Koreana Spring 2006 (English) by The Korea Foundation

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BEAUTY OF KOREA

NORI GAE

rom long ago, whenever Korean women wore a han-

objects to ward off evil and symbols of good fortune.

bok, Korea's traditional attire, it was invariably

During various periods of Korean history, norigae orna-

adorned with norigae, a kind of knotted pendant accesso-

ments symbolized the wearer's desire to attain happiness

ry. Women of all social classes cherished norigae, includ-

and fulfillment. For example, fish-shaped ornaments were

ing members of the royalty and aristocracy [yangban) as

associated with fertility and abundance. Norigae with egg-

well as commoners. Elaborate norigae, with large orna-

plant-shaped ornaments, which represented the male

ments, were worn for royal court ceremonies and family

organ, would be attached to undergarments in the hope of

celebrations, whereas Less formal events called for sim-

the wearer bearing a son. A grape-shaped norigae was

pler versions. Treasured norigae would be passed down

said to express a yearning for family members to live

from mother to daughter-in-Law as precious family heir-

together in peace and harmony. And a norigae with an

looms.

ornament in the shape of a Lotus, a traditional symbol of

Evidence of norigae-Like accessories dates as far back as the New Stone Age, when they served as talismanic

purity, reflected a commitment to Lead an upright Life, even under difficult circumstances. t.t

Korean a

Korean Art & Culture Vol. 20 , No. 1 Spring 2006

GAYAKINGDOM 8

GAYA Kingdom 's Rightful Place in Korean History I Kim Tae-sik

GAYA: Where Ironware and Earthenware Flourished I Park Cheun-soo

Discovering the History of GAYA through its Legends I Kim Doo-jin

Lingering Resonance of GAYA Music I Song Hye-jin

Koreana Internet Website http://www.korea na. or. kr ÂŠ The Korea Foundation 2006 All rights reserved . No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the prior permission of the Ko rea Foundation. The opinions expressed by the authors do not necessarily represent those of the editors of Koreana or the Korea Foundat ion

Koreana , registe red as a quarterly mag azine wi th the Ministry of Culture and Tourism [Registration No

Ba- 1033, dated Aug. 8. 19871. is also published in Chinese, French , Spanish, Arabic, Russian, Japanese , and German

FOCUS

APEC Summit in Busan Seeks to Promote a Global Community I Park Young-bae

INTERVIEW Chung Byoung-kyoo

Pioneer of Book Design in Korea

ChoiTae-won Cover : Gaya was an ancien t kingdom of Ko rea tha t developed an advanced iron and

ARTISAN Seo Han-kyu

Master of Bamboo Handcrafts

earthenware culture. This earthenware work

of a mounted wa rrior with horn-shaped cups

I Park Ok-soon

is a valuable resource for the resea rch of GayaÂ·s artistic culture and m ili tary

deve lopment. National Treasure No . 275,

MASTERPIECES Portrait of King Taejo

GyeongJu Na tiona l Museum

Esteemed Founder of the Joseon Dynasty I Cholnsoo

ART REVIEW

Seoul International Dance Festival 2005

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GAYA Kinydom's Riyhtf11l Place in Korean History In Korean history, Gaya has long been known as the "lost kingdom ." But exactly what was it about the Gaya state that caused it to earn such a dubious distinction? Kim TaeÂˇsik Professor of History Education, Hongik University

8 Ko rea na I Spri ng 2006

n Korean history, Gaya is often referred to as the "lost

Lost but Not Forjotten

kingdom." Most often, stories about a lost kingdom

Korea's ancient history is centered around the

are rooted in myth and legend since few traces of its

Three Kingdoms period, which included the kingdoms

existence can be found. In contrast, there is no question

of Goguryeo (37 B.C.-668 A.D.), Baekje (18 B.C.-660

that Gaya actually did exist. It was known for develop-

A.D.), and Silla (57 B.C.-935 A.D.). Eventually, Silla

ing an advanced iron industry and earthenware culture,

managed to defeat Goguryeo and Baekje and unify the

while its name lives on in the gayageum, the represen-

Korean peninsula under its rule. The notable history

tative traditional string instrument of Korea. But exactly

book Samguksagi (History of the Three Kingdoms),

what is it about the Gaya state that caused it to become

written during the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392), which

known as the lost kingdom.

succeeded Unified Silla, does not include the history of

Daegaya burial mounds on the southern slope of Mt. Jusan in Jisan-n, Goryeong-eup, Gyeongsangbuk -do province, estimated to

have been built dur ing the mid-5th century. attest to Gaya's advanced development just prior to its dem ise.

Spring 2006 I Korea na

Gaya. This is because the book was written from a

the Nakdonggang River basin area in Gyeongsang-do

Goryeo perspective that perpetuated various historical

in the 1970s, they uncovered considerable artifacts

distortions attributed to Silla. Although Silla was able to defeat Gaya in 562, Baekje in 660, and Goguryeo in

from the ancient kingdom of Gaya. And thanks to ongoing excavation work and related research over the

668, its historical accounts did not include any refer-

past 30 years, the characteristics of Gaya culture are

ences to Gaya because Silla regarded the Gaya state as

now coming into clearer view.

having been part of its territory. In the 17th century, Joseon Dynasty scholars, such as Han Baek-gyeom, sought to clarify ancient Korean history by recognizing Gaya as a fourth kingdom,

Gaya Culture Above all, Gaya culture was characterized by a combination of the agricultural culture of the southern region of the peninsula and the metal culture of the

The confederated state of Gaya was not an inconsequential kin1dom suborÂˇ dinated to the rule or influence of ancient Japan. In fact, Gaya deserves to be reco1nized as the fourth kin1dom of ancient Korea that existed for some 600 years.

northwestern areas. When Wiman Joseon in the northwestern region of the Korean peninsula collapsed in 108 B.C., due to an offensive launched by Emperor Wudi of Han China, its people fled to the coastal areas of Gyeongsangnam-do province, where they settled. The

Decorated go ld crown. recovered from a. Daegaya burial mound. reflects Gaya's ref ined craftsmanship and a/fluent roya lty.

along with Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla of the Three

major remains of this settlement have been found in a

Kingdoms period. However, in conjunction with its

group of tombs located in Daho-ri, Changwon. The

maneuvering to wrest control of Korea in the late 19th

relics recovered from Daho-ri Tomb No. 1, estimated to

century, Japan began to assert that Gaya had been an

date to the late first century B.C., feature characteristics

ancient Japanese territory under the administrative

of Wiman Joseon traditions, as seen in the shape of

control of Japan 's Mimana Nihonfu. Moreover, during

wooden coffins and the similar styles of bronze and

Japan's colonial rule of Korea (1910-45), this claim

iron art ifacts.

about Gaya was disseminated not only in the Asian

With the Gaya region being at the center of mar-

region but also throughout the world, thereby causing

itime trade with Lelang, over time, these exchanges

Gay a to become known as Korea's "lost kingdom."

came to exert considerable influence on the nature of

When Korean archaeologists began to excavate

Gaya culture. Situated in the northwest of the peninsula in the second and third centuries, the Lelang state engaged in active trade with Gaya along sea routes in the western and

southern seas. In this way, the advanced culture and items of Lelang were introduced to Gimhae, the center of the Gaya state. A Chinese-style bronze mirror, elegant necklace of glass beads, iron kettle , and other relics found in Yangdongri Tomb No. 162, are evidence

<B r

of the extensive interaction

~ u,

between Lelang and Gaya.

Of note, Gaya culture was

basically conservative and modest in

" 10 Koreana I Spring 2006

nature, and is thus quite distinctive from the cultures of Silla, Baekje, and Wa (ancient Japan). The reserved character of Gaya culture was formed under the continued cultural influences of Lelang, which differed from the more fundamental and practical nature of 1

Silla culture and the more elaborate refinement associated with Baekje culture. On the other hand, Wa culture was significantly shaped by Gaya influences, due to the geographical proximity, although ritual aspects, along with the external form being replicated on a larger scale, replaced practical elements. Gaya formed a confederated state, based around the western areas of the Nakdonggang River basin, that existed for some 600 years. The areas that came under the influence of Gaya culture included Goryeong in Gyeongsangbuk-do province, as well as Gimhae and Haman in Gyeongsangnam-do. The number of smal ler states that comprised the Gaya confederation varied from a low of 7 or 8 to a high of 22, with 12 to 13 during a majority of the time.

Fourth Ancient State By the 2nd century A.D., a small kingdom had been established in Gimhae, while signs of early Gaya culture began to appear in the Gimhae and Changwon areas around the first century B.C. Thereafter, Gaya, or the Geumgwangaya Kingdom , based in Gimhae, acquired control of the smaller neighboring states, which became known as the Former Gaya Confederation. In the latter half of the 4th century, Gaya flourished, functioning as a vital bridge between Baekje and Wa. But by the early 5th century it had succumbed to an alliance of Goguryeo and Silla forces. However, in the latter half of the 5th century, one of the former Gaya states in the Goryeong area revived the confederacy, which led to the emergence of the Latter Gaya Confederation. It adopted the name Daegaya Kingdom (Great Gaya Kingdom), during which time Gaya kings were buried in the Jisan-ri tombs at Goryeong. In the early 6th century, Gaya managed to rebuild its state under a one-rule system, but soon thereafter, it was divided into north and south Gaya by the diplomatic policy of Baekje and Silla. Finally, Silla annexed this area in 562.

The culture of Gaya played a key role in the formation and development of ancient Japanese culture from the early first century through the 6th century. Geographically, Gaya was ideally located for contact with Japan by sea and thus developed close relations with Wa. Since Wa did not acquire the ability to produce iron until the late 5th century, it imported iron materials from Gaya, such as iron broad axes and iron ingots, for making domestic ironware. Gaya also introduced to Wa the technology to produce its refined

Map of the territory controlled by the Caya confederacy. and neighboring kingdoms, at the peak of Caya's prominence, from the late 5th to the early 6th century. Although Caya might have been smaller in area than the three kingdoms of Coguryeo, Baekje and Silla, it is now being recognized as the fourth kingdom of ancient Korea.

earthenware ceramics, known as Sueki, as well as the horse harness and iron helmets and armor, thereby contributing much to the development of ancient Japanese civilization. In light of the foregoing, it is clear that the confederated state of Gaya was not an inconsequential I

kingdom subordinated to the rule or influence of ancient Japan. Though it may not have attained the stature of Korea's better-known kingdoms of Goguryeo, Baekje and Silla, it does deserve to be recognized as the fourth kingdom of ancient Korea that existed for some 600 years.

i.;.i

Spring 2006 I Ko reana 11

GAYA: Where Ironware and

Earthenware Flourished Ironware and earthenware were the cornerstones upon which Gaya built its society and culture. With its advanced ironware technology, Gaya's exports of iron and related products noticeably shaped the commerce of Northeast Asia. Park CheunÂˇ soo Professor of Archaeology and Anthropology Kyungpook National University Kwon Tae-kyun Photographer

12 Koreana I Spring 2006

I n the Dongyi (Eastern Barbarian) section of the

refers to those of the north of the Korean peninsula,

Weishu (History of Wei) volume in the third-century

and Wo refers to the Wa people of ancient Japan.) Back

Chinese te xt Sanguo Zhi (Record of the Three

then, iron was an essential material for production of

Kingdoms), there is a reference to Byeonjin (one of the

the tools and farming implements required to improve

Three Hans) that mentions: "The nation produces iron, and Han, Wei, and Wo all came to find iron. In transac-

productivity as well as the weapons and armor needed , for military warfare.

tions at the market as well, they use iron, similar to how money is used in China, and they also supply iron to the Chinese regions of Lelang and Daifang. " (Han refers

Early Iron Culture

to the people of the south of the Korean peninsula, Wei

(3rd century) has been unearthed in the Gimhae area,

The largest number of iron artifacts of early Gaya

Beyond Caya's ancient burial mounds lies a modern-day community where the descendants of Caya reside. Although Caya may have fallen to Silla long ago. the fragrance of its rich culture and people remains evident even

today.

Spring 2006 I Ko rea na 13

essential, earthenware and other items such as ironware were the personal possessions of individual households. Thus, the variety of styles of Gaya earthenware can provide tangible evidence of the social and political developments during various periods of Gaya history, which might not be readily discernable from written records. The Gimhae area, which was the center of early Gaya iron production and distribution, is situated on a broad bay that creates a natural harbor. As such, it served as a crossroads for the traffic and trade that linked together the east and west coasts of the Korean peninsula, as well as Korea with Japan. Large quantities of Chinese mirrors, lacquerware, and money, from around the early 1st

century,

have

been

unearthed from a group of burial mounds in the Daho-ri valley area, located behind Gimhae. A large number of mold- and hammer-formed iron axes were also recovGold crown unearthed from a Jisan-ri burial

situated around the mouth of the Nakdonggang River.

ered at this group of burial mounds, along with ink

mound

This indicates that the East Asian iron trade had been

brushes and pottery vessels for bathing. In addition to

centered around Geumgwangaya, the central power of

Chinese art if acts, bronze weapons and Yayoi pottery

the Gaya confederated states. Gaya developed a highly

from Kyushu, Japan have also been excavated from this

advanced iron industry, which enabled it to supply

area, demonstrating that Gimhae actively engaged in

iron and iron-making technology to Japan that did not

commercial trade in iron and other commodities with

acquire such capability until the 6th century.

' such regions as China and Japan.

Along with iron making, earthenware production was a mainstay industry of Gaya. With each of the six

14 Korea na I Spri ng 2006

Iron-based Trade

major states of the Gaya confederation having the abil-

In the group of burial mounds in Yangdong-ri,

ity to produce earthenware of exceptional quality,

located to the west of the Gimhae valley, northern iron

these Korean artisans introduced their innovative tech-

kettles, Chinese mirrors, and gilded glass beads,

niques to Japan, that through the end of the 4th centu-

broad-blade spears and mirrors from Japan, and a

ry did not have the expertise to fire pottery at tempera-

large number of hammer-formed iron articles, includ-

tures in excess of 1,200Â°C, which was required for the

ing axes, all from about the 2nd century, have been

production of Sueki pottery. Although not an everyday

unearthed.

Around the middle of the 3rd century, the largest-size wooden chamber tombs in Gaya history,

Unique Earthenware Styles

surpassing those of the Yangdong-ri burial mound

gray-blue finish of its surface and high durability,

group, were used at the Daeseong-dong burial

requires a reduction-firing process at extremely high

mounds, located nearby Gujibong Peak and the tomb

temperatures in excess of 1,200Â°C, in order to eliminate

of King Suro, which are both cited in the foundation

moisture from the clay and maximize its hardness. It is

myth of Gaya. A large number of northern bronze ket-

believed that Gaya earthenware first emerged around

tles and mirrors, blue jade items from the Kinai region

the middle of the 3rd century. During the Three

Gaya earthenware, which is characterized by the

of Japan, shield decorations, and a variety of ironware,

Kingdoms period, Gaya earthenware was found

including iron ingots, farm implements, weapons, and

throughout the areas west of the Nakdonggang River,

Representative examp le of Gaya's brilliant earthenware culture. Mounted on the hack of the horse are two

horn-shaped cups.

armor, have been excavated from the royal tomb mounds of Daeseong-dong. It was also found that about six attendants had been buried alive in the tomb chambers. Geumgwangaya articles, such as iron ingots, iron helmets and harnesses, and bronze spear sheaths, were transmitted to Japan and buried in the tombs of prominent figures, in the central regions of Nara and Osaka as well as other areas. The Kinai articles excavated from the Daeseong-dong burial mounds suggest that interaction with the Kinki region was underway in earnest during the Geumgwangaya period. During this time, Geumgwangaya capitalized on its cooperative relations with Wa to fend off attempted intrusions by Goguryeo (37 B.C.-668 A. D.) and Silla (57 B.C. -935 A.D.), in addition to checking the influence of Aragaya, one of the more powerful Gaya states. Moreover, by extending military assistance to Geumgwangaya in exchange for essential commodities, such as iron, the rulers of Wa sought to bolster their hegemony in Japan. However, the powerful provincial clans of regions in Japan imported items directly from the Korean peninsula, including iron, without involving the Wa rulers. It is thus difficult to know the extent to which the Wa rulers might have maintained a monopoly of the import routes for the flow of cultural advancements and vital commodities from Korea, and whether this served to constrain the trade activities of regional clans. Consequently, it would be helpful to reexamine the Japanese historical notion which suggests that Wa rulers were able to monopolize Korea-Japan trade routes, in return for their provision of military support to Korean states, such as Gaya, and thereby expand their influence in Japan.

Spring 2006 I Ko reana 15

A plate armor that indicates the highly advanced state of Gaya's metal culture 2 Brass shield ornaments with wind-pattern motif 3 Iron ingots, which Gaya exported throughout Northeast Asia 4 Body armor accessory jar additional protection Ironware flagstaff ornament 6 Daegaya earthenware vessel with extended base 1

7 Aragaya earthenware with engraved cover

©G1mh ae N,:it1onal Museum

8 House-shaped earthenware vessel. a funerary item excavated from a Gaya gravesite

9 Boat-shaped earthenware vessel reflects the design oj Gaya ships ©

Leeum. Samsung Museum of Art

Earthenware vessel with wheels and base from about the 5th century © hnJu National Museum

16 Kor ea na I Spring 2006

Daegaya earthenware, like this work, has been found in Japan.

Spring 2006 I Koreana 17

while Silla earthenware was distributed in the regions

upper reaches of the Nakdonggang River, Namgang

east of Nakdonggang River.

River and Hwanggang River basins, and areas along

Thus, the distinctive earthenware styles of the

the southern coast. Aragaya earthenware, which has

southwest regions of Korea served as a benchmark for

been unearthed in Japan's Nagasaki Prefecture

identifying the spheres of influence cast by Gaya and

(Tsushima), Tottori Prefecture, Shimane Prefecture, and

Silla, as well as the individual states of the Gaya con-

Ehime Prefecture, had also been produced at early

federation. In this regard, Gaya earthenware can be

Sueki kilns of the Shikoku region.

categorized by region and style: the Geumgwangaya

In contrast, the distribution of Geumgwangaya

style of the Gimhae area and the Aragaya style of the

earthenware was limited to the lower reaches of the

Haman area, in the 4th century; and the Aragaya style,

Nakdonggang River. Although Aragaya was known to maintain selective network relationships and foreign

The individual confederated states of Gaya each developed their own earthenware culture. Accordinjly, earthenware served as a benchmark for identi fyinj the respective spheres of influence of individual Gaya states.

connections, it is not possible to conjecture that

the Daegaya style of the Goryeong area, and the So-

Geumgwangaya potters played a leading role in shar-

In 2005, Sunchon

National Un iversity

Museum commenced excavation of a group of Daegaya burial mounds. Through this kind of archeological fieldwork

and research. the long-buried secrets of Caya are being brought to light.

18 Koreana I Spring 2006

Geumgwangaya sought to monopolize external trade activities or that it pursued efforts to gain dominance over the other Gaya states . Nevertheless,

gaya style of the Goseong area, in the 5th century. Over

ing their techniques with Japanese artisans, as seen at

time, these different styles of earthenware eventually

the kilns of Obadera, Osaka, where Gaya-style earthen-

found their way into areas beyond their place of origin.

ware was first produced in Japan. The widespread pop-

Of the early Gaya earthenware, the Aragaya-style

ularity of earthenware produced in the Gimhae area,

works, centered around the Haman area, were the most

which featured a natural yellow glaze, wavy-pattern

widely distributed to such regions as the middle and

decoration, and subtle refinement , reflected the

prominent heights to which Geumgwangaya culture

Jisan-ri burial mounds were also built by Daegaya

had ascended.

around this time at the Goryeong area, creating a

In the early 5th century, Ara Gaya earthenware

grand spectacle with its rows of huge tombs.

was not readily found in the areas of the Namgang

These large-scale royal tombs at Jisan-ri are sym-

River and Hwanggang River basins. On the other hand,

bolic of the advanced state of Daegaya's development

Sogaya earthenware was distributed throughout areas

in the late Gaya period. Daegaya ruled over the

along the southern coast and the Namgang River

Namwon area, which served as a hub for the upper

basin, as well as the upper reaches of the Hwanggang River and Geumgang River. In addition, Gaya-style

reaches of the Namgang River, and Yeosu, Suncheon, Gwangyang, and Hadong along the southern coast. As

Remains of dolmens on Gujibong Peak, where the six founding kings of Gaya are said to have descended from heaven.

earthenware has been discovered in Tsushima, Nagasaki Prefecture, and is known to have been produced at the early Sueki kilns of Fukuoka Prefecture. This indicates that the influence of Sogaya, based in Goseong, had managed to supersede that of Aragaya, in terms of relations with Baekje, along the Namgang River basin and the southern coastal areas of Japan, around Kyushu in particular.

Dae1aya Earthenware Even today, there are Japanese scholars who believe that Wa rulers captured Korean potters and forced them to settle in Japan, in order to broaden their authority, in a manner similar to Toyotomi Hideyoshi's abduction of Joseon period potters during his attempted invasions of Korea. However, as early Sueki pottery production in Japan was undertaken in several different areas from the late 4th century to the early 5th century, it seems more reasonable to presume that the Korean

such, it was able to dominate commerce with Baekje

artisans were invited to Japan by provincial authorities,

and Wa, and thus establish itself as the leader of the

based on political relationships, rather than having

Gaya confederation. Earthenware vessels with open-

been forcibly abducted. As such, this draws into ques-

work pedestals or bases and decorated with graceful

tion the ability of Wa rulers to dominate Korea-Japan

patterns, which embodied the sublime aesthetics of the

relations, since regional clans in Japan were able to

late Gaya period, were created by the Daegaya artisans

independently conduct exchanges with Korea.

of this time. These earthenware works would be used as

By the mid 5th century, Daegaya earthenware,

ceremonial vessels for the funerals of Daegaya royalty

produced in the Goryeong area, came to replace

or provincial leaders and then shattered into pieces at

Sogaya earthenware in such areas as the Namgang

the burial sites.

River and Hwanggang River basins, the upper reaches

The royal Daegaya earthenware that was pro-

of the Geumgang River, and along the southern coast.

duced around the middle of the 6th century speaks

Moreover, the sphere of influence of Daegaya was

eloquently of the notable refinement of Daegaya cul-

extended to these areas as well. Thereafter, in the sec-

ture toward the end of the Gaya period. However, by

ond half of the 5th century, Daegaya-style personal

the second half of the 6th century, Daegaya earthen-

ornaments, harnesses, weapons, and armor began to

ware was essentially replaced by Silla works, due to

emerge in Japan, along with Daegaya earthenware. The

Silla's annexation of Gaya territory in 562.

1.11

Spring 2006 I Koreana 19

Discoveriny the History of GAVA throuyh its Leyends The early accounts of ancient history are often steeped in legend and myth. Since this notion applies to the ancient kingdom of Gaya as well, it is necessary to unravel its complex entanglement of legends in order to uncover the hidden secrets of its history. Kim OooÂˇj in Professor of Korean History. Kookmin University Kwon TaeÂˇkyun Photographer

20 Korea na I Sp ri ng 2006

ost of what is known about the history of Gaya has been derived from the chapter, "Records of

the Garak Kingdom," of the 13th-century Samgung-

Garak Kingdom." Indeed, an understand ing of the foundation myths of Gaya is required to uncover its history.

nyusa (Memorabilia of the Three Kingdoms) . The

"Records of the Garak Kingdom" chapter consists

The two pa inted fish that adorn the entrance to the tomb of King Suro, founder of the Geumgwangaya Kingdom, may offer a clue to the mythology of Gay a.

in that a similar image 1s

Entan!lement of Le!ends

mainly of myths and legends, from which it can be dif-

According to legend, from long ago, Gaya was

ficult to extract Gaya's actual history. However, since

ruled by nine chieftains, who reigned over the nine dis-

myth and legend are typically intertwined with histori-

tricts into which the territory had been divided. When

cal facts, research of Gaya history should involve a

the nine chieftains gathered at the foot of Gujibong

thorough analysis of the contents of the "Records of the

Peak to conduct a ceremony, they heard a voice from

said to exist in the Indian kingdom of Ayodhya, the homeland of Kmg SuroÂˇs wife Queen Heo.

Spring 2006 I Koreana 21

the heavens that said they could find a king to lead

kingdom of Ayodhya in India, was dispatched to Gaya

them if they dug into the ground at the mountain's

by boat to become Sum's queen. Thus, the legends of King Suro and Queen Heo were combined to form the

With Gaya bein~ a confederation comprised of six major clans, there are several different myths about its foundin~. When a particular clan was able to establish dominance over the other ~roups, its indi~enous le~ends would enjoy ~reater prevalence.

foundation myth of Geumgwangaya. Because the Gaya confederation was unable to establish a close-knit alliance, the foundation myths of its constituent clans and the walled-city states, which appeared during the transition from primitive civiliza-

22 Korea na I Sp rin g 2006

peak. They thus climbed to the top of the mountain

tion to ancient kingdoms, were separately maintained

and began to dig into the ground, while singing to

and handed down by these various groups.

relieve the tedium. There, they found six eggs, from

Accordingly, the foundation mythology of the Gaya

which six baby boys emerged the following day. When

confederation is especially complex due to this diverse

these boys grew up, one of them became King Suro (r.

background.

42-99 A.DJ, the founder of the Garak Kingdom (also

The basic structure reflects an intermingling of

known as Geumgwangaya), while the others became

foundation myths of the walled-city states, which

the rulers of the other five clans of the Gaya confederation. At that time, Suro was not married. But through

heavenly spirits. For example, after the heavenly spirit

divine intervention, Heo Hwang-ok, a princess from the

ibiga married the mountain spirit Jeonggyeonmoju,

include legends about supernatural earthly beings and

this couple bore two sons, of which one became the king of Daegaya and the other the king of Geumgwangaya. But the foundation myth of the Gaya confederation is not simply a combination of the foundation myths of Daegaya and Geumgwangaya. The foundation myth of Geumgwangaya is basically rooted in the legends of King Suro and of Queen Heo, but also includes a complex mixture of the legends of the nine chieftains, the foundation myths of the other five Gaya clans, and the legends of Talhae, Yeonorang, Seonyeo, Cheonilchang, and Arasa. Talhae was a prince of the kingdom of Wanha who set sail with his followers to gain control of the Gaya region. But when King Suro fended off his incursion, Talhae sought refuge in the area of Mt. Tohamsan of the Silla Kingdom . Yeonorang and Seonyeo, who lived in the Yeongil area, rode across the sea on boulders to Japan, where they became king and queen. Cheonilchang, a prince of Silla, and Arasa, a prince of Gaya, went to Japan in search of their departed wives, and later became spirits housed in Shinto shrines.

KinCf Suro and Queen Heo In the early Gaya period, Geumgwangaya emerged as the confederation's leading power. Related to this, the foundation myth of Geumgwangaya was sanctified. As part of the foundation mythology of Geumgwangaya, the legend of King Suro, whose birth resulted from heavenly influences, was based on a belief in supernatural earthly beings that had originated from a faith that worshipped the turtle. A change in concept arose following the Suro clan's ascension as the royal family of Geumgwangaya. The legend of Queen Heo was also deeply influenced by a belief in supernatural earthly beings. This is evident from the accounts of Queen Heo's removal of her skirt, which was thought to symbolize the woman 's role in childbirth and child rearing, and her performance of a ceremony to honor the mountain spirit, upon her arrival in Korea. Unlike the other legends that were absorbed into the foundation mythology of the Gaya confederation, the legends of King Suro and Queen Heo have been

continually supplemented with notions of whatever was thought to be sacred. The story of a holy clan was introduced to add elements from Chinese Confucian culture and Buddhist culture, in order to gain wider legitimacy. Foundation myths readily combined ele-

Pasa Stone Pagoda is said to have been brought to Caya by Heo Hwang -ok, a princess from the kingdom of Ayodhya in India, who became the queen of King Suro.

ments from Confucianism and Buddhism for added credibility. For a connection to Confucian culture, King Suro came to be called Cheongye and was claimed to be a descendent of Shaohao Jintian-shi. As such, being aligned with the Chinese Emperor served to elevate the stature of the legend of King Suro. Similarly, the legend of Queen Heo was enhanced by Heo Hwang-ok being a princess of the Indian kingdom of Ayodhya and her transport of the Pasa stone pagoda to Korea in her journey from India, thus sanctifying her with the influence of Buddhism. As for the foundation myths of Gaya and Silla, they only differ in their method of sanctification .

Sp ri ng 2006 I Korea na 23

Amid a complex proliferation of foundation myths, it

Disrupted Civilization

was natural for a particular legend to enjoy broader

The Ceumgwangaya royal family that first Jed the

acceptance when its originator was able to gain dom-

Caya confederation was sustained by a system of inter-

inance over the other groups of the confederation. In

marriage between the clans of King Suro and Queen

the case of Silla, it was primarily the foundation

Heo. That is, as the royal family intermarried with

myths of the Kim clan that were widely sanctified, whereas Ceumgwangaya sanctified the clans of King

descendents of the clan members who had accompa nied Queen Heo, Ceumgwangaya maintained an aris-

Suro as well as Q eeK Heo. The oriJ nal royal famil y of

tocratic alliance system. During the reign of the sixth

Ceumgwangg_ya was formed b an alliance between

king, Jwaji (r. 407-421), Ceumgwangaya sought to

the cl il,n~ f King Suro /nd Queen Heo , which

refashion itself as a nation with a centralized gover-

remained

pl ace until t he middle period of

Ceumgwangaya.

nance system. / also consolidated its rule over the vari; ous walled-ci7 states that had been joining the Caya

-ÂˇÂˇ

24 Koreana I Sp ri ng 2006

confederation over the years as a means of resisting

founded by a son born of the heavenly spirit ibiga and

invasions from Silla and other neighboring states. The

the mountain spirit Jeonggyeonmoju was originally

aristocratic alliance structure continued through the

associated with Daegaya, and has since been main-

reign of the eighth king, Jilji (r. 451-492). But it did not

tained as a central myth of Daegaya. The existence of

succeed in establishing a powerful centralized nation.

such a foundation myth reflects the establishment of a

Many legends were combined to form the foun-

Gaya confederation that was centered around Daegaya.

dation mythology of the Gaya confederation. Of these,

An early Gaya confederation, centered on Geumgwan-

the foundation myth of Geumgwangaya has managed

gaya had been established by the 4th century, but this

to survive until today in a relatively consistent form.

was superseded around the 5th century by a late Gaya

Depiction of the arrival of Heo Hwa.ng-ok, a princess from India, in Korea, where

Daegaya must have had a foundation myth of its own,

confederation led by Daegaya. The Gaya confederation

but it has not been passed down in a coherent form.

continued to exist into the 6th century, until Silla

she was welcomed by King Suro, whom she married. Illustration:

However, it is said that the legend of a nation being

annexed its territory.

Kim Yoon - myong

t.t

Spring 2006 I Koreana 25

Linyeriny Resonance of GAYA Mllsic The gayageum, which has long been the representative string instrument of Korea, is a product of the Gaya music culture of the mid-6th century. Although the kingdom has since vanished, the music of Gaya continues to strike a resonant chord within the hearts of the Korean people. Song Hye-jin Professor of Traditional Culture and Arts, Sookmyung Women 's Un iversity, Music Critic Photography: Ahn Hong-beom, Seo Heun-kang

26 Korea na I Sprin g 2006

ome 1, 500 years ago, King Gasil of Gaya thought: "I seek to usher in a new musical culture that

brings to life the differences in dialects and vocal sounds of the various lands." As it turned out, King Gasil learned of the Chinese instrument guzheng, from which he created a new instrument based on its structure and other traditional string instruments. King Gasil's new creation was adopted as the instrument of Gaya: the gayageum.

<iaya's 12 Melodies The original gayageum created by King Gasil has not survived. The oldest extant gayageum, from around the 9th century, has been preserved in nearperfect condition, in regard to its structure and dignified appearance. Three 9th century gayageum, stored at Shiisiiin, a Japanese treasure house of ancient relics, were produced some 200 to 300 years after the time of King Gasil, but they represent a vital historical link between the gayageum of ancient Gaya and the mod-

King Gasil created the gayageum, Gaya's famed musical instrument, from

paulownia wood and silk strings. wh ile the Gay a musician U Reuk

composed

songs for

the 12 -string instrument .

Sp ring 2006 I Koreana 27

A pungnyu gayageum that has been restored by Goh Heung-gon, a maker of traditional Korean instruments. The gayageum is a vital link that connects the ancient Gaya culture with the present through music.

ern versions of today. On viewing these instruments, the inordinate efforts that King Gasil invested in the creation of the gayageum are readily apparent.

gayageum could be accompanied by song and dance. These 12 works, which exist only in the form of written records, without musical scores or recordings,

These gayageum, which include silk strings

represent an invaluable legacy that captures the inno-

extended over 12 bridges arranged on their hollow, res-

vative creativity of King Gasil and U Reuk, who gave

onant bodies, which measure 150 centimeters to 160

birth to a unique musical culture that is still around

centimeters in length and 30 centimeters in width, are

today after the passage of 1,500 years. It is indeed

quite similar to today's pungnyu gayageum. The

unfortunate there are no audio recordings of the origi-

exquisitely delicate gold-leaf decorations on the body

nal music works, which are mostly named after Gaya

and bridges are of an exceptional quality that even

sites or folklore, such as the lion mask dance or the art

modern-day artisans would find difficult to replicate.

of juggling. After Gaya was vanquished by the Silla Kingdom (57 B.C.-935 A.D.), the Silla youth who

Over the past half century, the 1aya1eum has under1one a dramatic modern ization . The effectiveness of this adaptation can he seen in the 1rowin1J number of 1aya1eum ensembles that perform contemporary music, like that of the Beatles or the tan10 of Latin America.

learned these works were critical of their "overly folksy character," and thus refined them into a more "distinguished style." From this development, it can be seen just how deeply these works of U Reuk were rooted in the culture of Gaya and the sentiments of its people.

After King Gasil achieved a harmony between the rich resonance of the paulownia wood body and the

28 Koreana I Sp ring 2006

Music of Gaya and Silla

lyrical tones of the 12 silk strings, he sought the assis-

The historical accounts, about how a king created

tance of musician U Reuk. After King Gasil showed U

an instrument that embodied the musical culture of

Reuk the newly created instrument and expressed his

various areas and how a musician composed music

thoughts about Gaya music, U Reuk composed 12 origi-

works for the new instrument that were accompanied

nal works: "Sanggarado," "Hagarado," "Bogi,"

by singing and dancing, bring to mind the peaceful

"Dalgi," "Samul," "Mulhye," "Hagimul," "Sajagi,"

and romantic scenes of a golden age of long ago. Yet,

"Geoyeol," "Sapalhye," "Isa," and "Sanggimul." These

at this time, Gaya was under siege by Silla and teeter-

works were structured so that the playing of a

ing on the brink of collapse. King Gasil, who sought to

create new instruments and cultivate a new musical culture, while ignoring the need to strengthen the nation's military defense, could not prevent the demise of Gaya. With defeat imminent, UReuk and one of his students departed with their gayageum to seek refuge in Silla, thus opening a new chapter in the history of the gayageum. U Reuk crossed over into Silla territory, where he met with King Jinheung (r. 540-576), who had come to inspect the border area. When U Reuk played the gayageum, King Jinheung was so enthralled with its lyrical sound that he assigned three young musicians to study the gayageum under U Reuk so that it could Since the 1960s, the gayageum has entered yet another era. The tradition of the "12 -string gayageum" has been broken and the number of gayageum strings has increased to anywhere from 15 to 25 strings. The "25-string gayageum" (above), and the "18-string gayageum" (below).

Spring 2006 I Koreana 29

instrument with structural characteristics, performance techniques, and tonal qualities that are notably distinctive from the string instruments of China, Japan, and Vietnam.

Korea's first gayageum <>rchestra, the Sookmyung Kayageum Orchestra, which boasts a diverse repertoire oj tradition Korean music as well as

western classical music (above). Figurine on a Silla -period earthenware work is

depicted playing a gayageum (below).

be adopted as Silla music. However, this initiative of King )inheung was opposed by his court officials, who objected to the formal acceptance of the music of a conquered nation. But King Jinheung brushed aside this opposition, in stating that the fall of Caya did nothing to detract from the splendor of its music. He thus adopted the gayageum and its related works as the nation's official music. Consequently, despite the collapse of Caya, the gayageum lived on through Silla, and today has become the representative string instrument of Korea's traditional court and folk music. The gayageum, which brings to life a truly unique genre of music, is an

30 Koreana I Spring 2006

Gaya1eum's Modernization Today, there are two types of gayageum: traditional and modernized. Traditional gayageum include the aforementioned pungnyu gayageum, which is designed in accordance with the original Caya version, and the sanjo gayageum that emerged in the late 19th century in conjunction with the instrumental solo music sanjo. Pungnyu gayageum is used mainly for the court music that in the past was performed for the elite class, while sanjo gayageum is typically associated with folk music, such as folk songs and sanjo. Court music includes lengthy pauses between notes and generally involves a slow tempo, whereas folk music is more animated and diversified, punctuated by extreme variations in tone that require notable technical skills to execute the quick transitions. It is likely the sanjo gayageum was developed in response to the growing popularity of folk music at that time. Since the 1960s, along with the arrival of a new

musical environment, the gayageum has entered yet

ducing the richness of tone that is unique to the

another era. The 1,500-year tradition of the "12-string

gayageum, in addition to the development of even

gayageum" has been disrupted in part, as musicians

electric versions of the gayageum.

from North and South Korea have increasingly depart-

The dramatic modernization of the gayageum

ed from the performance methods and tones of the

since the mid-20th century has led to a wave of new

past to pursue totally new directions for the

currents in gayageum music. Gayageum performers, in

gayageum. For example, new gayageum versions can

an effort to present music more in tune with the con-

include from 15 to 25 strings.

temporary tastes of Korean and foreign audiences, now

When musicians play a traditional gayageum,

use the traditional 12-string gayageum to play modern

which is tuned to the traditional Korean five-note scale,

European music and the 25-string gayageum to per-

they depress and pluck the strings, creating melodies

form popular music. In fact, it is not uncommon today

that reflect their individual sensibilities. However, cre-

to see gayageum ensembles performing contemporary

ating a refined harmony rather than melodic tones is

music like that of the Beatles or the tango of Latin

considered more important when playing the modern

America. One can only wonder what developments

gayageum, which is tuned to a seven-note scale.

might lie ahead for the world of gayageum music,

Indeed, the gayageum is undergoing continuous

which has come to encompass a wide spectrum from

change, with synthetic fibers now being used in place

the traditional gayageum to its modernized versions of

of silk strings, which have long been essential for pro-

today. ~

Representative Gaya,eum CDs

"Chon,Âˇja Kim Classical Gayajeum Music: The Harmony of Heaven and Earth" As suggested by the title, this two-disc set of court music features tranquil and meditative solo pieces performed on a pungnyu gayageum. It might sound simple or tedious to Iisteners more accustomed to quick and technically complex music, but it offers an opportunity to full y appreciate the musical tones and performance methods of the pungnyu gayageum, which is rooted in the Gaya music of more than 1,500 years ago. Listeners can experience the calmness of a slow tempo, pauses between notes, and graceful charm of the gayageum.

"Music of the Kayafum" {Gaya,eum) This album presents the music of Soung Gumnyon, one of the most highly acclaimed gayageum players of the 20th century. She sings as she plays, including her trademark song "Nostalgia" (Hyangsu). This recording of her performance is exceptional, providing a rare glimpse into the music of a traditional gayageum master. Released by CU Music in 2002, it includes English-language materials that explain gayageum court music in considerable detail.

"Contemporary Music for Gayajeum: Eijht Scenes" This is a collection of gayageum music written by composers from Korea and abroad, performed by Yi Ji-young, a distinguished gayageum player in her early forties. It presents a series of eight gayageum works by composers from Korea, Japan, China, Mexico, and Switzerland, which have been performed at modern music festivals in Korea and elsewhere. Listeners can appreciate the diversity of sounds of the modern gayageum. Released by CU Music in 2004, it includes a brief commentary in English.

. ,.

,l .

â&#x20AC;˘

I .

"Sookmyunf Kayajeum {Gayajeum) Orchestra {Album 3): New World of Kaya,eum" This is the third album of the Sookmyung Gayageum Orchestra, the first of its kind to be established in Korea. It offers a wide diversity of pieces, including music from the legendary pop group, the Beatles; "Spring" from Vivaldi 's "Four Seasons, " performed on a 25-string gayageum; and traditional gayageum ensembles newly arranged in various forms. As a kind of standard for gayageum music, it has enjoyed steady sales since its release by Seoul Records in 2003. It includes a brief summary in English.

Spring 2006 I Korea na 31

FOCUS

APEC Summit in Busan Seeks to Promote a Global Community Korea's port city of Busan hosted this year's APEC !Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation) summit in November 2005. Attended by the heads of state from countries of the Asia-Pacific region, it was highlighted by the adoption of the Busan Declaration. Park Young-bae Editorial Writer,

Th e Korea Economic Daily

Photography:

Yonhap News,

In keeping with APEC tradition, the 21 heads of state donned garments of the host country, in this case traditional Korean overcoats, for the commemorative photo.

32 Koreana I Spring 2006

Ahn Hong-beam

For the first time. Korea hosted the annual summit meeting of APEC in Busan. Among various activities. the 21 leaders of APEC member countries attended a plenary session. held at Nunmaru [Top of the World) pavilion. to discuss regional and global issues.

n November 1905, Korea 's sovereignty was lost with the

investment and economic cooperation agreements. For its

signing of a Korea-Japan protectorate treaty [Eulsa

part, Korea had the opportunity to explain the current

joyak]. under which it became a colonial territory of Japan.

political situation on the Korean peninsula and recent

Korea's senior ministers, as representatives of the state,

developments of the si x-party talks [South Korea, North

were coerced into signing the treaty under a threat of vio-

Korea, United States, Russia, China and Japan) to resolve

lence. To assume responsibility for the disgrace, one of the

North Korea's nuclear issue.

ministers killed himself, while Confucian scholars in the

This year's event, held under the theme "Towards One

provinces mobilized villagers to resist the Japanese mili-

Community: Meet the Challenge, Make the Change," cul-

tary authorities.

minated with the adoption of the Busan Declaration. In

Now, after the passage of a full 100 years, the heads

particular, the declaration focused on two key points: full

of state from 21 APEC member countries gathered togeth-

support for a timely conclusion of the Doha Development

er at Nurimaru ["Top of the World") pavilion, on

Agenda [ODA) negotiations, and presentation of the Busan

Dongbaekseom Islet at Haeundae, Busan, to discuss mat-

Roadmap, which outlined specific measures for attaining

ters of mutual concern. With Japan being an APEC mem-

the objectives of the Bogor Declaration [adopted by APEC

ber, Prime Minister Koizumi Junichiro was in attendance

in 1994) by 2020. The Busan Roadmap was hailed for for-

as well.

mulating detailed guidelines for the long road ahead to further advance free and open trade throughout the global

Busan Declaration

market. Of note, the declaration prescribed stepped-up

There are few international organizations like APEC

cooperation in such areas as development of energy

in which such a large number of heads of state regularly

resources, prevention of corruption, and implementation

get together. In particular, the participation of world pow-

of anti -terrorism initiatives as well as preventative mea-

ers, such as the United States, China and Russia, adds to

sures in response to potential threats such as an avian -flu

the weight of this high-profile gathering . Though the APEC

pandemic or natural disaster.

summit is held as an annual event, the Busan APEC

As host of the APEC summit for the first time since

meeting was the largest ever, attended by more than

APEC' s founding 16 years ago, Korea enjoyed better-than-

5,000 participants, including heads of state, government

anticipated results. First, the event provided Korea with an

officials and some 1,000 businesspersons.

opportunity to actively engage in summit diplomacy.

Moreover, the ministerial meetings and summit talks

President Roh Moo-hyun engaged in one-on-one sessions

produced a number of significant results, including several

with the leaders of 11 member countries, during which he Spring 2006 I Koreana 33

/II The Busan APEC Summit 2005 presented an invaluable opportunity to show off KoreaÂˇs recent advancements. Many participants were clearly impressed with the sophisticated level of information technology in Korea.

advocated continued expansion of the multilateral trade system and also discussed ways to mitigate the growing polarization between advanced nations and developing countries. Second, the APEC event was a valuable opportunity to show off Korea 's advanced technology. Participants were greatly impressed by the soph isticated level of Korea's 34 Kore ana I Spring 2006

information technology, which enabled Korea to attract some $500 million in investment during the event, along with favorably influencing eBayÂˇs decision to establish its Asia-Pacific regional headquarters in Seoul. Third, Korea was able to better appreciate the vast potential for further regional cooperation. As China and Russia steadily proceed with their transition toward a mar-

The APEC summit served to underscore the irreversible nature of the worldwide trend toward free trade. It is thus necessary for Korea to reassess its trade liberalization efforts and lay the groundwork for a more globalized economy.

ket-based economic system, Korea will have to position

areas, as it is one of the world's leading exporters with a

itself so that it can fully take advantage of the rapidly accel-

two-way trade volume of $500 billion in 2005. But in spite

erating flows of goods and capital throughout the region in

of this, affected groups continue to vigorously resist fur-

the near future.

ther opening up of Korea 's markets, while government agencies have been inconsistent in this regard from time

Free Trade Era

to time.

Though Korea succeeded in projecting a free and

The APEC summit in Busan served to underscore the

open image of the country through the APEC economic

irreversible nature of the worldwide trend toward free

leaderÂˇ s meeting, it still faces many difficult challenges.

trade and its implications. As such, the government needs

For example, no progress was made in the efforts to con-

to demonstrate a resolute commitment to assure the ade-

clude free trade agreements (FTA) with the United States

quacy of Korea's market liberalization and to implement

and Japan, which had been a priority of Seoul. As for a pos-

consistent policy measures to this end, in order to lay the

sible Korea-U.5. FTA, the film screen quota remains a

groundwork for a more globalized economy. Korea has

major stumbling block, while there were no related dis-

reached a crossroads and must decide whether it will fully

cussions with Japan due to the diplomatic strain between

embrace global free trade or end up falling by the wayside.

Seoul and Tokyo over Prime Minister Koizumi's insistence

For the Republic of Korea, the direction in which it should

on visiting the controversial Yasukuni Shrine. There is no

head is all too apparent.

doubt that closer trade relations with the world's economic

One hundred years ago, Korea's sovereignty was

leaders-the United States and Japan-would do much to

wrested away by Japan, with Washington's acquiescence.

bolster the competitiveness of Korea's industry as well as

It is thus ironic that a century later the vagaries of history

reinforce their security alliance.

would have the leaders of the world 's major powers ,

Moreover, Korea must also take heed of international

including the United States and Japan, coming together in

calls for the improvement of its investment environment

Busan to discuss ways of assuring the well-being of the

and the adoption of further market liberalization. In partic-

Korean peninsula and further expanding the global econo-

ular, foreign business leaders are critical of the excessive

my. Above all, the most valuable benefit that Korea has

intervention of Korea's labor unions, civic organizations,

gained from the hosting of the APEC summit is the confi-

and the government, and call on the Korean government to

dence in its ability to play not only a balancing role in the

make greater efforts to ease regulations and assure trans-

Northeast Asian region but a leadership role in the world

parency. It is imperative for Korea to do better in these

economy as well. 1.t Spring 2006 I Koreana 35

Chung Byoung-kyoo has been charting new territory in terms of book design in Korea. A trailblazing book designer, his boundless devotion is reflected in his belief that books, like people, have individual personalities. Choi Tae-won Book Critic

Spring 2006 I Koreana

v er t e past cent u ry or so, Koreans have had the unusua experience of encountering books hat were completely different in ppearance from their traditiona

ted with the introduction of ne lathing and food. The Western books introduced from Japan were unprecedented, in terms of their con ent as well as physical appearance. oday, a century after this metamorphosis in books, and its related culural shock, what might be the recen developments in the world of Korea Âˇ books and publishing? Learning from Abroad

In a number of ways, Korean books have undergone a notable ransformation in just a short period of time. And in the midst of this evolutionary process, book designe Chung Byoung-kyoo has arrived on he scene. At a time when even the notion of a book designer was an unfamiliar concept in Korea, he raised a flag of rebellion to challenge conventional thinking, under which book editors naturally assumed design functions. In 1982, when he as known as the most distin-

Korean translation of Milan Kundera·s

The Unbearable Lightness of Being, 2 3

. O"I·~.,

·"°'

0) %71

:,,oi f.<li! ,e11 '1'1 i!

4 5

(Minumsa Co., Ltd., 1988) Kim Ji-ha·s Empty Mountain, (Sol Publishing Co., 1996) Kim Sang-ryeol·s Writer, (Minumsa Co., Ltd., 1982) Lee Yun-gi·s Adult School, (Minumsa Co., Ltd., 1996) The Korean Association of Slavic Studies·

Society and Culture during the Russian Revolution, (Minumsa Co., Ltd., 1988)

circles by deciding to study in

pioneer and forerunner of the Korean

Fromm 's To Have or To Be. But it was

France, even at the somewhat late

realm of book design.

not simply his ability as an editor that led to these record sales. At a time

age of 36 . "If we divide an editor's responsibilities into proofreading and layout,

Although he rose to prominence

much to be desired, he and his edito-

then you can say that I worked double

as a book designer in the 1980s ,

rial staff would spend countless

duty, and then chose layout as the focus of my efforts . I left to study abroad and immerse myself in the culture of bookmaking within the cultural sphere of the printed word." He noted that although he had anticipated experiencing some amount of culture shock, he "was overwhelmed for some time by the palpable weight of longstanding tradition. " Thus, it was through books that he vividly experienced the whole of Western culture, from which he concluded that : "The books of a nation are vessels that can preserve its culture intact." More specifically, he acutely realized that "we [Korea] had missed out on so much by

hours meticulously comparing the translation with the original. In addition , he assembled the most profes-

For Chung, his wide-ranging experiences in all facets of the publishing sphere have enabled him to become Korea's representative book designer. Accordingly, he regards a book designer as a kind of second author who helps to create an appearance ideally suited for a particular book.

sional translation team available. Lee Hae-chan, the incumbent Prime Minister, worked on the initial translation. He insisted on replacing the awkward sounding "existence " in the title, which had originally been translated

" Possession

Existence " in Korean, and instead suggested the more familiar word "life ." Moreover, the representative Korean translator and novelist Lee Yun-gi was retained to compare the Korean translation with the Japanese version . But there was more. Hwang Hieon-san, now a professor at Korea University, and the novelist Kim Won-

importing, without question, a book

when the quality of translation left

Wealth of Publishing Experience

culture that had been distorted by

Chung had already established him-

woo were part of the editorial staff

Japan."

self as a preeminent editor in the

that stayed up late into the night,

It would thus be no exaggeration

1970s. His insistence, even today, that

endlessly refining the content. This

to say that a new chapter unfolded in

"bestsellers are made, not born," is

was a truly stellar lineup of the most

Korea in 1984, upon Chung's return

based on his wealth of publishing

prominent figures of Korea's literary

after his exposure to the vastness of

experience . As an editor for Hong

world . Chung spared no effort in pro-

European culture among the book-

Sung Sa Ltd., at a time when a best-

ducing the single most faithful trans-

shelves of the Centre Pompidou.

seller meant sales of 30,000 copies,

lated manuscript at a time when the

Thanks to his efforts and achieve-

he played a leading role in realizing

quality of translation works ranged

ments, he is deservedly known as the

more than 300,000 sales of Erich

from mediocre to abysmal.

40 Koreana I Spring 2006

It would not have been possible

Korea 's visual culture . Indeed, we

tion. That is, the Hangeul generation

for Chung to emerge as Korea's rep-

have reached a very significant level.

(Koreans born after 1945 who have

resentative book designer without his

And the source of this excellence is

grown up free of Japan's colonial

enthusiasm for understanding all

Hangeul [the Korean alphabet). Huge

rule and thus learned Hangeul as

facets related to books and publish-

leaps have been seen in the visual

their mother tongue) has emerged

ing. Countless books have enjoyed

formulation and refinement of

as the mainstream of Korea's design

success due to his vision as an editor,

sphere, along with having the free -

consumer strategy as a marketer,

dom to express their natural senti-

and refinement as a designer. As

ments . Accordingly, the Korean

such, through his personal experi-

world of design has steadily evolved

ences he is providing an invaluable lesson for anyone interested in learn-

from a commercial orientation, like

advert ising , to a culturally related

ing and sensibility, which can main-

rIi 11/ktf-ri"l-fÂ°l

focus.

tain a focus on the overall picture, are

elements at the beginning of the 21st

ing this craft, which can be summed up as: a comprehensive understand-

YOUNGÂˇKYOO eooKDESIGN BY(HUNG B

If, as he points out that the resurgence of books as critical visual

far more essential to the success of a

century is a worldwide trend, then

book designer than the honing of

those who strive to follow in book

specialized skills.

designer Chung's footsteps can hardly be satisfied with the current situa-

Hangeul: Key to Book Design Chung has designed more than 3,000 books, which he insists on doing

The Book Design of Chung Byoung-kyoo, an overvi ew of the book design ca r eer of Chung Byoung-kyoo [Saengagui Bada Pu blishing, 19961

tion . This is because the designing of books is integral to the shaping of vessels that are needed to help preserve Korean culture.

by hand rather than using a computer,

Korea 's book design has since

along with outfitting them in graceful jackets . As for book designers in

Hangeul over the past 10 years . Of

emerged from the shadows of Japan

Korea, his name would naturally top

course, at the heart of this are the

and the United States, by resolutely

the list of industry peers. So, what

diligent efforts of the upcoming gen-

blazing a new trail, even in this rather

does he think about the next genera-

eration, who have clung steadfastly to

barren environment. What has made

tion of Korea's book designers?

their passion for books , in spite of

this evolution possible is the devotion

"Before we talk about the next

less than attractive conditions."

of book designer Kim Byo_ung-kyoo,

generation, it is proper to first dis-

He noted that the hor izontal

who is lauded for never compromis-

cuss the current level of book design

writing of Hangeul was a decisive

ing the quality of design and always

here. I firmly believe that book design

opportunity to introduce change into

fully appreciating the magnificence of

has become a core element of

the structure of visual communica-

the written word . t.t

Sp ri ng 2006 I Koreana 41

ARTISAN

I sEO-HAN-KYU I MASTER OF BAMBOO HANDCRAFTS ~

s lifelong dedic~tion ID b.:~oo handc: ~-~: enable~the artisan Seo Han-kyu ID earn the well-deserved designation of master craftsman. It thus seems natural that he would acquire the traits of uprightness and resiliency, which have long been characteristics attributed to bamboo. Park Ok-soon Poet Seo Heun-kang Photographer

he Damyang area of Jeollanam-

dedication to bamboo arts, he has

of them made bamboo products, in

d o province, which has long

earned the coveted title of Chae-

addition to farming ."

been known for its abundance of

sangjang (Master of Chaesang

bamboo, is called the bamboo forest

Craftsmanship).

of the Korean peninsula. As such, the residents of Damyang have had a

The young man who started making bamboo crafts at the age of 16 is today an elderly gentleman, who

Lifelong Dedication

has devoted himself to the creation of

reputation for making high-quality

Seo was born in Damyang in

bamboo products for the past 60

bamboo handcrafts since the days of

1930, the second son of a farming

years. In 1987, Seo was designated

the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). With

family. He graduated from elemen-

Important

more than 500 years of experience in

tary school in 1944, but in keeping

Property No. 53 by the Korean gov-

Intangible

Cultural

making bamboo crafts, Damyang is

with the customary practice then, in

ernment, which includes the title

indeed the center of Korea Âˇs bamboo

which a family supported the contin-

Chaesangjang, Master of Chaesang

culture. It was only natural for the vil-

ued education of only the eldest son,

Craftsmanship, the ultimate honor

lagers of Damyang , literally sur-

Seo remained at home to help out

for an artisan of bamboo handcrafts.

rounded by thickets of bamboo, to

with the family's farming .

The term "chaesang" refers to a

develop the skills for producing bam-

"I was about 16 years old when I

set of bo xes made with long, thin

boo handcrafts. Like many of his

began to make bamboo products .

paper- like strips of bamboo. As the

neighbors in Damyang, Seo Han-kyu

When I first started, I had no inkling

most sophisticated form of bamboo-

also learned the techniques to make

that this would become my destiny.

crafted products, chaesang requires

bamboo products. In particular, he

But I guess it was meant to be since I

an intricate production process and

has focused much of his efforts on

had seen bamboo crafts being made

highly advanced craftsmanship.

the creation of chaesang (set of bam-

all my life. At that time,

During the Joseon Dynasty,

boo boxes]. which is said to be the

there were about

women of the yangban, or the

essence of bamboo craftsmanship.

a 100 households

aristocratic class , used chae-

Indeed, for his consummate mastery

in my village and

sang to store clothing, valu-

of chaesang, thanks to his lifelong

more than 70

ables, and household necessi-

ties, such as needle and thread. Since all women desired to have a chaesang of their own, mothers would often use them like a dowry chest to store the items that their daughters would need for getting married. Family Heirloom A well-crafted chaesang is so refined and elegant that people find it hard to believe it is actually made from bamboo. Chaesang boxes can be woven from natural or dyed strips of bamboo. Typically, for the outer box, natural and dyed bamboo strips are combined to create decorative patterns. On the other hand, when used in an unadorned state, the natural subtleties of bamboo can be better appreciated. ""Large bamboo stalks are the best for making chaesang . Because the bamboo strips should be lustrous, flexible, and resilient, threeyear-old bamboo grown in fertile soil is ideal. Older bamboo is too stiff and

cracks easily, whereas young stalks may be pliable but are not as resilient. Bamboo stalks cut down around the time of the winter solstice are especially good."" Although Seo often wonders what he might be doing today if he did not become a bamboo craftsman, he still remembers wanting to run away several times a day when he first started working with bamboo strips. Back then, it must have been extremely difficult for a normal young man like Seo to pursue the making of bamboo handcrafts, which most people considered to be womenÂˇs work . Moreover, this was not the kind of career that would bring him financial wealth. And while he did manage to get married

and somehow provide for the education of his seven children, Seo readily admits that it was no easy matter to make a livelihood from bamboo crafts. ""There is an old saying that although a bamboo forest is like an untapped gold mine, the people who make bamboo products are hardpressed to make a decent liv-

----~Ii ,~~.:~~~

Chaesang masterpieces by Seo :H;an~-;kyu~. A well-crafted chaesang is so re~ned and elegant that people find it hard to believe it is actually made from bamboo.

While Seo Han-kyu prepares the thin bamboo strips, his daughter, Seo Shin-jeong does the weaving. These two artisans, mentor and protege, adopt a kind of division of labor to create intricate bamboo handcrafts.

ing. I remember thinking that this

sang and develop the related tech-

bamboo strips possible. The level of

saying was applicable to my situation

niques on his own. That being said , it

sophistication of a particular piece is

as well. I felt I had to do something to

was a daunting challenge for Seo to

in large part determined by the quali-

overcome th is difficulty. So, I decided

discover the finer po ints of creating

ty of the bamboo strips . Chaesang

to produce high-quality products. And

traditional chaesang . Although Seo

usually consists of a set of three, five,

thereafter, I began to focus my efforts

has distinguished himself as the

or seven boxes, called samhap, ohap,

on maki ng chaesang."

foremost master of Korean bamboo

and chi/hap, respectively. However,

handcrafts, he still marvels at the

there are no absolute rules about

In the early 1970s, Seo happened to come across an object that would

intricacies of making a chaesang like

how many boxes a chaesang should

forever change his life. It was a small

that of his grandmother.

comprise. So, there could be chaesang with nine (guhap) or even eleven

chaesang, which originally belonged to his maternal grandmother, that

Attributes of Bamboo

boxes (sibilhapl. ..

had been in his family for three gen-

In the past, chaesang were tra-

As such, a traditional chaesang

erations . But not knowing anyone

ditionally made by married couples,

is a set of bo xes of progressively

who knew how to make chaesang,

with the husband preparing the thin

smaller sizes that can all fit within

Seo carefully studied the family heir-

bamboo strips, which the wife used to

each other. Because of the intricate

loom and then learned the special

weave the boxes. But in the case of

nature of the production process, it

techniques through trial and error.

Seo, until 1980, when his second

requires at least 15 full days of work

Although Kim Dong -yeon (1897-

daughter, Seo Shin-jeong (b . 1960].

to produce a three-box chaesang. Of

1984]. who became the first to earn

began to help out with the weaving,

note, everything is still done by hand,

the Chaesangjang title in 1975, was

he took care of every detailed step by

with no short cuts for the sake of

living in another area of Damyang at

himself.

expediency.

that time, Seo never had an occasion

"Preparing the raw materials is

Sea's daughter usually handles

to meet Kim . And in sp ite of Kim 's

an important part in making chae-

the dying of the bamboo strips and

Chaesangjang designation, Seo pre-

sang . The most critical task in this

planning of the color schemes and

ferred to conduct research on chae-

regard is the making of the finest

decorative patterns. The colors and

decorative motifs of SeoÂˇs chaesang have become more diverse thanks to his daughter's creative input. Moreover, she insists on using only natural dyes, never synthetic coloring. Due to the efforts of Seo and his daughter to modernize and popularize bamboo handcrafts, the chaesang, which had been on the verge of becoming a museum artifact, is now gaining international recognition as a unique Korean art form. In his youth, the mere thought of bamboo was enough to make Seo want to run away. But bamboo handcrafts would later become his livelihood, while his lifelong dedication to this craft has earned him the welldeserved title of master craftsman . It seems natural that he would acquire the traits of uprightness and resiliency, which have long been characteristics attributed to bamboo. 1.t

Creating Handcrafted Chaesang

A After soaking bamboo stalks in water for a day, the dried bamboo is split into strips B The bamboo strips are trimmed into uniform thickness and length C Bamboo strips are colored with natural dye, such as safflower, gardenia seeds, or mugwort, so that decorative patterns can be created D The bamboo strips are woven together to produce the desired designs and patterns E The usually unadorned bottom half must be properly sized to fit snugly within the decorated cover F When weaving of the cover and bottom has been completed, the excess bamboo strips are trimmed G The edges of the cover and bottom are finished with satin fabric H The interior of the bottom is lined with two layers of traditional Korean paper. Photography: National Research Institute of Cultural Heritage

MASTERPIECES

PORTRAIT OF KING TAEJO ESTEEMED FOUNDER OF THE JOSEON DYNASTY When viewing the portrait of King Taejo, who is depicted sitting on his stately throne, the irrepressible spirit of this founder of the Joseon Dynasty is clearly evident. The portrait represents the only remaining visual record of King Taejo's appearance. Cho Insoo Professor of Visual Art, Korean National University of Arts Kwon Tae-kyun Photographer

48 Koreana I Spring 2006

The portraits of the Joseon Dynasty are highly regarded for the remarkable depiction of the real-life details of their subjects. The portrait of King Taejo is a truly masterful work Âˇ that captures his physical features as well as his innermost character.

yeonggijeon Hall in Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do province,

exquisite detail. Especially impressive are his silk robe,

enshrines the portrait of Yi Seong-gye [1335-1408).

decorated with gold-leaf embroidery, and the colorful car-

the founder of the Joseon Dynasty [1392-191 O). who ruled

pet that seems to somehow rise upward. Although this

as King Taejo from 1392 to 1398. In the portrait, he is

painting was completed in 1872, based on a previous work,

depicted as a middle-aged man wearing a blue robe and

it is a faithful re-creation that carefully preserves the por-

black headpiece, staring directly ahead with a purposeful

trait style of the 14th century, at the start of the Joseon

expression. He is seated on a red throne, which is situated

Dynasty era. It is one of only two well-preserved royal por-

atop a brightly colored carpet, against a blank background.

traits from the early period of the Joseon Dynasty, and the

Upon careful scrutiny, the painting reveals a wealth of 50

Koreana

I Spring 2006

only remaining visual record of the founder of Joseon.

Joseon Dynasty Portraits

against the backdrop of a folding screen , with panels

In terms of Korean art, Joseon Dynasty portraits are

depicting the sun , moon, and five peaks, in accordance

ranked among its most noteworthy achievements, in par-

with the traditional practice of placing this kind of back-

ticular regard to their exceptional artistic quality and

ground behind the king's throne in Joseon Dynasty

incredible quantity. The portrait subjects included the rul-

palaces. In this way, the portrait of Taejo is being respected

ing elite, such as the king and royal family, aristocrats, and

as if he were still the ruling sovereign . In the portrait, King

prominent religious figures . The painters were selected

Taejo is presented from a straight-on frontal view, wearing

from a pool of professional artists who were known for

a black ikseongwan, the official headpiece of the king, and

their artistic repute. Accordingly, Joseon Dynasty portraits

a blue royal robe, or gollyongpo, while seated on his

are characterized by their exquisite artistry and an extraor-

throne. Two flaps protrude from the back of the headpiece,

dinary level of realistic detail. Since the king stood at the

representing the wings of a cicada, whose piercing sound

pinnacle of Joseon society, the portraits of kings were ren-

is said to be expressive of sovereign dignity and its meta-

dered with the utmost care, befitting their supreme

morphosis a symbol of rebirth . Gollyongpo was the every-

stature.

day attire of the king . Later kings of the Joseon Dynasty

Portraits of kings, which were commonly known as

usually wore red attire, but Taejo is shown in a blue robe,

eojin, would be housed in separate buildings called jinjeon.

apparently reflecting a carry-over influence of the Goryeo-

When a royal portrait was to be undertaken, an ad hoc

style portraits.

group, or dogam, was established to oversee the proceedings. When the portrait was completed, a detailed account

Depiction of Individuality

of the production process would be recorded in Uigwe

A notable feature of the Taejo portrait is its use of a

[Records of Dogaml. which included the reason for paint-

direct frontal perspective, since the vast majority of Joseon

ing the portrait, selection process of the designated

Dynasty portraits depicted the subject at a slight angle,

painter, various materials used, and the names of every-

rather than facing straight forward . Perhaps this frontal

one involved with the project.

portrayal was intended to distinguish Taejo as the dynasty

It is not known exactly when the painting of royal por-

founder. His face is depicted in a restrained manner, with a

traits first originated in Korea , but it is thought to have

few simple lines, whereas his attire, throne , and the carpet

become a regular practice prior to the end of the Three

are highly detailed and vividly colored . This contrast served

Kingdoms period in 668. During the Goryeo Dynasty [918-

to emphasize the authority and dignity of the king as the

1392]. the painting of royal portraits flourished, leading to a

sovereign of the nation and its people.

proliferation of the construction of jinjeon buildings for

At this time , there is no way to know Taejo's actual

their display, of which the best known is Gyeongnyeong-

appearance; however, in the portrait he is depicted with

jeon in Gaeseong, where the portraits of several Goryeo

wide cheekbones, small eyes, a small mouth, and large

kings are housed.

ears. These facial features are consistent with the

When the Joseon Dynasty superseded Goryeo, it car-

descriptions of King Taejo's appearance that are recorded

ried on the Goryeo tradition of royal portraits, resulting in

in historical documents. A mole is shown above his right

the production of ever more of these works. In particular,

eyebrow, as an example of the significance attached to

King Taejo commissioned a number of portraits of himself,

the realism of Joseon-style portraits. This portrayal of

at various settings, related to his founding of the dynasty

Taejo's individuality, in terms of his physical features and

and the relocation of its capital. As a result , six [jinjeon]

innermost character, is what qualifies this portrait as a

buildings in different locations were constructed for hous-

consummate masterpiece. There are numerous por-

ing Taejo"s portraits, including one in JoseonÂˇs new capital

traits of Joseon Dynasty kings, but none can quite com-

of Hanseong [today's Seoul]. Another was built in Jeonju,

pare to the sublimity of the King Taejo portrait. To

where Taejo's ancestors had lived for generations, which

understand this, one need only visit Gyeonggijeon Hall,

was named Gyeonggijeon in 1442.

where the epitome of Joseon Dynasty royal portraits is

At Gyeonggijeon today, the Taejo portrait is presented

on display.

Spring 2006 I Koreana 51

ART REVIEW

l a n o i t a n er t n I l u o e S 5 0 0 2 l a v i st Dance Fe e

) has a l CS/Dance v ti s e F c n a ing a ternational D ng w it h exert e S e o u l In lo a th , a, 8 re 9 o 9 1 K nding in it s kind in Since it s fou e st e v e ndt aonfce scene. rg la e th s a 's itself orea e st a b li sh e d influence over K -UNESCO

le considerab

otography, ance Critic Ph Elion Moon D

er of CID Korean Chapt

International Dance Event Lee Jong-ho, president of the Korean chapter of Cl DUN ESCO, also serves as the head of SIDance, which

ince its launch in 1998, the Seoul International Dance

receives assistance from the Ministry of Culture and

Festival [SIDance) has come to exert a considerable

Tourism, the Arts Council Korea, the Seoul Metropolitan

influence over Korea's dance scene. Its most noteworthy

Government, and embassies of various countries. Of note,

achievements include the presentation of an international

the SI Dance event has managed to attract growing

dance festival, with a variety of events during a three-week

international attention thanks to the steady enhancement

run, and efforts to expand the horizons of contemporary

of its overall quality and promotion of creative themes.

dance in Korea through interaction with renowned per-

At the time of SIDance Âˇs inauguration, the Korean

forming groups from abroad. As a result, this has helped

dance scene was mainly centered on performances by

Korean dancers and audiences to acquire a broadened

well-known classical dance companies from overseas,

perspective and insight into the significance of performing

which generally assured a favorable financial outcome for

dance and appreciating dance presentations.

such productions . For example, " Swan Lake" by the

54 Koreana I Spring 2006

event, held in 1998, featured the presentation of works of Bremer Tanztheater of Germany, overseen by Susanne Linke, and Teshigawara Saburo of Japan. In subsequent Bolshoi Ballet and "Don Quixote" by the Kirov Ballet were

years, the festival has been graced by such esteemed fig-

presented under the sponsorship of leading Korean news-

ures as Maurice Bejart; Jin Xing [China]; Jean-Claude

papers. But in recent years, Korea's dance culture has

Gallotta, Angelin Preljocaj, Philippe Decoufle, and Maguy

undergone dramatic change. When the LG Arts Center

Marin [France]; Akram Khan [England]; Gill es Jobin

opened in 2000, it lined up so many high-profile perfor-

[Switzerland]; Oshima Sakiko [Japan]; and Ton Wiggers

mances, including Pina Bausch, Mats Ek, Sasha Waltz,

[the Netherlands].

Rosas [Belgium). DVB and Matthew Bourne [England]. and more, that this onslaught was found to be rather over-

Forum for Exchange

whelming. Meanwhile, the Seoul Arts Center and the

The eighth SIDance, held from September 27 to

Sejong Center for the Performing Arts also staged perfor-

October 18, 2005 at the Seoul Arts Center and Ho-Am Art

mances by the British Royal Ballet and Nacho Duato of

Hall, represented a fusion of the traditional and the con-

Spain, respectively.

temporary. A total of thirteen performances were staged,

Of particular note, SI Dance has served to upgrade the domestic dance culture and to gain credibility as Korea's

six by foreign troupes, three by Korean dancers, and four as Korean-foreign collaborative efforts.

first international dance festival by offering the opportunity

The opening performance was "Ship in a View" by

to view a diverse range of works by contemporary choreo-

Pappa Tarahumara, which was founded by Koike Hiroshi in

graphers, from Korea and abroad. The inaugural SIDance

1982 . The name of the troupe, meaning the "land of Sp ri ng 2006 I Koreana 55

Tarahumara" in Mexico, is meant to express a bewildering culture that contemporary society fails to understand . Koike, the choreographer and director, might seem

succeeded in expressing a unique dance Language that communicates through the dynamism of rapid movement.

ambivalent to contemporary dance techniques, but in his

"Solo Evening" by Tero Saarinen of Finland, staged at

uniquely animated movements he has managed to tran-

the Jayu Theater of the Seoul Arts Center, marked the

scend the Butoh-style dance of Japan .

highpoint of the festival's contemporary dance. "Man in a

The headline stars of the 2005 festival were the Daniel

Room," choreographed by Carolyn Carlson, who is known

Larrieu Company from France and Random Dance from

for saying "I am the dance, " and the Litheness of her move-

England . Daniel Larrieu presented a 2003 work entitled

ments, was inspired by the life of the American abstract-

"'N 'oublie pas ce que tu devines" (Don't Forget What You

expressionist painter Mark Rothko, who ended up commit-

Have Deciphered). which featured an active interplay of

ting suicide. Though staged in a classical style, the work

light and color. There was continuous movement, which

expressed situations through movements of a painted body.

was not so much intended to emphasize technique or con-

Tero Saarinen choreographed and performed "Hunt,"

vey a message, but simply to enjoy movement itself.

an extraordinary solo work that sought to reinterpret

On the other hand, Random Dance brought together

Stravinsky's "The Rite of Spring. " As an effort to present a

advanced technology and sophisticated dance techniques

21st-centu ry multimedia version of this classical music

that can only be executed with a solid foundation of dance

work, which included the projection of hunting images onto

fundamentals. Wayne McGregor is a graduate of the Jose

the dancer's bare upper body and white skirt, it seemed to

Limon Institute, who conceived, directed, and choreo-

symbolize the primitive and the modern , or a coming

graphed "AtaXia," which presented Lively movements that

together of nature and science.

emphasized speed . The high-energy dynamism of this

In addition, Korean performers took the stage in the

work, though paradoxical to its name "Ata Xia, " a disorder

festival 's special events: Contemporary Korean Dances by

of the nervous system that affects muscle coordination,

Young Artists and the traditional Perfect and Precious

Left audiences spellbound . This experimental presentation

Dances by Virtuosos. Of note, the latter event offered a rare

56 Kor ea na I Spring 2006

In particular, SIDance has managed to attract steadily growing audiences with works that combine popular appeal with refined artistry, while addressing the cultural demands of those seeking to enjoy high-quality dance performances.

opportunity to appreciate the graceful dance performances

Trilogy, " the first act was performed by the Japanese team,

of the true masters of Korean dance, who are close to the

the second by the Korean team, and the third by both

age of 80 or older, including Lee Mae-bang's interpretation

groups.

of "Seungmu" [Monk's Dancel, a traditional Korean dance

Headed by Ryohei Kondo, Condors is a group of male

rooted in Buddhist culture, which has been designated an

performers with "no formal dance training, strong individ-

intangible cultural property.

uality, and profound life experiences." On the other hand, the Hong Dance Company, led by Hong Hye-jeon, is com-

Harmonious Balance

prised of highly tra ined young dancers with exceptional

This year, joint performances included Festival

technique. As a result, the Japanese group, due to their

Internacional Cervantino, Japan Dance Special, and Little

unconventional and carefree style, had the audience

Asia Dance Exchange Network 2005 that featured teams

laughing throughout, whereas the Korean performers

from Singapore, Japan, Taiwan, Korea, and Hong Kong. Of

focused on dramatic and technical expression.

note, the choreographers Jeon Mi-sook of Korea and

In recent years, newer events such as the Modern

Lourdes Luna from Mexico exchanged dance teams . Jeon

Dance Festival and the Seoul Performing Arts Festival have

is Dean of the School of Dance at the Korean National

added diversity to the landscape of Korean dance. However,

University of Arts, while Luna is artistic director of

SIDance has remained at the forefront through such efforts

Compania de Danza Contemporanea del Estado de

as continuously upgrading the standards for the selection

Yucatan. The two choreographed original and exciting

of works and performing groups for its festival. And while

works, which were performed both in Seoul and Mexico.

the more recent dance festivals have in large part adopted

The finale of the festival was a joint work, choreo-

an experimental character, SI Dance has sought to enhance

graphed and performed by Korean dancers from the Hong

its reputation by combining popular appeal with refined

Dance Company and Japanese dancers from Condors,

artistry, while striving to broaden the horizons of Korean

which is also slated to be performed at the Japan Dance

dance though exposure to the latest developments in the

Selection . A three-act work, entitled " Femme Fatale

world of dance on the global stage.

t,;t

Spring 2006 I Koreana 57

1 Unlike earlier maps, which were hand-drawn, Daedongnyeojido was printed from woodblocks. A printed copy is maintained at Gyujanggak, Seoul National University. 2 Cover and Âˇ1egend of map symbolsÂˇ of a colored copy of Daedongnyeojido 3 Cover of a woodb lock printed copy of Daedongnyeojido

t. Baekdusan is depicted with wings spread wide, as

acteristics. From ancient times , Koreans have thought of

if about to take flight. It is the origin of several

the land as a living organism, like a human being , in which

mountain ranges that branch out in different directions .

mountain ranges and rivers were not independent physical

Throughout the land, there are flowing rivers and streams,

features but intimately intertwined elements. As such,

vital lifelines like the arteries of a human body. Towns of

mountain ranges, symbolically expressed as a winged

the eight provinces, where our ancestors resided, are seen

dragon, were perceived as the human skeletal and muscu-

nestled among the mountains and rivers, linked together

lar systems, while rivers, drawn with curved lines to depict

by networks of roads and pathways that look like spider

flowing water, were the equivalent of the circulatory sys-

webs. These are among the highlights of Kim Jeong-ho's

tem of humans. In pre-modern society, mountain ranges

enduring masterpiece: Oaedongnyeojido.

served as barriers that blocked communication between regions, whe r eas rivers functioned as channels for the

Optimal Convenience

transport of people and commodities between regions. In

Produced in 1861, toward the final years of the Joseon

Oaedongnyeojido, the mountain ranges feature the military

Dynasty [1392-191 OJ, Oaedongnyeojido consists of 22

facilities used to fend off intruders, while the rivers include

sheets, each depicting a separate section of the Korean

pier areas where boats could dock.

peninsula, covering an area of 120 ri, from north to south [1

The network of roadways, radiating throughout the

ri = about 0.4 kilometer). and 80 ri, from east to west. When

country from Hanyang [today's Seoul], is also shown in

all the sheets are laid out, the enti re map measures 6.6

detail. It indicates that even villages in the most remote

meters in length and 4 meters in width. Similar to a screen

corners of the kingdom were accessible by one land route

with folding panels, the individual sheets can be unfolded

or another, without exception. To clearly distinguish roads

to view the map and then folded up into a compact size, for

from rivers and their curved lines, the roadways are drawn

optimal convenience in usage and for transport.

with straight lines, along with a dot being placed at every

Previously, the sections of large maps were included as

10 ri to help calculate distances. Even without a modern

separate pages of a bound volume.

scale for calculating distances, a Oaedongnyeojido user

In particular, Oaedongnyeojido vividly portrays the

can easily determine the distance between two points by

Joseon Dynasty's conceptualization of topographical char-

simply counting the dot markers. Inns and other facilities

60 Koreana I Spring 2006

located along the roads are also identified for the convenience of travelers. On-site Surveying

Unlike pr evious maps that were hand-drawn, Daedongnyeojido was printed from woodblocks. As compa red to a hand-drawn map, a woodblock-printed work cannot easily accommodate large amounts of text; thus, it is more effective to use special symbols to represent various map details. After carefully contemplating this matter, Kim Jeong-ho produced a "map table," similar to the "legend" of a modern map, which included his own system of symbols to depict map features related to government administration, military defense, commerce, and communications. With these symbols, the amount of explanatory text was dramatically minimized, thereby making the woodblock-printing method more practical. Most notably, the accuracy of Daedongnyeojido can be favorably compared with modern maps produced with the aid of the latest scientific technology. Except for one area of the northern provinces, the detailed contours and geographical features of Daedongnyeojido are almost identical to what can be found on a modern-day map of the Korean peninsula. Indeed, one can only marvel at how Kim Jeongho was able to accurately capture so much detail in 1861, well before the introduction of today's advanced surveying

equipment and engineering techniques . When the Japanese authorities conducted their own land survey in the 191 Os, for the purpose of imposing their colonial rule of Korea, they are said to have adopted Daedongnyeojido as a baseline reference. How, then, was Kim Jeong-ho able to create this map with such remarkable detail and accuracy? In reality, there is little factual information about his masterful feat. For example, since Kim Jeong-ho was born of a common family, there is hardly any recorded information about his early life. However, he is said to have scaled Mt. Baekdusan by himself several times and spent some 10 years surveying the entire peninsula before producing the Daedongnyeojido woodblocks But even 10 years of on-site surveys would not be adequate to compile sufficient data to prepare such a detailed map of the Korean peninsula, based on the cartographic methods of his time. Moreover, the Daedongnyeojido project was undertaken primarily as a personal endeavor, with little known assistance from the ruling authorities. Of course, no one better understood the daunting challenges of this effort than Kim Jeong-ho himself. Consequently, he pa instakingly researched the achievements of the Joseon era's leading cartographers, along with constantly searching for innovative means of further advancing the map-making discipline. Spring 2006 I Koreana

Daedongnyeojido is comprised of 22 sheets that can be folded up into a compact size. When unfolded , the entire map measures 6.6 meters in length and 4 meters in width. 2 Doseongdo, a map of central Seoul 3 Map of the Busan area 4 The creation of Daedongnyeojido relied heavily on the availability of valuable resources like Honilgangniyeokdaegukdojido I14021.

Ko reana I Spring 2006

The detailed contours and geographical features of Daedongnyeojido are almost identical to what can be found on a modern-day map of the Korean peninsula. One can only marvel at how map-maker Kim Jeong-ho was able to accurately capture so much detail in 1861, well before the introduction of today's advanced surveying equipment and engineering techniques.

Roots of Daedongnyeojido

Western world. With this broad foundation, he wholly dedi-

At the time that Kim Jeong-ho created Oaedongnyeojido, there were a number of existing maps from earlier

cated his personal efforts to map-making.

periods of the Joseon Dynasty. In Korea, maps and geo -

raphy book, Cheonggudo, in 1834. In the same year, at

graphical documents had long served as fundamental

Choe Han-gi's request, he produced an engraving of the

legal references for state governance. Honilgangniyeok-

Western-style map Jigujeonhudo. To promote a more sys-

daegukdojido, produced in 1402, was considered the most

tematic understanding of the Korean peninsula's geogra-

exceptional world map of its time, in the East and the West.

phy, he wrote a number of large-scale geographical refer-

In the 15th century, several nationwide maps were pre-

ence works, including Oongyeodoji, Yeodobiji, and

Before creating Oaedongnyeojido, Kim wrote a geog -

pared based on surveys of the roadways from Seoul to

Oaedongjiji. And on the basis of this accumulated knowl-

each province.

edge and expertise he was then able to create his master-

In the 17th century and thereafter, various types of military-related maps and regional maps were regularly

ful Oaedongnyeojido. In this way, Oaedongnyeojido represented

aconsoli-

produced, while in the mid-18th century, Jeong Sang-gi

dation of all the previous achievements of Joseon era car-

depicted much of the Korean peninsula 's geographical

tography as well as a wholly new innovation in map-mak-

contours in his Donggukjido. Meanwhile, Sinjeungdong-

ing. Just as the renowned French cartographer d'Anville

gungnyeojiseungnam and other geographical documents

was able to create a remarkably accurate world map, with-

compiled in the late Joseon period , which evidenced the

out having actually surveyed every country of the world,

dynasty's centuries-long brilliance in the sciences and

Kim Jeong-ho built on the achievements of his predeces-

humanities, provided a framework for the ultimate cre-

sors and added his own creative genius to produce a work

ation of Daedongnyeojido.

that is much more than a survey-based map.

Kim Jeong-ho was able to access the various maps and

In traditional black-and-white woodblock print,

documents maintained by the Joseon authorities through

Daedongnyeojido exquisitely portrays the Korean peninsu-

the assistance of Sin Heon, a high-ranking court official. He

la. Above all, this sublime work, of scientific and artistic

also learned about Western science from his friend Choe

brilliance, is the fruit of Kim Jeong-ho's passionate dedica -

Han-gi, who was well acquainted with the knowledge of the

tion to cartography. 1.1 Spring 2006 I Koreana 63

--~-~---- - - - - - -- -

- - - -- --

- - - - - - --

-------------------------~

ON THE GLOBAL STAGE

KIM SOON - KWON "Dr. Corn" Strives to Overcome World Hunger Kim Soon-kwon, a globally acclaimed agricultural scientist, has well earned his nickname of "Dr. Corn:' In addition, Dr. Kim is also known as the "Green Revolutionary" to the peoples of Africa, where his breakthrough in corn research has contributed to a miraculous improvement in crop yields. Kim Moo-jeong Reporter, The Kukm inilbo Photography: Choi Hang-young, International Corn Foundation

im Soon-kwon is known as

advanced research, and his sense of

American corn that, with irresistibly

" Dr. Corn" throughout Korea.

obligation to do his utmost to save

large and tasty kernels, yields more

Along with being nominated four

than 30 percent better than Korean

humanity from hunger.

times for the Nobel prize, he has

Kim graduated from Ulsan

varieties. During his doctoral studies,

received numerous awards from

Agricultural High School, but his

he attracted the interest of horticul-

international groups for his innova-

family's financial situation made it

turists and seed companies from

tive research that has helped to sig-

difficult for him to attend university.

around the world with his extensive

nificantly increase crop yields and

When he heard of the possibility for a

data from 20 or so corn cultivation

food supplies. In Africa, he is known

full scholarship, he managed to beat

projects.

as the "Green Revolutionary" for his

out a 10-to-1 pool of applicants, and

There were some 50 agricultural

invaluable contributions there. But

was thus able to enter the College of

seed companies in the United States

even today, Dr. Kim can be seen wan-

Agriculture and Life Sciences at

at that time , which had been con-

dering about the cornfields of

Kyungpook National University. He

stantly investing tremendous sums of

Kyungpook National University ,

worked his way through school as a

money into research in order to

where he is a professor, with his

private tutor and sought to become

develop the highest-quality seeds. In

shirt-sleeves

up , fully

an agricultural scientist in order to

particular, corn was one of the most

immersed in the pursuit of an even

develop superior crop breeds and

important product lines.

more superior corn crop. The lights

devote himself to caring for those in

rolled

""Mr. Kim,"' they would say, ÂˇÂˇyour

of his research lab are on 24 hours a

Korea who must deal with hunger,

research is really incredible. We are

day.

like he had experienced while grow-

amazed at the results that your

ing up.

research has produced in such a

It is not by chance that a young

short period of time. How would you

boy, who was born in a poor farmhouse deep in the mountains and

Roots of Corn Research

like to come work for our company? We can pay you 20 times more than

tirelessly tended to his family's crops,

Kim went abroad to study, earn-

would become a world-leading

ing his doctorate degree at the

authority in the field of corn cultiva-

University of Hawaii, where he began

tion. It is the result of his immensely

to conduct research on corn in

posals and returned to Korea with his

dedicated efforts, the success of his

earnest.

degree. Back home, he diligently

64 Koreana I Spring 2006

He would

marvel at

what you would receive in Korea." But Dr. Kim declined these pro-

researched corn breeds that would be ideally suited to Korea's topography and environment. Eventually, he developed the Suwon varieties Nos. 18, 19, and 20, which thrived in the fields of Gangwon-do province. When the corn ripened, the stalks strained to support the huge, plump ears like those he had seen in the United States. These corn varieties produced abundant harvests for the farmers of Gangwon-do province who were elated with their good fortune . In fact, in only 5 years, Dr. Kim was able to develop a corn hybrid for Korea that had taken 55 years to create in the United States. The success of this hybrid corn marked an epochal change in Korean agriculture, which previously had been unable to move beyond open pollinated varieties. Cultivating a Miracle in Africa "The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture [IITA] was found-

ed in 1967 by two U.S. charitable organizations: the Ford Foundation and the Rockefeller Foundation . In

particular, IITA operated a nonprofit agricultural research center that received support from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization [FAQ] and the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development [IBRDl. Corn was a critical element of the solution to the food shortages that afflict some 500 million people in Africa, so I received faxes daily asking for help." Dr . Kim recalled that he had vowed in a prayer to himself to com-

mit himself to helping theÂˇ people of Korea and the world, and soon thereafter was aboard a flight to Africa . His destination was Nigeria, where the IITA maintained its headquarters. At the corn-breeding research center there, he sought to develop a hybrid corn variety that suited the African environment. In short order, he became known as a workaholic among the IITA staff. At that time, there was a generally accepted notion that hybrid varieties of corn could not be successfulSpring 2006 I Ko reana 65

Kim Soon-kwon's eyes have never strayed from the plight of those who suffer from hunger. Indeed, as a scientist who combines innovative research with practical application, he is a foremost example of a genuine humanitarian who is wholly dedicated to helping make our world a better place to live.

Above all, Dr. Kim Soon -kwon promotes a self-reliant food supply, through high-yielding corn crops, in such countries as Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, and Cambodia, which often sLLffor from chronic food shortages.

ly grown in western and central

a phenomenal success that the IITA

because of this, I was often mentioned

evaluation team reported "a corn

as a candidate for the Nobel prize.

miracle has occurred in central and

Western scientists researched ways

western Africa. " As evidence of this,

to eliminate this weed for 100 years,

Nigeria, which had previously needed

but had given up on ever finding a way

to import 1 million tons of corn annu-

to eradicate it."

ally, has now become self-sufficient

In fact, Striga is said to cause

Africa. Yet this potential obstacle did

in corn. Practically on a daily basis,

crop damage of about $7 billion each

not deter Dr. Kim in the least. As one

the media in Africa published feature

year on the African continent. So,

of the world's three major staple

stories about Dr. Kim and his land-

instead of attempting to eliminate the

crops, along with rice and wheat,

mark work, along with a commemo-

seemingly indestructible weed, Dr.

corn is the most versatile with more

rative coin being minted to honor his

Kim focused his efforts on developing

than 2,500 uses for corn and its

invaluable contributions.

a variety of corn that would be able to

byproducts. In this regard , Dr. Kim intently

While in Africa, Dr. Kim, in all

coexist with Striga. Ultimately, he

likelihood due to his constant on-site

managed to create a corn hybrid that

focused his efforts on three key

field inspections, contracted malaria ,

could maintain a symbiotic coexis-

objectives. First, he sought to develop

fell gravely ill, and fortunately was

tence with the weed and still yield a

corn breeds that would contribute to

able to recover, on five separate

successful harvest. Consequently,

higher revenues for farmers and help

occasions. It is also estimated that he

the crop damage from Striga was

to alleviate the hunger of the world's

racked up some 1 million kilometers

reduced from a highly destructive 73

poor and needy. Second, to create

of travel in Africa, hopscotching

percent to a mere 5 percent.

high-yielding, disease-resistant corn

around the western and central

Moreover, this method of cur-

varieties. And third, to conduct

regions, in his efforts to increase the

tailing parasitic weeds is applicable

research in the fields where the

food supplies.

not only to corn but to sorghum, mil-

"My greatest achievement in

let, rice , and other crops as well. As

Africa was creating a crop variety that

such, it is projected its application

Soon enough, Dr. Kim developed

could resist Striga, a parasitic weed

will result in crop-protection benefits

an African hybrid corn that was such

known as the 'devil weed .' And

of about $1.2 billion annually. Of par-

crops are grown, rather than within the confines of the research center.

66 Koreana I Spring 2006

ticular note, because this innovative

asked Dr. Kim to join their organiza-

was able to establish the Inter-

method is now being adapted to cur-

tion. But he always turned down these

national Corn Foundation in March

tail the parasitic weed Orobanche,

offers, choosing to continue his work

1998, with himself as the director.

which wreaks extensive damage in

at IITA. Then, upon hearing the news

And thanks to the assistance of

such regions as the Mediterranean,

reports about the serious famine situ-

numerous sponsors, Dr. Kim has

Spain, Eastern Europe, and Russia, it

ation in North Korea due to devastat-

been vigorously conducting corn-

has attracted the keen attention of

ing flooding, he was forced to con-

crop research to help boost the food

agriculturalists the world over.

template on his future direction.

supplies of North Korea and Third

""I began to wonder whether I

World nations. Through his unceasing

True Humanitarian

could stay in Africa while my fellow

research efforts, he serves as a fore-

In recognition of his research

Koreans were dying of hunger. I

most example of a genuine humani-

efforts, Dr. Kim was named the first

believed that if I could help increase

tarian who is wholly dedicated to

honorary Nigerian Mayegun, meaning

the food supplies in North Korea,

making our world a better place to

""one who feeds the poor." In 1986, he

through corn, this would be like

live for all mankind .

received the International Agricultural

opening the sluice gate of unifica-

Research Award from the King of

tion ."

Dr. Kim has vowed anew: ""I became a thremmatologist who is

Belgium, as well as the Africa

In truth, it was not an easy deci-

helping to increase world food sup-

National Association Research Award

sion to accept a position at his alma

plies thanks to my dream, vision,

and a technological development

mater, Kyungpook National Univer-

efforts, and confidence . For the rest

award from Italy. Over the years, sev-

sity, for a salary that was only 25 per-

of my life, I will continue to conduct

eral major seed companies and

cent of his compensation package at

corn research so that I can contribute

prominent research centers have

I IT A. Upon his return to Korea, he

to the betterment of humanity."

1.:.11

Spring 2006 I Koreana 67

ON THE ROAD

Suncheon Wandering about Korea's History and Nature Suncheon reaps the rich bounty of the land and sea. Here, amid ancient temples and fortificat ions, Suncheonman Bay offers a natural treasure trove of ecological diversity. Yi Gyeom Travel Writer [text and photographs)

The expansive tidal flats that extend along the shores of Suncheonman Bay became the first tidal flat area in Korea to be registered by the interna tional marshland organi zation RAMSAR. as Marshl an d No. 1594 [above I. Tour boat leisurely cruises past the th ickets of reeds found growing around Suncheonman Bay [below].

â&#x20AC;¢

~ -~ "__:__:_ ~~

.,_- .

. 2006 I Koreana Spring

he southwestern region of the Korean peninsula is home to Jeollanam-do province. In the southeast

area of the province, Suncheon lies nestled at the foot of the Sobaeksanmaek mountain range, stoically looking over the adjacent coastline. The river that winds through the city runs deep and clear, providing vital irrigation to nearby fields. With broad stretches of tidal flats extending along the shoreline, Suncheon reaps the rich bounty of the land and sea . An Urbanite's Journey

The cold night air maintains its hold over the town, but I need to get going to catch the sunrise. At the harbor, the light gradually spreads over the area, quietly marking the dawn of a calm morning. Compared to the east coast, the sunrise at this southwestern shore might seem rather uneventful. The ball of light rising over the sea appears to be somewhat lacking in force and spirit. But the dawn sunlight, spreading silently like water being absorbed into handmade traditional Korean paper, is subtle, like the unassuming character of the local residents. The day begins with the blue of the oceanÂˇs rich endowed tidelands contrasting with the dawnÂˇs brief redness on the horizon. Suncheon, where the land meets the sea, is the setting of the novel A Journey to Mujin by Kim Sung-ok [b. 1941]. At the wharf, a small street, known as Mujin Road, comes into view. In the novel, the recurring fog of this coastal area serves as a metaphor for an intellectual who compromises with reality through the nihilism and lack of purposefulness of youth. The path of materialism, naively

1 Visitors who come by Seonamsa Temple in spring are greeted by an abundance of white magnolias in full bloom. 2 Originally built in 528 , Seonamsa Temple boasts a history of almost 1.500 years and a considerable number of distinguished monks who have passed through its gates. 3 A small bell with fish pendant hangs from the eaves of the temple . which produces a clear sound whenever there is a breeze.

chosen by the protagonist of the novel, is at least accompanied by shame; whereas today, when capitalism reigns supreme, we rush to shamelessly embrace materialism .

A lifelong urbanite like me knows nothing about the

When an urbanite, who comes from an environment in

high tide when the water level rises and the ebb tide when

which the power of capitalism spreads out in every direc-

it recedes, let alone the spring tide when the tidal variation

tion like the roots of bamboo, walks along Muj in Road,

reaches a peak or the neap tide when the differences are

there is a sense that the times may have changed, but the

moderated. In a small weatherworn ticket office at a cor-

situation remains the same. To escape this shamefulness,

ner of the wharf, a tidal calendar is posted . Knowing the

I quickly walk away from Mujin Road.

tidal conditions is critical for the villagers who rely on the Spring 2006 I Koreana 71

Naganeupseong Folk Village represents a real-life cultural attraction where visitors can see firsthand the everyday life of Koreans from bygone days. The genuine warmth and vitality that the villagers exude give Naganeupseong a quaint charm so rarely seen nowadays. sea for their livelihood. But for urban dwellers, whose

encompass a broad expanse of some 35 square kilometers

world is dominated by concrete and pavement, it is neces-

which extend over two local administrative districts.

sary to know the rise and fall of commuter traffic.

Out of curiosity, I boarded a small boat. As it passed

With the city at the center, Goheung peninsula to the

through the reed tracts to get out to sea, it was so exhila-

west, and Yeosu peninsula to the east, Suncheonman Bay

rating for me to be riding at the bow of a boat as it

is more like a huge lake. With broad stretches of tidal flats

skimmed past dense growths of reeds that reached above

extending along the shoreline, its gorgeous scenery fea-

a person's head. The tour of Suncheonman Bay, which

tures islands and islets in the nearby seas, together with

lasted about 30 minutes or so, was over all too soon.

expansive tracts of reeds abutting the coast and mountains in the distant background .

Finding Comfort at Seonamsa Temple

The reed tracts of Suncheonman Bay are said to be

""All you have to do is change your clothes ." That is

the most extensive in the country. The locals will tell you

what the monk told me as I stood in front of Daeungjeon

that the most picturesque scenery occurs in October, when

Hall, after walking around the grounds of Seonamsa

sea blight turns the coastal waters red. They also note that

Temple. " But, I'm already married,'" I replied . To which the

a number of rare birds pass through here during winter,

monk responded: "I'm married myself. So was the

including the Chinese egret, SaundersÂˇs gull, hooded

Buddha." I then remembered that when Siddhartha

crane, and white stork.

entered the priesthood at age 29, he had already been

On January 20, residents here welcomed the news that the tidal flats of Suncheonman Bay and the Boseong

married, and attained enlightenment at 35. In any case, being married was a poor excuse.

and Beolgyo areas became the first tidal flats in Korea to

This incident happened last year, but it remains

be registered by the international marshland organization

uppermost in my mind whenever I visit Seonamsa . It is said

RAMSAR, as Marshland No. 1594. These tidal flat areas

that there is a right place for everyone. Based on my travel experiences, I have come to believe that Seonamsa is the right place for me. Two temples, Seonamsa and Songgwangsa, are found on the opposite sides of Mt. Jogyesan, each with its own character. Whereas Songgwangsa is reminiscent of a refined gentleman with an upright posture, Seonamsa is more like the garden of a warm-hearted countrywoman. The time for prayer is announced by the sounding of

beopgo [drum used in Buddhist rituals]. mogeo [wooden percussion instrument in the shape of a carp with a hollowed out underside]. and unpan [bronze gong in the shape of a cloud]. followed by the ringing of beomjong [temple bell]. Everyone stops whatever they are doing and 72 Ko reana I Spring 2006

Just outside the gate of Naganeupseong Fortress, local vendors sell a variety of grains. 2 The thatched roofs of Naganeupseong Folk Village match the gentle curves of the rolling hills that surround the village . 3 Naganeupseong is a fortification that was built by piling up stones to form a rectangular enclosure with a perimeter of some 1.384 meters. V1s,tors can walk along the top of the ramparts and enjoy a scenic view of the village .

Spring 2006 I Korean a 73

The men's and women 's areas are separated, and although the interior is divided by partitions at chest height, there are open spaces above the front door and the walls. The lower sections of the walls are fitted with grillwork that provides ventilation and allows in some light from the outside. This openness seems to encourage you to purge your mind and body. Charm of Naganeupseong

About 6:00 in the afternoon, I stopped by at Naganeupseong Folk Village. I entered an eatery and sat down on the floor. The woman who took my order spoke with a heavy southern dialect. When I asked her where I could find a place to spend the night, she introduced me to the owner of a guesthouse, who greeted me in the customary manner by asking whether I had eaten. As I was taking off my shoes, I noticed a movement out of the corner of my eye. It was a little puppy, so tiny that I had to look twice. My Naganeupseong Folk Village represents a real-life cultural attraction where 230 residents maintain a traditional village lifestyle of bygone days .

host told me the puppy had lost its mother, after which she had been feeding it milk for more than a month. The puppy was irresistibly cute as it wagged its tail as if pleased to

becomes silent. The sounds penetrate my body and remain

see me . The old woman lived in this house, named

there for a while, instilling me with a sense of comfort that

Hwangtobang, with her daughter and son-in-law. The

I belong here . When I see the unique attraction of

tranquility of this thatched house made for a perfect end to

Seonamsa, the red mantle, known as the "blood gown,"

a tiring day.

that is draped over the shoulders of the gray robes of the

Naganeupseong is surrounded by a fortification that

monks, a feeling of sadness and loneliness washes over

was built by piling up stones to form a rectangular enclo-

me. It is like the melancholy of seeing the withering of

sure, measuring 1,384 meters in length. Visitors can walk

camellia blossoms, when the once-brilliant flowers fall off

along the top of the ramparts, where they can look over the

their stems and silently descend to the ground. But what

entire village. The gentle curves of the thatched cottages,

can I do, after having chosen this path of loneliness for

with roofs made with reeds or rice straw, look like a moth-

myself?

er's tender breasts. Abounding with curves and rounded

Any visitor to Seonamsa must take the time to visit its

forms, Naganeupseong Folk Village conveys an image of

haeuso, which literally means a place to relieve anxiety, or

palpable warmth. The path along the ramparts around the

the toilet area. The well-known Korean architect Kim Su-

fortress is ideal for a refreshing morning walk.

geun called Seonamsa Âˇs haeuso the largest and most

I descend from the ramparts to leisurely meander

beautiful restroom in all Korea. It is built in a T shape, with

among the thatched houses. As I wander about, the quaint

the top of the entrance being rounded like a bow. The floor

charm of the village houses and alleyways cause a sensa-

is covered with broad wood planks with a comfortable feel.

tion of serenity to swell within me. Earthen walls, which

74 Koreana I Sp rin g 2006

stand at eye level, pique my curiosity about what might be

out on mats on the ground. With each container being

on the other side. For someone looking out from within a

marked with the place of origin, the scrawled handwriting

house, it would be difficult to glimpse anything more than

and unconventional spelling of the old women served to

the bobbing heads of passersby. By standing tiptoe or on a

create a light-hearted atmosphere.

stone, you can look over the wall. I guess curiosity does not

Images of sereneness are seen everywhere you turn

necessarily diminish , even when you reach your 30s.

in Naganeupseong . The gently curved thatched roofs, cozy

Stealing a glance beyond the wall, I suddenly think about

alleyways, and wizened trees are all elements that add to

city walls, which are not simply walls, but barriers.

the peaceful charm of this countryside area . But it is not

After exiting an alley, I come face to face with a bull,

just the graceful scenery that beckons people to

casually munching on straw. It looks directly at me with its

Naganeupseong. It is also the delightful freshness of vil-

big, gentle eyes, without any sense of concern. I admit to

lage residents. A tourist attraction without real life is like a

being somewhat startled, but the bull was not the least

stuffed animal or fossil. Naganeupseong Folk Village, on

perturbed. As I emerged from the fortress gate, there

the other hand, is teeming with the warm vibrancy of coun-

were several elderly women vendors selling a variety of

try people, which in contrast seems to be lacking in today's

grains, which had been placed in plastic containers spread

urbanites.

t;1

Straw Craftsman Im Chae-ji Naganeupseong Folk Village includes small workshops

where handicraft articles are made in accordance with traditional methods. Among these items. straw handicrafts are a regional specialty. Straw craftsman Im Chae-ji, 69. dresses in traditional Korean clothing. with his hair worn in a topknot, which was the custom for adult men in past eras. Upon seeing him. it seemed as though I had entered a thatched house during the time of the Joseon Dynasty. ''I've been making these things for about 20 years. In the old days, all the villagers used to make various items from straw." Even while he speaks. his hands are busily working. The small area of his workshop is overflowing with all kinds of his handmade items. The straw-handicraft process begins with weaving dried rice straw into a thin cord, which is woven into various shapes for particular items. With the aid of only a few simple tools, the quality of the handcrafted products depends entirely on the skills of the individual artisan. The straw items that Im makes would invariably arouse a strong nostalgia within anyone from a countryside hometown . His workshop is filled with straw shoes, samtaegi (large baskets]. dorongi (straw raincoats]. meongseok (floor matsl. containers, and numerous other items.

Particularly impressive are the masks of the 12 animals of the East Asian zodiac. Im says it

Im Chae-ji handcrafted this dog-face mask from rice straw to commemorate the Year of the Dog in 2006, according to the East Asian zodiac system .

can take more than ten days to make one such mask. No doubt these zodiac masks are among his most prized handicraft items.

Sp ri ng 2006 I Koreana 75

CUISINE

Dubu-Jeongol Traditional Dish of Dubu (Tofu) and Vegetables For many Koreans, beans are the ideal food type for an individual's dietary regimen and physical well-being. In Line with this, beans are central to the jeongol (casserole) cooking style, which includes the savory dubu-jeongol made of dubu (tofu) combined with a variety of vegetables. Chun Hui-jung Professor, Korean Food Institute, Sookmyung Women's University Bae Jae-hyung Photographer

ubu-jeongol is perhaps the most popular cuisine in Korea made with dubu. With a hearty broth and several kinds of vegetables, it can be served as a stand-

alone meal, without need for the regular side dishes. Moreover, the inclusion of dubu and beef make this dish rich in taste as well as protein. Unfortunately, various Korean restaurants pay little heed to distinguishing between dubu-jeongol and dubu-

jjigae [tofu stew]. while using the terms interchangeably. Although both dishes feature a soup broth, consisting of dubu and assorted ingredients, jjigae and jeongol are two different types of food. Dubu-jjigae is a soup dish made with slices of dubu together with soybean paste and red pepper paste or red pepper powder. However, dubu-jeongol consists of dubu that has been pan-fried and then combined with beef, vegetables, mushrooms, and eggs in a hearty broth. The key difference between dubu-jeongol and dubu-jjigae is that the former can be consumed directly from the hotpot brought to the table, and to which more vegetables and broth can be added.

History of Dubu The first reference to dubu can be found in Mogeunjip, written during the Goryeo Dynasty [918-1392]. In one of his poems, Yi Saek [penname Mogeun, 1328-1396] described the delectable taste of freshly made dubu. Other early references include Gwon Geun·s explanation of how dubu was prepared in Yangchonjip, and Heo Gyun [1569-1618]. a literati during the Joseon Dynasty, who mentioned in Domundaejak that the dubu sold by vendors from outside Changuimun Gate was especially soft and smooth . Also, an entry in Sejongsillok [Records of King Sejong·s Reign] notes that a Ming Dynasty king had lauded the women of Joseon for their ability to prepare a variety of sumptuous foods, of which he considered Korean dubu to be superb. Historical data seem to suggest that the consumption of dubu became widespread in Korea during the Goryeo Dynasty. Certain scholars contend that since ancient Koreans lived as nomadic tribes and that beans are believed to have originated in Manchuria, it is likely the Dongyi [Eastern Barbarian] tribe, direct ancestors of the Korean people, was the first to produce soybean curd. But others claim that soybean curd was actually developed in China, in the Huainan area of Anhui, where an annual soybean festival is still held today. Whatever the case, it is true tha·t Koreans, from long ago, had acquired the knowledge for processing beans in various ways. As such, in addition to dubu, they also produced a number of other food items from fermented beans, including soy sauce and soybean paste.

Origin of Dubu-jeongol Although jeongol cooking methods have long been passed down from one generation to another, there are no references to "jeongol" in the oldest-known Joseon cookbook: Eumsik jimibang [c. 16 70]. The first mention of jeongol can be found in

Spring 2006 I Koreana 77

Manguksamulgiwonyeoksa, which notes that in the days of long ago, when troops in the field were without cooking implements, they would use their iron helmets to cook soup and stew dishes. Related to this, the use of a hotpot for cooking a variety of meat and vegetab le dishes gained widespread popularity thanks to its practicality. The cuisine of Korea includes an abundance of soups of all kinds. This is no doubt the reason the Korean people are sometimes referred to as

tang minjok [soup-loving people]. Furthermore, it is traditional for a typical Korean meal to be centered around a soup [main course) and side dishes . Various earthenware items uncovered from Neolithic sites are likely to have been implements used to prepare dishes that combined grain and vegetables, as well as shellfish. The excavation of traces of vari ous grains, including barnyard millet, fo xtail millet, millet, and sorghum, and beans , provides evidence that

Sinseonuigwe, a publication about royal palace cuisine

agriculture began to flourish on the Korean peninsula

compiled in 1868. A reference to dubu-jeongol is found in

about 1000 B.C., along with suggesting that special coo k-

the first volume of Siuijeonseo, a two-volume book about

ing implements and methods would have been requi red to

the favorite foods of the yangban, or aristocratic class,

prepare these non-glutinous grains. In all likelihood, the

from about 1800. Thus, dubu-jeongol can boast at least a

consumption of these grains led to the emergence of the

200-year history.

spoon in Korea, some 1,000 years earlier than in the West,

Jeongol is often combined with a key ingredient to

as indicated by the recent excavation of spoons made of

form the name of a particular dish, such as domi-jeongol

bone, dating to the 6th or 7th century B.C. , and bronze

[sea bream). nakji-jeongol [octopus). and songi-jeongol

spoons from the Bronze Age . The widespread availability of

[pine mushroom). However, the term jeongol itself is

the spoon was closely related to the preponderance of

derived from the hotpot that was traditionally used to pre-

soup dishes in Korean food and the proliferation of its

pare these dishes. Although theories abound about the ori-

"tang culture," in addition to the prevalence of bowls,

gin of the hotpot, many point to a passage from

rather than plates, as dining vessels. i...t

78 Korea na I Spring 2006

Dubu-jeongol is believed to have been created about 200 years ago. Though orig inally a fare reserved for the privileged classes, it has since become a favorite dish of people from all across the social spectrum.

Dubu-Jeongol Ingredients: 1 block of dubu 1400-450 grams). salt, oil, shredded beef, bean sprouts 1100 grams). white radish 1150 grams]. onion [80 gramsl. dropwort

1100 grams). beef [100 gramsl. 3 shitake mushrooms, 3 manna lic~en mushrooms. shallot 150 grams). carrot 1100 grams). 2 eggs, pine nuts, brot h 12 cups). light soy sauce [1 teaspoon]. salt [1/2 teaspoon). Seasonings:

A: Dark soy sauce 11 teaspoon). salt 11 teaspoon). sugar 11 teaspoon). minced shallot 11 teaspoon), minced garlic [2 teaspoons). sesame salt 11 teaspoon]. sesame oil [1 teaspoon) B: Dark soy sauce [1 teaspoon). salt [1/8 teaspoon). minced shallot [2 teaspoons). minced garl.ic [2 teaspoons). black pepper 11/8 teaspoon]. sesame oil 11 teaspoon) C: Light soy sauce [1/2 teaspoon). salt 11/3 teaspoon]. minced shallot [1 teaspoon]. minced garlic [lteaspoonl. sugar

11/2 teaspoon). sesame oil 11 teaspoon).

Preparation

Slice dubu into pieces 4 centimeters long, 3 centimeters wide, and 5 millimeters thick, and pierce slightly in the middle of each piece. While maintaining the dubu pieces in their original shape, salt lightly, pat dry, and pan fry. • Drain dubu, combine with minced beef, and top with half of seasoning A. Quickly boil the dropwort in salt water and use it to tie together the fried dubu pieces into pairs. Add remainder to beef balls and cover with wheat flour and eggs and then fry. • Mince beef and top with seasoning B. • Clean bean sprouts and boil with the sliced radish. Slice onions and top all of the above with seasoning C. Mix with the beef from step No. 3 and place in a jeongol hotpot. • Slice shitake and manna lichen mushrooms into strips 4 centimeters long and 1.5 centimeters wide. Separate the egg whites and yolks, fry and slice each the same size as the mushrooms. Wash the carrots and shallots and slice into the same size. • Place tied-up dubu pieces into the hotpot, and then arrange the shitake mushrooms, carrots, manna lichen mushrooms, fried egg whites and egg yolks, dropwort, and shallots in an attractive arrangement [ingredients can be added in any order!. Then, place the meatballs in the hotpot. • Garnish the boiled broth with pine nuts and serve in individual bowls, or eatdirectly from the hotpot at the table.

Spring 2006 I Koreana

LIVING

â&#x20AC;˘

Path to a Bright Future or False Hopes? Nowadays, Korea is said to be a "gosi republic." As the high unemployment rate among the younger age groups continues to persist, ever more young people are pinning their hopes on gosi, or state examinations. Moreover, the gosi phenomenon has given rise to a unique culture with wide-ranging ramifications for Korea's young people and society overall. Kang Hae-seung Reporter, The Seoul Shinmun Choi Hang-yong Photographer

The popularity of gosi state exams is nothing new, but in recent years it has surged to unprecedented extremes.

Koreana I Spring 2006

n Korea, a "gosi culture" has taken root to such an extent that it would be quite difficult to find a comparable situation in any other country. The state-administered examinations for government civil service and a variety of professions, commonly referred to as "gosi," have long represented a source of high hopes and social acceptance for Koreans. But due to the

economy's recent inability to create adequate employment opportunities, the gosi system is being increasingly seen as the pathway to a professional career and upward social mobility. Competition of 100:1

The number of Koreans studying for gosi exams is estimated at some 400,000 to 500,000 at any one time . The most sought-after gosi areas include: the law exam that is required to become a lawyer, prosecutor, or judge; the administrative exam to qualify for senior-level civil service positions; and the foreign affairs exam for the pursuit of a diplomatic career. There are also exams to qualify for such professions as a certified public accountant, patent attorney, and labor-management consultant, and more recently, an exam for entry-level civil servant positions has been offered as well. This year, the entry-level civil service exam attracted

more than 200,000 candidates, representing a

employment in the private sector. Accordingly,

competition of well over 100:1 for the available

long-term job security is now only available

positions. When regional civil service exams are

under the civil service system. And when you

included, the total pool of gosi aspirants would

consider that Korean society continues to hold

far surpass general estimates.

government officials in high esteem, it is clear

The popularity of gosi is nothing new, but in recent years it has surged to unprecedented

Those who prepare for gosi exams can expect fierce competition of upwards of 100 :1.

why civil service positions are so highly prized, despite the fierce competition.

extremes. By far, the most popular gosi exams are for government civil service employment. A

Gosi Culture

civil service position is a favorite career choice

Korea's gosi culture encompasses count-

among university students, while even company

less exam candidates as well as specialized

employees earning high salaries will study after

institutes or academies, which form the core of

hours to prepare for the civil service exams. The

so-called "gosi towns" or communities. Though

reason for this is clear: employment security.

similar in character to the "college streets" that

In the past, there was a widespread belief

emerge around university campuses, the gosi

in Korea that securing a job effectively assured a

towns and their private institutes, which cater to

person of lifetime employment. But Korea's

the needs of aspirants preparing for exams, are

financial crisis of 1997-98, and the drastic eco-

independent of the higher education system.

nomic restructuring measures that were adopt-

Since gosi institutes focus narrowly on helping

ed, virtually eliminated the concept of lifelong

candidates to maximize their exam scores, the Sp ri ng 2006 I Koreana 81

Study room in a gosi institute in Sillim-dong, where students live while preparing for the law exam. The majority of gosi aspirants will reside in a gosi town for a period of at least six months to several years, in some cases. 2 Due to the job security of government employment, the civil service exam is the most popular today among gosi candidates. 3 Lunchtime at a restaurant in Noryangjin gosi town. The gosi culture creates an environment under which asp irants come to depend on each other, as friends with common interests , and as r ivals who can spark their competitive drive.

82 Korea na I Spring 2006

Although gosi exams can open the door to a professional career for successful candidates, the fast-growing number of those falling short of the mark, and the related adverse consequences, can no longer be ignored. Unfortunately, this kind of social abnormality does not lend itself to a quick and easy fix.

instruction they offer is thought to be indispens-

tortion of university education . Today, the gosi

able. In fact, almost without exception, gosi can-

culture has become wholly divorced from the

didates would not even think about taking an

traditional university education and experience.

exam unless their preparations included at least

For example, university law students will not

si x months of institute instruction, along with

think twice about skipping classes to attend a

taking up residence within a gosi town.

gosi institute. They favor the lessons of an insti-

The best-known gosi towns in Seoul

tute instructor over the lectures of even a distin-

include Sillim-dong and Noryangjin. As such,

guished law professor. Among gosi candidates,

the gosi institutes and candidates preparing for

it is said that a formal education alone will not

the law exam form the lifeblood of the entire

assure a successful exam outcome . As an

Sillim-dong district, whereas in Noryangjin, the

extension of this notion, it is believed that the

related institutes, bookstores, and lodging facili-

"know-how" for preparing and passing gosi

ties of the business district move in lockstep

exams can only be learned at these specialized

with the cycle of aspirants studying for the civil

institutes, rather than in the university class-

service exams. Though it can be burdensome to

room .

relocate to such a gosi town, it does enable can-

As a consequence , the ever-growing num-

didates to fully concentrate on their preparatory

ber of university students are abandoning the

study, along with having convenient access to all

college campus to take up gosi pursuits. Indeed,

necessary facilities and services. Within these

along with the graduates of university law

unique communities, gosi aspirants find solace

schools, many other graduates, regardless of

and encouragement in the other people strug gling for similar goals. Gosi applicants depend on each other, as friends with common interests and as rivals who can spark their competitive drive.

Social Consequences Over the years, the gosi towns and institutes have helped countless individuals to pass examinations and move on to rewarding professional careers. But where there is brightness, there must also be darkness. And this is increasingly true of the existing gosi system. In particular, the most serious problem is its disSpring 2006 I Koreana 83

1 Noryangjin gosi town , where gosi applicants study mainly for the civil service exam. Around Noryangjin Station, a barrage of gosi institute signboards blare out to passersby. 2 Advertis ing signs like th is are a common sight in Noryangjin gosi town. To attract more gosi students, every private institute in the gosi towns advertises its star instructors

their major, are eagerly striving to sit for the law

ous social concerns , there have been mounting

exam or compete for a civil service position. As

calls to reform the gosi culture. In response to

a result, the lofty image of the university as a

this situation, the government plans to overhaul

center for scholarly pursuit is being notably

its civil service exams and to restructure the law

undermined, along with coming under fire for

profession by abolishing the current law exam.

becoming vocational schools or de facto gosi

Starting from 2008, Korea will implement a law

institutes.

school system similar to those of the United

Another serious problem is the growing number of "gosi washouts," which refers to

States and Japan, while the existing law exam will be eliminated by 2012.

those who prepare for gosi exams but fail, and

In an effort to normalize university edu-

then remain unemployed, thereby becoming

cation, it has been proposed that the universi-

long-term gosi hopefuls. It is not unusual for

ty grades of applicants be duly considered to

such people to remain in gosi towns for five or

determine admission to law school, and that

even ten years . And while a handful of these

students be allowed to take the law school

individuals might eventually succeed, more

entrance exam no more than three times.

often than not, they end up trapped in an end-

Meanwhile, the civil service selection process

less cycle of preparation and failure.

will likely include a new aptitude test, as com-

Government officials estimate that there may be

p a red to the previous exam that focused

as many as 50,000 gosi washouts. Korean soci-

mainly on rote memorization, along with

ety, in which the economically active population

greater weight being allocated to personal

is projected to contract in the near future, can ill

interviews .

afford the loss of such a substantial amount of

Most everyone would tend to agree that it

manpower resources among the 20s and 30s

would be beneficial to rectify various problems

age groups.

related to the gosi system. But for a social abnormality of this kind, well rooted in place,

Reform Measures

As these consequences snowball into seri84 Koreana I Spring 2006

any meaningful change will undoubtedly require a trying and time-consuming process. 1.1

KIM YOUNG- HA

From the second half of the 1990s, author Kim Young-ha began to distinguish himself as an icon of Korea's literary world. With a boundless imagination, he moves effortlessly between reality and fantasy with a method of expression that enables him to reveal real-life experiences from the mundaneness of everyday routine .

Âˇ~.

CRITIQUE

Resentn1ent Arising fron1 the Edge of Reality and Fantasy Hong Gi don I 1tcr.1n

(

, L

im Young-ha (b. 1968) is known to look upon the world with resentful eyes. He has little hope that the

world around him will change for the better, a disdainful outlook likely rooted in the experiences of his generation. In 1987, Kim was a coffin-bearer who helped to carry Lee Han-yeol, a student activist who was killed in a violent antigovernment demonstration during the days of Korea's military rule, from Yonsei University to Seoul City Hall. Widespread public protest was fueled that year when former army general Roh Tae-Woo was named the presidential candidate by the outgoing military regime. And though the Lee Han-yeol incident led Roh to issue a declaration on June 29, 1987, in which he agreed to promote democratization and direct elections, hopes for change were dashed when a three-way race, which split the opposition ranks, enabled Roh to emerge as the victor later that year. The sacrifices of Kim and his generation thus came to naught. Later, the death of Lee Han-yeol became a symbol of the country's struggle for democracy, as reality unfolded in a repetition of similar incidents. In 1989, the Berlin Wall came down, and then in the winter of 1991 the Soviet Union , the center of socialism, collapsed. More than most other countries, these developments were of particular significance to Korea. The river of change that had been swiftly flowing suddenly stagnated. All manner of dizzying changes were launched, invariably with a title of "new." Kim Young-ha, who had once been sought by the Roh Tae-Woo prosecutors, came to acknowledge these changes, which marked the starting point of his writing. This is the background that gave rise to Kim's intense hatred and the defining moment of his literary work. After he received the first new-writer award presented by Munhakdongne Publishing Corp. for his novel I Have the Right to Destroy Myself (Naneun Naruel Pagoehal Gwolliga ltda). Kim remarked: "It is anachronistic to use

categories such as "historyÂˇ and "the people' as a framework for defining the lives of people in this time. Rather, the important thing is the picture of how people are living now, such that issues like "historyÂˇ and 'the people,' which dominated the 1980s, are discarded. So, I took as my start-

86 Koreana I Sp ring 2006

ing point a denial of recollection or realism in literature."

which is central to this collection of stories. Between the

The low cultural ethos, which is featured in his collec-

slash lies secrets and wounds unknown to each other

tions of short fiction The Pager [Hochu/) and What

[personal experiences). Therefore, the man and the

Happened to the Guy Stuck in the Elevator?, and his novel I

woman are both obsessed with their image toward the

Have the Right to Destroy Myself. together with his resent-

other. The woman, who works as a stand-in for famous

ment of reality and consciousness of death, can be inter-

movie stars in love scenes, is a manifestation of this. The

preted as his criticism and dismissal of the world. In this

places not captured by camera, that is, the places that we

way, Kim became an instant sensation of Korea's literary

cannot view, are outside our interest. They are unseen and

scene. For example, in I Have the Right to Destroy Myself

ignored . If you reflect upon the video culture, which rapidly

he writes: "For any human being seeking to become a god

gained influence in the 1990s, the timeliness of "The

in this age there are only two ways: to create or to kill." In

Pager" is clearly apparent.

essence, this is Kim's world-view, which clearly reveals his

Kim does not take an interest in unseen and disre-

intent to position himself on the outside. Through the

garded internal wounds. This is because taking an interest

aforementioned works, Kim came to be recognized as a lit-

in places where the burden of life is so deeply entrenched

erary icon in the latter half of the 1990s.

will not help to change the world. In addition, Kim does not

In the 2000s, Kim published the anthology Elder

delve into the world of images either. As an outsider, he

Brother Has Returned [Oppaga Dorawatda) and the novels

observes the world with a cold reality. He wrote "The

Arang, Why [Arangeun De) and Black Flower [Geomeun

Pager" while standing on the edge of reality and the world

Kkot). Arang, Why, which rejects simple narration,

of images. But the artistry of Kim can be seen in the fol-

revealed the limitations of bitter hatred that had fallen into

lowing excerpt. [Chungmuro is the Mecca of Korea's film

mannerisms and an absence of literary creation. But these

industry.)

shortcomings are surmounted in his following work, Black

"It was about 3 p.m. at Chungmuro Subway Station. I

Flower, in which he transcends intuitional rejection of the

was walking along the yellow line, the one that the

world. As such, careful collection of source material and

announcement warns: 'The train is arriving; for your safe-

information, along with insightful field trips to Latin

ty, please step behind the yellow line.' Maybe I was safe,

America, provided a solid foundation for the novel. Though

maybe not. I like that kind of tightrope walk. My favorite

at times the novel includes less than compelling evidence

tightrope is the one that divides reality from fantasy .

and various gaps in the narrative, Black Flower is clearly a

Sometimes I think that reality is fantasy; sometimes I go

step forward, as compared to his previous works, for going

through life believing that my fantasies are real. But this

beyond the realm of intuition. At the same time, in consid-

obscurity never struck me as problematic. It's like watch-

eration of its main thrust, of challenging the nation-state, it

ing a film: I explore my fantasy world within a fixed frame-

can also be thought of as an extension of his underlying

work of time."

resentment. So now, readers are left wondering in what direction Kim might proceed from here. "The Pager" is a short story included in his first

At the end of the story, the author asks and answers his own questions: "What would have happened if I had really given her the pager? Whatever-real life is tedious,

anthology of the same title. The story is relatively straight-

but fantasy is exciting." No matter how wonderful the fanta-

forward. A man sees an attractive woman on the subway.

sy, if you cannot withstand the dreariness of everyday life, it

He then gives her his pager, or so he thinks. The fantasies

is all nothing more than illusion. 'The Pager" wavers at the

that this man has about the woman, while waiting to page

brink of this dilemma. Accordingly, it can be said that "The

her, make up the content of the story. "To page/to be

Pager" is a work that gathers together and offers a glimpse

paged" is a variation of the theme "to see/to be seen,"

into all the various possibilities of Kim Young-ha.

Spri ng 2006 I Koreana 87

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Korea National Oil Corporation I

with hope into tomorrow...

POSCO is preserving lhe locomolive al Jangdhan Slalion (Modern Cullural Property No_78) lhrough lhe Cullural Herttage Adminsralklr1s OCHOS program.

When we care for our past, it fills tomorrow with hope . At POSCO, we're preserving steel artifacts from Korea's past like the steam locomotive at Jangdhan Station in the DMZ through the One Cultural Heritage to One Supporter program.

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