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Gwangju News

International Magazine for Gwangju and Jeollanam-do

August 2007
Volume 7, Issue 8
Editorial
August has traditionally been a period of transition in the ESL community, when old contracts
expire and new ones commence. Most ESL instructors come to Korea for a year, while some
stay on seduced by all things Hangook , most return to the fold.
To be an expatriate is to enter a time capsule. In a certain level time slows down; one gets used
to the languid pace of life in Korea, while the world full of taxes, mortgages and upgrades rushes
by back home. Friends and colleagues “on the outside” carry on the relentless march to outwit,
outlast, and outplay while we look on, slightly bemused. If the whole world is a stage, this is a
reality show viewed over email, Facebook and Skype.
On the other hand, time does seem to speed up. Meaningful relationships are formed and
dissolved in record time, friends for life are acquired in the blink of an eye, life changing
decisions are made at breakneck speed. The realization that everything has a twelve month shelf
life create a sense of urgency in every sphere of life.

The rain must come after the sunshine. Two doyennes of the Gwangju News family are stepping down after many selfless
years of service to the community. Kammy Benham, our illustrious Editor-in-Chief changed the face of Gwangju News
and codified the mission statement for the magazine. Her clarity of vision and sense of purpose has steered the
magazine through times of transition. Tracey Knihnitski has volunteered in various capacities at GIC over the years. She
has been an invaluable help in sourcing stories and liaising with the larger community. It is with great sadness we bid
them good bye.
Harsha Goonewardana, Editor

“The GIC and Gwangju News would like to express our deep shock and
sympathy for the families of the South Korean humanitarian workers
kidnapped in Afghanistan. We pray for their safe and speedy return.”

2 Gwangju News August 2007


Contributors Contents
4 Mr Edward J. Baker: An Expert Opinion of Korean
Democratization
August 2007, Volume 7, Issue 8 By Bernice Ang

Publisher: Dr. Yoon Janghyun 6 Moving mountains with the 5 in 5 challenge


By Daniel Lister
Editor-in-Chief: Prof. Shin Gyonggu
Editor: Harsha Goonewardana
8 You say I am a dreamer, but I am not the only one
Copy Editors: Jon Ozelton, Daniel Lister By Carlee Keeler
Article Content Editor: Tracey Knihnitski, Mark Brown, 9 What makes a man a man? - Whale Hunting
Allyson Saperstein, William Matthew Reyland, By Kim Donghun
Harsha Goonewardana, Daniel Lister
10 Is Cultural Revolution Stil Possible in South Korea?
Technical Advisor: Chris Benham By Jeong Ja Yeon
Coordinator: Kim Minsu
12 2007 World Women’s Peace Forum Gwangju
Layout and Design: Kim Minsu, Jang Suyeon By Tracey Knihnitski
Proofreading: Daniel Lister, Vanessa Berry, Tracey Knihnitski, 14 A Korean Wrapper
Harsha Goonewardana, Mark Brown, Jon Ozelton, Bernice Ang By Niki Perkins
Printed by: Hana Printing
16 Social Responsibility & Korea Current Adoption Practices
By Annie Sirgey
Cover Photo: Annie Sirgey was born in
Gwangju and raised in New York and Florida.
18 Take a Load Off Your Mind
By Kim Knight
Apart from teaching, she enjoys writing,
backpacking, and people-watching. 19 Excerpt Three
By William Matthew Reyland
The Photo: Movement at the 2007 Boryeong
Mudfest. 20 Enjoying Summer - Boryeong Mud Festival

Special thanks to the City of 23 Korean Punk Band, Opealia By Heloise Sales
Gwangju and all of our
sponsors.
24 Illegal Teaching in Korea Part 2 - My Story
Copyright by the Gwangju International Center. By Tracey Knihnitsky
All rights reserved. No part of this publication covered by this copyright
may be reproduced in any form or by any means - graphic, electronic,
mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise - without the written 25 A Foreign Language High School in Gwangju
consent of the publishers. By Choi YoungHoon
Gwangju News welcomes letters to the editor
(gwangjunews@gmail.com) regarding articles and issues. All 26 Bharatanatyam - Classical dance form of India
correspondence may be edited for reasons of clarity or space.
By Shilpa Ramesh
28 Meet the Gwangju International Center Interns
By Tracey Knihnitski

29 The May 18 Memorial Foundation and the New International


07, 09, 45, 52, 55, 59, 61, 51, 58, 80, 82
Interns
53, 56, 57, 518 1187, 1000
By Tracey Knihnitski
09 Jonggak
57 , 45
,5 ,5
18 6, 30 KONA HOMESTAY: Place for Culture and Language Exchange
By Steve Kuria Kiarie
55, 59, 61,
1187, 1000 32 The Hapdong Colt. 45 Mk IV replica BB gun
By Ryan Miller

33 This Day in History


Compiled by Erin McGrail

34 August Festival Preview By Daniel Lister

36 Lower Back Pain By Austin Kwon

37 Dry Eye Syndrome By Ju Jong-dae

38 Restaurant Review: Ko Rea Jo By Bernice Ang

40 Recipe: Bossam By Karina Prananto

Gwangju News August 2007 3


Persperctive

Mr Edward J. Baker: An Expert


Opinion of Korean Democratization

O
n June 25th 2007, the Gwangju International
Center and Chonnam National University’s
Institute of Politics and Elections Department
co-hosted and sponsored a workshop entitled
“Korean Democratization: An Exterior
Viewpoint” with Mr Edward J. Baker, a consultant to the
Harvard-Yenching Institute.

Brief Background of Mr Edward J. Baker:


Mr Baker’s interest in Korea began with the Peace Corps
service as an English teacher at the College of Education
of Seoul National University from 1966 through to 1968.
He has lived in Korea for more than 5 years and has
traveled widely in Asia. He has a B.A. from Colby College,
a J.D. from Yale Law School and an M.A. from Harvard
Mr. Baker is the fourth from left
University. He was a staff member of the Sub-committee
on International Organizations of the U.S. House of
Representatives Committee on International Relations
during its Investigation of Korean-American Relations in generation are too concerned with grades and they are
1977-1978. He frequently writes and speaks on Korean overly studious, in my opinion. Although they may not be
affairs, particularly politics and human rights. He has politically active, I think many students are more
been a board member of Asia Watch since its foundation interested in environmental and consumer rights
in 1985. activism.

Apart from relating his personal viewpoints on the On the direction of the Iraq War:
political progress of Korea from 1948 through the 1980s,
Mr Baker spent much of his speech sharing his knowledge Q: What are your thoughts on the current Bush
and understanding of the United States’ role in the 5.18 administration’s “war on terrorism” and the Iraq war?
Gwangju Uprising in 1980, the massive student street
demonstrations throughout Korea in 1987, as well as the A: Personally, I believe that the Iraq war is a complete
special position Mr Kim Dae Jung had amidst Korea’s blunder and miscalculation of the Bush administration;
political turmoil until he subsequently became president they went into Iraq with their policies focused on the
in 2000. Given that these issues are the heart of Korean ideological battle against terrorism. They definitely failed
political history, the audience was proactive in asking Mr to understand the complex relationship between the Iraqis
Baker questions to gain a deeper insight on his personal and the Kurds, as well as the fragile unity amongst the
opinions on US policy and the different types of Sunni and Shia Muslim community that has resulted in
“democracies” seen in Asia. the sectarian conflict we see today. America is now in a
quagmire - we cannot withdraw and yet we cannot stay
On the nature of student activism in Korea: put. With 17 military bases in Iraq now, perhaps the Bush
administration is trying to implement “Korean” Style
Q: In your opinion, what do you think is the difference democracy as we saw in history. As an American, I am sad
between the Korean students of the 1980s and 2007? to say that I am gradually losing my respect for the
functionality of “American” democracy.
A: Most certainly, Korean students of the 1980s displayed
a high level of student activism; many of them were On Korean history and democracy:
especially interested in the political direction and future of
Korea. Through my close interaction with my students in Q: Can you clarify the US’s role in Korea’s 5.18 uprising?
Sadae, I remember that they were rational in their
political views and very much wanted to see some form of A: I understand that there were rumours of the
social change in their country. The students of this involvement of the CIA in assisting Chun Doo Hwan to

4 Gwangju News August 2007


stop the student protests, but to my knowledge the CIA hand, Japan sees herself as having moved in almost
never had any form of connections of communication with similar paths as South Korea, except that they deem
the South Korean government at that time. Nonetheless, I themselves as more successful.
would not be surprised that anti-American sentiment was
running at an all time high especially since both the Park Q: With the rise of China, what are your opinions on the
and Chun governments were extremely repressive in future of South Korea?
nature; but CIA played no role in the uprising, and there
would be no US navy ship arriving in Pusan with A: The South Korean government is definitely cautious
American troops helping the Korean students. about China’s economic power. It used to be the 2nd
economic power in the region, but in a short time of two
Q: Koreans have a different style of democracy from years, it will become the 3rd power in the order of China,
America. Please explain the differences between Korean Japan and South Korea. Also, the unresolved issue of
democracy and American democracy. Taiwan and China will destabilize the region somewhat, as
there is an uncertainty of a possible outbreak of war
A: Each country will definitely have its own “style” of between the two countries. Also, all three countries have
democracy that involves not only political freedoms of yet to address the issue of pollution and environmental
expression and speech, but also economic and social policies, even as analysts have reported that China is the
freedoms. Korean democracy emerged from the struggle top producer of greenhouse gases in the world, overtaking
of the Korean people and to some extent American the US.
democracy often has the view that it can be imposed, or
the American presence (eg: military bases) in the country Q: Lastly, do you have thoughts on the possibilities of
might help energize the process. If I actually look back seeing North and South Korea reconcile?
into Korea’s history in the 1940s, it was still very
uncertain whether South Korea would become a A: As we all know, North Korea is not as isolated a country
democracy, but certainly from 1987 onwards, one can be if one compares it to the fall of the Berlin Wall and
optimistic that South Korea has moved, and will continue opening of Eastern Europe to the world. Having said that,
to move in the right direction. North Korean politics is currently in a highly
unpredictable and messy state as there has been no
On the future of South Korea and the Region officially nominated successor to Kim Jong I , his sons
at large: have never been appointed to assume official posts in his
government. Nobody knows whether reunification is
Q: Has the “Korean” style democracy influenced the possible in the near future, but given that South Korea is a
region in any way? highly economically stable country with a larger
population than North Korea, it may have an easier time
A: The Chinese government seems to be most impressed that Germany did in the 1990s.
with South Korea’s economic success and the By Bernice Ang
organizational management and leadership style of the Bernice is a 3rd year undergraduate at the University of
British Columbia from Singapore. Currently, she is doing a
South Korean government. However, China still remains
short two month internship with the GIC and this is her first
highly cautious on moving to become a democracy,
visit to Korea.
preferring to concentrate on building economic success
first. Vietnam, another up-and-coming Southeast Asian
country, seems more interested in following the Chinese
model of economic, then political changes. On the other

Gwangju News August 2007 5


Poster by Cassie Wood
6 Gwangju News August 2007
Community

Moving mountains with


the 5 in 5 challenge
What: The challenge is simple, designed as a Only 8 of the orphans from Sunbin have been to
concept to help raise money for Sungbin Orphanage. University in the last 10 years.

Where: The task is to climb the five highest 82.1% is the amount of the rest of the country’s
mountains in Korea in five day: Hala-san (1,950 citizens in the age group that went to university in
meters), Jiri-san (1,915 meters), Deogyu-san (1,614 2006.
meters), Seorak-san (1,708) and Gyebang-san (1,577
meters). All peaks must be climbed within five days for
7 million won is the average cost of tuition for students
at Korean Universities.
the challenge to be successful.
45% is the amount of national University students
Why: To raise money through sponsorship to assist who get scholarships.
a worthy cause – the Sungbin Orphanage Endowment
Last year 2006 was on a much smaller scale than this
Fund. Sungbin is one of the biggest orphanages in
year’s effort. In fact there were only 2 and a half
Gwangju, and is located near Chonnam University
climbers (one person for only 3 mountains). It was
Hospital.
successful in raising 4 million won , though
It houses approximately 70 young ladies, with many unfortunately due to the adverse weather conditions
living off-campus in group homes (which provide a the fifth mountain Mudengsan was substituted for
more home-like atmosphere for them). The age range Deogyusan.
at the orphanage varies from just months old upto
This year there will be two major differences between
around 18. The orphanage currently part-funded by
2006 and 2007. First, that all five mountains will be
the church and the government.
conquered. Secondly, that the amount raised eclipses
last year’s.
There is a small army of volunteers who seek out to
make life better at Sungbin. They include teachers of
various subjects Art, Math, Science and a few foreign Who are the climbers: Currently five
English teachers that help out on Saturdays. members of the Gwangju community have stepped
forward to take the challenge. They include three
A worthy cause: The sponsorship will Canadians, one British and a Korean. Adam Forrest,
mostly go to helping the children beyond their who is approaching the end of his twelve month stint in
orphanage years, after they have turned 18 and have to Gwangju; Chris O’Meara currently working at Chonnam
look after themselves. It will also go towards University; one half of the Mike and Dave partnership,
addressing current problems, though it’s primary goal Dave Martin. Daniel Lister, a veteran of the 2006
will be to help build better futures. effort, represents the British Isles, while GIC’s own Kim
Tae Hyeong is flying the flag for Korea. Anybody is
47 of the 70 orphans at Sungbin still have welcome to come join the revolution though time is
ticking.
parents or relatives though have been abandoned, the
majority have no idea where their parents are How to sponsor: If moving mountains is
None of the girls are currently attending second not quite your cup of tea, there are numerous ways to
or third grades in High School. sponsor the event. The easiest way would be to pop into
the GIC, Speakeasy or The Underground Grocers and
In the last 10 years only 20% of those old enough sign a sponsorship form. Alternatively check the
to go from Sungbin have made it to High School. website www.5in5korea.org to make a pledge online.
Please contact Daniel Lister at 5in5korea@gmail.com
However 99.8% percent of the Korean public at for further information.
By Daniel (Mountain Goat) Lister
High School age went in 2006.

Gwangju News August 2007 7


Inspiration

You say I am a dreamer,


but I am not the only one
Making Change
As tired eyes gaze up at me when I enter the
classroom, I am filled with a desire bigger than
teaching a language. I’m here to teach a purpose, here
to inspire dreams in those that have not had the time
to know what dreams are. You can’t teach someone
how to know him or herself, but you can tell them that
whatever they decide to do, or whoever they want to
be, it is possible. I have asked the same question to all
200 of my students. “Why are YOU here?” Even at a
young age I expect some kind of an answer.
“Take a break sometimes and give them the
Unfortunately, the typical answer is as blank as their
gift of believing in themselves, and having
something to be truly excited about.”
eyes when I first enter the room. Or sometimes I get a
response like “Because my mom says so”. with, “Then you WILL be.” Now I do not know if
anyone had ever told him he can be anything and
Thinking back to my own childhood, the time after everything he wanted to be, or any of the other
school was used to absorb the information I took in students, but they listened that day. I felt the energy in
that day. To hold on to what was relevant to me and to the classroom shift and their eyes really began to look
discard anything that was useless or negatively into me. I asked everyone to look at him. “He is your
charged. This was the time when I could unwind, next President.” I said. I told him how lucky I felt to
socialize, exercise, and most importantly, take in all meet him and how proud I was of him to take on such
that my family had to offer. My parents have always a big responsibility, and how I knew what amazing job
been my best friends and my biggest inspiration. My he will do. He thanked me, and I think I saw a change
opinions maybe biased, but without this time in the in him that day, a sense of pride and purpose.
evening to discuss, reflect, and eat together, children
are becoming more disconnected from themselves, I wrote everyone’s dreams on the board that day and
where they are from, and most importantly where they told them that what they believe with feeling will
are going. become their reality. I told them to look at their dream,
not just glance at it...really focus on it. Although my
Teaching here is a much greater responsibility than students were laughing a bit at the idealistic Canadian
many perceive it to be. With all the freedom that in front of them, I felt they relished the moment and
hagwons offer in the choice of content, you can truly began to see me as someone...I was no longer one
teach what YOU are passionate about. Accordingly, dimensional.
you teach them to find and follow their own passion in
life, freeing them from the stress of being at the ‘top of I am asking other teachers not to tip-toe with the
the class’. “Why?” is often the hardest question for calculated footsteps. Take huge messy steps into the
these children to answer. In their minds education is mud, off the path, and have fun discovering yourself,
only important for making “many money,” for “my while having an enormous impact on a new generation.
mother and father”, or “to be the best”, “the prettiest”, Inspire their minds. Don’t read one of the thirteen
or “the richest”. All of which are unfulfilling, empty books in their academy bags, they can read those
dreams, lacking the true substance that makes up themselves. Take a break sometimes and give them the
human existence. How will these children feel gift of believing in themselves, and having something
significant in this world? to be truly excited about.
By Carlee Keeler
When I first asked them about their dreams, they Carlee is an elementary school teacher from Canada and
laughed, became withdrawn, even nervous. One 11 has spent time voluntereering as a teacher in Africa. She
year old boy said “I want to be the President” and I currently lives in Gwangju and enjoys the freedom that it
followed up his remark and the children’s laughter brings.

8 Gwangju News August 2007


8ball Column

What makes a man a man?


– Whale Hunting
hen I was in my 6th grade at elementary

W school, we often talked about manhood


among friends and it was believed that
getting proper circumcision surgery was
the best way to achieve our goal. Soon after, I’ve talked
my mother’s ear off telling her that I should get
circumcised for sanitary reasons and I can also be a
true man and finally I convinced her.
In Korea it is often said that we go whale hunting
instead of saying ‘circumcision surgery’ directly,
because these two words in Korea are homonyms –
‘Po-Gyoung.’ So I went on a medical cruise to the clinic
nearby with my merry band of brothers. It wasn’t like
‘The Fellowship of the Ring’, but we felt like a group of
By Jacques Daret
brave-hearted heroes ready for the sacrifice.
I was the last one to get the surgery and I was so scared It wasn’t like ‘The Fellowship of the
that I thought I was going to lose my mind. Every time
kids entered the operating room, I could hear the Ring’, but we felt like a group of brave-
horrible scream in 5 minutes and it made my hair hearted heroes ready for the sacrifice.
stand on end. In retrospect I felt like I was at a place
where animals were butchered or slaughtered and my counting the number of tiles on the ceiling one by one.
fear grew bigger and bigger as the clock ticked on. When the surgery was almost at its end, I could feel
something on the operating area and I could feel the
Finally it was my turn to face the music and I took one
needle in and out when they stitched me up. Luckily
reluctant step after another toward the den of no
my surgery ended up fine without any medical failure
return. The doctor and the nurse greeted me with a
or disaster, but my agony had just started.
cheery smile, no sign of any instruments of torment.
But soon I could find out the reason why kids ahead of As soon as I arrived home, I burst into tears. My
me screamed so bad. unbearable physical pain was matched by abject
mortification every time an Ajumma stopped by and
To anaesthetize the patient before the surgery, the
checked up on me, wanting to poke me with a stick. I
syringe was shot right on the foreskin. They gave me
was much like a monkey in the zoo. I couldn’t wear
the first shot, which was a very painful, burning
pants properly till it was perfectly healed and I even
sensation, but I didn’t either cry or scream. And then
had to put my one hand into the pocket making a bulge
the doctor poked me on the area that needed to be
on the front part of the pants, just to walk around.
anaesthetized with some sharp object and asked me if I
Walking to the toilet was the easy part; controlling the
could feel anything. I said ‘yes’ and the doctor gave me
flow was harder than Edward Scissorhands doing
the second shot, bewildered by my prowers of
origami. It went everywhere, randomly, so
tolerance. And then he poked me on the same area and
unpredictable.
asked me the same question and I nodded in
affirmation. He gave me the third shot totally puzzled. Hindsight is indeed twenty-twenty. Less is definitely
On his third try I still felt something, so I said ‘yes’ and not more. Kids do not try this at home, or anywhere
he just gave up with the whole injection idea and else for that matter. If you want to feel like a man,
proceeded to butcher my privates. mutilating the most sensitive part of your anatomy is
not the answer. Just go read Moby Dick.
Immobile more by shock and fear than any
By Kim Donghun
pharmaceutical, I just stared at the ceiling and

Gwangju News August 2007 9


GIC Talk

Is Cultural Revolution Still


Possible in South Korea?
A culture critic, also called culture gun-dal, King Beaksu and an anarchist, J.Scott Burgeson
(At GIG talk; "Is Cultural Revolution Still Possible in South Korea?" – Saturday, July 7)

of my friends. I don’t like the Korean society, because


it’s too materialistic and shallow. What I hate is that if I
shop and speak Korean, people answer in English so
I’m tired of being treated like a tourist having stayed in
Korea for 11 years. Many Korean people just see
international residents as outsiders or tourists, so I’m
tired of feeling like an outsider. That’s what I don’t like
now. Because if you go to China, they always speak
Chinese, it’s very refreshing. In Japan, they always
speak Japanese. But in Korea, everyone wants to
practice English.

Q: You’re visited Gwangju 5 times. What’s your


impression of Gwangju?

A: Most foreigners, the first time they hear of Gwangju,


they think of May 18th, the uprising, so it has the
image as the birthplace of Korean democratization. My
image is that it has good restaurants and Jeolla
province has many farms so they have good side
dishes. There are friendlier and outgoing people, I
know some friends in Seoul who are from Gwangju
and they seem to be more friendly and more outgoing
compared to Seoul people. The last thing is the
Gwangju Biennale. Gwangju is famous for art.

Q: You lived both in Japan and Korea. What’s the main


difference between Korea and Japan?
Q: Do you have any thoughts on the lecture you gave
at GIC just now? A: Basically, Japan has been open to external culture
for at least 100 years longer than Korea. Japan is
A: There are different types of revolutions and I want a definitely more cosmopolitan and international, and
cultural revolution in Korea. I like anarchy. The point of has become very westernized and modernized. Korea
my lecture is to spread anarchy. This society is too is quite closed in many ways. When you compare the
controlled so anarchy is a way of redistributing power Korean society and Japanese society, many of these
to ordinary people. Right now, the power is controlled problems were experienced in Japan at a much earlier
at the top of the society. Anarchy is the giving of power stage than Korea. That’s the main difference.
to ordinary people.
The Japanese society also offers a diversity of
Q: You’re lived in Korea for more than 10 years. What entertainment and culture, especially pop music and
is your favorite and worst thing about Korea? underground music. Korean pop music sounds very
similar to me. Japan is much bigger than Korea, the
A: My favorite thing is Korean and foreign friends I’ve population is around 130million. That’s a lot of people
made here. That’s the main reason I stayed, because and there are huge cities such as Tokyo and Osaka

10 Gwangju News August 2007


that offer differing cultures and creativity. In Korea, from the US that are never imported because they
Seoul is a big city, but everything is so similar, also the don’t make money. I find it very hard to buy good books
population of Korea is about 50million, that’s much as they import only popular and bestselling authors. I
smaller than Japan. would prefer it if there was a wider variety of
entertainment and the arts.
Moreover, Japan experienced capitalism for a couple
of 100 years and the economic development of Japan Q: Who’s the most impressive person you’ve met in
goes way back in the early 19th century. Korea did not Korea?
adopt capitalism until much later, and even when it did,
the nature of capitalism was not as dynamic as A: I interviewed a ‘gisaeng.’(*A gisaeng is a Korean
Japan’s. woman who is specially trained in music, dancing, and
the art of conversation. Her job is to entertain men.).
Q: What are you most interested in? She died in 1998 or 1999. She was a famous gisaeng. I
interviewed her just before she died. At that time she
A: I’m interested in everything. Especially, I’m was eighty-two years old. I felt she was the last
interested in books, magazines and writing. I’m gisaeng. After she died, I felt like gisaeng, a part of
interested in reading books, but I read many different Korean traditional culture, was gone.
kinds of books about philosophy and history. I don’t
watch many movies. In Korea, I’m interested in street Q: What’s your next plan?
culture; I’m not interested in the high-profile culture or
events. I’m interested in walking around the city, A: I want to write a novel next year. But I have one
observing the way people behave, street fashion, just more semester to teach at Hongik University on my
street culture. contract. I think I might do ‘Balch'ikhan Han'guk-hak
("Nasty Korean Studies") Vol.2’.
Q: You talked about American globalization, is Korea
becoming more like the USA? Q: (I’m a university student majoring in English
Literature.) Would you recommend some books for
A: I’m American so it means that it becomes boring to me?
me if other countries imitate my culture. Does it sound
interesting to you if Americans want to imitate Korean A: ‘Lord Jim’, ‘Heart of darkness’ by Joseph Conrad
culture? The originality in Korean culture is gradually ‘On the road’ by Jack Kerouac.
dying.
Interviewed by Jeong Ja Yeon
For instance, I don’t like the movies shown at Korean The author is a student at Chonnam
cinemas, they’re too materialistic and mainstream. I National University majoring in English
guess it’s okay to see a Bruce Wills show sometimes, Literature and one of the summer interns
but there are a lot of independent and good movies at the GIC.

Gwangju News August 2007 11


Event

Women’s Rights and Culture


June 26 – 28, 2007
"There has always been a longing in the human heart revolutionize, for the sake of freedom and democracy.
for a more just, free, loving and creative society. But it The resilience of women demonstrates the strength of
was never before possible to fulfill these aspirations, the human spirit and the risks women will take to leave
because we had neither the evolutionary drivers, nor old conformities behind and to move forward.
the global crises to force us to change, nor did we have
the scientific and technological powers that can free us Democratic-minded, peace and justice-loving women
from the limitations of scarcity, poverty, disease, and gathered together for Gwangju's first World Women's
ignorance. This is the time of awakening for the social Peace Forum. The forum attracted feminists, scholars,
potential movement." Barbara Marx Hubbard leaders and human rights activists from around the
globe. Their mission: to form a united front against
Throughout history, women have been subjected to tyranny and misogynist rule (Malalai Joya).
violence, discrimination, inequality and the denial of
basic human rights. Despite all this, women show The conference theme was 'Women's Rights and
courage, make sacrifices, unite, organize, and Culture'. From the discussions emerged an

12 Gwangju News August 2007


with Mukhtar Mai (Pakistan) WWPFG Dinner

international exchange of ideas on such topics as Participants from Korea included Yoon Hyung
multiculturalism, globalization, human rights, violence Sook, an Anthropology professor at Mokpo National
against women, and the empowerment of women and University and President of the Korean Association of
peace networks. Women's Studies, Kim Hyu n-Mee , Sociology
professor at Yeonsei University,Yoon Mee-Hyang,
Participants honored the past by paying tribute at the representative of the Korean Council for the Women
National Cemetery to the participants and events of the Drafted for Military Sexual Slavery by Japan, and
May 18 Democratic Movement 27 years ago. Chang Pil-Wha a Professor of Women's Studies at
Participants looked to the future as they formed and Ehwa University and former president of the Korean
signed the Gwangju Declaration on Women's Peace. Association of Women's Studies.

Former First Lady, Lee Hee-Ho (wife of Kim Dae Jung, Malalai Joya is a member of the Afghan parliament
former president and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate), and received the Gwangju Human Rights Award for
extended a warm welcome to all those attending. In her 2005. From Pakistan, Mukhtar Mai, President of the
role as Honorary Chair, she Mukhtar Mai Welfare
acknowledged the perseverance All of these women shared a Organization, represented the
and passionate spirit of women in passion for peace and plight of the common woman in
their dedication to promoting democracy and demonstrated Pakistan. Takaka Doi from
equality and human rights.
their roles in striving for and Japan, the former leader of the
Social Democratic Party and the
Gwangju Mayor, Park Gwang-Tae, promoting women's rights. first female speaker of the Diet,
and Kim Pill-Sick, representative spoke about empowering women for democracy.
of the Women of Gwangju, co-chaired the conference.
Park Gwang-Tae stressed the importance of women Ada E. Yonath and Ruchama Marton from Israel
"developing leadership and competency while pursuing are Nobel Peace Prize candidates, and spoke about the
harmony through solidarity." Kim Pill-Sick believed legacies of women in science and women's health
that "women's solidarity will strengthen and progress rights respectively.
with renewed spirit and significance."
All of these women shared a passion for peace and
Together they felt that hosting events in Gwangju such democracy and demonstrated their roles in striving for
as the Asian Women's Peace Forum in 2005 and the and promoting women's rights.
2006 Summit of Nobel Peace Prize Laureates, will
promote the city as a "world-class City of Democracy, As women we accomplish much and as we
Human Rights, and Peace." acknowledge and recognize the past hurts and
hardships, we can celebrate today knowing that it's not
Among the honored female activists were Korean all for naught – we are changing the future for the
nationals and foreign guests who took the opportunity better.
to celebrate women's solidarity and empowerment. By Tracey Knihnitski

Gwangju News August 2007 13


Perspective

alien. Still, I was


something of a curiosity in
A Korean Wrapper our largely white-bread
town.

In grade school, I was


taunted with cries of “flat
nose” which was more
than upsetting. I didn’t
see much difference
between our noses. I
couldn’t see any reason
why I was different. I liked
to play games of four
square and kick-the-can,
enjoyed hotdogs, pizza and
all the things that make the
typical American child
happy. So I spent my

I
adolescent years feeling
am a foreigner in Korea. Like other foreigners, I like an oddity and wishing I had a Caucasian face. I
am frustrated when elderly Koreans cut in front wanted desperately to look like everyone else.
of me in line. I am amused by the fashion and
impracticality of wobbling around in sequined When I went to Washington University in St. Louis,
I could finally mingle with people from diverse
silver stilettos on crooked cobblestone sidewalks.
I have difficulty communicating in a language I don’tbackgrounds. I had friends who were Filipino,
speak fluently. Store clerks shoot looks of Taiwanese and Indian. It was refreshing to hang
frustration and dismay at me when I pull out my around others who were American but just
Korean phrasebook. Locals ask me where I am from happened to have black hair and tan skin. I liked
and we have a few moments of confusion as we try Twinkies. They’re a delicious, cream-filled snack
to work through the language barrier. but for the first time, snack words took new meaning
as I heard “Twinkie”, “Banana” and “Oreo” as a
The difference between reference to the disparity
other foreigners and I? I “So, if you’re a foreigner between how we felt and
am Korean.
reading this, there might be how we looked. But after
graduation, I would find
I’m a Korean-American someone in your midst who myself in places where I was
adoptee and often forget stared at and asked, “So,
that I look Asian. It’s hard
is really an American in a what are you?” I would
to explain the startled Korean wrapper.” reply, sarcastically, “I’m a
feeling when I catch a human being.”
glimpse of my reflection in the elevator, surrounded Them: “No, really. Where are you from? You speak
by people that look similar. I’m not used to seeing good English.”
many Asians. I grew up in the American Midwest Me: I’m from here.”
where many people are a hybrid of British or Them: “No, I mean, what’s your nationality?”
German stock, including my adopted family. My Me: “I’m American.”
parents recall the day they brought me home with Them: “No, really! Where are you from?”
humor when my sister, who was six at the time, Me (exasperated): “I was born in Korea, but lived in
misheard the word, “Korean”. She ran excitedly America since I was a baby.”
throughout the neighborhood, announcing my This prompted discussions about every “Oriental”
arrival. “We’re getting a “green baby!” she shouted, this person has known, how “Oriental” are nice and
which alarmed the neighbors until it was explained hardworking, and occasionally, how the mighty USA
that my parents adopted a Korean baby, not an helped the Koreans in the war. I spent most of these

14 Gwangju News August 2007


Useful Korean Phrases
Vst!+!(으)면 (!If!S-!)!

Vst
form example
ending

공부하다 → 공부하면
vowel -면 오다 → 오면
만나다 → 만나면

con- 먹다 → 먹으면
-으면
sonant 읽다 → 읽으면

conversations trying to politely maneuver away. A:내일 우리 집에 놀러 오세요.! 같이 점심 먹어


요.! (Naeil uri jibe noleo oseyo. Gachi jeomsim
Several years ago, when I worked for The meogeoyo.)
Tennessean newspaper in Nashville, an advertiser Come by my place tomorrow. Let’s have lunch
told me, in his thick, Southern drawl, “Ah heard you together.
was Thai or sumpthin’ but ah don’ hold that aginst
B:!2시까지 갈게요.!그런데 어디에서 내려야 해요?
ya!” I thanked him for his generous compliment.
(Dusikkaji galkkeyo. Greonde eudieseo naeryuya
It’s funny that in Korea, I have similar haeyo?)
conversations with locals. When I am heard I will be there by 2pm. But where should I get off?
speaking English, I am asked where I am from and
still, they are confused because of my appearance. I A:롯데마트 앞에서 내리세요.!
imagine they are wondering, “but what IS she?” (Lotte mateu apeseo naeriseyo.)
because they tell me that I look Japanese. Get off in front of Lotte Mart.

What am I? I’m still trying to figure that out. For B:버스에서 내리면 전화할게요.
(Buseseo naerimyun jeonahalkkeyo.)
years, I wanted to blend in with my surroundings.
I will call you when I get off the bus.
But here, I want it to be immediately obvious that I
don’t speak the language fluently, don’t know where 1)!내일 날씨가 좋으면 같이 놀러 갈까요?
things are (having been stopped for directions (Naeil nalssiga joeumyun gachi noleo galkkayo?)
numerous times), and I’d like other foreigners to How about we go on a picnic tomorrow if the
notice me the way they notice my Caucasian weather is good?
husband. We pass by them and he is greeted with a
jaunty “hello” and the head-nod that foreigners 2)방학이 되면 유럽 여행을 갈 거예요.
seem to give one another. Here, he is the one who is (Banghaki deamyun yureob yeohaengeul gal
kkeoeyo.)
stared at. I am overlooked because I look like
I will travel to Europe when my vacation comes.
everyone else though culturally, there is a huge
divide. So, if you’re a foreigner reading this, there 3)!많이 아프면 병원에 가야 해요.!
might be someone in your midst who is really an (Mani apeumyun byungwone gayaheyo.)
American in a Korean wrapper. Don’t be surprised You should go to hospital if you are really sick.
if she gives you a head-nod.
4)!그 친구를 만나면 항상 기분이 좋아요.
By Niki Perkins (Geu chingureul manamyun hangsang gibuni
Niki Perkins is a Korean-American adoptee and was born in joayo.)
(or around?) Seoul. She is teaching English with her I always feel good when I meet a friend.
husband at Han’s Academy, and prior to Korea, they lived in
Taiwan. In her pre-overseas life, she was a social worker By Ji Hyeyeong
and proponent of animal rights. Hyeyeong conducts Korean language classes at the GIC
and is graduate students of Korean at Suncheon
University.

Gwangju News August 2007 15


Perspective

citizen of another country.


Growing up in the small city of
Niagara Falls, New York I right
away felt that my presence (and
the lack of a definitive Asian
community in the city) caused a
Social Responsibility bit of a sensation in the
neighborhood. People took to
& Korea Current me in different ways: friends of
family praised my parents for
Adoption Practices reaching out and taking in a
An overseas adoptee’s perspective. child from that “poor Asian
country”, classmates poked fun
at my small nose and almond-
shaped eyes, and strangers
stared, their heads slightly
cocked to one side. Interestingly
enough, my unwanted position
as “outsider” only magnified my
desire to understand human
thought and behavior, which
eventually led to me
understanding the place I held
in American society.

So, by the time I came to Korea,


t seems wherever I go in Korea, the solution

I nowadays to questions foreigners have


concerning Korean customs and habits are often
little more than, “it’s because of their long-
standing tradition of Confucianism.” The deeply
I was ready (or felt I was ready) for how people
would react to my status as Korean-adoptee. I had
mused that the subject of adoption would make
most Koreans I met uncomfortable, and I was right.
entrenched view that personal honor and identity Shortly after I arrived, an elderly man working at my
are inextricably linked to family honor can be seen university’s photo shop started weeping when I told
within the family social structure here. Although, him I was adopted. In an unusual turn of events, I
thousands of years of Confucian practices have was the one offering him words of comfort about my
helped shape Korea into the strong and resilient situation. He expressed pity and regretted that I’d
nation it is now, the Confucian mindset has held been sent away but was happy about my decision to
Korea back from establishing a social welfare system

“While it is commendable that Korea has


advanced greatly as a society in just one
generation, this socioeconomic success has not
reached all levels of society.”
that encompasses all of its people. It continues to come back and reunite with my homeland. Although
this day to export thousands of its orphaned this touched me profoundly, I found the whole thing
children because the Korean people refuse to accept a bit perplexing. And recently, a professor from
the social responsibility of taking care of them. Seoul with whom I was having a phone job interview
also responded with sadness and discomfort. It was
This issue is of particular interest to me because at a an awkward moment, especially since we had just
young age I was adopted from Gwangju and made a finished discussing the rather benign subject of

16 Gwangju News August 2007


and privately run sites, as well as a barrage of
opinions from blogs, personal websites, and adoptee
organizations. There are a few aspects of Korean
society that are conducive to this practice of
overseas adoption. First, unequal gender relations
in a fiercely patriarchal society leads to a
disproportionate number of unwanted girl babies.
Second, the lack of sex education in a society where
there are by far more love motels than actual
tourists causes unwanted pregnancies. And last is
the continuation of outdated forty-year old
government policies that were implemented when
poverty was the main reason for overseas adoptions.

While it is commendable that Korea has advanced


greatly as a society in just one generation, this
socioeconomic success has not reached all levels of
society. If Korea wants to receive recognition as a
fully developed nation by the international
community, this practice needs to be stopped.
Unfortunately, this would require the Korean
government to address the issues mentioned earlier.
It would also force the government to set up a sound
social welfare program for Korea’s large number of
orphans. Given that policymaking on this front has
been slow, it is hard to foresee such a drastic action
anytime soon. As long as there is demand for babies
teaching methodologies. However, I was well- from abroad and money to be made, overseas
prepared for this, having already been slapped with adoptions will continue.
pity enough times over. Thus, I assured him I was
not the typically unfortunate “ibyangin” (orphan) My view is that the nation needs to take a top-down
Koreans portray us adoptees to be. approach with the Korean government setting an
example to the nation. A good start would be to
After I hung up, I sat wondering why still thousands reform their adoption policy and end overseas
of Korean orphans are adopted abroad if the Korean adoptions. It is true that this would temporarily lead
people do indeed regret this practice. Although to an increase in the number of orphans nationwide,
Korea has become the tenth largest global economy and the Korean people would be faced with the
in 2005, 11,447 Korean children were adopted “problem”. No longer would the unfortunate
overseas from 2001-2005. That figure, despite being “ibyangins” be hidden or sent away affording them
much lower than before (altogether over 150,000 the chance to ignore it. I feel, if and when this
children have been exported), is still very high and problem is made visible to the public, it will
begs the question why Koreans have still not naturally lead to social reforms that promote sex
accepted the idea of domestic adoption. I already education, give greater benefits to unwed mothers,
knew that it went against Confucian norms to take and call for an increased acceptance of domestic
in a child that wasn’t of the same bloodline. Also, adoptions.
according to these norms, to bear children is to By Annie Sirgey
Annie Sirgey was born in Gwangju and raised in New York and
honor one’s parents and to adopt is to dishonor Florida. Apart from teaching, she enjoys writing, backpacking,
them. From an evolutionary and historical and people-watching.
standpoint, it makes sense; however, I wanted to
understand how these societal norms translated into
behavior and impacted the social infrastructure.

I found an array of facts and figures on government

Gwangju News August 2007 17


Practical Tips

Take a Load off Your Mind


t is quite common 6. Join a gym.

I for ex-pats to
either lose or put
on weight in their
new surroundings.
7. Form a local weight loss group with others who want to
lose weight too.
8. Visualize the way you want to be – get a sense of what
it feels like to be that person.
There are many
reasons for this, as I 9. Declare your weight loss plans to someone out loud.
am sure you know. 10. Ask a buddy to hold you accountable.
The most common
reasons are a 11. Stop thinking about it and do it. Are you a “talker” or a
complete change in “doer”? Think about someone who always talks about
lifestyle, change in what he or she is going to do, but never does. Do you
daily routine and want that to be you?
structure, and of 12. Promise yourself a vacation or a gift for when you
course the reach certain goals along your weight loss journey. Make
inaccessibility of this a unique, special and expensive celebration
foods one is used to. For the most –something you have wanted for a long, long time.
part ex-pats complain of putting on weight rather than 13. Imagine what it would feel like if you stuck to your
losing it, which adds to the stress of living in a new weight loss plan for one week and then got on the scale.
country.
14. Go out for a brisk walk today or this evening and
Putting on weight does little for one’s self-esteem and understand how that makes you feel. Motivated, energetic
confidence, and it can affect your health and inspired, maybe?
too. If you have been here for a little 15. Clean out your kitchen cupboards
while now and want to do something
You have made a big and the fridge. Get rid of all the foods
about your weight, but you just can’t change in your life by that have been sabotaging your success
seem to get motivated, maybe this coming to live and work and take note of what this does to your
article will help you to take that first in a foreign country, so mood.
step. I encourage you to not be too hard
cut yourself some slack, 16. Listen to a motivational speaker
on yourself, accept the situation and online. There are tons of free telecasts
understand what has brought you to this but stop the cycle right out there. They are very motivational and
point. You have made a big change in now and do something helpful.
your life by coming to live and work in a about it.
foreign country, so cut yourself some 17. Identify your obstacles to losing
slack, but stop the cycle right now and do something weight. Find ways of overcoming them.
about it. 18. Speak to someone who has been overweight and find
out what they did to lose weight. Follow the success!
I hope that one or more of these 20 motivating points will 19. Rent an inspiring and motivating movie – some of my
help you take that first step in taking charge of your favourites are Jerry McGuire, Braveheart, Dead Poets
weight and your life. Only once you decide you want to Society, Rudy, Patch Adams, Forrest Gump, What
lose weight will you be able to follow through with a plan. Dreams May Come, Mr. Holland’s Opus and Pay it
Forward. Motivating movies or books always seem to
1. Weigh yourself. Get real with yourself and stop the motivate me to improve my life.
denial. It is tough, but it is needed.
20. Lastly, if you have not yet watched the movie “The
2. Take out a photograph of someone thin and pin it in a Secret”, do so. You can watch it for $4.95 on your
place you cannot avoid seeing. computer. Go to www.thesecret.com. It is worth it.
3. Try on an item of clothing you used to wear a while
ago.
4. Close the bathroom door, stand in your underwear and By Kim Knight
take a photograph of yourself in the mirror (For your eyes Kim Knight is a lecturer, and Successful Weight Loss &
only). Personal Life Coach. Sign up for FREE Tips at
http://www.thesuccessweightlosscoach or
5. Read an inspiring book of someone who has lost http://www.coachtogreatness.com
weight or overcome a major obstacle in his or her life. Email Kim directly at expatk@yahoo.com

18 Gwangju News August 2007


I find that after some time I’ve finally begun to adapt to temple life in rural Thailand.

EXCERPT THREE
show of individual dominance.

As I walk the thin dirt path along the lake, a cool breeze
sways the tops of the tamarind trees, sending slender
brown pods earth bound. A moment later, the bamboo
grove responds in a chorus of painful creaks and groans
as the towering green pendulums gently crash and
chafe into one another.

Before modern plumbing, temples were a main source


of water for many of the villages so for that reason
every temple has a body of water. The lake at wat
Pramuenrat which is really a large pond, is not the
place of reflection or beauty you might imagine a
temple lake to be. The docks are crumbled and half
submerged, and the water dotted with an assortment of
floating and half submerged plastic food bags. In the

T
he month of December has brought the dry season the water level drops revealing random
monotonous heat and stillness to an abrupt halt. tangles of busted furniture, twisted window panes and
The stuporring heat lingering upon the Khorat hundreds of mud glazed bottles.
plateau has been temporarily washed away and
As I walked along the thin path, I spied a turtle perched
replaced with a cool and unexpected crispness.
upon a jutting branch from the waters surface.
The transformation to the cool season invigorates and Stopping along the trash strewn bank to look, I began
reminds me of the mid-western autumn of my youth. thinking, and it occurred to me, that as far as the turtle
The first aroma of wool pulling on a sweater; the oaken was concerned, this lake was perfectly acceptable. The
wet smell of piled leaves; the comforting warmth of my branch held him securely, the morning sun gently
Mothers hands removing wet socks, embracing cold warmed his tarnished shell and glinted off his wet
feet. These thoughts invigorate me, and with her in snout like a diamond.
mind I have a renewed sense of rightness, an unseen
At that moment, squatting at the waters edge full of
support that I know she is sending.
"my" opinions, "I " was out of the equation. What I
Accommodating my reflective spirit, all of the Monks, thought was of no consequence, my opinion pointless
with the exception of Phra Maha, Phra Suwatt, and and empty.
Luangpor, have left for a ten day retreat at the
Whenever I walk now along the lake with the crumbling
University. I'm sincerely glad. It feels good to have the
docks and plastic half submerged bags, I try and not
temple to myself. I need this time to mentally prepare
focus my mind on these but instead on the beauty of my
for what's coming.
surroundings. The creaking bamboo, the drifting
Arming myself with a bamboo broom I wander through tamarind pods. Turtles sunning themselves in bliss.
the deserted temple to sit quietly by the lake. On the
Maybe this is what Buddhism is all about. Living
way I stop briefly to glance at the bell tower girl. At the
gracefully in an imperfect world, filled with crumbling
bath house I listen for the usual splash of water and
docks and discarded plastic. I guess you could say;
slamming doors. These are ajar, the only sounds, a rank
Buddhism is a turtle, perched on a branch, amidst
of dripping taps drumming rust spots into the calcified
imperfection.
cisterns. Rounding the corner of the bath house I tap By William Matthew Reyland
my stick against the cracked concrete announcing my William Reyland is from the United States and has been
arrival to the bitch and her now equally aggressive den traveling throughout Asia for the past four years. He is
of now much larger pups. She feigns an advance, but as currently in Gwangju working as an English teacher and
usual quickly retreats to the other side of the lake. I'll freelance writer. His stories and award winnng photos have
see her again on my way back where we will repeat our appeared in numerous publications throught Asia.

Gwangju News August 2007 19


Photo Contest

Enjoying Summer
-Boryeong Mud Festival

By Annie Sirgey

By Annie Sirgey By Shauna Lockhart

20 Gwangju News August 2007


By Shauna Lockhart

By Annie Sirgey

Gwangju News August 2007 21


Send us your photos of Gwangju and Jeollanam-Do!!

Photo Contest!! Win prizes and have your photo


grace the cover of the Gwangju News!
The Gwangju News would like to recognize all the lovely people out there who have a
special interest in the visual beauty of Gwangju and South Jeolla Province. You do not
have to be a professional photographer or have had a lot of experience in photography to
take part in this contest. All you need to possess is a keen eye, desire to tell a story with
your photos and a digital camera that takes high resolution photos of 300 dpi or higher.

Details of the Contest:


The September issue, we are specifically seeking photos in the follow theme:
“possess creative thought and/
or originality of expression”
All photos must be taken in Gwangju or South Jeolla Province.

Each person can send in up to three photos. The best photos will be featured in the
magazine, so please be sure when you send them to include your name, where you live, and
some brief details about the picture(s) you took. From the finalists, one will be chosen as
the cover photo of the September issue of the magazine. Make sure that the height of your
photos is longer than the width so that they will fit nicely if chosen for the cover.
Submission deadline is August 21st.
Please submit your photos to gnphotocontest@gmail.com.

Prize:
The winner of the contest will have a lovely array of prizes to choose from which include:
1st place gets a 40,000 Won bar tab at Ambrosia Wine Bar and the choice of either free
enrollment for the GIC Korean classes or a GIC tour;
2nd place gets the choice of either free enrollment for the GIC Korean classes or GIC tour;

Judges: Annie Sirgey and William Reyland will judge photos. If you have any further
questions about the photo contest, please feel free to email them at
gnphotocontest@gmail.com.
22 Gwangju News August 2007
Music

Band review
Korean Punk Band

Opealia

inding punk rock music in Korea is

F definitely not as easy as finding kimchi,


although once found it is hard to forget.
Enter Opealia. They are a Gwangju band
that rocks it right. The group has been
together since 2006, and plays a mixture of covers
from Green Day to Metallica. Yet, to the surprise of
many, they played two original songs at their recent
gig at the Speakeasy Bar. And they blended in nicely.

Opealia is a five-piece band headed by the feisty


Sysly. Most female singers in Korean bands sound
cheesy, poppy, and sport disco lights. This is not the
case with Opealia, however, as the vocalist is as wild
as any tattooed, guitar smashing lead singer. While
the band may be green in terms of performance,
their energy and musicianship suggest otherwise.
Steering clear of the usual cliches of other cover
bands, Opealia aims to be hardcore indie. The band
is currently working on original material for their
upcoming demo, which could be ready by the end of
the year. The band also hopes to begin touring Korea
in the near future. But until then, Gwangju-ers boast
the right to jump along to the sounds of what can
only be described as 'kick ass!’.

By Heloise Sales
Photos by Natalie Newman

Gwangju News August 2007 23


Experience

police followed up with pictures of foreigners and the


kids identified me: completely innocent.

When I arrived at the police station, they had all kinds


of information on me already there, and for three
hours, I was interrogated, and fingerprinted and then
sent on my way. It was a nerve-wracking but pleasant

Illegal Teaching experience. I was treated well and can’t really complain
about anything said or done.

in Korea Part II While at the police station, I was told by the people
helping me that there were 70 police sent to Gwangju
from Seoul to help look for an alleged murderer said to
– My Story be last seen teaching English in a hogwan in Gwangju.
While on their search for this man, they were busting
all other teachers who were illegally teaching. I have
not found any other evidence to confirm this story and
don’t know if it is true or not. Canadian papers reported
that these were routine hogwan busts and the last big
sweep was in June 2005.

In addition, since that time, my research has found out


wrote Part I despite my better judgment because I that if you are hired here in Korea to work at multiple

I felt compelled to not only inform myself, but inform


others about the consequences of teaching illegally
in Korea. Everyone seemed to know, when asked,
that private tutoring is illegal, but no one seemed to
locations under the guise of one University or one main
hogwan; this is actually illegal! Immigration law states
that foreigners can only work at one place and at one
location. There are special cases, of course, and if your
know what else qualified as illegal here in Korea or employer can prove to you that there is permission
what happens to someone if caught. from Immigration for working at multiple locations,
then you are mostly likely OK. Otherwise, you would be
Predictably maybe, ironically for sure, a week after Part working illegally and are at risk for fines and
I was published, I was in the police station being deportation. The police assured me that jail time for
questioned about my illegal activities. When I made a this type of crime is somewhat of a last resort. Pardon
decision to work outside the University, I did it with a the pun.
specific purpose, with a specific time frame and with a
specific monetary amount in mind. I took a risk and I I have made a decision to go back to Canada regardless
got caught. Was it worth it – I can’t say! But, here is of the deportation result. I have voluntarily resigned
what happened. from my university. The university was very supportive
throughout the ordeal, for although they had every
Most people get busted on the job! That was not the right to fire me for breaching our contract, they didn’t.
case for me. I worked at the hogwan in question, for a My job finishes on the first week in August and I will
total of ten times between April and June. Initially, I leave shortly after that. I will be fined an undetermined
was asked to judge an English speaking contest. From amount, and if deported, I will not be able to enter
there, the director of the hogwan asked if I could fill in Korea for two years.
for someone temporarily. I needed the extra cash
desperately at that time and temptation took over! I The experience has been invaluable and the friends
was paid cash everyday after the teaching job, so I who have rallied around my case are priceless. I want to
didn't have any receipts or bank account information take the opportunity to thank each and every one of you
that could be traced to me. At the time of the for your friendship, support, legal advice, condolences,
interrogation, I had ceased working at the hogwan for and distractions of fun. You know who you are. I thank
over a month. you from the bottom of my heart.
So how did I get caught? I’m looking forward to going home to let the dust settle,
but I can honestly say that I will miss all of you and my
The kids gave me up! life here in Gwangju. You’ve all impacted my life in big
From what I’ve been told, the police went into the and small ways, and for that I am grateful. Thanks for
hogwan and asked the kids, who their English teacher the memories, and please keep in touch.
was. They all answered, "Tracey Teacher", then, the Till we meet again…..
By Tracey Knihnitski
24 Gwangju News August 2007
World Through the Eyes of a Teenager

A Foreign Language High School in Gwangju

R
ecently, while looking out through the window of
my parent’s car, I happened to see a placard
posted by an education committee that opposed
the foundation of a foreign language high school
(FLHS) in Gwangju. The education committee argues that
founding an FLHS would make the children of Gwangju
suffer. Though a private foundation has been organized to
establish an FLHS, there is still strong opposition
espousing similar viewpoints.
It’s hard to deny that a foundation of an FLHS may
intensify the already harsh competition among middle
school students and create a sense of inferiority in
students of other high schools. As a “Gwangju child”, I'm
sure they will feel deprived of better educational
opportunities. I personally feel deprived of better
opportunities to students of FLHSs in Seoul.
Nevertheless, I firmly believe Gwangju needs a quality
foreign language high school.
Recent findings regarding expenditures on private
institutes in Korea were startling; Gwangju ranks among
the top three provinces/cities in private education
expenditures. This reveals two things. First, people in
Gwangju put a very high value on education, and second,
public schools fail to meet the demands necessary for a
high quality education.
Another huge benefit of founding an FLHS is that it may
decrease the outflow of Gwangju citizens who leave our
city in search of better education. There is a popular
Chinese proverb about Mencius and his very dedicated “Establishing an FLHS in
Mother, who moved three times before finding a suitable
location to raise her child. Much like the proverb, the
Gwangju is a step forward”
enthusiastic Korean will leave their hometown to improve
such a competitive world? Donga Daily recently reported
their children’s high school education if the circumstances
that students who rank in the average students of FLHSs
permit, while they won’t do so for university education as
ranked as high as the top-ranking students of other high
university students are regarded as adults. I was eager to
schools in national mock tests. Among twelve
attend an FLHS in Seoul, but because my father’s job was
provinces/cities, Gwangju is one of the four without an
not transferable and my parents didn't want me to leave
FLHS, others being Gangwon, Chungnam and Ulsan. We
home at a young age, I decided not to. Contrary to my
should have had one long ago.
case, other families do relocate for better educational
opportunities. Establishing an FLHS in Gwangju is a step forward. We
don’t have time to waste debating ‘yes' or 'no’ on a
A good FLHS retains its student base and even attracts
decision that's already been made. Now is the time to
people from other provinces. This not only maintains the
focus on the content, since the mere existence of an FLHS
population, it also safeguards important and vital assets
does not guarantee students of a leading level.
by keeping them in the community. Those who leave our
community for the sake of education are important
candidates for the future development of the community By Choi YoungHoon
and prosperity of Gwangju. The writer, YoungHoon, is a second grader at
Salesio High School and has won many prizes in
No parents want to see their children left out. But the
English competitions.
question is how long could they protect their children in

Gwangju News August 2007 25


Culture

Bharatanatyam -
Classical dance form of India
I
was first introduced to Bharatanatyam at the age of
three while attending a dance performance. The first
thing that fascinated me must have been the brightly
colored costumes and the quick changing expressions
of the performers. I was formally introduced to this
form of dance when my mother admitted me into the
dance school at the age of seven.

Though I opted to perform Bharatanatyam as a hobby, to


me it's more of a discipline than just an art form. My
studies and the daily trips to the dance school not only
taught me how to dance, but also gradually, over time,
changed my personality, adding grace and spirituality to
my life. Through the practice of this art form, I was able to
bring the aesthetics and egalitarianism of the art world
into my workspace.

"A child sings before it speaks, dances almost before it


walks. Since rhythm is in our hearts from the beginning."
~Pamela Brow

I whole-heartedly agree with this quote. No matter what


name we give to the dance form, the bottom line is that it
is monogram for expression. In India we may choose to
call it Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kuchupudi, or Mohiniattam, while in Korea it may be named Salpuri,
Hallyangmu , Nammu, or Sungmu. Dance is a fantastic
"A child sings before it speaks, way of portraying one's feelings without words and
dances almost before it crosses cultural, social and language barriers. This is a
walks. Since rhythm is in short introduction to Bharatanatyam, one of the classical
our hearts from the dance forms of India.
beginning."
~Pamela Brow Bharatanatyam, a two thousand year-old art form, has
had many modifications during its journey to the present
day style.

The general interpretation, translated from the Sanskrit


alphabet is:
BHA va (expression), RA ga (music), TA ( rhythm) and
NATYAM (dance).

In a performance, all the various elements of the


presentation are focused on the dancer and become
unified in the performer.

There are two main categories, the masculine and the


feminine. The masculine form, Nritta or abstract dance, is
expressed exclusively by the feet, while the feminine form,
Abhinaya, consists of more graceful expression.

Abhinaya is a medium of presentation to convey ideas

26 Gwangju News August 2007


and emotions, not by use of speech, but by means of mentioned in Natyasatra)
mudras, which are hand gestures. Other ways of Shoulders, Arms, Stomach, Thighs, Knee.
expression are mime, facial expression and movements of
the body. It is like describing a story without uttering a Upaanga (finer classification of the physical body )
word. The bhavas (emotions) that a dance depicts Drushtibhrooputatarashcha kapolau naasikaahanuhu
represent the emotions of daily life. Adharodashanaa jihwaa chubukam vadanam tatha
Upaangani dwadashitaanyanyaanyangaani santi cha
These emotions, in their stylized form, are hasya Paarshnee gulbautathangulyaa karayoho padayostale
(humorous), karuna (fierce), satvika (peaceful), vira (as mentioned in Natyasatra)
(heroic), bheyanaka (fearful), bibatsa (disgusted), Sight, Eyebrow, Eyelids, Eyeballs, Cheeks, Nose, Gums,
sringara (erotic) and bhuta (wondrous). The rhythm of Lower Lip, Teeth, Tongue, Chin, Face.
the piece and these emotive expressions join together in
harmony to create a beautiful whole. According to the Natyasharta, Pratynaga and Upaangas
should move along with the Angas, such as, “where the
When learning Bharatanatyam, a student begins by hand goes, there the eyes should follow, where the eyes go
learning the adavus, or basic steps. These basic first steps there the mind will follow, where the mind is, there
can be compared to learning the alphabet in a language emotion/mood is felt, where the mood is felt, there the
which leads on to forming words, complete sentences and flavor is experienced.”
finally, compositions. Adavus steps are performed in five
rhythms and at three different speeds. To perform an Even though Bharatanatyam has evolved and changed
adavu aramandi, bending of the knees while you squat is through the decades, it is deeply rooted in the rich
very important. mythological heritage of India. Both male and female
artists take part in modern performances. While a few
Hand gestures (hasta) are as important as the foot work. practitioners are professionals, many are passionate
There are 28 single and 24 double hand gestures, each amateurs. Whether as a hobby or a profession,
with defined usage called Viniyoga. Bharatanatyam requires a great deal of practice,
concentration and dedication.
Bharatanatyam follows dance rules from the Natyasharta,
which is a treatise for all the dance forms in India, As the embodiment of asceticism, dancers have the power
according to which the entire physical body is divided into to educate their audiences, encourage them to go out and
Anga, Pratyanga and Upaanga. change the world and even their own lives. Through the
power and beauty of dance, the eyes of many can be
Anga (gross classification of the physical body) opened, effecting positive changes in our world. So the
Anganyatra shirohastau vaksha paarshwakateetatau next time you have an opportunity to attend or watch a
Paadaviti shaduktaani greevamapyapare jaguh (as performance, be open and immerse yourself in the total
mentioned in Natyasatra) experience.
Head, Hands, Chest, Waist, Legs.
By Shilpa Ramesh
Pratyanga (sub-classification of the physical body) Shilpa has been in Gwangju for the past ten months, and is
Pratyangaani twathaskandhau baahoo prushtam presently working at GIST as a researcher. She started
tathodaram ooroo janghe shadityahurapare learning Indian classical dance at the age of seven. Though
manibandhakau she would like to call Science her passion, dance has always
been her second love. She would love to learn some form of
jaanooneekoorparamiti trayamapyadhikam jaguhu (as
Korean classical dance during her stay here.

Gwangju News August 2007 27


Introducing

Kim Ju Hee Jung Ja Yeon Kim Ji Hyun Youn Mi Sun Jang Suyeon

Bae Jin-ah Lee Ju-hyang Jo Hanna Son Minsu Lee Seokhyun

Meet the Gwangju


International Center Interns
ince 2005, the Gwangju International Center and is on a 6-month internship with the GIC along with

S (GIC) has instituted a scheme to provide


summer work experience for a number of
interns from the English Department at
Chonnam University .
Lee Seokhyun, who is a Japanese Literature major as
well as an avid photographer.
Lee Ju-hyang (Nicole) is interested in social and
international issues and plans to major in international
Through this scheme, the full-time staff of GIC have an trade. Jung Ja-yeon is excited about tourism and
opportunity for reflection and more time for daily marketing and is an avid hiker who plans to run a 5 km
details, while the GIC interns gain valuable hands-on marathon. Youn Mi Sun is an English literature
experience in an office major and aspires to be an
environment. This internship Never doubt that a small group of English teacher. K i m J i
enhances social skills and committed people can change the H y u n is interested in
provides an opportunity to
world. Indeed, it is the only thing that computer web-design and has
practice their English done volunteer work with
language skills on a daily ever has. -Margaret Mead Indian and Chinese culture.
basis. The interns learn to Jang Su-yeon is studying
manage programs for themselves and broaden their English grammar and also volunteers at a middle
horizons with networking and experiencing different school teaching cooking and the Korean alphabet. Bae
things. The interns work as full-time staff, but instead Jin-ah not only studies English, but is learning
of wages, they are granted credits towards their Spanish as well. Kim Ju Hee is studying towards a
university programs. minor in psychology as well as a major in English
Literature. She lived in Israel for two months earlier
At this time, there are 11 interns assisting the GIC this year at a Kibbutz. Jo Hanna is an English
team. They are: Literature major and is aspiring to be a flight attendant
Bernice Ang Rui Hsia is from with dreams of visiting Libya.
Singapore and is studying political This summer, in addition to assisting the GIC staff with
science and sociology at the daily duties, the interns are involved in a pilot project
University of British Columbia in to create a handbook for newcomers to the city. They
Vancouver, Canada and has are always happy to lend a helping hand so if you are
volunteered in the USA, Thailand in the neighborhood, drop by and say hello.
and East Timor. Son Minsu is a
Bernice Ang
4th year law student at Chonnam By Tracey Knihnitski

28 Gwangju News August 2007


Introducing

The May 18 Memorial


Foundation and the
New International
Interns

Tumenbayar Chuluubaatar from Mongolia Thency Gunasekaran from Malaysia

nternational solidarity is one of the core tasks of C”) from Malaysia, and Tumenbayar Chuluubaatar

I the May 18 Memorial Foundation which


advocates peace, human rights and democracy.
The Foundation is pro-actively working with
other Asian civil societies exchanging experiences
and expertise; hosting and participating in
(“Tumee”), from Mongolia. They arrived in April
2007 and are here for 10 months. Prior to arriving
in Gwangju, Thency was working as an
empowerment trainer. She worked with youth and
women in marginalized communities educating
international conferences; and building bridges of them about their rights, violence against women,
collective action and communication around the and HIV/AIDS. Tumee earned a law degree and was
world. working as a lawyer and program assistant
combating human trafficking crimes in Mongolia.
In the age of globalization, the Foundation supports Both intend to further their education when their
many initiatives and offers many awards to those internship is completed.
with similar visions. The Gwangju Prize for Human
Rights, Gwangju International Peace Camp, the It seems Gwangju attracts those who are pro peace
Tour on Korean Democracy, the Recruitment of and democracy. Many who come here are drawn to
International Interns, supporting international the political progress in place, or they soon learn
human rights organizations, running the Gwangju about what human rights issues are and educate
Asian Human Rights Folk School, providing the themselves about progress and change. In an effort
Gwangju Forum for Asian Human Rights and to maintain democracy, peace and goodwill, the
sponsoring volunteer international internships are international community welcomes Thency and
just a few of the projects the Foundation has Tumee to the Gwangju family.
initiated and maintained.

Among those offering their experience and expertise By Tracey Knihnitski


are international interns, Thency Gunasekaran (“10-

Gwangju News August 2007 29


Feature

KONA HOMESTAY:
Place for Culture and
Language Exchange
y name is Rev. Steve Kuria Kiarie from

M Nairobi, Kenya. Currently I am pursuing a


Masters in Divinity at Torch Trinity Graduate
School of Theology in Seoul while serving as
a teaching pastor in Juan Presbyterian Church English
Ministry in Bupyeong. Before coming to Korea, I
served as a senior pastor and a lecturer at a seminary
in Nairobi. It never occurred to me that I would be
away from my dear family especially during the
formative years of our children. However KONA
Homestay that has created a home-like place that can
console foreigners who miss their homes and families.
their two elementary school children hosted me for one
Moving to Korea was a cultural shock and I had to week. I am extremely thankful that I received
adjust to so many things - food, language, behavioral something I had missed for almost one year since I left
patterns, and other cultural norms. I didn’t know my country - fellowship. I noticed their children really
anybody or any information on what to expect in my loved books. Storybooks were everywhere; on the living
new surroundings and I really wanted to learn the room, in the dining hall and probably in the bedroom. I
Korean language and culture in an informal setting. silently asked myself, “Do these kids read all these
This dream was not possible until I met Professor books?” Then, after asking them some a few questions
Young-Im Kim of Gwangju University, and the director about the stories, they knew all of them. My goodness!
of KONA Storybook Center (KONA Center). Where did they get all these books? I wish some of our
African children could have the same opportunities.
It is now one year since I visited Gwangju -the city of
light. I came at the request of my American classmate, Hangyul and Hanul’s Family
Pastor Dan, to present a paper about Kenya in
Dongmyung Church. Sometime later, I came to meet
Professor Kim in her English research institute, the
KONA Center. Through the KONA Center, I have
visited Gwangju several times. Her family introduced
me to a number of places including the National May
18 Democratic Park, Dongu Welfare Center for Senior
Citizens are the Gwangju International Center (GIC).

Through the KONA Homestay Program facilitated by


the KONA Center, I have visited four families who have
become an oasis for my Korean culture and language
experience. Through this program, I have changed my
initial perception towards the Korean people whom I
thought were not open to foreigners.

Nahyeon’s Family
The first home I visited was Nahyeon’s family in
January, 2007. This wonderful couple together with

30 Gwangju News August 2007


The second place I visited was Hangyul and Hanul’s library or a bookstore. We had a wonderful time
home. These elementary children are a great asset to together as we exchanged Korean and English
their parents and to the country as a whole. At that language skills. The family introduced me to the
young age, the daughter is able to communicate her Korean vowels and consonants and by the fourth night,
thoughts in English without much strain. If you have I was able to recognize all of them. Today, I can read
ever visited people who speak a different language to almost all the Korean words and key phrases. It gave
yours, you can understand that it is good to have me a lot of motivation to study more Korean.
someone whom you can communicate with. They
taught me about King Sejong who developed the So why do I mention storybooks so frequently? Where
Korean character set. I also learnt about Admiral Yi I come from, 85% of elementary kids do not have
Sunshin and many other important cultural features of access to these resources and I have been inspired to
Korea. In return, I also shared with them some stories start a storybook center in my church back home. I am
about my country, especially the African Safari - thinking of calling it “The Gwangju Storybook Center”.
wildlife. And just like the first home, there were so It will become a great well of wisdom where many
many storybooks on the shelves in the living room that children will benefit. The experience will also be a
I thought they were trying to make another KONA benefit for me in my Cultural Anthropology class.
Storybook Center at home.
Anyway, a homestay is a wonderful program that helps
Yechan, Euin and Seulhyeon’s Family people exchange different cultural ideas and learn
languages. It benefits both parties and breaks some of
our ethnocentric extremes. For foreigners, it could be a
tool to eradicate both homesickness and loneliness
when one develops good relationship with native
Koreans. During the KONA Homestay, you can
experience a lot if you want to.

Besides KONA Homestay, KONA Storybook Center


also runs KONA Volunteers. I home-stayed with the
volunteers, and in this program, the volunteers go to
Orphanages and Community Children Centers to teach
English using storybooks every second and fourth
Saturday or Sunday.
For more information on getting involved in the
The third place I visited was Yechan, Euin and community, see Community Board page of Gwangju
Seulhyeon’s home. This family is owned by the leader News.
of Kaist (A Science Institute). The couple have three By Steve Kuria Kiarie
wonderful children who moved me with their love and
concern. Despite their busy schedule, the mother and
her children took me for a walk to Mt. Mudeung near
their home. I had some memorable conversations with
their father who is very busy writing a science book. I
was inspired by the time he spent in his office in order
to contribute to the field of sciences especially because
I was also in the process of writing a book on Christian
Marriage. I amazed the family with my experience of
walking barefoot from my home to my elementary
school, a distance of 12 kilometers to and fro.

Sangyoung and Chanyoung’s Family


Last but not least, were Sangyoung and Chanyoung’s
home. It was very interesting to find so many
storybooks in the living room and the bedroom. I guess
by the time the two sons finish their university
education, their house will have been turned into a

Gwangju News August 2007 31


Product Review

The Hapdong Colt .45 Mk


IV replica BB gun
T
he Hapdong Corporation
Gold Cup National Match
issue Colt .45 MKIV series
replica BB gun with dual-
action, under barrel slide-
pump modification, is far and away
the best firearm I have ever worked
with, and I have worked with many.
From the moment I confiscated it
from a student in my class, I knew
that this was a special breed of
weapon and our destinies were Time after time the Colt .45 has generated blood
intertwined. I had found my
Excalibur lodged not in stone, but chilling screams, possible nerve damage, and threats
in the backpack of a weeping child. of retaliatory physical violence from friends.
To date, no other BB pistol has
Ownership of a replica BB gun such as the Colt may,
equaled the style, grace, accuracy and skin bruising
unfortunately, be relegated solely to Korea. A recent
power of the Colt. The Kangham Corporation’s .9mm
guest from the U.S. had her beloved silver .9mm with
Smith and Wesson with adjustable sight and extended
faux wood handles and custom sights confiscated by
clip along with Mukika Industries replica Glock .36
the United States customs check point at O’Hare
mm with optional (and utterly useless) silencer were
International Airport. She was told that the gun
tested next to the Colt for purposes of comparison and
looked too real to bring into the country. Her right to
fun. In numerous trials on unsuspecting friends, the
keep and bear BB arms has been trampled upon and I
Colt outperformed the other weapons in accuracy as
have taken it upon myself to make the situation right.
well as the all important scream tests. A shot to my
Calls to the A.C.L.U., Charlton Heston, The N.R.A, and
friend’s legs or rear-end barely registered a yell from
the John Birch Society have yet to be returned.
the .9 mm. The Glock, while more accurate than the
.9mm, was not much better in terms of pain power. The Hapdong Colt .45 has a price tag of 9,700 won to
Time after time the Colt .45 has generated blood 12,000 won depending on the point of purchase.
chilling screams, possible nerve damage, and threats Larger stores such as E Mart and Lotte Mart carry a
of retaliatory physical violence from friends. As a decent selection at lower prices. Mom and Pop
testament to the epidermal punishing power of the operations conveniently located near schools offer a
Colt, many of my victims have switched and bought better selection at slightly higher prices. Extra
.45’s of their own. Vengeance is theirs…. ammunition runs around 1,000 Won for 800 rounds,
so fire away.
A recent poll* of 10-13 year old gun owners found the
.45 Colt to be the sidearm of choice. Roughly 80% of On a personal note, I use my weapon strictly for
the respondents chose the Colt over similar handguns. hunting and home security and would advise others to
Lack of power and the problem of jamming were do the same. Remember, BB guns don’t kill people,
common concerns shared by the young experts. From people who get shot by BB guns kill people. Happy
my experience, these concerns were justified. The hunting…
Glock and .9 mm have inherent problems with the clip By Ryan Miller
to chamber delivery system, and the heat of BB battle The author is an American ESL teacher who is usually
is no place to find oneself with a malfunctioning packin’. He has lived in Gwangju for six months in a heavily
weapon. The .45 Colt has never let me down in battle. armed apartment simply dubbed, “The Embassy”.
Anyone willing to test my mettle in a BB gun
* The margin of error for the poll was roughly +/- 35% due to
showdown should know that I’m a crack shot from 15 the fact that most of the respondents did not speak English.
feet and totally unburdened by guilt.

32 Gwangju News August 2007


August 2007

This Day in History Compiled by Erin McGrail

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday


1831 1 1870 2 1492 3 1693 4
London Bridge The world's first Columbus sets sail Dom Perignon
opens. subway opens in from Palos, Spain invents
London. for “Indies”. champagne.
1981
MTV premiers at 1934 1970 1944
12:01 AM. Adolf Hitler Hurricane “Celia” Anne Frank, 15,
..
becomes Fuhrer becomes the most is arrested by
of Germany. expensive Gulf Nazis.
storm in history.

1884 1825 1991 1945 1842 1995 1929


5 6 7 8 9 10 11
The cornerstone Bolivia gains World Wide Web USSR establishes a US-Canada border Oklahoma City Babe Ruth
for the Statue of independence debuts as a publicly communist defined by Webster- bombing of a federal becomes the first
Liberty is laid on from Spain. available service on government in Ashburton Treaty. com-plex kills 168 baseball player to
Bedloe's Island. the Internet. North Korea. people. hit 500 home runs.
1997 1965
1945 1978 1966 Singapore gains 1961 1972
Korean Air Flight
Atom Bomb Thousands of South African independence from England applies for
801, crashes in The last United
dropped on mourners file Broadcasting bans Malaysia (National membership in the
Guam on approach States ground
Hiroshima (Aug past the body of Beatles (Lennon's Day). European Common
to airport, killing combat unit depart
6th in Japan). Pope Paul VI. anti-Jesus remark). Market.
228. South Vietnam.

1953 12 1940 13 1900 14 1914 15 1930 16 1939 17 1943 18


Ann Davidson, World War International P a n a m a The first "Wizard of Oz" Final convoy
1st woman to sail solo II: Battle of forces including US color sound opens at Loew's of Jews from
across Atlantic, Canal opens. c a r t o o n ,
Britain begins. Marines enter Capitol Theater in Salonika, Greece
arrives in Miami . Fiddlesticks, is
Beijing to put down 1948 made by Ub NY. arrive at
1281 1960 Boxer Rebellion. Republic of Iwerks. Auschwitz.
The fleet of Qubilai Central African Korea pro-
1951
Khan is destroyed Republic & Chad
1908 1954 Hurricane winds 1961
First beauty contest claimed
by a typhoon, p r o c l a i m S p o r t s drive 6 ships ashore, Construction on
held in Folkestone, (National Day). I l l u s t r a t e d Kingston, Jamaica
Kamikaze, while independence Berlin Wall
approaching Japan. England. publishes it's 1st
from France. issue. completed.

1942 1896 1927 1910 1617 1891 24 1932 25


1,000 19 20 21 22 23
4th Pan- 1st one-way Thomas Amelia Earhart
Canadian & British The dial Japan
soldiers killed telephone African Congress annexes Korea. streets Edison patents completes the first
raiding Dieppe, patented. meets (NYC). established in the motion transconitinental
France. London. picture camera. flight by a woman.
1911
1908 1944
1960 Mona Lisa stolen 1833 1991 1990
Sputnik 5 carries 2 Congo Free State The UN from the Louvre. Britain abolishes
dogs, 3 mice into becomes the Gorbachev resigns UN security council
orbit (later Belgian Congo. established at
slavery in colonies; as head of USSR authorizes military
recovered alive). Dumbarton Oaks
700,000 slaves action against Iraq.
in Washington, Communist Party.
freed.
DC.
1972 1896 1916 1896 1835 1920
26 27 28 29 M e l b o u r n e , 30 31
Summer Zanzibar Italy Chop Suey First news
loses to England in a invented in NYC by Australia is
Olympics open declares war against founded. radio program
in Munich, West the world’s shortest Germany during the chef of visiting broadcast in Detroit,
Germany. war (38 minutes). WWI. Chinese 1967 Michigan.
Ambassador. Thurgood Marshall
1920 1939 1963 is confirmed as the 1997
19th amendment First flight of the Martin Luther King 1914 first African Diana, Princess
passes-women’s Heinkel He 178, the Jr’s “I have a dream Arizonan is 1st American in the of Wales, dies in
United States
suffrage granted first modern jet speech” at Lincoln vessel to arrive in SF Supreme Court. a car crash in
(about time!). aircraft. Memorial. via Panama Canal. Paris.
Sources used: www.scopesys.com/anyday/
Gwangju News August 2007 33
Festivals

August Festival Preview


festivals orbit around the social center of Haeundae
beach, though the majority of the festivals will take place
on many other of Busan’s white sandy beaches. This
article can’t possibly do justice to all thirty festivals so be
sure to make a visit to www.seafestival.co.kr where you’re
bound to find dozens of reasons to make the three hour
pilgrimage to Busan.

If you have started to realize that bearded chap on the


back of the 100 won coin isn’t Queen Elizabeth or a
former US President the following festival maybe up your
alley. Not the 100 won coin festival but The Great Battle
of Hansan Festival Lee Sun-Sin (9th-12th August). The
Hansan battle was the naval war in which the great
admiral Lee Sun-Sin led the Korean army to defeat the
Japanese. If national pride alone doesn’t prove a decisive
factor in drawing a large captive audience, there is plenty
Bongwha Sweet Fish Festival (July 29th – 5th August) more to bring in locals and foreigners alike to Tongyeong
(a 3 hour bus ride via Jinju City from Gwangju). The

A
s the page closes on July’s prolific portfolio of picturesque coastal town is surrounded by hundreds of
festivals the August chapter opens with an islands, and the event celebrates the legend with
immediate chance to cool down at the Bongwha fireworks, exhibitions, and a great deal of water sport
Sweet Fish Festival (July 29th – 5th August). related fun such as rowing, wind surfing, bungee jumping,
No more than a 2 hour bus ride away the water skiing, as well as banana boat, motorboat, and
festival provides a wonderful opportunity to learn about canoe rides. The gift of music is also provided in forms
the native fish of the Gyeongsangbuk province. These varying from classical to pop at a wide range of concerts.
delicious fish will entertain the mind and satisfy the Additionally the chance to be the man himself is offered as
stomach at the festival which lasts for four hours of scaly patrons get the opportunity to steer a model vessel, as well
related madness per day. A ceramic art display as brush up on archery skills before taking their seat to
accompanies the antics, though the potential
festival highlight includes the chance to jump
in the sea and catch some wiggly friends for
yourself, which will at least offer you the
chance to save money on a tuna kimbap
dinner, and can go some way into paying the
5,000 won entrance fee.

The aqua related festivities continue in Busan


at what could potentially be the highlight of
the seafarer’s calendar. The entire coastline of
Korea’s answer to Miami light up for what is
said to be a thirty-in-one festival extravaganza,
called the Busan Sea Festival (1st-10th
August). In fact, despite being under the
banner of a “sea festival” there really is
something for everyone. Highlights include
the Busan International Rock Festival, Busan
International Beach Dance Festival, Korean
Sea Literature Festival, Busan Beach Game
Busan Sea Festival The Great Battle of Hansan Festival
Festival and more, which only leave the
(1st-10th August) (9th-12th August)
problem of getting a festival overdose. The

34 Gwangju News August 2007


watch the reenactment of the battle itself. For more August’s final festival could be the chance to challenge the
information see www.hsdf.or.kr . mindset of a nation. The Goesan Clean Pepper
(23rd–26th) is the venue. The stereotype requiring a
If you’re the type of person who likes to look forward brave warrior from foreign land to step forward –
instead of into the past the Daejoen Science Festival “foreigners don’t like spicy food”. With a famous pepper
(August 8th-15th) may be a better bet – formula with less eating competition that inspired scenes from the famous
calculated probability of disappointing if you will. In its Korean movie “Don’t believe her”, highlights include the
eighth year, and not much more than a two-hour bus ride sack-of-peppers race, bare-hand fish catching, pepper-
away, the Expo Science Park could well be the place to be, picking and pepper-slicing, apple-peeling and apple-
especially with the park staying open to 11:00pm each eating which go someway to ensuring the three hour
festival night. To encourage you to make the journey to journey won’t be entirely fruitless.
the science capital of Korea (as if that wasn’t enough),
musical performances, street parades, robot shows and So decide which one or all of these festivals would be a
magic shows will be offered along with numerous events great opportunity for you to experience and be on your
and displays such as the artic adventure and block land way!
(possibly designed for the more younger member of the By Daniel Lister
public though be sure to check out
tour.daejeon.go.kr/English to make your own mind up.).

August Crossword Puzzle


Solve our new crossword puzzle - you’ll find all the answers in
this month’s Gwangju News - and you could be a lucky winner!
Prizes include a day trip to a mysterious destination in Korea or
seven weeks of free Korean language lessons at the GIC. Just
send in your answers for the crosswords to:
gwangjunews@gmail.com!
Prize are limited, so send them in early!
Compiled by Amber Kininmont

Congratulations to Anh Jeong ah, who won last month’s


crossword. She won free Korean classes at the GIC.

July Crossword Answer

ACROSS DOWN
1. Annie feels these kinds of adoptions need to end as part of 2. Daniel suggest that Haeundae beach is the _________ center
Korean adoption policy reform. of Busan .
4. Shilpa informs us that this kind of Indian dance is more 3. This phase of back pain generally lasts 2 or 3 days according
masculine. to Dr Kwon.
7. Dr Ju doesn’t recommend this kind of solution as a remedy for 5. Opealia’s feisty lead singer.
dry eye syndrome. 6. Each country has it’s own ‘style’ of this, according to Edward J.
8. Bernice tells us that Koreans believe that eating ‘hot’ foods Baker.
during summer helps to retain this. 7. The orphanage being benefited by the 5 in 5 challenge.
9. The most impressive person Scott has met in Korea.

Gwangju News August 2007 35


Medical Tips

Here are some of the most common


misconceptions I encounter:

1. If I have back pain, I should stay in bed


and rest.

Not really: in an acute phase of pain, resting can be


very helpful. But the acute phase generally last only
two to three days. Long-term rest can cause more
harm to your body by losing muscle and building up
body wastes. You need to start mild physical activity
adapted to your conditions. It will speed up the
healing process by pumping out the wastes built-up
during rest, prevent further injury by strengthening
muscles and increase flexibility, and relieve
depression by producing endorphins. During the
first 24-48 hours of injury, it is advisable to apply ice
to constrict blood vessels in painful areas. However,
after 48 hours, it is advisable to apply a hot towel.

2. Because I am physically active I won’t


get back pain.

Wrong. While physical activity is one way to prevent


(and heal) an injury, the balanced work of muscle
groups throughout the body is key to avoid back
pain. Without balanced exercise, a build-up of
strength one area can cause weakness in another.
Some sports are more prone to cause back pain,
such as golf, volleyball, contact sports and
Lower back pain gymnastics (including high level yoga and aerobics).
In all cases, however, proper conditioning of the
back can provide a stable foundation to include arm

B
ack pain, herniated disc, strain, and sprain and leg workouts.
seem to happen in just about everyone.
Amazingly, in 8 out of 10 people, these types 3. Only heavy laborers suffer back pain.
of pain happen and disappear without a trace. In Being overweight doesn’t really cause
many cases, one will never have this experience back pain.
again, but some can continue to have problems. Up to 80-90% of adults experience lower back pain
at some times in their lives. In addition to heavy
lifting and other factors such as being overweight,
The cause of back pain can be very complex. With
sitting for long periods, driving, and smoking can
lower back pain alone, numerous parts of the
cause lower back pain. Extra pounds in your belly
lumbar spine can be responsible. Many back can compress the spine and squeezes the discs,
problems are difficult to diagnose and typically making them prone to hernias and abnormal
involve a wide variety of treatment methods. conditions of the spine.
Because of this, there are many myths and
misconceptions surrounding back pain. Proper 4. Everyone has lower back pain, so
knowledge about back pain can be an effective first there is nothing I can do about it. I just
step towards healing process. have to learn to live with it until it
becomes disabling.

36 Gwangju News August 2007


Dry eye syndrome
Dry eye syndrome is a
chronic lack of
sufficient tears in the
eyes, which are a
major protective
agent for the eyes.
When there is a lack
of tears, the eyes can
feel tired, and be left
with sensations of
stinging, dryness and hardness.
As many as 6.5 million people in U.S. are treated for Dry eye syndrome has many symptoms. If you
back pain each day. Each case of back pain requires suffer from dry eye syndrome, your eyes can feel
an individualized solution. But in most cases, lower persistently gritty, dry and hard. Stringy mucus
pain goes away within a couple of weeks without any may appear in or around the eyes. Patients
treatment. If pain is debilitating, interferes with usually expect the condition to get better after
daily activities, and/or lasts longer than 4-6 weeks, sleep, though waking up brings further problems
seek professional help sooner rather than later, as for sufferers, who may complains that it’s hard to
this is crucial to long-term healing. open their eyes in the morning. Generally, during
sleep, the tears aren’t produced which leads to a
5. I have back pain so I will need surgery deteriorating condition. This can cause severe
soon. Therefore I have to have an MRI. inconvenience to daily life leading to a decreased
ability to perform activities such as reading,
watching TV and driving for lengthy periods of
Nope. Only a small percentage of people (1-2 in
time.
1000) who suffer with back pain will undergo
surgery. Only after conservative and non-invasive The first method of treatment for dry eye
treatments have failed can surgery be considered as syndrome is usually eye drops that act as artificial
the next step. In certain cases, an MRI is needed for tears. Although they may offer a short-term
diagnosis; however, not everyone with back pain solution, the active ingredient in artificial tears is
needs this expensive test. In general, a physical a saline solution, which can damage the eye
examination and medical history by a qualified membrane at times and lead to further irritation
profession will reveal the cause of back pain in the future with some patients. Surgery maybe
required in some cases when eye drops fail to
work.
These are the some of the questions I am often
asked in my office. Certainly, severe immobilizing Though surgery can offer an immediate fix, in
back pain is a terrible experience, but one must some cases the results can lead to some side-
learn to listen to what one’s body is saying and effects such as blurred-vision. This is usually the
accept its limitations. With diligent exercise to result of worsening weather conditions that leads
improve your back, most people will be able to to further dryness.
return to their favorite activities such as hiking in A humidifier in heated rooms may help. You
beautiful Mt. Mudeung. should avoid overly warm spaces, hair driers and
hair dyeing. When outdoors, you should wear
By Austin Kwon
sunglasses to reduce exposure to the sun, wind
Dr. Kwon is a neurospine surgeon at the Saewoori Spine
Hospital and presented a lecture at the GIC talk series. He is and dust. Furthermore reading, working on a
going to submit a series of article about back problems, computer or driving can cause the eyes to become
misconceptions and remedies. irritated badly. So during these activities,
blinking is advised to keep the eyes more
comfortable and to spread the tears.
By Ju Jong-dae, Happy Eye21 doctor

Gwangju News August 2007 37


Restaurant Review

Ko Rea Jo 고려조 삼계탕

I
have always known that Korea had four seasons, had already formed at the restaurant’s entrance!
but I did not know that it is a Korean custom to Having to take a queue number and sit under the
choose the 3 hottest days of summer to eat hot sun with Koreans young and old certainly
especially healthy food on those days. Minsu, reminded me of Sundays in Singapore and
my colleague at the GIC, explained to me that Vancouver, where my family and I would have to
these three days are known as Boknals, and the first wait at restaurants to eat Dim Sum. As we patiently
Boknal is Chobok, the second is waited at the entrance, the
Jungbok and the last is Malbok. satisfied and the fortified who
The dates of these three Boknals I learnt that Koreans had just finished lunch were
are selected according to the believe that eating strolling out, gloating at the
Korean lunar calendar. This fact that they had come much
year, Chobok falls on July 15th, Samgyetang and other earlier than us to enjoy
Jungbok on July 25th and “hot” foods during the Samgyetang.
Malbok on August 14th
respectively. summer season helps Luckily for us, we managed to
to retain stamina and find ourselves in the
So, what do Koreans do on restaurant within fifteen
Chobok? I found my answer on cools the body. minutes of waiting. I was
an extremely hot and humid awed at the grandeur of the
Sunday afternoon, when Minsu took me to Ko Rea restaurant; its decorations reminiscent of the
Jo to enjoy Samgyetang. Although I knew that dining settings in the palaces of a Korean or
Samgyetang is ginseng chicken soup with stuffed Chinese Emperor. Antique vases and old Korean
glutinous rice, I learnt that Koreans believe that calligraphy were abound, looking prominent
eating Samgyetang and other “hot” foods during the against the brown restaurant walls. My tourist
summer season helps to retain stamina and cools the instincts kicked in, telling me to start taking
body. We embarked on our little adventure by pictures, but the waiters quickly ushered us to our
passing by some old buildings and crossed a table and did not bother bringing the menu, readily
deserted alleyway and lo and behold, a long queue assuming that we were there to eat Samgyetang,

38 Gwangju News August 2007


Grand Korean Decor Passport to heaven

Samgyetang Eager crowd

the restaurant’s specialty. Glancing quickly around My lunch partner and I happily worked on our food,
the somewhat rowdy restaurant, I noticed everyone agreeing that the queue and the heat we had to
else was already digging heartily into their black endure earlier was certainly well worth the wait! If
stone bowls. you have yet to try Samgyetang during this hot
summer season, I recommend that you head to Ko
As Minsu and I chatted away, the waiters came back Rea Jo on either Jungbok and Malbok to have some
with two steaming and bubbling black stone bowls ginseng chicken soup and feel fortified to beat this
and I could not even see the chicken at first! summer heat. However be prepared to face a long
Waiting impatiently for the steam to subside, we queue. The cost of Samgyetang is 11,000won per
used our chopsticks to separate the chicken, person and it’s definitely a reasonable price to enjoy
revealing the glutinous rice stuffing with young some authentic Korean food and ambience all at
ginseng shoots and jujubes. As Samgyetang must once.
be boiled for hours, the chicken bones were
extremely soft, the chicken meat was tender and the Ko Rea Jo is located just a short walk away from the
soup evidently had the strong flavour of all the GIC upon seeing LotteTour, turn left into the dark
ingredients in the pot. As a Chinese who enjoys the alley lane. Upon reaching the end of the lane, turn
Chinese version of herbal ginseng chicken, I realised left, you definitely will not miss the restaurant
that the distinguishing feature of Samgyetang was whose signboard greets everyone in green and white.
the broth and the glutinous rice stuffing. A typical This restaurant is open 365 days a year from 10am-
Chinese-styled ginseng chicken would usually be 10pm and they have another branch in Sangmu. For
wrapped and steamed in aluminium foil for hours more information, please call 062-224-2525 or
and is served dry with the absence of the rice 2526.
stuffing. By Bernice Ang

Gwangju News August 2007 39


Recipe

Bossam 보쌈
When parboiling:
2. Cut the green chili in half, put into the saucepan.
3. Cut the garlics into thin slices, put them into the
If anyone has ever saucepan.
tried Bossam in
Nolbu Bossam or 4. Put 1 shot of soju into the saucepan.
Mujinju they will find 5. Put 1 teaspoon of coffee powder into the saucepan.
that cooking Bossam
itself is quite easy. It 6. Cut the pork into 0.5cm thin slices, put them all into the
is less greasy than saucepan.
samgyeobsal and I 7. Wait until it boils together for about 40 minutes until
think is more healthy the pork is soft and ingredients mix together.

Cooking time: 40 minutes 8. After it is done, take out the meat only, serve with
kimchi in a plate (we won't use the rest in the saucepan)
Serve for 2 - 3 people and soybean paste.
Ingredients: To buy pork simply go to a big supermarket like E-mart or
Soybean paste (dwaenjang sauce), 1 green chili, 3 garlics, Home Plus, they will surely sell all kinds of pork (dwaeji-
1 shot of soju, 1 tbsp of instant coffee, pork (preferably gogi, 돼지고기). Moksal is slightly thin and has less fat
moksal, 목살) than samgyeobsal.
Preparation: By Karina Prananto
1. Put 1.5 tablespoon of dwaenjang sauce into a medium I am Indonesian and have been living in Gwangju since Sept
size saucepan, filled it with about 1000cc of water. Mix 2006 with my Korean husband whom I met while we were
the sauce with the water before boiling. Boil it under a studying Chinese in Beijing and have been married to for 13
medium heat (fire). months.

Volunteering - UNESCO’s Cross Cultural Awareness Program

E
verybody can time, they receive a small stipend for transportation and
be great a certificate of accomplishment.
b e c a u s e
anybody can Everyone is welcome and to date there are
serve. You don't have approximately 20 countries represented.
to have a college You may be from any nationality and must have a good
degree to serve. You don't have to make your subject command of the English language. Generally there are
and your verb agree to serve. You only need a heart two categories of volunteers:
full of grace, a soul generated by love. 1. Cultural Exchange Volunteers (CEV) who lecture in
- Martin Luther King Jr. their mother tongue.
Volunteering is one of the most rewarding acts of 2. Korean Interpretive Volunteers (KIV) who translate
selflessness we can share. In Gwangju, we are and at this time, happen to speak in English, French, or
considered the cultural capital of Asia and there are Spanish
numerous organizations that welcome the gift of The next upcoming orientation and evolution meeting is
generosity and time. in August 2007.
Every semester, the Ministry of Culture and Human To register, please e-mail the application form to the
Resources Development sponsor UNESCO’s Cross Leader of CCAP Teachers Club, Lim Yeonsuk, at
Cultural Awareness Program which brings together yslim0720@hanmail.net or call her at 011-9603-9916.
volunteers from around the globe and encourages it’s
participants to “Contribute to a global experience of For more information see http//kuces.unesco.or.kr or
peace and mutual understanding through cultural feel free to contact Jinchae Park, Vice President directly
exchanges between Korean students and foreigners at jinchaep@hanmail.net or call 017-640-0028.
residing in the Gwangju & Jeonnam area.” Please join us and make a difference!
Participants have an opportunity to conduct up to 3-4
classes per semester, and in return for their generous By Tracey Knihnitski & Mukul Basu

40 Gwangju News August 2007


Dear Dr. Ko: obvious that your husband has serious issues that
allow him to use his weight as the reason for him not
I've been being intimate with you. And you are just as bad, for
married for allowing this behavior for five years. The two of you
10 years. I have to define your relationship. Is it husband and
love my wife or brother and sister? Both relationships involve
husband and love, so it’s not just about love; it is about whether
I know he you’re still good for each other. Go to a marriage
loves me but we counselor and figure out what you and your husband
have not been have and if it is not worth keeping, maybe it’s time to
intimate for 5 years. move on.
He has health problems - bad heart,
overweight, bad back and says that is the Dear Dr. Ko:
reason why, but I could use some/a little My boss offered
affection and he can't provide that either. I me a job
am at a wits end and don't know what I promotion,
should do...Help! but it did not
include the
Starving for Affection raise I
expected. It is
an upper-
m a n a g e m e n t
Dear Starving: position that does not pay overtime, which
would actually result in a pay cut for me.
First let me offer my Because of the money, I am not sure whether
condolences. or not I want the job. However, if I refuse, it
Welcome to the might prove detrimental for future job
reality of the “for promotions. What should I do?
better or worse” part
of the marriage vows. Show Me the Money
No intimacy for over 5
years? You have got to Dear Show Me the Money:
be kidding! It can’t be worse than that! In this economy, I can understand the concern about
What I suggest to you is one of two things or both. money, however, you must think further down the
First, if you can’t beat him join him. Cuddle up to a road. While you may realize a short term financial
nice big bowl of chocolate chip ice cream and see if loss, look at the experience that you will gain. In this
that floats your boat. Second, get yourself a changing economy you must do what is necessary to
boyfriend. You don’t have to fall in love with him just keep yourself marketable. Any upward mobility is
get someone to knock the edge off. I know what you good for your professional growth. Take the
are thinking, how immoral. Dr. Ko is suggesting you promotion, and learn what you can. Remember
cheat on your husband! Well… he’s been cheating on value is not always measured in dollar signs.
you for five whole years. Whether it is another
woman or a Hershey Bar, he is not putting you first “If money is your hope for independence you will
and that is cheating. never have it. The only real security that a man will
have in this world is a reserve of knowledge,
Marriage is a partnership; both parties have to experience, and ability. “
participate fully to make the union meaningful. It is ~ Henry Ford

Do you have a problem with love, life or the lottery? Ask Dr. Ko. Dr. Ko knows all and sees
all. Contact Dr. Ko at Drkoknow@yahoo.com

Gwangju News August 2007 41


Here it comes again!
13th Gwangju International Community Day
Gwangju International Center (GIC) holds an annual international event on 15~16
September. This event started 12 years ago to promote international friendship in
Gwangju and it will be the 13th this year. We are looking for harmony and unity among
all residents in Gwangju, overcoming lingual, cultural or other barriers through food,
games, shows, contests, etc from many cultural backgrounds. This is the biggest event of
GIC over a year with help from many people, groups and also from you. A lot of events
and awards are waiting for you. Please come and join them all.

Korean Speech Contest:


Participants: International Residents
Topic: Free
Limited time: 3 minutes
Application Period: by Fri. August 19th
*Please sign up by 19th August to arrange a pre-contest scheduled on 25th August.
*There will be a surprise present for each awardee.

International Food Court:


Share your national food of beauty and taste! One booth will be prepared to
cook and serve your food to people from all over the world. You can take your
profits without tax deduction so all you should do is make good food and
serve them well. Be ready to be rich!
*Please sign up to join in the activities by 25th August in order for us to examine the
suitability of food and rationality of the prices. GIC will offer a small amount of
expenditure and basic facilities such as gas and water.

Talent Show:
Show us your entertaining talents that you’ve got e.g. folk dancing, singing,
martial arts, playing musical instruments or anything you want. We all can get
to know about your country's culture, costume, language, etc. Traditional
performances and team works will be favored. We can see Michael Jackson
dancing at home anytime through Internet.
*Please sign up by 19th August to arrange a pre-contest scheduled on 25th August.
Everyone is encouraged to participate, but those who have won in the past will not be
chosen as winners two years in a row.
*There will be a surprise present for each awardee.

Flea Market:
Do you want to do something good for the third world? Do you have
something you don't use? If your answers for both were yes, this is a good
chance to act. The Beautiful Store will bring all the stuff to one place and sell
them to help the third world. Sorry, Chrysler and Rolex are not acceptable for
this program.
*You can mail items in or drop them in at the GIC office by 13th September.
Mailing Address: 광주광역시 동구 금남로 1가 1번지 전일빌딩 509호 광주국제교류
센터 (501-758)
*Website of the Beautiful Store: http://www.bstore.org/english/

42 Gwangju News August 2007


Volunteers needed for the 13th Annual
Gwangju International Community Day
Gwangju International Center (GIC) is
holding the 13th Annual Gwangju
International Community Day on the
15~16 of September. This event will have
a lot more shows, food and
entertainment than before for more
active cultural exchanges among all
nations in Gwangju. We need volunteers
for this event in order to make this year
successful. We are looking for your
interest and participation.

Outline of the Event


-Time: 15-16 September, 2007
-Sponsorship: Gwangju City Hall, Gwangju International Center
-Contents: Foreigners' talent show, World food court, Flea market

Conditions for application


-Number: Korean/Foreigner Male30/Female20 (Planning, operation, assistance, etc.)
-Required Documents: Koreans- Resume and self-introduction (Korean and English)
Internationals- Resume and self-introduction (Korean or English)
Documents for application
-Languages: Brief interview in Basic English, Chinese or Japanese
-We need responsible, dedicated and social volunteers

Contacts
-Email: gwangjuic@hanmail.net
-Office: 062) 226-1050/2734
-Fax: 0505) 227-2092
-Home Page: www.gwangjuic.or.kr
-Address: 광주광역시 동구 금남로1-1!전일빌딩 5층 광주국제교류센터

Schedule for Applicants


-Acceptance: 25th June, 2007 -9th August
-Interview: 11th August 10am - 2pm
-Result: 13th August -Home Page
-Training and Meetings: 18th, 15th in August, 1st, 8th in September (Every Saturday morning 10-
12; Total 4 times)

If you don't participate in an interview or training, you will not be able to join this program even though
you submitted the application documents.

Gwangju News August 2007 43


Community Board

Sung Bin Orphanage Volunteers are called 48 hours before Charity raffle at Speakeasy
Sung Bin Orphanage is looking for the mail-out day (during the first Speakeasy is proud to present a
long-term volunteers. We would like week of each month). GIC needs 6-8 grand charity raffle. Prize draw to be
you to give at least two Saturdays per people who can help. GIC & Gwangju held downtown, with an
month. As well as being a friend, you News are only as good as the accompanying party on October 2nd.
will be asked to teach basic English volunteers who bring it to life! First prize: 250,000 won, with
to girls aged 7 to 14. For more various goods and goodies donated
information please contact Mike at: Contact GIC at 062-226-1050, 2734 by local businesses for many runner-
sungbinvolunteers@gmail.com. or gwangjuic@gmail.com up positions. See next month’s
Gwangju news for further
Kona Volunteers Renew Your Member information.
Kona Volunteers is a registered Information
organization for helping under- All proceeds go to the Sungbin
Dear members,
privileged kids by teaching English Educational Endowment.
We are sending the Gwangju News to
using storybooks. each of the GIC members.
Unfortunately, some members do not
Gwangju News Needs You
We are looking for long-term native receive the magazine because of the
speakers who desire to enrich their incorrect address or no address at all.
lives by volunteering. Let us know via the information
below if you are not receiving the
We would like you to volunteer at Gwangju News or if you have had
least 2 Saturday mornings or Sunday your address changed.
afternoons per month. We help Thank you.
orphanage children or children of Gwangju International Center
low-income families and single- A person in charge: Min-Su Son
parent families. If you have any Email: gwangjuic@gmail.com
picture books and storybooks, please Phone: 062-226-1050/2734
donate them when you leave Korea. Fax: 0505-227-2092
For more information, please visit
Sungbin
http://cafe.daum.net/konavolunteers
and contact Kona (Kim Young-Im) at
Educational
konastorybookcenter@yahoo.com. Endowment - Due to the rapid expansion of our
Fund community magazine, we need more
Gwangju Men’s Soccer volunteers to help with the running of
The Gwangju international soccer - Fundraising is the magazine. Help the community
team plays regularly most weekends. continous and gain new skills.
If you are interested in playing, email - All funds will be
used for building You can help in a variety of roles:
gwangju_soccer@yahoo.com.
an eventual self- - Proofreading
sustaining source of financing for - Editing
Help Gwangju News Magazine!
educational underpriviledged girls - Photography
Volunteer one day a month - Writing
- Bank account will be set up soon for
GIC needs volunteers to mail out - Layout
donations
Gwangju News. Gwangju News, - Administration
www.sungbinkids.org
published monthly, is sent to nearly or any other way YOU can think of.
Phone: 011-9943-8066
700 addresses. Join our Gwangju Contact at gwangjunews@gmail.com
News mail-out volunteers at GIC. or Harsha on 010-8484-4274.

Place: Gwangju Mudeung Stadium Ticket Price:


(Baseball field) 무등경기장 -Special Seat:Adult 20,000 won
Child 10,000 won
(served drinks and light snacks)
-Reserved Seat: Adult 8,000 won
Child 4,000 won
Advance Purchase:
Date Match team Time -General Admission Seat:
http://www.ticketlink.co.kr Adult 6,000 won
Sept. 1st Hyundai 17:00 Tel. 1588-7890 Hyundai Card, Samsung Card,
Gwangju VISA card 3,000 won
Sept. 2nd Hyundai 14:00 Child 1,000 won

44 Gwangju News August 2007


Trivia Questions
Easy Not-so-easy observed: Any man can food?
beat any woman at any
G: What vast eastern G: Which Canadian city’s sport? SL: Which Canadian city
country boasted the name derives from a hosted the 2001 World
world’s fastest-growing Mohawk word meaning Athletic Championships?
economy in 2002? poles in the water? Bloody Hard

G: What do Puerto Ricans Source:


E: Which Seinfeld E: Who plays Oskar wriggle to ask: What’s http://www.funtrivia.com,
character’s first name is Schindler in the 1993 happening? http://www.puzz.com,
Trivial Pursuit, bite-size
Cosmo? movie “Schlinder’s List’
edition

E: What did Madonna Categories


H: What is the rather H: Which Arab and Guy Ritchie christen G: Geography
redundant meaning of the announced: I want a their son during a 2000 E: Entertainment
first D in D-Day? homeland even if the ceremony at Dornoch H: History
devil is the one to liberate Cathedral? AL: Arts and Literature
it for me? SN: Science and Nature
SL: Sports and Leisure
AL: What is the number
of the Beast, according to H: Which Nobel Prize was
Revelations? AL: What Latin phrase instigated in 1969 by the By Amber Kininmont
did the Queen use to Swedish National Bank?
describe 1992? The answers are on page 46
SN: What does PIN mean
to a cash card user? AL: What instrument
SN: Which comet can be must you play to win the
seen from Earth every 75- Carl Flesch Award?
SL: Where is this year’s 76 years?
Rugby World Cup to take
place? SN: What yummy colour
SL: Which tennis star does tartrazine add to

GIC TALK
August 4 All talks take place at the GIC office.
Speaker: Harsha Goonewardana (ESL Instructor) Address: 5th Floor, Jeon-il Bldg, Geumnam-no,
Topic: Sri Lanka, Pearl of the Indian Ocean Dong-gu (동구 금남로 1가 전일빌딩 5층).
Directions: The GIC office is located in the same
August 11 building as the Korea Exchange Bank (KEB) in
Speaker: Bernice ng
downtown Gwangju. The entrance is
(GIC summer international intern)
immediately north of the KEB on Geumnam-no
Topic: Welcome Kit Project
street, across from the YMCA.
August 18 (Subway stop: Culture Complex Bus: 07, 09, 45,
Speaker: TBA 51, 52, 53, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 61, 74, 80, 82, 518,
Topic: TBA 1000, 1187 )
For more information about the GIC Talks go to
August 25 www.gwangjuic.or.kr
Speaker: AStephen Kuria Kiarie (Pastor)
Topic: Kenyan Economics Call for Presenters: The GIC Talk series welcomes
*Dates and topics are subject to change. your proposals for presentations on topics of
society, culture, politics, science, education, or
Contact the GIC to confirm the schedule: anything of interest to the foreign community. For
more information, or to submit a proposal, please
Phone:(062) 226-1050, 2734
contact Kim Singsing at: gwangjuic@gmail.com
Email: gwangjuic@gmail.com or call: (062)226-1050, 2734.

Gwangju News August 2007 45


Trivia Answers
Easy
G: China
E: Kramer’s
H: Day
AL: 666
SN: Personal Identification Number
SL: France

Not-so-easy
G: Toronto
E: Liam Neeson
H: Yasser Arafat
AL: Annus horribilis
SN: Halley’s Comet
SL: John McEnroe

Bloody Hard
G: Their nose
E: Rocco
H: Economics
AL: Violin
SN: yellow
SL: Edmonton

46 Gwangju News August 2007


Gwangju News August 2007 47
2007 GIC 5th - Korean Language Class
September 3rd ~ October 27th (2 times a week for 7 weeks)

Class hours: 10:30 am -12:30 pm (2 hours)


TIME TABLE
Level Days SATURDAY CLASS (Every Saturday for 7 weeks)
Level 1 Tuesday & Thursday 10:30am ~ 12:30pm
Level 2 Monday & Thursday TUITION FEE: 45,000 won
(10,000 won Membership fee included)
Level 3 Tuesday & Thursday - Beginner Class
Level 4 Monday & Wednesday - Intermediate Class
Level 5 Monday & Wednesday
*Dates and times subject to change.
GIC is located on 5th floor of the Jeon-il building, the same
building as the Korean Exchange Bank, downtown. The
TUITION FEE: 60,000 won entrance is located immediately to the north of the bank.
(10,000 won Membership fee included) Contact GIC office for more information.
Phone: 062) 226-2734, 1050
*The tuition fee is non-refundable after the first week. Email: gwangjuic@gmail.com
Website: http://www.gwangjuic.or.kr

GIC Cultural Tour August 25th,


Fun In The Water Tour Hwasun, Jeollanam-do
Cost: 20,000 won
Itinerary (GIC members 17,000 won)
08:50 Meet by the clock tower of Gwangju Bus Terminal, U-square
09:00 Depart for Mt. Baega The natural recreation forest of Mt. Baega
10:10 Arrival at Mt. Baega and strolling in the woods Baega mountain is a
12:30 Transfer to a restaurant natural fortress where
13:00 - 14:00 Lunch (Beef Bibimbab) a military force of
14:00 - 18:00 Water sleighing or swimming partisan held out in
the Korean War. This
18:00 Depart for Gwangju
mountain has a fine
19:00 Arrive in Gwangju (It could be possibly delayed, due to traffic.) view that not only
encampasses
The tour includes lunch, transportation, entrances fees, group travel Mudeung Mountain
insurance and information in English. but also the Cheonwang Peak of Jiri mountain.
Baega Mountain is located in the Southern part of Baegya
Preparation: swimsuit Mountain and is forest reknown for natural recreational
activities. It is being developed as a reacraetional area of
Please make a reservation before August 20th so we can arrange Gwangju Metropolitan City area.
your travel insurance. Please kindly pay the tour cost by August 21st
to Kwangju Bank account number 134-107-000999 (Depositor: 광주국 The swimming pool and the water sled of Mt.
Baega
제교류센터) If you cancel 3 days in advance, 50% of the fee refund. The water sled and
swimming pool takes
This tour may be canceled if less than 20 people make a reservation. the purified water from
To make a reservation, please contact GIC at 062-226-1050 or the Valley of Baega
Mountain. One of the
gwangjuic@gmail.com main attractions of the
pool is a large water
We need the following Information: Your contact information (Email, slide (80meters). This
super fast water slide
Phone Number) / Your full name / Nationality / Alien registration was upgraded in 2007 and is a thrill seekr’s dream.
number (77xxxx-xxxxxx)

Kumho Industrial Co. kindly provides the


buses for GIC Cultural Trip in 2007.

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