KOREAN ART
&
CULTURE
Vol . 18, No . 2 SUMMER 2004
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BEAUTY OF KOREA
Yangban Mask Lim Jae-hae I Professor of Korean Studies, Andong National University
Hahoe Talchum is a tra-
quiver \Xlith breath at any
ditional masked dance-
moment, causes you to
drama (talchum) that has
practically hear the yang-
been handed do\Xln over the
ban's resounding laughter.
years in the Hahoe region of
But this face does not
Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do
laugh foolishly. It also con-
province. The yangban (aris-
veys a dignity that makes
tocrat) mask of the hero of
you believe the yangban
the drama has become both an icon of traditional
might suddenly fly into a rage or bark out an order
Korean culture and a popular souvenir item for vis-
if his authority \Xlere affronted. The chin of the
itors to Korea. It is an intriguing objet d' art, per-
mask is able to move freely, \Xlhile the flo\Xling
sonifying an ideal member of the Korean ruling
curves of the facial features create a vivid three-
class.
dimensional effect. When the face is tipped back,
The face smiles so broadly that it seems about
the ja\XI falls open, emphasizing an image of hearty
to burst out in laughter, \Xlhile its high nose and
laughter, but \Xlhen the head is tilted for\Xlard, the
\Xlide nostrils suggest pride and a life of cornf01t.
mouth closes and the expression abruptly changes
The eyebro\Xls seem able to flap like the \Xlings of a
to one of anger. It is this combination of exaggerat-
seagull, \Xlhile the cheekbones are molded \Xlith
ed three-dimensional relief carving and the
flo\Xling curves and the eyes are almost hidden
dynamism of s\Xlitching bet\Xleen opposite moods
from vie\XI in narro\XI slits. The sight of the gaping
by simply tilting the face that makes the yangban
mouth, and the nose that appears as if it might
mask so ingenious and unique.
~
FOCUS
32
Dawn of High-speed Railway Era Helps to Shrink Korea I Lee Kyung-chul INTERVIEW
38
Ahn Suk-sun: Foremost Pansori Virtuoso of the Modern Era I Hanh Myung-hee ON THE GLOBAL STAGE
44
Han-na Chang: From Wunderkind to Maestro I Anna
s.
Roh
ARTISAN
48
Celadon Master Lee Yong-hee: Reviving the Essence of Goryeo Ceramics I Ryu Min
Koreana INTERNET WEBSITE http:/ /www.koreana.or.kr © The Korea Foundation 2004 All rights reserved. No part of this
ON THE ROAD
54
Yeongwol: Where Nature Soothes the Turbulence of History I Park Ok-Soon
publication may be reproduced in any form without the prior permission of the Korea Foundation. The opinions expressed by the authors do not necessarily represent those of
CUISINE
62
Bibimbap: High-nutrition All-in-one Meal I Koo Chun-sur
the editors of Koreana or the Korea Foundation. Koreana, registered as a quarterly magazine with the Ministry of Culture
LIVING
66
Korea's Declining Birthrate Crisis I Ham In-hee
and Tourism (Registration No. Ba-1033, dated Aug. 8, 1987), is also published in Chinese and Spanish.
Cover: The Hangang River, which flows through the center of Seoul, the capital of Korea, has witnessed the ebb and flow of the Korean
peninsula's history. Photo: Hwang Man-bok
Published quarterly by The Korea Foundation 1376-1 Seocho 2-dong, Seocho-gu, Seoul 137-863, Korea PUBLISHER Kwon In Hyuk EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Kim Hyeh-won EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Park Jeong-yeop ART DIRECTOR Kim Byung-ho ASSOCIATE EDITOR Park Ok-soon EDITORIAL BOARD Han Myung-hee, Han Kyung-koo, Kim Hwa-young, Kim Moon-hwan, Lee Chong-suk, Shim Jae-ryong, Yu Hong-june
32 MARKETS
70
'Beautiful Store' Quietly Promotes a Culture of Sharing and Recycling I Cha Jeong-sin DISCOVERING KOREA
74
Butterflies Embroider the Skies of Hampyeong I Park Kang-sup MASTERPIECES
80
King Seongdeok's Sacred Bell Resounds with the Truth I Kang U-bang ART REVIEW
82
Arts of Central Asia: Cultural Exchange along the Silk Road I Hur Young-hwan
--~~---~~-~-~~
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JOURNEYS IN KOREAN LITERATURE
89
The Scars of War and Difficulty of Overcoming Them I Seo Jun-seop
90
Shrapnel I T ranslated by Hyun-jae Yee Sallee
LAYOUT & DESIGN Kim's Communication Associates 118 Jangchung-dong 1-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul Tel: (02) 2278-0202 Fax: (02) 2278-2384 PRINTED IN SUMMER 2004 Samsung Moonwha Printing Co. 274-34, Seongsu-dong 2-ga, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
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907), Silla came to control the entire Hangang River
to as "Ongniha" in the foundation myth of Baekje. Silla
Valley. In the waning days of Silla, the newly formed
called the upper reaches "Iha" and the lower reaches
states of Later Baekje and Taebong (later renamed
"Wangbongha." At a point about 4 kilometers south of the
Goryeo) vied with Silla for supremacy. Goryeo (918-1392)
capital, south of Mt. Mongmyeoksan (modern-day Mt.
emerged victorious , thereby unifying the peninsula.
Namsan), the river was once known as "Hansanha."
Goryeo was succeeded by the Joseon Dynasty (1392-
Goryeo writings refer to it as "Yeolsu," meaning "a long
1910), which brought Korea into the modern era. The
river with a broad riverbed of clear and bright water." It
Hangang River, as the lifeline of the capital area of Korea,
was also called "Sapyeongdo" and "Sarijin" because of its
has played an instrumental role in each era of cataclysmic
sandy streambed (sa means sand).
upheaval in Korea's history.
The name "Hangang" originates from the Korean word hangaram. The word han is similar to an ancient
One River, Many Names There are few rivers that ha\'.e been called by as many
word that meant great or sacred. During the Joseon period,
names as the Hangang. In geographical documents during
or those rivers that flowed directly into the sea. There was
the time of Wei and Jin China, the river was recorded as
one river in each of the four cardinal directions: the
"Daesu ," while a stone monument at the tomb of
Nakdonggang (east), Daedonggang (west), Yongheung-
Goguryeo's King Gwangaeto refers to it as "Arisu." In the
gang (north), and Hangang (south). Foreign documents
Samguksagi (History of the Three Kingdoms) it is referred
sometimes referred to the Hangang as the Seoul River. The
Geomyongso Spring, at the foot of Geumdaebong Peak, is the source of the 514-kilometer-long Hangang River (opposite page). Jeong Do-jeon, a prominent figure in the founding of the Joseon Dynasty, built a pavilion on an islet along the Hangang River nearby Dodamsambong (below).
sacrificial rituals were performed for the four great rivers,
From its origin at Mt. Taebaeksan, the Hangang River winds its way through the Chungcheong-do provinces, Gyeonggi-do province, and Seoul, before flowing out into the West Sea. The constantly flowing waters along its 514-kilometer length reflect the history of the Korean people, churning onward to the sea in an endless cycle. Donggungnyeojiseungnam (Augmented Survey of the
from which it starts its journey of 514 kilometers? Ancient
Geography of Korea), which was compiled during the time
documents, including geographic references in the
of King Seongjong (r. 1464-1469) of Joseon, noted the fol-
Sejongsillokjiriji (Veritable Records of King Sejong), iden-
lowing about the Hangang River:
tify the source as Utongsu Spring at Mt. Odaesan. This
"From its source at Utongsu Spring at Mt. Odaesan in
was changed in 1918 to Geomyongso Spring, at the foot of
the Gangneung area, it flows to the northwest of Chungju
Mt. Geumdaesan in Hajang-myeon, Taebaek-si Gangwon-
and joins with the Anchangsu (modern day Seomgang
do province, as the result of a survey by the interim Land
River) ...It becomes Gwangjin (modem day Gwangnaru),
Survey Office of the Japanese Government-General. A
Samjeondo and Dumopo (modern day Dumutgae) and
survey of Mt. Odaesan's Utongsu Spring and Goljicheon
then flows south past Gyeongseong (modem day Seoul) to
Stream, the uppermost segment of the Hangang River,
become Hangangdo. From there, it flows west and
revealed that Gomongnamu Spring of Goljicheon Stream
becomes Noryang and then Yongsangang and Seogang
was some 32.5 kilometers upstream.
farther west...It flows west past Gyohagun and joins with
The waters of the Hangang, which originates at
the Imjingang River and becomes the Jogang River north
Gomongnamu Spring; form Geomyongso Spring. The
of Tongjinbu, and then flows out to the sea."
information sign here reads: "As the source of the 514.4kilometer-long Hangang River, Geomyongso Spring emits
From Geomyongso Pond to Mokgye Ferry So, exactly where is the source of the Hangang River, 8
Koreana I Summer 2004
over 2,000 tons of water daily from its limestone base. The stream is 1.5 meters deep, 1.2 meters wide, and flows
Silleuksa Temple, overlooking the South Hangang River, was known as Byeokjeol during the Goryeo period (opposite page). Yeoyudang, the home of Jeong Yak-yong, a reform-minded court official of the Joseon period (above)
along the rock base for 20 to 30 meters. The water temper-
king Danjong was exiled in the 15th century, after his
ature is 9°C year-round, while the moss around the stream
uncle usurped the throne and later had him executed.
completes a picturesque and sublime natural scene." The
Wang Bang-yeon, a faithful comt official who had accom-
waters flow to Goljicheon Stream and then on to Auraji,
panied Danjong into exile, wrote this sad poem: "At the
the home of the "Jeongseon Arirang" song.
end of a long road, I am bereaved of my master/With no
"Auraji boatman, please take me across. The camellia flowers from Ssarigol have fallen. The fallen camellia
place to rest my heart, I sit on the river's edge/And the water, like my heart, cries as it passes in the night."
flowers are piled on the fallen leaves. Every day of the
The South Hangang River, broadened by the waters
year I miss my love so dearly." The river flows along with
of the Donggang and Seogang, arrives at Yeongchun-
the melancholy lyrics of "Jeongseon Arirang," joins with
myeon, Danyang-gun. It then passes by the Dodamsam-
Songcheon Stream, and becomes the Donggang River at
bong Islands (three rock islands along the upper segment
Jeongseon-eup, Gwangha-ri.
of the South Hangang River) and Chungju Dam, reaching
The Donggang River is said to feature the most
Tangeumdae, where stories are told of the famed Silla
exquisite landscape scenery along the Hangang River. The
writer Kim Saeng and the mastetful gayageum (traditional
waters of the Donggang churn through the Hwangsae
Korean stringed instrument) player Ureuk. During the
Rapids and past Munsan Ferry, then through Eorayeon and
Japanese Invasion of 1592, Tangeumdae was the site of the
on to Yeongwol. From there , the waters pass by
heartbreaking defeat of General Sin Rip. At the foot of Mt.
Cheongnyeongpo on the Seogang River, where the child
Daemunsan, the South Hangang River is joined by the Summer 2004 I Koreana
9
Currently a park, Mongchon Fortress was the representative earthen fortress from the time when Baekje founded its nation along the Hangang River valley.
Dalcheon Stream, whose water is well-known for its
(School of Practical Learning) scholar, Jeong Yak-yong,
refreshing taste. Further on, where the river widens, is
and also where he spent his final days. Also located nearby
Mokgye, once an important ferry landing and popular mar-
is the Paldang Dam, which provides water and electricity
ketplace on the Hangang River. The ferry service has since
to the residents of Seoul.
vanished without a trace, while the river flows on to
The Hangang River flows past Misa-ri beneath the
Heungho-ri, Buron-myeon, Wonju-si, where it combines
Paldang Dam, from which point the river grows broader
with the waters of the Seomgang River and flows leisurely
and deeper, passing by former landing sites such as
onward.
Gwangnaru Ferry and Samjeondo. Not far from here is Seoul's Apgujeong district, while Mt. Namsan silently
Flowing Out into the Sea
observes the river's flowing waters.
The river then leaves Chungcheongbuk-do province
" As the light of the morning sun dances on the
behind and enters Gyeonggi-do province. The South
Hangang River/I can dimly see the fishing boats between
Hangang River is called Yeogang River in the area around
the mountain peaks." These lyrics from a song by Yi
Yeoju, where Silleuksa Temple is found, which is also
Byeong-yeon describe Mt. Namsan. At the foot of this
known as Byeokjeol Temple. After passing by the former
mountain is the ltaewon district, which along with
Yanggeun Ferry in Yangpyeong, the South Hangang River
Salgojiwon, Hongjewon, and Bojewon, was one of the
meets the North Hangang River to form a single river at
four major government-run boarding and lodging facilities
Yangsu-ri. This is the birthplace of the renowned Sirhak
(won) in Seoul. Here, the river reaches Noryangjin (Heron
10 Koreana I Summer 2004
The Hangang River, as seen from Haengjusanseong Fortress where General Gwon Yul recorded his legendary victory against the invading Japanese troops in 1592 (above). Gapgot Heights was one of 53 fortifications built on Ganghwado Island during the Goryeo period (right).
Crossing Ferry), which is so-named because of the herons that used to frequent the area. Noryangjin was one of the three ferry (Jin) sites along the Hangang River in Seoul, in addition to Yanghwajin and Hangangjin. It was here that a bridge of boats would be built across the Hangang River whenever King Jeongjo visited his father's tomb. Nearby is Yeouido Island, which was a place of exile during the Goryeo period. Today, however, it is the center
Gimpo. At Goyang, the Hangang receives the waters of
of Korea's political, financial, media, and cultural sectors.
the Imjingang, which originates near Mt. Geumgangsan,
Across from Yeouido is Mapo Ferry, also called Samgae
and then at Bogugot-ri, Wolgot-myeon, Gimpo-si, its ardu-
Ferry. Grain from all around the country was transported
ous journey comes to an end at the West Sea.
by barge along the West Sea, up the Hangang River, and
"Look at the river. After so many twists and turns,
on to Mapo Ferry and Yongsan Ferry, where they were
does it not return to its source, the ocean?" As Nietzsche
stored in warehouses such as Gwangheungchang and
observed, the Hangang, like any river, does not shun any
Daeheungchang.
tributary but accepts them all, and after flowing for over
The Hangang waters, flowing unceasingly, wind past
500 kilometers it returns to the sea. The Hangang will con-
Haengjusanseong Fortress, the site of three legendary vic-
tinue to flow endless, but not without carrying along with
tories during the Japanese Invasion of 1592, and then on to
it the history and culture of the Korean people. 1...1 Summer 2004 I Koreana
11
I
n Doseongdo, a map of Seoul created in 1788, the
states and China in the fifth century, the river's strategic
Hanseong prefecture (Hanseong-bu, a former name
importance as a transport route was readily evident.
for Seoul) is surrounded by mountains, giving it the
Since the founding of the Joseon Dynasty in 1392
appearance of a landscape painting. In this map, the
through the start of the 20th century, the Hangang fulfilled
mountains and streams are the dominant features, among
an essential function as the primary transport route serving
which the palaces, houses and street networks are situated.
the capital. With the implementation of the Law of
Surprisingly, the waterway in this map that bisects the city
Uniform Land Tax (Daedongbeop) during the late Joseon
into north and south is not the Gyeonggang (today's
period, which called for the payment of taxes in-kind (typi-
Hangang), but its tributary, the Gaecheon (today's
cally rice) rather than in currency, the economic signifi-
Cheonggyecheon Stream). So what was the role of the
cance of the river became even more prominent. Above
Hangang during the time of the Hanseong prefecture?
all, the transport of goods along the river dramatically expanded. Furthermore, the traders operating along the
Gateway to the Korean Peninsula
banks of the river came to control a significant share of
When the founder of the Joseon Dynasty Yi Seong-gye
the economic activity of Hanseong-bu. Dominance of the
(dynastic name Taejo) had to decide on a site for the capital,
economic landscape was now a matter of possessing the
proximity to the Hangang was undoubtedly a key factor. In
capability and skills to capitalize on the river's utility.
a discussion of Hanseong's location recorded in the
Consequently, the development of Seoul expanded toward
Joseonwangjosillok (Annals of the Kings of Joseon), the city
the south to the northern banks of the river, while businesses
is described as a "strategic hub of the world, convenient for
around Namdaemun Gate expanded their business scale
transport thanks to the proximity of the Hangang." Although
beyond that of those operating within the city walls.
such a sizable waterway as the Hangang posed a formidable
The Hangang also functioned as a strategic entry point
barrier to overland transport, this was nonetheless offset by
for accessing the peninsula; it was the primary gateway for
its value as a conduit for water transport. In fact, from the
foreign powers that sought to penetrate Korea. During the
onset of diplomatic and trade relations between peninsular
forced opening of Korea's ports in the late 19th century, for-
The Hangang River had long served as the primary transport route for Seoul. Today, pleasure boats cruise its waters for the benefit of sightseers (left). World Cup Park includes a soccer stadium surrounded by vast recreational areas, which are popular for family outings (right). Yeouido Island, which was once a deserted sandbar, has since become the center of Korea's financial, legislative, and media sectors (opposite page).
14 Koreana I Summer 2004
The banks of the Hangang reflect the progress of Korea's economic development. In the course of this development process, the river's appearance changed dramatically with every n~w development phase. But today, with Korea's modernization having reached a mature stage, it is time to start thinking about what comes after the "Miracle on the Han." eigners ventured along either the Hangang or the
years later German and U.S. vessels also made their
Daedonggang to launch offensives against Seoul or
appearance along the river. Grain and provisions, including
Pyeongyang. Ever since the initial struggle against Western
rice, soybeans and adzuki beans, which previously had
powers in 1866, when troops from a French fleet pillaged
been shipped mainly from Incheon port, were now shipped
the fortress on Ganghwado Island in retaliation for the per-
directly from docks in Seoul, such as Yongsan, Mapo and
secution of Catholics, key conflicts were invariably fought
Seogang, to Japan and other destinations. Around this
along the Imjingang River, the entryway to the Hangang.
time, livestock from Gangwon-do and other locations
Thereafter, foreigners started to settle in Korea along
began to be exported via markets along the Hangang.
the banks of the Hangang. In this regard, French priests
After the outbreak of the Sino-Japanese War in 1894,
paved the way with the building of a seminary in 1887, in
Japanese troops commandeered the Mapo and Yongsan
an area that is now Wonhyoro 4-ga. In 1888, French
areas along the banks of the Hangang, which thereafter
steamships started operating along the Hangang, and two
became the exclusive domain of the Japanese forces. The Summer 20041 Koreana
15
The expressways that run along the Hangang River play a central role in maintaining the flow of Seoul's traffic.
¡.
events that transformed the river into a bridgehead for the
mally adopted plans for integrating the river into the city's
entry of foreign powers stirred wide ripples, which are still
development, thus starting a process that would drastically
in evidence today. Within Seoul, populous foreign commu-
alter the river's physical characteristics and natural ecology,
nities are found thriving in the Yongsan and Itaeweon
along with making over its appearance. As a result, the
areas, which is home to the main U.S. army base as well as
Hangang has become an integral component of Seoul's
a number of foreign embassies and consulates.
urban environment. Moreover, the river has created two districts, Gangnam (south) and Gangbuk (north), which
On the Road to Urbanization
have since developed their own distinctive character.
From the middle of the 20th century, Seoul city started
After completion of the Hangang Daegyo and the
to encroach on the river. With the city's urbanization, even
Gwangjin Daegyo bridges, a third bridge, the Yanghwa
the broad waters of the river could not prevent the spread of
Daegyo, was built in 1962 that opened a new chapter in
development along both banks. In the late 1960s, Seoul for-
the river's evolution. Additional bridges were constricted,
16
Koreana I Summer 2004
while the river's embankments were reinforced, upon
ing Korea 's phenomenal economic expansion and the
which new roadways were built. In the late 1960s, plans
urban development of Seoul came to be known as the
called for further transformation of the Hangang. As the
"Miracle on the Han." The development of the riverbanks
resident population of Seoul ballooned, the Hangang was
forever altered the appearance of the entire city, while the
integrated into the city's residential development plans
Han River Comprehensive Development Plan curtailed the
under the "Han River Maintenance Project." Under this
flooding of the river. Fortunately, the banks of the river
initiative, from 1967 to 1970 nearly all the river's embank-
also offered an economical means of providing park areas
ments were built up or reconstructed to accommodate
and walking paths, which otherwise were frequently
riverside roadways. The riverbanks were no longer a place
ignored during the breakneck pace of Seoul's urban devel-
where people could approach the river, but rather an
opment.
embankment system designed for flood-protection, above which endless streams of traffic clogged the expressways.
However, new tasks that are just as important as the rapid development of the past now have to be dealt with
After construction of the riverside roadways, never-
forthrightly. Nowadays, autos seem to take up every cen-
ending rows of high-rise apartment complexes started to
timeter along the riverside. And, both the riverbed and its
wall off the river. In this process, massive reclamation
banks have ¡been artificially straightened. Moreover, the
projects were undertaken all along the river. Dongbuichon-
fact that both sides of the Hangang are practically covered
dong was built up and developed into the Hangang apart-
with asphalt and concrete poses a serious problem as well.
1
ment complex, while to the south, the Apgujeong area was
j
Now that the river's original ecosystem is practically non-
reclaimed, which became home to the Hyundai apartment
existent, it has lost its regenerative capacity to sustain
complex. The reclamation of the Banpo and Jamsil areas
aquatic life.
1
l l
I
proceeded in tandem, with the former becoming a large-
Another problem area involves the high-rise apart-
scale apartment district, and the latter a residential neigh-
ments along the riverbanks. "A view on the river," or the
borhood alongside embankment roads.
so-called access to a Hangang River view, has since
Yeoeuido, which was once nothing but a sandbank
become a privilege that is available only to a select few.
extending out to the middle of the Hangang, was surround-
As such, the development of these apartments can be
ed with dikes and gradually turned into an island, whereas
regarded as a kind of privatization of a public resource-
Bamseom Island, which used to be seen near the white
scenic views of the Hangang- that should be available to
beach at Seogang, is now almost completely submerged.
all Seoulites. About the only thing that you can see when
The Jamsil reclamation project was part of the plans to
taking a pleasure boat cruise along the river are the cars
relocate urban dwellers of north of the river to south of the
racing along the embankments and standardized high-rise
river. Some 26.4 square kilometers of land in Yeongdong
apartments that enclose the river like a giant folding
was combined with 13 .2 square kilometers of land in
screen. Adopting the modem-day paradigm of rapid eco-
Jamsil to form a huge residential district. Thereafter, with-
nomic growth, the river continues to flow, but no longer
in a period of only some 20 years, the population south of
breathing with natural life.
the Hangang started to overtake the population to the
The breathless pace of the Korean economy's devel-
north. But the development of the river did not end there.
opment in the latter decades of the 20th century is well
The river underwent another makeover under the "Han
reflected in the numerous transformations of the river and
River Comprehensive Development Plan," a mammoth
its embankments. Korea is now standing at a crossroads, in
public works project initiated in 1982.
which it must cross over the threshold to a more mature phase of development. During this transition, new hard-
Beyond the 'Miracle on the Han' The successive business ventures that flourished dur-
ships will have to be endured. Nevertheless, as always, Koreans will relish taking on this challenge. 1....11 Summer 2004 1Koreana
17
What kinds of flora and fauna can be found in and around the Hangang River, which cuts across the central area of the Korean peninsula? Take an ecology tour of the Hangang to discover the diverse animal and plant life that make the river their home. Kim Jae-ii I President, Doore Ecology Tours Yeom Ki-won, Joen Bu-soon I Photographers
T
he Hangang River originates in the eastern
are found in the upstream areas around Yeongwol and
region of the Korean peninsula and then flows
Danyang. The annual precipitation of the river basin
westward, eventually reaching the West Sea.
amounts to 1,289 millimeters, above the nationwide aver-
The distance from the river's source at Mt.
age. Due to the substantial volume of its water flow, the
Taebaeksan in Gangwon-do province to its mouth at Yudo
Hangang River basin encompasses an area of 26,219 square
in Gimpo, Gyeonggi-do province, covers some 514.4 kilo-
kilometers, while creating expansive plains around Yeoju
meters. The two major branches of the river, the
and Gimpo. As such, from the outset, the river basin has
Namhangang and the Bukhangang, come together at
served as an ideal site for growing crops, especially rice.
Yangsu-ri, Gyeonggi-do province, and then pass through
As the river flows downstream, its riverbed gradually
Seoul and continue on to the West Sea. Broad tidal flats
broadens and its waters flow more slowly. Because of the
can be found at the mouth of the Hangang, where the river
slower flow, the sand and silt carried along by the water
meets the sea, along the DMZ (demilitarized zone) that
from upstream areas are deposited onto the riverbed,
divides South and North Korea.
where it accumulates. Over time, this process has created
Aquatic Habitat
Yeoido, and Bamseom, as well as a number of uninhabited
several islands along the river, including Namiseom, The middle and upstream segments of the Hangang are
islets.
bordered by high mountainous regions, while along the
The Hangang has long been a habitat for aquatic ecol-
downstream areas there are low-lying hills. Limestone caves
ogy. As with most rivers, the Hangang serves as an inter-
18
Koreana I Summer 2004
Insects that had been disappearing from the areas along the Hangang River, due to excessive use of agrochemicals, have been mounting a comeback in recent times (opposite page). Hanabusaya asiatica thrives in the mountainous regions along the upper reaches of the Hangang River (above).
section where aquatic ecology comes into contact with
Sobaeksan, and Songnisan. These mountains are for the
land-based ecology, making it especially environmentally
most part blanketed with coniferous trees (mainly pines)
sensitive. However, in the process of Korea's moderniza-
and broadleaf trees (such as oak). In the upstream areas,
tion and urbanization, the environment for animal and
there are still a number of virgin forest areas, but in the
plant life in downstream areas has experienced serious dis-
downstream areas, where extensive development has been
ruption and deterioration. Accordingly, since 1987, the
undertaken, there are various foreign species, such as false
government has been conducting regular studies of the
acacia or locust tree (Robinia pseudoacacia), pitch pine
Hangang ecology to develop measures for its remediation
(Pinus rigida), and poplar or cottonwood (Populus deltoids
and restoration.
Marshall). In the upstream forest areas, sub-alpine herbs, such as
Trees and Plants
Diamond bluebell Campanulaceae (Hanabusaya asiatica
The Hangang River basin lies at the foot of several
Nakai), can be found growing in the wild. Along the
well-known mountains, including Seoraksan, Taebaeksan,
river's downstream segments, among the sedimentary Summer 2004 I Koreana 19
The natural ecology of the Hangang River has suffered extensive damage in the process of Korea's modernization. But with the recent creation of ecology preservation parks, a growing number of species that had abandoned the riverside areas are now able to return to their former habitat.
The Hangang River is home to some 20 indigenous fish species, including the golden mandarin fish, which has been designated a natural monument; the spotted barbell; the Korean splendid dace; the Kumgang fat minnow; and dolsangeo (Gobiobotia brevibarba Mori), all of which are unique to Korea. Yeouido Ecological Park (opposite page below)
deposit accumulations and tidal flats, as well as the broad
eign countries, the number of alien insect species now
waterside areas, there are groves of wetland plant species,
found in Korea has been on the rise. Consequently, efforts
including reeds (Phragmites australis Trinius), silver ban-
are being made to revive the native insect ecology through
ner grass (Miscanthus sacchariflorus), and rose-gold pussy
the establishment of ecology preservation parks in river-
willow (Salix gracilistyla Miquel). Various kinds of water
side areas along Seoul, which has contributed to a dou-
plants, such as water chestnut (Trapa japonica Flerov.) and
bling of the number of insect species since 1990.
floating moss (Salvinia natans), can be found in down-
The Hangang has for long proved invaluable as a
stream areas where the waters flow by gently. There are
source of fresh water. Dams have been built mostly at the
also plants introduced from abroad and naturalized species,
river's midstream and downstream segments, while large
including Japanese hop (Humulus japonicus Sieb.et Zucc.),
cities and smaller communities have been developed along
horseweed (Erigeron Canadensis L.), and aromatic
downstream areas. Paldang Dam, in the downstream area,
evening primrose (Oenothera odorata), which grow in
supplies potable water for the 20 million residents of Seoul
abundance in downstream waterside areas.
and the surrounding metropolitan areas. The water quality of the Hangang, which steadily
Fish and Insects
deteriorates as it flows downstream, determines the species
Because the Hangang is located in the central region
of fish . that survive in its waters. Throughout the entire
of the peninsula, a wide diversity of insects can be found,
length of the river some 50 species of fish can be found, of
from the cold north and the warmer south. A 1988 field
which 20 are unique to Korea, including eoreumchi
survey identified about 215 species of insects in the down-
(Hemibarbus mylodon Berg), swiri (Coreoleuciscus splen-
stream areas west of Seoul. But because of excessive agro-
didus Mori), Kumgang fat minnow (Phoxinus kumgangen-
chemical usage and the consequences of urbanization and
sis Uchida), and dolsangeo (Gobiobotia brevibarba Mori).
industrialization, the insect populations and number of
The Manchurian trout (Branchymystax lenok), which
species in downstream areas have been steadily declining.
can be seen in the upstream reaches of the Hangang
In addition, as a result of increasing interaction with for-
around Odaesan valley, are thought to be living at the Summer 2004 I Koreana
21
southernmost latitude for this species. In the far down-
dents and nature enthusiasts observe the birds there through
stream areas where the river flows into the West Sea, the
binoculars, while once or twice a year people are allowed
brackish waters are home to such fish as fugu puffer (Fugu
to visit the island to feed the birds. In recent times, thanks
ocellatus Osbech), sea perch (Lateolabrax japonicus), so-
to the government's environment-friendly policy initiatives
iny mullet (Mugil haematocheila Temminck et Schlegel) ,
and the active involvement of community groups, ever
Japanese eel (Anguilla japonica), and Japanese grenadier
more birds are seen spending the winter at Hangang river-
anchovy (Coilia nasus Temrninck and Schlegel).
side areas and adjoining streams around Seoul.
During Korea's modernization process, various for-
As recently as 50 or so years ago, tigers were known
eign fish species were introduced , such as bass
to live in the remote forest areas of the upstream reaches of
(Mi c ropterus salmoides) and blue gill (Lepomi s
the Hangang. However, it seems these tigers have since
macrochirus Rafinesque). These fi sh tended to settle in
vanished due to the Korean War (1950-1953) and the
downstream areas where the waters flow leisurely by and
country's subsequent modernization. But other animals,
around dams. Five species of freshwater clams, along with
such as antelopes, boars, roe deer, wildcats, and otters,
shrimp and crayfish, can also be found in the waters of the
continue to live there, as always, while the downstream
Han gang.
mountainous areas are home to a variety of herbivores, including rabbits and elk. At Seoul waterside areas where
Birds and Wild Animals The birds that congregate along the Hangang can be classified as resident birds, which remain there year-round,
access is prohibited and along the military demarcation line, established after the Korean War, elk and raccoons can be seen frolicking openly in broad daylight.
and migratory birds that stop over in the winter or summer. These include 22 species of resident birds, such as mag-
Restoring the Natural Ecology
pies; 17 species of summer migratory birds, such as the
Over the years, the cumulative impact of extensive
common kingfisher (Alc edo atthis Linnaeus); and 48
urban development along downstream areas has seriously
species of winter birds, including geese. In particular, the
damaged the natural ecology of the Hangang River. To
area of the river's mouth at the DMZ is a renowned winter
restore this ecology, the government has designated several
habitat for several rare birds, such as the black-faced
ecology preservation areas, where public access is prohib-
spoonbill (Platatea minor Temrninck Schlengel).
ited. As a result, some 25 species of birds, fish and insects
Bamseom, an islet situated in the middle of the river's
now reside on Bamseom islet, permanently or during win-
segment along Seoul, is a conservation area that has
ter, while in the wetland areas of Dunchon-dong, practical-
become a haven for migratory birds. In wintertime, stu-
ly next door to an apartment complex, 27 species of wet-
22 Koreana I Summer 2004
The Hangang River serves as a popular refuge for a wide diversity of migratory birds. The DMZ buffer along the mouth of the Hangang River, which is off-limits to the public, is a well-known winter resting grounds for rare birds, such as the black:faced spoonbill and the white-naped crane. This area is also home to deer and raccoon.
land plants are thriving, a rare sight in urban residential
have since returned, along with thriving communities of
districts.
ducks and raccoons.
Following the Yeouido Ecology Park, which was
In addition, Nanjido, which for the past 15 years was
opened in 1997, additional ecology-related parks have
used as a garbage landfill area and thus despised by neigh-
been developed alongside the river in an effort to restore
borhood residents, has been transformed into a public golf
the waterside environment. These include Gil-dong
course and ecology theme park. Nanjido Ecology Park,
Ecology Park, Gangseo Wetland Ecology Park, and
adjacent to the Sangam-dong World Cup Stadium, serves
Godeok-dong Ecology Park. Moreover, the small streams
as a habitat for all sorts of birds, plants and insects. In con-
in the city that residents never went near because of their
trast to its previous neglect and disdain, Nanjido is now a
foul odor and filthy waters are gradually regaining their
hands-on ecology classroom for students as well as a wel-
natural condition. After much neglect, Yangjaecheon has
come place of rest and recreation for the residents of
been restored to a naturally flowing stream and ecological
Seoul.
~
haven where the fish and insects that had once disappeared Summer 2004 I Koreana
23
The Hangang River serves as a barometer of life of Seoulites. Flowing inextricably throughout the ages, the river is the lifeline of the city as well as a center of urban life and source of diversion from the everyday routine. Choi Tae-won I Freelance Writer Seo Heun-kang I Photographer
24
Koreana I Summer 2004
A
s revealed in the earthenware artifacts excavated from the prehistoric settlement areas situated at Amsa-dong, Gangdong-gu, the Hangang River Valley has for long been
home for people on the Korean peninsula. Ancient civi-
lizations have invariably originated along rivers, which was true of Korea as well. The Hangang River, which flows through the center of the capital city of Seoul, has been like a mother's amniotic fluid to the Korean people. Though countless people who were born and lived their lives along the river may since have passed into the annals of history, the river 's waters continue to chum endless, recycling the dreams and despair of those past and present.
The expansive Hangang River offers a wealth of recreational opportunities, including paragliding and windsurfing, as well as water-skiing and jet-skiing.
From Ferry Landings to Bridges When the Joseon Dynasty ( 1392-1910) selected Hanyang (modem-day Seoul) as its capital, the Hangang River was no doubt a key consideration. Residents drew their water from the river, which served as a ready conduit for the transport of people and commodities as well. The river was constantly bustling with people and activity, naturally becoming a center of everyday life and commerce from early on. As a community focal point, the river's significance has remained relatively constant, but its surrounding scenery is another story entirely. Vendors lugging bundles on their backs have been replaced by businessmen toting briefcases and notebook computers, while the landings that received ferry .boats have become massive bridges that accommodate endless flows of traffic. The French poet Guillaume Apollinaire wrote of the elegant beauty of the Pont Mirabeau over the River Seine, while the poets and painters of Korea have lauded the bridges across the Hangang, including Cheonhodaegyo, Jamsildaegyo, Yeongdongdaegyo, Donghodaegyo, Seongsudaegyo, and Hannamdaegyo. These bridges, which have their own character:, create an attractive urban scene when illuminated at night. Cafes that offer panoramic views of the river and bridges are especially popular. In particular, the sight of the river's gently flowing waters can do wonders for recovering from a hectic workday or washing away one's fatigue or worries. In fact, residenti al apartments along the Summer 2004 I Koreana
25
Yeouido, often referred to as the "Manhattan of Seoul," is a modern-day symbol of the Hangang River. What was long a forsaken island of sand has evolved into the center of Korea's political, financial, and media sectors.
Hangang River are always highly sought-after, such that
dong (Gangnam-gu), Banpo-dong (Seocho-gu), Heukseok-
they are typically sold at premium prices.
dong (Dongjak-gu), Jamsil-dong (Songpa-gu), Ichon-dong (Yongsan-gu), and Gwangjang-dong (Gwangjin-gu).
Yeouido: Seoul's Manhattan
The apartment units along the river are far more
Apartment complexes, which began to mushroom in
expensive than comparable developments in other areas.
the 1970s, have in large part become the standard form of
This is thanks to their convenient location, but more
residence in Korea. As such, the areas along the Hangang
importantly because they offer a view of the river. When
River are of course overflowing with high-rise apartment
developers advertise the sale of such apartment projects,
buildings. These apartments first began to appear along the
the point that they emphasize most is a "view of the
river in 1973, with the construction of apartment projects
Hangang River." Even within a particular apartment com-
on Yeouido and along the southern banks. Residential dis-
plex, prices can vary by tens of millions of won (tens of
tricts with excellent views of the river include Apgujeong-
thousands of dollars) depending on the quality of its view
26 Koreana I Summer 2004
Bamseom Island, a paradise for migratory birds, is situated below Seogangdaegyo Bridge (opposite page). With the recent improvement in the Hangang River's water quality, the number of those who enjoy fishing in the river has been on the rise (above).
of the river, confirming the intrinsic value of this feature.
a desolate site, which served as a plane runway and pasture
Yeouido was for long an abandoned island of sand,
land until only a few decades ago, would become the cen-
but since development began there in 1968 it has been
ter of Korean politics and TV broadcasting as well as the
rapidly transformed into a modern-day symbol of the
"Wall Street of Korea."
Hangang River. Yeouido is now home to the National Assembly Building, the KBS (Korea Broadcasting System), MBC (Munhwa Broadcasting Company), and
Escape from the Everyday Routine In addition to being a magnet for residential develop-
SBS (Seoul Broadcasting System) TV broadcasters, news-
ment, the Hangang River is also popular for those needing
paper publishers, and securities firms, making it the center
an escape from the ordinary. On holidays, families on out-
of Korea's political, media, and financial activities.
ings flock to the parks along the embankments, while
Accordingly, Yeouido has come to be known as the
lovers enjoy quiet walks along the river's edge. Diverse
"Manhattan of Seoul." Few could have imagined that such
festivals are staged here year-round, including spectacular Summer 2004 I Koreana
27
The river's steep banks make access to certain recreational areas somewhat difficult but not enough to deter those in pursuit of a good time (opposite page}. The pathways along the Hangang River are ideal for joggers and marathon enthusiasts (right}.
fireworks displays, making the Hangang a sought-out destination among foreigners as well. The Hangang Riverside Park includes eight areas: Jamsil and Gwangnaru, Ttukseom, Jamwon and Banpo, Ichon, Yeouido, Seonyudo and Yanghwa, Nanji and Mangwon, and Gangseo. Pleasure boat ferries operate between Yeouido and Ttukseom, and Yeouido and Jamsil, offering memorable views of the Seoul cityscape. A trip on a pleasure boat is one of the delightful ways for sightseers to view the river's magnificent scenery. While leisurely cruising along the river you can enjoy the sunlight sparkling on the water during the day and the marvelous city lights at night. Those seeking a more thrilling experience can speed along the river in a motorboat, leaving a spray of water in their wake. The pleasure boats can be boarded at Jamsil, Yeouido, Yanghwa, and Nanji, where
a 38.3-kilometer-long path from Gwangnaru in Amsa-
six ferry routes are available. At each of the ferry landings
dong, Gangdong-gu to Yanghwa in Gaehwa-dong,
there is a floating restaurant, enabling patrons to take in the
Gangseo-gu, as well as a 23.2-kilometer-long path from
scenery and atmosphere of the Hangang River.
Ddukseom in Jayang-dong, Gwangjin-gu to Nanji in Mangwon-dong, Mapo-gu. Vehicles are not allowed on
Source of Leisure for Residents The Hangang is a source of leisure and recreation for residents and visitors. During summer, outdoor swimming
these pathways, so cyclists can appreciate the scenery
pools provide welcome relief from the heat, spring and fall
seen striding vigorously along these paths. Moreover,
are ideal for roller-skating and bicycling, and ice-skating
young people on in-line skates swoop about, suddenly
and ice fishing are enjoyed in wintertime. Fishing is
popping out of nowhere, such that the Hangang is con-
allowed practically everywhere except for the restricted
stantly brimming with vitality.
without being concerned about traffic. Nowadays, with walking being all the rage, speed walkers are increasingly
areas of Gwangnaru and Seonyudo Park, while reed fields
The World Cup Park, built to commemorate the 2002
and grassy areas have been created along popular fishing
World Cup, is an ecological theme park featuring wetland
sites so that anglers can have a more pleasurable experi-
areas, fields of flowers, ponds, boating waterways, and a
ence. In particular, a 2-kilometer stretch in Yanghwa from
marathon course. There is also a nine-hole golf course.
Dangsancheolgyo Bridge to the Yanghwa Ferry Landing is
With such a diverse variety of parks and recreational facili-
a favorite among anglers, where large-size fish are often
ties, the Hangang offers a pleasurable experience to all
caught.
who come by. The river may be an ordinary place of resi-
There are also paved pathways for bicycling where you can ride along the river, enjoying its refreshing breeze:
dence for many, but it is indeed an extraordinary source of revitalization and respite for many more.
~
Summer 2004 I Koreana 31
------
------
FOCUS
------
Bullet train service is expected to bring about far-reaching changes to Korea's economy, society and culture.
K
orea's new high-speed railway service has
the other hand, passenger demand for high-quality train
provided renewed impetus to a rail industry
services has been on the increase. In addition, the invest-
that had been suffering from a protracted
ment priority in favor of roadways has failed to alleviate
decline in the face of the country's continu-
traffic congestion, which contributes to substantial eco-
ous motorization. Indeed, in light of recent advances in
nomic losses and exacerbation of air pollution. It was
transportation and ever-increasing communication speeds,
against this backdrop that Korea launched its ambitious
a high-speed railway has become a means of transport
high-speed railway project.
commensurate with today 's modern lifestyle. When you
It is expected that the new railway services will pro-
look at Japan, France, Germany and Spain, countries that
vide a big boost to the advancement of Korea's rail indus-
already operate high-speed rail networks and continue to
try. Because it can operate at a maximum speed nearly dou-
build new lines, it becomes evident that Korea's bid to join
ble that of conventional trains, the bullet train services will
their ranks is timely.
not only attract existing rail passengers, but also those who previously relied on other modes of transport. The benefits
Turning Point for Rail Industry Development The majority of Korea's railroad system was built
of the reduced travel time will of course be most apparent
before the middle of the 20th century. Although new lines
when integrated with the existing rail network, the high-
have since been added, they amount to little compared to
speed railway will create spillover effects that spread across
the original network. The reason for this is that during the
the entire country. As such, it is expected that existing lines
process of Korea's economic development the govern-
will be upgraded as part of this process, with the availabili-
ment's transportation policy was focused on the expansion
ty of high-speed services proving to be a golden opportuni-
of roadways rather than railroads. As a result, the market
ty for accelerating development of the rail industry.
in the new Seoul-Busan and Seoul-Mokpo segments, but
share of railroads, in terms of passenger and commodity
Especially in regard to segments that require two to
transport, has suffered from a steady decline ever since. On
three hours of travel time, the bullet trains will be competi-
Express train engineers and attendants, who endured a fiercely competitive selection process, are eager to ensure that passengers enjoy a safe and pleasant trip (above). The inaugural express train departs from Busan for Seoul on the morning of April 1, 2004 (opposite page).
34 Koreana I Summer 2004
tive with autos and commercial flights. For the two-hour
term, as each means of transport seeks to highlight its par-
journey between Paris and Lyon, France's TGV SUD-EST
ticular strengths, the country's transp01tation system will
has captured a 90 percent market share among business
undergo a major restructuring process.
travelers. This is explained by the fact that train fares compare favorably with airfares, while the travel time is roughly equivalent. In Korea too, airline services for the Seoul-
Increased Mobility In general, as a country's economic scale and trans-
Busan and Seoul-Daegu routes will have to be realigned as
portation services reach an advanced state, the mobility of
a result of new competition from the bullet train.
people will increase correspondingly. In Korean society,
Moreover, in response to the entry of high-speed trains in
which is moving steadily toward a five-day workweek, the
the transportation sector, the competition between various
high-speed railway will have a tangible impact in terms of
modes of transport and the ways they complement each
noticeably increasing people's mobility. As the bullet train
other will be subject to extensive adjustment. In the long
services become faster and more frequent, the level of
Summer 2004 I Koreana
35
quality will likewise be enhanced, thus encouraging more
benefits, such that the bullet train services can serve as a
people to travel by train.
cornerstone for further regional development.
After bullet trains were launched in Japan and France,
The number of passengers taking the bullet train to
the high-speed services appealed to not only business com-
commute to work or to school will steadily increase, as the
muters, but leisure travelers and people visiting friends and
faster connections help to break down the barriers of dis-
relatives as well. In response to shortened travel times, the
tance that separate smaller cities and local communities
following changes can be observed: psychological resis-
from the major urban centers. Hereafter, it will be notably
tance to distances diminishes, and more time can be spent
more convenient for people to reside in more desirable
at destinations. It is thus hardly surprising that local
provincial areas, away from the big city congestion, thanks
authorities and the tourism sector are busily discussing the
to the reduced commuting time.
development of tourism products linked to the high-speed
In the case of Japan, enlargement of the commuting
railway as well as related ways to fully capitalize on its
radius following the introduction of high-speed rail ser-
The new KTX station building adjoining the existing Seoul Station (above and opposite page)
36
Koreana I Summer 2004
vices was especially evident. On the other hand, a similar trend was not seen in France. This difference was attributed to a policy decision by the TGV management to place priority on connections between Paris and other major cities that involved two-hour or more travel time rather than services for commuters within a one-hour or so commuting radius. The case of France demonstrates that the increase in commuting distances upon the opening of highspeed links is a result of not only social conditions, but can also be influenced by the policy directions adopted by the train system authorities. Bringing Change to Urban Living Expectations that a high-speed railway could con-
to disperse activity to regional areas and thereby weaken
tribute to more balanced national development was one of
the functionality of the capital through intensified competi-
the key factors behind the justification of this mammoth
tion between cities. It is thus projected that operation of the
undertaking. The reduction in travel time will not only
bullet trains will not necessarily result in a relocation of the
benefit individuals but dramatically impact businesses as
functions concentrated in the capital to the outlying
well. Since companies will now have the flexibility to relo-
provinces.
cate from Seoul, where land prices and rental rates are the
Even so, an anticipated boost to development around
highest, to outlying provinces, they stand to realize consid-
cities with a train station on the high-speed rail lines did
erable cost-savings. Moreover, if they relocate to industrial
come about in Japan and France. If policy initiatives aimed
areas nearby railway stations, the time needed to get to and
at complementing the high-speed railway's potential are
from the capital will not differ much from that for firms
carried out, the outcomes will include a social transfonna-
situated in the Seoul area. Such desired outcomes were
tion and demographic trends toward the promotion of a
extensively debated in Japan and France as well. Like
more attractive residential environment.
Korea, these countries also suffered from the social and
As such, the experiences of France and Japan offer
economic problems created by over-centralization of their
valuable lessons for Korea's situation. In order to achieve a
capital areas.
transformation of the urban living stmcture as a result of
However, as it turned out, very few public organiza-
the high-speed railway system, its potential will have to be
tions or businesses actually relocated from the capital area
optimized through the adoption of effective policy mea-
to provincial areas around train stations. Therefore, many
sures. In this regard, the government will need to establish
observers have contended that the high-speed railway sys-
a feasible master plan based on a thorough understanding
tem is primarily a mode of transport, and not an effective
of the railway system's capabilities and detailed analyses
means of promoting more balanced regional development.
of regional conditions, and then follow through with its
Meanwhile, others question whether it really makes sense
steadfast implementation.
~
Summer 2004 I Koreana
37
INTERVIEW
There may be a number of accomplished pansori singers, but there is only a handful whose singing can strike a resonant chord deep within their audiences. Among these, Ahn Suksun stands out as the foremost pansori virtuoso of the modern era, who combines incomparable vocal talent with a boundless strength of soul. Hanh Myung-hee I Director, lmisi Academy for Korean Music Culture Ahn Hong-beum I Photographer
Ahn
Suk-sun Foremost Pansori Virtuoso of the Modern Era
A
hn Suk-sun is indis-
or simply, intensity. It could also be
putably the foremost
thought of as a perseverance that out-
pansori virtuoso of our
lasts all others. It can be called effort,
time and a masterful
or the mindset of a professional.
performer. This is not because of her
Most singers, however, cannot over-
widespread popularity. Nor is it
come the barrier of this spiritual
because she is a darling of the local
realm, because it is impossible to do
media. By no means is it because of
so without extreme self-sacrifice and
her immeasurable success and the
self-motivation.
numerous awards and citations that
For this reason, try as they may,
she has received both at home and
the vast majority of singers will
abroad. As everyone knows, to be
advance no further than a level of
recognized as an extraordinary per-
performers with technical skills.
former in Korea it is not enough to
Within Korea's traditional cultural
merely sing beautifully; such an indi-
scene, there seems to be a number of
vidual must have the ability to project
well-kpown pansori singers, but it is
their innermost spiritual realm
difficult to find truly great perform-
through the music and deeply move
ers. And among these rare virtuoso
the audience. Only then can one be
singers, the supreme performer is
acknowledged as a masterful vocalist
without a doubt Ahn Suk-sun, who
worthy of critical acclaim.
combines incomparable vocal talent
This "innermost spiritual realm"
38 Koreana I Summer 2004
with a boundless strength of soul.
can be referred to as an artistic esprit,
On a pleasant day, as gentle
a total immersion in one's endeavor,
breezes play a prelude to spring, I
visited An at her office at the
family experienced similar hardship.
National Theater of Korea, where she
Her father died early, her grandmoth-
serves as director of the National
er was bed-ridden with paralysis, and
Changgeuk Company. Unlike her
her mother was left to raise five chil-
usual taciturn demeanor, Ahn was
dren and manage the household on
. placid as she spoke frankly with me
her own. Even her older brother was
about the path she has trod along. "I remember the days of my youth, in my hometown of Namwon.
forced to wander the streets as a confectionary peddler, so there was no time for her to enjoy herself.
I used to think of the pond at
Fortunately, she apparently inher-
Gwanghanru Pavilion as the Indangsu
ited musical talent-one of her rela-
Sea, into which the filial daughter
tives was a well-known gayageum
Simcheong threw herself. If someone
(12-string zither) player, another was a
opportunity that no amount of money
had only offered me some rice, I
pansori master, and there were others
could buy."
think I could have sacrificed myself
who were involved with Korean
Ahn was absolutely right; it
just like Simcheong did. That's how
music. She naturally pursued a path of
would be no exaggeration to say that
poor we were."
Korean music and joined the
the key to her success was deeply
In truth, during the times of
Chunhyang Women's Art Troupe,
rooted in these experiences. And this
Korea's agriculture-based economy,
traveling around the country and
is also the source of a glaring defi-
poverty was so prevalent that almost
learning about the demanding enter-
ciency of pansori singers and tradi-
everyone made do with a hand-to-
tainment industry from a young age.
tional musicians nurtured under
mouth existence. This included the
''I was not at the age when I
today's systematized educational pro-
"barley hump," the most difficult
could truly appreciate Korean music.
grams, such as those at various uni-
period of the year around April and
I was dragged along against my will
versities. Although they may possess
May, after the rice supply was deplet-
to perform in concerts, and it was not
exceptional ability and musical tal-
ed and before the barley harvest,
a very enjoyable experience. I
ent, the musicians of the new genera-
when families were forced to get by
thought of it as an exhausting way of
tion seem to be somewhat lacking in
on grass, roots, and tree bark. It
life. But when I look back, I think
their on-stage performance. For the
would not be surprising that Ahn's
that perhaps it was an experience and
most part, this is because they have
If the singing of new-generation performers is like the flowers cultivated in a greenhouse, then the singing of Ahn Suk-sun is like the hardy wildflowers that must weather much hardship just to survive.
40 Koreana I Summer 2004
not personally experienced the world from which pansori originated. Accordingly, they can merely offer an accurate rendition of the notes on their sheet music, but they cannot read between the lines and convey the true sentiments of an age long gone by. Therein lies the difference with Ahn. Though she will sing the same
lyrics, in her music dwells a tenacious real-life struggle that is capable of transcending mere sound. This inner realm reflects the joys and sorrows of the wandering performers, and the pungency of the forthright and difficult everyday life of the common people. Quite simply, the singing of the new-generation performers is like the flowers that have been cultivated in a greenhouse, while Ahn's singing is like the hardy wildflowers that must weather much hardship just to survive. As I enjoyed the fragrance of a cup of green tea, the sorrowful strains of Sarasate's Zigeunerweisen (Gypsy Melodies) suddenly flowed through
my mind. Just as the wanderlust The struggles of Ahn Suk-sun's real-life experiences are reflected in the unique vibrancy of her pansori performances.
Summer 2004 I Koreana
41
bands of gypsies have left their mark
mental. Sassy contrasts with her other
led the world of folk music in Korea
on aspects of European culture, itin-
nickname, Little Caterpillar. A cater-
during the latter half of the 20th cen-
erant performing groups have played
pillar clings to the underside of
tury. Bak was a highly acclaimed
an instrumental role in shaping
leaves and will startle people. It is a ¡
gayageum player and singer, while
Korean folk culture as well. This was
nickname that suggests Ahn's intelli-
Kim dominated the world of pansori.
true of the sadangpae performing
gence and upright character.
Ahn noted: "I learned musical skills
groups, who earned their livelihood
The two nicknames are not unre-
from them, but more than the skills I
by entertaining the common people,
lated to her music career. If she did
learned about the human virtues and
as well as the changgeuk troupes of
not have an impertinent, yet sensitive
professional mindset that an artist
the early 20th century, who played a
nature, she would not have been able
must have." That is so true. For Ahn,
definitive role in keeping alive the
to deeply move her audiences with
her performances overflow with the
pulse of traditional music genres,
the ups and downs of her life experi-
undaunted spirit of a master artisan.
such as pansori. Ahn spent her for-
ences, which are the foundation of
Though her music is sublimated
mative years dreaming of becoming a
her distinctive style. And, if she did
to a peak of refinement, she has not
famous singer while being immersed
not have the tenacious survival
lost the admiration and respect of her
in the daily life of these roaming per-
instinct of the caterpillar, she would
audiences. Ahn also stresses that she
formers.
have been swept under by the waves
has devoted herself to the all-con-
of adversity long before becoming
suming task of committing her entire
the towering figure that she is today.
life to her music.
I then asked Ahn what her nickname had been when she was a child. "The grownups would call me
"Having spent my youth on the
These are by no means empty
'Sassy' or 'Little Caterpillar.' They
stage, I wandered much spiritually. I
words. People who know about her
called me 'Sassy' because I was
was able to overcome this period of
life a.nd have enjoyed her perfor-
impertinent and always joking
wandering and doubt thanks to two
mances would heartily agree. She has
around."
of my beloved teachers: Bak Gwi-hui
not been spoiled by the public accla-
(1921-1993) and Kim So-hui (1917-
mation over the years, nor does she
1995)."
tailor her singing to perceptions of
Ahn projects an image of a per-
son of considerable intelligence with a sense of detachment. But contrary
Many Koreans might recall that
what today's audiences might prefer.
to this impression, on the inside she
Bak Gwi-hui and Kim Soh-ui were
Like her youthful nickname, Little
is surprisingly personable and senti-
two popular female performers who
Caterpillar, she coldly rejects any-
42 Koreana I Summer 2004
thing outside her music, while being
thing like a Western opera, except
ning to the end. It is this very perse-
fully immersed in her musical pur-
that a single performer takes on all
verance and endurance, this archetyp-
suits and tenaciously advancing
the various singing and acting roles.
al characteristic that lies beneath all
toward the professional goals she has
A pansori performance can mn from
of Korea's traditional culture, which
set for herself.
four hours, for shorter pieces, to over
is at the core of Ahn Suk-sun's
Pansori is a Korean musical
eight hours for longer works, such as
singing. A cluster of wildflowers on
form presented by a single performer,
The Tale of Chunhyang. However,
the canvas of this uncompromising
who acts, narrates the story (aniri) ,
even for an eight-hour pansori perfor-
professional mindset that sassily
and sings, to the accompaniment of a
mance, there is no intermission or
depicts the simple sentiments of the
single dmmmer. The stories are taken
break for the solo singer, who per-
Korean people-this is the essence of
from classic Korean tales. It is some-
forms continuously from the begin-
Ahn Suk-sun's virtuosity. ~
Already recognized as Korea's foremost pansori virtuoso, Ahn Suk-sun is now opening up new horizons in traditional Korean performing arts.
Summer 2004 I Koreana
43
ON THE GLOBAL STAGE
Han-na Chang
From Wunderkind to Maestro
When Han-na Chang made her international debut at the tender age of 12, she was acclaimed a phenom of the classical music world. Recently, she has again been in the spotlight as the winner of the Cannes Classical Award. Anna S. Roh I Senior Editor, Auditorium Lee Eun-joo I Photographer
T
here are few spheres of
in history, a record that still stands.
Varencove Maazel, were duly im-
endeavor that are so enam-
Compared to the violin or piano, the
pressed, resulting in their maintaining
ored with wunderkind as
cello is an instrument rarely mastered
close relations with her and helping
classical music. Over the
by child prodigies of classical music.
to advance her career.
last 20 years, Korea has produced a
After this contest, cello legends
Regrettably, it was only after her
number of musical child prodigies
Rostropovich and Mischa Maisky
victory in the Rostropovich competi-
whose remarkable talent has been
both volunteered to mentor Han-na
tion that Han-na Chang became
recognized the world over. But in the
Chang. With Rostropovich being
widely known in her own country,
majority of these cases, they achieved
notorious for his reluctance to take
Korea. When the media reported that
their fame abroad before being prop-
young talent under his wing, his offer
she had been struggling during the
erly acknowledged in Korea.
created quite a stir in the classical
competition because of the mediocre
music world.
quality of her cello, the Korean
Such is the story of cellist Hanna Chang. She first emerged as an
Rostropovich and Maisky were
Business Council for the Arts provid-
international wunderkind in 1994
not the only maestros to be captivated
ed her with a priceless Guadagnini
when she won both the grand prize
by Chang's obvious talent. Following
cello, made in 1757. Thereafter, she
and the contemporary music prize at
performances by Chang, two promi-
has distinguished herself as a Korean
an international cello competition
nent conductors, the late Giuseppe
wunderkind of classical music ,
presided over by Mstislav Rostro-
Sinopoli and the New York Philhar-
alongside violinist Sarah Chang, two
povich. She was the youngest winner
monic 's resident conductor Lorin
years her senior, who had made her
44 Koreana I Summer 2004
Currently studying for a philosophy degree at Harvard University, Han-na Chang hopes to add to the richness of her music with an education in the humanities
mark at a somewhat earlier age.When
ple's innermost sentiments. By read-
every one or two years. Korean audi-
these two Chang girls reached the
ing Goethe and being inspired by
ences thirsting for her music have
age of 20, in 2001 and 2003, respec-
Tolstoy, I hope that my music may
thus had to content themselves with
tively, they established themselves as
become as rich and mature as their
her recordings. Ever since her wun-
adult artists who had since outgrown
works." That is how Han-na Chang
derkind days, she has maintained an
explained her chosen path in 2002
exclusive contract with EMI, which
Although they were active in
when she returned briefly to Korea to
has lec:l to the release of The Saint-
similar realms -the United States and
perform a recital. She was carrying a
Saens Cello Concertos, conducted by
the EMI record label - their musical
copy of Nietzsche 's Thus Spake
¡ Rostropovich, Haydn Cello Concer-
pathways and personalities, which
Zarathustra in her hands, rather than
tos, conducted by Sinopoli, and The
had seemed quite similar early on,
sheet music. To combine university
Swan, a collection of short pieces.
began to reveal marked differences.
study with guest performances is no
Recently, Han-na Chang has cre-
Unlike Sarah Chang, who had chosen
doubt highly demanding, but her
ated yet another sensation with her
to concentrate wholly on music by
grades are rep01ted to be excellent.
fourth album, Prokofiev: Sinfonia
the wunderkind label.
emolling at the Juilliard School, Han-
Unfortunately, Korean audiences
Concertante!Sonata for Cello and
na Chang surprised everyone when
have thus far had few opportunities to
Piano, featuring the London Sym-
she entered Harvard University last
enjoy Han-na Chang's live perfor-
phony Orchestra conducted by
year to major in philosophy.
mances. Spending most of her time in
Antonio Pappano. Released in
"The humanities provide rich
Europe and the United States, today 's
February 2003, the album was recog-
nourishment for the human heart, and
strongholds of classical music, she
nized as the best concerto recording
music is an art for expressing peo-
has returned to Korea only once
of 2003 by both the Gramophone
46
Koreana I Summer 2004
Just as important as her natural musical talent, Han-na Chang is known for her personal dedication to seemingly endless practice.
Award, sponsored by the U.K.'s
Award. With classical music prefer-
thought of herself as a genius, she is
authoritative classical music maga-
ences having subtle differences in the
not so much being modest as object-
zine Gramophone, and the Echo
U.K ., France , Germany, and the
ing to a failure to give due credit for
Class ic Award, presented by the
United States, in order for a recording
her tireless dedication. If her father
German Recording Association. In
to receive awards in all four countries
had not bought her a cello at the age
January 2004, the album also topped
there must be a universal quality that
of four, and if she had not fallen in
the list of the "soloist plus orchestra"
is evident to all such audiences. A
love with the cello upon hearing a
category of France's highly ac-
spokesperson for EMI noted:
performance by Jacqueline du Pre,
claimed Cannes Classical Award.
"Because each country has distinct
she says she would have become a
Held for the tenth time this year,
preferences in classical music styles,
heart surgeon.
the Cannes Classical Award is based
no previous recording has garnered
"The heart is the one organ in
on a poll of some 700 critics from 8
awards in so many different coun-
the body that must never stop work-
countries, including Germany, the
tries."
ing. I was curious to know how sur-
U.K., and the United States. Along
Those who are acquainted with
geons could operate on the heart with
with the Diapason Award, it is one of
Han-na Chang's conscientious char-
a scalpel." Today, Han-na Chang
the most prestigious French awards
acter and zealous work ethic (she is
wields a bow instead of a scalpel, in a
for recorded music. As such, for a
known for practicing endlessly)
concert hall instead of an operating
Korean performer to be so recognized
regard her as a genius-type who
room. Inasmuch as her music enables
is a truly notewo1thy achievement. In
could have succeeded in any field as
the heart of the spirit to beat on, in a
the U.S. market, the same recording
impressively as she has as a cellist.
sense has she not achieved the same
has been nominated for a Grammy
When Chang says that she has never
result? t.;,t Summer 2004 I Koreana
47
48 Koreana I Summer 2004
Celadon Master
Lee Yong-hee Reviving the Essence of Goryeo Ceramics
Goryeo celadon is revered for its intriguing color, a kind of jade green or blue with a unique translucence and elegance. The tradition of Goryeo celadon, which had been virtually suspended for some 600 years, has been resurrected thanks to the dedicated efforts of ceramic master Lee Yong-hee. Ryu Min I Freelance Writer Lee II-sub I Photographer
Summer 2004 I Koreana
49
To produce true re-creations of Goryeo celadon, Lee Yong-hee has lived and breathed earth, glaze, and fire for more than 40 years (below). The elegant jade-green glaze is the distinctive trademark of the highly prized celadon works (opposite page).
G
reen is an especially
celadon-making in December 2003,
peak in the 12th century," Lee said.
meaningful color for
succeeded in perfectly re-creating the
"Most of the masterpieces excavated
Koreans. From long
color and composition of Goryeo
from Gaeseong, the capital of
ago, the upright charac-
celadon, which effectively had been
Goryeo, were produced in Gangjin.
ter and integrity of the gentleman-
lost for some 600 years. Lee is the
When I first succeeded in reproduc-
scholar, who sought to pursue a
head of what could be called a mod-
ing Goryeo celadon back in 1978, I
morally ethical lifestyle, was symbol-
em-day version of a government kiln,
was overcome with emotion to think
ized by the pine tree, which remained
the Gangjin Goryeo Celadon Kiln
that I, a .Gangjin native, managed to
green even in the bitter cold of win-
Site, where he diligently strives to
re-create the jade-green color of
ter. Moreover, green was the color
resurrect the tradition of Goryeo
Goryeo celadon."
associated with the easterly direction.
celadon production.
A Japanese scholar once noted:
Thus, for Koreans, who have prided
"Gangjin was the center of
"To create the color of Goryeo
themselves on being the courteous
Goryeo celadon production during its
celadon is akin to finding God." This
people of the east, green is a representative color of Korea. And above all else, the exquisite green of Goryeo celadon is the most treasured and admired. The unique color of Goryeo celadon was so wondrous that a Chinese scholar of the Southern Song Dynasty called its "light-green color" one of the ten treasures of the world. But upon the demise of the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392) in the 14th century, the production of Goryeo celadon was abruptly discontinued, such that its brilliance remained only in legend. That was the case until Lee Yong-hee, designated an Intangible Cultural Property in the art of
50
Koreana I Summer 2004
"No matter how talented you might be, if you are arrogant or lazy then you won't make anything of yourself. Because the exquisite beauty of Goryeo celadon is something that you have to discover and attain by yourself, you must dedicate all your heart and soul to the undertaking of its creation."
is because the spirit of the maker is as
King Eujong (r. 1146-1170), the 18th
one to do this? Abandoning his farm
important as the physical process.
king of Goreyo. Celadon tiles were
work, he searched throughout the vil-
Goryeo celadon is an extraordinary
mentioned in Goryeosa (History of
lage of Sadang-ri, an area of some
creation that can only result when the
Goryeo ), but this was the first time
1.32 square kilometers, which led to
ceramic artist dedicates all his heart
for an actual tile to be recovered.
his discovery of kiln No. 88, in addi-
and soul to the undertaking. In this
A se1ies of such incidents gradu-
tion to the previously excavated kiln
sense, Lee believes that his past 40
ally drew Lee ever deeper into the
No. 100. After Lee became deter-
years spent as a ceramic artist have
world of Goryeo celadon. Lee began
mined to re-create celadon, he went
been the will of God.
to ponder compelling questions: Why
around asking experts for advice.
"I was born and raised rn
did the production of this remarkable
Their answer was always the same:
Gangjin. Wherever you go rn
celadon so suddenly cease after the
"Your best teacher is very near by."
Gangjin, whether in your front yard
downfall of the Goryeo Dynasty? Can
They meant that Lee could learn
or out in the fields, you can find frag-
it be re-created today? Could I be the
the most from the kiln sites in the
ments of Goryeo celadon everywhere," Lee said. "They were so common when I was young that we would use them to play house. But I always thought that I was destined to be a farmer. Then in 1964, when I was 25 years old, our backyard was discovered to be the site of an ancient kiln, which led to a full-scale excavation project being carried out. It was amazing. On the site of the house where I lived, thousands of pieces of Goryeo celadon were discovered. It was a veritable museum." One of the most meaningful finds was a celadon tile from the roof of Yangijeong, a pavilion built to the east of the palace in the 11th year of
Gangjin area and the fragments of
about a white crane spreading its
shaped into a vessel and then a pat-
celadon found there. Lee would dig
wings and soaring high into space."
tern or design is incised onto the
up clay, knead it, and work it with his
As Lee suggests, close your eyes
body. For inlaid celadon, known as
own hands, in his endeavor to pro-
and imagine such a scene: a thousand
sanggam, the incised designs are
duce Goryeo celadon; a process he
cranes spreading their wings and fly-
filled in with white clay or red clay.
has continuously repeated over his
ing high into the sky at the same
The vessel is then fired, and at this
lifetime. Then in 1978, he fired up
time. Also, imagine a person playing
stage turns a light red. The next step
for the first time the kiln that ¡he had
a lute under a pine tree without a care
is glazing.
built with the support of the Gangjin
in the world; beside him a crane mer-
"When the glaze is applied to the
county government, and fired 32
rily dances to the lilting rhythm. Such
vessel, the surface is white. Even the
pieces of his celadon creations.
images of nature and humans in har-
ghosts would be spooked to see the
"The essence of Goryeo celadon
mony are the typical designs used to
way it turns into a bluish-green color
is its unique blue-green color. During
decorate Goryeo celadon. In addition,
after being baked in the kiln for two
the Goryeo Dynasty, the people
auspicious plants and animals, such
days straight at a temperature of 1,300
likened it to the color of jade and
as lotus flowers , peonies, willow
degrees Celsius. The iron oxide in the
called it jade-green. It is a natural
trees , and ducks, adorn celadon
glaze is the key ingredient behind the
color highly admired by Asians. It is
works, accentuating their elegance.
greenish hue, but depending on the
also the color of the inner self. Some
The unique celadon color is a
mixture and proportion of ingredients,
liken it to the color of the distant sky,
function of the glaze applied and a
very different colors can result. The
and others to the color of surrounding
proper firing of the clay piece. Kaolin
secret is in the mixture, which is so
trees and grass. Some think of it as
clay from the Gangjin region is espe-
hard to figure out. Some people may
the color of deep water. From a per-
cially desirable for its elasticity and
spend a lifetime working on the mix-
spective of the concepts of yin and
durability. Moreover, the clay's even
ture and never get it right, so that this
yang and the five elements, the color
texture enables the production of
failure is passed on from one genera-
is symbolic of outer space. Think
high-quality celadon works. Clay is
tion to the next," Lee noted.
1. Gangjin clay is shaped into forms and engraved with patterns. 2. The engraved patterns are filled with kaolin or red earth and then the piece is fired. 3. After the initial firing, the glaze that holds the secret to the celadon's unique jade-green color is applied. 4. The engraved patterns add to the beauty of the luminous glaze after the final firing.
52
Koreana I Summer 2004
It is in this regard that Lee is
the kiln-firing, during which the
nent ceramic artist of Goryeo, he had
considered to have perfectly re-creat-
works have to be watched constantly.
two apprentices: one, who was highly
ed Goryeo celadon. He has not only
Even then there is no guarantee ¡that
talented but had a reprehensible per-
developed his own production tech-
the finished product will be of excep-
sonality, and the other, who was a
niques for the traditional natural
tional quality. Countless times, only
good-natured person but not so tal-
glaze, but has also painstakingly re-
one piece is worth saving and the
ented . The only daughter of the
created the composition of clay and
others are discarded.
ceramic artist loved the good-natured
glaze, as well as the durability, color
"I don't want to hear it said that
apprentice, and sought to inspire him
and luminescence of original Goryeo
the art of celadon has died out
to create the finest Goryeo celadon
celadon. In fact, this has been con-
because I didn't teach it to anyone.
works by throwing herself into the
firmed by a scientific analysis of
But I can't pass on the secrets to just
kiln. When the good-natured appren-
Lee's works conducted by a research
anyone," Lee insists . The basic
tice found out what the daughter had
team from Chonnam National
approach of a ceramic artist is to
done, he wailed in torment and
University in 2003.
work hard, all the time. "No matter
gouged his eyes with a poker.
To appreciate the dedicated
how talented you might be, if you are
Thereafter, the art of Goryeo celadon
effort that Lee put into this undertak-
arrogant or lazy then you won't make
died oÂľt.
ing before attaining the brilliance of
anything of yourself. The exquisite
Lee sits in front of the kiln and
his successful results, consider this:
beauty of Goryeo celadon is some-
watches the fire as it steadily bums,
For over 30 years he has never slept
thing that, in the end, you have to dis-
monitoring its temperature. His hands
for more than 5 hours at a time. And
cover and attain by yourself. So you
are rough, his eyes bright and clear,
he has never had time to even think
have to dedicate all your heart and
while his mouth conveys an unas-
about a holiday. It requires a 70-day
soul to the task of its creation."
suming expression. The flickering
process to create each celadon piece,
In Gangjin, there is a legend
flames seem to be whispering about
involving 24 separate steps carried
about a master ceramic artist of the
the birth of a new Goryeo celadon
out in a rigid order. The final stage is
Goryeo Dynasty. As the most promi-
legend. L.t
Sum mer 2004 I Ko reana
53
A
fter proceeding along the Jungang
contrast with the intriguingly shaped rock formations and
Expressway, we tum off at the Jecheon exit
pine tree forest in the background. Of note, the Donggang
and then travel down National Road No. 38.
has gained a reputation as the most popular rafting water-
Suddenly, the four-lane road begins to nar-
way in Korea. The Donggang's surrounding areas are
row. As the roadway narrows, sharp curves must be nego-
teeming with visitors year-round, as they seek to experi-
tiated while the geographical features of the mountains
ence a once-in-a-lifetime adventure as well as the breath-
become more evident. Then, a slow-moving stream comes
taking scenery. Another way to enjoy the Eorayeon area is
into sight, along with more twisting turns. This is the
to trek through its valleys and woodlands. As you make
Seogang River, which due to its contorted alignment, is
your way along the pathways and mountains nearby the
also called the Sagang (Snake River). This is where
Donggang, you can enjoy the area's diverse ecology and
Yeongwol County begins. The waters of the Seogang are a
refreshing landscape.
dark emerald. It seems that the green mountains are reflected in the river's clear waters.
Among the attractions that definitely must be seen in the Seogang area are the Seondol and other uniquely Korean geographical features. The Seondol is a 70-meter-
Donggang and Seogang Rivers
high rock located at Sonagijae, which is downstream of the
Yeongwol, located in the inland region of Gangwon-
Seogang, where the surrounding natural scenery closely
do, is well-known for its picturesque scenery and verdant
resembles an Oriental landscape painting. The rock that
forests. Jecheon and Danyang, which are situated in
projects upward like a huge tower harmonizes perfectly
Chungcheongbuk-do, and Yeongju and Bonghwa, located
with the Seogang's flowing waters. According to legend,
in Gyeongsangbuk-do, border Yeongwol. Yeongwol
this rock, which was spilt into two pieces, is called the
encompasses an area of about 1,127 square kilometers that
Shinseonam, or "Taoist hermit rock." Another geographi-
is home to a population of some 45,000 residents. Two
cal attraction is Seonam Village, which is contoured like
rivers flow through Yeongwol-the Seogang that I passed
the Korean peninsula. The west side of this village slopes
by on the way here and the Donggang. The Donggang,
gently toward the Seogang, while the east side is steeply
which is part of the upper reaches of the Hangang River,
sloped. As such, the topography of Seonam Village is like
flows as far as Yeongwol, some 51 kilometers from its
a small-scale replication of the Korean peninsula, in that
source in the valley adjacent to Jeongseon and
the eastern half is elevated while the western side is notice-
Pyeongchang. The Donggang meets up with the Seogang
ably flatter. When you look at this village's topography in
in Yeongwol. The Seogang flows westward as it merges
more detail, you can observe geographical features similar
with the Donggang. The impetuous, turbulent currents of
to those of Ttangkkeut Village in Haenam, Jeollanam-do,
the Donggang flow more leisurely as the depth of the river
and Homigot in Pohang, Gyeongsangbuk-do.
deepens where it meets up with the Seogang. As such, the Donggang has often been compared to a man, and the Seogang to a woman.
King Danjong's Place of Exile These two rivers flow around Yeongwol, which is also
Boasting a truly unique landscape, Eorayeon is the
surrounded by rugged mountains, forming a natural barrier
most gorgeous segment of the Donggang. Featuring three
that restricts access to the area. As such, these two rivers
marshes, this area offers indescribable scenery due to its
produce an island that is far inland, which can function as a
The Eorayeon area along the Donggang River, northeast of Yeongwol-eup, is said to feature the river's most picturesque scenery (opposite page).
Summer 2004 I Koreana 57
prison without walls. In fact, Cheongnyeongpo was the island where King Danjong (1441-1457) was exiled. The sixth king of the Joseon Dynasty, King Danjong ascended to the throne at the age of 12. In 1456, when he turned 16, his uncle usurped the throne, and declared himself king (dynastic name Sejo), while Danjong was demoted to the rank of Nosangun. Danjong was dispatched to Cheongnyeongpo in Yeongwol, an area that served as his prison, with steep cliffs on the western side and rivers flowing on the other three sides. Even today, Cheongnyeongpo can be reached only by boat. The house where the deposed King Danjong lived has been restored, and there is a monument bearing the inscription: "A former king lived here." Within the Cheongnyeongpo forest, there is a pine tree that stands some 30 meters tall, which is known as Gwaneumsong, because it is said to have witnessed the tragedy of King Danjong. This 600-year-old tree is there to tell all those who visit about the tragic life of King Danjong. In addition to Cheongnyeongpo, there are several historic sites associated with King Danjong: Gwanpungheon, Jagyuru, and Jangneung, all of which are situated in the downtown area of Yeongwol. Jangneung is where Danjong was buried after being poisoned in 1457. The pine trees that witnessed his death continue to stand guard at his gravesite, mourning his unfortunate demise. The pine trees at Jangneung are admired for their unwavering loyalty to the king. Reflecting upon this scene, I could appreciate just how apropos the age-old proverb is in comparing the loyalty of subjects to evergreen trees. Yeongwol County performs an annual ritual for King Danjong in April to console the soul of this star-crossed monarch. Continuing a little farther, about 700 meters beyond Jangneung is Geummongam Temple. Although this temple, built by the renowned Buddhist monk Uisang Daesa in 680, was originally named Jideogam, when King Danjong At the Joseon Folk Art Museum, children can try their hand at the folk arts popular during the Joseon period (above). Jangneung royal tomb, the gravesite of the ill-fated Joseon King Danjong (right). Gossi Cave, a natural limestone grotto, is believed to have been created some 400-500 million years ago (opposite page).
58
Koreana I Summer 2004
As compared to the endless twists and turns of human history, nature seems to change little over time. As such, these two rivers ceaselessly flow along the steep cliffs off Cheongnyeongpo Island with little apparent concern for the tragic story of King Danjong.
first set eyes on this temple he indicated that he had once seen it in a dream. Thereafter, this temple came to be known as Geummongam. Some 200 meters past Geummongam is the site of Bodeoksa Temple, which was built by Uisang Daesa in 668.
'l &t
Wandering Poet, Kim Satgat In addition to King Danjong, Yeongwol is home to
~
another prominent historical figure, a poet who lived during
1;
the latter Joseon period. This poet, Kim Byung-yeon (pen
... J
name: Nango), lived from 1807 to 1863. Kim was a talented writer from his early youth. When he was 20 years old, he received the highest score on the government civil service examination. As patt of this examination, he wrote an essay in which he hm¡shly c1iticized his grandfather. Upon learning the truth about his grandfather, Kim blamed himself for writing something so dishonorable about his ancestor. He decided to leave his hometown, while lamenting: "How could such a sinner ever cast his eyes upon the sky?" Dming his wandering about, he would always wear a satgat, or bamboo hat. And because of this trademark, he
came to be known as the wandering poet Kim Satgat. As he roamed aimlessly throughout the country, Kim Satgat wrote poems that satirized the corruption of government officials. Yeongwol was where he decided to abandon his
Summer 2004 I Koreana 59
The rapids of Donggang River, which flow past magnificent rock formations, have become Korea's most popular rafting course.
60
Koreana I Summer 2004
nomadic lifestyle and settle down. Nevertheless, it became
tranquil setting where you can relax amid the stars above.
known only some 20 years ago that Kim Byeong-yeon had
The Byeolrnaro Astronomical Observatory is a magnet for
been buried in one of Yeongwol's valleys. In fact, it was
amateur astronomers. But everyone is welcome to visit and
not until 1982 that his gravesite was discovered in
observe the heavenly skies and take photographs of the
Waseok-ri, Hadong-myeon. Related to this, Yeongwol
stars and planets. Bongnaesan also features a paragliding
County has erected several monuments bearing his poems,
area and a marvelous walking path. From the paragliding
in commemoration of his literary achievements, and estab-
area, the adventurous ¡can soar high into the Yeongwol sky,
lished a Literature Street in his honor.
while the fresh air of Yeongwol can be enjoyed as you
In addition, a Kim Satgat Cultural Festival is present-
stroll along the nearby forest areas.
ed each October to promote his importance in Korea's lit-
Other things to see in Yeongwol include the
erary culture. The scenery around Kim Satgat's grave,
International Museum of Contemporary Art that displays
which had been described as a utopian paradise during his
about 200 works of world-renowned sculptors; the
time, is beautiful indeed. The 6-kilometer tract from the
Yeongwol Book Museum, the only one of its kind in
entrance of the valley to his grave has been designated as
Korea; the Yeongwol Insectarium, which exhibits about
Kim Satgat Valley. The poetry monuments in his honor are
3,000 specimens of butterflies, moths, and other insects;
found along this way, enabling visitors to enjoy a thought-
and the Joseon Folk Art Museum. The Yeongwol Book
provoking experience.
Museum and Yeongwol Insectarium are housed in former
On the way to Kim Satgat Valley from downtown
school buildings . When these facilities opened, people
Yeongwol, you can stop by Gossi Cave (Natural
started to again visit these old schools that had long been
Monument No. 219), situated on the right bank of the
abandoned.
Seogang. This cave was given this name because members
For those seeking to glimpse into the everyday life of
of the Go family hid there during the Japanese invasions of
Yeongwol residents, I would recommend browsing around
1592-1598. Within this limestone cave, which is said to
the traditional markets. The Deokpo five-day market is
have been formed some 400-500 million years ago, you
held in front of Yeongwol station on days ending in 4 or 9,
can find remnants left by the Go family. Moreover, the
while the Jucheon five-day market is held at Jucheon-
cave features mysteriously shaped stalactites.
myeon on days ending in 1 or 6. On market days, Yeongwol bustles with vendors, Yeongwol residents shop-
Things to See and Do
ping for daily necessities, and farmers offering their agri-
To this point, we have mentioned the natural and his-
cultural products. Here, you can get a sense of the dynamic
torical sites in and around Yeongwol. However, our trip to
energy of the people of Yeongwol, who have maintained
Yeongwol would not be complete if it did not include at
the area's local spirit and culture.
least a couple more worthwhile destinations. From down-
Mountains, rivers, skies, fields, and markets ... these
town Yeongwol, Mt. Bongnaesan rises to the right. Atop
precious resources seem to be found everywhere in
thi s 799 .8-meter-high mountain is the Byeolmaro
Yeongwol. Some effort is needed to reach Yeongwol,
Astronomical Observatory, where visitors can observe the
because of the physical obstacles along the way, but it will
stars and heavenly bodies. Byeolmaro, a combination of
likely be even more difficult to leave once you spend some
the words byeol (star) and maro (top of the mountain), is a
time there.
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Summer 2004 I Koreana
61
Bibimbap is an all-in-one meal that consists of rice combined with a variety of ingredients, such as meat, vegetables, egg, and sesame oil. Koo Chun-sur I Director, World Food Culture Research Institute Bae Jae-hyung I Photographer Lee Kyung I Food Stylist
B
ibimbap contains all the nutrition that is needed for a complete meal. Moreover, it includes the added advantage of being adaptable to practically any recipe. Bibimbap is creative as well as unique in that its color and appearance will vary according to the ingredients
used and the personal tastes of the preparer. As ever more of the world has come to be highly developed, people's activ-
ities are now more diversified, while food culture has changed accordingly. One-dish foods that are easy to prepare and to clean up have thus become increasingly popular. For example, the sandwich invented by the English, the hamburger and hotdog popularized by the United States, and the curry-rice dishes of India, are favorites for their simplicity. In fact, it is said that the sandwich and hamburger were developed by accident. Meanwhile, Korea has a one-dish meal of its own: bibimbap.
Creative One-dish Meal Bibimbap is simply a bowl of rice that is mixed with various kinds of vegetables, together with mushrooms, a fried egg, and ground meat, and seasoned with red chili pepper paste. A dribble of sesame oil can add to its savory taste. To foreign nationals who are not familiar with Korean food culture, the concept of bibim (mixing rice with side dishes) might seem somewhat obscure. The basic objective of bibimbap is to combine various ingredients with rice in order to create a harmony of contrasting tastes. A unique tasting bibimbap can be created depending on the particular recipe, ingredients added, season when it is prepared, and personal preferences of the preparer. Every country is known for its representative foods, but variations can often be found in regard to their names. For instance, visitors to France are often perplexed by the endless variety of cheeses available, each with their own appearance and taste. I have been told that there are some 365 different varieties of cheese currently being produced in France. Bibimbap, on the other hand, is very straightforward for foreigners since it goes by only one name. When a special ingredient is included, its name can be added to identify a particular type of bibimbap, such as kkot (flower) bibimbap. Sometimes, the name of a region is affixed to the front of bibimbap, such as Jeonju bibimbap, to make known its unique regional characteristics. Despite the fact that there are such modifications in the names of bibimbap, the extra ingredients never replace the basic items; they are simply supplemental additions. For Summer 2004 I Koreana
63
example, soybean sprouts are an additional ingredient of Jeonju bibimbap.
Origins of Bibimbap Siuijeonseo, a cookbook compiled in the late 1800s, includes the first-ever reference to bibimbap. In these records, bibimbap is also referred to as bubuimbap and goldongban. As gol means "disorderly" and dong means "mix," goldong refers to thoroughly mixing different things together. Therefore, goldongban is a reference to rice combined with various side dishes or ingredients in a bowl.
1
A few of the theories or stories about the origin of bibimbap include the following. First, is the "palace food theory." A meal prepared for the king during the Joseon Dynasty was known as sura, while bibim was served as a light meal whenever the king's relatives visited the palace. Second, is the "meal for peasants during the farming season theory." Although peasants would have to eat several daily meals during the farming season, it was difficult to have regular meals in the rice fields. As such, for convenience, the peasants would use a single bowl, in which rice was combined with side dishes. Third, is the "Donghak uprising theory." When the Donghak uprising (a revolutionary movement led by peasants to protest the rampant corruption of government officials and the encroachment of foreign powers) broke out in the Gobu area of the Jeolla provinces in 1894, the Donghak peasant rebels were forced to mix their rice together with side dishes because of their lack of bowls and plates. Lastly, there is the "eumbok theory." Eumbok refers to the tradition of eating the food offerings used during ancestral rites upon the conclusion of the ceremony. In doing so, people would place some of each food item into a bowl and then mix them together before eating. Although we might never know which of these theories is true, these stories about its origins prove that bibimbap is indeed a traditional Korean creation, deeply rooted in our history and culture.
Preparing Bibimbap The primary ingredient of bibimbap is rice, typically plain white rice, while
Bibimbap contains all the nutrition that is needed for a complete meal. Moreover, it includes the added advantage of being adaptable to practically any recipe. Bibimbap is creative as well as unique in that its color and appearance will vary according to the ingredients used and the personal tastes of the preparer.
64 Koreana I Summer 2004
"Flower bibimbap" includes seasonal flowers as an added ingredient for a special fragrance and flavor (above). (opposite page) 1. The ingredients for bibimbap are prepared with care. 2. Each ingredient contributes its own flavor and texture. 3. Prepared ingredients are neatly arranged on freshly steamed rice.
the vegetables are prepared in advance. Red pepper paste is added for a spicy flavor, while a splash of sesame oil or perilla seed oil is included to enhance the bibimbap's savoriness. Lastly, a fried egg is added to balance the color and appearance of the dish, and to supplement its nutritional value. Bibimbap seems like a simple meal to prepare. However, because it requires a number of different ingredients, it is actually one of the most difficult dishes to get just right. For truly great tasting bibimbap, a variety of ingredients are needed and thorough preparation should be made in advance. Nevertheless, bibimbap has the advantage of being a meal that, though simple in nature, is above all highly nutritious and healthy. Bibimbap is also an ideal choice for budget-minded families since a variety of ingredients are readily available yearround.
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Summer 2004 I Koreana
65
The drastic decline in the nation's birthrate has become a serious crisis with far-reaching consequences. To understand the various factors contributing to this situation, there is a particular need to assess the attitudes of Korean women toward childbirth and raising children in today's world. Ham ln-hee I Professor of Sociology, Ewha Womans University Seo Heun-kang I Photographer
hen Korea's birth-
new catchphrase: "Why don't we
rate peaked in the
have one more child?" However, in
1960s , the ideal
light of today's circumstances, the
family was thought
intended message is serious in nature,
to include three sons and three
rather than an attempt at humor.
daughters. To have many children was a symbol of great fortune in an
Birthrate Falls to 1.17
agrarian society. In fact, there was a
According to statistics prepared
common saying back then that "each
by the Ministry of Health and Welfare
child is born with his/her own luck."
in 2003, Korea's birthrate now stands
The childbirth rate is directly
at 1.17 children, thus falling below
related to the ability to ensure the
the record lows set by European
adequate care and education of a
countries, which are widely known
child, at the family level, and the pro-
for their extremely low birthrates.
vision of human resources, at the
Although this decline in birthrate is a
national level. Therefore, the govern-
worldwide trend , the majority of
ment has sought to regulate the child-
demographic specialists maintain that
birth rate, believing that too rapid an
the drastic downturn in Korea's
increase in population will negatively
birthrate is abnormal. In the past,
impact the national economy. Korea
demographic specialists predicted that
has also applied this approach for the
despite the government's active sup-
development of its economy. It is
port, Korea's family-planning policy
well known that Korea's family-plan-
measures were unlikely to show posi-
ning policy efforts were formulated
tive results because of the prevailing
as part of its economic development
preference for boys. However, these
plan, a policy initiative that has been
projections have since been overshad-
deemed a notable success.
owed by the fact that Korea has
The Korean government's campaign at the time was promoted with
become the fastest rising member of the declining birthrate countries.
the slogan: "Let's raise two good kids, regardless of their gender." In fact, up
In days gone by, tradition called for geumju/to be hung outside a home to signify the birth of a baby and discourage the entry of outsiders.
New Attitudes
until a few years ago it was common
The primary factor behind the
to hear the saying : "A well-raised
sharp plummet in Korea's birthrate
daughter does ten times better for her
has been a decrease in the relative
parents than a son ." While being
value of children. Children used to be
bombarded by these slogans, the
regarded as a symbol of happiness
younger generation responded with
and good fo1tune, as well as a foun-
jokes such as "family planning should
dation of the labor force ; however,
be discussed with your neighbor, so
with the costs associated with raising
that every three families can have just
children now seeming to rise endless-
one child." However, the cmTent situ-
ly, they have increasingly come to be
ation has led to the introduction of a
perceived as too costly an investSummer 2004 I Koreana
67
Career vs. Children The current trend, in which Korean women are delaying or avoiding childbirth, is proliferating at an alarming rate. With Korean women who are in their mid and late 20s being forced to balance marriage, career, and childbirth at the same ment. For example, women who are
tion: "Do you have any plans to pro-
time, it is only natural for them to
in their 70s spent 40 years of their
vide for the welfare of your parents?"
experience a sense of crisis. As such,
lives to raise 6 children, on average,
one-third
participants
ever more women are choosing to
while women in their 50s spent 36
answered: "Yes, my parents will live
delay marriage or postpone childbirth
years raising 4 children, and women
with me"; one-third responded: "I
as one means of dealing with this no-
in their 30s and 40s will commit
will decide based on the situation";
win predicament.
some 28 years to raising two chil-
and the remaining one-third said: "I
In 2003, the average age for
dren. As a result, although the num-
do not want my parents to live with
couples getting married in Korea was
ber of children has decreased, the
me, if at all possible."
27 for women and 29.8 for men. As
of the
time and effort that must be invested
The number of elderly parents
childbirth is now a matter of con-
in each child have increased signifi-
who depend on their eldest son's
scious choice, rather than a chance
cantly. The fact that Korean parents'
family for their care has decreased as
outcome, many women of the older
expenses for private tutoring are the
well. In a survey conducted by KBS
generation are increasingly forced to
highest in the world has also con-
and the Korean Family Studies
accept that, "it would be nice if my
tributed to the financial burden.
Association in 2001, 20 percent of
daughter or daughter-in-law decided
Moreover, a traditional belief
the elderly respondents said: "I will
to have a baby." Under these circum-
that children will be responsible for
live with whichever of my children
stances, the traditional status of the
ensuring the well-being of their
wants me to live with them." Only
first daughter-in-law has been eroded,
elderly parents has seemingly disap-
4.7 percent of the elderly parents
as exemplified by the expression:
peared. The current situation of the
remained steadfast in insisting on liv-
"Mothers-in-law now complain that
last generation who lived with their
ing with their oldest son. Meanwhile,
while it is easy to find out a son-in-
parents, and of the first generation of
71.5 percent responded: "I will just
law's salary, it is impossible to find
elderly parents who have been essen-
live with my spouse." In the past,
out their own son's." Moreover, the
tially abandoned by their children,
children used to be thought of as a
fact that ever more women will
has led to a further deterioration in
kind of insurance policy when it
downplay the fact that their husbands
people's attitudes toward the respon-
came to welfare after retirement.
are eldest sons, while not revealing
sibilities of raising children.
However, with this tradition being
that they are the first daughters-in-
As such, a common belief that it
steadily undermined, the government
law, clearly indicates that the tradi-
is indeed difficult to raise children,
has increasingly been forced to
tional preference for oldest sons has
and even that children are nothing but
replace children as the primary
lost much of its relevance.
trouble in the end, has been taking
provider for the elderly, through the
Western countries that have
root in Korean society. A survey of
provision of national pensions, wel-
already encountered this declining
first-born sons in their 30s was con-
fare benefits and expanded health
birthrate phenomenon have attained
ducted during the 1990s. To the ques-
care insurance.
varying degrees of success in over-
68
Koreana I Summer 2004
coming its adverse consequences through the adoption of such measures as promoting public responsibility for childrearing, offering family-friendly support initiatives, and enhancing the parental rights of fathers. For its part, the Korean government has sought to promote a childbirth-encouragement policy, which includes extending the maternity-leave period, improving daycare facilities at workplaces, and providing a cost of living allowance for a family that has a third child. However, this downward trend in the birthrate has proven to be considerably more persistent than expected.
In Korea, working mothers will typically take three weeks or so of maternity leave. These days, post-childbirth health care services are thriving.
Nationwide Effort Required In an effort to assess women's
birth-encouragement policy can hard-
efforts at the national level to develop
ly be expected to be effective in recti-
viable solutions to this serious prob-
plans for childbirth after marriage,
fying the declining birthrate trend.
lem. As such, all of us must do our
the Ewha Weekly surveyed 170 stu-
To remedy the decreasing
part to create a society that is con-
dents of Ewha Womans University in
birthrate, a dramatic alteration of cur-
ducive to sound levels of childbirth
October 2003. Of those surveyed,
rent lifestyles will be required. As
and population growth. In paiticular,
31.5 percent of the participants
Jong as an institutional culture in
this will require policy measures that
responded that they did not plan to
which sacrificing family life is
can help ensure a proper balance
have children. As for the reasons for
accepted as an integral element of a
between career and family life.
this response, 33.3 percent cited the
career-first ideology continues to pre-
Furthermore, a social system capable
excessive economic burdens of rais-
vail, while traditional beliefs that it is
of assuring the health and education
ing and educating children; 20.6 per-
a mother's job to raise the children
of all children needs to be estab-
cent believed that self-realization was
remain in place, and the economic
lished. Moreover, people's attitudes
more important than having a child;
burdens related to private tutoring
toward retirement age and caring for
and 19 percent stated that they had no
expenses are not eased, then Korea's
our elderly population need to be
desire to get married. The results of
declining birthrate will inevitably
changed by focusing on the fact that
this survey clearly demonstrate the
continue unabated.
this decline in the birthrate and the
paradigm shift that has apparently
Raising our future generations
advent of an aging society are pro-
taken root in this new generation.
can no longer be solely the responsi-
ceeding simultaneously. In addition,
Furthermore, in light of the divorce
bility of women. Moreover, this prin-
there is a need to establish policy
and remarriage rates already on the
ciple should not be applied at only
strategies that are geared toward our
rise, and the number of people who
the family level either; the govern-
current low-population-growth soci-
regard their children as a burden
ment, businesses, and families will
ety before it is too late. l...t
increasing as well, the existing child-
all be required to put f01th concerted Summer 2004 I Koreana
69
MARKETS: Beautiful Store
'Beautiful Store' Quietly Promotes a Culture of Sharing and Recycling The "Beautiful Store," a non-profit organization, sells recycled articles that have been donated, and in turn, contributes its profits to endeavors which promote the public good, or to charity. The organization currently operates 20 outlets that promote the virtues of sharing and reusing previously owned consumer goods. Cha Jeong-sin I Freelance Writer Choi Hang-young I Photographer
A
nyone who seeks to pursue a simpler lifestyle should strive to possess less. Whenever a desire to acquire things arises, such an individual should suppress this urge by exercising self-control, or purchase needed items in a responsible manner. However, what do
you do when you already have an item similar to that which you desire to acquire? Simply throwing the old item away would be an insult to our Mother Earth. Then, the question is: What should we do with those old things that we no longer need anymore? A wise man once said: "Donate things that you no longer need to others. Let others breathe new life into them." This is how the Beautiful Store got started.
All Items Donated Some 80 managers can now be seen working at the various outlets of the Beautiful Store network. However, only three years ago, the Beautiful Store was no more than a mom-and-pop operation. The most pressing issue for the Beautiful Store at that time was how it could set up a shop where the secondhand goods donated by people could be recycled and sold to others at a reasonable price. In May 2001 , as an effort to publicize its purpose, the founders of the 70
Koreana I Summer 2004
The Beautiful Store is where you can enjoy the satisfaction of buying items at a reasonable price while at the same time helping out those in need.
Beautiful Store operated a mobile flea market on the streets. Thereafter, they began to demonstrate to people what could be done with used items. In October 2002, the first retail outlet was opened in Anguk-dong, Seoul. Early on, the brains behind the Beautiful Store wondered whether people would actually purchase things that had been previously owned, and whether people would exhibit a sense of sharing by donating their used items. However, as they proceeded to open new outlets, one after the other, they came to realize that their worries were wholly unfounded. Sometimes, outlets are empty because everything has been sold, at other times, so many things are donated that the storage areas overflow. All the items in the Beautiful Store have been donated; even the space for the outlets have been made available by individuals, businesses, and organizations that support the objectives of this endeavor. In addition, volunteers who generously donate their time and energy take care of the day-to-day management of the store operations. People who patticipate in this Beautiful Store initiative can be referred to as angels: including those who donate their old things, and the volunteer staff who work at the head office and outlets, or come out for special events. Numerous people have participated as angels. Some angels go to great lengths to donate Summer 2004 I Koreana
71
used items, at times even from areas that are outside the range of the pick-up vehicles. Whenever the managers of the Beautiful Store read a note from a donation angel who apologizes for contributing such old items, they are invariably touched by this concern of people. Meanwhile, the worker angels play an instrumental role in promoting the Beautiful Store by responding to all queries in a professional and courteous manner.
Built on Love As ever more people participate in the Beautiful Store operations, new ideas have come to be implemented. Every time a new branch outlet has been opened, more creative activities have been introduced, which in tum has led to innovative new programs being developed for network-wide application. A new
The Beautiful Store's out-
store is now opened every three months or so. In fact, six new stores were
lets, and all of the items
opened in March of this year alone. The newly opened Anyang outlet at the Gyeonggi Geumulko Center has provided people with the opportunity to wit-
on sale, have been donat-
ness the Beautiful Store's recycling process firsthand: from the sorting center,
ed by people who volun-
cleaning area, and where donated items are repaired, to the outlet floor where
tarily participate in this
the recycled products are exhibited for sale, and the handicraft room where used
low-key campaign. The
items are given a new lease on life. A large number of organizations and company employees take part in the
Beautiful Store is able to
Beautiful Saturday program, one of the primary activities of the Beautiful Store.
maintain its operations
On Saturdays, employees from various companies come by with donated items
thanks to the public's par-
and spend the day serving as worker angels. The profits earned on these Saturdays
ticipation and the assis-
are donated to a variety of charities. All the outlets prominently display nameplates of the businesses and organizations that participate in the Beautiful Saturday events to express their appreciation for these invaluable contributions, but also to acknowledge the generosity of everyone involved. A visit to one of the outlets where the Beautiful Saturday events are held will enable you to be immersed in an atmosphere filled with joyful energy as the worker angels and customers so cheerfully interact with each other. A similar environment can be experienced by visiting an area in which the Mobile Store program is being undertaken. Using vehicles donated by a variety of organizations, the Beautiful Store has adopted an outdoor store concept. As such, these are "portable stores." In fact, more people visit these mobile store areas than the regular outlets. The mobile stores also help to spread the word about how people can recycle the used items that are stored away in their closet or basement. The Mobile Store program has been expanded to become the Beautiful Sharing Market, an event that is held at the Hangang Riverside Park at Ttukseom. This is a periodic flea market where people are free to offer their used items for sale. The Beautiful Store also operates a popular Internet site (www.beautifulstore.org), where people can purchase all manner of items at the Saengsaeng Mall.
In addition, special events, such as auctions and sales, are often featured . Above 72 Koreana I Su mmer 2004
tance of dedicated volunteers.
The Beautiful Store not only makes use of unwanted items but also donates all its profits to the betterment of society. An all-volunteer staff handles the day-to-day operations at each outlet (left). All items for sale at retail outlets have been donated by generous individuals (right).
all, good-quality products can be purchased at reasonable prices. Moreove1~ the
Beautiful Store also makes available the results of its management and accounting audits on its Internet site. All the outlets publish detailed and transparent repmts of their revenue and expenditures, as well as how profits are disbursed. Among its various activities, the Alternative Trade program is the initiative with the loftiest goals. The items sold as part of this program are not only beautiful but high quality as well. These articles include, among others, handbags, accessories, and notebooks; in other words, items that are useful in everyday life. As such, these products have gained widespread acceptance among consumers. Under the Alternative Trade program, workers from underdeveloped countries, in large part women, produce the goods that are acquired for a fair price and then offered for sale to consumers at store outlets. The ambitious goals of the Alternative Trade program include the reduction of poverty and labor exploitation through the pursuit of fair trade and establishment of a partnership among producers, importers, and consumers. Already, more than 20 outlets have opened as of April this year. This phenonienal growth has been realized in a mere two years. As the Beautiful Store continues to learn from its ongoing experiences, the number of its outlets, managers, volunteers, and customers has rapidly increased. All of these achievements are rooted in the virtue of sharing and from people's willingness to recycle previously owned consumer goods. This silent transformation of everyday life began with a dream of establishing a sound recycling culture under which unwanted items end up in the hands of new users, while providing benefits for everyone involved. People who practice this viltue of sharing live by the following motto: "Like a fountain that continuously pumps out fresh water, your everyday life will be overflowing with joy when you practice the virtue of sharing." Despite the hectic rat race that we must cope with, you can be a donation angel by simply contributing the things that you are not using anymore. And if you can help to breathe new life into the recycled items donated to the Beautiful Store, you can serve as a worker angel. Being an angel has never been easier or more rewarding! 1..11 Summer 2004 I Koreana
73
OVERING
KOtll
Hampyeong Butterfly Festival
The Hampyeong Butterfly Festival is Korea's representative environmental-theme festival that allows visitors to appreciate the natural wonders of spring in Korea. 74 Koreana I Summer 2004
utterf Ii es Embroider the Skies of Hampyeong In May each year, the skies of Hampyeong are swarming with butterflies. To experience this delightful scene, all you have to do is to visit the Hampyeong Butterfly Festival, where countless butterflies flutter about in a fresh natural setting.
"H
Park Kang-sup I Reporter, Kookmin /Ibo Choi Hang-young I Photographer
ampyeong" has long been known as "a
Each year, the festival kicks off with
fields and paddies that have yet to be
the release of tens of thousands of
sown, and the banks of Hampyeong-
world where all things
butterflies at Hampyeongcheon
cheon Stream, which are blanketed
live together in harmo-
Waterside Park, where they flutter
with rape and astragalus flowers. In
ny and abundance." It is a name that
about the yellow rape flowers, white
addition, the butterfly-shaped flower
embodies the fertility of the
radish flowers, and crimson astra-
garden on the slopes of Susanbong
Jeollanam-do region as well as the
galus wildflowers in full bloom, and
peak, that rises up at the edge of
warm generosity of the Honam peo-
also make their way to the 33-square-
Hampyeong-eup and is visible from
p I e. The month of May is when
kilometer Environment Friendly
as far as 4 kilometers away, has
Korea's premier ecology-theme festi-
Agricultural District.
become a popular tourist attraction.
val, the Hampyeong Butterfly
When the butterfly festival
This one-of-a-kind hilltop garden,
Festival, gets underway, transforming
comes around even the trees and
which forms a gigantic butterfly mea-
the idyllic world of Hampyeong into
plants of Hampyeong have a role to
suring 50 meters by 40 meters, is
a wonderland of butterflies and flow-
play. A huge flower garden in the
made up of red royal azaleas and
ers. Since its launch in 1999, this
shape of a butterfly is created on the
white fringe trees. This huge butterfly
unique butterfly festival, held annual-
grounds of the waterside park.
of flowers and trees appears as if it
ly in Hampyeong-gun, Jeollanam-do,
Indeed, everywhere in Hampyeong is
might strut flutte1ing its wings at any
is now in its sixth year of operation.
covered with flowers , including the
moment and glide over the fields of Summer 2004 I Koreana 75
astragalus flowers, helped along by
the birds and the gleeful laughter of
on everything about butterflies, while
the gentle May breeze.
children enjoying a picnic seem to be
children can also try butterfly catch-
carried on the wings of the butterflies
ing. Other attractions include a horti-
to echo in the skies above.
cultural center, where education on
The butterfly festival is scheduled for late spring when the yellow rape flowers along Hampyeongcheon
The festival features a diverse
various herbs is available; a water lily
Stream and the crimson astragalus
variety of attractions and events. By
exhibition, which displays some 500
flowers in the fields of Hampyeong
far, the most popular is the butterfly
beautiful water lilies; and the outdoor
are in full bloom. Tens of thousands
ecology center where thousands of
activity center where visitors can take
of butterflies flutter among the
butterflies dizzily dait and flit among
a stab at dyeing cloth with natural
resplendent flowers, creating an illu-
fields of wildflowers. These exhibits,
dyes, or rinsing their hair with iris-
sion that the air and the ground are
which include a butterfly metamor-
extract water. Another worthwhile
~omehow in motion. The singing of
phosis classroom, offer information
attraction is the exhibition hall that
The Hampyeong Butterfly Festival is not simply for spectators but an event that can be best enjoyed by participating¡ in the various activities. In doing so, visitors will be able to come away with lifetime memories of the wonders of nature. The fields of rape flowers in full bloom along Hampyeongcheon Stream make for a dazzling scene (below). Butterfly and insect exhibitions feature an abundance of specimens and detailed information (right). The Hampyeong Butterfly Festival includes a diverse variety of related events and activities (far right).
displays 60,000 insect and butterfly
less opportunities where couples and
(Pseudogobio esocinus,) a kind of
specimens, including rare butterflies
families can take photos amid pic-
freshwater fish that can thrive only in
and insects from Korea and abroad as
turesque scenery. In the fields of rape
the cleanest waters (grade 1), while
well as a collection of butterflies
flowers that grow as high as an
in the dark recesses of an abandoned
from North Korea donated by Lee
adult's chest, cameras whirl and click
mine, orange-whiskered Korean bats
Seung-mo, an entomologist born in
constantly as couples take pictures,
sleep soundly, awaiting nightfall.
North Korea.
while along the stream banks, where
Swallows, which have been increas-
The various other activities pro-
nameless wildflowers wave in the
ingly disappearing from agricultural
vide plenty of things to see and do. In
breeze, groups of people stroll
areas due to the spread of pollutants,
particular, there are a number of
leisurely, leaving behind long shad-
are a common sight in Hampyeong.
hands-on activities, so that visitors
ows as they enjoy the warmth of May
are not simply spectators but active
sunshine.
Standing in the fields of Hampyeong it is quite easy to fall
participants. These include butterfly
The stepping-stones across
into a butterfly dreamland, like the
face-painting, ceramic making, mud-
Hampyeongcheon Stream, which
ancient Chinese philosopher Zhuang
fish catching, creating insects out of
young couples delight in crossing,
Zi who once wondered: "I don 't
wood, a traditional straw-craft exhi-
though shrieking at the slightest mis-
know . whether I was dreaming of
bition, traditional natural dyeing, and
step, is a re-creation of a poignant
turning into a butterfly or if I was a
a traditional food market.
scene from Hwang Sun-won's novel
butterfly turning into a human
The 600-meter pathway between
Sonagi (Shower), in which a country
being. " Hampyeong is a paradise
the butterfly ecology center at the
boy just watches a girl from Seoul
world where flowers and butterflies
waterside park and Susanbong butter-
who plays with the flowing water as
sing the glory of nature, and in May
fly hill provides an enjoyable agricul-
she makes her way across the step-
it is where anyone can again enjoy
ture-related experience, during which
ping-stones, as he is too shy to cross
the friends of nature from their child-
the atmosphere of the countryside
while she is there. This scene from
hood.
can be fully appreciated. In conjunc-
the novel seems to awaken a wistful
tion with the festival, various farming
sentimentality of love long forgotten.
activities are conducted in the area,
Today, Hampyeong is one of the
including 1ice transplanting and live-
few clean, pollution-free areas in
stock herding.
Korea. As such, the Hampyeong-
The butterfly festival offers end-
~
cheon Stream is home to moraemuji Summer 2004 I Koreana 77
The Sacred Bell of King Seongdeok was cast in the mideighth century, during the golden age of Unified Silla art and culture. Its glorious sound and elegant surface adornment make this a truly masterful work of artisanship. Kang U-bang I Visiting Professor of Art History, Ewha Womans University Shu Jai-sik I Photographer
A
nyone who has seen the classic film The Hunchback of Notre
Dame is familiar with the scene of Anthony Quinn ringing the bells hung high in the steeple of the cathedral. Western-style bells, which have a clapper inside, are rung by swinging either the clap-
per or the bell itself so that they strike against each other. Bells are rung to indicate the time of day or to summon the residents. And as such, they serve as a functional device. Korean bells, on the other hand, which originated from the ancient Chinese bell sets used in religious rituals, were transformed into a Buddhist-related instrument. They are designed to be struck from the outside with a heavy wooden beam, and are suspended just above the ground.
Secrets of its Glorious Sound Chinese temple bells were designed to be functional, unrelated to the country's traditional musical instruments. In contrast, Koreans adopted the ancient Chinese bell set, and because the bell was regarded as a musical instrument, every effort was made to have it produce the most beautiful sound possible. They built pavilions in which to hang their bells close to the ground; hollowed out the earth below the bell into a hemispherical cavity; maximized the ellipsoid chamber inside the bell, where the sound is produced; and added a sound pipe to the top of the bell, which was connected to the interior like a chimney. The sound pipe is a unique Silla innovation that dampens unwanted reverberation when the bell is struck. A Western-style bell is shaped like a morning glory flower in full bloom, but a Korean bell resembles a flower bud that is just starting to blossom. The top and bottom portions curve gently inward, for retaining and then gradually releasing the reverberation. As a result, the sound waves 1ipple outward over an extended period. The swelling and subsiding of undulating resonance produces a resplendent tone as waves of sound are dispersed over a large area. As the initial powerful burst of sound gradually subsides, so too does the heart of a listener calm down and become tranquil. The fact that the interior surface of the bell is noticeably more curved than the exterior, and that the bell's thickness varies from top to bottom, apparently contribute to its magnificent sound. The bells in a Chinese bell set range in height from 30 centimeters to 100 centimeters. During the Silla era, Korean artisans retained the basic shape of these instruments while transforming them into Buddhism-related bells. The Delicate relief decorations adorn the surface of the Sacred Bell.
Silla craftsmen designed the hook at the top of the bell in the shape of a symSummer 2004 I Koreana
79
metrical two-headed dragon. The geometrical figures and stylized animal motifs applied to the surface of the bells were later changed to designs of heavenly maidens holding incense burners or playing musical instruments, while the top and bottom borders are exquisitely decorated with flowers and leaves attached to sprawling vines. The overall contours are elegant and dynamic, the surface decoration bold and exuberant. China and Japan are also well endowed with temple bells, but none features the artistic workmanship of a Silla bell.
Seeking the Sound of Truth The Sacred Bell of King Seongdeok (National Treasure No. 29) is the most magnificent of all Korean bells. King Gyeongdeok (r. 742-765) commissioned the creation of such a bell to honor the noteworthy accomplishments of his
To the people of Silla, the
father, King Seongdeok (r. 702-737), but despite several attempts, he was unable
sound of a sacred bell
to realize its completion in his lifetime. After some 20 years of trial and error, his son, King Hyegong (r. 765-780), finally completed the bell in 771, at
symbolized the teaching
Bongdeoksa Temple within the royal palace. It was also around this time that
of Buddha and the voice
Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto made their grand appearance at Mt.
of absolute truth. While
Tohamsan.
being enraptured by the
Why, then, did the Silla people go to these extremes to produce so exceptional a bell with such a powerful sound? A lengthy inscription engraved on the
sound of a sacred bell,
bell, comprising about 1,000 Chinese characters, provides the reasons for its
they earnestly sought to
creation and the names of all the patrons and artisans who contributed to this
attain the ultimate state
undertaking. At the beginning of the inscription is a statement that explains the
of enlightenment.
main purpose for making the bell: "Since the sound made by striking the bell is the voice of the absolute truth that pervades the universe, all living things that hear it might become enlightened." The inscription also states that, since the bell was made possible through the combined strength of sin, or "sacred," and human effo1t, it is thus a sinjong, or "sacred bell." Hearing the words of a saint or the sound of flowing water, or seeing gently falling leaves can suddenly enlighten people. To fall in love or part from someone can be enlightening as well and enhance spiritual maturity. But what Buddhists seek is total enlightenment, an ultimate state of enlightenment beyond all comparison. When people attain this blissful enlightenment, they are emancipated, thereby entering a state of true freedom and harmony. It was in the hope of emancipating all living creatures through the pure sound of a bell that the people of Silla dedicated themselves to the creation of this "sacred bell." Thus, the sound of the bell symbolizes the voice of Buddha preaching the absolute truth, while the bell that produces this sound is regarded as the sacred body of Buddha. Because the lotus grows in water, the source of all life and regeneration, it is a symbol of the root of all creation. Buddha himself is invariably seen as being born from a lotus or seated atop a lotus while preaching. The bell features 80
Koreana I Summer 2004
a specific striking point, upon which a large lotus is inscribed. When the lotus is struck, the sound 1ings out. In other words, in keeping with this Buddhist belief, the sound of absolute truth originates from the lotus.
Revered Object of Worship Is there another bell in all the world that harbors so much spiritual hope? It was because of this noble hope that the bell could finally be completed. The sound of ultimate truth must be as forceful as the roar of a lion and with the clarity of the call of the Kalavinka, a legendary bird mentioned in .Buddhist scriptures that is said to sing melodiously. And for this reason, the Silla artisans included the sound pipe, unknown in other countries, and designed the bell to maximize the reach of its sound, as far and wide as possible. Indeed, when the bell is stluck at dawn, it can be heard up to 100 ri (40 kilometers) away. Was the bell produced to spread its sound of truth over the entire world? This bronze bell stands 366 centimeters in height and weighs When struck at dawn, the sound of this 20-ton bell can be heard up to 40 kilometers away.
over 20 tons. To produce such a resonant sound, a bell must be heavy, but it is no easy task to create such a large and heavy bell yet so exquisite in appearance and resplendent in tone. The secrets of its production process have yet to be fully revealed even by modem-day science. A glorious sound emanates from a gorgeous form. That is why so much effort went into the appearance of the bell. As the holy body of Buddha, the bell's appearance must be suitably impressive, like a majestic mountain. This also explains the bold and exquisite surface decorations of vines, lotus blossoms, and heavenly maidens, in addition to the dragon hook at the top. Of particular note, the dragon that encircles the sound pipe is undoubtedly one of the most impressive dragon sculptures in the world. Because the sound of the bell represents the sound of ultimate truth, and the bell that produces that sound is a sacred body, the bell naturally became a revered object of worship. Buddha statues were not the only objects of veneration. Human history yields no other example of a bell being so venerated as an object of religious worship. To sustain this tradition, the bell is still struck in the hope of enlightening all living creatures and redeeming those that suffer from their wrongdoing. (...1 Summer 2004 I Koreana 81
•
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••
•-
•
Fragment of Wall Painting 39 x 25cm, 9th century
Fragment of Wall Painting, Ten Thousand Buddhas Motif 27.6 x 40.6cm, 9th centu ry
--•
• ART REVIEW
Cultural Exchange along the Silk Road
-------
From December 16, 2003 through February 29, 2004, the National Museum of Korea presented an exhibition of its diverse artifacts and relics from the Central Asian region, entitled "Arts of Central Asia." Hur Young-hwan I Cultural Properties Specialist
82 Koreana I Summer 2004
l
-•·
•
•
Tile with Lotus Decoration 31.5 x 31 .5cm, 8th century
•
Banner with Bodhisattva Image
Torso of Devata
25.2 x 191 .5cm, 10th century
19cm high x 17cm wide, 6th-7th century
•
Image of Sera pis 15cm high x 8.5cm w ide, 2nd-3rd century
•
F
,
•
•
•
rom ancient times, East-
For example, it was along the
housed at the National Museum of
West cultural exchange
Steppe Route that the Korean penin-
Korea when Japanese explorer Otani
has occurred along three
sula acquired the roots of its Altaic
Kozui (1876-1948) donated his per-
main routes: the Steppe
language and metalworking culture,
sonal collection to the museum.
Route through Siberia, the Silk Road
while the Silk Road and Maritime
Thanks to this priceless collec-
through Central Asia, and the
Route had continued to serve as con-
tion, it has been possible to investi-
Maritime Route across the Indian
duits for cultural exchange between
gate the origins of East-West cultural
Ocean. Through these routes, coun-
Korea and various Islamic countries
exchange, the similarities and differ-
tries from the East, in particular
up through modem times. In an unex-
ences between relics of the ancient
China, Korea, and Japan, engaged in
pected windfall, in 1916, an exten-
Silla Kingdom with those from
cultural interaction with the West,
sive collection of articles excavated
Central Asia, the areas that Silla trav-
including Greece, Rome, and the
or acquired from Central Asia (1 ,700
elers visited in Central Asia, and the
Islamic world.
items of 500 types) came to be
extent to which Korean art, clothing, Summer 2004 I Koreana
83
•..............
• Bird-Headed Jug 27cm high, 7th-8th century
•
Vase Decorated
with Applique 14cm high 3th-5th century
•
--•
language, food, and history has been
Principal Exhibits
--------
-
•
-
Tang Dynasties; Central Asia is the
influenced by Central Asia. These
The 462 items on display at the
research efforts led to the formation
exhibition could be broadly grouped
and the Silk Road is the trade route
of the Korean Association for Central
into those associated with religious
along the northern and southern areas
Asian Studies. The National Museum
culture, everyday life, and burial cus-
of the Takla Makan Desert.
of Korea has presented two special
toms.
area between Europe and East Asia;
The more noteworthy relics related to religious culture included
exhibitions, of which the second,
In common usage, the terms
held from December 16, 2003 to
"Western Region art," "Central Asian
the following:
February 29, 2004, was more exten-
art," and "Silk Road art" might be
1) Fragments of Wall Painting Scenes
sive and better attended. Shown in an
used interchangeably. However, more
from Jataka. 7th century, 39 x 25cm.
ample display area of 437 square
technically speaking, the Western
Excavated from Cave No. 206 at
meters, the exhibition attracted some
Region is the area beyond China's
Kijil, Kucha, the painting depicts the
240,000 visitors.
western boundary during the Han and
King's virtuous act similar to
84 Koreana I Summer 2004
•
•
•
• Shoes 26.5cm long x 14.2cm high x 11.2cm w ide,
Tile Mould with Immortal Images 21 x 20cm, 10th-11th century
•
• Wooden Case 11.5cm high x 11.3cm wide, 6th-7th century ---
.
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-·-II-·-·-
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..
--·-··-·--II
Sakyamuni's virtuous act of trans-
images in Chinese ink against a yel-
sion and unadorned form.
forming himself into a large fish to
low background. This is an extremely
6) Tile with Lotus Decoration 8th cen-
enable the starving masses to feed on
rare Buddhist painting.
his body.
4) Image of Serapis 2nd-3rd century,
tury, 31.5 x 31.5cm. This ceramic tile from the Toyuk Cave Temple in
2) Fragment of Wall Painting Ten
Thousand Buddhas. 9th century, 40.6
15cm high X 8.5cm wide. Excavated at Khotan, this Greek-style ceramic
x 27.6cm. This fragment of a mural
figurine provides a glimpse of
painting was recovered from Cave
Hellenistic culture.
No. 4 at Yarkho, Turfan.
5) Torso of Devata 6th-7th century,
equally diverse and worthy of note.
3) Banner with Bodhisattva Images
43cm high x 21cm wide. This large,
Some of the more significant exam-
10th century, 191.5 x 25.2cm. Originally from Dunhuang, this ban-
beautifully colored clay statuette,
ples included the following:
which was recovered from Murtuk in
1) Vase Decorated with Applique 3rd-
ner portrays two standing Bodhisattva
Turpan, features a benevolent expres-
5th century, 14cm high. Excavated at
Turpan is impressive for its perfect form and beautiful design. The relics of everyday life were
Summer 2004 I Koreana 85
•
•
Painted Bowl 14cm high x 29.2cm diameter 6th-7th century
Painting of Fu-Xi and Nu-Wa 79 x 189cm, 7th century
•
-
..
-
•----
Khotan, this earthenware vessel
flat tiles, shows clear influences of
burial customs featured the following
includes
China's Han and Tang dynasties in its
artifacts:
attached on both sides, and is thus
size and decoration.
1) Painting of Fu-Xi and Nu-Wa 7th
known as a "vase with two ears."
4) Wooden Case 6th-7th century, 11.5
2) Bird-headed Jug 7th-8th century,
27cm high. This large ceramic jug
11.5cm. This small wooden box, excavated at Astana Tomb in Turfan,
century, 189 x 79cm. This large-size painting, excavated at Astana Tomb
was excavated at Karahoja Tomb in
is thought to have been used for stor-
about the world's creation.
Turfan. There are also metal and
ing cosmetics.
2) Epitaph Tablet A.D. 582, 35.5 x
glass versions of this work.
5) Shoes 6th-7th century, 26.5cm long
35.5cm. Excavated at Karahoja Tomb
3) Tile Mold with Immortal Images
x 14.2cm high x 11.2cm wide.
in Turfan, this ceramic marker indi-
10th-11th century, 21cm square.
Leather adult shoes excavated at
cates the name and position of the
Excavated at Kumtra, Kucha, this
Astana Tomb in Turfan.
person buried in the tomb, and the
symmetrical
handles
mold, which was used to make large, 86 Koreana I Summer 2004
X
The selection of items related to
in Turfan, depicts a Chinese legend
date of death.
---
• "Arts of Central Asia" was• an especially meaningful •
•
exhibition in that it provided a vivid account of EastWest cultural exchange and the influences of Central Asian culture on Korea.
•
Epitaph Tablet 35.5 x 35.5cm A.D. 582
Masks 7.5cm high x 5.6cm wide (left) 8.4cm high x 5.2cm wide (right) Bronze Age
---.w----
•--·----I
3) Painted Bowl 6th-7th century,
leather and wood was excavated at
received his doctorate in Germany
14cm high x 29.2cm in diameter.
Loulan.
with a dissertation on Central Asian art. Originally, the group was known
Many similar bowls have been found in tombs alongside the corpse. This example was excavated at Astana Tomb in Turfan. 4) Lady on a Horse 7th-8th century,
Korean Association for Central Asian Studies The Korean Association for
as the Central Asian Research Society, but in 1996 it developed into a specialist academic association.
Central Asian Studies currently has
Professor Kwon, a master of
38.5cm high x 29cm wide. Excavated
80 members, half with doctoral
English, Chinese, French, and
at Turfan, this exquisitely colored
degrees and the remainder with mas-
German as well as his native Korean,
statuette is of a Tang Dynasty
ter's degrees. It was founded in 1993
shares the leadership of the group
woman.
by Professor Kwon Young-pil
with its current president, Professor
5) Masks Bronze Age, 8cm high x
(Professor of Fine Arts, The Korean
Kim Ho-dong (Professor of Asian
5.6cm wide. This small mask of
National University of Arts), who
History, Seoul National University), a Summer 2004 I Koreana
87
•
•
•
•
Manichaeanism coexisted with Buddhism in Central Asia, where the two religions infuenced each other. 1. Sangim Aghyz Cave Temple 2. Manichaean mural of Sangim Aghyz Cave Temple. 3. The 38th mural, which reveals clear signs of Manichaeanism, from Bezeklik Cave Temple, a Buddhist holy site.
•
• historian well-versed in the vernacu-
impressive exhibition at the National
three research monographs, three
lar languages of Central Asia. Dr.
Museum of Korea.
papers, a bibliography, illustrations
Min Byung-hoon, a researcher at the
For the exhibition, the museum
with captions, a historical map of
National Museum of Korea, handles
staff relied heavily on the expertise
Central Asia, and a related chronolo-
the administrative matters. The
that leading members of the associa-
gy. In addition, some 100 volunteers
Korean Association for Central Asian
tion generously provided. Assistance
were on hand at the exhibition areas
Studies conducts annual field trips
was also received from four Chinese
to provide detailed information to
and publishes research papers, con-
organizations, France's Musee
visitors, helping to make this an
ference proceedings, monographs,
Guimet, and Japan's Tokai University
event in which Korea could be truly
and related reports. Thanks to its finn
Information Technology Center.
prideful. l;t
foundation, the association has been
In conjunction with the exhibi-
able to develop to such an extent that
tion, the National Museum of Korea
it could help to organize such an
released a publication that comprised
88 Koreana I Summer 2004
Summer 2004 I Koreana
89
The Scars of War and Difficulty of Overcoming Them The creative source of Lee Dong-ha's literary world is the experiences of war during his childhood. The scars that war can leave on individuals and the difficulty of overcoming them are a recurring theme of Lee's works. Seo Jun-seop I Professor of Korean Language Education, Kangwon National University
H
unger, poverty, the weariness of everyday
This and A Toy City (1982) are considered his best works.
life, and violence that threatens the well-
The lead character is a university student who, when with
being of the individual and family are central
his friends, ardently discusses literature, life and love, but
motifs in the novels of Lee Dong-ha (b.
as feelings of depression continue to mount, he leaves
1942). Lee belongs to a generation who was born during
Seoul behind and returns to his hometown in the country.
the period of Japanese colonial rule (1910-1945) and then
But back home he is faced with painful memories;
spent their childhood enduring the hardships and pain of
recollections of his happy childhood spent with his family,
the Korean War (1950-1953) and its aftermath. It is worth
and the friends with whom he played in his school days
noting that his first short story, "War and the Squirrel"
seem to be fading, like old black-and-white photographs.
(1966), is about a girl who has been emotionally scarred
The fathers of two very close friends, one a landlord, and
by the war.
the other a tenant farmer, end up fighting each other during
In his first novel, Melancholy Homecoming (1967),
the Korean War and are now both dead; his two friends are
which describes the inner world of a youth who suffers
gone as well. The student's life after the war is always
from a life of misery in the city, constantly confused and
marked by unease, like a thick fog, while the essence of
wandering aimlessly, Lee reflects upon the consequences
life remains hidden behind an opaque veil. This work rec-
of horrible memories of war. The horrors of war depicted
ognizes war as being the origin of depression that can
in his writings are based on his real-life childhood experi-
weigh heavily on the present. By exploring his memories,
ences. And of particular concern are the scars that war can
the student is able to reconfirm his true self, such that the
leave on individuals and just how difficult it can be to
novel is a kind of self-portrait of a literary student who
overcome them. For Lee, writing novels is a means of
dreams of starting life anew.
delving into such questions as "Who am I in real life?" and thoughts related to the issues of self-identity.
Following this work, Lee wrote short stories and novels about the underside of life in the urban city as seen
Melancholy Home coming is not only Lee's first
through the eyes of an ordinary wage earner. These failed
novel, but also the work that launched his literary career.
to attract much interest, however. Thereafter, A Toy City
90
Koreana I Summer 2004
(1982), which illuminates memories of war in a new form,
themes. It reveals the author's literary approach of pursu-
enabled Lee to enjoy a professional comeback. This three-
ing personal truth by facing up to his tragic memories.
part serial novel is based on the author's dark childhood
Lee's 1995 work, Cruel Tongue, explores the violence
memories of living in a refugee camp in Daegu. Life in
perpetrated by the authorities in regard to "mysterious
this camp is described as a hellish experience: there are
deaths" that occurred during the repressive authoritarian
rows of crudely built wooden structures, like toy houses,
regime of the early 1980s. In this novel, the author tells of
where countless people struggle desperately to survive,
the poignant struggle of a family that seeks to reveal the
one day at a time. In a tiny room, members of a family live
truth about the law-enforcement authorities who are
cramped together, facing the challenges of enduring
involved in a cover-up. The novel is not so much about
hunger and cold. The parents roam the streets in search of
politics but a denunciation of authoritarian "violence,"
ways to earn money, while the children go from house to
from a perspective of powerless citizens, and as such is a
house begging for food or hang around the market areas
sort of investigative report.
picking up discarded food scraps. In this way, this work
Of all the many forms of violence, it is the horror of
vividly recounts the wretched existence of wartime
war experienced during childhood that provides the cre-
refugees from a child's perspective.
ative force underlying Lee's novels and short stories. The
The father starts to collect and sell junk, but is one
scars of war and the process of overcoming them is a cen-
day accused of dealing in stolen goods and sent to jail. The
tral theme of Lee's literary creations, though his scope is
pregnant mother does not know what has happened and
broadened to include issues of violence in various works.
slowly wastes away from malnutrition. The mother's
This reveals the author's efforts to pursue the truth about
death, "that seemed to be the end of the world," is suppos-
his own life through literature, while also uncovering his
edly based on the actual experiences of Lee's family.
particular approach of seeking to reconcile himself with
In particular, this novel graphically describes the struggles of refugees during the war and has thus assumed a special place among the works with Korean War-related
reality.
~
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