BRIDGE PAPERZINE

f r e e

english

feb.11.2012

paperzine

issue #00

“ The King is Dead ”

what is next for korea Interview with

Cool Gadgets

Chris Golightly Life after American Idol and SuperstarK 3

Nifty picks you’ll want to get your hands on

Aziatix Bridging the gap with a new genre of music

DongDaeMun Market Navigate the fashion center that never sleeps

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CONTENTS

2012 feb.11

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CEO HANS LEE / SARAH BYON PUBLISHER HANS LEE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR SARAH BYON MANAGEMENT DIVISION DIRECTOR

survival kit

36 lailai hospital story

EDITORIAL DIVISION CREATIVE / CONTENT DIRECTOR (EN) KEEYEON WARREN CREATIVE DIRECTOR (KR) SANG - AA PARK CONTENT DIRECTOR (EN) JONATHAN CARFIELD EDITOR / WRITER CHI NGUYEN CONTRIBUTING EDITOR LYMAN MCLALLEN TRANSLATOR JUNG - YOON CHOI / SEO - JUNG HA / JIN - HEE YOO DESIGN DIVISION ART DIRECTOR

DA - WOON YI

08 dongdaemun market The heart of fashion in korea

JUN - HO LEE

food

12 going home to grandma bae's 14 care packages from korea

life

18 noryrangjin fish market

travel

20 donghae weekender

column

22 what is next for korea

PR / MARKETING / PLANNING DIVISION DIRECTOR (EN) RELEVANT MATTER MANAGER JI - HOON SUN / JASON SONG

PARTNERSHIP RELEVANT MATTER ( WWW.RELEVANT-MATTER.COM ) F.OUND ( WWW.FOUNDMAG.CO.KR ) SEOULIST ( WWW.SEOULISTMAG.CO.KR ) Mont studio

38 dinner with a friend at a korean restaurant hot issue

23 tweets on kim jong il's death 24 SONG BYEOK WILL MAKE HIS US DEBUT

PUBLISHED BY

entertainment

28 chris golightly He's not going without a fight

MARKETING DEPT

30 lumpens

tel +82 - (070) - 4147 - 0701 FAX +82 - (2) - 6280 - 0701 ADVERTISEMENT INQUIRY

An interesting worker

life in korea

TEL +82 - (070) - 4147-0701 ceobyon@gmail.com (KR) keeyeon@relevant-matter.com (EN) Korea Office SUBSCRIPTIONS & INQUIRY 193 - 32 NONHYUNDONG GANGNAMGU SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA TEL +82 - (070) - 4147 - 0701 E - MAIL rokingkorea@gmail.com

26 aziatix Bridging the gap

ROKING KOREA & SEMINAR REVIEW 193 - 32 NONHYUNDONG GANGNAMGU SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA

32 meet bobby choy aka big phony 34 meet dana choi

information

40 cool gadgets 44 joining the group 47 directory

BRIDGE paperzine IS PUBLISHED BY ROKING KOREA & SEMINAR REVIEW REPRODUCTION WITHOUT PERMISSION IS PROHIBITED PRINTED IN SOUTH KOREA.

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letter from bridge staff J

ust because you’re a foreigner in Korea doesn’t mean Korea has to be foreign to you. You asked for a onestop resource that will help you plug in to the community here. We listened. Following the success of Roking Magazine, Bridge is a new project we are launching this month. We created Bridge because we feel there’s a gap that needs to be closed between internationals living in Korea and Koreans. While there is a lot of print and online media out there about Korean news and culture, most of it is unavailable in English. Our goal is to soften the language barrier and create common ground where we can all learn from each other. In our paperzine, you will find relevant news, cultural and entertainment columns, food and restaurant information, travel guides, and other things that we hope will interest you.

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Saying that we worked hard to create Bridge is an understatement.

We spent lots of hours and energy putting together this launch edition of our paperzine, but the payoff is in how you react to it. This is where you come in. We want to hear what you have to say. We know that it’s totally gutsy of you to come to Korea and forge a new life away from your home. Most of us on the Bridge team have also been there too. We know that as internationals living in Korea, having a support system and a social network has a major effect on the richness of your experience here. We want to be there for you.

We hope you’ll enjoy this launch issue and look forward to our future editions!

Cheers, Bridge Staff

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SURVIVAL KIT

dongdaemun market the heart of fashion in korea

Dongdaemun Market is a place that never sleeps.

The style of famous celebrities is reproduced here for immediate next-day use, and the entire production, from designing to selling, all takes place in this busy fashion hub.

Dongdaemun market is the ultimate center for Korea’s fast fashion and one of the busiest in the world.

If you want to get your hands on the latest fashion, Seoul’s Dongdaemun Market is the place to be.

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DooTa !

Want to find some interesting outfits created by young Korean designers? Head to Doota.

With a spacious and bright interior, it has been a favorite among shoppers for a long time. Similar to a department store, Doota contains 12 stories of shops (B2F-10F), all with unique pieces by up-and-coming designers . Tip: All prices at Doota are fixed, so don’t bother haggling here . Location: 18-12, Euljiro 6-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul . Tel: +82-2-3398-3114 . Hours: 10:30am-5am (closed from 11pm on Sunday to 7pm on Monday)

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If you want to shop comfortably, come in the daytime and visit one of Dongdaemun’s shopping malls

Migliore A must-see tourist stop among foreigners, this is the place that started the shopping mall boom in Korea.

At this one-stop shopping center, one can find imported luxury goods shops, men and women’s clothing and accessories stores, restaurants, a hospital, gym, and various other stores . Tip: You can easily find clerks who are fluent in English, Chinese and Japanese, so it is convenient for foreigners to shop here . Location: 18-185 Euljiro 6-ga, Jung-gu, Seul . Tel: +82-2-3393-0001 . Hours: 10:30am-05:00am (Closed from 11pm on Sunday to 7pm on Monday)

Pros: Unlike at the wholesale market, here you can freely shop without obligation to buy. Fitting rooms are available, and exchanges or returns are guaranteed. You can find both men and women’s clothing in the same building. Stop by a café afterwards to take a break from all the shopping.

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Hello APM At Hello APM, you can see what’s hot among teenagers in Korea.

Shoppers here tend to be younger than those at other malls in Dongdaemun. Hello APM is the place to find young and casual looks, workout gear, and quality denim. . Location: 18-35, Euljiro 6-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul . Tel: 82-2-6388-1114 . Hours: 10:30am-5:00am (Closed on Tuesdays)

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Goodmorning City A mega shopping mall with a unique interior, Goodmorning City stands 23 stories high (B7F to 16F). In addition to a movie theater, there are also various accommodations and studios, making Goodmorning City one of a kind. . Location: 18-21, Euljiro 6-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul . Tel: +82-2-2118-8700 . Hours: 10:30am-4:30am (Closed on Tuesdays)

Cons: Prices are higher here than at the wholesale market

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Nampyeonghwa Market

Gwanghee Market

At Nampyeonghwa, you can find great deals on quality bags in various designs.

Nampyeonghwa consists of four floors, with levels B1F and 1F solely dedicated to wholesale shops for bags.

If you want various leather or fur goods, this is the place to go. Divided into four floors (B1F-3F), Gwanghee is famous for its second floor, which sells leather and fur goods in unique colors that are hard to find at normal retail stores.

. Tip: On the 2nd and 3rd floors, you can find not only clothing for men and women, but also stores that specialize in jeans . Tel: +82-2-2237-0620 . Hours: B1F-1F are open midnight to 2pm, 2F-3F are open 8pm-10am

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Cheil Pyeonghwa Market At Cheil Pyeonghwa Market, you can find more mature and dressed-up looks for women.

A four-story building spanning from B1F to 3F, this market is most popular among women in their mid to late 20s.

If you’re looking for high-quality formal looks, make sure to check this place out! . Location: 218-19 Shindang-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul . Tel: +82-2-2252-6744 . Hours: 9pm-5am . Closed: 8pm on Saturday to 5am on Sunday

Want to purchase goods two to three times cheaper than at market price?

Shop at night to experience Dongdaemun’s endless wholesale fashion markets.

. Tip: Fitting rooms are available here. Also, despite being part of the wholesale market, you can purchase goods in small quantities here . Location: 777 Shindang-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul . Tel: +82-2-2232-2882 . Hours: 9pm-5am (closed: 5pm on Saturday to 9pm on Sunday)

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ShinPyeonghwa Market In the five story-high Shinpyeonghwa Market, you will find all varieties of underwear, from generic names to brand names, . Locaton: 217-91, Shindang-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul . Tel: +82-2-2253-0714 . Hours: Open 24 hours (Closed on Sunday)

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Cheongpyeonghwa Market Cheongpyeonghwa Market is famous as a place where one can find the newest items at the lowest prices.

All six levels of the market sell clothing and fashionable accessories catering to females in their teens to their twenties. . Tip: Prices here are outstandingly cheap compared to other buildings, but they have a no-return policy, so be careful when you purchase something! . Location: 217-91 Shindang-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul . Tel: +82-2-2252-8036 . Hours: Midnight-2pm (Closed from midnight on Saturday to 2pm on Sunday)

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The OT The OT has everything that will suit those who are in their teens and twenties. Youthful and casual clothes and accessories are sold here at very cheap prices, luring shoppers to make repeated visits here. . Location: 217-91, Shindang-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul . Tel: +82-2-2117-8000 . Hours: Midnight-2pm (Closed: Midnight on Saturday to 2pm on Sunday)

Pros : Almost all clothing sold in Korea comes from here, so the options you will find are endless. You can purchase goods 2-3 times cheaper than what you would pay in the retail market.

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Cons : There are no fitting rooms here.

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Designer Club If you are out shopping for a more feminine look, Designer Club is the place for you to go.

If you can brave the crowds here, you’re sure to find that perfect outfit for your next romantic date . Location: 217-91, Shindang-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul . Tel: +82-2-2237-2503 . Hours: 8pm-8am (Closed: 8pm on Saturday to 8am on Sunday.)

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U:US U:US is known for having the most up-to-date trendy outfits, and shoppers who are conscious of the newest trends never fail to visit here. . Tip: Compared to other stores, prices at U:US run 20-30% higher. Regardless, it is still cheaper than other retail stores . Location: 251-7, Shindang-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul . Tel: +82-2-6270-1000 . Hours: 8pm-6am (Closed: From 8pm on Saturday to 6am on Sunday)

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Nuzzon Well-known for its high quality handmade shoes, Nuzzone consists of 8 floors, from B2F to 6F. Shops on the 4th floor specialize in selling heels and other trendy shoes for the young. Shoes here are 2-3 times cheaper than those sold at retail. . Tip: All the shoes here are available for retail sale, so you can try them on and purchase them individually. The workers here are also less pushy than at other stores in Dongdaemun. . Location: 200-5 Shindang-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul . Tel: +82-2-6366-3110 . Hours: 8pm to 8 am (closed 8am on Saturday to 8pm on Sunday)

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APM APM highlights the trendiest fashion styles for those in their teens and twenties.

From BF to the 2nd floor are women’s clothes, and the 3rd to 5th floors are men’s clothes. . Tip: APM is highly recommended for fashion-conscious teens and those in their twenties. . Location: 217-91 Shindangdong, Jung-gu, Seoul . Tel: +82-2-2245-7205 . Hours: 8pm-8am (closed: 8pm on Saturday to 8pm on Sunday)

Make your own fashion items!

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From fabrics to buttons, everything you need to create your own fashion items are sold at Dongdaemun Jonghap Market. Since it consists of 4 maze-like buildings (A,B,C,S), even the most skilled shoppers often lose their way here. Don’t hesitate to use the market map and seek help from the info desk.

Dongdaemun Jonghap Market The 1st basement floor and the 1st floor have stores that sell various materials for making clothes, curtains and bedding. The 3rd and 4th floors sell hundreds of different kinds of fabrics. The 5th floor is always crowded with fashion designers and students, as well as customers who are looking for materials for DIY projects. . Location: 289-3, Jongno 6-ga, Jongno-gu, Seoul . Tel: +82-2-2262-0114 . Hours: 8am-5pm (closed on Sundays)

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BY_ SANG-AA PARK(sangaapark@gmail.com) / ILLUSTRATON BY_ DA-WOON YI

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SURVIVAL KIT

Courtesy of

Care Packages from Korea We interviewed three former expats and asked them what they miss from Korea.

The contents of a box are telling of both sender and recipient. In college, for example, my mom would sometimes send me new undies because a) she knew I hated doing laundry and b) it never occurred to her that I might be opening her care package in front of thirty new friends in the freshman dorm lounge. Nonetheless, I loved getting her care packages. Not only were their contents often useful (and sometimes delicious), they were within arms reach for my rare moments of homesickness.

That’s the thing about care packages—even if their contents are useful or tasty, they mean something more. Their senders could never fit everything you actually missed about some place inside. Sometimes the symbolic has to suffice—a local paper for those lazy Sunday afternoons, an autumn leaf from your local park, or a recipe plus pre-measured ingredients so you can recreate Mom’s cooking (sort of). We want a lifestyle, a life, packed into a box and the rush of memories that accompanies the opening.

Many of you have made your lives in outside of your home country, whether for six months, five years, or more. I interviewed three former expats who spent time in Korea and asked what they would like in a care package.

packages_2

Nicole Maloof Lived in Korea 2009–2011, currently an artist in Boston 1. Shin ramyeon “Apparently, someone told me that the ramyeon they sell in the States is different from what they sell in Korea. I need to buy a pack here and do a taste test…”

2. Gim (Korean dried seaweed) “I have yet to find gim like I had in Korea. The stuff I opened yesterday was just too thick.”

3. Floor cushion (not featured) “I miss sitting on floors! Now as I look around my apartment, there are chairs everywhere! I try to sit on the floor while I eat in the living room, but our coffee table is a little too high.”

4. Cute stationery Luggage tag and giraffe card from Kosney, notebook and sticky notes from 13ook.

5. Star paper These long strips can be folded into tiny stars. “I haven’t seen this yet in the States!”

6. Maxim Gold instant coffee “Even though I’m all for French press coffee, if someone sent me the instant coffee packets, that would strike something special in my heart.”

7. High Cut “I like to use this for my collages.”

8. 24-hour food delivery “I miss how fast and efficient everything was in Korea. You can get almost anything delivered so quickly. Like a delicious dinner for less than $6!”

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BY_ SWAN SON / PHOTOGRAPH BY_ SUNG CHOI / CONTENT PROVIDED BY_ SEOULIST(www.seoulistmag.com)

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4. Patterned socks “Oh, the socks… like the ones with celeb’s faces on them? Ludicrous.

Wouldn’t want to be seen with these on ever. But they are hilarious and I always get a kick out of wearing them around the house on a quiet slow Sunday.”

3. Indie mags “This is what I love about Korea’s “underground” culture. They have really creative mags with amazing content that’s comparable to the uber-hip British mags. I just can’t find magazines as weird (weirdly awesome) as these in the States.” (Magazines between 3,000 and 10,000 won at Kyobo Bookstore and The Book Society at The Art Sonje Center.)

2. Packaged cookies “As a health freak, I don’t even want to know what goes into these deeelicious cookies (I try to eat all natural and I’m pretty sure these cookies are 100% processed). But they are just too good!”

1. Traditional Korean tea “I really miss the whole super traditional tea atmosphere that in itself is like a therapeutic cleanse.

I’m a huge tea person so I frequent little cafes and afternoon teas at hotels, but there’s something about going to these small cafes or “tea houses” in Korea (especially the bunch near Insa-dong) with the aged wood decor that warms me up even during the rainiest days.” (Tea from O’Sulloc in Insadong, cups by Yido Pottery.)

Lived in Seoul in 2010, currently a designer in Boston/Paris

Sue Cho

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Jesse Mahautmr Lived in Daejeon 2010–2011, currently in New York City, applying to grad school 1. Smartphone “If America is characterized as a ‘first-world’ country, then Korea should be considered a ‘half-world,’ because where else in the world can you watch a live TV broadcast K-drama on your cell phone while underground on a subway while traveling 80 km an hour?”

5. Seoul-brand chocolate milk “I had some American chocolate milk the other day, and it tasted so nasty compared to what I had in Korea. And being able to pick up one of those baby cartons in a family mart for 700 won? Amazing.”

6. Chamiseul soju For the nights out that didn’t break the bank.

2. KTX ticket “I miss getting from Daejeon to Seoul in only an hour!”

3. My host mom’s cooking (not featured):“Her food was THE BOMB. Kimchi jjigae, sundubu jjigae. Mmmm.”

4. ACE crackers “I had an unhealthy love affair with these.”

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7. Coffee shop stamp cards “I really miss hanging out with friends, co-teachers and my girlfriend at all of the amazing cafes in Korea. Korea has such a great coffee shop culture. Plus I spent most of my free time spring semester in cafes, studying for the MCATs with my girlfriend.”

8. USB flash drives: You can get anything done on computers in Korea—banking, shopping, train tickets… it’s so convenient.

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SURVIVAL KIT

Noryangjin Fish Market Noryangjin Fish Market is a famous market in Seoul. There are many markets similar to Noryangjin around the world - the Tsukiji market in Japan, New York’s Fulton Fish Market, and to an extent, even my hometown Seattle’s Pike Place Market. Though Noryangjin is mostly geared towards wholesale, locals and tourists alike can visit for a meal or self-guided tour. The lighting is dim, the ground is wet, and the smell is overwhelming.

But more than the smell, my auditory senses were harassed during my first visit. Vendors yell out specials or sales as customers walk by, prices are bartered in a lively customer-vendor match, truck drivers and scooters honk to rush through, the sounds of sharp knives vigorously crunch shells and scale fish…I was momentarily lost.

This does not feel anything like the Seoul I am used to.

Our first stop at this market was actually not a seafood stall. For my family and me, a vendor lured us in with the warm roasted chestnut aroma coming from the back of his truck. He gave me a sample as I stopped and looked – the taste was exactly what I wanted it to be.

My Eemo-bu (“uncle”) bought us a few bagfuls of delicious roasted chestnuts – we snacked on them as we slowly began our walk through the market. My youngest Eemo (aunt) told me about all the times my grandma would drag her to this market. My aunt hated coming here as a child but has seemingly grown fond of the place – bittersweet nostalgia perhaps.

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The vendor booths boast colorful, varying seafood handled by knowledgeable staff wearing pink or yellow rubber aprons. “Any sale is a good sale,” reflected by the vendor’s attitude of eagerness to welcome all who pass by. I constantly felt pressured to stop and buy something; luckily for me I had two talented price negotiators by my side – my Eemo-bus. When the negotiations were done, we ended up with a lot of prawns, a king crab, and octopus.

Buyers can purchase their seafood and vegetables on the ground floor then take it up to the second floor to have a restaurant cook it for them. People can request restaurants to prepare the seafood in any way they prefer. For us, the prawns, a fairly normal experience – was prepared steamed by a friendly kitchen staff. Each bite was juicy and extra special when dipped in hot sauce.

The king crab was plenty, moist, and simply prepared. The octopus was cut live onto a plate. The tentacles helplessly squirmed around even after being cut off. I first watched my eldest Eemo eat one. She laughed and tried to prep me for the experience. I thought to myself, “Even if I hate it, at least it will be entertaining.” I grabbed a piece of tentacle - it slowly wrapped around my metal chopstick. My family watched me in anticipation as I slowly put the piece of octopus in my mouth. The tentacles suctioned against the inside of my cheek and roof of my mouth.

It tickled more than anything. The texture wasn’t as slimy as I thought it would be. I tried not to laugh too hard with food in my mouth but it was really rather entertaining.

Towards the end of our meal, the helpful and friendly server brought us a crab shell filled with fried rice.

It looked beautiful and tasted great.

It was a nice way to round out the seafood filled dinner. We walked out with full stomachs and big smiles.

Noryangjin is not the first of its kind. But it is the first full fish market to have a place in my heart despite any other markets I visit – I welcome its fishy smell and all with open arms.

WORDS AND PHOTOS BY _ JOA KIM (www.helloaperture.com/blog)

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travel

DONGHAE

Naksan Beach A sandy beach unfolds for 4km against a thick pine tree forest in the background. Namdaecheon, a river flowing out of Seoraksan creates a large lake at the estuary that provides abundant freshwater.

It is a famous tourist attraction for travelers and tourists because of its clean sand beach, low water depth, various convenience facilities, thick pine forests and numerous temples and remains located in the vicinity.

DISCOVER THE EAST COAST A beautiful and scenic two-and-a-half hour drive from Seoul leads visitors to the East Coast of Korea.

The East Sea is one of the most popular sightseeing destinations for tourists. Here, you can climb one of the highest mountains in Korea and hit the beaches on the same day.

local eats

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Mulhoe

Gomchiguk

Rice with Potatoes

Squid is in season from July, offering a chewy texture and unique flavor. Mulhoe (sliced raw fish in a mixture of water and a spicy sauce), made with squid and a variety of vegetables, are a seasonal delicacy.

A moray stew cooked with aged kimchi and perfect for soothing your stomach.

On the road from Mukho Port and Eodal-ri, an assortment of mulhoe and gomchiguk restaurants attract hungry tourists.

It’s exactly what it sounds like: rice that is steamed with potatoes.

What makes this dish unique are the potatoes. Gangwon Province is famous for producing the best potatoes in Korea.

Weekender

Chuam Beach This beach boasts a spectacular view of rock islets off a coastal cliff along with the beautiful color of the sea. In particular, Candlestick Rock, a lonely rock pillar which towers over the water, is a famous spot for watching the sunrise.

Mureung Valley Located in the mideastern part of the Korean peninsula and flanked by sea and mountains, Gangwondo is full of natural attractions.

Visitors can enjoy fantastic views of Mt. Seoraksan and Mt. Chiaksan, especially since the scenery alters by season. On the eastern coast are other tourist attractions, such as fine beaches and clean coastlines.

Pension Accommodations

Pension houses are a new type of lodging that resemble villas. They have recently begun to appear in Korea. Pensions are usually located in tourist areas filled with natural scenery and landscapes. They are European-style houses or cottages and provide an excellent place for rest and recreation in a natural setting. There are many forms of pensions, from villas to simple log cabins. They are becoming extremely popular with couples and families as they are located in nice settings and are cheaper than hotels.

Most pension houses have websites available in Korean only, so it may be difficult for foreigners to make reservations online.

BY_ HAE-MI WOO / CONTENT PROVIDED BY_ F.OUND magazine (www.foundmag.co.kr) / TRANSLATION BY_ YOO JIN HEE

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What is next for Korea

column # 1

writer

Lyman McLallen

A professor in the English College of Hankuk University of Foreign Studies

T

he majestically staged funeral of Kim Jong Il (with an American-made black Lincoln Continental carrying a largerthan-life color portrait of Dear Leader attached to its roof leading the way, followed by an identical black Lincoln bearing his flag-draped coffin atop its roof escorted by his youngest son and heir) and the succession of Kim Jong Un to power, reminds us that North Korea is a hereditary dynasty and has been since its beginning when Kim Il Sung took power at the end of WW2.

Except in name, North Korea has never been a communist state, but is and has always been a kingdom much like those old feudal kingdoms in Europe and Asia, much like Koryo and Chosun in Korea. (Though there are still monarchs in England and Thailand, their positions are ceremonial and they have no real power.)

Since before the funeral, you could read countless postings on the internet heaping ridicule on the Kims and on North Korea, and though this must be fun for those making the posts, it brings nobody any closer to understanding the plight of North Korea or how to work with it constructively. The important question for now is: Where do things go from here?

The North Koreans speak Korean, they read Hangul, their names are Kim, Lee, Park, Choi, Yoon, and the other family names of Korea, they share a long history with South Korea that only diverged little more than sixty years ago, and all of the Koreans wherever they live are descended from many of the same great-great-great grandparents, who in their time lived in one nation, a nation that today is split in two, so it seems like there are a lot of reasons to be friends, but there are still some things to consider.

Like most of the subjects of those old feudal kingdoms, the North Koreans suffer from starvation on a vast scale that had plagued North Korea long before Kim Jong Il began his rule. This by itself does not prove that Kim Jong Il was evil but it does show that he failed to implement measures that could have raised the standard-of-living for the people, as Park Chung Hee did for South Korea. Only through military threats (and North Korea must know that if it ever tries to attack South Korea, its own certain destruction would quickly follow) and by playing on the fears of one rival against the other, North Korea has been able to extricate from the U.S., China, and South Korea enough food, fuel, and credit to sustain itself (but barely). Sanely and luckily for all, nobody ever called Kim Jong Il’s bluff. Even now, though, nobody can be sure about North Korea’s destructive potential and their willingness to use it, so everybody still must be cautious with them, for the transition to their new ruler has not changed that.

North Korea is not going to disappear, so it is prudent that South Korea, Japan, Russia, China, and the U.S. try to be friends with them – as well as with each other – because to remain enemies will only lead to more needless anguish, suffering, and lost opportunities. All can benefit by engaging them, and just as important, working together. (Maybe Kim Dae Jung had the right idea with his Sunshine Policy, after all.) What’s there to lose? Working together, though, demands trust, unselfishness, cooperation, and much patience by all parties, because it will take sustained commitment over the long haul to bring lasting peace (and thus greater prosperity) to the region.

While the North Koreans mourn for his father, Kim Jong Un is becoming their ruler. Maybe he could become a wise and good leader in the tradition of Sejong, the fourth King of Chosun who with his scholars developed Hangul so that the Koreans could write and read with their own symbols that they use to this day. He could also look to Park Chung Hee for inspiration, who no one can deny led South Korea in becoming one of the world’s leading industrial powers. What is for sure is that Kim Jong Un must soon realize that his country, his neighbors, and the world must all win, or everybody loses, especially North Korea.

The real prize on the peninsula is for South Korea and North Korea to become cordial, if not unified, and then maybe the best potentials of both will enhance the lives of all Koreans, and this would be good for everybody.

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BY_ LYMAN MCLALLEN(mclallen.hufs@gmail.com)

@DrSaturday

@NickKristof

Contrary to many lies, Kim Jong Il can never die. He has only ascended to the moon, which he will now crash into the 'Hollywood' sign.

The last transition in North Korea was a dangerous time, as KJI tried to show his mettle. We should be wary this time, too.

Matt Hinton

Nick Kristof

@Mike_FTW

@Mar1anneC

North Korean television is reporting that Kim Jong Il will address the nation about his death momentarily.

Good thoughts to the people of North Korea.

I hope that the death of Kim Jong-il will allow their government to reform.

Mike Monteiro

Marianne Case

@robdelaney

@sickipediabot

Rick Perry & Michele Bachmann SCRAMBLING to find out who Kim Jong Il was.

Kim Jong il is dead. Looks like his Korea is over.

rob delaney

sickipediabot

@helenlewis

@AlbertBrooks

Oh great, there's now a dictator of a nuclear power the same age as me. More ammunition for my mother this Christmas.

Kim Jong very very very ilÂ

Helen Lewis

Albert Brooks

@JimGaffigan Kim Jung Il died. I call his sunglasses.

Jim Gaffigan

Tweets on Kim Jong Il's death On January 11, 2012, Park Jeong-Geun, a South Korean Socialist Party activist, was indicted for re-tweeting messages such as, "Long Live General Kim Jong-Il." Park insists that his re-tweets were meant as ridicule, rather than support of the North Korean regime.

@TheTweetOfGod Kim Jong-Il, meet Dear Leader Satan.

God

@VeryRudeTweets Kim Jong Il apparently died of "pancreatic cancer"...or "karma" as the rest of the World calls it.

Very Rude Tweets™

Nonetheless, Park has been under house arrest since January 11th and could face up to 7 years in prison under the strict National Security Law. The death of Kim Jong Il triggered massive Twitter activity throughout the world. Here's a look at how other Tweeters reacted to the death of the late North Korean leader.

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hot issue

EX-NORTH KOREAN PROPAGANDA ARTIST

SONG BYEOK WILL MAKE HIS U.S. DEBUT! Growing up, world renowned Korean contemporary artist and satirist Song Byeok was brainwashed into believing Kim Jongil loved his people. Selected at age twentyfour to become an official state propagandist based on his artistic skill, Song considered his propaganda work for Kim Jong il an "infinite honor." "How could I, just a commoner, meet Kim Jong-il? He is the sun," the artist recalls.

His paintings – rife with anti-imperialist slogans and socialist realist imagery – reflected a limited worldview perpetuated by the hermit state.

Song's faith in "Dear Leader" was eventually betrayed in the 1990s, however, when famine struck and the regime responded by continuing to allocate resources predominantly to cadre members, party elites, and the military. Among the millions of North Koreans who perished during this period – dubbed “The Arduous March” by Kim Jong il – were Song’s mother and sister.

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studies in the arts, eventually graduating with a Masters degree from a leading arts institution, Hongik University. Suddenly a free citizen living in democratic South Korea, Song no longer had to represent the mythical reality once dictated to him. He took full advantage of his artistic freedom by celebrating democratic ideals in paintings that honored the North Korean people and satirized Kim Jong il, by masterfully blending iconic imagery from Eastern and Western cultures.

Song’s works draw on the visual themes of North Korea’s humorless propaganda machine, crossing them with a vivid palette and a playful absurdity. Some of his paintings show holloweyed North Korean girls and smiling, homeless children, known in the North as "fluttering swallows," surrounding the deceased dictator.

“I felt rather calm after hearing of Kim Jong Il’s death,” the artist recalls, “I thought to myself about him: ‘You, too, are human in the end.’”

In 2000, Song and his father made a desperate attempt to cross the Tumen river in order to secure food in China. The flooded river swept his father away, and Song was later caught, brutalized, and sent to a labor camp. He lost his finger due to infection and starvation left him near death; no longer fit to do hard labor, Song was eventually released.

The artist received international recognition for his first solo show, “Forever Freedom,” at Galerie Gaia in Seoul. Next month, audiences in the U.S. will get their first chance to see his work; twenty of Song’s colorful acrylic paintings — including six not yet seen by the public — will be showing from February 17 to 26 at The Goat Farm Visual and Performing Arts Center in Atlanta.

Song escaped to South Korea in 2002.

According to the artist: "If we had had enough to eat, I would have not come." He pursued

Distinguished professors at Emory University, Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), Georgia State University, and Georgia Tech

have also invited Song to lecture about his life and art. For more information about the artist’s U.S. debut, please visit: www.songbyeok.com.

SB-ATL Group, an organization supported by the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Atlanta and the project partner of the Dartmouth Asian Pacific American Alumni Association 501(c)(3), has been hard at work organizing Song’s expo and is receiving contributions via Kickstarter to cover expenses.

Two of SB-ATL Group's members include John Davis and Matt Snyder, former ESL teachers in Seoul who feel a strong attachment to Korean culture after their stay.

Song’s expanded visual vocabulary and social commentary speak to the fundamental human need for freedom and hope for reconciliation on the Korean peninsula. "It is time to reform and open North Korea, so that North Koreans can see what the real world is," says Song.

"Freedom of speech has nothing to do with North Korea. Here in South Korea, people can draw what they want. So every painting reflects the artist's distinctive personality."

They say that one tiny pebble can start a ripple effect that can reach towards the farthest ends of the waters. Then that one tiny pebble can be reincarnated as Song Byeok, who will make another journey for artistic freedom and receive a very warm welcome from supporters stateside.

BY_ GREGORY PENCE / IMAGE BY_ SONG BYEOK (WWW.SONGBYEOK.COM)

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0 1 star interview #

a z i a t i x

Aziatix makes music

that crosses boundaries, musically and internationally. It is hard to define their music to be a certain genre: Their music reveals strong influences of R&B, hip-hop and pop to K-pop. But what can surely be said about Aziatix is that they are a fresh new breeze in both the North American and East Asian music scene. After they rocked the stage at this year’s Jisan Valley Rock Festival, Roking sat down with members of Aziatix, Eddie Shin, Nicky Lee and Flowsik, to talk about their lives, inspirations and their goals.

Azatix is a trio made up of three Korean-Americans. Uniquely they first found their fame elsewhere than South Korea. Becoming widely popular in East Asia, Southeast Asia and North America, they are now reaching out to its audience in South Korea and finding quite a following. Especially after their performance at Jisan Valley Rock Festival, one of the biggest music events in South Korea, word-ofthe-mouth has spread like wildfire.

Now more of the Korean audience has been starting to wonder who these three men are, and what they are up to.

“We are a group that’s a little bit different,” said Nicky.

“We got together because we thought there was kind of a void of Asian-American artists or Asian artists in the Western music scene.”

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The process of these three men coming together under the name Aziatix was quite a natural one.

South Korea, now ‘infected’ with countless boy bands and teeny-bopper groups, has built a notorious reputation for their manufactured, robot-like idolsingers. However, this is almost the opposite of how Aziatix came to be.

Rather than being like a product for sale, the members of Aziatix have been actively composing and producing their own music.

Producer Jae Chong, a former member of legendary Korean R&B phenom Solid, was and still is the mastermind behind Aziatix.

Flowsik, a rapper who has been working the underground circuit, had collaborated with Ice-T and various artists in both East and West coasts. He eventually met producer Jae on Facebook.

“I wanted to come out to Asia - I desired to come out to see what’s up,” said Flowsik.

“So I came out here and I hooked up with Jae because he was in Korea at the time, we made a couple of songs together, and worked on the JYJ project.”

“How we met was very interesting.

It was very different,” said Nicky.

After working on the JYJ project, Flowsik was featured in a song performed by Micky Yucheon, one of the biggest K-pop stars in East Asia.

“I met the producer Jae Chong back in 1998 and he took me under his wings. He’s been my producer for all my albums out in the mandarin music market, and we have been working together ever since.

Eventually, he brought Flowsik and Eddie along.”

“After that I was encouraged to make more music. At that point, I think Jae was already planning in his mind, seeing a drafted image of Aziatix.”

Flowsik added.

eddie shin lead vocal

b r i d g i n g t h e g a p

Eddie, the lead vocal of the group, met Flowsik playing basketball in 2010.

“We had mutual friends, so we just played basketball together and then we were like ‘oh you do music? I do music too,’” said Eddie.

“So that was that. We met Jae and he suggested that I should do a track with him. Then we met Nicky and got to know each other. The vibe was good so we started doing music together.”

Since then, Aziatix has been actively putting out new music.

Their first digital single, Go, came out in May 3 this year and was ranked number four on the iTunes R&B chart. Their first EP, containing five songs including tracks such as ‘Cold,’ ‘Another day’ and ‘Start it Again,’ came out later that month.

The album was a digital hit and has bred a large fan base all over the world, dubbed ‘Aziaddicts.’

“It kind of gives everybody a peek of our background which is that we are from Asian descent, so that’s how the name came about. We just thought the name fit us. We represent all things Asian!”

The name Aziatix implies that the group has something to do with Asia, if not everything. But that doesn’t mean their music is restricted to music of Asia. In fact, the songs Aziatix makes is a hybrid of their various musical interest and influences. Each member’s diverse background and multi-cultural experience is strongly pronounced in their style.

“But for us, the most important thing is we try to bring the Asian sound and the American sound together- western pop and k-pop sound together in one.”

“I was born out in Korea and grew up in LA, Eddie was born out in Boston and grew up in the States, Jay (aka Flowsik) grew up in New York City. We just realized the name Aziatix kind of fit us really well,” said Nicky. flowsik rap Nicky lee vocal

“Obviously we sing in English and that’s really different because most k-pop artists, they don’t sing in English exclusively,” said Eddie.

On September 9, their newest digital single, Be With You, was released. With the new single, Aziatix will tour East Asia and South East Asia extensively. While they will keep on making music and performing, Aziatix has some other nifty personal goals.

“We just want to make music that can transcend all color lines, that can surpass all language barriers.

But our basic focus is just making good music,” said Nicky.

“Also, I want to become a good role model for the next generation.

There aren’t that many positive role models out there these days, so I want to become one. I also want to tell them to follow their dreams.”

He added.

“ I want to talk about love, happiness, etc.. just human emotions, ” " Ultimately, we want to use music to spread love. That’s our main goal. ”

BY_JUNG-YOON CHOI(eeyagis@gmail.com) / INTERVIEW BY_ SEAN LEE / PHOTOGRAPH BY_ MUSICCUBE

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0 2 star interview #

He’s Not Going Without a Fight Chris Golightly Talks American Idol Superstar K and Life as a Foreigner in Korea

Persevering.

Perhaps that is the best word to describe Chris Golightly, the 29 year-old Californian sitting down with me today in Gangnam’s Espresso Public.

“Many people doubted me, saying, ‘You won’t make top 10, you won’t make top 50,” he speaks of his experiences as a former competitor on both American Idol Season 9 and SuperstarK 3.

Chris is no stranger to being doubted by others.

As an orphan growing up, he moved from one foster home to the next as he tried to find a place where he belonged.

Despite the early challenges he faced, Chris’ ambition to pursue music first took him to American Idol back in 2010. He charmed audiences at his audition with a rendition of Stand By Me. Soon after being selected as part of the top 24, Chris’ spot was replaced by fellow contestant Tim Urban, under accusations that he was already bounded by another contract at the time.

Chris quickly rebounded in the music scene after being introduced to Kpop by a friend.

“I wrote six songs for the biggest artists here. DBSK. I wrote for Jewelry. I wrote for Beast.” Inspired by gyopo friend John Park, who had competed in SuperstarK the previous season, Chris decided to try out for Korea’s version of Idol.

Coincidentally, he was also offered a spot on X Factor.

Growing up in Orange County, the mecca of American entertainment, Chris idolized legends like Michael Jackson.

At age six, he was already dancing to hits like I Want You Back. “If it wasn’t for Michael Jackson, there’d be no Usher, Chris Brown, N’Sync.”

At the same time, Chris was ready to switch things up after Idol. Even though he was topping the Billboard charts and collaborating with big names like Far East Movement (he helped compose their 2010 hit Like a G6), he chose to pack his bags and head for Korea. It was “…a new road that not every American would take. New is better.”

“New” came with its own challenges for the young foreigner in Korea. “The biggest thing was learning a Korean song in three days because I taught myself how to read Korean. That was the biggest challenge. I had to sing it live and remember not just the notes, but remembering the term, the phrase with that right emotion and impact.”

For Chris though, determination is key. “If you really put your mind to something, if you want it, get it. Just put all the negativities aside and keep a positive focus.”

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Among the contestants on SuperstarK, Chris found his niche as the funny guy. He quickly befriended others in the house with his down-to-earth and honest personality. “I’m looking for people who don’t care about image. Lies and deception that people have behind closed doors, behind the clown faces that they put on, that’s nonsense.”

Chris made it into the top 7, but he believes he would have gone further in the competition if not for his honesty, which upset Mnet, the producer of SuperstarK. “I’ve seen where there are things that the public, if they found out, they wouldn’t like, so I mentioned it and then let’s just say I got disqualified because I saw all that stuff.”

Chris was just as frank when asked to compare SuperstarK with Idol. “They [Idol] treated you better. The further you get, the nicer the people become, the nicer the food. When you make top 50, you get chicken. After you make top 24, you get steak, crab, and lobster, and they put you into your own room.”

“On SuperstarK, everybody gets meaner. You still eat nothing, you still have no cell phone, nothing. It’s like military status. “ He laughingly recalled times when he snuck out with his phone to talk to friends and buy snacks for others in the house.

Participating on SuperstarK is just one way that Chris has plugged himself into Korean society. “I never thought I would be here in Korea, have my own place, be on the top #1 show here. It seems like a new road that not every American would take.”

For Chris, it was a rewarding risk that he took. He admires the traditional values of respect and hospitality that Korean culture has maintained for generations. “America needs more of it. Americans, we do free will kind of stuff. Here, you respect oppa, you respect hyung [both are terms for “elder brother”]. If you blend that together, the world can be a better place.”

Like a true Korean, Chris confesses that he was belting it out at a noraebang (karaoke room) with friends until 4am just the night before. He appreciates the numerous coffee shops one can choose from in the city, and claims his favorite Korean food is the classic dolsot bibimbap (mixed rice in a hot stone bowl).

“Being here has been a great experience.

There are good people here. It’s very friendly, it’s very open and I enjoy being here. That’s why I have a home. “ By home, Chris is referring to his officetel, which he shelled out a whopping 20 million won to place a deposit on. In Korea, one must pay very steep “key money,” or a deposit, in order to rent or own an apartment.

Though he sees great potential in the Korean music industry, which boasts a

market of 22 million, Chris also realizes that to succeed, it is necessary to adopt the Korean way, which places great emphasis on not just one’s talent, but one’s image as well.

“Here, it’s visual. There [the States], it’s action. You could look like Bubba from Forrest Gump, and if you could sing, if you could connect with the crowd and the people over the airwaves, you can win the show. ” Though he likes the idea of staying in Korea, “I can’t really lean towards one specific area. I have to do two because I am American and I love Korea. Hanguk sarangheyo. Here it’s a big fan base, in Asia, and even though I have a small fan base in America from American Idol, I still have to do both.”

Chris plans to head back to America and sign on with a label that will recognize him as a real artist. Collaborating with the same producers of Girls’ Generation and Ivy, he has already completed the recording of his album since SuperstarK ended. “I’m just figuring what deal I should go with because I don’t want to get stuck and I don’t want it just to sit on a shelf. I want guarantee.”

Should that not work out, he is open to the idea of giving X Factor a try in the future. “Everybody who has dreams as a kid, when they get older, it just fades away and they go off to do something else. My dream is always to be a singer. Like I said, it started since Michael Jackson. Always wanted to be a singer and I’m gonna get it.”

Talk about perseverance.

The talented singer and songwriter has not let it get to his head despite the recognition he now receives from fans. He may be getting thousand-dollar Rolexes and other fancy gifts sent to his home, but Chris still exudes a humble, guy-nextdoor charm.

“I’m a down-to-earth, honest, humble kind of guy and I love music. I don’t know my destiny. People normally have things mapped out, like their life quest. I’m just going where the wind blows.”

BY_CHI NGUYEN(thucchi.nguyen@gmail.com) / INTERVIEW BY_ JEFFREY JIN / PHOTOGRAPH BY_ JAE-WON CHOI

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0 3 star interview #

Lumpens is a visual artist

LUMPENS An Interesting Worker

awhose works include ads for big corporate names such as Nike, Intel, MLB, music video of "Get It In" by singer-rapper T, as well as various concert graphics and performance arts.

The common factor of his work is that it gives people a sense of involvement, as if he or she is participating in an experiment.

For the past 18 months I've known Lumpens, it was not easy to introduce him to others. People tend to expect a one-word description of someone. But, how do you capture someone who is generally known as a visual artist and a media artist in a bigger sense, but who also is a music video director, a projection mapping artist, a commercial director, a performance director, and an installation artist, all in one word? After getting to know him though, I decided not to worry about how to label him anymore. Lumpens, to put it short, is someone who has fun while working.

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As I turned on the recorder to dive into the interview, Lumpens asked, "What are we going to talk about today?"

After scanning my list of questions, he suddenly turned on his laptop, showing me material he had made for a seminar last November, at the KT&G Sangsang Madang, titled 'The Flow Media 2011’. "I organized my stories, since high school until now, in to several keywords," he said. "You will be able to find the answers to your questions, such as why I started to create such works, and how I came to be who I am now. It's all in my past experiences."

And that was quite true. His experience as a dancer next to Park Ji-Yoon and Country Kko Kko was all captured in V.A.J.P.(Visual Art Jam Performance), a performance where he has combined media and dance. In 'Project Mapping,' he renovated his shabby studio with little money, breathing life into the urban legend of Robot Taekwon-V flying out of the National Assembly Dome. His experimental tryouts where he has captured the images that popped up in his head into media was all recreated in EE's "Curiosity Kills" music video, where he made the work something not just '80's-themed,' but 'of the 80's.' The recent music video, 'Get It In' by T, was a piece where his collective experience as a dancer, commercial director, visual artist, as well as collaborations with other artists, truly shined. "Whatever experience I've had, and whatever I have felt, have contributed," he emphasized.

Q. What did you talk about in the Q&A session at the KT&G Sangsang Madang Seminar?

A. When people asked about the hardships, I said it's the same. You run out of time, you lose sleep. But no matter how hard the work is, it is your original creation. And that goes for not only my personal work, but commercial work which I get paid for, too. I didn't promote myself for those works. The clients came to me, saying that "This needs to be done by Lumpens." So, they rarely intervene with my work.

Of course, there are limitations. I want to keep on playing around with the work, and create something interesting, just like how I changed Andy Warhol's cans into Dongwon Tuna cans at the 'Incase Andy Warhol Pop-up Space'. South Korean corporates tend to stay away from things that have not been done before. That's why they end up imitating foreign companies' ideas. So, actually a lot of foreign companies come to me. I told the people at the seminar, that this is a kind of a trend that started from last year which bled into this year. People are curious because a young person is working on something by himself all the time. But I'm neither a hipster nor a celebrity. (laughs) I should make my stance more clear to not be combed out.

Q. And what would you do to make your stance clear?

Q. Normally people want to become rich and famous.

A. I don't want to be defined as someone who can only do one thing. I am not limited to just media works and projection mapping. I just want to be called a director who creates with visual artwork. Someone who has fun while working.

It's all the same for me, whether it is a movie, music video, commercial film, performance or photography. If someone asks me to edit an episode of 'Infinite Challenges,' I will have fun with it as well. To move people, the means of media doesn't really matter. I want to focus more on film, V.A.J.P., as well as interactive works.

A. Three years ago, I worked in a shabby studio. Now I work in a double-floored studio which has three rooms. I earned it all. Wow. I almost cried.

Q. But don't you get projection mapping work the most?

A. I don't think I can. It's stressful. I just want to give people something more than visual amusement.

I keep experimenting, but it's not enough yet. My biggest object is poking fun at those in the business. EE's Curiosity Kills music video is a good example. The plot is simple, a young couple getting together and having fun. But I made it totally old-school, by making the picture quality low. I just wanted to throw a punch at Wonder Girls, who then came out with an 80's themed music video, shot with the most luxurious, high-definition cameras.

A. That's true. It gives me a fiscal backing. But in my opinion, projection mapping is truly a passing trend. Since the movie Avatar, clients like to ask if I could make it more 3D-like, without good reason. Then I tell them that it'd be better for them to watch plays, because that is REAL 3D. I just don't like people chasing the trend, and that's the same for the projection mapping. It is too dependent on technology.

There's no storytelling in it. It amuses people, and that's about it.

Q. Do you want people to take away something else than just being amused?

A. Yes. I am not saying that projection mapping is a bad thing. It's fun. But showing the visual effects only is pointless.

Earlier this year, I created the Robot Taekwon V on the National Assembly building using projection mapping. I find this work meaningful, because it wasn't just limited to mere amusement. It was bringing the urban myth to reality. So, when I am approached for a projection mapping work, I get back to the clients after adding my thoughts. I suggest them to try something brand new, while making the effect the company expects. For example, 'Red Bull performance Project' was suggested as a projection mapping assignment, but I suggested adding dancers and some performance elements into it. Luckily, it was received well.

Q. Isn't it overwhelming to try something new?

A. It is. But when you think about the opportunity cost, the fulfillment after you finish a work is much greater than the stress. I don't care whether I succeed or not. There is no such thing. It's all about satisfaction. And if people like it, that's great.

Q. Does that mean that you don't have greed?

A. I want to get a chartered house, rather than having to pay monthly rent.

Q. (laughs) Aren't you simple? Why shouldn't you wish to be CEO of a firm with 200 employees?

Q. What do you want people to feel through your work?

A. I hope people will enjoy it and have fun while watching it.

Rather than feeling something grandiose, if people think that 'hmm, there was something about that work,' that's good enough. A negative response is okay, too. If people feel that my work wasn't quite the way it should have been done, that's meaningful in itself.

Q. People your age rarely think that past experiences establish who you are right now. I was surprised to hear you say that.

A. But it's true. I won't be who I am right now if our family didn't go bankrupt during the Asian Financial Crisis. I might have become a very square person. Back then I had resentments toward my parents, but because they couldn't pay attention to me much, I was able to dance, and because I danced I was exposed to a lot of open ideas and culture.

People looked down on me because I was a dancer, which is why I went to college. In college, I found inspiring friends and was able to start media work. All the experiences contributed.

Q. Do you have any advice to youngsters who can only see things that are right in front of them?

Q. More people look up to you as a role model.

A. I am flattered, but also feel burdened, because I can't give them anything, nor do I think of myself as a master.

But I try to care. When people graduate with a degree in design, many of them try to get a job in a big corporation, or establish a design studio with some friends, try to get work and grow it. As for me, I've kept venturing out. I walked a totally different path. I can't say that it is the right path, but I just want to prove that such a choice exists, and that I enjoy my life. I still feel like a student.

A. I told you, I am not confident enough to do that. I have to live more. I have a method I use when I am faced with difficulties though. It's kind of childish, but hear me out.

Whenever I am lost, I think about a soap opera and make myself into a character on that show. If I act a certain way, how would viewers react, I ask myself? If I think the viewers might laugh at me for a certain choice, then I won't make that choice. And, if something bad happens, I just compromise in my mind. I tell myself that that was a good experience too, and I’ll have peace of mind.

Q. A student?

Q. Is it your dream to continue living like this?

A. I am an ardent learner. I am very curious. Recently, I was asked to come and work for a big corporate. It turned out that they believed Lumpens to be a huge company like theirs. So my friend told them, "No, he works by himself," and they were surprised. That makes me feel good. I win! (laughs) I know it's childish, but I like it.

A. My dream came true two days ago. (laughs) I have a studio with stairs, I can play all the games I want, there's a great sound system, and I can make loud noises. I couldn't make loud noises at the studio before this one. Nike gives me clothing, Red Bull gives me drinks. I never had that happen to me in my life. Intel is launching a laptop, my edition. What more can I ask for? (laughs) I am going to continue living like this, developing myself and studying new things.

Courtesy of

BY_ HA-NA NA / PHOTOGRAPH BY_ YOON-KEE CHUN / TRANSLATION BY_ JUNG YOOU CHOI / IMAGE BY_ LUMPENS (www.lumpens.com) / CONTENT PROVIDED BY_ F.OUND magazine (www.foundmag.co.kr)(www.foundmag.co.kr)

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life in korea

meet Bobby Choya.k.a big phony Born Robert Choy, Big Phony is a singer /songwriter born and raised in New York City.

Off stage Big Phony is simply known to his friends and family as “ Bobby �

Please give us a brief bio, where you are from and how you started in this field?

My name is Bobby Choy. I'm a Korean-American singer-songwriter, born and raised in New York City.

In early 2005, I was living in Los Angeles when I quit my nine to five job due to certain stresses and well, misery. 2 weeks later I was in New York recording my first album.

When did you first discover your creative talents?

When I was about 12 years old, my older brother Eddy got his first guitar. I remember vividly the day he sat me down, showed it to me, and told me that if I ever touched it he would surely break my face in. So naturally due to sibling rivalry, whenever he wasn't around I practiced the guitar. Eventually I got better than him, mom took notice, took the guitar from him and gave it to me. At the age of 14, I wrote my first song. I remember every time I finished a song, I felt incredibly accomplished and satisfied, so I kept at it.

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How would you describe your style?

Is loser a style? This question is never easy for me. People tell me my music helps them sleep.

I don't know if I should take that as a compliment or if they're saying it bores them to slumber. I guess my music or "style" is on the mellow side. If "singer-songwriter" is a style, I am a "mellow-singer-songwriter."

Any influences or anyone you look up to when it comes to writing and performing your music?

Comedians. I have a tremendous respect for comedians and find many similar parallels to what they do and what songwriters do. Their jokes are precious to them as songs are to songwriters. Often well thought out and well delivered, and sometimes just plain simple, but relatable. I could go on and on, I suppose, about the similarities I found, but I'll spare you. I'll just say this, sometimes you're on it and sometimes you're not. Roll with the punches. I learned that from a comedian.

Now that you have moved to Korea, have your inspirations and motivations changed?

What is the one project you completed in Korea that you are most proud of?

I suppose they have, but I'm guessing I'll know better in hindsight. Right now I'm still taking it all in. I initially moved here to be inspired, just in general. I can tell you that most of the musicians here in Seoul are some of the hardest workers I've ever seen. That in itself is inspiring and even contagious.

I worked on a project where I wrote the lyrics to the theme song for a movie called "My Way." The film was directed by Kang Je Gyu (Taeguki, Shiri), starring Jang Dong Gun and Odagari Joe. The song's music was composed by Lee Dongjune and was sung by none other than Andrea Bocelli. The song actually made it on to Bocelli's Asia release of his latest album as a bonus track, called "To Find My Way." My mom was very happy about that. She loves Bocelli's voice and music. I am most proud that I made her proud. I'm the black sheep of the family, hands down. [laughs] Seriously.

Also, I've found, because I don't speak the Korean language very well and since I live with the challenge of using it everyday, I've noticed parts of my brain that I don't normally use are flexing. With the challenge of trying to communicate effectively with a limited vocabulary and skill, I've been able to relate it to writing music. It inspires me and is a constant reminder to me to excel at both.

How did you get this project?

When I first moved to Seoul last summer, I was involved in a project where I had written the English lyrics to a song called "Sad Love" that was originally introduced on the popular Korean drama's "Iris" OST. Because of that I was linked to the song's composer Lee Dongjune who also scored and wrote the music for "My Way" and the Bocelli track. Lee asked me if I could come on board for another song on a larger scale of potential importance. It was a bit of a nerve racking decision, but I'm glad I took the gig. I think I did an okay job.

Share with us something funny that has happened to you recently in Korea.

I've only been on one date since I moved to Seoul. I guess that's not really funny. That's just sad.

You can catch Bobby (Big Phony) as a weekly guest on "K-Popular w/ As One," Tuesdays 12:30-1:30PM on TBS eFM radio. He's currently working on a new album that is due out this summer, and can also be seen in the comedy "K-Town Cowboys - THE MOVIE", and "White Frog," starring Joan Chen, which should also be out later this year. His music is available in stores in Korea, as well as on most safe and secured downloading sites such as iTunes and Bandcamp. www.bigphonymusic.com www.facebook.com/bigphony www.twitter.com/bigphonymusic

BY_ KEEYEON WARREN(keeyeon@relevant-matter.com) / IMAGE BY_ BIG PHONY

31

life in korea

meet dana choi

Model, television host, sports reporter, creative director. There’s nothing that multi-talented Dana Choi can’t seem to do.

Let’s just say we can now add “budding entrepreneur” to her resume, too.

Her latest project is to start a branch of Yogi Tea in Korea, a goal driven by her love for yoga and Ayurveda. It’s not all work and no play for Dana, though, who also talks about how she takes advantage of Seoul’s dynamism in her leisure time.

What's your connection to Korea?

I am half Korean. A blend of Kimchi and Cheese. Korean and Dutch. I like the name Choi, I borrowed it from my mom.

How did you end up in Korea?

I was raised in the Netherlands, went to university in the states, and came to Korea for a semester to learn some Korean and hang out with some family for the summer.

I was introduced to some people in the fashion industry and before I knew it I was embarking on a pretty exciting adventure.

We understand you are currently importing a brand of tea into Korea. What is unique about this tea and why did you decide to begin importing it?

I have always loved the functions of Yogi Tea and I was not able to buy it in Korea, so my friends would send me care packages all the time. Once I started yoga teacher training class at Magic Pond Yoga School in Yeoido (World Gym), I knew that yogis and yoginis could benefit from the teas. I have always had an interest in health and food. My father is a physician; my mother is in the gourmet food and beverage business.

I have always been interested in health and am a vegetarian.

What I love most about the teas is that they are based on the principles of Ayurveda. Ayurveda is a practical and philosophical way of life from ancient India that prescribes conscious living and holistic prevention as keys to a balanced and long life. Yogi Tea has formulated all its teas with this in mind.

I have been collaborating with World Gym, Magic Pond, MF Fitness, Wavefit Spanda Yoga, Jai Yoga, and Yoga Palace, and these partners have really tried to help people achieve better health with yoga. I really hope to make an impact with Yogi Tea through the Yoga Get Fit Campaign.

What were you doing before you started importing Yogi Tea? Before starting a branch of Yogi Tea in Korea, I was a TV host for Dong Ah Fashion TV and had a travel show named “Dana’s Into the World.” I was also a sports reporter for Arirang TV, an MC for TBS, a creative director for a modeling agency, a creative director for an F&B agency, and created content for photo shoots and ads. I also used to model in London and in Korea.

We heard you used to do some modeling. Can you tell us how you got started? Are you still modeling? Why or why not?

I remember driving in the USA at the time and a guy was waving at me to pull over. I eventually stopped at a traffic light and he said he was a model scout. I was at university at the time so I never took it seriously and did not model until I moved to London. I was in London when I was offered a contract for work in Japan. I wanted to be in Korea to learn the language, so I modeled in Korea, but shortly thereafter I started in TV. Modeling has so many aspects that interest me, but mainly I prefer to set up the photo shoots to do the styling and set up the scenes. You need to have a strong will to model because beauty is seasonal and your “it” look might work for one market, but not for another. Some people

seem to think that modeling is easy and glamorous, but the truth is that models have to put up with irregular hours, tough conditions, lots of praise and criticism, competition, and not the healthiest of diets. I have turned down jobs that I did not want to be associated with. I did not want to do a beer commercial in a bikini. That’s not the kind of modeling I want to do. I still have my own beliefs about not taking jobs, such as the commercial for Burger King because I am a vegetarian and I would not bite into that burger if you paid me. One of the most fun shoots I ever did was for the pilot of “The IT Crowd” for Channel 4 in London. I met two of the best friends of my life on set and we are still in touch. I am on a tight schedule every day and I try to factor sleep into it. I don’t have time for modeling anymore now that I am running a business.

What has been the most challenging thing about running a business in Korea?

I think starting a business from scratch is challenging, especially if it has nothing to do with your major at university or if you have limited experience in that field.

Trying to introduce a new product to a market that is stocked with big brand names that have monopolized the market for a long time is challenging. Being a foreign looking young woman has not always been in my favor either.

Sometimes the way people practice business here has not been my cup of tea. There are many laws that do not make much sense or are not enforced and I have been to law offices many times. At the end of the day, I like a challenge because it pushes me harder to accomplish more.

So what does a former model and budding entrepreneur do in Korea when she isn't working non-stop?

I enjoy so many things: yoga, extreme sports, creating edible vegetarian art, galleries, jet setting, making music, eating delicious food and enjoying good wines.

Places where you can find me for food: ChikoVino Wine & Dine in Itaewon, The District, Between, Venue, Woo Bar, Mixology Lounge, Berlin, and RUFxx Namsan for live shows. On the weekend, I might be at a gallery, a concert, a sporting event, or working on an art project at home.

What music are you listening to these days?

I love soulful jazz, not the elevator kind, deep house, reggae-jungle, and anything else that makes me want to dance. Pop music and anything auto-tuned or repetitive is not so much my thing.

What are your thoughts on the FTA legislation?

Important remaining barriers are the non-tariff barriers, such as label requirements, KFDA regulations, bureaucracy, and non-transparent lab testing procedures where there are no possibilities of appeal when the test results are negative. This is not my area of expertise, so I cannot make a statement about it in detail, but it does affect business.

The FTA that counts for Yogi Tea in particular is the KOREU. Because I am importing from Europe, the FTA only came into force in July last year.

What is one of the greatest things about living in Korea?

I live in the dynamic city of Seoul, but I can jump on the train and be in the beautiful countryside within hours. I love living in Yeouido next to an eco park and the Han River. I go biking there all the time. It has been a real pleasure to find my Korean heritage and all the beautiful traditions and delicious foods that go along with that.

In general, FTA's are there to erase protectionism, as the most important tool for protectionism is tariff-barriers. Most of these tariffs will disappear in the long run.

To check out more on Yogi Tea Korea please visit: www.yogiteakorea.com

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BY_ JONATHAN CARFIELD(jonathan@relevant-matter.com) / IMAGE BY_ DANA CHOI

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Lailai Hospital Story

SURVIVAL KIT

writer

Vanessa Coskey

Vanessa Coskey has been living in Korea for two years. She is passionate about her work as an English teacher and even more so about her family.

Being a working mom is tough and doing it in Korea offers unique challenges. Vanessa writes about the cultural and social difficulties of bringing up a little one in a foreign country.

I

’d never have the guts to try to bring my child up in a foreign country!”

I have heard it so many times from many people.

I can never tell if that is a compliment or not.

Do people think we’re brave or just dumb and reckless? I’ve always felt that we actually took the easy road out.

One day, a bad bout of pneumonia sure made a test of it.The day our pediatrician said the word “hospital,” I calmly smiled, handed Little-L to her daddy and strolled outside. Once I was by myself, I bawled my heart out.

When I heard the word “hospital,” I actually heard “serious,” “scary” and “expensive.”

Little-L had been having an erratic temperature for the past few days. Our local doctor, while friendly, never diagnoses more than a common cold. We made the hour long trip to the paediatrician as Little-L was not getting better. On this second visit we were told that there was a chance of her having pneumonia and that we’d have to go see a specialist. We should be prepared to have her admitted to a hospital.

A Korean friend drove us from the doctor’s office across the countryside, bellowing over the phone in what I was sure was a heated argument. Our only clues as to the topic of the debate were words like “aegie” (baby) and “byeong-won” (hospital). Finally, she hung up and told us (while swinging a wild u-turn on the highway) that she and the doctor agreed that we should go to a less busy hospital. We could only muster the typical foreigner response of smiling and nodding.

We eventually arrived in a town no bigger than a cupcake. We had very little hope for the hospital, considering the nearby Paris Baguette was still using the old blue and orange branding.

Upon arrival at the hospital, we found it to be like most private hospitals in South Africa. It was spacious, clean, modern and full of natural light. Much more Line-9 than Line-1. The specialist diagnosed Little-L with pneumonia and she was to be admitted immediately.

I was under control by this point and only sniffled into a tissue kindly offered by a nearby ajuuma.

Off we went, pinballing from x-ray to blood test to registration and finally, up to the 7th floor. The children’s ward. Here’s where things started to get surprising.

We were shown a little bench-bed under Little-L’s bed for a parent to sleep on. We were allowed to stay with her throughout her admission?

The nurses were anything but strict, allowing extra family members to sleep over in the play area or even on empty beds in the ward. The nurses never appeared to mind; in fact they were so gentle and polite that we hardly noticed them.

The food was not gourmet but it definitely beat the hell out of airline food.

We were given a number of tasks and responsibilities at the beginning, such as administering Little-L’s nebulizer and dropping off her dirty linen and dishes (she’s a toddler so these invariably

happened at the same time). I loved this system. We got to feel like we were part of our child’s recovery and the nurses are freed up to focus on the important stuff.

Children in the ward ran about between the rooms and the play area, while parents sprinted behind with their drip stands. It was easy to tell who the newbies in the ward were. The new folks were plainly terrified and appeared to be in physical pain each time their little darling fell over onto their “drip hand”. Oldies taught their toddlers to stand on the base of the drip stand so that they can skate along at heart-stopping speeds. The kids literally had races with their drip stands.

When the time came to send Little-L home, the doctor and nurses were helpful and listened carefully to our questions before telling us that they had no idea what we were saying. We were given all the medication she’d need and enough information to get ourselves through to the last of the illness.

Finally, it was time to pay the bill.

On our minds were 4 nights, 5 days in the hospital, 2 visits by the pediatrician a day, 3 meals daily, mediation during the stay, medication for a week at home, all the bedding for Little-L and for us, pajamas for Little-L, plus so much more! We requested that they have the defibrillator on standby when they presented the bill to us.

With my bank manager holding my hand; on first inspection I was sure I was looking at the week’s food bill. There’s no way this was the entire bill! Seriously, we would have paid more if we had eaten at our local kimbap shop 3 times a day for the past 5 days.

It was half of what I would pay for just one consultation in South Africa. Not scary in the least.

Sometimes things are lost in translation and occasionally misunderstandings occur. Life in a foreign country is difficult and frustrating for obvious reasons, but we find miracles, big and small, at every turn. Little-L, fully recovered, is happy and healthy, as are we, and that makes me tremendously grateful to be here.

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WORDS AND PHOTOS BY _ VANESSA COSKEY(wcoskey@gmail.com)

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Dinner with a friend at a Korean Restaurant

column # 2

writer

Lyman McLallen

M A professor in the English College of Hankuk University of Foreign Studies

r. Choon calls me in the afternoon every once in a while and in his mostly self-taught and learned-on-the-fly English, asks, “Can we have dinner together tonight?”

I enjoy being with Mr. Choon and am glad when he calls to invite me to dinner, and when I can, I reply that I’d be glad to meet him. “What time?” I ask.

He says, “Get in a taxi at six-thirty, call me, and then give the phone to the driver.” So around six-thirty that evening I hale a taxi in front of my building. Once I’m in the taxi, I call Mr. Choon and as soon as he answers, I hand the phone to the driver. Mr. Choon tells him how to get to the restaurant and in about twenty minutes, the taxi pulls up to the restaurant’s front door and Mr. Choon is there to greet me.

Mr. Choon is a few years older than me and was born in the last years of the Japanese occupation. He grew up amidst the destruction and violence of the Korean War. That any Korean survived through those years is miracle enough. In his youth, Mr. Choon did not have much opportunity to go to school, for it was all he could do to keep from getting killed by the fighting, and then try to find enough to eat so he wouldn’t starve to death.

Somehow through all of this, he

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learned to read and write and started to learn English, too. Truly, he lived by his wits.

As a young man in the early 1960’s, Mr. Choon set up a small shop near the U.S. Army post in Seoul selling children’s clothes, shoes, and toys to the wives of American soldiers, diplomats, and businessmen stationed in Korea. That’s how he became good with English. A few years ago, he turned the shop over to one of his grandchildren to run and now keeps he himself busy managing the commercial buildings he has bought over the years.

Though he has not become a rich real estate baron, he seems to do all right.

I met Mr. Choon at the gym where we both exercise in the morning.

I’d seen him there a month or so before we ever struck up a conversation with each other and we have been friends ever since.

I have travelled with Mr. Choon to many wonderful places in Korea that I know I would never have learned about, much less visited, without a Korean friend such as him. Indeed, if not for Mr. Choon, I don’t think I would have ever seen with my own eyes how beautiful Korea is.

The restaurant that Mr. Choon has chosen for our dinner tonight does not have one of those back-lit lotus flower signs at the front door that you see at restaurants all over Seoul these days proclaiming – in English – that you’re at an authentic Korean restaurant. In fact, there aren’t any signs in English anywhere in this restaurant. The menu, which is posted on the wall, is in the Korean written language – Hangul – which I can read, but only just a little. I don’t imagine that many westerners have ever been in this restaurant and I am the only one here tonight.

We take our shoes off at the door and then sit on cushions on the floor at a low table. Mr. Choon chats with people in the restaurant in that easy-going manner people have when they know each other well.

On our table is a wooden box filled with metal chopsticks and metal spoons similar to the soup spoons that you find in America. There is also a stone colored earthen jar on the table filled with kimchi, and a small stainless steel tray on which there are a pair of tongs and a pair of scissors. You can get all the kimchi you want out of the earthen jar with the tongs and cut the long cabbage leaves of the kimchi with the scissors into smaller pieces and put them on one of the dishes at the table. The kimchi is fresh, spicy, and delicious, and has a distinctive home-made taste. I know that the people at the restaurant did not buy it at a grocery store because Mr. Choon told me that it was prepared by a group of older women who

know the secrets of making good kimchi.

One of the servers hauls an iron bucket filled with hot charcoal from outside the restaurant and places it into the barbeque pit at our table while another server brings the side dishes: pajun (a Korean potato pancake with vegetables in it), japchae (chilled stir-fried noodles with sliced and sautéed spinach, carrots, mushrooms, peppers, and onions), fresh cut cucumbers, carrots, and garlic, a basketfull of different types of raw leaf vegetables, ssamjang (pepper bean paste), and rice served in covered metal bowls that could fit into the palm of your hand.

Because Mr. Choon is a favored customer, the woman who owns the restaurant, Ms. Choi, comes to the table to cook especially for us tonight. A server comes to the table with Ms. Choi to help her with the cooking and carries a wooden plank loaded with the best cuts of fresh red beef – what the Koreans call galbi – two big yellow onions cut into thick slices, and what looks to be a dozen or so large button mushrooms. Another server brings a bottle of Soju and three shot glasses. Mr. Choon opens the bottle and I hold out my glass. He fills it almost to the brim. I then take the bottle from him and fill his glass as he holds it out to me in the same fashion, and then Ms. Choi holds out her shot glass and I pour the Soju for her. Savoring the moment in anticipation of the fine dinner we are about to enjoy, we celebrate the start of the evening with our first toast.

BY_ LYMAN MCLALLEN(mclallen.hufs@gmail.com)

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food

As a foreigner, I get asked this question by everyone I know.

“ Sundubu jjigae ” I reply proudly every time in my broken Korean. The reaction I would always receive was one of surprise, “Wow, you’re very Korean!”

Sundubu jjigae is a traditional soft tofu stew that I fell in love with at first bite. I remember the first time it was served to me - piping hot and oh-so-very satiating. Since then, I have ordered it countless times at nearly every restaurant I go to.

Sadly, not every bowl of sundubu jjigae is made equal. Sometimes I am left feeling happy and full to the brim; other times I am quite

38

disappointed with the lackluster flavors.

Grandma Bae’s sundubu jjigae definitely belongs to the former.

Located near Seoul National University, this local favorite is neither glitzy nor glamorous, but the warmth that the halmoni (grandma) exuded the moment I stepped inside her restaurant instantly made it a winner in my book.

I didn’t hesitate to order my favorite, but Grandma Bae’s also serves simple, filling classics like twaenjang jjigae (fermented bean curd soup), yangpun bibimbap (mixed rice with vegetables), and naengmyeon (cold buckwheat noodles). My friend went for the twaenjang jjigae. In a matter of minutes, boiling bowls of stew were placed in front of us, along with overflowing bowls of rice, various kinds of kimchi, and cold radish soup.

WORDS AND PHOTOS BY _ CHI NGUYEN(thucchi.nguyen@gmail.com)

I downed my jjigae in a matter of minutes, as did my friend. Mine was generous in tofu and full of flavor; his had a creamy soup base, proof that the stew did not skimp on key ingredients like fermented beans. It hit the spot for both of us.

How to get there Take subway line 2 to Seoul National University Station.

Take exit 1 and walk straight about 400 steps. Grandma Bae’s (배할머니네 밥집) will be on your right.

We were very pleased when we got our bill too. At ￦3,500 per bowl, our lunch was a steal. Everything on the menu at Grandma Bae’s range from ￦3,500 to ￦5,000, prices which are hard to find nowadays in Seoul.

What made me leave with a wide grin on my face was not just the delicious, cheap bowl of stew, however. The extremely sweet, humble grandma who served me my food reminded me very much of my own grandmother. In Korean, bae can also mean stomach.

Grandma Bae’s was able to fill both my stomach and soul with happiness. It felt just like going home.

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It’s for adults too Attraction Level ★★★★★★★☆☆☆ This lamp is perfect for decorating a child’s room but it is not limited just to children’s rooms. KidsPlace lamps come in shapes of dinosaurs, rockets, butterflies, bears, and people, and create lively spaces with colors that stimulate imagination and curiosity, and are also made from eco-friendly trees and paints for health and safety. Once you install one of these lamps, whether in your room or in your office, it will brighten up the atmosphere.

Trust me.

Philips KidsPlace | ￦ 34,200 | philips.co.kr

Camper Van the little car Attraction Level ★★★★★★☆☆☆☆ Retro car lovers who adore the 1962 classic Volkswagen Camper Van will be delighted with this mini version by Lego. The Camper Van has been realistically duplicated down to the smallest details, from the rounded pop-up roof to doors that actually open and close. Please refrain from trying to squeeze yourself into the driver’s seat when you finish assembling it.

Lego Volkswagen T1 Camper Van | ￦139,900 | shopkr.lego.com

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Bumblebee right in my room Attraction Level ★★★★★☆☆☆☆☆ Movies let us imagine our fantasies are real, but the fantasy comes to an end when the screen goes black and the light go on.

You can now take the Transformers fantasy home with you with the Kre-O Bumblebee. 335 pieces of Kre-O can be assembled into the hero that captured your imagination. Bumbleebee can easily transform from robot to car mode. You can now defeat the evil Megatron and Starscream with Optimus Prime and Sentinel Prime, not just in the movies anymore, but in real life.

Kre-O Bumblebee | ￦ 62,900 | hasbro.co.kr

Hidden camera in my ear Attraction Level ★★★★★★★☆☆☆

Reasonable jailbreak Attraction Level ★★★★★★★★☆☆ iCADE and iPad have teamed up to create something for those who long for the arcade games of their childhoods. Until now, the only way to enjoy these fun nostalgic games on one’s iPad has been by downloading the application, iMame.

Unfortunately, one must jailbreak to free enough space to run the app, which is not available under legitimate licensing. With iCADE, just slide the iPad into the cradle and connect it with Bluetooth, and you’re ready to “insert coin” and play.

The most important moments pass in the blink of an eye and all too often the moment you want to capture is gone by the time you can take out your camera and switch on the power button. Wouldn’t it be great to capture every single moment in life? To do so with both hands freed up to do other things? To share the video with others no matter where you are? Looxcie is the solution to all these problems. It is designed in the form of a Bluetooth ear set for sharp sound quality, but is equipped for video recording like a small camcorder. You can share videos taken with Looxcie’s smart phone app on Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube. Next time, let Looxcie do all the work of recording your live broadcast soccer game.

Looxcie Looxcie 2 | ￦ 298,000(8GB) | looxcie.co.kr

Ion iCADE | ￦ 219,000 | 02-2129-7907

Incase Sonic Headphone Attraction Level ★★★★★★★☆☆☆ These earphones are for those who care more about raw ingredients than seasoning. These headphones are practical and beautiful, allowing you to listen to a consistent but expanded range of sounds. Incase did not miss out on the aesthetics of simplicity; the perfect finish that it put into its iPhone case it also applied here. Sonic headphones have been designed to fit the shape of your head and ears to completely block out any unwanted noise and yet still look sharp. The ear adjustment part is hidden but is still adjustable to individual users, and the memory foam ear cushion adds comfort. Interchangeable cables come in two colors to add personality to this minimal design.

Incase Sonic | ￦ 299,000 | goincase.kr

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Unbearable “lightness” of pleasure of DJ-ing Attraction Level ★★★★★★★☆☆☆ Here comes a gadget that will spice up the iPad. It is a secret music plant that will also develop your musical potential. This DJ-ing device that has circular decks and a console that is just right for the DJ at a casual home party. With simple and easy operation and not too many buttons and nothing too fancy that will take you a long time to learn, it invites you to be a fun party-planer. When you take it out of the box it will surprise you how easy it is to operate.

Numark iDJ Live | ￦ 269,500 | gmarket.co.kr

Turn and make movies Attraction Level ★★★★★★★☆☆☆ Sometimes the idea is more important than the technology and Lomography is doing a good job proving just that. It created a new category of camera with a small lens that is hardly high-end, and it is all due to a brilliant idea not to technology. Lomography introduced fun cameras like Spinner that rotates 180°, Fisheye that has a lens just like goldfish, and now with Lomokino that is taking us to the world of movies. Put 35mm film into a Lomokino and turn the analogue lever and it will take about 144 frame pictures on the film. You can put together a flip book or develop them into movies.

Lomography Lomokino | ￦ 88,000 | lomoshop.co.kr

Moisture with vitamins Attraction Level ★★★★★★★☆☆☆ Your skin is challenged everyday by the cold and dry winter atmosphere. When a hydrating mist is not enough to protect it, strengthen your skin’s moisture barrier by paying more attention to your skincare routine. Klair's Rich Moisture Soothing Cream is enriched with organic ingredients and vitamins. Use it daily after cleansing and toning, and you’ll be able to put your best face forward even when winter is at its harshest.

Klair’s Rich Moisture Soothing Cream | ￦ 24,000 | klairs.com | wishtrend.com

Cappuccino rather than Americano Attraction Level ★★★★★★★☆☆☆ Espresso that wakes you up with the very first sip and Americano that tastes bitter like life are all good but you are more into the creamy foam on top of a Cappuccino.

You can now pull a shot with the foam right at home with Nespresso Aeroccino.

With Aeroccino you can instantly prepare milk froth ideal for your Caffe Latte or Cappuccino. This small device will make rich milk froth, but more important is the quality of the froth. Soft but rich foam dissolves smoothly in your mouth. It comes with 2 kinds of frother and you can also use it to heat up cold milk.

Nespresso Aeroccino | ￦ 145,200 | nespresso.com

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21st century born Retro Attraction Level ★★★★★★★☆☆☆ Collecting and listening to records makes appreciating music more personal. Setting up a turn-table takes a lot of time, and managing records should be done with much care, but all of this adds to the listener’s appreciation. Records have an evident strength in sound and allow you to appreciate them not only as a collection of tracks but also as an art form. Records give you tactile pleasure too when you put the record on the turntable. This 21st century born turntable made for music lovers who know the quality of this old technology is also equipped with software that transforms analogue sounds into digital.

TDK USB Belt Drive turntable | ￦ 699,000 | imation.co.kr

Worthy 2-in-1 Attraction Level ★★★★★★★☆☆☆ A product with too many functions is almost never a good idea, but the Epson PictureMate 310, that combines a digital frame and a photo printer, is the exception. The PictureMate 310 will satisfy customers who feel that the price of a digital frame costing over 100,000 won is too much and will also please customers who are not pleased with a bulky printer that takes up too much space even when it is not in use. It has an internal memory of 200MB and so you can reprint or play slideshows on its 7 inch LCD screen without a memory card.

Epson PictureMate 310 | ￦ 338,000 | mall. epson.co.kr

Courtesy of

BY_ HAE-MI WOO / CONTENT PROVIDED BY_ F.OUND magazine (www.foundmag.co.kr)(www.foundmag.co.kr) / TRANSLATION BY_ YOO JIN HEE

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Linking the arts and popular culture

Gallery Zandari

Culture and Arts AG Co.Ltd AG, focusing on the publicness of art among the various qualities of it, Is working on projects in almost all fields of culture to make the arts more accessible and familiar.

For most people, the arts still something distant or difficult to reach. privileged nor appreciated only by a small minority and is making every effort to raise public awareness that the arts are always in your neighborhood and can be enjoyed by everyone.

AG gives priority to education projects for children For this purpose, AG gives priority to education projects for children, the leaders of our future, to help them experience the arts and develop sensibility.

These include not only planning and implementing education programs but also developing and publishing educational manuals and books.

Furthermore, AG has actively contributed to public art projects to promote art in everyday life which goes beyond exhibitions in museums and galleries.

AG’s endeavors to expand the realm of the arts also lie in protecting copyrights in art by supporting artists to create works which can be used everyday things. www.agart.co.kr

t e a m

a n d

SeoulMate, composed of university students volunteer, offers you a special Seoul tour guide to non-Korean tourists for free. SeoulMate offers an opportunity for you to make Korean friends and understand the culture of Seoul through various tour programs.

As an experimental incubator for young passion and indie culture, the Gallery Zandari along with its free atmosphere, is working to open up a new future for contemporary art via the discovery of fresh, young Korean artists. Since its opening in 2004, the gallery has introduced many up and coming faces in and out of Korea.

The first generation of Gallery Zandari artists includes photographer Myunduck Joo. Consequently, it has widened the spectrum of Korea's contemporary art scene, creating a respected "art platform" for new artists. Recently, it has not only become a playground for talented young photographers but has exhibited various different arts such as sculpture and painting from artists of a large and diverse range of popular artists from Korea and around the world. The gallery has also participated at international art fairs such as SH Contemporary, Photo Beijing and KIAF, broadening its horizons as a strong commercial company as well as a rich art facility. This March marks a successful eight years for Gallery Zandari. To celebrate the occasion a commemorative exhibition titled, On the Road _ Sense of Leaves will be on show by photographer Myunduck Joo and Sanglim Ha (who has recently exhibited a new series of works using pictorialization).

GROU P S

We specialize in exporting, distributing, and global marketing in Beauty, Fashion, and Entertainment industries.

We also engage in global e-commerce for effective trading.

We especially focus on the idea "One-Asia Market" for the development of our overseas marketing solutions.

Visit http://www. seoul-mate.com and make unforgettable memories with Seoulmate!!

KEN Assists foreigners in finding job opportunities in Korea - Public School, Private Institutions, Private tutoring etc.

KEN Assists foreigners to redeem their culture shock!!

- Organizes Korean-Foreigners gathering party monthly.

- Fun Activities!!, Field trips, Flash mob, Birthday parties, etc.

We offer tailor-made event photography for a wide variety of events.

Our portfolio is diverse and we make sure to capture those memorable moments. We also run photography classes and outings every month. www.smileseoul.co.kr

KEN ( Korea English Network ) is a social network of Koreans and foreigners in Korea - It was started to bridge the cultural gap a Koreans and foreigners, and has since become something more than that - Helps Koreans learn/improve their foreign language skills with assistance from native language speakers (mostly English, but also other languages) through language exchange, 1:1 or 1:n tutoring, Group Study and Learning through extracurricular activities.

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Relevant Matter is a creative marketing and foreign venture consultancy. We strengthen local businesses and brands by helping attract global clients with executive management, creative marketing and innovative technology strategies.

Trickeye Museum ongdae—an adult’s playground.

But while infamous for its eclectic hodgepodge of restaurants, bars, cafes, and clubs, Hongdae is also often considered the art mecca of Seoul. Home to the young artists of Korea, the bohemian character of this party-goer’s haven boasts a certain je ne sais quoi not found in other areas of the city. Now dig a little deeper, and in the basement of Seogyo Plaza, amidst this tightly packed cluster of food and entertainment, you’ll discover a whole new grounds for play.

Trickeye Museum is a unique art gallery that houses trompe l’oeil paintings. French for “deceive the eye,” trompe l’oeil is an art technique that creates the optical illusion of a 2-dimensional art piece being 3-dimensional. So rather than simply view

and admire the pieces, visitors can interact with and actually become subjects of the artwork.The museum inspires creativity and imagination while being silly and fun. People of any age are sure to have a good time, and for shutter-happy Koreans and tourists seeking fun photo-ops, this museum is a must see.

And the Trickeye Museum is just one of the attractions in Santorini Seoul, a multi-cultural space housing several exhibitions and a performance hall, which feature contemporary art and Greek Mythology among others. So those who are looking for something a little more mature have other realms to explore. And to cap off their experience, visitors can grab a fresh cup of organic brewed coffee at Café Santorini.

Museum Information Adults: 13,000 won / Group: 10,000 won Youths & Children: 11,000 won / Group: 8,000 won Children 3 years old and younger: Free (Group: 20 people or more)

Directions Hongik University Station (Subway Line2), Exit 9. Walk straight ahead to the corner and turn left. Walk straight ahead to the Starbucks located just before the second street on your left.

Standing with Starbucks on your left, look right across the road and there is a little lane. Cross over and walk down the lane about 100-150m and the Museum is in a building on your right. Don’t miss the small sign on the electric pole on the right side.

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