Mountain and Field

열차 탐

2012-01-28T22:21:00.002+08:00

喜欢搭火车，一种感性多过理性的过程。或许火车的旅程有点像是人生的缩写。有起点，有终点，有起伏，有驿站，还有车窗外那些过了就捕捉不回的一景一幕。

听说太白山的雪景很美，所以冒着清晨零下温度搭上了从清凉里出发的无穷话号火车。火车面向东海刚升起的太阳，徐徐朝向位于朝鲜半岛岭东的太白山前进。岭东路线最特别之处是火车会翻越横跨朝鲜半岛的白头大干山脉。山峦起伏，一望无尽的白头大干，其壮观真是令人叹为观止。一路上，很多时候，我并不知道我确切在山的哪处。或许可以说：“只在此山中, 云深不知处”。

就这样，一山过一山，一镇过一镇，一隧道过一隧道，四个小时的车程在不知不觉中告了尾声。回想时，旅程最大的乐趣，应该不止是窗外令人陶醉的华丽山川和锦绣田野，还有凝望窗外发呆时所做的白日梦。

如果没有汉字站名，我还以为我来到了“童话驿”

宁越应该是战国时代的人物吧。听说他文武双全。

冬天时，轨道两旁枯萎的野花野草，迎着风，垂头丧气地晃动着。

路上那些毫不起眼的小车站，如果拍成电影，应该会成旅游热点吧。

冬天里，一切都好像停止了。

高原上的城市，少了些活力却多了些恬静。

到站了。绑好鞋带再出发。太白山的雪景等着我吧。

풍년

2012-01-26T00:16:00.003+08:00

A new year was ushered in with exchange of well-wishes, extra calories from all the new year goodies and a good amount of rest - *satisfied*

Last week, I ran into a friend who is based in Shanghai and he is back for the new year. Being a banker, he can't help warning me that the next two years will be very tough. It seems like everyone is painting a gloomy picture of the world's economy.

This year is the year of dragon. The world is divided on what kind of a mythical creature dragon represents. Dragon is revered as a divine creature in the eastern culture but relegated to an evil monster in the western. It was said in ancient time, conquerors from the east invaded the west carrying flags with dragon motifs. Since then, dragon is seemed as an evil force that brings suffering and destruction. I guess, the year of dragon is indeed not a very good year for the west.

But after been through the last few "tumultous" years, I think the world, at least, deserves a reprieve. So, good weather and peace in 2012.

색다른 캐롤송

2011-12-21T01:07:00.000+08:00

"나는 꼼수다" (I'm a Petty Creep), a left-leaning highly popular South Korean podcast, released four Christmas carol songs recently just in time for Christmas. These songs are specially 'dedicated' to "가카" (original word: 각하, 閣下, His Highness), a sarcastic title they gave president Lee Myung-bak.

You can read more about the podcast in this Voice Of America's article: Hit South Korean Podcast Sparks Controversy

"가카 할아버지" Grandpa "His Highness" celebrating 2007 Christmas with children after winning the presidential election that year.

Below are 2 of the 4 songs. Translation of the lyrics is provided to give a gist of the songs' messages. If the messages are not clear, it is alright to take them as Christmas carol songs (:

1. 쫄면 안 돼

Background of this song: The Korea Communications Standards Commission plans to set up a new media review office to filter harmful or illegal content on social network services (SNS), such as Twitter, Facebook and Me2day, or apps registered at Apple’s App Store or Google’s Android Market. Harmful or illegal content refers to pornography, gambling, drug abuse, false information spreading, libel, and comments that violate the National Security Law or instigating crime. (Source: The Korea Times)

(In Singapore context: National Cyber Security Centre will be set up to detect and prevent cyber security threats, and serve as a focal point to coordinate and implement measures between the public and private sectors. Whatever it means.)

쫄면 안 돼

쫄면 안 돼, 쫄면 안 돼!

가카 할아버지는 쪼는 애들에게

빅~엿을 안겨주신대

[Don't chicken out, don't chicken out! They said grandpa "His Highness" gives big malt candy to children who chicken out.]

가카 할아버지는 알고 계신대,

누가 쪼는 앤지 안 쫀 앤지,

오늘 밤에 잡아 가신대

[They said grandpa "His Highness" knows who chicken out and who don't. He will come and catch you tonight.]

댓글 달 때 블로그 할 때,

트윗 할 때 페북할 때도,

가카 할아버지는

모든 것을 알고 계신대

[When you post a comment, when you blog, when you tweet, when you facebook, they said grandpa "His Highness" knows everything.]

2. 기쁘다 가카오셨네

기쁘다 가카오셨네

기쁘다 가카 오셨네

만백성 망했다~

공항도 다리도 터널도 도로도~

재벌에 팔아라~

외국에 팔아라~

다 팔아~ 팔아 버려라~

[We were happy when "His Highness" came and ruined the nation. Airports, bridges, tunnels and roads were all sold to 'Chaebols' and foreigners.]

기쁘다 가카 오셨네

만백성 망했다~

방송도 신문도 블로그 트윗도

다 장악하여라~

다 입을 틀어 막아라~

[We were happy when "His Highness" came and ruined the nation. All TV stations, newspapers, blogs and twitters came under control and all lips were sealed.]

기쁘다 가카 오셨네

만백성 망했다~

전국의 백성들 총선과 대선 때

다 투표하여라~

우리 표~로 바꿔 버리자~

[We were happy when "His Highness" came and ruined the nation. Everyone must all vote. Use our votes to effect change during the general election and the presidential election.]

(In Singapore context: Power stations were sold to foreigners and public transports privatized. As for media control, 'lips' were more or less sealed from day one.)

I like a remark made by G. K. Chesterton:

"The whole modern world has divided itself into Conservatives and Progressives. The business of Progressives is to go on making mistakes. The business of the Conservatives is to prevent the mistakes from being corrected."

Anyway, politics is a bit too heavy for Christmas, haha. Merry Christmas!

한국의 맥박

2011-12-11T22:24:00.000+08:00

In the history of humanity, the second oldest musical instrument after voice is probably percussion. From the day he knew how to beat, the pursuit of the primeval aesthetics of sound became his life's mission. Choi Sori's (born Choi Gyeong-seop) musical life began when he started hitting the cover of his lunchbox during elementary school. He was about to complete his middle school when he ran away from his hometown in Jeolla-do with the money his parents got from selling their cow. His devotion to drumming never stopped as he eked out a living working as an odd job labourer and delivering newspaper and jajang-myeon. He only returned home to complete his high school when he could not understand the English which appeared in the music books.

Holding drumsticks at the age of twelve, Choi Sori isolated himself twice from the world by moving into the mountain to concentrate on his study of musical instrument. During one of his self-imposed isolation, he built a hut in Mt. Jiri and stayed there for three years. The wholehearted pursuit of one's passion always comes at a price. Choi suffered from noise-induced hearing loss due to long term exposure to high-decibel sound. However, he was not one bit perturbed by the possibility of turning deaf. He said, "If I am to lose my hearing completely, I will be able to hear the sound of my heart and imagination better."

Choi Sori is the creative director of "Arirang Party", a 100-min non-verbal performance which harmonises the art of eastern and western percussion, Korean traditional dance, B-boy and Taekwondo into the heartbeat of Korea. It took him ten years to conceptualise and plan the performance which made its debut in 2007. It has since become a cultural brand of Korea with a permanent performing theatre in Jeju Island.

Arousing the energy of heaven and earth through fire, water and drumbeats

Scent, Light, Flower [Korean Traditional Dance]

The Maze [Handy Fan Performance]

Spirit [Flame Performance]

Shadow [Mask Performance]

Delight [Korean Traditional Dance & Taekwondo Performance]

The Arirang Party [Water Drumming Performance]

Information, video and performance pictures are taken from SR Group Entertainment's homepage (www.srgrp.com)

P.S. Choi Sori and Arirang Party, please visit Singapore in your next World Tour.

아름다운 님

2011-12-09T03:21:00.001+08:00

When you look up a Korean dictionary, the word "아리다" comes immediately before "아리땁다". For this word pair, their sequence of appearance in the dictionary is not a coincidence. "아리다" describes pain whilst "아리땁다" portrays beauty. In meaning, they are diametrically opposite but yet they are closely related. You can say this is the aesthetics of the Korean people - beauty emerges from pain and heartache and vice versa. To the Korean, 아린 것 (painful thing) and 아리따운 건 (beautiful thing) are interchangeable. Painful memories, if allow to settle down, will slowly "mature" and eventually elevate to something beautiful. Compare this with the fermentation of soybean paste (된장) in the "Jangdok" (장독, crock). If fermentation is allowed to take place without disturbance, the foul smell of the fermented beans will soon be compensated by the pleasant taste of the paste. It is as if "beauty" has embraced "pain" with a tight hug.

Have you ever asked, "What is the meaning of Arirang?" There are many explanations but I thought this explanation is more appropriate - The "아리" in "아리랑" comes from the word "아리다" and from which "아리땁다" was derived. "랑" means "님" (honorific used when addressing a person). "Arirang" can be defined as "my beautiful dear" (아리따운 님) or as the "dear who gave me heartache" (아린 님). As a song, "Arirang" is both sad and beautiful and that's perhaps why it is so endearing.

아리랑, 아리랑, 아라리요... (My beautiful dear, my beautiful dear, my beauty)
아리랑 고개로 넘어간다. (My beautiful dear heads towards the Pass)
나를 버리고 가시는 님은 (My dear who left without me)
십리도 못가서 발병난다. (is not able to walk for 5km without hurting his foot)

청청하늘엔 별도 많고 (Up in the blue blue sky, there are many stars)
우리네 가슴엔 꿈도 많다 (In our heart, we also have many dreams)

저기 저 산이 백두산이라지 (Look there, isn't that Mt. Baekdu)
동지 섣달에도 꽃만 핀다 (Flowers bloom even during winter solstice)

"Arirang" is a song supposedly sang by a lady whose lover left her for the battlefront 600 years ago. "Heads towards the Pass" means her lover was leaving the city for a distant place. She couldn't bear to part with him and she believed he couldn't too. That was probably why she thought his foot would start to ache even before he could walk 5km. The talk about many stars and dreams shows that they had many plans for their future. But somehow, she knew the chance of seeing him again was slim. When she sang about Mt. Baekdu, a sacred mountain to the Koreans, she was actually hoping for a miracle, hoping that flowers would indeed bloom in Mt. Baekdu even in the peak of winter, hoping her lover would return safely.

Two decades ago, a Hong Kong wrist watch commercial which cast Chow Yun-fat and Wu Chien-lien caught the imagination of a whole generation of people. A real classic even by today standard. If you have yet to appreciate the relationship between "아리다" and "아리땁다", perhaps you soon will.

The setting of the commercial: February 1939, about one and a half year into the second Sino-Japanese war. The battle of interest and the backdrop of the heartbreaking love story, was the lesser-known "Lanzhou Air Battle" (兰州空战). 2nd Lieutenant Liu Fu-hong (刘福洪), a pilot and a graduate of the Huangpu Military Academy had just married his wife, Chen Ying-fan (陈影凡), 10 years his junior.

Dashing Chow Yun-fat (37) played 2nd Lieutenant Liu Fu-hong with Wu Chien-lien (24), known for her melancholic eyes, as his newly-wed wife Chen Ying-fan in the 1992 Sovil et Titus commercial.

The Japanese forward airbase at "Yun-cheng" (运城) in Shanxi Province was fast becoming a threat to Lanzhou (Gansu Province), a major city in the northwest of China, and had to be neutralised. Newly wed Liu was ordered to lead a flight of four Vultee V-11 planes on a bombing mission to "Yun-cheng". On the fateful day, Feb 5 1939, Liu and his team flew for 3 hours before offloading forty 30-pound bombs over their targets. Tens of Japanese planes were destroyed in the raid. The mission was a success but unfortunately, Liu never saw home again. His plane crushed on the return trip due to engine failure. He flew his last flight at the age of 30. On hearing the news of his death, Chen Ying-fan attempted suicide but was saved. She finally committed suicide on Feb 16 by putting a bullet through herself. She was only 20 then.

The "Lanzhou Air Battle" of 1939 saw the combined force of the Republic of China Air Force and the USSR Air Volunteer Force thwarting the aggression of the Japanese Air Force. The attention to details was amazing for a commercial. You can see a Russian officer fifth from left. Everyone was in thick winter outfits because it was supposed to be winter then.

"너를 사랑해서 결혼하는게 아니라, 너만 사랑해서 결혼하는거다."(I marry you not because I love you, I marry you because I only love you.) - quote from Korean drama "Secret Garden".

Background music - "La Califfa" by Italian composer Ennio Morricone

Can you differentiate between "아린 사랑" (heartbreaking love) and "아리따운 사랑" (beautiful love) after watching the CF? You can't, can you? They are the same.

구석구석

2011-11-05T01:13:00.000+08:00

서울 구석구석에 깊어가는 가을을 만끽하세요 ^^

환영

2011-11-04T00:15:00.002+08:00

오서 오십시요

앉으세요

커피 드실래요?

울긋불긋 물든 단풍

2011-11-01T23:13:00.000+08:00

"울긋불긋" (colourfully) is a "의태어" (擬態語) that best describes autumn scenery. It's never easy to commit "의태어" or "의성어" to memory. But in the case of "울긋불긋", I had it in my head while cramming for my first KLPT. The detailed explanation of "울긋불긋" is best left to the leaves in autumn.

청춘불패

2011-11-01T02:34:00.005+08:00

青春的回忆似乎是三十岁以后的权利。青春离开的那一年，我非常清楚。周围的人不再关心我将来的愿望，而我的自我介绍里也不再提起它。朋友之间的话题不再围绕谁爱谁，谁与谁在一起，谁又与谁分手。“我会爱你到永远”这类不需代价的话，打死都说不出口了。长大后，我害怕幼稚，内心却仍然喜欢幼稚。这就是为什么青春是一场大雨，即使感冒了，还盼望回头再淋它一次。

今年的夏天，无独有偶，韩国和台湾同一时间吹起复古风。韩片《永远的七公主》和台片《那些年，我们一起追得女孩》都成为今年当地最卖座的电影。《永远的七公主》在银幕拉下之前，售出了七百三十多万张戏票，成为韩国有史以来第十一部最卖座电影。《那些年，我们一起追的女孩》台湾的票房，播放至今已达到4.6亿新台币(约1900万新元)，成为台湾十年以来最卖座的电影。

两部电影我都看过了。现在想起电影故事情节，想起自己的青春，在冷风嗖嗖的深秋里，心渐渐开始回温。

青春期的七公主

时隔二十五年后再相聚的七公主

《那些年，我们一起追的女孩》经典画面：在海堤上排排坐，说出各自的愿望

보람 있는 존재

2011-10-29T23:48:00.001+08:00

세상 수많은 일들이 결국은 아쉽게도 도로무공(徒勞無功)으로 마무리한다

노란 은행잎

2011-10-29T00:41:00.001+08:00

올해 약속 지켜야 돼

빨리 와!

잔치하자!

나의 취향

2011-10-16T23:14:00.001+08:00

For plane seat, my preference has always been the right window seats. On the trip to Seoul, I would get to witness sunrise and on home-bound, sunset awaits me. In-flight entertainment doesn't appeal to me as much as the chance to witness the start and end of a day. The boundary where light and darkness meets always fascinates me; it's like a divine fight for world dominance.

바람 먹기러 가자

2011-10-14T01:39:00.004+08:00

I like the feeling of wind blowing into my face. My spirit, like a kite that catches wind, soars every time that happens. "바람맞다" is a Korean expression which when literally translated means "hit the wind". "바람" is wind and '맞다' means to hit. No, "바람맞다" doesn't mean putting your face in the wind and let it 'hit' you. It means someone stood you up. Imagine this, someone you are supposed to meet did not turn out for the appointment and you were alone out in the open with only the wind blowing into your face. Not a good feeling right? "바람맞다" conveys quite an opposite feeling to what I usually feel when wind 'hits' me.

In Chinese, "바람맞다" is known as "放鸽子" (let loose a pigeon, 비둘기를 날리다). I do not know the connection between being stood up and letting loose pigeon. But since language is a social contract, I have to use it as it is. It does not matter if I cannot make sense of it. Another similar expression, but slightly more 'ridiculous' sounding, is "放飞机" (let loose a plane, 비행기를 날리다). Again, that's how Chinese language goes, so there is no need for deeper explanation.

In Hokkien (a Chinese dialect), there is an interesting expression which literally means "eat wind" (吃风， 바람을 먹다). What it actually means is to go on sightseeing in a car or go on a tour. When I was kid, my father frequently took me out to "eat wind". As the car, travelled down the peaceful East Coast Parkway, I liked to wind down the car window and open my mouth. To feel wind blowing into my mouth was yet another way which I 'enjoy' its company. However, my mother always showed disapproval look. She would hit and scold me for sucking in all the dirt in the air. Well, that was my naive and innocent childhood.

Silver grass swaying in autumn wind

In autumn, tall silver grass (억새) of human's height grows all over the fields. Whenever cool autumn wind disturbed them, the graceful swaying of their lanky figures which ensued always touches me. That is nature's beauty in its rawest form. I relish standing in the autumn wind again and let its coolness freshen up my weary face. When 'hit' by wind, I always smile. 바람이 거세게 차갑게 불어도 우리 바람을 먹기러 가자! (不管风有多大多冷，我们一起去吃风吧！)

가을의 한 조각

2011-10-12T02:50:00.001+08:00

Born in spring, wither in fall. 짧은 존재, 아름다운 존재.

바보

2011-10-09T01:30:00.005+08:00

It was 29 May 2009, the day the national funeral for the late South Korean president, Roh Moo Hyun, was held. There was still one hour left before the end of my Korean language class but my teacher was too distraught to carry on. After getting consent from the students, she stopped the lesson and switched on the TV. The live broadcast of the funeral proceedings in front of Gyeongbok Palace was on air. At that moment, a choir sang the late president's most favourite song "상록수" (常綠樹, Evergreen), a song which accompanied him through his fight for Korea's democratic reform and later, his bid for the country's highest office.

A cold wind swept through the class. The tears in my teacher's eyes were unstoppable. From Gyeongbok Palace, the view was switched to the Seoul Plaza where millions of Korean were already gathered to mourn the demise of the people's president. The aerial view of the plaza and its adjacent areas showed a sea of yellow, an image which was unmistakably one of nation in deep grief.

When asked what was his life's motto during an interview in Japan, Roh Moo Hyun quoted Kim Gu's "대붕역풍비 생어역수영" (大鵬逆風飛生魚逆水泳), translated as "big (mythical) bird flies against the wind, live fish swims against the current". He believed a man of conviction does not bow in the face of adversity, he stands tall. Roh Moo Hyun never made compromise by taking the easier way out, he always chose the difficult route to trek on and for that, he was given the nickname "바보 노무현" (Roh Moo Hyun, the fool).

"Babo" (바보, 笨蛋, fool) may be a derogatory term, but it is a term which Roh Moo Hyun liked very much because it describes his non-mainstream and non-conformist character very well. In his attempt to break the unhealthy practice of regional politics, Roh Moo Hyun (a Liberal) stubbornly chose to run for National Assembly seat and mayorship in Busan, a "fortress" of the Conservatives, in 1992 and 1995 respectively. Without a doubt, he lost both elections. Below was his thought on being called "babo":

"내가 그동안에 사람들이 나에게 붙여 주었던 별명 중에서 제일 마음에 드는 별명입니다. 정치하는 사람들이 바보 정신으로 정치를 하면 나라가 잘 되거리 생각합니다. 어쨌든 그냥 바보 하는 게 그게 그냥 좋아요."

(All this while, there were many nicknames attached to me, but among them, I like "babo" the most. If politicians can act with the mentality of a "babo", I think it will do the country good. Anyway, being a "babo", I just like it.)

"그냥 바보 하는 게 그게 그냥 좋아요." - I just like being a fool

As a kid, I was already captivated by the beauty of Apple computer. Its attention to beauty details extended right down to the cursor. Till today, I cannot forget how its cursor used to radiate in changing rainbow colours. Some labelled Steve Jobs an inventor equivalent to Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, but I see him as an artist. His single-minded quest for perfection, his not-so-pleasant temperament, have all the markings of a great artist. He once quoted Pablo Picasso as saying, "Good artists copy, great artists steal." In real life, Steve Jobs 'stole' the idea of graphics user interface (GUI) from Xerox and perfected it with artistry to a state where it become the default standard for all computing platforms. Microsoft could not have done it better except to copy. Without Steve Jobs, computer may just be a chunk of metal that works but never an art form which we can proudly display.

At the end of Steve Jobs' famous commencement speech delivered in 2005 at Stanford University, he said, "Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish. And I have always wished that for myself. And now, as you graduate to begin anew, I wish that for you."

"Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish."

Where are all the fools in this world? The world needs you, the world misses you.

연애시대 - 아버지 말씀

2011-09-22T00:38:00.004+08:00

"Alone in Love", a Korean drama aired in 2006, has a history as long as this blog. Five years ago, I watched it with the help of subtitles, I like it then. Now that I can hear Korean well, I appreciate it even more. The most memorable scene of the drama has to be the conversation between Eunho and her father in the last episode. Watching the scene never failed to prop me up whenever I was down. Whatever advices Eunho's father gave her, are also applicable to anyone. We should listen to our hearts and not be held down by mundane rules. Happiness doesn't come easily. We have to work hard for it.

A short synopsis of the scene:

Eunho was at a lost. She couldn't decide if she should reunite with her ex-husband who had since remarried but still loved her. On one hand, she did not think she could live her life without him. On the other, she could not bring herself to break up his marriage. Trapped in a painful dilemma, she called her father, a pastor, over the air by identifing herself as Miss K. The first part of the conversation went on as if her father was giving counsel to a stranger who was lost. In the second part, her father put away his pastor's role and assumed his father's role. As a father, his utmost concern was her daughter's happiness and not his religious duties. His heart-warming quotes:

"Miss K, God said thou shalt not lie... Lying to others is not right, but lying to yourself is also wrong. Do what your heart tells you."

"Miss K, didn't your heart says you can't live without that person? That person also can't live without you, isn't it? Do as what your heart wishes."

"To sin is human. Miss K, do you wish to be happy? Do you expect happiness to come easily? Do you think hesitation, indecisiveness and concern over how people would look at you will make you happy? If you don't try hard, you cannot be happy."

"Eunho, if you don't work hard and do your best, you cannot be happy. Only if you become happy, the world will become happy. Let's us pray together to Lord for forgiveness. Eunho, you must be happy."

《연애시대 16회 중에서》

행복해져라 은호야

은호: 저는 원주 사는 K라고 하는데요. 좋아하는 남자가 있거든요. 오래전부터 좋아했는데 최근에야 그 사람없이는 안되겠구나 알게됐어요. 근데 그 사람은 이미 결혼한 사람이예요. 목사님 어떡하죠? 내가 어떡해야 할까요?

아버지: K양 본인 마음은 확실한 겁니까? 정말 그 남자 아니면 안되는 겁니까?

은호: 어떨때는 그럭저럭 살수 있을것 같다가도 또 어떨때는 이대로는 못 견디겠다 싶기도 하고요. 그냥 눈물이 나올때도 있고, 멍해질때도 있고 그래요. 그 사람을 더 이상은 만날수 없다라고 생각하면서 부터는 사는게 지루해졌어요.

아버지: 상대방 마음은 어떻습니까?

은호: 그 사람은 나랑 다시 시작하고 싶어해요.

아버지: 힘든 문제군요. K양, 하나님은 속이지 말라 하셨습니다.

은호: 역시 안되겠죠?

아버지: 남을 속여서도 안되지만 또한 자기 자신을 속여서는 안됩니다. 마음이 가는대로 하십시요.

은호: 그게 무슨?

아버지: K양 그 사람 아니면 안되겠다고 마음이 말하고 있지 않습니까? 그 사람 역시 K양 아니면 안되겠다고 말했다면서요. 마음이 하자는대로 하십시요.

은호: 그렇게 할 수는 없어요. 그 사람 부인은 어떡해요. 내가 축가까지 불러줬는데 둘이 행복하라고 그렇게 말했는데.

아버지: 진심이였습니까?

은호: 네.

아버지: 지금의 진심은 무엇입니까?

은호: 죄를 지을 순 없어요.

아버지: 죄를 짓기때문에 인간입니다. K양 행복해지고 싶죠? 행복하기가 쉬운 줄 아십니까? 망설이고 , 주저하고 , 눈치보고 , 그렇게해서 행복해질수 있다고 생각합니까? 노력하지 않으면 행복해질 수 없는겁니다.

은호야! ... 최선을 다해 노력하지 않으면 행복해 질 수 없다. 니가 행복해져야만 이 세상도 행복해진다. 하느님한테는 내가 같이 용서를 빌어주마. 행복해져라 은호야.

거북이의 꿈

2011-09-12T01:27:00.002+08:00

When we are caught up in our daily rat race, how many of us still remember the race between the hare and the tortoise? The 'hare' is well-endowed with speed to win any race. However, 'tortoise' is not only born to move slowly, it is burdened with a heavy shell.

"I crawled slowly to where I am now … a person who rises up very fast will have time to take a breather in between. Although I have to crawl, I won’t stop until I reach my destination.", wrote Kim Byung-man (김병만) in his autobiography 『꿈이 있는 거북이는 지치지 않습니다』 (Tortoise with dream will not be exhausted).

Tortoise with dream will not be exhausted

Kim Byung-man is one of the top gagman (comedian) in Korea. He gained his popularity by starring as the 'master' (달인, 達人) in the ‘Master’ segment of the KBS ‘Gag Concert’. 'Master', lack of a better description, is an acrobatic slapstick comedy. Kim performed different stunts and skills every week and always left his audience awe-struck and in stitches. What made his performance amazing is there is no camera tricks. Everything he did was real actions. A common question in everyone's mind is, "How did he manage to do that?"

Kim might not know the answer himself. As a child, Kim knew only hardship and failure. Because of that, he developed massive inferiority complex. His father turned to heavy drinking after his business failed. His mother worked as a helper in an eatery and was barely able to support a family of four children with her meagre salary. After graduating from high school, Kim worked as an odd job labourer in construction sites. His application to various institutes and universities were all rejected. Despite that, he did not give up his dream of becoming a gagman. To pursue it, he moved to Seoul and lived in a roof-top room. His road to success was anything but smooth. He was rejected four times by MBC and three times by KBS and was only accepted by KBS in 2002 on his eighth attempt.

"There was time when I kept going to the drugstore and had 40 sleeping pills with me… but the lights from the broadcasting stations in Yeoui-do were shining brightly at night even though I was crying my heart out in my roof-top room. Finally, I decided to pick myself up and move on." (Page 73)

In his autobiography, Kim Byung-man is no longer simply a gagman who makes you laugh. He symbolises someone who overcomes childhood hardship, never gives up despite repeated failures, only to work harder and finally becomes the ‘master’ whom many people love. The book was on sale since August 2011. It was reported 52,000 copies were sold within the first week of launch, earning itself a place in the bestseller chart.

In the press conference to launch his book, he spoke about his parents, “When time was hard, I felt a lot of resentment towards my mother. I always blamed my parents for the plight I was in. I used to press my father for an answer to why he made me so short (his height is 158.7m). But today, the applause I received was precisely because of my height and I am thankful for that.”

I like one statement which Kim made during the press conference: 사람은 태어나는 순간부터 내 자신을 내가 만들어가는 것이다 (The moment we were born, we were responsible for our own destiny)

Kim Byung-man may be successful today, he has not forgotten he is a 'tortoise'. If you have not seen a 'tortoise' won a race, here is one. Below are two videos of his 'Master' segment. When you watch his performance, you may wish to remember what he said, "Suffering from bruises and injuries are quite common but audience come to watch comedy and be entertained, I have to make my performance enjoyable and deliver laughter. What I can’t do is to show my worry, sorrow and pain." Those are words of a true master of comedy.

Master of soap bubbles

Master of smashing with fingers

It is still true that many 'tortoises' will not win any race when competing with the 'hares'. But more important than winning is to complete the race. For that, I would choose to be a tortoise than a rat.

모르는 사이에

2011-09-01T00:01:00.000+08:00

When we just focus on meeting deadlines and getting works done, it is easy to lose touch of time and our emotional ability to feel. It is almost autumn again and I thought I just came back from Korea.

In Gyeonggi Shrine in Jeonju

Metasequoia Forest Road in Damyang

가을을 부르는 코스모스

2011-08-29T22:55:00.022+08:00

'Autumn' peeking out of the fence

Cosmos heralds the arrival of autumn. Graduation ceremony in late August is affectionately called the cosmos graduation ceremony (코스모스 졸업식). How nice it would be if you could take your graduation photos in a field of swaying cosmos under the blue sky of autumn.

Not forgetting the breathtaking blue sky of early autumn

은행 나무 아래

2011-07-31T10:31:00.001+08:00

은행 나무 아래에 서서 가을의 아름다움을 충분히 느낀다. 은행 나무 아래에 하고 싶은 일은 우리 일상의 희노애락을 나누는 것이다. 재미있는 일이라든지 재미없는 일이라든지 상관없다. 기분이 좋기만 세상 죄다 좋다고 생각하기 때문이다.

희망이란

2011-07-30T00:01:00.000+08:00

희망이란 길이 끝나는 곳에서 늘 새로운 길이 시작되고 있는 것이다

맥문동 (麥門冬)

2011-07-27T22:54:00.001+08:00

During late July and early August, lilac-purple flowers cover the landscape of Seoul. It has the colour of Lavender but not its sweet scent. A native of East Asia, it's called Liriope or 맥문동 (麥門冬) in Korean. In Chinese, it's known as "山麦冬". Not only it's a good landscaping plant, its roots have medicinal value. When I see Liriope blooming, it reminds me that the end of summer is only a month away.

어서 오세요

2011-07-25T21:55:00.002+08:00

When you run a mom-and-pop store with passion, this is what you will get:

장마 지나간 후

2011-07-20T10:34:00.010+08:00

The monsoon has left and it's time to hit the beach. If there is some saving grace for the summer heat, it turns the beach into heaven.

I like to stay at the beach until sunset

오렌지 선셋

2011-07-17T18:12:00.000+08:00

This flower is a Calibrachoa and blooms from spring to fall. It has a beautiful name (which flower don't) - "Dream Kisses Orange Sunset". [Taken at Rose Garden, Seoul Grand Park]

How's this for orange sunset? Does orange sunet look dreamy? [Taken at Minmeoru Beach, Seongmo Island]

장맛비

2011-06-22T22:15:00.004+08:00

A non-rainy day during the monsoon season was a gift even if it was gloomy

I don't like summer heat but I miss the monsoon season. The season is here again. When it rains, remember to share your umbrella with the person next to you who have forgotten to bring one.

꿈

2011-06-02T23:54:00.001+08:00

"To realize one's destiny is a person's only real obligation . . . and, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it."

"Everyone seems to have a clear idea of how other people should lead their lives but none about his or her own.

Everyone, when they are young, knows what their destiny is. At that point in their lives, everything is clear and everything is possible. They are not afraid to dream, and to yearn for everything they would like to see happen to them in their lives. But, as time passes, a mysterious force begins to convince them that it will be impossible for them to realize their destiny.

At certain point in our lives, we lose control of what's happening to us, and our lives become controlled by fate. That's the world greatest lie.

There is one great truth on this planet: whoever you are, whatever it is that you do, when you really want something, it's because that desire originated in the soul of the universe. It's your mission on earth.

To realize one's destiny is a person's only real obligation.

And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.

It's the possibility of having dream come true that makes life interesting."

"The Alchemist", Paulo Coelho

개양귀비

2011-05-23T23:16:00.000+08:00

"To me, you are still nothing more than a little boy who is just like a hundred thousand other little boys. And I have no need of you. And you, on your part, have no need of me. To you, I am nothing more than a fox like a hundred thousand other foxes. But if you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world . . .", said the fox.

"I am beginning to understand," said the little prince. "There is a flower . . . I think that she has tamed me . . ."

I was always reminded of this conversation between the fox and the little prince whenever I saw a field of flowers. Thousands and millions of them but they all look the same to me. In the end, I only saw a sea of colours and not a single flower.

The month of June is the blooming season of Shirley Poppy (개양귀비), also known as 'Yang Gui Fei' in Korea. You heard it right, "Yang Gui Fei' (楊貴妃) is also the name of one of the four great beauties of the ancient China. With a name related to an ancient beauty, you can imagine how much more beautiful it would be to be standing in a field surrounded by thousands and millions of scarlet Shirley Poppy.

"There is a flower . . . I think that she has tamed me . . ."

A sea of scarlet Shirley Poppy in England

One place in Korea where you can enjoy the spectacle is "View Botanic Garden" (포천뷰식물, www.viewgarden.co.kr), located in Pocheon, Gyeonggi-do. It has a 7,000 'pyeong' (1 'pyeong' = 3.3m2) field filled with waving poppies every year in the month of June. Besides Shirley Poppy, you also get to see other species like Iceland Poppy, Tulip Poppy and Calfornia Poppy. These poppies are 'safe' in the sense they are not the poppy species which are known to produce opiates. The botanic garden held its first "Red Poppy Festival", the largest of its kind, in June 2006. During this annual festival, visitors can expect to taste food made and cooked with poppy petals. I wish I am in Korea in June so that I can tell you how they taste like.

길

2011-05-17T22:13:00.000+08:00

A road always leads to somewhere. The problem is you can't see it now.

인사동

2011-05-15T11:23:00.005+08:00

I found that I have never written any post on Insadong (인사동, 仁寺洞). Perhaps I have nothing much to elaborate about the place. If I am to describe it simply, Insadong is Korea equivalent to Chinatown. It covers a short stretch of street where you can find Korean traditional snacks peddling on pushcarts and plentiful traditional handcraft shops and restaurants. It is a recommended place to visit in urban Seoul, if you like all things traditional.

Probably the only Starbucks in the world that uses hangeul for its sign and it is found in Insadong. The thing about good branding is you would have guessed correctly it is Starbucks even though you may not know how to read hangeul.

Inside Ssamzigil building. This is the centre of attraction in Insadong. Ironically, things you see inside here are more trendy than traditional.

You can take a slow walk up the Ssamzigil building as it 'spirals' up from level 1 to 4. Things change quite frequently in here. I was never tired of walking up the building every time I was there.

Have a caricature done for you

Or try the popular red bean pancake that comes in the shape of ... (err... you look at the picture and then go and figure)

An unlikely place to find a chandelier - stairway in basement one. Contrast is always quite impactful. On the other side of the glass is a room where you can get hands-on experience making handicrafts.

If you are wondering where is the traditional part of Insadong in my posting, you are quite alert. Indeed, I have shown nothing of it and in view of that, you will have to discover that for yourselves. It won't take very long to walk one round; an hour or two should suffice.

비가 오는 5월

2011-05-07T01:39:00.001+08:00

Entering May, the campus sprung into activities. Celebration of college's anniversary lasted for weeks. Free open-air concerts went on every night. Joy and laughter filled the air, just like in wonderland. One drizzling evening, I received a call from my friend. Apparently, a famous boy group was going to perform in my campus that night.

We went early and there wasn't much crowd. I was told fans would only 'surface' when their idols perform and leave once their idols exit. As we waited for the boy group, relatively unknown singers took the stage. Drizzle became rain when a group of four young girls went on stage. The cheering crowd was pathetic. The girl group was unknown and had no fans. Despite that, they tried their best to please the crowd. Holding mic on one hand and an umbrella on the other, they sang with their heart.

Before their last song, they put away their umbrellas and and told the crowd, "We will stand with you in the rain now." After the girl group left, we thought we would be seeing the boy group soon. But information soon arrived that the boy group is not turning up because of the rain. My friend and I left the concert feeling short-changed.

One of the group of four girls. She has a very good vocal and could well be the main vocalist in one of the many Korean girl groups now.

May in Singapore this year is the season of election. In a few hours time, I will be going to the polling station. Trust me, I will be voting for people who will sing for me, who will sing with me, in the rain of May.

봄놀이

2011-04-18T23:50:00.000+08:00

The sky was cheery. The flowers were blooming beautifully. Birds, just out of their winter slumber, were feeding leisurely on the lawn. A group of students, waving placards and banners, joined in the 'spring celebrations'. There was no disturbance or disorderliness. The students' presence added a pinch of excitement to the joyous atmosphere. They left satisfied after being seen and heard. I took a deep breath. The air of freedom was light and refreshing.

동작대교

2011-04-17T20:07:00.001+08:00

Cafes are everywhere in Seoul. You can even find them on top of a bridge. Dongjak Bridge (동작대교, 銅雀大橋) has two cafes where you can have a cuppa while enjoying view of clouds or sunset. The two cafes, Cloud Cafe and Sunset Cafe, are separated by an expressway and subway track. To get there, take subway line 4 and alight at Dongjak Station and then exit by Exit 1.

The two cafes, which are mirror images of one another, are 'perched' 8-storey high above Hangang park, on both sides of the bridge. The cafes are served by elevator. Level 1 is park level, 2 is bridge level and 3 is cafe level.

Dongjak Bridge (동작대교, 銅雀大橋)

Remaining of the evening glow slowly fading into darkness

Darkness finally descended at Hangang

Sunset Cafe (노을 카페)

Cloud Cafe on the opposite side of expressway

Cloud Cafe (구름 카페)

걷기, 찍기, 올리기

2011-04-16T21:59:00.000+08:00

I walk, I shoot, I post. That was my favourite past time in Korea. I have not shoot a picture for a long time. By the way, my camera died on me several months ago, probably due to extended period of neglect. I don't think it has regrets; it has served its due purpose - record my sojourn in Korea.

지금

2011-04-14T00:29:00.000+08:00

가장 비싼 금이 뭔지 아세요?

가장 비싼 금은 황금도 백금도 아니고 지금입니다.

[Translation]

What is the most expensive 'metal'?

It is neither gold nor platinum, it is 'present'.

As the price of gold continues to shoot through the roof and beyond the reach of many people, fret not! we are still in possession of something more worthy, more precious. What we will be or not be, our regrets, our success, the day when dream comes true, depend on our present and not past. Alas, present is a capital, though in great abundance is badly under-utilised.

Sitting and doing nothing at a quiet seaside during spring

Wasting time away in a cafe during a free afternoon

해당화

2011-04-09T23:43:00.004+08:00

贴梗海棠 (Chaenomeles speciosa)

春天里，不止要赏樱花，也要赏赏海棠花。

北宋文人苏东坡因为不忍心海棠的娇艳妩媚被月光遗弃，所以愿意在夜深人静的时候点起蜡烛继续照亮它的明艳红妆。他在《海棠》诗里如此写到：

“东风袅袅泛崇光，香雾空蒙月转廊。
只恐夜深花睡去，故烧高烛照红妆。”

明代“风流才子”唐伯虎在他所画的《海棠美人图》上提了这么一首诗：
“褪尽东风满面妆，可怜蝶粉与蜂狂。
自今意思谁能说，一片春心付海棠。”

男人要称得上风流就必须先懂得女人心。唐伯虎以此诗来比喻女人藏起来的心事就好比海棠无法散发香味一样，惹得蜂蝶不知如何是好。

现代文学家张爱玲人生有三恨：一恨海棠无香，二恨鲥鱼多刺，三恨红楼梦未完。

当代女作家冰心在她的散文《一日的春光》里有这么一段写到他对海棠无香的看法：

“东坡恨海棠无香，我却以为若是香得不妙，宁可无香。我的院里栽了几棵丁香和珍珠梅，夏天还有玉簪，秋天还有菊花，栽后都很后悔。因为这些花香，都使我头痛，不能折来养在屋里。所以有香的花中，我只爱兰花、桂花、香豆花和玫瑰，无香的花中，海棠要算我最喜欢的了。”

海棠在中国深受文人墨客的青睐，最主要的原因是因为在它出众的姿色之中嗅不到任何的脂粉味。如果你能接受海棠无香，或许你也会明白为什么真爱无言。

韩国也有海棠花，可是韩国的海棠花(Rosa rugosa)不是中国人所熟知的海棠花。韩国的海棠花不止比中国的大，而且还有香味。尽管如此，中国或韩国的海棠花，如同玫瑰和苹果，都属蔷薇科。说到底还是一家人。

해당화 (Rosa rugosa)

4월 첫날

2011-04-01T23:31:00.000+08:00

Hi everyone, I am back in Korea. Spring is in the air although the morning air is still chilly. It feels so much like home-coming to see familiar sights like Gyeongbok Palace once again. I can't wait to see the cherry blossoms soon.

Walking down Hyoja-ro (효자로, 孝子路) beside Gyeongbok Palace

The enchanting Gwanghwamun at night

I hope you do realise that it is April Fools' Day today :)

매화향

2011-03-23T21:43:00.001+08:00

If you don't go through freezing cold, you ain't going to smell the fragrance of plum blossoms. It's time now to go out and view the plum blossoms.

"조차"와 "마저"의 차이

2011-03-10T00:39:00.001+08:00

My friend asked, "What's the difference between "조차" and "마저"?"

I thought I know but I actually don't. So I checked up some reference books and here is what I have learned.

"조차" and "마저" can only be used in negative situation. "조차" can be substituted with "마저" but the reverse is not always true. Their main difference is, "조차" can only be used in negative sentence (부정문, 否定文) while "마저" can be used in both negative and positive sentence (긍정문, 肯定文).

Example:

1. 그 학생은 노래조차 못 불러 (O)

2. 그 학생은 노래마저 못 불러 (O)

Explanation: In 1 and 2, the negative situation mentioned is the inability to even sing a song properly. Also, both sentences are considered negative sentences because they end with "못 불러". Since both situation and sentence are negative, "조차" and "마저" can be used interchangeably.

3. 추운데 바람조차 부네요 (X)

4. 추운데 바람마저 부네요 (O)

Explanation: In 3 and 4, the negative situation mentioned is the wind blowing during cold weather. However, quite different from 1 and 2, 3 and 4 end with "부네요" which makes them positive sentences. Under such circumstance, "조차" cannot be used. What comes after "조차" are always negative things like "못", "않다", "지 않다", "없다", "힘들다", "죽다" etc.

A quick-fix remedy is available for people who cannot differentiate both. Just use "까지". You can replace "조차" and "마저" in 1-4 and they are still grammatically correct. Furthermore, "까지" can also be used in positive situation which I'm not elaborating.

This quick-fix remedy reminds me of something which my teacher said. If you don't know the correct usage of "(으)러서" and "(으)러써", you can always circumvent the problem by using "(으)러".

어느덧

2011-02-28T15:55:00.000+08:00

어느덧 겨울이 다 지나갔다. 시간이 원래도 이렇게 모르는 사이에 흘러간다.

Misty afternoon at Mt. Namhan in Feb

Naked trees at Mt. Bukhan in Mar

어느덧 힘든 시절이 다 지나갔다. 웃어라 봄이 왔니까.

Royal Azelea in April

Dandelion in June

Sunflower in August

사차원

2011-02-21T01:57:00.006+08:00

What does it mean when you are called a "사차원" (四次元)?. Try searching its dictionary meaning and you will get the explanation of fourth dimension. You won't get help from dictionary in this case.

"사차원" is a rather 'cute' way of saying that you're unconventional or unique in the way you think, speak or behave. In simple words, you're an oddball. "사차원" is not meant to be a derogatory term and you're supposed to take it light-heartedly.

In science, it is said that a four-dimensional being, if it ever exists, would be able to see the world in three dimensions, i.e. able to see an object from all angles without moving. Three-dimensional beings, like us, are only able to see the world through our own eyes in two dimensions.

A friend took the above photo and asked, "What do you see?" I see two down lights and a row of LED lights. "No, it's a smiling face!", she said. I was speechless. I thought I met a four-dimensional being or should I say "사차원".

백일우채통

2011-02-14T14:14:00.002+08:00

"Please send treasured memory to the person whom you love... I will fill up (the letter) with happiness and send it 100 days later."

100-day letterbox (백일우채통, 百日郵遞筒) is a novelty idea by a cafe. in Daehangno You can write a letter and drop it into the letterbox before you leave. 100 days later, the cafe staff will help you post the letter to the addressee.

What will happen after 100 days? Happiness will befall on people who still have future to work towards. But if what's left are past memories, it's still beautiful to say, "고마워 행복한 꿈을 꿀 수 있게 해줘서." (Thank you for allowing me to dream a happy dream.)

I wonder if anyone will attempt a 100-month letterbox (백달우채통). It will definitely be more tear-jerking reading a letter posted more than 8 years ago. But there are technical challenges. Not many novelty cafes can last that long and even if they do, there won't be enough space to keep 8-year load of letters.

If memories cannot be posted, will you leave them behind in the past?

지금 어디야?

2011-02-10T20:08:00.001+08:00

What's a true love story? Nah, it's ain't living happily ever after, that's fairytale.

Two meanings of "Where are you now?"

"Where are you now?"

Once in a while, Soon-jong would be taken aback by Yoon-hee's unexpected call from home.

"What do you mean where I am? Of course I'm in office..."

After Soon-jong had replied, Yoon-hee then moved on to talk about other matters before hanging up. The question seems innocent, but when asked repeatedly, it slowly got on Soon-jong's nerves. One day, just after Yoon-hee had finished asking the same question, Soon-jong suddenly blew his top.

"Why? Do I look like I'm seeing another woman? Why must you keep asking the same question over and over again? It's office hour, I can only be in office, so where do you think I can go?"

The unexpected talk back from Soon-jong, left Yoon-hee totally stunned. To her, asking "where are you" is just another form of greeting and to find out for curiosity sake "what are you doing now?" As they say, "He that commits a fault thinks everyone speaks of it" Suddenly, Yoon-hee began to suspect that Soon-jong might actually have an affair after all. Why was Soon-jong angry and why did Yoon-hee become the target of his sudden outburst?

In working life, one of the things which employees hated most is to receive a call from their superiors asking them, "Where are you now?" After pagers were replaced by mobile phones, the most stressful thing for employees was to be caught off guard by call from their superiors giving them business-related instructions. Their main gripe was they were unable to escape from the stress of being under constant surveillance. However, after caller ID was introduced, the chance of running into a one-on-one situation and parrying off onslaught from their superiors like a goalkeeper was greatly reduced (since they could choose the call to answer). Despite that, the persistent feeling they were under constant surveillance didn't help to make their mood any better. So, "Where are you now?", has subconsciously become a form of invisible attack which can instantly trigger off some sort of defensive behaviour. In contrast, asking "Where are you now?" is something intimate and part of woman's efforts to maintain intimacy with her partner. Asking "Where are you now?" or "What are you doing now?" is quite a normal action a woman will do to confirm and picture the situation her partner is in, so that she can find a common contact point where she shares his experience. It is not her intention to secretly check on her partner whether he is up to some mischief behind her back, but a simple query out of curiosity of his current situation. But when a man feels that he is a victim of constant surveillance in the first place, quibble will ensue inevitably.

(Translated extract of the article "지금 어디야?" 라는 말의 두 가지 의미" by 하지현 교수, Konkuk University School of Medicine, Department of Neuropsychiatry)

*********

One of my teachers said, "During courtship, guy will pretend to be ultra-caring whilst girl will try hard to act demure. But after marriage, there is no end to quibbling. Things that we don't see eye to eye aren't big issues like global warming or terrorism, but trivial things like why he drops his shirt on the floor when the laundry bag is only 10cm away? Why does he like to press the toothpaste tube at the middle?" However, when asked if she is happily married, her eyes gave off an affirmative 'yes'.

국태민안

2011-02-02T23:53:00.004+08:00

Peace in country and society

There is a saying that if Lunar New Year's eve doesn't fall on the 29th day for three years, mother will have to carry her baby and run. This is the third year that Lunar New Year's eve falls on the 30th day. If the saying is right, then the year of rabbit may not be a good year. But regardless, good year or bad year, we'll still celebrate Lunar New Year. A good start to the year is half the success after all. Have a peaceful and safe year ahead.

Great luck and smooth sailing in everything

Four years ago, I received a Korean new year card. I like to use the greeting found in the card to thank all the people who have shown their kindness to me all this while and to the poster of the card, Eun-song. I couldn't have said it better:

"평소에 보살펴 주신 恩惠에 깊이 感謝를 새해를 맞이하여 幸運이 함께 하시기를 祈願합니다." (Even if you don't understand Korean, the four Chinese words say it all.)

향수병

2011-01-26T23:37:00.000+08:00

Mandarin proficiency is a plus when it comes to learning Korean. I can guess the meaning of many Korean words by simply matching their pronunciation to Chinese words of similar sound. Since I know the meaning of most Chinese words, it saves me the trouble of looking up Korean dictionary frequently for the meaning of unknown words. But sometimes, matching can go wrong.

Take "향수" (pronounced "hiang soo") for example, I was quite certain it means perfume since I matched it to "香水" (pronounced "xiang shui"). It was only logical that when I came across the word "향수병", "香水瓶" (perfume bottle) came to mind. But the problem was, the context in which I saw "향수병" wasn't talking about perfume, fragrance or anything closely related to it. On checking the dictionary, I found out "향수병" is not only "香水瓶", it's also "鄕愁病" (homesickness).

"独在异乡为异客，每逢佳节倍思亲" (poem) - "When you're alone in a foreign land, you'll miss your family even more during every festival". One of the ways to mitigate the pangs of homesickness is to eat some good home food. That was what I thought when I visited Kopitiam in Seoul hoping to taste some good old kopitiam coffee and crispy kaya toast. I don't think I need to describe how the food tasted. Suffice to say, I should have known earlier that the place is meant for Koreans and not for some homesick Singaporean.

Kopitiam in Seoul is not kopitiam at home. Don't get homesick in it.

쓸쓸한 삶

2011-01-22T21:52:00.003+08:00

“삶은 쓸쓸하다. 또는 쓸쓸하지 않다” -《두 겹의 노래》 이문열

"Life is lonely. It's also not lonely." - "Twofold Song" by Yi Mun-yol

G.K. Chesterton defined paradox as "Truth standing on her head to get attention." Such is the power of paradox - it tells the truth and gets your attention at the same time.

Why is life lonely? Life is lonely because of alienation. Karl Marx believed that alienation is a systematic result of capitalism. Why is life then not lonely. Because it is never meant to be.

P.S. This posting is inspired by a email from a friend who has just read Yi Mun-yol's "Twofold Song". The picture of street lamp (above) was taken in Bukchon. Somehow, I felt it was 'lonely' ... or was I 'lonely' ... in a capitalist society?

도대체 왜?

2011-01-07T22:37:00.005+08:00

My teacher asked my US classmate to explain the word "도대체" (都大體) in a sentence that we just read. He said it is something like "욕" (辱, expletive). My teacher and the rest of my Chinese classmates was puzzled by his interpretation. I was alone in nodding my head in agreement because I knew exactly how he arrived at that conclusion.

The dictionary's translation of "도대체" is, "(what, how, why) on earth". However, a more crude translation, "what the *beep*" makes sense too, if not more. Sentence like "도대체 뭘 하는 거예요?" can be translated as, "What the *beep* are you doing?" So, if "what the *beep*" is not "욕" than what is? My US classmate has every good reason to believe so.

My Chinese classmates did not form such connection because "도대체" is translated as "到底" or "究竟" in Chinese and both words are in no way connected to expletives. Sentence "도대체 뭘 하는 거예요?" translated as, "你到底在干什么?", conveys a sense of agitation but nothing profane.

Korean dictionary gives two definitions for "도대체":

1. Definition 1: mainly used in a question to mean "keep to the important points"
e.g. 도대체 뭘 하는 거예요? (Tell me only the important points, what are you doing?)

2. Definition 2: mainly used in negative-tone (부정) sentence to mean "completely"
e.g. 네가 하는 말은 도대체 알 수 없어요 (I totally cannot understand what you say)

Like Chinese, Korean definitions of "도대체" carry the same sense of agitation but nothing more.

The 'Hanja' of "도대체" - "都大體" is no longer seen in modern Chinese literature. Based on its Chinese characters, 都大體 can be explained in its two root words "都" and "大體". "都" means "all or total" and "大體" means "important points". The meaning of the two root words matches very well with the two Korean definitions of "도대체".

That should explain why my teacher and Chinese classmates were puzzled by my US classmate's unexpected answer. "도대체" is not an expletive but due to translation, it becomes one. What can be say of this episode is, the actual meaning of things can be lost in translation. The more diverse the cultures, the more difficult it is to have faithful translation.

At the end of the class, my US classmate spoke to me, "Isn't 도대체 what a *beep*? Isn't it a expletive?" I agreed with him, "Yes, in some way, it sounds like an expletive but the others won't understand." I misled him but not on purpose, because that was actually what I thought back then before I checked the Korean definition of the word.

기초부터

2011-01-05T01:22:00.000+08:00

After laying off my Korean books for more than a year, I think it's time I reopen them. Fortunately, my Korean language skills weren't wasted away during the 'dormant' period. On the contrary, I think my listening and reading skills are much better now than before. It helps that I watch Korean programmes and read Korean news quite often. To start off, it's back to basics. There's something new which I learn about the word '당신' and '말씀'.

As a beginner, I thought the second-person pronoun 'you' can be translated to either '당신' in honorific speech or '너' in casual speech. Now I know I was misled. I have narrowed down the cause of my misunderstanding to some poorly-published Korean language self-help books which I bought when I first started to have interest in the language. Those books use '당신' so freely as if Koreans use it all the time. Actually, the correct use of '당신' is restricted to only two kinds of situation. Outside of these two situations, the use of it is simply inappropriate.

Situation 1 - Between husband and wife
e.g. 여보, 당신은 어제 뭘 했어요?
(Darling, what did you do yesterday?)

Situation 2 - Between two persons who are in heated argument or are quarrelling
e.g. 당신이 남의 일에 끼어들지마
(Hello, you better don't interfere in other's business)

For '말씀', all this while, I understood it as the honorific form (높임말) of the word '말'. However, what I didn't know is, it can also be the humble form (낮춤말) of '말'. In Korean language, there are two ways one can show respect to other - one is to 'elevate' other by using '높임말', the other is to 'degrade' oneself using '낮춤말'.

Situation 1. '말씀' as a '높임말' to 'elevate' other
e.g. 부모님의 말씀대로 저는 열심히 공부하겠습니다
(I will study hard according to what my parents said)

Situation 2. '말씀' as a '낮춤말' to 'downgrade' oneself
e.g. 제가 말씀을 드릴게요
(I shall give my speech)

Apparently, my foundation in honorific is still in need of more hard work. I used to lament that Korean language is so 'troublesome' because of the need to use honorific. I didn't mean to be disrespectful by saying that but learning to use the right honorific for the right situation is indeed a lot of hard work for foreigners. It's quite laughable now to know that I once thought honorific is just adding ~세요 to the end of each statements plus changing a few words here and there. That just shows how much I skimmed through the foundation part. But sometimes, certain fundamentals are not easily understood at the beginning. You may have to go one big round and back to really appreciate them. So, that's why I'm back to basics.

안녕 2011

2011-01-02T18:56:00.004+08:00

Hello friends and strangers, Happy New Year! It is another year. I hope we are all wiser by a year, but the bad news is, we are also closer to the end by one year. As they say, you gain some, you lose some.

I do not believe in making new year resolutions. It is not because I do not have the resolve to achieve anything, rather, I do not think life should be led based on a list of checkboxes. So what if I have all the checkboxes ticked at the end of the year? Am I a better and happier person than the year before? What about the things I lose in the process? Checkboxes do not seem to take care of that. All said, I still do believe in making some plans so that I know where I should head toward.

I managed to watch "Hello Stranger" over this long new year holiday. It is a Thai romantic flick made in Korea and it is slowly gaining popularity through words of mouth here. Thailand is better known for its horror flicks but "Hello Stranger" is about to make change to this long-held impression of movies from the land of thousand smiles. The storyline revolves around two strangers who fell in love in Korea after being dumped by their lovers. Since they did not know each other's real name, they greeted each other, "hello, stranger" or in Thai's pronunciation - "In Dee Tee My Rojak". You will hear more of this expression in the 1st music video below.

After the show, a question suddenly popped up in my mind - what is the difference between friend and stranger? Sometimes, friend feels like stranger while stranger feels like friend. In some instances, I felt I have more things to talk about with a stranger than a friend. I think it could be that stranger is not likely to carry any bias of me and so, I may be less inhibited to reveal some of my innermost feeling. So, have you ever wonder why some people would rather call up some strangers in the radio station to talk about their problems than to discuss them with their family members or close friends?

Definition-wise, friend and stranger are as different as day and night but feeling-wise, I cannot differentiate both clearly. What this means is, even if you do not know my real name, we can still be good friend. "In Dee Tee My Rojak" ^^

Two very nice music videos from the movie, "Hello Stranger".

ยินดีที่ไม่รู้จัก (pronounced "In Dee Tee My Rojak"), Hello Stranger

รักไม่ต้องการเวลา, Love does not need time

가을의 마음

2010-12-27T00:13:00.005+08:00

秋天的心情是怎么样的一种心情呢？说穿了就是一个愁字。辛弃疾说：“少年不识愁滋味”，说得真好。少年无法感触离别和结束的无奈，因为少年是属于百花齐放，百鸟争鸣的春天。对于识尽愁滋味的我来说，今年的秋天却一点都不惆怅。秋风习习，良辰美景，不得不赞叹：“真是天凉好个秋”。

한 바퀴

2010-12-22T21:17:00.006+08:00

명동 재발견

2010-12-20T11:29:00.002+08:00

Myeongdong is a place in Seoul which I lost count of the times I visited. The problem when we get too familiar with someone or something or some place, impression of them becomes weaker until we become indifference. The fault doesn't lie with people, it's the body physiological mechanism which is at work, protecting itself from overload against repeated and 'useless' stimulation from the same source.

Despite my growing indifference towards Myeongdong, I still make it a point to visit it every now and then because the place changes quite fast. On my last visit, I discovered the famous stall that sold the 32-inch tall soft-serve ice cream was gone for good. Myeongdong is also fast losing its diversity as skincare and cosmetics product labels of any kinds are displacing shops which offer other products or services at a rapid pace. If diversity is necessary for vibrancy, Myeongdong's vibrancy could well be diminishing.

Myeongdong has been 'colonised' by skincare and cosmetics label of all kinds.

Noon Square - Singapore's 'footprint' in Myeongdong

북 카폐

2010-12-18T16:17:00.002+08:00

One of my friends wants to open a book cafe. Whether her idea will come to fruition is anyone guess. I've my reservation and it is not the idea but the feasibility of the idea. The environment is not quite favorable for entrepreneurship. Anyway, I shan't dwell further on the feasibility part. Rather, I would like to imagine what my friend's book cafe will look like if it is for real. I came across one small book cafe in Daehangno (대학로, 大學路) which I think can serve as a good reference.

A book cafe should have cute mascots to attract attention.

It should have beautifully-decorated window panels

It should have good photo-taking spots.

It should be easily accessible, preferably beside a road where there is a steady flow of human traffic.

It should have eye-catching sign and name.

It should have a beverage menu that includes: espresso, americano, cappuccino, latte, mocha, caramel macchiato, hot chocolate, green tea latte, fresh fruit juice and herb tea. Food menu should have sandwich, muffin, cookie, bagel and cheese cake as options. Used books should come with 60-70% discount. The collection of 'for sale' and 'not for sale' books should be around three thousands in number. Last but not least, it must have wireless internet.

시간을 초월한 사랑

2010-12-15T23:31:00.008+08:00

The reason why I went Seomgmo Island was to look for a place where the seaside house in "Il Mare" once stood. I found it despite not knowing exactly where it was located on the island. Perhaps, I should say finding it was a matter of serendipity.

A decade has passed since the film was made. The filming site has undergone a lot of changes. Asphalt road and concrete barrier were signs of development that has taken place. However, the familiar mudflat and the misty late autumn morning were still there to greet me.

If there was a letterbox standing somewhere, I might be tempted to write a letter and drop it in. It will not be a letter to heaven, it will be for someone who will pick it up 2 years later. The letter will probably start like this, "By the time you read this letter, I will be already 2 years into your future..."

Scenes from "Il Mare"

자전거 타기의 즐거움

2010-12-13T23:23:00.014+08:00

With a rented bike, I went exploring the southern coast of Seongmo Island. I like the feeling of riding bike on a quiet stretch of countryside road. It helps to restore the peace in my mind, made murky by mundane worry and anxiety.

Loneliness amplified itself many times when you are out in the vast open while chilly autumn breezes blew. The cry of the wild geese in the field didn't help except to deepen the sense of loneliness already overflowing. Nobody was in sight. Traffic was occasional. It felt like I had the whole world to myself. The feeling was scary but at the same time, liberating. Everyone needs to have some quiet moment sometimes.

석모도 (席毛島)

2010-12-12T16:29:00.005+08:00

Flock of seagulls flying overhead at the stern of the car ferry

Going on a trip to an island is not an activity people will usually engage in during late autumn. I have my reason why I choose to visit Seongmo Island during a time when people would rather stay indoor than to be out exposed to chilly wind. I shall let the reason be known later. Meanwhile, this is my journey log to Seongmo Island.

To get my destination in Seongmo Island, I have to take one subway ride, three bus rides and one ferry ride. Starting from Jongno in central Seoul, I took line 5 to Songjeong Station. Outside exit 1 of the station, I boarded bus 3000 (or bus 88) bound for Ganghwa inter-city bus terminal. It took slightly over an hour to reach the terminal. At the terminal, I switched to 'Oepo-ri' (외포리) bound bus 31 which was waiting at platform 15. About 25 minutes later, I arrived at 'Oepo-ri' terminal. I found the 'Oepo-ri' jetty behind the row of buildings surrounding the small waiting at the ramp. The ferry ride was only 5 minutes and soon I was on the opposite side, at 'Seokpo-ri' (석포리) jetty in Seongmo Island. A village bus was waiting not far from the jetty. I paid 1,000won and told the bus driver my destination (the bus can stop anywhere along its designated route if you inform the bus driver in advance). My destination was 'Seongmodo Iyagi' pension (석모도 이야기) located at the south-eastern end of the island.

'Pension' is Korea's equivalent of chalet. The old couple who ran the pension were very nice people. I paid 50,000won for a small room but they upgraded me to the biggest room in their pension which would otherwise cost 200,000won per day. Through their help, I also got to rent a bicycle for a day. The rental shop owner didn't ask me to pick up the bicycle at his shop, instead he delivered the bicycle together with another scooter on the back of his truck. The scooter was brought along so that I could make a switch if I wanted but I chose to stick with my bicycle. This is a typical example of the service culture in Korea.

With my bicycle, I was ready to explore the southern coast of the island.

Cars queuing to go up the car ferry at 'Oepo-ri' jetty

Seagulls crowding at the stern of the ferry. Their target, food that was being waved at them by the passengers. Initially, it was interesting to see so many seagulls flying very close, but soon, it became a concern. Any of these seagulls could actually hit someone because they were really close, like right in front of your eyes. Not to mention, they might decide to hone their 'aerial bombing' skill when overhead. You definitely don't want to be under them when they decide to execute it.

Car ferry arriving at 'Seokpo-ri' jetty

At 'Seokpo-ri' jetty

On my way to 'Seongmodo Iyagi' pension. Light breaking through overcast sky.

'Seongmodo Iyagi' pension. I stayed in the 2nd level - a big room with a big LCD TV which could receive skylife programmes. However, internet connection was down. Being 'disconnected' from the rest of the world for a day wasn't a bad idea after all.

민머루해수욕장

2010-12-12T15:07:00.000+08:00

From Jeonju to Naejangsan to Damyang to Baekyangsa, my "autumn tales" are almost over. There is just one more place left in my itinerary. That's Seongmo Island (석모도, 席毛島). I was there not for the autumn leaves but for the sea. In Italian, the sea is known as "Il Mare".

Minmeoru Beach (민머루해수욕장) is the only beach in Seongmo Island. It is located south of the island. The pictures below were taken between 3pm and 5pm. If you want to see bigger picture of them, click on each of the picture.

백양사의 가을 (2)

2010-12-08T00:21:00.053+08:00

The poem written by monk 'Seo Ong' (서옹, 西翁) on his visit to 'Twin Stream Pavilion' (쌍계루, 雙溪樓) was engraved on a stone slab near the entrance of Baekyangsa.

次雙溪樓韻 (차쌍계루운)

尨眉緇衲一癡僧 (방미치납일치승)

倚杖隨溪步自能 (의장수계보자능)

看到雲煙醒又醉 (간도운연성우취)

翫弄神變錯還增 (완롱신변착환증)

金風暗換楓初紫 (금풍암환풍초자)

秋月方明水愈澄 (추월방명수유징)

凡聖都忘閑吹笛 (범성도망한취적)

倒騎須彌任運登 (도기수미임운등)

In this poem, there is a sense of unbridled freedom and perfect enjoyment. Who needs 'soju' to get drunk when you are surrounded by a beautiful sea of red and orange maple leaves?

'Twin Stream Pavilion' (쌍계루, 雙溪樓)

The pavilion has its back facing Baekamsan and its front facing a stream.

The view of the stream in front of 쌍계루

A family resting in 쌍계루 as the morning sun shone lowly in.

No artificial colourings added

Monk Seo Ong's poem was carved onto this slab of stone

Fallen maples are equally attractive

The earth and water are like on fire

Topping up cool spring water outside the temple

Walking up to the entrance of Baekyangsa, guided by colourful lanterns.

The entrance of Baekyangsa

The bell tower

Baekamsan (back) and the bell tower (front)

On the way back

Fallen maple leaves collected at one corner

Pattern of autumn

Very old maple trees lined this maple tree forest road

Festival at Baekyangsa

Parting shot of autumn

백양사의 가을 (1)

2010-12-07T00:22:00.017+08:00

Baekyangsa (백양사, 白羊寺) is situated in Jangseong County (장성군, 長城郡), South Jeolla province (전라남도, 全羅南道). This buddhist temple is about one hour bus ride away from Gwangju. It lies on the slope of Baekamsan (백암산, 白巖山) and is part of the Naejangsan National Park. It was built in 632 during the Baekje kingdom (백제, 白濟). Legend has it that the temple got its name from a white sheep which attained enlightenment after hearing the sermons delivered in the temple.

As I have many pictures to share on my trip to Baekyangsa, I shall divide my posting on this place into 2 parts. The first part will show pictures taken on my way to Baekyangsa. The second part will be on Baekyangsa and the return journey. Baekyangsa is a highly recommended place to visit during autumn. After my visit, it felt like I have seen all that I have wanted for autumn and anymore is excess.

This gate marks the start of a long walk to Baekyangsa.

Very delicate painting on the gate structure.

Cars queuing up to go in

Tour coaches from all over the country

인산인해 (人山人海), endless human traffic

Baekamsan (백암산, 白巖山)

Canopy formed by very old maple trees

Trees along this road are hundreds of years old making this a scenic spot.

죽녹원 (竹綠園)

2010-12-06T22:01:00.001+08:00

Damyang is synonymous with bamboo. To leave Damyang without visiting its bamboo forest is equivalent to not have been to Damyang.

The Bamboo Forest Theme Park (죽녹원, 竹綠園) located beside Yeongsan River is a must-visit place in Damyang. I would not say that there are anything you ought to see there but if you have never taken a walk through a bamboo forest, that alone is good enough reason to visit the place.

Bamboo Forest Theme Park right ahead

Entrance of Bamboo Forest. Admission fee is 3,000won.

Surrounded by bamboo

Bamboo, bamboo and more bamboo

Nothing else but bamboo. Actually, it isn't a bad thing. However, I couldn't sense the peace within because there were a lot of visitors which created quite a dim.

Bamboo forest road. Be prepare to walk up and down slope.

Mark of memory

No lock needed. A green and economical way to express your feeling.

Filming site of Korean dramas and movies

Direction sign pointing to 'Two Days One Night' filming site.

The board wrote that Eun Jiwon and Lee Seunggi fell into the icy pond when the thin layer of ice below them gave way as they were playing a game of retrieving bamboo stick on thin ice. They called the pond the 'Lee Seunggi' pond after he fell into it. I saw that episode of the programme.

'Lee Seunggi Pond' as they call it.

Korean traditional building at 'Bamboo Frangrance Cultural Experience Village' (죽향문화체험미을) which is connected to Bamboo Forest Theme Park.

Persimmon being hung up to dry at the 'Bamboo Frangrance Cultural Experience Village' in specially made hanger.

This is Yeongsan River. You have to cross this river to reach Bamboo Forest.

Bike rental service also available by the riverside.

Bamboo Forest Theme Park is located about 1.3km away from Damyang Bus Terminal. You are required to cross Yeongsan River before you can get to the park's entrance.

메타세쿼이아 가로수길

2010-12-05T19:40:00.012+08:00

Standing in the middle of Damyang's Metasequoia Forest Road, word is useless. This road is described as the most beautiful tree-lined road in Korea. Damyang (담양, 潭陽) is actually more famous for its bamboo, but I was there for its metasequoia instead. I think the best times to visit the place are during autumn and snowing days. I thought the whole place would look more picturesque if the fallen leaves were kept on the road and not swept away. Anyway, Metasequoia Forest Road is still very rich in autumn atmosphere.

After this fence is the start of the Metasequoia Forest Road.

Electric two-wheelers for kids

Electric four-wheelers for kids

Bikes for adults and couples. The back of the bike wrote, "Your love is forever when you ride the bike here." 이런 말이 되냐?

It was still early in the morning. The weekend crowd has yet to arrive.

Kang Ho-dong and his gang in "2 Days and 1 Night" were here. The whole place must have been very noisy when they were filming there.

The board wrote, "KBS2 TV popular entertainment programme "2 Days 1 Night" team comprising Kang Ho-dong and the other five members plus the production staff filmed at the Damyang's most representative places of interest - the most beautiful tree-lined road - 'Metasequoia Forest Road', bamboo theme park - 'Bamboo Green Park' and 'hanok' experience site - 'Bamboo Fragrance Cultural Experience Village', etc."

Check the website shown to learn more about Damyang's places of interest.

Huge metasequoia

A leaf of metasequoia

Coming to the end of the road. The road is about 900m long

Bike rental service and food stalls can be found at either end of the road

A small-scale concert stage being set up at Metasequoia Forest Road.

How to Get There?

Upon coming out from the Damyang Bus Terminal, turn left and walk towards north-east direction for about 2km along the road indicated by the red line in the map below.

From Damyang Bus Terminal to the start point of Metasequoia Forest Road is about 2km (indicated by the red line). The actual Metasequoia Forest Road is about 900m long indicated by the green line

Direction sign along the way to point you in the right direction.

The roads before Metasequoia Forest Road are all lined with metasequoia. but they are dangerous for photo-taking as the roads are used by cars.

직통내장산

2010-12-05T17:45:00.070+08:00

Naejangsan National Park (내장산국립공원, 內藏山國立公園)

The afternoon after leaving Jeonju, I took a bus from Jeonju inter-city bus terminal to Jeong-eup (정읍). The travel time was 1 hour and the bus ticket 3,900won.

The next morning, I took a direct bus to Naejangsan at Jeong-eup bus terminal (정읍시외버스공용정류장). The trip took about 25 minutes and cost 1,300won. The bus arrived at the Naejangsan stop beside a 'Family Mart' convenience store. After I alighted, I was not too sure of the way to the entrance of Naejangsan. However, my instinct told me to follow the crowd and true enough, I got to where I wanted by finding the crowd and following behind them.

After more than three hours up in the Naejangsan National Park, I was back at the same 'Family Mart' convenience store. I bought a bus ticket to Gwangju (광주, 光州) for 5200won at a temporary ticket counter inside the convenience store. The bus journey to Gwangju took about 1 hour 25 minutes with a 10 minutes stop-over at Jeong-eup bus terminal. Gwangju serves as a convenient base to access different places in Jeolla province.

Bus schedule for the Naejangsan's direct bus at Jeong-eup bus terminal.

Time schedule for Gwangju-bound bus pasted outside 'Family Mart' convenience store. A temporary bus ticket counter was set up inside the store to sell tickets. Here was the point where I got off and board my bus.

Walking along the road to the bus stop after completing my visit. The road was jammed with traffic.

I have not figured out where in Jeong-eup to take Bus 171 to Naejangsan.

Gwangju Integrated Bus Terminal (광주종합버스터미널) inside U.square

The colourful U.square building

Shinsegae beside U.square in central Gwangju

내장산국립공원

2010-12-04T23:49:00.010+08:00

Walking under a sea of red and yellow maple leaves, I ought to be excited but I was not. Somehow, I did not connect with Naejangsan (내장산, 內藏山). Perhaps, it was the overwhelming crowd. I am not quite accustomed to mountain being crowded with people.

Naejangsan is second to Seoraksan (설악산, 雪岳山) in term of the number of autumn visitors. Some says that Naejangsan's autumn scenery is better than Seoraksan but since I have not been to Seoraksan, I cannot comment on that. Similar to Seoraksan, Naejangsan also has cable car service to take visitors up to the peak without breaking a sweat.

Talking about cable car, I do hope those activists who are fighting to stop the authority from installing cable car in Jirisan National Park win their fight eventually. Jirisan (지리산, 智異山) is described as an 'alive' and 'breathing' mountain by its protectors. It is amazing how people can feel so much for a mountain but then, it will not be surprising if you have been touched once by its natural beauty. Jirisan is one mountain I wish to visit in future. One day, I would want to feel its 'heartbeat'.

Autumn scenery at Naejangsan did not inspire me much and it was not because it was not beautiful. If the scenery is not good, then people would not have flocked there every autumn by the busloads. The truth is, I did not feel much about the mountain. Hence, if my photos look 'uninspiring', you should know why. Another thing which turned out quite differently was, the autumn scenery appeared much better at the mountain foot than at the top. On hind sight, the cable car ride to the peak and back seems quite unnecessary. Anyway, more 'inspired' pictures of autumn coming out soon.

Walking under a sea of red and yellow maple leaves

A bazaar was set up at the entrance to the mountain to coincide with the arrival of autumn crowd. Seen selling at the bazaar, a heap of red date or jujube.

Free shuttle bus service provided. Entrance is also free.

The queue for the free shuttle bus service was very very long. You have not seen the tail end yet.

Since, I don't like to wait in a long queue, I chose to walk. The signboard above says, "A walk in the heart of nature is like taking health supplements."

As I walked up the track around 11am, people were already on their way out.

Autumn by the mountain stream

Fallen maple leaves floating gracefully in the stream.

A long but easy walk up the track. There is no slope along the way too vercome.

Autumn leaves on trees, in water or on ground are equally pretty.

Group photo is a must when the scenery is so pretty.

The season is more beautiful when there is love

You need to keep moving because there are more to see ahead.

This is just one of the nine peaks in Naejangsan.

Pace of walking slowed down naturally at every beautiful stretch.

Water point available in the park

A nice spot for picnic. Good shade provided by low-lying maple trees

Resting time

Long snaking queue at the cable car station. The wait was more than half an hour. A return ticket costs 6,000won.

Waiting in the queue for the cable car ride, since I was really too tired to walk up further and had no time.

Afternoon sunlight permeating through the leaves above my head

The pavilion at the top was the destination. It is an observation deck.

Cable car approaching slowly

Cable car arrived

An eager crowd could not wait to get in.

Looking out at the obsevation deck which is about 300m away from the cable car station. There was a few slopes to manoeuvre along the way, so the walk to the observation deck seemed much further on the ground.

Looking down from the peak at the route I took.

It did not take me too long before I was back at the station waiting for my return cable car. There was not much to see or do at the peak. Autumn was already over at the top.

The buzz around the cable car station.

To enjoy the autumn, you can choose to sit on chairs...

... or you can sit on the ground, whichever way you like.

A beautiful stretch of maple trees

Star-shaped shadows of maple leaves.

"Sing your way home, at the end of the day"

After more than 3 hours, I completed my visit at Naejangsan.

On my way to the bus stop for the bus to Gwangju. The time was about 2pm, still a lot of time before the sun set at about half past five.

무적지 - 전주 (全州)

2010-12-03T23:51:00.009+08:00

If you ask me previously what I knew about Jeonju, I would say "Jeonju bibimbap". After all, Jeonju bibimbap and Jinju bibimbap are the 'twin jewels' (쌍벽, 雙璧) of bibimbaps. But after visiting Jeonju, this is how I would describe it; it is a combination of 'Bukchon' (북촌, 北村) and 'Insadong' (인사동, 仁寺洞). 'Bukchon' is known for its 'Hanok' (한옥, 韓屋) or Korean traditional house whilst 'Insadong' for its Korean traditional handicrafts. These are what you will actually see in Jeonju - a much bigger 'Bukchon' and a much less commercialised "Insadong'.

Jeonju bibimbap is so famous that they even have a festival for it.

'Hanok Village' in Jeonju

Welcome to Jeonju Hanok Village. It's a real village not a mock-up.

Bags of medicinal herbs outside an actual traditional Korean medical hall.

A gallery for Jeonju traditional handicrafts

The pride of Korean cultural heritage - 'Hanji' (Korean paper). You can actually use them to made handicrafts in one of these 'hanji' shops in Jeonju Hanok Village

This is how I got to Jeonju. Upon coming out from the Express Bus Terminal subway station, look for the 'Honam line' (호남선, 湖南線, Honam region includes Jeollabuk-do, Jeollanam-do and Gwangju) located inside Central City. Buy a bus ticket to Jeonju at 17,900won. Remember to pronounce 'Jeonju' accurately or you may be on your way to 'Cheongju' instead. The Jeonju-bound express bus should be waiting at Platform 6. The bus ride to Jeonju express bus terminal (전주고속터미널) takes about 2.5 hours with a 15 minutes stop-over at Jeong-an service area. At the terminal, find the taxi stand and direct the driver to go to 'Pungnammun' (풍남문, 豊南門). The taxi ride to 'Pungnammun' takes about 20 minutes and cost around 4,000won. The area east of Pungnammun is where most of the Jeonju's places of interest are located.

One thing I like about Jeonju is that there is free wireless service even along the street. If it had not rained in the afternoon that day, I would have stayed longer to explore the Hanok Village. Jeonju is one place I would like to revisit. By the way, I have yet to try Jeonju bibimbap.

The number one gate of 'Honam' - Pungnammun. The gate is under renovation. This is the only remaining gate of the fortress which previously surrounded Jeonju.

The front of 'Pungnammun. It sits in the centre of a roundabout. 'Pungnam' means the south of 'Pungpae' (풍패, 豊沛) which was the birthplace of the founder of Han dynasty of China. Jeonju, on the other hand, was the birthplace of the founder of Joseon dynasty and hence, the comparison.

The roundabout where 'Pungnammun' is located

Jeonju at autumn. If you have a smartphone, you can surf the web while enjoying the autumn foilage along the street.

Most places of interest in Jeonju are to the east of 'Pungnammun'.

전주 - 전동성당 (殿洞圣堂)

2010-12-02T23:11:00.003+08:00

According to the information found inside the Jeondong Cathedral. the first pastor of the cathedral, a French, began the construction of this Romanesque-style building in 1908 and completed it in 1914. Romanesque-style is characterised by semi-circular arches. It is interesting to note that Jeondong Cathedral shares the same architect as Myeongdong Cathedral.

When I entered the cathedral building, the Jeonju City Choir was rehearsing for their upcoming performance - "Vox Amoris" (Latin words for the voice of love) or in Korean, "사랑의 울림". The reverberation of their beautiful singing had a rather calming effect on me. It was quite a nice late autumn afternoon.

Jeongdong Cathedral of Romanesque-style in Jeonju

Autumn at Jeondong Cathedral

Jeonju City Choir doing their rehearsal

Splashes of colour on the door of confession room

A towering ginkgo tree found inside the compund

전주 - 경기전 (慶基殿)

2010-12-02T22:52:00.003+08:00

'Gyeonggijeon' was a shrine constructed in 1410 for King Tae-jo, the founder of the Joseon Dynasty. It was partially destroyed during the Hideyoshi's invasion of Korea from 1592 to 1598 and was rebuilt in 1614. The shrine didn't attract much of my attention as compared to the autumn foliage within its compound. There were not much maple trees around but yet the autumn scenery was equally magnificent.

전주향교 (全州鄕校)

2010-11-29T23:29:00.039+08:00

This is the place where the "Sungkyunkwan Scandal" (성균관 스켄들, 成均馆绯闻) was 'exposed'. The place is called the 'Jeonju Hyanggyo' (전주향교, 全州鄕校), a former Confucian academy built at its present location in 1603, during the Joseon dynasty. Besides providing education for the sons of 'yangban' or aristocrat, it also served as a Confucian shrine.

I have not been following the drama "Sungkyunkwan Scandal" but I got to know about 'Jeonju Hyanggyo' (the drama's main filming site) through a KBS news report. Even if you are not a Korean drama fan, the majestic ginkgo trees within its compound, many of which are more than 300 years old, by itself, is a worthwhile reason to visit the place. Getting there is not much of a problem. Hop into a waiting taxi at the taxi stand outside Jeonju inter-city bus terminal (전주시외버스터미널) and tell the taxi driver, "기사님, 전주향교(에) 가주세요." The taxi ride takes about 25-30 minutes and cost about 5,000won.

Jeonju Hyanggyo - The main filming site of "Sungkyunkwan Scandal"

Typical of most 'hyanggyo', the front courtyard of 'Jenju Hyanggyo' is a sacred place meant to house Confucian shrines and for performance of rituals. The back courtyard is where classroom and dormitories are located. The layout of the buildings is also typical Korean architectural style - the back faces a mountain to the north whilst the front doors open to the south, preferably with a river right in front. You can compare this layout with that of Gyeongbok palace. Essentially, they share similar layout.

Layout of Jeongju Hyanggyo - 1. Manhwa Pavilion (만화루, 萬化樓) 2. Ilwol Gate (일월문, 日月門) 3. Dongmu (동무, 東廡) 4.Seomu (서무, 西廡) 5. Daeseong Hall (대성전, 大成殿) 6. Dongjae (동재, 東齋) 7. Seojae (서재, 西齋) 8. Myeongnyun Hall (명륜당, 明倫堂) 9. Gyeseong Shrine (계성사, 啓聖祠) 10. Ipdeok Gate (입덕문, 入德門) 11. Toilet

1. Manhwa Pavilion (만화루, 萬化樓)

On first look, I thought 'Manhwa' Pavilion is the main gate of 'Jeonju Hyanggyo' but it isn't. There are doors no doubt, but those are very low doors and you will have bent your body to go through. The thing about visiting a Confucian school is that it makes you think. Names of each building and gate stimulate a lot of thoughts in my mind. For example, 'manhwa' means 'ten thousand changes' literally and this word reminds me that this world where I live in is impermanent and change is a constant. Archimedes claimed that all he ever needed was a point that was firm and immovable and he might be able to move the entire Earth from the place it occupied. Alas, he could not find any. The truth is, all things are movable and mutable. To indulge in upholding status-quo at the expense of change is to go against the order of nature. Nobody in history has ever registered a win over nature.

Manhwa Pavilion, a good place to observe ceremony, ritual or to study and relax. There is a staircase at the side which you can use to access the upper level.

It is rare to see 'hanja' being used in Korea these days. The banner is to inform the public that there was a national 'pansori' singing competition going on.

I have to bend my body to get through the low door under the pavilion.

2. Ilwol Gate (일월문, 日月門)

After going under Manhwa Pavilion, I entered a small courtyard with Ilwol Gate in front of me. 'Ilwol' means 'sun moon' literally, so Ilwol Gate can also be called the 'Sun Moon Gate'. I think, calling the gate 'sun moon' has a much deeper meaning than just some nice sounding celestial name. In eastern philosophy, sun corresponds to 'yang' (positive energy) and moon to 'ying' (negative energy). Hence, sun-moon are widely used to refer to the two polarities of nature which is the basis of 'Tao' or in simple English, the way nature behaves. In 'Tao', everything in this world has its antithesis and it begins with the splitting of 'emptiness' into its two opposite extremes and ends with the merging of the extremes. Rise and fall, wealth and poverty, happiness and sadness, are things that come and go. They are not meant to stay unchanged. All Confucian scholars were supposed to be well versed in that.

The 'Ilwol Gate' or the 'Sun Moon Gate'. The centre door is meant for great people. Commoners like us will have to take the side doors. At the back of the door is the front courtyard.

A mother and daughter were seen collecting ginkgo nuts in the yard. There are so many ginkgo nuts on the ground if you ever bother to gather them. You will probably think thrice about paying for some health products which claim ginkgo extracts in Korea when you can have the real stuff in great abundance. The good thing is, it is free.

3. Dongmu (동무, 東廡) and 4.Seomu (서무, 西廡)

'Dongmu' and 'Seomu' are two shrines that flanked 'Daeseongjeon' (the Confucius shrine) in the front courtyard. It is said that the memorial tablets of eighteen Korean sages are enshrined in these two buildings. '廡' is a Chinese character that I have not come across. I would have pronounced it '无' if I have not made a check. It is actually pronounced as '五'.

'Dongmu' or East Shrine - The shrine on the eastern flank of Daeseongjeon

'Seomu' or West Shrine

A huge ginkgo tree in the front courtyard which is about 350 years old. Just look at its size as compared to a person.

5. Daeseong Hall (대성전, 大成殿)

'Daeseongjeon' or 'Daeseong' Hall is the principal shrine in the front courtyard which enshrines the memorial tablet of Confucius. "Daeseong' (大成) was a title bestowed upon Confucius which has the meaning of 'great accomplishment'.

There are three paths leading to the Daeseong Hall. The centre path is meant for Confucius. Again, commoners like us should use the side paths out of respect.

When you see '大成殿' any where, it always got to be a Confucius shrine.

This low door connects the front courtyard to the back. The warning in English is written much bigger than the Korean. So don't say you can't read English. Watch your head to avoid unwanted headache.

6. Dongjae (동재, 東齋) 7. Seojae (서재, 西齋)

The back courtyard is the most picturesque part of Jeonju Hyanggyo. Autumn is the best season to study and you will know why when you enter the back courtyard. Two giant ginkgo trees towering over the courtyard, carpeted it golden with their fallen leaves. You cannot help feeling poetic when you are surrounded by old buildings, old trees and the autumn hues. I was told that to excel in learning, it is not just about you and your teachers, the environment also plays an important part. The back courtyard is a fine example of a perfect environment for learning.

'Dongjae' or the East Dormitory. I like this scenery best.

I wonder how many people can afford the time for simple pleasure like watching the falling of autumn leaves?

Autumn is indeed a good season for learning

'Seojae' or West Dormitory at the other end. The giant ginkgo tree in front of 'Seojae' is almost 400 years old. Big is beauty.

A closer look at 'Seojae'

The back courtyard is the best spot for photo-taking.

8. Myeongnyun Hall (명륜당, 明倫堂)

'Myeongnyundang' or 'Myeongnyun Hall' was the classroom where the Confucian scholars received their teachings of Confucius. 'Myeongnyun' means to 'understand relationships' literally. In Confucius teachings, there are five principal relationships in a society. These are relationship between parents and children, king and subordinates, husband and wife, siblings and friends. In a healthy society, there must be closeness between parents and children, loyalty between king and his subordinates, difference (in role) between husband and wife, order of seniority between siblings and trust between friends. Upsetting any of these relationships would set the society on a course to dysfunctional. It is thus important for Confucian scholars to clearly understand the importance of these five relationships, which is the core of Confucius teachings.

Myeongnyun Hall framed by ginkgo tree.

A shower of golden leaves

Decorated at the front with chrysanthemum for the 'pansori' competition.

A full view of Myeongnyun Hall. Not a very a big building. Then again, how many people could afford an education for their children during the Joseon dynasty.

9. Gyeseong Shrine (계성사, 啓聖祠)

The 'Gyeseongsa' or 'Gyeongseong Shrine' is the building which enshrined the memorial tablet of Confucius's father.

The yard in front of Gyeseong Shrine. The door in front is 'Ipdeok Gate'.

10. Ipdeok Gate (입덕문, 入德門)

I think 'Ipdeok Gate' is supposed to be the entrance to 'Jeonju Hyanggyo' although it looks like a side door. 'Ipdeok' means to enter 'deok' literally. 'Deok' means the way a society should behave. "Enter the door and you will learn how a moral society is supposed to function", was probably what the school wanted to tell those who once entered it. I guess for some people, they would rather choose to exit the door. Immorality does pay well to some extent. However, regardless of which side of the door you are standing, we are all subjected to the same law of nature.

The entrance into Jeonju Hyanggyo

The side road leading to Ipdeok Gate

This is supposed to be a notice board. If you look closer, many were remarks left for 'Mikki Yucheon', the male protagonist of "Sungkyunkwan Scandal".

가을 다 가기전

2010-11-28T21:20:00.003+08:00

Between Dec 2007 and Dec 2009, I experienced two winters, two springs and two summers in Korea. The only season I missed twice is autumn. As 2010 autumn is drawing to a close, I decided that I need to visit Korea again to complete my story of four seasons. 'Autumn tales' is the final and concluding chapter of this story which started with 'Winter Wander' in Nov/Dec 2007, followed by 'Scent of Spring' (Mar/Apr 2008) and 'Summer in KHU' (Aug/Sep 2008). Autumn is indeed a beautiful season to be in but I gain greater satisfaction from completing the full circle.

(Above two pictures are taken in Gyeongbok Palace in late autumn 2010)

서울 세계 등 축제

2010-11-28T15:07:00.007+08:00

"Hi~ I'm Haechi. Welcome to 2010 Seoul Lantern Festival at Cheonggyecheon. This year festival is special because it coincides with the G20 summit."

It's rare to get this unobstructed view of Haechi lantern. Most of the time, crowd will be taking photo in front of it.

"Guards on duty" at Cheonggyecheon Plaza

Lanterns shown at the festival came mainly from Korea, Japan and China. Lanterns from Korea depict mainly animals, rituals and folklore, things that are closer to life and nature. However, it was the lanterns from China and Japan which stole the show. They are huge, elaborate and glamorous. Not to be outdone, Korea also has its 'jewel' - the turtle ship, which I thought was the best lantern in the festival.

A typical Korean lantern depicting animals seen in the peninsula

Carp lantern

Sea turtles lantern

Tiger lantern - In Korean culture, tigers are always depicted as adorable animals rather than fierce predators

Skating on ice

Celebration the Korean style - Wrestling, music and dance

'Pungmul' - Korean folk music tradition that includes drumming and dancing

The turtle ship - The oars are moving, the dragon mouth spews steam and the canon mouths throw out flame. The most attention-grabbing lantern at the festival.

This lantern from Japan is the tallest lantern in the festival, probably about 10m tall. It depicts a gruesome-looking 'King of Hell'. Usually, the purpose of making such lantern is not to frighten people but to remind them to do good and stay away from evil.

The back of the 'King of Hell' with hell flame as the backdrop

Another nice piece of lantern from Japan - probably a sumo wrestler

The back of the sumo wrestler lantern

Distinctive Japanese paintings

Chinese lantern depicting landmarks of Shanghai

A very huge lantern which can only be captured in whole from afar

Chinese opera masks

A close-up shot. The beard is lit with LED lights.

Cowherd and Weaver Girl from Chinese legend

Revolving lanterns - The dark shadow kept revolving around inside the lanterns.

There were about 25,000 lanterns on display with almost an equal number of crowd to match. In short, the place was very crowded.

Lanterns carrying the wishes of people

May all wishes come true

A lantern to promote Jeonju bibimbap

Yeony and Suny, the two mascots of Yeosu World Expo 2014. They are inspired by the planktons in the sea. I think the theme for the coming expo at Yeosu is also about sea.

That's all folk. This is Haechi in Seoul signing off.

역사의 문

2010-11-26T23:58:00.004+08:00

The door to the heart of Seoul - Gwanghwamun

The old Seoul is inside the door. The new Seoul is outside the door. I'm standing somewhere in the middle of a time tunnel.

지하철 시장

2010-11-25T14:23:00.003+08:00

Something told me that thing was not 'right' when I got off Cheongdam Station. There was whiff of 'gochujang' (chilli paste) and 'doenjang' (bean paste) in the air. Then I saw a stationary train in the middle of the station. When I looked in, I was in for a huge surprise. The train was not there to pick up passengers, it was a bazaar - a bazaar in a subway train.

On first look, the train was carrying something but definitely not passengers.

On closer look, the train was actually a bazaar.

Fridge was even available inside the carriage.

Boxes of sweet potatoes stacked almost to the ceiling, occupying a place which is supposed to be meant for wheelchair-bound passenger.

The walk-in crowd was encouraging and business quite decent.

이화마을 - 날개 골목

2010-11-24T14:35:00.012+08:00

In Greek mythology, Icarus, wore a pair of wings constructed by his father, Daedalus, to escape from Crete where he was imprisoned. During his flight to freedom, he flew too close to the sun and the wax which held the feathers together melted away. His wings collapsed and he fell from the sky into the sea. The sea where he was drown is now known as the Icarian Sea, situated South of Greece.

Wings has always captured the imagination of mortals regardless of the reasons why they wish for one. When people got to know that there was a pair of wings somewhere in Ewha Village through the media, they went searching for it in throng. Nobody warned them that they shouldn't let the 'wings' get too close to limelight. As the popularity of the 'wings' grew, the dim created by excited visitors became too much to bear for the residents. To restore peace in the neighborhood, the 'wings' was whitewashed. The place where the wings once stood is known as the 'Wings Alley' - the other well-known alley of Ewha Village.

A picture of the wings before it was removed. The picture was pasted outside a convenience store at one corner of the 'Wings Alley'. The wings does look awe-inspiring.

The fate of the wings after getting too close to limelight

Remarks left on the wall by disappointed visitors who could not get to see the wings - "Please draw the wings", "I want to see the wings"

Painting of pine trees along the stairs leading to the 'Wings Alley'

The entrance of the 'Wings Alley"

Painting of birds on the flight of stairs leading to Naksan in 'Wings Alley'

The flyer wrote: The story of the neighborhood at the foot of Naksan - 'Wings Alley'. I would have called it the mythology at the foot of Naksan'. I think the person who felt the most pinch from the loss of wings has to be the owner of the convenience store at the 'Wings Alley'. His business must have been booming when it suddenly bombed after the wings 'melted' away for getting too close to limelight.

이화마을 - 꽃 골목

2010-11-24T08:05:00.001+08:00

Ewha Village has two quite well known alleys, one of them is the 'flower alley' (꽃 골목). Big colourful flowers are painted on the stairway leading to Naksan.

Stairway leading to Naksan painted with big colourful flowers

You'll see this drawing saying "annyeong" to you before you climbs the stairs

At the top end of the stairs is this drawing of fish

Is this door real or painted on? It is real by the way.

이화마을 - 동네

2010-11-24T00:50:00.003+08:00

Ewha Village, a residential area in Seoul, is located at the foot of 'Naksan' (낙산, 駱山) and next to Daehangno (대학로, 大學路). The nearest subway station is 'Hyehwa' station (혜화역, 惠化驛). Its proximity to Daehangno, best known for its many small art theatres and vibrant cultural scene, created an ideal situation for it to take on some artistic touch.

Painting found on a wall in the neighbourhood of Ewha Village. The painting depicts a shy fairytale-like couple sitting on a tree while squirrels and cicada look on.

This is another part of the above painting depicting a village and its people in some far far away land. I like the blue sky and white clouds in the painting.

A wall pasted with coloured tiles. The tiles act more like 'post-its'.

A closer look at the messages written on the tiles. Written on the blue tile, 11 Nov is Pepero Day. On the yellow tiles, four girls, calling themselves beauties, visited the place on 6 Oct 2010

A mama ladybird meter

A baby ladybird meter

A family of ladybirds which are actually meters

A large Morning Glory 'grown' over a pink wall

A drawn hat 'hangs' over the door

A full view of the two pictures above

The other side of the pink house which is missed out in above picture.

A dog standing precariously on a beam over the side of Naksan

Even road signs are interesting in Ewha Village. The sign above says 'children protected zone'.

한옥 - 상고재 (相婟齋)

2010-11-21T23:51:00.006+08:00

'Yeorangjae' (여랑재), as seen in picture above is also 'Sanggojae' (상고재, 相婟齋). Apparently, this Korean traditional house underwent some minor renovation after being used as the filming site for the Korean drama '개인의 취향' (个人取向, Personal Taste).

Despite the name change, tourists are still able to find their way to 43 북촌로11가길 (in Bukchon). You have to literally queue up to take picture of this house. It is that popular. Unfortunately, the house is out of bound to public.

A slope in Bukchon next to 'Sanggojae'. There is always a constant stream of tourists in the vicinity searching for 'Sanggojae'.

To get to 'Sanggojae', exit from Exit 2 of Anguk Station (Line 3). Follow the route marked by the blue line as shown in the above map. 'Sanggojae' is about 800m away from Exit 2. It is situated right on top of a slope.

Not all doors are closed to visitors in Bukchon. Visitors can have a taste of living in a 'Hanok' (한옥, Korean traditional house) in houses that provide homestay services.

Bukhon holds quite a rich variety of small and private museums. This museum above displays a collection of handmade traditional knots.

Here is another museum in Bukchon. Not too sure what were displayed inside.

도심의 가을

2010-11-18T22:28:00.004+08:00

Don't know how they get the two trees up there but they do look good

추수 후

2010-11-18T07:52:00.001+08:00

Harvest season is over, it's time to rest until next spring.

산의 가을

2010-11-15T21:52:00.001+08:00

Take a rest and enjoy the view as nature brings on its annual display of colours

가는 가을

2010-11-15T00:12:00.001+08:00

Flowing away with water

Not all fallen leaves return to earth

아름다운 시절

2010-11-13T18:31:00.001+08:00

If you are still asking for heaven on earth, you have not treasured your time

단풍놀이

2010-11-12T18:35:00.004+08:00

A spectacular ending to a season. Be part of the celebration.

낙엽비

2010-11-12T07:56:00.002+08:00

Sitting in a yard with some very old gingko trees. A sudden gust of wind sent thousands of golden yellow leaves showering down. Such is the beauty of autumn.

경복궁의 야경

2010-11-12T00:12:00.000+08:00

After 615 years, Gyeongbok Palace finally open its gate at night for the first time. Thanks to the G20 summit, the palace closing time is extended from 5pm -10pm for four days from 9-12 Nov. A chance to witness a view of Gyeongbok Palace never seen before, drew huge crowd of curious visitors and photographers.

The recently completed Gwanghwamun in full radiance

Gwanghwamun, the main gate into Gyeongbok Palace

A full view of Gwanghwamun

'Haechi', a mythical creature, stood on both sides of Gwanghwamun

A water-element beast, "Haechi' is believed to be able to ward off fire hazards

Moon rising above Gwanghwamun

Geumjeong Hall - The main hall of Gyeongbok Palace

Geumjeong Hall looks more majestic at night

No fanciful lightings for Geumjeong Hall, just white lights

Gyeonghoeru Pavilion and its reflection is a feast to the eyes

가을 이야기

2010-11-11T07:50:00.000+08:00

숨길 수가 없음

2010-11-07T22:46:00.001+08:00

In my all-time favourite Korean movie "Il Mare", there is a line which says, "사람에겐 숨길 수 없는것이 3가지가 있다. 기침과 가난과 사랑이다." (To a person, there are three things that cannot be hidden. They are cough, poverty and love.) Realistically, there are more things in life that cannot be hidden. There is a Chinese proverb which says, "If you don't want people to know, then don't do it." In other words, you can't cover up anything which you have done. The proverb serves to warn people against committing bad deeds as it is a matter of time before they will be exposed.

As much as you can't cover up bad things, you also can't hide good things like good food, good book or good place. I used to come across a nice place in Seoul, a quiet residential area in bustling Seoul which is abuzz with beautiful wall paintings. For better or worse, it has recently gained popularity due to publicity in local media. Peaceful days are gone when throng of visitors from every corner come in search of it. I guess you can't hide anything that is good after all.

홍콩

2010-11-06T15:21:00.010+08:00

It has been raining non-stop in Hong Kong since Thursday. The rain wasn't heavy but enough to ruin my plan on my only free day. However, Hong Kong delicacies like wanton noodles, chee cheong fun, congee and 'you tiao' made up for the loss.

A special attraction of HK - the vintage electric trams

Causeway Bay was where I stayed and the only place I had been

I was stuck in my hotel room whole day due to the rain

말실수

2010-11-02T11:13:00.002+08:00

We were required to make a statement each with the grammar (으)러. I made my sentence and read it aloud: 개를 데리고 공원에 산책하러 가요. My teacher's eyes were wide open. It seemed like something was amiss which I was not aware. Then, he asked, "왜 개를 때려요?" (Why do you beat your dog?). The class burst out in laughter. So there you have it, I mispronounced '데리' (to bring) as '때리' (to beat). Poor dog, I didn't mean to 'beat' you when what I wanted to say was to bring you for a stroll in the park.

In an interview to assess my language proficiency, an assessor wanted to know why I was not progressing much despite studying Korean for a long time. I replied, "일이 많고 바쁘느라고 공부를 못 했어요." I thought I gave a satisfactory answer but she pointed out ~느라고 is always used with action verb and 바쁘다 is a stative verb. I was caught with wrong usage of a level 3 grammar. For that, the assessor determined that I should repeat level 3 when I had actually completed it. As much as it was an ego-bruising experience, I never use ~느라고 wrongly since then.

Those were the times when I wanted to dig a hole and dive in. Despite that, I still believe in what Gilbert Chesterton said, "If a thing is worth doing, it is worth doing badly."

노 콤멘트

2010-11-02T01:07:00.005+08:00

Foreign friends have two views of my country. One, it is very clean. Second, it is very strict. I usually have no comment. There is always a conflict of interest when you comment on something you have vested interest in. Epimenides should know better not to say, "All Cretans are liars." when he was a Cretan.

Here are some not-very-new pictures of a city state where dreams come alive only after it is asleep. When dreams are sweet, very few people would want to wake up.

단풍처럼

2010-10-27T20:58:00.001+08:00

봄이 지나고 여름이 즉각 온다. 소년은 여름 단풍과 같다.

여름을 환송하고 가을이 제시간에 온다. 중년은 가을 단풍과 같지 않을 까?

노년은 겨울 단풍과 같네. 겨울이 작별하고 끝이 오겠지?

그리움

2010-10-23T21:22:00.000+08:00

There are two things you won't miss. One, things which you have not seen and two, things which you have. Conversely, there are two things you will miss. One, things which you have seen and two, things which you once possessed. If you don't see me missing anything about Korea, it's because I've learnt to let go - my attachment and possession.

I've seen the sunset at Haneul Park

I've seen the blue sea at Oedo

모락모락

2010-10-19T01:19:00.003+08:00

'모락모락' (pronounced 'morak morak') is a '의태어' (擬態語) that describes the look of rising steam. Its closest Mandarin equivalent - '炊烟袅袅'. I can relate well to '모락모락' although I am quite bad with other '의태어'. '모락모락' has a lot more meaning, especially during cold weather, when steam is more visible. Hot food, with all its steam, during a cold night, is simply irresistable. The thin veil of slowly rising steam makes any food looks all the more delicious.

뜨거운 국물에서 김이 모락모락 나던 포장마차를 보면서 문득 배가 고파졌다

김이 모락모락 피어오르는 음식은 더 먹음직 스러워 보인 것 같다

의문

2010-10-13T00:17:00.003+08:00

If you have many questions about Korean language which you no answer to at the moment, don't be disheartened. Here is a piece of advice - live with the questions and you will find your answers someday. The answers will come, provided you never give up. If you do give up, there is no wrong to it. Things that you forsake are usually of no importance to the heart, hence, nothing regrettable. Staying on is only pleasant to people who have love for the thing they do. If you like to find the answers to your questions, try finding your love first.

Credits to 'Soothing Mint' for introducing me the enlightened writing of Rainer Maria Rilke ( a Bohemian–Austrian poet and art critic)