Tiger Times Volume 42 Issue 9

volume X X X XII

april 2012

issue 9

Tiger Times s e o u l i n t e r nat i o na l s c h o o l sistigertimes.com

Administration aims to improve scheduling

By Joanne Lee

All sophomores and juniors received an email from principal Jarret Lambie on March 23 regarding scheduling for the next school year.

This year, the administration has taken steps to mitigate the annual scheduling conflicts that arise, such as the limited availability of a course that a student wishes to take.

Attached to the email were a master schedule and a link to a survey, which helped the administration build the best possible schedule for individuals. According to Mr. Lambie, approximately 180 sophomores and juniors completed the survey.

Based on the results, the administration was able to gauge which classes were most in demand and apportion them to time slots that would maximize student’s accessibility.

“About 75 percent of the sophomores and juniors took the survey, which is a significant response,” said Mr. Lambie. “By sending out the [schedule and survey] beforehand, we wanted students to get the sense that they have a lot of choices to make. Inevitably, some students will have to choose between two classes they want to take—it’s up to them to decide which one is a better fit.”

The order of students chosen to plan their schedules was once again determined through arena scheduling. Students and counselors met during first period in the cafeteria, where names were drawn from a basket to establish who would take first pick of classes.

“After two years of getting third and fifth to last choice, I finally got the schedule that I wanted, where I wouldn’t get overloaded with work like this year,” said Ryan Kim (10).

“Since the teachers call out names randomly, everyone has an equal chance, but it’s unfair that when one class’s capacity is filled, everyone has to rewrite their schedules. You can’t really avoid this, but in a way, it really messes everyone’s [schedule] up.”

Like every year, students had their complaints about scheduling, but according to Mr. Lambie, SIS’s best intentions lay with the students.

“Our goal here at SIS is to cater everyone’s needs,” said Mr. Lambie. “It’s important to remember, though, that there’s a ripple effect.

If we change a class for one student, then it’ll affect [several] other students who wanted to take the class.”

Bazaar provides students with leadership experience

By Michelle Kim

C

heerful laughter filled the soccer field as Ryan Kim (10) and Justin Kim (11) enjoyed beef burritos and conversed with friends. Other students, ranging from elementary to high school, sold various items in rows of booths, from treats such as cotton candy and root beer to products such as clothing and rainboots.

To help students become global leaders, the SIS Parents Association (SISPA) hosted the second annual bazaar after school on April 13, where clubs and individual vendors sold various products.

From 2-6 p.m. on April 13, student organizations sold a variety of items representing their groups on the soccer field, which was not made possible last year due to rain. The booths, which were covered with blue-and-white canopies, were lined up along the sides of and the center of the field. As the event was in the past, the goal was to help students become global leaders by providing them with experience in marketing.

“The purpose of the bazaar was to get the school involved in one school-wide activity,” said Shinah Kim, SISPA president. “We wanted to provide the students with a platform to be creative, to have a real experience to sell their creative ideas

Photo by Jessica Song

Showing his Yu-Gi-Oh! trading cards to elementary school students, Isaac Kim (10) sells his childhood belongings such as books, video games and toys. He raised about 100,000 won at the bazaar on April 13. and to achieve profit from the sales.

We felt that living in Korea such experience is very seldom available for young students.”

With these goals in mind, SISPA emphasized global leadership and creativity. This was made easier by having the bazaar on the field, which not only gave more space for the individual booths, but also made it convenient for visitors to navigate themselves around the booths.

“I actually think this bazaar was way better than last year’s,” said Togo Tamura (9). “One of the biggest reasons is the fact that we had it on the soccer field. The field gave us more space to move and sell our products.

I remember last year when people buying certain goods were blocking the hallway, restricting a lot of movement.”

According to Ms. Kim, this year’s bazaar was considered an

overall successful event because students from all three levels could come together to enjoy a schoolwide event and learn how to organize and lead a group.

“I think the bazaar did a lot to add variety for the student booths,” said John Han (11). “We had a lot of different activities and had the freedom to do so because we had a lot of room on the field and weren’t limited on what we could do.”

Drama Club performs ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’

By Lydia Kim

“Oompa Loompa, do-ba-deedoo, I’ve got a perfect puzzle for you.” Sixth graders marched into the auditorium, singing the familiar tune from “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” From April 10-13, the Drama Club, in collaboration with the sixth grade, performed the stage adaptation of Roahl Dahl’s classic children’s book—only this time, Willy Wonka became Wanda Wonka, played by Sarah Yim (12). “[The Drama Club] didn’t really have to change anything for the story to work with Wonka as a woman,” said Sarah. “He’s just a really eccentric character with nothing really gender-specific about him. People just call me Ms. Wonka. At first, it was weird. I thought, ‘Do I have to make myself more feminine? Should I wear heels? Curl my hair?’ But as I thought more about who Wanda

Talent Show: Teachers perform at annual UNICEF event. Page 4

Wonka might be, I realized that Willy Wonka wasn’t all that masculine either. Just wacky.”

Though Wonka’s gender did not interfere with the flow of the play, the Drama Club faced the challenge of devising creative ways to incorporate the book’s various scene changes to fit the limitations of the stage setting. For instance, ultraviolet lights were used to depict character Violet Beauregarde’s purple skin color change.

“I thought the setting and lighting was really creative and carefully thought out,” said Kelly Kim (10), audience member. “With the limited space of our stage and technology we have, I think the Drama Club did a really good job trying to work around it and to find a way to portray to the audience the big picture. I imagined that the stage would be really simple, like one machine for one character, but it was a lot more intricate and impressive than I thought

it would be. I also thought that the chocolate river would be painted on a board, but [the Drama Club] used a cloth to stretch across the stage.”

This was also the first year in which the Drama Club collaborated with middle school students for a production. This year, drama class was implemented in the middle school enrichment program.

“Previously, middle school has been an unknown quality,” said John Rider, Drama Club director.

“I didn’t know their standard of acting or whether or not they had any drama experience. I know now that there are very good actors because they have been through the drama course that I [teach].”

In addition to adjusting rehearsal schedules with the middle school students, the Drama Club faced commitment issues that almost caused them to cancel the show.

“The Saturday right before the

Cancellation: Foreign language teachers call off World Language Week. Page 5

week of the show, we were clearly unprepared,” said Sarah. “Mr. Rider was even thinking that maybe we should give up the show. But then we thought of how we came so far and decided to see how it works. We didn’t want to give up so late. The last few rehearsals really encouraged us because we made so many improvements during that time.”

Despite these challenges that could have jeopardized the quality of the play, Phillip Lee (11), stage manager, said that the end product was definitely worth the amount of time and effort they invested into the play.

“Overall the shows went a lot better than the rehearsals,” he said.

“As for being [Mr. Rider’s] last show, it saddens me to realize that Mr. Rider will not be here next year to help us and guide us. He’s been a central figure to SIS performing arts and not having him here will be an interesting experience in itself.”

Shift: Athletes react to school’s KAIAC division change. Page 11

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April 2012

Administration obligated to monitor AP restrictions

Editorial KONY 2012 warrants more physical, less symbolic support

By Jeffrey Chun

Cartoon by Christine Lee

Once it was released, the KONY 2012 video—produced by Invisible Children, a non-profit organization seeking to put an end to Joseph Kony and his Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA)’s child abductions—went viral, spurring an online campaign against the LRA. Today, Invisible Children has over 200,000 followers on Facebook alone. More than 350 of them are international school students in Korea part of a separate Facebook group solely dedicated to the cause.

Despite the 24-hour craze over KONY 2012 that occurred after the video’s release, protestors against the LRA have died out, except for the few who took the initiative to participate in the “Cover the Night” event on April 20. Though there was much talk, there have not been any solid measures to bring child abduction to an end. Invisible Children has instructed its followers to demonstrate support by picking up trash and washing cars, but these actions are far too removed, indirect, and simple to eliminate a presence as pervasive and ingrained

as the LRA’s in Uganda. As wellintentioned the campaign is, it is unrealistically ambitious and rather upsetting that the majority have blindly jumped on the bandwagon.

True, bandwagoning is not entirely superficial—in fact, when Jason Russell produced the video for IC, his intent was to emotionally rouse viewers to support the organization. The bandwagon raised awareness about a cause people were oblivious about for years, and IC has raised $1.7 million it could use to educate Ugandan children.

Critics often cite this bandwagon as a sign of shallowness behind supporters’ motives, but what is shallow is not the bandwagon, but what has happened—or not happened—after the initial rage.

Knowing about the issue and not acting upon it is worse than being unaware all together; most do not feel pressured to take responsibility even while being aware about the suffering children face in Africa.

Simply joining a Facebook group or wearing a t-shirt is not enough to bring about change. Furthermore,

a majority of supporters fail to distinguish between the campaign founders and the cause itself. When Russell was hospitalized for acting in a “bizarre and irrational manner” in public, many students chose to leave the protest. A video claiming the entire KONY 2012 campaign was falsified drew even more away from the cause, even though child abductions is an obviously ongoing issue in today’s society.

Regardless of Russell’s misconduct, we should assume responsibility for a cause we have committed to. It is easy to express support for a cause, but those of us who are genuinely concerned must take the extra effort to push for substantial change. KONY 2012 will get nowhere if we continue to sit idly and wait for something to happen.

Let yourself be heard. If you have any responses to articles published in the Tiger Times or original contributions, please send them to tigertimes@gmail.com.

As scheduling season neared, the issue of AP recommendations was brought to student attention once again. Though teachers and administrators place restrictions on the types and number of APs each student can take with good intentions, this system should be discontinued, as it is no longer useful and reduces opportunities for students’ individual progress.

The restrictions are based on the administration’s assumption that all SIS students are overachievers.

According to Jarret Lambie, high school principal, the administration set AP restrictions on some students because it wanted the students to take the most demanding schedules they can while still being successful.

However, not everyone wants to take six AP courses in an academic year. Even though a few members in the Class of 2013 were allowed to take up to five APs this year, only one ended up taking five APs this year. The other selected juniors who had the same option chose not to overload their schedules because they understood that getting good grades is just as important as taking AP courses and did not want to burden themselves too much. Therefore, students can be trusted to make their own final decisions on how many APs they can take even if the restrictions are not placed on them.

Students should respect the amount of effort and care faculty members devote to each student as they evaluate the number of APs he or she can take, but this system now seems like somewhat of an unnessary hassle.

In addition, setting AP restrictions on students merely creates a more competitive academic environment. While it is understandable that the administration is trying

to take some burden off of sleepdeprived students, distinguishing between the high-achievers and low-performers makes the environment even more competitive because students are pressured to get better scores than their classmates.

Because students’ academic performance are largely judged relative to those of others, their parents often pressure them to excel in all of their academic courses.

Although the administration wants to guide students to success, limiting the number of AP courses shows a lack of respect for students’ abilities to determine what they can or cannot handle. If the administration does not allow each student to take charge of his or her academic schedule, then it takes away the opportunity for self-evaluation, which is crucial in not only academic but also personal development.

School should be a place where students learn to make decisions and take responsibility for themselves.

While counselors rightfully remind students not to overload their schedules with too many APs, they should not spoon-feed them with restrictions on the number of courses they can take. Students can gain a greater sense of responsibility through the trial-and-error process of course scheduling, which they will need to be familiar with in college as well.

Inevitably, some students will regret that they signed up for too many AP courses while they are doing their summer assignments. The grace period in August allows students who do not complete summer assignments to drop AP courses. It also gives others a chance to see if they can handle college-level courses. Overall, it is safer to let students take responsibility for their actions than taking away their opportunity to decide what is best for themselves.

Students benefit from school’s required AP exam policy

By Mark Kim

While most schools allow students to opt out of taking AP exams, SIS requires AP students to take the exams at the end of the year. The administration’s decision to make the AP exam mandatory is right, as students benefit from experiencing a full college-level education and develop study habits that are critical in college life.

According to Jarret Lambie, high school principal, students are required to take the AP exam because AP classes are designed for students to experience a collegeEditors-in-Chief Stella Kim Eunice Lee Managing Editor Lydia Kim Production Editor Jasmine Park Graphics Editor Stephanie Song

Copy Editors Alison Chang Angela Cho Elizabeth Song Layout Artists Yong Gun Choe Jason Huh Joanne Lee Milton Yoon Jonathan Yun

style education, and taking the exam at the end of the year is part of that experience. AP courses are a great way for students to prepare for the rigor of college classes and tests.

AP exams are much more difficult than tests given at school and are similar to the exams students will take in college. Unlike tests given at school, AP exams are more than three hours long and give students different types of thought-provoking questions that are challenging to solve. Undergoing the experience of taking a college-level exam is important for high school students, as they must be comfortable with taking these exams that are given in Marketing/Website Director Jeffrey Chun Cartoonist Christine Lee Photographers Joshua Kim Linda Heeyoung Park Jessica Song

college.

AP exams also help students develop good study habits that are important later on in college. Students must dedicate their own time and energy and must find the best study methods that they are comfortable with in order to prepare for the exam. By preparing for the exam, students learn to be more independent and these study skills are crucial in college, as students have to be efficient with their use of time in order to perform well on tests and exams. Moreover, AP exams prevent students from slacking off at the end of the school year. Students are motivated to keep up their grades to

Reporters Mark Kim Michelle Kim Marcus Lee Helen Song Min Ji Suh Adviser Ms. Carolyn Brown

study for the upcoming exam, which prevents them from skipping class or taking the class lightly.

Taking the AP exam gives students the opportunity to see where they rank among students around the world. AP scores, which range from one to five, are based on rankings that are made in accordance with each student’s score on the exam.

Being ranked among other students is also a part of the college experience, as many universities rank their students and give grades based on those rankings. Since the AP exam is the only standardized test for a certain subject, it is an opportunity for students to work harder to im-

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prove their skills in those subject areas to compete with other students around the world.

If students do not wish to take AP exams at the end of the year, they should instead take regular subject courses that are offered at SIS. These courses are also hard and rigorous enough for students to challenge themselves, and give students who do not want to take AP exams the opportunity to study the same subject without having to take the exam at the end of the year. Students must not forget that by taking an AP course at SIS, they are learning a subject that is normally taught in colleges.

The Tiger Times exercises the right to report on and editorialize all topics, events or issues, including those unpopular or controversial, insofar as they affect or interest the school, community, nation and world. We refrain from publishing material that advertises illegal products or services, is obscene, libelous or invades privacy. We refrain from publishing material that creates a clear and present danger or the immediate material and substantial physical disruption of the school.

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Annual art exhibition exhibits students’ AP portfolios

By Jason Huh

Advanced Placement (AP) art students were rewarded for all their work on April 12, when SIS hosted the annual AP Art Exhibition. Students and parents gathered in the school lobby, where the exhibition was held, and looked at the works of high school students in AP Studio Art Drawing and 2-D Design classes.

Art students dressed in formal attire and explained the central ideas of their artwork to those who came to the event.

“This year, my concentration was ‘conformity’,” said Giwon Lee (12), AP Studio Art 2-D Design student. “I used everyday inanimate objects from within my immediate environment in order to promote the idea of escapism from conformity.

Although I can’t really say that my artwork improved from last year’s because the styles are totally different, I could say that I improved on my ideas and their development.”

Judy Anderson, new AP art instructor, expressed her satisfaction

Photo by Linda Heeyoung Park

Introducing her artwork to her friends, Rachel Han (11) describes the main theme of her concentration, the unity between nature and death. Pieces from the art exhibition were displayed until the end of April. with all her students’ work and their at the event. the products of their journey maniability to hold a successful art ex“The art exhibition was very fest,” said Dr. Anderson. “As I have hibition. She was pleased with the thrilling for the students and [it was] said in the opening, their efforts high turnout of parents and students extremely satisfying for me to see throughout the year have been ex-

Ensembles perform at annual Spring Concert in collaboration

By Helen Song

Over 100 voices sing in harmony, while a large sea of instrumentalists play the accompaniment.

This is what audience members experienced at the High School Spring Concert finale on April 26, which was a collaboration between all ensembles. One of the new changes introduced to this concert was a greater number of collaborative pieces.

“There are lessons to be learned and experiences to be [gained] by singers and instrumentalists about keeping balance and harmony that can only be earned when you perform in large groups,” said Dennis Darling, choir director. “We really had to plan for it, but it’s definitely a neat experience, and audiences also seem to like these collaborations.”

The grand finale piece was “Dry Your Tears, Afrika,” in which

members of all the ensembles performed together. Ensembles during the same period, such as the High School Band and the Ambassadors choir, met and worked together to prepare for the piece. Male singers from all three choirs also sang “There’s Nothin’ Like A Dame,” a piece from the musical “South Pacific,” and all choirs sang “Sifuni Mungu” together along with percussionists.

“Although it’s harder for all musicians involved to perform together, the final product is always more powerful and creates a sense of camaraderie between musicians that you don’t have in your own ensemble,” said Dr. Darling. “It is an experience that we’re trying to provide for more students.”

Another change was that the Jazz Band played from the back of the auditorium, while the Concert Choir and strings performed from

the sides of the auditorium during the finale. While the music department introduced this during the previous concert to improve the acoustics of each ensemble, several performers have found this problematic.

“During the Winter Concert, it was so difficult because I had to walk up and down the stairs in heels during the middle of the concert to go from Ambassadors to Ladies’ Choir,” said Sophie Kim (10). “I think that it’s hard for performers to move between ensembles in different locations because it was really complicated for performers and confusing for the audience. However, it was an interesting experience.”

Despite these difficulties, the music department continued to work towards a smooth concert through means such as scheduling a dress rehearsal with all the ensembles on April 24.

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traordinary and I was really pleased to see that we were joined by a representative from the Savannah College of Art and Design and she actually said that the standard of work was highest she [has] seen, and so I was very thrilled to see that.”

The pieces shown by the 13 art students reflected their ability to present in-depth analysis of broad thematic concepts.

“Basically, the concentration portfolios were a visual investigation across varied themes, but there [was a] tendency to explore themes such as nature, circles of life and regeneration,” said Dr. Anderson.

Viewers saw a lot of changes from students’ work last year—this year, there were no three-dimensional pieces and students’ concentrations tended to have darker messages overall.

“The exhibition was fascinating,” said Ju Hohn Lee (12). “Compared to last year, the pamphlet was of better quality and there were more high quality sketches that had deeper and darker toned designs. Simply said, I felt that the quality of artwork is getting better by the year.”

Jim Yong Kim becomes new World Bank president

By Joshua Kim

With his nomination to the position of president of the World Bank from President Barack Obama on March 23, Dartmouth College President Jim Yong Kim became one of three candidates in the 2012 election. On April 16, he became president.

“Just like [swimmer Tae-hwan Park] or [soccer player Ji-sung Park], Kim has become another South Korean whom kids [in South Korea] want to imitate,” said Jun Ryu (11). “His background is associated with Ivy League [universities], so this will add to people’s obsession with the Ivy schools.”

Before his presidency at Dartmouth, Kim was the co-founder of Partners in Health (PIH), a nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing health care accessibility for the poor. His work at PIH led to his appointment as director of the World Health Organization’s HIV/ AIDS department in 2004.

“Jim Kim and [Sung Kim], the current US ambassador to Korea, have the same sort of background,” said Fredric Schneider, Dean of Pupil Personnel Services. “They’re highly educated and both of them have made it into careers that minorities think they’re blocked out of. It’s not a given they would end up in these careers even with their incredible education.”

Between 1993 and 2009, Kim served as a lecturer at the Harvard Medical School. In March 2009, Kim was appointed the 17th president of Dartmouth College, becoming the first Asian American to hold the position at an Ivy League school.

“I guess my only disappointment is that he’s only been here for three years,” said Alex Kim, class of ’10. “He’s leaving after three years, which is not nearly enough time to instigate substantive change or make an impact. It always seemed like he had bigger plans and I guess his ambition to do greater things in life is carrying him forward.”

Although Obama’s nomination does not guarantee his selection, the US’s 15.85 percent voter representation in the World Bank election gives Kim an advantage over rival candidates Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala from Nigeria and Jose Antonio Ocampo from Colombia.

“I was surprised at Obama’s choice of nomination,” said Jenny Lee (9). “My mom always talked about him as a doctor and president of Dartmouth, but I wasn’t aware of any economics-related projects associated with him.”

During his inauguration, Kim promised to help Dartmouth students “tackle social problems around the world.” With the possibility that Kim may leave Dartmouth after just two and a half years, students have expressed dissatisfaction at his decision to accept Obama’s nomination and his handling of the recent hazing scandal in the fraternities.

“Some students expressed concern or frowned upon President Kim’s nomination because he failed to keep the promise he made to Dartmouth as well as its students during his inauguration speech as President of the College,” said Ellen Park, class of ’10. “However, the general consensus seems to be positive. The Korean students of Dartmouth in particular have taken in the news with great delight.”

nEWS 4 NEWS BRIEFS PBSA charity concert involves multi-school effort

Courtesy of Andrew Jeong

Joe Kim (11) plays the drums during the PBSA charity concert.

For a month, the Pearl Buck Student Association (PBSA) worked in conjunction with its counterpart in Korea International School (KIS) to plan a charity concert held on March 31 at Maak Holic, a venue owned and provided by Andrew Jeong’s (11) parents.

Through the event, PBSA raised 400,000 won in ticket sales as students from SIS, KIS and Yongsan International School in Seoul performed for their own parents, teachers and fellow classmates.

“It was highly impressive to see students as younger adults organizing and getting together for a cause,” said Sean Syverson, English teacher. “It was quite packed given the small venue and I even saw students having to lie down on the floor because it was so crowded.”

Students deem task auction mild success The annual HSSC task auction on April 2 raised 835,000 won for Save the Children Korea, a domestic branch of the independent organization that supports children in need. Though co-host Brenda Myung (12) thought the event was a financial success, she also believed that it needed more creative, student-proposed tasks.

“I think the tasks were less exciting than last year’s,” said Brenda.

“Although it is mandatory, a lot of people didn’t attend. Also, I remember the auctions being more lively, but things went smoothly and we didn’t have any trouble.”

Unlike in past years when bidders could buy tasks performed by students, such tasks were discarded this year due to a lack of students willing to volunteer.

Elementary school initiates first after-school program Until May 10, for a fee of 200,000 won, elementary school students can pursue foreign languages, creative writing, art and chess every Tuesday and Thursday through a new after-school program. A lottery helped select 30 students to participate in the pilot as the school plans to extend the program in the future.

“Unfortunately more applicants weren’t involved since the courses required a five-student limit per class,” said Andrew Faulk, program coordinator. “If it is successful, we hope to expand the program next year to provide more courses and get more students involved.”

By Marcus Lee

APRIL 2012

Teachers rock the stage at UNICEF talent show

By Jonathan Yun

It is not every day that students see their teachers singing and dancing on stage. Teachers and faculty members entertained their fellow students and other teachers to raise awareness about Cambodian children at UNICEF Teacher Talent Show on April 20.

The show began as John Rider, English teacher, introduced the Asian Tiger Girls, comprised of Irene De Shazo, admissions director, Sue Choi, math teacher, and Jean Piscioneri, sixth grade science teacher, who performed Duffy’s “Mercy”.

The highlight of the Asian Tiger Girls’ performance was when Ms. Choi and Ms. De Shazo went up to Raymond Slapikas and pretended to seduce him.

Following the Asian Tiger Girls’ performance, the Two Johnnies, featuring John Rider and Tony Hurt spoke as if they were anchorman and poked fun at their fellow teachers and students using British humor.

Then, Volatile Dialogue, composed of Erik Custer, PE teacher, Roger Gribbins, English teacher, Andrew Faulk, first grade teacher, Stephen Faulkner, elementary PE teacher and Sean Syverson, English teacher, performed Bob Marley’s “Redemption Song” and Lady Gaga’s “Poker Face,” which awed the audience, especially those part of the varsity girls’ soccer team.

“He was really different from the Mr. Custer I see at school, whom I usually know as my PE teacher and

Photo by Linda Heeyoung Park

Dancing to Katy Perry’s “Firework,” Jonathan Nelson, English teacher, performs in the UNICEF Teacher Talent Show. Faculty members participated in the show on April 20 to raise money for the annual trip to Cambodia. soccer coach,” said Kathleen Joo (9).

“I knew that he had an interest in playing the guitar, but I never actually witnessed him playing it until I saw him on stage.”

Other performances by faculty members included a magic trick, traditional Korean drum and dancing, more singing, a short skit to demonstrate the troubles teachers experience in Korean culture, a surprise opera performance, and a poetic reading of LMFAO’s “Sexy and I Know It”. The finale of the show

was performed by 2NO1, a group of teachers who danced to a mash-up of Korean and American pop songs.

“We were so excited but those teachers spent so much time [practicing last year], so this year, we tried to make a bit easier by making rehearsal videos and making the choreography more simple,” said Tiana Nelson, Spanish teacher., who organized 2NO1. “It wasn’t quite as ambitious as last year, but we’re just trying to make it manageable to get lots of teachers involved.”

According to Sabina An (12), president of UNICEF, the Teacher Talent Show was successful because of both student and teacher participation.

“I think [the talent show] was successful in the ways that the teachers were able to participate in the activities,” said Sabina. “This year, we charged the students, and we thought that a lot of students would not show up, but we were surprised to see how a lot of people are supporting our group.”

communication methods. In addition, Obama and Chinese President Hu Jintao agreed to coordinate a response to any potential aggravation from North Korea’s nuclear tests.

“I liked how President Obama took a strong stance and declared that North Korea will no longer be appeased for its misuse of nuclear materials,” said Brian Kim (11). “We can learn from World War II that appeasement does not work with dictators such as Adolf Hitler and it is good to see Obama being assertive.

Especially after 9/11, terrorism and destructive uses of nuclear weapons should be taken seriously.”

The “Seoul Communiqué,” the final document of the summit, expanded upon the objectives laid out in the 2010 Washington Summit. It identifies 11 areas of priority and importance in nuclear security and presents specific actions in each area. As a result, the 2012 Summit

set a more detailed vision for the safety and security of nuclear materials. For example, the US and European nations agreed to reduce the use of highly enriched uranium and to shift to less-enriched uranium by 2014.

Some said that the Summit did not accomplish much and that South Korea was so paranoid about hosting such a large-scale event that attention was diverted away from the Summit to the heavy security and the traffic. Others argue that the timing of the Summit was problematic since 2012 is fraught with enough issues including unemployment, a global financial crisis and election races. Overall, there were mixed feelings about the Summit but Tony Hurt, social studies teacher, believed that it carried good intentions.

“Although the Summit itself did not have the power to enforce rules,

it reflected a positive sign towards the growing fear of nuclear power,” said Mr. Hurt. “I think after the Cold War ended, people sometimes forget in the 21st century that the world has the capacity to blow itself up. More countries have the nuclear technology but the Summit enabled international countries to respond to these issues right away.”

Nevertheless, world leaders used the Summit as an opportunity to reach out to the younger generation regarding sideline issues. For example, Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra delivered a speech at Ewha Womans University to revitalize the exchange between South Korea and Thailand in improving women’s rights and education. President Obama visited the Demilitarized zone and Hankuk University of Foreign Studies, where he spoke to students about world peace and eventual Korean reunification.

World leaders convene to discuss nuclear security

By Yong Gun Choe

Top officials from 53 countries and international organizations gathered at the COEX Convention and Exhibition Center in Seoul to discuss cooperative measures that would help them secure nuclear materials and prevent nuclear smuggling. Held March 26-27, the 2012 Nuclear Security Summit followed the 2010 summit that was hosted in Washington, D.C. North Korea’s nuclear program and its preparation to launch a rocket-powered satellite in April were major subjects of discussion during the summit. In response, US President Barack Obama firmly warned North Korea to “meet demands or risk more broken dreams and more isolation.” He said that North Korea will never achieve anything by using threats or provocations and instead should seek more peaceful

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APRIL 2012

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Language Week cancelled KAIAC tournament at GSIS provides due to logistical difficulties Chess Club with valuable experience

By Alison Chang

Though not all students taking a language course have the opportunity to travel abroad, the annual World Language Week has allowed students to taste the traditional foods of China and Spain and demonstrate their mastery of the languages in a game of jeopardy, among other events. This year, the department decided not to hold the week due to various complications.

While planning, the department found it difficult to accommodate the schedules of both high school and eighth grade students. Starting this year, each eighth grade student was required to take a foreign language course, drastically increasing the total number of students taking either Spanish or Chinese. “[The language teachers] didn’t think it was fair to provide only certain students with the opportunity to learn about culture and get extra credit points,” said Paloma Julian, Spanish teacher. “The [eighth grade students] do all the same tests and assignments but because they have different lunch times, it was impossible to schedule it.”

In addition, all the teachers in the foreign language department, excluding Ms. Julian, are new this year. This lack of experience con-

tributed to the difficulties teachers faced while planning.

“The teachers were extremely busy and because everybody is new, [the week] was very difficult to organize,” said Ms. Julian. “We thought it would be better not to have it rather than host a poorly organized week.”

Several students were disappointed upon learning that the week had been cancelled.

“I’d have to say [World Language Week] is my favorite because the events are the most fun,” said Jenny Chong (12). “You get to eat food and cheer for the soccer teams for extra credit, which I really need.”

On the other hand, some were relieved that they would not be obliged to participate.

“Usually, teachers are the ones who run [World Language Week], so it’s not as if clubs are losing promotion opportunities,” said Kelly Cho (10). “And honestly, a lot of students view [academic weeks] as chores not something to do because they’re interested in the subjects.”

Still, Ms. Julian hopes that better planning will allow the department to organize a week next year.

“Culture is really important when you are learning a language,” she said. “Hopefully next year, we can figure something out for all students.”

By Milton Yoon

The KAIAC Chess Tournament at Gyeonggi-Suwon International School (GSIS) on April 14 proved to be a turning point in the history of the SIS Chess Club. Although the club had already secured a victory at the previous tournament at Taejon Christian International School (TCIS), the club members were able to see improved results this time at GSIS. “I was certain that our members would bring back [good] results during this tournament,” said Sue Choi, chess coach. “For the TCIS tournament, we only had a one-month prior notice, so we weren’t able to practice as much as we could have, whereas we were able to prepare much more for this tournament.”

Along with Marilou Pagarigan, technology integration specialist, Ms. Choi supervised the chess players every Wednesday after school, when they met to improve their chess skills by practicing with each other. Among 50 participants from five different schools, the SIS Chess Club claimed four medals out of the six possible. Although high school students had their own moments of success, with Sungho Park (12) receiving fourth place in the junior varsity bracket, the best performers

NKHR members explore Korean DMZ

By Min Ji Suh

The 2-km-long Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) that currently divides Korea is one of the few lasting remnants of the Cold War. Heavily militarized, the DMZ prevents North Korean defectors from entering the South. On March 24, North Korea Human Rights (NKHR) members visited the DMZ to better understand the plight of North Korean defectors and the relationship between the two Koreas.

In line with the club’s original purpose to raise awareness and interact with North Korean refugees, students visited the DMZ to experience first hand the gravity of the situation. Katherine Bae (11), NKHR president, organized this trip with the DMZ Tour company that offered a full bus, an English-speaking tour guide and an itinerary.

“Like other large-scale trips, everything had to be double checked and confirmed so nothing could go wrong,” said Katherine. “We had to consider issues like the weather, because in the morning of the trip, it had been snowing and raining. It was lucky that when we got there, it was beautiful.”

Due to North Korean law, only non-Korean passport holders were able to visit the Joint Security Area, the only part of the DMZ where North and South Korean forces stand facing each other.

“There were soldiers literally everywhere; everyone got a little nervous during passport checks and when armed soldiers would tell us to

Photo by Jonathan Yun

Keeping track of the timer, Jae Woo Nam (12) plans a strategy to claim victory. GSIS hosted the second KAIAC Chess Tournament on April 15. at the tournament were the middle school students. Three seventh grade students, Daniel Kang, Haram Cho and Justin Cheun, placed in the top three in the junior varsity bracket. Moreover, JiWhan Moon (7) claimed the champion’s spot in the varsity bracket, while Ivan Chung (5) received fifth place in the same competition.

“We all expected [JiWhan] to do well but I was really surprised when he actually got first place,” said Jean Koo (11). “It’s really amazing what he’s capable of despite the fact that he was going against a few high school students in the tournament.”

The club, which recently got school sponsorship approval, is preparing to host next year’s KAIAC tournament and to expand its activities within the school. However, even though middle school students could participate in the club this year, they will not be allowed to join as members because the Chess Club will become and official club next year.

“We plan on offering more services to the school in general,” said Ms. Choi. “The club members will offer to teach younger students how to play chess and set up tournaments within the school borders.”

Zeitgeist KFDA blames quarantine for harmful Chinese imports

Photo by Jessica Song

North Korea Human Rights (NKHR) members visit the DMZ on March 23 to gain a better understanding of the division of the two Koreas. do something,” said Joshua An (10). rich the North [supposedly] is to the “[We were not] allowed to take pic- South.”

The trip was memorable for tures of the military police and the DMZ zone in the direction of the many members. Through this visit, they were able to recognize the North without their permission.”

Students also visited different DMZ as both a symbol of the sepaplaces that were remnants of the Ko- ration of North and South Korean rean War, like the Third Tunnel [of families and a barrier that has to be Aggression], the Dora Observatory overcome to achieve reunification.

“This trip was a heartbreaking and the Dorasan Station, the “first station to North Korea.” Through experience: how sad is it that althis opportunity, students were able though South Koreans are the ones to learn more about conflicts that literally [just across a border] from the most dreaded place on Earth, led to the division in the peninsula.

“It was especially cool to walk we are also the most ignorant and through the secret tunnel that I close-minded?” said Katherine. “I heard North Korean soldiers used think everyone got more out of it to come to the South,” said James than just entertainment or informaLee (10). “We also observed unique tion. We really started to genuinely places that I had only heard of be- understand [the effects of the] Kofore in documentaries, like the rean War and the sad fact that Korea North Korean propaganda village, cannot do a better job of reuniting which was created to ‘show off ’ how its people.”

Detection of high levels of carcinogens and formaldehyde in imported kitchen utensils from China has increased public unease over the safety of foreign goods.

Some attribute this surge of unsafe imports to the ineffectiveness of Korea’s quarantine system.

Authorities are required to check foreign products when shipments first arrive, but most are checked only for proper documentation after this initial inspection. As it is impossible to go through hundreds of thousands of items one by one, the KFDA randomly picks out 5 percent of the total goods for further examination.

Chinese manufacturers have been using this loophole to export hazardous products. Thus, experts are urging the Korean government to adopt more stringent measures, such as more unscheduled checks.

Other officials proposed sending Korean inspectors to the production sites themselves to judge the quality of the goods.

“If there is suspicion that a company is putting out inadequate products, it’s appropriate to go to the head of company and demand to see how the factory works,” said Damon Six, Asian Studies teacher.

“The [Chinese] government needs to find a balance between telling businesses how to operate and not restricting them so that people can

still stay employed. Ultimately, China has safety standards that if enforced, most products should be relatively safe.”

Lawyer Sung-kyun Shin from Hanyang Women’s University compared the quarantine system of Korea to that of Japan. In Japan, all importers are required to conduct safety tests themselves and prove that their products are harmless.

If their goods are found to contain harmful substances, the importers face tough penalties. However, Korea has no such regulations. In addition, there are around 1,000 safety inspection firms in Japan, whereas Korea has only about 100.

There was a similar problem five years ago when large numbers of toys that contained lead were imported from China. Jane Byon (10) explained the implications that these repeated situations have for China’s standing in the world.

“These findings [of harmful products] are always creating a more negative impression of Chinese industries,” said Jane. “The Chinese are actually more skilled than many other countries at making certain items. But because of all these unsafe products we keep finding, we think that all Chinese products are unsafe. If China doesn’t take steps to solve this problem, this could lower demand for Chinese products.”

By Elizabeth Song

FRANCHISING IN TOMBOY Korean Franchise

Opened in Korea: 1977 -American actress Chloë Sevigny face of 2012 spring/summer campaign -Over 28 outlets in Korea Source: Tomboy

CAFFE BENE Korean Franchise

Opened in Korea: April 2008 -Launched 700 outlets in Korea within four years -New York Time Square Caffe Bene contains 250 seats Source: Caffe Bene

Foreign franchising promotes consumerism fads in Korea

By Helen Song A woman walks down the street, dressed from head to toe in foreign designer brand clothing, holding a luxurious bag. Though this outfit alone could cost thousands of dollars, this is a typical sight on any street in Seoul, as foreign fashion and merchandise continue to dominate Korea’s industries.

According to the National Geographic Information Institute of Korea, the amount of money being made by foreign industries in Korea increased from $786 million to $10.4 billion in 15 years, and according to Chosun Ilbo, this number reached $13.7 billion in 2011.

The reason the Korean market is targeted by foreign franchises, according to Investment U, an investment advice firm, is largely economic. For instance, the Korean won is cheaper than the US Dollar, meaning that foreign investors will make a large profit simply because of the exchange rate. Stocks are also cheap, and as the Korean economy booms, more customers willingly spend large sums of money for foreign goods.

Although this foreign investment positively stimulates the Korean economy, it also impacts Korean culture. Local fashion largely follows global trends, raising the demand for foreign brands. According to Yonhap News, when President Lee Myung-bak’s granddaughter wore a coat from the Italian brand Moncler, it quickly became popular among Korean youths, including SIS students. A similar trend was seen among Korean students during the winter, as, according to Naver News, a parka from the American company, The North Face, became a must-have item for students. Middle school and high school students even went to the length of comparing the thickness of their coats for social status, and students without the coat were secluded.

“Korean culture is really focused on comparing yourself to others around you, and foreign fashion has become a part of that,” said Sally Chung (10). “Moms compare their kids’ grades with each other, and similarly, they also compare the brand of the bags they’re [carrying] or the coats they’re wearing. People feel they have to wear the most popular and expensive clothes to impress others, and those are from foreign brands.”

This is also evident in the cosmetics industry. According to Munhwa Broadcasting Corporation’s (MBC) PD Diary, certain makeup brands’ websites recommend a seven step facial cream application process that requires the purchase of several products. In order to sell more merchandise, companies claimed that such a vari-

Average cost of a 12-ounce tall Starbucks caffe latte

ety was needed to ensure the intended effects. However, the investigators’ experiments proved that this is not necessarily true, which demonstrates that companies purposely target Korean customers to buy more. Unfortunately, Korean customers often fall prey to these types of marketing techniques employed by foreign franchises.

Furthermore, according to the Chosun Ilbo, several foreign brands sell their products more expensively in Korea than in other countries. Although there is a high import tax companies are required to add, the largest factor in this price increase is the general trend of price inflation, which encourages foreign companies to sell their products for the highest price possible. For example, an Estée Lauder night serum face cream is $72 in an American shop, while in a Korean department store, it can cost up to $150. Despite this, foreign makeup brands continue to be exceedingly popular in Korea.

“The reason people buy products from expensive brands is that people believe that the more expensive [a product] is, the better its quality will be,” said Juhohn Lee (12). “However, those people are just falling victim to inflated prices, and the more people buy it, the more they’re allowing companies to steal money from us.”

Trends of price inflation and increased consumer spending continue to dominate the Korean market. Recent studies by The Economist show that even the 2008 financial crisis did not significantly reduce this consumerism fad, and Koreans’ foreign appetite is only growing.

4,100W

Korea

VS

$2.55

US

MODERN KOREA H&M Swedish Franchise

Opened in Korea: Spring 2010 -Already launched seven stores in Korea; has over 2,300 store in 43 countries -World’s third largest fashion retailer by revenue Source: Korea Times

7-ELEVEN Texas Franchise

Opened in Korea: May 1989 -Approximately 2,282 outlets in Korea; currently over 39,000 outlets around the world -Acquired by a Japanese company in 1991

Apgujeong Rodeo Drive, Seoul

Source: Lotte

Food franchises economically successful in Korea expand globally

By Michelle Kim Stop any Korean on the street and ask him or her to name a prominent Korean food franchise. BBQ Chicken, Paris Baguette, Tom N Toms Coffee and Caffe Bene may be common answers. These franchises, among many others, are widespread in Korea and are common sights in major cities around the world. For instance, Caffe Bene has 540 stores and BBQ Chicken has 2,800 stores in Korea alone.

The quantity of such franchises in Korea has made them economically crucial to the country. Today, according to the Ministry of Knowledge Economy’s distribution and logistics division, the franchise industry in Korea is worth approximately $70.2 billion. Franchises in the food industry, including fast food chains and family restaurants, account for 52 percent, or $36.5 billion.

“I think the government should set limits to the number of franchises in Korea. This way, smaller companies can survive,” said Tiffany Luk (12). “The reason that these franchises are spreading so quickly is that big companies like Paris Baguette are taking the place of smaller companies. As a result, the smaller companies go bankrupt and a larger proportion of Korea’s money goes to the big companies.”

The success of such franchises prompted the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA) to support the bestselling 10 franchises in their overseas

endeavors. Announced on April 18, 2011, this market plan is a part of KOTRA’s efforts to create new business opportunities in Korea’s service division. The chosen franchises, including KyoChon Chicken, Lotteria, Caffe Bene and BBQ Chicken, received grants worth 10 million won from the agency.

So far, BBQ Chicken has opened 350 branches in 56 countries, including 47 stores in the US. Caffe Bene has opened branches in Vietnam and Lotteria has opened a total of 98 branches in Vietnam and China.

“I think it makes sense that those stores are popular and expanding,” said Justin Kim (11). “[They] are most likely expanding due to costs; some people in Korea don’t eat from those stores because of high prices. As for me, I get food from those stores because [they have home delivery services]. Countries that are used to or are getting used to home-service will like the franchises.”

The chosen franchises have had successful sales so far. A KyoChon Chicken store located in Manhattan logs $30,000-35,000 in daily sales and almost $400,000 monthly. The franchise has become so famous that, from all of the KyoChon franchises available together, an average of 50,000 customers seek it every day. KyoChon’s success is linked to the menu’s roots in Korean cuisine.

In an interview with Korean Broadcast System World, KyoChon Chicken Planning Division member Yongwoo Kim emphasized this factor by stating that the store coats its chicken with a spicy Korean-style sauce.

$70.2 Billion

Amidst the success rates, however, critics denounce these franchises for valuing quantity over quality. A recent New York Times review of the Fifth Avenue Caffe Bene branch stated that while the cafe had a pleasant atmosphere, it offered an overwhelming number of pastries, many of which the reviewer deemed not worth the money. In addition, Caffe Bene was criticized for being too ambitious; it plans to open 50 more stores in New York.

“Korea has too many franchises already; you already have cafes like Caffe Bene, Tom N Toms Coffee and Angel-in-us Coffee,” said Ryan Kim (10). “Then there are fast food franchises like Mr. Pizza, BBQ Chicken and KyoChon Chicken, so I don’t think these franchises should really expand so much. In a condensed atmosphere like Korea, it’s kind of stupid to have a lot of places that sell practically the same thing.”

The problem of over-franchising has begun to be addressed by the Korean government. In an attempt to protect the sales of existing bakeries, for example, the Fair Trade Commission announced on April 9 that it would take measures to stop bakery franchises from opening too many stores in one district. Under the new regulation, the same franchise is forbidden from opening more than one store within a 500-meter radius. The government hopes that the new law will prevent incidents such as Paris Baguette opening more than 1,500 stores over the course of a year.

Estimated worth of franchise industry in Korea Source: Korea Times

Layout by Joanne Lee Graphic by Joanne Lee & Jeffrey Chun

lifesTYLE 8

april 2012

Freshman harpist reveals dedication, discovery AR PS RIC H LE EL EC T

R

UB

ITA

Graphic by Christine Lee

school [in America] had a harp program and provided harp parts for the orchestra,” said Hawoon. “The other disadvantage is that the harp is so big and heavy that you need to tote it around on a truck and constantly tune each and every string.

The strings also break very easily.”

Nevertheless, Hawoon feels

GU P

Designed to be played by two people

R HA

To protest what they believe violates journalism ethics, unionized reporters at Munwha Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) have been staging walkouts, demanding unbiased news coverage and the removal of their president Jae-chul Kim. According to the union, MBC has been censoring sensitive news stories that are critical of the government.

“MBC has the duty of reporting for the people, not for the government,” said Connie Yoon (11). “If [the journalists] aren’t allowed to have their say, we start to see the line blur between the so-called democracy in the South and the dictatorship in the North since freedom of speech is one of the founding principles of democracy.”

Although some consider the union’s demonstrations noble, the strikers have been suffering consequences for going against the company. Stepping up disciplinary measures and deeming the walkout illegal, MBC suspended five journalists for three months and fired labor union head Young-ha Jung and his deputy Ki-woong Kang.

In place of protesting reporters, MBC also hired freelance journalists, escalating the conflict to new heights. Questioning the qualification of these employees, MBC reporters called for an end to this unprecedented hiring and showed their discontent by refusing to return to work.

Although Erin Hogshead, yearbook adviser, is opposed to censorship, she believes that MBC’s actions were justified.

“Big corporations like MBC have their agendas and regulations,” said Ms. Hogshead. “[The reporters] must have known what they were working for. If they want to be noble, then they should have worked for a smaller business that didn’t pay as much. Everyone knows that those big companies [censor news coverage], but [the reporters] wanted the big bucks and prestige, so they joined MBC anyway.”

The journalists’ strikes have not only affected the television network itself but also viewers. Due to labor unrest, some MBC shows were on hiatus for as long as two months and MBC’s 9 p.m. news was cut 15 minutes short.

“I was kind of upset when the MBC drama ‘The Moon that Embraces the Sun’ [was on hiatus] for a day and I couldn’t watch the show,” said Allison Yoo (9). “But I couldn’t really be mad because [the strikes were] for a good cause and I knew that the reporters were [fighting] for our right to information.”

During an interview, Benjamin Ismail, head of the Asia-Pacific Desk at Reporters Without Borders, advocated the crusade, shedding an international light on the issue. As the strikes continue to gain global attention, the MBC labor union claims that it will continue to remonstrate until the company meets its demands.

RP HA

By Elizabeth Song

NI

MBC journalists speak out against censorship

HARDY HARMONIOUS HARPS MI GE

Hawoon Han (9) sat nervously in the waiting room, her fingers shaking. She frantically attempted at another last-minute practice when her name was called. As she stood up to enter the judging room, her hands sweated, wet with anticipation. But once she sat in front of the judges, all signs of nervousness disappeared, and she transformed into a harpist.

“My best friend persuaded me to play the harp when I was in the fourth grade,” said Hawoon. “I asked my mom if I could join [the harp ensemble] and she complied, [although] it was such an uncommon instrument. My old school had a harp ensemble and since our grade had about ten other players, I decided to dedicate the time into playing the harp.”

Hawoon first started off by playing a smaller version of the harp. As time passed, she learned to play the lever harp, in which levers are tweaked to create different tunes and tones. Hawoon particularly appreciates the uniqueness of the harp’s melodies compared to other instruments that are more common, such as the violin or the piano.

“When I first listened to the harp, the melodies was so soothing and relaxing that I knew that I was definitely going to enjoy playing this particular instrument,” said Hawoon. “Plus, I think that being able to play [the harp] was how I got to know people when I first came to SIS.” Many of Hawoon’s friends, who initially viewed Hawoon as athletic because of her active participation in physical education (PE) class, found her musical talents somewhat unexpected.

“When I first saw her, I never would have thought she played such an interesting instrument as the harp,” said Michelle Kim (9), a close friend of Hawoon. “I only found out when I saw her play in a duet with another freshman. Though my overall opinion on her hasn’t changed, I see her in a new light because of [her ability].”

However, Hawoon has dedicated less time to playing the harp once she moved to Korea. Though she receives private lessons once a week, Hawoon described Korea as an “unfriendly environment” for harpists. Furthermore, according to Hawoon, maintainence of a harp is a tedious job.

“I was very lucky that my old

DO

By Christine Lee

Created to play complex African rhythms

Essentially a guitar with harp-like unstopped strings Sources: The Celtic Harp Page, Wikimedia

accomplished when she plays the harp, and hopes to continue playing even after she graduates from high school.

“I don’t think that playing the harp for [a living] would suit me very well, but I do want to continue playing the harp [as a hobby] after high school, and for as long as I live,”

said Hawoon. “The instrument is a really good representation of who I am as a person in that I’m not the most normal person you will meet on the streets. I hope the harp becomes more a more popular instrument amongst the masses because there’s so much more to the harp than there seems.”

What is the “real world” like?

Dongha Yang, class of ’01, who graduated from Dartmouth College and currently works at her father’s company, China Studies & Company, helps develop Chinatowns and Koreatowns throughout Asia.

1. What is your current project?

We are designing a global town in Suzhou, China. One of the biggest problems in China is that there are a lot of people, but few are talented. This is a big issue for global companies, especially those in the field of [architecture] design. So we are setting up a Dartmouth engineering school campus inside the town. We approached Dartmouth first for help. The dean of the engineering school and a couple of other professors came over to visit our site and they were really satisfied.

2. How did you become interested in China?

[I found my interest] through my father. He was a professor of Chinese history and he wanted to help ethnic Chinese people living in Korea to improve their human rights. He helped set up a green card system [for Chinese immigrants] in Korea.

3. Did your father force you to take this job?

No, it just fell through naturally. Originally, I was going to go to law school right after college, but at the same time I wasn’t sure if I really wanted to be a lawyer. So my father asked me if I wanted to join his company and work there for a bit and see whether law or business is right for me. Now, of course, I find [my job] is the right thing for me.

4. What are the benefits and drawbacks of continuing your father’s business?

[The advantage is that] I get to be more exposed to the job. At home I get to know more about the business from my father. I really feel [responsibility] over what I am doing. Meanwhile, because I live with my father, we talk about work at home as well. So it [feels] like we are working for 24 hours each day.

5. What do you like about Dartmouth?

I like the fact that the school is small. [Fredric Schneider, Director of Pupil Personnel Services] suggested that I would do much better in a small, liberal arts school setting. So I listened to his advice and chose Dartmouth. We have about 1,000 students per class and I got to build a lot of close relationships with friends and professors. I did a lot of independent studies with the professors.

6. What did you think about the isolated environment at Dartmouth?

I went to Dartmouth without visiting, so I didn’t know what to expect. There were only five stores [in the neighborhood]. All of the stores there close at 5 p.m. and winters are really long. So my first winter there was very difficult, [especially because] I was very used to the city life of Seoul. At first I really did not like the setting, but then I got to enjoy it more as time passed because I got to be surrounded by beautiful trees, a beautiful pond, and a beautiful golf course.

By Linda Heeyoung Park

Photo Courtesy of Dongha Yang

april 2012

Old movies revived with 3-D experience

By Jasmine Park

When “Titanic” was released in North America, it quickly ranked number one in the box office. Although it was one of the most profitable movies in film history, earning up to $1.8 billion worldwide, it has slowly become forgotten in current mainstream culture. However, with the advent of 3-D movie technology, its re-release has sparked new interest. Many other movies such as “Lion King” and “Star Wars: Episode I — The Phantom Menace” are also returning to present-day audiences in 3-D form.

Many, including Younghwan Sim (12), believe that bringing back old movies provides people with the chance to reflect upon past stories in a different light.

“Sometimes I forget about those movies or just don’t have time to watch them again,” said Younghwan.

“By reintroducing the films, we can

watch them again and understand [what we could have missed before].

It’s also nice for the younger generation to have the chance to watch what they’ve missed in the past decade or so and appreciate some fine movies from [the past].”

Moreover, film producers and editors use 3-D rereleases as an opportunity to restore visual qualities such as clear outlines, re-toned colors and strengthened contrast, which increases popularity.

“The appeal is huge for people, particularly kids, especially for movies like ‘Lion King’,” said Isaac Kim (10). “People seek new experiences and the clarity the visuals will attract people to watch the movies again even if they know the plot and the ending. They do not watch these movies for their suspense but for the changes in the newer versions.

However, the 3-D experience can be inappropriate for movies that are remembered for their classic ambiance.

Radiohead to perform at Jisan Valley Rock Festival

By Jessica Song

Rather than listening to Radiohead on their iPods, rock fans will be able to listen to their favorite bands live at the Jisan Valley Rock Festival, which will be held July 27-29 at the Jisan Valley Resort in Icheon.

Since 2009, Korea has hosted the Jisan Valley Rock Festival, which features a roster of world-famous rock bands. This year, Radiohead, Owl City, Elvis Costello and the Imposters and Beady Eye have been invited to perform alongside Korean bands.

Chosen as the second best band of the 2000s by Rolling Stone, Radiohead has been performing for 25 years, but this will be their first show in Korea.

“I am a huge fan of Radiohead,” said Edward Park (10). “Whenever I listen to their music, I can relate to the songs and become one entity. I’m so thrilled to go to this year’s concert with [juniors Tommy Nam, Joe Kim and Charlie Shin].”

In addition, The Stone Roses, a famous British rock band, recently decided to perform together after a 15-year hiatus. Elvis Costello and

the Imposters is a band led by Elvis Costello, a popular singer-songwriter who rose to fame with his song “She” from the film “Nothing Hill.”

Owl City and Beady Eye are also especially popular among SIS students. Owl City’s debut single “Fireflies” was ranked number one on iTunes for seven weeks in 2009.

After Oasis disbanded, the former members joined Beady Eye, a new band. They released the album “Different Gear, Still Speeding” in 2011.

“I’m excited because last year’s festival was really great,” said Annette Hong (10). “Honestly, I never imagined it to be so fun. The music was good, people were cool and the whole atmosphere just made you feel relaxed.”

Last year’s festival included bands such as Suede, Incubus and the Chemical Brothers.

“I went to the rock concert with Tommy and [Andrew Jeong (11)] because my favorite band, Arctic Monkeys, was going to perform,” said Andrew Oh (11). “The atmosphere was good but the venue was really crowded. This year, however, I am not going because the lineup is not that appealing to me.”

“The reason people still watch ‘Casablanca’ in black and white is because it was the right medium for that story,” said John Rider, drama teacher. “Trying to take an old story that belongs in a certain genre and changing it smacks as money-grabbing. That to me is wrong.”

Although Phil McNally, Global Stereoscopic Supervisor at DreamWorks, claims it takes as much effort and time because one cannot simply “leave it to the software,” movie enthusiasts like Younghwan assert the process of creating and directing a new movie is incomparable to the conversion of 2-D movies to 3-D movies.

“Creating 3-D versions of older movies instead of creating original films seems like a profit-making move for directors,” said Younghwan. “3-D movies are more expensive than regular movies. While ticket prices soar, directors put in no time, money or effort into casting new actors or creating a setting.”

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Lifestyle

LIVE THE EXPERIENCE IN

3D

FROM 2-D TO 3-D

1 3

Mask out objects to create a 3-D image Re-create the scene in 3-D to extract depth information

2

Proprietary Render System aligns the new image to the original

3-D FILMING

Two lenses capture two sets of images: vertical and horizontal or opposing diagonal polarization. The two are then projected through one lens that combines both images.

Sources: Clipartpal, Geeknizer, 3dtv4ever

Graphic by Jasmine Park

The World at the Tip of My Tongue Brazil in the heart of Kangnam

By Marcus Lee

Amongst the household names of Sakanaya, Din Tai Fung and more reknown restaurants, lie the colorful signs of this month’s dining venue Carne do Brasil, or “Meats of Brazil” in Portuguese.

Upon entering this churrascaria, Brazilian steakhouse, I was quickly grabbed by a cozy and inviting atmosphere. A flat TV screen hung up on the wall showing a documentary on Brazil. More sensibly the background music was a low-key, easy-to-listen bossa nova, which is a mixed bag of jazz, samba and a slight hint of elevator music. It set the table for more lively chatter that rang with a constant buzz throughout the venue.

When it came to the menu, besides being a bit exotic, covering South America for the first time in my column, so I had a huge reason behind going to Carne. Thirsting for meat, the opportunity to eat an all-you-can-eat meat package for

33,000 won, is an offer one simply does not reject (even more so in the pricey confines of Kangnam).

Things started well with appetizers that included a lettuce salad and a mashed potato dish. What ensued was a course of grilled, barbecued meats served from onemeter-long Brazilian skewers. The order went as follows: barbecued chicken (a personal favorite), spicy sausage, beef tenderloin with tomato and onion, beef sirloin, skirt beef and filet mignon.

Up until the beef tenderloin, the juiciness and texture of the various meats left me in a state of wonder, but then, things took an unexpected turn. Upon finishing nearly four pounds of beef in less than 30 minutes, I was anticipating a moment of gustatory elation as my hunger subsided. Contrary to my expectations though, it felt like I had just participated in a man v. food contest. As for the taste, it left

a sense of emptiness as I had trouble registering which taste went with which meat, because they all tasted like, well, the same meat.

When one is filled to one’s esophagus with meat, it is difficult to differentiate between anything that falls under the category of meat.

Delicious? Yes. Distinctive? Highly doubtful.

So here’s my advice for those visiting Carne: have a clear purpose. Either go for the four-pound expansion-of-your-stomach-package or take a more sophisticated approach in trying to enjoy each dish and its distinct textures, variation in seasoning and taste.

Six courses for 33,000 won will naturally pull any omnivore towards Carne, but I’ll have to hold up on a revisit, as that lingering taste of meat needs to subside. Still, readers should not shy away from visiting this place to experience Brazil in the heart of Kangnam.

sPORTS 10

april 2012

TIGER SPORTS SCOREBOARD SWIMMING SOCCER April 12 - 15 at SIS (AISA) Boys: 2nd place Girls: 1st place

April 4 v. OSAN (Away) Boys: 1-0 Loss Girls: 0-5 Loss

April 6 v. SAHS (Away) Boys: 0-3 Loss Girls: 0-2 Loss

April 11 v. TCIS (Home) Boys: 1-1 Tie Girls: 0-3 Loss

April 21 at YISS Boys: 3rd place Girls: 4th place

April 12 - 15 at Yokohama (AISA) Boys: 2 Wins, 1 Loss Girls: 1 Win, 2 Losses

April 18 v. KIS (Away) Boys: 0-1 Loss Girls: 0-3 Loss

April 21 v. YISS (Home) Boys: 1-3 Loss Girls: 2-2 Tie Graphic by Jessica Song

Students support Compassion charity by London prepares for the participating in basketball tournament 2012 Summer Olympics

By Alison Chang

Although basketball season ended in February, five students had the opportunity to compete in one more competition outside of their official school teams. To help support the Compassion charity, seniors Kirk Kim, Junsoo Shin and James Choi and juniors Minho Song and Justin Lee went to Seoul Foreign School (SFS) on March 23 to participate in a charity basketball tournament.

To raise money for orphans in developing countries, the Compassion community service club at SFS held a basketball tournament for students from different international schools. To participate, each student had to pay an entrance fee of 8,000 won. “[When you support the Compassion charity], you pay a certain amount of money every month to support an orphan in a poor country and my family is a sponsor,” said Minho. “I think that the school was very thoughtful and smart in creating a program that greatly contributes to the charity and is fun and enjoyable for the students at the same

time.”

Each team consisited of five players, three of whom had to be students who were not on the varsity or junior varsity basketball teams at their schools.

Overall, the SIS team finished third out of a total of 16 teams.

“I liked how they tried to maintain fairness with the rules [regarding] how many varsity members are allowed, as well as the overall competition level for the prize,” said Junsoo. “There was not as much pressure as KAIAC, but it was similar enough that everyone wanted to win. Because I haven’t played competitive basketball for a long time due to an injury, I found it to be somewhat nostalgic and entertaining.”

In addition to playing to stu-

“

dents’ interests, effective planning also contributed to the competition’s success.

“I think SIS should be able to host a similar event as SFS did, especially once our new gym is completed,” said Junsu. “But the thing with SFS’s success is [its] ability to c om me rc i a l i z e and inform many others from a lot of different international schools.

This is something I think SIS lacks.”

Nevertheless, even outside of team practices, Tim Munro, varsity boys basketball coach, was impressed by the team’s performance at the tournament and commitment to basketball.

“It’s nice to see [the players] dedicated to the sport outside of school,” said Mr. Munro. “It’s obviously a great cause and it’s great that they can play in a well-structured competition.

“It’s nice to see [the players] dedicated to the sport outside of school. It’s obviously a great cause and it’s great that they can play in a well-structured competition,” said Mr. Munro.

By Jonathan Yun

Over 100 athletes participating in 26 sports for 17 days, all in one city: London, the first city in the world to host the modern Olympic Games three times. With four more months left on the clock, the London 2012 Organizing Committee (LOCOG) is busy finalizing the quadrennial event.

From July 27 to Aug. 12, the London Olympics will offer athletes from around the world to show their capabilities after four years of training. For fans, the Olympic Games serve as a moment to demonstrate pride in their countries.

LOCOG was met with a challenge four years ago when Beijing hosted the 2008 Olympic Games, which redefined Olympic grandiosity. The London Olympics will not offer the same level of extravagance but rather take on a different approach: the events will integrate historic sites and venues with the modern locale. Tennis will be played in Wimbledon, triathlon at the historic Hyde Park and soccer at Wembley Stadium. The centerpiece of the 2012 Summer Olympics is the

Olympic Stadium, which was met with mixed response from the media because of its aesthetic quality.

“I think it’s good to integrate history with the Olympics,” said Tony Hurt, history teacher. “Whenever the Olympics is held, the city should have a showcase, and I think London has a lot to show off to the rest of the world. London is more accessible to more people in the world in terms of participants and media than Beijing because there won’t be the same political and environmental issues that were in China.

While no new sports were added, LOCOG made changes to the sports program itself. Baseball and softball are no longer sports in the Olympics. In addition, the Olympics will include women’s boxing and a mixed doubles tennis competition for the first time.

“As a huge fan of baseball and considering that South Korea has a great baseball team, I find it unfortunate that baseball will not be an Olympic sport anymore,” said Kevin Park (11). “Because baseball is very popular across the world, I’m hopeful that baseball will return as a sport in the Olympics.”

Spring sports teams yield positive results at AISA tournament

By Angela Cho

For the first time, SIS hosted an Association of International Schools in Asia (AISA) swimming tournament from April 12-15 in which student athletes from SIS, Korea International School and Senri Osaka International School (SOIS) participated.

At the swim meet, each swimmer competed in a minimum of four races, which included but were not limited to the 200-m relay, 200-m freestyle, 100-m and 50-m race for each of the four strokes. After days of intense swimming, varsity boys swimming team placed second and varsity girls placed first. SIS placed first overall, followed by KIS and SOIS in second and third place.

Varsity boys swimmer DongGi Park (10) and varsity girls swimmer Joanne Kim (11) were also selected as most valuable players amongst all the male and female contestants and amongst SIS swimmers, respectively.

“I was really surprised to be able to get two awards at the same time, and it was a completely unexpected result for me,” said DongGi. “I feel very fortunate to have a success-

Courtesy of Alex Lopez-Barton

During the half-time in a game against Yokohama International School, Erik Custer, varsity girls coach, gives a pep talk to his team. The girls team traveled to Yokohama for the AISA tournament from April 12-15. ful first season at SIS, thanks to the fellow team members as well as the coaches’ devotion to our team.”

After the tournament, varsity swimming coach Melissa Hubley accompanied the visiting team on a tour to the Korean folk village. While

the tournament yielded successful results, the swimmers believed it lacked a fun component to wrap up the swim meet. A friendly water polo match scheduled to be held at the end of the tournament was cancelled due to time constraints.

“The most exciting part about the tournament was supposed to be the water polo, but it was cancelled because the tournament had been running about an hour and 30 minutes behind the schedule,” said Joanne. “We were all disap-

pointed that the game was cancelled and some of the swimmers even said, ‘But I saved all my energy for water polo!’ The water polo game could have been that special aspect to distinguish itself from other tournaments, such as the KAIAC swim meet.”

Meanwhile, varsity boys and girls soccer teams also participated in the AISA soccer tournaments in Osaka and Yokohama, respectively, April 12-15. The boys placed fifth among the six participating schools, while the girls did not have a distinct placing due to complications at the tournament. Midfielder Milton Yoon (10), varsity boys co-captain Hiro Watanabe (12), goalkeeper Christine Lee (10) and varsity girls co-captain Brenda Myung (12) won all-tournament awards.

“It felt good to be recognized because it’s my first award in soccer,” said Brenda. “We played really well at the tournament. The team really bonded and we got to know more with each other as a team. It’s a good way to sum up the season and we can use the experience from AISA for the upcoming KAIAC tournament.”

april 2012

11

sPORTS

Global Issues Network to hold Grassroots Soccer Tournament

By Min Ji Suh

Global Issues Network (GIN) members Grace Song (10) and Julia Jeong (10) plan to hold a Grassroots Soccer Tournament on May 30 with the middle school GIN, advised by Brian Devine, eighth grade Language Arts teacher.

Grassroots Soccer is an organization that hosts soccer tournaments and workshops to benefit regions in Africa most severely stricken with HIV and AIDS. In the tournament, students form groups of four and compete. This tournament not only encourages team-building and social skills but also teaches students about the disease itself. GIN members decided to raise money for both Grassroots Soccer and Solar Cooking International (SCI), a nongovernmental organization (NGO) that proposes solar cookers as an alternative to cooking fires to reduce

Photo by Linda Heeyoung Park

Displaying button pins, Michelle Lee (12) sets up the GIN booth. the chances of children and women contracting respiratory illnesses.

“Julia and I held a booth for SCI at Youtheca, a forum for student-run associations last year to raise awareness of solar cooking, but it was not very successful,” said Grace. “I was initially really worried that I would

not be able to make a difference, but after Mr. Devine approved my idea, I felt so glad [that] it made me want to work harder for the `cause. I realized that it is not about making your transcript look fancy, but it is real passion that sets you apart as an individual.”

KAIAC officials to implement new changes in league next school year

kovic, athletics director. “It’s just too much, and that was the driving force The sight of students strug- behind the whole restructuring [of gling to concentrate and stay awake KAIAC].”

According to Mr. Atanaskovic, in school after playing conference games the day before has prompted the decision was made based on each KAIAC officials to restructure the school’s performances in basketball, conference to balance the num- soccer and volleyball over the past ber of teams in each division. Next few years. The three teams in Division 1 with year, SIS, Korea International School “We all share the the lowest points will and Gyeonggi Susame passion for move to won International School will move to sports, but academics Division 2, while one a different division. are always first, and team from The administration commuthat’s the reason stu- Division 2 with the best nicated to each dents are at school,” record will school’s athletics director to divide said Mr. Atanaskovic. move up to Division 1.

KAIAC so that each Although division would have seven schools in the same region be SIS’s basketball, soccer and volleygrouped together to reduce traffic ball teams will move to Division 2 time, as many athletes found them- next year, the tennis, cross country selves spending 12 to 14 hours for and swimming teams will remain in the first division because there are away games at Daegu and Taejon.

“With all the responsibili- not enough teams to make two.

After being a part of Division ties that our students have here at school, we had to find a way to 1 for many years, athletes expressed make [playing in KAIAC] more re- frustration at not being able to comalistic because it’s just not possible pete with schools that they had for one student to do everything at played against for such a long time.

“I’m very disappointed [that SIS school and fulfill their duties as a team member,” said Ivan Atanas- is moving to a different division],”

By Mark Kim

“

See you everyday at 9:25 in the Atrium

FOOD

CART Aren’t you hungry?

said Jenny Lee (9), junior varsity basketball player. “SIS has maintained fairly good scores in various sports including basketball and volleyball, and [beat] other athletic schools several times—it’s wrong and unfair for SIS to be forcefully moved down to the second division.”

Although there will be fewer games since there will only be seven teams in each division as opposed to nine in Division 1 and five in Division 2, SIS can still schedule friendly games with Division 1 schools.

Teams will also play two fewer games next year in each season because of the fewer number of teams in both divisions. According to Mr. Atanaskovic however, the restructuring of KAIAC will be benefit SIS. “Some people might not find this to be a great solution, but it will be easier for everybody,” said Mr. Atanaskovic. “Although students don’t admit it, it’s really difficult when you come back from away games, late at night, and you have to finish your homework for the next day. We all share the same passion for sports, but academics are always first, and that’s the reason students are at school.”

The two divisions’ names are also subject to change; these names have yet to be announced.

In order to raise basic funds for the large event, GIN introduced the fundraiser to middle school students at their assembly, promoted their campaign through posters, and participated in the SIS Parents Association (SISPA) Bazaar on April 13.

“At the bazaar, we sold wristbands, drinks and snacks and auctioned a Lionel Messi soccer jersey that is really rare in the world,” said Mr. Devine. “I hope to raise plenty of money to donate to the organizations, and I wish for students in my class to be inspired and feel successful for dedicating their time to this purpose.”

To gather more support for the cause, club members have modified the tournament to organize the “Take a Shot to Save Lives” campaign at the same time.

“While we are holding the finals for the Grassroots Soccer Tournament, we are going to be organizing

this other campaign on the other side of the field, where both teachers and students take penalty shots on each other for a bid,” said Mr. Devine. “I am astonished to see how many of the teachers already signed up for the tournament—most of whom are Specials teachers.”

Through this campaign, GIN members hope that participants can learn more about how each of their actions can contribute to a greater cause.

“I hope that middle school students can leave amazed at how important it is to actually care about issues like HIV and AIDS and solutions to poverty and hunger,” said Grace. “I hope they understand that Korea is really limited in these opportunities to help out others in need who are really out there. I hope they can see beyond the value of just playing soccer and begin to care about these global issues.”

Sports Photo of the Month

Photo by Linda Heeyoung Park

Intercepting the ball, Hiro Watanabe (12), captain, attempts to turn the tide in the game. SIS tied with TCIS 1-1 during the home game on April 11.

Small Talk

12

april 2012

Potbelly dignitaries make empty promises at recent poverty summit

Photo of the Month

By Angela Cho

The world superpowers met once again at the 2012 Poverty Summit on March 26 to iron out a global issue. To alleviate poverty in third-world countries, some 100 foreign dignitaries, each representing a developed nation, convened in Seoul for a weeklong conference.

In preparation for the summit, South Korea, the host country, spent an estimated $1 billion in deficit on first-class airplane tickets and five-star hotel suites for the weary 2-km travel. At the citizens’ expenses, basic food such as eggs and rice was rationed in Seoul to secure food supplies for the dignitaries’ diversified tastes at the lavish opening ceremony, and over 1 million soldiers on service at the Demilitarized Zone were dispatched for security reasons.

“As a loyal citizen, I proudly gave up all of my food supplies and went on a voluntary 7-day fast,” said Mimi Lee, South Korean citizen. “The experience was so enlightening that I imagined meatballs and spaghetti noodles fall from the sky. I was able to abstain from the worldly pleasure and fully commit myself to my country.”

After five days of luxurious celebration, the representatives dedicated two days

to the actual conference, reaching several significant agreements after a hard-fought debate. Accomplishments include the decision to provide tax cuts to the wealthy in the hope that they will share their wealth with the poor and construct three new five-star hotels at the venue for the next summit.

“We’ve accomplished so much today,” said Simon Chi, South Korean representative. “Thanks to the citizens’ sacrifice, we were able to discuss these matters comfortably while dining and wining, which loosened up the atmosphere and made for a fruitful conference.”

Although officials of the third-world nations were not represented, they nonetheless expressed gratitude towards the superpowers for the agreements. The next annual summit is scheduled for 2013.

“The world superpowers are our saviors,” said Melson Nandela, South African president. “Unfortunately I wasn’t able to travel to Seoul and participate at the conference due to the expense. Every year the developed countries have made empty promises at the annual summit, but I’m sure this year is different in that no one will leave empty-handed from the conference.”

Empty plates feed the poverty summit.

Cartoon by Angela Cho and Michelle Kim

Photo by Angela Cho

Playing Violet Beauregarde in “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” Cynthia Rhee (12) holds the golden ticket high for everyone to see. The play was an adaptation of British author Roald Dahl’s children’s book.