Korea [2008 Vol. 4 No. 11]

www.korea.net Opening a communicative space between Korea and the world

November 2008 VOL. 4 NO. 11

6 12 6

34 Cover

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Korea’s Autumn Festivals

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60

People

Korean Guitar Prodigy Rises as a Star on the Web ‘Arirang’ Played by N.K. Pianist in Washington

12

Diva for Homeland on New Album

Diplomacy

President Lee’s Summit Diplomacy in ASEM

44 14 Cover photo Hahoe Mask Dance

Global Korea

A Classic Walk around Samcheong-dong

‘Made in Korea’ Shines in Belgium

A Trip Back to Olden Times — Suncheon City

The 50th Anniversary of Korea-Thailand Relations

Photo by Back Sung-tae

Heart Surgeries for Six Iraqi Children

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Publisher Yoo Jin-hwan Korean Culture and Information Service Editing & Printing Herald Media Inc.

20

National

Presidential Archives Set to Introduce Korea to the World

54

Design toga design

24

Science

Charity Market Turns into Multicultural Festival

World’s Largest Solar Power Plant

The Busan Biennale

Korea’s First Rocket Unveiled

62 26

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4 KOREA NOVEMBER 2008

Books

Culture

Hunminjeongeum Translated into Four Languages

Joseon Painters Bring Crowds to Gansong Museum

Chinese Ceramics at the National Museum of Korea

Animal Paintings Symbolize Folk Belief

66 34

Cultural Figure

Violinist Sarah Chang 발간등록번호: 11-1110073-000016-06

Events

Seoul Design Olympiad

The articles published in Korea do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher. The publisher is not liable for errors or omissions. Letters to the editor should include the writer’s full name and address. Letters may be edited for clarity and/or space restrictions.

Food

Jeju’s Traditional Liquor — Omegisul

E-mail [email protected]

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without permission from Korea and the Korean Culture and Information Service.

Travel

Foreign Viewpoint

My Impression of Korea — Paraguayan Ambassador Ceferino Valdez

26 NOVEMBER 2008 KOREA 5

COVER

Unique Festivals Add to Korea’s Autumn Flavor

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ith its crisp air and crystal blue sky, autumn is the season most widely loved by locals and foreigners. The countryside is particularly beautiful, colored in a multitude of rustic hues. Mountains and hills are ablaze with autumn foliage. Rich traditional and unique festivals across the nation beckon tourists with mild temperatures. The folk festivals rooted in ancient agrarian customs give flavor to Korea’s autumn.

Fortress Circumambulation in Gochang One of the famous autumn festivals is

The Fortress Circumambulation in Gochang 6 KOREA NOVEMBER 2008

the Fortress Circumambulation in Gochang, Jeollabuk-do. The fortress, called Moyangseong, was built during the early Joseon Dynasty. It is surrounded by Bandeungsan and has three gates, two floodgates and a covering tower. Fortress Circumambulation has been handed down and preserved as a unique folk custom. Oral tradition states that if you walk around the fortress once with a stone on your head, all diseases will be cured. If you walk around three times, you will go to paradise. The annual event is generally held in early October for five days.

A farmers’ traditional band heralds the opening of the Moyangseong Festival in Gochang NOVEMBER 2008 KOREA 7

COVER

Information on Autumn Festivals Gochang Moyangseongje http://gochang.go.kr/festival Prehistoric Culture Festival http://sunsa.ro.to Acha Mountain Goguryeo Festival http://www.gwangjin.go.kr/english Andong Mask Dance Festival http://www.maskdance.com Pampas Grass Festival http://worldcuppark.seoul.go.kr/eng http://www.jangheung.go.kr/english

Prehistoric Culture Festival

Prehistoric Culture and Goguryeo Festivals in Seoul Seoul offers tourists valuable information on ancient life in Korea through two folk festivals. One of the two festivals is the Prehistoric Culture Festival, organized by Gangdong-gu Office in eastern Seoul, which is annually held around Oct. 10. The festival is performed in and around the Amsa-dong Prehistoric Housing Site. During the event, participants can experience the life of old. Other activities include learning old dances and musical instruments and making earthenware. Around the same time, another event called the Acha Mountain

Goguryeo Festival is held on the mountain’s historic site. Along with Baekje and Silla, Goguryeo (37 B.C.A.D. 668) was one of the Three Kingdoms of Korea. Ahead of the festival, major streets in Neung-dong area of Gwangjin-gu, Rendezvous Square of Acha Mountain Park and Gwangjin Square are decorated with banner flags to create the atmosphere for the festival. The festival begins with a street parade of about 500 people, who wear Goguryeo clothing and ornaments. Modern-day Goguryeo horsemen will also take part. Various cultural events are offered during the three-day festival, such as the Goguryeo Martial Arts Performance, which shows the dynamic skills of Goguryeo horsemen.

Acha Mountain Goguryeo Festival 1 A festival organizer holds a ritual to open the Acha Mountain Goguryeo Festival in eastern Seoul 2 “Gyeongseodo Sorigeuk,” a traditional musical, being performed as part of a cultural event for the Goguryeo Festival in Seoul

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3 Actors in Goguryeo Martial Arts Performance

Children experience Korea’s primitive life at the Prehistoric Culture Festival in Seoul

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NOVEMBER 2008 KOREA 9

COVER

Pampas Grass If you want to see Korea’s natural autumn beauty, visit Cheongwansan, a mountain in Jangheung, Jeollanamdo, which offers a magnificent view of pampas grass. The scenic beauty of the pampas glass field on top of the mountain represents the romantic fall season. Pampas grass can easily be seen growing in Korean suburbs throughout the autumn season. Other famous pampas grass fields are Mindungsan in Gangwon-do and Sky Park, located near Seoul World Cup Stadium. Jeongseon-gun in Gangwon-do holds a pampas grass festival every year from late September to November. ■

1

1 The Bukcheong Saja-nori, a lion mask dance 2 The Hahoe Byeolsin Exorcism Mask Dance 3 Foreign tourists experience a mask-making event at the Andong Hahoe Folk Village

2

Andong Mask Dance Festival This is a must-see festival for locals and foreign tourists. It is held every year for about 10 days, between the end of September and the beginning of October. The world-renowned festival was first held in 1997, drawing more than 800,000 visitors every year. The festival includes domestic and international mask dance performances, as well as modern performances and mime. Mask dances were a way for ordinary people to express their views on society.

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Yonhap

3

The pampas grass field at Sky Park near Seoul World Cup Stadium NOVEMBER 2008 KOREA 11

Yonhap

Yonhap

DIPLOMACY

President Lee Myung-bak shakes hands with French President Nicolas Sarkozy (center) and European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso in Beijing on Oct. 25

infrastructure expansion projects, including

A Series of Bilateral Summits

the construction of atomic power plants, Lee’s spokesman said. Lee’s summit with French President Nicolas Sarkozy on Oct. 25 produced an agreement to cooperate on concluding ongoing free trade agreement negotiations be-

On the sidelines of the ASEM conference,

ritorial and historical conflicts earlier this year.

President Lee held separate talks with leaders

Korea and Vietnam agreed to further widen

from France, Poland, Denmark, Vietnam and

“comprehensive partnership relations” by in-

Lee and Sarkozy also agreed to cooperate

Japan.

tensively promoting closer cooperation in the

closely to produce substantive agreements to

fields of economy, investment, education and

fight the global financial crisis at the Group of

tourism, Korean officials said.

20 summit slated for mid-November in

President Lee and Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso agreed to cooperate more closely in Korean President Lee Myung-bak (center, front row) and other leaders from Asian and European countries pose for a group photo during the opening ceremony of the seventh ASEM summit in Beijing on Oct. 24

combating the global financial crisis and ac-

The agreement was reached at a summit

celerating the denuclearization of North Korea.

between President Lee and Vietnamese

The two leaders also agreed to resume bi-

K

orean President Lee Myung-bak called for overhauling the roles and functions of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank in order for the world to overcome the current financial turmoil and prevent the recurrence of a similar crisis in the future. In a keynote speech at the opening session of the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) summit in Beijing on Oct. 24, Lee asserted that emerging Asian economies should be allowed to reflect their positions in the restructuring of the international financial organizations. “The existing international financial system did not function properly because it failed to keep pace with globalization, revolutions in information and technology, as well as the 12 KOREA NOVEMBER 2008

rapidly changing international economic environment in general,” said Lee. “In light of this, we hope to see discussions take place that will strengthen the role and function of the IMF and the World Bank, whereby we will have an improved mechanism equipped with an early warning and surveillance system, effectively warning us of possible dangers.” The biennial ASEM summit opened in Beijing on Oct. 24, with the global financial crisis the key focus of attention among participating leaders of 43 member nations and heads of the European Commission and the ASEAN Secretariat. ASEM nations account for roughly 60 percent of the world’s gross domestic product. Earlier, leaders of Korea, China, Japan and 10 member states of the

Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) met over breakfast in Beijing and agreed to create an US$80 billion joint fund by next June to fight regional financial crises. The so-called ASEAN Plus Three countries also agreed to push for the establishment of a regional economic surveillance organization to ensure greater financial stability in the region. Before concluding the speech, Lee expressed high expectations for the Group of 20 summit slated for midNovember in Washington D.C., saying that the upcoming summit meeting is expected to generate “substantive and productive” results through closer consultations between emerging and advanced economies. Lee is scheduled to attend the Group of 20 summit. ■

lateral shuttle summit diplomacy, long sus-

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk asked

pended following the outbreak of bilateral ter-

for greater Korean participation in its massive

end of this year.

Washington D.C. Jose Manuel Barroso, president of the European Commission, was also on hand at the Lee-Sarkozy meeting to call for a swift conclusion of Korea-EU FTA negotiations. ■

President Lee attends (center) attends the World Leaders Forum in Seoul on Oct. 30

Lee Calls for Korea’s Leading Role in Global Economic Order Change

Speaking at the World Leaders Forum in Seoul on Oct. 30, Korean President Lee Myung-bak called for Korea’s leading role in reshaping the international economic order. The one-day forum, hosted by the South Korean government

Yonhap

President Lee Seeks Global Efforts to Overcome Financial Crisis

Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung.

tween Korea and the European Union by the

in commemoration of its 60th founding an-

Former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir

Francis Fukuyama of Johns Hopkins

niversary, brought together scores of influen-

bin Mohamad said “Korea emerged only after

University said while many have talked about

tial world leaders and prominent academics,

the (1950-53) war and therefore its experi-

Korea's economic miracle, there has been a

including 15 former heads of state.

ence is quite new. I am quite sure Koreans re-

political miracle as well. “Korea has gone from

“At the financial crisis summit scheduled in

member the difficulties they had faced in de-

a dictatorship to a functioning democracy in a

Washington on Nov. 15, I will commit myself

veloping their country.” “I think South Korea

single generation,” he said.

to promoting international cooperation on

can still play this role to provide the region

Former U.S. Defense Secretary William S.

measures to reinvigorate the world economy,

with a model. I am quite sure even China

Cohen called on South Korea to continue

including the reorganization of the internation-

must have learned something from Korea's

such efforts to weather the financial crisis and

al financial system,” Lee said.

development.”

bring lasting peace to the peninsula. ■

NOVEMBER 2008 KOREA 13

Yonhap

day, and the event’s finale will showcase B-boy performances. Twenty-five Korean films from famous directors such as Kim Ki-duk and Lee Chang-dong screen during the event.

Yonhap

GLOBAL KOREA

The Korean and Belgium governments each supported 2.1 billion and 3.2 billion won, respectively, for this event.

Visitors walk past a Korean Buddha statue installed at BOZAR

Visitors take a look at a golden crown of the Silla Dynasty

The National Orchestra of Korea performs Gugak at the opening ceremony Yonhap

‘Made in Korea’ Shines in Belgium

treasures and eight treasures. “Made in Korea” concentrates on Korean culture, from traditional foods, art and books to plays and performances. “Gugak,” or Korean traditional music, filled the air on the opening

“There has never been an event this big to introduce Korea to the world,” said Yu In-chon, the minister of culture, sports and tourism, during the opening ceremony. “This festival will show the world Korea’s power, which came to be after dramatic growth during the past 60 years.” The event is hosted by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the National Museum of Korea and the Belgium BOZAR. “The Smile of Buddha” will run through Jan. 18, and “Made in Korea” will continue until Feb. 28. ■

BY PARK MIN-YOUNG STAFF WRITER

Yonhap

A

Korean Culture Minister Yu In-chon (third from right) and Belgium officials look at the Bangasayusang, a Contemplative Bodhiattva statue

14 KOREA NOVEMBER 2008

mega-size event to introduce Korean culture to the world officially opened at BOZAR, the Center for Fine Arts, in Brussels, Belgium, on Oct. 9. More than 1,200 people visited BOZAR on opening day, proving the rising popularity of Korean culture. The festival is composed of two major expositions — “The Smile of Buddha” and “Made in Korea.” “The Smile of Buddha” is the biggest Buddhism exposition in the world. It has 209 pieces of Korean Buddhism art, including four national NOVEMBER 2008 KOREA 15

GLOBAL KOREA

Celebration for 50th Anniversary of Korea-Thailand Relations Gugak performance at the Korea Festival 2008 in Siam Paragon

BY PARK MIN-YOUNG STAFF WRITER

Xing, a Korean group of singers, throw a performance

M

Ice, a Thai idol star, performs on stage

Officials pose at the Korea Festival 2008 in Siam Paragon

any Korean cultural events are being held in Bangkok, Thailand, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of friendship between the two countries. A commemorative ceremony took place on Oct. 1 in Bangkok in the presence of hundreds of diplomatic and cultural officials from both countries. Thailand’s Korean residents also took part. “Interchanges between the two countries, which were insignificant 50 years ago, have now rapidly increased,” said President Lee Myung-bak during his congratulatory address, which Kim Jang-sil, the vice minister of Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, read by proxy. “Both countries should make a new leap into the future based on these accomplishments.” During the ceremony, “Clown,” a Korean traditional percussion quartet, and the National Dance Company of Korea gave a celebratory performance called “Korea Fantasy.” Various events followed afterwards. The National Museum of Contemporary Art ran the exhibition “Daily life in Korea” at the Queen’s Gallery in Bangkok from Oct. 2 to 21. The Korean Residents Association of Thailand and the Korea Thailand Communication Center hosted “Korea Festival 2008” in Siam Paragon, a shopping center in Bangkok, from Oct. 10 to 12. A “Hanbok” (Korean traditional costume) fashion show and “Gugak” (Korean traditional music) performances were put on for the audience. Korean movie star Kim Rae-won made a visit for the “Meet a Korean celebrity” event on Oct. 11. He was the ambassador of the festival. More fun is to be held. The national taekwondo demonstration team will perform on Nov. 12, and the Andre Kim fashion show is planned for Dec. 13. “Nanta,” a famous non-verbal performance, will be staged Dec. 12 to 21. Korea and Thailand established a bilateral relationship on Oct. 1, 1958, based on improved ties during the 1950-53 Korean War. ■ (Photos courtesy of KOIS)

Officials from 32 countries participate in training and education for the prohibition of chemical weapons

2008 International Assistance and Protection Course BY PARK MIN-YOUNG STAFF WRITER

T

he Ministry of National Defense and the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons of the Chemical Weapons Convention held the “International Assistance and Protection Course” from Sept. 22 to 26. The course offered information on defense, materials, science and technology — which could be used in case of terrorist strikes or chemical accidents. Korea is the first Asian country to host this program. It normally takes place in European countries, but the OPCW made a request to host it in Seoul in 2005, alluding to Korea’s excellent chemical defense skills. It has been held in Seoul for the past four years. This year, 32 officials from 23 countries participated, including Russia, China, Iran and Australia.

The program focused on education for individual and collective protection systems in case of chemical accidents or terrorist strikes. It also touched on detecting the presence of narcotics and their use. Many institutes in Korea — including the National Army Chem, Bio, and Radiological Defense Command, Seoul City, National Police Agency, National Emergency Management Agency, and National 119 Rescue Service — participated in the course. “I believe this CWC education will increase exchanges in the chemical defense field between member nations,” said an official of the Ministry of National Defense. “The Ministry of National Defense will do its best to be prepared for any possible terrorist strikes in the future.” ■

The program focused on education for individual and collective protection systems in case of chemical accidents or terrorist strikes.

(Photos courtesy of Defense Ministry) NOVEMBER 2008 KOREA 17

GLOBAL KOREA

Feeling better, children play cards with their mothers

Six Iraqi children who received heart surgeries and their family make the sign of a heart above their heads

‘Thank You, Korea’ Heart Surgeries for Six Iraqi Children a Flying Success BY PARK MIN-YOUNG STAFF WRITER

18 KOREA NOVEMBER 2008

S

ix Iraqi children returned to their country on Oct. 15 after having their heart-related diseases cured in Korea. They arrived in Korea on Sept. 23 through the invitation of a charity foundation made up of Korea Exchange Bank and Sejong General Hospital. The foundation funded the surgeries after Korean peacekeeping troops of the Zaytun unit in Iraq diagnosed them with congenital forms of heart disease. The six suffered from heart diseases which can be cured when treated early but can be deadly if not. They

needed prompt treatment but could not afford it. They were all in serious condition by the time they arrived in Korea. Risk was high for 6-year-old Ranea Selah, who suffered from a congenital malformation of the heart. “Even doing a close examination was dangerous for her, not to mention undergoing surgery,” said Dr. Kim Sujin of Sejong General Hospital. In what was likely a miracle, Ranea survived four complex surgeries and is rapidly recovering. So are the rest of the kids.

“Compared to the day they first arrived, they are incredibly healthy and their complexion looks good,” said Dr. Kim. “They will be able to live healthy lives with their normal hearts now.” Now full of energy, the six — from the youngest, Hawkar Mujafar, who is one and a half, to the oldest, Sana Farup, who is 12 — cannot stop giggling even for a second. “Thank you very much,” Sana said with a shy smile. “A million thank yous would not be enough, as Korea has saved my life. I feel more like a Korean than Iraqi now, since they gave me a Korean heart.” Sana cannot wait to go to school and be with her friends. For the younger ones, the moms couldn’t wait to send them off to kindergarten. “I never let him go outside at all before. But now, he can attend kindergarten when we go back,” said Abdulla Najat’s mother, stroking her son’s head. “We want to thank the Korean government and the Zaytun unit for giving us this wonderful opportunity,”

she added. This is not the first time the Korean military and hospitals have worked side by side to save Iraqi lives. Sejong General Hospital, the Zaytun unit and other charity foundations co-sponsored surgeries in 2007 for Iraq war amputees and patients with heart disease. The kids toured Seoul on Oct. 14. It was a meaningful day for them, as they were outdoors without worrying about getting sick. Getting ready for the big day out, 12-year-old Sarwar Kadir expresses his excitement by running around the hospital. He was always optimistic, even on the day of his arrival, wearing a suit and shiny shoes to commemorate his visit to Korea. Now that he is healthy, he is a ball of energy. “Feel like you can run really fast?” someone asks him. “Of course!” Sarwar answers proudly with a mischievous smirk on his face — just like any other 12-year-old. ■

Sarwar Kadir poses with his doctor

(Photos by The Korea Herald) NOVEMBER 2008 KOREA 19

(From top) Visitors look around the state exposition hall Visitors look around the presidential exposition hall

NATIONAL

Presidential Archives Set to Introduce Korea to the World BY PARK MIN-YOUNG STAFF WRITER

Brief records of each president in the presidential exposition hall

Nara Archive Center in Seongnam, Gyeonggi-do

T

he Presidential Archives opened in the Nara (National State) Archive Center in Seongnam, Gyeonggi-do, in December 2007. The nine-floor — including two basement floors — national archive, equipped with ultra-modern protection systems, is capable of storing 4 million volumes. It consists of a state archive and a presidential one. As a part of the state archive which holds important documents and records of the nation, the Presidential Archive was established this April to specially manage and preserve the valuable recordings related to the presidents. It holds more than 8 million pieces

20 KOREA NOVEMBER 2008

of data of the former and present presidents — from those of the first President Syngman Rhee to the present President Lee Myung-bak’s presidential transition team. “Korea is the first country to manage the ex-presidents’ archives all together,” says Hong Won-ki, a staff member of the policy coordination team of the Presidential Archives. Historical documents, such as the 14th President Kim Young-sam’s urgent announcement regarding the real-name accounting system and the 15th President Kim Dae-jung’s June 15 South-North Joint Declaration, are found there.

Some documents are classified and will not be open to the public for 15 to 30 years. “This stops many documents from being abolished due to sensitive matters,” explained Hong. “We will preserve them well and after a certain period of time the public will be able to see them. This is a better way to uphold the people’s right to know.” The archives are well preserved. Sterilization before stocking the documents is obligatory, and they also go through a deoxidization process considering their condition of acidity. A restoration team fixes damaged documents of high value. It is such

“Korea is the first country to manage the ex-presidents’ archives all together,” says Hong Won-ki, a staff member of the policy coordination team of the Presidential Archives. NOVEMBER 2008 KOREA 21

NATIONAL

A researcher deoxidizes documents before storing them

A restoration team fixes damaged documents

22 KOREA NOVEMBER 2008

A staff member edits a video

time-consuming work that even the well-trained professionals there can only amend one item per day. “Korea has one of the top skills in this field,” says Ko Yeon-suk, a curator in the Records Restoration Room. The Archive is armed with protection systems to prevent theft or corrosion. The walls and roof are double layered to maintain the right temperature and humidity, and the walls of the repository are made with copperplate on the inside to intercept electromagnetic waves. In case of a fire, inergen sprays out in the repository instead of water to protect the documents. A radio-frequency identification system keeps track of all the documents. There are two exposition rooms on the first floor, the state exposition hall, which briefly exhibits the archival history of Korea, and the presidential exposition hall. The presidential exposition hall has six sections. The section called “Presidents with the People” shows photos and video clips of the presidents being with the people. “The Chronological Presidential History” introduces brief records of each president.

“Presidents’ National Administration Records” exhibits documents and video clips of important presidential affairs. “Presents from World Leaders” displays various souvenirs the presidents received from overseas. Some corners are for children. At the “Be a President” section, the president’s office is prepared for children to take photos in. “Children, the Leaders of the Future” informs children about the administrations’ processes through flash animation. Now that a great amount of presidential records are fashioned online, the National Archives of Korea constructed the Presidential Web Records Service last July. It will start service next year. The National Archives of Korea is on its first steps to introduce Korean archival culture to the world. It held the International Archives Exhibition & Conference 2008 from Oct. 30 to Nov. 1 at COEX in southern Seoul. It is planning on hosting the International Archives Culture Expo 2010 in Korea. For more information, visit www.pa.go.kr ■ (Photos by The Korea Herald)

(From top) A staff member looks through documents in the repository Visitors look at the gifts presidents received from world leaders

NOVEMBER 2008 KOREA 23

SCIENCE

World’s Largest Solar Power Plant to Go into Operation in Sinan-gun

The solar power generation modules installed in Sinan-gun

24 KOREA NOVEMBER 2008

power plant using the “1-Axis Tracking System,” which makes solar modules automatically move toward the direction of the sun. ■

An aerial view of the world’s largest solar power plant in Sinan-gun

Korea’s First Rocket Unveiled at Naro Space Center

T

he state-run Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI) has unveiled the mock-up of a rocket designed to send a domestically produced research satellite into orbit next year from the country’s spaceport in Goheung, Jeollanam-do. A successful launch from Naro Space Center would make Korea the ninth country in the world to launch its own satellite on home soil. The Korea Space Launch Vehicle-1 (KSLV1) rocket will be launched some time

during the second quarter of next year. The KSLV-1 is a carrier rocket designed for transporting satellites. Naro Space Center also unveiled a 30-meterlong launch pad, which is not stationary. The space center represents Korea’s first step to become a major player in the exploration of space. The center consists of facilities for satellite control, testing and assembly, press center, launch facility, electric power station, space experience hall and landing field. ■

KARI

T

he world’s largest solar power plant in Sinan-gun, Jeollanamdo, will start operating in midNovember. Dongyang Engineering and Construction Corp. will hold a dedication ceremony for the power plant with in attendance Prime Minister Han Seong-soo and other dignitaries on Nov. 15. The plant generates a capacity of 35,000MW annually on a site that is 670,000 square meters, a size equivalent to 93 soccer stadiums. It can generate enough electricity to power more than 10,000 homes. The company invested a total of 200 billion won for the construction of the plant. The size of the plant is the largest of its kind in Korea, and it is the world’s largest in terms of a solar

Engineers assemble the ground test vehicle, a mock-up of the KSLV-1 rocket, at KARI’s assembly complex in Goheung, Jeollanam-do

The launch system installed at the Naro Space Center in Goheung

NOVEMBER 2008 KOREA 25

CULTURE The Gansong Art Museum Seongbuk Elementary School

Hansung University Subway Station, Line 4

4

How to Get There The Gansong Art Museum is located in Seongbuk-dong, northern Seoul. To get to the museum take the subway to Hansung University Subway Station, Line 4. The museum is a five-minute taxi ride away.

Jeongi’s “Maehwaseook” (A library in the apricot woods)

Joseon Painters Bring Crowds to Gansong Museum BY JEAN OH KOREA HERALD STAFF WIRTER

E

Gansong Art Museum

26 KOREA NOVEMBER 2008

arly into the second day of Gansong Art Museum’s long-awaited fall exhibition, visitors continue to crowd the first and second floors of the building. Eager to catch a glimpse of the works of some of the Joseon Dynasty’s finest artists, viewers wait patiently in line, peering into the wavering glass cases. Just four months ago on the second day of Gansong’s spring exhibition — which showcased a series of works by famed painter Jang Seung-up and his contemporaries — the museum was comparatively empty. No long lines, no need to crane one’s neck to get a look at the paintings, Gansong was a temple of peace and beauty. This time, however, is an entirely different story. Choi Wan-su, representative of the museum attributed the overwhelming turnout to the popularity of late Joseon Dynasty artist Shin Yun-bok, whose art was on display.

“I feel that this year, because Shin Yun-bok is already a prominent artist, I think that it had an influence on the number of visitors who came,” he said. This seems to be the year of Shin: He is the subject of the currently-airing SBS drama “The Painter of Wind,” a movie about him is slated to hit the big screen in November and his art was the center of attention at Gansong. “Our bestselling art poster is Hyewon’s ‘Miindo,’” said the representative, referring to Shin by his pseudonym, as well as to one of his masterpieces, “Miindo (Portrait of a Beautiful Woman).” According to him, the museum did not plan their exhibition around Shin Yun-bok or draw inspiration from the novel-turned-drama “The Painter of Wind.” In fact, both Shin and Kim’s work made up fraction of an exhibition brimming with painting and writing that span the Joseon Dynasty. Titled, “The 70th Anniversary of Bohwagak,” the exhibit celebrated the rich history of Gansong, formerly called Bohwagak meaning “a house with treasures of Joseon,” by taking stock of the research that has been conducted over the years and using it to select key works from the Joseon Dynasty. Though the exhibition as a whole astounded with its impressive collection of calligraphic works and elegant paintings, one could not help but be drawn to both Shin and Kim’s art. Shin’s “Miindo (Portrait of a Beautiful Woman),” in particular, captivated. This portrait of a woman —

Kim Hong-do’s “Masangcheongaeng” (Listening to an oriole from atop a horse)

NOVEMBER 2008 KOREA 27

CULTURE SBS

Actors Park Shin-yang (left) and Moon Geun-young play the roles of Kim Hong-do and Shin Yun-bok, respectively, in the drama “The Painter of the Wind”

Shin Yun-bok’s “Juyucheonggang” (Enjoying boating on a clear river)

presumably a gisaeng (Korean geisha) — artfully captured the nuances of the female heart. Expressing a certain poignancy, the painting lacked the usual sly coquetry that one attributes to gisaeng. The subject’s gaze channel a flitting sadness, contained within the butterfly arch of her delicate brows. Her willowy hands also clasp the decorative beads on her vest in a pensive manner. Fellow genre painter Kim’s work, which hung next to Shin’s, provided a stark contrast. Titled “Listening to a Chinese Oriole from Atop a Horse,” Kim’s work left the upper half of the canvas empty, subscribing to the traditional use of “void” in pre-modern Korean painting. His strokes seemed hurried and blurred, soft and without boundaries, as he captured a young scholar on a late spring day. Kim’s work evoked the season’s heady charms through his subjects. Unable to withstand the sweet seduction of this season of love, the young scholar mounted a horse and went in search of inspiration, finding it in a singing oriole atop a willow tree. Through these two works, one could understand why both Kim Hong-do, known as Danwon, and Shin Yun-bok a.k.a. Hyewon, were called two of the “Three Wons” of the Joseon Dynasty. Famed for its dedication to the preservation of national-treasure level artifacts, documents and paintings, Gansong opens its doors to the public twice a year. Its exclusive exhibitions run for less than a month, affording visitors a glimpse of the foundation’s treasures. Established in 1938 by Jeon Hyeong-pil, Gansong dedicated itself to preventing the removal of Korean cultural properties by the Japanese during the colonial period. As a result, the museum is now home to more than 20 national treasures. ■ (Photos courtesy of the Gansong Art Museum) 28 KOREA NOVEMBER 2008

SBS

New Drama on Joseon’s Legendary Painters

Actress Moon Geun-young

Shin Yun-bok’s “Miindo” (Portrait of a beautiful woman)

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ased on the bestselling novel of the same name, SBS-TV’s new drama “The Painter of the Wind” reinterprets and rewrites the lives of leaves of leading Joseon Dynasty painters Kim Hong-do and Shin Yu-bok. While the series retains the usual elements of intrigue and murder, politics and warfare take a back seat. Romance and the essence of the late Joseon Dynasty, an era of reform and cultural renaissance, come to the forefront, imbuing the period piece with a strong sense of humanity and intimacy. More importantly, the series takes an approach reminiscent of lush period pieces like E. J-yong’s “Untold Scandal” (2003), by focusing on issues of sexuality and gender. Posing the classically Shakespearian question: “What if the famed painter Shin Yun-bok had been a girl pretending to be a boy?” the drama — like the original novel — toys with themes of homosexuality and forbidden love while highlighting the inequalities of a male-dominated society. Actress Moon Geun-young took up the challenge of playing girl-turned-boy Shin Yun-bok. And she does a surprisingly good job of portraying a confident

and rebellious girl struggling to make it in a world ruled by men. “I tried to copy my older male costars,” said Moon, 21, at the press conference. The precocious actress did more than just mimic her male colleagues. She managed to convey the mischievous and anguished nature of her character, at times playing a sweet and innocent tomboy, at others, a cocky and seductive painter. Though there is no evidence that the real Shin was a woman, his talent at capturing the beauty of women and creating exquisite intimate paintings remains undisputed. While fellow genre painter Kim Hong-do a.k.a. Danwon (1745-1806) enjoyed a relatively prominent career as an artist, painter Shin — who was expelled from the royal painting institute, Dohwaseo — lived a more obscure life. “The Painter of Wind” takes historical liberties with the lives of Kim Hongdo and Shin Yun-bok, depicting a fullblown romance between Kim, played by Park Shin-yang, and Moon Geunyoung’s character, against the backdrop of 18th century Korea. ■ NOVEMBER 2008 KOREA 29

CULTURE

The dragon (yong)

Animal Paintings Symbolize Folk Beliefs BY SUH GONG-IM PRESIDENT OF THE KOREAN FOLK PAINTING ASSOCIATION

The tiger (horang-i)

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aintings that decorated Korean homes were not valued solely for their artistic beauty. They represented popular wishes to fend off evil spirits and invoke blessings from heaven. Across genres these pictures often featured animals. The following are some of the animals most often depicted in ancient Korean folk paintings and what they symbolized in the spiritual life of Koreans. The tiger (horang-i) was widely believed to be a compassionate guardian that protected humans and even repaid their kindness. Therefore, the tiger was usually depicted as a gentle and docile creature rather than a ferocious beast. Still, the underlying belief was that it was a fearless and valiant animal that would prevent misfortunes such as fire, flood or storm, and chase away evil spells. Tiger skins or ornaments made of tiger claws were considered to have such mysterious powers. Tiger paintings were put on the gate or other places around the house on New Year’s Day with hopes they would usher in a blissful year. The dragon (yong) was an imaginary animal that supposedly lived in the water before ascending to heaven. It was worshiped as an enigmatic and 30 KOREA NOVEMBER 2008

NOVEMBER 2008 KOREA 31

CULTURE

The dog (gae)

dignified creature comparable to emperors and kings. Like the rulers the dragon was held accountable for protecting people and the country as well as controlling water. Hence the king’s face was called “yong-an,” the throne was “yong-sang,” the king’s virtuous mind “yong-deok,” the king’s status “yong-wi,” and his official garb “yong-po.” In folk mythology the blue dragon symbolized exorcist powers, the yellow or white dragon represented the royal authority, and the fish dragon was believed to possess rainmaking powers. The rooster (dak) heralds dawn and scatters darkness, so it often appeared 32 KOREA NOVEMBER 2008

in paintings posted on middle gates. The rooster was seen to have five virtues. With its crest symbolizing a high post in civil service and sharp claws standing for military prowess, the rooster was considered valiant enough to never retreat from battle, compassionate enough to crow when it finds feed to share it with others, and credible enough to depend on for keeping time. Hence it was regarded as a virtuous fowl: the rooster, more precisely the sutak, would ensure a smooth climb up the bureaucratic ladder; the hen, or amtak, promised fertility. The phoenix(bonghwang) was a highly auspicious legendary creature

often compared to kings (bong) and queens (hwang). One of the four guardian spirits representing the four cardinal directions, the phoenix was believed to live only atop paulownia trees, eating bamboo seeds and, once stretching its wings, it could fly 90,000 li. Phoenix designs, symbolic of dignity and auspiciousness, were used for royal emblems, costumes and furniture. The Korean presidential emblem has a phoenix design. The dog (gae) has long been a smart and faithful friend of man. From ancient times it was highly prized for its geniality and loyalty to humans and considered useful for hunting and guiding as well as guarding homes. Also, the dog was believed to be capable of protecting humans from evil spirits, disease, ghosts and wicked apparitions, as well as warning and preventing disasters. As white tigers and white horses were regarded as sacred creatures, white dogs were considered indispensable for suppressing inauspicious energies lurking around a home. Yellow dogs were often raised at farm houses as guardians of fertility and rich crops. The smart and handsome species native to Jin Island, Jindogae stands for courage and loyalty, and the Korean native poodle, called sapsalgae, is believed to chase off evil spirits. With its elegant horns stretched toward the sky, the deer (saseum) was regarded as a sacred creature capable of discerning the holy intentions of heaven. Consequently, it was believed to prevent disease and invoke happiness and wealth. The deer were also

A legendary fire-eating creature, haetae

envisaged as vehicles for immortals and one of the ten longevity symbols. In Chinese the two letters symbolizing the deer and public officials’ salaries are both pronounced as lu (nok in Korean) though they have different shapes. Hence, bailu (baengnok in Korean), literally “one hundred deer,” came to mean “success and happiness.” The turtle (geobuk), with its round domed upper shell and flat under shell, symbolized the ancient Korean notion of a round domed sky and a flat Earth. Thus it was regarded as a sacred creature connecting heaven and man and an emblem of longevity, felicity, stability and strength. A stone stele erected on a stone turtle back embodied hopes that it would last forever. An imaginary unicorn named girin stood for compassion and mercy. Hence its emergence was seen as a sign for the emergence of a sage king. Ancient Koreans called a young man with prominent ability and dignity a girin-a, meaning a child prodigy. A legendary fire-eating creature, haetae, was believed to be a guardian of justice that would strike anything improper or unjust with its mighty horn. Due to its fire-eating nature, haetae symbolized water and paintings of this creature were often put on kitchen walls. In China a similar imaginary animal was known as xiezhi, or haechi in Korean. ■ (Photos by Suh Gong-im) (Source: Cultural Heritage Administration, Korean Heritage) NOVEMBER 2008 KOREA 33

Credia

CULTURAL FIGURE - 2

‘For Me, the Stage is My Home’ Violinist Sarah Chang BY LEE JI-YOON STAFF WRITER

Sarah Chang reacts after her performance in collaboration with the Los Angeles Philharmonic at the Sejong Center for the Performing Arts on Oct. 19

34 KOREA NOVEMBER 2008

Violinist Sarah Chang

Credia

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rom time to time geniuses appear in the world of classical music — and then are easily forgotten. But 29-year-old violinist Sarah Chang, who debuted as a child prodigy at the age of 9, is considered one of the most consistent violinists active in the international scene. The late violinist Yehudin Menuhin once called her “the most wonderful, the most perfect, the most ideal violinist I have ever heard.” In 1980, Sarah Chang, also known as Chang Young-ju in Korea, was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Korean parents who had moved to the United States for study one year earlier. Both graduated from the Music College of Seoul National University, Chang Minsoo, her father, is a violinist and her mother Chang Myoung-jun is a composer. Her mother put Chang on the piano when she was 3. But at 4 she asked for the violin because she wanted “something smaller and

more portable.” Then she auditioned for the Juilliard School in New York at 6 and was admitted into the studio of the late Dorothy DeLay, violin teacher to some of the world’s great violinists, including Chang’s father. At 8 she auditioned with Zubin Mehta and Riccardo Muti, who were working, respectively, with the New York Philharmonic and the Philadelphia Orchestra, and both gave her immediate engagements. She was possibly the youngest violinist ever to record — at the age of 9. Her first album, entitled “Debut,” quickly reached Billboard’s best-sellers. She has collaborated with most major orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic, the Philadelphia Orchestra, the Chicago Symphony, the Boston Symphony, the Berlin Philharmonic and the Vienna Philharmonic. In 2006 Newsweek magazine named her one of the eight top achieving females in the United States. In the article accompanying the announcement, she wrote about the early start of

her social career, saying: “I think having a career at such an early age kept me focused. We schedule at least two to three years in advance in the classical industry. I felt so grounded and so grateful to already know what it was that I wanted to do with my life.” She is one of the most sought-after musicians in the world, performing 100 to 150 concerts per year. It is a well-known story that she asked for a three-month break at 17, and took it when she was 20 after her agency rearranged her schedule for three years. “For me, the stage is my home. I love the adrenaline rush you get from having a live audience in front of you,” she said in the Newsweek article. In 2002 she performed in Pyongyang with South and North Korean orchestras. It was an unforgettable experience for the KoreanAmerican musician. “I’m so fortunate to be a musician, and at that moment (in Pyongyang), I genuinely felt that music is the one and only universal language,” she said. ■

Her first album “Debut” (top) and others

NOVEMBER 2008 KOREA 35

parts of a musical arrangement that would normally be played by several band members. Impressed by Jung’s brilliant performance, despite his young age, not only ordinary listeners but also finger-style guitarists around the world send seemingly endless streams of praise for the boy. With nearly 2.5 million views, his performance of U2’s “With or Without You” is the most popular among some 100 video clips he posted since 2006. Recently the number of visitors has considerably increased after Yoko Ono, whose late husband is John Lennon, left a positive comment on one of Jung’s videos. “I just witnessed your performance of ‘All You Need is Love’! Thank you for a beautiful performance. John Lennon would have been happy that you performed his song so well,” she wrote, posting the video clip on her YouTube blog where she posts performance clips of her late husband and other famous musicians. Jung Woo-chang, father of the child genius, was also surprised at her comment. “Even though my son doesn’t know much about the Beetles and Yoko Ono, I feel great that his performance receives attention from a celebrity like her,” he said. “Many guitarists are sending e-mails saying they want to teach my son and to be a music partner. I hope my son improves his guitar skills by communicating with various musicians,” he added. Last August Jung met Michel Haumont, a well-known French finger-style performer, in Paris and played with another guitarist Trace Bundy, who held a concert in Korea on Oct. 4. ■

Guitar prodigy Jung Sung-ha

BY LEE JI-YOON STAFF WRITER

36 KOREA NOVEMBER 2008

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Korean guitar prodigy has become a star on the Web because of video clips he posted on the U.S. videosharing website YouTube (http://youtube.com/ user/jwcfree). Jung Sung-ha, 12, began learning the guitar just three years ago and is already a household name among Koreans after he appeared on a TV program playing masterpieces of popular musicians such as the Beetles, Eric Clapton and Sting with great dexterity. Especially Jung’s finger-style guitar makes his performances more unique. He plays the guitar by plucking the strings directly with his fingertips, fingernails, or picks attached to his fingers. Not many guitarists in the world like the technique because players have to use each of the right hand fingers independently in order to play the multiple

Yoko Ono poses for a photo shoot

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Korean Guitar Prodigy Rises as a Star on the Web

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Jung Sung-ha

PEOPLE

Pianist Cho Sung-jin holds the awards he won at the Moscow International Frederick Chopin Competition for Young Pianists in Moscow on Oct. 19

Korean Wins Moscow Chopin Competition

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iddle school student Cho Sung-jin, 14year-old, won first prize at the 6th Moscow International Frederick Chopin Competition for Young Pianists, one of the most prestigious music contests for children. Another Korean contestant, Rhu Eun-sil, 16, finished fifth. A total of 36 finalists from nine countries, including five Koreans, competed for awards during the two-day competition held in Moscow on Oct. 18 and 19. Along with first prize of $5,000, Cho swept other awards for best concerto, best polonaise, youngest player and the jury prize. “Cho is highly deserving of the first prize for his exceptional sense of tone and pianism,” said Nikolai Petrov, president of the Russian Academy of Arts and head of the jury. Cho started the piano at the age of 6 and has been educated at Seoul Arts Center’s music academy for child prodigies. He currently studies at Yewon, a prestigious arts school in Seoul. “I’m very happy to win the first prize,” he said, “I would like to be a pianist who can move people’s hearts through (music).” As the winner of the competition, he is scheduled to have a recital in Moscow in November. ■ NOVEMBER 2008 KOREA 37

The Korea Herald

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PEOPLE

Diva for Homeland on New Album BY KOH YOUNG-AAH KOREA HERALD STAFF WRITER Jo’s latest album “Missing You”

North Korean pianist Kim Chul-woong performs at the U.S. State Department in Washington D.C.

‘Arirang’ Played by N.K. Pianist at U.S. State Department BY LEE JI-YOON STAFF WRITER

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n Oct. 6, “Arirang,” the beloved Korean folk song, was played in the Benjamin Franklin Room at the U.S. State Department in Washington. The audience was overwhelmed not only by the sad melody of the song, but also by the pianist Kim Chul-woong, a North Korean who defected and now lives in Seoul. The 34-year-old pianist has become the first North Korean defector to have a recital at the center of U.S. diplomacy. “‘Arirang’ is a song that any South and North Korean person can recog38 KOREA NOVEMBER 2008

nize immediately,” he explained why he chose the song to arrange for the concert. “I hope my efforts can be helpful for people to pay more attention to human rights issues in North Korea,” said Kim who was on concert tour across the United States. Another striking moment occurred when the pianist played “A Song of Joy,” a popular North Korean song, which expresses the delights of independence after the Japanese colonial rule. The Korean media compared the moment to when the New York

Philharmonic played the American national anthem in Pyongyang in February. On the day Kim gave a rendition of all four music pieces, the audience applauded him after every performance. He was educated at the Pyongyang Music and Dance Institute and graduated from the Tchaikovsky National Musical Academy of Russia. From 1999, he played for the Pyongyang National Orchestra. He crossed the border to go to China in 2001 and arrived in Seoul in 2003. ■

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raveling can be exciting, but it also has a way of making the traveler feel lonely. World-renowned soprano Jo Sumi is no exception. Jo says she has felt solitary throughout her career, due to traveling and spending a lot of time alone studying and practicing. With 25-years of world-traveling experience, Jo has released a new album in October titled “Missing You,” centered around this theme. The crossover album contains 16 representative love songs from various countries, including the all-time-favorite Korean nursery song “Ummaya Nunaya (Mother, Sister).” “I chose to include ‘Ummaya Nunaya’ in the album along with numerous foreign songs, to say that the place that I want to come back to, after all the long journeys, is Korea, where I can see my mother,” said Jo from Italy in a phone interview with The Korea Herald. The soprano is noted for her excellence in classical repertoires, including operas. In May, Jo received a Puccini

Award granted to figures who have contributed significantly to the promotion of the great Italian composer. She has been steadily releasing crossover albums as well. While most people expect her to be conservative just because she is a classical musician, Jo said she is actually very open-minded regarding different cultures, religions, and points of views because she went to study in Italy at a young age. “As an artist I desire to make music of different colors once in a while, which is like taking a vacation for me,” Jo said. “As long as the audience can feel relaxed listening to my music, I’m happy.” All the songs on the album were recorded in their original languages, meaning Jo sang in 11 different languages. Although Jo is known for her talent in learning and speaking foreign languages, she said it was a big challenge and was quite stressful. “It required a lot of courage for me to sing in languages I have never been acquainted with, like Swedish and

Hebrew,” said Jo. Yet Jo stuck to it because she felt it was a good opportunity for her to get to know different countries, their cultures and historical backgrounds. Marking 22 years as a classical music performer, Jo thinks it is fate that has brought her thus far. “I think it’s fate. As I get older, I feel like I’m destined to do this,” said Jo. Even though confidence on stage only arises from sufficient rehearsing, the soprano said she thinks it is in her nature to become excited on stage. “Although I’m usually not a very outgoing person, I really love the spotlight that I get on stage. It almost makes me feel like a queen,” she said. Jo said she plans to release more crossover albums in the near future while continuing her tour. “I just want to present some healthy and joyful music that can appeal not only to the domestic audience, but also to foreign audiences,” Jo said. Jo starts her Asian tour within few months. She is set to return home for a concert in December. ■ NOVEMBER 2008 KOREA 39

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PEOPLE Lim performs a traditional Korean dance at the Shimogamo Shrine in Kyoto, Japan

Kim Ki-duk’s ‘Dream’ is Provocative, Deep BY YANG SUNG-JIN KOREA HERALD STAFF WRITER

Award-winning director Kim Ki-duk has built

Director Kim Ki-duk

The poster for the film “Dream”

subplots are utterly confusing. Jin used to

up an international reputation with his films

have a girlfriend, but the relationship is now

that starkly differ from other mainstream

over. But he finds himself dreaming about his

movies in Korea and elsewhere. He stands

former girlfriend and he vaguely senses that he

out largely because of his provocative styles

still loves her. While Jin is struggling in his

and thought-provoking themes.

dreams, Ran is visiting her former boyfriend,

For better or worse, Kim did not pull any

not in her dream but while sleeping, because

punches in making his 15th feature, “Dream

she is a sleepwalker. She hates the man

(BiMong),” which was released here on Oct. 9.

deeply and when she realizes what she has

The movie has attracted media attention by

done, she gets mad at Jin, the man whose

signing up high-profile actors — Lee Na-young

dream goes in lockstep with her nightly visits.

from Korea and Joe Odagiri from Japan — but

To resolve the situation, Jin and Ran at-

viewers should be aware of the cinematic puz-

tempt to do the almost impossible: stay awake

zles director Kim routinely inserts in his films, if

all the time. The assumption is that if Jin does

they want to grasp what is really going on in

not sleep, Ran does not have to walk around in

this mixture of reality and fantasy.

her sleep. Jin can also sleep without his much-

Odagiri plays Jin, an artist who sees himself

dreaded dream that generates real events

in a dream causing a car crash. What he dis-

when Ran is awake.

covers, however, is that his dream is not a mere creation of his brain — all the details he

Their struggle to stay awake is, as some of suspect.

director Kim’s fans might correctly predict,

witnessed while sleeping turn out to be true.

The key proposition of the movie is that the

depicted in a gruesome manner. Self-inflicted

Or that’s what viewers are supposed to as-

two main characters are connected through

torture abounds, which will make the audi-

sume, given the quirky plot turns provided by

dreams in a way that blurs reality and fantasy.

ence squirm.

director Kim, who never shies away from pur-

A butterfly emerges as the core image sym-

One hint regarding Kim’s message is the

bolizing the significance of dreams. In fact,

peculiar existence of Jin. Japanese actor

poseful ambiguity and ambivalence. Jin encounters a woman named Ran (Lee

this metaphor comes from a well-known an-

Odagiri plays the role in Japanese, while all

Na-young), a character who has plenty of

cient Chinese thinker, and its implication is

the other characters speak in Korean.

grievances, especially concerning her shat-

rather straightforward: A person may dream

Strangely enough, Jin communicates perfect-

tered relationship with her ex-boyfriend.

about his life and discover that it’s just a

ly with other Koreans, even though he contin-

Strange as it may be, what Jin believes he has

dream when he wakes up, but how can he be

ues to speak in Japanese. His otherworldly

done in his dream is what Ran has done in re-

sure about the possibility that what appears

identity that transcends the language barrier

ality. Although the car accident happens in

as reality is also another dream?

is certainly unrealistic, but Kim leaves more

Jin’s dream, the same incident plays out in

Kim’s presentation of the dream’s implica-

Ran’s life, with police seeing her as the prime

tions, however, is far from straightforward. The

40 KOREA NOVEMBER 2008

questions than answers about his new cinematic dreamland that is so desolate. ■

Korean Dance Performed at Japan’s Oldest Shrine BY LEE JI-YOON STAFF WRITER

L

im Lee-jo, head of the Seoul Metropolitan Dance Theatre, captivated the eyes and minds of Japanese audiences with performances presented at Japan’s oldest shrine in Kyoto. During the two-day event held on Oct. 2 and 3, Lim staged traditional Korean dances including the famous “Seungmu,” which is performed by Buddhist monks, and “Salpuri,” a solo dance derived from the shamanistic tradition of spiritual cleansing. Assumed to be built in the Yayoi period (4 B.C.-A.D. 3), the Kamomioya Shrine, better known as the Shimogamo Shrine, has more than 50 treasured buildings on its grounds and was designated a world’s cultural heritage by UNESCO. It was the second time for the respected Japanese shrine to open its space to an overseas artist. The Japanese traditional performance “No,” which consists of masked performers’ dances and songs, opened each day’s performance. Lim appeared on the stage and danced to music played with Korean traditional instruments such as a fiddle and janggu, an hourglass-shaped drum. His subtle and refined movements impressed the Japanese audience of over 1,000 who gathered at the garden. Lim, 58, who celebrated 50 years of his traditional dancing life last year, is considered one of the most renowned traditional dancers in Korea. Now leading the Seoul Dance Theatre, he has choreographed a variety of dance works and contributed to the success of performing arts in Korea. ■ (Photos by Kim Hak-ri) NOVEMBER 2008 KOREA 41

THE BEAUTY OF KOREA-16

Time: Joseon Dynasty Material and Size: Color on silk | W.55.3cm, H.150.5cm per panel

Six-Fold Screen of the Sun, Moon and Five Peaks

Screens as backdrop for the seats of the masters of their rooms traditionally signified the nature of their authority or implied their tastes. A screen of the sun, moon and five peaks was a symbolic image of the universe which always backed the throne of the Joseon king. The components of the painting are natural, long-living things, used as metaphors of the royal benevolence in the poem “Tianbao” and Shijing (Book of Odes). The decorative depiction of the subjects in bright colors and the panoramic symmetry suitably present the divinity of the regime as the perpetual nexus between the earthly and heavenly realms. Photo courtesy of National Palace Museum of Korea

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TRAVEL

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amcheong-dong is a sweet and old area in central Seoul. A nice afternoon walk there can make the rest of your day cozy. It is best to start the promenade from Pungmoon Girls’ High School. It is near the No. 1 exit of Anguk subway station. Stroll along the stone walls, and by the time you reach Jeongdok Public Library, petit shops, art galleries, delicate cafes and restaurants will start to peek out.

The blocks from there to Samcheong Park have become hot spots within the last few years for their exquisite ambience. Each of the shops and cafes has an inimitable look, from Korean-traditional forms with tiled roofs and wooden doors to very modern and artistic ones. The food and garments are also known to be unique. Take a look at some art pieces on the way. The area recently became the new art belt in Seoul for its famous art galleries. This fall is a good time to visit

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A Classic Walk around Samcheong-dong

1, 2 A Korean traditional style cafe in Samcheong-dong 3 Visitors pose in an alley of Korean-style homes

BY PARK MIN-YOUNG STAFF WRITER

44 KOREA NOVEMBER 2008

NOVEMBER 2008 KOREA 45

TRAVEL

4 5

6 4 A flower shop 5 Visitors take pictures in front of a unique restaurant 6 Visitors head for a toy gallery

them, as they are holding the annual contemporary art festival “Platform 2008 Seoul,” from Oct. 25 to Nov. 23. The best charm of Samcheongdong is that traditional Korean-style homes are hidden in every alley. Samcheong-dong is part of Bukchon, or north village, for being on the northern side of Jongno-gu. It is filled with traditional-style homes, which have been preserved for more than 600 years. During the Joseon Dynasty, the place was famous as the dwelling site of the royal family and aristocrats. Today, 49 percent of the homes there keep traditional style. If you want to get a glimpse of what Seoul was like during the Joseon Dynasty, be sure to explore every nook and cranny. If your legs get sore from all the walking, take a rest at Samcheong Park before you head back. The grove among the high buildings of Seoul will give you a pleasant time. The walk will take about an hour or two. For more information, visit http://www.visitseoul.net ■ (Photos by Moon Young-doo) 46 KOREA NOVEMBER 2008

A cafe with peculiar windows on the second floor

A traditional-style home

NOVEMBER 2008 KOREA 47

TRAVEL

W

hen the stress of today can be too much, an escape to the olden times for a day could work as the perfect cure. Suncheon city presents a guided city tour this fall, starting with the Suncheon drama set. More than 1,000 people visit the set every weekend to see the set location of “East of Eden,” a hit TV series on MBC. The set, built in an old army camp in Jorei-dong, is a very delicate recreation of Seoul in the 1950s to 1980s. It has hillside slums, markets and coal towns. Many other TV series and films — “Love and Ambition,” “Once in A Summer,” “Mapado 2” and “Sunny” — were also shot there. For the next stop on the tour, one can choose either Seonamsa or Songwangsa. Situated near Jogyesan, both are Buddhist temples more than 1,200 years old. During this time of the year, when the hiking trail that connects the two

A Trip Back to Olden Times

is covered with autumn leaves, the natural beauty is beyond description. The temples hold many treasures. The tour later takes you to Nagan Fortress, which is located in the western side of the city. It consists of three towns with markets, straw-roofed homes and castles, which were built in the 1300s. The historical area preserves the

A drama set in Suncheon where many TV series and films including “East of Eden” were shot

Seonamsa

Suncheon City BY PARK MIN-YOUNG STAFF WRITER

Seung-sun bridge in Seonamsa, Suncheon, Jeollanam-do

48 KOREA NOVEMBER 2008

NOVEMBER 2008 KOREA 49

TRAVEL

original southern living style of Korea, from kitchen appliances and household goods to the stone walls. More than 100 families still live there, continuing the tradition. Suncheon Bay, a mudflat around the southeastern coast of the city, is the last stop of the tour. Well known as the habitat of hooded cranes, it was selected as having ‘the best natural scenery’ by the Korea Tourism Organization in 2006. It was registered as a Ramsar Site on January 2006. The tour begins at Suncheon Station every day at 9:50 a.m. For more information, visit http:// www.suncheon.go.kr/home/tour/index.jsp ■

How to Get There It takes five hours from Seoul to Suncheon city via train or bus. By plane, depart at Yeosu and take an airport limousine bus to Suncheon.

Jogyesan Jogy

Suncheonn

ama Set

(Photos by Moon Young-doo)

50 KOREA NOVEMBER 2008

A folk village at Nagan Fortress

A wooden road in Suncheon Bay

A folk village at Nagan Fortress

Suncheon Bay’s sunset

NOVEMBER 2008 KOREA 51

FOOD

1

3 2

Omegisul master Kim Eul-jung (right) shows how to make omegisul with her daughter 4

Jeju’s Traditional Liquor

Omegisul BY LEE JI-YOON STAFF WRITER

T

he traditional liquor makgeolli is an alcohol refreshment that Koreans have long enjoyed. The popular combination of makgeolli and pajeon, Korean pancakes made with vegetable and wheat flour dough, is beloved by visitors as well as Koreans. Rice is widely known as the main ingredient of makgeolli, but in the southernmost island of Jeju-do it is made with millet and called “omegisul.” Because of the island’s volcanic

52 KOREA NOVEMBER 2008

activity in ancient times, the soil is not fit for rice farming and farmers have grown alternative crops such as millet and barley. Especially widely consumed were steamed millet cake called “omegiddeok,” which is also used for making omegisul. Ordinary millet liquor is brewed from millet with malt, but the traditional way of making omegisul contains a unique process. Omegiddeok is boiled and crushed, and the mash is

poured into a pot with malt and water for fermentation. After a week, the first milky color of the liquor turns dark yellow. The shallow layer on the upper part becomes clean liquor called “cheongju,” which was used for special occasions like ancestral rites, and the muddy part on the bottom becomes omegisul after being strained through a sieve. People on the far island used to drink omegisul after a hard day’s work in the fields. As Jeju has become a popular tourist spot, the traditional liquor can now be enjoyed across the nation. Currently the production of omegisul is mostly done by machines, and Kim Eul-jung, 84, is considered the only master of the traditional liquor living on the island. Visitors can taste and buy bottles of omegisul made by the master. After designating omegisul as the third intangible cultural property of Jeju in 1990, the local government is

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stepping up efforts to preserve the culinary legacy through tour programs and tasting promotions. For more information on omegisul and other folk custom of Jeju, visit the multilingual website of Jeju Folk Village Museum at www.jejufolk.com. ■

To make omegisul, omegiddeok (1), traditional millet cake, is boiled (2) and crushed (3), and the mash is poured into a pot with malt (4) and water for fermentation (5)

(Photos courtesy of Jeju Folk Village Museum) NOVEMBER 2008 KOREA 53

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Visitors look at the creations of Zaha Hadid

The entrance of Jamsil Sports Complex is decorated with recycled art works

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Seoul Design Olympiad

President Lee Myung-bak (right) looks around the exhibit with Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon (far left)

54 KOREA NOVEMBER 2008

T

he city of Seoul celebrated autumn with a bang this year. Having nabbed the coveted honor of World Design Capital 2010, Seoul highlighted its role as a hub of design in a grand way. The gala event, titled Seoul Design Olympiad 2008, kicked off on Oct. 10 with a special concert featuring K-pop stars BigBang, Dynamic Duo, Solbi and Kim Gun-mo, and ended on Oct. 30. Fireworks, design auctions, a 4ton rice cake, fashion shows and bboys carried on the extensive festivities throughout October.

Running the gamut from D.I.Y. activities to concerts to exhibitions, the Olympiad catered to both families and design aficionados. On the flipside, design aficionados got the opportunity to participate in a series of design conferences and exhibitions featuring top architects Zaha Hadid, Daniel Libeskind and industrial designer Ross Lovegrove. Design and architecture experts Yao Ying Jia, Richard Buchanan and Kazuo Sugiyama also delivered session speeches. A trio of exhibits titled “Design is AIR,” “Seoul Design Now” and “Vision of Design Seoul” showcased the works of top notch designers and eco-friendly creations, while also delving into the past, present and future of Seoul’s architecture.

Exhibitions presented by Milan, Turin, Hanover, New York, Paris, Prague, Hong Kong and leading design companies and organizations mixed things up, while the “2008 World Design Market_Seoul” exhibit turned the spotlight on the works of upcoming Korean and foreign designers. A special exhibition focusing on the creations of Zaha Hadid — the first female to win the Pritzker Prize — and Zaha Hadid Architects partner Patrik Schumacher brought the creme de la creme of the design world to Seoul. More than 2 million people participated in the Olympiad, which took place in the Jamsil Sports Complex and the Hangang Riverside Park. For more information, visit sdo.seoul.go.kr. ■

Seoul Metropolitan Government

Yonhap

EVENTS

The “Design is AIR” exhibition

NOVEMBER 2008 KOREA 55

Members of the Seoul International Women’s Association sell English books

Charity Market Turns into Multicultural Festival

T

56 KOREA NOVEMBER 2008

Over 400,000 people across the nation participated in the WeAJA Charity Market on Oct. 12

Seoul Global Center

The Korea Herald

be used for people who are less fortunate,” President Mary Clarke said. Grassroots Uganda, an international aid group that helps Ugandan women suffering from AIDS, displayed over 600 hand-made products such as colorful accessories and handbags. They are planning to use the money for education in the region. Another aid group, Little Travelers, sold doll-shaped hair pins that were made by South African women the group supports. Other groups included Korean Mountain Preservation League, a group of expats who love Korean mountains; COPION, an international NGO of young volunteers; and the Seoul Global Center, which helps foreign residents better adapt to Seoul life. Especially crowded with visitors was a special booth selling donations from ambassadors such as ethnic items, wines, books and clothes. Marking the fourth anniversary this year, the WeAJa Charity Market is the biggest of its kind in Korea and has been a meaningful event. For more information, visit the English website at http://weaja. joins.com/eng.asp ■

Grassroots Uganda

Little Travelers

The Korea Herald

he annual WeAJa Charity Market ended on Oct. 12 with more than 400,000 people joining the event held across the nation. The active participation of expat communities turned the charity market into a multicultural festival. The Seoul International Women’s Association, consisting of wives of foreign ambassadors to Korea and businessman, sold English books, DVDs and other goods donated by members. “I’m very happy the earnings will

The Korea Herald

EVENTS

NOVEMBER 2008 KOREA 57

Korean tightrope walker Kwon Won-tae crosses the one-kilometer-long wire across the Han River

58 KOREA NOVEMBER 2008

Expo Showcases Korean Ingredients

A

large-scale food expo on Korean agricultural and fisheries products along with traditional dishes was held on Oct. 13 for a week. The Korea Food Expo 2008 was the first food exhibition to be organized by the Ministry for Food, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, aimed to promote Korea’s “safe and good quality” products, organizers said. The event took place at the AgroTrade Exhibition Center and Citizen’s Forest in Yangjae-dong, southern Seoul. The exposition showcased products of agriculture, stock farm, fisheries and dairy, as well as food art pieces featuring various Korean ingredients. One of the two exhibition halls at the AT Center presented changing trends in Korean dishes. In it, trends from the last 40 years of Korea’s popular dishes were showcased year by year. A food magic show and a “pojangmacha,” (outdoor snack stall) where one can get food as well as drawings as a service, were offered for entertainment. By introducing the super pumpkin

weighing 80 kilograms, the expo also aimed to demonstrate the future advancement of agricultural technology. The second exhibition hall concentrated on promoting the taste, flavor and color of Korean dishes. Inside, there was a two-meter-high waterfall made out of sugar, as well as food art items using Korea’s traditional cookies, cakes and breads featuring the four seasons of the country. Detailed descriptions of the efficacy of ginseng and sun-dried salt, as well as the goods that come from fermented foods, like bean pastes and kimchi were also showcased. Events at Citizen’s Forest were arranged for public participation and hands-on experience. Along with a display of 30 agricultural products of the highest quality, participants can experience feeding calves, milking cows and making ice cream. Other programs included consultations on what food to eat during pregnancy, a brunch concert, and face painting using food items. ■

Yonhap

World Tightrope Walkers Compete on Hangang

A

erialists from around the world gathered in Seoul from Oct. 2 to 4 to participate in the Hangang High-wire World Championship, an annual event sponsored by the Seoul Metropolitan Government. Twenty-seven performers from 14 countries — including four women — competed to cross the one-kilometerlong wire across the Han River in the shortest time. The course is considered the longest of its kind in the world. Participants were walking a tensioned wire, maintaining balance, trying not to plunge into the murky water beneath. The audience watched with breathless interest. There were well-known names in the competition: Shataer Wujiabudula, the youngest competitor from China who won last year’s competition; China’s Adili Wuxiuer who has three Guinness records; and Jade Kindar-Martin from Sweden who also has a Guinness record for crossing the River Thames in London. Korean tightrope walker Kwon Won-tae, who led the organizing committee, also competed with other contestants. Kwon, 41, was a member of Namsadang, a traditional entertainment troupe established during the Joseon Dynasty. The first prize of 20 million won ($16,000) went to Yakefujiang Maimitili from China and the special prize for women participants was awarded to Yeisy Yolima Oabares Oquendo from Colombia. “Korean traditional tightrope walking has been modernized into this exciting sports event. Set around the beautiful scenery of the Han River, this event is expected to become a new attraction for Seoul,” said a city official. For more information, visit www.x-highwire.org. ■

Yonhap

Yonhap

EVENTS

NOVEMBER 2008 KOREA 59

EVENTS

(From top) Hong Hyun-sook’s “The Magic Words of the Wind” German artist Irene Hoppenberg’s “Transition” Kim Kye-hyeon’s “Bouquet”

Biennale Transforms Busan into a Giant Gallery BY HAN ARAN KOREA.NET STAFF WRITER

A

Yang Ju-hae’s art on sand

60 KOREA NOVEMBER 2008

rt is everywhere in the southeastern city of Busan as the Busan Biennale is underway throughout the port city. The Busan Biennale kicked off with a large-scale exhibition of contemporary art on Sept. 6, only a day after the opening of its more internationally renowned rival, the Gwangju Biennale. However, unlike the Gwangju Biennale, which has no particular theme, the Busan Biennale revolves around the theme of “Expenditure,” which is based on the concept of French philosopher Georges Bataille. He argued that the process of squandering could translate into something positive. In simple words, the theme “expenditure” implies that every artwork is a result of emitting and expending energy. A total of 77 artists from 27 countries are showing sculptures and installation works at Gwangalli Beach and the nearby street galleries. Twenty-three artists are displaying their works in the Gwangalli Beach area, four at Geumryunsan Subway Station, and 50 at Minlakdong Me World. The Me World exhibition will show a multitude of distinguished video works to stimulate audiences’ imaginations. At Gwangalli Beach, contemporary and eco-friendly works of art made out of environmentally friendly materials invite visitors or anyone passing by to indulge and interact, as many works displayed this year will only be made complete through the participation of spectators. This is free of charge. Among the works on the beach and the nearby subway and cultural centers near Gwangalli are Thai artist Nipan Oranniwesna’s “City of Ghosts” and Korean artists

Oum Jeong-soon’s “Walking in Mandala” and Yang Juhae’s art on the sand. Nightly performances will be held on the beach throughout the duration of the biennale. Making the most of its outdoor space, APEC Naru Park in Busan showcases sculpture-centered art pieces placed along the lakeside and forest trails in a perfect blend of art and nature, aimed at spreading the concept of public art. With the theme “Avant-Garden,” it shows 20 sculptures by artists from 13 countries. One of the interesting works in the park are “Ancestor” by American sculptor Robert Morris. Visit www.busanbiennale.org (Korean, English) or call (051) 888-6601 to 9. ■ (Photos courtesy of the Busan Biennale) NOVEMBER 2008 KOREA 61

BOOKS

(From left) Korean-English, Vietnamese and Mongolian versions of Hunminjeongeum

Jiphyeonjeon, meaning the hall of worthies in Korean, is where Joseon scholars created and studied Hangeul (top) and the ceremony to declare the creation of Hangeul

The portrait of King Sejong the Great

Hunminjeongeum Translated into Four Languages

spective of linguistic study. Attached to the original text is a modern Korean translation in Hangeul. The book also includes the “Haeryebon”

Author: The National Institute of Korean Language Publisher: Thinking Tree Pages: 160

version (explanation and examples of correct sounds to teach people), that details how each Hangeul character is supposed to be pronounced. Professor Kim Joo-won and Lee Sang-eok of Seoul National University were put in charge of writing the explanation for Hunmingjeongeum. The Hangeul translation of the original was done by honorary profes-

The National Institute of Korean Language

sor Shin Sang of Chonnam National

has launched the Korean document “Hun-

University.

minjeongeum” in four languages: English, Chinese, Mongolian and Vietnamese.

“Aside from English we have also published it in Chinese, Mongolian and

Huminjeongeum, meaning “correct sounds

Vietnamese versions as these countries show

to instruct the people,” is Korea’s first instruc-

a big interest in Korean culture and demands

tion book on Hangeul, Korean unique writing

are higher than in other areas,” one official

system, published in 1446 by King Sejong the

from the institute explained. “In the long run

Great (1397-1450) who also created the char-

we plan to publish books in French, German,

acters. Korea celebrated its 562nd anniver-

Russian, Spanish and other languages to

sary of the creation of Hangeul on Oct. 9.

promote the book that marked the birth of

As the original copy of the book is written

Korea’s very own writing system.”

in classical Chinese characters with Hangeul

The English version will be distributed to

additions, it has been even harder for foreign-

Korean cultural centers worldwide and of-

ers to approach. The latest editions include

fered to overseas scholars in related fields. It

extra explanation that details the characteris-

is also currently on display at local book-

tics of the book and its value from the per-

stores. ■

62 KOREA NOVEMBER 2008

NOVEMBER 2008 KOREA 63

BOOKS

Korea: Impossible to Possible Publisher: Korean Culture and Information Service Pages: 255 Not for Sale Celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Republic of Korea, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has launched a collection of articles on various aspects of Korea that were contributed by 21 internationally

Chinese Ceramics at the National Museum of Korea

renowned authors. French journalist Guy Sorman, who is a member of “global advisors” for the Lee Myung-bak administration, ponders the national identity of Korea from a broad perspective. Mikhail Gorbachev, who is the last head

Publisher: National Museum of Korea Page: 474 Price: 100,000 won

of state of the USSR and won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1990, emphasizes the role of Korea in East Asia. Also attached are panoramic photographs that will be helpful for overseas readers to

The National Museum of Korea has launched

look at the nation’s historic moments during

a book introducing its collection of Chinese

the last 60 years.

ceramics. This book will be helpful to look at

For more information on the book, contact

the relationship between Korea and China in

with the Korean Culture and Information

a cultural perspective.

Service or visit its website at http:// kois.go.kr/kois_main_en.asp. ■

Kim Hong-nam, director of the museum, wrote in the preface, “There is no doubt that these Chinese ceramic objects are invaluable materials for study of Korean-Chinese relations as well as Korean ceramic history.” This book also reveals 254 masterpieces which have been partly exposed to public view. The book introduces almost 20,000 ceramic wares from Goryeo and Joseon peri-

Intro Korea

ods, which had been found in ancient tombs around Gaeseong, the old capital of Goryeo,

An Electronic Catalog of Information on Korea

and major Buddhist temples around the country, and salvaged from under the sea. The book presents Chinese ceramics clas-

Intro Korea is a comprehensive digital catalog on Korea compiled

sified according to where they were originally

by the Korean Culture and Information Service. This catalogs ap-

baked including some famous Chinese impe-

proximately 310 public and private publications on every aspect of Korea within nine main categories and 21 sub-categories. The

rial kilns. English and Chinese explanations and articles are available along with photographs of each ceramic piece. ■

64 KOREA NOVEMBER 2008

Cizhou Kiln’s “Vase with sgraffito in iron black on white slip”

DVD’s online version is also available on the Korean Government’s Longquan Kiln’s “Celadon Vase”

official English website at www.korea.net. ■

NOVEMBER 2008 KOREA 65

FOREIGN VIEWPOINT

My Impression of Korea

I arrived in Korea the first time in June 1995

beautiful landscape of Korea’s mountains. I

with some members of the Presidential

have been here only 10 months, and I have of-

Delegation of Paraguay for an official visit.

ten enjoyed the natural environment of

After that, I had various opportunities to visit

Samcheok, including the clean and pic-

Korea before I was appointed ambassador in

turesque mountains, beaches, valleys and

this country. I also participated in the bilateral

natural caves. Also, I visited many beautiful

meeting between Korea and Paraguay in

cities of Korea’s countryside. I take pleasure in

2005. In all of my visits, I was always im-

Korean food, such as hobak juk (pumpkin por-

pressed by the fact that Korea grew so fast in

ridge), bulgogi (Korean-style barbecued beef),

many aspects of its development, and that it

samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup), etc.

has become one of the leading countries in

I am truly fond of Korea’s seasons — the

the global economy. I am very proud of the

beautiful flowers of spring, the wonderful col-

cordial relationship between my country and Korea. Moreover, I am truly glad that we enjoy a strong relationship in diplomatic, economi-

ors of summer, the extraordinary mixed colors

BY CEFERINO VALDEZ PARAGUAYAN AMBASSADOR TO KOREA

cal, commercial and cultural fields.

of fall and the white snow of winter. Many know that it doesn’t snow in Paraguay. In the cultural area, I enjoy all of Korea’s traditional

A group of Korean immigrants arrived in

activities. The last festival I attended was the

Paraguay in 1965. In order to reach their new

health centers and public institutions.” This

Aikido Festival in Cheongju with 15 members

dwelling place, they needed to leave their

year, we have the first group of the

of the Paraguayan government. We truly en-

home country from Busan harbor. For two

Taekwondo Peace Corps. volunteers.

joyed the Korean hospitality.

months, they crossed the Pacific Ocean and

In Paraguay, we have Korean markets,

I must express why I am so impressed with

into the Atlantic Ocean. Today, these people

restaurants, karaoke rooms and even jjimjil-

Koreans. When I was in Taean, I participated

have contributed substantially to the develop-

bang. With all this, I truly believe that this rela-

in the clean-up effort to help save the beach

ment and well-being of our society. They are

tionship between the two countries will con-

with my friends and colleagues. I was amazed

highly regarded in the fields of industry, poli-

tinue as a permanent one. However, it is not

by the spirit of cooperation and voluntarism of

tics, art, culture, religion and a variety of pro-

always easy to adapt in a new country. One of

the Korean people — all working together,

fessions. For example, one of the leading

the difficult things is language. But with the

men and women, young and old, children and

journalists in Paraguay is Yolanda Park, who

help of my daughter, Adriana, it is getting

families. They all had one mission: to save the

was born in Korea but grew up in Paraguay.

much better. Adriana enrolled in the Korean

environment.

She is one of the most famous celebrities in

School and is currently part of the Korean

Many students from Paraguay are now

Paraguay. Also, there are many Korean

modeling academy. My wife, who is a veteri-

studying in Korea. I hope that this exchange

churches helping our society. All speak the

nary doctor and chairwoman of the Mymba

will continue and increase with the assistance

native language of Paraguay — Guarani.

Kaaguy Wild Life Rescue Center in Paraguay,

and support of the KOICA programs, as well

Later on, a new wave of Koreans arrived in

visited a wildlife protection center near the

as programs from Korean universities such as

Paraguay. They included volunteers of organi-

Demilitarized Zone. There, injured birds were

Kyunghee University, Ewha University,

zations such as KOICA, IYF, IT and WTO.

treated and nurtured in Cheorwon, Gangwon-

Konkuk University and Kangnam University.

They are helping my people learn about

do, and an exchange program with veterinary

These universities have set up sisterhood re-

health, technology, commerce, sports, etc. As

professors of Korea and Paraguayan veteri-

lations with Paraguayan universities.

one of the volunteers of KOICA said, “For two

narian staff was started. There are also pro-

One of the wisest Korean traditional

years, there have been over 90 volunteers in

grams with NGOs dedicated to wildlife and

proverbs is “sangbu-sangjo” (the spirit of mu-

many locales of Paraguay to share and serve

environment protection.

tual help). I am sure that our relationship and

the Paraguayan people and their society.

Paraguay is always described as a green,

These volunteers have helped schools, public

flat country. Thus, I am always amazed by the

66 KOREA NOVEMBER 2008

cooperation can grow together with this sprit. Thank you. ■