days before the Buddha's birthday, so I ended up help making five hundred bowls of bibimbap for the visitors on the holiday. While I washed the bulks of bean sprouts I sat next to a serene woman who talked about how it calms her to come down to the temple and volunteer. "There are things that's beyond your control in life," she said. "But Buddha's got my

back."

After the experience, my heart was opened to Buddhism. Though I was by no means a believer, I found myself scheduling weekend retreats to various temples. There were flexible temple stay offers where I could determine what to do in a given day while staying and eating at the temple.

When the recent scandals erupted, I felt sorry but I wasn't let down with Buddhism. In any religion there always have been false religious leaders who took advantage of their position. I felt resentful for the system and culture that cultivated such a practice, but it didn't affect my feelings towards Buddhism.

Back in Jogyesa seeing hundreds of people lined up to pour a scoop of water over the baby Buddha statue, a ritual for the birthday celebration, I felt warmness inside.

People of all ages and both genders stood in line as equals, in hopes of cleansing their heart with the practice. As I walked out of temple, I sincerely hoped that everyone who visits would find consolation, and that Korean Buddhism will return to its core belief: Sharing love and compassion.

T

a

l

k

T

o

M

e

I

n

K

o

r

e

a

n

Today, we will be introducing you to words that start with the consonant "ㄱ" (g/k) There are hundreds of thousands of vocabulary words in Korean, and sometimes it's more fun and much easier to learn such a huge amount of vocabulary by grouping words into certain categories.

Through this series, we are doing just that! By grouping vocabulary together that start with the same consonant, we hope this simplifies the seemingly daunting task of learning Korean vocabulary words.

BY_TALK TO ME IN KOREAN

가방 [ga-bang] bag

계단 [gye-dan] staircase

경고 [gyeong-go] warning

고구마 [go-gu-ma] sweet potato

과자 [gwa-ja] snack

간판 [gan-pan] sign

Everyday Korean phrases using the words above 가방을 메다 [ga-bang-eul me-da] to carry a bag on one's shoulder 가방을 싸다 [ga-bang-eul ssa-da] to pack a bag

관광 [gwan-gwang] sightseeing

귤 [gyul] tangerine

경고를 하다 [gyeong-go-reul ha-da] to warn 계단을 올라가다 [gye-da-neul ol-la-ga-da] to go up the stairs 계단을 내려가다 [gye-da-neul nae-ryeo-ga-da] to go down the stairs 과자를 먹다 [gwa-ja-reul meok-da] to eat some snacks 관광을 하다 [gwan-gwang-eul ha-da] to go sightseeing 귤을 까다 [gyu-reul kka-da] to peel a tangerine

금연 [geum-yeon] non-smoking

김밥 [gim-bap] gimbap

If you want to learn more about starting with the consonant "ㄱ" (g/k), please check out Talk To Me In Korean’s video!

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

33

i'

m

m

u

s

i

c

Music that reminds me of my first love

1.Phynn - Hello Love(featuring Antonia from Jets Overhead) Have you forgotten about the thrill of your first relationship? Phynn's music brings that trembling feel of the first love back. The melody sounds like some extraterrestrial being has fallen in love with a woman from the earth.

The lyrical melodies mixed with right-on beats sounds almost mystic. Phynn is a Dutch producer who is famous for his melodic, uplifting trance music. “Hello Love” is one of his most famous numbers.

2.Harim - "Somewhere else rather than here" Harim sings 'I am leaving now to come back to this place again,' reminding you of the times when you were free, unattached to the troubles of the world. The song peacefully wraps around your heart. Harim is well-known for integrating instruments from all around the world in his music. His low voice over the exotic sounds of Irish whistle and violin in "Somewhere Else Rather Rhan Here' sounds rich and colorful. This is a song that makes you feel like you're peaking into a journal of a young man who travels the world.

3.Masoud - Leave It All Behind (Orchestrical Mix) (featuring Josie) How can you describe the beauty of a sky full of stars? This song has captured that ecstatic state. Reflecting your mood and lost love, the song makes your heart ache a little. A song by Iranian producer Masoud, the vocal is sung by Josie, Masoud's younger sister. A representative trance musician from the Middle East, Masoud has created a charming and brilliant melody.

Bring your old memory back to hippocampus, a part on the side of your brain that is in charge of short-term memory. Remember how it was like to look into your lover's face, holding hands together, feeling the beat of the heart as the love grew stronger? Sergey Shabanov is a 23-yearold Russian producer from Tolyatti. “Face to Face” was included in the [Miami Vocal Trance Essentials 2012] album.

iTunes Podcast http://itunes.apple.com/kr/podcast/naneun-musig-music-hada./id500126785 / Twitter @musichada

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

BY_ MIN-JUNG CHOI / CONTENT PROVIDED BY_ Naneun Moo-sik Hada / IMAGES BY_da-woon yi

4.Sergey habanov - Face to Face (Featuring Ester)

‘Naneun Moo-sik Hada’ I am the MUSIC

34

In your memory there is one person that lives forever: Your first love. In this long journey called life whenever you feel lonely just remembering your first love will lift you up in the tunnel of darkness. Though you forget about him or her in the midst of busy daily routines, that person lives in your memory. These songs are some of the music that will remind you of the days of roses. The times can't be turned back, and you will go on with your life, wishing that you will meet that person again someday.

5.Mr.Children - Kurumi Formed in 1989, Mr. Children is one of the most beloved bands in Japan. Hailed as one of the most popular rock bands in history, they have sold over 54 million records. Their lyrical melodies are great, but one of the most notable things about this band’s music are the beautiful lyrics lead singer Sakurai Kazutoshi writes. Just listening to the words almost move you to tears, making you miss that one person deeply.

M

U

S

I

C

A

L

/

T

H

E

A

T

R

E

7.01 -7.20 RESERVING A TICKET IN ENGLISH SITE I S P R OV I D E D AT YO U R C O N V E N I E N C E

P

PLAYDB http://www.playdb.co.kr/

G

INTERPARK ENGLISH BOOKING http://ticket.interpark.com/Global/

P

P

P

G

G

G

MOZART

LEESSANG THEATER SEASON 2

BUNGEE JUMPING OF THEIR OWN

SHOW TYPE: MUSICAL DATES: 20120710~20120728 VENUE: GRAND THEATER, SEJONG ART CENTER RATING: SEVEN AND OLDER

SHOW TYPE: CONCERT DATES: 20120714~20120715 VENUE: OLYMPIC HALL, OLYMPIC PARK RATING: EIGHT AND OLDER

SHOW TYPE: MUSICAL DATES: 20120714~20120902 VENUE: SAMSUNG CARD HALL RATING: SEVEN AND OLDER

Tickets: VIP 130,000 won R 110,000 won S 90,000 won A 70,000 won B 50,000 C 30,000

Tickets: VIP 99,000 won R 88,000 won S 77,000 won

Tickets: VIP 80,000 S 60,000 won

A legendary musical makes a comeback!

Selling out 3,000 seats in minutes, 220,000 audience saw Mozart in 2010. A supreme musical by the top creative team! The dramatic stage set and over 500 costumes will dazzle you. A story of the person Mozart.

Though he was a genius musical star, he wanted to be loved as who he is. His lives' story is told through various types of music.

LeeSsang Theater Season 2 - It's hard to be modest <LeeSsang Theater> sold out immediately as soon as it opened last year. Think Sequels are disappointing?

Not the case with this show! With big band session backing up the music and added story lines, the legendary hip hop show, <LeeSsang Theater Season 2 - It's hard to be modest> returns!

Originally a famous film, now the lovers' story is presented on stage! Hailed as one of the best romantic movies Bungee Jumping is now reborn as a fantasy musical. Unique staging along with powerful directing will capture your heart and soul. The Creators of Sweeny Todd collaborated with Broadway composer Will Aronson to produce Bungee Jumping. With perfect harmony between drama and music, a dramatic story with dense structure, Bungee Jumping is set to be one of the most memorable musicals in Korean musical history

P

TITLE

G

SHOW TYPE

DATES

VENUE

RATING

TICKETS

CONCERT

20120714~20120715

CARIBBEAN BAY

FIFTEEN AND OLDER

CONCERT ONLY 88,000 WON, CONCERT + ADMITTANCE TO CARIBBEAN BAY 158,000 WON

PUNGWOLJOO

MUSICAL

20120504~20120729

CULTURE SPACE NU

FIFTEEN AND OLDER

R 50,000 WON S 40,000 WON

NANTA - MYEONGDONG

MUSICAL

20091010~OPEN RUN

MYEONGDONG NANTA THEATER

ONE AND OLDER

R 60,000 WON S 50,000 WON A 40,000 WON

BLACK MARY POPPINS

MUSICAL

20120508~20120729

DAEHAKNO ART THEATER ONE

FIFTEEN AND OLDER

R 60,000 WON S 45,000 WON

ORIGINAL WICKED

MUSICAL

20120531~20120731

SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS HALL, BLUE SQUARE

SEVEN AND OLDER

VIP 160,000 WON R 130,000 WON S 90,000 WON A 70,000 WON B 50,000 WON

MUSICAL

20120522~20120729

BAEKAM HALL

THREE AND OLDER

VIP 80,000 WON R 60,000 WON

MUSICAL

20110421~OPEN RUN

EXCLUSIVE FANTASTIC THEATER

THREE AND OLDER

R 50,000 WON S 40,000 WON

CLASSICAL

20120707~20120707

CONCERT HALL, SEOUL ART CENTER

SEVEN AND OLDER

VIP 150,000 WON R 130,000 WON S 100,000 WON A 80,000

CONCERT

20120707 ~20120707

JAMSIL GYMNASIUM

SIX AND OLDER

STANDING R 88,000 ASSIGNED SEAT R 88,000 ASSIGNED SEAT S 77,000 ASSIGNED A 66,000

2012 CARIBBEAN BAY SUMMER WAVE FESTIVAL

IN SOUTH KOREA MBC NON-VERBAL PERFORMNACE DAEJANGGEUM FANTASTIC

BERLIN PHILHARMONIC 12 CELLIST IN KOREA WONDERGIRLS - WONDER WORLD TOUR IN SEOUL

ABOVE INFORMATION MAY CHANGE DUE TO AN ACTOR/ACTRESS AND ENTERTAINMENT MANAGEMENT COMPANY'S SCHEDULING.

B R I D G E pP aA pP er E R zZ iI nN eE # 0 67

35

go in style even in the rain

Uniquely colored raincoat: Instant best dressermaker Men / Women Starts from 49,900 won

Forget about mundane colored raincoats. Eight Seconds' raincoat will make you stand out with its unique color. Made from light materials, this hooded trench coat-style raincoat emphasizes the waistline, adding femininity and cuteness to the style.

Depending on the color and design, this design is perfect for either the office look or outdoor look. And it's not just for girls!

This item is perfect for fashionforward men.

rain series by 8 seconds Chinese legendary poet, Dufu, once said, “Good rain knows when to come.”

But for many fashionistas who are forced to give up fashionable shoes, which may just be the most important touch on an outfit, the monsoons in June and July aren’t exactly “good rain.” But don't you worry!

Eight Seconds' Rain Series will help you stay fashionable, even on rainy days.

BY_ SANG-AA PARK / PHOTOS PROVIDED BY_ 8SECONDS PR COMPANY "APR agency (02-6911-0784)"

36

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

A rainy day must: Rain Boots Men / Women starts from 39,900 won

Rain boots became quite a common fad in South Korea since several years ago, and now you can see them everywhere throughout the four seasons. Monsoons are the time where rain boots play their most important roles. Eight Seconds launched fun rain boots, from lace-up boots to dotted and zebra-patterned ones.

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more, their rain boots are way cheaper than other brands! Pick out a pair or several pairs to lift your spirit from the bottom of your toes on rainy days.

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

37

d

i

r

e

c

t

o

r

y

MANYCAR.COM

www.facebook.com/ManyCar

38

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

d

i

s

t

r

i

b

u

t

i

o

n

[Bridge] Paperzine can be found at local businesses in Seoul and at major cafes throughout Korea P l a c e w h e r e yo u m ay p i c k- u p GYEONGGI-DO <EMBASSY> Algeria Austria Bangladesh Belarus Belgium Canada Chile Czech Republic Denmark Finland France Germany Ghana Hungary India Ireland Italy Japan Kazakstan Malaysia Mexico Nepal Netherlands New Zealand Norway Pakistan Poland Portugal Republic of Serbia Russia Rwanda Singapore Slovakia Spain Switzerland Thailand United Kingdom Uruguay Venezuela

<UNIVERSITIES _ Korean language institute> SEOUL YonSei University SeoGang University Korea University Seoul National University HanKuk University of Foreign Studies Ewha womans University KonKuk University SungKyunKwan University SookMyung women’s University HanYang University HongIk University SangMyung University SamYook University SungKongHoe University ChongShin University HanSung University GYEONGSANG-DO PuSan National University JEOLLA-DO ChonBuk National University

<UNIVERSITIES division of international studies SEOUL Korea University Seoul National University Hankuk University of Foreign Studies Yonsei University Hanyang University Konkuk University SungKyunKwan University Soongsil University Dongguk University Dong Yang Mirae University University of Seoul INCHEON Inha University

Catholic University of Korea Eulji University CHUNGCHONG-DO KAIST Kongju National University Soonchunhyang University Hanbat National University GYEONGSANG-DO Kyungpook National University Keimyung University Pukyong National University Ulsan College Chinju National University of Education Korea Maritime University JEOLLA-DO Song Won College Sunchon National University Chonnam National University Honam University

<ENGLISH CENTER > SEOUL Global Village (Seorae ) Global Village (Yeoksam) Global Village (Yeonnam) Global Village (Yeonnam) Global Village (Itaewon ) Global Business Center Gangdong English Center Nowon English Village Seoul English Village (Gwanak) Seoul English Village (Suyu-dong) Seoul English village (Pungnap) INCHEON Incheon Seo-gu Global Education Center GYEONGGI-DO Gyeonggi English Village Yangpyeong camp Gunpo Blaobal Education Center SeongNam English Town Ansan Hwajeong English Village Icheon Global peace village Americancity GYEONGSANG-DO Global Village (Busan) Changwon Geoje English Village Gyeongju English Village Daegu Gyeongbuk English Village Busan Global Village Sangju English Town Yeongju English Center JEOLLA-DO Gwangju International English Village Gurye Foreign Language Town Gunsan English Learning Center Mokpo English Village Muju Global Education Center Yeosu Foreign Language Center Imsil English Center Jeonju English Center

<INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL> SEOUL Namsan International Kindergarten Rainbow International school Rainbow Children Center Seoul Foreign School Asia Pacific International School Korea Kent Foreign School Lycee International Xavier Korea International School (Gaepo) INCHEON Chadwick International School Canada Maple International School GYEONGGI-DO International Christian School Korea International School (Bundang) Big Heart Christian School GYEONGSANG-DO

Gyeongnam International Foreign School Busan International Foreign School Okpo International School Handong International School JEOLLA-DO Kwangju Foreign School SunCheon Foreign School JEJU North London Collegiate School

<HOTEL> SEOUL Bestwestern Walkerhill Novotel Ritz-Calton Samjung Hotel Courtyard by Marriott Seoul Times Square IP Boutique Hotel Grand Ambassador Seoul Grand Intercontinental Seoul Parnas Hotel Seokyo Hotel Seoul KyoYuk Munhwa Hoekwan Imperial Palace Hotel Mayfield Hotel Renaissance Seoul Hotel Seoul palace hotel Sheraton Grand Walkerhill Hotel INCHEON Best Western Prima Songdo Park Hotel Paradise Hotel Sheraton Incheon Hotel CHUNGCHEONG-DO heongpung Resort Ramada Plaza GANGWON-DO Alpensia Resort Hotel Interburgo Wonju Kensington Flora Hotel Kensington Hotel GYEONGSANG –DO Best Western Gumi Hotel Hotel Concorde in Gyeongju Hotel Interburgo Daegu Hotel Interburgo Exco Hyundai Hotel Gyeongju Kolon Hotel Komodo Hotel Lotte Hotel Busan Novotel Ambassador Busan Paradise Hotel JEJU Hyatt Regency Jeju

<RESIDENCE> SEOUL Casaville Vabiensuite Starvill CO-OP Residence Fraser suite Fraser place DMC ville Windroad and Windflower

<GUEST HOUSE> SEOUL HAPPY GARDEN GUESTHOUSE MAMA GUEST HOUSE NAMSAN GUESTHOUSE TREE GUESTHOUSE Myeongdong GUESTHOUSE Bangranghostel BONG HOUSE KIM’S GUESTHOUSE TEA GUESTHOUSE HONG GUESTHOUSE Backpackers INSIDE Banana Backpackers Grape Garden House Seoulbackpackers TravelersA Seoul Guesthouse

<TOURist info center SEOUL Gyeongbokgung Myeongdong Itaewon Gwanghwamun Global Center tourist information office Gimpo International Airport Namdaemun Market Dongdaemun Myeongdong COEX Hongdae GYEONGSANG-DO Andong Hahoe folk village Gyeongju Station Gimhae International Airport Busan Bulguksa Terminal Haeundae INCHEON Songdo convensia Incheon Airport JEOLLA-DO Gwanghallu Jeonju Traditional Culture Center JEJU Seogwipo-si Jeju

<ITAEWON> SEOUL WhatTheBook Nashville Neal’s yard The flying pan blue La Cigale Montmartre London Tea My Chelsea Macaroni Market Manhattan Moghul Bit 1 Villa Sortino Sortino’s Suji’s Spicetable Ashoka Alsaba Indigo Chakraa Cup&Bowl Thai Garden Tacobell Pattaya Panda King Pancho's Alt Swiss Chalet Phillies Pub Salam Scrooge pub Steff Hotdog The Hungry Dog

<CAFE> SEOUL 405kitchen Deux Cremes Espresso Public coffeeSmith aA Design Museum Shin’s coffee house Café 302 Grazie coffee Elly coffee house Coffee Me Cornet De Frites

B R I D G E p a p er z i n e # 0 6

39