Vibrant Korea

Hanbok : Korean Traditional Clothing Jeju Island Beckons

Korea Vies to Become Medical Tourism Hub Magic of Seoul Taekwondo : Systematic Defence Sport

In cooperation with the Embassy of the Republic of Korea - KUWAIT

Korea

Dynamic Nation

Moon, Young-han Ambassador of the Republic of Korea

The Republic of Korea has been well known as a nation of rapid economic development and one of the four dragons of Asia. Yet, this gives the wrong impression that Korea suddenly appeared in modern times.

Korea has more than 4,300 years of history in East Asia and has developed the unique culture and tradition of its own. Based on this long history and tradition, it offers various tourist attractions harmonized with modernity.

Foreign visitors are easily impressed by the warm hospitality shown by Korean people and by the beauty of Korea’s natural scenery created by its four distinct seasons.

Korea has a rich and deep-rooted history of exchanges with the Arab world including Kuwait, which started more than 1,000 years ago through the Silk Road. Based on this historical background, the Republic of Korea and Kuwait have maintained very cordial and friendly relationship in diverse fields since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1979. With the common ideologies of market economy and democracy, the two countries closely cooperate on the global stage and pursue strategic partnership in various areas such as energy and technology.

To upgrade and broaden the relations in a more constructive way, both countries need to make efforts to understand each other more by deepening cultural and human exchanges. I hope that the special edition on Korea published by the ArabTraveler offers a great opportunity to introduce Korea to Kuwait in details. I also hope that this edition will effectively deliver the long history, the unique culture and tradition, and the rich natural scenery of Korea as well as various aspects of dynamic modern Korea, which I am proud of and love to share with all of you.

IncooperationwiththeEmbassyoftheRepublicofKoreatoKuwait Coordinator

Taewoo Lee

Director Marketing

First Secretary - Korean Embassy

Mujahid Iqbal

Editor Fatima Gunjwala

Sales Supervisor Mahmood M. Ahmed

Finance Manager

Photography

Khurram Sajjad

Saeed Yacob

Design by mediums

advertising & design

Printed by Al-Khat Printing Press

For further enquiries, please contact

Mujahid Iqbal

Cell: +965 – 9759 2064 Email:talk2mujahid@yahoo.com www.arabtraveler-magazine.com

CONTENTS Facts about Korea

12

Interview with Korean Ambassador

18

Exploring Korea

24

Magic of Seoul

36

Jeju Island

48

What to Buy in Korea

54

Economic Growth

58

Medical Tourism Hub

66

Study in Korea

68

Korean Cusine

72

Hanbok : Korean Traditional Clothing

78

Taekwondo : Korean Traditional Martial Art

82

The content and opinions expressed here in are not necessarily those of the publishers. While every efforts is made to ensure the accuracy of the contents, no liablity can be assumed by the publishers for any inaccuracies.

Credits Korea Tourism Organization - Dubai Office www.etourkorea.com www.photo-korea.kr

FORE W ORD

Mujahid Iqbal

Kuwait-KoreaTiesStrong Often referred to as the “Land of the Morning Calm”, Korea has a population of 48.50 million and a total land area of 99,678 km. Located at a major crossroads of Northeast Asia, it has also achieved the“Miracle of the Han River”. As early as the 1960s, when the country’s five-year economic development plan was first implemented, the Korean economy has relentlessly shown signs of exponential growth. From 1962 to 2005, the country’s GNI surged from $2.3 billion to a staggering $786.8 billion, soaring to $805.8 billion by 2006.

Ties between Korea and Kuwait are strong, with diplomatic relations going back to 1979. Economic ties are robust, with trade volume between Korea and Kuwait reaching more than $10 billion in 2007. Korean exports to Kuwait include automobiles, machinery and mechanical appliances, ships, steel, electronic machinery, etc, while imports from Kuwait include crude oil, oil products, LPG, etc. Since the mid-1970’s, Korean contractors have successfully participated in the field of road construction, oil plants, desalination projects, etc in Kuwait.

Nowadays, Korean contractors have high level of competitiveness in the areas of oil piers, petrochemicals, refineries, desalination and power plant projects, etc. Since 2005, contract amount of Korean contractors in Kuwait has been around $2 billion per year. Kuwait is the third largest oil exporter to Korea, while Korea is the second largest oil importer from Kuwait. Nearly a thousand Koreans live and work in Kuwait.

Years of rapid economic development has propelled the country into becoming the world’s 12th largest trading partner. Korea’s industrial base shifted from agriculture to manufacturing and is now shifting to services. A global force in a number of significant industries, including automobiles, petrochemicals, electronics, shipbuilding, textiles, and steel, Korea’s GDP expanded 3.1 percent in 2003, 4.6 percent in 2004, and 4.0 percent in 2005. GDP in 2006 totalled $887.4 billion, making the country the 11th largest economy.

Since 2004, Korean-made semi-conductors, automobiles, and wirelesstelecom devices have accounted for over 30 percent of the country’s total trade volume.

Exports of IT products have risen every year since 1998 and reached $82.5 billion, or 29.5 percent of total exports, in 2005. Major IT export items include memory chips, mobile phones, LCD monitors, PCs, and satellite broadcasting receivers.

Korea’s semi-conductor industry, in particular, has achieved tremendous growth over the past two decades and is the third largest in the world.

The governance system in Korea is based on a system of checks and balances between the executive branch, the legislature, and the judiciary.The president is elected directly for a single five-year-term. South Korea’s 17th president, Lee Myung-Bak, was sworn in to office on February 25th.

Korea features scenic natural landscapes and valuable cultural heritage enshrined in UNESCO’s World Heritage List. The tourism industry has been growing by leaps and bounds over the last three decades. The government constantly upgrades the nation’s tourism facilities to serve visitors better.

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President: Kab-Ryul Kim Address: GS Yeokjeon Tower, 537 Namdaemun-Ro 5-Ga, Joon-Gu, Seoul, 100-722, Korea Phone: 82-2-728-3606 Fax: 82-2-706-4107 - Website: www.gsconst.co.kr Turnover(2007): US$ 6,011 Mil. Paid-in Capital: US$ 255 Mil.

Business Area Plant : Oil & Gas, Petrochemical & Chemical Power : Power Generation (Thermal, Combined, Combined Heat Power, Nuclear), Power Substation, Power Transmission Line Environment : Water Treatment, Air Pollution Control, Waste Disposal Civil : Bridges, Roads & Railroad, Harbors & Land Development, Underground Space, Oil & Gas Storage, Pipeline Building : Intelligent Buildings, Hotel & Resort Facilities, Educational & Research Facilities, Cultural & Sports Facilities, Medical Health Care Facilities, Industrial Facilities, Remodeling Distribution Facilities Housing : Residential Complex, Studio Apartment, Real Estate Development Industrial : Electric & Electronics, Machinery, Logistics, Pharmaceuticals, etc.

Experience in Kuwait GS Engineering & Construction Corp.(GSE&C) constructed New Gas Oil Desulfurization unit at KNPC Mina Al-Ahmadi refinery in the year 2002 and OCR Revamp of ARDS Unit at KNPC Mina Abdullah refinery in the year 2004 in the name of LGE&C on EPC lump sum basis. Engineering, procurement, construction & precommissioning were successfully executed directly

by GSE&C and the both projects were completed ahead of contracted schedule. In year 2008, GSE&C has been awarded as EPC contractor for package #1 (main process package) of the 4th Refinery Project in Al-Zour.

Overseas Offices Azerbaijan Oman (Muscat) Name : GS E&C Muscat Branch Name:Branchof«GSE&CCorp.»Companyin Address:AlAziba,SeebInternationalAirport, the Republic of Azerbaijan Muscat, Oman Address:Bakucity,SuleymanDadashov Str, apt. 41 Kuwait Tel / Fax : 994-50-726-7006 Name : GS E&C Kuwait Branch Address:MaidaanHawalli,AreaNo.1,StreetNo. 61, Bldg No. 4, RashaTower Flat 704 Kazakhstan Tel/Fax:965-2562-9124/965-2562-9129 Name:KazakhstanBranchCompany/GS E&C Corp.

Saudi Arabia (Al-Khobar) Name:GSE&CRepresentativeOffice,Al-Khobar Address:Kazakhstan,Almaty,Al-Farabi Address:8Fl,Office#4Al-SubeaeiTowerKhobar Ave.7,BusinessCenterNurly-Tau,Block Dammam Highway Al-Khobar 4A, Office 6 Tel/Fax:966-3-887-3543/966-3-887-5267 Tel/Fax:7-727-311-0252/7-727-3110253 Egypt (Cario)

China (Beijing) Name:GSE&CCorp.BeijingRepresentativeOffice Address:EF07,WestTower,TwinTowers,B-12Jianguomen Avenue,ChaoyangDistrict,Beijing,China100022 Tel / Fax / 86-25-8695-9990 / 86-25-8695-9993 e-mail: jtchoi@gsconst.co.kr

Cambodia (Phnom Penh) Name : Branch of «GSS E&C Corp» Address:#RoomNo.121,PhnomPenhCenter, CornerShianouk(274)andSothearos(3) Boulevard,PhnomPenh,Cambodia Tel / Fax : 855-92177-600

Vietnam (Hanoi) Name:GSE&CCorp.HanoiRepresentativeOffice Address: 44B Ly Thuong Kiet, Hanoi, Vietnam Tel/Fax/e-mail:84-4-934-5100/84-4-934-5104 Name:GSE&CCorp.HochiminRepresentativeOffice Address:10thFloor,CentralParkBuilding208NguyenTrai,Dist, 1 HCMC, Vietnam Tel / Fax : 84-8-925-6790 / 84-8-925-6798

UAE (Dubai) Name:GSE&CCorp.DubaiRepresentative Office Address:#1100,11thFloor,UnionHouse Building,PlotNo.P306,PortSaeedDubai, U.A.E. Tel/Fax:971-4-351-4115/971-4-351-4122

Thailand (Bangkok) Name : GS E&C Bangkok Office Address:19thFl.ExchangeTower,386SukhumvitRd,Klongtoey, Bangkok 10110, Thailand Tel / Fax : 66-2-663-6703 / 66-2-663-6702

Qatar (Doha) Name : GS E&C, Doha Office Address:SuiteNo.24,AlBusinessCenter,C Name : GS E&C Cario Office Ring Road, Doha Tel/Fax:974-477-3888/974-477-2008 Tel/Fax:20-2634-1556/20-2634-1753

General Information President: Lee, Jong-Soo Address: 140-2 Kye-dong, Chongro-ku Seoul Phone: +82-2-746-1114 Fax: +82-2-746-2528 e-mail: webmaster@hdec.co.kr Internet Homepage Address: www.hdec.co.kr Turnover(2007): US$ 6,021Mil. Paid-in Capital: US$ 591Mil.

Company History Since its establishment in 1947, Hyundai Engineering & Construction Co., Ltd.(HDEC) has contributed to the development of Korea’s national economy playing a pivotal role in constructing domestic key infrastructure and raising the reputation of the Korean construction industry through the performance of numerous overseas projects with advanced technology and challenging spirit.

HDEC is internationally competitive having accumulated know-how and expertise in all construction areas such as oil & gas, power (generation & transmission & distribution), industrial plant, civil and architectural works.

Overseas, our resources are focused on oil & gas and power sectors, whilst on the domestic front we play a leading role in residential inhancement.

Founded upon 60 years of uncountable great achievements, HDEC is renowned for its reputation as a symbolic company representing the Korean construction industry, continuing to strive towards customer satisfaction and creating an affluent society for humanity.

HDEC will relentlessly endeavor to come closer to customers and work as a forerunner in the world market in order to raise the value of the company and its customers.

Business Area Civil Works - Port and Marine Works, Offshore Facilities, Dredging and Reclamation, Well-drilling, Water Resources Development and Sewage Treatment, Highway and Bridge, Railway, Airport, Subway, Tunnel, Dam, Irrigation, Reservoir, Offshore Pipeline, Underground Storage Facilities, Industrial Site development, etc.

Architectural Works - Building and Housing Works including Urban Development Scheme and Apartment, Airport Building, Office Building, Educational Building, Gymnasium, Hotel, Hospital, Public Amenities and other Facilities Industrial Plant - Fossil Power Plant, Nuclear Power Plant, Hydro-electric Power Plant, Desalination Plant, Chemical and Petrochemical Plant, Oil Refinery, Gas Processing Plant, Fertilizer Plant, Pulp and Paper Mill, Steel Mill, Cement Plant, Cross-country Pipeline and other industrial Plants Electrical Works - Substation, Transmission Line and Distribution Network, Power distribution Systems in Power/Industrial Plants/Public Buildings/ Utilities, Lighting and Small Power, Protection Systems,Telephones, CCTV’s, MicroWaves, Fibre-Optic Communication, PLC, Radio Equipment and various Telecontrol Systems, etc.

FactsaboutKorea

12

Geography Korea is situated on the Korean Peninsula, which spans 1,100 kilometers north to south. The Korean Peninsula lies on the northeastern section of the Asian continent, where Korean waters are joined by the western-most parts of the Pacific. The peninsula shares its northern border with China

and Russia. To the east is the East Sea, beyond which neighboring Japan lies. To the west is the Yellow Sea. In addition to the mainland, Korea includes some 3,200 islands.

Korea encompasses a total of 223,098 square kilometers - almost the same size as the United Kingdom or Ghana. Some 45 percent of this area, or

13

99,678 square kilometers, is considered cultivable area, excluding reclaimed land areas. Mountainous terrain accounts for some two-thirds of the territory like Portugal, Hungary or Ireland

Climate Korea has four distinct seasons. Spring and autumn are rather short, summer is hot and humid, and winter is cold and dry with abundant snowfall, especially in the mountainous regions, but not along the southern coast.

Temperatures differ widely from region to region within Korea, with the average being between 6°C (43°F) and 16°C (61°F).

In early spring, Siberian winds pick up “yellow dust” from thawing deserts in northern China and carry it to the peninsula and Japan. But in midApril, the country also enjoys balmy weather with the mountains and fields garbed in brilliant wild flowers. Farmers prepare seedbeds for the annual rice crop at this time.

Autumn, with its crisp air and crystal blue sky, is the season most widely loved by Koreans. The countryside is particularly beautiful, colored in a multitude of rustic hues. Autumn, the harvest season, features various folk festivals rooted in ancient agrarian customs.

Population As of the end of 2007, South Korea’s total population was estimated to be 48,456,369 with a density of 498 people per square kilometer. The population of North Korea was estimated to be 23,200,238.

Korea saw its population grow by an annual rate of 3 percent during the 1960s, but growth slowed to 2 percent over the next decade. In 2005, the rate stood at 0.21 percent and is expected to further decline to 0.02 percent by 2020.

Inthe1960s,Korea’spopulationdistributionformed a pyramid, with a high birth rate and relatively short life expectancy. However, age-group distribution is now shaped more like a bell because of the low birth rate and extended life expectancy. Those aged 15 and younger will make up a decreasing

14

portion of the total, while senior citizens (65 and older) will account for some 15.7 percent of the total by the year 2020.

Thenation’srapidindustrializationandurbanization in the 1960s and 1970s has been accompanied by continuing migration of rural residents into the cities, particularly Seoul, resulting in heavily populated metropolitan areas. However, in recent years, an increasing number of Seoulites have begun moving to suburban areas.

The number of foreigners - including short-term sojourners - residing in Korea reached 1,000,254, surpassing for the first time the one million mark, on Aug. 24, 2007. They now make up two percent of the population. And the yearly increase, in particular the 15 percent spurt from the foreign population of 865,889 recorded in July 2006, shows how rapidly Korean society is diversifying in terms of race and culture.

By nationality, Chinese made up 44 percent with 441,334 (266,764 of which were ethnic Koreans), followed by Americans who made up 12 percent with 117,938. Vietnamese comprised the third largest foreigners group at 6 percent with 63,464, followed by Filipinos. (5 percent with 50,264) and Thais (4 percent with 43,792). The others were mainly from Japan, Taiwan and Indonesia.

Among the 724,967 long-term residents, workers, including industrial trainees, made up 56 percent of the foreign population at 404,051. Those who came to Korea through marriage were 14 percent at 104,749, while 7 percent or 47,479 were students studying in Korea.

Language All Koreans speak and write the same language, which has been a decisive factor in forging their strong national identity. Korean has several different dialects in addition to the standard variety used in Seoul. Only the dialect of Jeju-do Province, however, is so different that it is difficult for others to understand.

Linguistic and ethnological studies have classified the Korean language in the Altaic language family, which includes the Turkic, Mongolic and Tungus-

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Manchu languages.

King Sejong the Great commissioned and helped create the Korean alphabet Hangeul during the 15th century. Before its creation, only a relatively small percentage of the population was literate; few could master the difficult Chinese characters used by the upper class.

Before developing a Korean writing system, King Sejong studied several writing systems known at the time, such as Uighur and Mongolian scripts and old Chinese seal characters.The system that Joseon scholars came up with, however, is predominantly based upon phonology. Above all, they developed and followed a theory that divided each syllable into initial, medial and final phonemes, as opposed to the bipartite division of traditional Chinese phonology.

Hangeul, which consists of 10 vowels and 14 consonants, can be combined to form numerous syllabic groupings.

It is simple, yet systematic and comprehensive, and is considered one of the most scientific writing systems in the world. Hangeul is easy to learn and write, which has greatly contributed to Korea’s high literacy rate and advanced publication industry.

A growing number of students from abroad are enrolling in Korean language courses at universities in Seoul, including Seoul National, Yonsei, Korea and Ewha Womans University.

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Tete-a-tete with the Korean Ambassador HE Moon, Young-han expounds on Korea-Kuwait ties, economy and tourism Interview by : Mujahid Iqbal

1. Could you take us through an insight of your personal/professional career?

are currently involved in 26 construction projects totaling $7.5 billion as of September 2008.

After graduating from the Korean Military Academy in 1972, I served in the Korean Army for 33 years. My work in the military was mainly focused on defense diplomacy with the United States: I served as Chief of US Policy Division of the Ministry of National Defense, Deputy Assistant Chief of Staff of C-5 in the ROK-US Combined Forces Command, and Korean Defense Attaché to the United States. I believe my previous military experience will serve as a great asset during my stay in Kuwait as Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, for diplomacy is closely related to defense like the palm and dorsum of the hand.

I believe that in the future the vibrant and dynamic economic development of both countries will bring greater opportunities in a way to increase mutual benefits. Having said that, the recent visit of His Highness Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammed Al-Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah to Korea added a special significance as it provided an important opportunity to strengthen the existing friendly relationship and broaden mutual cooperation in more comprehensive areas. I have a strong optimism that the relationship between Kuwait and Korea will be further developed toward a strategic partnership in the near future.

2. How would you rate overall diplomatic, economic and trade relations with Kuwait?

3. What is the trade volume between Kuwait and Korea? Is the volume of import or export between the two countries balanced or onesided?

Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1979, the Republic of Korea and Kuwait have maintained very cordial and friendly relationship in diverse fields. Close ties between the two countries have been bolstered by common stance on many global and regional issues. Kuwait and Korea have also nurtured a strong economic partnership, particularly in energy and construction sectors.

Korea is the world’s second largest importer of Kuwait oil while Kuwait is the third largest crude oil supplier to Korea. In addition, Korean companies

18

As I mentioned above, South Korea and Kuwait have nurtured a strong partnership in economic and trade. In 2007, the total trade volume between the two countries reached over US$ 10 billion, 20% increase from the previous year’s volume. While Korea exported $1.3 billion of cars, machinery, mechanical appliances, vessel, steel, and electronic machinery to Kuwait, it imported $8.7 billion of crude oil, LPG and petrochemical products from

Moon, Young-han Ambassador of the Republic of Korea

Kuwait. As a result, the trade deficit of South Korea with Kuwait exceeded $7.4 billion last year. I believe the trade volume will be able to increase further in the near future if Korea and GCC can reach a Free Trade Agreement of which negotiation process started this July.

I sincerely hope that many Kuwaiti people will have a chance to visit Korea to meet its people and experience its culture and beautiful scenic views. I am sure they will fall in love with the uniqueness of Korea as I do with the culture and people of Kuwait.

4. How do you estimate overall investment relations between Kuwait and Korea?

Investmentrelationshipbetweenthetwocountries has much room for development when compared to other economic relations. This is because the current level of investment remains quite low.

Kuwait’s investment has been made only into the Korean stock market through foreign investment companies while Korean entrepreneurs residing in Kuwaitmakesomedirectinvestments.Considering the fact that both the countries have same ambition to become a hub of their region, I believe mutual investment opportunities will be abundant in the future.

5. How did Korea achieve the fastest economic development in modern history and what is the

future ambition of Korea?

From the mid to late 20th century, South Korea has enjoyed exponential economic growth with one of the fastest growth rates in modern history.

GDP per capita of South Korea has grown from only $100 in 1963 to $24,600 in 2007. This phenomenonhasbeenreferred to as “Miracle of the Han River”.

Last year, the economy of South Korea ranked the 13th largest in the world and the third largest in Asia by GDP. As driving forces for this unprecedented development, I would like to name four important factors: the will of people, high eagerness for education, strong national leaderships and the pioneering spirit of Korean enterprises. Korean people worked very hard to overcome poverty with the spirit of “Can do”, which was materialized as the Saemaul (New Community) Movement, Korea’s most unique development strategy.

During the rapid economic growth, Korean people’s high eagerness for education also played a pivotal role by providing high-quality workforce while strong and devoted national leaderships set goals and implemented various development

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plans successfully. The pioneering spirit of Korean enterprises made it possible to establish worldfamous companies such as Samsung, Hyundai, SK and POSCO in the war-torn nation where nothing was left right after the Korean War (1950-1953).

Regardingfutureambition,mycountrywillcontinue to develop its advanced IT industry and materialize various plans to expand or create other economic sectors including finance, biotechnology, robotics, aerospace and entertainment industries. It also has ambition to become an economic and logistic hub of East Asia.

6. How secure do you think Korea is in terms of international competition in the face of the looming Chinese and Indian economies?

Some raise concerns over the rise of Chinese and Indian economies, but in my opinion, it offers winwin situation for the development of not only their economies but also Korean economy, for example, by providing new large markets. Even though China and India have competitiveness in the global market based on their large-scale market and abundant labor force, Korea will continue to have competitive advantages in cutting-edge industries such as IT, automobiles, shipbuilding and in service industries.

7. What are the main attractions and places of tourist interest in Korea?

As you are well aware, South Korea has unique culture achieved by preserving centuries-old traditions of its own. If you have a chance to visit Korea, you will be able to see the peaceful harmony of tradition and modernity it has accomplished.

It is very difficult for me to mention only a few

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among numerous places worth visiting in Korea.

However, if I have to, I would like to recommend Seoul, Gyeongju and Jeju Island as must-visit places. Seoul, the capital city of Korea, provides visitors a variety of attractions enough to satisfy their different interests while Gyeongju, a capital of the ancient kingdom called Shilla, boasts many historical sites designated as UNESCO’s world cultural heritage. Lastly, Jeju island is famous for its mild climate and unique natural scenery, which made it as UNESCO’s world natural heritage. There is an old Korean saying that one seeing is better than a thousand words. I hope someday you will be able to visit Korea in person.

8. Are the cities and sights of attraction in Korea well connected by road, rail and air?

Korea offers enjoyable convenient transportation to foreign visitors.Tourists can depart from Incheon International Airport or Kimpo Airport located in Seoul for other main cities and any air trip will take less than an hour. Also, simply by taking an express train or bus, they can travel fast and conveniently to wherever they want to visit around the nation.

9. How advanced is the medical care sector in Korea?

Korea boasts world-class medical workforce and technology, which have a competitive edge over developed countries due to relatively lower costs. In the past, there were legal and technical restrictions on the opening of Korea’s medical facilities to foreigners. However, recently the Korean government cooperates actively with private institutions to provide more systematic medical services including medical tourism. As a result, foreigners can receive quality medical care

more conveniently and cheaply. More information regarding Korea’s medical care is available through the Dubai branch of Korea Tourism Organization at 9714-331-2288.

10. Could you please give us some details about Korean mega projects in Kuwait?

Since the late 1970s, many Korean companies and engineers have come to Kuwait and made a great contribution to the establishment of Kuwaiti infrastructure including the expansion of Shuaiba Port and the construction of the 1st and 6th ring roads and Sabiya Power Plant. Recently Korean companies undertake various projects based on their predominant competitiveness in the construction of desalination plants, oil refineries, petrochemical facilities and power plants.

The projects include the construction projects of Shuaiba North power plant, crude export facilities of Kuwait Oil Company, and Sabiya desalination plant as well as the modernization project of oil facilities of Kuwait Oil Company. With worldclass technology and excellent human resources, Korean enterprises are expected to continue their participation in Kuwait’s large-scale projects and infrastructure establishment. I hope this will help Korea and Kuwait to continue economic cooperation from which both the countries can benefit.

of cooperation, Korea and Kuwait can cooperate not only in economic fields but also in more comprehensive areas. I am also strongly optimistic that the relationship of the two countries will be further developed toward strategic partnership in the near future.

It is usually unnoticed that Korea and the Arab world have similar cherished traditions; for example, respect for elders and hospitality toward guests. Maybe this is why I am so impressed by the culture and people of Kuwait. Especially, I want to highly praise Kuwait’s tradition of diwaniya.

While offering hospitality toward family members, acquaintances and guests, Kuwaiti people have an opportunity to express their opinions freely and I think this is how the public opinion of Kuwait is gathered in a democratic way. For you, it might be a surprise that Korean people had a similar place called ‘sarangbang’ where a head of household met visitors and exchanged views.

I sincerely hope that many Kuwaiti people will have a chance to visit Korea to meet its people and experience its culture and beautiful scenic views. I am sure they will fall in love with the uniqueness of Korea as I do with the culture and people of Kuwait.

11. Is there any message, advice or input that you would like to share with other than the issues already discussed?

Korea and the Arab world started to make a history of exchanges through the Silk Road more than 1000 years ago. I believe that with the long history

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Hyundai Heavy Industries Co., Ltd. Congratulates Kuwait on a New Historic Milestone Hyundai Heavy Industries Co., Ltd. achieved another milestone in Kuwait history. On April 27th, 2008, the first tanker berthed at the newly constructed and installed CALM buoy at the Ahmadi Harbor. 1.8 million barrels of crude oil were loaded to the tanker to mark the completion of Portions I & II of the Export Facilities Project, the biggest in KOC's history.

Since then approximately total 157.3 million barrels of crude have been loaded to the tankers as of end of September 2008. Progress in the remaining two portions is running as scheduled.

Since the contract was signed on October 3rd, 2005, HHI has been working round the clock for the timely completion of this vital project. The project will increase Kuwait's export capacity to 3 million barrels per day.

Through this new Export Facility Project, HHI has contributed to Kuwait social and economic development.

ExploringKorea Seoul

Located along the Hangang River, Seoul has grown into a teeming metropolis with a population of more than 10 million. Over the years, the capital city of Korea has greatly expanded in the process of urbanization and industrialization and continues to grow as the thriving centre of the country’s political, economic, cultural and educational activities.

Seoul is the world’s 10th-largest city. Its past and present coexist in a fascinating way: centuries-old palaces,citygates,shrines,gardensandpricelessart collections attest to the city’s illustrious past, while

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the glistening facades of soaring skyscrapers and the bustling traffic represent its vibrant present.

The old city was encircled by four inner mountains and four outer mountains. Bugaksan in the north, Naksan in the east, Inwangsan in the west, and Namsan in the south are “the inner mountains” as all were originally inside the old city walls of the Joseon capital. The four outer mountains are Bukhansan in the north, Yongmasan in the east, Deogyangsan in the west, and Gwanaksan in the south. Each mountain has a unique beauty of its own while boasting natural scenic landscapes and spectacular views overlooking the city of Seoul.

In Seoul, the must-see attractions are the ancient royal palaces of the Joseon Dynasty: Gyeongbokgung, Deoksugung, Changdeokgung, and Changgyeonggung.

There are also numerous mountain springs that freely provide clean, clear water to refresh weary hikers.

In Seoul, the must-see attractions are the ancient royal palaces of the Joseon Dynasty: Gyeongbokgung, Deoksugung, Changdeokgung, and Changgyeonggung. Jongmyo, the royal ancestral shrine of the Joseon Dynasty and Changdeokgung’s adjacent Huwon (Rear Garden also known as the Secret Garden) are noted for their beautifully landscaped gardens and classical structures.

One of the most popular areas for tourists in the old

centre of Seoul is Insa-dong. A place that beckons both casual shoppers and serious collectors, it is lined with antique shops, art galleries, traditional teahouses, and restaurants as well as bookstores.

Other attractions highly recommended for visitors include the National Museum, the National Center for Korean Traditional Performing Arts, the Sejong Center for the Performing Arts, the Ho-Am Art Hall and Korea House. The National Museum of Contemporary Art in Gwacheon, a southern satellite town, also deserves a visit.

At Namsan Park, in the heart of Seoul, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the entire city from Seoul Tower and look around a reconstructed

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Hanok village below. Visitors can relax, walk, or rent bicycles in numerous Seoul parks, such as Olympic Park, Seoul Grand Park, Seoul Forest, and the Hangang River Trail. These parks are among the hidden treasures of Seoul, enjoyed by residents but often missed by tourists.

Of course, Korean cuisine is also a must during a trip to the peninsula, either at a modern or traditional restaurant. Excellent Chinese and Japanese food is also available, as well as French, Italian, Thai, Pakistani and many other ethnic cuisines. Seoul has an active nightlife with clubs, cafes, and rooftop lounges. A fantastic view of the city at night can be seen from the Seoul City Tour Bus or from along the Hangang River as a cruise boat slowly meanders through a valley flanked by high-rises.

Seoul Vicinity & Gyeonggi-do Province

Gyeonggido Province is located in the western central region of the Korean Peninsula, with the

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Hangang running through its center. The river divides the province into a mountainous northern area and open fields to the south. While Seoul keeps its visitors busy with so many intriguing and enticing things to see and do, this area outside of Seoul can provide a refreshing and invigorating break.

The shoreline of coastal regions juts in and out along the beaches and includes countless bays and coves, capes and islands. Namyangman and Asanman Bays, Gimpo and Hwaseong Peninsula as well as Ganghwado and Yeongjongdo islands are all attractions worth a trip outside of Seoul.

The golden bell, the provincial flower, symbolizes prosperity and flourishes widely throughout the region.

Within a 30-minute drive to the south of Seoul is the Korean Folk Village. In this traditional village everyday Korean life of days gone by is reenacted.

The Korean Folk Village opened in 1973 and now includes aspects of almost everything traditionally Korean. Homes typical of the various provinces are on display, and there are regular performances of tightrope walking, wedding and funeral processions, kite-flying contests and folk dancing inthevillagesquare.Blacksmith,carpenters,potters and craftsmen can also be seen at work in their shops. In Suwon, adjacent to this traditional village is Hwaseong Fortress, a walled city of the Joseon Dynasty that was recently included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

Yongin Everland, a comprehensive leisure complex, consistsofstate-of-the-artamusementparkfacilities, including a water park and spas, ideal for summer recreation for all age groups. The distinguished HoAm Art Museum displays over 5,000 pieces of art.

About 80 kilns are concentrated in the area of the Icheon Ceramic Festival which is held in September each year. Bigger still, the World Ceramic Biennale

spreads out over Incheon, Gwangju and Yeoju on odd-numbered years, Here you can savour the mysterious colour of Goryeo celadon and the white purity of Korean porcelain.

GanghwadoissituatedintheestuaryoftheHangang River north of Incheon Port.This island, Korea’s fifthlargest, is rich in history and natural beauty. Major historic monuments here include an altar said to have been erected by Dangun, the legendary founder of Korea, along with fortresses, ancient walls, a celadon kiln dating back to the 13th century Goryeo Kingdom, and Jeondeungsa Temple.

Just a 56-km bus trip north of Seoul is Panmunjeom, the truce village where the Korean Armistice was signed on July 27, 1953, ending the fierce fighting of the Korean War. It is now a joint security area managed by the UN Command and North Korean guards.Visitors are escorted and briefed by military guides.

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Eastern Region

Gangwon-do Province is located in the central eastern region of the Korean Peninsula. Most of the land is covered with thick forests, providing an abundance of scenic vistas with fewer residential areas than in other provinces. Both its remote wooded mountains and ravines as well as small coastal towns are rich in scenic splendor.

With these natural conditions, Gangwon-do served as an ideal site for the 4th Asian Winter Games in January 1999. The International Travel Exposition (ITE) ‘99 was also held here from September 11 through October 30, 1999. Over 2 million visitors from overseas and around the country participated in these events. Under the theme, “Man, Nature and Life of the Future,� the ITE offered an array of performances and events in addition to a number of fascinating exhibitions and useful information to visitors.

The eastern coastline, stretching 390 km from Hwajinpo to Busan, is rugged and mountainous

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with some of the most breathtaking scenery in Korea. Skiing and other winter sports help make the area a year-round resort destination. To meet the needs of the more than one million skiers per year, several resorts are now equipped with snow-making machines, which have extended the season from December to March. Other popular recreational activities in the region include swimming in summer and mountain climbing in autumn.The beaches here are perhaps the finest in Korea, gently sloping into shallow water and mild currents.

Seoraksan Mountain, part of the Geumgangsan MountainRange,drawsvisitorswithitsmagnificent splendor. It is impressive and colorful all year round and is home to the Asiatic black bear, the symbol of Gangwon-do Province and one of the most endangered species in the world.

Other popular sites include the Cheoksan, Osaek and Sorak Waterpia hot springs in and around Seoraksan National Park and the unification

observatories abutting the DMZ that offer excellent views of North Korean territory. And every August, puppet theater groups from around the world converge on the capital of Gangwon-do for the Chuncheon Puppet Festival.

Ulleungdo, lying 217 km northeast of Pohang, is an extinct volcano rising prominently from the East Sea. Dokdo, the easternmost point of Korea, lies 87.4 km to the southeast of Ulleungdo. Geumgangsan is considered one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders. It is located in North Korea near the eastern end of the Demilitarized Zone. Tourists can travel overland to Geumgangsan by signing up with an authorized South Korean travel agency for a guided tour.

Central Region

Chungcheongbuk-do and Chungcheongnamdo provinces lie in the western center of the peninsula. Chungcheongbuk-do is the country’s only landlocked province, but with the completion of the Government Complex in its capital Daejeon

and the newly opened international airport in Chungcheongnam-do’s capital Cheongju, the two provinces are being turned into a strategic heartland for the domestic economy.

Daejeon is about two hours south of Seoul by car and is a major train junction for the Seoul-Busan and Seoul-Gwangju-Mokpo lines. It is rapidly developing into one of Korea’s major science and technology centers. Expo Park, the site of the International Daejeon Expo‘93, has been renovated and converted into a public science park. Buyeo, the last capital of the Baekje Kingdom (18 B.C.- A.D. 660), features the Buyeo National Museum which houses a comprehensive collection of about 7,000 relics from the Baekje period.

TheGeumgangRiverflowsalongsideGyeryongsan, one of the region’s most popular mountains. As the original center of Baekje culture, the area abounds with unique cultural artefacts and historic relics.

Dotted between the many peaks and saddlebacks along the ridgeline of the Sobaeksan Mountains are

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a wealth of national treasures and historical places.

These include the seven-storey stone pagoda of Yongdusa, the Palsangjeon wooden pagoda, Sangdangsanseong Fortress, and Admiral Yi Sunsin’s Chungnyeolsa Shrine.

Many other celebrated temples, hot springs, national parks and natural wonders are also waiting to be discovered here. Chungjuho Lake offers a variety of delightful water sports in central Korea.

Cruise boats ply its waters between Chungju and Danyang, giving passengers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Gosudonggul Cave captivates visitors with its glistening stalactites in all shapes and sizes. Chungju orchards are one of the country’s main sources of delicious apples. Yellow tobacco is also a specialty of this region, and the area’s ginseng has gained a worldwide reputation.

Seosan City is located a little southwest from Seoul and East Asia’s best birding areas, Cheonsu Bay and the Seosan reclamation lakes and rice-fields.

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Southwestern Region

Korea’s southwestern region encompasses Jeollabuk-do and Jeollanam-do provinces. The region is relatively flat, containing broad stretches of rice paddies, and its jagged coastline creates many small harbors. It is a fertile and warm region sheltered by high mountains on the east and north and calm seas and many islands on the west and south. Because of the influence of both continental and ocean climates, the provinces exhibit a wide variety of weather conditions.

Jeonju is famous for its traditional mixed vegetable rice dish, bibimbap, and for Hanji, traditional mulberry paper. The provincial bird is the magpie, which is related to a poignant legend. According to this legend, on the night of the seventh day of the seventh lunar month, magpies build a bridge above the MilkyWay by carrying twigs and pebbles in their beaks, allowing two lovers, Gyeonu and Jingnyeo, who are destined to meet only once a year to see each other again.

Namwon is the gateway to Jirisan National Park, as wellasthefamedhomeofChunhyang,oneofKorea’s legendary heroines. Chunhyangga, a narrative epic song (pansori) about the faithfulness of her love, is one of the most favored performances in Korea. Mt. Jirisan contains the second highest mountain peak in South Korea. The sub-range is vast and stretches acrossthreeprovinces,Jeollanam-do,Jeollabuk-do and Gyeongsangnam-do.

Deogyusan National Park commands superb views of the 30 km-long Mujugucheondong Valley.

The valley encompasses Muju Ski Resort, the largest skiing area in Korea. The Gwangju National Museum is home to a collection of Chinese ceramics recovered from a 600-year-old Chinese merchant ship that was wrecked in the seas off Sinan. Damyang, 22 km north of Gwangju, is the center of bamboo cultivation and craftsmanship.

The Damyang Bamboo Museum is the world’s first museum devoted exclusively to bamboo.

Other tourist sites and museums such as Hwangtohyeon Victory Field, Gochang-eupseong Fortress, the dolmen sites in Gochang and Hwasun counties and the Gangam Calligraphy Museum add historic and literary character to the province.

On Jindo Island, which is some 350 km south of Seoul, visitors can see the Korean version of the Moses Miracle. The sea between the coastal village of Hoedong-ri on Jindo and nearby Modo Islet actually parts for about an hour twice a year in early May, and again in the middle of July, leaving a walkable path, 2.8 km long and 40 m wide. Jindo is also renowned for the indigenous Korean dog breed, Jindogae, which is designated as Natural Monument No. 53.

Southeastern Region

Korea’ssoutheasternregion,encompassingGyeongsangbuk-do and Gyeongsangnam-do provinces, is an area rich in tourist attractions, cultural assets and

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historical places. The Hallyeosudo Waterway and the mountains of Jirisan and Gayasan are among this region’s most outstanding natural resources.

In addition, the entire city of Gyeongju, ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom (57 BC-AD 935), is now an exceptional open-air museum. Royal tombs, temple sites with weathered stone pagodas and fortress ruins are scattered all around the city and have yielded many ancient treasures.

Gyeongju’s main architectural sites are Bulguksa Temple and the nearby Seokguram Grotto. Both were completed in the eighth century and are representative of highly refined Buddhist art. They were included on UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1995.

Other important historic sites include Dumuli Park, Oreung (Five Tombs), Cheomseongdae Observatory, General Kim Yu-sin’s Tomb, and Mt. Namsan, which is dotted with numerous Buddhist images, pagodas and temple remains.

The Gyeongju National Museum houses antique treasures recovered from Gyeongju and its vicinity.

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Bomun Lake Resort, six kilometres from downtown on the eastern outskirts of the city, is an integrated tourist destination with several first-class hotels and various recreational facilities. Haeinsa Temple is famous for housing the 80,000 wooden printing blocks used to print the Tripitaka Koreana, which were carved in the 13th century. The Tripitaka Koreana is acknowledged as the most complete compilation of Buddhist scripture in East Asia.

Not far from historic Gyeongju are the growing industrial cities of Pohang and Ulsan. Pohang is home to the POSCO steel mills, while Ulsan is the industrial base for Hyundai, one of Korea’s leading conglomerates.

Further to the south is Busan, Korea’s principal port and second-largest city. The Jagalchi Fish Market, one of Korea’s most famous markets, is right next to the piers where fishing boats unload their daily hauls. The market offers tourists a great early morning attraction as buyers and sellers haggle over the catch of the day.

Andong is one of the last living vestiges of old Korea, a treasure-trove of Confucian tradition.

Hahoe, a small village near Andong, is famous for its unique traditional masks and the mask dance-drama, Hahoe-talchum. Dosanseowon, a Confucian academy founded in the 16th century by one of Korea’s most well-known scholars, Yi Hwang, is also nearby. Massive international tour and resort complexes were opened in 2006 in the western and northern areas, featuring ultramodern recreation and leisure facilities.

Jejudo Island and Southern Coastal Regions

Within an hour’s flight from Seoul, Busan or Daegu, travellers in Korea can reach a land of a completely different character. Recognized as the bestpreserved area in the nation, Jejudo is Korea’s only island province. The island is Korea’s most popular honeymoon destination. Known as “Little Hawaii” for its volcanic landscape, picturesque subtropical scenery, sandy beaches, waterfalls and hiking trails,

it is one of the world’s top ten tourist attractions with over four million visitors a year.

Jejudo enjoys a semitropical climate, with its plants and landscape being remarkably different from those of the mainland. It is also the natural habitat of over 2,000 species. Its principal mountain is the 1,950-m Hallasan, a dormant volcano crowned with a large crater. Many centuries ago, lava flows from this volcano created tunnels, pillars and other unusual features formed by the quickly-cooled basalt. Favourite destinations include the Jeju Folkcraft and Natural History Museum, Jungmun Resort, Cheonjiyeon Falls, and Jeju Fantasy Gardens.

Jejudo’soldthatchedcottageswithwallsmadefrom lava rock offer visitors a great chance to glimpse the island’s unique folk culture. They reflect both the island’s natural environment, characterized by strong winds, and the hearty lifestyle of its people.

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Closer to the mainland, more than 3,000 islands line the winding southern and western coastlines.

The completion of the Honam and Namhae expressways in 1973 made these picturesque coasts more accessible. The areas around Jinhae, Tongyeong, Jinju and Namhae are recommended highlights. The southern boundary of the Korean

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Peninsula is a jagged coastline which has created an irregular pattern of bays and inlets dotted with large and small islands. For those preferring waterways to expressways, a hydrofoil skims over the water between Busan and Yeosu. The boat stops at Seongpo, Tongyeong, Samcheonpo and Namhae.

Making the world we live in more beautiful, more pleasant and more abundant – SK E&C

Since its inception in 1977, SK E&C has developed into the country’s leader in the engineering and constructionIndustry. SK E&C continues to raise as bar as a world-class competitor in plant, civil, building, housing works.

Moreover, with its ultimate corporate mission to “ provide happiness to people, “ all its efforts are geared toward client’s satisfaction and delight.

SK E&C is leveraging its considerable resources toward developing new capabilities and cultivating human potential, and satisfying client needs by providing the best quality and enhanced services.

And SK E&C will ensure ever more sound, tansparent management and fulfill social responsibility of giving back to clients.

MagicofSeoul With over ten millions inhabitants, Seoul, the capitalofSouthKorea,representsthecountry’s centre for business, education, and modern culture. Seoul is located in north-western South Korea and is circled by mountains on all sides with Namsan (South Mountain) springing up in the centre. Although the Han River once marked the southern boundary, the city has sprawled across to the southern side with some 2 dozen bridges crossing it and one subway tunnel underneath. Across the Han River the modern city is dominated

by Korea’s World Trade Center, and the Coex Mall, a shopper’s delight.

The name of Seoul comes from the ancient word ‘Seorabeol’ or ‘Seobeol’, meaning “capital”. Seoul was an early fortress and a trade centre during the Paekche Kingdom, more than 1,500 years ago. But the city’s true genesis occurred in 1394, when it became the capital of the Chosun Dynasty, which ruled Korea until the country became a colony of Japan in 1910 (the vestiges of the Chosun Dynasty are still today prominent features of the city’s landscape).

Seoul became the capital of South Korea in 1948. North Korean forces captured the city on June 28, 1950 during the Korean War. The capital then changed hands several times until UN troops took it in March, 1951, and it became the headquarters of the UN command in Korea. Today, Seoul has grown into a cosmopolitan city replete with a variety of modern facilities and world renowned shopping areas such as Namdaemun Market, Dongdaemun Market, Itaewon and Insadong. The nightlife is brilliant. Seoul is about 30 miles from Incheon International Airport.

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Attractions

Seoul is incredibly full of different attractions. One of the most popular areas for visitors to explore is Insa-dong, filled with antique shops, art galleries, traditional teahouses, restaurants and bookshops. Mount Namsan, the mountain that stands sentinel in the centre of Seoul, is a popular recreational feature in the city. On the summit there are several attractions to enjoy, including the Maritime Aquarium, botanical gardens, fountains and the charming Seoul Tower.

The Chongmyo Shrine, built in the early 15th century by the founder of the Chosun Dynasty (Tae-jo). In December 1995, the Chongmyo Shrine was designated a World Cultural Heritage site by UNESCO. The Children’s Grand Park is one of the largest children’s parks in Asia. It includes a zoo, a botanical garden, an amusement park, outdoor concert stages and physical training facilities.

Other great attractions of Seoul include the Gyeongbokgung Palace, the Toksugung Palace, the Changdeokgung Palace and its Secret Garden, the 63 Building with IMAX theatre and aquarium, the night market at Dong-Dae Moon, the AchasanseongFortressandtheThirteenth-century watchtower Dongshipjagak. Lotte World, Seoul Dream Land and Everland are popular amusement parks located nearby Seoul city.

Insa-dong

Insa-dong, located in the middle of the city, is an important place where old but precious and traditional goods are on display. There is one main road in Insa-dong with alleys on each side. Within these alleys are galleries, traditional restaurants, traditional teahouses, and cafes. The shops in Insa-dong are very popular among all age groups, because each one is unique. The galleries are the heartbeat of Insa-dong. There are about 100 galleries in the area and you can see every example of traditional Korean fine art from paintings to sculptures.The most famous galleries are Hakgojae Gallery, which functions as the center of folk art, Gana Art Gallery, which promotes many promising artists, and Gana Art Center. The best way to visit these galleries is to use the “Art Center Bus.” It will take you to over 10 of the most famous galleries at a very reasonable price.

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The teahouses and restaurants are the perfect compliment to the galleries. At first they might be hard to find, but if you take the time to stroll around the twisting alleyways, the window shopping in itself can be very entertaining. If you had to choose just one teahouse from the hundreds that are here, Gwicheon would be the place to go. Poet Cheon Sang-Byeong’s wife is the proprietor of the tea house. The shop isn’t very big, but you can see pictures and books of famous poets. You might even run into one. Mokwacha is their best tea and it is famous for its fragrance.

Palace” because it is located more toward the north, compared to the neighboring palaces of Changdeokgung (Eastern Palace) and Gyeongheegung (Western Palace).

Gyeongbokgung Palace is arguably the most beautiful and remains the grandest of all the five palaces. The premises were destroyed by fire at the time of the Japan’s occupation of Korea during 1592-1598. However, all of the palace’s 7,700 rooms were later restored under the leadership of Heungseondaewongun in the years of King Gojong (1852-1919).

Every Sunday from 10:00 – 22:00, some streets are blocked off from traffic and it becomes a place of cultural space. This is when the stores will set up booths outside. Not only the stores that are here, but all kinds of people arrive during this time and set up shop, such as Korean candy merchants and old fortune tellers. There are traditional performances and exhibits as well. Insa-dong is especially popular with foreign tourists. This is where they can experience and see traditional Korean culture firsthand, and also purchase pieces of fine art. On the street you can eat Korean taffy and traditional pajeon (Korean pancake), and see many foreigners lost in all the joyous festivities of the street.

Remarkably, the most representative edifices of the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeonghoe-ru Pavilion and Hyangwonjeong Pond are still relatively in tact.

Woldae and the sculptures of Geunjeongjeon (The Royal Audience Chamber) represent the past sculpture art which was the trend back then. The National Palace Museum of Korea is located south of Heungnyemun Gate, and the National Folk Museum is located east within Hyangwonjeong.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace is also commonly referred to as the “Northern

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Deoksugung Palace

Located at the corner of Seoul’s busiest downtown intersection, Deoksugung Palace is famous for its elegant stone-wall road. It is also the only palace that sits alongside a series of western style buildings that add to the uniqueness of the surroundingscenery.DeoksugungPalaceoriginally belonged toWolsandaegun (1454-1488), the older

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brother of King Seongjong (1469-1494) of the Joseon Dynasty. It became a proper palace when Gwanghaegun (1575-1641) ascended the throne and gave the palace the name Gyeongungung in 1611. Afterwards, the name was then changed back to its orginal title of Deoksugung.

Upon entering Deoksugung Palace and Daehanmun, visitors will cross the wide bridge of Geumcheon. The king’s carriage would pass over this bridge during ancient times. The Beopjeon Building Junghwajeon is very stately, revealing of its long history. The Jeukjodang Building received its name from Gwanghaegun and In-Jo both ascended to the throne here. The front sign on Jeukjodang was written personally by Go Jong in 1905 after he became king. Hamnyeongjeon was where Go Jong slept, and Hamnyeong was named so to wish Go Jong lasting peace. The East Wing served as the King’s room, and the west wing was for the Queen. Jeonggwanheon was the first western style building built in the palace in 1900.

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Go Jong enjoyed drinking coffee and spending his free time here. The back of the building had secret passageways to the Russian Emissary, which still exist today.

Seokjojeon is the other western-style building that still remains in Gyeongwungung, and it was in the process of being built by a British man for his company when in 1905 the property rights were transferred to Japan. It was finally completed in 1910. After Gojong’s death, Seokjojeon became a Japanese art gallery open to the public. After the KoreanDeclarationofIndependence,theAmericanRussian joint commission was held here as well in May 1946. The east wing of Seokjogwan building now serves as a Palace Treasure exhibition, and the west wing is used as part of National Modern Arts Center.

Myeong-dong

Myeong-dong is a massive shopping district.

Myeong-dong Street is around 1km long and

extends from Myeong-dong Subway Station (Seoul Subway Line No. 4) to Lotte Department Store at Euljiro. All kinds of brand name shops and department stores are clustered along the streets and alleyways. You can purchase various products such as clothes, shoes, and accessories. Compared to Namdaemun or Dongdaemun, many goodquality brands are sold in Myeong-dong. Such stores include Lotte Department Store, Shinsegae Department Store, U-too Zone, Myeong-dong Migliore and Avatar. You can purchase goodquality products at the department stores or other fashionable products at reasonable prices at Migliore or Avatar. Moreover, all kinds of brand shops are densely located along the main street and lanes.

Myeong-dongalsohasfamily restaurants,fast food, and Korean, Western and Japanese food. Many restaurantsinMyeong-dongspecializeinporkcutlet and kalguksu (noodles). Other than restaurants, there are many convenient facilities such as hair salons, banks and theaters. Myeong-dong Catholic Church is also a famous tourist attraction. It is the first and main church of Catholicism in Korea and was built in the Gothic style. Behind the church is

a space where you can relax from long hours of touring.

Changdeokgung Palace Changdeokgung Palace is the second royal villa built after Gyeongbukgung Palace in 1405.

Chandeokgung served as the principal palace by many Joseon kings and remains the best preserved among the five royal Joseon palaces. The rear garden that was used as a place of rest by the kings boasts a gigantic tree that is over 300 years old, a small pond, and a pavilion. The palace grounds are comprised of a public palace area, a royal family residence building, and the rear garden.

The palace served as the main building after the 9th king of Joseoun, Seongjong, when a number of kings used this palace as a place of dwelling.

However, the palace was burned down during the time of the Japanese Invasion of Korea in 1592.

Angry citizens set fire to the palace when it was evacuated during the time of invasion. Thanks to Gwanghaegun, the palace was later restored in 1611, where nature and art now flourishes, quite a sight to see for tourists. The palace is filled with culturalassetssuchasInjeongjeonHall,Daejojeong Hall, Seonjeongjeon Hall and Nakseonjae to visit.

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The World Cultural Heritage Committee also designated Changdeokgung Palace as a World Cultural Heritage in December of 1997 in Napoli, Italy.

Changdeokgung’s rear garden was constructed during the reign of Taejong, and had served as a resting area for the royal family members. The garden was also called Bukwon and Geumwon, but after Kojong became king, he renamed it Biwon.The garden was kept as natural as possible and human hands were only used when absolutely necessary.

Buyongjeong, Buyongji, Juhabru, Eosumun, Yeonghwadang, Bullomun, Aeryeonjeong, and Yeongyeongdang are some of the many pavilions and fountains that occupy the gardens. The most beautiful time to see the garden is during the fall when the autumn foliage is at its fullest peak and the leaves start to fall.

Lotte World Located in the heart of the city, Lotte World is the perfect spot for entertainment and sightseeing. It is a theme park filled with thrilling rides, an ice rink,

different kinds of parades as well as a folk museum, a lake, and much more. About 6,000,000 visitors are welcomed every year, and about 10 percent of the visitors are foreigners. The structure inside makes use of the natural sunlight, and it is open for visitors all year round, regardless of the weather.

Lotte World is divided into a ‘Adventure’ theme once you are inside the building, and outside is a ‘Magic Island’ theme next to Seokchonhosu Lake. Lotte World Adventure has certain districts representing different countries with various kinds of facilities and souvenir shops. You can enjoy watching parades, numerous films, laser shows, and a variety of international cuisines even during the holidays. Magic Island is situated outdoors, where the dazzling Magic Castle is located as well as thrilling high-altitude rides that you can’t experience elsewhere. Be sure to also check out the peaceful walking trail around the lake.

One of the major reasons tourists are attracted to Lotte World is the amusement rides. The Gyro Drop and Gyro Swing are the top pleasers – a steep

drop with an altitude of 70 m, or taste the thrilling sensation of being inside a tornado. You may need to take your shoes off before you get on since mostly likely they will come off during the ride.

The Flume Ride is a long boat with a high-altitude wave, and the Spanish Pirate Ship swings at an electrifying 75 degrees. Besides the excitement of these rides, Lotte World also contains a variety of parades and laser shows. The 200 performers sing and dance to music in the World Carnival Parade, which adds excitement to the theme park. The parade takes place at 2 pm and 7:30 pm, and the laser show is held in the late evening at 9:30 pm.

After enjoying the rides, don’t miss skating on the ice rink as well as visiting the museum. The ice rink is situated indoors on the B3 floor, and is opened throughout the year. Its pleasant atmosphere is perfect for family and couples to enjoy. The hours are from 10:30 am to 10:30 pm, and runs even duringtheholidays.Itsfacilitiesincludearestaurant, a ticket booth, a snack bar, a sports shop, a skate rental service, and a changing room.

On the other hand, The Folk Museum is the most popular museum for foreign tourists. Folk cultural items are displayed and the items go back 5,000 years in Korean history as well as miniature villages, and a playground. The museum layout was arranged to attract the visitors’ attention and the displays are easily understandable. In addition, audio-visual devices and miniature models will make it more enjoyable.

Cheonggyecheon Stream

Cheonggyecheon Stream, with 22 unique bridges and a corresponding numbers of themes, offers a lot to see and enjoy and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Seoul. The Cheonggye Plaza on the Sejongnos Street, the starting point of Cheonggyecheon Stream, is designed to resemble thetraditionalKoreanwrappingcloth,emphasizing the elegant traditional beauty of Korea. The Cheonggye miniature, which is a scaled down version of the stream, allows you to see the entire

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Cheonggyecheon Stream, including miniature fountains, pathways, bridges and more. In addition, you can use the stair entrance or the Cheonggye Exploration Path to go down to the stream from the plaza.The Cheonggye Exploration Path is 18-meter long tunnel connecting the plaza to the stream.The Candle Fountain, lit by three-colored lighting, and the 2-tier waterfall also create a spectacular view.

On both sides of the waterfall are palseokdam, stone sculpture made of stone collected from around the country. At night the combination of light and water makes for a fantastic view.

Namsangol Hanok Village

If you get off at Chungmuro Subway Station, you are right in front of Namsangol Hanok Village (traditional Korean village). You may consider it interesting to find this area standing between the tall buildings. This village has restored five traditional Korean houses, with a pavilion, a pond and a time capsule which makes it a perfect spot

to take a walk.

When you enter the front gate, you will see the vast valley and the Chunugak to the left of the pond.

Along with the pond, it is a splendid place where performances are held. On the side you will see five traditional houses. These houses were rebuilt after the traditional houses of Joseon Dynasty. The houses belong to various social ranks of the society from peasant to king. The furniture in the house are situated to help guests understand the daily life of the past. The clean traditional houses and used home equipments are great to take pictures. If you would like to see souvenirs, stop at the traditional craftwork exhibit where you can buy small dishes and souvenirs. You can also have traditional tea and refreshments.

(traditional game of throwing wooden yut sticks).

In addition, you may not want to miss traditional marriage ceremony. During the weekends, traditional marriages are shown at BakYeong Hyo’s Residence. The traditional marriage ceremony is an interesting event for both Koreans and foreigners and many gather to watch although it is not shown at certain hours. During the winter season (November to February), there are not many wedding ceremonies held, as it is frequently held in Spring and Fall. Hours for the ceremony are held around noon or 1 pm. Visitors can take pictures with husband and wife wearing traditional wedding costumes. Furthermore, there is also a time capsule in remembrance of Seoul’s 600 Year Anniversary. Buried in 1994, it is anticipated to open four hundred years later.

On the grounds, there are traditional games you may want to try such as ‘neolttwigi’ (sea-saw jumping), ‘tuho’(arrow throwing) and ‘yunnori’

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Jeju Island

Beckons

Jeju Island has four seasons: spring, summer, fall and winter on Jeju Island show distinct differences. The Island displays a temperate oceanic climate, allowing tourists to visit all year round.

UNESCO designated the volcanic islands and its lava tubes World Natural Heritage sites on June 27, 2007, the first such Natural Heritage sites in Korea.

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Listed as World Natural Heritage are Mt. Hallasan, Seongsan Sunrise Peak, Sangumburi Crater, Geomun Volcanic Cone, Jusangjeollidae (a cluster of interlocking rectangular and hexagonal basalt columns along the coast near Seogwipo), and lava tubes such as the Dangcheomul, Manjanggul and Bengdwigul caves.TheWorld Natural Heritage sites cover 188.4 square kilometers, 10.1 percent of the entire island.

Spring on Jeju Island The combination of shimmering white narcissus, pale pink cherry blossoms, bright yellow canola, and scarlet royal azalea blossoms make spring in Jeju a colorful paradise. Savor the fragrance of spring on Jeju while taking in the beautiful spring scenic attractions and the magnificent canola blossoms which create a virtual sea of yellow.

Mount Hallasan At the center of Jeju Island stands awe-inspiring Mount Hallasan. Mount Hallasan, the highest peak in South Korea at 1950 m, displays various volcanic wonders; a crater lake, jagged cliffs, the distinctive hexagonal shaped rock pillars of Jusangeolli, majestic waterfalls hidden in the valleys, and secondaryvolcanicconeswhichspreadthroughout the island.

Mt Hallasan is a rich wildlife habitat which supports various species of flora and fauna, some of which are unique to Jeju Island. Forests of Korean firs inhabit areas above 1,400 m on Mt Hallasan. These trees grow only in Korea. In addition, 33 rare indigenous species of plants grow above 1,700 m.

The lake, located in the crater at the summit of the

mountain, is called Baengnokdam which literally meansWhiteDeerLake.Thereisalegendattributing the name of the lake to visitors from another world who descended from the heavens to play with white deer. Mt Hallasan exhibits strikingly varying landscapes from winter to summer.

Seongsan Sunrise Peak Seongsan Sunrise Peak is a huge, partially filled crater which juts out of the island into the sapphire sea. It was formed when lava spewed out of the hundreds of ancient underwater volcanoes.

Around the lip of the crater, there are 99 porous, sharp rocks, which give the peak the appearance of a colossal crown floating on the dark blue ocean.

The Sunrise Peak is of significant academic value to volcanologists and geologists due to the well preserved crater and various sedimentary layers.

Seongsan Ilchulbong is the most-visited attraction on New Years Day (January 1st), thus earning it the nameofSunrisePeak.Uponseeingthebreathtaking sunrise, each visitor makes a wish for a happy and prosperous year.

Manjanggul Cave Being approximately 5m wide, 5-10m high, and 13,422m long, Manjanggul Cave, a lava tube, is the

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4th longest lava tube in the world. Majestic and profound, Manjanggul Cave is like an underground palace.SculpturelikethestoneturtleinManjanggul Cave, which looks just like Jeju Island, are very popular among tourists. The lava stalactites on the ceiling of the cave and lava wings on the walls create a mysterious underground world, reminding you of a palatial corridor of Greek mythology. Walking in the cave, you will find a gigantic stone column.

As Manjanggul Cave is home to bats, Tygarrup quelpartensis, Huntsman Spider, and Crawlfish Worms, it can be considered a living natural history museum. Tourists are only allowed to enter 1 km into the cave.

Spirited Garden, Bunjae Artpia Located in Hankyong, North Jeju, the manmade Bunjae Artpia is the first bonsai garden in Korea. As many as 10,000 varieties of bonsai and 100 garden trees are thoughtfully displayed in harmony with lakes and falls. Among the rare bonsai trees are

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a 250-year-old Amur honeysuckle, a Japanese quince, a 150-year-old pine tree, a 100-year-old big cone pine and a 70-year-old Japanese elm.

This garden is said to be the ultimate culmination of beauty of nature exquisitely crafted by a man’s spirit. Since the bonsai garden was first opened in 1992, it has become a popular tourist attraction, drawing even foreign dignitaries including Jian Zemin, a former Chinese president. The history of Seong, Beomyoung, and this craftsman dedication from 1968 to 1992 to the bonsai garden are even more awe-inspiring. It truly is an achievement: for over 25 years, the horticulturist had been transforming what was a simply barren land into a paradisiacal area filled with intriguing bonsai trees and garden trees.

Miniature Theme Park and Mini-mini World If you have ever dreamed of being Gulliver in the famous story of Gulliver’s Travels , you should

not miss the Miniature Theme Park , located on 66,116 sq m of land near Seogwang intersection, Andeokmyeon, and Miniminii World in Gyorae-ri, Jocheon-eup.

Visitors have admired the Miniature Theme Park and Minimini World displays of miniature versions ofworld-renownedlandmarksincludingtheStatue of Liberty,The EiffelTower, Buckingham Palace, the Great Wall of China, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa. One-two hours visit would complete your journey around the world from past to present.

O Sulloc Tea Museum If you yearn for the surreal tranquility of lush countryside gardens, it may be just the place for you - a stunning piece of architecture against the backdrop of towering Mt Halla, built in the shape of a green teacup. Located at the entrance of West Tea House in Seogwipo City and overlooking rolling fields of green tea plantations is the O Sulloc Tea Museum, the first tea museum in Korea.

Teddy bear Museum TheTeddy Bear Museum exhibits everything about teddy bears, which have been loved worldwide for 100 years. Inside the two galleries you can meet the teddy bears from various countries. You can also enjoy yourself at the museum shop, café, restaurant or the outdoor park where you can view the Jungmun Sea. The gallery is segmented into three sections, the History Hall, the Art Hall and the Project Exhibition Hall. At the History Hall, you can see the 100-year history of teddy bears including famous scenes, popular teddy bears of different eras, and antique teddy bears. The Mona Lisa teddy bear and the teddy bears of the “The Last Supper”(Leonardo Da Vinci) will especially catch your eyes.

At the Art Hall are the latest artworks of world’s famous designers, and you will also find animation characters beloved by children. And there is a section you must not miss, where you can find the smallest teddy bear in the world at the size of 4.5 mm. At the project exhibit hall you can meet teddy

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bears grouped to suit the theme of each exhibition.

You can dine or drink coffee at the museum cafe or bar while appreciating the beautiful landscape of Jeju Island. At the museum garden, you can meet the marvelous teddy bear sculptures and models.

The garden decorated with various themes such as the Korean black bear family and the magical pond is also a great site to see.

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Cheonjiyeon Falls Cheonjiyeon,meaninggod’spond,derivesitsname from the legend that the seven fairies serving the King of Heaven came down to the pond by stairs of cloud and bathed in its clean water. Apart from the wild Dampalsu trees, designated as natural monument no. 163, the wooded area also contains a great variety of rare plants such as brambles, Songyeopnan as well as Gusiljappam trees, Sanyuja trees (Chinese lemon trees), and camellias which are all specified as natural monument no.

379. Walk along the subtropical path towards the Cheonjiyeon Falls for a kilometer to hear the magnificent sound of waterfalls. The waterfall is 22 m high, 12 m wide and 20 m in depth. The clear and deep water of Cheonjiyeon Falls is designated as natural monument no. 27 and is renowned as a habitat for Mutae eels (natural monument no. 258).

Also, the annual Seven Fairies Festival is held every May.

Jeju folk village Located at the foot of Mt Hallasan, Seongeup Folk Village has perfectly preserved Korean tradition.

With its vast amount of cultural property, this place is designated as a folk village. Many cultural properties such as residential houses, Confucian shrines and schools, ancient government offices, stone statues, millstones (run by horse or ox), fortress ruins, and stone monuments, and intangible cultural assets such as folk plays, native foods, local folk craftsmanship, and the local dialect are handed down to date. The several-hundredyear-old zelkova trees and nettle trees standing in the middle of the village are designated as natural monuments.

Wandering around this area, you will feel as if you travled back to the past. It is a popular place for foreigners to experience the unique Korean native culture. Located on Jeju-do Island, Seongeup Folk Village shows the unique residential culture of the island; the poorly made windscreen stone wall (black lava rock), the straight but curvy Ollae (narrow alley) to block the wind, and the stone statues which have become the prime feature of the landscape.

Jungmun Resort Jungmun Resort is a multi-tourism area of Jejudo Island and the largest resort in Korea. It is located on the seashore of Jungmun area in Seogwipo. Its facilities blend in beautifully with its surrounding nature, and in 1971, it was designated an International Tour Site. In the Resort, there are many interesting sites to visit, such as Pacific Land, Yeomiji Arboretum, fishing village for tourists, Seonimgyo Bridge, Cheonjeyeon waterfall, and Jungmun Beach. Also there are great hotels such as Shilla Hotel, Lotte Hotel, and the Hyatt Hotel that are internationally well known because celebrities often visit from abroad. This is the biggest tourist complex in Korea.

The seashore of the Jungmun Tourist Complex (Jungmun Resort) is especially beautiful, and it is often used as a shooting location for movies, dramas, and commericials. A bench in the garden of Shilla Hotel was used in the movie ‘Swiri’ and the area has become known as ‘Swiri Hill’. Yeomiji Arboretum is also a must-see travel spot. This arboretum has 2,000 kinds of rare plants in the greenhouse, and 1,700 kinds of flowers and trees outside. A tour tain can be used between the arboretum and the garden, and if you go up to the sky lounge in the middle of the garden, you can see the whole arboretum. On a clear day, you can even see Marado Island in the distance.

Come and let Korea embrace and enchant you with its many wonders. Explore amazing scenery and feel your senses come alive. You will never forget the warmth and friendliness of its people.

For more details please call Korea Tourism Organization Dubai Office Tel: +9714 331 2288 – Fax: +9714 331 0999 Email: knot@eim.ae www.visitkorea.or.kr

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What to Buy in Korea Items uniquely Korean

Pottery Pottery is a product shaped from clay, then fired at high temperatures. In 1999, Queen Elizabeth of England visited Insadong and fell in love with the beauty of Korean pottery.

The quality of pottery is rated by three important characteristics: Colour, sound, and texture. Colour signifies the outer colour of the pottery, sound signifies the tone that the pottery produces when flicked with a finger, and the texture points to the smoothness of the pottery. In most cases, clear colours, clear ringing tones,

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and a smooth texture denote a high quality piece. In addition to these criteria, consider the purpose of the pottery being purchased. If it is for display purposes, consider the artist, year, and method of creation. For use in everyday life, see if the glaze has been applied carefully, if the structure is strong, if there are defects, and if the price is reasonable.

Pottery can be purchased at pottery villages, Insadong, the Hwanghakdong Flea Market, or at pottery festivals.

Of pottery villages, the Incheon Pottery Village and Yeoju Pottery Village are the most famous. There, the

Yaknyeong Market, Naemdaemun Market, duty free shops, and the stalls that set up shop during regional ginseng festivals. The Gyeongdong Yaknyeong Market is highly recommended, because the area is full of eastern medicine wholesalers and eastern medicine doctors- there is a wide variety of ginseng to be had here at competitive prices. Another good idea is to wait and take advantage of the many ginseng festivals, when ginseng goes on sale- the Seoul Yaknyeongsi Festival, Daegu Yaknyeongsi Festival, and the Jirisan Eastern Medicine Herb Festival are great resources.

Hanbok The French call it “colour of mystique”and “fantasy.”The hanbok, which is Korea’s traditional outfit, has one of the richest, most vibrant colours of all Korean traditional things. The price of a hanbok varies according to the design and material, type of embroidery, decorations and brand name.

The price for a woman’s hanbok generally begins at 150,000 won for both the top and bottom. The price for a man’s hanbok begins somewhere in the range of 150,000-300,000 won including the top, bottom, vest, and coat. Depending on the embroidery and material, the prices vary; the more elaborate the embroidery and fine quality of material, the more the price increases.

Children’s hanbok is popular for its relatively affordable price.

Most hanboks are custom-made for sale. Select your desired colours and material, and measure your size at the hanbok shop. It takes at least one week to as long as three weeks to make the hanbok; therefore it is recommended that tourists purchase a readymade Gaeryang hanbok (Modern style hanbok).

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pottery making process can be explored in depth as well as purchases made. If you prefer to wait for a pottery festival, the Icheon Pottery Biennale, Yeoju Pottery Expo, and Gangjin Cheongja Culture Festival are all great options for buying and learning more about Korean pottery.

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Ginseng

person that the ginseng will be consumed by, the quality of ginseng, and the type of ginseng. The reason why the health ‘type’ must be considered is because ginseng is usually not recommended for people with excessive body heat. The quality of ginseng is determined by its weight and the quality of its roots. In Korea, there is a custom where ginseng resembling the human form is most valued, and thought to be more potent.

Known as the ‘miraculous medicine’, ginseng is Korea’s representative medicinal crop. In the olden days, Korean produced ginseng was called‘Goryeo Ginseng’ and used widely around the world as a way to recover health, strengthen the body, and calm the mind.

Recently, ginseng has been used in a wide variety of products, making it easy to consume- ginseng candy, ginseng tea, ginseng jelly, ginseng health supplements, and more.

When buying ginseng, consider the health ‘type’ of the

Ginseng can be purchased at the Gyeongdong

If you feel purchasing a hanbok is too costly, you can consider taking home hanbok-related souvenirs such as a miniature hanbok. The Tourist Souvenir Shop next to Insadong’sTourist Information Center has many such items. There are two types of miniature hanbok articles.

One is a framed miniature hanbok, and the other is a doll wearing a hanbok. These miniature hanbok items come in all types of hanbok including royal court hanboks, Daejanggeum (Korean drama, Jewel in the Palace) -type hanboks, and ceremonial hanbok. Also, the dolls in hanbok range from moderate to top quality high-priced dolls for doll-collectors.

Hwanghakdong Flea Market, department stores, and museum shops. As the representative traditional street of Korea, Insadong has a wide selection of crafts ranging from cheap items to high quality, expensive heirlooms.

Antiques

Kimchiisafermenteddishmadefromvegetables(mainly cabbage) soaked in saltwater then seasoned with red pepper flakes and other seasonings. Characterized by its spiciness, kimchi is perhaps the most common side dish in Korea- there are over 100 varieties of kimchi.

Full of vitamins, lactic ferments, and other beneficial properties, kimchi must be refrigerated- when buying kimchi to take home, make sure to buy it on the last day of your trip, and check the expiration date.

Furniture, paintings, ceramics, and books are categorized as antiques. The most purchased items include archaeology texts and history texts in the book category; useful drawers or vanity stands in the furniture category; tea sets and calabashes in the ceramics category;andeasternpaintingsinthepaintingcategory.

When purchasing a valuable antique, look into the year of creation, artist or craftsman, condition, and resale value. Be especially wary of signs of repainting or repair.

Antiques are usually found in Insadong, Janganpyeong Antique Art Market, Hwanghakdong Flea Market, and Itaewon Antique Street.

Crafts Traditional craft items include wooden crafts, rice paper crafts, embroidery work, and lacquered goods. Places to purchase crafts include Insadong, Namdaemun Market,

On Sundays, a flea market opens with Korean crafts and crafts from other countries around the world as well. At Namdaemun Market, prices are cheaper than elsewhere. The Hwanghakdong Flea Market tends to carry craft items with unique designs, while department stores carry high quality goods.

Kimchi

Kimchi can be purchased at department stores, major discount marts, supermarkets, convenience stores, and at Namdaemun Market. Department stores and major discount marts will probably let you try the kimchi before purchasing. Also worth visiting are the kimchi museums or kimchi festivals- the Kimchi Museum not only relays the history and culture of kimchi, but makes kimchi available for tasting and purchase as well.

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MiracleontheHangangRiver

EconomicGrowth Korea rapidly recovered from the economic storm that began in late 1997. This crisis, which roiled markets all across Asia, had threatened Korea’s remarkable economic achievements.However,thankstothefaithful implementation of an IMF agreement, the Korean Government’s strong resolve for reform,andsuccessfulnegotiationofforeign

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debt restructuring with creditor banks, the nation rebounded and is now stronger than ever economically. Since the onset of the crisis, Korea began rapidly integrating itself into the world economy. The goal of the nation is to overcome problems rooted in the past by creating an economic structure suitable for an advanced economy.

An outward-oriented economic development strategy, which used exports as the engine of growth, contributed greatly to the radical economic transformation of Korea. Based on such astrategy,manysuccessfuldevelopmentprograms were implemented. As a result, from 1962 to 2007, Korea’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) increased from $2.3 billion to $969.9 billion, with its per capita GNI soaring from $87 to about $20,045. These impressive figures clearly indicate the magnitude of success that these economic programs have brought about.

Major import items include industrial raw materials such as crude oil and natural minerals, general consumer products, foodstuffs and goods such as machinery and electronic and transportation equipment.

Korea developed rapidly from the 1960s, fueled by high savings and investment rates, and a strong emphasis on education. The nation became the 29th member country of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) in 1996.

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With a history as one of the fastest growing economiesintheworld,Koreaisworkingtobecome the focal point of a powerful Asian economic bloc during the 21st century.The Northeast Asian region commands a superior pool of essential resources that are the necessary ingredients for economic development. These include a population of 1.5 billion people, abundant natural resources, and large-scale consumer markets.

Industrial Innovation As the world’s 13th largest economy, Korea has

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emerged as a success story in many ways. In 2007, Korea’s trade volume amounted to $728 billion, ranking 11th in the world. Korea also has the fourth largest foreign reserves. Despite high oil prices, the strong won and rising raw material prices, the Korean economy is growing at a healthy pace.

Sustaining Korea’s economic growth are key industries that have garnered recognition in the global arena. Korea is the world’s largest shipbuilding nation; for semiconductors, the third largest; digital electronics, the fourth. Korean textile, steel and petrochemicals are fifth in terms

of volume, and automobiles are also fifth in the world. Korea’s shipbuilding sector has been the industry leader for the past four years, accounting for 40% of the world’s total shipbuilding orders.

Asamajorautomanufacturer,Koreaproduces over 3.8 million vehicles annually. Since Korea first started exporting cars in 1976, the nation’s auto industry has developed at a remarkable speed. Riding on the increased popularity of Korean automobiles all over the world, leading Korean car companies have

begun extending manufacturing bases to overseas locations.

With almost 11% of the global market share, Korea’s semiconductor sector is at the forefront of the industry, particularly in terms of flash memory and DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory).

As of 2006, Korea’s DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) ranked first in the world, with a remarkable 49% market share. Equally impressive were the flash memory chips, which took up 63% of global markets.

Looking back, the direction of Korea’s industrial policy changed significantly every decade or so, helping to drive the economy toward a brighter and more prosperous future. From the 1960s, Korea started to promote exports by enacting relevant laws and regulations and establishing exportoriented development plans. The heavy chemical industry was the center of the nation’s industrial policy in the 1970s and there was industrial restructuring in the 1980s. The restructuring was aimed at promoting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Market opening and liberalization marked the 1990s. When the Asian financial crisis hit in 1997, Korea took on bold reforms to bring about a speedy recovery. Korean businesses took the initiative to increase transparency and meet global standards while policies to facilitate startups were put into place.

Since 2000, innovation has topped the national

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agenda. To bring about more innovation into the industries, Korea is promoting business-friendly policies as well as policies enhancing cooperation between large companies and SMEs. Korea’s main emphasis is concentrated on stimulating the nation’s growth engines and upgrading its industrial structure. To do so, Korea aims to further develop its components and materials sector and the knowledge-based service sector.

Having reached a successful free trade agreement with the U.S., Korea now hopes to explore other mutually beneficial pacts with its trading partners.

This will pave the way for Korea to become truly integrated with the global economy. One way to become an active player on the global stage is to have more Korean companies invest and take part in overseas business ventures.

Science and Technology To reinvigorate the development of advanced science and technology, the Government established the Korea Institute of Science and

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Technology (KIST) and the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) in 1966 and 1967, respectively.

Initially, Korea’s national science and technology policies focused mainly on the introduction, absorption,andapplicationofforeigntechnologies.

In the 1980s, however, the emphasis shifted to the planning and conducting of national R&D projects to raise the level of scientific and technological skills. This included programs to increase both public and private sector R&D investment and to nurture highly skilled R&D manpower.

Since the early 1990s, the Government has been concentrating on three areas: fostering research in the basic sciences, securing an efficient distribution and use of R&D resources, and expandinginternationalcooperation.Theseefforts are intended to increase Korea’s technological competitiveness.

As of the end of 2006, Korea’s total R&D investment reached US$28.6 billion, which accounted for 3.2 percent of GDP. Korea will also actively invest in the development of public welfare technologies that improve the quality of life and of technologies that can lead to the creation of new industries.

In addition, Korea will continue to strengthen its involvement in global issues such as the preservation of the environment and a stable supply of food, energy, and health care for the betterment of mankind.

one mobile phone. Moreover, almost every other household has broadband connections, and all parts of the society from food-service industries to public transportation systems are heavily dependant on computers and IT.

Information Telecommunication

Today, Korean semiconductors, mobile handsets, TFT-LCDs and other items have become the most advanced and top selling in their fields globally. The Korean IT industry was able to secure such a leading position through an interlinking development and usage process: new services generate new domestic demand, the infrastructure required to utilize such services is built up, and the manufacturing capabilities behind the related devices enhanced.

Korea’s stance as a powerhouse in terms of information technology is demonstrated by its vast IT-related production and exports, development of world-leading technology, and also the wide use of Internet and mobile telecommunication devices within the country. IT industry-related products, such as computer chips and mobile phones, account for over 30% of Korea’s total exports, and nearly every Korean over age 12 owns at least

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When looking at IT-related statistics and changes that occurred in Korean society between 2001 and 2007, the number of broadband Internet subscribers increased from 7.81 million to 14.71 million, while the number of Internet users also increased from 24.38 million to 34.82 million. The number of e-commerce transactions also showed growth between 2003 and 2006, from 7.2 million cases to 12.8 million.While the number of IT-related businesses changed little from 2001 to 2006 (19,110 to 19,447, respectively), the number of workers in this sector increased from 480 thousand to 680 thousand.

World-Class Logistics Hub Incheon International Airport, opened in March 2001, is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and provides advanced traffic networks for its customers. With its strategic location, the new airport is poised to become a leading logistics and transportation hub in Northeast Asia. Expansion plans for the airport area include establishing a FreeTrade Zone, International Business District and Special Economic Zone.

IncheonInternationalAirporthasseenacontinuous increase in the volume of cargo since its opening in March 2001. In 2006, it handled 2.34 million tons of international air cargo, becoming the second leading airport in the world in terms of air cargo volume.

Container ships from Korea ply international sea lanes to ports in South and North America, Europe, Australia, the Middle East and Africa. Foreign ocean liners, cruise ships and passenger-carrying freighters also pay frequent visits to Korean ports.

Port cargo volume also climbed steadily, from 11.89 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU) in 2002 to 17.48 million TEU in 2007, with the expansion of port facilities and increased productivity through improved cargo handling capabilities at Busan New Port, Gwangyang Port and Incheon Port.

In particular, Busan Port handled 12.04 million TEU in 2006, ranking fifth in the world for three consecutive years in terms of volume of containers handled.

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Foreign Direct Investment In the case of Korea, foreign trade accounted for 71.5% of the national GDP in 2006, while revenue from foreign invested companies took up almost 14% of total manufacturing sales. As such, Korea is working hard to support foreign invested companies. A good example is the opening of the world’s largest LCD complex in Paju, just kilometers from the Demilitarized Zone.

The Government built roads and infrastructure needed to support the massive industrial complex in Paju. It worked to relax or eliminate regulations that had been in place for decades regarding the development of border areas. These and other measures were pushed through with utmost speed -- a sign of the Government’s willingness and commitment to helping foreign businesses take root in Korea.

There are many other success stories: The British retailer Tesco has done remarkably well in Korea.

Tesco’s Korean operations make up a third of the retailer’s overseas sales. Another example is the outstanding performance by GM Daewoo. The company, in the first quarter of 2006, became Korea’s number two automaker once again. It has made great strides in the span of just four years.

GM Daewoo is doing so well, in fact, that it is said to be helping to boost GM’s overall presence in Asia.

Korea is expecting US$10 billion in foreign investment in 2008 a level similar to 2007. In addition to the usual sectors like finance and insurance, there is growing interest by investors in R&D facilities, logistics centers and regional headquarters of multinational corporations.There is also much interest in Korea’s highly developed electronics sector from parts and materials companies.

The interest expressed by investors in these fields is natural when you consider the huge R&D investments made by Korea annually, helping it to rank in the top 10 every year. Such dedication has paid off in many fields. In 2006, Korea was ranked fourth in terms of international patent applications filed with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).

One of Korea’s strong points is its great human

resources.There are more than 100,000 science and engineering students graduating every year. An increasing number of these students are working for master’s and doctorate degrees. For investors, this is the optimal environment for creating new goods and services. Another point to consider is that Korea is the perfect place to base logistics centers or regional headquarters in Asia. There are 51 cities with populations of one million or more within a four-hour flight from Seoul.

Besides Korea’s potential as a hub of Asia, Korea has another advantage in that companies can easily expand to overseas markets after using Korea as a test bed platform. Already more than half of the Fortune 500 companies have a presence in Korea.

Underscoring the importance of investment to the nation’s future, Korea is determined to do all it can to accommodate investor needs. For this, Korea is implementing measures to help improve the business environment. The new Invest Korea Plaza in southern Seoul opened in late 2006 to help foreign-backed businesses meld seamlessly with the Korean economy. The facility will offer many programs geared toward potential investors, the most important of which will be the handson consultations and incubating assistance for businesses about to start operations in Korea.

The Plaza is a one-stop service destination for investors: on-site project managers help with everything from finding the best location for factory sites, to dealing with administrative details, to applying for all relevant government assistance programs and benefits.The Government is working to increase incentives so that businesses interested in high-tech R&D or those wishing to relocate their regional headquarters to Korea will have greater access to cash grants.

Ultimately, Korea is concentrating efforts on two objectives: first, supporting market conditions which allow entrepreneurs to fully realize their businesspotentialand,secondly,followingthrough on its commitment to help businesses perform well here.

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Korea Vies to Become a Medical TourismHub Many people think vacations are all about relaxation, sightseeing and playing leisure sports. But this idea is quickly changing because of the booming medical tourism industry.

During a weeklong holiday, people can now easily fix their bad eyes or sore backs. Korea, equipped with statof-the-art medical skills, has stepped into the global medical tourism scene by recently launching several medical tour programs.

In late July, a group of 29 Americans visited Korea on a two-week medical tour program, organized by the Korea Tourism Organization and the nation’s major medical organizations. The program featured a full medical check-up and sightseeing around Korea’s major tourist attractions.

The medical service, which included both physical examinations and cosmetic treatments, received a very positive response from the participants.

According tot the Korea Health Industry Development Institute (KHIDI) data, the global medical tourism market is estimated to be $60 billion a year – and it is expected to reach $100 billion by 2012.

In line with the growth of the global market, Korea’s medical tourism sector is aiming to attract 100,000 tourists by 2012, topping $37 billion.

The number of patients visiting Korea’s major hospitals jumped to 16,000 in 2007, up from 760 in 2005, according to the Welfare Ministry.

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The growth of medical tourism in Korea has been spurred by top-notch local doctors and, recently, by the Korean Wave. The nation’s oriental medical clinics and acupuncturists, in particular, have constantly been receiving foreign patients, who are keen to keep fit by using natural means.

By the turn of the millennium, Korea saw an increasing number of Asian tourists visiting the nation, mainly for cosmetic surgery. This was bolstered by the positive image of Korea’s pop culture.

The nation’s top-notch hospitals have helped fuel the growth. Wooridul Spine Hospital, which runs five hospital chins across the country, has operated an international patients’ center since 2005.

The hospital, which purely focuses on spinal treatment, has seen over 2,500 patients from 47 countries. The number is increasing by 30 percent every year. The hospital not only provides medical procedures and tours but also helps the patients get visa, insurance and other matters related to treatment.The hospital already is international well known for its expertise.

Jaseng Hospital of Oriental Medicine in Seoul, which also specializes in spinal treatment, has operated an international clinic since 2006. The number of overseas patients jumped to 390 in 2007 from 185 of 2006. About 60 percent of the patients are Japanese, according to the hospital.

“Most of the foreign patients visiting our hospital are amazed that their problems can get better by non-

surgical procedures such as acupuncture and oriental medicine,” said Yoon Jepil, head of the hospital’s international clinic.

BothJasengandWooridulhavemultilingualdoctorsand medical coordinators who are ready to accommodate foreign patients in their own languages. They are also members of the Council for Korea Medicine Overseas Promotion, an organization that promotes medical tourism to Korea and structures programs for it.

Currently, there are 33 hospitals enrolled in the council.

They hold seminars and promotion campaigns with travel agencies to develop this new in dustry.

The member hospitals have signed contracts with international insurance companies to guarantee the quality of medical services as well.

Among them are Seoul’s Severance Hospital and Hanyang University Medical Center, which have been looking into medical tourism for a few years, and are working with travel agencies in the U.S., Japan and China to create diverse tours packages.

Jeju-do is also looking to make headway into medical tourism, taking advantage of its beautiful scenery and well-developed infrastructure. Along with specialized treatments, Jeju’s programs also include health options like obesity care.

As a result, the revised law now allows families or guardians of patients to be given long-term visas. And the process has become much simpler.The Government is also looking to improve medical laws to enable active overseas promotion and mediation.

The Welfare Ministry is also expanding its education programs to increase human resource development.

The Ministry is planning to open the International Medical Service Academy in a bid to provide education on world-class medical services.

Foreign-language education will also be expanded, as language skills are heavily weighed when hiring new staff.

More information on Korea’s medical tourism can be found at www.koreahealthtour.co.kr and www. visitkorea.or.kr.

For more information and assistance please call.

Korea Tourism Organization Dubai Office Tel: +971-3312288 Fax: +971-3310999 E-mail: knto@eim.ae

The Ministry of Welfare, Health and Family Affairs, to help foster the nation’s medical tourism industry, has been working to fix administrative flaws and revise legal procedures.

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Why Study in Korea?

A Leader in Applied Sciences and Technology Korean information and communication technology is one of the best in the world while Korea is also at the forefront of machine building, chemistry, shipbuilding, and the auto industry. Especially in IT and mobile communication, Korea ranks first in the world. More than 14.5 million households have the high speed Internet service in their homes (source: Ministry of Information and Communication, August 2007), and almost all Koreans are using the Internet. Given that Korea is one of the world forces in information and communication, it can be said that Korean technology and tradition of technological achievement will distinguish itself further in new areas that require high technology and creativity.

Inexpensive Cost of Living and Tuition The cost of living and tuition in Korea is low compared to the Western English-speaking countries like the US, Canada, or Britain. There are also various scholarships for foreign students. With the low cost of living and education, students can finish their study without financial difficulties. In addition, studying in Korea has become more attractive since the Korean government recently announced its plans for more support for foreign students’ scholarships and housing and less restrictions on part-time jobs and job opportunities after graduation. For further information about the Korean government’s scholarship program, please call the Embassy of the Republic of Korea at 5339601/2/3 Moreover, located in East Asia, Korea is close to other

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Asian countries, so it is convenient and less expensive for those in Asia to come to Korea. For Asian students especially, Korea can be a good choice as it will be easier for them to adjust culturally and emotionally.

High Quality Educational Environment and Excellent Facilities Korea has approximately 400 institutions of higher education, and their facilities and equipments reach a high level of quality. Laboratory facilities, student dormitories, and gyms will provide students with a satisfying study and living environment.

Most faculty members are PhDs with abundant research experienceandexcellentscholarship.Astheyhavestudy and research experience in various other countries, they are familiar with different countries’ practices and customs, and, therefore, can guide students with balanced perspectives. With all this, they can provide a vision for future success for the students.

Enthusiasm in Education One of the main social interests in Korea is education.

For a long time Korea’s main educational goal has been training talented minds.

The fact that almost 100 percent of students advance to secondary schools also shows Korea’s high zeal for and interest in education. The percentage of students who enter into higher education is unmatched in the world, and every year, approximately half a million students enter colleges and universities.

The educational zeal has led to Korean students’ high intellectual ability and academic achievement, which is renowned in the world. In Korea, people regard students with respect and trust, which foreign students will easily notice once studying in Korea.

Tradition and Culture Korea has a lot of cultural inheritance and tradition.

Thousands of years of history have produced various types of culture, which have become deep-rooted in current ways of life. You can find cultural assets all over the country, and a renowned Korean scholar once said that the country itself is a museum. However, there is also a lot of cultural inheritance, which, though not physically, remains alive in many aspects of Korean life.

Korea has developed its unique culture based on various cultures and religions all over the world including Buddhism, Confucianism, and Christianity. This kind of environment will help you develop the insight and skills necessary for leadership.

Center of History in the Making Korea is located in East Asia and, at the same time, in the center of the Pan-Pacific area. As it is the only divided country in the world, Korea has become important economically, diplomatically, and strategically among China, Russia, Japan and America. At the same time, it is the spot in which a lot of efforts toward peace are focused. Therefore your studying experience in this dynamic scene of world history will help you develop the ability to play an important role as a leader in your country.

Hospitality and Social Security Koreans are generally hospitable to foreigners.They are eager to learn more about foreign culture and practices.

When first met, they tend to be shy and feel awkward with foreign people, but they soon show themselves as kind and well-intentioned. Korea is also one of the few countries in which you can walk freely on the streets day and night. The crime rate directed towards foreign people is extremely low, so for foreign students, it is a safe and secure country.

Natural Beauty Korea has been called ‘Geum-su-gang-san’, meaning a country with natural beauty as if it were embroidered in silk. As Korea’s three sides are bordered by the sea, you can enjoy beautiful scenery of the land and the sea simultaneously. Korea has four distinctive seasons, and you can enjoy the unique natural beauty of each season. Though Korea is not so large, every region has its own unique characteristics. The northeast side has mountainswithcuriouslookingrocks,andthesoutheast part has a lot of plains. With its clean air and water, the natural beauty of Korea will be another pleasure to foreign students.

Study in Korea!

To sum up, studying in Korea will cost you less compared to Western countries, and you will have more opportunities to be awarded scholarships. The Korean government has begun support programs for foreign students. The government hopes that it can achieve a closer and supporting relationship with the

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international community. By letting other countries know more about Korea, the government hopes to win their support for a peaceful co-existence of South and North Korea. In addition to this, Korea hopes that by having excellent minds from other countries study here, it can promote a vision of world peace and stability. We invite you to study in Korea!

Educational System There is no discrimination with regards to Korean citizens and foreigners. The level of study depends on their skills. One can possibly engage in elementary, middle and advanced levels of study. Schools maintain a single type of educational system, which means Korean elementary school has six years, middle school has three years, high school has three years, and university has four years (2 or 3 years for specialist colleges). With regards to higher education, MA Degree and PhD must be completed within two to three years, in general.

Elementary School The best thing about Korean elementary education is that it provides compulsory education. The most common and basic necessity in Korean living is entering elementary school. Fully 99 percent of Korean people enter school. This principle leads the government or educational administration to promote a high level of education. Generally, Korean children aged 3-5 go to kindergarten. If a child aged 5 can enter school, they do so, however, children aged 7 are at the average age for entering the first grade of elementary school.

Elementary school has six years, and it is mostly a public institution.The educational system in public and private institutions is the same.

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Middle School An average standard of educational instruction is implemented from elementary to middle school. From 1969,therewasno middleschoolentranceexamination.

The implementation of middle school entrance entirely depends on the applicants’ place of residence. The applicants are given their assigned middle schools by drawing lots through computers. Middle school has three years and is cost free. The ratio of private middle schools is quite higher compared with the ratio of private elementary schools (vs national and public institutions).

However, there isn’t any huge difference at all.

High School The educational system in high school and middle school is similar. It is based on an average standard of education and its main aim is to provide students with a special educational system. High schools include those for setting up one’s business plan, and those that specialize in foreign language, physical aptitude, and science. High school has three years and the tuition fee is one’s own responsibility. All high schools, including those for setting up business plans and the others, abide by the middle school entrance rules. So, even though an applicant chose a school he/she preferred, the middle school entrance depends entirely on the applicants’place of residence. The applicants are given their assigned high schools by drawing lots through computers.

Junior College In the future, junior colleges will offer an educational program after high school. At the present, there 150 junior colleges: 10 are Korean public institutions, and the

others are private institutions. Recently, junior colleges that have dormitories are increasing, and the tuition fee is usually cheaper than university tuition fee.

The educational instruction in junior colleges has a firm theory and basic technology, which brings up average technologists. Junior colleges specialize in various areas such as engineering, agriculture, fishery, nursing, health education, home management, social work, arts, and physical education. They offer a 2 or 3 year program, depending on what major is taken. The period of educational instruction with regards to nursing, health education, physical therapy, psychotherapy, dental technology, dental hygiene, and radiology is three years, and the others, 2 years. After students have completed the practical use of professional or technical knowledge, they could have a job or continue studying in a university.

University At the present, Korea has 250 universities that offer bachelor degrees. Medical science, Oriental Medicine and Dentistry offer a 6-year program. There are many universities in Korea that offer various fields of education. Almost all universities require 24 units each semester, a total of 140 units during the whole program.

Each university has its own unit requirements: getting a unit, minimum unit for graduation, general credit, maximum unit each semester, method of getting a unit and especial unit. The schools are divided into national, municipal,andprivateinstitutions,butmostuniversities are under private institutions.

Program for Foreign Students Entering University Nowadays, the universities that are interested in the International Education Program conduct 30 percent of their lectures in English. The percentage of lectures conducted in English in graduate schools is higher than in universities. Some universities that offer international courses conduct the class using English.

Korean study and training lecture Each university has its own unit requirements for: getting a unit, minimum units for graduation, general credits, maximum units each semester, methods of getting a unit and special units. The program consists of two terms: short term and long term. The short term is an intensive program which focuses on developing one’s ability in spoken communication. It lasts 3 to 4 weeks. The long term lasts 10 to 40 weeks. Many universities which have established a language center have a Korean language program for foreigners. The understanding of Korean culture increases one’s ability in Korean communication skills.

MA Degree and PhD After graduating from university, you could pursue a higher degree of education, such as MA degree, and after you have completed your MA, you could continue to PhD. An average of 2 to 3 years is required in MA, and 2 to 4 years in PhD. Almost all universities in Korea offer MA and PhD, so it is not difficult to find a university to study at.

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Korean Cuisine:

Thanks to four distinct seasons and well-developed agriculture, rice and mixed grains are a major part of Korean food. The peninsula is surrounded by water, and is home to plenty of marine products, as well as a variety of vegetables and aquatic plants. Naturally, cooking methods incorporating these ingredients have developed. Preserved and fermented food, such as different types of sauces, kimchi and salted fish, have also been a big part of Korean cuisine since the early days.

Korean food well represents the characteristics of the different seasons and regions, and places importance on the harmony of different tastes. A lot of devotion

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and effort is needed to make Korean food, thus a proper attitude and spirit are important. Not only are the nutritious aspect, color, taste and temperature of the food important, but also the harmony of the tableware and the food.

There are over 2,000 types of Korean dishes and each one is unique in taste, scent, presentation and color. Korean food also contains a variety of essential nutrients, thus helping to prolong life, maintain health and even prevent illnesses in some cases. It, indeed, is an exceptional and refined cuisine rarely found in the world.

One of the biggest features of Korean food that distinguishes it from other cuisines is the distinction between main and side dishes.

FeastfortheSenses One of the biggest features of Korean food that distinguishes it from other cuisines is the distinction between main and side dishes. Rice, or the main dish, is eaten with different types of side dishes. Rice can be divided into two types: white rice and rice mixed with different grains such as barley, red-bean, millet, beans, etc.

Side dishes include a variety of dishes, such as soup or stew, kimchi, different types of sauces and various dishes made from meat, seafood, marine plants and vegetables. Such method of eating rice along with other side dishes is quite rational in the sense that it ensures proper consumption and balance of nutrients.

Seasonal Foods: Adaptation to Nature Korean food utilizes many ingredients that are available seasonally. It’s been significantly affected by the four seasons and has naturally evolved with the transition of history. Korean food is a natural cuisine that reflects the unique colors and characteristics of the season and region.

From a nutritional standpoint, the fact that Korean ancestors created food conforming to the climate of a particular region as well as the season shows that Koreans see food not only as a basic need, but a method of appreciating nature.

In a country with four distinct seasons, creating food usingseasonalingredientsandsharingitwithneighbors and relatives is a very important part of the culture.

Azalea pancakes, artemisia soup, shepherd’s purse soup and seasoned wild rocambole were traditionally eaten in the spring. Revitalizing foods such as yukgyejang, or chopped beef soup, boiled fish or meat, as well as Korean melons and watermelons were eaten in the summer. In the fall, rice cakes made with newly harvested rice, steamed radish rice cake, and chestnut rice cake were eaten. In the winter, the traditional dishes were dumplings, seolleontang (a beef soup with rice), and kimchi.

Medicine and Food Share the Same Roots The idea that‘medicine and food have the same roots’is

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an underlying concept of traditional Korean food.

Koreans traditionally believed that food strengthened the heart, prevented illnesses and aided rejuvenation.

This led to the incorporation of various medicinal foods in everyday meals, such as ginger, cinnamon, artemisia, omija, Chinese matrimony vine, balloonflowers, deodeok,adlai,papaya,pomegranates,citrons,ginseng, mushrooms and honey.

For example, in the summer, ginseng and jujubes were added to samgyetang, or boiled chicken soup, to increase its nutritional value. Pine nuts, abalone or mung beans were added to rice porridge and Chinese matrimony vine, and ginseng and deodeok were used when creating alcohol. Omija, Chinese matrimony vine, ginseng, and plum were used to make tea. These are all types of medicinal food. Korean food is not just about satisfying tastes and appetites, but also about incorporating nutritional and medicinal aspects. It is also neat in presentation, and utilizes numerous types of ingredients. Thus, eating one type of dish offers the chance of experiencing a variety of tastes, while benefiting from a range of different nutrients. A rich, plentiful table of food well reflects the food culture of Korea.

Fermented Food Since the early days, Koreans have been creating traditional fermented food congenial to the environment, and see it as an important part of

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Korean cuisine. Various types of grain and beans, as well as vegetables and seafood were preserved and transformed into fermented food. Spirits and liquor were in the completion phase prior to the Unified Silla era and were used for rituals such as agricultural rites, offerings to spirits, shamanist practices, and other rites.

Kimchi was created when vegetables were pickled for preservation during the winter. The geographical feature of being surrounded by sea on three sides led to the development of fermented salted fish.

The early development of pickling and brewing skills led to the creation of a stable fermented food culture, which included various types of sauces, kimchi, salted fish, vinegars, liquors, and others Kimchi The national food of Korea, kimchi, is the fruit of years of accumulated wisdom and Korean culture. There’s a saying that a household’s cooking can be judged by its kimchi. Taste the kimchi at a restaurant and you can tell if their food is good or not. Kimchi is the heart of Korean taste, and is deeply rooted in our culture.

A unique and original fermented food not found anywhere else in the world, kimchi is a health food that offers great value in terms of food culture as well as nutritional efficacy. A wonderful way to enjoy an abundant amount of vegetables, kimchi is known as a diet and health food rich in lactic acids and is said to prevent obesity, ensure healthy skin and prevent cancer.

Tel: 2245-2759 Fax: 2240-1624

Recently, it’s been receiving worldwide attention due to its presumed efficacy in preventing SARS. Sauces Saucesmadefromfermentedingredients,likesoybeans, soy sauce, soybean paste and red pepper paste are rich in vegetable protein.The savory taste of the amino acids in the protein stimulates one’s appetite. These sauces were also a good source of protein in times when people were too poor to eat meat. Fermented soybeans, which are the main ingredient in traditional pastes, are now being reported to have a cancer-preventing factor.

They are a valuable aspect of Korean food culture and can be proudly recommended worldwide.

Spirits and Vinegars Spirits made by adding various types of herbs, flowers, leaves, fruit, roots and stems to yeast are very unique.

Each household made different types of spirits such as azalea wine, chrysanthemum wine, lotus leaf wine and Samhae wine. These spirits were poured into a vinegar bottle, placed on the fireplace and left to be naturally fermented by vinegar bacteria. Pure and tasty vinegar was formed and was used to flavor various side dishes.

Traditional Korean Food There are various types of traditional Korean foods, such as local food, wedding food, holiday food and religious service food. In the past, these foods were handed down from mother to daughter-in-law and transmitted for generations.

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While kimchi and bibibamp are considered to be the two representative Korean foods, some other notable foods and beverages are fermented rice drink, fruit punch, red pepper paste, soybean paste, bulgogi, galbi and sinseollo (Korean hot pot).

Grains were considered a valuable staple, and thus there are a variety of foods made from different grains; however, the main dish is always clearly distinguished from side dishes. Grain foods are diverse in taste, cooked in many different ways and often accompanied by an abundant amount of spices.

Table Manners In traditional Korean custom, table manners were strict.

A meal could be started only after the eldest raised his/ her spoon, and soups could not be slurped. You were not supposed to open your mouth when eating, nor make any sounds. It was also important to match the pace of the adults at the table and not finish first.

Speaking with a full mouth was considered bad manners. When questioned or talked to by an adult, it was proper to swallow the food in your mouth, put down your utensils and then respond. When you were finished with your meal, you placed your utensil on the soup bowl, not on the table. Only after you checked that the adults were finished as well, did you place your utensils down. Eating the prepared food with an appreciative attitude, as if respecting your elders, was an important and unique part of Korean food culture.

Charm of Korean Food The charm of traditional food is the intangible beauty present in the attitude of the person preparing and eating the food. This beauty is directly reflected in the food, and creates a certain kind of ambience. One of the most important factors creating this refined and elegant ambience is color.

Color of Korean Food: Obang Colors Obang colors are the main colors of Korea: blue, red, yellow, white and black. These colors can be found in everyday meals and banquet cuisine. Red pepper, jujubes and red-beans are used to express red, dropwort, zucchini, cucumber, leek, artemisia, crown daisies, and angelica plants to express green, egg yolk and gardenia seeds to express yellow, egg whites, pine nuts, and sesame seed salt to express white, and pyogo mushrooms, ear mushrooms and beef to express black.

All ingredients use their natural colors - no artificial coloring is used. Gardenia seed juice is used for yellow dye, omija and gromwell juice is used for red dye, and hemp leaves are used for green dye. Using various ingredients to express the different colors not only is aesthetically pleasing, but a wonderful way to consume various nutrients.

Beauty of Harmony Foods were presented on a table. The tableware and foods on a 5-dish and 7-dish table reflect the elegant, yet frugal beauty of Korea. Warm and cold foods, wild

greens and stews, the fusion of color and the shape of the spoon and chopsticks all created a harmonious beauty on the table.

Charm of Korean Food and Science (Tableware and Tablecloth) Between the Dano and Chuseok festivals, white porcelain or earthenware was used in the Royal Court.

From Chuseok to Dano of the following year, silverware was used. Because Koreans liked eating warm rice on a cold winter day, using tableware that retained heat was important. Common people, who could not use silverware, tried to prepare brassware dishes. Rice stored in earthenware rice containers did not spoil, even if left for three days in the hot summer.

The tablecloth, rice bowl cloth and spoon case were hand-embroidered works of art. The spoon case of a child was embroidered with writing wishing him success in his state examination, while that of one’s parents-in-law was embroidered with Shipjangsaeng, the ten symbols of longevity, and the case belonging to one’s husband was adorned with writings such as ‘baeknyeondongshim,’ which literally meant ‘the same heart for 100 years.’

The tablecloth varied according to season and so did the tableware. Wooden dishes were used in the spring and fall and porcelain dishes were used during the summer. There was a fine fusion of style and science in the food culture.

Hanbok: KoreanTraditionalClothing As a cultural heritage, Korean traditional clothing called Hanbok has spirit and soul of Korean ancestors who sought stylishness and courtesy in daily life. Although Hanbok has gone through many changes during the long history of Korea, in general, it is very loose and comfortable clothing, separated into a top part and a lower part. Due to this relatively simple form, the harmony of colors plays a large role in the beauty of Hanbok with various fabrics for each season.

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Hanbok has been Korean traditional clothing for thousands of years. Before the adoption of western clothing 100 years ago, hanbok used to be everyday attire. Men wore jeogori (jacket) with baji (trousers) while women wore jeogori and chima (wrap-around skirt).

Hanbok was established as a part of the unique living culture of Korea, influenced by the geographical and climatic natures of Korean peninsula, and handed down to present times.

Hanbok has the basic structure of jeogori (jacket) and baji (trousers), showing Northern Scythian natures.The style of Hanbok is closer to the style of nomadic tribes in the countries bordering on Western China, who wore jeogori and baji, than that of the agricultural society of China where people wore jeogori and chima (skirt). The origin of Hanbok can be found in a wall painting of an ancient tomb of Goguryeo.

The basic structure of Hanbok is similar to the basic clothing of the northern horse-riding nomadic tribes, and was developed to be suitable for a cold climate and a nomadic life. Jeogori stretches down to the waist, with long and narrow sleeves for both men and women.

Koreans wore wide or narrow baji, adjusted their dress with a belt or a leather strap, put jeolpungmo or dugeon over their head, and wore long boots called wha that were made for horse-riding. The clothing culture of Korea was influenced by new clothing cultures through multiple invasions from foreign countries, but its basic structure is well-preserved in its history.

In traditional design, hanbok is not meant to be tight fitting, so its inherent beauty is apparent in curved

features and elegant style created by the abundance of material. The curves and vibrant colors of hanbok have had significant impact not only on the Korean fashion industry but also on other various fields of Korea. For instance, a series of successful fusion fashion designs have been introduced by combining hanbok with modern fashion, and also unique designs and patterns of hanbok have been applied to modern architecture and art works.

Structure of Hanbok Hanbok belongs to the categories of plain structure and northern polar structure, so it can be categorized as having a temperate structure. Hanbok is made by cutting out plain fabrics in straight lines, and sewing them into clothes of a plain structure. Extra parts of the plain clothes are pleated or folded, and adjusted with a strap to fit for the body.

Geographical and topographical conditions of Korea, and the artistic sense of Korean people are well reflected to the structure of Hanbok.

In chima and jeogori for women, attempts to pursue the perfect silhouette were made by maximizing the length of chima and minimizing the length of jeogori.

This aims to show a well-proportioned figure by making up for the typical Korean proportions of a long upper body and short lower body.

Hanbokisverylooseandcomfortableclothing,separated into a top part and a lower part. Putting on and taking off the Hanbok is also very convenient as its front part is opened. Hanbok supports body movements with its volume. Hanbok is very appropriate for the floor-sitting

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lifestyle in Hanok, Korean traditional houses. It is very useful as ordinary dress, official dress, and nightclothes.

Colors of Hanbok The harmony of colors plays a large role in the beauty of Hanbok, as it has a relatively simple form. Korea is in a favorable condition for expressing rich colors, as it has clear seasonal changes and it is located in a peninsula where three parts of the country are surrounded by sea.

Korea has abundant natural materials for making dyes. It has excellent dyeing techniques thanks to its abundant water, and it is also equipped with advanced weaving technologies as a long-time leading silk exporting nation.

It is known that the dyeing and weaving masters of Silla and Baekje went to Japan to become the fathers of dyeing and weaving in Japan.

Korean people liked the color white so much that Koreans were once even called“a white-clad folk.�White clothes made of ramie cloth or hemp cloth were worn by all Koreans, from the king to slaves.

On the other hand, vividly colored clothes were also

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loved based on the vision of the universe from YinYang theory. This theory pursues unique harmony of five major colors and five mixed colors by recognizing and using these colors based on the principle of the five elements.

As the framework of the nation was established, the colors of clothing available for each class were decided.

Colors available for ceremonies, colors for each class including palace residents, scholars, farmers, craftsmen, andmerchants,colorsforcommoners,children,women, entertainers, and religious people were designated.

All of the colors used in Hanbok originate from five natural colors based on the principle of five elements.

These colors include blue, white, red, black, and yellow, which are colors of Yang.

Five mixed colors including dark blue, green, rose, purple, and sulfurous are colors of Yin. In the Goryeo period, purple, red, scarlet, and green were four major colors used in clothing. Purple, which was made by mixing red fruits and ashes of tree leaves, was only allowed to the upper class, and the colors of clothing in Joseon were largely affected by this color. In particular, purple was used for collars, sleeve-ends, and coat-strings as a charm against misfortune or a point in

design.

Male and female are respectively expressed in blue and red based on the principle of Yin and Yang. Unmarried girls wear yellow jeogori, symbolizing growth from the land, and red chima, symbolizing luck, longevity and the prevention of evil.

Obangjang durumagi (top coat), ggachi durumagi with rainbow-coloredsleevesforyoungchildren, andyellowgreen jeogori and crimson chima for the wedding ceremony are representative examples that show the close relationship between the harmony of colors in Hanbok and the living culture of Korea.

Texture of Hanbok Texture is a significant characteristic of Hanbok. Korea is geographically located in a region with clear seasonal changes, and thus, various fabrics for each season were developed. Unlined clothes are worn in summer, while stuffed clothes are worn in winter.

In spring and fall, lined clothes without stuffing are worn.

The fabrics of Hanbok play major roles in expressing harmony of the pattern and the texture of fabrics and the color and the structure of Hanbok. The beauty of the human body is indirectly expressed through fabrics of Hanbok.

silk such as Sukgosa, Jinjusa, Hangna, Eunjosa and Saenggosa. Lined jeogori and chima are worn over sokjeoksam (undershirt) and sokchima (underskirt) made of sheer silk or Sukgosa.

Men wear unlined jeogori made of Sukgosa or Gwansa in light jade green or white colors and unlined baji made of wrinkle-free Busagyeon or twilled fabrics. Over these regular clothes, they wear durumagi made of sheer silk, starched cotton, or Sampalju.

Women wear jeoksam (unlined summer jacket) made of ramie cloth and sheer silk, and chima made of similar fabrics in light colors in summer. Men wear durumagi over jeoksam, and goui (a kind of men’s baji) made of ramie cloth, calico and sheer silk.

In winter, people wear jeogori, chima and baji made of soft fabrics such as silk, taffeta and other Chinese silk. Brocaded fabrics or satin are popular materials for holidays or special occasions.

In Hanbok, we can understand how the ancient Koreans protected themselves against the cold by wearing multiple layers of warm underwear and minimizing the body’s exposure in winter, and protected against the heat by wearing unlined clothes made of cool fabrics such as ramie cloth or hemp cloth in summer.

Fabrics for spring and autumn clothes are made of

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Taekwondo:

Korea’straditional martialart

Among the Korean traditional sports that have been revived in modern times, the martial art of Taekwondo is the best known and the officially acknowledged sport to have originated in Korea and be practiced widely around the world.

Taekwondo uses the entire body, particularly the hands and feet. It not only strengthens one’s physical wellbeing, but also cultivates character via physical and mental training, coupled with techniques for discipline. This self-defense martial art has become a popular international sport in the last quarter century with some 3,000 Korean instructors now teachingTaekwondo in more than

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150 countries.

Evidence of Taekwondo’s existence as a systematic defense method using the body’s instinctive reflexes can be traced back to ceremonial games that were performed during religious events in the era of the ancient tribal states.

During religious ceremonies such as Yeonggo, Dongmaeng (a sort of Thanksgiving ceremony), or Mucheon (Dance to Heaven), ancient Koreans performed a unique exercise for physical training and this exercise led to the development of Taekwondo.

In Korea, the Taekwondo Association has a membership of about 3.8 million, constituting the largest affiliate of the Korea Sports Council.

The World Taekwondo Federation (WTF), with its headquarters in Seoul, was officially approved as thegoverningbodyofthesportby theInternational Olympic Committee in 1980.

Taekwondo was a demonstration sport in the 1988 Seoul Olympics, reflecting its worldwide popularity. It became an official Olympic medal event beginning in the 2000 Sydney Olympics What makes Taekwondo so attractive?

As A SPORT The movement and techniques of Taekwondo are made up so that the practitioner uses parts and regions of his/her body in a balanced manner, helping to evenly enhance the flexibility of the limbs. It also helps to eliminate stress as you shot while practicing kicking and punching.

As A MEANS OF SEIF-DEFENSE While it is similar to other martial arts in the use of hands and feet, Taekwondo is significantly different in that it needs a powerful level of attack that comes from the use of the feet. However, Taekwondo is focused more

on defense than attack.

AS A MEANS OF SELF-DISCIPLINE Taekwondo is effective for self-discipline as it strengthens the body and mind as well as teaches etiquette through matches with other opponents.

Three basic component of Taekwondo PUMSAE This is a systematic framework of technique enabling the individual to practice attack and defense moves as if he/she were faced with an opponent.

GYEOKPA(BREAKINGORDEFEATING)Thistechnique is used in examinations or demonstrations where the practitioner, one who has mastered the basic techniques and movements, uses great strength to break objects such as wooden boards, tiles or bricks.

GYERUGI (CONTEAST) This is the process of mastering the techniques needed for attack and defense in one-on-one combat as well as the process of assessing the mastery of such techniques.

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Now in Kuwait

“KIA Mohave” Elegant, Spacious & the Most Powerful in its Class

Abdulaziz Al-Ali Al Mutawa Group of Companies- National Agencies Group- the exclusive dealer of KIA Motors in Kuwait has unveiled their luxurious new 4x4, the KIA Mohave which is a new addition to the rest of KIA’s dynamic and youthful range of cars known for their distinguished appearance and driving performance.

The all new KIA Mohave arrived to the market at the beginning of September equipped with a V6, 3.8L engine with 274 hp. The V8 comes equipped with a 4.6L engine featuring 333 hp.

KIA Motors Worldwide states that KIA Mohave is one of their biggest and most powerful cars ever produced. Equipped with a powerful engine and large body it competes in the 4x4 category.

The Mohave is equipped with a high-end stereo system of 600 Watts with a 6 CD changer, alongside a GPRS navigation system and the first KIA car to come equipped with a satellite “Sirius” system. The Mohave has a tremendous number of storage compartments.

The KIA Mohave has set itself apart by having the latest safety features and comes with high recommendation from expert reviewers. The car is equipped with air bags in all sections along with the ABS braking system to give good handling & grip on the road, with wheel pressure monitoring feature and downhill & uphill grip assistance.

The car comes with Xenon lighting to provide maximum visibility on the road.

The vehicle’s concept can be summarized in one sentence “little means a lot”. The Mohave has an appealing exterior look and practicality that KIA users want. It’s dynamic and stylish appearance will surely attract attention.

National Agencies Group, the exclusive distributor of KIA Motors in Kuwait is once again providing many benefits to the buyer of the Mohave. Alongside KIA’s other cars, the Mohave will have the benefits of the 10x10x10x10 which are:

Along with Mohave’s powerful engine, it also has a spacious interior, built on a wheel base of 114 inches. With a length of 192.1 inches, and a width of 75.4 inches, the Mohave has 3 electrical seating rows and can seat up to 7 people. The second seating row is designed on a movement base to allow for easy entry. The third row seats could be folded to add more space and comfort.

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Tel: +965 2472 46 43, 2475 8663 , 2475 86 64 - Fax: +965 2472 46 57 Email: info@alradwanfurniture.com - Web: www.alradwanfurniture.com