Korea [2009 Vol. 5 No. 1]

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

January 2009 VOL. 5 NO. 1

6 14 06

Cover

18 42

New Hope Emerging in Taean a Year after Oil Spill International Environment Forum Seeks Future Action Plans for Taean

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46

People

Pop Diva BoA Sets Her Sights on 30 Countries Diplomacy

Korean YouTube Star Hopes to Inspire Others German Revives Ancient Art Olympics

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Publisher Yoo Jin-hwan

Leisure

Korea Turning Bicycle-Friendly

Global Korea

Korea Ends 4-Year Military Mission in Iraq

Korean Culture and Information Service Editing & Printing Herald Media Inc.

Korea, China, Japan Agree on Green Growth

E-mail [email protected]

Bhutan Officials Learn about Korea’s Anti-Corruption Skills

56

Events

Korean Contemporary Art Revealed in Singapore Fashion Meets Culture at Old Seoul Station

Design toga design

The articles published in Korea do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher. The publisher is not liable for errors or omissions.

Travel

Korea to Boost Business Ties with Poland, Jordan

Cover photo

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.

42

Olle Reveals Jeju’s True Character

Korea, China, Japan Agree to Widen Economic Ties at Tripartite Summit Solar modules installed in Sinan, Jeollanam-do

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Asian Culture Interchanges in Seoul

New Year Festival

Celebrating New Year’s the Korean Way

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Books

The Identity of Korean Women in History Explored

Korean Literature

Kim Hoon: A Writer Who Writes with His Body Letters to the editor should include the writer’s full name and address. Letters may be edited for clarity and/or space restrictions. If you want to receive a free copy of Korea or wish to cancel a subscription, please e-mail us.

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Korea: Past, Present and Future

Culture

— Kazuo Ogoura, President of the Japan Foundation

Goryeo’s Royal Ceramics on Display at National Museum

A downloadable PDF file of Korea and a map and glossary with common Korean words appearing in our text are available by clicking on the thumbnail of Korea on the homepage of www.korea.net.

Clean Coal: A Promising Oil Alternative

Egyptian People’s Love of Korean Language

— Park Sam-ryong, Vice President of SK Energy Co.

Cultural Understanding Deepens between Korea and Russia

66 발간등록번호: 11-1110073-000016-06

4 KOREA JANUARY 2009

Special Series

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Foreign Viewpoints

Food

Shipbuilding Bringing Norway and Korea Together

Sogokju to Heat up Your Winter

— Didrik Tonseth, Norwegian Ambassador to South Korea

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JANUARY 2009 KOREA 5

COVER

New Hope Emerging

in Taean a Year after Oil Spill

Eric Gillet

BY LEE JI-YOON STAFF WRITER

6 KOREA JANUARY 2009

Malipo Beach in Taean is recovering after the nation’s worst oil spill a year ago

JANUARY 2009 KOREA 7

COVER

Eric Gillet

The Korea Herald

The seashore and birds blackened by oil

Taean is beginning to repopulate with birds

O

n Dec. 9, a group of experts at home and abroad visited Taean, which was hit severely by the nation’s worst-ever oil spill one year ago. They participated in recovery efforts and related environmental research after the oil spill accident. “I have been here three times over the last year and this is first time perceiving the sound of sand,” said Kazue Tazaki, professor of earth science at Kanazawa University in Japan, as she was collecting some sample pebbles on Malipo Beach, one of the most badly affected areas. “That means there’s no material between grains, it’s clean,” added the professor, whose research is focused on nature’s selfcleansing functions. On Dec. 7, 2007, a crane-carrying barge, which belonged to Samsung Heavy Industries Co., rammed into a Hong Kong-registered oil tanker, Hebei Sprit, causing some 8 KOREA JANUARY 2009

10,500 tons of crude oil to gush into the waters 10 kilometers off Taean County, about 153 kilometers southwest of Seoul. The oil slick spread 70 kilometers along the coastline and damaged an estimated 8,300 hectares of fish farms and beaches. News of the oil spill was a shock to Koreans because west coast areas had been popular for its well-preserved clean and scenic environment. The central and local governments dispatched thousands of soldiers, policemen and civil servants to clean up the oil slick, but their relief efforts seemed futile as the freezing weather and high tides sometimes stopped the works. But pessimistic outlooks were reported as result of early assessment on the damage. Then the so-called “Miracle in the West Sea” happened. Regardless of age, nationality and gender, millions of volun-

teers with shovels and buckets on their hands started flocking to Taean. According to officials, about 2.2 million people, or 4 percent of the total population participated in the cleanup. Within a few weeks, the liquid oil, which blackened the shores and sea animals, were mostly removed. “That was unusual. In many other countries, it’s impossible to clean up the area by volunteers. But here in Taean, many volunteers were able to limit the spill very quickly,” said Keen Christen, unit head of Danish Emergency Management Agency, who was hurried to Taean right after the oil spill, leading the U.N.-EU joint Taean assessment team. “Everything was surprisingly well-organized. Both to deal with people and organize them are very difficult in that kind of emergency situation. I think a lot of countries will like to come and see how you make volunteers so committed. “Personally, it’s extremely nice to see this clean beach,”

he said looking around Gureumpo Beach, the only one that couldn’t be opened during the last summer season. Taean’s other 14 beaches, once popular for soft sand beaches and crystal-blue waters, hosted vacationers, starting at the end of June, as relief works were completed according to the guidelines set by the Ministry of Land, Transport and Maritime Affairs. Although experts project that it will take more time for the unbalanced eco-system in the affected areas to fully recover, some hints of revival have been witnessed. Chungnam National University and NeoEnBiz, an environmental assessment group, announced the interim result of maritime pollution impact on Oct. 31. The survey showed that oil concentration and bio-toxicity of seawaters have been recovered to that of before the oil spill and the affected areas are beginning to repopulate with sea animals like JANUARY 2009 KOREA 9

The West Sea off Taean at sunset on Dec. 10 (top) and the blackened seashore a year ago (bottom)

10 KOREA JANUARY 2009

clams, crabs and crayfish. Fishing activities are also being conducted throughout the entire area. In an effort to prevent polluted fishery products from being distributed, strict safety inspections have been enforced by specialized institutions in cooperation with local fishermen. Many lessons have been learned from the spill that left thousands devastated and took away their long-lived hopes and dreams. Park Jeung-sook, scientific affairs officer at the regional coordination unit of the UNEP Northwest Pacific Action Plan, told The Korea Herald that the most important suggestion is to develop and implement a comprehensive monitoring programs as part of the National Oil Spill Contingency Plan to provide information to determine the geographical distribution and impact of contaminants in case of an oil spill. A comprehensive monitoring program, including postspill damage assessment and restoration, is important not only to provide relevant scientific information in the case of an incident, but also to provide information on the preferred methods of cleanup and optimum extent of the cleanup, Park said, adding that this avoids any possible en-

The Korea Herald

The Korea Herald

Eric Gillet

Yonhap

COVER

Fishery activities restart in Taean (top) after the oil spill hit fish farms a year ago (bottom)

vironmental damage. So far, the government conducted a study on how the oil spill affected the health of volunteers and residents living there and it budgeted 3 trillion won ($2.2 billion) for the study earlier in April, according to officials at the Ministry for Health, Welfare and Family Affairs. The Environment Ministry then established an environment health center, which would seek for the improvement of residents’ health, in Taean in September.

Kim Won-min, director-general for the marine environment policy at the Ministry of Land, Transport and Maritime Affairs, said supertanker service line safety assessment and improvement was made in October and it plans to expand vessel monitoring targets to coastal-navigating vessels and fishing boats by July of this year. The maritime affairs ministry also expects to establish an eco-system restoration plan after collecting the opinions of central and local government officials, residents and field experts. ■ JANUARY 2009 KOREA 11

Eric Gillet

COVER

The Korea Herald

International Environment Forum Seeks Future Action Plans for Taean BY LEE JI-YOON STAFF WRITER

Millions of volunteers joined the clean-up efforts after the oil spill

Participants answer questions during a news conference before the Taean International Environment Forum on Dec. 10

Endless Wave of Volunteers Despite the freezing winter weather,

Help from the international communi-

the number of volunteers flocking to

ty in and out of the country was also de-

Taean from across the nation and

livered. Japan dispatched six maritime

abroad was continuously growing.

disaster prevention specialists, follow-

According to officials, 2.2 million peo-

ing four from the United Nations and

ple, about 4 percent of the total popu-

another four from the European Union.

lation, have participated in the cleanup

The Korea Herald

works since the oil spill.

12 KOREA JANUARY 2009

China sent two vessels with 65 tons of oil adsorbing sheets and other

The volunteering activities of some

equipment in addition to technical

celebrities also accelerated the partici-

specialists. Also joining were three

pation of more volunteers. Kim Jang-

marine rangers from the U.S. Coast

hoon, the versatile singer-songwriter,

Guard and a researcher from the U.S.

donated 500 million won ($529,000) to

National Oceanic and Atmospheric

the restoration efforts and completed a

Administration, with experience from

30-day campaign to help clean up the

the world’s largest-ever oil spill in

west coast with about 300 volunteers.

Alaska in 1989.

Korean superstar Rain also joined the

A Spanish team of four marine and

cleanup efforts by donating 300 million

ecological experts, who took care of the

won. His fan club members in the

oil spill in northern Spain in 2002, also

United States followed suit.

visited Taean to provide know-how. ■

T

he Taean International Environment Forum was held on Dec. 9 at Ocean Castle resort located in Anmyeondo, Taean, which was severely hit by the nation’s worst oil spill accident one year ago. Organized by the UNEP National Committee for Korea and Chungcheongnam-do Province, the three-day conference was attended by some 100 participants, including experts at home and abroad specialized in the fields of environment, eco-system, health and pollution prevention. They also participated in the restoration efforts and related research since the oil spill. The forum was divided into four sessions under different themes — how to overcome and newly understand maritime oil pollution accidents, evaluation on impact on ecology and health and environmental restoration, evaluation on social impact, volunteer work culture and environment preservation

and improvement of regional image and regional development strategies. The forum opened with a presentation on the damage and overall relief efforts for the last year to help better understand the current situation of the affected areas. In his address, Roger Percy, an official from Canada’s Environment Ministry, who was dispatched to Taean one year ago, offered some specific solutions to deal with maritime oil spill accidents. He cited the Exxon Valdez off Alaska in 1989, which enabled the establishment of Shoreline Clean-up Assessment Technique (SCAT). After the Taean accident, a health impact survey was jointly conducted by governmental institutions including the Ministry of Environment, research centers and civic groups. Ha Mi-na, professor at the Medical School of Dankook University, who has also taken part in the survey, addressed the result of the project.

Even though most residents and volunteers who helped the clean up suffered some physical and psychological pains, their symptoms are getting better, she said. But she emphasized the importance of the long-term monitoring on their health condition through a health center newly established by the Environment Ministry in September. Discussions on volunteering activities were also followed. Gonzalo Oviedo, advisor for the International Union for Conservation and Natural Resources, stressed the role of volunteers in preserving the environment. Various issues, like the revitalization of the local economy, were talked about with active participation of experts and officials. At the closing ceremony, the Taean Declaration on Environment and Development was announced. In the declaration, participants sought international cooperation for environment disasters. ■ JANUARY 2009 KOREA 13

DIPLOMACY

Korea, China, Japan Agree to Widen Economic Ties at Tripartite Summit

President Lee Myung-bak (right) shakes hands with Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso (center) and Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao during the three-way summit in the Japanese city of Fukuoka on Dec. 13

T

he leaders of South Korea, Japan and China agreed on Dec. 13 to widen cooperation in promoting free trade, fiscal expansion and currency swaps to weather the global economic crisis at an unprecedented trilateral summit. South Korean President Lee Myung-bak, Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso and Chinese Premier Wen

14 KOREA JANUARY 2009

Jiabao also agreed to reinforce tripartite partnership for “regional stability, prosperity and peace,” while expressing regrets at North Korea’s recent refusal to agree to verification measures for its nuclear program. The meeting in the Japanese city of Fukuoka marked the first three-way summit held separately from multilateral international forums. The three

countries have met annually on the sidelines of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Plus Three summit. “It was a historic meeting, as leaders of Korea, Japan and China got together at one place within the region for the first time,” President Lee said in a joint press conference after the summit. “I found through the summit talks

From top : Placards welcoming the tripartite summit hang on a street in Fukuoka Korea and Japan hold a bilateral summit meeting

that the three countries share common visions. All problems can be resolved through dialogue. Closer cooperation among the three will enhance the development of the entire world, as well as of the region. Korea’s latest currency swap deals with Japan and China also illustrate the importance of regional cooperation.” Lee called for closer tripartite cooperation in persuading North Korea to give up its nuclear program through the Six-Party Talks, saying the North’s nuclear problem will eventually be resolved, though it may take longerthan-expected time. Aso and Wen also attached special meaning to the first tripartite summit in their separate remarks at the press conference at the Kyushu National Museum in downtown Fukuoka. Ahead of the tripartite summit, Lee met separately with Aso and Wen. “Both President Lee and Prime Minister Aso consented to the need for steady efforts to boost bilateral relations and the Japanese prime minister agreed to visit Korea in the nearest possible future to resume bilateral shuttle diplomacy,” Lee’s spokesman said. In their bilateral meeting, the South Korean and Chinese leaders agreed to closely cooperate in forcing North Korea to abandon its nuclear program, the spokesman said. “President Lee explained the latest circumstances on the Korean Peninsula, while Wen stressed the two Koreas should attempt to improve relations through dialogue and negotiations. The Chinese leader then offered continued support for better interKorean relations,” said the spokesman.

As part of efforts to strengthen tripartite economic partnership, meanwhile, the three countries agreed to accelerate preparatory moves for bilateral and trilateral free trade talks, regularly hold meetings of their foreign ministers, improve business environment for one another’s companies and intensify three-way cooperation in the fields of energy, financial markets and logistics, according to the press release. “Lee, Aso and Wen, while taking note of the importance of frequent dialogue among their countries, agreed to regularly hold the tripartite summit meeting,” said a joint statement issued earlier after the summit. “The three leaders agreed to strengthen policy co-

operation between their countries for the denuclearization of North Korea after expressing regrets at the North’s ‘uncooperative attitude’ shown at the just-concluded Six-Party Talks.” Following their summit meeting, Lee, Aso and Wen issued three joint statements calling for tripartite partnership, closer cooperation over the global financial crisis and disaster management cooperation. In addition, they adopted a threeway action plan calling for holding the tripartite summit annually and establish a tripartite cyberspace secretariat in 2009. Under the agreement, next year’s tripartite summit will take place in China, while South Korea will host one in 2010. ■ JANUARY 2009 KOREA 15

DIPLOMACY

Yonhap

President Lee shakes hands with Polish President Lech Kaczynski (left) at Cheong Wa Dae on Dec. 5

economic ties, paving the way for Korean companies’ involvement in the construction of nuclear power plants and a large-scale waterway in the Middle Eastern kingdom. Their discussion focused on economic cooperation, involving a range of infrastructure projects in Jordan, Lee’s office said in a statement. “King Abdullah explained his government’s major infrastructure projects, including nuclear power plants, a waterway linking the Red Sea and the Dead Sea and desalination facilities,” Cheong Wa Dae said. The two leaders agreed that both

countries will expand cooperation in these areas and Korean companies would participate in the construction projects, the statement said. Following the summit, officials, trade bodies and businesses from the two countries signed agreements to cooperate in the projects. Jordan, which suffers from an ever-decreasing amount of water, plans to lay a 166 kilometer waterway to channel water from the Red Sea to the Dead Sea. The plan was proposed 10 years ago, but has been delayed because of volatile Middle East politics and envi-

ronmental concerns. Jordan plans to develop largescale facilities for desalination and power generation near the planned waterway. The country also plans to build several nuclear power plants to increase the proportion of its power generation taken up by atomic power to 30 percent by 2040. Korea and Jordan established diplomatic relations in 1962. Korea’s exports to Jordan, largely electronics and cars, surged 80 percent until September this year in comparison to the same period last year. ■

President Lee and Jordanian King Addullah II bin Al Hussein (left) attend a welcoming ceremony for the Jordanian leader at Cheong Wa Dae on Dec. 1

K

orean President Lee Myung-bak and Polish President Lech Kaczynski agreed boost economic cooperation between the two countries during summit at Cheong Wa Dae on Dec. 5. “President Lee asked the Polish leader to support Korean companies seeking to take part in Poland’s plans to build new atomic power plants, a liquefied natural gas terminal, sub16 KOREA JANUARY 2009

ways and expressways,” Lee’s office said in a statement. The Polish president welcomed Korea’s participation in projects to build nuclear power plants and expand infrastructure in Poland. Poland is Korea’s largest export market and investment destination in Central and Eastern Europe. The two nations established diplomatic ties in 1989.

During his stay in Korea, President Kaczynski received an honorary doctorate from Hankuk University of Foreign Studies and visit the Demilitarized Zone, Lee’s office said. Before meeting the Polish leader, President Lee also held a summit with Jordanian King Abdullah II bin Al Hussein on Dec. 1, who came to Seoul for a three-day visit. The two leaders agreed to enhance

Yonhap

Poland, Jordan Welcome Korea’s Participation in Infrastructure Projects

JANUARY 2009 KOREA 17

GLOBAL KOREA

In particular, the Zaytun troops had drawn positive

K

orea has ended its four-year peacekeeping mission in Iraq and pulled out its troops from the Middle Eastern country in December. The last group from the Zaytun (olive in Arabic) unit in Iraq and an air support unit in neighboring Kuwait arrived at Seoul Airport on Dec. 19. The Zaytun unit, which mainly consisted of engineering and medical troops, had stationed in the northern city of Irbil and they had helped in efforts to reconstruct the war-ravaged Iraq. In particular, the Zaytun troops had drawn positive responses from local residents for their contributions to developing the region. Other foreign

Korea Ends 4-Year Military Mission in Iraq Foreign Troops Eager to Benchmark Zaytun Unit’s Peace and Reconstruction Efforts

Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff Deputy Chairman Kim Joong-ryeon presents the national flag to Kurdish Regional Government Prime Minister Nechirvan Idris Barzani (left) during a special farewell ceremony in Irbil on Dec. 3

responses from local residents for their contributions to developing the region. Other foreign troops dispatched to Iraq at the request of the United States were reportedly eager to benchmark the Korean troops’ activities.

JCS

Korean Zaytun troops hold a ceremony to end their four-year peacekeeping mission in Iraq on Dec. 1

JCS

18 KOREA JANUARY 2009

troops dispatched to Iraq at the request of the United States were reportedly eager to benchmark the Korean troops’ activities. During their presence, the Zaytun unit focused on helping rebuild public facilities and providing various means of assistance to the people of Iraq to help improve their lives. The troops offered free vocational training courses to the local residents, such as classes teaching how to repair cars, operate computers, handle heavy machinery, learn taekwondo and bake. According to the Joint Chiefs of Staff, over 88,000 Iraqi residents received free medical services during the troops’ four-year presence. The

JANUARY 2009 KOREA 19

GLOBAL KOREA JCS

Zaytun troops provided medical services and vocational programs to local residents during their deployment in Iraq (top) A Korean soldier trains Iraqis how to repair cars

Zaytun unit also helped build a number of schools and other public facilities, such as health clinics, town halls and a library for local residents. The unit also donated over 36,000 pieces of heavy equipment and other military supplies to Iraqi forces before its departure. “I am proud and happy to have contributed what little strength I have to the successful completion of the mission of our unit and building peace in Iraq,” Yonhap News quoted First Sgt. Kim Dae-hyoung as saying. He is an Air Force engineer who had been dispatched five times to Kuwait, serving a total of 26 months there. Nearly 19,000 Korean troops had served in Iraq and Kuwait since the country first dispatched a 3,600strong unit to the Iraqi city in September 2004, according to the Defense Ministry. The total number marked Korea’s largest overseas troop deployment since the Vietnam War. The deployment started after the 20 KOREA JANUARY 2009

U.S. government asked the Korean government to send troops to assist its “war on terror” following the September 11 attacks in 2001. Despite its uncomfortable relationship with the Bush administration and opposition from some civic groups and political parties in Korea, the Roh Moo-hyun administration pushed ahead with the troop deployment. While around 400 global businesses participated in reconstruction projects, the Korea National Oil Corporation won a major oil development project in the Kurdish region in September of this year and took on a US$2.1 billion infrastructure project due in large part to the achievements of the Zaytun Unit, according to the Chosun Ilbo, a major Korean newspaper. “The 51 months the Zaytun unit spent in Iraq was an excellent experience for Korea, with the unit’s contribution befitting the country’s status in the international community. Korea’s status and influence in the

world grow with experiences such as this,” the daily said in its editorial. A disbandment ceremony for the Zaytun and Daiman units was hosted by Prime Minister Han Seung-soo at the Armed Forces Athletic Corps Command in Seoul, involving all key leaders of the military, including the defense minister and chiefs of the armed services, as well as some 3,000 of the troops’ family members. ■

A Korean soldier poses with Iraqi children holding Korean national flags

Iraqi students smile in a school built by Korean troops

JANUARY 2009 KOREA 21

The Korea Herald

GLOBAL KOREA

Forum Discusses Future of Multicultural Society Participants listen to a lecture

T

he foreign national population has moved past the 1 million mark. To touch on this subject, the “Multicultural Policy Forum” was held on Dec. 16 at Millennium Seoul Hilton Hotel. The forum was hosted by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism and the Korean National Commission for UNESCO. Hundreds of cultural figures, including Jeon Taek-su, secretary-general of the Korean National Commission for UNESCO, attended the forum. Under the theme “UNESCO’s International Standard Setting

Culture ministers from Korea (center), China (left) and Japan pose for a picture after signing a joint declaration on three-way cooperation in the field of culture on Jejudo on Dec. 25

T

BY PARK MIN-YOUNG STAFF WRITER

T

he culture ministers of Korea, China and Japan adopted a joint declaration aimed at strengthening the tripartite cooperation in the field of cultural exchanges. Korean Minister Yu In-chon held talks with his Chinese counterpart Cai Wu and Japanese counterpart Tamotsu Aoki at the second KoreaChina-Japan Cultural Ministerial

22 KOREA JANUARY 2009

Meeting, which was held from Dec. 24 to Dec. 26 in Seogwipo, Jeju Island. The “Jeju Declaration” includes agreements to increase cultural figure exchanges among the three nations, to expand youth exchanges through the Internet, and to make efforts to strengthen the protection of intellectual property rights.

During the meeting, Minister Yu proposed that the three nations promote a joint international film festival. Various cultural events celebrated the occasion. Jeju’s special self-governing provincial dance company staged a musical. There were also joint performances by the three countries and a movie festival. ■

Japan’s example in his speech, “To create a barrier-free global city: Policies and measures toward building a multicultural community in Toyota city.” In the second session, “Future Challenges of Multicultural Policy in Korea,” Korean experts gave their opinions on what the Korean government should focus on. Dr. Hong Kiwon, head of the Cultural Policy Research Team at Korea Culture & Tourism Institute, gave a speech on policy support in a multicultural Korea. An active discussion took place after every session. ■

Korea, China, Japan Agree on Green Growth Yonhap

Culture Ministers Hope for More Cultural Exchanges

Instruments for the Promotion of Cultural Diversity and New Challenges of Multicultural Policy in Korea,” many experts expressed their opinions. Nina Obuljen, the state secretary of the Ministry of Culture of Croatia, said that “the meaning of cultural diversity should be understood in a political concept.” In the first session, “Multicultural Policy Practices and Experiences,” many foreign experts touched on how their countries are dealing with multiculturalism. Sankichi Furuhashi introduced

Environment ministers of Korea, China and Japan pose after the meeting

he environment ministers of Korea, China and Japan agreed on the need for green growth at the 10th Tripartite Environment Ministers Meeting at the International Convention Center in Jejudo on Dec. 2. Lee Maan-ee, environment minister of Korea, Zhou Shengxian of China, and Tetsuo Saito of Japan discussed how to build a low-carbon society. They also touched on controlling yellow sand and chemical substances, and policies on environmental health. They agreed to keep discussing the policies for 10 more years and that the

TEMM 10 should develop into a more practical meeting. They agreed to cooperate in green growth and the establishment of a low carbon society and economy. Minister Lee also mentioned Korea’s will to host the 2012 World Summit on Sustainable Development (Rio+20) last September at the UN meeting, and asked for active support. This meeting has been held every year since 1999. The goal of the meeting is to come up with solutions to regional environmental problems. The 11th meeting will be held in China next year. ■ JANUARY 2009 KOREA 23

GLOBAL KOREA

English-Language Radio Channel Comes to Seoul BY JEAN OH STAFF WRITER

Bhutan Officials Learn About Korea’s Anti-corruption Program BY PARK MIN-YOUNG STAFF WRITER

K

orea is becoming a leading country in the AsiaPacific region in the anti-corruption drive, thanks to the efforts of the Anti-corruption and Civil Rights Commission. From Nov. 21 to 26, the ACRC held an anti-corruption consulting session for officials of the Bhutanese Anticorruption Commission and the Ministry of Agriculture, who will participate in the anti-corruption pilot program. It was one of the four sessions held this year in the Asia-Pacific region to educate local officials on how to measure and evaluate transparency as well as how to give ethics education. In August last year, the United Nations Development Program signed a memorandum of understanding with the ACRC to provide $950,000 for the project, which helps developing countries set up a technical support system to eradicate corruption. The Korean agency completed the transfer of nine anti-corruption tactics to Bhutan in February, the first recipient country of the project. Bhutanese officials visited Korea later in August for further training. The ACRC signed a separate memorandum with Indonesia in 2006 and held training sessions for the country’s Corruption Eradication Commission three times until September this year. The Indonesian anti-corruption watchdog also testran Korea’s transparency program on some 30 central government agencies. According to the ACRC, it will continue to promote Korea’s image as a leading anti-corruption country in the international community by sharing its technically advanced system with developing countries. ■ (Photos courtesy of ACRC) 24 KOREA JANUARY 2009

Hosts of tbs e-fm pose in front of the tbs building

W

ith the foreign national population moving past the 1 million mark, the introduction of more English-language radio channels has been long overdue. And now, the Seoul Traffic

Broadcasting System, also known as “tbs,” is bringing audiences a brand new all-English language channel. “From what I hear, the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency conducted a survey on tourists and

foreigners last year and discovered that language issues were the biggest problems that respondents faced,” said e-FM Producer Kim Kyoung-rae, 39. “I believe that was the starting point for the creation of this channel.” Following the approval of the Korea Communications Commission and a test run in August, “tbs e-FM,” also known as “SOUL-FM,” is bringing a slew of English-language shows to listeners in the city. Approximately 10 programs will run from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. on a daily basis, keeping Seoulites updated on the latest music and news. To tune in to “SOUL-FM,” just turn the dial to FM 101.3MHz. For more information, visit www.tbs.seoul.kr. ■ (Photos courtesy of tbs e-fm)

Lee Cham

‘We Aim to Be a Truly International Program’ Lee Cham Interview BY PARK MIN-YOUNG STAFF WRITER

A Korean counselor talks with a Bhutanese official (top), Korean counselors and Bhutanese officials pose after holding sessions

Lee Cham, a naturalized Korean from

on Korean dailies, they can learn what

Germany who is well known both as an en-

Koreans are currently thinking about.”

trepreneur and show biz personality, hosts

The charm of a radio show is that the

his own “Evening Show” on tbs e-fm from 6

hosts can really interact with the listeners.

them actually ask for some advice, like, ad-

pm to 8 pm from Mondays to Fridays.

Lee was once surprised to see a direct re-

vises on how to write for a resume to apply

It is a soft talk show which also provides

sponse from the blue house. “We talked

for an international company.”

current information. “We cover national, inter-

about a business issue on the program with

Lee also mentioned the difference of TBS

national, business, and economy news, and

our guest and suggested some policies the

from Arirang TV. “Arirang is sponsored by

also editorials of Korean dailies,” says Lee.

government must do. Two days later, the

the government, and mostly talk towards

The main target of the show is expats.

blue house announced exactly what we are

the world trying to make an image for

“Our program is like a platform where ex-

discussing. Many decision makers must be

Korea. TBS on the other hand, is real broad-

pats can get information and express their

listening to our program.”

casting, with the hosts and writers full of in-

opinions on,” said Lee. “We can give them

Lee also enjoys getting response from

information that would otherwise be hard to

the young people. “I never texted to a radio

“We are just at our kindergarten stage

get. Like for example, expats can’t read the

program before, but the young people must

right now, but we surely have the potential

Korean paper, but since we cover editorials

enjoy it,” he starts with a chuckle. “Some of

to become a truly international program.” ■

ternational minds,” he said.

JANUARY 2009 KOREA 25

The Korea Herald

NEW YEAR FESTIVAL

The Korea Herald

Celebrating New Year’s the Korean Way

Leading figures of the society strike the Bosingak Bell Foreigners learn the procedure of charye

BY PARK MIN-YOUNG STAFF WRITER

New Year’s Day is always exciting — people busy partying or making New Year’s resolutions. In Korea, it has one more special meaning: You are a year older. Nowadays, some Koreans celebrate Jan. 1 as New Year’s, but usually, Koreans celebrate the Lunar New Year called Seollal. It is one of the two biggest holidays in Korea, along with Chuseok in autumn. This year, Seollal is going to be on Jan 26. Here are some tips to enjoy your Korean-style New Year’s.

26 KOREA JANUARY 2009

Striking the Bell

Traditional Events

A big crowd of people can be seen gathered around Bosingak Bell on Dec. 31. When the clock hits midnight, about 10 people — usually high profiled ones including the president — strike the bell 33 times. The number signifies the 33 freedom fighters who signed the Declaration of Independence against Japanese occupiers in 1919. Then fireworks decorate the sky, and the festive ambience continues on for the whole day.

The first thing to do on New Year’s morning is set the ceremonial table and get into your “Hanbok,” or Korean traditional costume. It is time for “charye,” a memorial service for ancestors. Many fruits, fish and meat need to be organized on the table just in the right way. It would be confusing for starters, but you should do it with extra care, as this is the way to celebrate New Year’s Day with your ancestors. JANUARY 2009 KOREA 27

KTO KTO

NEW YEAR FESTIVAL

Be careful, as it is only the younger ones who bow. Those who are of the same degree of kindred usually bow to each other. This is the most awaited moment for the children because the elders give out money in return for the bows. Girls play on a Korean-style see-saw

“tteokguk,” a soup boiled with several thinly sliced rice cakes. Eating one bowl of the soup means you are getting a year older. But no need to worry — you won’t age faster just because you have two bowls!

TteokguK A boy flies a kite

Charye varies according to regions and family traditions, but usually goes like this. Follow the leader — usually the oldest male in the family — and bow at the table two times. Pay a few minutes of silence while the leader moves the chopsticks from dish to dish and pour liquor into the glasses. Either move to another room or stand for a while to wait for the ancestors to finish their meals, and go back and bow two more times. Take a sip of the drinks that were set on the table. Then the ritual is complete. When charye is over, it is time to say your New Year’s greetings to the older members of the family. Bow two times in front of them, and then they will say some well-wishing remarks. 28 KOREA JANUARY 2009

KTO

With your New Year’s money in hand, it is time to hit the dining room. Finally, it is time for breakfast. On New Year’s Day, Koreans eat

KTO

Traditional Foods

Traditional Games After having a nice bowl of tteokguk, now you can really enjoy the day with Korean traditional games. There are so many to choose from — starting with kite flying. Boys usually play shuttlecock or spin tops. The basic rules for shuttlecock are simple. Just put the shuttle cock on your feet and bounce it. The one who bounces it the most times wins. For spinning tops, the one who spins it the longest wins. Girls enjoy Korean-style see-saw, which is similar to the Western one except that you launch upward standing up instead of sitting down. Also, try to play the game “yut.” It is a board game played by tossing four sticks into the air. It is really amusing when the entire family participates. ■

Foreigners play Korea’s traditional shuttlecock game

Foreigners enjoy the game of yut

JANUARY 2009 KOREA 29

KOREAN LITERATURE

Kim Hoon A Writer Who Writes with His Body

He is a writer who strikes us as a tough warrior rather than as a frail scholar. He insists on writing longhand using only pencils, and shuns automobiles in favor of tooling around on a bike. But most of all, he is the writer of an entirely new kind of historical novels in Korea. Park Hae-hyun, a reporter for the Chosun Ilbo, met with novelist Kim Hoon for this interview. — Ed. (Source: Korea Literature Translation Institute)

K

im Hoon writes in longhand, using pencils. He worked as a journalist for over 20 years before he started publishing novels, but strangely enough, he has never touched the keyboard of a typewriter or a computer. In this digital day and age, he insists on writing the analog way. Kim has always said, “When I write with pencils, I feel that my body is propelling the writing forward. I am incapable of writing a single line without this feeling.” To him, a pencil is not merely a tool for writing, but the embodiment of the writer himself. Kim Hoon uses his entire body to show the moment in which the body and the words of the writer become one to reveal that a writer’s style is, literally, none other than the writer himself. Kim Hoon calls himself a bicycle racer. He does not have a driver’s license. He journeyed to the southern part of the Korean peninsula riding his bike, which he named Pungryun, 30 KOREA JANUARY 2009

meaning “wheels of the wind,” and wrote a series of travel essays. He is a writer who rejects computers and writes with a pencil, a writer who shuns automobiles and troubles himself by stepping on the pedals of his bicycle. People now consider him an evangelist promoting bike riding as part of the green lifestyle that is being emphasized in Korea today. Kim Hoon, however, brushes this off, saying, “pencils and bicycles are not exactly my source of pride or my idiosyncrasies.” He goes on to confess, “It’s not that I reject machinery out of free will; it’s simply that machines tend to break down at my touch. In other words, I’m disabled, a handicapped person, who has fallen behind the progress of the machine-oriented civilization.” But Kim has succeeded in turning his weaknesses into strengths. There has always been a tendency in Korean society to equate writers with frail and bookish, scholars. Kim, with his pencils and bikes, however, has come to be recognized as a writer who writes with his body, a writer who strikes us as a tough warrior rather than as an effeminate

scholar. It is no coincidence that his most widely read work is Song of the Sword, his novel about Admiral Yi Sun-sin, who is considered as almost sacred in Korean history. Song of the Sword not only sold over a million copies in Korea but also garnered its author the prestigious Dongin Literary Award, a rare case of a single book accomplishing both critical and commercial success. Song of the Sword is a historical novel set against the backdrop of 16th century warfare between Korea and Japan. It has been translated into several languages in many different countries, including France where it was published as part of Gallimard’s Du Monde Entier series. The first-person narrator of Song of the Sword is Admiral Yi himself, who, with a small fleet, defended the kingdom of Joseon against the invading Japanese navy. Yi Sun-sin is revered as a national hero among the Korean people, and countless novels and films have been made about him. His heroic tale may have become too clichéd even for Koreans. What, then,

is the reason behind the success of Kim Hoon’s novel in 21st century Korea? First, in writing Song of the Sword, Kim Hoon took the form of the historical novel, but adopted a style and construction completely different from those of other Korean historical novels that had come before it. Kim categorized the historical novels of preceding generations into two types — romantic historical novels set in the royal court, and populist historical novels that center around common people — and aimed at overcoming both. He rejected both the romantic historical novel that fostered escapism in readers through the romance of historical heroes, and the populist historical novels that shed light on the life of the common people through the perspective of 20th century left-wing ideology. Instead of letting himself, the author, tell the story about people from the past, Kim chose the first-person narrative through which a historical figure reveals his interior feelings and thoughts. The Admiral Yi Sun-sin in Song of the Sword is not an extraordinary superhuman or a mythical hero, but an

Song of the Sword is a historical novel set against the backdrop of 16th century warfare between Korea and Japan. It has been translated into several languages in many different countries, including France where it was published as part of Gallimard’s Du Monde Entier series. JANUARY 2009 KOREA 31

KOREAN LITERATURE

individual caught up in existential agony in the midst of war. The strength that keeps him fighting in battle is not rooted in his loyalty to the state or the king, or his love for the people. He fights on with all his might because he has been thrown into this situation called war. His life becomes one with his sword, and his voice becomes the song of the sword. Because he keeps fighting despite a premonition that he will not make it out alive, his spirit cannot free itself from a sense of nihilism. In reality, Yi Sun-sin died in combat during the war’s final battle. The nihilism in Song of the Sword stirred up a heated controversy among critics. One pointed out that the novel lacked the historicity required for it to be regarded as a historical novel in the true sense of the word, that it was closer to an essay than a novel, and that it projected the author’s nihilistic views on history and the world. In contrast, another critic took a positive view of Kim’s nihilism, stressing that all writers are bound to assume a nihilistic standpoint in order to distance themselves from the events they depict, and that real choices can be made only in a nihilistic situation. Kim Hoon, he stated, opened a new path for the Korean novel by boldly making use of nihilism. Such controversy, in fact, was what Kim had intended. It is true that Kim wanted to write a modern novel that delved deep into the interiors of an individual, freeing himself from the fixed form of the historical novel. He had also on many occasions openly expressed his aesthetics based on tragic nihilism. His insistence on writing with pencils and riding bicycles is a form of nihilistic criticism on the civilization of the 21st century, which emphasizes convenience, speed, and efficiency. Kim’s sense of nihilism, in this aspect, is not a pessimistic attitude but an existential one, revealing a spirit of defiance against today’s reality, and this is 32 KOREA JANUARY 2009

what resonates with many readers. Kim Hoon published two other historical novels since Song of the Sword, one of which is titled Fortress on Mt. Namhan. This book was also a huge success, yet again accompanied by controversy from critics. In this novel as well, Kim Hoon captures the detailed psychological depths of individual minds with his distinctive, taut, and precise prose. Fortress on Mt. Namhan is set during the war that was waged between the Korean kingdom of Joseon and Qing China in the 17th century. At the time, Joseon was no match for the Manchu dynasty that had conquered China. Nevertheless, Qing invaded Joseon because it had continued to pay respects to the fallen Ming dynasty, with which it had previously maintained tributary relations, and chose to ignore the authority of Qing, the new supreme power. Joseon’s royal family and court officials fled the powerful Qing forces to the Namhansanseong (mountain fortress), where they were held up for 47 days within the fortress’s locked gates, but in the end, the Joseon king surrendered, bowing down before the Qing emperor. This novel touched on the historical wounds of the Korean people. In a cool, tightly-knit prose style, it depicts how the king and his subjects, soldiers, and the common people persisted, fought, and lost, in complete isolation inside the Namhansanseong, surrounded by the enemy. The two powers that maintain conflict throughout the novel are the advocates of peace and the proponents of war. The former maintained that they should preserve the kingdom through reconciliation with the Qing dynasty, and the latter argued that they should fight the Manchus down to the last man. The novel sides with neither, and instead, vividly recreates the fortress as a symbolic space in history, leaving room

for the readers of today to interpret the story from a contemporary point of view. A historian noted that Kim’s novel reflected the spiritual injury suffered by the isolated Korean people following the financial crisis in the late 1990s. Another interpretation saw the relationship between Joseon, Ming China, and the Qing dynasty, the new superpower, as a reflection of Korea’s geopolitical reality in the Northeast Asia of the 21st century. Upon publication of Fortress on Mt. Namhan, Kim Hoon, wary of politically-inclined readings of his work, commented, “Human reality cannot be made up solely of self-respect and glory. I believe it is inevitable that shame and submission be a part of life and history as well.” Then he cautiously added, “I am unsure if my contemporaries will sympathize with the idea that even those inevitably disgraced for the sake of survival were just as beautiful as any other. I am neither on the side of the advocates of peace or the advocates of war, but on the side of those in pain. I hope the readers read this novel simply as a novel.” One thing is clear: Kim Hoon’s historical novels, as they are being read, have the power to amplify controversies as they are reflected in the mirror of reality. On the other hand, many critics agree that his prose brilliantly captures the tragic and sublime beauty of humanity within the realm of mundane realities, elevating the aesthetic style of the novel to the height of poetry. In addition to Song of the Sword and Fortress on Mt. Namhan, Kim Hoon has written another historical novel, Song of Strings. He has also published Rivers and Mountains Without End, a collection of short stories, and several books of non-fiction. Nowadays, he rides his bicycle around the suburbs of Ilsan in Gyeonggi-do (province), where he is writing a new novel, with a pencil. ■

Tears of the Sword

Songs of the Sword

By Kim Hoon Translated by Jung Ha-yun and Ahn Jin-hwan

Song of the Sword is a first-person narrative told in the voice of historical hero Admiral Yi Sun-sin. It is an intimate and existential monologue of a man confronted with the harsh realities of war, loss,

Flowers blossomed on each deserted island. The islands billowed like clouds as the evening sun lit the flowering trees. It seemed as if they might slip free of their moorings and drift beyond the darkening horizon. By the time the birds returned from this shore to their roosts on the dimming islands, the sparkling sunset had already hurried off to the horizon and died. At dusk, the remote islands were the first to be drawn into the shallow twilight and at dawn, they were the first to be returned to the world by the rising sun. Out at sea, it was always the most remote islands that died first and came back first. As the setting sun scraped the shimmering scales of light off the water, the sea blackened and surged with the tide, crashing against the cliffs, the rumble of the surf tossing in the darkness. My sight line extended no further than the blackened bluff. This was the moment when the enemy fleet would swoop in once again on the dark crest of waves from the other side of the murmurous horizon, wings spread wide, bearing a mountain of guns and swords. I could not fathom the source of the enemy’s rancor and the enemy had no way of knowing the quivering depths of my own rancor. The sea was taut, swollen with a rancor that neither side could hope to penetrate. But that was all I had for the time being — no fleet, only my rancor. ■

and indignity. The book begins in the year Jeongyu (1597), five

“Song of the Sword” in Foreign Languages

years into the war against Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s invasion. The fol-

- French: “Le Chant Du Sabre (2006,

lowing is the novel’s first chapter, which opens as Yi arrives back on

- German: “Schwertgesang (2008, Edition

the southern coast, released after torture and interrogation as a result of intrigue against him in the capital.

Gallimard)” Delta)” - Spanish: “El canto de la espada (2005, Trotta)”

JANUARY 2009 KOREA 33

CULTURE

T

Goryeo’s Royal Ceramics on Display at National Museum BY CHUNG MYUNG-JE KOREA.NET CHIEF STAFF WRITER

Visitors look at the “Porcelain Sea Dragon-Shaped Kettle”

34 KOREA JANUARY 2009

In addition, you can learn about how Goryeo celadon porcelain pieces were made, considering that the exhibition presents ceramics restored from broken shards found at old kiln sites in Sadang-li, Gangjin in Jeollanam-do and Yucheon-li, Buan in Jeollabukdo. Most ceramics for Goryeo royal household were made at these two kilns. The Goryeo royal household preferred celadon porcelain pieces with solemn beauty that were made with highly developed techniques. This exhibition provides visitors with a chance to get a glimpse of what high taste the Goryeo royal household had. For more information, call 82-22077-9499 (curator Kang Kyung-nam in the Fine Arts Department of the Curatorial Affairs Office) or go to English website at www.museum.go.kr /eng/index.jsp. ■ (Photos courtesy of the National Museum of Korea) “Porcelain Lotus Flower-Shaped Incense Burner”

Yonhap

“Porcelain Melon-Shaped Bottle”

he National Museum of Korea has brought a collection of royal ceramics from the Goryeo Dynasty (918–1392) together. The ceramics are rare cultural relics that have been unearthed from royal tombs of the dynasty. The exhibition titled “The Royal Ceramics of the Goryeo Dynasty” opened at the National Museum’s Fine Arts Gallery II on Dec. 2. It will last 76 days until Feb. 15 this year. About 290 highly valuable Goryeo celadon porcelain pieces, including four national treasures such as “Melon-Shaped Bottle” (National Treasure No. 94), are on display. This exhibition will provide you with a rare chance to relish the beauty and the excellence in the arts of Goryeo. The exhibition will especially feature all finds excavated from Jangreung, the tomb of Injong, the 17th king of Goryeo. These relics have never been shown to the public before. The archeological finds from this royal tomb are precious materials for research into the kingdom’s society and culture, as well as its ceramics, in the 12th century. Moreover, many other royal celadon porcelain pieces of Goryeo dating back to the 12th century and the early 13th century are also on display. Other royal ceramics were unearthed from the tombs of the 19th king Myeongjong, of the 21st king Huijong, of Queen Wondeok, the wife of the 22nd king Gangjong, and of Queen Sun-gyeong, the wife of the 24th king Wonjong. These precious ceramics carry significance as historic relics and show what kinds of ceramics the royal household of the Goryeo Dynasty used.

JANUARY 2009 KOREA 35

CULTURE

Yonhap

Yonhap

Korean language students at Ain Shams University in Cairo speak during a Korean language speech contest held at the school on Dec. 3

Egyptian People’s Love of Korean Language

cerning their studies. “At first I couldn’t understand some distinctive Korean sounds. So I had to practice the sounds everyday in front of the mirror. But because I did it too much, my parents were seriously worried about me,” said Alah. The top prize of the contest went to Mar and Mohmad, senior students of the school, who showcased correct pronunciation and excellent vocabulary. “We were very moved to know how much Koreans tried and struggled to achieve independence and freedom, when we first visited Korea last summer and went to the Independence Hall of Korea,” they said. The Korean minister to Egypt Ahn Sung-doo, who also led the judging panel, said, “The level of participants

A contestant wearing Hanbok, a traditional Korean costume

improves every year, so it becomes harder for us to judge their speeches.” In a celebrating address, Chung Dal-ho, Korean ambassador to Egypt, said, “Even though Korea and Egypt are far apart, the two countries can become closer thanks to you who learn

the Korean language.” Ain Shams University started a Korean language department for the first time in the Middle East and African regions. Some 110 students are learning the Korean language from eight Korean professors. ■

BY LEE JI-YOON STAFF WRITER

“I

The poster for the speech contest

36 KOREA JANUARY 2009

was not sad when the Egyptian national handball team was defeated by Korea during the Beijing Olympics, because to me Korea is my second country,” said a contestant speaking at a Korean language speech contest at Ain Shams University in Cairo on Dec. 3. Celebrating its third anniversary in 2008, the event has been held in Egypt’s capital and is organized by the Korean Embassy and the school. The 13 contestants included some students of the school’s Korean language department and ordinary citizens who are interested in Korean culture as well as its language.

“In 2004, after watching the drama “Winter Sonata,” I was very impressed by Korea and went to the Korean Embassy,” said 25-year-old dentist Amira. “At the Korean Cultural Center in there, I could learn Korean. It was great when I got full marks in a test.” Amr, 19, appeared on the stage wearing in Hanbok, Korea’s traditional clothe. He said he was very impressed by the plays of Korean football team at the 2002 World Cup, shouting out the famous cheering phrase “Daehan-min-kuk.” Nash and Alah, both majoring in Korean language at the school, introduced some interesting episodes con-

A Seminar on Korea’s Economic Growth Held in Egypt

The Asian Institute at Cairo

nomic achievements.

University held a seminar titled

In the keynote speech,

“The Government’s Role and

Korean Ambassador Chung

Policies in Korea’s Economic

Dal-ho emphasized the impor-

Development,” on Nov. 26 with

tance of economic cooperation

participation of over 100 pro-

between two countries and ex-

fessors, students and embassy

pected that cooperation to be

officials.

strengthened every year.

During the three-session

Aimed at fostering the devel-

meeting, scholars of both

opment of Korean studies and

countries exchanged their

training more scholars in the

opinions on Korea’s economic

field, the seminar has been sup-

growth, its policies and some

ported by the Korean Govern-

Egyptian cases. Also, they

ment. As part of the event, a

agreed Korean people’s edu-

lecture program on Korean

cational fever and related poli-

studies was also offered to stu-

cies are an important basis for

dents of Cairo University, which

the country’s stunning eco-

is located in Giza, Egypt. ■

JANUARY 2009 KOREA 37

CULTURE THE BEAUTY OF KOREA-18

Hemispheric Sundial Treasure No. 845

Shin Gwang-sub (center right), head of the National Folk Museum of Korea, shakes hands with his counterpart Yuri Chistov (center left), director of Peter the Great Museum of Anthropology and Ethnography, on Dec. 3 after they signed a memorandum of understanding

Joseon, 18th century Bronze | Di.24.3cm, H.10.0cm

Cultural Understanding Deepens Between Korea and Russia BY LEE JI-YOON STAFF WRITER

T

he National Folk Museum of Korea signed a memorandum of understanding with Russia’s Peter the Great Museum of Anthropology and Ethnography on Dec. 3, in order to expand the two countries’ cultural understanding. Under the agreement, a variety of academic projects, including content exchange, tour exhibitions, joint research and personnel swap programs, are planned regarding each other’s ethnic cultures and people’s daily lives. Peter the Great Museum, also known as Kunstkamera (strange room), is the country’s biggest and oldest museum established in St. Petersburg in 1727. Its Korean hall consists of some 2,000 artifacts including those collected by Russians who stayed in Korea from late 17th to early 20th centuries and some from North Korea since the 1950s. “The Peter the Great Museum has a lot of national treasure-level antiquities

38 KOREA JANUARY 2009

from Korea. The recently signed MOU is meaningful as it opens an academic opportunity for Korean researchers to study Korean artifacts owned by Russia,” said Shin Gwang-sub, the head of the National Folk Museum of Korea. Especially remarkable are a folding screen with a seal of Gyeomjae Jeongseon (1676-1759), renowned landscape painter from the Joseon period (1392-1910), and a photograph which is assumed to be taken in 1897 by a Russian during the national mourning for Joseon’s last Empress Myeongseong (1851-1895). The mourning photographs have never been seen in Korea before. The museum also has kept antiquities donated by Russian diplomat Kar Ivanovich Bever, who was a close ally of Empress Myeongseong. They are considered to be helpful for understanding of the late Joseon’s royal life. ■ (Photos courtesy of the National Folk Museum of Korea)

Peter the Great Museum of Anthropology and Ethnography in St. Petersburg, Russia

The sundial cast in bronze features a gnomon pointing towards the north, lines indicating hours, and 13 horizontal lines for 24 subseasons in silver inlay. The device, with a concave hemispheric design, was invented in 1434 during the reign of King Sejong(1397-1450) to be installed in the court and busy streets as public timetellers. A photograph assumed to be taken by a Russian during the national mourning period for Empress Myeongseong in 1897

(Photo courtesy of the National Folk Museum of Korea)

JANUARY 2009 KOREA 39

W

hen the bone-aching cold starts and the year-end stress gets unbearable, there’s nothing like a few glasses of good traditional wine to settle you down. Take some time from your work and head for Seocheon, in Chungcheongnam-do, where the Korean traditional liquor “sogokju” allures visitors with its relaxing taste. Hansan Sogokju brewery makes one of Korea’s best sogokju. The light drink, which has a hint of sweetness and scent of wild chrysanthemum, is said to have been favored by the Baekje Royal Family some 1,300 years ago. Various ingredients are needed for sogokju, including glutinous rice, whole wheat, chrysanthemum leaves and a pinch of red chili pepper. Brewers explain that the most important factor in making good sogokju is the water, and then the yeast, followed by just the right temperature for the drink to ripen. To make the drink, whole wheat has to be cultivated for a month to become yeast. Then wash and grind some non-glutinous rice to make it sticky. Pour some wheat water in it, and leave it there for four to five days. When it is ripened, mix it with some hard-boiled rice made of glutinous rice. Add some chrysanthemum leaves, red chili pepper and sesame oil, and let it ferment for 100 days in a cool spot. When it is done, gently scoop up the clear liquid, and the sogokju is ready. Enjoy the sight while you are there. From the end of November, Seocheon is famous for its scenery of golden fields filled with reeds. It is also a favorite navigation point for migratory birds, which fly over the reeds, creating a spectacle both for the eyes and ears. The morning or near sunset are the best times to get great views. To get a better view of the flocks of migratory birds, visit the estuary’s observatory tower. For information on traveling in Seocheon, call the tourism division at (041) 950-4224. To contact Hansan Sogokju, call (041) 950-0290 or visit www.sogokju.co.kr. ■

Sogokju to Heat up Your Winter

40 KOREA JANUARY 2009

YoungDoo Moon

BY PARK MIN-YOUNG STAFF WRITER

Sogokju

Hansan Sogokju

FOOD

1

2

3

4 To make sogokju, stomp on the non-glutinous rice to make it sticky (1), mix it with other ingredients (2), stir the glutinous rice (3), scoop up the clear liquid after it ferments for 100 days (4)

JANUARY 2009 KOREA 41

TRAVEL

Traditional thatched houses on Jeju Island

Olle

Reveals Jeju’s True Character BY YOON SO-JUNG KOREA.NET STAFF WRITER

42 KOREA JANUARY 2009

Deuleong-gwitgae Cave

M

ount Halla, yellow rape flowers, lava caves and honeymooners… Sound familiar? These are some of the unique features of Korea’s largest island Jejudo (Jeju Island). Most of Jeju Island visitors join a group tour, rent a vehicle or hire a local tour guide to look around the island. They can save time, but the limited sightseeing may not be enough for those who want to have more special “Jeju” experiences. The good news for Jejudo lovers is, Suh Myung-sook, chief of the Jeju Olle Organization, says that the island still offers golden opportunities for them to find its hidden beauty, especially for those who wish to travel in a more intimate and environmentally

friendly way to see the true colors of the place. Though it may require physical endurance and patience, eleven courses of Jeju Olle trekking programs let travelers discover the “very untouched” natural landscape of the island blessed with a warm temperature, rare species and beautiful scenery. “Olle” is an old word meaning narrow paths used on Jeju Island. So far, the Jeju Olle non-profit Organization opened 11 Olle courses since 2007. Olle trekkers don’t need to make a booking or buy a ticket after arriving in Jeju Island, whether by plane or boat. Instead, you need to decide which of the 11 Olle courses you want to try first and find maps of the selected courses. Each of the 11 courses takes from four up to JANUARY 2009 KOREA 43

TRAVEL

From top : Olle trekkers head to Hamel Museum Gyul (tangerine) farm along the Olle course

six hours to complete. If you would like to see the wild yet beautiful nature of the island, highlighted with its uniquely shaped rocks and cliffs, course 8 is a recommended route. The 27.6-kilometer-long course 8 stretches from Wolpyeong Harbor to Daepyeong Harbor, and here you can find the natural beauty created by Jeju Island’s spectacular pillar-shaped rocks, pampas grasses and seashore. Follow arrow markers and yellow and blue ribbons that direct you in the way you need to proceed. Along course 8 you can find traditional thatched houses of Jeju Island, surrounded by stone walls and a seaside road covered with various sizes of black rocks marked as “Marine Corps Road” on the Olle map. In the 44 KOREA JANUARY 2009

past, Jejudo residents did not use this 0.8-kilometer-long rocky road because it was too bumpy to be used as a thoroughfare. But in 2007, 80 soldiers from Korea’s Marine Corps and the Korean Navy rebuilt the road by moving and rearranging sea rocks in three days. Once past this rocky road, Jejudo’s hidden beauty will delight trekkers with its seashore view on one side and beautifully carved cliffs on the other. To find the hidden beauty of the island’s seashore, the 8.81-kilometer-long course 4 and 14-kilometer-long 5 are also recommended. As each course takes more than four hours, you need to begin the trip as early as possible. You may need to climb small hills or “oreum,” meaning “small mountain” in Jeju dialect, or cross a creek by relying on small stepping stones. After patiently passing these uneasy places, a picturesque vista of pampas grasses, beautifully shaped cliffs and the sea will amaze you. Gyul (tangerine or mandarin orange) farms are also a unique sight. If lucky, you might be given some free gyul, which will impress you with not only their taste, but also Jeju residents’ kindness. On course 5, you can find several beaches and rocky roads. Be careful because these roads can be slippery, especially when raining. But don’t forget to look around and take photos to catch the beauty of Jeju beach. After climbing a hill at Yongmeori beach, named after its dragon head-shaped geographical features, you will find Hamel Monument and a museum shaped like a Western ship under the hill. These structures are to mark the spot where the Dutchman Hendrik Hamel (?-1692) was shipwrecked off the coast of the island in 1653 with 36 shipmates of the Dutch East India Company. He is known to be the first

Westerner to introduce Korea to Europe in the journal that he wrote and later published, after living for 13 years in Korea. If you want to feel the inland beauty of Jeju Island, try course 1. When walking along this 15-kilometer-long course, you will need to climb some hills. After reaching a peak, look around to find the scenery of Jeju residents’ farms, ports and Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak), one of three World Natural Heritage sites designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in June 2007. You may come across some cows or horses, as the course traverses ranches and farm roads. Keep quiet and wait until the animal passes by and you can proceed on your way.

If you feel hungry wandering on Olle roads, visit small restaurants run by traditional Jeju women divers who catch fresh fish and make seafood cuisines and you find along the way to try reasonable priced local specialties like abalone soup or other seafood dishes. Bring some cash as credit cards are not accepted in some of these remote restaurants. When following Olle courses, using public transportation is recommended. A raincoat, warm jacket, long-sleeved shirts and comfortable shoes or mountain-climbing boots are also required for the trip; Jeju Island has a lot of wind and rain which makes for frequent weather changes. For more information, visit www.jejuolle. org. ■

Olle courses reveal the hidden beauty of Jeju Island

JANUARY 2009 KOREA 45

SM Entertainment

PEOPLE

Pop Diva BoA

BoA’s first English single and U.S. debut

Sets Her Sights on 30 Countries

song “Eat You Up” was unveiled to the world through some

BY HAN ARAN KOREA.NET STAFF WRITER

300 websites in 30 countries around the world on Oct. 21. The

A

Pop Diva BoA

46 KOREA JANUARY 2009

t first it looked as if the Asian pop sensation BoA was only setting her sights on the U.S. music market, when she announced her plan to debut in the United States in September. But the 21-year-old Korean singer was aiming for a more ambitious goal after all. Korean pop princess BoA, who has conquered the Japanese pop world, is about to knock on the door of the music scene of no less than 30 countries with her song “Eat You Up.” BoA’s first English single and U.S. debut song “Eat You Up” was unveiled to the world through some 300 websites in 30 countries around the world on Oct. 21. The countries included the United States, China, Great Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Australia and New Zealand. Known for producing Britney Spears’ “Toxic,” which they co-wrote, the Swedish duo Bloodshy and Avant put their talent to work for BoA. They came out with a catchy chorus, a staccato electronic vibe and deep bass beats. In keeping with the current trend in the U.S. pop scene, the single veered away from BoA’s standard R&B and hip-hop sound. To keep BoA’s hip-hop flavor in-

countries included the United States, China, Great Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Australia and New Zealand.

tact, choreographers for her American and Asian music videos infused dance moves with a few solo riffs. Misha Gabriel, who worked with Justin Timberlake, choreographed the routine for her Korean music video. It was directed by Cha Eun-taek. Flii Stylz, known for his work with Chris Brown and Usher, choreographed her American music video. In the United States, the song was released on various websites including iTunes, Amazon, AOL, I-Music, Emusic and MySpace. It is also distributed as a mobile phone ringtone and

ringback tone through AT&T and TMobile. In the meantime, the song is being distributed in Korea starting Oct. 22 through major music portals including Melon, Dosirak and Cyworld. In Japan, it was released on iTunes Store, Mora, Mu-mo, and dwango.jp. In Thailand the song is carried by Sanook Online and Click Internet, and in China by sina.com and China mobile. The single was released offline in November and BoA started her activities in the United States. BoA is well known throughout

Asia, and is especially adored in Japan. In 2002, she made her debut in Japan with the album “Listen to My Heart.” Since then BoA has concentrated most of her activities in that nation, releasing six Japanese-language albums, which have all topped the Oricon weekly charts. BoA is the latest in a string of Korean pop stars who are trying to make it big in the United States. Rain and Seven have reportedly been preparing for their debut in the United States for the past year, but neither has yet released an English-language album. ■ JANUARY 2009 KOREA 47

Korean YouTube Star Hopes to Inspire Others BY LEE JI-YOON STAFF WRITER

YouTube star Lim Jeong-hyun poses at a café in central Seoul on Dec. 11

48 KOREA JANUARY 2009

The Korea Herald

I

n late 2005, a YouTube video showing a mysterious guitarist attracted huge attention with more than 7 million views. The guy in the video played a difficult rock version of Pachelbel’s Canon in a room with his face obscured by a baseball cap and sunlight pouring behind him. After eight months, an article in the New York Times finally revealed that he was Korean Lim Jeong-hyun who was studying at Auckland University in New Zealand. In the article titled “Web Guitar Wizard Revealed at Last,” the reporter Virginia Heffernan wrote that Lim’s virtuosity made him to “find beauty in the speed and accuracy that the new internet world demands.” “The New York Times article was a trigger,” recalled Lim, 25, who is currently in Seoul preparing for the next semester at Yonsei University as an exchange student.

“I had no intention to hide my identity. I just wanted to hide my ugly hair that day,” he said with a smile. “I didn’t know much about YouTube at that time and couldn’t understand the situation that an ordinary person like me can be spotlighted that much.” The video was copied and posted on YouTube by a fan from a Korean music site where Lim originally uploaded it in October, 2005. After the revelation about his real identity, he was interviewed by several international newspapers and television channels such as the Los Angeles Times, Reuters and CNN. As one of the site’s most-viewed videos, Lim’s guitar playing video is widely considered an early example of the social impact of YouTube and the viewing number is still growing — surpassing 53 million as of December. Even though the comments and videos linked to the video are all about praise and admiration, he said he is more attracted by some harsh criticism on his fingering. “The main reason for my filming videos is to show my playing to people and listen from them,” he said. After first picking up a guitar eight years ago when he was a high school student, he has completely self taught — except for one month of guitar lessons. It took three weeks for him to master the “Canon Rock,” arranged by a Taiwanese guitarist Jerry Chang, which demands a player’s high dexterity. Thanks to the popularity he gained through the YouTube video, he has held several concerts at home and abroad over the last three years, and released his first song “Mission,” which was inspired by his tour around the world in 2007. In November, his dream came true

when he staged with Joe Satriani, legendary American guitarist who was a lead guitarist for famous bands like the Rolling Stones and Deep Purple. In preparation for YouTube Live, which featured a variety of YouTube celebrities, the concert organizer asked Lim to submit a list of musicians who he wanted to play with. “Of course, on the top of the list was my favorite guitar master Jo Satriani. And they made it. It was a superb stage,” Lim said, “I was a little nervous though. The concert was streamed live in San Francisco and Tokyo to the world. You never knew how many people were watching my performance.” On the stage he played a Korean Peninsula-shaped guitar with the country’s national flag engraved on it. “I also wanted to introduce Korea to the world,” he said. So far, Lim has released four digital singles in Korea and is often asked to become a professional musician. But he has never thought about it. “I feel no need to choose one thing and give up another. I want to have a job related to my major, information science, and continue music. It will be great though, if it’s about music,” he said. “When I’m fully ready, I hope to release my regular album containing songs that I create.” “The most important thing that I can earn from my YouTube popularity is I have found my own color in everything. I have become much more confident and energetic. “I feel great when people say they became interested in guitar or they start guitar again after watching my video. And more broadly I would like to be a person who can inspire other people especially youngsters to try new things and have a dream,” he said. ■

The Korea Herald

PEOPLE

“I feel great when people say they became interested in guitar or they start guitar again after watching my video. And more broadly I would like to be a person who can inspire other people especially youngsters to try new things and have a dream,” Lim said. JANUARY 2009 KOREA 49

Yonhap

Yonhap

PEOPLE

German Revives Ancient Art Olympics BY LEE JI-YOON STAFF WRITER

Jang Dong-gun Named Goodwill Ambassador for WFP

Former U.S. President Bill Clinton (center) announces the appointment of actor Jang Dong-gun (left) as goodwill ambassador for the World Food Program at the Clinton Global Initiative’s Asian conference held in Hong Kong on Dec. 3

BY LEE JI-YOON STAFF WRITER

I

n ancient Greece, an art competition called the “Delphic Games” was held every four years before the Olympic Games. And one hundred years after a French nobleman Pierre Coubertin established the International Olympic Council, a German financier revived the Delphics in 1994. Christian Kirsch, 66, is the initiator of the Delphic Movement of the Modern Era and secretary general of the International Delphic Council in Berlin. In November, he visited Jeju, which is stepping up efforts to prepare for the third Delphic Games scheduled to be held in September in the southernmost resort island. While he was sponsoring some talented artists, he dreamed of making a culture festival that brings people around the world together. One day a friend told him about the Delphic Games and he ran with it. With the help of Queen Sophia of Spain, who is from Greece, he could work as a cultural advisor for the Greek government, residing in the country and studying more about the ancient events. He sometimes spent whole nights at a theater where the Delphics used to take place. After several meetings with culture ministers around the world, he organized the IDC with representatives from 18 nations in 1994.

50 KOREA JANUARY 2009

Christian Kirsch, secretary general of the International Delphic Council

Following the first events in Moscow in 2000, and the second in Malaysia in 2005, Korea’s Jeju was decided to be the third host city of the Delphic Games at the IDC’s international assembly in 2006. In an interview with a local newspaper, Christian emphasized the meaning of Korea’s hosting the events. “South and North Korea are still distant politically, but we can make the chill atmosphere warmer with art and

culture. I hope the events can be a bridge connecting two Koreas,” he said. Under the theme of “Turning into Nature,” the Jeju events will feature a variety of programs exploring the origin and nature of culture and art from ancient times to the modern era, according to the organizing committee. The events are expected to be the biggest in size with more than 3,000 participants from some 100 countries. ■

K

orean actor Jang Dong-gun, who is enjoying popularity around Asia, was appointed goodwill ambassador for the World Food Program, on Dec. 3. Based in Rome, the program was launched in 1961 to provide humanitarian food support to people in under-developed countries. His appointment was announced at the closing ceremony of the Clinton Global Initiative’s Asian conference,

which was held in Hong Kong with some 400 guests of international celebrities including former U.S. President Bill Clinton and Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew. “I feel great responsibility as I assume the honorable and important job of the WFP’s ambassador,” Jang said in an interview with Korea’s Yonhap News. “I’ll do my best to make the food problems in the world be consid-

ered more seriously by many Asians and my fans.” As well as the 37-year-old actor’s appeal as a Korean Wave star, his interest in human rights issues in North Korea was reportedly considered by the judging panel. He was said to become concerned about the issue as he appeared in movies like “Taegukgi: Brotherhood of War” in 2003 and “Typhoon” in 2005, both about the 1950-53 Korean War. Regarding food aid for North Korea, he said, “I want to help more humanitarian aid to be made by the South Korean Government as an important food contributor,” adding that he would like to visit the North if he has an opportunity. The WFP’s international goodwill ambassadors currently active include American actress Drew Barrymore, Howard Buffett, son of American investor Warren Buffett, and Brazilian football player Kaka. ■ JANUARY 2009 KOREA 51

LEISURE

Korea Becoming More Bicycle-Friendly BY PARK MIN-YOUNG STAFF WRITER

Bicycle Race in Seoul

M

ore than 2,000 people gathered in Yeouido with their bikes on a chilly morning on Dec. 14. They were here to participate in the Seoul Bicycle Festival, held by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism. Starting from Yeouido, thousands of bikes went over Mapo Bridge, passed Mapo and headed toward Gwanghwamun. Turning at Sejongno, the parade continued past Seoul Station, crossed the Hangang again over Wonhyo Bridge and finally returned to the starting point — all in two hours. With the help of the police, two traffic lanes were used, and the bikers didn’t have to stop and wait at crosswalks. Some unique bikes were spotted: a bike with a tiny wheel half the regular size, a bike you ride while lying down, and a bike with a baby carrier tagging along. At a corner of Yeouido Park, a flea market was opened. Participants could receive bicycle repair services at the service center, and ex-

52 KOREA JANUARY 2009

JANUARY 2009 KOREA 53

LEISURE

Some unique bikes spotted during the Seoul Bicycle Festival Yonhap

change bike parts with other participants at the bartering marketplace. “This festival aims to make citizens healthy and decrease the expense of fossil fuels by encouraging the use of bicycles in the community,” said Park Byeong-jin, head of the Sports for All Division of the Culture Ministry. “We are going to launch various projects so that bicycles can become a part of the citizens’ everyday life.” The Culture Ministry plans to make the bike festival an annual event starting next year.

Government Promotes Bicycles One by one, the Government and local administrations are announcing policies that will encourage people to use bikes. The Ministry of Public Administration and Security announced on Nov. 5 in Changwon, Gyeongsangnam-do, that it will revise a law that will make parking lots install bicycle parking spaces. The ministry will hand in the revised law to the parliament in March 2009. The ministry is also planning a “road diet,” which will create more space for bikes to pass by. It had formerly announced in 2006 that it will construct a road exclusive for bicycles, 1,218 km long, along the west coast. The construction will be finished by 2010. Starting from Haengju bridge above Hangang, Seoul, the road will pass Incheon, Mokpo and lead into Changwon. Considering that the average distance covered per day by a biker is 80 to 100 km, it will take about 12 to 15 days to finish the course. Some local communities have already joined in on the action. Gyeonggi-do announced on Dec. 8 that it will construct a road exclusive for bicycles, connecting Suwon, Gyeonggi and Pyeongtaekho on the west coast. It will be 57 km long. There is already a bicycle road along the Hangang, which is 28 km long. So when Gyeonggi-do finishes its construction of the road connected to the west coast and another road of 9 km which will link that road with the one along Hangang, bikers can enjoy 94 km of 54 KOREA JANUARY 2009

biking freedom. Changwon city in Gyeongsangnam-do launched the NUBIJA plan on Oct. 22. Nubija is a public bicycle rental system. The name is an abbreviation for “Nearby Useful Bike, Interesting Joyful Attraction.” A month after its launch, more than 2,500 people have registered as members. More than 8,000 bikes have been rented. “If this active participation continues, it will not be hard for the public bicycle system to grow,” said Ha Seung-woo, policy aide of NUBIJA. ■

A couple enjoys biking during the festival

Free Rental Bikes at Bukchon Hanok Village Foreigners who visit Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul will be provided with free rental bikes and tour guides in English and in Japanese. Jongno-gu announced on Dec. 8 that it will install a Bukchon-PUB tourist bureau, which offers those services, next to Jaedong Elementary School in Bukchon within the month. As part of the city gallery project, the tourist bureau will be operated along with the Seoul Art Valley Tourism Information Center, which works to create Bukchon as a cultural tourism spot. “We are going to install many more convenient systems to increase local tourism,” said an official at Jongno-gu Office. ■

JANUARY 2009 KOREA 55

Singapore Art Museum

EVENTS

Korean Contemporary Art Revealed in Singapore If you want to learn about Korean modern and

early 1980s are spotlighted in the second

contemporary art during this winter,

part. They started to incorporate everyday

Singapore is the place to go.

objects into their canvas.

Singapore Art Museum is holding the exhi-

Works of Kim Kang Yong, Lee Yong Deok,

bition “Transcendence: Modernity and

Cheong Kwang Ho and Lee Lee Nam are

Beyond in Korean Art,” displaying Korean art

shown in the section.

from the 1950s to the present.

BY PARK MIN-YOUNG STAFF WRITER

The last part features Korean art of the

The works are on loan from the National

1990s. During this time, artists showed greater

Museum of Contemporary Art in Seoul. Over

interest in the social function of art. Kang Ik

40 works of 12 artists are being shown.

Joong used art as an important tool to con-

The featured artists include: Cheong

Asian Culture Exchanges in Seoul

nect geographical boundaries and cultures.

Kwang Ho, Hong Kyoung Tack, Kang Ik

The exhibition runs through March 15. For

Joong, Kim Hong Joo, Kim Kang Yong, Kim

more information, visit http://www.singart.

Tschang Yeul, Lee Jung Woong, Lee Lee

com/ ■ Singapore Art Museum

Nam, Lee Ufan, Lee Yong Deok, Park Seo Bo, Suh Do Ho and Yim Tae Kyu. The exhibition has three parts. The first part focuses on the origins of Korean modernism in the 1950s. Three major artists of Korean

“A Winter Story”

modernism — Park Seo Bo, Lee Ufan and Kim Tschang Yeul — are featured. “Philip, New York 083182” by Lee Yong Deok

“Happy World” by Kang Ik Joong

Artists who emerged in the late 1970s and

Fashion Meets Culture at Old Seoul Station

The first 2008 Seoul, Asian Arts Festival was held from

“To go along with the theme of the Asian Arts

Dec. 8 to 16 at the Seoul Arts Center in southern Seoul.

Festival, we moved the setting of the play to Central

Under the theme “Color of Asia, Wave of Asia,” its

Asia where Mongolians originated from,” explained an

goal was to build strong cultural interchanges and co-

official of the theatrical company. “We wanted to com-

operation among Asian countries.

municate with the Asian audience of this time.”

A joint concert of Korean, Chinese and Japanese orchestra was held on the opening day. Musicians and

For more information, visit www.sac.or.kr ■ (Photos courtesy of Seoul Arts Center)

conductors from China, Japan, Mongolia and Korea A chic fashion show filled the empty hall at the

dustry. It will hold the “Korean Wave Fashion

old Seoul Station from Dec. 11 to 12. The

Show,” which contains both fashion and mu-

An Asian Culture & Arts International Conference was

fashion show, “Fashion Meets the Culture,”

sical contents. Korean celebrities well-known

held at the conference hall on Dec. 11. Culture and ed-

was held to promote the launch of the

in Asia and fashion designers will participate.

ucation officials from Japan, China, Vietnam and Korea

Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism’s

Another plan of the ministry is to hold the

plans to develop fashion and culture.

took part.

Fashion show “Fashion meets the Culture”

attended.

AFF meeting in Korea, and make it into an in-

The Young Chung-Ang Film Festival was held at the

Famous Korean fashion designers, such as

ternational fashion festival. Yu said the min-

CINUS ISU Multiplex Theater. It screened 39 short and

Lee Sang-bong, Choi Bum-suk and Ha Sang-

istry will operate “Foreign Master Classes” by

medium-length movies.

beg, showcased their works.

inviting world famous fashion designers and

Many foreign ambassadors and figures in

The creative musical play “Transit 1987,” directed by

educate new Korean designers.

Kim Seong-nyeo, who is a well-known Korean actress,

fashion and culture attended the show, includ-

The “Public Fashion Design Fair” is also on

was staged from Dec. 15 to 16. The theme was taken

ing U.S. Ambassador Kathleen Stephens,

tap, which will display clothing that can be

from the musical “A Fiddler on the Roof.” But the script

French Ambassador Philippe Thiebaud, Won

worn in everyday life.

and the music were originals. It is about how some peo-

“To reinforce Korea’s international compe-

Federation, and Ko Eun, a famous Korean poet.

tence, the nation will actively support its fash-

Culture Minister Yu In-chon announced the

ion and culture industry, starting from 2009,”

ministry’s policies to support the fashion in-

56 KOREA JANUARY 2009

said Yu. ■

ple from the Goryeo Dynasty were forced to move to the maritime province of Siberia long ago. Yonhap

Dae-yeon, chairman of the Asia Fashion

A joint concert with Korean, Chinese and Japanese orchestra

“A Winter Story,” which is a Korean adaptation of Shakespeare’s original play, was held from Dec. 12 to 14. JANUARY 2009 KOREA 57

BOOKS

Identity of Korean Women in History Explored pp.) is latest in a string of academic efforts to

great women who left prominent footsteps in

bring gender equality to Korean history.

history from ancient to medieval and modern

Written by Lee Bae-yong and translated into

times. The brief but well-documented bio-

English by Lee Kyong-hee, the book reviews

graphical accounts introduce a panoramic

the lives of Korean women from ancient times

glimpse on how women achieved self-realiza-

to the 20th century through analysis of various

tion and contributed to society and the nation

customs and institutions related to women as

despite various restrictions.

well as brief biographies of women in many fields who distinguished themselves.

The status of women in Korea was at a dismal level in the latter half of the Joseon

The remarkable trailblazers include Queen Seondeok and Empress Myeongseong, poet

In the book, author Lee Bae-young, cur-

Heo Nanseolheon, painter Rha Hye-suk, pilot

rently president of Ewha Womans University,

Park Gyeong-won and dance Choi Seung-hui.

looks back on the dynamic and glorious paths

The third and last chapter reviews the lives

trodden by Korean women overcoming feu-

of women through historical records such as

dalistic constraints for over 2,000 years.

the Annals of the Joseon Dynasty and the

Dynasty (1392-1910). Most women, even

The first chapter of the book focuses on the

Memoirs of the Lady Hyegyeong. The palaces

those in the upper class, were not given first

life of Korean women during the Joseon peri-

and the royal ancestral shrine of the Joseon

names, a disheartening evidence of the coun-

od in view of the Confucian social systems

try’s male-oriented culture. Progress has

and institutions, including marriage, property

been made in modern Korea, but both

inheritance, gender segregation and chastity.

women’s studies researchers and historians

It also sheds light on the lives of queens, court

say there is much to be done about the histo-

ladies and shamans, among other female pro-

ry of Korean women. “Women in Korean History” (Ewha Womans University Press; 28,000 won; 320

period, traditionally considered the arenas of men, are revisited with eyes focused on the role of women, how they carved their niches in the male-dominated political scene. The book shifts attention to the past lives of

fessionals, and how they navigated through

Korean women, and Korean history and cul-

political and social turmoil.

ture in general. For further information about the book, visit www.ewhapress.com. ■

Ewha Press

Yonhap

The second chapter traces the lives of

Na Hye-seok (left), Korea’s first female artist of Western paintings

58 KOREA JANUARY 2009

Newly appointed female judges and prosecutors take their oath at the Ministry of Justice

Let There Be a Yard

Guide to Korean Culture

The International Flavours of Seoul

Author: Hwang Sung-hyuk Publisher: E&B Plus Pages: 397 Price: 19,000 won

Publisher: Korean Culture and Information Service Pages: 256 Not for Sale

This book chronicles the early hey-days of

This handy guidebook offers readers a brief

If cooking non-Korean meals has been too

the era of industrialization in Korea during the

but comprehensive hint on Korea’s cultural

much of a hassle due to laborious time-con-

1960s when president-cum-dictator Park

heritage, including some world’s cultural

suming efforts to acquire region-specific in-

Jung-hee had fervent ambitions to steer the

heritage designated by UNESCO. The an-

gredients at local grocery stores, you’re in

nation out of poverty and into affluence.

cient kingdoms of Goguryeo, Baekje and

luck.

Author: Seoul International Women’s Association Publisher: Seoul Selection Pages: 256 Price: 15,000 won

Written by a man who was there on-site

Silla (1st century B.C.-A.D. 7th century) pro-

This book offers 172 recipes of authentic

during that time, Hwang Sung-hyuk details

duced some of the world’s most outstand-

dishes from 54 countries that can be pre-

the early settlement of Korean shipyards

ing Buddhist art. Goryeo, the dynasty that

pared and cooked using only local ingredi-

and shipbuilding during the industry’s infan-

ruled Korea from 918 to 1392, produced in-

ents that don’t require a trip to an interna-

cy period. The book tells the story of

laid celadon ceramics of impeccable beauty

tional market.

Hyundai Group founder Chung Ju-yung, his

and the world’s most comprehensive collec-

Each recipe in the book is accompanied

involvement in the establishment of the

tion of Buddhist scriptures, the Tripitaka

by brief background information on the dish

shipyards, and those who were instrumental

Koreana, flawlessly carved from over 80,000

and its cultural relevance to the country it

in leading the shipbuilding industry into one

woodblocks. The monarchs of Joseon

comes from as well as glossy color photos

of the major export assets of the nation.

(1392-1910) also supported the creation of

of the completed selection.

The book not only focuses on the ins and

notable firsts: a rain gauge (1441); Hangeul

outs of how the industry became established

(1443), an alphabet so scientific that modern

All recipes have both Korean and English

but also takes a personal look into the lives of

linguists praise its efficiency; and an ironclad

Of course, also included in the book are

those who made the seemingly impossible,

battleship (late 16th century). Along with tra-

traditional Korean recipes by famous do-

possible-detailing the many personal sacri-

ditional Korean cultural and customs, read-

mestic chefs.

fices that had to be made for the better good.

ers also can find how the precious cultural

The cookbook is the brain-child of SIWA

The book has been must-read literature for

legacies are reinterpreted in the modern era.

(The Seoul International Women’s

anyone involved in the shipbuilding industry,

For more information, visit Korea’s official

Association), a non-profit organization

but Hwang’s book also contains enough com-

English website at www.korea.net. ■

comprised of expat women that puts forth

translations.

pelling human drama that would satisfy any-

efforts to promote multiculturalism in Korea.

one interested in the industrial-era of Korea.

The group also volunteers in charity work

Hwang graduated from Seoul National

and all profits from book sales will go to var-

University in 1965. After graduation, he

ious charity groups supported by the orga-

joined Hyundai Shipyard in 1971 during the

nization. ■

industry’s infancy. ■

JANUARY 2009 KOREA 59

SPECIAL SERIES

Special Contribution-2

Korea: Past, Present and Future BY KAZUO OGOURA

Korea as a Model of Economic Development

K

orea, with its distinguished pattern of economic development, has proved itself a good model for many developing countries. Apart from Japan, Korea is indeed a unique example of a non-Western country becoming a member of the OECD as a major trading nation. What, then, are the principal factors contributing to this success in Korean economics? The most predominant factor was the effectiveness of the “triangle” formed by the government, industries and financial institutions. The Chaebols, the banking sector, and the government formed a solid triangle of economic development. This triangle would not have led to shining results however, had it not been for certain favorable external factors. The rapid economic development of Japan as well as Japanese economic and technical cooperation contributed significantly to the early stages of Korean economic development. Then came the waves of globalization. The exportled pattern of growth of the Korean economy rode successfully on the waves of globalization and Korean develop60 KOREA JANUARY 2009

ment was, in turn, an aspect of the globalization (in the sense of growing interdependence) of the world economy. The Korean economy based on this triangle, however, became the victim of its own success. This was witnessed very clearly during the so-called Asian economic crisis of the late 1990’s. The solid triangle had led to the excessive dependence on the short-term capital from abroad and had left intact the structural rigidity of the economy. Here again, however, Korea demonstrated itself to be a good example of a developing country overcoming external financial difficulties combined with internal rigidities. The courageous opening of the Korean financial as well as commodity markets to foreign investors and traders, coupled with the restructuring of Chaebols and of the labor market, contributed a great deal to Korea’s efforts to overcome the crisis. More than the introduction of various new economic measures, however, what should be emulated by developing countries is the political skill of appealing to national solidarity and the determination to restore international credibility by faithfully observing the IMF’s “conditionalities.” Looking back at the history of Korean economic devel-

opment over the last thirty years or so, one might today wonder whether Korea can become another model of economic progress in the coming decade and, in that connection, what major tasks remain ahead. If Korea can become, for the third time, a good model of development for other similarly placed economies of the world, it appears that Korea should, at least, be able to deal successfully with the following problems or tasks. The first is the growing income gap between the rich and the poor, not only inside the Korean society itself, but all around the world. To what extent the Korean government will be able to provide an effective safety-net to the underprivileged is a serious problem to be tackled, particularly in view of the rapid demographic changes of the Korean society. Second is the question of agriculture. It is likely that the farm subsidies and the international competitiveness of Korean agriculture could become serious obstacles for Korea in its efforts to promote free trade agreements with its trading partners. In other words, Korea, instead of asking for various types of exceptions for its agriculture, can make use of the opportunities of free trade negotiations as an instrument to carry out the structural reform of its own agriculture. The third task will be the dismantling of its developing country status. Korea has, so far, in various trade and other areas-such as the imports of rice or green house emission control-advanced the argument that Korea still remains a developing country. In view of Korea’s latest economic progress, this argument has increasingly been viewed in the international community as more or less outdated. One might argue in this connection, that Korea wanted to retain its developing country status in preparation for the reintegration of the much poorer North Korea. Though politically understandable, this argument is likely to be viewed in the international community as an excuse to avoid shouldering more international responsibilities and may weaken international financial support for reintegration. All in all, what lies now before Korea as the great task for the future is the de-Koreanization of its own economy, in the sense of further integrating its economy with that of the rest of the world, thereby contributing significantly to the sustainable growth of the world economy.

Korean Political Development After the presidency of Syngman Rhee Korea experienced for a long period of time, military, authoritarian governments. How should we assess such regimes in the light of the contemporary political situation in Korea? The military shouldered political responsibility due to the need for a government-initiated development strategy and to

the security requirement in face of the threat from the North. Here again, however, the Korean political process was linked to international circumstances, particularly the East-West confrontation. The prolongation of the military regimes was, therefore, linked both to domestic and international factors. Strategic consideration, both economic and politico-military, weighed heavily on the political process in Korea. One should not, however, lose sight of the activities of the democratic forces which were not negligible even under the military governments. Student movements, labor union activities and the political opposition of Kim Dae-jung and other political personalities, however troublesome they may have been to the successive military governments, paved the way for transition from military to civil governments. In other words, the democratic forces that survived the Park government, checked the pattern of the Chun Doo Hwan presidency which ended after one term, and it paved the way for the presidency of Roh Tae-woo, who came from the military but became president by being elected through proper process. In other words, both the Chun and Roh regimes could be considered as transitional governments which paved the way for a more democratic political process. The Kim Young-sam government can be remembered as one that played a decisive role in cracking the fusion of politics and economics. During this period, the roles of political parties were consolidated and, in the true sense of the word, democratic forces were integrated into the institutionalized political process. This process was completed when Kim Dae-jung, long considered the symbol of opposition, was elected president. His presidency was also significant, as people from the Jeollanamdo region, traditionally viewed as “outsiders” in the political process, took over the centre stage of Korean politics. Kim Dae-jung’s presidency, however, did not destroy the traditional respect for authority, whether it may be political or academic. Active for a long time as an outsider politician, Kim and his group of politicians tried to project the image of responsible politicians as soon as they took over the helm of the presidency. In this process they relied upon, rather than destroyed, the traditional aura of authority attached to the position of presidency, ministership, or professorship. This aura of traditional authority attached to the presidency, and other “titles” or positions was politically targeted during the Roh Moo-hyun presidency. In fact, Roh’s presidency was a quiet revolution, in the sense of destroying the traditional authority attached to the various political positions. The thread of populism that ran deep and wide during the period of Roh’s presidency cannot entirely be attributed to the Internet psychology of the people. The trend of such populism should be understood in the wider historJANUARY 2009 KOREA 61

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ical context of Korean politics, namely, the degree of the maturity of the democratic process. This implies that the immediate national task in Korean politics can be said to lie in the growth of healthy, sound opposition parties which can present practical alternatives instead of having recourse to regionalism or populism.

Korean Diplomacy The most important diplomatic issue for Korea after the “Korean War,” has been the international aspect of the North Korean problem: namely, how to secure international support for Korean security and, at the same time, obtain the blessings of the major powers for easing tension with the North. These two objectives have to be pursued with careful balance, particularly after the dissolution of the Soviet Union. The creation of the six-party conference is an important device to “internationalize” the North Korean problem, thereby securing the delicate balance between containment of the North and rapprochement with it. Despite occasional frictions with the U.S., the Republic of Korea has, in general, deployed skillful diplomacy through which the Korean government has obtained international support both for its “soft” policy towards the North and “pressure diplomacy” against it. There are some signs, however, that may disturb the delicate balance of soft and hard policies towards the North. This is related to growing nationalism (in the ethnic sense) in Korea. The revival of a strong ethnic identity with the North (particularly among young people) presents the risk of giving rise to frustration over American policies towards the Far East as well as its troop presence. There is also the danger that such nationalism be canalized or diverted, consciously or inadvertently, toward an anti-Japanese movement. The U.S. and Japan should view the rise of Korean nationalism with cool but sympathetic eyes, because Korea, which faces the gigantic task of reunification, has a strong need of ethnic nationalism. The U.S. and Japan should stay “cool” at the time of occasional eruptions of such Korean nationalism. At the same time, the Korean government should refrain from canalizing or diverting the anti-government sentiment of the people towards outside targets such as the U.S. or Japan. The promotion of the free trade agreement or new economic accords with these two countries may help mitigate such risks of political diversion. In relation to the free trade agreements, there is the issue of building an East Asian Association or Community. One has to note, above everything else, that an East Asian Community is already in the making in the “functional” sense of the word. The degree of the interdependence of trade among East Asian countries 62 KOREA JANUARY 2009

(Korea, Japan, China, Taiwan, and the ASEAN nations) has already exceeded the degree of interdependence among NAFTA countries and has, more or less, reached the level of the European Union at the beginning of the1970’s. In addition to trade relations, East Asian countries (Korea, Japan and China) have expanded tourism among themselves and have also rapidly increased student exchanges. The life-styles of the young people in Korea, Japan, Taiwan, and the coastal areas of China have witnessed a certain “cultural” affinity, as evidenced by the popularity of Korean TV dramas and Japanese fashions. Such trends towards an East Asian Community should be welcomed and encouraged by Korea for several reasons. Firstly, moves towards building an East Asian Community will help hold in check the rise of China-centralism and the parochial nationalism of East Asian nations. Secondly, it can help strengthen the sense of international responsibility for China to act as a responsible major power in the world. Finally, efforts to build an East Asian Community will help form a vision of a stable, peaceful East Asian politicomilitary geography after the Korean reintegration. There are, however, a few tasks that Korea must deal with in the process of forming an East Asian Community. First of all, Korea must soften the “colonial” mentality of fanning anti-Japanese sentiment, for the sake of consolidating national unity or identity. As Korean society becomes more and more mature both politically and economically, freedom of expression, even on the issues concerning Japan, is expected to be secured socially and politically, not to mention legally. In this connection it should be pointed out that “protest diplomacy” (to sever the channel of communication itself as a means of manifesting protest) should not be utilized except in an emergency, as lack of communication increases the risk of misunderstanding and gives rise to the sense of detachment in the minds of potential friends. ■ Kazuo Ogoura is president of the Japan Foundation, and a former Ambassador to Vietnam, Korea, and France. Graduating from the University of Tokyo’s Faculty of Law and the University of Cambridge’s Faculty of Economics, he joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where he served in various positions, including Director-General of Cultural Affairs Department (1989-92), Director-General of Economic Affairs Bureau (1992-94), Deputy Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs and Japanese G7/G8 Sherpa (1995-97). He is also an Invited Professor of International Politics in the Economics and Business Department of Aoyama Gakuin University (2003-).

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he discovery of cheap oil dependence. New Growth Engine Industries-2 and convenient oil For Korea, which relies enabled humans to heavily on oil, using clean establish highly advanced coal energy is almost the civilizations in the 20th equivalent of achieving century. However, due to “energy independency.” As the excessive use of limited clean coal energy does not oil, production of oil is emit pollutants, it can be likely to hit a peak somedeemed as a representative time between 2010 and energy to promote low2030, according to experts. carbon growth or, “green It was only three or growth.” four years ago when oil Even though the prices remained at $20 per Korean economy has barrel. Now, most think achieved a remarkable tanks and researchers progrowth through fast indusject that oil prices will trialization since the hover at around $100 per 1960s, it had to pay a barrel for the near future. heavy price of high depenThe proportion of oil dency on overseas energy BY PARK SAM-RYONG use will decrease while that sources and pollution. of alternative energies like Clean coal energy would bio fuels and solar energy not only solve such probwill increase. However, coal is almost the only energy lems but would serve as a stepping stone for the economy source that can replace oil in the near future. to make another leap forward. The oil dependency issue will be solved only when the The importance of developing clean coal technology is technology of solar energy, hydrogen energy and nuclear being felt not only in Korea but around the world, as nafusion is fully developed. This will probably come after 2050. tions are scrambling for more energy sources and imposing Thus, we have to focus on coal to replace oil until 2050. tougher regulations on carbon emissions. A useful energy source meets three requirements; it Due to such a prospective outlook, clean coal technology should be abundant, affordable and clean. Unfortunately, has been selected as one of the New Growth Engines by the there is no energy source that satisfies all three. Coal re- government. From a long-term perspective, Korea plans to serves are three times larger than those of oil; coal is more commercialize the clean gasification technology to produce evenly distributed around the earth than oil; and it is cheap- synthetic oil using low rank coal as raw material and recycle er than oil. Therefore, coal is considered as one of the carbon dioxide that is generated during the production prostrongest candidates for an alternative energy source to oil. cedure. The technology is expected to lower investment costs Relatively low oil prices since the oil shock have been by half, compared to existing gasification technologies. the major stumbling block to the development of coal enerMany countries are eager to develop this technology gy technology. However, chances are very slim that the era and clean coal-related business and governments are sparof low oil prices will continue. Since the technology of us- ing no support for the development of the technology. ing low rank coal, which is as abundant as high rank coal, Recently, the National Intelligence Council of the United as an energy source has been developed, it is highly likely States selected six “disruptive technologies” which would that coal prices will become competitive. affect the United States in various sectors by 2025. The disTo use coal as an alternative energy, we should ensure ruptive technologies refer to technologies with the potential its cleanliness. Coal emits much more carbon dioxide than to cause a noticeable degradation or enhancement in U.S. oil or natural gas. If we can develop technology that can re- political, economic, military or social sectors. The U.S. govmove pollutants when using coal, we will be able to create ernment selected six technologies out of 102 potential techcheap, clean coal energy as a complete alternative to oil. nologies. Clean coal technology is one of the six, which is Clean coal energy would have a formidable impact on the similar to Korea’s emission-free coal energy. Japan started world’s energy market and help us overcome the problem of the project of EAGLE, or Coal Energy Application for Gas,

Clean Coal:

A Promising Oil Alternative

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Liquid and Electricity, in 1995 to develop clean coal energy. Clean coal technology could wean people off oil dependency. It is almost the only alternative energy to oil, until we fully commercialize renewable energy. Clean coal technology, one of the 22 New Growth Engines, will require a 22 trillion won spending budget for the next five years. The technology enables production of synthetic oil, chemical products and electricity from low rank coal without emitting pollutants. The technology gap between Korea and advanced nations is small. Thus, it is very likely that Korea will develop the technology successfully. Industry watchers forecast that the market size of synthetic oil, chemicals and electricity produced by coal gasification will grow to more than 2,000 trillion won. In such large markets, the government’s target of creating 150,000 jobs and replacing 8 percent, or 80 million barrels, of oil consumption a year with clean coal energy by 2018 is not a distant goal. The reserves of low rank coal, consisting of lignite and bituminous coal, are estimated to be 470 billion tons, similar to the 500 billion tons of high rank coal reserves. But low rank coal costs only one-tenth of high rank coal. Low rank coal’s economical efficiency could change depending on the rise and fall of oil prices. However, we should put all our efforts to develop clean coal technology, given that oil prices are not likely to fall below the current level because of the limited oil reserves. Also, the continuous growth of the transportation fuel market, which is the largest potential market for synthetic oil, gives legitimacy to developing clean coal energy. If coal is converted into synthetic oil, it can be available for more than 100 years, based on a projection that synthetic oil replaces 50 percent of the world’s transportation fuel. The government’s role of improving related measures and boosting international cooperation is important as well. The government should ensure that clean coal energy could compete with oil in terms of price, until the technology is commercially available. Now, Korea aims to produce synthetic oil at a price of $50 per barrel. If oil prices fall below $50 per barrel, then investors will not be motivated to develop synthetic oil. To ensure sustainable corporate investment for technology development, the government should provide a measure to support the price gap if oil

prices fall below the price of synthetic oil. In addition, it is imperative for the government to strengthen international cooperation to secure low rank coal as a stable energy source. High rank coal, represented by bituminous coal, is already secured by global powers. On the contrary, there are abundant chances for us to secure low rank coal because it has been underdeveloped. To capitalize on an opportunity to secure low rank coal, corporations and the government should strengthen energy development cooperation with other nations. Clean coal technology can lower raw material costs by using cheap, low rank coal. While existing technologies have to use a lot of oxygen, the new technology does not, which reduces facility cost of separately building air separation units. Because the new technology does not generate oxidation reaction, it can reduce costs of building pollutantdisposal facilities to get rid of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen

The importance of developing clean coal technology is being felt not only in Korea but around the world, as nations are scrambling for more energy sources and imposing tougher regulations on carbon emissions. 64 KOREA JANUARY 2009

dioxide. The recycle of carbon dioxide during the procedure ensures a cheap and clean production of synthetic gas. The synthetic gas goes through the so-called FischerTropsch Process to become synthetic oil. Then we can produce petrochemical products such as methanol, dimethyl ether and olefin as well as electricity through the Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle process. If we can produce synthetic oil through clean coal technology, we can probably lower production cost to below $50 per barrel. This is possible because we can cut costs of the gasification process by one third. Not only can we cut costs but improve efficiency. When the clean coal technology is completed, much of transportation fuels like gasoline, diesel and jet fuel can be replaced by synthetic oil. Petrochemical products, currently produced from oil, will be also produced from coal. We will be able to use the clean coal as a stable, cheap and clean energy source without worries of a supply shortage, until we solve the energy issue through solar energy and nuclear fusion energy. Thus, it will contribute to the world’s energy security and provide our next generations with hundreds of years of raw material sources for petrochemical products as well. In the past century, there was no big change in the proportion of renewable energy in total energy use, despite several energy crises like the first and second oil shock.

However, the current age will be surely a transition period because the carbon emission market is enabling the renewable energy market’s economic efficiency. Investment capital is flowing in the renewable energy market. Major economies including the United States are strengthening government support for the facilitation of renewable energy especially after the recent oil spike. Energy and environment are the two direst challenges that humans have ever faced. However, if we find a renewable energy which can help us overcome those challenges, the renewable energy will be the new growth engine in the energy-diversified era. Therefore, our challenge will be to find energy which meets three conditions of abundance, economic efficiency and cleanness. Clean coal energy is the closest one in searching for the answer. Through clean coal energy, the Korean economy will be able to achieve green growth, break free from oil dependency and become a leader in the global energy market. ■ Park Sam-ryong is head of Energy R&D Center of the SK Institute of Technology and vice president of SK Energy Co. Park received his MBA at the American Graduate School of International

Management.

E-mail:

[email protected]

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FOREIGN VIEWPOINT

Shipbuilding Bringing Norway and Korea Together

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hirty-four years have passed since Korea’s first VLCC left the dock at Hyundai Heavy Industries for her maiden sea trial. Two years earlier, work had begun to transform the small fishing village of Mipo Bay into a modern shipyard. Korea’s political and economic leadership had set an incredibly ambitious agenda for the reconstruction of their country, which was just coming out of the devastations of the Korean War. The shipbuilding industry was to become the cornerstone in the modernization. Korea’s amazing development into becoming the world’s largest and most sophisticated shipbuilding nation was swift. Soon Koreans built all types of ships better and more efficient than anyone else. In fact, there was only one type of vessels which eluded Korean shipyards, namely cruise ships for the avant-garde elite of globetrotters. But no more. Earlier this year, STX acquired the Norwegian shipbuilders Aker Yard, and now STX owns some of the world’s finest yards for building cruise ships. Korea’s remarkable development as a shipbuilding nation is very important to Norway. More than one thousand Norwegians live in Korea, most of them in the area of Ulsan, Busan and Geoje, where they work in various professions related to shipbuilding. Before coming to Korea, I was familiar with the country’s position as the world’s leading shipbuilding nation. My perception, however, was mostly from an economist’s or lawyer’s perspective. I knew the importance of

66 KOREA JANUARY 2009

BY DIDRIK TONSETH NORWEGIAN AMBASSADOR TO SOUTH KOREA

shipbuilding to Korea’s economy. And I had studied the EU-Korea WTO subsidies cases, which one might say, ended in a draw. But I had yet to experience a modern shipyard myself. When I arrived in Korea in October 2006, my first task was to start planning for the official visit by the Norwegian Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit. It soon became clear that the Crown prince couple simply had to visit a shipyard. Chairman Choi Kil-seon of Hyundai Heavy Industries was kind enough to prepare a comprehensive program, which clearly impressed the Crown Prince couple. From that experience, I myself started to view Korean shipyards from a different perspective. It became clear to me that Korean shipyards reflected the nature of the Korean people; an arena where Korean efficiency and tidiness was blended with computerized logistics to construct the world’s most advanced ships. Norway is also a shipbuilding nation. More than a thousand years ago,

Norwegian Vikings sailed across the Atlantic to establish small settlements in Canada. These dexterous exploits could not have been achieved without the skills of Norwegian shipbuilders. The maritime industry is still very important to Norway. Shipbuilding clusters along the coast design and construct highly specialized vessels as well as installations for our offshore industry. But today, most Norwegian ships and oil platforms are built in Korea. Still, as chairman Kim Jing-wan of Samsung Heavy Industries told me, a production platform which might cost anywhere from 500 to 800 mill USD, may contain Norwegian gear, instruments as well as engineering services totalling more than 1/3 of the cost of the finished platform. In fact, Korea is Norway’s 10th largest export market — to a large extent because of our exports to the Korean shipbuilding industry. This puts Korea just behind China and ahead of Japan as Norway’s leading export markets. Thus, there is a high degree of synergy and interdependence between the maritime industries of Norway and Korea, which both countries have much to gain from. Moreover, with full order books into 2010, today’s troubled global economy should not much affect Korea’s major shipyards, during a period where other Korean major export industries maybe less fortunate. Myself, I will continue to be amazed by the size and tidiness of Korean shipyards and in the meticulous way they are being run. ■