Koreana Autumn 2003 (English) by The Korea Foundation

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Yun Du-seo's Self-Portrait Kim Seung-hee Curator, National Museum of Korea

In Korea, portraiture origi-

painters for its highly expres-

nated from ancestral worship.

sive realism, which brings the

In the beginning, kings and

subject's spiritual character to

high-ranking government offi-

vivid life with only muted color.

cials were the main subjects of

The eyes gaze straight ahead

portraits. But by the time of the

as though Yun were staring into

Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910),

a minor, while the tightly pursed

portraits had become widely

lips are suggestive of the

popular among the literati,

literati's powerful spirit within.

who created images of their

The beard, with each strand of

ancestors according to their own artistic

hair flming stiffly outward like spewing flames, is

preferences. Jeonsinsajo, the production of "exact

a manifestation of the painter's free, but

replicas" so as to "convey the true spirit" of the

disciplined, self-will. Yun's face reflects the

subject, was the standard of portraiture.

personal sorrows that he had experienced

Yun Du-seo (1668-1715), a leading repre-

throughout his lifetime. This painting is much

sentative of the intellectuals of his time, was a

more than a simple portrait of an individual; it

notable scholar as well as painter. His self-portrait

represents a treasured work of art of Korean

is distinctive from the works of professional

portraiture. ~

Ink and color on paper, 38.5 x 20.5 em, National Treasure No. 240, Yun Hyeong-sik collection Photograph: Cultural Properties Administration

Marathon of Korea Cultre

: · .~

Yang Jae-sung

Pi Ok-hee

Seon Ju-seong

FOCUS

Paju Book City

Baek Won-keun

INTERVIEW

Photographer Koo Bohn-chang

Jin Dong-sun

ARTISAN

Daemokjang Shin Eung-soo

Choi Tae-won Koreana

ON THE ROAD

Visit to Miryang

Choi Gap-su © The Korea Foundation 2003 All right s re se rved. No part of thi s publication may be reproduced in any

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Some 80 years have passed sil}ce the first full-course marathon was held in Korea, at a unique time when the country was under Japanese occupation. From this humble beginning, the brilliant success of Korea's marathon history has been highlighted by such heroes as Sohn Ki-jeong, the gold medalist of the 1936 Berlin Olympics, Hwang Young-jo, gold medalist of the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, and Lee Bong-ju, the winner of the 105th Boston Marathon in 2001. Yang Jae-sung Vice President, Korean Athletics Federation

4 Korean a I Autumn 2003

.-• .--. -·

Sohn won the gold medal. © Yonh apn ews ·· • •

n Korea, marathon competition has always been

nationwide independence movement of March 1, 1919.

regarded as a national sports event, watched and

Amid this oppressive atmosphere, Korean youth immersed

cheered passionately by the entire populace. During

themselves in long-distance running . A marathon

Japan's colonial rule (1910-45), countless Korean

racecourse that wound through Seoul was adopted for the

youth turned to running as an outlet for unleashing their

first time during the 1st Korea Athletic Competition in

anguish over colonization. And when turmoil prevailed in

1920. This competition, however, focused on finishing

the aftermath of national liberation, the public's interest in

ahead of other participants, rather than the course distance

the marathon played an instrumental role in helping to

or elapsed time.

unite the country. Marathon competition has always

In June 1924, a 15-mile marathon event was held as part

remained an integral element of life in Korea, even during

of the 1st Korea-wide track and field competition sponsored

the Korean War and the post-war period when the entire

by the Korean Sports Council, an organization established

country struggled desperately to survive and rebuild. And

by Koreans. The first full-course marathon competition

after successfully hosting the 1988 Seoul Olympics, Korea

was held in 1927. Running became a national pastime after

kept running with this momentum, while setting its sights

the Dong-A Ilbo newspaper inaugurated a marathon event

on ever-higher goals . Its challenge to attain global

in 1931. Outstanding marathoners of this time included

prominence in the marathon has continued into' the 21st

Kim Eun-bae, Yu Jang-chun, and Nam Seung-ryong.

century, with the champions of tomorrow being groomed and trained around the country.

Korea's marathoners finally participated in international competition in 1932, at the Los Angeles Olympics. Kim Eun-bae finished sixth with a time of 2:37:28, and Kwon

COMPETITION

--<.

Tae-ha came in ninth at 2:42:52. Kim Eun-bae was a 17-

During the 3rd Joseonsingung Shrine Athletic

year-old senior at Yangjeong High School at the time.

Competition, held in October 1927, Ma Bong-ok won the

Following his victory in the 1st Dong-A Ilbo Marathon

marathon event with a time of 3:29:37. With this being the

(racecourse from

first full-course marathon race to be held in Korea, Ma's

March 1931, Kim competed in the Joseonsingung Shrine

winning time established the Korean record. The world

Marathon, his frrst attempt at a full-course marathon, and

record at that time was 2:41:22, more than 50 minutes

finished frrst with an astounding time of 2:26:12.

better than the Korean record.

Gyeon~sg

to Yeongdeungpo) in

The results of the Los Angeles Olympics marathon frred

Back in May 1896, the first track meet for students was

up the enthusiasm of Korean youth. The marathon was an

held in Korea. Organized by a British national, Hutchinson,

event in which they could beat the Japanese, while the

who was a teacher at a government-operated English

grueling training also helped to dull the pain of coloniza-

school, this meet, which mainly featured running events,

tion. Korean athletes were invariably victorious in all kinds

marked the launch of organized track and field competition

of athletic competition versus the Japanese, while

in Korea. Thereafter, the inauguration of the Korean

continuously setting new marathon records.

the Korean people's resentment of the repressiveness of

the Japanese authorities intensified, resulting in the

compete in the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Despite the Japanese

National Sports Association in October 1907 also helped to lay a foundation for the promotion of field and track events. Since Korea came under Japanese colonial rule in 1910,

Koreana I Autumn 2003

K r-JEoNc:';

Sohn Ki-jeong and Nam Seung-ryong were selected as

members of the Japanese national team who were sent to

his admission to Yangjeong High School, where he trained as a marathon runner, despite his advanced age. He again g

competed in the Dong-A Marathon in March 1933, this time placing first. He also won Korea's second full-course marathon, held in April 1934, with an amazing record time of 2:24:51. This was followed by another victory in the Olympic tryouts held in Japan in March 1935, in which he set an unofficial world record of 2:26:14. Such was Sohn's dominance that he had no peer in Japan or Korea. He was first in the Olympic tryouts for Japan's national marathon team in November 1935, and together with Nam Seung-ryong, he was dispatched to

Sohn Ki-jeong's gold medal ceremony at the 1936 Berlin Olympics (left) The Dong-A 1/bo published this picture after its staff had obliterated the Japanese flag (right).

compete in the 1936 Berlin Olympics, where he was crowned with the victor's laurel. Sohn Ki-jeong's marathon triumph fueled hope and inspiration in Koreans; it was

authorities' patent jealousy, discrimination, and

indeed a historic event that renewed the dreams of Korean

oppression, they refused to view themselves as represen-

youth. An increasing number of young Koreans began to

tatives of Japan. Though they had to compete under the

take up long-distance running, while marathon events were

Japanese flag, Sohn and Nam were undeniably sons of

held frequently in many parts of the country.

Korea. Sohn won the marathon gold medal with a new

This fervor was short-lived, however. With the outbreak

Olympic record of 2:29:19, the first to break through the

of World War II, young Korean men were conscripted to the

2:30 mark. Nam Seung-ryong also demonstrated the supe-

battlefields, and organized athletic events were banned in

riority of Korean marathoners by winning the bronze medal.

Korea by Japan from about 1940. These were truly bleak days

While receiving their medals at the awards podium,

for Korea. Athletes were driven out of sports venues, such that

however, it was the Japanese flag that was raised while

until national liberation, Korean sports had no stage on which

their country was announced as Japan, not Korea. Back in

to perform, while athletes were forced into the shadows.

Korea, the Dong-A llbo published a photograph of Sohn Ki-jeong, crossing the finish line; however, the detested Japanese flag on his jersey was obliterated beyond recognition. The newspaper paid dearly for this incident, which came to be known as the "obliteration of the Japanese flag incident," with its publication being infinitely suspended and company executives imprisoned.

fti*Dt·=t lL ., ·- 1.· liB

Sohn Ki-jeong, a native of Sinuiju, was 24 years old

Then came Korea's liberation on August 15, 1945. This

and a student of Yangjeong High School at the time he

was not just a day when Korea regained its independence

competed in and won the Olympic marathon. Sohn's first

but also an exhilarating time for freeing Korea's sports

marathon race was the Dong-A Marathon in 1932, when

world. Sports activities, including soccer and track and

at the age of 20 he finished second. This paved the way for

field competition, were revived, along with resurrection of Autumn 2003 I Koreana 7

Sea Yun-bok finishes first at the Boston Marathon in October 1947.

the Korea Sports Association. As if a dam had burst, a

finished second in the 10-mile marathon event of the

flood of track meets, athletic festivals, and marathon

general athletics festival held to celebrate national

events was staged, one after another. In October 1947, Seo

independence in October 1945 . This became a turning

Yun-bok, who was coached by Sohn Ki-jeong, won the

point in Seo's marathon career.

Boston Marathon with a time of2:25 :39. And this time, he

In May 1946, Seo Yun-bok finished first in a full-course

was able to wear the Korean flag. Nam Seung-ryong,

marathon competition with a time of 2:39:30. He also won

though he was well over 30 by this time, also competed in

the marathon event at the national athletic festival held in

this race.

the fall of the same year, thereby distinguishing himself as

The Boston Marathon victory again inspired all the

Korea's foremost marathoner. He went on to make Korea

nation. Seo, who was born in Seoul, was 24 at the time of

better known in the world by winning the Boston Marathon,

his victory in 1947. The diminutive marathoner (160

which became the nation's proudest moment since

centimeters) was in fact the shortest winner of the Boston

liberation.

Marathon in its 51-year-history. Seo became a long-

Korea participated in the 1948 London Olympics, where

distance nmner when he entered Gyeongseong Commercial

the Korean flag was raised for the first time in Olympic

School, but he could not officially compete, due to Japan's

history. Naturally, the entire nation pinned high hopes on

wartime prohibition. He resumed his running as a member

the marathon event. However, despite the best effmts of

of the track and field team upon Korea's liberation, and

Seo Yun-bok, the hero of the Boston Marathon, Hong

Korean a I Autumn 2003

Jong-o, and Choi Yun-chil, the results were rather disappointing. Nevertheless, Korea's marathoners took this setback in stride and would not lose heart. In April 1950, two months before the outbreak of the Korean War, Ham Gi-yong, Song Gil-yun, and Choi Yun-chil finished first,

Kim Bok-rae set a new Korean record with a time of 2:19:07 in the Dong-A Marathon on March 13, 1966.

second, and third in the Boston Marathon, restoring Korea's pride in .its marathon legacy.

MEDIOCF!ITY

The Korean War wrought such extensive devastation.

when foreign mmÂˇathoners were making rapid headway. It

Amid the tragic loss of so many lives, those who survived

took several years for Korean marathoners to better their

were left homeless and empty-handed. Simply surviving

best time by even a minute. When Lee Jong-hui recorded a

from day to day was everyone's immediate concern. And of

marathon time of2:12:21 in 1987, it finally became re'alistic

course, no one could afford to focus on sports. Yet despite this

to look forward to a Korean competitor who could finish

adversity, Korea pmticipated in every Olympiq and Asian

under the 2: 10 mark. For more than three decades through

Games. Marathon competition in Korea, however, slumped

the rnid-1980s, Korean marathoners failed to record any

into an ever-deepening depression and only barely managed

significant improvement, due to the aftermath of the

to remain in existence, thanks in lmÂˇge part to Choi Yun-

Korean War, atTogance of sports officials, outdated training

chil's fourth-place finish at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics,

methods, and a shrinking pool of runners. Koreans rarely

and Lee Chang-hun, who finished fourth at the 1956

competed in international events, and the few times that

Melbourne Olympics. This was followed by Im Jong-u's

they did, the results were dismal. Public interest in marathon

third-place finish at the Boston Marathon in 1957, and Lee

competition began to wane.

Chang-hun's gold medal at the 1958 Asian Games, which broke an extended drought of no major marathon victmies.

Fortunately, a number of _individuals put forth concerted efforts to revive Korea's marathon tradition and competi-

Korea's marathon competitiveness deteriorated

tiveness at this time, while the media also began to show

noticeably in the 1960s. None of the nation's marathoners

renewed interest. This led to the promotion of various types

managed to finish within the top 10 at the 1960 Rome

of marathon events, including international competitions.

Olympics or the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. The world record

Moreover, substantial resources were invested in the

at the time was held by Abebe Bikila at 2:12:11 , whereas

recruitment and training of a new generation of mara-

Korea's best time was Kim Bok-rae's 2:19:07. The mara-

thoners. As new records were set, the prize money was

thoners on Korea's national team again performed poorly

also boosted. The successful hosting of the 1986 Asian

at the 1968 Olympics, held in Mexico City. Due to this

Games and the 1988 Seoul Olympics generated a tidal

state of disarray, starting from the 1972 Olympics, Korea

wave of momentum for the promotion of all kinds of sports

did n<?t enter any competitors in the marathon event. Nonethe-

activities in Korea, including marathon competition, which

less, marathon events continued to be held in Korea, and

enabled the sport to enjoy another takeoff. The increased

various long-distance nmners concentrated solely on the

number of marathon events held in the country attracted

marathon.

world-class marathoners, which in tum helped to upgrade

Korean runners failed to show improvement at a time

the caliber of Korean competitors. Autumn 2003 1Koreana

The hosting of the 1988 Seoul Olympics and the subsequent economic stability of the 1990s were instrumental in elevating the standard and status of Korea's athletic performance. Kim Won-tak's marathon victory in the 1990 Beijing Asian Games heralded the revival of marathon competition in Korea. In early 1992, Hwang Young-jo won the BeppuOita Marathon with a time of 2:08:47, a new Korean record that fulfilled the long-held goal of breaking through the 2: 10 barrier. Taking advantage of this confluence of positive momentum, Hwang Young-jo went on to win the marathon gold medal at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. Although his winning time of 2:13:23 was not his personal best, it was good enough for Korea's first Olympic gold medal in the marathon in the 56 years since Sohn Ki-jeong's victory at the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Hwang was 22 years old at the time. The 167-centimeter-tall, compactly built marathonet grew up in the coastal area of Samcheok, Gangwon-do province. He boasts superb cardiovascular capacity and powerful legs, as a result of extensive cycling. He took up long-distance running while attending Myeongnyun High School in Gangneung, where he excelled in cross-country relay races. His natural talent caught the eye of Jung Bongsao, who became Hwang's coach. Thus began the revival of Korea's marathon success. In addition to Hwang Young-jo, a steady stream of new marathoners emerged, who distinguished themselves in international @

;;: events: Kim Jae-ryong, Kim Wan-gi, and Lee :J

~ Hwang Young-jo wins the marathon gold medal at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics.

10 Koreana I Autumn 2003

Bong-ju. Kim Wan-gi finished third at the :J

'"~ New York Marathon in late 1992, and Kim

Marathon competition in Korea, which had been steadily trending downward since the Korean War, recovered its former glory in the 1990s: Hwang Young-jo . captured the gold medal in the marathon at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, and Lee Bong-ju set a new Korean record of 2:07:20 in 2000.

Jae-ryong placed

~econd

.-.-

f#IOjf#OO

at the Boston Marathon in 1993,

with a time of just under 2:10. And in December 1993, Lee Bong-ju won the Honolulu Marathon in Hawaii. Since gaining such global prominence, the challenge for Korea's top-ranking marathoners today is against the time clock. In March 1994, Kim Wan-gi, who finished first in the Dong-A Marathon, set a new Korean record with a time of 2:08:34. Not to be outdone, Hwang Young-jo broke this record at the Boston Marathon in Aprjl, turning in a time of2:08:09, although he finished in fourth place. /

In October 1994, Hwang Young-jo solidified his standing as Korea's top marathoner by winning the marathon gold medal at the Hiroshima Asian Games. In

.. l

their competition against each other, Hwang Young-jo and Kim Wan-gi have repeatedly improved their best times. Following in their footsteps, Lee Bong-ju earned the silver medal in the marathon at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.

12:07:120 Lee Bong-ju, who is the same age as Hwang Young-jo, hails from Cheonan, Chungcheongnam-do province. He began running after entering Sapgyo High School in Yesan in 1987. After transferring to Gwangcheon High School, he began to train in earnest for marathon competition. In the beginning, he remained in the shadow of Hwang Young-jo. He finally began to attract attention after winning the marathon event at the National Athletic Festival in 1991, which was his third attempt at a full-course marathon. He followed this up with another win at the 1993 National Athletic Festival in Gwangju with a time of 2:10:48, the fifth-fastest finish by a Korean competitor. He was 23 at the time.

Lee Bong-ju, winner of the 105th Boston Marathon, kisses the victory cup.

Autumn 2003 I Koreana 11

.-,·-'

·:• .•-1,-' .LL .-, .._ .I!:

·=· .,. .;,.

Lee later placed second at the Rotterdam Marathon in April 1998 with a time of 2:07:44, breaking his own Korean record. At the Bangkok Asian Games held in December 1998, he won the gold medal- Korea's third marathon winner at these games, following the victories of Kim Won-tak in 1990 and Hwang Young-join 1994. The 1990s marked the golden age of Korea's marathon history. Hwang Young-jo, Kim Wan-gi, and Kim Jae-ryong have since retired from formal competition, but

Le~

Bong-ju

continues to compete. In February 2000, he again improved /

on his Korean record, turning in a time of 2:07:20 at the ·Tokyo International Marathon. Lee also won the Boston Marathon in 2001, be-coming the third Korean to claim victory at the world's most prestigious marathon event. He again won the gold at the 2002 Busan As~an

Games, his second Asian Games gold

medal. Though he is now 33, he remains Korea's top marathon competitor. The glorious highpoints as well as bitter disappointments from the time of Sohn Ki-jeong through Lee Bongju have all been part of a process in which Korea has distinguished itself as one of the most successful countries in marathon competition. At this point, future tasks include the setting of new records, broadening the foundation of marathon competition, and developing the next generation of marathoners. The passion for marathon competition is spreading more rapidly than ever, with all manner of events being held, ranging from those targeted to recreational runners and the general public to formal competitions sponsored by runners' groups. Indeed, it is no longer an impossible dream to think that a Korean may someday set a new world record in the marathon. L;.t 12 Koreana 1 Autumn 2003

Ji Young-jun is victorious in the Chosun llbo Chuncheon International Marathon on October 21, 2001.

Korea's Success in World Marathon Competition

The marathon events staged by the Olympics and the

Within the .Asian region, Korea and Japan dominate the

World Athletic Championships are among the oldest and

marathon competition. Although Japan has yet to win an

most prestigious such competitions in the world. Recently,

Olympic gold in the marathon, the best time of Japan's

world-class marathoners have failed to post record-breaking

marathoners is faster than Korea's. As compared to only ~o

times due to a preoccupation with their personal rankings.

Korean marathoners whose best time is in the 2:07 range,

Still, the major marathon events held in such large cities as

Japan features two runners with a record in the 2:06 range,

Boston, New York, Rotterdam, and London, where the world's

and three in the 2:07 range. Worldwide, more than 50

top runners compete, serve as fertile ground for the setting of

marathoners have recorded times of within the 2:07 range.

new world records, while being hugely popular among the

Marathoners from African nations, led by Kenya, are

general public. In large part, individual marathoners and the

becoming increasingly competitive, while the record

countries they represent gain recognition only when they set

marathon times of many countries are increasingly being

new records or win medals at the Olympics, World Athletic

improved, on the strength of more advanced equipment,

Championships, and major international mar·athon events.

scientific training, and speed reinforcement. Keen interest is

Over the years, Korea has won its shar·e of these competitions.

now focused on who will be the first to break the 2:05 barrier.

The cunent world record for the men's marathon is a time

Korean mar·athoners ar·e among the potential candidates, but

of 2:05:39 set by Khalid Khannouchi, a Moroccan-born

the challenge is daunting.

athlete who now runs for the United States, at the London

Of note, the overall conditions and environment for

Marathon on April 14, 2002. Khannouchi had already

marathon competitors in Korea are somewhat lagging

created a sensation in October 1999 with his first-place

behind those of Japan. In any case, Korea can now stake its

finish of 2:05:42. On three occasions, he has turned in times

hopes on newcomer Ji Young-jun (personal best: 2:08:43) to

in the 2:05 range, a feat previously thought impossible.

follow in the footsteps of the illustrious Lee Bong-ju.

The best time for Korea's marathoners is the 2:07:20 set

Moreover, the number of amateur marathoners exceeds three

by Lee Bong-ju at the Tokyo International Marathon in

million across the nation, while public mar·athon events ar·e

February 2000. Kenya is currently the world's leading

being constantly staged, even in small provincial cities. The

country in terms of producing marathon competitors. It has

Korea Athletics Federation and the government also extend

one runner capable of finishing a mar·athon within a range of

significant assistance for the nurturing and training of

2:05, six runners within 2:06, and another eight runners

promising runners. It will thus be necessary for government

wi~hn

2:07. Marathoners from Ethiopia and Morocco ar·e

support to be steadily expanded so that the infrastructure can

also highly competitive, while those from Portugal, Italy,

be str·engthened for fostering prospective long-distance and

Spain, the United States, Brazil, and Mexico are rapidly

marathon competitors.

closing the gap with Korea.

Autumn 2003 I Koreana

-- -·- --------------•

L.··

r··.

Ev~NTS

•

The number of international marathons and special-theme _ marathon events being held in Korea has increased sharply. This year alone more than 300 marathon events will be staged. Interestingly, marathons have become a · popular means of promoting regional culture as well. Pi Ok-hee Reporter, Runners Korea

hanks to Hwang Young-jo, the gold medalist of

the 1992 Barcelona Olympic Games, and Lee

Bong-ju, the winner of the 2001 Boston Marathon, interest in marathon competition has vaulted

to the forefront of Korea's general public since the rnid-1990s. As a result of this impetus, the number of marathon enthusiasts in Korea has grown exponentially in recent years. In 2002, more than 250 marathon events were held in Korea, and it is projected that this number will exceed 300 this year. Of course, the vast majority of these events cannot compare with the international competin

held in

advanced countries, in terms of overall scale and organization. Nevertheless, when a leading media business is involved as a sponsor or organizer, these events can measure up favorably to world-class international marathons, in regard to scale and operation. Korea is thus benchmarking the most prominent marathons that attract worldwide attention such as those staged in Rome, Boston, Berlin, New York, and Ibusuki. As a result, there has been a proliferation of marathons in Korea, including those of international caliber, those with unique themes, and regional events with a strong local flavor. Autumn 2003 I Koreana 15

lNTE~AIOL MA~THONS

Dong-A Seoul International Marathon These days, concerted efforts are being undertaken to develop selected marathon events in Korea into true international-class competitions through publicity activities and the invitation of world-ranking marathoners. Leading the way in these efforts is the Dong-A Seoul International Marathon, Korea's most storied marathon event. The Dong-A marathon originated from a race held in 1931, which started in Gyeongseong and finished in Yeongdeungpo. Thus when the starter's gun was fired some 72 years to signal the start of this race, it also marked the launch of Korea's marathon history, of which the DongA marathon is the country's oldest and

most

; p~estigou

event. During the years of Japan's colonial rule (1910-45) /

the Dong-A Ilbo newspaper harshly denounced the Japanese authorities, while in the 1930s Koreans expressed and exorcized their han (a mixed feeling of bitterness and rancor) through the marathon, which was considered a national sport. This year's Dong-A marathon, held in March, started at Gwanghwamun in the central downtown area, wound its

Competitors from around the world participated in the Seoul Women's International Maratho':J.

way through Jongno, and ended up at Jamsil Olympic Stadium. The event was a star-studded race featuring the

of the Republic of South Africa in the men's division, and

participation of 43 world-class runners from 15 countries.

Zhang Shujing of China in the women's division.

Because the Dong-A event is the most popular marathon in Korea, so many amateur runners sign up for the race that,

Seoul Women 's International Marathon At this

starting from this year, participants were selected through

year's London Marathon, English marathoner Paula

a lottery system.

Radcliffe won the women's division with a world record

In addition, the starting time, which previously had been

time of 2:15:25. Her time was only 9 minutes, 47 seconds

at 10 a.m., was moved up to 8 a.m. so as to mitigate the

behind the men's world record of 2:05:47, held by the 2002

various problems associated with a course that cuts through

winner Khalid Khannouchi of the United States.

the h ~ art

of Seoul, including traffic disruptions and crowd

The differential between men's and women's times in the

control. Tireless efforts have been exerted to come up with

marathon is being narrowed at a remarkably rapid pace. In

solutions to the large and small problems arising from the

the past five years it has been reduced by 5 minutes, 22

marathon, especially minimizing traffic congestion. The

seconds; if this trend continues, it will not be long before

winners of this year's Dong-A marathon were Gert Thys

women further close the gap to within 7-8 minutes.

16 Koreana I Autumn 2003

------- .- ------ ------- --

As such, the marathon, which is a sport actually better

a brief history, this event attracted over 20,000 participants

suited to women, has been enjoying a steady growth in

last year, making it the biggest Korean marathon in terms

popularity in Korea. At the center of this trend are special

of number of entrants. Among the applicants for this year's

marathons specifically for women such as the Seoul

race, 105 individuals will be selected through a lottery

Women's International Marathon. This annual marathon,

system to take part in a marathon program for intermediate-

which is organized primarily by the Korea Athletics

and advance-level runners.

Federation, the leading track and field organization in

And while the Seoul International Marathon, organized

Korea, helps to promote the competitiveness of women

by the JoongAng Ilbo newspaper, does not have a long

marathoners in Korea while also serving as a forum for

history, it is being presented tlli.s year in conjunction with a

intern.ational competition and friendship .

diverse range of events related to the sport, such as Runnex, the first-ever marathon-theme expo in Korea, which will

JoongAng llbo Seoul International Marathon The

open in October. The Runnex expo will feature various

JoongAng Ilbo Seoul International Marathon, now in its

senlinars on marathon training and competition as well as

fifth year, will be held in November. Though having only

exhibitions of marathon equipment. In this regard, a Autumn 2003 I Koreana 17

variety of projects are also underway, together with efforts

Mudflats Marathon is not well known among the general

aimed at popularizing marathon running, so that it can be

public, since its launch in 2001 it has become an event with

restored as a true national sport.

great appeal among club runners and marathon enthusiasts. Held on a remote island in Sinan-gun, Jeollanam-do

MARATHONS

province, the event features a short 2-kilometer course through mudflats that ensures participants of returning

These days, marathons are not just about competitive

Âˇ ~

home with unforgettable memories.

running; they have been transformed into recreational

As they run through the mudflats, the runners smear

festivals and spectacles in which Koreans young and old

their faces with mud, giving themselves a natural mudpack.

can take delight. As such, marathons are becoming a

For such a memorable experience, including the traditional

popular medium for publicizing the regional locations and

circle dance ganggangsullae performed before the start of

cultures where they are staged. Indeed, since the inaugura-

the race, the mudflats race is undoubtedly the event with

tion of local autonomous governments in Korea, the

the strongest local flavor. After the race, a Miss Mud

number of unique marathons that highlight regional

Competition is held with the runners and local residents

resources has risen steadily.

joining in the frivolity.

Daegwallyeong International Topless Marathon

Bukhansan International Mountain Marathon The

A representative example of a marathon with an unusual

International Mountain Marathon, held on Mt. Bukhansan,

theme is the annual Daegwallyeong Topless Marathon,

the guardian mountain of Seoul, offers several divisions,

held to celebrate the New Year. The event is held at the

including a 17 .8-kilometer race, a 7 -kilometer race for

Daegwallyeong pass, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do

individuals and families of three or more, and a family

province, the site in Korea that receives the heaviest

event. That the racecourse requires participants to run up

snowfall and is thus the mecca of winter sports and recrea-

the mountain's slopes and down again makes this a unique

tion. Pyeongchang was also a candidate city for the 2010

enough marathon, but the special side events, organized for

Winter Olympics. For this marathon event, held in the

the purpose of "protecting nature and caring for forests,"

bitter cold of January, the participants, who include people

are even more noteworthy.

of all ages, complete 5-kilometer or 10-kilometer races with their tops off.

Among these events, the most innovative is the environmental conservation event, in which participants lug a 2-

Though running topless in the dead of winter is enough

kilogram sack of dirt up the mountain that they use to

to make this marathon unique, the scenery along the race-

cover up exposed tree roots found along the race path. The

course is out-of-the-ordinary as well, including areas where

mountain marathon is a natural form of environmental

Alaska Pollack, a local specialty of Pyeongchang, are left

activism, combining running with caring for the mountain's

hanging from rows of racks, to dry out in the freezing

preservation.

winter air. Moreover, marathon participants can also take

In addition to these previous examples, there are many

in theÂˇ annual Daegwallyong Snow Festival, making their

more unusual and unique marathons held around the

visit all the more worthwhile.

country. In response to the ongoing marathon boom in Korea, even more highly creative marathons will no doubt

Sinan Mudflats Marathon Although the Sinan 18

Korean a I Autumn 2003

be launched in the future. ~

The Daegwallyeong International Topless Marathon is run during the bitter cold of January (top).l Runners in the Bukhansan International Mountain Marathon traverse mountainous terrain and also help to preserve the natural environment (bottom).

Autumn 2003 I Koreana

i Â· ~ ~-

t; ~ ' -

full marathon participants increasing at an annual growth

people running in Korea has increased

rate of at least 100 percent since 1998, it is easy to understand

dramatically, such that it is not difficult to find

why Korea is said to have a case of "running fever."

people for whom running is a part of their

Then, what particular factors are behind this boom in

routine. In the past, Koreans thought of running as a tedious,

the popularity of running in Korea? First, there is the fact

uninteresting activity. As part of physical education

that Korean attitudes toward health have changed

classes, running was merely taught as a training method

dramatically. As can be seen in the table, the number of

for building up physical stamina. And with a primary

people running in Korea is closely related to Korea's

focus on short-distance running, students had little chance

economic crisis of 1997-98. The IMF (International

to enjoy long-distance running.

Monetary Fund) regimen brought about far-reaching

Korean men have thought of running as grueling and

changes to Korea's economic structure and the way of

uninteresting because of their experiences with marching

thinking of its society. The previous environment that

in the military. As for women, who value a slim figure and

valued personal relationships and social affiliations was

fair skin, outdoor running was shunned in large part.

replaced by a system based on fierce competition.

However, these negative perceptions of running were

Meanwhile, as Korean businesses underwent extensive

transformed as a result of Korea's financial crisis during

restructuring in line with globalization trends, guaranteed

the late 1990s.

employment became a thing of the past.

â&#x20AC;˘ _..,

ver the past three or four years, the number of

These developments have altered Koreans' concept of ATTITUDES

personal health. Under the past system, when position and

There are no official statistics on how many people in

salary were determined by seniority or age, being healthy

Korea participate in running. Nor are there any statistics

meant not being sick. That is, as long as you could continue

available on the numbers of joggers and serious runners in

to work while avoiding any serious illness or accident,

Korea. However, an approximate figure can be determined

your employment was ass.ured until retirement age, and

by applying a rule of thumb used in advanced countries

people's concept of health conformed to this notion.

that estimates the total number of runners as being 30 to 40

However, now that workplaces have since adopted a

times the number of participants in full marathon events

competitive personnel system, personal health has taken

(42.195 kilometers or 26.21 miles). With the number of

on added significance as another competitive acjyantage.

full marathon participants in Korea amounting to about

Good health began to be associated with improved

40,000 in 2002, Korea's running population is thus

physical endurance and the ability to work more

estimated at 1.2 to 1.6 million. And with the number of

vigorously than others.

Growth of Full-course Marathon Participants

Chuncheon Marathon

758

959

2,361

5,152

10,153

15,893

24,012

Dong-A Marathon

412

623

1,413

3,058

4,433

12,075

8,219

Note: The Dong-A Seoul International Marathon, which is held in the spring, and the Chosun llbo Chuncheon Marathon, held in the fall, are KoreaÂˇs representative marathons.

Korean a I Autumn 2003

camaraderie from being with other people with a common interest. And even though there may be thousands of participants, competitors gain a sense of personal achievement. With the recent proliferation in mnning events, runners now have a multitude of opportunities to enjoy the satisfaction of competing in a race, which serves to reinforce their interest in the sport. Fourth, with Korea being the world's leading country in Internet subscribers and usage (per capita), the Internet has played an instrumental role in spreading the gospel of running in Korea. In particular, the Internet facilitates access to a wealth of information and the exchange of thoughts among mnners, thereby building camaraderie and

Due to this changed perception of personal health, people

enthusiasm for the sport. For example, the Chuncheon

began to take an interest in exercise, for which running was

Marathon homepage, which was launched in 1998, the first

a popular choice since it was easy to take up and yielded

year in which the number of runners in Korea began to

considerable physical benefits.

increase rapidly, enabled mnners to exchange and share

Second, changing social values also played a role. The economic crisis shattered the concept of "lifetime employ-

information, contributing to the fmmation of new mnning clubs throughout the country.

ment," under which workers willingly sacrificed so much

Fifth, in line with Korea's attainment of per capita

for their company. Instead, people started to regard them-

national income of $10,000, the steady expansion of

selves and their families as their top priority. As these

mnning facilities has also given a big boost to the sport's

changes were manifested in increased efforts to attain

popularity. Related to

personal satisfaction, running came to be recognized as a

Olympics, Korea developed a wide range of first-class

means to this end. Running was no longer thought of as an

athletic facilities. For residents, a 38-kilometer bicycle

uninteresting and tedious endeavor that people forced

course was installed along the Hangang River, which mns

themselves to undertake for the sake of their health, but

through the heart of Seoul, home to 25 percent of Korea's

rather a truly enjoyable and rewarding pursuit. As the

population. And in ever more neighborhoods, park sites

number of people who enjoyed running surged sharply, this

were developed, which have been ideal for mnners. Bicycle

created a ripple effect that gave further rise to a number of

courses have since been completed along rivers in all of

related activities.

Korea's major cities, while in the 1990s large-scale parks

it ~

hosting of the 1988 Seoul

with walking courses were built in Seoul's satellite cities, E XPLOSION

Third, there has been an explosion in the number of running events, including the development of high-quality

including Bundang, llsan, and Pyeongchon. This extensive "mnning infrastructure" provides numerous areas where runners can conveniently work out.

competitive events. Of particular note, a mnning event is

Sixth, the high-profile victories of Korea's leading

far more enjoyable than simply running alone. Participants

marathoners, such as Hwang Young-jo's gold medal at the

in a mnning event enjoy an atmosphere of excitement and

1992 Barcelona Olympics, and Lee Bong-ju's silver medal

Korean a I Autumn 2003

For dedicated runners, it is vital to warm-up adequately and diligently monitor their running times (opposite page). Participants in the Samcheok Beach Half Marathon, held in August 2003, run through luxuriant pine forests (below).

at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics and first place finish at the 2001 Boston Marathon, provided great inspiration to the running community in Korea. As the country's elite marathon runners performed so admirably in international events, this reinforced the bond between Koreans and runnmg. CHA~TEIS

Runners in Korea exhibit a number of unique characteristics not typically found in advanced nations. For example, in terms of the participants in running events, over 60 percent of the runners are men in their late thirties and early forties. It thus seems that these men developed an interest in running at an age when they were concerned /

with their physical health. The 45 percent of the population that resides in Seoul and surrounding cities accounts for some 70 percent of the running population. In addition, less than 10 percent of runners are women, with the majority of these women runners being in their forties or older. However, since younger women prefer running in indoor facilities, such as fitness centers, it is believed that more women actually engage in running than that indicated by current statistics. In terms of education, more than 80 percent

of runners are college graduates, while in terms of occupation, middle- or upper-income office workers and those with professional careers account for over 80 percent of the running population. In Korea, runners are in large part rep~ntaivs

of the "intellectual middle class." Seoul National University anthropology professor Hwang Ik-joo, who has now been running for five years, explains: "Of all the Autumn 2003 I Koreana

Analysis of Running Event Participants

Age 1

under 20

o.8%

20-29

West with most people enjoying slow-paced jogging

10%

30%

30-39 40-49 50-59 60 and older

11.2%

10%

rather than serious running, has developed in quite a unique

40%

manner in Korea. In accordance with the collective orientation of Koreans, which originated from the country' s agrarian roots, running has been promoted through running clubs. There are about 800 running clubs across the nation that operate Internet sites, mainly organized by occupation or region. Their ultimate objective is to participate in a

Education post graduate college high school middle school

---18% --------Âˇ62% ---18% â&#x20AC;˘ 2%

marathon event of some kind while improving their physical condition at the same time. This collective nature has played an instrumental role in the spread of running fever. However, the collective orientation of the Korean people can sometimes lead to infringement of the privacy rights of club members. With the number of running events increasing so rapidly,

Affiliation

a rise in negative side effects has been inevitable. Most of

group

the running events are staged in Seoul and its surrounding

----------- 83% ---17%

.individual

49%

company employee

"'\

self-employed professional teacher

trated. But the expanding scale and frequency of these events have led to growing complaints from local residents, especially

Occupation

government worker

satellite cities, where large numbers of runners are concen-

24% 10% - 9% - 8%

about traffic congestion. So beleaguered are some residents by these inconveniences that they have come to refer to these problems as "marathon pollution." For running events to be distinct and vibrant, .and avoid pollution, "programs must be developed in which both race participants and local residents can participate," explained Professor Hwang. INOUST~E

forms of exercise, running is the most analytical in nature.

The explosion of Korea's running population has

You should always be analyzing your physical condition,

spurred the development of several related industries. One

speed, distance, and other factors and your strategy for the

notable example is the treadmill equipment sector. Tread-

course. This analytical nature of running appeals to the

mill sales, which amounted to some $25 million (30 billion

intellectual middle class, which has the ability to analyze

won) in 1999, surged to $83.3 million (100 billion won) in

~ njoys

the challenge." The intellectual middle class

2002. As recently as four years ago, most health clubs

to those who have received a college education and

were equipped with three or four treadmills, with even the

enjoy a financially stabilily. This intellectual middle class is

largest facilities rarely having more than ten units. Nowa-

especially passionate about running, thereby fueling the

days, almost every health club has about ten treadmills,

rapid growth of the sport's popularity and social influence.

with larger establishments having 50 or more units. With

Running, which is an essentially individual sport in the

there being some 5,000 health/fitness clubs nationwide,

and ref

Koreana I Autumn 2003

1. With the boom in running, treadmill sales have skyrocketed. 2. Running shoes on display in a shop specializing in marathon products. 3. Sun cream, knee protectors, socks, and other items needed for running 4. The Hangang River Bicycle Course is an attractive route where joggers and runners can enjoy the river scenery while they run.

this would represent commercial sales of almost 100,000

multifunctional running shoes, New Balance is rapidly

treadmill units. In addition, treadmill equipment is also sold

gaining ground in Korea through such promotional efforts

to consumers through home shopping networks. Although

as the sponsorship of major running events like the

most consumer sales involve low-cost imports, some

JoongAng llbo Seoul International Marathon.

5,000 units are sol~

monthly, amounting to about $50

million (60 billion won) of sales for the year.

In addition, the running boom has enabled businesses to launch new ventures, focused on marathon-related products.

Meanwhile, sales of major sporting goods brands have

Runners Club, Inc., the operator of the largest marathon

skyrocketed as well. Nike, the leading sporting goods brand

specialty shop in Korea, is a prime example. A marathon

in the Korean market, reported sales of $165 million (198.6

specialty shop is a new retailing concept that seryes as a

billion won) last year, up 30 percent from 2001. Asics

one-stop outlet offering a diverse range of running-related

recorded $99.1 million (119.5 billion won) in sales last year,

sporting goods produced by leading brand names.

almost a 50 percent increase from 2001. Asics shoes are used

In addition, photo businesses specializing in marathon

by nearly 40 percent of running enthusiasts in Korea,

events, which shoot and sell photos of amateur marathon

boasting an overwhelming dominance over other brands.

participants at races around the country, are also flour-

Even sporting goods brands without a strong market

ishing. The ranks of running enthusiasts, of whom many

prese,nce are enjoying rapid sales growth thanks to the

are known to develop an addiction to the sport, continue to

expanding ranks of Korea's running population. The New

expand rapidly, not only in Korea but throughout the

Balance brand is not yet popular among Koreans, but its

world, even in this time of economic stagnation. Riding on

shoes are a favorite among world-ranking marathon

the crest of this wave, "marathon offshoot businesses" will

competitors. While targeting amateur marathoners with

likely enjoy robust growth for the foreseeable future.

Autumn 2003 I Koreana 27

Popular Jogging and Running Courses A running route that winds between urban high-rises and Yangjaecheon Stream (left) The Mt. Namsan Walking Path is popular with native Seoulites as well as the expatriate community (middle). Cosmos flowers in bloom alongside Seoul 's celebrated marathon route, the Hangang River Bicycle Course (right)

Hangang River Bicycle Course The Hangang River Bicycle Course is the most popular course for runners in Seoul. The bicycle course, with pathways along the nmth for and south embankments of the river, is ideally s i~ated residents of Seoul. The southern pathway begins at Amsadong in the east and extends over 38 kilometers to Haengju Bridge. The northern pathway is 21 kilometers in length. Along the way, there are rest stops with drinking and bathroom facilities for the added convenience of runners. Also, markers are installed along the course at }-kilometer intervals so that runners can keep track of their pace and distance.

Park, making it ideal for adding variety to training routines. There are distance markers at 500-meter intervals, allowing runners to regularly monitor their pace. It is also possible to reach the Hangang River Bicycle Course, although the connection is rather complicated, for long-distance running. The park's athletic field can be used for shmt-distance training, while a 98-meter incline up a converted landfill mound enables runners to train for hilly tenÂˇain. Offering a full range of training oppmtunities, the park has quickly become a favmite among residents of western Seoul.

llsan Lake Park The Ilsan Lake Park, located in the Mt. Namsan Situated in the heart of Seoul, Mt. Namsan

center of the new satellite city of llsan, northwest of Seoul,

stands as a natural oasis within the city center. In addition to

provides runners with an opportunity to run in a natural

a 12-kilometer roadway, the Namsan site includes a 2-

environment while enjoying views of the lake. One lap

kilometer hiking path and 3.8-kilometer walking course.

around the man-made lake is equal to 4.8 kilometers .

Because of its central location, people can run the course

Runners can always be seen here on weekdays and we~nd

before starting their workday or be there after work within a

mornings. Regular running events are held at the lake park

matter of minutes. Its dense growth of trees provides much-

every Sunday morning.

needed shade for runners in the summer and pleasant scenery as well. Namsan is the favorite course among Seoul's foreign residents and visitors.

World Cup Park Located adjacent to the World Cup Stadium in Sangam-dong, Seoul, the World Cup Park was developed on the site of the fmmer Nanjido landfill. The park features a 5.8-kilometer asphalt and dirt course, which includes steep uphill segments to Heaven Park and Sunset

Bundang Tancheon Stream In Bundang, a satellite city south of Seoul built in the mid-1990s, the most popular running course extends alongside Tancheon Stream, a tributary of the Hangang River. Its total length is 20 kilometers. Construction work to connect this course with the Hangang River course has recently been completed, enabling runners to traverse a running course that encompasses a full 100 kilometers.

Autumn 2003 I Koreana

FOCUS

he day is fast approaching

when a dream about the world's first and largest

publishing complex be-

comes a reality, gathering within one

site all the facilities needed for the production (planning, publishing, and printing) and distribution of books. Whereas venerable bookstore villages in various European countries and Japan's Jinbocho are focused on the sale of books, Korea's publishing complex is a fully integrated production center dedicated to the publishing industry.

World's First Integrated

by Korean publishers some 14 years

actually get off the ground, and others

Publishing Complex

ago in September 1989, which is now

wondered if it was really some kind

Located in Paju, 40 kilometers

finally becoming a reality. Initially,

of real estate speculation scheme.

northwest of Seoul (a 30-minute

efforts were focused on the construe-

Today, however, as the construction

drive), the Paju Publishing Culture

tion of an "integrated distribution

proceeds steadily, such doubts have

Information Industrial Complex is a

center" to modernize the distribution

become expressions of anticipation of

Âˇlarge-scale and multifunctional com-

system, but the project concept was

its completion as well as lofty expecta-

plex, encompassing over 1.5 million

gradually broadened to encompass all

tions for its future role. Moreover, the

square meters for publishing and

areas of publishing, while the public

prevailing mood is one that the com-

printing activities, a distribution

aspects of the project have attracted

plex will usher in a new era of Korean

center, the Asia Publishing Culture

wide-spread national interest.

publishing.

Information Center, and support

The Korean government approved

facilities (housing accommodations

construction of the complex, despite

been made possible thanks to the

and commercial facilities). Zone 1,

the fact that Paju is not far from the

vision and dedication of Lee Ki-ung,

which includes an area of some

Demilitarized Zone, and made

chairman of the Paju Book City

860,000 square meters for facilities

available government-owned land for

Association, as well as the __participa-

directly related to publishing, is

the project site at a 30 percent dis-

tion of various publishing concerns of

scheduled to be completed by the end

count. The government also offered

the association. The association

of 2004, while Zone 2, covering

low-cost financing to prospective

includes 142 publishing businesses,

another 730,000 square meters

tenants of Book City for their con-

26 printing companies, and 25 distrib-

designated for video industry facili-

struction costs, in addition to funding

utors and other related firms.

ties, is steadily taking shape. Currently,

the construction of the public facilities

In the "Information Room," which

13 p1Jblishing and printing businesses

of the Asia Publishing Culture Infor-

includes an observatory area, a bust of

are now operating within the complex.

mation Center.

An Jung-geun, the Korean patriot

Th~

development of Book City has

Known as "Book City," the pub-

Even as recently as a few years

who assassinated the Japanese envoy

lishing complex is an ambitious devel-

ago, there were those who questioned

Ito Hirobumi, looks over a scale

opment project that was first conceived

whether the proposed project would

model of the complex. This symbol-

32 Koreana I Autumn 2003

Architectural scale model of the publishing-related community. World-class architects are helping to design a "green city" that preserves the natural environment to the maximum extent possible (opposite page). Printing facilities of PoChinChai Printing Company (right above and below) Editing room of Changbi Publishers Inc. (far right)

izes the unyielding perseverance that

over 14,000 square meters. Thereafter,

and Germany, which are said to be the

has driven the development process of

a procession of major printing compa-

most efficient facilities in the world.

this complex, which had established

nies has moved in as well. In the first

A noteworthy public facility is the

as its spiritual foundation the strength

half of;this year, Hangilsa Publishing

Asia Publishing Culture Information

of An Jung-geun, who made the

Co., Ltd., Korea's representative book

Center, which covers an area of 18,000

ultimate sacrifice for Korea's inde-

publishing company, and Changbi

square meters. Following completion

pendence movement. Like the phrase,

Publishers Inc. moved into their new

of the Education and Training Center,

"Publishing is all about determina-

offices in the complex, while offices

the Exhibition Center and the

tion," Book City is a book whose

are under construction for another 40

Information Center are scheduled to

pages are infused with culture and

or so more publishing firms.

be completed this summer. These

industry, which could not be realized without tireless effmts. Publishing Hub

In addition to being home to pub-

facilities will play a central role in

lishing and p1inting businesses, Book

Book Cjty, serving as a multifunc-

City also features an advanced distri-

tiona! venue for education, training,

bution center and an information center.

exhibitions, conferences, and more.

Book City's basic infrastructure,

The General Publications Distribution

The government's funding of the

such as roadways and utilities, has

Center, including an area of some

facility construction costs are __related

been completed, while here and there

73,000 square meters, will distribute

to their public nature and usage. In

the construction of buildings is in full

the books produced at the complex to

particular, these facilities will function

swing . When construction is com-

bookstores and retailers around the

as an incubator for the publishing

pleted, there will be some 155 buildings

country upon its completion in March

culture of the future through the hosting

for publishers and printers, housing

2004. It is destined to be a central

of a variety of publication-related

some 1,000 businesses by next year,

force in modernizing Korea's distribu-

exhibitions, as well as professional

in the J?Ublishing and printing zone.

tion system for publications, which has

education and training in the field of

Last June, the PoChinChai Printing

not kept pace with that of advanced

publishing.

Company, Ltd., the oldest printing

nations.

In addition, plans are underway for

company in Korea, opened a new

Book City is adapting the physical

the construction of visitor accom-

production facility in the complex of

distribution systems of the Netherlands

modations adjacent to the site of the Autumn 2003 I Koreana

_,_

Asia Publishing Culture Information

it be an ecologically minded city,

plants spewing pollutants into the air,

Center. To capitalize on Book City's

which stresses the preservation of

or an apartment-style complex over-

geographical advantages, the complex

nature. The philosophical concept of

flowing with production facilities ,

will be promoted as a central hub

Book City involves a harmonization

should be well received.

where publishing industry concerns

of humanity and nature, culture and

In order to build a complex that

from Asian nations such as Japan and

industry. As such, a large number of

preserves the natural environment to

China, as well as other nations around

prominent foreign and domestic

the maximum extent possible, con-

the world, can come together to meet,

architects have participated in the

struct innovative and attractive spaces

exchange information, launch joint

project to ensure a smooth incorpora-

that reflect the creativity of world-

publishing ventures, and engage in

tion of publishing activity, nature, and

class architects, and ensure the unity

other publishing-related activities.

architectural aesthetics. The environ-

and harmony of the entire complex, a

mentally conscious efforts to develop

"Master Development Agreement"

Book City as the publishing center of

was concluded to establish basic

A fundamental principle guiding

future generations, not an industrial

guidelines for the project. This unpre-

the development of Book City is that

complex lined with manufacturing

cedented agreement was concluded

City in Harmony with Nature

34 Korean a I Autumn 2003

The offices of Hangilsa Publishing Co. combine the aesthetics of open and closed, full and empty (left). This huge sculpture of a book symbolizes the power of the written word (bottom).

between the Book City Association and construction companies to ensure

The "Proclamation of the Birth of

community through the gathering

Book City," which will announce the

together of major book publishers,

opening of the complex to the world,

and to be the driving force behind the

and the "Paju Children's Book Festi-

creation of a renewed and more effi-

val," in which picture books from

cient publishing culture.

around the world will be exhibited,

Far surpassing the economic

are scheduled to be held this October,

benefits, though, is a realization that

when Book City will open its doors to

"we have opened up a century of new

the public. Meanwhile, Heyri Art

culture," along with the hope and

Valley, a venue for a variety of cultural

vision of the "power of books" related

facilities such as art galleries, museums,

to the fulfillment of what was once a

and theaters, will be constructed

mere dream. Book City is a priceless

nearby in 2005 . Accordingly, Book

legacy that this generation of pub-

City will soon assume a new role as a

lishers can pass on to the next genera-

unique visitor destination, as part of a

tion of publishers, and a home for a

series of nearby attractions, including

publishing culture bristling with

the Unification Observatory, Heyri

vibrancy. Through the Book City

Art Valley and llsan Lake Park.

complex, Korea's publishing industry and reading culture will be able to

Heart-of Korean Publishing

reach unimaginable heights, in line

What does Book City mean for

with a resolute belief that this will

Korea's publishing culture of the

evolve into an international cultural

future? As a fully integrated complex

legacy of the 21st century.~

with modem facilities for publishing, printing and distribution activities, without precedent worldwide, it will function as the heart and arteries of Korea's publishing industry. As such, it will transcend the physical realm and functions of a regular industrial

the harmony and balance of the over-

complex. In fact, the complex is

all complex as well as the individuality

expected to reduce Korea's publishing

of each building. There are provisions

and distribution costs by some 30

that limit building height to no more

percent, while the cost savings and

than four stories, require building

efficiency gains due to the integration

signage to be of a uniform style, and

of facilities for the planning, editing,

call for the buildings of publishing

printing, and distribution of publica-

firms to include large display

tions are expected to contribute much

windows. In this way, the complex

to enhancing the competitiveness and

has already been established as a

productivity of Korean publishers.

hands-on training course for students

However, even more significant is

of architecture and public officials

Book City's ability to foster the

involved with project development.

formation of a close-knit publishing Autumn 2003 I Koreana

INTERVIEW

KOO BOHN-CHANG Images Reflecting the Other Side of Life Jin Dong-sun Photo Critic

Koreana I Autumn 2003

hotographer Koo Bohn-chang's Masks series is

currently being exhibited at the Hanrni Gallery in Seoul. Long concerned with both the visible and the

hidden aspects of life, Koo has now addressed

various issues of life through the images of masks. For the

past 20 years, he has approached society by way of the self, and through society he has dealt with matters of existence and non-existence. The relationships among these elements can be found throughout his oeuvre, serving as codes to reflect the duality of self and others, nature and mankind, body and mind, creation and extinction. Koo Bohn-chang's 1988 work, Clandestine Pursuit in the Long Afternoon, focuses on the intersection between the

self and the totality, where we encounter the self through others and reaffirm others based on the self. For Koo, a photograph is a reflection of the self, while the view of its

Good-bye Paradise 2, liquid light on rice paper, 1993

subject is at the same time a mirror and a window on the fleeting meanings that recede into the world. from this point of view, Clandestine Pursuit in the Long Afternoon presents a momentary glimpse of the end of the world as

my quest to escape this suffe1ing and rediscover my free self."

seen by an unknown, isolated stranger. A stranger who

The freedom of the automatic camera reveals where this

was not so much a stranger, as an outsider who lived on

"stalking" ends. The scenes of life "captured" by the auto-

the outskirts of life and felt alienated- this was the sense

matic camera were specifically scenes of feeling left out,

captured by the camera. The point where the self and others

refracted through the lives of others . They showed the

intersect, when the view of the subject becomes that of an

elements of life that could not be spoken of, which were too

observer maintaining a certain distance, a wounded spirit

minute to be visible in the world. All the more unfamiliar

who circles over Seoul in search of freedom and dreams of

due to their triviality, these were the images of Koo striving

escaping from his fettered existence.

to cope with life in Seoul, as reflected in Clandestine Pursuit

"When I returned to Seoul after spending six years study-

in the Long Afternoon. The automatic camera was the medium

ing in Germany, everything seemed so unfamiliar. The free-

that could immediately illuminate, capture, and reveal these

dom I had enjoyed in Germany was suddenly restricted, and

aspects. The ambiguity of truth and falsehood, the meaning

I suffered. Clandestine Pursuit in the Long Afternoon was

of living in this land, the incongruity of the coexistence of

Since the mid-1980s, Koo Bohn-chang has assumed a leading position in the field of Korean photography. Through wide-ranging projects and diverse experimentation based on his thoughts about life and death, Koo Bohn-chang has noticeably broadened the expressive scope of the photographic medium. Autumn 2003 I Koreana 37

dissimilarities- through juxtaposition of the exposed and

the reality of human death. He wanted to experience what

the hidden nature of such relationships, Koo sought to

it meant for humans to breathe at the threshold of existence

convey contemporary life and scenes of anomie.

and non-existence. With the In the Beginning series of 1995,

In Goodbye Paradise (1993), Koo was concerned less

he featured the self as the measure of existence in a more

with points of contact between the self and the whole than

radical manner. In the Beginning, which addresses the signifi-

with the homogeneity of all living things. He sought to

cance of the body and its existential identity, arose from

demonstrate that even the most miniscule insect or the most

Koo's realization that his father's death and his father's body

ordinary creature is essentially no different from a human

lay at the root of his own identity, inseparable from himself.

being. Believing that all living things possess a soul, he

Koo perceives the human body as an existential form

endeavored to portray these muted spirits through the images

that arises at birth from the bond with, and separation from,

of insects on display at a natural history museum, where

another person's body. To express this perception, he has

these dead and stuffed souls speak with silent voices.

connected, stitched, and sewed together images of bodies

Mounted butterflies and insect specimens were the

with needle and thread in the darkroom. These connected

insignificant, and therefore unspoken, things with which

bodies appear as if wounded by the abrasions of life and

Koo attempted to listen, inquire, and converse. Listening to

its fleeting temporality.

these souls took on a new form through the sound of his

"At first, I just wanted to enlarge the body greatly. But I

father's breathing. Breath (1995) was a tale of death that

couldn't express myself that way, due to practical, physical

sought to depict the reality about human life al)d existence.

constraints. Since no print paper was large enough, I had to

The artist's father in the photographs is also Koo's alter

attach sheets of paper together to create larger forms, and in

ego, not just as a father, but at the same time as another

the process, I came to see the meaning of the human body

universal human image standing at the boundary separa-

in a new light. Stitching pieces of print paper together in the

ting life and death. But it was no easy matter to expose such

darkroom, I saw the needle marks on those attractive

things. In the artist's words: "I had great qualms about

bodies, and the image of the thread like a suture stitching

photographing my dying father. I wanted to say that Breath

up a wound. Suddenly, the body conveyed a kind of connec-

was how life looked in its last moments, when any human

tion or combination by means of the needle and thread."

faces death. But because the subject was my father, my

In the process of attaching together sheets of print paper

other family members couldn't understand me, and I must

with a sewing machine or hand-stitching, Koo saw how

admit that their feelings seemed natural to me, too."

lives that had become fragmented or worn out like rags

And so, in the image of his dying father, Koo portrayed

could be renewed when joined together. And he felt this 路:,.

-, ?' ~ :-~路

/ ----;,'

...

J '~路

路 /

Breath 3, gelatin silver print, 1995 (left) White3, \\ L-

38 Koreana I Autumn 2003

~-'"_:

---...._:____ __ _ _ , ~

gelatin silver print, 1999 (right)

Âˇ ~

In the Beginning 6, gelatin silver photographs and cotton thread, 1994

Autumn 2003 I Koreana

was one of time's traces that human beings inevitably bear

revelation of true feelings, or a messenger of communi-

during their lifetime.

cation between the self and other. Koo has these observa-

With the opening of the new millennium, Koo also

tions about masks: "While taking these pictures, it suddenly

entered a new world of ideas. This included his White

occurred to me that the character within the mask could be

series, consisting of photographs that were entirely white. In

me. There were times when I wondered whether the mask

photography, white is used to symbolize death and

was an image of myself living my lonely life, or whether

extinction. Just as gray hair symbolizes aging and skeletal

the emotions expressed in the masks were those of my

bones death, we are reminded that white is used to depict

own circumstances as I lived my life."

aging and dying. White takes the form of ivy vines growing

The masked figures in his photographs face straight

on white walls. An absence of color foretells death. The

forward in a rigid pose. The stiff bodies behind the affixed

ivy growing on the white walls stands out as a

masks stand motionless as if frozen. Perhaps because the

representation of life and existence. Thus, Koo's

artist sees himself in these subjects, the images in the

photographic art had expanded in concept to include the

pictures are frozen in fettered forms.

issues of life and death expressed through natural subjects.

An rutist who contemplates profoundly about self and

"I wondered what it would be like if the -print paper

whole, life and death, Koo Bohn-chang has spent the past

turned white. White is the look of black that has faded, of

20 yeru·s telling of things that do not apperu· readily on the

color that has been drained away. Through the subject of

smface. From Clandestine .Pursuit in the Long Afternoon

ivy growing on white walls, I contemplated m!ltters related

(1988) to Masks (2003), he has devoted his career to

to life and death."

pmtraying things that cannot be told, of things that vanish

In approaching the issues of death and extinction

into the shadows of existence. This is why life and death,

through color, in using natural rather than artificial

existence and non-existence, ru·e the essence of his photo-

subjects, and in expressing himself so directly, Koo

graphs. And mediating between these worlds, time and

marked a clear departure from his earlier work.

memory have formed a backdrop for his realm of imagery.

The unceasing flow of time eventually brought him into contact with yet another world, where he encountered the

As a result, Koo's world of photography resides in a domain that cannot be placed neatly within a frame.

mask. It was an entirely unexpected meeting. But through

The photographs that Koo has produced since returning

masks he again explored the theme of life and its hidden

from his studies in Ge1many ru·e like a diary of real life.

elements. Masks rekindled the flames of the artist's desire

They are also an intriguing gateway into the unknown.

to move between the extremes of existence and non-

With warm blood pulsing through the fru· and the near side

existence. A mask is a tool that can hide the truth and

of life for all five senses, Koo's photographs are both an

project feelings through facial expression alone. Someone

expression of life and a silent cry on behalf of beings

wearing a mask is a mediator between concealment and

without a voice.

Koo Bohn-chang's photographs deal with things that vanish into the shadows of existence, things that elude the spoken word. Through an image of the realm of time and memory, they bear witness to questions of life and death, existence and non-existence.

Korean a I Autumn 2003

Mask 4, Gasan Ogwangdae, gelatin silver

ARTISAN

Within Korean society, there are a handful of individuals who strive to breathe new life into worn-out wooden buildings and restore neglected cultural properties. One such person, master carpenter Shin Eung-su, has dedicated his past 40 years to the restoration of historical buildings through the application of traditional me~hods. Choi Tae-won Freelance Writer Vi 11-sup Photographer /

Âˇ ~

mong the myriad occupa-

(1392-1910) it was customary for the

As such, attempts to compare the

tions found throughout the

king to appoint a dopyeonsu to a high-

abilities of various dopyeonsu are

world, there are those that

level government position. Never-

futile. The prominent nature of Shin's

seem to be completely out

theless, there are no known examples

particular specialization is one of the

of touch with the times. One such

of their works in museums. On the

reasons that he has been named the

example is dopyeonsu. Although the

other hand, several dopyeonsu can be

standardbearer of daemokjang and

term dopyeonsu was historically

found in modem society, though very

designated Important Intangible

applied to master carpenters who

few people are aware of their existence.

Cultural Property No. 74 in 1991.

specialized in the construction of

The most representative of these

As for Shin's background, a distinc-

palatial and temple buildings, those

modem-day dopyeonsu is Shin Eung-

tive highlight is the prestigious masters

currently engaged in this endeavor are

su, also known by the pen name Seong-

under which he has studied, including

more like today's architects. In order

jae, who has come to be recognized as

Lee Gwang-gyu, designated Important

to differentiate dopyeonsu from

the most distinguished practitioner

Intangible Cultural Property No. 1,

somokjang, carpenters who produced

this field for several reasons. Because

Cho Won-jae, who taught Shin the

consumer items such as doors and

of the traditional manner in which

importance for a carpenter to always

furniture, dopyeonsu were also referred

techniques are handed down from

be thinking ahead, and Choi Won-sik,

to as daemokjang. Although the title

master to apprentice, the particular

the last dopyeonsu of the J oseon

dopyeonsu may have lost its relevance

school that a dopyeonsu attends will

Dynasty who was responsible for the

nowadays, during the Joseon Dynasty

significantly influence his capability.

restoration of Gyeongbokgung Palace. Autumn 2003 I Koreana

As an example of history coming full

work, but Shin maintains that he actu-

and professional philosophy. With Shin

circle, Shin is now overseeing the

ally feels a sense of relief because he

being at the forefront of traditional-

palace restoration project that has been

is able to correct these mistakes while

style Korean architecture, no discussion

underway since 1991.

the restoration of the palace is ongoing.

on this ~ubject

"It is an honor for me to be assigned

He also stressed the fact that there is

referring to his work.

the responsibility of restoring Gyeong-

no time to think about personal gains

Born into a poor farming family in

bokgung. However, with time, I have

when working on such a historical

Cheongwon, Chungcheongbuk-do

come to realize that this is no small task.

project. Being awarded the title of do-

province, when Shin was unable to

The most challenging is the historical

pyeonsu was no trivial matter. In large

continue his studies because of his

research. I am presently researching

part it was Shin's reputation for me-

family's dire economic situation he

the original specifications of Gyeong-

ticulous attention to detail in his work

decided at an early age to pursue a

bokgung by referring to ancient sources

that enabled him to earn this unique

trade. Some time after he started his

such as Gunggwoiji (Book of Palaces).

status . Over the years, a number of

apprenticeship under his carpenter

Moreover, because of the input of vari-

workers, who were unable to adjust to

cousin, Shin met Lee Gwang-gyu,

ous scholars, I have been required to

Shin's fastidiousness, have moved on

who had worked closely with court

redo an entire work process from the

to other workplaces. However, there

carpenters that specialized in palace

beginning from time to time.''

are also others who, after having worked

construction. From his time with Lee,

We can only imagine how frustrating

with him for 30 years in some cases,

Shin learned how to plane boards in

it must be to redo such construction

have come to understand his work ethic

the traditional way, while in this pro-

Korean a I Autumn 2003

can be complete without

--<.

cess proving himself to be a dedicated

Shin's work resume is impressive

those who participated in palace

and skilled carpenter. Nevertheless, the

indeed. During the summer of 1970,

construction, there are few buildings

individual most responsible for teaching

he served as a bupyeonsu in the

in Gyeongbokgung on which he has

Shin the virtues and techniques of a true

restoration of Bulguksa's Museoljeon

not worked. During his recent restora-

dopyeonsu was Cho Won-jae, who was

and Gwanuemjeon with his mentor,

tion project of Geujeongjeon, Shin

Lee Gwang-gyu's teacher.

Lee Gwang-gyu. In 1975, he worked

sought to create a simple yet elegant

Shin dedicated himself to learning

on the restoration of Janganmun of

underside of the roof. When I asked

from Cho Won-jae traditional Korean

Suwon Hwaseong, and in 1980

him what was the most significant

architectural techniques, most of which

constructed the Korea House.

aspect of traditional-style architecture,

had been practically forgotten by that

Moreover, he also constructed

Shin noted: "Because the lines of the

time. It was under Cho's tutelage that

Sangchunjae of Cheong Wa Dae

eaves should be based on the particular

Shin eventually earned the title bu-

(Office of the President) in 1982. Shin

characteristics of the buildings,

pyeonsu, assistant dopyeonsu. Five years after being named a bupyeonsu, Shin

received the presidential award for

having a thorough sense of proportion

meritorious service for his work in

is of vital importance. However, the

was designated a dopyeonsu, or master

restoring the royal sleeping quarters

selection of quality wood takes

in his field, as a result of the initial

of Gyeongbokgung Palace, a project

precedence over everything else."

restoration work of Bulguksa, which

that included restoration of the

This knowledge comes from his

was undertaken in 1970. Shin achieved

Gangnyeongjeon and Gyotaejeon

decades-long experience of working

all of this before he turned 40.

halls. As a modemday successor of

with trees. Autu m n 20 03 I Koreana

From time unknown, a unique

red pine trees. During the Korean War

Korean architecture. After long serving

ritual has been practiced prior to

(1950-53), so many pine tree forests

as a dopyeonsu and having worked on

cutting down the trees used for palace

suffered devastation that it has

most of the traditional-style structures

construction. Before beginning to cut

become difficult to secure the quality

in Korea, Shin is quick to point out

down a tree, woodcutters yell out:

wood needed to restore cultural

that he believes the Muryangsujeon at

"An order from the king!" This ritual

properties. Nevertheless, a carpenter

Buseoksa (National Treasure No. 18),

is carried out to express the wood-

cannot live without an ample source

represents the epitome of Korea's

cutter's respect for the trees that have

of wood. As such, Shin constantly

traditional-style architecture. However,

lived for hundreds of years, and to

wanders about forest reserves in

he admits to having a sense of unease

help the trees begin a new life as

search of high-grade building ma-

at the thought of undertaking restora-

building material. After being sorted,

terials, and has even opened a timber

tion of the Muryangsujeon Hall, due

the felled trees are dried and then cut

mill in Gangneung, Gwangwon-do

to deterioration of its roof structure.

to size in accordance with the construc-

province. In addition, he now grows

Now well over 60, Shin still spends

tion plans. The wood is then cut and

his own pine trees on a site of 660,000

his days busily supervising the work

planed into pillars and girders.

square meters.

at construction sites. With the restora-

Then, which trees are best suited

"Korean palaces look simple

tion of Gyeongbokgung, which is

for building Korea's traditional-style

because they are built from the ground

about 60 percent complete at present,

wooden structures? To Shin, there is

level, whereas Chinese palaces appear

due to be completed by 2009, Shin

no wood better than pine. He added

more authoritative because they were

has no time to relax. Although one

that the reasons pine is the ideal wood

buil.t on embankments. But, the

would think that he must already be

for building traditional-style structures

beauty 'of palaces in Korea lies in the

overwhelmed by the enormity of this

are because it is durable, not too stiff,

curved lines of the eaves. When

project, which remains ongoing, Shin

and naturally breaks along curved

looking at the interior of Korean

has just taken on a new project, calling

lines. He emphasized that because of

palaces, their elaborate and refined

for the construction of a main hall at

these advantages the majority of

beauty are readily evident."

Daegwangsa, a temple in Bundang,

palaces were built of pine. However,

This is Shin's personal assessment

Gyeonggi-do province. This three-

not just any pine tree could be used to

of Korea's traditional-style palace

story main hall will be larger than

build palaces- only red pine trees.

architecture. He believes that Korea's

Gyeo_ngbokgung's Geunjeongjeon

These days it is increasingly

traditional palace architecture should

Hall, with the framework alone re-

difficult to get your hands on quality

serve as a focal point for traditional

quiring at least five years to construct. On top of all this, Shin recently published Building Palaces to Last

Thousands of Years, in which he recounted his experiences as a dopyeonsu. Considering everything he is involved with, it is easy to imagine that Shin does not have any free time to do anything else. In the future, every time he yells "An order from the king!" before felling a tree, it will mean that another of Korea's traditional-style buildings is being restored to its original magnificence. ~ 46 Koreana I Autumn 2003

T h e r e are several versions of the Korean folk song "Ari-

Yeongnamjae Pass to Yeongnamnu

But the most enjoyable part of the

Pavilion and Pyochungsa Temple.

highway is the 26-kilometer Miryang

rang." For the majority, the

This 46-kilometer mountainous route

Pass road from the Seongnamsa exit

rhythm is rather moderate, but

showcases the delicate beauty unique

to Nammyeong village. The road jumps

to the Korean landscape.

up and down crazily like the needle

"Miryang Arirang" from the town of Miryang, Gyeongsangnam-do prov-

The drive begins at the Eonyang

on an electrocardiograph machine,

ince unfolds in a lively 3/4 rhythm. As

Interchange on the Gyeongbu Express-

making for a thrilling drive. The moun-

for the lyrics "Look at me/look at

way. Just 10 minutes along National

tain peaks of Jaeyaksan, Baegunsan,

me/look at me/like seeing a flower in

Highway No. 24lies Eonyang, known

and faraway Gajisan flash by the

midwinter/look at me," there is no hint

for its bulgogi (barbecued beef). No

window, tinted with autumn shades.

of sadness in this version. The reason

matter which restaurant you choose,

After passing through Seongnamjae

the tender ribs from Eonyang-raised

Tunnel, you come to Hobakso pond,

cattle will melt in your mouth.

where the broad surface of a rock has

is simple:

wit~

its expansive fields

and well-developed connections in every direction, Miryang has long been

Another 10 kilometers down the

been hollowed out by a waterfall,

known for its abundance. Blessed with

road is the Buddhist temple Seong-

leaving a crater like one on the moon

majestic mountains as well as vast

namsa. Its quaint atmosphere, impos-

or from a bomb blast.

fertile fields, Miryang is where all the

sible to experience at larger temples,

The road is lined with street-side

beauty of Korea can be truly admired.

is especially comforting to visitors.

stalls selling ripe red apples as it passes

The mountain path up to the temple is

Miryang. The local apples are well

lined with sturdy trees of a subtle reddish

known for their high sugar content, a

Miryang is also popular for its

hue. When the wind blows, the red

product of the cool Miryang air even in

picturesque routes. There may be no

autumn leaves rustle and swirl as they

midsummer. For the final13 kilometers

better way to experience the attrac-

descend to the ground. Suddenly, you

or so before Pyochungsa Temple, there

tions of autumn than to drive along

are reminded that Seongnamsa is a

are numerous persimmon and jujube

the scenic Highway No. 24 from

temple for female monks, with the

orchards in every village, which produce

Eonyang, along the outskirts of Ulsan,

leaves strewn along the path looking

persimmons and jujubes that are a local

past Seongnamsa Temple and the

like the blushing faces of nuns.

specialty prized throughout the country.

Scenic Highway No. 24

Âˇ'

50 Ko reana I Autumn 2003

Tragic Tale of Yeongnamnu

Then she disappeared. The next day,

After savoring the sweetness of the

the magistrate summoned all his

local apples, we head for Yeongnarnnu

servants. Immediately, a white butterfly

Pavilion, tucked neatly onto a slope

appeared and landed on Jugi's hat.

overlooking the Miryanggang River,

The magistrate then interrogated Jugi.

which flows through the city from

After first denying everything, Jugi

east to west. Along with Bubyeongnu

eventually confessed that he had

Âˇof Pyeongyang and Chokseongnu of

killed Arang and disposed of her body

Jinju, Yeongnarnnu is regarded as one

in the bamboo I?(OVe behind Yeong-

of the three most exquisite pavilions in

narnnu Pavilion.

Korea. It is also the setting of the tragic

The magistrate ordered an excava-

tale of Arang. About 400 years ago,

tion of the bamboo grove. There he found

during the reign of King Myeongjong

Arang's body still intact, her rancorous

of the J oseon Dynasty, Magistrate Yun

spirit preserving it from decay until

of Miryang had only one daughter, the

justice was served. The magistrate had

beautiful Arang . His servant Jugi,

Jugi executed, and the ghost of Arang

who had always lusted after Arang,

never Âˇappeared again, leaving the

killed her during a failed rape attempt.

village in peace thereafter. To this day,

It soon became known throughout the

an annual festival is held in Miryang on

village that Arang had suddenly dis-

the 16th day of the 4th lunar month to

appeared, and she was nowhere to be

commemorate the virtue of Arang.

found. Magistrate Yun passed the time weeping and lamenting his loss but eventually he had to return to Seoul

Eulalia of Sajapyeong

Autumn arrives in Miryang with a flourish of cosmos blooms (opposite page left). A regional speciality, jujubes are dried on rooftops after being gathered (opposite page right). A portrait of Arang is maintained at Arangsa Temple as a tribute to this legendary figure (above).

Miryang is where autumn in Korea reveals its full splendor, highlighted

better appreciated than in Sajapyeong,

After Magistrate Yun left, a series

by the changing leaves and eulalia

from the 1,018-meter-high Mt. Jaeyak-

of new magistrates were appointed as

meadows. While the tree foliage

san nearby Miryang. Covering an area

his successor, but each of them died

embellishes the season with lavish

of 4 squ.are kilometers between J aeyak-

suddenly on the first night after taking

displays of radiant colors, the eulalia

san's Sumibong and Sajabong peaks

office, a kind of curse which no one

provides a stark contrast with its subdued

at an altitude of above 800 meters, the

could explain. After this had happened

grayness. Visitors who miss summer

eulalia meadows of Sajapyeong will

several times, no one wanted to serve

come for the autumn leaves, and those

not be forgotten by anyone who has the

as the magistrate of Miryang. Then a

who look forward to winter seek out

chance to experience their breathtaking

brash young vendor volunteered for

the eulalia meadows.

spectacle. The eulalia fields extend

without having found his daughter.

beyond the horizon to the southeast in

the job. The first night after his appoint-

Though countless eulalia grow in

ment, the specter of a young girl covered

vast meadows, it is no plain and simple

in blood appeared before him. It was

plant. No other plant gives off such a

Eulalia take on dramatically different

none other than Arang.

silvery sheen. Its cotton-like flowers

appearances in the evening and morn-

After telling the young magistrate

flutter in the breeze, while the eulalia's

ing. And because of this, people will

her story, Arang explained that the

stem and leaves sparkle like gold,

often talk about silver eulalia and golden

next morning she would tum herself

drawing gasps of awe from anyone

eulalia. In the early morning when the

into a butterfly and alight on the hat of

looking upon meadows of eulalia.

sun is rising, the eulalia is a dazzling

the servant who had murdered her.

Nowhere can the autumn eulalia be

the form of huge waves.

white and translucent as snow in the Autumn 2003 I Koreana 51

direct sunlight. They are called silver eulalia because they appear as lustrous and elegant as silver. Golden eulalia refers to the way the plants look at sunset. When eulalia stalks catch the rays of the setting sun, they emit a brilliant golden light. The best time to

Pyochungsa Temple commemorates the heroic patriotism of the Reverend Priest Samyeong (above). Miryanggang River runs through the center of Miryang city (bottom).

Âˇview the eulalia of Sajapyeong is from late October to early November. The flowers bloom a fortnight to a month earlier, but it is only when they are fully opened that. they can catch the sunlight to full effect. Standing among the eulalia as a gust of wind bends them into rippling waves is a dizzying sight that can leave you intoxicated. Mt. Mildungsan in Jeongseon, Mt. Myeongseongsan on the border of the Gyeonggi-do and Gangwon-do provinces, Yangsan's Mt. Sinbulsan and Mt. Yeongchwisan, Gwangju's Mt. /

Mudeungsan, Jangheung's Mt. Cheongwansan, and Sangumburi on Jejudo

Yeongchwisan (1 ,059 meters), Goheon-

region where the four mountains of

Island are also popular sites for viewing

san (1,032 meters), and Ganwolsan (1,0

Hwangaksan, Gwallyongsan, Yeong-

eulalia, but the eulalia of Sajapyeong

83 meters). Its nickname suggests that

chwisan, and Unmunsan rub shoulders.

are shorter and whiter than those of

the scenery is as picturesque as that of

A story is often told about the Monk

other places. This is because, growing

the European Alps.

on land that receives direct sunlight throughout day, the flowers bloom early.

Samyeong. As soon as the Japanese invaders arrived in 1592, he took up

Pyochungsa Temple

his sword. Leading hundreds of warrior

The autumn leaves are equally

After being dazzled by the Saja-

monks, he joined forces with the Monk

delightful. From Sumibong Peak, you

pyeong eulalia, our next stop is Pyo-

Seosan and scored a string of irnpres-

can take in the marvelous mountain

chungsa Temple. Nestled on the slopes

si ve victories over the J ~panes

landscape of the "Yeongnam Alps,"

of Mt. Jaeyaksan, Pyochungsa was

intruders. He crossed into enemy lines

spread out around you like a folding

home to the revered Buddhist monk

and met the Japanese commander

screen. The Yeongnam Alps are a

Samyeong, who during the Japanese

Kato Kiyomasa. "They say Korea has

mountain range extending over two

invasions of the 1590s mobilized an

many treasures," Kato remarked.

provinces (Miryang, Gyeongsangnam-

army of 3,000 warrior monks to defend

"What kind of treasures are they?"

do and Cheongdo-gun county, Gyeong-

his country under a banner of Nation-

Monk Samyeong's response left Kato

sangbuJ<-do) and a city (Ulsan), which

Protecting Buddhism. Originally built

dumbfounded: "Our country has no

includes the seven mountain peaks of

by Monk Wonhyo in 654, during the

particular treasures. To us, the greatest

Gajisan (1,240 meters), Unmunsan

reign of Queen Jindeok of Silla (r.

treasure is your head. With such a

(1 , 188 meters) , Jaeyaksan (1 , 189

64 7-654 ), to this day Pyochungsa

prize perched on your neck, what

meters), Sinbulsan (1,208 meters),

continues to watch over this remote

greater treasure could there be?" Autumn 2003 I Koreana

There are 339 relics of Monk Sa-

to Pyochungsa must make a point of

used to be celebrated on the 15th day

myeong on display in Pyochungsa's

having a drink of water, which is drawn

of the 7th lunar month (Baekjung Day),

exhibition hall. Other sights to take in

from a well renowned for the excep-

during which servants would partici-

at Pyochungsa include Daegwangjeon

tional taste of its water. The well lies

pate in various games. On Baekjung

Hall, a more than 300-year-old Chinese

hidden beneath a tree, hundreds of years

Day, servants were treated to a food

juniper tree, the oldest incense burner

old, outside the back gate of the temple.

known as kkombaegicham, and enjoyed

in Korea (Cheongdonghameunhyang-

The water's unique taste is refreshingly

local games and dancing. Most of the

wan, National Treasure No. 75), and a

mild and sweet. The well is also known

games were rife with satirical humor,

three-tier stone pagoda containing the

for its healing powers, with it being said

with which the common people sought

sarira of Sakyamuni Tathagata. The

that the third son of King Heungdeok

to ridicule the ruling classes. In Miryang,

surrounding scenery is impressive as

(r. 826-836) of Silla had been cured of

the division of upper, middle, and lower

well. At the entrance to the temple, a

leprosy after drinking its water.

classes was especially rigid, while the games clearly reflected the resentment

lush pine forest greets you. The neatly

After leaving the temple, follow the

arranged stone pagoda and shrines

Ongnyudongcheon Stream up the

bear silent witness to the grandeur of

valley to the left. About 2 kilometers

The games begin with rites honoring

a temple that was home to such

up a narrow path is the Heungnyong

the gods of agriculture and continue

renowned monks as Samyeong and

Waterfall, today a popular spot for ice

with piggyback riding, dancing (includ-

Hyobong. The last High Priest of the

climbing. Another 1.8 kilometers up the

ing the Aristocrat's Dance, Cripple's

modern era, Hyobong died while

path are two 20-meter-high waterfalls

Dance, and Commoner's Dance), and

sitting in the Seoraegak Pavilion of

proximity, flanked by ancient

a closing game. The agricultural rite is

Pyochungsa, at exactly the hour he

pine trees that create an exquisite

a dance in which the villagers move

had foretold.

mountain scene.

around in a circle, alternately sitting

clos~

of the downtrodden.

At the 25-meter-high Geumgang

No description of Miryang would

down and standing up. Piggyback

Waterfall about 1 kilometer west of

be compiete without mention of the

riding is a game that satirizes the

Pyochungsa, its clear, sparkling waters

Baekchung Nori games. Also known

aristocracy, with the rider sitting on a

provide a perfect complement to the

as Kkombaegi Chamnori, Baekchung

kind of A-frame backpack. The dancing

surrounding autumn leaves. Visitors

Nori originated when a "Servants' Day"

includes various traditional dances

The Pyochungbi Monument is said to "weep" at times of national crisis (left) Traditional holiday festivities included satirical folk dramas in which commoners ridiculed the elite class (right). A beautiful sunset over Miryanggang River (opposite page).

Korean a I Autumn 2003

rich in local color. In the closing game,

this cold, high-pressure air flows

Erected in 1742, the 18th year of

everyone dances in a group in their

through gaps between the rocks lower

King Yeongjo's reign , it has since

own style until exhausted.

down the valley, the pressure drops

been designated Gyeongsangnam-do

and its temperature falls below zero.

Tangible Cultural Property No. 15.

This cool air causes ice to form on the

The stone monument is said to have

Miryang is also known for two

rock surfaces near the ground level.

wept 7 days before the Gabo Peasant

intriguing mysteries. The first is Ice

The area with the largest ice formation

Uprising of 1894, 17 days before the

Valley, located at a height of 700

is fenced off and protected as a natural

annexation of Korea by Japan in 1910,

meters on the side of Mt. Cheonhwang-

monument.

19 days before the March 1, 1919

Mysteries of Miryang

san. In this valley, ice forms in the

Another mystery of Miryang is the

demonstration that marked the

midsummer heat, but will melt and

Pyochung Monument at Heungjesa

beginning of the national indepen-

even give off steam vapor in the depth

Temple, which is said to "weep"

dence movement, 25 days before the

of winter. This unusual phenomenon

whenever a national crisis is immi-

outbreak of the Korean War in 1950, 5

results from a principle of refrigera-

nent. Also known as the Reverend

days before the military coup of May

tion. When air flows into the valley

Priest Samyeong Monument, this

16, 1960, and 5 days before the

through narrow gaps in the rocks

commemorative stone, standing 2.7

assassination of President Park Chung

above, it is cooled to about 8'C by cold

meters high, 96 centimeters wide, and

Hee on October 26, 1979. Though the

water flowing underground. Then as

54.5 centimeters deep, is inscribed

mystery of this monument remains

the cool air continues to flow down

with the name of Samyeong and his

unexplained, it is carefully watched

the valley, pressure builds up. When

other name, Reverend Priest Songun.

for its next warning.

Autumn 2003 I Koreana

MARKETS

Non

Koreana I Autumn 2003

Hanaro Club

lways the freshest food. Everyday low prices~ this is the marketing

slogan of Nonghyup Hanaro Club, a membership system retailer that combines the advantages of a direct-to-consumer agricultural market with the convenience of a large discount outlet. In accordance with strict quality standards, the produce items are selected from 500 member agricultural cooperatives from around the country and then offered to consumers. Direct-to-Consumer Agricultural Market

Most agricultural products will pass through six or seven distribution layers on their way from producer to consumer. Hanaro Club eliminates the auction process, through which agricultural produce is usually sold, and streamlines the distribution system into just three steps : producer

retail

distrbuo

consumer.

Accordingly, the reduced distribution costs, which would otherwise be incurred under the regular system, mean more favorable prices for both consumers and producers. The suppliers for Hanaro Club include the 500 Nonghyup agricultural cooperatives from around the country. Nonghyup is the common contraction for the Korean name of the National Agricultural Cooperative Federation, which was established by farmers for the promotion of agricultural interests. Nonghyup oversees the production and distribution of Autumn 2003 I Koreana

For the benefit and convenience of its members, Hanaro Club also operates an Internet mall that currently services all parts of Seoul and neighboring areas, such as Gwacheon, Anyang, and Gunpo. If an online order is submitted by noon, the items can be delivered by 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. that afternoon. Another advantage of Hanaro Club is the transparency of its product pricing. The Hanaro Club site (www.hanaro-club.com) provides a wide range of information on the

agricultural products, in addition to

of all product sales, indicating a much

prices of agricultural products, which

providing support for the develop-

greater emphasis on fresh food rather

is updated daily. The searchable

ment of basic agricultural facilities

than processed foodstuff.

database includes daily price infor-

such as Hanaro Club, which serves as

Above all, customer satisfaction is

mation by item, as well as weekly and

a vital link between producer and

the f\)remost concern. If a regular pro-

monthly price movements and whole-

consumer. For farmers, Nonghyup

duct is defective, it would be exchanged

sale and retail prices.

provides an essential distribution

for a replacement. However, for food

channel for agricultural produce,

items there are added difficulties in-

through a reserve purchase system,

volved with such an exchange system.

Nonghyup currently operates more

while for consumers it provides an

Nevertheless, in July 1996, Hanaro

than ten Hanaro Club centers, includ-

efficient distribution structure. The net

Club became the first in the industry to

ing outlets in the Yangjae-dong and

result is that customers can buy fresh

adopt a product guarantee system. If a

Chang-dong districts of Seoul,

produce items at prices some 10 to 30

customer is not satisfied with the taste,

Seon&nam, Gyeonggi-do province,

percent lower than elsewhere, thanks

freshness or price of any food product

Cheongju, Chungcheongbuk-do prov-

to Nonghyup's role in reducing distri-

purchased, then the item can be

ince, Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do province,

bution costs and stabilizing food prices.

returned for a replacement or a refund.

Busan, and Daegu. As such, there is a

But Hanaro Club does not deal only

Hanaro Club, which is operated on

Chang-dong Hanaro Club

Hanaro Club in all of

Kor~'s

major

in food. It sells everything that can be

a membership basis, included some

cities. The Yangjae-dong outlet was

found in a major discount retailer,

1.23 million members, as of Decem-

the first to open in May 1995, al-

from meat and fishery products to

ber 2002. This represented a six-fold

though the biggest center in Seoul is

everyday consumer necessities. By

increase from the number of members

now the one in Chang-dong.

product, sales of fruits and vegetables

five years ago. As for its members,

The Chang -dong Hanaro Club is

account for a 35 percent share,

they range from ordinary consumers

open from 8 a.m. until 2 a.m. the next

followed by meat (20 percent), grains

who purchase regular quantities for

day, 365 days a year, enabling shop-

(15 percent), processed foods (15

household consumption to business

pers to come and go at their conve-

percent), fish (10 percent) and consum-

proprietors who buy in bulk for their

nience. The market covers an area of

er items (5 percent). Primary agri-

restaurants or other food-related

13,434 square meters and includes a

cultural items account for 80 percent

businesses.

large parking lot with 2,200 spaces, so

Korean a I Autumn 2003

parking is no problem for drivers. It is also easily accessible via Subway Line 1 and 4, just a 5-minute walk from exit No. 1 of the Chang-dong Subway Station. _ The first floor is allocated to farm produce, and the basement floor to meat and fishery products, as well as regional specialties. Consumer items are available in a comer of the first floor. Upon entering the market, there is a rice section to your left. In the past, rice was typically sold in 10-kilogram and 20-kilogram sacks, but these days you can find diverse kinds of rice sold in packages of from 1 to 5 kilograms. A quick glance shows that more than 20 different kinds of rice are offered. On display are sacks of rice produced by Nonghyup agricultural cooperatives froin throughout the country under their own brand names, including organically grown rice that involves the use of ducks or mud snails. In line with people's growing interest in health food, ever more consumers now shop for brown rice or black rice, which are more nutritious than white rice. And even though more expensive than regular white rice, housewives are willing to incur this higher cost for the sake of their families' health. In the grains section, the most popular products include bags of mixed grains comprising germinating brown rice, glutinous rice, millet, com, adlay and black beans. A woman shopper at Hanaro Club

Chang-dong Hanaro Club at night (opposite page) The first floor is overflowing with fruits, vegetables, and grains (above).

said that she can trust the products sold here because all the items are clearly marked with their place of Autumn 2003 I Koreana 59

Hanaro Club, which utilizes a membership system, also operates an Internet mall that can receive online orders and have them delivered to the customer's door within three to five hours. The Hanaro Club Internet site also provides diverse price information on all its commodities.

origin. With the opening of Korea's agricultural market, food imports have rapidly expanded, but at Hanaro Club only home-grown products are sold. When talking about food, Koreans will mention sintoburi, a belief that food grown in Korean soil is the best for Korean people because the body and the eruth are considered to be in harmony. The price of food produced in Korea is often much higher than imported food items; however, in consideration of sintoburi, Korean housewives have a strong preference for domestic products.

Fresh Fruit and Vegetables The fruit section features fresh fruits in season and frozen fruits.

Most fruit is sold by the case (1 Okg or 15kg), but smaller quantities are available as well. Fruits such as large apples and pears are sold in individual packages of one to six units, while smaller fruits such as cherry tomatoes or Korean plums are sold by weight. Hanaro Club thus caters to both consumers who buy small quantities and those buying in bulk. Next to the fruit section, where the mounds of fruit convey a sense of 1. A variety of seafood items, fresh and live, is available. 2. Freshly made tofu is produced on-site. 3. Unannounced sales of selected items are part of Hanaro's promotional activities.

4. Packaged and cut-to-order meats are offered at the meat section. The grain corner displays a diverse variety of cereals (opposite page).

abundance, is the vegetable section. An interesting attraction here is a mini tofu production facility that grinds and mashes soy beans to produce tofu, or dubu as the bean cu.rd is known in Korean, served up fresh and still warm. There is also a separate section for seonsik, vegetables, grains, and fruits in powder form that is

Koreana I Autumn 2003

mixed with milk or water and con-

and red ginseng- all smartly dis -

with kimchi. So for those families

sumed as a meal substitute, especially

played. This section does a booming

without the time or willingness to

for breakfast.

business during the holiday seasons

make their own kimchi, its ready

The vegetable section is much

when people buy up gifts for family

availability at outlets like Hanaro

more lively than the fruit section, with

and friends for Chuseok (Harvest

Club is indeed a godsend.

.a wide diversity of vegetables on dis-

Moon Festival) and New Year's Day.

Currently, four or five brands of

play, including such staples as pota-

The frozen and refrigerated food

kimchi are sold at the Chang-dong

toes, sweet potatoes, green onions,

section features a wide selection of

Hanaro Club, with freshly prepared

and red peppers. All of a sudden, a

processed foods. High-grade Korean

kimchi available in whatever quantity

item. This section is especially crowd-

beef, pork and chicken are available in

a customer desires . Anyone who

ed around mid-November during the

the meat and poultry sections, while

lingers around while considering what

gimjang season, when tradition calls

the fish section includes all manner of

to buy will be invited to "Come have

live, fresh, and dried fish and seafood

--<.

for large quantities of kimchi to be prepared for the winter months, as this

items . Moreover, the meat section

a taste." Almost before the words are out of the mouth, a housewife pops up

is where all the ingredients are

includes a complete meat processing

out of nowhere and tries a sample. For

available for making kimchi , the

facility, which enables it to offer fresh

the sake of customer satisfaction,

representative Korean food.

meat in all cuts.

shoppers can freely taste any kimchi

special sale on watermelons is announced. Top-grade watermelons, normally priced at 8,560 won, are Âˇ being sold for 6,000 won for the next 30 minutes. Clapping his hands, an employee exhorts: "Come and get them! Come and get them now!" The bustle of shoppers who scurry over to pick out a watermelon brings to mind a country market. /

Cabbages and radishes fill one corner of the vegetable section, taking up much more space than any other

Of course, the pleasure of eating is

before buying.

an integral aspect of food shopping.

With the market area being so

The basement floor includes

Shoppers can be seen munching on

huge, a leisurely stroll through Hanaro

sections for gourmet food, frozen and

rice cake and other snacks, while

Club can easily take an hour and a

refrigerated food, meat, fish, kimchi,

thrifty shoppers take advantage of the

half. But nobody thinks of shopping

and dried fish. The gourmet food

free samples offered, including the

here as a waste of time. The satisfac-

section features regional specialties

tasting of various kimchi and dried

tion of being able to buy high-quality

from ail over the country, including

fish items. With the number of dual-

food at reasonable prices is well worth

gift sets of Korean traditional confec-

income couples on the steady rise,

the time and effort involved. Good

tioneries, honey, deodeok roots

ever more families do not make their

food at a good price-this is the attrac-

(Codonopsis lanceolata), mushrooms,

own kimchi. But still, rice must eaten

tion of Hanaro Club. L;.t

Fish and Meat

Autumn 2003 I Ko reana

CUISINE

Koreana I Autumn 2003

A Refreshing Taste to Whet the Appetite

Muk is a food unique to Korea. Made by extracting the starch from grains or nuts, adding water, and boiling until it congeals, the mild taste and delicacy of muk is not only refreshing but also stimulates the appetite. Koo Chun-sur Director, World Food Research Institute Bae jae-hyung Photographer Kim Young-hee Food Stylist

uk is a kind of gelatin made from the starch

Outside Korea, the nearest equivalent to muk is perhaps

extracted from grains, nuts, or roots, which

manioc. Indigenous peoples of Africa extract the starch

is dried into a powder, boiled in water, and

from manioc (also known as mandioc or cassava), which is

then poured into a mold to congeal. The

eaten in the form of a sausage. The manioc plant itself is

flavor of muk is in large part determined by the condiments

poisonous, but through this preparation, it becomes safe to

used in its preparation, which can include soy sauce, ground

consume and can be stored longer. Whereas the extracted

sesame seeds, scallions, garlic, and other seasonings.

manioc starch is eaten directly, the Koreans cook the starch

With its main ingredient being starch, there are as many

used for making muk. The Quechua people of the ~eruvian

varieties of muk as there are sources of starch. However,

highlands are also known to use the fermented starch of

the favorite varieties savored by Koreans generally include

potatoes for various dietary applications.

dotorimuk (acorn gelatin), cheongpomuk (mung bean gelatin), and memilmuk (buckwheat gelatin). Muk is simple

Humble Dotorimuk

and easy to prepare. As an effective means of surviving the

Mention muk to a Korean, and it is dotorimuk that first

times when food was scarce, muk conjures up vivid memo-

comes to mind. Dotorimuk is made from starch extracted

ries for Koreans, in particular those generations who

from the acorns of oak trees, such as sangsurinamu,

endured severe hardship.

jolchamnamu, and gadotorinamu. In the days of old, these

Autumn 2003 I Koreana

Tsngpyeongchse, mungbean gelatin mixed with vegetables and beef (left) Dotorlmuk muchlm, acorn gelatin mixed with fresh vegetables and seasoned with soy sauce and red

i,!~

ยง

pepper powder (bottom).

64 Ko re an a I Autu m n 2003

oak trees were found in abundance throughout Korea's

flavor can complement a wide variety of dishes. Conse-

mountainous areas, covering the ground with acorns in

quently, at Buddhist temples, where meat is shunned,

autumn. A gift of nature, the acorns were a readily avail-

cheongpomuk is often served as a reverent offering to the

Âˇable source of consumable starch. Learning to convert

Buddha on holy days. It is also a customary menu item for

acorn starch into food was undoubtedly rooted in the sheer

Korean weddings and 60th birthday celebrations. With its white translucent appearance, this muk becomes

survival instinct of the people of days gone by. Around the time of the Korean War (1950-53) when food

a ravishing delicacy when served with the beautiful fragrant

was scarce, acorns were a valuable food source for the

petals of pot mruigold or chrysanthemum blossoms. Alter-

starving population. In fact, people were so hungry that they

natively, shredded gim (chied laver) can be added as a gar-

could not wait for the acorns to mature and naturally fall to

nish to produce a dish that is both good tasting and nutritious.

the ground. Instead, they would desperately attempt to knock or shake the acorns from the branches above. The acorns would be gathered up and peeled to remove the inner

Memilmuk gelatin is made from buckwheat starch.

nut. After grinding the nuts into a powder, a lengthy soak-

During the harshest period of modern Korean history, the

ing was required to extract the starch, which was then dried

years following the Korean War, as people struggled to

stored

survive the severe winter cold, they longed for the chance

until needed, would be mixed with water and cooked over

to enjoy memilmuk. After the sun had set and the darkness

low heat until it congealed into muk gelatin.

of evening began to take hold, their mouths would instantly

in the sun. The resulting powder, which I

Savory Memilmuk

could

~ be

botorimuk was long known as an inexpensive food that

water when they heard the cry of the memilmuk vendor

was not as highly regarded as the more distinctive mung bean

making his rounds through the neighborhood: "Buy my

gelatin cheongpomuk or buckwheat gelatin mernilmuk. In

memilmuk! Buy my memilmuk!" Of note, memilmuk is

recent times, however, with the discovery that acorns

also simple to prepare; just add some chopped kimchi,

contain nutrients that can help to prevent cancer, dotmimuk

coarsely ground sesame seed, and soy sauce, and it is ready

has come to be valued as a health food.

to eat. Buckwheat is grown in regions of the northern hemi-

Silken Cheongpomuk

sphere where a lack of sunlight makes it difficult to grow

"0 bird, 0 bird, 0 blue bird I Don't land in the mung bean

other crops. When cooked, it loses its stickiness and can be

field I For if the mung bean flowers wilt I The cheongpo

easily handled. Compared to other grains, buckwheat is

seller will go away weeping."

rich in protein, vitamins B 1 and B2, and niacin. Because of

Many Koreans, and especially those who grew up in the

its high nutritional value and low caloric content, nowadays

countryside, can recall singing this folk song in their child-

it is a popular diet food. It also contains lutin, thought to be

hood as they walked along field-side paths. The mung bean

efficacious in the treatment of diabetes and geriatric illnesses.

(nokdu ), a green bean about half the size of a soybean, is con-

Memilmuk is engraved in the memory of any Korean

sidered a high-class bean to be eaten on special occasions. Che<;>ngpomuk gelatin is made from mung bean starch. Its light coloring gives it a classy look, while its delicate

over the age of 50 as a food that is indelibly associated with home. Enjoy these varieties of muk for a taste of the true Korea that you, too, will never forget. L;t

Autumn 2003 I Koreana

thoughts of Utopian anarchist rebellion could his day, people would discuss literature, art and

poJtlc~s,

along with sharing their dre;uns future. Florian in Venice . Flore in Paris are eX(UTIJ)}Â˘!~j

known cafes that seiVed. inspiration for artists. In terms of ~., ........~ from everyday au...~a

Amid scenic areas just outside of Seoul, clusters of cafes can be found. These so-called cafe towns, not only serve up food and drink, they have been transformed into cultural venues for concerts and exhibitions.

Live Music Cafe Town

The best known cafe towns include

. -,

--<.

in the 1980s, disco fever swept the country, relegating acoustic guitar

Misari in Hanam, Yangsu-ri in

musicians to the outskirts of Seoul.

Yangpyeong-gun, Gomo-ri in Pocheongun and Jangheung-myeon in Yangju-

'f!le beginnings of the frrst cafe town emerged around Baengma Station in

gun. Developed alongside rivers, these

Goyang-gun, which has since been

"sites feature backdrops of tranquil

upgraded to a city, Gyeonggi-do prov-

scenery, while being located not far

ince. The cafes in this area became

from Seoul, they are popular with city

places of refuge for 1980s youth. But

workers. And since these cafe towns

with the rapid development of this

are situated nearby local cultural

area as a satellite city, the fledgling

attractions, they are popular destina-

cafe district got crowded out, leading

tions for family outings as well. Of

to the opening of new establishments

particular note, the cafe towns do not

in Misari and Yangsu-ri.

simply serve food and drink to custom-

In fact, the development of live

ers; they function as diverse cultural

entertainment cafes outside the capital

venues where live concerts are staged

area contributed to a popular trend of

and small theaters and art galleries are

people taking leisurely drives to the

found .

outskirts of Seoul and beyond. The

Korea's frrst cafes with live enter-

newly developed cafes actively sought

tainment featured acoustic guitar

singers and performers for live enter-

music at establishments located in

tainment, which appealed greatly to

Myeong-dong in the 1970s. Places

those in their 30s and 40s seeking to

such as Cherbourg and OB 's Cabin

revive memories of their youth.

were the ground zero of the youth

In contrast to traditional cafes,

culture of that time, which was charac-

which were busy mainly at night, the

terized by blue jeans and long hair. But

cafe towns attract visitors who come

68 Koreana I Autumn 2003

by throughout the day and night. In

and fewer regular customers at cafe

the daytime, they are popular gather-

towns.

ing places for housewives, while in

While the cafes arouse nostalgic

the evening workers from the city will

sentiments among customers, for the

stop by to let off steam. And deeper

singers they offer a stage on which to

into the night, there will be couples on

perform and a chance to relive their

late night dates. On weekends, visitors

glory days. Exotic cafes began to

will bring their children and parents

appear in 1996, while in Misari, which

on family outings.

has been completely transformed by the cafe scene, singers who were once

The Regulars in their 30s to 40s

wildly popular have launched come-

The age of customers to cafe towns

backs of sorts. The concerts have

varies widely but the regulars are

proven so popular that fans from the

typically those in their 30s to 40s.

provinces will come by in tour groups.

This is because the singers that

Misari is littered with a dizzying array

perform in the cafes are not the pop-

of advertising banners brazenly

music stars who appear on TV

announcing this singer or

programs targeted to the younger

since it is critical to attract as many

generations, but rather those who

customers as possible among those

were

out and about on a leisurely d1ive.

po~lar

a few years or even

anot~er,

decades ago. The people come not only to hear their favorite songs but

Cultural Cafe Town

also to reminisce about youthful

Whereas Misari features once-

memories and savor the romantic

popular singers, Jangheung provides a

ambiance of cafes.

venue for unknown performers to get

Another reason for the popularity

a foot in the door. Jangheung is a major

of cafe towns among the somewhat

resort area located only 40 minutes

older crowd is that the majority of

from downtown Seoul. The train ride

cultural venues target audiences in

from Sinchon Station to Jangheung is

their 20s. Indeed, there seems to be

also a popular journey for visitors to

few places where thirty-something

the area. A cafe town began to take

and fortyish people can go and not

shape in Jangheung shortly after it

feel out of place, while enjoying

was designated a special tourism

cultural activities more suited to their

district in 1986. The regulars here are

tastes. In fact, in cafe town areas, it is

those who prefer a strong local flavor.

commonly said about business that:

Many of the cafes that line the 6-

"February is the only slow month of

kilometer-long Jangheung valley are

the year." This is because February is

decorated with crockery pots and tiled

the time of year when parents need to

roofs, creating an atmosphere reminis-

have enough funds on hand to pay for

cent of a traditional rural community.

their children's school tuition when

The Total Open-Air Museum, which

school resumes in March, which can

opened here in 1984, was instrumental

mean a reduction in spending money

in popularizing Jangheung as a cultural Autumn 2003 I Koreana

cafe town. The museum features an

They also seek to reach out to visitors

outdoor sculpture garden encompass-

by offering a variety of educational

ing an area of 16,500 square meters

programs, leading a trend that

and a 1,155-square-meter indoor

encourages hands-on participation in

exhibition hall. It houses a collection

cultural activities rather than passive

of works by renowned contemporary

appreciation.

artists such as Bernar Venet, Tal

Yangsu-ri has long been known as

Streeter, Tong Cragg, Jheon Soo-cheon,

a "district of water," since it is situated

and Lee Ufan.

at the intersection of two rivers: the

Yangsu-ri cafe town has gone a

Namhangang, which originates in

step further, becoming a "gallery

Taebaek, Gangwon-do province, and

valley." The galleries here are not like

the Bukhangang, which originates

the nondescript concrete buildings

near Mt. Geumgangsan.

that are commonly found in the city,

For several decades now, artists

but imaginative structures designed to

have built studios here, along with

take advantage of the views of

many eventually settling permanently

surrounding rivers and mountains.

in the area. Today, the area is home to

Amid such a setting, people's recep-

some 800 poets, writers, and artists.

tivity and appreciation of art are

This means that one out of every 100

naturally heightened. Among the galleries along the Namhangang and

resideJ.?-tS of Yangpyeong-gun is an artist of some kind, which helps to

Bukhangang rivers, there are several

explain why Yangsu-ri has so many

eye-catching structures with unique

more gallery cafes than Jangheung or

exteriors and facades. In particular,

Misari. This scenic riverside area is

the Gail Art Gallery is especially

being reborn as a cultural and art-

distinctive, which is shaped like two

related destination where people

log boats joined together. Its exterior

come to enjoy the natural landscape

can be appreciated as a kind of

and bask in its artistic flavor.

installation artwork. The performance

Like the Parisiennes at cafe de Fore

venue, known as the Cement Table,

and the Venetians at Florian, who

includes a large glass panel, such that

luxuriate in the unique ambiance and

the view of the Bukhangang River

culture of their cafes, Koreans enjoy

from the inside looks like a framed

similar pleasures at cafe towns.

painting.

Contemporary Koreans are reviving their ancestors' love of nature and

Art and Culture Venues

pursuit of grace and refinement in

The cafe town galleries seek to do

life, free from mundane concerns, at

more than simply display works of

these cafe towns. As the rhythm of

art. I:he diverse genres of performing

life resonates within them through a

arts staged at the gallery cafe town,

song or painting, they also gain a

including drama, music and panto-

keener appreciation of the romance of

mime, reflect their desire to be part of

life, which is carried on the fragrant

a vibrant and dynamic cultural center.

breezes that rustle the air. L;.t

70 Korean a I Autumn 2003

At the cafe town galleries, visitors can take in a concert, see a play, watch a pantomime, or participate in a variety of educational programs. In contrast to the passive enjoyment of audiences, visitors are encouraged to personally participate in diverse cultural activities.

Cafe towns feature art and cultu ral venues, like Gail Art Gallery (top) . Outdoor performances add to the variety of entertainment alternatives (above left). Cu ltural activities for the family include pottery-making (above right). Cafes like this one overlooking the Bukhangang River proliferate in areas with natural scenery (right).

Autumn 2003 I Koreana 71

Singing Culture of Koreans A Multifaceted Soundtrack of life Noh Dong-eun Professor of Contemporary Music Studies, Chung-Ang University Choi Hang-young Photographer /

Red Devils' Cheering Rhythm

Koreans cherish the near-miraculous achievement of their national team reaching the semifinals of the 2002 FIFA World Cup finals. The 47 million people of South Korea were transformed into "Red Devil"

s~porte

rhythmically chanting the name of their country: "Dae-han minguk!" Clap-clap-clap-clap-clap. To this same rhythm, they also continuously sang "Koreana." Born, living, and dying amid song, indeed they are literally a people of song. The rhythm of the World Cup supporters' chanting was not simply made up on the spur of the moment, nor was it artificially created. It was a rhythm that all Koreans have been familiar with from the time of their birth. For thousands of years, Korean babies have been lulled to 72

Koreana I Autumn 2003

sleep by lullabies. They listened to, and learned to sing,

birth, and whenever someone dies, the whole family and

songs with rhythms that went,

community would join together in singing funeral songs.

"Jajang-(sleep ),jajang- , jqjang- , jqjang-·· or "Ago-, ago-, uri- a g o~ " (Baby, baby. our baby). Songs in this rhythm were sung in 12/8 time, a form of triple meter: " J'>

J'>

They were never

sung in duple meter with syncopation.

Of note, there are special songs intended for the period from a baby's birth to around its first birthday. Some 20 different songs are sung by mothers and other family members according to an infant's stage of development, along with accompanyip.g actions that help to teach

It was this rhythm, known by all Koreans, which

physical skills. For each new ability acquired by an

formed the foundation of the cheering of the 47-million-

infant-wriggling, slithering, grasping, crawling, walking,

strong Red Devils, including the youngest of children and

and standing- there is a song associated with the activity.

the most elderly senior citizens. And this was only natural;

For example, in preparation for walking, the !JlOther or

wherever a sense of rhythm is strong, so is the culture of ,

grandmother would sing songs like "Dalgang do/gang. "

singing, since all songs are based on rhythm.

"Bura bura (Fire. fire),"' "Dunggae dunggae:· or "Kkmzo

The lives of Koreans are constantly accompanied by

kkona.·· "Dalgang dalgang" was sung while holding an

song, from cradle to grave. Life is sung, and song is lived.

infant upright by its hands or shoulders and shifting its

Wherever and at all times, Koreans are forever singing.

body weight from side to side. This song helped to develop

Song is a building block of the community and a source of

a baby's eye-hand coordination as well as build trust with

a full 'and satisfying life.

family members. As infants grew into children, they would learn to sing

From Cradle to Grave

dongyo or "children's songs," while playing games. Today,

A Korean life unfolds through song from birth to death.

traditional dongyo make up about half of the songs that

Korean babies are sung lullabies from the time of their

Korean elementary school children learn during their

74 Koreana I Autumn 2003

A new-born baby is exposed to Korean rhythms through the lullabies sung by the mother (opposite page left). A traditional funeral is accompanied by a mournful pallbearers' dirge to console the spirit of the deceased (opposite page right). Work songs helped restore energy to bodies weary from tiresome labor (right).

music lessons. Because dongyo are based on the rhythms

they danced and played music. And in fact, even today,

that children have heard from their infancy, they are so

Koreans feel that life cannot be enjoyed to the fullest

easily learned that children are able to improvise their own

unless there is singing. The fervent cheering of the Red

songs with these rhythms.

Devils during the 2002 FIFA World Cup expressed this

Upon reaching adulthood, there is no need for Koreans

very zest for the fullness of life.

to learn new folk songs. Instead, they use the familiar melodies to make up spontaneous verses that reflect their social circumstances.

Principles of Korean Music

Rhythm is the lifeblood of Korean singing, dancing, and

As part of Korea's agrarian traditions, members of a

other musical art forms. Koreans call rhythm jangdan,

community would form cooperative work teams to carry out

literally "long-short." But the concept of jangdan is different

various farming activities. Whenever they did so, they also

from that of Western rhythm. Koreans developed jangdan

formed a pungmulpae, a group that would play percussive

on the basis of human breathing. The underlying principle

music and perform masked dance. Even as the farmers

involves gi (~,

toiled in the fields, the pungmulpae would play lively

with their nose but through their ears and all other orifices.

music, creating a sense of levity. And as people became

Some rhythms were intended to follow deep breaths, and

animated, they would begin to sing and dance. Of course,

other rhythms designed to follow quick breaths, producing

Korean songs were not limited to just farming or work

the long and short cycles of jangdan. Using slow rhythms

songs. At every village festival, ritual, or competition, there

for long cycles and fast rhythms for short ones, songs were

would be singing, dancing, pungmul, and instrumental music.

sung in pace with breathing patterns. Naturally, the notes of

In this way, Koreans sang their entire lives and lived

chi), or "energy." People breathe not just

these songs also varied according to the rhythms.

their songs. They made up new songs according to the

It was through this respiratory pattern of long and short

circumstances of the moment, and whenever they sang,

cycles that Koreans generate gi. When gi is released, it Autumn 2003 I Koreana 75

causes a change in blood circulation that stimulates bodily

instruction is mandatory, which confirms just how indis-

movement. All Korean music uses body movement based

pensable music is to Korean society. Indeed, singing can

on the respiratory cycle. Korean music might therefore be

be said to form the very core of Korean culture.

described as being a psychosomatic stimulus.

Nowadays, alongside traditional songs, Koreans sing

The dynamism that Koreans expressed during the 2002

popular Western and Japanese songs that they have learned

FIFA World Cup, too, revealed such a psychosomatic

over the last century or so. People will sing the entire

character. The Kim Deoksu Samulnori Group is renowned

gamut, from the latest Western rap-style songs to Japanese-

among Korean musicians for introducing this kind of

style enka as well as traditional songs.

psychosomatic music to the world. Moreover, Korean

A good example that reflects this musical lifestyle are

composer Yun Isang expressed the principles of

the local TV song programs, among the most enduring

psychosomatic music through contemporary Western

type of programming on Korean television. The "Nationwide

compositions, and is thus recognized as an innovator who

Singing Contest," aired by KBS, travels each week to cities

successfully linked together Eastern and Western cultures.

and communities throughout the country to host singing competitions for local residents. At the end of the year, the

Singing Rooms /

regional winners compete in a final round, with the winner

Koreans have under-

receiving star treatment. Another long-mnning program is

gone myriad social

the KBS's "Song Stage," which features old-time songs

changes in the Âˇcourse

that are nostalgic favorites among mature audiences.

of modernization, which

Curr-ently, under the seventh educational amendment,

has also changed their

music education at elementary, middle, and high schools

singing culture. As the

must include about 50 percent instruction on the traditional

focus of Korean culture was shifted from the mral village

songs of Korea. Students le_a m traditional lullabies, dongyo,

to the city, and singing culture came to center on urban life,

and folk songs, as well as traditional instrumental pieces.

this led to a proliferation of noraebang, or "singing rooms,"

And while today's Korean youngsters might enjoy

so that people's lust for singing could be satisfied. But it is

Western-style rap music, they also appreciate the Kim

not simply noraebang. Whenever Koreans have something

Deoksu Samulnori Group. When the Korean_national

to celebrate, their gatherings invariably involve singing.

football team was playing at the World Cup Stadium, it was

The gathering itself is known as appuri, or "first party," the

Kim Deoksu's group that led the cheering of the Red Devils.

singing as dwipuri, or "last party." As for dwipuri, if you

Historical records of Korean song and dance date back

are Korean, you must sing a song. Koreans are a people

some 12,000 years, in the form of rock carvings . A

who expect everyone, without exception, to sing.

Chinese document from around the fourth century

In Korea's singing tradition, it matters not how well or

describes Koreans as a people who "unite in song and

badly' you might sing. What matters is your participation in

dance for their national events." For Koreans to be

the singing. Thus, everyone must sing, without exception.

identified for their culture of song and dance among the

In Korea, an unwillingness to sing in such situations can

peoples of Asia, they no doubt have for long reveled in the

even result in difficulty in maintaining social relationships.

joy of singing. Entering, living and departing this world

At Korea's elementary, middle, and high schools, music 76 Korean a I Autumn 2003

amid song, Koreans are indeed a people of song.

MASTERPIECES

N arrtj angsa Nectar Ritual Painting Guidin.g the Souls of the Departed to Heaven Kim Seung-hee Curator, National Museum of Korea

The theme of the Namjangsa Nectar Ritual painting involves a process of guiding the rom the top of the Namjangsa

Nectar Ritual painting, the

Seven Buddhas are descending toward an altar that has

been set up for the souls of the deceased, along with Bodhisattva the Guide, Ksitigarbha (the savior associated with death and hell), and Avalokitesvara

souls of those who have suffered a tragic death to the paradise of Elysium. An especially graphic and dynamic painting, it is noteworthy for the fact that it was created during the Joseon Dynasty at a time when Buddhism was being severely persecuted.

(Goddess of Mercy) to the left and right. Above the Seven Buddhas, a

to the left and right of the Seven

(Amrta: Sweet Dew or the Nectar of

five-color spectrum extends toward

Buddhas, is an obscured landscape that

Immortality)-are consumed, souls are

the sky, forming a corona.

accentuates the benevolence and

granted immediate passage into eternity

elegance of the Buddhas who are

and all the pain relieved related to

descending on a mission of salvation.

Samsara (six ways of transmigration

The gold-tinged bodies of the Buddhas in the upper area of the painting are depicted in a manner that

At the center of the painting, monks

emphasizes the ceremony being con-

are dancing and singing around an

ducted at the center of the painting,

altar decorated with various foods,

At the bottom of the painting, those

while highlighting the dignity and mercy

while in the background there are

who have been selected to partake of

of the Seven Buddhas who seemingly

silhouettes of people who have made

garnno are depicted as those faced with

are capable of doing away with all the

offerings and monks bowing. Placed

imminent death, or hell as the result of

pain and suffering of the humans found

on the altar are a floral decoration and

their Karma, and as hungry demons. In

at the bottom of the painting. Behind

foods to console the starved souls by

this section of the painting the de-

Bodhisattva the Guide, Ksitigarbha,

sating them with the benevolence of

ceased can be seen as though still

and Avalokitesvara, who are located

the Buddhas. When these foods- gamno

living. At the lower middle of the

78 Koreana I Autumn 2003

ot circulation) of any pretas (hungry demons), people of the underworld.

Namjangsa Nectar Ritual, paint on silk, 233 x 338 em, 1701

G--

-<.

painting, there is a battlefield scene, in

the while experiencing pain and

the hungry demons is represented in a

which two annies are confronting each

suffering. During the Joseon Dynasty,

manner that creates an impression that

other with muskets and bows. The

Buddhism played a role of offering

Avalokitesvara has changed her bodily

generals of both annies, both of whom

comfort to these unfortunate souls. In

form to that of a hungry demon in order

are bearing shields, are emphasized

order for these souls to be guided to

to save the souls of those who have

by the contours of the painting. In the

heaven, it was necessary for a ceremony

suffered tragic deaths.

lower section, a fierce battle among the

involving sacrificial rites to be per-

The Namjangsa Nectar Ritual

cavalries is under way. Moreover, a

formed in front of a Namjangsa Nectar

painting' depicts the bridle of Sarnsara,

number of examples of tragic deaths,

Ritual painting. The humans seen in

expressed as hell and hungry demons,

such as drowning in a well, being

the lower part of the painting have been

and the anguish of humans who meet

crushed by a wagon, falling out of a

portrayed in a way that conveys a sense

unexpected deaths. The ceremony

tree, being devoured by a tiger or being

of realism to viewers of the painting.

being held in the center of the painting

In the scene where hell is portrayed,

for the lonely souls depicts a transfor-

Ksitigarbha is seen descending from

mation of the foods on the altar into

The most unfortunate form of

heaven and opening the gates of hell.

gamno as a result of the mercy and

death is without doubt the unexpected

Maudgalyayana (one of the ten chief

saving grace of the Seven Buddhas,

variety, as those who suffer such

disciples of Sakyamuni who is known

who have been sent to redeem the souls

untimely deaths have no chance to

for his miraculous powers) appears in

who consume this garnno. This religious

prepare for death and no one to mourn

front of two hungry demons, vowing

painting is intended to console the souls

for them. With no one to take care of

their redemption. The gimun (explana-

of those who experience a tragic death,

them, the souls of these victims are left

tion about a picture or identification

while the reality of human society is

to roam the four comers of the earth, all

of people in the painting) adjacent to

well reflected herein as well.

bitten by a poisonous snake, are portrayed in this part of the painting.

Autumn 2003 I Koreana

Korean a I Autumn 2003

Mime is a performing art form that relies on body movements for artistic expression. The Chuncheon International Mime Festival, which is enjoying a rapid rise in its international standing, was held this year from May 28 through June 1.

A hand.s -on experience on Hedgehog Island, where cans are shaped into interesting forms /

n marking its 15th year of opera-

ment into one of the largest-scale

became an international event in 1994,

tion in 2003, the Chuncheon futer-

mime festivals in Asia.

features the active participation of not only local but also foreign drama troupes,

national Mime Festival (CIMF) has distinguished itself as one of

Keys to Success

thereby providing viewers with an excellent opportunity to appreciate diverse

the most successful annual festivals

There are several factors behind the

staged in Korea. As compared to its

CIMF's success. First, is the appeal of

humble beginnings in 1989 when only

mime, a rather unfamiliar yet fascinating

Two years ago, the festival began

four mime performers were featured,

performing art. Mime is expressed only

inviting performers from a Western

more than 40 professional mime perform-

through body movements without the

country with a highly developed mime

ers along with some 250 amateurs took

use of dialogue, making it a straightfor-

culture for exposure to the latest trends

the stage in this year's five-day festival,

ward form of art with no decoration or

in this field. For the 2003 festival, the

which was attended by more than

embellishment.

Netherlands was the selected country.

forms of mime performances.

65,000 visitors. The last day was an

Chuncheon city hosts the only mime

Two acclaimed mime troupes from the

especially huge success, with about

festival held in Korea. The beautiful

Netherlands staged three performances,

35,000 people taking part in "Doggaebi

surroundings of this Gangwon-do prov-

including "Straatstaal" (Walking

Nanjang," the highlight of the festival

ince city and its proximity to Seoul and

Spectacle), which earned high honors

that featured a diverse assortment of

Gyeonggi-do province are conducive

at the 2002 Mirnos futemational Mime

mime, dance, video art, music, and even

to attracting many people f!om nearby

Festival in France. ill addition to the mime

shamanic ritual performances. The ever-

regions. Second, for anyone who happens

performances, photo exhibitions, work-

growing numbers of performers and

by, there is much to see and do during

shops, DVD presentations, and a variety

viewers attest to the CIMF's develop-

festival time. The mime festival, which

of other events, which included tulip Autumn 2003 I Koreana

The CIMF attracted some 65,000 visitors in 2003 (left). SADARI Movement Laboratory's Soccer creates the movements of soccer players (right). Spectators at.an open-air performance (opposite page)

mrangement, were presented to introduce

Jung-seop and the Stories from His Paint-

choreographing mime performances,

the culture and people of the Netherlands.

ings," performed by Korea's Sadari

demonstrated a remm·kable advancement

The performances staged during the

Theatre Company and directed by Yu

in his professional development with

festival are classified into formally

Hong-yong, was regarded as one of the

the finesse of his mtistic techniques.

invited perfmmers, which mainly involve

most outstanding performances this

stage presentations, and those petformers

yem·. It brought the paintings of Lee

taking part under the open pmticipation,

Jung-seop, a masterful Korean painter

"Gystures of Asia," which was pre-

that were mostly held in the streets and

of modem art, to life on stage by using

sented at the Chuncheon Atts Center,

outside areas. The formally invited stage

dolls to represent the images of children

was a pmticularly meaningful event that

petfmmances m·e selected on the basis

and animals depicted in his paintings.

highlighted uniquely Asian character-

of outstanding artistry and innova-

Moreover, it dramatized the story of

istics. The formally

tion/experimentation. Based on these

Lee's painting cm·eer, which he delved

mances included "Shm·aku" by Sasaki

criteria, the organizers selected two

into to soothe his longing for his wife

Hiroyasu from Japan, and "Bird, Bird,

Dutch groups and one from Japan, along

and children, from whom he was

Bird" directed by Lee Doo-sung. Aside

with two groups from Korea, as this

separated. The perfmmance was high-

from the formal performances, there

year's feature petformers.

lighted by the exquisitely crafted dolls

were numerous mime presentations by

De Daders, a Dutch drama troupe,

and their dazzling color schemes.

a broad spectrum of performing groups

introduced a new format of mime petfor-

People, animals, and nature all came

that were staged at such venues as

mance, in which the petformers staged

together to create a perfect harmony

Wido, Goseumdochi Island, and the

a drmna solely through their acting and

and peace. It was heartwmming to see

Chuncheon Puppet Theater.

sounds of their actions that take place

the children frolicking so elatedly on

A total of 33 petfmmances were staged

within a radio studio. Meanwhile, "Lee

stage. Yu Hong-yong, who has long been

under the festival's open pmticipation,

82 Koreana I Autumn 2003

Over the Wall to Become One

invt~d

perfor-

which included presentations by

ers, along with amateur mime troupes

the venue for Doggaebi Nanjang. The

foreign groups from India, Japan, and

(eight groups from primruy and secondruy

event, which lasted throughout the final

Germany. Moreover, combinations of

schools, colleges, and various private

two days of the festival, is aptly named:

various teams from Korea collaborated

sectors). The presentation by the disabled

doggaebi refers to a mischievous goblin

to stage colorful works based on diverse

perfmmers was truly inspirational, as the

that plays pranks on humans, and nan-

themes. There was also a series of

performers adeptly overcame their phys-

jang means confusion. A summer night

forums that included the participation

ical constraints to revel in the pleasure

spent on. this secluded island provides an

of performers, dming which the featured

and pride of this unique perfmming art.

indescribable sense of fieedom to urban-

local and foreign performances, along

The city of Chuncheon is smrounded

ites, who long to be free of the hassles of

with the artistic world of mime, were

by tivers and lakes, which include the

daily life, which creates an m-ge to escape

introduced and discussed. This daily

island of Wido, the main venue for out-

from their humdrum routine. J:?oggaebi

event helped to promote friendship and

door performances. The lush forest on

Nanjang and Wido are thus an ideal

camaraderie among mime directors,

this small-size island gives visitors an

remedy for this malaise of city dwellers.

critics, and attists, as well as the media

impression that they have entered a

representatives covering the annual

whole new world. Most of the open-air

festival, through discussion and evalua-

performances were staged on the

tion of the works performed during the

grassy mÂˇeas of this island.

Beyond Korea to the World The CIMF, which is recognized as the most successful local festival held

previous day and those slated to be staged.

Wido, by virtue of its nature as an

in Korea, can thank Yu Jin-gyu, chair-

As for the amateur mime perfor-

open area totally divorced from the

man of the Korea Mime Council, for

mances, impressive presentations were

urban environment, is able to liberate

his invaluable contributions to this

turned in by a group of hemÂˇing-im-

visitors fiÂˇom the constrictions of every-

success. Over the past 15 years, he has

paired and physically disabled perform-

day life. Fittingly, the island served as

dedicated himself to the development Autumn 2003 I Koreana

This year's festival sought to overcome language barriers and physical constraints by bringing performers and spectators closer together. In large part, the festival's impressive success can be attributed to the mime artists' passion for their art and the behind-the-scenes efforts of private groups.

Dynamic drum performance by Urinori Performance TAO

Of mime in Korea, which was all but

unknown here.

an international tourist attraction.

The CIMF is well positioned to

As a result of Yu Jin-gyu's tireless

enjoy continued success and popularity,

During an initial development period

efforts, the CIMF has been able to

as evidenced by an almost doubling of

(1989-93), Yu Jin-gyu brought the

become an international festival of

the number of visitors to this year's

seeds of mime, which had been on the

performance art through a process of

festival over the previous year. Govern-

verge of non-existence, to Chuncheon,

sustained development and growth. It

ment .agencies usually play an instru-

where they were nurtured with great

also became a proven model for the

mental role in the organization of such

care. He organized the Korea Mime

future development of mime and

festivals; however, the CIMF was

Festival, which was dramatically trans-

Korean-style festivals. The CIMF has

launched through the efforts of artists

formed into an international festival in

been designated an outstanding festival

alone, without any

1994. As the festival underwent a period

by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism

tance, while private groups still play a

of rapid development (1998-2002), Yu

for the past three years, while in 2000

leading role . Ironically, despite the

diversified the program content while

it scored the highest marks in an

CIMF's success story, it is now facing

also presenting a more advanced festival

evaluation of the festivals held in

a daunting challenge. In order for the

format. Furthermore, he formalized the

Gangwon-do province. In a 2001 survey

festival to continue its growth, in a

status of the festival organizing commit-

conducted by a citizens' alliance for

systematic manner, additional financial

tee into a corporation, which has since

cultural reform, the respondents cited

resources will be required, which could

been designated a professional art

the CIMF as the country's best festival,

pose a serious stumbling block.

institution, in line with efforts to rein-

further confirming its standing as

Hopefully, this is not the case, as the

force the organization's stability and to

Korea's most distinguished festival of

CIMF has the potential to develop into

more actively promote the festival into

culture and art.

a truly world-class festival.

84 Korean a I Autumn 2003

gove~nt

assis-

JOURNEYS IN KOREAN LITERATURE

YANGGUI-JA

Portrayal of the Solidarity of Pain and Spark of Hope Park Hye-kyung Literary Critic

he world portrayed in Yang

it spews out squalid and desperate

lonely death. These people, who fail

Gui-ja's literary works deals

conditions amid scenes filled with

to fit in and are being weeded out of

with the life of less fortunate

nothing but despair. Yang's literary

the organized and functional mechan-

individuals who have to toil

works persistently draw attention to

isms of life that shackle salaried

laboriously day in and day out. The char-

the devastation that lies beneath the

workers, invariably suffer from emo-

acters in her works are, almost without

surface of everyday life but to which

tional distress. Such characters are

exception, overwhelmed by the diffi-

we have become accustomed to like

also featured in The People ofWonmi-

culties of everyday life and have no

the air we breathe or our own body.

dong , a best-selling collection of

time to even give a thought as to why