Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Korean Culture
Part I
Korea Today
Enjoying Life in Korea
1. Currency and Prices 9
2. Shopping 12
3. Efficient Public Transportation 17
4. Housing 21
5. Special Days 26
Korean Food
6. Unique Flavors of Kimchi 31
7. Koreans and Rice Cakes 35
8. Table Manners 38
9. Five Dishes Non-Koreans Like Best 41
Popular Culture and Hallyu
10. The “Korean Wave” and Pop Stars 46
11. TV Dramas 49
12. Chungmu-ro and the Film Industry 52
13. Korean Pop Songs outside Korea 56
14. Taekwondo 59
15. Football and the Red Devils 62
16. B-boys and Namsadang 66
17. Samullori and Nanta 71
Leisure
18. Koreans at Leisure 75
19. Norae-bang and Jjimjil-bang 78
20. Tourist Attractions 81
Part 2
Korea in History
In Pursuit of the Korean Heritage
1. Hanbok 103
2. Major Holidays 106
3. Traditional Life Experience 110
Korea Today
Korea in the World
1. Geography, Climate and Population 129
2. The People 133
3. Spoken and Written Language 136
4. Emerging Multicultural Society 140
5. Korean Enterprises and Economy 142
A Glimpse of Korea
6. UNESCO World Cultural Heritage in Korea 146
Korean Food
6. Unique Flavors of Kimchi
7. Koreans and Rice Cakes
8. Table Manners
9. Five Dishes Non-Koreans Like Best
Leisure
18. Koreans at Leisure
19. Norae-bang and Jjimjil-bang
20. Tourist Attractions
Korea Today
5, 10, 50, 100 and 500). However the
1 and 5 coins are virtually unused today
because of their very small value. Historical fig-
ures, cultural treasures and important symbols
are featured on the notes and coins.
Korea Today
salaried worker in Seoul would have to be in his
worldwide were
late 60s before he could afford to buy his own surveyed on the relative
cost of living. According to that
home. In other words, most Koreans cannot own
report, a cup of cappuccino and a
their house in Seoul without help from parents or piece of pastry costs around $2.75
someone else. in Italy, $4.00 in Germany, $5.25 in
the US, $6.00 in the UK or Seoul,
On the other hand, public transportation in $6.50 in Tokyo and over $9.00 in
Korea is relatively inexpensive. The taxi meter Okinawa. Although the coffee was
pricy in Seoul, a Big Mac was priced
starts at 2,600, and increases at 100 incre- at US$4.38--as opposed to $5.68 in
ments. The basic fares of Seoul subways are the US, $6.28 in the UK, $6.41 in
Tokyo and $9.94 in Naples. A half-
between 1,000 and 1,300, while the bus costs liter of draft beer can be had in
1,000 to rise. You get a significant discount Seoul for $2.52, but you have to pay
$2.88 in Germany, $3.20 in the US
when using a rechargeable transportation card
and $5.43 in Tokyo for the same
and transferring between bus lines, the bus and thing.
Variety of Markets
No trip is complete without a visit to the local marketplace. Traditional markets
that carry local specialties are always tourist attractions for their uniqueness,
unlike the modern discount stores or department store.
Gyeongdong Shijang
The massive (some 100,000m ) Gyeongdong Shijang (Market) is in Seoul's Jegi-
2
dong (District). This market formed in 1953, after the Korean War, with vendors
coming together spontaneously to buy and sell hot peppers, garlic, wild greens and
herbs. As such, it became a center for buying ingredients for Oriental herb medi-
Namdaemun Shijang
East of Namdaemun (the Great South Part I
Korea Today
Gate in Seoul) is a huge marketplace,
visited each day by some 450,000 to
500,000 people. On a site of more than
40,000m are 58 buildings that collec-
2
Korea Today
1:30 AM for fresh fish and 3:00 AM for live fish.
Moran Market:
People can also buy individual fish for cooking or http://www.moranjang.org/
Other Shopping Centers
sashimi at low prices. The daily transaction vol-
ume averages around 330 tons of marine prod-
ucts, worth some 1 billion. More than 30,000 people and 5,000 vehicles visit the
market daily, and some 100,000 tons of products are sold here annually.
either have their own PCs assembled here or purchase do-it-yourself parts.
Korea Today
the high-speed rail service (KTX).
Korea Today
Springs for only 3,500. The Seoul Metro is a truly attractive way to get around on
weekends to areas within the Seoul city limits as well as out into Gyeonggi and
Chungcheong Provinces.
Korea Today
ing on their taste, financial status and purpose.
Traditional Houses
The traditional-style private dwellings in Korea are called hanok, which have
evolved over time. However a certain basic tradition remains: The hanok has a
wood frame, walls and floor of clay, and either thatched-straw or tiled roof. As
such, the structure "breathes," allowing the proper amount of ventilation yet
blocking the winter chill. The interior is not too humid in the summer rainy season
and warm in winter. The ondol heating system in the floor is highly efficient, and
an open area with wooden floor is built between the two bedrooms to serve as a
living room that is cool in summer. The ideal placement is facing south, which
allows more sunshine in the winter while avoiding the most intense rays of the
sun in the summer.
Hanok Revival
The hanok began to disappear
in large numbers during the
1980s, as Koreans flocked to
the more convenient apart-
ments or Western-style single
family dwellings. Recently,
however, the traditional Korean
home, with its environment-
friendly features, has again Jeonju Hanok Village
Korea Today
700 hanok remain here, maintained
by the provincial and municipal gov-
ernments, and now being developed
as a tourist attraction. The home-
page: http://www.hanok.jeonju.go.kr
Single-family houses in Korea have their own gates and yards. The inside fea-
tures are similar to other types of housing: living-room, bedrooms, kitchen and
bathroom. Young people prefer apartments for their convenience and low mainte-
nance, while families with children like the privacy of homes with their own yards.
Today, Koreans are increasingly moving into private homes outside the large
urban areas. One advantage of these rural dwellings is the small garden.
High-rise Apartments
High-rise (15+ stories) multi-unit housing called "apartments" in Korea (or con-
dominiums in the West because they are owned, not rented) are found throughout
Korea. More than half (52.7%) of the population live in apartments and 68.9% say
they prefer them to other types of housing. The first apartment buildings were
constructed in the 1960s to ease the housing shortage in large cities. Since then,
apartment design and quality have improved greatly. The growing urban popula-
Korea Today
use) and an example of the
greater versatility in modern
architectural design. The com-
mercial facilities typically occupy
the second through fourth floors,
and the upper stories are resi-
dential.
Such buildings are usually very
high and centrally located for
convenience of transportation.
Thus they command good view,
especially on the uppermost
floors, and the floor space is flex-
ible. They often come with a
swimming pool, bowling alley,
indoor driving range or health
club for residents to enjoy. High-rise Jusang-bokhap buildings
Dol
Part I
Korea Today
Pyebek at traditional wedding ceremony
To Koreans, a marriage is
not just a union of a man
and woman but also the
union of two families. In tra-
ditional times, the bride-
groom-to-be went to the
house of the bride-to-be for
the wedding ceremony and
then spent the first three
days there before bringing
Modern wedding ceremony
his bride to his own home.
Today, however, Western-style ceremony (with some modifications) is preferred to
the traditional type, and it is held at a wedding hall, hotel, or church. Prior to the
wedding, the couple are busy preparing many things not only for the wedding itself
but also for life as newlyweds. Of course, invitation cards are mailed to relatives,
Korea Today
Funeral bier, traditional funeral procession
Korea Today
Korean Food 31
tip
Experiencing Kimchi
Event : The Foundation for the Essential Part of Every Korean Meal
Preservation of Cultural Properties
organizes events for visitors to The origins of kimchi can be traced back at
experience aspects of traditional least 1,300 years, starting out simply as salted
Korean culture.
Date : All year round
vegetables. Then pickling methods were devel-
Venue : KOUS (Daechi-dong, oped, and various spices were added. Chili pep-
Gangnam-gu, Seoul)
pers were introduced to Korea in the 16th century
Korea House (Pil-dong,
Chongno-gu, Seoul) and gradually became popular, contributing to
Duration : 2-3 hours
development of today's hot and spicy kimchi vari-
Admission : Free
Application : Reserve by phone eties.
(The application form can be
downloaded.)
Information : Tel: (02)566-7037, Diverse Varieties of Kimchi
5951-2; Fax: (02)566-6314, 5954 The Kimchi Field Museum in Seoul has docu-
e-Mail: sunnykous@naver.com
mented 187 historic and current kimchi types.
Korea Today
nabak kimchi (sliced radishes in brine),
jjokpa kimchi (scallions), minari kimchi
(dropwort). Early summer brings
oisobak kimchi (fresh cucumbers), oiji
(pickled cucumbers) and yeolmu kimchi
(young radishes with the radish greens),
kimchi ddeok
followed by gaji kimchi (eggplant) and
sigumchi kimchi (spinach) in late sum-
mer.
Autumn varieties include bechu geot-
jeori (unpickled cabbage), ggakttugi
(cubed radish), chongkak kimchi (young
radishes), and godeulbegi kimchi (a kind
of lettuce). Winter kimchi types such as
tongbechu gimjang kimchi are well fer-
kimchi bun
mented to last a long time.
Other winter favorites are seokbakgi (radishes sliced in large pieces), bossam
kimchi (stuffed cabbage) and oyster kimchi.
Different regions have their own specialties, like godeulbegi kimchi from Jeolla,
bossam kimchi from Gaeseong and ggakttugi from Gongju. Generally, people in
the north tend to use less salt and chili pepper in their kimchi than those in the
south do. The use of fish sauce is more common in the south as well.
Recently, fusion dishes that include kimchi have been developed and are becom-
ing quite popular among Koreans and non-Koreans alike.
Korean Food 33
Nutritional and Health
Benefits
Koreans have developed
many fermented foods such
as soybean paste, soy sauce,
fermented soybeans and
kimchi . The fermentation
process kills bacteria and
regular consumption of fer-
mented foods can strengthen
the immune system. Kimchi
is rich in vitamins minerals
and dietary fiber yet low in
calories. Some studies sug-
kimchi refrigerator gest that regular consump-
tion of kimchi can inhibit cancer growth.
Why Spicy
Koreans generally are not fond of oily or sweet food. When they do eat it, they
like to follow with kimchi, because the spiciness feels refreshing. Actually, chili
pepper contains capsicine, which burns fat and stimulates the appetite while
reducing the need for salt in flavoring.
Part I
Korea Today
Ddeok rice cake (sometimes with mil-
let, beans, squash etc. added) has long
been an integral part of Koreans' lives.
This is evidenced by the many well-
known expressions involving ddeok :
"Eating ddeok while lying down" (a very
simple task); "The ddeok in another's
hand always seems bigger" (jealousy);
"The ddeok in the picture" (pie in the
sky) and many others. No Korean cere-
mony involving food is complete without
rice cake, and ddeokbokki (broiled and
seasoned sliced rice cake with meat,
eggs and other ingredients) is a very
popular snack.
Korean Food 35
A Culinary Tradition from Ancient Times
About 200 kinds of ddeok
are available today in assort-
ed shapes and colors. The
principle ingredient, shape,
stuffing, and color may vary
by region.
This popular snack has
probably been around in
some form on the Korean
Peninsula for close to 3,000
Modern-style ddeok years. Grindstones and stone
mortars for pounding grain have been found dating from as early as the 7th and
8th centuries BCE, showing that agriculture was already established. Bronze Age
implements with several holes at the bottom on each side appear to have been
used for steaming grains.
From ancient times, the Korean people have made ddeok for sad occasions such
as funerals such as happy moments such as weddings. Sharing rice cakes among
neighbors and friends was a way to foster a community spirit. Even today, families
who move into a new neighborhood typically prepare ddeok to pass around as a
way to greet the new neighbors.
Korea Today
Today, rice cakes are
sometimes served the
way sandwiches are.
Some are pre-made for
instant cooking in a
microwave oven. Now
packaged and preserved,
ddeok is also exported. Ddeokbokki : a popular Korean snack
Ddeokbokki is a popular Korean snack that was once restricted to royal court
cuisine. The original ddeokbokki was seasoned with soy sauce. Today's spicy ver-
sion appeared in 1950, when the Korean War broke out, and is now enjoyed by
everyone. The dish now includes ddeok, sliced and broiled; meat and eggs. It is
seasoned with hot bean paste and some sugar instead of the soy sauce. Some like
it with cheese.
A variation called "rabokki" (for "ramyeon + ddeokbokki") may come with cream
sauce or chili sauce instead of hot bean paste, catering to foreigners' tastes. hese
days, the Ddeokbokki Festival is helping to further promote the dish among non-
Koreans. (For more information, visit www.topokki.com.)
Korean Food 37
Table Manners
Sometimes we experience embarrassment when we do not know the proper
table manners when drinking or dining with people in foreign countries. Of course
Koreans have their own sets of rules, which are particularly important when we
are eating or drinking with the elderly.
Korea Today
Traditional table-setting
not hog the side dishes you like most. In the past, keeping silence at the table was
considered a virtue, but now polite conversation is normal. Try to use your spoon
and chopsticks quietly and do not hold both in your hand at the same time. Of
course you should avoid eating noisily or blowing noisily on your soup to cool it off.
Table-setting
The rice bowl goes on the left side of the diner, and the soup is on the right. The
spoon is placed to the immediate right of the soup bowl, followed by the chop-
sticks. Any dish containing fluid is placed nearer to the diner, while the other dish-
es are farther away. Dishes with food cut in smaller sizes are nearer than the
dishes with larger pieces are.
Drinking Etiquette
Traditionally, the junior was expected to offer a drink to the senior, holding the
cup with both hands and on knees before filling his/her own cup. Today, the ritual
has been simplified simply using both hands. The cup is held with the right hand,
Korean Food 39
while the left is placed underneath the
cup. You should receive a drink from a
senior with both hands and then turn
your head a little to the side before
drinking. Never refill another's cup
before it is completely empty.
Tea Etiquette
Clinking the glasses and Cheers
Korea Today
dubu-jjige (spicy stew of soft tofu & shellfish). Other favorites on the survey are
hobak-juk (pumpkin or squash porridge), naengmyeon (cold buckwheat noodles
with vegetables, egg & beef), japche (potato noodles with beef & vegetables), bul-
gogi (thinly sliced beef marinated in soy sauce & grilled), haemul pajeon (pancake
with green onion, shell-
fish & other seafoods),
baechu kimchi (picked &
spiced Chinese cabbage),
and hobak ddeok (pump-
kin or squash cake).
Bibim-bap
Bibim-bap (mixed rice)
has long been popular in
Korea because it is simple
yet nutritious, and is now
a popular in-flight meal
for international travelers.
Various vegetables are
arranged on top of
steamed rice. The diner
then mixes the ingredi-
ents all together and adds
red pepper paste and Jeonju bibim-bap
Korean Food 41
tip sesame oil to taste. Often, a stone bowl (dolsot)
is used because it helps to keep the ingredients
Bibim-bap
Ingredients: 200g of rice, 50g of warm until one finishes eating.
bean sprouts, 50g of squash, 50g of Bibim-bap has many variations, depending on the
cucumbers, 40g of carrots, 30g of
balloon flower root, 30g of bracken,
region of Korea where it is served. Jeonju is famous
1 mushroom, 20g of shredded for bibim-bap featuring fat soybean sprouts.
radish, salt, soy sauce, vegetable oil,
Recently, a huge bowl of bibim-bap was served to a
sesame oil, salted sesame powder
and garlic crowd in New York City at an event attended by the
Mayor. The scene of New Yorkers enjoying the
Steaming the Rice
Let the rice soak in water for 30 min- Korean dish was televised.
utes before heating. Put in the bean
sprouts and place the lid on just
before cooking is finished. When Samgye-tang
ready, stir the rice well before
scooping it into bowls.
Namul is a general term for greens,
herbs and wild vegetables seasoned
with salt, vinegar and sesame oil.
The name of the dish may vary
slightly depending on what vegeta-
bles are used and how they are pre-
pared. Virtually any type of veg-
etable, herb, or green can be used,
and the parts can include the roots,
leaves, stems, seeds, sprouts,
petals, and fruits. They can be pre-
pared as an individual namul or
mixed.
Samgye-tang (ginseng-chicken soup)
Galbi-gui
Galbi-gui (grilled beef ribs) is one of the most popular Korean meat dishes.
Korea Today
Galbi-gui (grilled beef ribs)
(Pork ribs, both marinated and fresh, are also popular and cost less than beef
ribs.) The key to delicious beef ribs lies in tenderizing the meat and removing the
fat.
Therefore, the ribs are marinated in soy sauce mixed with rice wine, garlic and
pepper for about 30 minutes. They are grilled at high heat, as cooking them slowly
will making the meat tougher and harder to digest.
Gimbap
Gimbap is a handy snack to take along on picnics, hikes and other outings.
Steamed rice is lightly salted and mixed with other ingredients and rolled in gim
(thin sheets of dried laver). The rolls are then sliced. Gimbap looks similar to
Japanese sushi but the taste and ingredients are different.
The basic ingredients are rice, meat or some other protein source (fish cakes,
crab meat or eggs) and various vegetables (cucumbers, spinach, carrots, pickled
Korean Food 43
radish). Personal taste will
determine the recipe. After
rolling and slicing, the gimbap
is typically served with a pick-
led radish known as danmuji.
Traditional gimbap comes in
round slices, but nowadays it
may be wrapped into triangles
or squares. Other variations
include mini-gimbap, "naked"
gimbap (rice is on the outside)
and chungmu gimbap (rice
Gimbap only--to be eaten with kimchi).
Sundubu-jjige
Sundubu-jjige is a stew with
soft bean curd ( dubu in
Korean, tofu in Japanese). The
soft bean curd may be less
nourishing than the regular
one, but its texture is popular
with older people, and the fla-
vor is widely liked.
The stew (jjige) of soft bean
curd, clams, mushrooms, soy
sauce, salt and pickled
shrimp is cooked in an earth-
enware bowl. For variety,
Sundubu-jjige with mixed seafoods
other ingredients may be
added such as kimchi, mixed seafoods, or short-necked clams.
Introduction of Hallyu
Korean singers as well as actors
and actresses have become popular
Hallyu stars in most Southeast Asian
“My Sassy Girl” poster countries as well as in China.
Korea Today
the TV drama "Winter Sonata," the biggest hit overseas for any Korean TV series.
The success of "Winter Sonata" was due to the poetic nature of the script as
well as the music and scenes on the theme "first love." Bae became so popular
that his Japanese fans nicknamed him Yonsama and remained devoted to him.
The film was shot on Nami Island, near Chuncheon, and the set became a very
popular destination for Japanese visitors to Korea.
Bae Yong-jun Bae debuted with the TV drama "Salut D' Amour" in 1994, and
became popular in his role as a student of a future movie director in "A Sunny
Place of the Young." His popularity continued in both Korean and Japan with "First
Love," "Did We Really Love," "Winter Sonata" and "The Story of the Great King and
the Four Gods." He has also starred in the full-length movies "Untold Scandal"
and "April Snow."
Choi Ji-wu Choi made her debut as an MBC TV actress in 1994 and gained pop-
ularity from her work in the movies "Everybody Has Secrets," "The Romantic
President" and "Nowhere to Hide" in 2002. Her leading role in the TV dramas
"Stairway to Heaven" and "Winter Sonata," catapulted to the greatest fame. She
also starred in the TV dramas "Beautiful Days" and "Truth."
Lee Byung-heon Dramas and movies starred in by Lee have achieved great
popularity in Asia, and recently he received attention worldwide with his appear-
ance in the American movie "GI Joe: the Rise of Cobra." His most important
movies to date include "Bungee Jumping of Their Own," "Joint Security Area," "A
Rain The singer Rain has been chosen as one of the 100 most influential persons
in the United States. He gained his popularity not only as a singer but also from
his work in TV dramas. He appeared in "Sangdoo! Let's Go to School" in 2003,
"Full House" in 2004 and "A Love to Kill" in 2005, of which "Full House" won great
popularity in China.
Korea Today
Characteristics of Korean Dramas
Chinese dramas tend to focus more on the stories and Japanese dramas
emphasize the inner workings of the characters. On the other hand, Korean dra-
mas are more about the personalities involved than the story. For instance, "Dae
Jang Geum" received overwhelming popularity from viewers for its detailed
expression of a woman trying to do her best in her specialty. People seem to draw
satisfaction from such dramas as "Dae Jang Geum" and "Winter Sonata" by iden-
tifying themselves with the stars and sharing feelings with them. Perhaps the
biggest reason Korean dramas are popular in China and Japan is that the audi-
ence can relate to the character of, for example, someone who can overcome vari-
ous hardships in the pursuit of a dream for herself and her family. Korean produc-
tions are also highly rated for their sophistication in expressing human emotions.
Korea Today
People in the Middle East have been also caught onto the Hallyu craze. Dubai
TV, the state-run broadcaster in the UAE, has been televising "Dae Jang Geum,"
"My Name is Kim Sam Soon" and "I'm Sorry, I
Love You" since 2005. "Emperor of the Sea" and
"I'm Sorry, I Love You" are particularly popular
among young people. In Iran, "Dae Jang Geum"
received a rating of over 90%, sparking greater
interest in Korea and the Korean language.
Middle Eastern viewers prefer family-based sto-
ries, as they usually watch TV as an entire family.
That is one reason Korean TV dramas are so well A scene from "My Name is Kim Sam Soon"
Films in Hallyu
Until the late 1990s, few Korean films were successful outside the country.
"Christmas in August", directed by Huh Jin-ho and released in 1999, was the first
to receive significant attention in Hong Kong. The next year, "Swiri" sold well in
Japan, Hong Kong and Singapore. In 2002, "My Sassy Girl" obtained excellent
results in Hong Kong, China, Taiwan, Thailand and Singapore, and Korean film
had firmly joined the Korean Wave.
Korea Today
has boosted box office sales in several Asian
countries. One good example is "April Snow",
starring Bae Yong-jun. The film was produced
with Japanese viewers in mind; it was sold to
Japan even before completion and then went
on to perform well in Hong Kong, Taiwan,
Malaysia and Singapore. "April Snow" poster
Korea Today
that includes "Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance," "Old
Pusan International Film Festival
Boy" and "Sympathy for Lady Vengeance." Since (www.piff.org)
Chungmuro International Film
then, he also clinched the Jury prize at the 62nd
Festival in Seoul (www.chiffs.kr)
Cannes Film Festival. His "Old Boy" has been Puchon International Fantastic
Film Festival (www.pifan.com)
sold to about 60 countries, solidifying world
Jeonju International Film Festival
recognition of the Korean film industry. (www.jiff.or.kr)
Gwangju International Film Festival
(www.giff.org)
Korea to Asia & Beyond
Korean films bring a new
dimension to Hallyu beyond
TV dramas and pop songs,
expanding the market in
Asia. Korean movies are, on
their own strengths, now
making rapid progress in
markets outside Asia. "Il
Mare," "The Host," "Old Boy"
and "A Tale of Two Sisters"
Posters of award-winning films at film festivals
received Hollywood recognition
and are now being remade. Korean movie stars Lee Byung-heon, Jeon Ji-hyun
and Rain are active in Hollywood, and Korean film directors have been invited to
Hollywood to make films. Korea has become an important player in the global
film industry and holds international film festivals for everyone from the world to
enjoy.
Korea Today
"Super Junior," is Chinese and Victoria of "f(x)" is also Chinese. They are emerg-
ing not only as singers but as part of the popular culture. Sidelines such as fash-
ion, games, books and TV program are being produced in tandem with these
groups.
Dongbangshinki
This 5-member boy-
group ("Asian Popularity"
in Korean) made its
debut in 2003. Not only
tall and good-looking,
the members have been
evaluated highly for
their singing and danc-
ing. The name varies
from country to country:
in Japan, Tohoshinki; in
Chinese region, Tong Vfang Xien Qi; in the English-speaking region, TVXQ.
The group has released 8 singles and 4 albums in Korea, 28 singles and 4
albums in Japan, and 1 single in the US and China--all in their respective lan-
guages.
Korea Today
tial art form uses fast
kicking and punching
techniques. The origins
were developed as self-
defense against wild ani-
mals, requiring the
movements to be instant A kicking form
and fast. Over time,
blocking, kicking and punching evolved to create the Taekwondo of today.
Korea Today
Taekwondo demonstration
An Internationally-recognized Sport
Taekwondo was adopted as an official event at the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games.
Thanks to efforts made home and abroad and adoption by the IOC, Taekwondo has
become a global sport.
Massive rallies in the street during the 2002 FIFA World Cup
Korea Today
sport. Nevertheless, the national team failed at the World
Cup in the 1990s, to the dismay of all Koreans.
Then the 2002 FIFA World Cup was co-hosted by Korea
and Japan. To the world's great surprise, Korea became
the first Asian country to reach the semifinals. There are
now 15 professional football teams in the K-league, rais-
ing Korean football to the next level and providing Korean
football fans with much to cheer about.
Korea Today
turned out clad in red, turning the color into a
come physical
cause for celebration in the minds of South shortcomings
(small stature and flat feet) through
Koreans today. Red expresses joy and enthusi-
hard work and constant self-improve-
asm and now prompts Koreans to focus their ment. At 19, Pak was already a brilliant
national player. He was the top in the
energies.
Korean Premier League before joining
Manchester United FC in July 2005.
New Fashions on the Street He shot the decisive goal against
Portuguese team in the 2002 World
The Gwanghwa-mun intersection in downtown Cup tournament, and he scored the
Seoul and City Hall Plaza turned into a sea of red tying goal against France during the
2006 World Cup in Germany.
while the FIFA 2002 World Cup was being held in
Korea. Swarms of enthusiastic sup-
porters appeared in the streets
wearing headbands decorated with a
national flag motif, red scarves on
their arms, red shirts, and red knick-
ers. Such instantaneous outpourings
were unprecedented.
Every plaza in the country became
a gala display of national unity, irre-
Young “Red Devils”
spective of age group or economic
status. They were just the same people, participating in a celebration meant for
them all. Every society needs an emotional outlet, and Koreans, especially so. The
2002 World Cup gave them such an opportunity in the form of on-the-street
cheering for the national team.
B-boys performance
Korea Today
their moves. A Korean B-boy team was Pungmul and B-boys
invited to the opening ceremony of 2008
Beijing Olympic Games for an exclusive
performance and now many who are
fascinated by the B-boy phenomenon
visit Korea to watch local performances.
tip
Exclusive B-boy only Theater
It is easy to find B-boy perfor-
mances in Korea. Just go to the "B-
boys-only" theater in front of Hongik
University; performances are held
regularly. (www.sjbboys.com)
Information on B-boy
Performances
"Ballerina Who Fell in Love with
B-boy" (www.showbboy.com)
B-boy and Ballerina
(www.bisabal.co.kr)
Breakout (www.breakout.co.kr)
Korean B-boys are no longer confined to street dancing; they are now con-
tributing to the creation of a new culture of musicals and dramas. They
continuously develop by engaging themselves in joint performances
with various forms of Korean traditional music as well as
classical or pop music. Thus, Korean B-boys are now
embedded in the culture, and are not just a passing fad.
Korea Today
Namsadang performance (percussion instruments and tightrope walking)
ground, entertaining the masses with their animated music and circus-like tricks
(tightrope walking, dish-spinning, etc.). Since the 1920s, these traveling bands
became smaller and their repertoires evolved.
Namsadang Plays
Extant are six different namsadang nori (performance categories), including
percussion playing (pungmul ). Pungmul includes the traditional kwenggwari
(small gong), buk (barrel drum), jing (large gong), sogo (small hand-drum) and
nallari (small conical fife). The players wear white headbands and produce light
and cheerful music, while dancing and making comic gestures. Other nori types
involve dish-spinning, tightrope walking, tumbling (ddangjeju or salpan), mask
dances and puppet plays.
tip
Experiencing Namsadang Nori
Namsadang nori keeps an exciting
part of traditional culture alive through
performances and classes. You can
have more fun by comparing the
modern B-boy break dancing to the
namsadang perfor-
mances. You can Namsadang and B-boys
discover how the
excellent Korean
ing in many respects. The performers exhibit
break dancing is
linked to tradition. exquisite skills on the floor, one after another,
Anseong Namsadang Baugeogi
similar to the way B-boys compete.
Pungmul Troupe
(www.namsadangnori.or.kr) Originally, the namsadang performed nori from
Anseong Namsadang Baugeogi 9 in the evening till 3-4 in the following morning,
Festival(www.baudeogi.com)
but nowadays performances are just 2-3 hours.
Korea Today
Samullori Rhythms Origin
Samullori was inspired by traditional percussion playing (pungmul); the first
performance was held in 1978 at a small theater by Kim Yong-bae, Kim Deok-su,
Lee Gwang-su and Choi Jong-sil, who were namsadang troupe members. Since
then, this style has gained great popularity and is performed often.
Samullori Features
Samullori originated from outdoor percussion playing and dancing, and the
musical characteristics were refined for the stage. In other words, a kind of
Development of Samullori
Samullori continues to evolve. The four sounds are now being integrated with
other experimental and creative performing arts. Originally samullori was simply
an expression of traditional Korean percussion music, but then piano or orchestra
accompaniments were added, followed by the inclusion of jazz and rock musi-
cians. The direction of diversification has also gone into traditional Korean dance.
Nanta performance
Korea Today
of similar size as the first one in
2002. The Jeong-dong facility was
expanded in 2003 to 500 seats.
Performances are held year around
at each theater.
(www.nanta.i-pmc.co.kr)
kitchen knives, pots, pans and dishes. The players
beat them in a samullori-like fashion, transform- Experiencing Samullori
ing something ordinary into a new art form. Samullori is performed at many
museums and there are also places
where you can learn to play the
Nanta Now a Standout Production instruments first-hand.
Culture Art Center Keun Deul
First performed in October 1997, Nanta drew (www.onekoreaart.or.kr)
the biggest audience ever in the history of Korean Hanul-sori Beat Company
(www.hanulsori.co.kr)
performance and was chosen as one of the Top Gwanghwa-mun Art Hall
10 Things to See in Seoul by the Korea Tourism (www.ghmarthall.co.kr)
Academy of Korean Music
Organization. Traditional samullori rhythms have
(www.samulnori.co.)
been integrated into a theatrical performance
featuring comic kitchen scenes that amuse audiences of all ages.
Korea Today
into lay in July 2004. The ways in which this newfound leisure is spent differs, of
course, from person to person. Generalizations are risky, but some typical exam-
ples can be identified.
Hobby Clubs
Leisure activities are diversifying in Korea and becoming a greater part of every-
day life. People who share the same hobby or interest now organize clubs, includ-
ing sports clubs (bowling, hiking, inline skating, snowboarding, mountain biking,
marathon running, ping pong and baseball, to name a few) as well as photography
clubs, dance clubs and movie-watching clubs. Koreans who own the same model
automobile may form a club to exchange information related to their cars;
Leisure 75
gourmet club members seek out fancy restaurants together, while environmen-
talists and legal specialists band together to provide voluntary services.
Korea Today
they ski or snowboard. In addi-
tion the more venturesome
young people may try bungee-
jumping, survival games or inline
Skiers
skating. Bicycle riding is gaining
popularity today as well. Many
people cycle along riverside
paths or country roads in stylish
wear, either alone or in groups.
Families at Parks
on Weekends
Many Korean families visit pub-
lic parks or amusement parks on
Wind-surfing
weekends, trying out the rides and
eating a picnic lunch. The best
known destinations are Yongin
Everland Resort, Gwacheon Seoul
Land Amusement Park and Lotte
World, while smaller ones can be
found around the country. The
amusement parks often operate
art galleries or other family-type
programs nearby. Everland Resort
Leisure 77
Norae-bang and Jjimjil-bang
Singing rooms (norae-bang) and dry saunas (jjimjil-bang) are good inexpensive
places to go with friends, colleagues or relatives. The norae-bang is an especially
popular place to go after dinner and drinks. The jjimjil-bang is favored by young
couples and families.
Norae-bang Services
The singing rooms charge a basic hourly (or half-hourly) rate. In the daytime, or
at other times when business is slow, the proprietor may offer a reduced rate or
extend of usage time without any additional charge. In principle, only nonalcoholic
beverages and snacks can be ordered at a norae-bang. The customer can request
Korea Today
Online Norae-bang
A new trend is to post singing room activities online. Singing and dancing at an
offline norae-bang are recorded with a digital camera and uploaded for online
evaluation and comparison. The person who gets the highest score is named
"norae-bang jjang" ("champion of the singing room"). The highest marks are not
for singing ability but for the ability to rearrange a song most interestingly. The
first "norae-bang jjang" title was awarded to the "Dongseong-no Sisters," three
college women who appeared on the SBS TV program "Choi Su-jong Show" in
2004. Those crowned singing room champions are often treated like stars.
Leisure 79
Inside a jjimjil-bang
Evolving Jjimjil-bang
The jjimjil-bang establishments continue to develop, getting larger, more luxuri-
ous and more diverse in their offerings. As such, they are no longer a simple space
for bathing only, a complex that includes a singing room, small movie theater, beau-
ty parlor, skin-care salon, PC lounge and even
tip
stage for live performances. These features make
Significance of the Room
them especially popular for people on dates.
(Bang)
Koreans like rooms. On the street, Various search portals on the Internet allow
you will find singing rooms, game exchanges among people sharing the same
rooms, DVD rooms, laundry rooms
and others. The rooms in the tradi- hobby, including lists of the most recommended
tional Korean home(hanok) served jjimjil-bang. The fanciest ones now have an "oxy-
multiple functions: sleeping, eating,
receiving guests and doing work. gen cave," DVD room, playroom for children, doc-
The bang concept is associated with tor fish spa, activated charcoal room, salt room,
the closeness and warmth shared in
traditional Korean life. Today, how-
and jade room. For the time and price, they pro-
ever, the bang has become a place vide excellent access to a sauna and many other
for entertainment.
enjoyable facilities.
Korea Today
Jeju Island
Leisure 81
tip Jeju-do (Island) is pristine volcanic island and
world-class tourist destination. The island is
Meaning of Oreum
The Jeju dialect includes the term renowned for its natural environment, open
oreum, which refers to the small cin- fields, beaches and mountains. UNESCO desig-
der cones with their own crater.
nated Jeju-do a world natural heritage. It is a
popular place among Koreans for honeymoons
tip
and family trips, offering visitors a wide range of
Information on
things to see and do such as eco-tours and water
Jeju Festivals and Tourism
(http://www.jejutour.go.kr/) sports.
Rape Flower Festival
Date: April 9~10
Place: Gyori-ri, Bukjeju-gun Jeju Scenery and Cuisine Halla-san (Mt.
Halla) is a 1,950-meter dormant volcano created
in the Quaternary period of the Cenozoic era in an eruption that covered the island
with basalt and lava. The name "Halla" means a height that reaches the stars."
The lake in the crater is called Baengnok-dam as well as some 1,800 plant
Udo Udo ("Cow Island"), with a shape reminiscent of a cow lying down, is in
Bukjeju-gun (North Jeju County). This beautiful islet is a great place for marine
fishing, bicycling and hiking. A submarine ride and cruise tour are available. Some Part I
Korea Today
of the Korean movies filmed at this location include "Il Mare" and "My Mother the
Mermaid." Many tourists also come just to see the beautiful scenery and beaches.
Pony Rides There are many places for riding ponies on Jeju-do. Jeju ponies,
which have been designated as a "natural treasure," are much smaller than most
other breeds and look rather wild. Yet they are mild-natured and quick with their
feet. Most pony-riding venues are open fields that provide excellent views of Mt.
Halla and the beautiful seascape.
Gyeongju
Gyeongju has been around for at least 1,000 years, serving as the capital of the Silla
Kingdom (57BCE-935AD). Many
important historical sites and
relics remain here, and
UNESCO designated the area as
a World Heritage Site in
December 2000. The city has
been divided into five districts
based on the nature of the sites
located in each: Buddhist fine
art, ancient ruins of royal
palaces, royal tombs,
Hwangnyong-sa (Temple) ruins;
and defense works. A total 52 Gyeongju Nam-san
Leisure 83
tip designated cultural heritages are included in the
World Heritage area.
Temple Stay Program
(http://www.templestay.com) The Nam-san ("South Mountain") District is
Beomeo-sa like an outdoor museum with hundreds of mostly
1-day
- Regular program: Experience the
Buddhist relics disbursed throughout. Relics of
tea ceremony with the monk in note include Na-jeong a well related to the foun-
charge of Seon (Zen) meditation.
dation myth of Silla; Poseok-jeong, a pleasure
Free program
- Offering with evening worship: A pavilion that played a part in Silla's demise, stone
brief retreat from busy everyday
images of the reclining Buddha at Mireuk-gol
life for personal reflection
An overnight program (Maitreya Valley), stone images of the standing
- Seated meditation (Chamseon)
Buddha at Beri and Buddha images carved on a
Cultural program
- Arts of making hanji, traditional cliff face at Chilbul-am (Hermitage). Gyeongju
tea-ceremony, making materials was the capital of Silla, a kingdom that lasted a
for natural dying, strolling along
the wooded trails thousand years and reigned over the entire
Korean Peninsula for some 250 years. This part
of the old city boasts important architectural structures, Buddhist relics and mon-
uments.
Busan
Part I
Korea Today
Night view of Busan
Busan is Korea's second largest city and the world's fifth largest port--an
important international logistics center with beautiful coastline and mountains. In
addition, the areas offer many sights worth seeing and festivals of all kinds.
Haeundae Beach Busan's Haeundae district is famous for its long stretch of
beach and beautiful coastline. This is one of the most popular summer destina-
Leisure 85
Haeundae beach
tions for Koreans and foreign visitors alike. Indeed, the name "Haeundae" is
almost synonymous with Busan for most Koreans. Every year, more tourists visit
Haeundae than any other place in the country.
High-rise buildings and hotels along the shoreline offer convenient shopping
and great sightseeing. Annual events here include celebrations of the first full
moon in the lunar new year (January or February), "Polar Bear" swimming com-
petition (winter), sand sculptures (June) and the Busan Sea Festival (August). In
the vicinity are Dongbaek Island, the Oryukdo Islands, a major aquarium, a yacht-
racing marina, the Busan Exhibition & Convention Center (BEXCO), and various
scenic drives.
Jagalchi Seafood Market This is where you can really meet the dynamic peo-
ple of Busan. Jagalchi is one the most famous fisheries markets in Korea and a
Busan landmark. Here you can buy all kinds of fish freshly caught and enjoy raw
fish served right at the market shops. The atmosphere of the bustling market is a
treat in itself.
Korea Today
tip
Online Information on
Traveling in Korea
Korea Tourism Organization:
http://www.visitkorea.or.kr
Busan homepage
(English, Japanese, Chinese):
Seorak-san National Park http://english.busan.go.kr
Nature and ecology tours:
Seoraksan National Park:
Seorak-san National Park Seorak-san (Mt.
http://seorak.knps.or.kr
Seorak) has 1,708m Daecheong-bong, the highest Korea Forest Service:
http://www.foa.go.kr
peak in the Taebaek Mountain Range, considered
ForestOn:
the backbone of the Korean Peninsula. UNESCO http://www.foreston.go.kr
designated the entire Seorak-san area as a National Recreation Forest
Office: http://www.huyang.go.kr
Biosphere Reserve in 1982 (Korea's first), for its Transportation:
many rare species. Royal azaleas and other flowers Train
KORAIL: http://www.korail.com
in spring, valleys with clean and fresh water in sum- Bus
mer and magnificent autumn colors capture the Seoul Express Bus Terminal:
http://www.exterminal.co.kr
hearts of tourists, while the winter snow scenes are Dong Seoul Terminal:
also magnificent. On the east side is "Outer Seorak," http://www.ti21.co.kr/
Seoul Nambu Terminal:
which features Cheonbuldong-gyegok (valley),
http://www.nambuterminal.co.kr
Geumgang-gul (cave), Gwimyeon-am (rock), Air
KAL: http://kr.koreanair.com
Biryeong-pokpo (waterfall), Ulsan-bawi (rock),
Asiana:
Gweonggeum-seong (fortress wall), Oryeon-pokpo http://www.flyasiana.com
Jeju Air: http://www.jejuair.net
(waterfall) and Towangseong-pokpo (waterfall).
Leisure 87
Seoul City Tour
Seoul has been Korea's capital for more than 600 years, starting from the begin-
ning of Joseon in 1392. Tradition and modernity exist side by side, offering a
diverse range of things to see and do. Visitors to Korea generally rate Seoul as
their primary destination for all that it offers.
Old Palaces Seoul is Korea's political, economic, cultural and educational captial,
with a forest of ultra-modern high-rises and crowds of bustling people. In stark contrast
to this are five elegant old palaces, offering people a moment of rest in peace. They are:
Gyeongbok-gung, the main palace; Changdeok-gung; Deoksu-gung; Gyeonghi-gung Part I
Korea Today
and Changgyeong-gung. Each has its own story corresponding to its long history.
Gyeongbok-gung
tip
Information on Seoul Palaces
& Hanok Village
Gyeongbok-gung
(www.royalpalace.go.kr)
Changdeok-gung
(www.cdg.go.kr)
Deoksu-gung
(www.deoksugung.go.kr)
Changgyeong-gung
(http://cgg.cha.go.kr/)
Bukchon Hanok Maul
(http://bukchon.seoul.go.kr/) Insa-dong
Korea Today
Seoul at an earlier time.
Various hanok guesthouses are
here for you to experience life
in a traditional Korean-style
home.
waterway. Now 22 bridges cross the stream, each in a unique style and illuminat-
ed brightly at night to provide a balance of water and light.
Meanwhile, Seoul Tower (or "Namsan Tower") commands a beautiful panoramic
view of Seoul. The view is especially striking at night, when the city is brighter
than the starry sky.
Shopping streets Shopping in Seoul is fun and easy. Myeong-dong is the most
Korea Today
Dongdaemun Market is a place to buy fashionable clothes at low prices, making it
especially popular among young shoppers. Itaewon is still another excellent shop-
ping destination in Seoul, and the merchants there cater to foreigners. The
Itaewon area is home to many different nationalities of people,
and the cuisines of different countries are available
here.
Korea Today
Youthful band in front of Hongdae
tip
Dynamic, passionate
‘Hi Seoul Festival’
The Hi Seoul Festival is held each
season, organizing various events
and performances to spice up peo-
ple's daily routines.
(www.hiseoulfest.org)
Korea Today
(palace) and has a collection of 2,240 artifacts related to the daily lives of Koreans
from traditional times to the present. Here you can get a better idea of how
lifestyles have evolved on the Korean Peninsula.
Each museum building has features borrowed from some of Korea's most
important Buddhist architecture. The front of the main building resembles
Cheongun-gyo and Baekun-gyo, the two "bridges" (stairways) leading into
Bulguk-sa, and the building is topped by a five-story pagoda modeled after
Palsang-jeon (hall) at Beopju-sa. The three-story east wing resembles Mireuk-
jeon (hall) at Geumsan-sa, and the architecture of the two-story west wing is
inspired by Gakhwang-jeon (hall) at Hwaeom-sa. There are three standing exhibits
as well as an outdoor exhibit, children's museum, and special exhibition hall. The
main hall has models of the nine-story pagoda of Hwangnyong-sa (Silla kingdom),
Mireuk-sa (Baekjae kingdom), and Geunjeong-jeon and Dongsipja-gak (Joseon
kingdom).
Kimchi Museum
The Kimchi Museum studies
and researches the pickled veg-
etables that are such an integral
part of Korean cuisine. Kimchi
is becoming more popular
worldwide as a health food, and
today, the museum draws about
Kimchi Museum
100,000 visitors a year. The exhi-
Korea Today
ing its own brochures and per-
forming research projects of its
own.
Ddeok Museum
The Ddeok Museum displays
some 2,000 items related to tra-
ditional Korean culinary arts,
focusing on the rice cake, or
ddeok. This nourishing food has
been with Koreans for millennia
and comes in various types with
different tastes. The rice cake Ddeok Museum
tradition has developed over a long time and
tip
evolved with changing lifestyles. Songpyeon
(pine-flavored rice cake) is prepared for Chuseok NCKTPA:
http://www.ncktpa.go.kr
(Harvest Moon), and rice cake soup (ddeokguk) National Folk Museum of Korea:
from sliced rice cake bars (garaetteok) is a must http://www.nfm.go.kr/
National Museum of Korea:
on Lunar New Year's (Seol). Deok is also tradi-
http://www.museum.go.kr
tionally handed out to guests who have come to Kimchi Museum:
http://www.kimchimuseum.co.kr
celebrate a child's first birthday. The Ddeok
Ddeok Museum:
Museum also has a program that allows you to http://www.tkmuseum.or.kr
Seoul Museum of History:
make traditional rice cake yourself, providing
http://www.museum.seoul.kr/
insight into traditional Korean life.
Korea in History
designs have been simplified in modern times for greater convenience.
Korea in History
Family in hanbok
Modern Hanbok
Modern Koreans prefer wearing Western-style
clothes, which are more comfortable and conve-
nient than the traditional one. However, hanbok is
still worn on special days such as Lunar New Year's
(Seol) and the Harvest Moon (Chuseok). The traditional clothes provide the proper
formality for offering sacrifices to deceased ancestors and visit one's elderly par-
ents. Other special occasions that warrant hanbok include a child's first birthday
or pyebaek, the bride's formal greeting to her in-laws immediately after the wed-
ding ceremony.
tip
In recent years, modified hanbok outfits have
been designed for everyday use. The style is con- Buying a Hanbok
The price of a hanbok outfit can vary
venient to wear but retains the basic traditional widely depending on the materials
look. Buttons are used, and the sleeves and and workmanship. Low priced han-
bok is available at Namdaemun,
trouser legs are narrower than with the tradition- Dongdaemun or Gwangjang Markets.
al hanbok. The colors are also less garish.
Seol
Seol, Lunar New Year's Day, has long been one of the two most important sea-
sonal holidays for Koreans. (The other is Chuseok.) On Seol, family and close rela-
tives get together in the morning to offer a sacrifice to their ancestors called
charye. Items on the carefully prepared sacrificial table will include fish and meat
Charye table
Korea in History
slices of rolled rice cake) is a must
on Lunar New Year's Day. The sig-
nificance of this custom has sev-
eral different explanations.
According to one theory, Seol, the
first day of the new year, means
"brightness," and the white color
of the rice cake is bright, while its Yut-nori
Traditional pastimes associated with Seol are yut (a traditional board game),
kite-flying, see-sawing and shuttlecock kicking. Kites flown on this day are said to
carry away bad influences for the coming year. Yut, or yut-nori is played between
two or more teams. The origin of this traditional board game was divination to
determine the harvest in the upcoming year.
Ganggangsullae
Many forms of traditional enter-
Korea in History
People would supplicate the full moon, and
women would join hands to dance a circle
dance called Ganggangsullae. These activi-
ties used to be carried out in each village,
but now people just watching them on TV or
attend live performances at palaces or the- ssireum
aters.
Modern Scenes
Traditionally, seasonal holidays were a time for the extended family to get
together. Those who live far away would return to their birth home. Most Koreans
today still take time out from their busy lives to visit their parents or kin back in
the hometown on Seol or Chuseok. The mass exodus to the countryside from
urban centers like Seoul causes severe traffic congestion, and seats on public
transportation are hard to get.
Not everyone is idle during the holidays. The women usually remain very busy
preparing food for the sacrificial ceremonies and serving family members and
guests. Thus, these occasions are not always welcomed by the women, even
though families prepare less than they used to. Much more of the food is simply
bought instead of being made from scratch.
When a special holiday approaches, traditional markets and department stores
bustle with people buying food and gifts. The markets seem to exude a festive
mood. On Seol and Chuseok, people exchange many gifts such as traditional con-
fectionery (han-gwa), health food and boxes of fruit.
Yong-in Minsok-chon
The Korean Folk Village near Yong-in, about an hour south of Seoul, is an out-
door folk museum where the Korean traditional way of living is reenacted. This is
the largest establishment of the kind in Korea, and you will need a full day to see
everything sufficiently. The Korean Folk Village has a vast collection on display,
including about 270 traditional buildings and more than 16,000 tools and house-
hold implements used some 150 years ago. Everything was relocated here from
Korea in History
New layer of straw for roof Greeting a new year
Andong Hahwe-maul:
a Living Confucian Tradition
An overnight trip to Hahwe-maul
(village) in Andong, North Gyeongsang
Province is recommended for those
who want to know how Korean gentry
lived in Joseon and learn more about
Korea's Confucian tradition. The vil-
lage received media attention when
British Queen Elizabeth II visited
British Queen Elizabeth II at the Hahwe-maul
there, and more recently it was the
setting for the historicaldramas "Hwangjini," "Scandal," and "Singijeon."
A tributary of the Nakdong River encloses this village in an 'S' shape. This is the
ancestral home of the Pungsan Yu clan and an excellent example of a single-clan
Korea in History
bean paste found in bibim-bab, and
is prepared and served simply.
Steamed rice is covered with various
vegetables, sliced roast beef and
jeon (veg-
etable pan-
A Hahwe mask c a k e ) .
A n d o n g
soju, desig-
village. The entire community, with its well-pre- nated as a
served cultural artifacts, has been designated as local intangi-
ble cultural
a major folklore resource. There are 130 homes
property, is
between 300 and 500 years old, providing a symbolic of
the Andong culinary tradition.
glimpse of how people of various classes lived in
Korean soju dates back to Goryeo,
Joseon. They also serve as valuable resource for and the best-known local soju types
are from Andong, Gaeseong and Jeju.
studying traditional gentry lifestyles and the
Andong soju is also used for medici-
architectural development of Joseon homes. nal purposes.
Korea in History
Korean Musical Instruments
The origins of the
indigenous geomun-go
(half-tube, 6-stringed
zither) and gaya-geum
(half tube, 12-stringed
zither) date back to antiq-
uity, while various flutes
and the lute ( bipa ) were
first brought in from
Central Asia and China.
Over the centuries, dis- Gaya-geum
tinctively Korean styles of playing have evolved for even the imported instrument
types.
The National Center for Korean
Traditional Performing Arts (NCKTPA)
keeps 64 different kinds of instruments,
which are classified either by the mater-
ial used to make them or by the kind of
music they are used to play. Recently,
they have also been classified according
to performance technique, in the same
way Western musical instruments are
classified. For example, the dae-geum Hae-geum
tip
Jongmyo Jerye
It is performed each May
and open to the public.
(www.jongmyo.net)
Jongmyo Jerye-ak
Pansori
Pansori (an oral narrative sung by a
professional singer accompanied by a
single drummer) was developed from Part 2
Korea in History
mid-Joseon in the southern part of the
Korean Peninsula. This important genre
of Korean traditional music was desig-
nated by UNESCO as a World Intangible
Heritage in 2003.
The singer's lyrics (aniri) tell a story to A pansori scene
the drum beat and his gestures (balim) add dramatic effect. The performance lasts
two to three hours, and seven different tempos are employed, from slow to fast.
Originally 12 full-length stories (madang) were performed, but only five remain today:
Heungbu-ga, Simcheong-ga, Chunhyang-ga, Jeokbyeok-ga and Sugung-ga.
tip
Where to Experience & Learn
Traditional Instruments
The NCKTPA holds diverse perfor-
mances and classes for foreigners
to learn how to play the janggu,
danso, gaya-geum, hae-geum and
samullori. (www.gugak.go.kr)
Chongdong Theatre
Traditional Korean music and fusion
gukak are performed here.
(www.mct.or.kr)
Fusion band with traditional instruments
tip
Fusion Gukak on the Rise
Gukak (traditional court, folk and religious music collectively) has
been reinterpreted in fusion forms, adding modern, youthful senti-
ments to familiar themes and sounds. Gukak seasoned with jazz is
becoming popular, and Korean parents like for their younger chil-
dren to be exposed to fusion gukak to develop their sentimentality.
Cumbaya, a fusion gukak band, played Cuban musical instruments
and rhythms on the outdoor stage at the National Center for
Korean Traditional Performing Arts (NCKTPA), and received an
enthusiastic response. The NCKTPA program "Bringing Gukak to People" offers a repertory of familiar
and modern works reinterpreted from heavy court music. NCKTPA's "Tradition and Rule-Breaking" pro-
gram presents the scores from "Titanic," "Cinema Paradiso," and "Comrades: Almost a Love Story"
played in gukak style. Meanwhile, the Traditional Music Orchestra of Seoul recently performed
Gukakjjang, Jaemijjang ("Great Gukak, Great Fun"), bringing together pansori and Andes music. The audi-
ence loved it.
Korea in History
Features of Korean Dance
Ancient dances in Korea and elsewhere often begin as rites to Nature. Korean
dances can be powerful, dreamlike, sorrowful or elegant. They express spirit (sin)
and excitement (heung). Koreans have long been avid dancers, and historical
records document dancing and singing sprees lasting several days and nights as
part of ceremonies to the spirits.
Bongsan Tal-chum
Buchae-chum
Buchae-chum ("fan dance"), per-
formed by a group of women with
feathered fans in both hands, was
introduced as a part of the Kim
Baek-bong Performing Arts Program
in November 1954 at Sigonggwan
theater in Seoul. The origins are pre-
sumed to be shamanist. The dancers
wear either hanbok or dangui (a kind
of court dress) and use the fans to
create circles, waves or floral pat-
Buchae-chum terns. The effect is stunning.
Korea in History
Mask Dance Drama
Korea in History
heritage. Studies of pottery provide insights into how
life was like during each historical era.
Korea in History
body with painted designs or designs carved in after the
body was covered with white clay. It lacks the refined
form and surface decoration of Goryeo celadon, but is
friendly and comfortable in mood.
Joseon was strongly influenced by Neo-Confucianism,
and the present world had more meaning than life after
death. Reflecting this change in priorities, the pottery
was designed for practicality with simple expression
and bold patterns. The patterns reflect the prototype of
Buncheong wine bottle with fish
native Korean aesthetics. pattern
Korea and
Its People
Korea in the World
1. Geography, Climate and Population
2. The People
3. Spoken and Written Language
4. Emerging Multicultural Society
5. Korean Enterprises and Economy
A Glimpse of Korea
6. UNESCO World Cultural Heritage in Korea
Korea in the World
Geography, Climate and Population
The Korea Peninsula is situated on the eastern end of the Asian continent, bor-
dering China and Russia in the north. The Japanese islands are to the east. The
peninsula is about 1,000km north to south with a total area of 223,273km (South
2
Korea: 100,140km , North Korea: 123,133km ), about the same size as the UK,
2 2
Part 3
o o
can fall between 0 C and minus 15 C in some regions, while summer tempera-
o
tures will exceed 30 C for many days in some regions.
The climate is generally humid and annual precipitation ranges between 800
and 1,500mm. About half of the rain falls between June and August (30% of the
total in July alone).
Korea has four distinct seasons. Spring is from March to May; summer, from
June to August; autumn, from September to November, and winter, from
December to February. Spring is windy but mild, and azaleas and forsythias begin
to bloom in the southern part of the country from late March. In late June, the
rainy season sets in and lasts until late July, after which the hottest summer days
are experienced. This is the time for people to head for the mountains or beaches;
Population
As of 2009, the South Korean population is over 48.8 million, ranking 26th in the
world. Annual population is currently increasing by 200,000 to 300,000, but Korean
society is aging at one of the world's fastest rates. People aged 65 or older are
expected to account for 11% of the total population in 2010 and 38.2% of all
Koreans by 2050.
High population density was a constant
Projection of Korean Population Pyramid, 2010
problem for Korean in the past, but the
World : 6,909million birth rate today is among the world's low-
80+ est. The birth rate has slowed for a com-
Male
Female
70
bination of reasons: the transition from an
60
50 agrarian to an industrialized society,
40 replacement of extended families with
30
nuclear families, increased participation
20
10 of women in the workforce, and skyrock-
0 eting costs for children's education. The
Korea : 49million Korean government is now offering incen-
80+ tives to families to have more children.
Male
Female
70
Korean demographics are changing in
60
50 another important way as well. The
40 number of foreign residents in Korea
30
reached 1.2 million as of June 2009, of
20
10 which 150,000 were immigrant women
0 married to Korean men.
Korean Origins
Several theories have been proposed as to the origin of the Korean people, but Part 3
Emotional Characteristics
The three words that best describe Korean emotion are probably jeong (affec-
tion), han (bitterness) and heung (excitement).
Hangeul
Hangeul is a unique alphabet invented specifically for the Korean language in a
project led by Kin Sejong, the 4th monarch of Joseon. The project was completed
in 1443 and the new alphabet was officially promulgated in 1446. King Sejong
called it Hunmin jeong-eum ("Correct Sounds to Enlighten the People").
The consonant symbols were modeled after the shapes of the human speech
organs, while the vowels were made based on the three elements that form the
universe, namely, heaven, earth and humankind. The present Korean alphabet
Propagation of Hangeul
Every year the Korean government holds
Hangeul Week around October 9, Hangeul Day.
Related events include the Hangeul Calligraphy
Contest for Foreigners and selection of
the Hunmin jeong-eum Goodwill
Ambassador. Meanwhile, Design
Contest of Stylish Hangeul Letters
Dress with Hangeul pattern & business card holder (or fonts) and Love of Hangeul UCC
Multicultural festival
!"
society has influenced the Korean
#"
Hwaseong, Suweon
Suweon, Gyeonggi Province
Built in the late 18th century, this
fortress was designed with knowl-
edge of both Oriental and Western
military theories. The 6km walls
have 4 gates and various buildings
are inside.
Dabo-tap
relics, national treasures and cultural