Beruflich Dokumente
Kultur Dokumente
APRIL 2011
ECO-FRIENDLY ULSAN
TEEMING WITH LIFE
CAFÉ EVOLUTION
KOREA‘S CAFÉS BREW COFFEE
AND CULTURE
K-POP CAPTURE
OP STARS
KOREANCPES WORLDWIDE
AUDIEN
ISSN: 2005-2162
www.korea.net
02
COVER STORY
Korea’s pop stars touch the hearts of
audiences all over the world.
14
PEN & BRUSH
Choi Young-mi is an iconic poet who
represents the 1980s youthful spirit.
18
PEOPLE
Climber Park Young-seok reaches the South
Pole in an eco-friendly way.
22
GREAT KOREAN
Yi Sun-sin, who lived in the Joseon Dynasty, is
one of the most well-known heroes in Korea.
24
SEOUL
Seoul’s Insa-dong is famous for its traditional
02
atmosphere and unique galleries.
26
TRAVEL
Once a typical industrial city, Ulsan has
PUBLISHER Seo Kang-soo,
renewed its natural environment. Korean Culture and Information Service
NOW IN KOREA
E-MAIL webmaster@korea.net
Cafés became ubiquitous in Korea very
quickly. And café culture is ever evolving. PRINTING Samsung Moonhwa Printing Co.
34
MY KOREA
18 30 All right reserved. No part of this
publication may be reproduced in
any form without permission from
With more than 20 mountains in Seoul alone, KOREA and the Korean Culture and
hiking is a must-do activity. Information Service.
GLOBAL KOREA
Korean technology spreads worldwide.
26 of www.korea.net.
발간등록번호 11-1110073-000016-06
AND THE
NEW
KOREAN
WAVE
ROCK THE
WORLD
The power of music leaves us in awe. It’s no longer unusual to
hear people on the opposite side of the planet hum along to
K-pop songs. Korean music is spreading throughout Asia and
around the world. As it leads the new Korean wave, just how far
can K-pop go? by Jeong Deok-hyeon
© Playcube
Boy band Beast gives a showcase of the Legend of Beast - Vol. 1, in September 2010 in Japan.
music markets. Idol groups gradually industry. Still, the explosion of K-pop, their own networks online and share Korean wave.
developed more talent as they leading to the second Korean wave, was content. So it really comes down to the Today, international fans tend to be
underwent systematic training. The beyond anyone’s wildest imagination. content itself and whether it can appeal enamored with the Korean lyrics. Fans
rise of Wonder Girls, Girls’ Generation The catalyst for the success was the to the global audience. Companies in Japan, Taiwan and even in South
and Big Bang helped usher in an era of Internet. Girls’ Generation’s Japanese can gauge possibilities in new markets America are trying to sing along with
digital music and dispel any lingering showcase on Aug 25, 2010 saw about around the world through the Internet the Korean words of these songs, some
worries of recession in the recording 800 fans greet them at the airport, much and then focus on regions with potential going as far as learning the Korean
hit the charts in the US and Europe, and Spain also watched the music and keep fans up to date on what’s going
too. To this day, Gee has been viewed video on YouTube. It’s truly a global on with them in Korea.
more than 33 million times on YouTube list. This is all thanks to the power of SNS also wields a great deal of
alone. YouTube is now serving a SNS. Big Bang’s new album reached No influence on the activities of fan clubs.
launching pad for K-pop artists. With 7 on Billboard’s Heatseekers Albums Last September, when artists of SM
the term ‘YouTube Silk Road’ being chart, which tracks titles from ‘new or Entertainment put on a joint show at
tossed around, K-pop is actively developing acts,’ and No 3 on the World the Staples Center in Los Angeles, some
using YouTube to reach out to foreign Albums chart. Last January, TVXQ’s 2,000 members of SM Town fan clubs
markets. For instance, in October 2010, new single, Keep Your Head Down, had a spontaneous gathering. And it
SM Entertainment introduced a teaser made it to No 4 on the United World all started with a seeming innocuous
clip for the new Girls’ Generation single Chart at the German site Media Traffic. Facebook posting by a 20-something
Hoot and then the full music video Neither TVXQ nor Big Bang resorted to female American fan. When that
on YouTube. Within two days, these direct local marketing, but still achieved message took a life of its own, fans
videos attracted 1 million clicks. That’s outstanding results, mostly thanks to decided to get together for a giant party,
almost on par with the leading pop SNS and the new Korean Wave. taking SM officials by surprise. It was
artists of the world. Last September, K-pop stars can indulge themselves also encouraging that while most of the
Connected by SNS
didn’t have to do all of that work. The
girl group had already secured tens of
thousands of Japanese fans through
Through Social Network Service (SNS) such as YouTube, YouTube, and their first showcase drew YG Entertainment put music videos Wonder Girls recorded a big worldwide (above).
Big Bang throwed an exclusive concert, the Big
audience was expected to be Korean-
Facebook and Twitter, K-pop stars are broadening their 22,000 people. The girls had to hold by 2NE1 on YouTube and they had 10 Bang Show, in February 2011 (opposite). Americans, there were more Caucasians
three shows to accommodate all of million clicks in just two weeks. and African-Americans.
horizons. This magic service that transcends time and space
their fans. It was all thanks to the power Most recently, Tonight, the lead on Facebook, Twitter or me2day, a SNS won’t stop there. Once
helps turn Korean stars into global icons. of YouTube. With the group’s videos single off a mini album by Big Bang, Korean equivalent of Twitter. Today, pop smartphones and tablet PCs become
widely available, some eager fans began was spread around the world through stars see Twitter as the most important more widely used, the impact SNS
It took several years for the TV drama spreading across the globe at the speed to mimic the girls’ dances and produced YouTube. It has surpassed 3 million window of communication with fans. will have on K-pop will be beyond
© YG Entertainment (above); JYP Entertainment (opposite)
Winter Sonata to find its footing in Japan of light. The magic that is SNS enables their own videos. Those clips also made viewers, topping the list in Korea. It also And often, Twitterians with the most your wildest imagination. With more
before leading to Yon-sama syndrome. K-pop stars to reach out to their fans it to YouTube. The video for the single led all music videos in Japan, enjoyed followers are celebrities. Super Junior media platforms, cultural content will
At the time, Korean pop culture contents all over the world. It also carries K-pop Gee by a group of Japanese high school the most comments, made the most boasts a massive following. Donghae transcend music videos or footage of
could only be moved along the retailing music videos and footage from TV show girls was a sensation in both Japan and favorites lists and received the highest has 320,000 followers, the top among concerts, and dramas and movies —
system. Contents had to first reach the programs to all corners of the world in Korea. ratings. The video has also fared well in Korean stars. Kim Hee-chul has about so-called storytelling content — could
market and then be signed on to local real time. Today, you can easily find K-pop non-Asian countries. It was the second- 284,000 followers and Choi Si-won is take over. After dramas and films started
broadcasters or agencies before making Compare, for instance, the situation music videos on the list of the most most watched music video in Australia, followed with about 283,000. Nichkhun out the first Korean wave, the second
it to the program listing just to reach an for TVXQ when it first entered the viewed clips on YouTube. Nobody fourth in Hong Kong and Taiwan, and of 2PM has 267,000 people following wave will be all encompassing of all
overseas audience. But K-pop, which Japanese market to what the market by Wonder Girls in 2008 got the ball fifth and sixth in New Zealand and his tweets. Through Twitter, K-pop stars contents as it turns global. The K-pop
is leading the second Korean wave, is is like today. TVXQ was virtually rolling, and Gee by Girls’ Generation France. Fans in India, Sweden, Mexico spread the word about their new albums will be placed on a different pedestal.
the tip of the iceberg. On the Internet, music and b-boy routines, targeting in the Soviet Union, according to the
you can find a string of websites where young people who are into dancing,” stringer Lee Myung-sook. North Korean
you can watch Korean programs live Park said. “Some viewers requested songs and dances dominated the air
and even add your own subtitles. And K-pop music, and the program played until recently, but the youth of today
Korean pop artists are the hottest 2NE1, 4Minute, BoA, Girls’ Generation, mostly listen to Wonder Girls, Girls’
celebrities. Music programs are there, 2PM, G-Dragon, Super Junior and Generation, Rain and TVXQ, among
and variety shows featuring idol stars SHINee.” other K-pop stars. Older generations
have helped show different sides of Lim Jeong-hee, a stringer in Brazil, have caught on and they’ve developed
musicians behind the stage to fans said Leitura Dinamica, an entertainment interest in old Korean pop.
around the world. Though countries program on Rede TV, a terrestrial As K-pop artists continue to make
may be divided by their boundaries network, played Tonight by Big Bang. strides in countries like Mexico and
and languages, people in different “The music video for Tonight capped Brazil, where actual performances are
countries can enjoy their K-pop music off the program after midnight on Feb limited, local agencies have turned their
all the same. 28, after a series of world famous artists eyes to overseas. Digital music files have
As K-pop grows more popular, were introduced,” Lim said. The host of narrowed the chasm between publicity
foreign broadcasters are taking greater Leitura Dinamica said, “Big Bang is the and revenues, and are breaking down
interest in Korean music. Ura Kara, a most accomplished group in Asia and barriers between countries.
Japanese TV drama starring Korean girl within just two days of the release, the Through major satellite and cable
group Kara, has drawn an average of group’s new album was an instant hit platforms, K-pop is creating a new
3.13% ratings over seven shows, which is in Canada and New Zealand.” On this Korean wave in almost real time. The
a quite success in Japanese drama field. program, Drunken Tiger and his wife K-pop fever is also attracting even
What’s really fascinating is a number Yoon Mi-rae greeted their Brazilian fans more broadcasters. In the Middle East
of K-pop-related programs that air with fluent English and Korean. and South America, K-pop is only just
outside of Asia. The Korea Foundation In Uzbekistan, K-pop become popular breaking ground. Still, it’s encouraging
for International Culture Exchange among the Goryeoin, overseas Koreans to see international audiences falling in
keeps track of K-pop’s popularity love with K-pop. The Korean wave road
through its stringers, and it’s getting Korea’s girl group Kara gets a fame overseas, that K-pop is paving is delivering Korea’s
K-POP Music some interesting news. especially in Japan (below). Super Junior is one of culture to television sets all around the
the most well-known K-pop star all over Asian
Last February, Sans Chichis, a countries (opposite). world.
program on Belgian public TV station
Forever Thirty
The poet sighed when the party was over. She imparted a new meaning to the age
30, and she became an icon for those drifting between “before thirty and after
thirty.” Though she doesn’t want to be defined as a protagonist of the unstable and
drifting youth, she still lives and writes as if she will forever be thirty.
by Lim Ji-young | photographs by Choi Ji-young
Choi Young-mi
night. But Choi says something changed within her. When she
saw her friends wearing designer shoes and taking money out of
The Challenge
isn’t Over
Climber Park Young-seok cannot be described without the
modifier “world’s first.” A living legend in the Korean
mountain climbing scene, Park shocked the world last January
by reaching the South Pole with an eco-friendly snowmobile
running soley on solar power. by Seo Dong-cheol
Park Young-seok
faced rejection after rejection. It was impossible, they said,
to make a battery that would be able to withstand the
South Pole’s harsh climate, even with modern technology.
So Park bought a snowmobile and created his own “eco-
Park climbed up Mount Everest in 2008.
faced numerous unexpected obstacles along the journey. which offers help and hope for disabled children. Park has also
“Climate change brought frequent snowfall, which hindered In high school, Park stumbled upon a parade celebrating worked with senior citizens and troubled youth since 2004.
the recharging of our batteries using the solar cells,” Park said. Dongguk University’s mountain climbing club, which “I am also helping the families of Nepalese Sherpa who
“When we finally charged the batteries the motors would had succeeded in reaching one of the highest peaks in the lost their lives on the mountains,” he said. “I started building
malfunction. After we would take care of the motors the solar Himalayas, the Manaslu (8,156m). “That is when I wanted Park climbed 14 mountain peaks over 8,000 meters, including the school classrooms and donating computers to remote
southeast face of Mount Everest (opposite right, above two). Park
cells started giving us problems. These problems occurred to go to college,” he said. “The only reason I tried to get into used a snowmobile powered by solar energy – a first for a Nepalese village schools last year. I am trying to return the
successful South Pole expedition – in February (opposite left).
because we never tested our eco-mobile out on the field. At college after failing my first year was to join the Dongguk love and help I received domestically and internationally
about 100km outside the South Pole, the weather turned for University mountain climbing club, the cradle of Korean through my climbing career. I established the ‘Park Young-
the worse, allowing the team to advance only 10km and having mountain climbers.” mountain after sudden winds destroyed his equipment in seok Exploration and Culture Foundation’ to systematically
© Park Young-seok Exploration & Culture Foundation
to charge every 20 hours.” Park’s love for mountains deepened after attending Dongguk 2008. Park finally succeeded on his third try and successfully help these charities.” Since his return from the South Pole,
Despite the obstacles, and the harsh elements, the team University in 1983. Starting with the Northern Alps in Japan established a new route in May 2009. Park has been preparing yet another challenge: A new route
reached the South Pole on Jan 28, 2011. This was 41 days in 1985, he successfully climbed the Langtang Ri (7,205m) and Thanks to the efforts of Park and other Korean climbers, the on the South face of Annapurna in the Himalayas.
into their journey battling -30 C weather and blizzards. This the southwest face of Mount Everest (8,848m) in Nepal; the Korean mountain climbing scene has received more respect “After achieving the Adventure Grand Slam, I feel a burden
feat was accomplished on the 100th anniversary of Roald highest point in North America, Mount McKinley (6,194m); from the global community in recent years. As Park said, has been lifted off my chest. Now I can freely look to unknown
Amundsen reaching the South Pole for the first time in 1911 Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m) in Tanzania; Annapurna “The Korean mountain climbing scene was only starting to routes and climb the summits in different methods never
using dog sleds. (8,091m) and Lobuche (6,171m) in Nepal; and K2 (8,611m) take its baby steps in the 1980s. Koreans started climbing the before attempted. I have survived numerous life threatening
“When we returned to the base camp, the ALE personnel in Pakistan. He has challenged the world’s peaks, summits and 8000m peaks in the 1990s and showing promise. In the 2000s, situations, which I believe means that I still have much more
and foreign explorers prepared a feast for us. They spoke poles about 60 times in his life, miraculously avoiding a deadly Koreans started to pioneer their own trails rather than just to give to the sport of mountain climbing.”
Yi Sun-sin is generally accompanied by the phrase “seongung,” fire artillery shells after charging enemy warships. In addition
which means “great hero.” This expression suits the Admiral to creating the ship, Yi developed a new gun that combined
well, as he protected Korea during the Imjin War (1592~1598). the technology of Japanese rifles and Joseon-era guns.
Undisputedly one of the most important figures in Korean The Imjin War broke out in May 1592, and totally 200,000
history, vestiges of Yi’s heroic deeds are easily found in many Japanese troops invaded Korea. Although the Japanese troops
places throughout Korean culture. His portrait is featured overtook Seoul, Yi destroyed about 40 Japanese battleships
on the Korean 100 won coin; his statue stands in Seoul’s at Okpo, Happo and Jeonjinpo, and won battles off the coast
downtown Gwanghwamun Square; a Korean Navy destroyer of Sacheon, Dangpo, Danghangpo and Yulpo. In August, he
was named after him; and his name adorns artistic facilities turned the tide of the war by making a surprise attack on the
and streets. Japanese fleet near Hansando Island. In 1593, Yi was appointed
There are many local festivals in honor of the Admiral, Naval Commander of the Three Provinces (Gyeongsang-
one is the Gunhangje Festival, or Naval Port Festival, usually do Province, Jeolla-do Province and Chungcheong-do
held in Jinhae-gu, Changwon around the end of March or Province) leading the combined navies of the three Southern
beginning of April. The festival was first held in 1952, when provinces. He trained soldiers, expanded armaments, took
Korea’s first statue of Admiral Yi was erected. Also known as care of refugees and promoted economic industries. When
the Cherry Blossom Festival, it attracts more than 2 million the Japanese troops reinvaded Korea, Yi secured victory by Jeollanam-do Province holds a Great Battle of Myeongnyang Festival every
year (above). A statue of Admiral Yi Sun-sin locates in Seoul’s
tourists annually, and flowers are offered in honor of Korea’s defeating 133 Japanese warships with only 13 Korean ships in Gwanghwamun Square (opposite far left).
greatest military hero. Yi’s significance is also visible in Korea’s the Battle of Myeongnyang.
modern-day culture. He appears in many TV shows, movies, Yi’s exemplary and humane behavior stood out during
documentaries, novels and even in online games. times of war, when military commanders had to secure the it contains moving quotes and Chinese poems. “We can live
Yi Sun-sin was born in 1545. At 27, he took a test to become livelihood and resources for military administration on if we are unafraid of dying in battles. But we will die if we are
a military officer, only to fail after falling off a horse. Four years their own. He implemented various plans including fishing, afraid of dying in battles.” This famous quote was recorded by
later, Yi began his military career as a junior officer on the production and sale of salt, managing garrison farms and Yi in a diary entry dated September 15, 1597. He had made
northern frontier. When Yi was assigned to be the commander issuing permits to ships. His love for his country led to his love this remark to encourage his soldiers before taking part in the
of the Left Jeolla-do Province Naval District (present Yeosu), for the people. Yi paid a lot of attention to the people’s safety, Battle of Myeongnyang.
he prepared for Japan’s probable invasion by increasing the especially during times of war, ensuring that they were able to Yi was the greatest hero of the Joseon era. His diary also
fighting power of the Korean Navy, making weapons and make a living by farming and fishing. Yi’s compassion should contains entries that express his love for his mother, and
improving military strongholds. also be noted, as he always let one or two enemy battleships laments feeling like he failed her. Yi felt guilty for having to go
Historical records depict the turtle ship, or geobukseon, as escape, worried of enemy retaliation. to war even after hearing that his mother passed away.
follows: The head of a dragon was placed at the top of the ship A person of high character, never compromised with In 1598, the combined fleets of Korea (Joseon Dynasty) and
near the bow, with the capability to fire cannon balls from the injustice, he pointed out mistakes his superiors or men in China (Ming Dynasty) fought a final battle by launching a
© Yonhap News Agency (above); Korea Minting & Security Printing Corporation (opposite bottom)
mouth. Metal spikes were used to cover the top of the ship power made, often putting himself at a disadvantage. Yi was sudden attack on retreating Japanese troops off the Noryang.
to deter boarding tactics used by the Japanese. Although the even stricter in regard to his personal expectations. He once During the fierce battle, Yi was shot and died on the dawn of
interior was blocked from external view, one could see through asked for punishment for losing a warship during his return December 16, 1598. He was 53 years old. “The battle is raging
Yi Sun-sin to the outside from the inside of the ship. It was designed to from the Battle of Ungcheonpo.
Yi also asked the government to award prizes to his soldiers
on. Don’t tell the soldiers if I die. You should not shock them,”
Yi told his eldest son and nephew, worried that his death
Immortal Hero
who were killed or injured in battle. He offered opportunities might upset his forces.
to render distinguished service to officers under his command, The Battle of Noryang was the last sea battle of the Imjin
and evaluated their performances objectively for fair War and one of Korea’s greatest navy victory. A Ming
Admiral Yi Sun-sin is a historical figure compensation. In addition, he hired engineers from scorned commander praised Yi, naming him “Heaven’s Admiral” in
who’s had a major impact on Koreans. Yi‘s portrait of areas and highly evaluated their achievements. his report to the Ming government. During the Imjin War,
the deceased,
Such anecdotes are recorded in his Nanjungilgi War diary, Yi fought a total of 23 battles against the Japanese invaders,
Not only because Admiral Yi never lost a the turtle-shaped
geobukseon and which documented a period of seven years from the beginning never losing a single one. He distinguished himself by saving
battle during the Imjin War, but also Hyeonchungsa
Shrine appear of the Imjin War to the Battle of Noryang. The wartime diary his country and his people. He was an intelligent military
because of his fearless sense of loyalty, on front and back
details Yi’s personal agonies and military tactics, and enables strategist, a brave leader and a man of noble character.
of the past 500
compassion and modest character. won bill, which is readers to understand the sheer depth of his character. Admiral Yi Sun-sin was, is and always will be an immortal
not in use
by Lim Ji-young | photograph by Park Jeong-roh nowadays (left). The diary is highly regarded from a literary standpoint as hero among the Korean people.
You’d be forgiven for assuming the area’s galleries feature the Central Buddhist Museum, Choonwondang Museum
nothing more than conventional paintings based on age-old of Korean Medicine and Bona Museum/Gallery. You will
techniques and traditions, but there is nothing like seeing all definitely discover the pleasure of learning through play.
that Insa-dong has to offer with your own eyes. The galleries Once your pilgrimage to the galleries and museums is
and museums feature contemporary or fusion art that mixes complete, check out other areas of Insa-dong. Ssamziegil, a
the traditional with the modern in ways that immediately grab culture complex of sorts, is perfect for those who love to shop,
your attention. as it is both energetic and traditional. It was named Ssamzie-
Kyung-In Museum of Fine Art is the perfect example of a gil (gil means street) because fashion brand Ssamzie designed
gallery that offers fresh surprises and unexpected exhibition and organized the space. Since this unique complex opened
themes. The exquisite art museum with four exhibition halls in December 2004, it has fascinated and entertained tourists
and an atelier is famous for its superb mixture of tradition and with its colorful attractions that include an organic tea house,
modernism. Its lush outdoor garden and tea house, a favorite mini gallery and craft shops. There are even vendors who help
among tourists, create a calm and surreal atmosphere, in you create your own art. The four-story wooden Ssamziegil
intense contrast to the modern exhibition space. building is a must-see attraction for tourists and was bestowed
Satisfy your thirst for cultural insight at museums such as the honorary nickname “Little Insa-dong.”
Having tea in a traditional tea house or indulging in
authentic Korean cuisine is another experience not to
be missed in Insa-dong. Rather than those eateries that
boisterously call to tourists from Insa-dong’s main street,
we recommend you seek out the hidden gems in the back
alleyways. If you’re ready to try something new, visit Insa-
dong’s Buddhist restaurants, which specialize in tasty and
healthy vegetarian cuisine. If you crave something hearty, take
a chance on Korean traditional barbeque or naengmyeon (cold
buckwheat noodles).
When you’re ready to turn in for the night, nothing will
complete the experience of Insa-dong like spending the night
Insa-dong
Insa-dong is a mecca for Korean art. The surrounding areas of in a hanok, a Korean traditional house. There are several types
Insa-dong, Gahoe-dong, Anguk-dong and Samcheong-dong of accommodation near Insa-dong that range from original
were once home to a nest of affluent families during the Joseon The main street of Insa-dong is always full of visitors experiencing Korean
hanok houses to renovated hanok-style guesthouses. A humble
Where
Dynasty. Items that once belonged to the wealthier citizens of culture (opposite). Traditional souvenirs that you might see on the streets night’s sleep - like Koreans in the olden days - will make
(above left). You can also visit hanok restaurants serving traditional cuisine
Seoul were auctioned off on the streets of Insa-dong, making (above right). Foreign visitors shop for antiques at a street shop (below). your trip to Insa-dong stand out from all the others.
the area a hub for trading art and antiques.
Yesterday
The area first became known for its antique collections
during the 1930s, when antique dealers set up shops and
bookstores on the main thoroughfare. After the end of the
Meets Today Korean War in 1953, Nagwon markets opened and a “rice cake
street” formed near Insa-dong. In the 1980s, more antique
shops, art galleries, special collectors’ shops and craft shops
INFORMATION
restaurants, old-fashioned calligraphy and museums of different themes and sizes, including INSA
(afternoons only) and Sundays. No cars are
allowed to pass through the streets, so
shops and modern art galleries coexist. Gallery, Kyung-In Museum of Fine Art and Gongpyeong experiences like shopping, dining and enjoying
the fresh air become much more comfortable
by Lim Ji-young | photographs by Choi Ji-young Gallery. and relaxing on the weekends.
different species of birds and 41 species Tourists who do not spot any whales
ATTRACTION
of fish. Sweetfish, salmon and otters, on their tour recieve free admission Jangsaengpo Whale Museum If no whales are spotted on the Whale Watching Cruise
A resident
enjoys a bike which only live in Grade One water, to the Jangsaengpo Whale Museum. Tour, visitors receive free admission to the Whale Museum. They also recieve a 40 percent
ride along the
Taehwagang
started populating the river. The building itself is in the shape of a discount on admission to the Whale & Ocean Experience Center. For more information, visit
www.whalemuseum.go.kr or call +82 [0]52 256 6301.
River (above). In the summer, 4,000 white herons whale. The museum — the only one of Ticket sales 09:30~17:00
Ganjeolgot,
located near migrated to the river and covered the its kind in Korea — describes in detail Opening hours 09:30~18:00 (closed on Mondays)
Ulsan, with its
fascinating
riverbanks with nests. And as the sun set the life of a whale. Next to the museum Admission Whale Museum (main building): Adults 2,000 won, children 1,000 won
Whale & Ocean Experience Center (annex): Adults 5,000 won, children 3,000 won
ocean views one winter afternoon, 46,000 crows — is the Whale & Ocean Experience 4D Theater: Adults and children 3,000 won
(left). A craftman
of Oegosan which are believed to bring good fortune Center, where a large water tank houses Package Deal: Adults 9,000 won, children 6,300 won
Onggi Village — flew in from the west and blessed the Ulsan’s mascots: Three dolphins named
concentrates on
making pottery citizens with a beautiful sight that only Arong-e, Darong-e, and Kkotbun-e. ACCOMMODATIONS
(below). Olympia Hotel Conveniently located downtown, the Olympia Hotel is close to the
nature can provide. The Taehwagang If calling Ulsan an “ecopolis” with its station, bus terminal and airport. Amenities include restaurants, sauna, barber shop and
River has now become a pivotal part of environmental history and struggles is coffee shop. For more information, visit www.olympiaulsan.co.kr or call +82 [0]52 271 8401.
the city of Ulsan, where water festivals not an exaggeration, there is another
Lotte Hotel Ulsan Located near the Taehwagang River, Lotte Hotel Ulsan offers stunning
and swimming competitions are held place that deserves mention as well: views from its rooms. Amenities include a fitness center, sauna and restaurtants. For more
annually. the Oegosan Onggi Village. Driving information, visit www.lottehotelulsan.com or call +82 [0]52 960 1000.
south toward Busan from Ulsan, you
ENCOUNTERING WHALES Another will encounter a small mountain called
the Taehwagang River and searched reason the Taehwagang River is Oegosan. In the foothills of Oegosan,
for methods to restore its health. The garnering so much attention from 40 master craftsmen make pottery using
city paid substantially for its years of Koreans is in part due to the whale only natural clay, sunlight and fire. The
abuse. After extensive feasibility studies, watching cruise tours offered here. Ulsan pottery has something that modern
sewage treatment facilities were built, borders the East Sea, where the warm porcelain does not: It breathes. The clay
sewer pipes were organized and laid currents during spring and summer that is used to make the pottery forms Jangsaengpo Whale Aquarium at Whale & Ocean Camellia at
underground, and the accumulated attract whales. Prehistoric cave paintings microscopic pores. These pores are Museum Experience Center Daewangam
sludge was dredged from the river in the Ulsan area depict men hunting important for the fermentation process
bottom. Ulsan planned a large bamboo whales — proof of the long connection used to make Korean traditional dishes humidity, the temperature of the fire, hope for the future. With the rising sun,
grove by creating the Simni Bamboo between whales and Ulsan. like kimchi. and the philosophy and the heart of the the morning stars slowly give way to
Grove. Bamboo was planted along Before it was prohibited, one of The pottery is made from clay found craftsman. dawn. A clear and intense scarlet wave
the shore and riverside to help protect the ports in Jangsaengpo, Ulsan, was in the area, naturally dried by the Driving south from the village and of light covers the ocean and land. The
the natural flow of the river. They also infamous for whale poaching. Citizens wind and finished by fire techniques. toward the ocean, visitors arrive at grand sunrise will bring light to the land
created trails for citizens to take a stroll now join whale watching tours to Although the process as described might Ganjeolgot, where the sun rises before and all the wildlife that thrive in the
or ride a bicycle. admire these great mammals. In April, seem simple enough, a meticulous anywhere else on the Korean Peninsula. area. Once again, we realize within this
A total of about 600 billion won (US$ before warm currents have yet to flow science is involved in the procedure in The sunrise, whether it is New Year’s Day “ecopolis” that humans are nothing but a
545 million) was spent on this project: in, whale watching cruise tours are which one piece of pottery depends on or any other day of the year, is known small existence compared to the majesty
400 billion won for water improvement offered once a week. In June and July the the strength of the wind, a difference in to give people new determination and of nature.
Through Time:
Café Evolution
It’s not hard to spot a coffee shop or a café in
Korea today. There are even themed cafés that
specialize in helping visitors create special
experiences while providing a fresh café latte or
Americano. The cafés where one simply
enjoyed a cup of tea are evolving into hubs for
crafts, travel, counseling and more.
by Lim Ji-young | photographs by Park Jeong-roh
art, music and movies, combined with a cup of coffee. In the visit several interesting cafés around my house. All of them best option, fair trade coffee is seen as the second best for 4 Jeongja-dong Café Street Take the Bundang Line to Jeongja Station, exit
beginning, fourth-generation culture cafés could be seen only looked so different from each other. I wondered why Korean conscientious coffee drinkers. As public awareness of fair No 4. Walk straight down the street for about 100 meters.
My family and I drove up Mount Washington once when I was not include mountains. The trip started out great with lots of snacks and light
young, although I don’t really remember the visit. I only know I guess I started noticing that I was living in the midst of a conversation with new friends. I just knew I was going to
we made the trip because my brother stuck a bumper sticker massive city among mountains when I first moved to Itaewon. love hiking! We arrived at the mountain at daybreak. Please
that we got on that trip on the mirror of my bureau. I was My new apartment was just a 10-minute walk from the base of keep in mind that it was January and my first time hiking a
forced to go through all of high school looking in the mirror Mt Namsan. I took a walk through the park one day, detoured mountain other than Mt Namsan. I didn’t know it, but I was
and seeing a “This car climbed Mount Washington” bumper onto a little trail through the woods that led on up to the peak in for a surprise. Wearing old sneakers, cotton sweatpants and
sticker plastered across my forehead. The point of this story is and suddenly I realized I’d been missing my old friend Mother not nearly enough layers, I quickly got uncomfortably wet and
that I was never really into mountains. Nature! How relaxing! How peaceful! What’s that smell? What freezing cold. Not only was it unbelievably cold, but it was
So when I moved to Korea and found out that its geography smell? I don’t smell anything. Oh, you mean the fresh, clean air nothing like a hike up my perfect little Mt Namsan.
comprises 70 percent of mountainous terrain, it didn’t register smell! Yes, heavenly! I realized that I loved being able to escape There were ropes we had to climb, chains we had to hold
in my head what that really meant. I knew mountains were to this sanctuary in the middle of all the city chaos. onto so that we wouldn’t fall 100 meters down a rock face to
out there, but I just thought those mountains were over in Thinking that I was a real mountaineer after taking several our deaths. There was ice, so much ice, as there also happened
Gwangju or Daegu or some other far-off sounding “gu.” walks to the top and hosting the odd picnic here and there up to be a sudden freak blizzard when we got to the top so we
I only saw markets, saunas, sidewalks, subways, Noraebang on Mt Namsan, I was convinced to join a trip organized by a couldn’t even enjoy the view we had worked so hard to see.
(Korean karaoke) and street foods. I had come to Seoul to hiking group my friend found on Facebook. We all gathered The hike took eight hours both ways. It’s 800 times longer
get out of the country. I was sick of living in the woods! I was at the meeting place at 11pm and climbed onto a bus for a six- than my typical jaunt up and down Mt Namsan. I can say with
reinventing myself as a city girl, a modern hour drive to Mt Wolchulsan in Jeollanam-do Province (the confidence that the hike was a complete disaster.
woman! My Seoul experience would southwestern corner of the Korean Peninsula). Until the end. The glorious end! Once we made it down
DISCOVERING
Mountain hiking experience started when Michelle
Farnsworth moved to Seoul, even though she grew up in
New Hampshire, a state famous for its peaks. Korea filled
with countless hiking opportunities, it’s the perfect place
to explore the beautiful mountains.
Third Attempt for the others. Though it came in first in the first round of votes,
PyeongChang lost to Sochi, Russia, in the second round.
Astana and Almaty, Kazakhstan – its best performance to date
in skiing. These are all examples of how the Korean people
Winter Olympics
In September 2007, PyeongChang announced its wish to are exerting their efforts to become united in their hopes to
bid again for the 2018 Winter Olympics. In September 2009, host the 2018 Winter
it was selected as one of the three final candidate cities for Olympics.
PyeongChang is gearing up for its third bid to host the Winter Olympics. Results from the Olympics, along with Munich and Annecy, France. In
the IOC Evaluation Commission’s on-site inspection of PyeongChang in February March 2010, PyeongChang became involved once again in the
showed bidding preparations were going well. by Kim Hyeon-jin bidding process by turning in the candidate file to the IOC.
PyeongChang has undertaken thorough preparations for its
third attempt. During the IOC site inspection four years ago,
The people of PyeongChang will continue to exert their efforts difficult to determine which city stood out most to the visiting the city had only secured the area for the stadium on an empty
as representatives of the Korean people, in order to win their IOC committee, but it’s believed that PyeongChang captured piece of land. But this time around, the IOC delegates were
bid to host the 2018 Winter Olympics – the winner of which the attention of the delegation, particularly because of the able to see the actual facilities. In all, seven of the proposed
will be announced in Durban, South Africa, on July 6. upgraded infrastructure since their previous bids and the 13 competition venues had completed development. The
In February, the IOC Evaluation Commission conducted delegation’s previous on-site inspections. accommodation facilities and transportation networks were
on-site inspections of the three candidate cities to host the During the inspection, more than 1,000 residents also well structured.
© Yonhap News Agency
2018 Winter Olympics - Annecy, France; Munich, Germany; and students gathered along the streets surrounding the In addition, PyeongChang has staged the Dream Program
and PyeongChang, Korea. competition venues, expressing nationwide support for the bid annually since 2004, a promise made to the IOC that it would
The three cities underwent fierce competition to by waving their hands and warmly welcoming the delegation. carry out during its first bid.
demonstrate to the Commission what each could offer. It’s This public showing was symbolic of Korea’s national support To ensure the success of the PyeongChang Winter Olympics,
transportation policy has attracted conjunction with e-Government export currencies but also play a big role in job
benchmark visits from more than 1,000 of digitalization ODA projects, including creation and enhancing Korea‘s image in
people from 30 countries, including invitations of more than 200 IT specialists IT. Much is anticipated in Korea’s future as
overseas civil servants and traffic specialists from 43 developing countries to participate an IT power player with effective use of
aiming to transform their traffic systems. in special programs. e-Government.
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© Choi Ji-young
4월호엽서.indd 1
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