Jinyoung's Korea

Hello :)

2010-03-31T06:09:00.000-07:00

Hi. I am Jinyoung.
First, Thanks for visiting my blog.I entered University on March. :) ..
My major is English Interpretation and Translation. I am happy to enter the university. I am going to post More More detail story about my lovely country KOREA :)
Oh, If you have question or something else, you can send me an Email.
(I also want to make friends too :)
My email Address is mary145@hanmail.net
Thanks!:)

Beutiful Seoul: Cheonggye stream, Samcheong-dong and Insa-dong

2009-08-14T21:38:00.000-07:00

Let me introduce Beautiful Seoul!

I went Cheonggye stream , Samcheong dong and Insa dong with my friend.

1. Samcheong Dong

I was really really surprised when I visited Samcheong dong.

If you want to visit Beautiful Cafe or restaurant, GO to Samcheong dong.

You can see the picture of Samcheong dong below. There are lots of cafe like this picture in Samcheong dong. Also There's Beautiful street in there too.

2. Insadong

If you want to buy Korean Stuff or special items, Visit Insadong in Seoul. There's lots of sight in there. Third picture of Insadong is Bean jam burn in the shape of korean famous character 'ddalki' (ddaliki means strawberry in Korea.) In last picture, My friend and I took a picture with Character 'Ddalki'. I Love that character! Isn't it cute ? It's also delicious. You can eat turkish icecream and many kinds of Korean traditional food. And there are many performance for visitors in insadong. You can enjoy Korean culture walking through the insadong street!

3. Cheonggye Stream

Cheonggye stream is represented of Seoul stream. It's really cool when you walk with your family or friends at night. There are beautiful lights both side of stream. Sometimes, They open some light shows or performance in stream. So many people love to visit cheonggye stream. When I visit Cheonggye stream with my friend at night, There's big light show. So I enjoyed very much in Cheonggye stream. Stream is clean and cool. I also post vod of Cheonggye stream. Enjoy it! And These picture are me and my friend.

Enjoy Seoul trip! If you have questions about Seoul trip , Leave a comment ~

Gando, lost territory of Korea

2009-08-14T09:58:00.000-07:00

Background Song is 'Arirang' which is Korean traditional song.
Gando is KOREAN territory. This movie explain real story about Gando.

The truths beneath Gando conflict

2009-08-14T09:56:00.000-07:00

Incheon Airport cosmetic shops!

2009-08-04T01:15:00.001-07:00

I got some mails asking for incheon airport cosmetic shops. They want to know about price, scale of shops. I'm very surprised that many foriegn people interest in korean cosmetic shops.
I want to tell you more detail information about these shops.
There are Etude house, Missha, The face shop and Vov. I called Etude house shop assistan in Incheon airport asking for question! :)
I will tell you all more detail informaion about cosmetic shops.
- Korean cosmetic shops are cheaper than overseas branch.
If you buy korean cosmetic items in Korea umm.. You are lucky for buying at gooood price!
- There are many shops in Incheon airport. You can enjoy anywhere in departure hall, arrival hall and duty free place.
If you want more and more information you should call under phone numbers.
Enjoy shopping in Incheon Airport :)
I'd like..to have a comment :)

1. ETUDE HOUSE
There are 3 shops of Etude house.

* Hours of operation : 07:00~21:00
location : (public area) 3F, near check in counter G
tel : 82-32-743-2329

* Hours of operation : 07:00~21:00
location: (public area) 1F, Next exit 10
tel: 82-32-743-2327

* there is also duty free shop in incheon airport.

2. Missha
there are three missha shops in Incheon airport.

* hours of operation : 07:00~ 21:00
location: (public area) 3F, near check in counter G
tel: 82-32-743-2331

* hours of operation : 07:00~ 21:00
location : (public area) 1F, Near arrival hall 1
tell : 82-32-743-8286

* There is also duty free shop in Incheon airport.

3. Vov

items : lip gloss, Eye shadow, Mascara, Blusher
location : (public area) 3F, Near check in counter F
Hours of operation : 07:00~21:00
Tel : 82-32-743-1532
+ It's also have duty free shop!

4. The face shop

Hours of Operation : 07:00~ 21:00
Location : (public Area) 3F, Near check in Counter F
Tel : 82-32-743-4790
+ It's also in duty free shop.

Incheon airport: Best airport in the world

2009-07-29T08:14:00.000-07:00

Incheon international airport has been rated 1st in airport quality service four consecutive years. Incheon airport is largest and busiest airport in Asia. It located in Yeongjong-do ,Incheon.
The main passenger terminal is the fifth largest in the world. It's clean and comfortable place for every passenger.

<- Outside of airport. It looks like ..UFO!!

<- Isn't it nice? Inside of airport.

<- there's lot of shopping center in Incheon airport

TIP FOR LOOKING AROUND INCHEON AIRPORT!

1. Using internet in incheon airport
Information and communication center on 2nd floor in airport, you can use internet!

2. Massaging before departuring
There are foot massage shop and sports massaging shop in Incheon airport.

3. You can charging your mobile phone battery.
It's on 3rd floor B, L counter.

4. There is baby rest room in airport.
Baby can change diaper in here.

5. There is interchange hotel for passenger.

Shopping in Incheon airport! ( cosmetics and perfumes)

1. AK duty free !

item : cosmetics and perfumes

hours of operation : 07:00 ~ 21:30

location: (duty free area ) 3F , enterance of departure store hall 1 , near gate 9 , near gate 12

2. The shilla duty free

items: perfume, cosmetic , apparel, leather goods, accessories, sunglasses, amethyst

hours of operation : 07:00~ 21:30

location: (duty free area) 3F, near departure hall 3, near gate 27, near gate 47, near gate 50

There are also 'The face shop' , 'Vov', 'Missha', 'Etude house' too.
You can enjoy cosmetic shopping!

Airport attraction!

1. Korean culture museum

2. Gardens

3. Food court

Enjoying your trip in Incheon airport

TAXI in KOREA

2009-07-28T02:58:00.000-07:00

Taxi is representative transportation in Korea. You can take a taxi if you want comfortable to drive to your destination. There are two types of taxi in Korea. One is ordinary taxi and the other is model taxi. Model taxi is black one which is bigger than ordinary taxi and little more expensive. Most people take an ordinary taxi.

these are Korean taxies. Left is ordinary taxi and right is model taxi.

Charsing of taxi is determined by two factors. First distance based if taxi move normal speed , second is based on traffic jam. It can take more money. It's calculated by electronic meter calculator.

AND! one of the merit of Korean taxi is cheap! You can enjoy comfortable driving.

Also You can go anywhere in Korea ( not too far ) with taxi! There is GPS navigation in every taxi. so it will introduce the way for you and taxi driver. It's most advanced computerlized system in Korea.

ONE MORE TIP!

Seoul city provide international taxi service for foreign traveler! International taxi offers the most convenient service to foreign visitors. Taxi driver can speak fluent in foreign language . and you can pay easier than normal taxi in Korea. This taxi accept various credit card ( Visa, Master, JCB, Amex ) and T-money.

how to use international taxi in seoul ?

-> Reservation should be made by phone ( 82-1644-2255) or on the international Taxi webpage.

Consultant offer service 24hours/365days in English and Japenese by phone.

You can visit http://www.intltaxi.co.kr/ for getting more information.

<- medium international taxi <- luxury international taxi <- Large internatioanl taxi

<- international taxi driver

ENJOY KOREAN TRIP WITH TAXI :)

Seoul zoo : The greatest sanctuary of natural education

2009-06-05T03:00:00.000-07:00

I went Seoul zoo in Gwachun , kyunggi -do on may 22th. Our school 3rd grader went Seoul zoo for taking graduation picture. Seoul zoo is established in 1984. It is the biggest zoo in Korea. It has about 77 species of animals. Zoo holds a variety of events such as Flamingo Show, Dolphin Show etc. Now, I will tell you about looking around Seoul zoo in Korea.

First , these pictures are Elephant train in Seoul zoo and ticket. You can take this train for going to entrance of zoo or there is also lift too. ( But, Elephant train is much cheaper. )

You can see the enterance of Seoul zoo after getting down from elephant train. You can see big tiger in front of enterance.

Now, you can go inside Seoul zoo. It's the map of Seoul zoo. You can reference this map.

( It's English map of Seoul zoo )

There are many variety anmial shows in Seoul zoo. The dolphine show which you can see dolphins slicing through the water. The seal show that you can see the cute charms of seal . And the flamingo show that beautiful flamingo dance in groups. It's so gorgeous show. You can't miss it.

One more tip! In Seoul zoo, there is great Forest bathing park. I walked there with my friends almost 30 minutes. It's really cool and fresh. You can breath fresh air as much as you can.

You can meet cute little squirrel in there too.

Also you can see a variety statue in here. This picture is one of the beautiful statue.
You can take many pictures with variety statue.

There are lots of event in Seoul zoo. So, if you want to know about event or more about seoul zoo, you can reference under site.
http://grandpark.seoul.go.kr/
It will give you useful information about Seoul zoo.

SUWON : Suwon city tour

2009-04-24T08:08:00.000-07:00

Suwon is famous of the world heritage Hwa-sung. It is one of the best World Cultural Heritage in Korea. If you visit Korea, you have to look around Hwa sung. So if you take Suwon city tour bus , you can visit Hwa sung comfortable and safe. Also, you can learn about Suwon pretty much with tour guide. Suwon city tour will bring you much information about Suwon and important part of Korea's history. Aren't you intersting ?
Don't worry about language. Tour guide can speak English , Japenese, and other languages. Oh, Also there are lots of culture festivals in Hwasung. You can enjoy it. :)

Course of Suwon city tour

1. Seo Jang Dae

It is placed in Paldal mountain. It's part of Hwasung.

2. Hwa Seo Mun

It's west side of hwasung. It's National treasure No. 403

3. Hwa sung Rural Palace

It was used when king visited. It's one of the finest palace.

4. Paldalmun
It's one of the biggest palace in Korea. It has 577 rooms.

5. Hwa hong mun

It's very fasinated structure in Korea.

6. Yeon mu dae Korean Traditional Aechery count

You can experience Korean tradiional aechery. It's one of the famous sport for korean ancestor.

7. Suwon worldcup main Stadium

It built for 2002 korea - japan world cup. You can enjoy many festival and soccer games.

8. KBS drama center

It's Studio of KBS drama. You can see photographing of drama here. Now, in Suwon drama center , you can see photographing of 'Chunchoo taehoo' which is Korean historical drama. There also have one of Korean best historical drama 'Myung sung hwang hoo'(명성황후) photographing place. You can enjoy making place of 'Korean wave' drama in Suwon.

Korean high school uniform

2009-04-11T08:20:00.000-07:00

Every Korean high school students wear school uniform. School uniforms are symbol of schools and improve academic performance and student attitudes. Many countries include Korea wear school uniform. But Korean School uniforms are very creative and personality.

History of Korean uniform

History of Korean uniform made in when first western style school built in Korea.
In 1886, Mary F. Scranton built Ewha school and made new cloth for 4 students in Ewha school. New cloth was red. but it changed into white blouse and black skirt.
In Japanese colonialists between 1910 and 1945, Wearing school uniform is generalized. Girls wear working pants and blouse. Boys wear khaki color uniform.
But Latest korean school uniforms are very fashionable. Also some schools make Korean traditional cloth as school uniform.

Effect of Korean school uniform

School uniform have many positive effects. Students behave better when they are dressed alike. Then they fight less and focus on their school work more. Also uniforms instill a sense of community within the school.Teenagers spend a lot of money in buying cloth. School uniform can limit their consuming. It is cheaper to implement uniforms because parents don't have to worry about "Back to school" shopping and having their kids want new clothes for school all the time.

But there are some side effect of school uniform too. First, School uniforms are standardized so it limits students personality. Express one's personality is one of the biggest desire. But school uniform restrict it. Second, uniforms are uncomfortable. Some countries students ( USA, Austrailia and etc..) are wearing normal T- shirts and pants for uniform. But in Korea, there's no comfortable uniform like that.

Korean school uniforms keep changing. Some schools make several style uniforms. For example, one of the Korean school made 4 kinds of uniforms. Students wear 2 kinds of summer clothes, one Safari style uniform and one winter cloth.
Comparing to old days, Korean school uniforms pursue student's own personality. So they are very stylish. It's one of the korean students culture and proud of their school life.

↑
korean traditional cloth style school uniform.

↑ normal style of school uniform ( It's my high school uniform. Suwon Kwonsun high school)

<- new style of uniforms.

Beautiful Korea

2009-04-05T08:51:00.001-07:00

Welcome to Korea ( Ver.Rain )

2009-04-05T08:25:00.000-07:00

Seoul trip with foreigners in Korea

2009-03-01T04:58:00.000-08:00

I went Seoul trip with foreigners who live in Korea.
There were some half koreans, foreign workers and students who are studying in Korea.
It was great oppertunity to meet those people. Korea is little conservative country because of confucianism culture. According to Korean reserch site, one out of ten people marry with foreigner. So, it means Korea is becoming a multicultural society like USA or Canada.
I felt more friendly with foreigners and so do my friends.
I hope to get this kind of oppertunity more and more. It will help to adapt multicultural society.

1. The national museum in Korea
The National Museum of Korea preserve, to exhibit, and to interpret korean cultural heritage and it is international scale. There is some programs for foreign visitors. It will be very helpful for them to know about korean history and heritage. It also has Asia heritages. Visitors can understand both the common and diverse features of various Asian cultures.
It's also free to look around the exibition.

2. Namsan tower ( N Seoul tower )
Namsan tower is a symbol of Seoul and the highest place where you can see the most beautiful scenery of Seoul. We can experience new cultural arts , teddy bear exibition an colorful lightening at night. However, There is the most beautiful and romantic place in Namsan tower.
Roof terrace is the symbol of romantic couples love. There are a lot of couples came here and keep terrace lock. and couples write some message about their love.

3. Korea cultural Heritage Foundation ( Korean house)
Korean house is where you can enjoy Korea's traditional beauty via court food, high quality traditional culture goods, folk performances, traditional weddings and so on. In here, Some people made a Korean traditional mask and the other group made traditional paper mirror. It's the best place to experience our culture.

Sangumburi ( 산굼부리)

2008-12-21T05:36:00.001-08:00

Sangumburi Crater is the crater of an extinct volcano. Visitors can walk around this beautiful cater. You can see a field of reeds in Sangumburi. You can take a picture with your lover.

It's real glorious view that you can feel in the picuture.

Sangumburi gives your mind at rest.

I recommend this place who feels tired or who wants to have precious memory with friends, lover and family.

Jeongbang Water fall in Jeju

2008-12-21T05:27:00.000-08:00

Jeongbang Falls, located in Donghong-dong, Seogwipo City. It’s one of the top three waterfall in Jeju. This water is the only one falling directly to the sea in Oriental countries. It attributes foreign tourists and also Korean tourist. You can feel fresh if you visit here. I think it’s one of the attracting view in Jeju. The waterfall at an altitude of 23 meters is a picturesque sight indeed especially with cliffs, the sea, and several small islands offshore.
If you visit Jeongbang water fall, it will stay with you as a happy memory.

VISIT IN JEJU~

Get Teens to Fashion! Missha Cosmetics

2008-11-19T23:32:00.000-08:00

Why experiment on expensive cosmetic brands if you can have Missha? For me, or I guess most teens would go for Missha. It’s one of the hottest cosmetic products for teens at low prices. Easy on the pocket! For someone who is new in make up and would like to test colors or just use it for fun, then this is the right brand for you.

Well, I’m not that much into make up. I’m still in high school, for crying out loud!! But, this will be the first cosmetic that I will try on if I decide to buy a lipstick (not the burning red of passion, of course!) with a natural shade of color.

What’s hot with Missha products are their BB Creams. Well, for those who has no idea what I’m talking about it means Blemish Balm Cream. It’s a good foundation that helps regenerate skin. Why go for foundations that will make skin dry if you can have a healthy skin?

Missha flagship stores are everywhere. There are 250 stores across the globe in 30 countries and still counting. Just like The Face Shop, they also have variety of products for men, women, bath & body including cosmetics. You can go to their website at: http://www.misshamall.com/ for more product info and great promos.

The Face Shop: Proudly Korean

2008-11-18T15:28:00.001-08:00

There are a lot of cosmetic products out there from cheap to designer brands. You choose! Depending on what your wallet can afford. But, aside from the quality, brand, and color how do you choose your make up? Nowadays, cosmetic lovers are not just looking for how good the colors are, but more of how natural they can look. Ingredients are more likely to consider than just mere brand. Some would go for mineral make ups while other would go for organic. That’s when “The Face Shop” steps in.

The Face Shop, the number one selling cosmetic in Korea, all started by the year 1962 as a wholesale cosmetic manufacturer. But, its growth spread rapidly across Asia and the US in 2005. The current primary spokesperson for The Face Shop is Bae Yong Joon replacing Kwon Sang Woo as he tied the knot last September.

What makes The Face Shop stand among the rest? What else, but its natural story. As their website says, “We believe there is natural beauty in everyone”. The Face Shop is all about natural extracts and free of harmful chemicals. They stand for environmental responsibility and no to animal testing.

The Face Shop’s product line includes skincare, bath & body, men, babies and cosmetics at reasonable prices, affordable even for teens and young adults. As a customer becomes aware of how important well being is, The face shop will continue to grow. You can visit their site at: http://www.thefaceshopen.com/ and choose your country to better serve you.

TVXQ! "Rising Gods from the East"

2008-11-09T00:42:00.000-08:00

Tong Vfang Xien Qi popularly known as TVXQ! is South Korea’s pride. Known to countries in Asia like Japan, Singapore, China, Taiwan and Thailand to name a few, this quintet boy band rocks the house on every concert and shows that they’re in. This popular boy group in Asia is called in many names, TVXQ! for its Chinese name, Dong Bang Shin Ki o r Dong Bang Shin Gi DBSK/DBSG in Korea and Tōhōshinki in Japan. Their name simply means the "Rising Gods from the East". Let’s name the members one by one:

1. Kim Junsu aka Xiah

Started his first audition at the age of 12, his good voice and antics sure is noticeable but changes in his voice in adolescent period made him stop his singing career and continue after 6 years of passing the period. His stage name, “Xiah”, is his personal choice. According to him, it’s a shortened form of the word “Asia”.

2. Jung Yunho aka U-know

Known as the leading of the group, he got his spot because of a dance competition placing him on the number one spot. He became a backup dancer for several shows and concerts but soon made his name on stage. His stage name “U-know” also came from his name Yunho, pronounced as “you know” in English.

3. Kim Jaejoong aka Hero

Become where he is right now was never been easy. Leaving the comforts of his own home in Chungnam, he experienced poverty and hardships. Unlike others who chose their own screen names, the name “Hero” was given by his manager aiming to become a hero for the music industry.

4. Shim Changmin aka Max

Youngest and tallest among all the members, his powerful impressed the judges. He also studied at one of the top universities in Korea. With brains and looks, he was named “Max” meaning “the best” and “most powerful”.

5. Park Yoochun aka Mickey

The member who joined the group a year later after it debut. Mickey grew up in Seoul but immigrated to the United States but got divorced due to financial matters when he was just around 13 years old. He gave up his American citizenship due to work related schedule going to-and-fro the US.

Their debut started along side with BoA during her concert on December 2003. Soon afterwards they expanded their career in Japan where they ranked #1 on hit charts. The demand was more than what producers expected releasing the album to foreign countries last year. Their career is not just about singing. The group also acted in a theatrical drama entitled “VACATION” and their success continues. Of course just like any other celebrities, they also faced and continue to face issues after issues. Being a celebrity is not easy. Scandals also happen including adoptive issues, anti-fan incidents and even the group’s winnings in some major awards. But, never did it became a hindrance to the groups success.

Jung Ji-hoon aka Rain: “Justin Timberlake of Asia”

2008-11-07T21:40:00.000-08:00

Jung Ji-hoon Known as “Rain” a pan-Asian superstar dominates charts throughout East and Southeast Asia made another successful achievement as he stars in a Hollywood film “Speed Racer”. An artist that has it all – singer dancer, model and actor. He truly deserves to be one of the most influential people as he hits The 2008 TIME 100 Finalists. Let’s dig a bit further to his early life and achievements.

Rain, a proud Korea, was born in Seoul, South Korea on June 25, 1982. He showed interest in R&B and Hiphop dancing as early as 6th grade. He became a member of short-lived boy band, Fanclub, when he started to audition for talent agencies. It was never been easy for him because of his looks. Agencies at that time were eyeing on talents with “double eyelids”, which of course, Rain doesn’t have. His perseverance and efforts resulted in capturing the attention of Park Jin Young, CEO of JYP Entertainment, a talent agency in Korea.

He started as a backup dancer and got his debut album called “Bad Guy” on 2002. It was a hit! Right after his first album, he starred at a drama series, Sang Doo! Let's Go To School. Hit after hit happened afterwards, as a singer with his hit “Ways to Avoid the Sun." (Click the link to see video) and as an actor for the successful drama “Full house”. Rain got much recognition when he won the MTV Asia Grand Slam in 2004.

For now, Rain’s success in the US is limited. But a recording duet with popular hip-hop singer, Omarion may come in the future. Fame and success doesn’t come clean controversies and issues goes side-by-side. There are legal troubles by the name “Rain” itself in the US, one of the major hindrances. Some are about financial disputes and unresolved issues up until now involving his handlers and promoters.

Despite of it all, Rain still stands still and will continue to be one of the nation’s best pop star!

Reminiscing the memories of Choi Jin Shil: “The Nation's Actress”

2008-11-07T08:26:00.000-08:00

It was on Oct. 2, 2008 when a shocking news about this famous actress hit TV screens at that day. She was found dead at her home leaving her two kids. Her death also started rumors and speculations regarding money matter related to Ahn Jae-hwan who died September the same year, another suicide case. Many has been said about her life as a star. But, this time, let’s reminisce to the early years of her life.

Choi Jin-sil was the first child of her parents Choi Guk-hyeon and Jeong Ok-sun in Seoul, South Korea on December 24, 1968. Contrary to what some people have thought, she was never been born with a silver spoon in her mouth. In fact, people used to call her "Choisujebi" because she used to eat sujebi (Korean dumpling soup) everyday instead of an ordinary wealthy meal.

Her poverty has never been a hindrance to become one of the highest paid model and actress in Korea. After she graduated high school, she debuted as a TV actress for a historical drama sponsored by a major South Korean television company called MBC (Munhwa Broadcasting Corporation). The major break for her career started when Samsung Electronics chose her as an endorser. Thus the gateway to stardom opened. Korean soap operas and movies like Our Paradise, Partisans of South Korea, My Rosy Life and The Last Scandal of My Life are just some to mention. The second season of The Last Scandal of My Life was being planned just before her death.

She may be pretty, glamorous and successful in her career but Choi Jin-sil also suffered from misfortunes starting from the murder of her former manager, Bae Byeong-su, down to her divorce with baseball player Jo Seong-min. Revealing adultery, domestic violence against Choi. The issue about money matters concerning Ahn Jae-hwan was the most unbearable according to rumors, making the fine actress take her own life on the morning of Oct. 2. With pressure bandages around her neck tied to the shower stall, the actress was proclaimed dead leaving her two kids and family behind.

She truly left a remarkable career and great name to the entertainment industry. But, fame and fortune is not the only means of happiness. Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success, as one may say.

Women Divers in Jeju Island

2008-11-05T06:04:00.000-08:00

Have you heard about women divers? They are only found in Korea and Japan. Women divers are symbols of Jeju Island. But they are dramatically decreasing. Jeju women divers have peaceful smile on their wrinkled face. It makes them friendlier like our grandmothers. They make sounds like “Ho~oi! Ho~oi”. It’s ‘Sumbisori’. Sumbisori means the sound of a long exhale after submersing themselves at the bottom of the ocean and catching marine products. Isn’t it miraculous? ^.^

The woman who dives for a living and catching marine products holds their breath for about 2 minutes at the depth of approximately over 10m below sea level. Most of the woman divers engaged at this kind of job since the age of 12 to 14 year old. Now, there are about 5600 woman divers in Jeju.

It’s a rare job in Korea. But unfortunately due to unfavorable situations, woman divers are decreasing in number. I recommend tourists to see woman divers as they set foot in Jeju Island. It will be good opportunity, witnessing one of Korea’s cultural heritages.

There is Seongsan ilchulbong, Jeju, UNESCO’s world natural heritage. If you go there you can watch Jeju women diver’s performance! The performance starts at 1:30PM and 3:00PM. You have to check schedules first before you go. Watch how they dive and gather seafoods and marine products, you can also buy them. It’s really fresh! The best thing that I can recommend is to take pictures with women divers. It’s a great way to capture and preserve the moments.

Oh, one thing I want to tell you is this to, “show respect them and clap loudly!” Most of the women divers are elder person. I think it’s important to boost their confidence. (It’s my own opinion.^^)

Listen carefully as they get out of the water. They make the sumbisori. It’s symbol of jeju women divers.

Korean wave(Hallyu) Drama Top 5

2008-11-02T05:37:00.000-08:00

Korean wave (Hallyu) Drama Top 5
(caution: with spoilers)

1. Princess hours (Goong)
2. My girl
3. The 1st shop of Coffee Prince
4. Full house
5. My name is Kim Sam Soon

1. Princess hours
Princess hours is a romantic–comedy drama about a Korean royal family story in the 21st century. (There is no royal families in Korea now.) The main Characters are Shin chae kyeong, Yi shin, Yi yool and Min hyo rin. Shin Chae-kyeong is a very creative and outgoing, normal high school girl. Her grandfather was the best friend of the the previous King. To honor his friend, the previous King commanded to make Chae-kyeong the Crown Princess, which means that she is to marry whoever the Crown Prince will be at the time of the marriage. Then, much fun, exciting love story begins. It was televised in Singapore, Thailand, Philippines, Malaysia, Canada and Turkey.

2. My girl
My girl is also a hit drama in Korea. Lee dong wook and Lee Da Hae are the main character. Lee Da Hae is a tour guide in Jeju island. Accidentally, she met Lee dong Wook while she was working. And accidentally met Lee Dong Wook again for the second time. He found out that she has a connection to his missing cousin that his grandfather has been searching for a long time. He asks Lee Da Hae to lie about being his long missing cousin. My girl was a top drama in 2006. Lee dong wook and Lee Da Hae both are good looking actor and actress. It will be great drama to watch.

3. The 1st shop of Coffee Prince
It’s one of my favorite drama, too. It's also loved by many countries. The main casts were Go En Chan, Choi Han Kyul and Choi Han Sung. Choi Han Kyul is the cocky son of a rich family who runs a food corporation. Go Eun Chan is a girl playing like a guy. Han kyul reopened a coffee shop, "The 1st shop of Coffee Prince". En Chan worked there surrounded with good looking men. Han Kyul didn’t know that En Chan is a girl but later in the story he fall in love slowly to En Chan. This drama has also a published book.

4. Full house
The world famous star ‘Rain’ is the main character along with Song Hye Gyo. Rain is a famous high caliber actor in dramas, too. Song Hye Gyo( Han ji eun) is a novelist and she live in the Full House (as the title suggests). One day, two of her friends, for money reasons, tricked her and sold her house. After that, she knew it was sold to Rain (Lee Young Jae). They live together because of the house. The love story started in this house. They had lots of love quarrels too. It’s as fresh as a daisy. But, the best thing about this drama is the actor Rain, himself. For Rain fanatics out there, this is a great chance to see him in live action drama.

5. My name is Kim Sam Soon

My name is Kim Sam Soon is one of the funny and hilarious love story drama in Korea with a program rating of over 50 %. The main characters are Kim Seon A, Hyun-bin , Daniel Henny and Jung Ryu Won. They are popular stars in Korea. Kim Sam Soon is a baker who studied in France. She is a very talented baker. She broke with his boy friend on Christmas eve the same day she met Hyun Jin Hun. Jin Hun needs a baker in his restaurant. Sam Soon has immediately hired but they fought like cats and dogs. In the end, they fall in love. It’s comical, fun and with a romantic touch when they have love quarrels. I recommend this drama to someone who want to see handsome guys and fun stories.

Teddy Bear Museum ( Jeju Island, Korea )

2008-11-02T03:35:00.000-08:00

There is Teddy bear museum in Jeju Island, Korea. When you were still a kid, all you ever have was your Teddy bear as a best friend. There are so many kinds of teddy bears in this museum. It opened in 2001. It contains two galleries, a museum gift shop, and a museum cafe. You can see funny bears too like Disney bears, Charlie Chaplin bears, Mona Lisa bears and so on. There are even futuristic bears. They are so cute. It will definitely capture the child in us and every girl’s heart. After looking around to these lovely bears, you can drop by the teddy store. There are over 800 teddy bear products in the store. You can buy teddy bears, key chain, pencil case etc...

Visit Jeju teddy bear museum. You will enjoy looking around the variety lovely teddy bears...

Teddy means?
Two conflicting stories about the origin of teddy bear came out in the early years. But the well known story was that the toy “Teddy bear” came after Theodore Roosevelt’s name. It was November 1902 when Theodore Roosevelt went bear hunting. Unfortunately, He didn't catch a bear. So one of his presidential aides recommended him to capture bear cubs but Roosevelt refused. He thought it's not against the laws of nature and should let the cubs loose and wander freely. It became a political cartoon in Washington post. Then, people started to call Roosevelt, Teddy.

Regulation on Hairstyles in Korean High School!

2008-11-02T03:25:00.000-08:00

Our school has regulations on hairstyles. It's 3cm under the ears length. How strict it is? But students have to observe it. Some schools are out of this regulation but some are not. Do you know why teachers make this strict regulation for students? They said, it influences students’ marks and their behavior. Good behavior and sound attitudes are the basis of being responsible. Talk and discussion alone are good but it cannot be acquire by them alone. Teaching and studying are insufficient for the inculcation of good habits and a sense of duty; in these matters practice, pride and correction are fundamental and, thus, the school operates a set of rules which all students are expected to adhere every day. So, In Korea, students have been in constant argument with teachers because of the regulations.

Hair restrictions, in particular, started in Japanese colonialists between 1910 and 1945. It's because school wants to restrict students from the freedom of making their own choices and according to the school’s management, no aspect of a student’s appearance should deliberately draw attention to him/herself. In 1982, many schools are considering the regulations in their own discretion while some others implement this strictly. So it's a very controversial problem and issue between students and teachers.

Personally, I want to have a long hair. What do you think about the hair restrictions in Korean school?

Seowon: The place for well-renowned leaders

2008-10-14T08:33:00.001-07:00

A person who leaves mark in history and someone who transcends with time have one thing in common. They have an unshakable principle in their mind and a person, a mentor or someone that they look up to and help them to become who they are and attain the heights of their greatness. There will be no Thomas Edison without the makings of his mother. Without Mozart's father, Mozart would be nothing and his gallant approach to classical music will never be heard. Helen Keller would overcame almost insurmountable odds and be an inspiration to everyone without Ann Sullivan. Going back to the Joseon Dynasty of Korea, parents placed a great emphasis on moral education when teaching their children. Seowon was molded and by embraced the values in Joseon Dynasty.

Tour by definition is a journey for business, pleasure, or education where someone sees and experience the nature and customs, aside from their own. But for me, tour is an experience that will place me in the heart of one’s native culture and spirit. And by that, Seowon answers a foreigner’s need to be captivated by Korea’s culture. There area hundred and one reasons why we have to set foot on Seowon.

First, let’s get to know more about Dosanseowon, built in the 1560’s by LeeHwang, a great Confucian scholar. He educated and molded his students to be a genuine honest man full of integrity and pride. Dosanseowon is also the alma mater of many great scholars. Dosanseowon all started as a small scale private school. But its well educated students made marks in history that gave the school and the town in general, its credibility and live on to the footsteps and memory of LeeHwang and his contributions.

Second, Sosuseowon, the very first Seowon established in Korea, was built in 1542 by Jusebung, also a Confucian scholar who wants to cherish the memory and commemorate Anhyang. Anhyang was another great Confucian scholar of the Goryeo Dynasty. The name Sosuseowon itself means rebuilding the broken confucianism and maintain it. This Seowon may not be as big as others but you can feel the sense of freedom and purity as you enter Sosuseowon. Next to it is a beautiful free flowing river called Nakdong. You will probably think that Seowon is the haven for Korean scholars where they could establish their ambition and spread their philosophy.
I personally visited Sosuseowon before. My stress and worries suddenly disappears as I enter this Seowon. It gave me the feeling of tranquility that I have never felt before. The breeze coming from the Nakdong River as it surrounds the Sosuseowon made my mind at ease. As I set foot on this place and walk around, it made me understand the gracefulness of my ancestors. And, I know that Seowon, the popular Confucianism cultural area, will be a journey worth every step for foreigners who will visit.

Currently, we are on a fast phase world and people make every minute counts. Students study hard and compete among other at a battle arena called the University where every one is struggling to be the next global leader. Adults are getting more responsible for their work and moves forward for national development. When you feel tired and burned out of your work, how about visiting Seowon and taking your mind at rest? Seowon will help you find the true meaning and essence of life. Leehwang, who established Dosanseowon once said, "One should not make the purpose in scholarship just to get into the highest public appointment but study for the reasons of humanity and practice virtue that is the most matured step and the real purpose of education". Life is like a constant battle ground for survival. Visit and have a chance to reflect on yourself at the headquarters of education, Seowon.

세상을 이끄는 사람이 되고 싶으세요? 한국의 서원으로 오세요.
역사에 남을 위인, 시대를 초월하여 많은 이에게 감동을 주는 사람들을 보면 한가지 공통점이 있다. 그들은 모두 견실한 도덕 원칙을 가졌다. 또한 그 옆에는 그 원칙을 바로 세워 준 부모 혹은 부모를 대신한 멘토가 있다. 에디슨의 어머니, 모차르트의 아버지, 헬렌 켈러의 스승 설리번 선생처럼 말이다. 우리나라 조선시대에도 자녀를 가르칠 때 무엇보다 도덕 교육에 중심을 두었다. 이 역할을 수행했던 조선시대의 교육기관에는 ‘서원’이 있다. 대표적인 서원에는 경상북도 안동에 있는 도산서원과 경상북도 영주시에 있는 소수서원이 있다.
관광은 일상적인 거주지를 벗어나 다른 장소를 방문하여 그 지역의 자연환경과 풍습을 경험하며 유람하는 일이라고 한다. 하지만 내가 생각하는 관광은 그 나라 고유의 정신과 문화를 체험하고 느끼는 것이라고 생각한다. 이런 뜻에서 내가 지금 추천하고 있는 조선의 서원들은 외국인들이 우리나라의 정서를 이해하고 공감 할 수 있는 충분한 장소라고 할 수 있다.

먼저, 도산서원은 조선 중기 성리학의 대학자인 이황이 60세의 나이인 1560년에 세운 사학 교육 기관이다. 이곳에서 이황은 자신의 인격을 수양하고 학문을 연구하면서 강론을 통해 참되고 바른 인재를 많이 길러 내었다. 본래 도산서원은 세 칸 기와의 조그마한 서당이었는데, 이황이 죽은 뒤 제자들과 유림들이 힘을 합쳐 도산서당 뒤편에 이황을 추모하고 학문을 이어받기 위해 도산서원을 세웠다고 한다. 도산서원 주위에는 높지도, 크지도 않은 산이 병풍처럼 감싸고 있으며 산수가 맑고 아름다워 누구나 한번쯤은 학문을 닦고 싶은 생각이 들 정도이다. 이렇게 조용하고 운치있는 곳에서 학문을 닦는다면 자연스럽게 자연과 함께 하는 삶을 배울 수 있을 것 같다는 생각이 들것이다. 도산서원은 한국의 역사, 그리고 조상들의 학문이 그대로 묻어나 한국의 정서를 마음껏 느낄 수 있는 장소이다. 도산서원을 한번 천천히 돌아보면 자연 속에서 마음의 평온함을 느낄 수 있을 것이다. 흐르는 강물을 배경삼아 걱정을 띄워 보내 삶을 조금 더 풍요롭게 만들고 싶으면 도산서원이 제격이다.

두 번째로, 소수서원은 우리나라 최초의 서원이다. 1542년 성리학자 주세붕이 고려말의 유학자 안향을 추모하며 세웠다. 소수서원의 뜻은 무너진 유학을 다시 이어 닦게 한다라는 뜻이다. 서원은 크지는 않지만 자유롭고, 자연스러운 서원의 모습을 보면 우리 나라 선비들의 큰 뜻을 마음껏 펼칠 수 있었던 장소라는 느낌을 받을 수 있을 것이다. 소수서원 옆에는 아름다운 낙동강이 흐르고 있다. 나 역시 소수서원을 방문해 본적이 있다. 일상 생활 속에서 바쁘게만 움직이던 나에게 가슴이 트이는 시원함을 안겨준 소수서원, 낙동강은 편안함 그 자체로 느껴졌다. 한 걸음 한 걸음 흙바닥을 내딛을 때마다 우리나라 선조들의 운치를 고스란이 느낄 수 있었다. 유교문화권의 대표적인 장소로 꼽히는 소수서원은 앞으로 외국인들에게도 크게 사랑받는 장소로 꼽힐 것이다. 지금 우리 정부는 수 조원을 들여 우리나라의 얼이 담긴 이곳을 국제적인 관광지로 개발 중이라고 한다. 소수서원에서는 관광객들을 위한 특별한 체험도 마련되어있다. 서예와 탁본을 할 수 있는 준비가 되어있어 직접 붓글씨와 탁본을 해볼 수 있다. 우리 조상들의 일상을 체험해보는 좋은 기회가 될 듯하다.

지금 이 시각의 세계는 1분 1초가 아까울 정도로 빠르고 긴박하게 돌아가고 있다. 학생들은 치열한 입시준비 속에서 세계 속의 리더가 되기 위해 공부중이고, 어른들은 자신의 일을 책임지고 국가의 발전을 위해 움직이는 중이다. 각자의 의무에 시달리는 중, 자연 속의 편안함을 느낄 수 있는 서원을 방문해보면 어떨까. 서원은 사람들에게 진정한 삶의 의미를 발견할 기회를 줄 것이다. 도산서원을 설립하신 퇴계선생은 높은 벼슬에 오르고 명성을 얻어서 출세하는 데 학문의 목적이 있는 것이 아니라 인간의 도리를 탐구하고 덕행을 실천함으로써 인격적으로 가장 성숙된 단계에 오르는 것에 목적을 두셨다. 치열한 삶 속에서 진정한 세계인으로 거듭나기 위해 교육의 근거지인 서원을 방문해 자신을 되돌아보는 기회를 만들길 바란다.