The Spirit 2017 Christmas Edition

=

t h e

=

THE SPIRIT CHRISTMAS EDITION

AN SFHS PUBLICATION NO. 4 | 2017

Jeremy Choi and Min Cheong Kim

18-19

ON WEINSTEIN, AND HOLLYWOOD IN GENERAL

Yunhyuk Kang

14-15

DR. BROOKS’ FINAL CHEMICAL FORMULA

Min Cheong Kim

11

CHRISTMAS PRESENTS GONE WRONG

Jacob Lee

6-7

THE RADER LEGACY

Christine Yun

4-5

A 70’S MOVIE: MS. PARK

Cailee Kim

HOMECOMING: THROWBACK TO FIRST DATES

FEATURING in this issue . . .

24

THE SPIRIT | 1

SEOUL FOREIGN HIGH SCHOOL

GHOST

F

rom a room of roaring laughter to a space of hushed whispers, it is evident that the recent review and amendment to study hall policies have led to an abrupt shift from an environment of occasional lighthearted chatter to one of solemn silence.

Despite the original purpose of study hall being a block of time for students to catch up on work and get ahead on studying for tests, in recent years, it has evolved into a period to catch up with friends and socialize.

The new policy has reverted a time to work back to absolute silence. Tighter regulations and more restrictions seem to be stirring much discontent from the students; especially because the new environment limits dialogue and activity to a minimum.

As stated in the student handbook, one of the primary changes from last year’s study hall regulations state that food deliveries may only be collected by the guard’s pagoda between 12:45 to 1:30 p.m. and that delivered food may

NO 4. / DECEMBER 2017

OF STUDY HALL PAST

Sydney Chun - Staff Reporter only be consumed in the cafeteria during lunch time. Many students complain of inconvenience, as at times, it is difficult to gauge the exact time at which an order will arrive or ensure that there are still empty seats left in the cafeteria.

Another key change is the enforcement of a quiet study area, as most study hall periods now disallow loud dialogue or other possible disturbances, such as excessively entering and exiting the area. Some rooms are even arranged in test conditions—desks organized in rows columns, with each spaced out generously. All study hall teachers were told to strictly monitor their students and ensure that they abide by the handbook rules, such as the viewing of only educational videos and the banning of video games.

A survey conducted across all grade levels revealed that, out of the 50 interviewed, 41 expressed that they were dissatisfied with how study halls are currently being run.

“I guess the chair setup is fine, but I wish they’d at least let us talk,” said Sunny Lee (10) wistfully about the changes, as most concerns pointed to restrictions placed on communication.

On the contrary, the few students actually in favor of the recent changes tended to say something along the lines of appreciating “a quieter place to study” and “less distractions.” However, there were many in this pool of students who supported the current study hall system because of its no-talking policy, but still were not fond of the idea of managing all food deliveries an in allotted time period.

The revelation of student opinion on this matter has exhibited the general request of students to lift the no-talking policy during study halls. As there still remains time between now and the ratification of a solidified study hall system in the new high school building, many students remain hopeful that the current regulations be reviewed for years to come.

photo courtesy: taewon kwon 2 | THE SPIRIT

NO 4. / DECEMBER 2017

SEOUL FOREIGN HIGH SCHOOL

THIS IS NOT A DRILL: USAG TO MOVE Max Baskin - Staff Reporter

N

ew York has Little Italy, Los Angeles has K-Town, and Seoul has US Army Garrison Yongsan.

USAG Yongsan has protected Seoul for over 60 years. Its magnitude makes it impossible to miss on a map; just look for the big blank spot south of Namsan. Due to Korea’s strict national security laws, information on “the base” is limited for most Seoulites.

Walking through it, you might mistake it for an ordinary American town, complete with homes, apartments, restaurants, convenience stores, schools, swimming pools, a library, a movie theater and a supermarket. It would not be until you see the frequent truck convoys or military formations that you would realize you are also standing at the very center of all US operations in South Korea.

Despite the base’s seemingly permanent presence, all this is due to change soon. By 2019, Camp Humphreys, a larger base just south of Seoul in Pyeongtaek, will take over as the main command post for US forces in South Korea. The property itself is set to transfer

to the Seoul Metropolitan Government, which plans to turn the majority of USAG Yongsan into a park.

The remaining land was opened to private developers. Current plans call for the development of more residential areas, in response to a growing need for real estate in an already tightly-packed Seoul. These future apartments will most likely be relatively costly, as what is now USAG Yongsan sits in the near-geographical center of Seoul. 16 acres (20,000 pyeong) are still open to potential buyers, and with current demand, will likely be fully reserved before the base moves in 2019.

One unlikely party influencing the future of Yongsan is Seoul’s historical research community. Many buildings on base date back to the Colonial period, converted from Japanese offices and barracks to US offices and barracks after American forces moved into the area in 1945. One building near Itaewon originally served as a prison hospital for the Imperial Japanese Army.

It currently functions as a veterinary clinic. Many historical scholars, including author Kim-Chun-Soo, have advocated for the city of Seoul to step

in to ensure that these sites are protected from further development and preserved for future generations to study.

The effects of the base’s relocation will even extend to the neighborhoods surrounding it in Yongsan, especially Itaewon. Originally settled to take advantage of the influx of American tourists and soldiers from the base area, Itaewon is struggling to redefine itself after a decline in foot traffic from the garrison. Some business analysts, including real estate agent Shin Young Gyun, expect an uptick in the local economy after new residential areas are built on what is now the garrison.

Despite this, business owners will still have to attract these new customers from Yongsan to replace their regulars lost from the relocation of the base.

Its wired fences and restricted access may give an impression of the base’s isolation from the rest of Seoul, but in reality, USAG Yongsan has had a disproportionate influence on the city’s development and culture over the past 70 years. With it gone, a shift in focus will be needed for all those who depend on the base for business, and all those who live on it.

THE SPIRIT | 3

SEOUL FOREIGN HIGH SCHOOL

NO 4. / DECEMBER 2017

HOMECOMING Cailee Kim - Staff Reporter

Tawan Banyatpiyaphod (12) and Janet Lee (12)

Seb Kang (11) and Sammie Pyo (11)

Mark Ku (12) and Eunice Ra (12)

4 | THE SPIRIT

THROWBACKS photo courtesies: shiraz ben-shoshan, kyle sohn

NO 4. / DECEMBER 2017

Mark Ku (12) and Eunice Ra (12) Two different people, two different stories. Through this interview they stumbled across new discoveries.

Discovery #1: Eunice didn’t want to go with a certain boy, and as a result, Mark asked Eunice. Eunice revealed, “the way he asked was really nice” to which Mark elaborated, “yeah, I wrote [a pun] on Arizona Sweet Tea and got her a rose. We hugged afterwards.”

Discovery #2: Mark was friendzoned—with a twist. The thing is, Mark wasn’t into Eunice. “While I was alone and Izzy suddenly came up to me and asked, ‘Do you by any chance have any feelings for Eunice?’, said Mark. “And I was like ‘No, why?’ and she was like ‘Oh! That’s good’ and I was like ‘What?!

What do you mean that’s good?’ and then I was like ‘Am I friendzoned?’ I didn’t like her, but I still got friendzoned.”

Discovery #3: Slow dancing was awkward. Eunice pointed out, “you could put two textbooks in between us! That’s how far apart we were.”

Mark, however, said, “I didn’t think it was awkward. I thought it was good. I’m learning this now.”

Tips from the wise: Eunice: Go with someone you’re close to—but make your intentions clear.

Mark: Go with someone you have interest in, because it can develop through homecoming. Also, steer away from being friendzoned as much as possible.

SEOUL FOREIGN HIGH SCHOOL

Seb Kang (11) and Sammie Pyo (11) “I didn’t really know who he was.”

Perfect time to cue the awkward cricket sound because… say what?!

“He was just so obsessed with me he asked me out, and I was just like okay...” Sammie added with sarcasm.

While Seb’s homecoming proposal might’ve been unexpected, he was still able to step up, be brave, and remain mature enough to handle the situation. “The whole day was awkward because we didn’t know each other,” Sammie admitted, “but I wouldn’t do anything differently.” As opposed to Sammie, Seb revealed that if he could go back and change one thing, he would’ve “[tried] to talk more.”

It’s no secret that first dates can either go horribly wrong or amazingly well. Though they didn’t know each other very well, Sammie and Seb were able to spend their homecoming being simultaneously awkward and comfortable.

Tips from the wise: Seb: Don’t be awkward.

Sammie: Just ask whoever you want to ask because homecoming doesn’t mean you’re getting married—or dating either! Just ask whoever you want and have a fun time.

Tawan Banyatpiyaphod (12) and Janet Lee (12) How did Janet and Tawan end up going together? Of course disregarding the fact freshmen year is full of curious individuals, like most homecoming dates, there was a shared interest that led to the proposal.

The proposal happened during homeroom as Janet claimed “he [sent me a snapchat] asking me whether I liked pink, red or white for [his] shoes - I just said white” which then Tawan revealed, “so yeah I got white flowers, came to school early, wrote on the whiteboard [then] covered it with paper.”

Janet recounted, “Oh, it was a good proposal.”

While for most couples, awkwardness doesn’t kick in until the actual night of homecoming, it was the opposite for Janet and Tawan.

Tawan chuckled while admitting “actually it was pretty good” and Janet, likewise, revealed they had a great time and were even “one of the few people who went to homecoming and weren’t awkward after”. Yet, their obstacles happened before the night of homecoming; Janet admitted, “I avoided him for the rest of the day (after the proposal) because I was so embarrassed; I don’t know why.” All firsts come with at least one struggle.

Tips from the wise: Janet: Don’t make it awkward after homecoming, or else it’s just weird.

Tawan: Don’t be scared even though it’s your first time.

THE SPIRIT | 5

SEOUL FOREIGN HIGH SCHOOL

NO 4. / DECEMBER 2017

A 70’S MOVIE:

MS. PARK Christine Yun - Staff Reporter

Moving schools is hard, especially for those who have to adapt to a completely new culture. Ms. Park, an SFS alumni who returned to teach, experienced this culture shock as she moved from a Korean school to our school 36 years ago. Crank up the volume and get comfortable; this movie’s going to be a fun one!

The pitch black screen fades into different shades of black and white as a frame on a pretty Swedish townscape transitions in. It’s Christmas.

Christmas carols play in the streets as a young couple window-shops pushing a stroller with an infant girl all bundled up inside. With a Swedish mom and a Korean dad, Ms. Park was born in Sweden and, moved to Korea when she was just over 1½ years old. She then attended Korean schools—founded by her grandparents!—until high school.

“Growing up, my parents thought there weren’t Korean kindergartens appropriate for my brother and me so my mom founded a Montessori kindergarten for us,” Ms. Park said. “My grandparents were educators so they told her to start one.”

Fast forward 7 years, and we now watch a 12-year-old Ms. Park in a uniform enter an all-girls middle school, sporting a bob no longer than 1 cm below the ears. She holds two lunch

6 | THE SPIRIT

boxes—one for lunch and one for the mandatory after school self-study period. When Ms. Park enters the classroom, 70 pairs of eyes roll towards her.

One girl even comes up to ask if she speaks Korean.

“Back then, there weren’t that many foreigners so growing up as one in Korea wasn’t a very comfortable situation,” said Ms. Park. “It was like an interview every time I went out.”

“At that time, all the Korean schools were very strict. It was common to hit students if they didn’t behave,” Ms. Park recalled.

“I studied so hard in middle school because I was so scared of the teachers.”

Every morning, teachers gather at the school entrance and check if anyone is in messy attire or has hair longer than the permitted length. After this, a whole school assembly takes place with the students still outdoors—no matter if there’s rain, shine, sleet or snow.

Color! From bright reds to deep blues, students in bell pants and funky shirts decorate the screen. Now an SFS high schooler, Ms. Park sits in math class, shocked to see everyone use calculators. We watch as she absorbs the new environment of co-ed, kind teachers, and no uniforms. Like any other new student, Ms. Park faced difficul-

ties, especially learning English.

“My parents spoke English so I was good at listening but not speaking. English and history classes were hard because I had to write essays,” Ms. Park said.

“In my girls school, they forbade you to meet any boys. But when I came [to SFS], there were a lot of boys and in the morning, it took so long to choose what to wear. I think I studied less,” Ms. Park continued. “But I have so many lovely memories from high school, especially my senior year,” she said. “Prom was fun. At that time, prom was open only to seniors. I was waiting for this guy to ask me and so I rejected everybody else. In the end, he never asked and I was left with no date. I ended up going with my brother’s friend.”

2017 or 1981, the struggle of getting a date is the same throughout. The music fades and the screen zooms out descending into a pitch black darkness we started with.

NO 4. / DECEMBER 2017

SEOUL FOREIGN HIGH SCHOOL

1 photo courtesy: kyle sohn photo courtesies: ms. park

THE SPIRIT | 7

SEOUL FOREIGN HIGH SCHOOL

NO 4. / DECEMBER 2017

THE GREAT WALL SHOOTOUT 12 SFS basketball athletes board a Beijing bound plane decked out in SFS basketball warmups, feeling a mixture of excitement and determination. For the first time, our school has been cordially invited to attend the Great Wall Shootout—a basketball tournament that is hosted every year during Thanksgiving by the International School of Beijing. The formation of this team was unconventional, as it needed to be assembled before official Crusader tryouts—meaning that after the varsity and junior varsity players were set, anyone was eligible to be a part of the team.

Naturally, there were many unknowns about how the team will bond and what combinations of players would have been the most effective.

The junior varsity players also had a scary task of handling the pressure of opposing varsity teams. When asked about the team chemistry and potential success at this tournament, Caleb Jang (12), a three-year varsity veteran, commented that he himself would “give [his] all in winning the tournament”, and make sure that “everyone feels

8 | THE SPIRIT

feels like a team”. Ethan Lee (9) revealed that while he “worries about the limited time to practice and build chemistry”, he feels that the team will succeed. Both players added that they were “hyped” to play against the teams at ISB. Day one of the Great Wall shootout started off slow for the Crusaders, as we struggled against both ISB and CISS. Being an experienced varsity APAC team, the hosting school showed its poise to their home crowd with solid offense and high pressure defense. We as a team couldn’t convert our own offensive chances, narrowly missing the win 52-47. The second game against CISS started off on a better note, but we were soon battered by the intense press that Concordia ran, giving easy turnovers and ultimately losing 56-58. It was a learning experience for all, as it was a time to seriously reevaluate the little details, such as reducing turnovers or rebounding the ball.

Day two proved to be an improvement as we were more focused and intent on winning. The first game was against ISBK, and the game proved to be difficult as the difference in skill and experience was evident. Although we lost 5826, most of us were able to pick ourselves back up quickly since we had played our hearts out. The team’s energy finally paid off when we played against Shatin College of Hong Kong, pulling a 76-29 blowout.

It was a defining moment for the team as plays started to become seamless and shots started to fall. Feeling accomplished, we prepared for the final two matches that would determine our placement in the Great Wall shootout.

Jacob Lee- Staff Reporter Day three was a strong conclusion to the tournament as we carried on the energy that they had the day before.

The first game against WAB ended as a 60-14 win, securing a 3rd vs. 4th place match later in the afternoon. The match would be against CISS, which was the school that we had lost to on the first day.

For the team, it was a chance to

redeem ourselves and make a statement to the competition.

With fast transitions and multiple free throws, our team was able to run away with a lead early in the 1st

quarter— and with a continued focus and discipline, the SFS team defeated Concordia 75-48.

Ultimately, this tournament was a bonding experience for the whole team, and a chance to sharpen our skills for the official season at SFS. JV players were also exposed to a much higher level of competition, which will most likely translate into a successful record this season. A huge accomplishment during this trip was that we put in our all, regardless of the standings— and eventually we were rewarded with the wins and smiles that we had hoped for in the beginning.

NO 4. / DECEMBER 2017

SEOUL FOREIGN HIGH SCHOOL

THE MANAGERIAL COMMITMENT Min Yong - Staff Reporter

Appreciation.

It is the one thing managers don’t often get while being on the job. Managers aren’t considered valuable enough to be considered an official team member. Yet, on paper they are treated as one, just the same as the ace player on the team would be. Despite this, the manager is still underappreciated, overlooked, and mocked by other members of the community.

Personally, as a former manager of a SFS basketball team, I can confidently claim that the social stigma of being a manager often leads to many straying away from the position.

Basketball managers are a visible yet invisible component of the team. They are the ones, among bushels of other tasks, that bring players their water bottles, take stats, and film the games for subsequent analysis. They are a key constituent of the team that indirectly helps the team improve and focus on the game to secure victory.

Not many would understand, but the role of a manager requires just as much commitment as being an active player on the team. They have to attend every game to assist the coach. Taking stats for the game is a immense task in and of itself; the manager has to be completely focused on the game and take into account every rebound, every foul, and every point. Doing all these tasks while being the only manager in the team can be pretty overwhelming at times. As our high school team has adopted fast paced counter-attacking styles, the perpetual overflow of action on the court calls for a break. Personally, as a basketball purist, it pains me not to have enough time to appreciate the game itself.

illutration courtesy: ina kim

“I’d say it’s pretty negative” replies Cormac Flanagan (class of 2019), upon being asked about how he thinks managers are generally viewed in SFS (Cormac is a former manager turned player of the Varsity Boys Football team).

“You’re seen as a ballboy and [people think] you aren’t good enough to be a player on the actual team.” He does acknowledge that most of the mockery is meant in good humour, but still expresses that the managers are disrespected for not being good enough at the sport.

Despite such, there are still positive aspects of managing a team, like the fact that you can travel with the team on the bus on most match days, bar APAC.

At the end of the day, even if it may not seem like it, managers still are a quintessential part of the squad. Even though the players still are the main driving force of the team, the managers are the shadows that help the team shine brighter with their hard

work off the field.

photo courtesies: william lee THE SPIRIT | 9

SEOUL FOREIGN HIGH SCHOOL

NO 4. / DECEMBER 2017

MUCKY YUCKY MONDAY MORNINGS

Jisaan Chai- Staff Reporter

Monday—the worst day to exist.

The beginning of yet another stressful school week, filled with homework, projects, and tests. All of us want to delay the coming of Monday as much as possible, but for some athletes, these mucky yucky Monday mornings come 2 hours earlier because of the dreaded morning practice.

It has been two years since our high school has adopted the weekly school-wide faculty meetings, that occur on Mondays from 3-5PM. While this time was once allotted for sports team practices, the faculty meetings forced teams and coaches to adjust their schedules.

While some teams still choose to practice from 3-5, this is only possible when either the coaches are not members of the high school faculty, or they are willing to trust the team captains in leading practice themselves. This option allows for the team to develop a greater sense of teamwork and diligence, as they work together to overcome challenges they face without the guidance of a coach. However, unsupervised practice can be ineffective or unproductive, making it a less popular option among teams.

The other option is to hold practice from 5-7 on Mondays. While this is 10 | THE SPIRIT

the most preferred choice, it can be impractical because not every player can attend practice. Symphony orchestra, tutoring, and other extracurricular activities that fill SFS student athletes’ schedules clash with these evening practices, which makes it difficult for the entire team to be present on Mon-

ill u

stra t

ion courtesy: magan c

g han

days. Additionally, late buses do not run after 5, so it is also very troublesome for athletes to arrange ways to go home after practice. Varsity basketball player Elina Lee (11) adds that because she gets home late in the evening, she

feels that they consume the entirety of the day and consequently make it strenuous for students to complete their work.

Consequently, this forces teams to consider the most dreaded option: morning practice. This practice begins at the ungodly hour of 6AM and ends at 8. Elina comments that waking up 2 hours before her usual wake-up time is “disgusting.” She also mentions that because school buses don’t run at 5 in the morning to transport athletes to school, she has to “bother her parents into [driving her] to school.” So not only is it tiresome to wake up even before the sun rises, morning practices are also inconvenient for parents of the athletes.

Despite these seemingly negative aspects of morning practice, athletes still make some positive remarks about the debated issue. Elina reflects that exercising before school can help you feel refreshed for the day, and APAC Dancer Amy Lee (12) adds that morning practice gives her a more time in the afternoon, which allows her to focus on her academics.

Morning practice, while having its benefits, is still very tiresome and difficult. Regardless of when practices are held, however, our Crusader athletes’ flexibility is commendable.

NO 4. / DECEMBER 2017

SEOUL FOREIGN HIGH SCHOOL

THE RADER LEGACY There exists a legacy in the SFS athletics community—a family name that everyone has heard at least once. It’s at the top of every record list, and the gym is adorned with the trophies and plaques of their success. Whether it’s a scoring record in basketball, soccer, or volleyball, the top performances in the history of SFS are dominated by the Raders (JP, Edie, Kristina, Paul, Brittney). All five Rader athletes were selected for the KAIAC 30th and 40th Anniversary Best Athletes Award.

Their athletic excellence has inspired many of our athletes in the past, and they continue to lay the foundation of Crusader sports today.

Currently head of the English department and varsity coach for volleyball and basketball (formerly soccer), Mr. Rader has shared similar successes as his legendary father J.P. Rader. One of Mr. Rader’s successes includes scoring

1001 points in his three years as a Varsity basketball player—placing himself in the top 5 scorers in SFS basketball history. When asked about the importance of athletics to him personally, Mr. Rader revealed that although he values his achievements during high school, “playing under the coaching of [his] dad” and “succeeding in the same sports program as him” was ultimately more fulfilling. Needless to say, Mr. Rader deems his Crusader athlete experience “a fond memory to look back on”. He continued by explaining that the lessons he gained from his athlet-

Jacob Lee- Staff Reporter

ic career in high school is ultimately the reason why he’s helping SFS players make great memories and be successful. When asked about the pressure of living up to his father’s name, Mr. Rader smiled, commenting that he was “used to his intensity as a coach since he had been coaching me since [he] was a kid.”

Similarly, Mr. Rader’s older sister Mrs. Erny wrote her own success story as a three-sport athlete, setting countless records in her high school career. Winning KAIAC and APAC volleyball three years in a row, Mrs. Erny

ohn esy: j

g

chan

rt o cou phot

r

. rade h, mr

s. s: mr

e rtesi o cou phot

holds the record for most kills in a student’s 4 year stretch—as a captain she was the core of the girl’s volleyball team. She revealed that sports was “a big part of her family culture,” and recalls a time when “it was a big part of her life to be an athlete.” Unlike her brother, Mrs. Erny vividly describes the pressure, noting that she “didn’t want to disappoint coaches and teammates,” and that her leadership position under her father motivated her to “give it 100% and work hard at the sport.”

Mr. Rader explained that he became a coach to “develop players that represent themselves and the school, while also striving for individual and collective success and excellence.” He added

eec , mr. cr erny

that it’s never only about winning and instead explained that “winning has always just been the byproduct of our mindset and effort.”

Mrs. Erny shared a similar outlook on the future of SFS athletics, commenting that she “would also love to see student athletes experience the highs and lows of spirited competition,” while “learning from their mistakes, supporting each other, and developing good esteem for themselves and others in the process.”

It doesn’t look like the Rader legacy at SFS will end anytime soon as both Mr. Rader and Mrs. Erny’s kids are the 4th generation of the family living in Korea, and the 3rd generation attending SFS as students. Only time will tell how the Raders will further impact the athletics program here at SFS. THE SPIRIT | 11

SEOUL FOREIGN HIGH SCHOOL

NO 4. / DECEMBER 2017

THE LAST MATCH Rebecca Kim - Staff Reporter Over the dancing flames of the fireplace, friends and families gather around, singing Christmas carols and exchanging Christmas stories. From kissing under the mistletoe to placing cookies and milk inside the living room, there are numerous Christmas traditions which make up the holiday.

Christmas is a day of celebration and happiness for numerous people.

For some, it is the birth of Jesus, their Messiah, while for others, it is the end of the year long wait for Santa Claus.

Perhaps the biggest joy of all is reuniting with friends and family.

However, Christmas is also a time of grieving for many people around the world.

In “The Little Match Girl,” Hans Anderson brings this point up, writing:

“

projects Seoul Foreign School takes part in each year. Currently, Seoul Foreign School is contributing to The Salvation Army, the SO GOOD Project, and partnering with the orphanages such as the Ethel’s Maul and Angel’s Haven.“We’ve always done something at Christmas for the needy,” Mrs. Moon said, a teacher at SFS from 1983.

The little match girl was found the following morning, frozen stiff, but with a smile on her lips. What helped the little match girl find happiness in the end as she was dying was the memory of her grandmother, smiling warmly at her. By helping the people have a warm and happy Christmas, they can have a joyful image to conjure and smile at in times of hardness.

“No one had the slightest suspicion of what beautiful things she had seen; no one even In [the] cold and darkness dreamed of the splendor there went along the street a in which, with her grandpoor little girl, bareheaded, mother she had entered on the joys of a new year,” Anand with naked feet... She derson concluded. crept along trembling with

cold and hunger—a very picture of sorrow, the poor little thing!”

12 | THE SPIRIT

“

As she stumbled along in the frozen, winter street, not one person bothered to buy a match from her. Six days after Christmas—while everyone celebrated the birth of Messiah in brightly lit houses—the little girl slowly froze to death alone.

It is important to remember that there are numerous people in the world that will spend the day alone: shivering outside in the cold winter and excluded from the joys of Christmas.

We can help these people by serving them and contributing to the service

NO 4. / DECEMBER 2017

THE

SEOUL FOREIGN HIGH SCHOOL

photo courtesy: doyoon won

OF GIVING Willy Lee - Staff Reporter

It’s nearly that time of the year, where the family meets around the fireplace, jingle bells start to ring out of nowhere, pine trees are given a makeover as if it was going to prom with someone, and pictures of an old grandpa are paraded around as if he became an overnight celebrity. You guessed right. It’s everyone’s favorite holiday—Christmas!

While the thought of Christmas as a holiday usually brings up thoughts of aggressive marketing campaigns and insincere e-cards, it can also be reminiscent of thoughts of unity and happiness.

Having said that, arguably the most quintessential theme of Christmas, one that annually reemerges from the forgotten depths (much like Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas”), is the act of charity. Often referred to as the “season of giving”, Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without a simple donation, or a gift for or from your closest friend and family members. It’s the act

of giving that truly brings people from different genders, social status, and race all together.

However, it seems as though in recent times, the act of giving has lost its once highly valued meaning. More often than not, Christmas cards are writ-

It’s the act of giving that truly brings people from different genders, social status, and race all together. ten for friends and family just for the sake of it, and supermarket change is simply tossed away into the donation box that is ever-present at the cashier.

The insincerity of giving can often be traced back to two factors: the egoboost it provides and the importance

society puts on materialistic value over meaning.

People often times only put their leftover change into the donation box to make themselves feel better about their “charitable actions”, yet after the brief pat on the back or their appeased conscience, not a second thought is given to the people in need.

The same can apply to the materialistic value that society puts on gifts.

When receiving a gift, often times it is the content of the gift itself that matters more to the receiver, rather than the gift’s intended meaning. For example, people would rather value the brand-new iPhone X more as a gift than perhaps a heartfelt written letter from their closest friend.

It’s often disappointing to see how the true spirit of giving has been corrupted over the years as I grew up. But small acts of kindness and charity can change all that. After all, it is the season of giving.

THE SPIRIT | 13

SEOUL FOREIGN HIGH SCHOOL

NO 4. / DECEMBER 2017

CHRISTMAS PRESENTS GONE WRONG Min Cheong Kim- Staff Reporter

A BIBLE & A CAFE GIFT CARD “Okay, so basically it was the Christmas of ‘15. I was hyped to wake up and see what was under the tree. I saw a small rectangular object wrapped in gift wrap placed next to a fancy little envelope. I really wasn’t expecting much to be frank. But wow, this one still took me by surprise. I unwrap the wrapper to see the classic brown leather back of the Holy Bible.

Wow, I tell myself with a smile on my face. I frantically resort to the envelope that had my name on it from earlier. Inside was a Paul Bassett gift card of 50,000 won if I remember correctly.

Also, there was a Christmas card in there that had something to do with “go to Jesus” and “study hard at Paul Bassett”.

-Chris Ahn (12)

14 | THE SPIRIT

THE BONE OF A RACCOON’S PENIS “It’s yellow now. Been about 8 or 9 years. At a ski resort in Jacksonhole, Colorado, we were having this Christmas gift giving time. My brother who didn’t have many options and knowing what a sick mind I had, went to the local gift shop and got the bone of a raccoon’s penis and an informational book about literal [feces]. I kept the bone in my desk having no other place to put it.

And it’s been there ever since.”

-Jeremy Choi (10)

NO 4. / DECEMBER 2017

SEOUL FOREIGN HIGH SCHOOL

A DEAD GOLDFISH “It was a [poopy] gift because it literally died like the next day. And it was already dead-ish when I got it. I can’t stand seeing dead animals so I spent my Christmas crying. I sobbed and flushed it down the toilet... and you probably think it can’t get any worse. But nope. The toilet was clogged. So the fish legit came back from the dead and floated back up, and the thing is even if you wanted to take it out there was [number 2] in the toilet bowl too so.”

-Ashley Jung (12)

BOOKS “So, it was Christmas and Santa Claus came to our preschool. He had a sack of gifts with him and I was so excited and he started handing everyone gifts. He started in the way front of the crowd so I couldn’t see what he was giving so I was super excited. When he got closer I noticed that his gifts were awfully thin. When he got to me I realized that he was giving out [hecking] books.

I was so disappointed. I felt cheated, scammed of my Christmas spirit.”

-Tony Kim (12)

“Disappointed, enraged. I felt like a nerd.”

-SeungJae Yu (12)

THE SPIRIT | 15

the beginning

is always today 16 | THE SPIRIT

...to the eye

from the lens...

When I don't have anything to do at home, I like taking pictures in locations like Hongdae and Sinchon. I take pictures of people or things that stand out to me, and the lady in this photo fit that description perfectly. Unlike photos of inanimate objects or animals, I thought the look on her face was something that everyone could relate with.

Human emotion is something we oftentimes want to avoid showing to others. But at the same time, emotion is something that all of us have, something that speaks to each and every one of us. In the end, this photo isn’t anything special— it’s simply part of what my eyes see on a day to day basis. But by the same token, I believe it’s also something that all of us can learn from.

It’s easy to dwell on the past. Sometimes it’s a lost relationship, like that friend who moved to another country just last week. Sometimes it’s disappointment, like that test you couldn’t bear to look at again after getting it back. Worst of all, there’s no way around it. We’re all human. Stuff hurts.

Looking at this photo, it’s hard not to think about what her past might’ve been like. There’s a story to every wrinkle on her skin. Yet despite her past struggles, she’s still waiting for the next train.

Soon, she’ll be on the subway, riding towards another unknown destination.

It’s okay to give up at times—some things, we just can’t overcome. But we can also leave some things behind. Your next destination is calling.

Photo by Doyoon Won (10) Descriptions by Doyoon Won (10), Andrew Chung (12) THE SPIRIT | 17

SEOUL FOREIGN HIGH SCHOOL

NO 4. / DECEMBER 2017

Dr. Brooks' Final Chemical Formula Yunhyuk Kang - Staff Reporter

"Dr. Brooks helped build our knowledge of chemistry similar to how hydrogen helped build theories like Bohr model."

-Hikaru Ishikura (12)

hydrogen 1

H

1.0079

photo courtesies: alyssa choi

January 9th, 2017.

This date marks the final day at SFS for Dr. Brooks. She is currently the only HL chemistry teacher and the head of the science department. Dr. Brooks has given six and a half years of her life to SFS. This semester will mark the end of that chapter in her life, and she will continue her career at our next door neighbor: Yonsei University’s Institute for Basic Science.

Dr. Brooks will be joining a “think tank” with the goal of laying a foundation for the use of nanosciences in the field of biomedical science. Since Yonsei’s term begins in January, Dr. Brooks was given no other choice but to leave mid-year. As a certain student put it, “she is headed to a great workplace”.

The sudden departure of Dr. Brooks 18 | THE SPIRIT

from SFS has impacted the overall nature of the HL Chemistry classroom.

From the sudden increase in pace to the early commencement of the Internal Assessments, the senior students of HL Chemistry Year 2 have had quite an increase in workload in addition to the already difficult first semester that they have been facing.

However, Dr Brooks seems to have prepared the senior class very well, as students such as Karina Park (12) and Mateus Rempel (12) have described the class as “sped up” but “productive”.

Dr. Brooks stated that she had “no worries” about her senior class. As one of the most talented groups of students that Dr. Brooks has taught at SFS, the senior HL Chemistry class has already covered the large majority of the required content given. Dr. Brooks also

added that “They have the tools and the drive to excel” on their IB exams.

Students such as Hikaru Ishikura (12) have found it quite reassuring, knowing that she was a good walk through the backdoor away.

The shoes of Dr. Brooks that the new teacher must fill are huge. When asked, the senior HL chemistry students were very hopeful and believing in SFS’s ability to bring in somebody sufficient enough to fill in the gap.

Overall, the senior HL chemistry class didn’t have many concerns, as Dr. Brooks had prepared most of the content prior to her leave. SFS has been extremely fortunate to have somebody as brilliant as Dr. Brooks be a part of the science department. As she takes on the next chapter of her life, SFS will be here, rooting for her success.

NO 4. / DECEMBER 2017

SEOUL FOREIGN HIGH SCHOOL

"She's too important to our survival in HL Chem."

- Jason Nam (12)

"Dr. Brooks is the centerpiece of our chem class.

Without her, we can't be held together."

- Matheus Rempel (12)

carbon 6

oxygen 8

fluorine 9

12.011

15.999

18.998

C

O

F

"No matter how far away from the right path you are straying, she will always bring you back like fluorine can with its high electronegativity. Her strong presence is really unforgettable."

-Janet Lee (12)

gold 79

Au 196.967

"Gold... because she's precious."

- Jisaan Chai (12)

astatine 85

At 209.987

"She will unfold before you the wildest wonders of science in the few minutes she spends with you as the rare astatine does for scientists during its few microseconds of existence."

-Hyongmin Kim (12)

THE SPIRIT | 19

VOLUNTEERING FOR THE PYEONGCHANG OLYMPICS

PyeongChang 2018

Doyoon Kim - Staff Reporter With the Winter Olympics just around the corner, South Korea is bustling with energy. The roads of Gwanghwamun are filled to the brim with tents promoting the event. In February of 2018, Korea will hold the Olympics for the first time in 30 years.

Naturally, the festivities of such a world-famous event also come a plethora of opportunities for volunteers to get involved. Yuna Lee, a sophomore at SFS, has signed up to be a volunteer translator for the Olympic games.

“I saw it as an opportunity that fit my experiences really well,” she said. “In my perspective, volunteering for this event is not only a great experience for community service, but it is an honor to be a part of the Pyeongchang Olympics team and represent my country.”

Yet, she said she volunteered without “expecting anything to come out of it.”

But then why, amidst the hectic busyness of high school, did she choose to sign up for such a mountainous task?

2 KOR

In response, Yuna said she “is perfectly satisfied with” simply “getting to experience this amazing event.”

Indeed, a chance to view the Olympics in person for 17 full days while personally interacting with athletes is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Furthermore, as a multilingual student that had “lived abroad for 11 years,” she saw it as a chance to put her skills to good use.

Due to the Olympics being dominated by non-Korean speakers, translators and helpers were necessary. Students who were fluent in both English and

Korean were given the chance during the summer of 2016 to apply for volunteering. According to Pyeongchang 2018, a total of over 20,000 volunteers were accepted to aid in the Games.

Volunteers will be heading to Pyeongchang for two weeks in January to help organize the event. Their tasks will range from giving on-site directions or assistance to aiding communication through translation. Yuna, along with other multilingual students from around Korea, have taken up the duty of helping in the Pyeongchang Olympics.

LEE Yuna

english-korean volunteer translator 20 | THE SPIRIT

image courtesy: iphonewalls.net

NO 4. / DECEMBER 2017

SEOUL FOREIGN HIGH SCHOOL

Thought for thought Gabi Chu - Staff Reporter

photo courtesy: doyoon won editing courtesy: ina kim

If

I were to equate my perceptions of the antiquated methods of teaching to something, it would be Professor Binn’s History of Magic class in Harry Potter. There are a few reasons for this: it’s straight lecture, even though we know now that history is best taught in a forum-style discussion. The class is rote memorization, and requires no input or critical analysis from the student whatsoever.

Not to mention that the class is so boring, the teacher literally died and nobody noticed.

The modern classroom is a little different. While many might view the classroom dynamic as teachers forcing knowledge on their students, I believe it’s more of an exchange of learning on both parts. Modern education has focused on developing critical thinking and cultivating independent thinkers.

Moreover, there’s a great emphasis on the role that students play in the classroom, not just the dominant teacher.

Education isn’t simply about feeding passive students knowledge anymore.

If there were no intellectual exchange between students and teachers, all learning could be achieved from a textbook. The ideas that individuals

bring to a classroom interact and create an environment of different values and worldviews, whether cultural or social. The most important factor that students bring to a classroom that teachers can’t provide, according to Mr. Mees, an IB English teacher, is perspective. “My point of view is relatively boring,” he noted, adding that he’s “much more intrigued by what everyone else can bring”. In an international setting like SFS, Mr. Mees also noted the vast array of different life experiences in a classroom has allowed him to consider new perspectives on literature. “I was teaching the novel Siddhartha by Herman Hesse, which I’ve read 30-40 times, and taught for years.

A student in my class pointed out an observation that, honestly, I’d never thought about any time that I had read the book, [...] that has since reoriented how I do the entire novel. The key is being open to that.”

So if students do have intelligent, valuable experiences, what differentiates them from higher academics? It’s clear they bring something to the table, but it’s the classic problem of many

artists: ideas without the skills to express them.

The modern classroom is a little different.

Skills that they don’t have that may make a student’s argument weaker in comparison to a trained individual, not the value of what they have to say.

Organizing an viewpoint, considering greater social context, even writing a stance are all skills developed with experience that just isn’t available to high school students at this stage of their academic journey.

So as of this, students, I encourage you to value your own opinions as well.

While it may seem like your teachers have all the answers (and sometimes they do), they’re learning from you as much as you are from them. “Students are capable of deep and profound insight that a teacher may have missed, and they need to hear,” commented Mr. Mees, who views the teacher’s experience as learning opportunity in and of itself. School is a learning experience for all.

THE SPIRIT | 21

SEOUL FOREIGN HIGH SCHOOL

NO 4. / DECEMBER 2017

A Tele-Tastic Chr

Hear the sound of Justin Bieber’s 2011 Christmas album in every store in Seoul? Feel the rooms of your cold-blooded teachers getting toastier? Ah, yes! The holiday spirit is creeping up on us, and we can’t wait to enjoy our long-deserved holidays with friends and family! In celebration of our threeweek vacation, it’s time to get straight to the priorities: to sit back and relax. And what better way to do it than by feeding our nostalgia with some beloved Christmas TV specials?

Chloe Kim - Staff Reporter

When we think of Christmas on television, let’s face it: some specials are undeniably more iconic than others. It’s such a creative theme for writers and directors to use, yet, at times, the holidays simply function as a setting rather than a plot device for our favourite shows’ winter specials. We love TV, and we surely love Christmas, yet the combination doesn’t always turn out to be memorable.

So what is it that makes a particular Christmas TV special so special?

Illustrations Illustrationsby byJeeyoung JeeyoungWhang Whang 22 | THE SPIRIT

h c n i r G e h How T Christmas Stole

n artoo c s i h t lly ss as , origina e l e t m e As ti as, in fac creen sp s w l l ted is, it s a sma adap s a a aired 1966. It w ss story s u n cial i he Dr. Se use it ha a t c e e from iconic b nt that w e s i and iché elem anything cl t ith han tha ore t ll sigh w h, m e a rinc ador on’t we he G y as t D . n e e s el dl wh s cud algia nost as once a heart to is w who s, finds h u t s? a cac hree size t grow

NO 4. / DECEMBER 2017

SEOUL FOREIGN HIGH SCHOOL

Abed’s Uncontrollable Christmas

ristmas!

A lot of the time, we like watching shows on Christmas that will undoubtedly end happily and without consequence to our TV shows’ actual storylines—it’s a ‘happy ending’ cliché we love. This special, however, is a more modern, avant-garde take on tradition. Abed, one of the show’s main characters, wakes up to discover his world in stop-motion Claymation. The show parodies some Christmas classics, sampling tropes from films like The Polar Express. Taking a lighthearted break from Community’s entire plotline, it’s a perfect people-pleaser.

Sim psons an O Roasti pen F ng on ire

Ah, t h Simp e first epis sons. ode o Th f only a Chr is episod the istma but th e is n s o e Unlik beginnin episode, t g of a e the n era Grinc this e . x h recen ample is s cartoon, li t 1989. as it was r ghtly mor e elease Hom famil e d y com r Simpson in ble C e acro and h h s they ristmas m s a hum- is ta ir after ke in a los acle when losin i ng ra ge havec yet an verything e dog of the they other and m power of l sweet tale o rotten aking the ve, family , best o situat ut of ion. a

Whether a show decides to explore the Christian aspects of the holidays or highlight its gift-giving and fun-filled secular side, Christmas has ultimately become a universal tradition. We like it when a show tells us a story of love conquering all, and we love to see Scrooges convert into kinder souls. But we definitely can’t resist seeing our favourite characters encounter a “Christmas miracle”. So, for many of our favourite holiday specials, clichés actually work! We don’t roll our eyes and scoff at them because they pay homage to Christmas tradition: watching TV and being reminded of our childhood entertainment. So the next time you log onto your Netflix account and flip through Christmas specials, remember that a little dose of nostalgia can make you merrier!

THE SPIRIT | 23

SEOUL FOREIGN HIGH SCHOOL

NO 4. / DECEMBER 2017

ON WEINSTEIN, AND HOLLYWOOD IN GENERAL

björk | singer-songwriter

Asia Argento, Lysette Anthony, Laura Madden, Ashley Judd, Emily Nestor, Lucia Evans, Gwyneth Paltrow, Mira Sorvino, Rosanna Arquette, Rose McGowan: these are only a few women who have spoken out against Harvey Weinstein, a founder of the Weinstein Company, a producer, and, most recently, an exposed sexual predator.

On October 5th, the New York Times revealed detailed accounts of Weinstein’s instances of sexual assault over the course of 20 years. What Harvey Weinstein did was beyond what most people would consider “sexual assault”. Although his crimes seem blatant enough, such as touching excessively, invading personal space, and performing non-consensual sex, his massive influence in cinema enabled him to avoid charges in the past. His “tendencies” were merely considered as underground taboo in the realm of Hollywood.

The most startling consequences of the scandal, however, are the responses that followed. Lars Von Trier, a Danish

image courtesy: mixmag.net

24 | THE SPIRIT

I’m living in fear, not a good place to be [. . .] Of all these wealthy actors and producers in Hollywood who have been my friends, taken my side, why has not one of them come up and said, “Hey, I want to help you get that movie made, here’s a donation.”

Not one.

filmmaker acclaimed for works such as Dancer in the Dark and Melancholia, was also accused of harassment in the days following Weinstein’s downward spiral. In a disheartening Facebook post, Icelandic musician Bjork became one of the first people to claim that the director sexually harassed her. Although he has denied allegations, Von Trier’s reputation for being violent and suggestive on set has allowed for further investigations to take place.

Corey Feldman’s experiences as a child actor in the 80s also brought light to the fact that sexual assault in Hollywood happens to more than just women. In 2016, the actor, known for his role in the 80s TV show Goonies, shared shocking details on the rampant sexual abuse young actors in Hollywood are forced to endure.

It feels extremely difficult to come out with something of this nature into the public especially when immediately ridiculed by offenders. I fully sympathise with everyone who hesitates, even for years.

But I feel it is the right time especially now when it could make a change .

corey feldman | actor

Min Cheong Kim - Staff Reporter Jeremy Choi - Staff Reporter

image courtesy: tbo.com

Describing the incidents as how adult males in the industry “pass the young stars back and forth to each other,” Feldman emphasized that the biggest problem in Hollywood is pedophilia and the men who allow it. He recounted a case when a well-known manager of child actors, Martin Weiss, was arrested for sexually abusing an 11-year-old client 30 to 40 times over three years. Weiss got sentenced a year in prison and five years probation.

The Weinstein news is nothing new.

Sexual assault in Hollywood has been happening for decades, feeding a polluted system of crime that protects the predators instead of the victims. The victims’ voices are shut down due to their supposedly weak influence in media and fear that their own jobs would be lost.

The only way people can fight back is to speak up. No guilt, no pressure, no shame. The Silence Breakers’ selection as the Time’s Person of the Year shows that the industry is steadily changing.

As citizens of society, this is news that we should not disregard after just a few days. This war needs a crowd of voices to fight for justice against oppressive powers. Speak up.

NO 4. / DECEMBER 2017

SEOUL FOREIGN HIGH SCHOOL

A FILTHY,

PINK

CHRISTMAS Jeremy Choi, Won Lee

Filthy Frank, 20

This guy doesn’t sing. He doesn’t even rap. In fact, the only time we’ve seen him venture into the music scene is when he featured on rapper Cal Chuchesta’s remix of “Panda” while rapping about rats in his attic, his family’s genetic history of diabetes, and Thomas the Tank Engine (T-Thomas the Tank Engine/So fast, so fast/I love Thomas the Tank Engine). However, it’s Miller’s most famous persona, and it’s what the majority of his fans know him as. As a 20 year old anti-PC Asian man with a blood-stained collared shirt and a permanent raspy voice, he’s known for his poignant commentary on people, things he hates, and his various controversial antics. Some of them include ingesting hair and vomit in a cake, eating literal sewage, and shooting live Japanese fireworks at his companions, just to name a few.

We’ll admit, in the spirit of Christmas, it’s natural to feel bewildered to read about a persona the exact opposite of a rational, moral individual, but Frank provides good context on what to expect in some of Miller’s eccentric stuff.

Pink Guy, ??

Enter Pink Guy, Filthy Frank’s companion (canonically, in Miller’s Filthy Frank “lore”) and one of Miller’s many alter-egos. For a humanoid in a pink bodysuit incapable of human speech, this guy spits some absolute fuego (and was also responsible for starting the Harlem Shake trend). His self-titled debut mixtape gave listeners a taste of the things that brought about Miller’s cult following on YouTube: ukulele covers of explicit songs, self-deprecating anthems, the whole shabangabang. All of the songs were raunchy, offensive, and laugh-out-loud funny.

But even as a comedy album, Miller’s prowess at rapping is hard to go unnoticed. This is fleshed out even further on his next album titled Pink Life, which took the iTunes charts by storm and attracted the attention of YouTubers and even music critics. With more bangers hilarious lyrics, Pink Life gave every fan what they wanted. More ironically, it gave Miller the time and attention needed for his more serious persona that propelled him into the world of the music industry.

Joji, 25

illustration courtesy: soyeon kim

Whether it’s binge-watching your favorite TV shows, listening to re-hashed Michael Bublé music or watching Home Alone for the 16th time, you express the joy of Christmas through the arts in various ways. What we’re here to discuss about today, however, has nothing to do with Christmas. Instead, snuggle up next to the fire with your blanket and prepare to be disgusted, confused, humored, and maybe even a little depressed as we tell you all about the amazing George Miller aka Filthy Frank aka Pink Guy aka Joji (you thought this was a Christmas article, huh? You just got… PRANKED).

In the more serious persona of Joji, Miller has been pumping out more and more serious music. Although he has been making music ever since his high school years in Canadian Acadamy, he has kept much of his serious music hidden from his fan base because many only wanted to hear music about fried noodles and dumplings in his Pink Guy persona. However, his music under the guise of “Joji” is a stark contrast from his troll outings with music.

In fact, it can be described as invoking a particular atmosphere and feeling in every song. Whether it was his SoundCloud account or his most recent EP (In Tongues), Joji is a master at vibes.

Found the one you’ve been looking for?

THE SPIRIT | 23 25

SEOUL FOREIGN HIGH SCHOOL

NO 4. / DECEMBER 2017

So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will worry about itself. from Matthew 6:34

26 | THE SPIRIT

Photo by Taewon Kwon (11)

NO 4. / DECEMBER 2017

SEOUL FOREIGN HIGH SCHOOL

Seoul Foreign High School 2017: Year in Review

2 SPIRIT WEEK

HOMECOMING

BASKETBALL

THE ADDAMS FAMILY

PROM

0 SOCCER

1 GRADUATION

TENNIS

VOLLEYBALL

7 FIELD DAY

GREASE

DISCOVERY WEEK THE SPIRIT | 27

SEOUL FOREIGN HIGH SCHOOL

NO 4. / DECEMBER 2017

SPIRIT CHRISTMAS CROSSWORD PUZZLE =th

e=

Congratulations to Joseph Kang (11), Jeremy Choi (11) and MyungHwan Kang (10) for completing the crossword puzzle from November’s DW issue and winning a Starbucks gift card! Again, submit a photo of your solution to thespirit@seoulforeign.org

by Jan. 8 for a chance to win a special prize!

The theme of this issue’s crossword is Christmas. Some words will be directly related to this theme, while others will include the titles of the various articles published in this ultra-special Christmas issue of the Spirit.

Happy reading, and Merry Christmas! See you all in January!

- The Spirit Editorial Staff, 2017-2018

photo courtesy: doyoon won

Clues Show: All 1. 2018 Winter Olympics 2. Morning practices on...

3. What goes on your tree?

4. Evergreen Christmas donut 5. Frankincense and _______ 6. Candy canes are made of...

7. Family legacy in SFS athletics 8. Shootout @ ISB 9. A _______ Christmas!

10. Baby born in _______ 11. Throwback to first dates at...

12. All I Want for Christmas is You 13. Chimney man 14. Christmas robber

28 | THE SPIRIT

FACULTY

DESIGN TEAM

WRITING STAFF

Ms. Susan Kong

Design Chiefs Ashley Won (11) Ina Kim (12)

Max Baskin (9) Simon Choi (9) Philip Han (9) Rachel Kahng (9) Rebecca Kim (9) Brian Son (9) Christine Yun (9) Sydney Chun (10) Doyoon Kim (10) Jeremy Choi (11) Cailee Kim (11) Jacob Lee (11) Willy Lee (11) Grace Park (11) Yoonmin Yong (11) Jisaan Chai (12) Eunice Cho (12) Gabriella Chu (12) Yunhyuk Kang (12) Chloe Kim (12) Min Cheong Kim (12) Henry Kim (12) Won Lee (12)

EDITORIAL TEAM Co-Editor-in-Chiefs Andrew Chung (12) Michelle Yun (12) Arts Editors Joan Gwak (12) Janice Hahn (12) News Editor Alyssa Choi (12) Opinions Editor Sarah Pyo (11) Sports Editor Janet Lee (12) Student Life Editor Daniel Hahm (12)

Illustrators Soyeon Kim (9) Ligun Rhi (11) Magan Chang (12) Jeeyoung Whang (12) Photographers Kyle Sohn (9) John Chang (10) Doyoon Won (10) Jaemin Baek (11) Taewon Kwon (11) William Lee (12) Shiraz Ben-Shoshan (12)

the spirit staff SPECIAL THANKS

CONTACT US

Mr. Creech

thespirit@seoulforeign.org

Teacher Interviewees Dr. Brooks Mrs. Erny Mr. Mees Mr. Moon Ms. Park Mr. Rader

susan.kong@seoulforeign.org andrew.chung.18@seoulforeign.org michelle.yun.18@seoulforeign.org *Thank you to all the students who provided interviews and responses for The Spirit staff writers.

CHRISTMAS EDITION NO. 4 | 2017

What Are You Wishing for This Christmas?

illutration courtesy: ina kim

“I wish I was done with SATS.” -Jeremy Choi

back side with christmas tree

“A giant candy cane.”

-Jazmin Ro

“Mor e a sNo crisp mer ch, Ww midt EeK, no erms .”

-Rya n Kim

“Jugs of milk and hugs from my friends and family” -Min Cheong Kim

“Backstage pass to a TWICE concert.”

-Jaemin Baek

“An acceptance letter.”

-many, many seniors

“A sense of purpose? A week away from SFS? A nap would be nice, too.”

-Mara Wiora “A boyfriend.”

-Amy Lee

c hicc t a t ok.” n a “I w ku bo g o sud ley Jun -Ash s, core .” s xam ve life od e lo “Go better leinert a K and hanna o J -