(EN) Gwangju News July 2011 #113

July 2011 Issue No. 113

Hey DJ! Gwangju’s emerging DJ scene

Indonesia The Hidden Gems

Dating in Korea East Meets West

2

Gwangju News July 2011

What’s On

Gwangju News

10

Cover Photo Photographer: Jessica Solomatenko Cover Photo: Girl and boys at Chosun University Rose Festival Publisher: Gyonggu Shin Editor-in-Chief: Julian Warmington Editors: Julian Raethel, Minsu Kim Assistant Editors: Seth Pevey, Stephen Redeker Copy Editors: Kyle Johnson, Kathleen Villadiego Coordinator: Karina Prananto Layout and Design: Karina Prananto Proofreaders: Jake Melville, Julian Raethel, Erin Fahrer,

University Raising Fees

16 Jisan Valley Rockfest

Jon Ozelton, Lindsey Shear, Samantha Richter, Kyle Johnson, Gabriel Ward

Researchers: Yinhao Lu, Seoyeoung Park, Kyuri Park Address: Jeon-il Building 5F, Geumnam-no 1-1, Dong-gu, Gwangju 501-758, S. Korea

Phone: +82-62-226-2733~4 Fax: +82-62-226-2731 E-mail: gwangjunews@gmail.com Registration No.: 광주광역시 라. 00145 (ISSN 2093-5315) Printed by Logos (Phone +82-62-444-8800)

Gwangju News Magazine is written and edited by volunteers.

24 Photography Club

Special thanks to the City of Gwangju and all of our sponsors.

Copyright by the Gwangju International Center. All rights reserved. No part of this publication covered by this copyright may be reproduced in any form or by any means - graphic, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise - without the written consent of the publishers.

Gwangju News welcomes letters to the editor (gwangjunews@gmail.com) regarding articles and issues. All correspondence may be edited for reasons of clarity or space.

Gwangju News July 2011

3

Contents

Featured Articles 10

Feature

Regular Columns 6

Upcoming Events

9

Local News

The Solution for the Tuition Hikes?

By Jin Park

12

Feature

This Month in Gwangju

By Jon Ozelton

Gwangju Underground’s DJ Scene

By Michael Thompson

22 14

Now and Then II

By Wil Rawlins

16

Music

Get Ready to Rock in July!

2011 Jisan Valley Rock Festival

News

Home Pages

Feature

28 36

Photo Contest Living Tips

Travel Agencies

By Maria Lisak

By Seoyoung Park

18

Travel

38

Yeosu

20

39

40 Nights in Indonesia Community

40

Gwangju Photography Club

26

42

A Day will Come

30

43

By Alfian Zohri

32

2011 Gwangju Summit of the Urban Environmental Accords Interview with Professor Kim

Two Poems in Dialogue Literature

Human Decency Movie Review

A Bloody Aria

By Seth Pevey

No Rest Environment

Literature

By Elton LaClare

By Austin Malone International

‘--고싶다’ (would like to (do)/ want to (do)

Translated by Chae-pyong Song and Anne Rashid

By Hughie Samson Photo Gallery

Language Study

By Soo-a Jung

By Steve McNally

24

Letters to KOTESOL

By Dr. Dave Schaffer

By Doug Stuber Travel

Language Study

Food and Drink

44

Dawoorang Mandu and Gungjeon Jegwa

By Gabriel Ward

45

Dear Korea

By Jen Lee

By Frances Herrington

34

News

Put a Sock in it!

46

Community

47

Dating in Korea Environment

Moonsoon Season: “When it rains, it pours”

GIC Program Review

Mudeungsan Tour

By Alan Brown

By Kerri Strothard

37

Skewered Tteok

By Seoyeong Park

By David Holt

35

Food and Drink

48

Fashion

Fash-on with xxl jjdp By jjdp

By Stephen Redeker

50

Cartoon

Digby

By Leroy Kucia

4

Gwangju News July 2011

Gwangju News July 2011

5

Upcoming Events Exhibitions

Festival Mokpo Madang Festival Location: Mt. Yudal, Mokpo City Date: July 21 ~ 24, 2011 Website: club.cyworld.com/madangkeuk

MuAm Il-Lo Pumba Festival Location: Muan Seungdal Culture and Art Center Date: July 13 ~ 16, 2011 Website: www.koreapumba.co.kr

Performances Jasmine Gwangju Jasmine Gwangju celebrates the rich cultural history of the Korean city of Gwangju and tells the inspiring story of its famed Democratisation Movement, the uprising against military dictatorship in 1980, which, although brutally put-down, paved the way for later movements that eventually brought democracy and prosperity to South Korea. As the recent tide of popular democratic movements spreads across many countries, Jasmine Gwangju is a story about the human spirit, of hope, despair and ultimate triumph told through music, mass drums, traditional costume and ritual dance in this large-scale spectacular production.

Venue: Bitgoeul Culture Center (빛고을시민문화관) Admission fee: R (Royal): 20,000 won, S (Superior): 15,000 won, A (A Grade): 10,000 won For more info: Festival Project 062) 670-7466 Website: http://bitculture.gjcity.net

Woyzeck (The Physical Theater) Date: July 23 ~24, 2011 Location: Bitgoeul Culture and Art Center (빛고을시민문화관) Admission fee: 10,000 ~ 20,000 won

Korea Fantasy (Korean Dance) Date: July 27, 2011 Location: Bitgoeul Culture and Art Center (빛고을시민문화관) Admission fee: 10,000 ~ 20,000 won

Gwangju World Music Festival Pre-Workshop Concert Date: July 2, 2011 Time: 7:00 p.m. ~ 9:00 p.m.

Location: Geumnamro Park Website: www.gjwmf.com

Musical Menopause Location: Gwangju Culture and Art Center: Grand Theater Admission fee: 44,000 ~ 66,000 Date: July 9 ~ 10, 2011 Website: www.gjart.net

6

Gwangju News July 2011

Discovering Dinosaur Expo in Gwangju Date: July 8 ~ August 28, 2011 Opening Hours: 10:00 a.m. ~ 7:00 p.m.

Admission: Adult 12,000 won / Children 14,000 won For more info visit: www.hellodino.com Phone: 1688-7339

Hwasue Cho Youngnam Gallery Date: Until July 31, 2011 You can see 200 works of art Gwangju Museum of Art For more info visit: www.artmuse.gwangju.go.kr Phone: 062) 613-7100

SecomDalcom Toy Story Exhibition Location: Gwangju Museum of Art: Kid’s Gallery Website: www.artmuse.gwangju.go.kr Date: 2011, 06, 09 ~ 2011, 10, 02

Movies @ Gwangju Theater Chungjangno 5-ga (two blocks back behind Migliore) Phone: 062) 224-5858 Films change weekly to bi-weekly.

Admission fee: 8,000 won for one film. 21,000 won for three films.

30,000 won for five films; 50,000 won for ten films.

Check online for calendar and prices. (http://cafe.naver.com/cinemagwangju/) The following movies will be shown in July: In a Better World The lives of two Danish families cross each other, and an extraordinary but risky friendship comes into bud. But loneliness, frailty and sorrow lie in wait.

Release date: June 23 Director: Susanne Bier Writer: Anders Thomas Jensen (screenplay) Stars: Mikael Persbrandt, Trine Dyrholm and Markus Rygaard Story Line Anton is a doctor who commutes between his home in an idyllic town in Denmark, and his work at an African refugee camp. In these two very different worlds, he and his family are faced with conflicts that lead them to difficult choices between revenge and forgiveness. Anton and his wife Marianne, who have two young sons, are separated and struggling with the possibility of divorce. Their older, ten-year-old son Elias is being bullied at school, until he is defended by Christian, a new boy who has just moved from London with his father, Claus. Christian's mother recently lost her battle with cancer, and Christian is greatly troubled by her death. Elias and Christian quickly form a strong bond, but when Christian involves Elias in a dangerous act of revenge with potentially tragic consequences, their friendship is tested and lives are put in danger. Ultimately, it is their parents who are left to help them come to terms with the complexity of human emotions, pain and empathy.

Written and produced by Sisse Graum Jørgensen (IMDB.com)

Sports This Month at Holiday Inn Gwangju Gwangju FC Soccer Team July Match Schedule Date

Match Team

Time

9 10

Gangwon FC Jeonbuk Hyundai

19:00 19:00

Venue: Gwangju Worldcup Stadium (광주월드컵경기장) Direction: Take buses 6, 16, 20, 26, 47, 74 and get off at Worldcup Stadium bus stop Ticket Price: Adult 10,000 won, Family (4 people) 30,000 won Website: www.gwangjufc.com

KIA Tigers Baseball Team July Match Schedule Date

Match Team

Time

1 2 3 5 6 7 12 13 14 26 27 28 29 30 31

Hanhwa (M) Hanhwa (M) Hanhwa (M) Nexen (W) Nexen (W) Nexen (W) Doosan (M) Doosan (M) Doosan (M) Samsung (M) Samsung (M) Samsung (M) Nexen (M) Nexen (M) Nexen (M)

18:30 17:00 17:00 18:30 18:30 18:30 18:30 18:30 18:30 18:30 18:30 18:30 18:30 17:00 17:00

A warm welcome to July at Holiday Inn Gwangju We are all proud to have received our “Five Star” rating in June and our plaques are proudly displayed at our front entrance.

The Hotel underwent a rigorous examination with a team of experts assembled by the Korean Tourism Association.

Looking for something special to do in July or August?

STAY ENERGIZED Venue: M: Gwangju Mudeung Baseball Stadium (무등경기장) Directions: Take buses 16, 38, 51, 53, 58, 89, 95, 98, 151 and get off at Mudeung Stadium bus stop W: Gunsan Wolmyeong Stadium (군산월명야구장) Direction: Take a bus to Gunsan from U-Square (first bus 6:30 a.m., last bus 9:00 p.m.).

From Gunsan Terminal, take bus no 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 31, 32, 33, 88, 89 get off at Baseball Stadium bus stop (야구장) Ticket Price: Adults 7,000 - 12,000 won; Students (13 - 18): 4,000 - 9,000 won; Children (under 13, 2,000 - 6,000 won) Website: www.tigers.co.kr (Korean)

This month’s Upcoming Events contributors: Yinhao Lu, Seoyeong Park, Kyuri Park

Holiday Inn Gwangju is delighted to provide a super package at 170,000 won net includes a free breakfast for two, free Internet free, and free use of our Sauna, pool and gymnasium. Bookings required; minimum 7 days prior to arrival. Normally priced at over 230,000 won.

Lobby Lounge at Holiday Inn Gwangju now has live entertainment from 7:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Thursdays through Saturdays Michael Wilson General Manager Holiday Inn Gwangju Michael.Wilson@ihg.com Watch our website for further details www.holidayinngwangju.com Gwangju News July 2011

7

Editorial

Goodbye Note from Maria Gwangju News’ Editor-in-Chief (June 2010 ~ June 2011)

Maria Lisak

Thank you for the opportunity to support Gwangju News Magazine. I am finishing my one-year-term as editor-in-chief. Gwangju News is a gift. It is a collaborative artefact of our ever-changing Gwangju community. It takes about 50 volunteers to put out the 56 pages every month. And another 20 to get it mailed out and delivered. Of those volunteers is a core of 10 ever-ready powerhouses – networking, writing, reading, editing, and navigating an intercultural environment – daily to bring you Gwangju News. Gwangju News has given me an opportunity to meet others that I would never have the opportunity to get to know. Gwangju News has given me an opportunity to be part of something bigger than I could make myself. Gwangju News is a gift that will keep on giving. I know I will be able to add my voice to future issues. I hope you do so as well. Can’t wait to hear from you. Thanks for the ride.

Maria Lisak

[ GIC Talk ]

Time & Place: Every Saturday, 3:00 - 4:30 p.m., GIC office (5th floor of Jeon-il Bldg) For more information, visit www.gic.or.kr or contact Moon So-eun at: gwangjuic@gmail.com Check out pictures from previous GIC Talks http://picasaweb.google.com/gictalk Click for the highlight clips of GIC Talk at www.youtube.com/user/GICTALK

July 2 Topic: Images of Writing across Cultures Speaker: Young-Kyung Min (ESL Writing Specialist at the University of Washington at Bothell) The number of multilingual students is rapidly increasing in US institutions of higher education. As the large number of multilingual students—both international and 1.5 generation students—is acculturated into the discourses of US academia, the importance of understanding the influence of the sociocultural and historical backgrounds of the students on their literacy practices is highlighted. Based on ethnographic research both as a student and as a faculty member in an American institution, the presenter will discuss images of writing in other parts of the world and present some practical tools and strategies the audience can use in a variety of writing contexts.

July 9 Topic: Modern Society and Mental Health: Moving from Pathology to Wellness Speaker: Daniel Olympia (Associate Professor in Educational Psychology at the University of Utah) Maintaining mental health is a very important issue in a dynamic society. Psychology has a long history of promoting understanding and treating various mental illnesses, including depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, life stress, etc. This talk will focus on more recent theories and techniques to improve individual mental health and happiness and the scientific study of human strengths, optimism, creativity, well-being, and stress reduction/resilience. The speaker will share some strategies currently used to promote and develop resiliency and other important qualities associated with the positive psychology movement.

July 16 Topic: TBA Speaker: Andrea Heiss (Director of Arts Program in Magazine at the University of Missouri)

8

Gwangju News July 2011

July 23 Topic: Opening of an Art Show Three Speaker: Lisa Mynhardt (Artist, ESL Instructor) People experience life with the concept of things happening in threes. It is an intrinsic part of human life and its belief systems and its nuance is found in everything we do. Like a code it is everywhere, it layers our life and it fills our mind. Life is 3D, there is always three possible answers, the body has three major organs that is needed for survival and so much more. Our brains understand this “code” of three very well and it is with this collection that the artist tries to show her understanding of what effect this code has on her life.

July 30 Topic: Hansen’s disease in Korean Society Speaker: Joji Wilson Kohjima (Fulbright Junior Researcher (Medical Anthropology) 2010 University of Washington graduate in International Studies and Biochemistry) Hansen's disease in Korea historically existed at endemic levels until effective drugs became available in the 1930s to 1950s. It has been referenced in Korean literature for centuries even including some Chosun era mask dances. In the 20th century, Hansen's disease patients became what professor Jeong Keun-Shik of Seoul National University refers to as "the primary social other" in ethnically homogeneous Korean society. They have alternately been used as symbols of national shame, Christian salvation, Japanese imperial benevolence, and finally Korea's national "han," or sorrow. This GIC talk will explore leprosy in Korean society as a phenomenon originating at the microscopic level of bacteria but extending to the level of social constructs such as discrimination, colonization, and otherization faced by leprosy patients.

News

This Month in Gwangju A brief roundup of news stories from in and around Gwangju

Notice on the bus regarding the increase of fares picplz.com

Gwangju Student Independence Memorial Hall utour.gwangju.go.kr

Increase in Public Transport Fares The city announced that fares will increase across the board on all of the city’s bus and subway routes. The increase is the first since December 2006, and is a result of increasing fuel prices and operating costs. The new fares will come into effect from July 1st.

of three languages – English, Chinese and Vietnamese – and take place at the multi-cultural education support centre, in Buk-gu, or the expat meeting hall in the Songjeong neighborhood of Suwan district.

Passengers paying in cash will have to start carrying coins again, as the fare is set to rise from 1000 to 1200 won.

Passengers paying by transit card will be charged 1100 won, up from the current 950 won, whilst the middle/high school student fares, and child fares, will change from 670 to 750 won, and 300 to 350 won respectively. University students using the transit card will pay 1000 won, up from the previous 800 won. This represents a rise of between 11.9 to 25%.

Driver's License Class for International Residents With the increase in public transport fares, some people might be considering getting their own car instead. Gwangju Police announced that they will be holding a special class to help international residents gain driving licenses.

The class aims to help people who might otherwise struggle to get a driver’s license because of the language barrier, and to provide them with the necessary information and knowledge for driving in Korea.

Classes will run on Tuesdays and Thursdays, twice a week for 8 weeks, totaling 16 hours. Classes will be taught in one

Creating Green Spaces As part of efforts to create more green spaces in Gwangju, City Hall is engaging its “Demolish Walls” program, which plans to knock down many old or disused buildings throughout the city, and free up the space for regeneration as a park or gardens.

Specifically, the walls of the Gwangju Student Independence Movement Memorial Hall, in the centre of downtown, will be demolished, and trees planted there instead to create a vibrant open green area. The Hall had provided a cultural place for students during the 1970s and 80s, but the facilities there have been worn-out and the number of people using the building had seen a sharp decline. The demolition and subsequent regeneration will create valuable green area at the very heart of the city.

Expat readers may not be familiar with the Student Independence Movement Memorial Hall, but will doubtless have passed it many times, it being the old building on the right hand side when making the short walk from Burger King to Speakeasy.

The “Demolish Walls” project has so far removed 68 walls, and plans to take that number up to almost 100 by 2013, in order to beautify the city.

By Jon Ozelton Gwangju News July 2011

9

Feature

The Solution for the Tuition Hikes? mid the looming student walkouts and calls to drastically slash tuition costs, Korean politicians still seem to be trapped in the quicksand under the name of populism to draw in more votes.

A

It’s a Korean version of a land flowing with milk and honey, or so they are told. Once they step foot on the sacred land of university the acne breakouts from the stress and lack of sleep would magically disappear.

The weight gained in the wrong places from sitting more than 10 hours a day studying would just drop, or properly relocate themselves to where it is necessary.

And most importantly of all, they will experience the romance of the century with handsome heartthrobs and gorgeous sweethearts like those frequently spotted in Korean dramas.

new collegians are immediately faced with soaring college tuition costs. Some have actually resorted to the extreme step: suicides due to unbearable economic hardship induced from the tuition hikes. The number of those who became credit delinquents due to accumulating student loans hit 30,057 in April; only four years ago, the number was a mere 3785.

Korean students face tuition costs on average of US$8519 in Korean private universities and the fee is on a rapid rise. This represents the second highest tuition among OECD countries after the United States. However Koreans do have it hard, and in some aspects, more so than Americans. The numbers of grants are significantly lower than in the U.S. – only nine percent of students from lower income households receive scholarships.

And their part time jobs only complete the vicious cycle and pulls A few decades back, graduating from them further away from studies or, the “right” university was the fastest consequently, the merit based way up the ladder for most Koreans, scholarship. Another thing to note however, nowadays receiving A student protest is that US GDP ranked itself about tertiary education is a must- if they nine times higher than Korea’s in want to be an eligible candidate for a decent job in 2010 according to data from the International such uncertain times. Most Korean students choose Monetary Fund. And for those who think that the size their preferred universities before they choose what of the country and the population is incomparable they want to be in the future. And for that, the youths between the US and Korea, the GDP per capita is are immediately given the path of hellish competitive about $47,284 in the US and $25,910 in Korea. But routines of high school life where they are denied a despite the high price, the rate of college enrolment lot. There they shut off their eyes and ears from stands unparalleled at a whopping 84%. society, where the unemployment rate is soaring, inflation is out of control and politicians are seeking Then the ruling Grand National Party sparked the fire their own interests. They probably know, but with a provocative remedy for this problem: cutting accepting the reality may be just too much on their the tuition in half. already fragile minds.

It is important to note this pledge is a renewed effort And then reality strikes. Instead of “Livin’ da Vida by the GNP from 2007 which failed to bear fruit with Loca” happy and content in the “promised land,” the the president (the then presidential candidate for the 10

Gwangju News July 2011

Feature

funds. Joong Ang University has invested 10 billion won and ended with half, with a 5.35 billion won loss.

Moreover an OCED report rated Korea 51st among 57 countries in its index of university competitiveness rendering the reason for the price hike – securing a more advanced education curricula, teaching staff and facilities for students, useless. In such situations, government subsidies would most likely result in the university administrator’s pockets at best.

Graduation ceremony

GNP) claiming that it was not one of his election pledges, but the party’s.

Then as the opposition party began to voice their criticism, they skedaddled their way out of it as usual.

And with the opposition party too busy finding fault with the GNP in their attempt to win more support for the coming election next year, the students began their own uproar which rapidly permeated through the Korean peninsula as a result.

What began as an independent movement against their school policies grew into its current form: candlelit protests of the Korean University Students Union calling for “half-priced tuition.” Certainly an appealing solution to the price hike which has been skyrocketing. However, to address the tuition problem, one must develop an insight about the Korean education system as a whole.

Outside the universities, Koreans must think about practicing noblesse oblige. Korean universities depend heavily on tuition. Compared to the OECD average of 25% dependency on tuition, Korea sits at 75 %. Also Korea needs a change in their perspective to foster students who can actually achieve their dreams whether or not they have a college degree from a prestigious school. Throw away the stereotypes that have hindered many talented youths from being employed and able to pay back their loans.

In conclusion, there is hope that the limelight shed on the tuition issue actually becomes a watershed which gives chances for the Korean government, as well as the citizens, to address the issue properly rather than brushing past it like the previous years. Moreover there is hope that it does not end as a minor financial issue, but becomes a trigger in transforming Korean society to correct and restructure the misguided fundamentals through the whole Korean education system.

By Jin Park Photos from Naver Blog, SBS News

It is true that we need to put a stop to the escalating tuition to lower the ridiculously high 70% rate of indebted graduating college seniors of an average of 11.3 million won (Job Korea). But this will only be a mere redistribution of the burden by imposing more tax to pay the 50% subsidy to the college students. The taxpayer, if they do agree to do so, must call for transparency in universities finances. Despite the university’s complaints that they have been skimming down on tuition, the balances show otherwise.

According to the civic group People’s Solidarity for Participatory Democracy, 59 universities in Seoul and Gyeonggi Province accrued a total of 628.4 billion won or about US$ 656.3 million in 2006. Overall SBS claims that Korean universities have accumulated 10 trillion won of surplus funds which they have invested in stock. Some have ended up losing their reserve Despair over fees Gwangju News July 2011

11

Feature

Gwangju Underground’s DJ Scene

DJ Edgar at Mix Lounge

s Korea’s sixth largest metropolitan area, Gwangju is known for its arts. When it comes to music, there are a few venues that cater to the local and expat communities. While there are many live bands that perform regularly, there are a growing number of places that cater to the audiences that like to dance and the DJs who share their love of playing music for them. Big venues such as Club Volume and Houze, often have a huge turnout of young hipsters who’ve got a little rhythm in their step. Now, smaller venues, such as Bubble Bar and Mix Lounge, have become popular with the local and expat population with their ability to play a multitude of genres and bring in skilful DJs from the area and beyond that can deliver a sound that you can hear in the bigger metropolises (i.e. Seoul and Busan).

A

Recently, the movement has gone beyond downtown Gwangju into nearby Chonnam University. The MC Bar is a relatively new bar that brings in live bands and DJs for various events. With successful shows such as the “Spring Fling” and “Rock-n-Rhymes” the MC Bar will definitely be an up-and-coming place for patrons to enjoy. Not too far from MC Bar is Tequilaz, a Mexican-style eatery and bar, which also holds some events that feature bands and DJs as well.

So what is the Gwangju Underground? First and foremost, it is a collective of music-minded people who are focused on introducing an underground 12

Gwangju News July 2011

sound to the masses. For the DJs, it’s the ability to showcase the sounds they play in different venues.

For the business, it’s the ability to offer an alternative experience that is often compromised in bigger or mainstream venues. For the listener, it’s the opportunity to listen and dance to music that is not heard in the bigger clubs. Gwangju has slowly begun to have more venues to cater for an alternative experience. It may not have the type of club that draws major acts yet but there are DJs and businesses out there that are making a lot of noise in the South Jeolla province. While there are many challenges in trying to create an atmosphere for an underground experience, the benefits outweigh them.

One of the biggest challenges posed to businesses when opening a venue is how to maintain a steady customer base while trying to stay as original as possible. Bubble Bar has been a success in maintaining a good customer base. Its ability to play a variety of different genres of music, ranging from hiphop and pop to electro-house has kept many locals and expats coming back. According to owner Jong Chan Kim, “We’re constantly having DJ parties and concept parties. People really enjoy our services, cheap prices, and special offers. When I began working at Bubble Bar many people stopped by Bubble, like a pub. Eventually people came for our open environment and mixing of cultures. It became a very popular place in Gwangju.”

Feature

elsewhere in Korea. One of the greatest joys is that he can play hip-hop in many venues and introduce the audience to a variety of styles of hip-hop and R&B. You can find him interacting with the crowd while doing a DJ set.

How can the DJ scene in Gwangju improve? There are plenty of venues that are catering to many tastes but one might find some of the venues quite repetitive on the styles of music being played. Owen Wibberley, also known as Playto or Skullfunk, says in regards to making a better scene in Gwangju, “We can always do with more venues and variety. I would like to see promoters taking over bars and clubs for the evening and having creative control. It's hard as a DJ when the manager comes over and tells you to play cheesier stuff.” He further states that “If you go to clubs anywhere else in the world then normally the club manager won't control the music, it will be the promoters. Hopefully we can do this in Gwangju.” JC, the owner of the Bubble Bar, gives an interesting perspective on the DJ culture in Korea in general. “I think DJs in Korea lack unity. They are kind of selfish.

I assert lots of ongoing interaction between DJs and free performances to showcase their awesomeness need to take place.”

Bryan Simmons (aka “DJ Hypnotiq”) at Bubble Bar

On the other hand, Mix Lounge has taken an artistic approach by creating an environment in which style and music can co-exist. Mix Lounge also focuses on musical sounds that fit well with the ambiance of the lounge. Mainly a lounge-bar located near Chonnam University, MC Bar has been hosting events featuring local/expat bands and DJs for the past few months with some success. One thing that Bubble Bar, Mix Lounge, and MC Lounge Club Bar have in common is that they are managed and owned by people who have lots of experience in DJing, which could be a factor in their success.

Another challenge posed by these venues is having unique DJs play without losing their customer base.

The biggest challenge for the DJ is to balance playing their style and keeping the audience interested. DJs feel the pressure of business owners and the audience while playing. Some balance it by compromising the genre they play, by adding mainstream tracks or even taking requests from the audience. Some even take it to another level by dancing, MCing, or interacting with the audience. Bryan Simmons, aka DJ Hypnotiq, is a member of Da Megook Movement, an expat hiphop group that has been playing all over Gwangju and

Bubble Bar owner JC

The Gwangju Underground is a collective that encourages businesses, DJs/musicians, and the enthusiasts with a variety of tastes to embrace a culture that is different from what is common. These are the folks that are enhancing and diversifying a nightlife that keeps Gwangju an interesting place to come to and become part of an experience. While there may a few challenges, the benefits already enhance Gwangju’s reputation as a city that embraces art.

Story and photos by Michael Thompson

Gwangju News July 2011

13

Feature

Now and Then II A look back at Gwangju through the generations

F

or many, Gwangju means many things to many people over the span of many years. To recent residents and foreigners new to Gwangju city, it has come to be appreciated as a gem of a city. complete modern entertainment centers, international events, and diverse exquisite cuisine. The city is further complimented by hospitality that could rival the American south.

However Gwangju was not always this way. Mrs. Go Un Suk (aka Grace) and Ms. Kang Ji Yeon have volunteered to share their experiences in Gwangju during different eras in the city’s history. Go being familiar with time in Gwangju’s history during the 70s and 80s offers an insightful perspective on Gwangju’s past. Ms. Kang, being a recent university graduate, has a neoteric view of the city and its past.

Then: Mudeung Mountain in 1955

Gwangju News (GN): What was life like in Gwangju when you were attending university?

G o : When I was a university student many teenagers and people in their 20s believed it as very important that our country have a free democracy.

This was important to many university students. It was agreed upon that we should be active in the democratic movement, since we had to be the leaders of our country. Also I experienced the May 18th massacre. It was a very panoramic democratic movement at that time.

Kang: When I entered university it was 2005 so it was pretty similar to what life is like now.

GN: What were your major priorities and aspirations at the time?

Go: During my university days, after graduating you didn’t have to worry about getting a job. Since Korea was developing very rapidly nobody worried about employment. Instead most college students’ 14

Gwangju News July 2011

Now: Mudeung Mountain today

priorities were to talk about politics and contribute to the democratic movement.

Kang: Compared to Mrs. Go’s generation, getting a job was a top priority. Also getting a good score on English exams was very important.

GN: What was the geography like in the city (i.e. buildings and landmarks)? What has changed and what has stayed the same?

Go: In those days the major landmarks of Gwangju were the Gwangju River and Mudeung Mountain.

Gwangju River was particularly popular. Back then some children would bathe naked in the water. Of course I didn’t since I was a shy and modest girl, but most boys liked to play in the river. Mudeung Mountain is still remembered today as a landmark in Gwangju, but people seemed to have forgotten about the river. There is not a lot of water there now but back then it was always flowing down.

Feature

Then: Gwangju River in the 90s

Kang: Well I might recall this correctly, but as I remember back when I was in university the Chonnam provincial office moved to the Mokpo area. This office was a landmark for Gwangju but when I was a freshman it was abandoned. Also around this time there was no cultural complex in Gwangju city.

GN: What entertainment was popular and what was fashionable at the time?

Go: Many university students enjoyed drinking makeolli together. During this time Chungjang Street was the main fashion street. This was where students would go after school to meet and have fun. Also going on blind dates was very popular. So many people during this generation had many opportunities to go on blind dates with men and women. The movie Hurricane and Elvis Presley were very popular at the time as well. As for fashion, people enjoyed wearing bell bottom jeans and t-shirts.

Kang: When I was in university we would watch movies every weekend. There were so many movies that I’m not sure which one was the most popular.

Around that time cafes were becoming more popular. They were new but it was where college students would like to meet. People would like to

Now: Gwangju River today

wear flare jeans when I was in university, but later skinny jeans became more fashionable since they made you look slimmer.

GN: What are some similarities and differences you see in the new generation compared to yours?

Go: Well, something similar I’ve noticed is that both generations study very hard. One precedent our country seems to have is our fever for education.

The difference, I’m sorry to say, is that it is much harder to get a job. When I was in university, people were offered two or three jobs at a time, and we could choose the best job among them. We were a lucky generation in that aspect.

Kang: I don’t feel much a generation gap between my generation and the new one. We are both similar in that we are seeking ways to have fun. However what is different is that I think the new generation doesn’t have any dreams. They don’t have a reason to study or a goal they just study because they have to.

By Wil Rawlins Old Mudeung Mountain photo from MSN Blog, Mt. Mudeung Today photo by Van Hoang Gwangju River photos from Naver Blog

Gwangju News July 2011

15

Music

Get Ready to Rock in July!

2011 Jisan Valley Rock Festival

I

t can be described by using such terms like camping, rock’n roll, green grass, and paradise!

As one of the most exciting festivals in Korea, it is the best chance to get extremely excited by music. So if you are in Korea and want to have a blast, you should be there!

The festival will take place for three days (July 29~July 31). And during that period the music, passion and freedom will never end.

Performances of high quality are staged by the best rock bands in and outside of the country. Last year, ‘Muhan-dojeon team’ (a popular TV show in Korea) performed as a surprise act and the festival ended with a grand finale by MUSE.

Rocking out at the main stage

16

Gwangju News July 2011

Within the zone there are so many events to enjoy and as there are multiple stages, various bands will be performing simultaneously. You can wander around freely and stop by any stage you want. If it gets hot after jumping and dancing, it is okay to get into the outdoor pool or grab a glass of beer and sit down anywhere covered with green grass.

As the festival is held outdoors, there are some points to note. The wonderful moments may be bothered by unexpected weather or bugs like mosquitoes. And in the afternoon the temperature drops down so it will be clever to bring warmer clothing. But if you are ready just to have fun then nothing can bother you; even the rain can be a plus to enjoy. You don’t have to know about rock music or how to headbang and

Music

dance. Just check out this awesome festival if you don’t have any plans for summer yet. You will agree that “Rock ‘n’ Roll will never die!”

By Seoyoung Park Photos by 2011 Jisan Valley Rock Festival

Big lights, big sound

Brief Information 2011 Jisan Valley Rock Festival (http://valleyrockfestival.mnet.com/) Date : July 29 - 31, 2011 Venue: Jisan Forest Resort (www.jisanresort.co.kr) Price : 3 Day Pass - 220,000 won 1 Day Pass - 110,000 won Camping ticket -10,000 won Lineup: The Chemical Brothers, Incubus, Suede, Feeder, 10cm, Arctic Monkeys and many more!

Evening headbangers

Camping site

Tent city

Notification for ticket reservations: - Camping tickets are only available for three day ticket holders. The number of purchasable camping tickets depends on the number of three day tickets you have purchased.

- Tickets will be given at the festival gate.

- You'll be asked to present your I.D. and a printed copy of your confirmation email to receive tickets at the venue.

- Camping tickets are counted per person, regardless of the date you are coming.

- The camping zone is on the grass and cooking is strictly prohibited by Jisan Ski Resort's policy for safety and for preventing forest fires.

- To bring glass, plastic bottles, or canned items is prohibited for security and safety reasons.

(There will be a food court for drinks and food).

Reservation info:http://valleyrockfestival. mnet.com/ticket/booking.asp)

2010 Jisan Valley Rockfest

Gwangju News July 2011

17

Travel

Yeosu eosu, at times a naval base, boat-building city, home to many fisherman, and a quickly developing coastal industrial complex, is also an ideal tourist destination. Thanks to the sea wind and warm current, Yeosu has cool summers and mild winters. Three small but usually under-populated beaches are the best within an hour and a half drive of Gwangju, or an hour and forty-five minute bus ride.

And, if you charter a boat, or find a way to get into one, you can discover 269 uninhabited islands out of the 312 that dot the Southeast coastline of Jeollanam-do. You will not find more peaceful or untrampled camping anywhere else near the ocean in these parts.

Y

Yeosu sits on the northern spit of a peninsula that is appropriately shaped like a “Y� if seen on a cartoon map, across the large Suncheon Bay from Suncheon.

The charm of Yeosu rests in its size (just under 300,000 people) and insanely good seafood. The famous Ocean Resort also offers a complete array of water sports, while Turtle Park downtown gives workers and visitors alike a chance to picnic by a large pond, kick a soccer ball around an even larger field, or catch a concert at the band-shell.

You can also see wonderful photographs from high above the ocean at Hansansa and Heungguksa Temples. I favor Hansansa, as it does not have the military history, which is

Hansansa Temple above the bay 18

Gwangju News July 2011

so out of place in Buddhism, and it has a beautiful walk with very thin cuts through rocks, and those famous Buddhist rock formations. Sadly, its largest temple burned down in Dec. 2009, but the mini-caves and view still make it worth the hike. Walking up to the beginning of the nature trail, you will pass a variety of fun restaurants and marine-themed motels. A small but completely interactive aquarium is worthy of a visit as well.

Along the waterfront more than one seafood buffet restaurant offers kilograms of unusual delectables that range from abalone to raw fish to hong-o (skate; for the brave).

On your first drive over the Dolsan Bridge, when you look to the left you will swear someone took a shrinking gun to San Francisco and planted it here in Korea. A small island is nicely placed to remind you of Alcatraz, and seemingly Spanish-influenced houses dot steep hills that, except for the missing eucalyptus trees, look allthe-world like Geary Street.

The Yeosu 2012 World Expo has been trimmed a touch, as funding disappeared, making the planned waterfront condominiums that were to house presenters, then to be sold, left in the planning stages. Still, the Expo will illuminate the many advantages the ocean provides for aquaculture, shipping, energy, and to attract tourists.

One goal is to have enough high-quality ocean-front

Travel

Dolson Bridge from the deck of a ferry boat.

Inset: Lighthouse

properties to attract Koreans and foreigners who have the wherewithal to make Yeosu a “second home” Mecca.

For those into decent American subs, Yeosu offers a Quiznos, while Gwangju does not. It is one block away from Turtle Park, a landmark that got its name from Admiral Yi Sun Sin’s famous Turtle boats, that were “first used in mock battles in 1413 or 1415… Their most distinguishable feature was a dragon-shaped head at the bow (front) that could launch cannon fire or flames from the mouth. Each was also equipped with a fully covered deck that was shielded to deflect cannon fire, and with iron spikes to discourage enemy men from attempting to board the ship.”

A replica of one stands as a museum and is docked conveniently for tourists. Every year the “Battle of Hansan” or “Turtle ship” Festival commemorates the 1592 battle, at which Korea successfully repelled invading Japanese forces by using the nearly impenetrable turtle ships. This festival usually runs in the second week in August. Be on the lookout for an update in the Gwangju News “upcoming events” section.

In the summer the buses are very popular coming back to Gwangju from Yeosu on Sundays. And there is a trick to it: Though buses run each way more than once on hour, on the RETURN bus form Yeosu, there is no time stamped on your ticket. The line-up starts as much as 20 minutes before the bus leaves, and if you are too far back in line you have to wait for the next bus. Another interesting feature is that both busses stop once before reaching the U-Square Bus terminal: one across from the Performing Arts Center (in BukGu, north of town) and the other in front of Mudeung Library park, two blocks south of the main Buk-Gu Home plus. This is a great convenience for those living north of U-Square, but be aware which bus you’re on, depending on where you want to get off.

Story and photos by Doug Stuber

Turtle boat museum Gwangju News July 2011

19

Travel

40 Nights in Indonesia Turning the tables

ndonesia has just about everything you could wish for (apart from snow). We spent 40 nights there and only touched the surface, but that was enough for it to always have a place in our hearts and give us tons of happy memories.

I

First, Sumatra. Starting in Bukit Lawang, which is home to orangutans living in the jungle. We chartered a minibus (with other foreigners) to take us from Medan. It took a while, but it was safe. On the jungle trek, with our guide, we saw locals collecting rubber straight from the trees, ants the size of your finger, Thomas's Lip Monkeys (with white Mohicans), a tortoise, and then our many orangutans. There is a rehab centre nearby for orphaned or injured orangutans, but once they are okay, they are released back into the jungle. Therefore some of them were more approachable than others.

The rangers give all the orangutans names, and one followed us for a while, taking fruit from our hands.

We also saw a mother with a baby, a large male orangutan and then Jackie. She was lying on the ground, and let us tickle her belly. She then put one arm round my neck, as if wanting to climb on top of me. When it was time to move on, the rangers tried to get Jackie off me, but she put her arms and legs round my legs, just like a kid would, not wanting me to leave.

Next stop was Bandarlampung, hoping to visit Krakatau (Krakatoa) volcano. It didn’t happen in the end, as the only place doing trips left at 7:30 a.m., and the bus got us there at 1:00 p.m. Still we played with some kids in that village, and they gave us a tour round their school. They are so friendly, so it was worth it for that alone.

20

Gwangju News July 2011

Steve McNally takes us back to the nation of over 17,000 islands‌

Next it was on to Bromo, where there are two active volcanoes. We stayed in a hotel that actually overlooked one volcano; the smoke billowed out continuously. The other one was a bit further away, but it looked like a big zit, ready to burst, which spewed out ash and smoke every 10-15 minutes. We went on a sunrise tour and rode some horses to near the crater and climbed the many stairs to the crater rim. We could smell the stench of the sulphur, but looking into the crater, we could see the smoke coming out of the cracks which was amazing as this led to, literally, the centre of the earth.

Next stop was the Gili Islands. It was just brilliant. We stayed in Coconut Cottages, run by a Scottish woman.

The food on the island was excellent and we did five scuba dives. We saw white-tip sharks, loads of turtles, hundreds of tropical fish and a deadly sea snake.

Every night we went to the same pub to watch the sunset and enjoy happy-hour drinks (Bintang -

Kecak Dance, Bali

Travel

Immaculately carved hillside

between you and the Komodo Dragons, which basically roam the islands and often settle underneath local stilt houses. We stayed two nights in Flores and went on a couple of more scuba dives. The diving was some of the best we've seen, with turtles and loads of sharks.

At Mt. Bromo, East Java

Indonesian beer). There were no cars or motorbikes on the island, you walked, cycled or rode in a horse and cart; pretty cool.

We had booked a 4-night trip to Flores via Komodo, to see the Komodo Dragons. There were 18 of us on the boat, which was maybe 20 meters in length, so pretty small. Everyone slept on the deck, some on the 1st floor, and some on the main deck.

Activities included visiting several islands, swimming, snorkeling, and hiking. From the very start everyone got on very well together, like one big happy family. All meals were cooked for us and put in the middle of the deck for all to share. At night we often had a mini-party on the boat, with lots of singing and joking around.

On our last day (day 4) we went to Komodo Island, and then sailed to Rinca Island. There are no fences or cages

Our final destination in Indonesia was Bali, where we spent 11 fabulous nights. We found a brilliant hotel (AP Hotel, off Poppies Gang I) in Kuta with a swimming pool and huge rooms,and it wasn't nearly as noisy as Lonely Planet had claimed. We hired a scooter for the whole time we were in Bali, as scooters rule there.

We went to a few clubs for some dancing, visited another volcano (Gunung Batur), but this one wasn't active. We also visited a couple of temples and saw some rice terraces. There are lots of beach activities to do, but also lots of other forms of entertainment, and it’s a nice place to walk around. We drove to the south west and watched the Kecak performers, which consisted of 50 guys in a circle chanting all the time, plus people in costumes acting out a story. It only lasted an hour, but it was brilliant.

It’s certainly a place we’d go back to.

Story and photos by Steve McNally

Gwangju News July 2011

21

News

Home Pages Want to write about news from your country?

Contact the Editor for more information: gwangjunews@gmail.com.

Vietnam

U.S.A

In mid-June the best “xich lo” (French: cyclo) tournament was held in Nha Trang city, one of the most famous tour sites in Vietnam. This is an annual summer activity to celebrate the sea festival of Khanh Hoa province. At this tournament the best A cyclo in Ho Chi Minh decorated and skillful “xich City lo” is awarded. “Xich lo” is a three-wheel bicycle with one or two seats, which first appeared in Saigon from the 1940s and then spread out to most of the big cities in Vietnam including Ha Noi, Can Tho and Nha Trang. It has not changed much from that time, except for some more decorations. “Xich lo” is now used for transportation for site-seeing within cities for tourists, but it used to be a kind of cheap taxi for most of the citizens several decades ago. Nowadays, “xich lo” is still being used in Ho Chi Minh City and other famous tour sites, especially on the wedding day of multicultural couples or even local couples.

By Thanh Hai Nguyen

A Case of Mistaken Reality With all the tornadoes that have been blowing through Missouri, residents have had more than their fair share of trauma. However in Independence, just outside of Kansas City, people have cause to have a good laugh. A strange call came in that an alligator was relaxing near a pond. In an effort to quickly address the situation, a state conservationist advised the police to shoot it. It turned out to be a cement decoy to scare little kids away! Next time, residents should consider that alligators are too smart to come to a place so cold, because I know I am!

Source: http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20110603/od_nm/ us_shooting_alligator_fake_2

By Aisha Hobbs

Malaysia

This month the UK’s coalition government pledged $1.3 billion to Bill Gates’ GAVI foundation which supports the spread of vaccinations in the developing world. Coming at a time of budget cuts and unemployment this move has proved controversial with some of the more conservative media outlets and some commenters reasonably predicting a “civil war”. At this difficult time it seems only right to turn to the sage wisdom of Prince Philip, who turned 90 this month, to provide a source of comfort and security: "Don't feed your rabbits pawpaw fruit – it acts as a contraceptive. Then again, it might not work on rabbits." God speed Sir.

The costs of Social Media I first started using Facebook in 2008. At that time I paid three ringgit (1,000 won) to the cafe owner for the Internet and I paid nothing to Mark Zurkerberg for Facebook. But on the June 15 while I was reading news about Malaysia, I bumped into this, "1.8 million ringgit (642 million won) was used by the Malaysian Tourism Ministry to set up a Facebook account." What!? Since when do we have to pay to set up a FB account?

Tourism Minister, Dr. Ng Yen Yen said in parliament that the RM1.8 million included costs for designing, flash programming and coding, testing and debugging.

However, talking to the reporters she said, “The Facebook pages do not cost a single cent. This is a social media advertising, promotions and branding campaign and also data collection.” We are not stupid, dear minister, and you are lying. I guess Mark Zuckerberg won't be happy if he reads this.

By Anna Corbett

By Alfian Zohri

United Kingdom

22

Gwangju News July 2011

News

Indonesia

China Paris, June 4, Li Na, a 29-yearold professional tennis female player from China, became the first ever Asian player to win a Grand Slam Singles title with a 6-4, 7-6 (7-0) victory over defending champion Francesca Schiavone in the 2011 French Open Final. This has sparked confident predictions of a new dawn for tennis in China, the world’s most populous nation Li Na and induced abundant incentives for Chinese athletes who are preparing for the London Olympics in 2012.

Chinese people, whether they love tennis or not, have been inspired by this history-making event. The blogosphere and newspapers lit up in adulation and splashed Li Na’s cheering face across the front pages.

National broadcaster CCTV even plastered a graphic on the screen which read: “Li Na, we love you!” at the climax, which has seldom happened in history.

Elsewhere in Asia, especially in Japan, news media celebrated Li Na’s victory on the front-page news as an Asian first with a huge title as “First from Asia.”

Coffins as “Word-of-Mouth” advertising On June 6, several national media companies from newspapers to TV stations in Jakarta were awe-stricken by the delivery of coffins to their office. The coffins, big enough to fit a small child, came with the word ‘RIP’ scribbled on top, along with scattered flower petals used for funerals and a white rose. A domain name (www.restinpeacesoon.com) was written on a separate piece of paper. After being tracked down, the author of Rest In Peace Advertising: The Word of Mouth Advertising was arrested by police and accused for creating an “unpleasant act.” Luckily, it was considered as a low level crime, so he was not arrested; instead he was obliged to report to the police twice a week until his trial date is set. Although the note inside the coffin that was received by Indonesia’s biggest newspaper company, Kompas, said “you are number #661”, the accused said that he only prepared 100 coffins.

The reason behind this, to him was because “the world of advertising has gone dry, and sending coffins as advertisement is better and cheaper than placing an ad in the media.” He said that sending and buying the coffin cost him around 50 million rupiah (approx. 5 million won) compared to placing ads which can cost hundreds of millions. However, he didn’t expect that this “dare-to-bedifferent” idea could land him in the police station.

By Pengna Chen Source:http://megapolitan.kompas.com/read/2011/06/06 /13414394/Peti.Mati.untuk.Ciptakan.Word.of.Mouth.

Australia No women allowed A gay bar in Melbourne has won the right to ban “sleazy” women from their establishment. According to The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal the move “[ensures] that gay men are not subject to attempts to change their sexuality which reduces their comfort in the venue.” The bar’s general manager admits that their patrons had not experienced such harassment, but that there are women who “try and turn gay men straight.”

The ruling is supported by the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission who say that the decision does not “contravene the charter of human rights.” If that’s the case then one can only hope that a ban on predatory males from all establishments will follow.

Source: news.ninemsn.com.au/

By Kathleen Villadiego

By Karina Prananto

New Zealand Three’s a Crowd If you’re looking at setting new records, this is not the way to do it. The South Island town of Timaru saw three family members caught drunk driving on the same Saturday night. The madness began just after midnight when a 15-year-old male tested over three-and-a-half times the legal limit. His mother was called to collect him from the police station where she was then caught driving over the limit. Unbelievably she then called her partner who, on his way to pick them both up, was stopped and arrested for being intoxicated. It’s a wonder if the message finally got through at this point...

By Julian Raethel Gwangju News July 2011

23

Community

Gwangju Photography Club Photography in detail

C

hristina Green is from Colville, Washington State where she attended Western Washington University in the Seattle area.

digital point-and-shoot to a DSLR (digital single-lens reflex camera).

Christina has always wanted to be a teacher, and she is currently working to complete a Master of Education.

She also discovered that photography is a very common hobby here in Korea, and she simultaneously figured out that it’s very easy to get out and have fun with a camera.

For nearly three years, Christina has been teaching English at the Gwangju Office of Education: she is one of five online teachers, and she instructs a wide range of students.

The main reason that Christina decided to start taking pictures, however, is because she decided she wants lasting memories of the things she has done and the places she’s seen during her travels.

Christina loves her job as an online teacher, but there’s something else she loves too: photography!

As the saying goes, she reminds us, “a picture is worth a thousand words”.

Christina is an avid and dedicated photographer.

A few months ago Christina started the Gwangju Photography Club.

Christina didn’t get into photography until she came to Korea, but after living here for a couple of months, she began to observe great photo opportunities around herself and she decided to upgrade from a

24

Gwangju News July 2011

She said “There are so many people in Gwangju who are interested in photography, and I thought that creating a club would be a great way of getting those

Community

The magic catch

Christina Green

people together, helping them share photography tips with one another, and allowing them opportunities to practice together as well.

“We live in a very unique place here in Korea, and there are millions of photo opportunities at our fingertips.

“It’s fun when a group of people with the same interest get together and head out for an afternoon to capture photographs of their surroundings.

“We try to meet once a month for a photo outing, and typically we go to places in Gwangju like the Chosun Rose Festival or Yangdong Market.

“We have also traveled to Mokpo and played around at the fish market there, and some of our members got some really great photos at that time.

“The basic goal of each outing is to see a new place and practice different techniques using each of our cameras.”

The next Gwangju Photography Club outing is in July.

Anyone is welcome to attend this event, as well as

any future events the club might hold.

For those who are interested, Christina suggests looking up Gwangju Photography Club on Facebook to get regular updates and event invitations.

People can also contact her directly by email (wolfec2@hotmail.com), or you can get in touch with her on Facebook as well.

“I’m a person with many hobbies,” says Christina, “and photography and traveling are at the top of my list.

“Korea has so many beautiful and interesting places to travel to, and so many photography opportunities as well.

“I’m very grateful to live in such a great country, I’ve had a wonderful time here and look forward to the experiences that are still left for me to discover.

“With the help of my photography, I will be able to leave Korea with many rewarding memories in hand.”

By Hughie Samson Photos are courtesy of Meghyn Cox and Christina Green

Gwangju News July 2011

25

Photo Gallery

A Day will Come

By Austin Malone

Chasing Darkness in Gwangyang

All At Sea He retreats to the hills and wails and weeps All at sea he sails, no compass in hand Chasing darkness out where phantom light creeps Bottled messages never to be found Murky mist below in which he shall plunge Chaos of the unconscious - a fly in his mind Matters of the heart he longs to expunge An anxious disease no end he can find.

Distant flames flickering - washing away grief Black vines loosened from around his heart Emotion the motion of a falling leaf Backwards footprint imprinted - to the start Ocean of anger - meandering quest No one to ever know this man best.

- Patrick Crilly

All at Sea in Yeosu 26

Gwangju News July 2011

Photo Gallery

Phantom Lights

Retreat to the Hills

At Last

Gwangju News July 2011

27

PHOTO CONTEST Submit your best shot of Korea!

To enter the Photo Contest, simply send your name, photo and picture description to gwangjunews@gmail.com.

W I N N E R

Bird flying on a barren tree

Bee on the flowers 28

Gwangju News July 2011

Photo by Joanne Whitham

Photo by Jessica Solomatenko

This month’s photo contest was judged by Mark Eaton.

Mark Eaton has exhibited his photographic work in art galleries as well as other public and private venues in the United States and South Korea.

Helping little sister

Jagalchi Market in Busan

Photo by Van Hoang

Photo by Danielle Sarchet Gwangju News July 2011

29

International

No Rest Alfian Zohri tells the tale of Yunus Ali…

his is a true story, a story of an unsung hero who spent five years fighting alongside the Palestinian people. This is the story of Yunus Ali, a Malaysian citizen, a former student activist in the early 1970s, and a former member of the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) in the 1970s.

T

I will try my best to tell his story as simply as I can because for me, Yunus is one of a kind. Not many of us were born with the courage to leave our own country and to fight together with people that we have never met before.

The story starts in 1974, when the Malaysian government was cracking down on student activists.

Yunus was among the top student activists wanted by the government for his role in a series of demonstrations condemning the government’s actions against the poor peasants in Kedah. Knowing that the secret police were everywhere on his university campus, Yunus sought refuge at his long time friend’s house. His friend was at that time married to Abu Yaakub, a former PLO ambassador in Kuala Lumpur.

Many activists from various backgrounds were arrested and were detained under the Internal Security Act (ISA). Yunus and a few friends, however, managed to escape the country and arrived in Lebanon. Through Abu Yaakub, he arrived safely in Beirut. Yunus received six months training and later he was selected to join a PLO Commando Unit. The unit was an elite force specialized in fighting against the Zionists and the fascist Phalangist terrorists. A couple of years later, Yunus became one of Yasser Arafat’s (Chairman of the PLO) bodyguards. Then in

30

Gwangju News July 2011

Yunus, during his training in Beirut, Lebanon under the Palestinian Liberation Organization around 1974/1975

the early 1980s, because of the civil war in Lebanon, he fled to the United Kingdom.

In the United Kingdom, through his personal contacts, Yunus managed to pursue his studies in Sociology at North East London University. After years of living in exile, Yunus finally flew back home.

It was in late 1988 and the situation in Malaysia was not getting any better. This time, he was caught.

Along with more than 100 activists and politicians, he was sent without a fair trial to Kamunting Detention Centre for two years.

International

In December 2008, I saw Yunus at a theater in Kuala Lumpur. For the first time I saw how he looked. I had heard his stories from local activists and from the stories, I imagined that Yunus was a tough built guy with a fierce look. However, I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw him that night. “You gotta be kidding,” I said. Yunus was a small guy, with smiles on his face as people greeted him. “Is this Yunus Ali who fought against the Zionists in Lebanon? He doesn’t look like a commando at all,” I said to myself.

As soon as the talk finished, I went home but still I could not believe that the short, plump man I had seen was Yunus.

In May 2009, after university, I enrolled in a local nonprofit organization (NGO) in Kuala Lumpur. The organization I joined was run by Yunus and focused on free and fair elections in Malaysia and Southeast Asia. That particular month there was a by-election in Penang, and that was the first time I met Yunus face-to-face. In his blue Proton Wira, we had an icebreaking session. While I was driving his car, I asked him this question: “How did you get into Lebanon and become a guerilla fighter?” He smiled and did not reply to my question.

We were driving along the Ipoh highway surrounded by beautiful green mountains when he suddenly said, “Do you see those big mountains?”

“Yes,” I said.

“In Lebanon, I had to stay undetected on top of the hills for days. It was part of my guerilla training, and during my time, I killed more Arabs than Zionists.

These Arabs, they were part of the Phalangist movement with their fascist ideology. They received training and weapons from the Israelis as well. I chose to fight with the Palestinian people for one reason: Palestine is a sovereign state. I did not join them to kill people, and my intention was to help liberate Palestine from the oppressive Zionist regime,” he said without pausing.

In 2010, Yunus’s health was not good. He had been in and out of the hospital since early 2000 after being diagnosed with lupus. Yet he managed to travel to several countries, including Afghanistan, in 2009 to monitor the general election. Although his condition was getting worse, Yunus was blessed with a strong heart. During Ramadan in 2010, he cooked

Yunus in Afghanistan (2009). During the general election, Yunus was sending e-mails about the situation in Sar E Pul in the northern part of Afghanistan Alfian Zohri

a huge pot of lamb curry to serve to us during the breaking fast. It was his last dish before he died a week later.

Although Yunus received a guerilla-training routine, it did not change him in the slightest way. He was a very soft-spoken man with a low profile. Smiles were always on his face and telling jokes was part of his character. His last words to a friend were “Make love and make revolution.”

Yunus was not only a fighter, but a loving father, a caring friend, and an absolute believer in freedom and justice.

Yunus bin Lebai Ali (1951 – 2010)

By Alfian Zohri

Gwangju News July 2011

31

Environment

2011 Gwangju Summit of the Urban Environmental Accords

Interview with Professor Kim Gwangju News writer Frances Herrington spoke with Professor Kwi-Gon Kim, Emeritus Professor at Seoul National University and Chief Commissioner of the 2011 Gwangju Summit of the Urban Environmental Accords (UEA) about the UEA summit at the Kimdaejung Convention Center where the event will be held in October.

s Professor Kim greeted me, he explained how Fryeburg, San Paulo, Almere and Toronto will have delegates at the summit, along with 51 other cities. He smiled and laughed while gesturing for me to join him at the table. It had obviously been a good day.

A

“I have visited 4 countries and 15 organizations in the Netherlands, Belgium, France and Germany to promote the summit to the cities’ delegations. As a result of this visit, four cities, including Mexico City, have expressed their hope to participate. This morning we received good news from Curitiba’s Mayor Luciano Ducci, who will be present for the summit…the city is renowned for their work with the environment.”

Interview with Professor Kwi-gon Kim

Author of several books on environmental planning, Professor Kim explains,.“I was the master planner of Gangwon, a low-carbon green city launched by President Lee Myung Bak. When that was completed I was asked by the former President of Seoul National University to join the UEA team.”

These will form the background for the thematic session discussions, in which cities will create the urban environmental evaluation index.

He continued by explaining the essence and agenda of the summit, “It combines many aspects of urban planning and environmental management, green technology policy and urban governance as well. The ultimate goal of the Gwangju Summit is to create a low-carbon green city, based on two important tools; one is the urban environmental evaluation index and the other is the urban Carbon Development Mechanism (CDM).”

“You have to first define the urban boundary,” Professor Kim explains “The next step will be how to calculate the emission of carbon dioxide which can be deduced by each activity. This is very important.

It has to be quantified to be credited to get carbon emission credit; to get Carbon Emission Rights [CER] which can be traded.

Consultants will prepare papers to be presented at the discussions, providing information about the opportunities and challenges faced by each city.

32

Gwangju News July 2011

The other important low-carbon city tool is the urban CDM, a new kind of carbon finance system.

The carbon financing system will be developed…in terms of cash, retiring [retiring from the market], banking and trading. These are the four types of carbon credits that will be explored, discussed and adopted at the Gwangju Summit. These are the

Environment

basics of what we are going to develop.”

Professor Kim tells why urban CDM was an important instrument in combating climate change.

“Whenever I explain what we are doing to other cities they get very excited. Even in developed countries there has been some kind of financial burden, due to environmental protection and climate change measures, so those measures have to be compensated in economic terms.

If we succeed in developing the methodology and being endorsed by UNFCC, then it will be a great achievement which will help cities in developing countries, and cities in developed countries as well.

For example the steel industry is happy. However, if you make the target deduction stricter then companies will not be happy.”

During the summit, the Kimdaejung Convention Center will house some impressive exhibitions.

“There will be an exhibition of green technology, and best practice cities. In Toronto, I found several best practices which have been used to make it greener and to make it a climate-smart city, like cooling buildings by the use of water from Lake Ontario.

They use green transportation and rooftop gardens.

In one hotel the rooftop vegetable gardens serve the restaurant. It’s what we call a self-contained supply system.

There are two different categories of cities under the In Gwangju, there are some good examples, you can Kyoto Protocol. Cities in see solar collection, developed countries are improvement “The ultimate goal of the Gwangju river under Annex 1 and cities projects and habituate in developing countries Summit, is to create a low carbon reconstruction.” fall under Annex 2. Annex green city, based on two important 1 countries have a ‘cap’ Professor Kim one is the Urban concludes, “We have [maximum limit of GHG] tools; which are equal to their Environmental Evaluation Index and made our best efforts to GHG levels for 1990. encourage international other is urban Carbon organizations, including Whereas Annex 2 the countries’ GHG reductions Development Mechanism (CDM)” UITP (International are voluntary.

Association of Public Transport], UIC “Korea is Annex 2 but beyond 2013 [when the Kyoto (International Railways Union] and UNESCO Protocol lapses] it will be Annex 1, so we have to (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural prepare to change.”

Organization] to participate in the Summit.

Prospects are very positive.”

“With this scheme, carbon emission rights can be traded with other cities or exchanged for cash or Beyond the lively debates in the thematic sessions, banking, so there are two different systems which the development of the environmental evaluation can be in operation. Annex 2 countries can sell index and the urban CDM, the future of the UEA carbon rights to get cash on the carbon climate summit looks optimistic as plans are made for its market.” continuation. There will be an award given to a lowcarbon city, the ‘UEA Gwangju low-carbon green city Which bodes the question; aren’t the negative award’. The expectation is that the award will be environmental effects being sold from developed given every four years, with the conference will be countries to developing countries? held every two.

“There’s an argument. The environmentalist approach to combat climate change is a little bit different from the economic approach. Carbon trading is an economic solution. This is an idea to deal with climate change without slowing down development.

For more information on the UEA Gwangju Summit 2011, in English or Korean, click on http://2011uea.com

By Frances Herrington Photo by 2011 UEA

Gwangju News July 2011

33

News

Put a Sock in it!

B

ritish footballer Ryan Giggs, one of the finest footballers the UK has ever produced recently got harangued across the press for trying to cover up an alleged extra marital affair.

A “super-injunction”, a legal gagging order that not only prevents the media from reporting a story, but also blocking any attempts to mention that there is even an injunction in place, was brought out across all forms of media. The Manchester United winger reportedly paid vast sums of cash to money hungry lawyers to muzzle all newspapers, television, radio and any website in the UK public domain from mentioning anything.

Off-the-record journalists that had known for some time about famous celebrities who used their bloated bank accounts to fend off newspapers from delving into their lives became powerless to cover it.

You may ask, ‘who gives a damn about Z-list celebrities getting caught in the act and whether we, the public have a right to know about it?’ You’re probably right, we don’t need to know about it, but that misses the point.

The super-injunction can do real damage for the public at large when rich businesses do activities that unfairly attack or hinder the weak and uninformed, then knowingly block the free press from reporting anything about it.

Take Trafigura. Back in 2009, the multi-national energy supplier brought out a super-injunction against the UK’s Guardian newspaper. The paper had planned to report that the company was dumping vast quantities of toxic waste off the Ivory Coast. But before it went to

34

Gwangju News July 2011

press Trafigura contacted Carter & Ruck, an aggressive London-based law firm, and quickly danced off to the High Court to impose a blanket ban on the piece. If the newspaper planned on releasing even a whiff of the story they would face drastic repercussions including imprisonment, seizure of assets and be made to watch “I’m America’s Next Top Toxic Baron.”

It looked like the British legal system, which has come under scrutiny for several years for being a honey pot for large corporations, with its libel and defamation laws continuing to help out the corporate heavyweights, might have stopped the article from ever being published. However thanks to a bit of tradition and a bit of the new, it did eventually come out.

Parliamentary Privilege, a UK law dating back hundreds of years, gives a Member of Parliament (MP) the right to discuss any matter he considers in the public interest in the House of Commons, and for that to be freely reported in the press. MP Paul Farrelly used his privilege and spoke up about the injustice. These, plus as the Internet becomes a borderless horizon for whistle-blowing sites such as Twitter and Wordpress.com, which are not governed by any restrictive “legal” guidelines therefore can write whatever they like, helped to bring the matter to the public. So with all their billions in the bank and thousands of lawyers on their books, heavy-handed institutions can be made to confess with just a strongminded government minister and a 140 word message.

By David Holt Photo from Oneyearbibleimages.com

Community

Dating in Korea T

hough Korea is developing and changing all the time, Korean social etiquette is still deeply rooted in tradition. We are often asked, “How old are you?”, this indicating the Confucian value of age. Beliefs about marriage are still quite traditional, namely that most Koreans believe a woman should be married before the age of 30. A friend of mine from Incheon is 29 this year, and she assures me though she doesn’t currently have a boyfriend, she “will get married next year.”

She also told me an interesting anecdote. If a woman has two men competing for her hand in marriage, the man with social status whom she does not love and the man without status whom she loves, most Korean women would choose the man with social status. “We just think his job is most important, more than love,” she told me.

Of course, my experience as a foreigner is far different from that of my Korean friend, though we still are both dating within the same traditional system. In my university classroom, only a minority of students confidently state that they would date and marry a foreigner. Some flat out answer “no” without hesitation, but most say they wouldn’t because their parents would disapprove. Even now, my boyfriend says his parents who used to egg him on about “getting married” have entirely stopped talking about marriage since he began his relationship with me. Is it because they’re glad he’s finally met someone? Or is it rather that they don’t want to encourage him to marry a foreigner? I can’t answer that, but I do acknowledge the integral role that parents play in the relationships of their children.

Before I met my guy, I thought a lot about what it would mean to have a Korean boyfriend, and what it would be like. I thought I would have to change parts of myself to adjust to this dating culture. However now that I am living it, I feel differently. You shouldn’t need to change yourself, but rather go through the relationship as you would any other. When our cultural differences arise,

Love locks in Seoul N Tower

we then discuss our relationship more honestly, which in turn brings us closer. Like any other couple, we spend time together. We laugh, we get confused, we work it out, and above all we care about each other.

I’m trying to focus on what makes us all the same in the world, rather than what makes us different. We all want to be happy, to be comfortable, and if we’re lucky enough, have someone to share our lives with. So when night falls, he returns home to his parents’ house, and I to my apartment because this is where we are, and it works.

If you want to hear more about Kerri’s experiences dating in Korea, visit www.youtube.com.expatkerri Story and photo by Kerri Strothard

Gwangju News July 2011

35

Living Tips

Travel Agencies Procrastinating on making your summer travel plans? No need to fear, assistance is near!

Check out these locally run travel agencies.

Blue Bear Travel Service 푸른곰여행사 www.bluebears.net • Address: 1067-1 Pungam-dong, Seo-gu, Gwangju • Tel: 062) 655-5746/7, 011-619-5747, 010 Fax: 062) 655-5748 • Customer Service hours: 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. daily (including public holidays)/ 1:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. weekend • Offers discount packages, package tours (International only) • Chinese, English and Japanese speaking agents • Free interpretation is available

Crea Tour 크 리 투 어

Blue Bear is a long time advertiser for Gwangju News.

Their office in Pungamdong offer a café for you to enjoy while you settle up your travel details.

www.creatour.co.kr • Address: Room 310, Student Union Building GIST, Oryong-dong, Buk-gu, Gwangju • Tel: 062) 973-0960/715-2400/ Fax: 062) 973-0961 • Customer Service hours: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. daily (including public holidays)/ 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Saturday • Offers national and international travel packages • The company staff can speak English.

Also, they can speak Japanese and Chinese a little.

For more information, please contact the company directly.

Hana Tour is a franchise and a dependable place to reserve your ticket.

Hana Tour 하 나 투 어

Destination...

nomad21.com

ravel agencies – a thing of the past? Well, if you like to have someone do the work for you to find the best price as well as pay in Korean won, then check out these travel agencies.

T

Crea Tour is out at GIST. A great time-saver for all the international students and visiting professionals there.

As well as booking flight arrangements, you can buy Japan rail passes, set up or join tour packages, and get discounts with purchases.

Shop locally and support Gwangju. Gwangju pays your salary; give some of the money that you’ve saved for travelling to a local merchant instead of a Seoul-less newspaper or internet ad.

By Maria Lisak Find what you are looking for online at: www.gwangjuguide.or.kr Set up your Google Reader to get new content or comments.

Easy to read entries for Smart phones.

Updated print version available September 2011

36

Gwangju News July 2011

www.yeshana.com Main Office: • Address: 1-11, SK Broadband Bldg 1st floor, Geumnam-no 3-ga, Dong-gu, Gwangju • Tel : 062) 419-2000, 010-4289-2000/ Fax : 062) 419-2001 • Customer service hours: 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. weekdays. 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Saturdays (Sunday closed) • The company’s staff can speak English. For more information, please contact the company directly

Modu Tour 모 두 투 어 • Address: Chonnam National University BTL Dormitory, Buk-gu, Gwangju • Tel : 062) 352-6565 • Customer service hours: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. weekdays (weekend closed) • The company’s staff can speak English.

Offers tour packages, plane ticket reservation and visa application

Environment

Monsoon Season: “When it rains, it pours” reak out the umbrella! The rain is falling and soggy socks are a familiar feeling these days.

You may have heard people mention that the “monsoon season” has begun, but what exactly does that mean?

B

The dictionary defines a monsoon as: “the seasonal wind of the Indian Ocean and southern Asia, blowing from the southwest in summer and from the northeast in winter” and “the season during which the southwest monsoon blows, commonly marked by heavy rains; rainy season.” Thus, the shifting high-pressure systems coming from the Indian Ocean plays a big part in the weather conditions we experience here in Korea. The ever-changing atmosphere mixing with the constant ocean tides result in the downpours that drench us in the summer months.

The rainy season in Korea bears the nickname “jangma” and occurs between late June and late July.

Last year it felt like it lasted until early September. This is because the monsoon weather front retreats back from the north during this time of year. The rainfall in these months accounts for more than 60 percent of the total yearly rainfall in the country.

Orography, or the geography of mountains, is also responsible for the patterns of rainfall on the Korean Peninsula. The southern coast and mountainous regions receive the most rain annually, with a total of over 1,500 millimeters (60 inches). In contrast, on the northern part of Korea (near the Yalu river basin), there occurs under 600 mm (24 inches). The average yearly precipitation is about 1,300 mm (50 inches). This is an advantage to farmers as the southern areas of Korea are prime for growing crops (mostly rice) in a watery climate. For most of us, we only reap that benefit at the market or restaurant (something to be happy about despite the rainy weather).

Typhoons (tropical cyclones or hurricanes) during this season rarely affect Korea. Most of these storms originate in the eastern Philippines and move northward towards China and Taiwan. On occasions

Keeping dry

Korea Times

they will shift towards Korea and cause heavy rains, but these are usually mild in nature. Severe typhoons may affect the southern Korean regions only once every few years.

Even though there is a deluge of rain seemingly coming at the same time, there is no need for panic. Flooding is a concern in the low-lying areas of Korea, such as the Banpo area of the Han River in Seoul, but in Gwangju this is not the case. Due to the mountainous terrain and rivers that drain out to the ocean nearby, this city has very few flooding emergencies. It’s still always a safe bet to drive slowly and be prepared for large puddles of water that slow down traffic, making travel a bit more hectic than usual.

Don’t let the gloomy, wet weather get you down. Armed with the expectation of summer rains and the (always reliable) weather forecasts, it’s easy to plan our activities accordingly. Whenever dark clouds and rain drops hinder our desire to take a walk in the park, just a change of attitude can turn it all around into a positive. Catch up on some movies, hobbies, or some of those household chores you’ve been putting off, and enjoy the time indoors. And keep your socks dry!

By Stephen Redeker Sources: The Korean Embassy and Dictionary.com Gwangju News July 2011

37

Language Study

Letters to KOTESOL If you have a question for Dr. Dave, please send an e-mail to gwangjunews@gmail.com letting us know your question, student’s age and proficiency level

Dear Dr. Dave, My students really seem fascinated with English curse words, from my youngest to oldest students (12-16). What is your take on dealing with taboo language in the classroom? Should I embrace it because at least they are speaking English?

-Apple Core Dear A. Core, Things of a naughty nature (or stronger) produce their own intrigue by the mere fact that they are naughty. The same is true of language. Students should not be reprimanded for learning “bad” language; they should actually be praised for their learning. However, they should be made aware that English is a real language just as Korean is, and that there are certain situations where certain language may be acceptable and others where it is quite inappropriate. A classroom situation is one in which curse words and the like are clearly inappropriate – in English-speaking and Korean-speaking cultures – so students should not be using them in class. When one of my naïve students produces one of these faux pas lexical items, I clearly show my disdain for the use of such language in class, but not disdain towards the student. I may also take time out to write on the board a number of commonly learned four-letter words and tell the class that I do not want to hear them used in class because it is an inappropriate time and place. Learning when and where to use language is just as important as learning the language itself.

Best wishes, Dr. Dave Dear Dr. Dave, My students often answer the exact same thing to a conversation question. For example, I’ll ask my students how they are feeling today and they all mimic the first person. “So so, So-so, so-so, soso . . .” And on and on. How can I discourage this?

Sincerely, So-So Dear So, I am so happy that you have asked this question. The problem here is partially the teacher’s. You have given the students a context-free situation with your prompt question, so many students will take the easy way out and answer with “so-so.” What the teacher needs to do is

38

Gwangju News July 2011

create context-sensitive situations so that students will have to match their response to the situation. For example, “How are you feeling today? I see a smile on your face” or “How are you feeling today? You don’t seem as active as you were yesterday?” We need to instill in our students that language is more than just parroted production, that meaning conveyed is as important as grammar or pronunciation.

Best wishes, Dr. Dave

By Dr. Dave Shaffer Dr. Dave Shaffer is a professor of English at Chosun University, where he has taught in the graduate, undergraduate, and TESOL certificate programs for many years. Dr. Shaffer is presently the President of the Gwangju-Jeonnam Chapter of Korea TESOL and invites you to attend teacher development workshops at their monthly Chapter meetings.

Web: www.koreatesol.org/GwangjuJeonnam Email: gwangju_kotesol@yahoo.com

Gwangju - Jeonnam KOTESOL July Chapter Meeting Date and Time: Saturday, July 9, 2011, 1:30 p.m.

Place: Chosun University, Main Building (Bon-gwan) 2F, Room 2123 (CU TESOL).

Admission: free. Membership is encouraged.

Schedule 1:30 p.m.: Registration and Welcome 2:00 p.m.: Presentation 1: Games and Communicative Activities: Not Just for Entertainment

by Tory Thorkelson 3:10 p.m.: Presentation 2a, 2b: Student Impressions of NESTs: Both Sides of the Coin

by Kyung-hun Kang & Karam Jeon (Chosun University) 4:00 p.m.: Teaching Idea & Activity Share-Time: Everyone bring your activities/ ideas to share with us (about 5-10 min. each) 4:30 p.m.: Announcements, Door-Prize Drawing, Closing Visit our Chapter online for contact and schedule information: www.koreatesol.org/GwangjuJeonnam E-mail us: gwangju_kotesol@yahoo.com

Language Study

‘-고 싶다’ (would like to (do)/ want to (do)) Dialogue 소라: 존씨, 안녕하세요?

Sora: Hello, John!

aseyo?] [ jonsssi, annyeongha

존: 네, 안녕하세요? 소라씨, 뭐 먹고 싶어요? [ ne, annyeongha aseyo?.. Sora assi, mwo meokgo sipeoyo?]

John: Yeah, How are you? Sora, what would you like to eat? 소라: 음... 크림 스파게티를 먹고 싶어요. 존씨는요? [ eum.... keurim seupa agetireul meokgo sipeoyo.. jonsssineunnyo?]

Sora: um... I would like to have cream spaghetti.How about you, John? 존: 저는 불고기 피자를 먹고 싶어요. 음료수는 뭘 마시고 싶어요? [jeoneun bulgogi pijareul meokgo sipeoyo. eumnyosuneun mwol masigo sipeoyo?]

John: I would like to have Bulgogi pizza. What would you like to drink? 소라: 콜라를 마시고 싶어요. 존씨는요? [ ko ollareull masigo o sipe eoyo o. jo onssin neun nnyo o?]

Sora: I want to drink coke. How about you, John? 존: 저는 커피를 마시고 싶어요. [jeoneun keopireul masigo sipeoyo.]

John: I want to drink a cup of coffee. 소라: 어떤 커피를 마시고 싶어요?. [ eotteon ke eopirreull masigo o sipe eoyo o?]

Sora: What kind of coffee would you like to drink? 존: 아메리카노를 마시고 싶어요. [ amerika anoreul ma asigo sipeoyo..]

John: I want to drink an Americano.

Reference: 김성희 외. (2009). 서강한국어1B 서울: 도서출판 하우 서강한국어. Retrived June15, 2011 from http://korean.sogang.ac.kr

Grammar ‘-고 싶다’: would like to (do)/want to (do) ‘-고 싶다’is used to indicate the desire of the subject and is used with action verbs and‘있다.’This pattern‘-고 싶다’is used with first person statements and second person questions.

Tense and negation are expressed in the verb '싶다'.

Example •가방을 사고 싶어요.(I would like to buy a bag.)

•가방을 사고 싶었어요.(I wanted to buy a bag.)

•커피를 마시고 싶어요. (I would like to drink a cup of coffee.)

•커피를 마시고 싶지 않아요. (I don't want to drink a cup of coffee.)

•고향에 가고 싶어요? (Would you like to go to your hometown?)

•뭐를 마시고 싶어요? (What would you like to drink?)

Vocabulary 크림 스파게티 [keurim seupageti]: cream spaghetti 피자 [pija]: pizza 음료수 [eumnyosu]: a beverage 콜라 [kolla]: Coke 커피 [keopi]: coffee 아메리카노 [amerikano]: Americano 가방 [gabang]: a bag 고향 [gohyang]: one's hometown

By Soo-a Jung Soo-a Jung is an instructor of the GIC Korean Language Class

Gwangju News July 2011

39

Literature

Two Poems in Dialogue:

By Seo Jeong-ju and Moon Byung-ran Translated by Chae-pyong Song and Anne M. Rashid

Seo Jeong-ju (1915 ~ 2000) was born in Gochang, Jeollabuk-do. He is considered the founding father of modern Korean poetry. Under the pen name Midang, he published at least 15 collections of poetry.

He taught Korean literature at Chosun University, among others. He was also nominated five times for the Nobel Prize in literature. His grandmother’s stories and his interest in Buddhism had a strong influence upon his writing. His works have been translated into a number of languages, including English, French, Spanish and German.

Moon Byung-ran (1935 ~ ) was born in Hwasun, Jeollanam-do. He taught creative writing at Chosun University as well as in Suncheon High School and Gwangju Jeil High School. He has published such collections as Legitimacy, On the Field of Bamboo Shoots, Ode to the Land, Ode to May, Mudeung Mountain, To the Weaver, and Tchaikovsky of the Dawn. Famous for being a poet of the people, he has made it his mission to represent the under-represented and to resist any form of oppression, especially the military dictatorship in Korea in the 1970s and 1980s.

“Gazing at Mudeung Mountain”

무등을 보며

By Seo Jeong-ju Poverty is no more than tattered rags.

Can it cloak our inborn flesh, our natural heart like the summer mountain that stands baring its dark green back to the dazzling sun?

As the green mountain tends to orchids under its knees, all we can do is nurture our offspring.

Husbands and wives, as you meet the afternoon when life retreats and gets swept up in rough waves, once in a while sit down, once in a while lie next to each other.

Wives, gaze silently at your husbands.

Husbands, touch also your wives’ foreheads Even when we lie in the pit of a thorn bush, we should always remember that we are just gems, buried alone, thickly covered with green moss.

40

Gwangju News July 2011

서정주 가난이야 한낱 남루(襤褸)에 지나지 않는다. 저 눈부신 햇빛 속에 갈매빛의 등성이를 드러내고 서 있는 여름 산 같은 우리들의 타고난 살결, 타고난 마음씨까지야 다 가릴 수 있으랴. 청산이 그 무릎 아래 지란(芝蘭)을 기르듯 우리는 우리 새끼들을 기를 수밖에 없다. 목숨이 가다 가다 농울쳐 휘어드는 오후의 때가 오거든 내외들이여 그대들도 더러는 앉고 더러는 차라리 그 곁에 누워라. 지어미는 지애비를 물끄러미 우러러보고 지아비는 지어미의 이마라도 짚어라. 어느 가시덤불 쑥구렁에 놓일지라도 우리는 늘 옥돌같이 호젓이 묻혔다고 생각할 일이요 청태(靑苔)라도 자욱이 끼일 일인 것이다.

Mt. Mudeung

Literature

“Poverty”

가난

By Moon Byung-ran

We all know how tiring it is for a farmer with five patches of rice fields to raise four kids and send them to school.

We know a poor citizen without a house risks his whole life to get his own house.

Those who have raised kids all know it is like cutting off your own bone to raise four kids, to send them to school like others do, and to help them find their mates.

To marry one daughter, a pillar of the house disappears and to send a child to college, you lose a rice patch.

Working even eight hours a day is not enough, and some work inside and outside to save yet not enough is made despite all the considerations.

We all know how demanding children’s mouths are-yet is poverty mere rags?

Should we lie buried alone in the pit like a gem?

Can you quiet today’s hunger, drinking dull drinks of water, saying it’s all right, it’s all right, deliberately folding your arms, pretending to turn away?

We can’t raise our kids the way the green mountain tends to orchids under her feet.

She blooms and withers alone; four seasons come and go.

But children don’t grow by themselves; they can’t eat for themselves.

Husbands should provide for wives, wives should hold up their husbands.

Humans are born into work, live in work, and die in work no matter how much the natural heart is like the green mountain.

The intestines are only satisfied with pickled fish.

They go hungry without food and they defecate with food.

Who can live like an idealist living alone, drinking only dew and wind?

Those who have only a bowl of barley with bean stew think of rice as Heaven-they bow down in front of rice.

While you sing, the whole universe is working together to bring one chrysanthemum to bloom.

Do you know that in a shadowed corner of this land a hungry mouth lives asking for a spoonful of rice?

Poverty is not by any means merely tattered rags.

It’s not just the old dress that one puts on and takes off.

When life gets swept up in the rough waves, it isn’t a pleasure to lazily watch the green mountain in the afternoon.

Poverty is the enemy, the poisonous worm that gobbles us up and feasts upon even our natural character, the toxin that rots not just clothes but the flesh, too.

It’s our human enemy, the devil to drive away, the seeker of pleasure in poverty who hopelessly nurtures worms in the growling belly.

You say it’s all right, it’s all right, borrowing Tao Yuan-min’s drinking cup, imitating Li Bai’s drunken rowdiness.

Don’t deceive yourself.

Don’t defile the hungry mouth who wants a bowl of rice and bean soup, trading poverty for a piece of poem.

Oh, the hypocrite poet, the poet of lullabies who puts people to sleep.

문병란 논 닷마지기 짓는 농부가 자식 넷을 키우고 학교 보내는 일이 얼마나 고달픈가 우리는 다 안다 집 한칸 없는 소시민이 자기 집을 마련하는 데 평생을 건다는 것을 우리는 안다 네 명의 새끼를 키우고 남 보내는 학교도 보내고 또 짝을 찾아 맞추어 준다는 것이 얼마나 뼈를 깍는 아픔인가를 새끼를 키워 본 사람이면 다 안다 딸 하나 여우는 데 기둥 뿌리가 날라가고 새끼 하나 대학 보내는 데 개똥논이 날라간다 하루 여덟 시간 하고도 모자라 안팎으로 뛰고 저축하고 온갖 궁리 다하여도 모자란 생활비 새끼들의 주둥이가 얼마나 무서운가 다 안다 그래도 가난은 한갖 남루에 지나지 않는가? 쑥구렁에 옥돌처럼 호젓이 묻혀 있을 일인가? 그대 짐짓 팔짱 끼고 한 눈 파는 능청으로 맹물을 마시며 괜찮다 괜찮다 오늘의 굶주림을 달랠 수 있는가? 청산이 그 발 아래 지란을 기르듯 우리는 우리 새끼들을 키울 수 없다 저절로 피고 저절로 지고 저절로 오가는 4계절 새끼는 저절로 크지 않고 저절로 먹지 못한다 지애비는 지어미를 먹여 살려야 하고 지어미는 지애비를 부추겨 줘야 하고 사람은 일 속에 나서 일 속에 살다 일 속에서 죽는다 타고난 마음씨가 아무리 청산 같다고 해도 썩은 젖갈이 들어가야 입맛이 나는 창자 창자는 주리면 배가 고프고 또 먹으면 똥을 싼다 이슬이나 바람이나 마시며 절로절로 사는 무슨 신선이 있는가? 보리밥에 된장찌개라도 먹어야 하는 사람은 밥을 하늘로 삼는다 사람은 밥 앞에 절을 한다 그대 한 송이 국화꽃을 피우기 위해 전 우주가 동원된다고 노래하는 동안 이 땅의 어느 그늘진 구석에 한 술 밥을 구하는 주린 입술이 있다는 것을 아는가? 결코 가난은 한낱 남루가 아니다 입었다 벗어 버리는 그런 헌옷이 아니다 목숨이 농울쳐 휘어드는 오후의 때 물끄러미 청산이나 바라보는 풍류가 아니다 가난은 적, 우리를 삼켜 버리고 우리의 천성까지 먹어 버리는 독충 옷이 아니라 살갗까지 썩어 버리는 독소 우리 인간의 적이다 물리쳐야 할 악마다 쪼르륵 소리가 나는 뱃속에다 덧없이 회충을 기르는 청빈낙도 도연명의 술잔을 흉내내며 괜찮다 괜찮다 그대 능청 떨지 말라 가난을 한 편의 시와 바꾸어 한 그릇 밥과 된장국물을 마시려는 저 주린 입을 모독하지 말라 오 위선의 시인이여, 민중을 잠재우는 자장가의 시인이여 .

Gwangju News July 2011

41

Literature

Book Review

Human Decency

F

or those Koreans who came of age during the fervent activism that followed the appointment of Chun Doo-hwan as the country’s 11th President, the early 1990s represented a critical crossroads – a time when they were obliged to choose between remaining true to their youthful idealism or joining the ranks of a rapidly expanding middle class. Like the characters she writes about, Gong Ji-young seems condemned to endless rumination over the meaning of her role in the student and labour movements and the sudden loss of purpose that resulted from abandoning the principles that spurred her actions for the better part of a decade.

Both of the stories contained in Gong’s book, Human Decency, feature single professional women – writers, no less – struggling to find meaning in a changing society. The tension between honoring the sacrifices of the past and longing for a future in which people are no longer bound by tradition is evident throughout both narratives, though it is arguably more forcefully put in the title story.

In Human Decency we are presented with a narrator who is all but haunted by the betrayal of her activist past implied by her decision to accept a position with a woman’s magazine owned by her uncle. Her internal conflict is played out in a dispute with her editor as to which of a pair of pending articles should be featured in the magazine’s next issue. The articles, both interviews, represent opposite ends of the spectrum in terms of the type of individual they profile. On the one hand, there’s Gwon Ogyu, an intellectual and orchestrator of student demonstrations who spent the better part of the 70s and 80s as a political prisoner, while on the other there’s Yi Min-ja, an artist and advocate of spiritual meditation whose privileged background has allowed her to live much of her adult life abroad.

Although the narrator professes an aversion to the likes of Yi Min-ja, whom she feels has shirked her duty to assist in the establishment of a civil society, she cannot help but view her as a model of how to exist outside of matrimony and the conventional roles of women. Her various rationalizations for the attraction she feels toward Yi give rise to the bizarre notion that attempting to improve one’s lot in life, trying new things and being happy are, in effect, renunciations of one’s Korean identity.

42

Gwangju News July 2011

As with the narrator of Human Decency, the central character of Gong’s second tale, Dreams, is afflicted by a sense of loss that no amount of time seems able to dispel.

Having lived through the activism of the 1980s, she finds herself stumbling toward an uncertain future – one devoid of the moral certainties that had sustained her through her student days. Along with a pair of old comrades (a failed composer and out of work movie director) she embarks on a weekend road trip. Although the ostensible reason for the excursion is to do some fishing, it soon becomes apparent that the three have convened out of a shared sense of hopelessness. By the end of the story, it is clear that the “dreams” of the title refer not to hopes for the future but nightmares that enable the past to endlessly recur.

The stories contained in Human Decency offer us characters who are not so much broken as incomplete.

Stripped of their idealism, they cannot fully come to terms with who they are or what they want to be. The unintended casualty of democracy, it seems, has been the sense of purpose of an entire generation of activists. Although this irony is no doubt lost on some, her body of work makes it clear that the same cannot be said of Gong Ji-young.

By Elton LaClare First published in the Gwangju Blog

Review

Classic Movie Review

A Bloody Aria 구타유발자들

K

orea is a great place for black comedies. Movies like Castaway on the Moon or Hello Ghost are just a few examples of how well the peninsula makes movies as depressing as they are funny. Today we have a particularly twisted, though exceptional, example in A Bloody Aria, which was released in 2006.

This is the creation of talented writer/director Won Sin Yeon, whose debut Bread and Milk won best picture in 2003 at the Korean film awards.

The plot starts to tighten and intensify from the very first scene, with pressure always building up to the very end in a brilliantly paced progression. The main character is a music professor who has taken one of his sexy young female students out for a drive in the country in his brand new Mercedes. After a run in with a policeman we see this man has a slightly darker side. The couple hides in a sandy river valley that is to be the setting for the rest of the film, and after he tries to force himself on her, the young girl runs off into the forest. It is then that they run into a group of wild and increasingly violent “Korean Rednecks” who torment them for the rest of the film.

Yes, the comparison to Deliverance has unfortunately already been made by another film critic (and I thought I was so original).

There is a somewhat dream team cast to behold here.

The lead is played by the brilliant Han Suk Kyu, from the classic film Christmas in August. Opposite are the

“Bad” guys (I put bad in quotes because the film purposely and skillfully blurs the line between good and evil and there is no clear hero or villain throughout). Oh Dal Soo, who you might remember as the perverted old man from The Servant plays a kind of retarded and violent country bumpkin who has been warped by a bad experience in the army.

The icing on the cake is the lead hick played by none other than Lee Moon Sik, who you will remember (if you are paying attention) is your humble film critic’s favorite Korean actor. You might remember him from our review of Pyongyang Castle.

What you will notice about the film is that it seems to have a lot of respect for its audience. There is an entire subplot here, with the characters having complex intricate relationships, which are only hinted at and never explained. Such is only one small part of the richness and quality of the film and it would be beyond the scope of this article to mention them all. Suffice to say you should put it at the top of your list of Korean films to watch.

Things get weird...

By Seth Pevey Photos from koreanmovie.com First published in the Gwangju Blog

Gwangju News July 2011

43

Food and Drink

다우랑만두 & 궁전제과 Dawoorang Mandu & Gungjeon Jegwa

N

ext time you are at the bus terminal and in need of a snack, or indeed a meal, I’d highly recommend taking the escalator down to the food court below Shinsegae. Immediately to the left when you get off the escalator you will find the purveyor of arguably the finest mandu in Gwangju.

Not your standard mandu; the goods sold by Dawoorang are big, very big. I eat two of them for a meal or one for a snack. This is on top of the fact that they taste utterly sublime. The filling is rich in flavour without being too greasy, and the dough that they are encased in is thick and fluffy. I recently had some mandu from a Kimbapnara and they were like eating balls of oil; not the case with these. Thus the mandu from Dawoorang make an exemplary taste bud tingling treat.

One particular sign that I always look out for at restaurants is whether it is patronised by locals or not. Dawoorang passes this test with ease, as there is always a long line of people queuing for their mandu fix. Queuing up is not a boring affair: when I was there one person was on dough duty, getting it ready for the person standing next to them who was wrapping balls of the filling in it. They’ve obviously done this a lot because they were working at a frighteningly quick pace. Combined with the fact that this place is popular, seeing the production process is reassuring, as one gets the feeling that they have a high turnover rate, and none of their food sits around for long.

There are three variations of their steamed mandu: pork, kimchi, and haemul. I got a haemul and pork one and the woman who served me warned me that the haemul are very spicy. I like spicy food but would agree with her in saying they are high on the chili scale, so if you do not like spicy food I’d stick to

44

Gwangju News July 2011

Gungjeon Jegwa

the pork and kimchi variations. The pork and haemul mandu are 2200 won each, and the kimchi ones are 4000 won. I think the former are reasonably priced but the latter is admittedly less so. As I mentioned though, they are much bigger than the standard and two do me for a meal.

As Dawoorang is in a food court, seating is not guaranteed, particularly on weekends when the bus terminal in general is busy. I don’t find this to be a problem really though as one does not go to a food court for a 5-star dining experience, but rather a quick and hopefully delicious snack.

Another place I ate at recently this month was Gungjeon Jegwa. This is a well known bakery found downtown opposite the bookstore. There is also one in Jinwol-dong that I know of. I went there to eat my first batbingsu for summer and this bakery has an excellent reputation for the dish among Koreans

Food and Drink

the sweetness may make it not to everybody’s liking, but it provides a nice alternative to ice cream if you like going to Baskin Robbins. I also enjoy the novelty of it because I had never seen or tasted it before I came to Korea.

Preparing the mandu

Bingsu

in Gwangju. It is a dessert primarily composed of shaved ice and red beans, and is topped with cornflakes, canned fruit, condensed milk, and strawberries. Everything is served in a bowl in layers and one mixes it together with their spoon.

I like to think of it as the sweet equivalent of bibimbap. If, like me, you are more than partial to desserts, then you should most definitely go to Gungjeon Jegwa at least once this summer to try their batbingsu. In the stifling summer heat of Gwangju, this dish provides both icy an refreshment and sweet indulgence. In particular

Like Dawoorang, Gungjeon Jegwa, passes the queue test with flying colours, as there are always people there when I go. On this particular occasion at least half of the people there were eating some variation of batbingsu.

This suggests that they really know what they are doing when it comes to this particular dessert. They have five variations of it: the standard red bean, milk bingsu, strawberry bingsu, coffee bingsu, and green tea bingsu.

All of them are 5000 won each.

Tous Les Jours and Paris Baguette do their own perfectly acceptable takes on batbingsu as do many cafes. Cafes tend to make bigger variations of it that cost a little more, and are often more indulgent with a scoop of ice-cream on top. I get the feeling they are more for two or three people, which could actually be a better option if you are with a couple of friends.

Story and photos by Gabriel Ward

Gwangju News July 2011

45

Food and Drink

Korean Easy-Cook Recipe

떡 꼬치 Skewered Tteok teok kkochi is a popular flour-based food, like tteok bbokgi or hot dogs. Almost all kids love this, and for adults, eating it is a perfect way to reminisce about their childhood. Instead of tteok, we can use chicken or quail eggs to make kkochi.

T

For this recipe, the main ingredient will be garaetteok.

Tteok; also spelled ddeock, duk, dduk, ddeog, or thuck) is a class of Korean rice cake made with steamed glutinous rice flour (also known as sweet rice or chapssal).

Garaetteok is a variety of tteok or Korean rice cake, formed into a long white cylinder shape. It is made by pounding steamed rice flour, made mostly from non-glutinous rice. It is used in various Korean dishes such as spicy tteokbokki and skewered tteok.

Thinly-sliced garaetteok is used for making tteok guk, the traditional dish to eat at New Year.

Story and photos by Seoyoung Park

How to make Skewered Tteok Things to prepare (two servings): Starch syrup, red pepper paste (1 big spoon), ketchup (1tsp), tteok, soy sauce (2 spoons), sugar, crushed garlic (1 spoon), sesame oil (1 tsp), sticks (optional) and a glass of water

Cooking method: 1. If the tteok is hard and does not have a chewy texture, boil it with hot water rapidly 2. Cut it into appropriate-sized pieces to put on the stick.

(If you don’t have sticks you can just skip this step) 3. To make the red pepper paste sauce, put all the ingredients (1 big spoon of red pepper paste, 1tsp ketchup, 2 spoons of starch syrup, 1tsp of sugar, and 1tsp of crushed garlic in a pan. Add about a half cup of water and boil it till it gets sticky. Do the same to make the soy sauce. With 2 spoons soy sauce, add 1 tsp crushed garlic) 1 tsp sesame oil, 1 tsp sugar, 2 spoons starch syrup and add the water (the same amount as the soy sauce). If it tastes too salty, add more sugar or starch syrup.

4. Grill the tteok in an oil-heated fry pan 5. Coat the grilled tteok slides with the sauce you made

46

Gwangju News July 2011

GIC Program Review

GIC Tour with Warren

Mudeungsan Tour

great way to escape the hustle and bustle that is urban Korea is to head for a nearby mountain to unwind and breathe deeply. For residents of Gwangju, that mountain is Mudeung Mountain. Standing at a height of 1186 meters, Mudeung Mountain is easily accessible and has a myriad of well-marked trails of varying gradients.

A

For the GIC Mt. Mudeung Tour with Warren, we boarded the bus outside the GIC (unexpectedly accompanied by a KBS TV crew which filmed our every move). The first place on our itinerary was Wonhyo Temple, known for its long history and beautiful views across the Wonhyo Valley. The temple is believed to have been established by the monk Wonhyo-daesa, one of the greatest thinkers in Korean Buddhism. He is also remembered for his colorful life, which included drinking alcohol, marrying a widow princess, and fathering at least one child. Good going for a monk!

From the temple we hiked along Tokkie-deung (Rabbit’s Back) ridge. The hike took us through pine/deciduous forest and past one of the huge rock slides that can be seen on the slopes of the mountain. This particular rock slide comes with a story. Legend has it that after a rain shower, earth-bound dragons come out from under the rocks to bathe in the sun. In fact, a sixteenth century monk reported witnessing a dragon catching a passing deer! By the time we had reached the valley on the Jeungsimsa side of the ridge, we had worked up enough of a sweat to appreciate the refreshing tea offered at the Moonhhyang-jeong Tea House.

After spending some time recharging our energy at the tea shop, we toured the Uijae Art Museum, which contains paintings by the artist and educator Ho Baeknyon (1891-1977), who used the pen name Uijae.

Uijae was a founding father of Gwangju’s art scene and in addition established an agricultural school to pass on skills to revive the agricultural economy following Korea’s liberation from Japan.

Our final stop was for lunch at Sujata Restaurant. Sujata offers a buffet which follows Buddhist doctrine: no meat, no preservatives, no garlic. A wide variety of dishes

At the statue of Wonhyo

prepared using natural ingredients were on offer. All in all a healthy and delicious meal.

For any newcomers to Gwangju, joining a GIC tour is a way to visit interesting places and meet good people. For those of you who have been here a little longer, it’s a great way to get a new perspective on sites already visited. For anyone with an interest in Korean history and culture, our guide Warren will astound you with his detailed knowledge and lively explanation. To register for a GIC tour, go to the GIC website www.gic.or.kr.

By Alan Brown Photo by Seungbum Jo

[ Tour Overview ] GIC Mudeung Mountain and Damyang Tour with Warren Date: July 16, 2011 (Saturday) Cost: 25,000 won (20,000 won for GIC member ) Itinerary: Chungjang Shrine - Pungam Pavilion Bucheong Ware Kiln - Hwanbyeokdang Pavilion Soswaewon Bamboo Forest Anyone interested can join the tour.

To register and for more information, please visit GIC Website: www.gic.or.kr or gictour@gic.or.kr

Gwangju News July 2011

47

Fashion

Fash-On with xxl jjdp Spotted : Shorts, Stripes and Summer

W

ith the thermometer pushing the mid 30s and humidity rising to nearly 100 percent, cool, light and short/minimal clothing is all that one can ask for to feel refreshed. Summer’s greatest guilty pleasures are walking around in shorts and slip ons all the time. Pure indulgence.

This month Fash-on explores short city shorts for both men and women as well as must have patterns and colors to create a fresh summer look.

Many people shy away from patterns as it causes them too much confusion and they just don’t know how to wear graphic motifs. Therefore, with three easy wardrobe updates I will aim to reform your summer look and make this your best summer ever.

The first major obstacle when working with summer clothing is to purchase light and breathable fabrics.

Cotton and linen work best as they allow easy ventilation and will ultimately cool you down.

Secondly, when putting your outfit together, focus on creating a balanced look.

For example, only have on one crazy color or patterned piece in any outfit combo. The idea is to create a focal point in your dressing by highlighting a bold graphic and not to distract from it, thus making yourself stand out for all of the right reasons instead of looking like you got dressed in the dark at an old age home jumble sale.

Let’s tackle shorts.

Shorts are going shorter this summer and don’t be surprised to see varying lengths - even much higher hems in men’s shorts. Traditionally shorts for men were cut to below the knee (think the trend from a couple of years ago: cargo shorts, clam diggers, capris.). But things are changing and fashion now dictates that we look to hems above the knee.

Girls can tend to be a bit more risque and go higher with

48

Gwangju News July 2011

their hems, but for guys I would suggest that two or three inches above the knee is where you want to be this summer. It immediately gives your wardrobe a refreshed look, and when paired with a simple t-shirt and blazer it creates a look of more refinement.

Choose a lighter fabric such as cotton that dries quickly and you can make your shorts double up as great swimwear. Denim is also a great staple and your go-to alternative - as we covered in a previous edition - it is very easy to create your own cut offs with a handy pair of scissors at home.

Don’t forget that summer shorts are also another great way of adding color to your wardrobe. Pair a bright pair of shorts with a plain t-shirt or shirt to achieve great balance.

Stripes The general rule with stripes is that verticals make you appear taller and thinner, whilst horizontals add girth and can make you look wider than you really are.

Fashion

But one thing that is for sure is that it’s a great graphic for summer. I was inspired by a naval look, and by pairing a plain blue and white stripe t-shirt with red cut off jean shorts I created a cool and casual resort look and that of one ready to hop a boat for the afternoon.

Striped shirts can also be paired with full length dark denim wash jeans and a blazer for men and women who want a look that is better suited for evenings.

Polka dots Making a retro comeback from the 60s is the good old polka dot. It might sound strange, but this is one of the most universal patterns around and adds a great twist to any outfit. Generally it has been used mostly in girls’ wardrobes, but this summer shake things up and go dotty for polka dots.

I have paired a beige and white polka dot shirt with a pair of navy city shorts to create a more formal look that can translate to a night out. Just add a blazer jacket and you are good to go.

To complete your look slip on shoes One of the pleasures of summer is the ability to just kick off your shoes somewhere and walk around barefoot on the grass or dip your feet in some water. Therefore nothing works better than a classic slip on. These are widely available in bold colors and patterns and are another way to add interest and visual layering to your dress.

So there we go, with a few quick tweaks to your wardrobe you can now look fresh and trendy for all of those hot summer nights around town.

This month’s edition was shot at a popular spot downtown, So Blue, which offers a relaxed cafe atmosphere with huge sandwiches to boot (you might wait a while but it is well worth it). They also offer a great variety of drinks and music while you people watch on a great lazy summer afternoon.

(So Blue is located downtown, just off Wedding Street in the same road as Mix Lounge) Peace, By xxl jjdp Photos by Billy Cho

Clothing from Brand Market store and various shops in the huge mulitfloored shopping mall across from Uniqlo downtown.

Gwangju News July 2011

49

Cartoon

50

Gwangju News July 2011

Community Board

GIC News GIC Journal: Social Discourse of Disquiet Got something to say that’s deeper than the latest travelogue?

Wondering about the space in between cultures and have some lessons to share? Have art that people generally don’t ‘get’?

You have a home at SDoD. A space for artists, photographers, writers, pundits, and critics to share about Gwangju, the art scene, art without a capital A, and expressing your confusion, clarity and kookiness through your creative ventures. Get involved. Check out the website: http://gicjournal.wordpress.com.

Contact us to contribute: selina.gicjournal@gmail.com

Korean Reading Class Join our Korean Reading Class and experience the world of reading in Korean!

Period: July 9 ~ August 20, 2011 (every Saturday for 7 weeks) Time: 1:40 p.m ~ 2:40 p.m.

Tuition fee: 30,000 won Level: Intermediate (서강한국어 2A ~) Teacher: Kim Ho-young GIC membership fee (20,000 won) is excluded. Textbooks will be provided. For registration, contact Moon So-eun at 062) 226-2733

Gwangju Guidebook Volunteers Help GIC update the second version of Gwangju Guidebook due to print in August 2011. Korean and English speakers needed for fact checking and copy editing. Contact karina@gic.or.kr if interested.

Buses : 62, 63, 64, 518 (bus stop: 상무대우아파트 - Sangmu Daewoo Apateu) Taxi directions: "Sangmujigu Kumho Daewoo Apart ro gajuseyo".

Method of instruction is in English Weekday Classes: 8:00 - 9:00 p.m.(from Monday to Friday) Sunday Classes: 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Brazilian Jiujitsu in Gwangju Add: 522-3 Jisan-dong, Dong-gu, Gwangju Phone: 010-9354-6279 Location: Basement of the 20000 Eyeglass shop near Salesio Girls High School.

Buses: 1, 15, 17, 27, 28, 35, 36, 55, 80 (bus stop: 살레시오여고 Salesio Yeogo) Taxi directions: "Salesio Yeogo jungryu jang gajuseyo".

Method of instruction is in Korean-English.

Weekday Classes: 7:30 - 10:00 p.m. (from Monday to Friday)

Community Sung Bin Orphanage Sung Bin Orphanage is looking for creative/ active/ energetic/ outgoing/ enthusiastic long-term volunteers to join in our regular Saturday program. We would like you to give at least two Saturdays per month.

As well as being a friend, you will be asked to teach basic English to girls aged 7 to 14. Meet every Saturday at 1:30 p.m. in front of downtown Starbucks. All are welcome. For more volunteering information please contact Al Barnum at: al_barnum@yahoo.com.

Apostolate to Migrants Center

Our group is organic and multi-disciplinary: painters, photographers, illustrators,media artists. It includes members from all around the world.

Our aim is to stimulate the flow of creative energy through workshops, discussion and community art projects.

Art supplies will be provided during the Workshop.

Address: 802-4 Songjeong -2dong, Gwangsan-gu, Gwangju Phone: 062) 954-8004 Subway: Get off at Songjeong Park (송정공원) Station and walk toward Songjeong Middle School.

Busses: 29, 38, 39, 62, 97, 98, 99. Get off at Yeonggwang-tong intersection bus stop and walk toward Songjeong Middle School.

Sunday masses: 10:00 a.m. (Indonesian/ East Timor); 3:00 p.m.

(English) at the Migrant Center; 6:00 p.m. (Vietnamese) . 2nd Sunday: 11:00 a.m. Mass for multi-cultural families

Open Studio: Basic Drawing

Migrant’s Counsel Center is open!

Every Tuesday night 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. at GIC is an open studio for drawing. Join us. GAC members will facilitate; Free of charge.

Summer Workshops July 2 - Gilda Wilson offers tips on color July 9 - Produce your work Participation Fee: 60,000 won (GIC member 40,000 won) To sign up for events or for more details check out the group or page on Facebook: Gwangju Artist Collective.

Gwangju Apostolate Migrant Center was appointed as the Supporting Center for Foreign Workers by the Human Resources Development Service of Korea. Workers and employers with problems can be given help and advice from counselors.

Phone: 062) 959-9335/ 019-588-2133/ 011-9602-7266

Art Gwangju Artist Collective

Spanish/ Korean Language Exchange

Gwangju Men’s Soccer

Do you want to learn basic Spanish? Or do you want to review what you have learned in the past? Do you want to learn Korean phrases and grammar? Or do you want to practice speaking in Korean? Come join the Spanish/ Korean language exchange group every Saturday at 5:00 p.m. at the GIC. For more information, contact Juan Esteban Zea (juanestebanzea@gmail.com)

The Gwangju international soccer team plays regularly most weekends.

If you are interested in playing, e-mail: gwangju_soccer@yahoo.com.

Gwangju Jumbo Taxi

Sports

Gwangju Ice Hockey Team Looking for men and women of all ages to join us every Saturday night from 7:30 to 9:00 p.m. at Yeomju Ice Rink near World Cup Stadium. If you are interested, contact either Andrew Dunne at atdunne@gmail.com or Chris Wilson at kreeco@rogers.com

If you’re traveling in a big party or simply need transportation in and around Gwangju, Gwangju Jumbo Taxi provides service to Bus Terminal, Airport and others. With a seat capacity of up to 9 people, you can travel in comfort. Friendy and hospitable, Mr. Kim will help you travel with safety and comfort. Whether you are going from/ to Gwangju Airport or simply to travel around the city, give Jumbo Taxi a call.

Call to reserve at 010-5086-7799 (Mr.Kim) or refer to www.gjtaxi.co.kr for the price list.

Gwangju Chaoreum Taekwondo Add: 1187-3 Chipyeong-dong, Seo-gu, Gwangju Phone: 062) 384-0958 Location: Chaoreum Taekwondo Gym is located on the third floor of Jeong-yeon (K-1) building (just beside the bus stop)

Gwangju News July 2011

51

Korean Language Class

Gwangju News has a Bargain for You! Are you a local Gwangju or Jeollanamdo business? How long have you been in business?

We have a grant program that offers steep discounts depending on how long you’ve been in business. Contact Minsu Kim or Maria Lisak at gwangjunews@gmail.com for details.

If you’re in business... less than one year 1-2 years 2-3 years 3-4 years 4-5 years

Up to 50% off Up to 40% off Up to 30% off Up to 20% off Up to 10% off

Join GIC as an organizational member.

Free opportunities to regularly advertise.

2011 GIC 4th Korean Language Class Please register by July 5, 2011

Weekday Classes

Saturday Classes Level Textbook

Level

Days

Textbook

Beginner 1-1

Monday & Wednesday

서강한국어 1A (Pre-lesson ~ Lesson 1)

Beginner 1-1

서강한국어 1A (Pre-lesson ~ Lesson 1)

Beginner 1-2

Tuesday & Thursday

서강한국어 1A (Lesson 2 ~ Lesson 6)

Beginner 1-2

서강한국어 1A (Lesson 2 ~ 6)

Beginner 2-2

Tuesday & Thursday

서강한국어 1B (Lesson 5 ~ Lesson 8)

Beginner 2-1

서강한국어 1B (Lesson 1 ~ 4)

Intermediate

서강한국어 2A (Lesson 5 ~ 9)

- Period: July 11 – August 25, 2011 (Twice a week for 7 weeks) - Class hours: 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. (2 hours) - Tuition fee : 80,000 won (GIC membership fee: 20,000 won/ year and textbooks excluded) cash only

e

Not

* The tuition fee is non-refundable after the first week. * A class may be canceled if fewer than 5 people sign up. * Textbooks can be purchased at the GIC

- Period: July 9 – August 20, 2011 (Every Saturday for 7 weeks)

- Class hours: 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

(2 hours) - Tuition fee: 50,000 won (GIC membership fee: 20,000 won/ year and textbooks excluded) cash only

GIC is located on the 5th floor of the Jeon-il building, the same building as the Korean Exchange Bank, downtown. The entrance is located immediately to the north of the bank. Contact Moon So-eun for more information.

Phone: 062-226-2733/4 E-mail: gic@gic.or.kr Website: www.gic.or.kr

52

Gwangju News July 2011

Advertisement

Gwangju News July 2011

53

Advertisement

54

Gwangju News July 2011

Advertisement

Gwangju News July 2011

55