My Little Moments...

The first day of 2012, the first snow of the year

2012-01-01T17:01:00.004+09:00

Sometimes beautiful things arrive in small packages. This year, on that very first New Year day, it snows for the first time in Daegu. I couldn't describe this feeling, it was sort of a mix of relief and happiness. I just hope 2012 will be a great year.

From the top of my building.

I had never experience any special moments like this in my life. So, I went up to the top of my building (5th floor but the highest in my university) and I did my crazy go-go dance. Kidding leh. Hehe. Oh yes, I shouted my lungs out. Wohhhoooooo!!!

I was at the same place when it snowed last year.

Not my first snowy day, but my first on the first day of the year. Everytime, before it snows, I can feel it. The sky would always be very bright, not windy and instinctively, I know it will snow either today or tomorrow. It snows today, thank you. Happy New Year!

Bye 2011. Hello 2012.

2011-12-24T21:02:00.009+09:00

Not many would understand the difference of being busy or wanting to be busy. Well in my case, I am busy and at the same time I am always trying to be busier so I will not waste my time. 2011 was a funny year to me. The beginning of 2011 was great but it all went downhill from then on. It's like a roller coaster ride, fun at first but the feeling gradually subsided.

Everyone ought to prioritize what he or she wants to do in life. It's better to have some plans for future than be clueless when we have to make a decision that will affect our lives. I have my goals and I hope to achieve them and I shall not let anything distract me. I can't say 2011 was a great year, like said earlier, it was a roller coaster ride with ups and downs along the way.

However, I am fortunate considering I have a loving family, great friends and of course a strong faith in myself. I always try not to compare myself with others because of my lacking but I am always glad with what I have. I hope everyone will be that too. Somehow, one day if I am successful (or not, it doesn't really matter) I will help the orphans and the unprivileged.

The thing that makes us and them different from them is that we have the opportunities. Orphans do not have a choice to say no to not been abandoned, to say no for been left alone without caring families and so on.

As time ticks closer to the end of Year 2011, like every year, I will always pause and cherish every single moments I had in 2011 (though it's a week left). Sometimes, when I look back at how I felt during the first time I arrived at Korea to now. It was a totally different feeling.

I can remember the first time stepping to the Korea and my university alone. No cellphone (Hence I couldn't contact anyone), no blankets, pillow even on a chilly spring (Never thought it would be so bad then), couldn't speak a word in Korean ("Kamsahamnida (Thank you in Korean)" seems to sound more like some bird species name that greeting. hmmn -_-" ), no internet (for almost a week due to some problems with my room) and the saddest part - I have nobody I can speak to in the language that they can understand. No buddy that assists foreign student, no friends, couldn't call family and friends. It sucks.

As a guy, I hid my fears. Trembling underneath, nobody knew.

But now, I can proudly say "Bring it on!"

This year, after been blogging here for almost 4 years, I was the Best Blogger in WSK (World Students in Korea) organized by Korean Presidential Council on Nation Branding and also surprisingly I emerged as one of the Best Bloggers for a Korea Tourism website (Koreataste.org).

2011 was great but I did very few travel or trips compare to 2010. And during the final month of this year, I am busy with classes and exams. I always thought been a university student was more relaxing but sometimes, I find my high school and university life are almost the same. The only difference is I have more freedom. That's great. Haha.

Sad right?

2012 resolution time. Last year, I wrote 6 things I want to achieve. However, I did not travel to many places (My friend and I had planned to go Egypt and Turkey but we canceled it due to the uprising), my Korean language proficiency was still the same (I think), I did not bake anything but I did manage to cook a few dishes (Look who's the man!! Ahem.. Thanks to the some ready-to-make... shhhh!), a better photographer (This is too subjective. I need a better lenses first), I did not take up another language (My bad) and I did not sleep more (Hmmn).

So this year.

I make a much simpler list.

1. Travel to another country (Doesn't matter if it's on early 2013. Counted too)

2. Be a better guy.

3. Help the underprivileged.

4. Use the guitar.

5. Learn more Photoshop skills from learned people.

6. Practice and play more with my camera.

7. Try to sleep more..

I think I can achieve my resolutions this time around. As tomorrow is Christmas Day - Wishing dear readers and friends a joyous Christmas, a warm holiday and a Happy New Year. May 2012 be filled with joy, laughter and happiness. 즐거운 크리스마스 보내요.

20 November 2011

2011-11-20T13:55:00.006+09:00

"A strangely reflective, even melancholy day. Is that because, unlike our cousins in the northern hemisphere, Easter is not associated with the energy and vitality of spring but with the more subdued spirit of autumn?..." by Hugh Mackay

Courage

The art of letting go of control may well be one of the most profound forms of courage

Humility

Is not thinking less of yourself, it's thinking of yourself less

Do What You love

Some thing we love doing remain an avocation rather than a vocation

Love What You Do

Loving what you do involves the calculated decision to act out of love even when the situation does not warrant it. The choice to love what you do will shape your attitude and heart.

Every Person Matters

I speak to everyone the same way, whether he is the garbage man or the president of the university.

True.. so true..

Daegu Social Media Group

2011-11-01T13:21:00.005+09:00

After blogging for WSK (World Students in Korea) under Korean Government, now I am doing it for Daegu. Motivation factor? Ermm... None actually. I applied just for networking as there are neither prize money nor many activities provided by Daegu City Government.

Five People You Meet in Heaven

"Life has to end, love doesn't"

Notting Hill

"After all... I'm just a girl, standing in front of a boy, asking him to love her.." Nice phrase ^^

2001 : A Space Odyssey

Frankly, it was a great movie but somehow very boring. Most touch screen (like the iPhone smartphone or Galaxy Tab) ideas originated from this even when it was a 1968 movie. Wow!

Why these 3 movies? I am planning to write a movie review for my uni's magazine! Of course, I will be paid for it, albeit rather little :( I used to write for the university's magazine but had not been writing anything this year. So I am hoping for it to be published next year. However, I am still considering... 3 movies... 2 watched, 1 remains..

Exam Over, Whats next?

2011-10-29T23:17:00.007+09:00

One of the many songs during Asia Song Festival 2011 in Daegu :)

"Music" by AAA (Though I can't understand Japanese, I enjoyed it!!!)

The original version

When time passes so quickly, sometimes one feels afraid of what's going to happen next. Like everyone, I am looking forward for the future but am a bit insecure on what am I going to be in the future. If only life is already laid down in front of your eyes and we just follow that direction - that would be pretty easy.

I always like poem "The Road Not Taken" by Robert Frost. If we continue to believe in fate and not trying to improve ourselves, life would be hard and we wouldn't recover from failures. Nevertheless, I think what makes me a little different is that I am somehow determine to pursue my dreams but at the same time willing to sacrifice some of them because of personal reasons - we can't have everything on this world right? ^^

Therefore, there comes the importance of money. The world would be a better place if each and every people have enough to spend, sufficient to eat and a shelter. If every countries value humanity, there wouldn't be any money wasted on wars and foreign interventions. Contrary to popular belief that money is evil, I think money is just great as long as we know how to spend it well! I love to travel and without money, I can only dream.

But that's another story.

So what's my path? Be a young but handsome beggar? Hehe. Just Kidding! :P Be dependent on parents? Nah. Work after graduate? Maybe. Medicine in John Hopkins? Of course this time again, getting a scholarship is a must because over there, 300,000 USD is a very very huge sum of money for me to study there. But I am not smart (book wise) in Korea because of Korean language.. :( The "feel" of graduating soon is worrisome but I am sure I will do fine, like always. Hopefully..

"Destiny is not a matter of chance, it is a matter of choice, it is not a thing to be waited for - it is a thing to be achieved..." William Jennings Bryant, American politician.

I have a huge liking on hot and spicy food. Sometimes, if reincarnation does really exist, I think I must not be a Chinese. I think I am either a curry loving Indian or Sambal (spicy sauce) is-a-must-in-every-meal Malay hardcore fan. But every time I taste spicy food, my eyes will turn watery... Hot.. Hot.. In Korea, every dishes tend to be spicy (they add chili powder even in plain soups! -_-"). Imagine going out with a girl and sweating profusely like if you are gonna die of heat stroke. Hmmmmnn..

Ahhh... At last it's fall here in Korea.. You can feel fall had arrived when it's impossible to go out with a pair of shorts - too cold. It looks weird to be wearing only a plain T-shirt to class when everyone else are wearing outer. I do miss summer. It wouldn't be so cold swimming on autumn days than during summer. But eating 잉어빵 on cold windy days while enjoying the colors of fall sounds great!

Daegu - Asia Song Festival 2011 (I)

2011-10-16T20:16:00.006+09:00

Two more days and then, it's "Hello" to mid term exams but still I'm not as focused as last time. I went for a concert in Daegu yesterday - Asia Song Festival 2011. Before deciding to go, I reminded myself that this is my first Korean concert and it's free (VIP pass) so why not?

Daegu Asia Song Festival 2011 ticket!

Peter Ho from Taiwan

Like Being Hit by a Bullet, Chinese version

U-KISS

G.NA

And I got a nice seat too, it was only a short distance from the stage and wow - you can see them performing without relying on it being projected on the big screen all the time. And most importantly, it was in Daegu - my city.

BEAST supporters (Fiction, fiction... yes they were there yesterday...)

Yesterday was great, I like a Japanese song by AAA. It was a happy song, so nice and all my study stress dissipated away. Fuhh... Couldn't describe it as it was all in Japanese but music is universal and I liked it very much. G.NA's song "Black & white", she was so hot! erm.. I mean her song was great! ^^

AAA from Japan

Lee Seung Gi, hmmn.

SNSD or Girls' Generation

Just a kit lens (and not zoom lens) but quite a clear pic

I saw a shot of a Malaysian fan on the screen, instinctively, I recorded it. It was by Super Junior. Sadly, I do not know the names of any members of this group - not a K-pop fan. Yet. Haha :)

Super Junior

The second guy (plump guy) was quite funny because he spoke in a Daegu dialect, the fifth guy said "I do not have any plans of coming here (Daegu) again" and everyone were like "Huh?". Then when he said "I'm only lying", the girls were all like "AHHH.." -_-"

Besides the rest of the well-known ones from Korea, there were songs by Perfume from Japan (They were like dolls!), Tata Young from Thailand (but not so "young" anymore), Bibi Chou from China (Never knew her English is good!) and many more (including a few Korean performers too like Miss A).

Will update again after my exam! Good luck!

8 October 2011

2011-10-08T21:38:00.002+09:00

Everywhere in Daegu, I can listen to this song. In the malls, phone shops, restaurants, gas stations, and even on TV. It's like this song is now a hit in Korea. Previously, it was Lollipop by 2NE1 and Big Bang.

"아직 난 널 잊지 못하고

모든 걸 다 믿지 못하고

이렇게 널 보내지 못하고 오늘도

[준형]

다시 만들어볼게 우리 이야기 끝나지 않게 아주 기나긴

살갗을 파고 스며드는 상실감은 잠시 묻어둘게

새로 써 내려가 시작은 행복하게 웃고 있는 너와 나

네가 날 떠나지 못하게 배경은 출구가 없는 좁은 방 안

[기광]

아무렇지 않게 네게 키스하고

달콤한 너의 곁을 떠나가질 못해

우린 끝이라는 건 없어

[현승]

이렇게 난 또 (Fiction in Fiction in Fiction)

잊지 못하고 (Fiction in Fiction in Fiction)

내 가슴 속에 끝나지 않을 이야길 쓰고 있어..."

Fiction by Beast

But... I... prefer... Secondhand Serenade... Boys like Girls... Big Bang... Beast??? My exam's next week so will stop blogging temporarily. 요즘 난 항상 정신이 없고 길을 좀 잊어버릴거같아.. 이제 어떻게 돌아갈수있는지 잘 몰라 나 계속할까? 나 포기할까? 난 행복위해서 원하는것 다 잡아야하겠는데.. 세상에 가끔씩 이렇게 어렵게 살지만 빛 나를 비추면 다시 계속할게

My First, Her First - Korean First Birthday

2011-10-08T16:00:00.010+09:00

When I was young, I like going for buffet. Firstly, my parents will pay for my share and secondly, I like the varieties of food. However, I think growing up changes how you think and react. Of course I still like going to buffet but I am no more into eating as much as I can.

I like the atmosphere. I cherished the feel of being at peace while having a nice simple dinner by the sea, with live band jazzing near me. That was in Penang but now in Korea, I like observing people and taking pictures. I was invited to first birthday party (첫돌) by my former Korean language teacher last month.

Her daughter just turned a year older. So like every Koreans, she and her husband organized a small party for family and friends to celebrate this occasion. In Korea, the biggest occasions are the New Year's Day (following the Lunar calendar) and Korean Thanksgiving (추석 or Chuseok) so Korean First Birthday is not a very grand event.

The best gift to give on Korean First Birthday is still money! The standard amount to give is between 30,000 Won to 50,000 Won depending on your relationship to her/him. By the way, you can give more. (Source : My Korean Classmate) And unlike in Chinese family, do not cuddle the baby!

During that dinner, I was the only foreigner. It sucks to be the only one but I practiced my Korean so it was okay... There, one of my former Korean language teachers was as sharp as a hawk correcting every mistakes I made while speaking in Korean. Nice experience huh? -_-"

Luckily I can understand her, if not she will be like talking to a frying pan. Oops. What did I do there? And what happened next? Okay okay. We arrived at SeaHouse restaurant around 6pm but most guests were still not around. Like every typical Korean First Birthday party or wedding ceremony, it starts and ends very quickly. So, we were asked to eat first. After dinner, there was a short video presentation of the child.

My first round - The pizza and 파전 (Korean pancake) were way below expectation

My second/last helping - Rambutans (Hmmn) but the best was the yogurt

After that, there's a game session and finally, the climatic event! The What-is-she/he-going-to-be-in-future event - the child should select an item from a tray carefully arranged with a huge coin, a bow (very uncommon), a small toy and a book or a bible (?).

If the baby picked the huge coin, she is going to be someone working in field of study relating to money and maybe she's going be rich someday (most Korean parents always wish for that), if it's a bow, she will excel in sports, a toy (I am still not very sure what is the meaning of it) and finally a book (She will be a well learned person). She picked the bow.

Then, both my teacher and her husband read out oath of responsibility to each of their parents-in-law like "I promise I will be a good wife to my husband", "I will be a good daughter/son to you" and so forth. And, it was all over~

The Korea of Tomorrow and Beyond

2011-10-08T12:51:00.005+09:00

“The government’s view of the economy could be summed up in a few short phrases: If it moves, tax it. If it keeps moving, regulate it. And if it stops moving, subsidize it...” by Ronald Reagan, 40th President of United States of America

Korea is no stranger to the world and is well known for its vibrant economy. From a country ravished by war and receiving foreign assistance to becoming a donor country. Korea’s achievements are remarkable in the eyes of the world. What makes Korean economy so robust? The answer is foreign direct investments coupled with locally well known conglomerates like Samsung, LG and Hyundai.

During the 1998 Asia Financial crisis, Korea had started to liberalize its economy through various enactments like Foreign Investment Promotion Act to encourage foreign direct investments (FDI). Nevertheless, challenges like the dot.com burst, 9/11 terrorist attack and the late-2000s sub prime mortgage crisis that spreads to most parts of the world including Korea make attracting foreign investments a difficult undertaking.

Korea needs to be less dependent on family controlled conglomerates or Chaebol. With powerful conglomerates around, it is difficult for any new start up investment companies to compete on equal terms. This will not attract new foreign investments due to monopolistic practices of some conglomerates.

The greatest problem faced by new foreign investors besides a lack of information on investment and immigration procedures is the different interpretation on laws by the central and local government. [1] This is true in cases that are related to restriction in certain business practices. Therefore, laws and regulations in Korea should be standardized in line with global practices. That is why political stability and good relationship between central and local governments are paramount. The recent issue of political opposition on tax exemption on Sukuk (Islamic bond) to attract investment is a fine example.

Besides that, when investing in Korea. There is a general lack of clearly defined, English language information on investment and immigration regulations. This makes conducting business in Korea difficult for new foreign investors. Therefore, a one stop website should be made for investors interested to invest in Korea. There should be proper, step by step guidelines for foreign investors and the information should be updated frequently. Also, a one-stop investment Agency in Seoul could be established to coordinate and facilitate fast track approval of applications from investors.

2010 annual Fraser Institute reported that Korea ranked 37th in economic freedom behind neighboring competitors like Hong Kong, Taiwan and Japan, each ranked 1st, 22nd and 24th respectively. [2] Korea is said to lag behind in factors like freedom in government size, labor market regulation and business regulation.

Korea should reduce the corporate tax from the current 22% to enable it to be more attractive for foreign investments - since in Singapore and Taiwan, both taxes 17% while 16.5% in Hong Kong. High tax imposed will not make Korea competitive to foreign investors since the profit will be greatly reduced. By lowering the taxes, Korea will benefit from other spin-off such as more hiring of new employees and a boost in taxable personal income due to it.

A business without workers is like an empty factory, unable to produce goods. Fortunately, Korea is blessed with no shortage of educated workforce. However, labor unions constant demands for pay rise and strikes conducted by the unions instead of proper negotiations mar Korea’s image as an attractive country for investments. Korea needs to have realistic and understanding labor unions. The labor unions need to be flexible in accepting lower pay scale in exchange for shorter work hours or better benefits. Good mutual trust between employers and trade unions is vital.

Ideally, graduates lacking the appropriate skills could be sent to be retrained to cater to the needs of the foreign companies operating here. Fresh graduates are also trained to speak better English, an important prerequisite to a job in most international companies here in Korea.

On the other hand, Korea needs to improve Korea’s branding as a suitable investment friendly country. This means to eliminate corruptions that are plaguing some large Korean corporations and provide adequate facilities for foreigners. They can come in the forms of good education facilities that are appropriate for children of many nationalities and to reduce the language barriers between foreigners and Koreans by providing sufficient support.

In conclusion, Korea with its excellent infrastructure, a competent and diligent workforce should be harnessed and enhanced to complement the attractiveness for foreign investments. If the right policies are in place, Korea will be a force to reckon with in future. Korea must not be complacent with her current economic prowess or be easily satisfied because there are always other countries trying to catch up to take the top spot.

References:

[1] World Bank Report on FDI in Korea (Page 20)

[2] Fraser Institute Economic Freedom of the World 2011 Annual Report (From Page 92)

(This essay was written by me for an economic contest. Sometimes I think I am taking the wrong course in my university, but somehow, I also do like science. I hope I am not the only one still searching for what he is really good at. And I do hope my intuition is right all these years..)

Wanna be a model in Korea?

2011-10-07T14:16:00.007+09:00

"Shall I compare thee to a summer's day?
Thou art more lovely and more temperate:
Rough winds do shake the darling buds of May,
And summer's lease hath all too short a date..."

"...Nor shall Death brag thou wander'st in his shade,
When in eternal lines to time thou growest:
So long as men can breathe or eyes can see,
So long lives this and this gives life to thee."

Sonnet 18 - William Shakespeare

Beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder. Sounds true but I believe what's more important in it is that the personality counts more. Well lets take this scenario, imagine dating a beautiful eye candy (Guy's "dream" when young and sometimes, it continues till death though not all guys are that la. Hehe) and so you met her for the first time in a coffee shop.

She's so mesmerizing, so pretty, walks with a style. Is she a model? This isn't another dream right? Wow!

But the moment she starts talking... ugghhh... Same goes to some guys for most girls just to be fair to my female readers. :P But that's another story. Being a model is a dream of many and even in Korea, being pretty (for girls) and handsome (guys) are paramount. Getting a good job is among the many reasons.

Some Koreans then resorted to having plastic surgery to look good. Face lift, double eyelid, nose job and so on, you name it, they have them all. Though not everyone here have done plastic surgery but having one here is not a big issue. Some parents here encourage their daughter to have plastic surgery too. Anyway, whether plastic surgery or not, I couldn't care less.

My model

An ordinary blogger :)

Nevertheless, being a foreigner in Korea (IF YOU ARE ONE), you have the chance to be a model. Don't believe me? Erm.. You should now! Well, the catch is only that you have to be a foreigner (27 years or younger) in Korea and is confident enough to say "YES I AM PRETTY/HANDSOME!!!" deep down in your very own heart - you need the confidence.

You are almost done! If you are selected (2 men and 2 women), you will be paid 400,000 Won (almost 340 USD), accomodation in Jeju Island, meals and round air ticket from Gimpo airport to Jeju Airport.

If you want to apply to this position, please fill out the details below and send it by e-mail (president[at]kinsa.org) with your photo

1. Name :

2. Nationality :

3. University :

4. Address (Korea) :

5. Phone number :

6. E-mail :

7. Date of Birth :

8. Alien Registration No. :

9. Height & Weight :

Are you ready for it? If not, what are you waiting for? Hurry up because it's until 10 October.

Being Perfect

2011-09-01T23:26:00.008+09:00

Of all things craved by ordinary people, most people tend to give "being perfect" a miss. Why don't we be rich? Why not if we can have unlimited wealth? Success? Love?

Life seems to be not as easy as it looks. In the past, I wish I can be perfect. However as of now, I am happy with who I am, it's just that finally there's no such thing as a perfect man. Of course, without a doubt that if a person is perfect, life would be much easier.

But if I can have a day of perfection now, I hope to wake up on a peaceful Sunday spring with cold but just-nice wind gushing through the curtains. White curtains. And the morning roses. And also the freshly mown grass. Nice.

Breakfast? Maybe instead of jam and bread. Can I have it Malaysian style? I really wish to have briyani rice. Not too much, just a little will do. Then, when the morning sun rises and the birds start singing.. my day of perfection begins..

"Mistaking
Always second guessing
Underestimating
Look I’m still around

Pretty, pretty please
Dont you ever, ever feel
Like you’re less than perfect

Pretty, pretty please
If you ever, ever feel
Like you’re nothing
You’re perfect to me.."

by Pink - Perfect (Boyce Avenue acoustic cover)

Though we're all not perfect, it's seriously better to be contented and see our imperfections as our perfections. Nevertheless, I'm still looking for some special things inside of me and I hope there's something great about each and every individual.

Our Malaysia

2011-08-31T21:59:00.005+09:00

Lets have a nonjudgmental country, a loving country blessed with tolerant people filled with happy and smiling faces. Black, brown, yellow - They are all beautiful.

Best Wishes and Happy Independence Day Malaysia. I *heart* Malaysia

Summer 2011 : Back to Korea

2011-08-28T01:19:00.009+09:00

I wish my summer vacation was a little longer. Bounded by scholarship regulations, 1 month was only how long the duration that I can be back home. My journey back to Korea was interesting and I did bring more stuffs back than I had ever expected. I bought a travelling backpack in Malaysia, the big one you see when people go backpacking or hiking so I stuffed it with things that are fragile (such as cookies and lots of it) and heavy (so as to reduce the main luggage limit). ^^

Luckily after all these years working out, carrying more than 8 kilos on my back was still bearable. My main luggage (24.5 kilos) was actually nothing in particular - gifts for friends and some "bribe" to the pretty teachers (if there are any.. *stares*) in my department (Just joking lah!). Gifts for friends and some for myself. Of course, my laptop bag too. Since I often travel to Korea in and out, it's best to take advantage of the few loopholes if travelling by premium airlines (like the Malaysia Airlines).

Malaysia Airlines allows each passenger to take up to 20 kilos but somehow, it's stated 20 ~ 25 kilos. So it's okay to bring up to 25 kilos per trip. Budget airlines like AirAsia are all together a different story - bring only how heavy you are suppose to carry.

**

Sights around Penang Island

Penang Custom Office Building, built circa 1907

Ferry, preferred mode of transport before the Penang Bridge was built

Penang Bridge and the Betel Nut Tree ("Penang" was derived from the tree's name)

Penang High Court at night

Funfair is coming to town! - at Queensbay, Penang

My holiday in Malaysia was great. If I had more time, I would be able to do more things that I wouldn't even dream of in Korea. I always want to know how some swimmers would be able to dive underwater and jumping from the board (No time to learn this, unfortunately). I am curious to learn how they did it so I enrolled myself in a proper swimming class.

"Who says you can't teach old dogs new tricks?..."

At first I thought I was already too old to learn but thankfully, with a helpful and very patient instructor, fueled with determination to learn and the couldn't care less attitude about drowning and so on- I finally did it! Yes! At first I was drinking chlorinated water all the time (maybe phobia.. phobia of depth.. :P) and really, it didn't feel nice when the water enters the nose like being stuffed with a flowing pipe. Ah... the bloop bloop bloop..

Anyway, finally able to go deep underwater and float up without using legs, unaided. Weird huh? The thing about most swimming classes are that they tend to focus only on swimming styles (such as breaststroke, freestyle, backstroke and butterfly) and not on how to swim/float when we have cramps in the leg or stomach. Highly recommended to find Mr. Neoh at Permata Swimming Court in Penang (if you are interested to learn from him)

Since I swim almost everyday (minus weekends) and was already exhausted by end of day, the vacation passed faster than I thought. Other than going out with friends and family, I cannot even recall how this vacation was over so quickly. Sigh.

We have many things we want to achieve in life. Henceforth, I try to make my university life something different from high school so as there can be more varieties in my somehow monotonous life. Contrary to popular belief that university and high school's life are totally different, it's almost the same (or maybe while I am in Korea). Here everything is about studies and only during free time, outdoor activities or hobbies can be done.

Though I'm not saying to neglect your studies but to be good at things we young adults are now ought to be now besides only studying. Maybe improving communication skills? or our social skills? or even be involved in sports? I have a short list of things I want to achieve, goals that I couldn't achieve during high school. One of it is participating in athletic track event. During high school, maybe because I was a bit unhealthy and it was impossible to even run and outbid any cikopek classmates. :P So secretly, I made it a goal to participate in track event one day and not getting last place anymore.

Guess what? I won 3rd placing in Inter University 400 m race!!!

**

Postcard from Penang

Where to eat in Penang, Malaysia? Penang State consists of an island (half the size of Singapore) and a large swath of land on the mainland. Since I am from the island, firstly any tourist should do when coming to Penang Island is to try the food and it's the Indian Muslim food - Nasi Briyani that I would recommend first besides the famous Penang Assam Laksa. The most mouth watering Nasi Briyani is at Kapitan restaurant next to Queensbay Mall. With a quarter tandoori chicken served with the uh la la briyani rice. It was heavenly..

Of Curry Mee for my belly at the Alley

KOMTAR tower

Along the lane for..

Curry Mee!

Chinese food? Nah. Okay, in my opinion, the best Penang Chinese food is still Curry Mee (PS. It's non halal). Instead of going to hotel or the Old Town restaurant serving expensive curry mee - Why not head to the stall by the street next to Kinowak School Uniform Supplier (I think the shop's name is somehow wrong) with KOMTAR building full in sight.

Meal by the sea

It was delicious but with no chunks of meat (only 2 meat balls), yet it's okay since it's fairly cheap (less than RM 3 or 1 USD per bowl). Over here I ordered the famous peanut soup. Tasted so-so but it was tasty the previous week. Also, do drop by at the restaurant next to Tarbush in Tanjung Bungah. They served excellent dishes with nice beach scenery.

My university semester will start again next Thursday. The feel of going back to classes is quite exciting. This time, I took all major subjects with no non-major classes in between to back me up with better results. :( Trying not to be pessimistic since this feel could spoil my day. Aiyah... Sup Sup Soi lah (Translation - Easy as peanuts *Was trying to be sarcastic*). Yet.. Nothing is impossible! 아싸!

Have a fabulous new semester!

비가 오는 날

2011-08-16T13:50:00.005+09:00

"비가 오는 날에 우산 하나만.. 커피 마실 때 둘이 한장만..." :)

담주에 내 마지막 말레이시아에 있는 주 될건다
친구들 만나고 가족도 봐서 딱 돌아갈시간 오면 한국에 다시 갈까말까한다
아.. 왜 왜
많이 먹어도 조금 뚱뚱해져도 피부 어두워도 나 괜찮다

많이 먹는 이유는 내년에 아마 말레이시아에 다시 안 가서 다 먹으면 좋겠다
그리고 난 헬스장 자주 안 가서 조금 뚱뚱해졌다... 아 진짜 ㅋㅋ
한국에 돌아가면 꼭 열심히 운동하겠다!

사실 나 매일 운동했는데 걍 수영만 했다
아마 intensity 부족해서 칼로리도 많이 burn away 할수없다
이제 나의 피부생깔도 많이 변했다

수영 때문에 피부 많이 많이 어두워졌다! 참~
지금부터 "Black is the new black" 나의 새로운 motto!

내일 수강신청 있어서 만약에 인터넷 느리면..

인터넷... 너... 느리지마~

12 August 2011

2011-08-12T15:09:00.007+09:00

호떡 (Hotteok) or Korean pancake is one of the many famous street food in Korea. However, it's actually quite difficult to make it at home even with the readily packed ingredients! (Oh well, this was my first time trying it)

Hotteok should really look like this (above) but when I tried making them, they turned out like that (below)

Yummy? Hehe. I followed the instructions but how come the dough can be so sticky? Hmmn...

The dark "over fried" thingy was actually the ingredients/sugary stuffing inside the dough (the size of my fist) but because it was too sticky, it came out when I tried to place the dough on the frying pan (the dough stuck on my hand -_-") .

Maybe I can't start a Korean restaurant in Malaysia unless someone likes eating "a little" over burned food. :P

You can try nice Hotteok in Seoul at Namdaemun (남대문), check out this link for personal guide there.

3 August 2011

2011-08-03T17:07:00.005+09:00

Renewing a passport in Malaysia is said to be very easy. But after going to the immigration office today from my home (my home is not in the town area so it's far!), enduring traffic jams and skipping my lunch, all I get from them is "Tukar IC baru... (Change your identification card..)". What?

Okay.. Okay I gotta admit that my current Identification Card is an old one, I did not change it since I was a 11 years old kid. Sentimental reasons I guess. Lawl. I am now 21 years old but come on, can a person changes so much in 10 years?

Maybe my current 11 years old ID Card might be a little cuter than now. ^^ That's all! Well, I have 3 more weeks left in Malaysia (Time does really flies...) but passport renewal is still undone, and now, I'll be needing to replace my ID Card. Hmmn..

Curry mee? Ate. Nasi Lemak? Ate. Satay? Ate. Curry? Ate but left few more to be tasted at some mamaks. Laksa? The curry yellowish one, I think it's "lemak" and will try Penang famous Asam Laksa soon. Teowchew style Steam fish? Gotta have it asap! Can't find this kind of dish in Korea.

Ramli burger? Ate already but couldn't eat this anymore in future, too greasy. Tried McSundae Lime yesterday. In Korea, I can only find either chocolate or strawberry flavored (I think) McSundae but in Malaysia... Whoa...

Internet is as usual slow and it's a bit frustrating to be on the net so I did other things than going online. Nevertheless, I am not complaining. Maybe after staying in Korea and getting super fast internet access, people like me tend to wish for the best or at very least, the same service afforded to us back in Korea.

Home.

2011-07-28T11:36:00.004+09:00

Arrived at Malaysia - after sitting on a plane for at least 6 hours! Lets not talk about butt cramp, have you ever heard about that? At KLIA (Kuala Lumpur International Airport), I rested at Old Town and found out that they do not serve any ROTI CANAI anymore!!! Great. Instead of roti canai, they replaced it with a toast. Ahhhh. Not good.

At KLIA, I transferred to Penang International Airport with another 50 minutes ride. Reached Penang at 7pm plus (Malaysian time), I can see that Penang airport is having a make over but it was a mess because it looked more like a construction site. Stumps of concrete pylons stuck from the ground here and there, such a horrible sight - I guess they could do it better by building a divider to cover them up.

Too exhausted. Slept.

Next day, nothing much. Couldn't use internet until early evening. Internet speed is too slow. But Okay lah... Patience's a virtue. Take it easy. Lunch was some Chinese food at a Chinese Restaurant. Had Curry Mee and Satay for dinner.

I like Malay food so the best meal for that day was definitely the ooo laa laaa Satay. I plan to gorge down as many Malay food as possible before fasting month starts... prefer not too eat a lot after fasting hours.. Or maybe I couldn't eat that much as I used to be last time..

Went to Queensbay (a big shopping mall in Penang) but almost got lost. Hmmn. I guess I can't remember much of Penang though I can always claim I am a pure Penang lang ("People" in Hokkien), time is such that memories to me, remain but only as a flicker of thoughts. Sometimes too along the way, it does get lost. 제발!

Met my primary classmate there, we had not met since Year 2000 (almost 11 Years!) but we still keep in touch through Facebook just like friends add friends and thats all.

These day, I felt a bit handicapped - no mobile phone even I have one from Korea and I couldn't use it because there's no connectivity. Couldn't call anyone. A bit out of touch with the rest but hopefully once everything are settled by end of this week. Then, it will be really my holidays ^^

Kyungpook, then Boys over Flower.. and how I see it..

2011-07-22T22:39:00.012+09:00

Kyungpook National University (KNU) is actually a big campus spanning an area almost wide enough to fit several small universities of Seoul. Unfortunately, Daegu is still a conservative city and English is still not widely spoken as in Seoul. Nevertheless, I find Daegu Korean dialect the sweetest thing to my ears compare to the standard Seoul Korean ^^

I like the variety in my life. 진짜야!

Getting to Daegu is very easy from the Incheon International Airport. There are many ways to do it but the most convenient way is still by express bus. By taking train, there will be a need to transfer from one station to another. For example, from the airport to Seoul and then Seoul to Daegu.

Getting to Incheon airport from Daegu (the reverse is true too!)

Since I am going to the airport from my university, the first thing is to buy the bus ticket. Getting to the express bus station is by taking bus no. 937 at Kyungpook University Main Gate bus stop (next to "Buy The Way" convenience store). When the bus drops you off, walk some distance and puff - you are there!

Remember bus 937!

Opposite the express bus station

This station!

However, taxi is still the best choice when you have big luggage. Skip the hassle of riding a bus and take a taxi instead! Less than 4000 Won one way.

The ticket is 34,100 Won but when I first arrived to Korea, it was less than 30,000 Won! Inflation or whatever, price of everything have really gone up! Only clothing seems to becoming cheaper and cheaper as time passes.

Okay? Do you know Boys over Flower, a Korean drama series? Have you watched it? I haven't (I am not into Korean dramas since the story lines are always the same and why some people can just into such dramas? Hmmpff) but since I am living in Korea, I ought to know something. Right? Yes, I know one - How to get to the university where Boys Over Flower drama was filmed.

Big deal huh?

Hell yeah! (ps. only if you are interested lah)

Getting to Keimyung University (계명대) from my university (KNU)

First, go to the bus stop at Dongdaegu Market (동대구시장) directly next to the 7-Eleven, if you can't see this store. You're lost mate. Take bus 503 to Banwoldang (반월당), it's actually a transfer station so if you can get there without going to Kyungpook, you're still on the right track.

At the Dongdaegu Market Bus Stop

Next to 7-Eleven

The station you need to go...

Look for Keimyung Univ (Click to enlarge)

Subway map of Daegu

Go to Line 2 (2호선), the Green Line..

Get out at Exit no. 1

Here you are

Keimyung University Campus Map

From that station, get into line 2 (2호선) and make sure you get to 계명대 (Keimyung Univ). I can remember it pretty well because I lost my Nikon Lens Cap! Ouch :( Info about Keimyung University? You can search the net or specifically Wikipedia for more infos.

In my opinion, this university lacks something important. It seems to lack values and the "feel" of a university. It embraces materialism with lots of big buildings, extensive use of electricity and some buildings with no real functions other than looking nice.

This is the biggest problem in most universities around Korea. No wonder sometimes tuition can be so expensive. The universities here construct big buildings and charge high tuition fees to fund their projects. Overall, a tad big campus only great for photography (especially during fall and spring). Some poor students of Keimyung University have to then work part time to pay the expensive tuition. What a life.

I like observing people. I know I shouldn't say about some Koreans but well.. This is what I see, and I think it will be bad if this is projected to the world. In life, everyone are born equal - Asians, Caucasians and Africans. Though not all Koreans behave this way, some small minority tend to feel inferior as Asians and look mighty high on the westerners.

Private cram school (학원) in Korea tend to hire westerners, I believe it's not a bad idea but when the motives of hiring them were made known in some newspaper, I felt disgusted. Of course most westerners can speak in good English but if the parents hire these teachers because they want their children to be more "Westernized" or "American", I think it's just absurd.

I too felt sick when I saw some Koreans imitating how Americans speak with their unnatural accents and their so un-Asian way of conducts (It's more like they had watched some cheap American movies to act this way). I hate their pretentious accent, it sounds so weird to me. Sorry to say that.

To be proficient in English is all about being natural and constant use. I felt some Korean parents who can afford to send their children overseas to learn English have just made a mistake. Yes, they learn English overseas but who are they living together with? Are they living together with another Koreans? If they are, it's really a waste of money since we too tend to prefer speaking in our own mother tongue among our same nationality.

My roommate is a Korean, I want it that way so I can improve my Korean through usage. Another thing about Koreans learning English abroad is that after staying abroad to learn English, most Koreans will use English rarely when they are back again in Korea. As time passes, even a small kid can speak better English than them, they seem to have lost some of their English language proficiency due to lack of usage.

Coupled with lack of confidence in making mistakes when speaking (in English), I doubt many Koreans can be really proficient if they do not make any efforts to use English more often. I can remember that during my kindergarten years, I was asked to make an English speech. I wasssssssss soooooo nervousssss. Then, I was only 5, 6 years old... ㅋㅋㅋ

Luckily I made it. Of course I stammered because I had to speak in front of so many parents, students and moreover, this was my first time too. Nevertheless, it was really a great experience, and so sad that my dad had thrown away the VCR few years ago. Sigh.

Koreans and Asians in whole must accept and be proud of who they are. They must understand that they will not be Caucasians just by imitating them. What's so bad been an Asian? I don't get it. However, not all Asian values are great, the one that is really impractical is the seniority based promotion. In Korea, those who are older tend to be chosen for promotion no matter what his/her younger peers are capable of. This is a pull off when working in some parts of Asia.

I like western culture of working and studying. They tend to have more family time (they don't work until midnight in some Korean firms) and most importantly, the education there is more hands on approach than in Asian countries. Asians are more into books and rote learning. Through this, Asians tend to be more cautious when making decisions and are more fearful of making mistakes. Without mistakes, how do we learn?

It is really an impediment to creativity. Likewise here in Korea, I think I will not learn much too especially the hands on experience so I'll try to make up by being good in other things. Just to catch up with my lost time.

(Quite a long post by me again. :) Will stop blogging temporarily to prepare for my trip back home and also to write some articles for magazine and newspapers, if I'm lucky. I need to earn/save some money for upcoming backpacking trip to Egypt and Turkey - maybe if it all turns out well. ^^ Wouldn't it be great if money can just grow on trees? huhu)

Summer at Harvard? Space Odyssey and Home?

2011-07-20T20:02:00.009+09:00

Recently, I was really tempted to enroll myself for Summer class at a nice university. I was a bit confident to get in there because it was only a summer class and getting a nice qualification from such university (Harvard) would look cool, right? Okay, but then there's no scholarship available for summer class. Hmmn.

Don't believe me? Check it out here!

It'almost a whopping 3 grand (3000 USD) a semester and it does not include housing so education there is not for the have-not. So there goes my summer plan/dream to "study" there but wouldn't it be great if the university can at least offer some scholarship for people to try and apply? Sigh. Education should be given to those who wants to learn but I guess some university like Harvard seems to be more interested in reaping profit than educating young minds.

God knows how greedy some people were that can believe in such scams to earn money

I know sometimes I sound a bit cheapskate. I have no choice. I hate to be depended on family for education and I certainly was not born with a silver spoon (and neither do I wish to be, as I think hard work is way better). I am happy to say that my education from middle till tertiary education was all free. Thanks to scholarships, prizes and a bit luck! :)

Then I wonder again, what's the point of getting to an elite Ivy League university but deep inside, it's not for education but for self prestige? Of course some were really creme de la creme academically and they really deserve studying there. Nevertheless, how about people who are gifted but do not have any access to school or places they can wisely use their talents?

These days, I'm a tad busy - I have lots and lots of things (other than blogging) to write. I want to write a review for 2001: A Space Odyssey movie - It was to be for my university magazine. 2011: A Space Odyssey was really an old film (around my dad's time) and was watched by baby boomers growing up around Year 1968.

The movie started with a scene of apes before humans existed. One day, a small group of apes were ousted from their watering hole by a rival group. Forced to retreat and sleep under cold weather, the apes discovered a huge black granite block appeared unexpectedly that very night. Curious as they always were, they touched it.

Fast forward, the apes discovered tool (in the form of bones). They used it to hunt and kill other animals to obtain food. One day, they returned back to their former watering pool and killed the leader of the ape with their tools. They finally won back the land, feeling victorious, an ape threw the tool (a bone stick) into the air.

After it, started a new scene - space age where humans thrived. I like this part because it tells us about how in the past, humans and apes alike used tool as a mean of survival in the path of evolution but now, humans, instead of using it, we became almost like a tool for the machines (human made tool). In this film, humans are maintaining the space machine (a tool) and it seems that humans had reached the peak of evolution, where tools (that were the so-called catalyst of evolution) were no longer used.

Not going to say anymore. Do watch this movie! Click on this link here for brief explanation after watching it!

Finally, I will be back home for my summer vacation next week. I don't really miss going back home. lol. ^^ I'm just kidding okay!

ADV - We are Civil Diplomats!

2011-07-12T21:12:00.003+09:00

Diplomat is generally a representative of a country, and mainly works for his own country. Diplomats could also be the one who cares and helps others while indirectly representing their country. In Korea, many volunteer organizations have been very active in overseas for a long time.

COPION members digging the ground for the base of a house. The recent trend of volunteer had changed to educating the people to be more independent rather than by giving money (Source: COPION)

Civil Volunteer Organizations

The word, "Relief Organization" first appeared after the Korean War. A relief organization, World Vision was born in the war-torn Korea 60 years ago. World Vision grew up together with the Korean economy and had witnessed Korea turned into a giving nation from a receiving nation. World Vision Korea is the first and only official cooperation organization which belongs to WEP(World Food Programme).

At present, World Vision Korea is one of the members of World Vision International, which is one of the largest civil international organization in the world. It has about 40,000 staff members in nearly 100 countries. Accordingly, World Vision International obtained the consultative status from UN-ECOSOC(Economic and Social Council)...

Edited until here but do read more at this link

10 July 2011

2011-07-10T00:16:00.004+09:00

If the country needs you?

Would you come back and serve?

If the country asks you to take sides?

Are you with the government or are you with the oppositions?

If the country is unfair?

Will you bear with it or would you cry out loud?

If the country is corrupt, inefficient?

Would you dare to change it?

If you are going to risk your life for that?

Will you or will you not?

"It is not our abilities that show what we truly are. It is our choices..."

Dumbledore in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

Pyeongchang Winter Games - Korea 2018

2011-07-07T14:34:00.006+09:00

"First South America, now South Korea. The Olympics will be breaking new ground again when Pyeongchang hosts the 2018 Winter Games..."

"After a decade of trying and two painful defeats, the South Korean city finally won its Olympic prize Wednesday, crushing two European rivals in a landslide vote for the 2018 Games and taking the event to the Asian country for the first time..."

(Source: Major Events International)

"Pyeongchang's overwhelming victory in a secret ballot of IOC members was a resounding endorsement of the bid campaign pledge to expose winter sports to a hungry new market in Asia...."

By GERALD IMRAY (Associated Press)

As expected, Korea will be hosting Winter Games in 2018. By then, I would be participating in snow jumping event (in my dreams la) so watch out for your MALAYSIAN representative! Rawr~ I will prove that there's "snow" in Malaysia!

Hehe :)

Kim Yu Na's (김연아) presentation in her country's bid for Winter Games was great! She was a bit nervous when she's presenting in English but she did it quite smoothly. Well, I can understand her and most Koreans trying to present something in their non-native language..

I might be in Korea again in 2018. I told you - as a ski jumping representative. Wait and see ^^

Contest - Incheon Korean Music Wave 2011

2011-07-05T22:42:00.007+09:00

I am not quite a fan of any Korean groups or singers even after staying in Korea for quite some time. It's quite entertaining sometimes when my friends discussed about Korean Pop news and I am just like "Huh?" or trying to change this conversation topic.

I would be crazy if I talk head on about Korean pop stars with my Korean friends - I couldn't even differentiate who is who in 2AM or 2PM. Come on... It's really confusing.. Why can't they have 2PM and another is 3PM/AM or something? Why another is 2AM?

So who's my favorite Korean groups/singers? Ermmmmmm.... Let me think..... Big Bang? Nah, but they are definitely better than the emo 2PM and many other Korean Pop groups here. You gotta agree with me!

"I'm so sorry but I love you da geojitmal (다 거짓말 or "all lies")..." 거짓말 (Lies) by 빅뱅 (Big Bang)

Lol. But really, I guess you don't care about lyrics ^^ Anyway, if you are in Korea, this is the time to see your favorite Korean pop stars such as 2PM, Big Bang, Girls' Generation (Awww) all in a single venue.

You don't need to pose with your favorite stars this way...

or even stand beside a cardboard-size pop singer..

Neither do you need to work this hard to buy a ticket to see your favorite K-pop stars...

You can see them live and for free by participating in this contest. Click on this link here to read and participate. You wouldn't be seeing me going there because I would be back home for my summer vacation. Have an enjoyable one if you did win.

The Malaysian Dilemma

2011-07-04T16:47:00.002+09:00

Malaysia is among the few countries in the world where different cultures can coexist along well with its long history since the founding days of Malaysia. A country I called home in 1989. Those were the days when the economic progress of Taiwan, South Korea and Singapore were still at par with us.

Jimmy Choo's shoes which were once slipped on the heels of queens and celebrities. Michelle Yeoh who proves that Asians and not only Malaysians can shine on the entertainment world. The mighty football team of Malaysia that once shook the ground of stadiums and strikes fear to the very heart of Korean footballers.

Where are all this now? Malaysia day by day bleeds great talents to abroad. Instead of looking forward and reverse the brain drain, we left it alone. The exodus of highly talented Malaysian - The Malaysian Dilemma.

Talent? It comes from ancient times where "talent" was a measurement for mass of precious metals in a huge casing. A gold "talent" (a quantity, a measurement) can feed an entire family all their lifetime and with plenty more left. This was how much it worth.

Unfortunately, talent in terms of ability cannot be quantified. Malaysia had lost over 1 million (Source: World Bank) highly educated citizens in a country with less than 28 million. Talented engineers, scientists, doctors and inventors. All gone.

"Malaysia’s brain drain... One out of ten Malaysians with a tertiary degree migrated in 2000 to an OECD country—this is twice the world average and including Singapore would make this two out of ten..."

(Source : Page 12 of World Bank Report - Malaysia Economic Monitor)

The crux is that something is going wrong somewhere. Malaysia these day is more engrossed in politics and scandals than getting the work done. Some are fighting to maintain the status quo of natives even when they are already constitute the majority. Lets not even talk about what a true Malaysian is really about. A Malaysian of Indian ethnicity, Chinese ethnicity born and breed in the same country - are they less Malaysian than a Malaysian of Malay ethnicity? Bidayuh? or a former Indonesian citizen that coverts to a Malay Malaysian?

The problem is still on our own divisive economic policy and special rights that bring discontentment because they are not based on meritocracy. In this article, I will write as fair as possible but sometimes fairness cannot always be deemed fair because "fair" is a perceptions and perceptions may differ from one another.

"Rights? What rights? Do you mean right or wrong?"

There is no point fighting for rights. Everyone is equal. I have a pair of eyes (double eyelids for your info), 2 legs, 2 arms and I need air to breath. Everyone has that but what differentiates me and you? Well, if you are a woman and I am a man, then I guess you'll know what is the difference. At the very end, I have 6 packs and maybe good looking (Ahem), I think there are the small little things that differentiate me and other men. :) Just kidding.

Humans need air to breath, a shelter, water and food to survive. There is no such thing as special advantages to a certain group of people. A particular advantage given directly is like a crutch. A person addicted to using crutch will continue to use it and never learn to walk unless it is taken away. Special economic preferences for a particular group will lead to discontentment to the deprived and short term satisfaction to the selected ones.

Why short term? Malaysia is a trading nation. Country is actually very difficult to be managed, if a country that relies only on import, the country will be eventually bankrupted. In a globalized world, good quality but cheap products are preferred. Special economic preferences to certain race may leads to self satisfaction and no competitions means no innovation and pricing will still remain uncompetitive.

Then, the problem comes. Customers wanting for better goods will shun the local products and opt for better products abroad. Country loses. Economy declined. Workers will go elsewhere to find better jobs.

Protectionist policy will bring the economy to jeopardy and brings resentments among the others. This will lead to the other races in the country to be more aware of the problems among their own ethnicity and the well-to-do will place a barrier to ethnic group deemed to be given special advantages. It is as they perceive that special advantages will make a person more dependent even though it is not true. Such suspicions will bring polarization among races. The meaning of being born in this country does not matter anymore to those few.

Malay, Chinese, and Indians. Humans. Humans are all creatures of emotions. When something is not right, some will weather it, some will wither. Talents are the same, some can continue living with the disadvantages but in the long run, deep down, a growing dissatisfaction. There are those who lived with the special advantages but excelled without the help of it, at some point, some want to be treated as an equal and not as the one perceived of receiving special advantages.

I believe special rights and advantages were handicaps and are for the weak only in a short term. Poor people regardless of ethnicity, needy ones are the only people that should be given rights. Not the rich tycoon of an ethnic group. And neither shall there be recruitment ads with certain language proficiency needed unless the profession deals with work that requires that language ability.

"An individual has not started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the broader concerns of all humanity..."

Martin Luther King, Jr.

There is never a time in the world's history where the best decisions were always the easiest to be made. Slavery in the States was only abolished after a devastating civil war between the Union and Confederates. The Nuclear war would have started if not for the Soviets that compromised by withdrawing its nukes from Cuba and the United States from the Europe in 1962 (Source: Cuban Missile Crisis).

Equality is the best way to liberate everyone from suspicions, prejudice and jealousy we have on each other. When each of us are treated fairly, as time passes, we will slowly accept each other not just as friends but as brothers and sisters. With peaceful, fair and conducive environment, investments will flow in. Talented and skilled Malaysians from abroad too will one day come back.

End the special rights and start protecting the rights of the poor, needy and disabled regardless of the color of our skins. When the fight for equality is still unfinished, there's still a hope for a change. I wish one day we will call ourselves as true Malaysians. Not only a Malay, a Chinese or an Indian. Why quarrel for special rights but risk losing sleep because the economy and the people are not doing good. I wish Malaysia best.

17 June 2011

(I like to write long post and articles. I think not many people would have the time to read this all because it's too long. This post is about the true concept of nationhood and my country, Malaysia. This post might bring uneasiness to a few but I hope some people will read it with open heart. Special rights are never a must, it's only a choice. If this is removed, the barrier between races will slowly dissipates. Again like any of my personal views, I sincerely apologized if it does "hurt" anyone.)

Lets visit Korea for free?

2011-07-04T15:02:00.006+09:00

Where would you be if you are now in Korea? Do you want to visit and shop at Seoul? or maybe to learn about Korean history at say, Gyeongju? How about tasting authentic Korean food in Jeonju and then board a flight to Jeju Island the next morning for lunch?

After a tour around Jeju, why not fly back for dinner at Daegu - the birthplace of Samsung? You can actually do all that - hotels and round trip airline tickets to Korea fully covered by KTO (Korea Tourism Organization).

This is the link to participate. If you are lucky, you might just be among the lucky chaps to travel to Korea for free. Who doesn't like people paying for your flight ticket?

Sales, Shopping and bits of my memories - Korea

2011-07-03T22:31:00.017+09:00

Lady Gaga, the craziest (Uhhh), the coolest (Ahhhh), colors mix-and-match lady and a performer. I like her individuality, she is able to wear what she wants without being subjugated by the public opinions on her wacky style. The way she sways her crowd, the way she influenced the people - Wow!

Lady Gaga Day in Taiwan - Welcome to madness

This is what you call them ardent Gaga supporters! *Nightmares*

That's what fashions and clothing are all about. Right now in Korea, there's a big sales going on. Most, if not every single shops are now having sales. From ZARA, H&M, Giordano, Calvin Klein and right up to the shops around hidden alleys of clothing district in Daegu, you can definitely see sales!

For ladies, there are more clothing varieties to buy if compared to men. There is also a common misconception that men don't really go out and shop. Men in general do buy clothing quite often but it's just that we rarely window shops like how women do. Imagine the long hours men have to sometimes accompany their wives just for her shopping. It is a tough job being a man. Hehe.

Wife : Hey honeeeeey... Does this cloth fits me???

Hubby: Sure, nice la wei

Wife : Really? How about the other one?

Hubby: All suits you dar.. ^^

Wife : Erm... Which is better? the red or the pink one??

Conversation goes on and on.. bla blah...

Wife : This looks beautiful, can I have it honey?
Hubby: Sure why not?

At the cashier:

Wife : (Stares at hubby)
Hubby: How much is it dar? (Soft tone)
Wife : Only 400 USD...
Hubby: (Deep inside : WTF, for a DRESS!!! AHHH) *Smiles back at the wife*

In Korea, the best place for men (and women alike) to buy is through the net (G-Market or Interpark) but the cons of buying there are that the stuffs can be of low quality and that there might be hidden charges when buying things online. This are the reasons I don't encourage buying using this way.

Korea is brand conscious country. This is why T-shirts with word "GUESS" or "GAP" imprinted on them can be best sellers here. For guys in Korea or male tourists to Korea, the best retail outlets to shop are ZARA and Uniqlo (all foreign brand outlets - unfortunately). For guys looking for style, they can opt for the clothing alleys in downtown for vintage.

ZARA has fantastic cloths because the clothing changes very often so it's rare to see people wearing the same outfits (more of "individualism" you see) and in my case, no brand names sticking out like as in GUESS, Levi's or Bean Pole (a Korean brand). Uniqlo because the cloths are cheap, simple and soft :)

Luckily for women (if you are), you will be spoilt for choice when you shop for clothing in Korea. Lots of it really. In every nooks and crannies around Daegu (and in other cities), you will definitely see women retail outlets.

Few weeks ago, I attended a small graduation ceremony for foreigners in my university. It was to celebrate my friend's graduation. Time does really flies when I ponder awhile to think of my friend who had just graduated and she was among the first few Malaysians I met when I first arrived at Kyungpook.

Sumaya (the one holding the bouquet of flowers), friends and me

Her name is Sumaya. Sumaya and ex-KNU Malaysian friends! Thanks for the nice memories! I can still remember the first time I met them all - It was on a long lonely night in a chilly spring weather that I met them at a restaurant outside my campus. Can you imagine me then not knowing a single Korean word? It was so difficult but so glad I made it.

I will be back home for my summer vacation end of this month and my favorite quote is always this

"It's a funny thing about comin' home. Looks the same, smells the same, feels the same. You'll realize what's changed is you."

The Curious Case of Benjamin Buttons

It's really true that as time passes, through bitter and harsh experiences, we grow up. I guess I am not in the position to say about myself but really, maturity and growing up are two different things. A person can be a grown up but he may lacks the maturity.

I like being young, I hate making mistakes but somehow, I can't run away from it. So I have no choice but to accept them as they were and get on with my life.

ADV - Blow Away the Heat in Caves!

2011-07-03T00:18:00.003+09:00

It was really unusual that temperature in May recorded an average of 28 degree Celsius. It made some really worried about the coming heat of summer. Well, they were right. Why don’t we go on a trip to cool places?

One of Korea’s natural beauty lies with the caves. There had been a lot geographical changes in this peninsula which formed many nice natural sites in Korea.

There are several kinds of caves. Limestone caves are formed by the rainwater which dissolves the limestone layer. Sea caves are formed by abrasion of the ocean wave. Lava caves are formed by lava flow. Artificial caves are formed on a specific purpose.

There are more limestone caves and sea caves in Korea. Stalagmites, stalactites and stone pillars are so beautiful that more and more people keep visiting the caves. This article will guide you to explore the caves around Korea.

Korea’s only theme cave, Hwaam

Gold-colored Stalactite in Hwaam Cave (Source: Kookmin Ilbo)

Hwaam Cave is located in Jeongsun, Gangwon-do and is recognized as one of the great caves in Korea. It was listed in 1980 as monument No. 33. Most of all, it is highly recognized for its beauty and it is also one of the eight natural attractions in Jeongsun, Gangwon-do.

It is the only themed cave. The theme is ‘Meeting of the Gold and the Nature’. What makes it unique is that, Hwaam Cave was both a coal mine and a natural cave. To get to the starting point of the cave, you should take a shuttle train. You can truly feel the theme of the ‘Meeting of Gold and Nature’ there.

The tour length of Hwaam Cave is 1,803 meters and the tour takes approximately one and half hour. You can see some chapters in the cave. The chapters consist of ‘History’, ‘365 along with Gold Line’, ‘Wonderland’, ‘Gold world’, ‘Nature Wonder’. The cave was discovered during the mining of gold, so there are many displays and exhibits inside which are connected with Gold mine.

You can learn about the the history of gold mining. It is quite interesting to see gold bars too. In addition, there are some displays showing various kinds of gold mines, the uses of gold and the history of gold. For the children who are easily bored, there is a section on ‘Gold Ghost and Silver Ghost in Wonderland’ which are the mascots of this cave.

The Wonderland mascots will show how to mine for gold and gold products from the children’s perspective. Because of this, there are more family visitors in a cave tour.

Edited until here, but do read more at this link.

ADV - Gochang appeared in Mischelin guide!

2011-07-02T23:57:00.004+09:00

Have you heard of Mischelin guide? It is the most well known guidebook which is published by the Tire company Mischelin in 1900. The Mischelin is a renowned magazine that grades restaurants, which of the grading system is called 'Red Guide'.

Mischelin guide (Source: Joongang Ilbo)

It hasn't been long since it has adopted the 'Green Guide' system which grades tourists' attraction around the world. Well, it became a sensation when Mischelin Co. published the 450-page of 'Mischelin guide-Green'.

The number of places in Korea mentioned in this Mischelin guide are 23. There, we can find a rather unexpected name among other familiar names, Dolmen Museum, which is located in Gochang, Jeollabuk-do. There are few people know where the Dolmen museum is actually located.

In addition, not many people know that the dolmen is an attractive place to be visited. Isn't it good enough to visit this place? You will be surprised to know that it was awarded with the highest score - Three stars. Gochang has an old heritage but it doesn't mean that it is still stuck in the past. Let's travel to Gochang.

Places to visit!

Gochang Dolmen Museum

(Source : Korea Tourism Organization)

Temples of Goryeo dynasty, Seonun Temple and Dosolam

Seonun Temple (Source : Korea Tourism Organization)

Gochang's fortress

Gochang's fortress (Source:: Korea Tourism Organization)

Going to places with a variety of historical significances from the Joseon Dynasty of Gochang is a great experience. Gochang too has a long history of organizing festivals dating from the prehistoric Dolmen to the modern day festival.

Edited but do read more at this link.

ADV - Korea ballet, Fly high to the world!

2011-07-02T23:47:00.004+09:00

Korean ballet is on focus nowadays. Two main ballet companies of Korea, 'Korea National Ballet (KNB)', and 'Universal Ballet (UB)' are now internationally acknowledged for their artistic talent and are being compared to world-class ballet companies.

In fact, Korea ballet was out of B30 (Ballet Ranking Top 30) ten years ago. But now its reputation has been prominently enhanced as Korean ballet troupes are being invited to foreign countries, surely raising the pride of Korea’s dance world.

Image by Kyunghyang Sinmun

The world’s eye on Korea ballet

KNB has been leading the popularization of ballet, performing 81 times in 2009, 123 times last year throughout the country including its capital city, Seoul. Last year KNB performed in Bolshoi Theater (Bolshoi Teatr) and Mariinskii Theater (Mariinskii Teatr), creating a better reputation of Korean ballet. Recently, KNB was invited to theaters of Italy and France and currently further schedules in details are under discussion.

A specific plan for a performance at San Carlo Theater (Teatro San Carlo) in Napoli, Italy will be carried out by this October. This theater is one of the most prominent theaters comparable to La Scala Theater in Milan (Teatro alla Scala di Milano) or Rome Opera House of Italy. Stressing the fact this historic stage was founded 39 years before the globally honored La Scala Theater in Milan, the invitation is very meaningful.

KNB is also invited to 'Les etes de la danse', a dance festival held in Paris and further schedules for the 2014 performance are as well under discussion. In addition, KNB is planning to perform in Caracalla Theater (Terme di Caracalla) and Rome Opera House next year. This performance will be a very historical occasion for Korea, as Italy is a birthplace of ballet and France is meaningful home of ballet where it became an independent art genre.

‘Shim Chung’ an original ballet of Universal Ballet staged in Taipei, Taiwan (Image: Asia Today)

UB is also planning to have a tour in 40 countries within the next 3 years. 'Shim Chung' and 'Giselle' is already scheduled to perform in 8 cities of 6 countries including Taiwan (April), Singapore (May), U.S.A. and Canada (July), Japan (September), and Oman (November) this year. Most of these concerts were organized by UB by directly contacting the local theaters who happened to respond with great enthusiasm.

Edited but read more at this link.

ADV - Convenient Traffic System of Korea

2011-07-02T23:25:00.005+09:00

Most foreigners will agree that Korea has an excellent public transportation system. In Korea, you can reach almost everywhere by bus or subway. It is considered superb in terms of its easy access and cleanness.

Korea’s transportation system is now recognized as one of the finest example among other countries. In the past, many Koreans complained of ineffective subway and complicated road systems. But after it adopted the transit discount system and better equipped subway systems, situation got much better than ever.

Comfortable Public Transportation System

Korea’s transportation system can be considered a role model for other countries (Source: Yonhap News Agency)

There has been so much improvement in traffic system that now Korea’s traffic system is widely regarded all over the world. Most importantly, the subway and bus companies do not compete with each other for passengers and it became a win-win situation for them.

It can be considered cleaner here than in any other subways around the world (Source: Yonhap News Agency)

For example, the transit discount system helps passengers save their money, which is found only in Korea. For this reason, many policy makers from many countries visited Korea to learn more about Korea’s traffic system. It is common for Korean to pay with digital card when taking a bus, but in many countries, people are still paying by cash.

Moreover, a variety of bus and subway line can be considered remarkable. Since all buses were divided into four colors- blue, green, red and yellow- according to the routes, it became much convenient to take buses even in the rush hour.

Edited until here but do read more at this link

Korea - Getting a smartphone and Kakao?

2011-07-02T22:01:00.010+09:00

There were many things happening lately, some worth talking and some not worth talking. This makes me not in a mood to blog. Anyway, I think I am a private person and I do not like to share personal stuffs to people. This blog is a bit of exception but I neither wish to have many readers nor to promote it.

This blog started off as a personal blog for my incessant ramblings on my life in Korea and my personal views (more like a diary to me la - and can you believe - a guy having one!), but after sometime, I gradually write about my experiences in Korea.

**

Honestly, I prefer her over the phone :P

IRIS drama star, 이병헌..

Acquiring a smartphone is of late becoming more of a necessity than an indulgence or a trend. As much as I like to say that the basic cellphone still serve its purpose to enable communications and other small functions like taking pictures, smartphone's rise is inevitable.

With the rise in usage of smartphone, more research and development (R&D) funding will be poured into smartphone's software and hardware while cellphone's development will remain as stagnant as ever. Like how pagers were replaced by bulky cellphones, and then a period of cellphones with multiple functions. Now, it's all about smartphone.

Blame it on iPhone too.

In Korea, it's still possible to get a basic cellphone but it's really difficult to get one that will suit your taste. These days, there are not many varieties of cellphones to choose from if compared to smartphone varieties. Nevertheless, there's always pros and cons of having a smartphone.

I, not being a gadget enthusiast, jumping into the iPhone bandwagon is just not my type. I chose an Android based phone - I chose a Samsung Galaxy. This Android based phone was okay but the apps in the market were a bit messy and sometimes, it's still a hassle to search for nice apps in the Android market.

In Korea, it's more common to find non-apple smartphone on the market than in any other countries. Nationalistic feelings (only buy either Samsung or LG) and restrictions imposed on foreigners mean it's quite difficult to have an iPhone. Besides the I-know-you-know expensive subscription packages too for iPhone users.

It's more expensive to own an iPhone in Korea than in Malaysia due to the "basic" fees. Nevertheless, performance wise, I think both smart phones are the same but iPhone remains as sleek as ever. Owning a Samsung or LG smartphone in Korea is easy and fast. Just sign pages after pages (erm... not really.. only a front and back subscription form) of contracts written in Korean without actually "knowing" it. lol. Just kidding.

The most downloadable apps in Korea is Kakao Talk. Kakao functions almost like a messenger but is more widely used here than in any other countries. It's free but that's if you do not include the 3G fees. Luckily in Korea, the free data usage is more than enough (up to 1 GB in my case).

The thing about getting a smartphone in Korea is that the staffs in the mobile shops will always promote the best and of course, the most expensive phones (and subscription packages too). Sometimes, a basic packages can be overly expensive, maybe an unlimited data usage with a limited free calling time (only up to 5 hours) and SMS messages (300 SMS) will set you back at least 55000 Won (51 USD) per month.

Frankly, unlimited data usage plan is not really worth it. Smartphone's (Mine's a Samsung Galaxy) battery life really sucks so what's the point of getting a package that is not worth subscribing because of the limited battery power? It's better to donate to a place called charity than to fatten the telecom company's paycheck. But really, get Kakao if you are in Korea!

Life and Exam Week

2011-06-03T12:55:00.005+09:00

Next week, it will be my finals. And I will need to put a temporary stop in blogging (as if I have anything interesting to write though. lol).

Last week, I participated in an inter-university sports meet and won a prize in 400m marathon (Will write about it after my exam).

Felt accomplished and happy la... as I had never won anything in track race, whats more among my high school classmates last time.

The weather here in Daegu is erratic - summer's here but at night, it's always cold. I realized that I miss the rain back in Malaysia, downpour makes you get stuck in a traffic jam and sometimes when it floods, I remembered that I had to push the car. Leema.. And... the smell of freshly mowed grass after the drizzle.. hmmn...

Oh, few more months and I'll be home!!! :)

UCC Contest YouTube - Jeju

2011-05-30T18:27:00.004+09:00

If you are bored at home. Holidays still on but with nothing to do. Then this is the time for you to win yourself some cold hard cash! From now until 30th June, you can participate in a contest that will pit your video-making knowledge and persuasive skills to the rest.

What's it? Continue reading then.

Fantastic prizes to be won, prize money of 5,000,000 Won (4630 USD)! More than enough to tour around Korea with some extra cash left to travel to few more countries.

Interested? Click here for more info or to participate...

Tea time? - Daegu Tea Expo 2011

2011-05-29T10:35:00.013+09:00

"There is a great deal of poetry and fine sentiment in a chest of tea..." ~Ralph Waldo Emerson~

Tea, it comes in many types and colors. The best tea is usually the one that was fermented/aged for long so as to retain a distinct flavor. However, not many people were really into learning the art of making tea so we purchase the tea from shops instead. :)

Last weekend (few days ago), I went for Tea Expo in EXCO Daegu. I am not really fond of tea but rather there to learn about culture. I like arts and painting but tea? I couldn't even tell the difference between Ceylon tea and the black tea, or are they the same???

Getting there from my uni is through my university's main gate. From here I took Bus no. 937 to EXCO (The place). This time, I traveled alone because the tea exhibition sounds too old-fashioned to my friends. This was my first trip to tea exhibition so why not I give it a try!

Getting there:

After reaching EXCO, at the side entrance you can see a nice hotel called Hotel Inter-Burgo just directly opposite the entrance. I haven't been inside here but I think it should be a good hotel as most high-end hotels were usually located next to convention center.

I know them all, do you? ^^

My country, psst... not Vietnam but.. Malaysia

At the entrance of the tea exhibition

My 10,000 Won ticket

Arranging tea cups... zzz... the beginning of boredom...

Tea Meditation *I think* - I did not try it

Tea pots, 80,000 Won (70 USD++) for a fist size pot

Calligrapher but not drawing anything fancy though..

Hanboks for sale..

My afternoon snack

The whole trip was excruciating boring (all senior citizens nia) but luckily, I did learn something about this exhibition - I should appreciate tea because there are so many types of it and secondly, never ever come to this Tea Exhibition again until I turned 70, 80 years old. lol

"If man has no tea in him, he is incapable of understanding truth and beauty..." from a Japanese Proverb

ADV - Korean Medical Care that impressed Kazakhstan

2011-05-29T10:24:00.003+09:00

At the end of last November, a medical team from the Korea University Anam Hospital flew over to Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan and carried out kidney transplant as officially invited by the National Medical Emergency Center of Kazakhstan. The surgery was successful, and the news on the medical techniques of the Korean medical team was aired throughout the country.

Unlike Korea, the success rate of the kidney surgery in Kazakhstan is pretty low. However, the organ transplanting was the only way to save Aigerim Kumasheva suffering from the chronic renal insufficiency so the medical team operated the surgery with her brother’s kidney, which took 8 hours in total. Dr. Kasimov, the head of the medical emergency center of Kazakhstan said “Our hospital deeply appreciates at Korean medical team that added a new page to the medical history of Kazakhstan. I was very impressed at their sense of duty as a doctor as well as their medical technology.”

This is not the end of successful stories of Korean medical treatment. A number of tourists looking for the medical tourism are continuously visiting Korea. Let’s take a look at what is in Korean medical treatment!

Kazakhstan President’s doctor visited Korea

On April 26, a patient visited Severance hospital in Korea and received medical surgery. In fact, he was a lifetime doctor for Kazakhstan president Nursultan Nazarbaev and also a notable specialist in rehabilitative medicine in Kazakhstan. He first found out about the successful story of robotic surgery by the Severance hospital from articles among the data of medically advanced countries such as U.S. and European countries.

He decided to visit Korea right after being counseled by one of his co-workers and met an acquaintance who recovered from the surgery by the Severance hospital.

Beside a robot called da Vinci, the doctor operates with 3-D screen. The robotic arm is located inside the patient’s body (Source : Donga News)

He chose Dr. Na, who is well-known to have performed the most number of robotic surgeries on prostate cancer in Korea. You will find the reason from the fact that he is the first doctor in Korea who succeeded the robotic surgery in 2005 and also performed about 1,200 surgeries so far.

Of course, the result was successful. Dr. Oraz left the hospital with a healthy appearance. The technology of robotic surgery has achieved recognition throughout the world. You will be surprised to know that many doctors around the world such as USA, Singapore, Italy, and France visited Korea to learn on how to perform the robotic surgery.

What is da Vinci Robotic Surgery?

Eat, Drink and Dance - KNU Festival 2011

2011-05-28T21:05:00.018+09:00

Like any students in every university, there's always a time to have fun and also a time to be serious in our studies. Recently, our university organized a grand festival and I was there 2 days consecutively in this 3-day festival.

Lining up for?

... a free can of coffee.. -_-"

Well, it all started on the first day of the festival where every Korean University freshman was persuaded to attend and help out making dishes to be sold to the public. The profit earned was then spent on alcohol on the last day of the festival. They will drink until all get drunk and continue again... geez..

Last year during my first university festival in Korea, instead of helping out (It was on voluntary basis so ahem... I absented myself - Who in the right mind would want to cook until the next day, serving and washing plates la?), I went and experienced the festival with my department teachers and friends :)

This year though was a bit different.. "On the first day of Christmas, my true love gave to me... A Partridge in a Pear Tree..." (Twelve Days of Christmas) On the first day of the festival, I went for food! After having 파전 or Korean green onion pancake and Jjimdak (A Korean dish of chicken with sauces) for dinner, I had a meal called Ceylonese chicken curry (5000 Won!).

I like spicy food (Malay and Indian food but never Chinese!) and I expect spicy food to taste better than some bland Chinese or Korean cuisine. However, the portion served was too little and whether paying 5000 Won for a very small bowl of curry and a plate of noodle was worth or not - frankly, I think it was not worth at all. Since it was only a 3-day festival, it was an exception.

First day of festival in my university was never the best time to visit because the people were still preparing and setting up tents. After the Sri Lankan stall, I went for another meal at a restaurant with friend and we ordered green onion chicken.. Chicken.. chicken and chicken.. I think I am turning into a chicken!

Cuckooo

On the second day after the ever stressful Physical Biochemistry class. I went for another tour around the festival site. This time, it was better than yesterday. In the concert area, though I am not sure which famous performer(s) attended, I was very confident that the performer(s) was not from among the A-list Korean stars (Big Bang, Girls Generation, etc..), maybe ours was from the B-list or even C-list..

Since KNU is a public university - if Big Bang is to perform, I think my university will be crowded like in a gulag and tuition fees will see historic rise and Koreans will demo ^^ After a while there, with acoustic guitars blazing and drums still beating "dum dum dum" in my ear drums, I think I had enough.

I went to another spot. It was a volleyball court. For the first time (maybe?) in Kyungpook, there was a disco party. With great DJs and right at the center of university, who would want to give it a miss? Well, I did as I had other appointment.

Nevertheless I went there for a short while (outside and did not enter ler) and I saw my classmate selling mask. He told me that sometimes Korean were shy when they danced so they will cover their face. lol.

He bought 60 masks for 2000 Won and he was selling at 1000 Won each. I doubt he sold any that day. *Grins* Yes! My second day's over. On the last day, I was in my room enjoying the serenity. Ahhhh... at last... Though I did not participate, I managed to see fireworks from the top of my dorm.

Fireworks. Short yet beautiful all at the top of the building.. Perfect dating spot too. Hehe.. Just kidding ^^ It was fun but it would be better if the weather during the whole festival was great. On the first day of the festival, it was chilly (Have you heard of cold summer?) and on the second day, it rained too.

I did enjoy it all. or maybe I did n...

ADV - Let’s Go Inside the Love Story of Chun Hyang and Mong Ryong!

2011-05-25T12:56:00.008+09:00

We see many ‘Couples of the Century’ through numerous media. Whether they are real couples or the fake ones, the range of couple are limitless. For example, famous football star David Beckham and member of the pop girl group ‘Spice Girls’, Victoria Beckham became the couple of the century through their marriage.

There are also fictional couples beloved by many in the world. In Jane Eyre, the famous and influential western novel, the love between Jane Eyre and Edward Rochester has been remembered among readers until now. Hence, comes a question on whether there is any ‘Couple of the Century’ in Korean classical literature? Absolutely!

Romeo and...

Juliet... Korean version

Chunhyang and Mongryong, they are the familiar names to Korean. The novel was adapted for Pansori, books, films and even dramas. The main character, Chunhyang - built an image of an active woman in Joseon Dynasty and these days she became the representative image of Korean woman through the various performances carried overseas. They are truly a couple of the century that represents Korea.

Unfortunately, there isn’t a place to remind us of their love story. Every story was supposed to be alive and lingers in the reader’s imagination, however, if the readers can see and look around the virtual place that helps the understanding of the full story of ‘Chunhyang-jeon’, visitors would definitely enjoy the story with the scenery.

At Pohang, Korea

From the idea, ‘Namwon Chunhyang Theme Park’ was finally opened on May 2004. Theme park is the place for entertainment and the attractions were the landscaping, buildings, and most attractions are based on one or more of the specific themes. The ‘Namwon Chunhyang Theme Park’ is ready for couples with the gist, ‘We invite those of you who have someone to do with love!’.

We have everything in Namwon Chunhyang Theme Park!

Night view of Namwon Chunhyang Theme Park

‘Namwon Chunhyang Theme Park’ is comprised of mainly 5 places- ‘Meeting Place’, ‘Pledge Place’, ‘Love and parting Place’, ‘Hardship Place’, and ‘Festival Place’. When you enter the theme park, you will see the facilities and structures that are well-matched to each place.

At ‘Meeting Place’, you will see swings where Chunhyang and Mongryong first met, a fountain, and a cultural museum. At ‘Pledge Place’, you will meet a stone tower over the ring-shaped bridge ’Okjihwan’ which means a declaration of love. You might also find some couples in front of the tower, piling a stone on it and tying a small piece of wishing paper. In addition, ‘Pledge Place’ is quite a famous place to couples among other theme places.

Everlasting love, Eternal pledge..

When a couple put their hands inside the ‘Pot of Pledge’, the love song ‘Sarang-ga’ comes out of it. At ‘Love and Parting Place’, you will see the ‘Buyong-dang’ where Chunhyang and Mongryong spent their wedding night, and the house of gisaeng ‘Wolmae’, Chunhyang’s mother. Also there is a workshop that you can experience the ‘seonbi’s style and arts, and even commoners’ culture in the middle era of Joseon Dynasty. ‘Hardship Place’ is also a place that attracts tourists.

There is a rebuilt jail that Chunhyang was imprisoned and the investigation office which has a stick for flogging criminals. The stick is a remade for visitors to try and joke around. Finally, at ‘Festival Place’, there are many places to relax for visitors and a private theme school for writing letters with a brush. Once you use the brush, you will feel as if you were a writer going back to Joseon Dynasty.

Edited until here but do read more at this link

23 May 2011

2011-05-23T22:33:00.004+09:00

나는 보통 남자이다
그래도 보통 남자라서 제일 행복한 사람이다
아무것도 없기 때문에만 내 용망 다 억누를수있다

이런 생활 살면 될수있습니까?
보통 살고 보통처럼 생긴다

보통처럼 합격하다
내 미래도 보통처럼 될것같다
다 보통 있어도 괜찮다

보통 살수있고 보통처럼 사람 만날수있다
다 충분해서 이런 생활하고 싶다..

World Students in Korea (WSK) 5th Batch Recruitment

2011-05-21T18:53:00.005+09:00

World Students in Korea (WSK) is now recruiting the 5th Batch!

The Presidential Council on Nation Branding (PCNB) is recruiting the 5th batch of members for the program “World Students in Korea.”

“World Students in Korea” aims to provide international students in Korea with opportunities to experience Korea in a more organized, diverse, and involved manner and to promote cultural exchanges between Korea and the students’ home countries through the blogs (web logs) run by the member students.

The 1st batch was launched in July 2009. Members participate in a variety of activities including camps, field trips, workshops, performances and other events.

Number of members sought

Fifty (50)

Application Period

May 16 (Mon) – May 29 (Sun) 2011

Eligibility

- International students (i.e. those who are currently enrolled in an educational institution(s) in Korea)

- Those who own and run a blog (*Those who do not have a blog are requested to open one prior to applying)

- Those who are interested in Korea’s industries and culture

- Priority for selection will be given to those who speak Korean

Tenure

Jun 2011 – December 2011 (6 months)

Tasks

- Open and run an individual blog upon which students are to post contents (articles, photos, videos, etc.) related to Korea

- Attend various workshops, field trips, and events hosted by the Council

Benefits

- Upon evaluation by the Council at the end of the tenure, students who have shown distinguished on- and offline activities will receive awards (e.g. A round trip flight ticket to home country for Grand Prize winner)

- A small gift will be provided for the students who have shown excellent activities upon evaluation by the Council at the end of the month.

- Opportunities to attend diverse cultural events and performances related to Korea, or those hosted by the Council

- Media coverage (TV programs, interviews with newspapers, magazines etc.) regarding WSK activities and Korea

How to Apply

Apply via the Council’s official web site. Click the following link.

Inquiries

Ms. Jung-A Lee

Culture, Tourism & Global Citizenship Bureau

Presidential Council on Nation Branding

brand@koreabrand.go.kr

Ms. Jin-Sook Lee

International Cooperation Bureau

Presidential Council on Nation Branding

milkyway@koreabrand.go.kr

For further information on the Presidential Council on Nation Branding, visit this link.

Why Daegu 2011?

2011-05-20T20:39:00.009+09:00

Last year in Seoul we had Asia Song Festival. In this festival, famous Korean pop stars like Rain, BOA, 2AM sang alongside talented Asian singers/groups like China's Jane Zhang to our very own Malaysian Michael Wong. Last year's performers, click at this link.

At first, I do not know who's Michael Wong and it was until some searches over net that I finally know who is him and his songs. Well, our very own Malaysian star was extremely famous in China and his songs were among the top downloaded and watched on the internet. He is well known for his song titled Fairy Tale or Tong Hua. Again it's another sad song.

Fairy Tale

This year in Daegu, we will have Asia Song Festival! Hopefully the performers will be better than last year. Maybe Big Bang and Girls Generation? Contrary to popular belief that each and every Malaysian students in Korea know every Korean pop artists, well, come to think of it, I have almost zero knowledge on any Korean singers or their latest songs.

Sometimes, I get to know some Korean songs through links posted by friends on Facebook. :)

Though I have many songs I like and able to listen and understand without translations, I am more into song that makes me relax (before, during and after classes... erm.. maybe not "during class" la) and just for fun with friends at 노래방 or Karaoke.

A very cool Big Bang dance rehearsal...

I like Big Bang's songs even though I am not really a huge fan of Korean pop songs in particular but since Big Bang was already an A-class performer in Korea. I ought to know right? Okay, lets see. I know who is Taeyang or 태양, not his real name anyway. He has his own album and his famous song (to me) is non other than Wedding Dress.

Wedding Dress

From there on, there's G Dragon and TOP. While the rest of the group members... erm, my apologies... I have no idea who's who other that those 3 lucky people. :) Last year, in Asia Song Festival, besides the mentioned performers from Malaysia, China and Korea, we have AKB48, a Japanese girl group.

It's silly of me to ask this but how can a girl group with so many members sing together? It's more like Super Junior, looks nia. And our neighbour, Thailand, they have Bie The Star (Not "By" but "Bie", no kidding) For more info on Asia Song Festival 2011 in Daegu, click at this link

Nine Muses during New Year's Eve Celebration in Seoul

Girls Generation

So this year, I hope the performers will be good! I wish there will be Malaysian performers too. Besides Asia Music Festival (October 8), this year too in the month of August, Daegu will play host to IAAF World Championships organized by International Association of Athletics Federation and Usain Bolt will be here.

My campus's track

2011 is Visit Daegu Year so this time, do expect a lot coming from Daegu. See you in Daegu!

Come What May II

2011-05-18T17:52:00.014+09:00

Dear __,

I always hope to write something positive about my life in Korea (Of course in this blog, there's always a balanced view of my life here in Korea). Sometimes, I do get confused on whether I should consider myself lucky or otherwise as a scholar in Korea.

Me, aiming at hot chicks at 12 O'clock.. Just kidding!

These days, life is pretty tough to me academically speaking because I never obtain any top placing in my class before. It's quite funny to say that since primary school, I never considered myself a weak student but since coming to Korea, this perception changes drastically.

But as a government scholar, I felt ashamed...

I am sure too that most other foreign students in Korea will have a hard time getting great results unless the course you are now taking is in English or it's just that your major subjects are easy. That's the issue I am a bit worry about la..

Academic achievements are ironically not important but in the long run, paper qualifications will be the yardstick on how others will judge you. I am neither rich nor have a huge inheritance to start a business so I have to start from small - through working for others first.

Life is really like a journey..

Hence that's the problem. People will never believe you even though you had tried your very best and sometimes, it did not turn out the way you want it to be. Everything is always about the final result.

Be my canvas?

Recently, I had written a few posts but is now hesitating whether to post them up or not, maybe because some posts are downright honest, may sound one-sided and might offend others but well, I will try to tone them down if I have the time one day. And then, I will post them up one by one.

These days, the weather's improving by leaps and bounds. Those nostalgic breeze blew gently past me, I felt it. I can see trees swaying back and forth out my window like how a pendulum swings - in a slow but passionate movement.

The rustling sound of the leaves accompanying the sound of passerby walking past. Hmmn, another day, I said to myself.

A flicker of thoughts yet reminded me how time passes slowly and untouched, innocent. ___, I wish you were here.

Across the street at the main gate, do you remember the coffee shop we first met? I can remember your black eyes shinning brightly at me for the first time. From an unexpected and short gaze at me. Well, by then, I was already mesmerized. :)

Sadly I was too busy, not interested in anything but going back to my home sipping tea with other friends. Maybe I was more interested in football than talking about studies and people..

...

Do I get you all interested in whats next? Hehe. It's just a joke okay, I was a bit bored on what to write next so I wrote this up :) Anyway, have a nice day.

Best Regards,

Kyle

Of Children and Children's Day in Korea

2011-05-05T23:52:00.009+09:00

I remember when I was young, Children's Day was the only day I was always looking forward to attend school. As time passes, it had lost its significance.

However, when I looked back, I am proud to say I am a lucky guy to have the opportunity to experience and grow up like any other children should during my childhood phase. Though my mum can be categorized in the Asian Tiger Moms league of mothers, luckily I had a normal childhood life and did survive.. lol

I do not think many people have that opportunity. Millions of young kids die each day of infectious diseases, thousands more to unwarranted child abuses and most of them are denied the basic need of love, shelter and support.

More need to be done to ensure that each and every innocent child receive enough help so that they are able to fend for themselves and hopefully, end this vicious cycle of neglect. The children of today must be able to have normal childhood lives so that they too will one day nurture their offspring with understanding on what the life of a child must be like.

Sure, we cannot end child abuses, we cannot end young, weak child from been recruited to be young fighters for somebody's selfish agendas. But just by helping a few if we can and allow them to at least know what a child's life should be, indirectly, we can at least bring a glimmer of joy and hope through their innocent eyes.

For those that can't afford, try spending time at the orphanage or places with neglected kids so we can at least bring smiles to their faces and if you can afford more, help them in education so that they will first escape from poverty and attend school just like any normal kids would. They will be the next generation of people who will be the inventors, the leaders and most importantly, they will be parents too one day.

Today is a public holiday in Korea - it's Children's Day (어린이날)! Children's Day is a day children, not the President were honored and given a day off. In reality, this is more like a day off for the parents to spend time with their kids.

They are the future leaders and even Google did commemorate the day with a nice background on it's webpage.

That day reminded me of my childhood days too. Instead of it been a public holiday, I had to attend school. During my time in primary school, Children's Day was the only day that we can bring things thought to be illegal when brought to school. And we did have parties, parties for the teachers and us all.

In Korea, it's different. They have holiday. This is the day parents will usually buy gifts for their children. Shopping malls were crowded to the brim with youngsters too old to be called "kids" anymore and they will watch movies. The downtown was so jam packed this afternoon too. The discount stores also had promotions a day before selling from toys to kid's favorite food - sweets, candies and chips to ensure the children did experience the so called "childhood lives".

"We do not inherit the land from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children." from an American Proverb.

Happy Children's Day!

ADV - There is Something Special about Globally Successful Food

2011-05-02T20:24:00.008+09:00

As the world becoming more and more globalized, there's so much possibilities tasting another country's national food. I like Plov (Uzbekistan national food, I think ^^), Peking Duck (China's but not too much as the skin is very oily), Pizza (So called Italian food lah), Hot and spicy Indian and Malay food and of course, 전 or Jeon, also known as Korean pancake.

When I was in my Korean language class, we used to have outings/field trips every semester. This one was in a Cooking School. We made Kimbap (김밥) and Bulgogi (불고기)

Everything we buy these days, some might be imported from other countries like Perrier water from France (It tasted almost like any other carbonated water, just the price that makes it "superior" so don't be fooled) to onions imported from India (and sold in Malaysia) So as time passes, the imported ingredients were used to make local food taste better.

Nice to see, nice to drink, price to pay - it burns your pocket, literally.

Korean version of spaghetti from Pasta Beuno, near my campus. See the amount of sauce in it. Is it spaghetti?

Many foreign food too are gradually adapted to fit the local's taste and preferences. This is why Thai's Tomyum Soup is ultra spicy when you try it in Thailand. If you do not wish to pass out chili bomb in the toilet or stomach cramps later on, then try the milder Thai food in other country or simply ask the chef to tone down the fiery chili sauce.

So in this article by WSK, it's all about food. Do read it out!

Do you think it is possible to attract everyone in the world with the same food? It is not simply a question about Korean food. Even if it does has an excellent taste, it is almost impossible to satisfy 7 billion people around the world. Nevertheless, there are many foreign dishes that had became favorite food among many countries.

For example, pizza of Italy, Sushi of Japan, Curry of India and Pho of Vietnam are loved by many people around the world. Even though some people do not know where those countries are located, they know exactly where the top gourmet restaurants serving such dishes are. Well then, let’s take a look inside the secrets of a globally successful food!

Reborn as Korean foods

That meal couldn't be found in China, Jajangmyeon

In Thailand, Jajangmyeon was selected as the most ‘want-to-try’ food of Korea among young people. It is not a surprising result because many Thais were already so into Korean dramas and musics that are sweeping over the country. However, Koreans themselves don’t regard Jajangmyeon as a Korean food.

The name of Jajangmyeon was derived from the word ‘Zhajiangmian(炸酱面)’ in Chinese. In the past, many ordinary Chinese used to add ‘Chunjiang(椿酱)’ or Chinese fermented soybean paste into the noodle. Like many Chinese who settled in other countries, Chinese in Korea also have this noodle but in a little different way by adding caramel, vegetables and meats.

As time passes by, the way of cooking Zhajiangmian and its ingredients have been changed to fit the Koreans' taste buds and it is now called "Jajangmyeon".

There are a number of foreign dishes loved by Koreans even if they haven’t been altered as much as Jajangmyeon to suit local tastes. For example, there is a huge difference between the Korea-made pizza and Italy-made pizza which is baked over stove. Unlike the original pizza with one or two fresh ingredients on its thin and crispy bread, Korea-made pizza has lots of toppings and the sauce is generously poured on its soft and thick bread. Yes, it was changed to fit the Koreans’ tastes who love soft and chewy food.

As the Italian pizza became Americanized in the US, many things including the ingredients (dough) and even the method of cooking were also changed. After then, the Americanized pizza arrived in Korea and it once again undergone a change. Even though many Koreans love pizza by itself, there are lots of pizza companies now trying to develop their own pizzas to fit the Koreans taste buds who are accustomed to spicy food.

Italian pasta with little sauce

Koreanized pasta lots of sauce

Pasta is another similar example. It came to Korea not from Italy but from Italian restaurant in the US and Japan. Pasta undergone a change again in Korea, now they have new styles and tastes.

Well, there is a significant difference between the pasta which is commonly sold in Korea and the original pasta. This is done by comparing the amount of sauce. The Italian pasta which is one of favorite dishes among common people originally has little sauce. However in Korea, people used to have ‘one dish for every meal’ so the amount of sauce had increased like a noodle soup and this satisfied Koreans' preferences.

Another interesting fact here is that Kimchi and sometimes Gochujang(red pepper paste) added pasta are being exported overseas. People had said that it can be called the "re-exportation" of pasta. ‘Ramyeon’ is another example of an exported foreign food from Korea. It was first made in Japan and ramyeon which had arrived in Korea in late 1950s has become one of the biggest food exported overseas in Korea.

Since 2000, ramyeon industry in Korea has begun to rise rapidly and exported ramyeon to Japan which is the home of ramyeon. Moreover, Korean ramyeon product was ranked as the "Globally Recognized Brand" by TokyoTV.

Successful Cases. We are More Delicious and Exclusive!

Edited until here but if you are curious for more, read over here at this link

ADV - World's Natural Treasure, the Mother Nature of Jeju Island ‘Oreum’

2011-05-02T19:21:00.005+09:00

Jeju Island is gifted with natural sceneries and more than 1,700 species of plants. It is a marvelous place where you can experience unique geographical features nowhere else can offer. In the center of the island, there is a mountain called Halla Mountain that proudly stands out along with the neighboring oreums – low mountains around Jeju. They reveal the beauty of the natural geography of a volcanic island.

Oreum is a Jeju dialect for a low mountain. There are a number of oreums as there is a saying that people of Jeju are born from oreum and returns to there after death. Nearly 380 oreums are distributed in the island, which far exceeds 250 i.e. the number of those in Mt Etna of Italy.

Oreum consists of grassland, natural and artificial forest, and a wetland are distributed intensively at the bottom area of Mt Halla, the hilly and mountainous areas. As the altitude of the areas differs, the ecological variety is well preserved with high potential value.

To be recognized as oreum, the mountain should be qualified to have all the required components i.e. a crater, shape, and contents; a crater formed by volcanic eruption; shapes of volcanic ashes and scoriae, and sedimentary layer; and pyroclastic materials. Also it is called as ‘ak’ or ‘bong’; Seongsan Ilchulbong, Dusanbong, Songaksan are some examples.

Oreums with different shapes and heights are placed along the ridges of Mt Halla and the coastline of the island invites you to the breathtaking beauty of the Mother Nature.

The ace view, Nokkome oreum

Nokkomeoreum, where 112 families and 469 species of plants reside (Image from the Official Blog of Jeju, New 7 Wonders)

Nokkomeoreum 833.8m above the sea level, covering an area of 923,692㎡ with the height of 234m, girth of 4,390m, and a smaller Nokkomeoreum is also known as ‘Brother Oreum’ as a pair sitting next by each other. The two mountains stand in "high spirits" and its cratered area is enough to thrill your eyes. Some people are surprised as they think ‘Nokkome’ is in Japanese but in fact it derives from a Korean expression ‘Nopgome’ meaning ‘it is high.’

In the Nokkomeoreum area there are animal species that are protected species (class 2) by the Ministry of Environment including roe, weasel of Jeju, badger and so on. Endangered animals including birds such as goshawk, brown-eared bulbul, kestrel, bush warbler and Red-tongue pit-viper, takydromus wolteri and others are residing there as well. Also there are 112 families and 469 species of plants e.g. nutmeg tree, hornbeam, and Galeola septentrionalis Reichb. For sure Nokkomeoreum area is a repository of various species of rare animals and plants.

If you follow the ridges along the hills, a scenic panorama with different faces of Mt Halla and oreums can be revealed. At the northern mountain top the view of Jeju city and the sea can be seen at a look. An average of 4~500 people on weekdays and 2~3,000 people on weekends visit the area to see this extraordinary scene. Why not check out Nokkomeoreum yourself and experience the grandeur gift of the nature?

The Queen of Oreum, Darangswioreum

Darangswi oreum where ‘Wollangbong Sunrise Festival’ will be held next year. (Image by Kyunghyang Shinmun)

Darangswi oreum representing Gujwa town is 382.4m above the sea level, covering an area of over 800,463㎡ with the height of 227m, and girth of 3,391m. It was named as so because of the crater of the mountain looks round like a moon (Darang sounds similar to ‘dal’ that is moon in Korean). Darangswi oreum is the pride of the villagers as it represents a unique and beautiful scene for viewing the moon when the full moon rises behind the round crater of the oreum.

While most oreums have asymmetric slops, Darangswi oreum is a vertically balanced oval shape; this outstanding beauty of proportion surely gives a good reason for its title i.e. the ‘Queen of oreum.’

On top of the mountain, there is a funnel shape of huge circular crater. The circumference of the outside of crater is reaching 1,500m and its depth is 115m just as deep as baekrokdam of Mt. Halla. The area is dense with weeds and cedars on its foot. The area is a huge grassland and if the weather is good, you can see the Seongsan Sunrise Hill, Udo and a wind power plant complex.

There is a saying that you didn’t see the real Jeju until climbing up Oreum, after the wood stairs to Darangswi oreum were built in 2005, the number of visitors had increased. Why don’t you experience the ‘real’ Jeju at Darangswi oreum which is also famous for paragliding and the annual Wallang hill Sunrise festivals?

Geomun Oreum listed on UNESCO’s World Cultural and Natural Heritage

Continue reading at this link

WSK - My Last Assignment

2011-04-30T23:01:00.004+09:00

I guess after half a year writing for the Korean Government, the chapter has finally come to an end. From an ordinary blog, it had transformed into some sort of travel blog peppered with anecdotes and infos.

Marinated with only-in-Korea posts and tales in Korea. They were mixed around to make a pot of sizzling hot kimchi blog!

I believe to write about Korea Brand, is not just only about writing about Korea but to experience them. It's really easy to write if we can copy straight from the newspaper and articles from the net or wikipedia.

This blog is wholly written by me without wiki or articles fully obtained from the net. Therefore, for me it was really time consuming to write often. You will never know this if you never write a blog. Though I do not promote my blog (I prefer random readers), sometimes, I find it cool to know that this blog can be read through random searches on the internet.

When you type "How to create Cyworld", "Dongdaegu Market", "Banana Milk in Korea" to even "Kaist suicide" on google search. I bet my blog will appear there**. It was unbelievable because there were so many blogs available in the web. WSK (World Students Korea) is a fantastic program to share our experiences to the people and friends.

Selected posts of my blog (Some have videos):

My Travel

"My Journey around Seoul" Posts (Do refer this link and follow the continuation)

Seoul - The Palace and the street (Link)

I was in Jeonju (Link)

Travelling around Korea (Link)

My Sonata, My Winter Sonnet - Seoul (i) (Link)

Lifestyle

Skiing in Korea - Elysian (Link)

Post of the month - Korean Style, fab trends (Link)

Coffee prince and princess? (Link)

Cyworld - The Koreans' Social Networking Site and to create one.. (Link)

Wanna visit me in Korea FOC? (Link)

Korean Cuisine & Culture

The Colours, The innocence - Korean Hanbok (Link)

Jeonju - The sound of music (Link)

Whats for snack - Tteokbokki (Link)

Dongdaegu Market - Korean rice cake (Link)

Jeon (전) - Delicious, in every bite (Link)

My Little Moments in Korea

LCIS 2010 - Muju Resort (Link)

Global Entrepreneurship Training 2011 Korea (Link)

WSK - My Escape to Jeonju (Link)

KNU Korea - Graduation Day (Link)

Saemaul Undong (Link)

Blog articles that took lots of time to write require readers because they were practically not easy to write without anyone giving inputs or suggestions. What is the point writing long post without any readers?

Anyway, the post for the following month may be about how to shop in Korean online stores like the G-market. Till then, stay tune and happy reading.

** Refer from Sitemeter and Blog stats.

A Guide to Studying in Korea

2011-04-30T18:10:00.011+09:00

안녕하세요

After writing about places to visit here in Korea for tourists, I guess I would be writing about my life in Korea as a student and in it, a guide for students planning to come over to Korea and study here.

Korea combine with its modern cities and vibrant cultures - it naturally makes Korea a great place to live, study and work. Currently, I am a doing my undergraduate course in Korea as a Korean Government scholar. Malaysian government too has its own batch of students in Korea.

The students are what we called, JPA (Public Service Department) scholars or Malaysian Government scholars.

Scholars from Korean Government, Malaysian Government and Petronas at the embassy

When I arrived to Korea, I was totally not well-versed in Korean language and it was very difficult to communicate with the Koreans. (Note: Koreans can speak in English but they are sometimes "shy" to talk in it. If you try to speak with the older people especially the ajumas, it will be verydifficult)

So be prepared to face communication problem when you arrive to Korea unless you have basic Korean proficiency.

Living cost:

"The only thing that is free... is the air..."

I think this is the most important thing that comes to your mind. Honestly, I can't really give a rough estimate on it because in every city, the cost of living varies. I think a meal will set you back at approximately 3000 ~ 4000 Won but you can find cheaper meals in the student cafeteria.

In my city, Daegu (I am studying in Kyungpook National University), when I first arrived, I found out that a meal in Daegu, Korea is approximately 3 to 4 times the cost of a meal in Malaysia.

Delicious duck and pork barbeque in Jeonju 전주

Street food at Myeongdong

If you are on budget, try not to waste too much money if you are living in Seoul because you have to pay for your accommodation in dormitory (about 150000 Won ++), food, travelling expenses, etc. For Malaysians, treat 1000 Won as if it is RM 1.

Lifestyle:

"Life is not about only studying, it's about living and seeing!"

I think you are well aware of it since there are so many Korean dramas in Malaysia. Koreans especially in Seoul are generally more trendy compare to the people in other parts of Korea. Every city in Korea has high-end merchandise shops (ZARA, Guess, Uniqlo, etc) and most Koreans usually shop over there.

If you are a good "spender", for instance, always remember that in ZARA (from my experience), the clothings will always be changed every 2 weeks so you might get a "better" price for some of the clothing if you came at the right time. But, it's still not cheap.

Shop till you drop in Seoul

In Uniqlo (a Japanese brand), a cheap jeans will be about RM 100, ZARA about RM 200 but you can find cheaper ones in Homeplus (Like Tesco in Malaysia), E-Mart and other big hypermarkets.

Usually it will be about RM 60 for a pair of jeans there. Shirts there are affordable, maybe about RM 40. Just don't bring too much warm clothing from Malaysia because it can be easily purchased in Korea.

If possible, do not bring too many winter clothings! Buy them in Korea! The price is almost the same and there's more variety in winter clothings here than in Malaysia. Just bring clothing that is for the spring since you all will be arriving at that time.

In spring, you will be needing a thick sweater or jacket but you will have a bit of problem adjusting to the cold and dry Korean weather so it's quite hard adjusting for the first few days.

Karaoke time in Daegu

In Daegu, there are lots of places to play snooker, norabang (karaoke) and restaurant. I think it is the same as in Seoul or any other places in Korea. The price for the norabang is cheap by Korean standard, about 20000 Won for 2 hours if I am not mistaken so if you love to sing you can sing your hearts out over there.

There is not much variety of English songs but is still enough to make you "sing till you drop". A number of Chinese, Vietnamese and Indonesian songs are also available.

Study:

"Give a fish to a man, you feed him for a day. Teach the man to fish, you feed him for a lifetime"

Korean language is difficult when you start but gradually you will become better especially once you are in Level 2. With level 2 proficiency, you would be able to converse with the people though it would still be hard to express what you want to say.

So there comes level 3 and 4. To those that will be taking science related course here, frankly speaking, I would say a year of learning Korean is insufficient no matter whether you are in Level 5 or 6.

In my course, I have to rely on my cellphone which is my "walking translator" and sometimes my electronic dictionary. Not all biological or chemical terms can be found in that dictionary, you will realise that buying a cellphone and an electronic dictionary that function as a dictionary is almost the same.

But the only difference is that you are not allowed to bring your cellphone into the exam hall. :(

When you begin your year 2 after you had completed your Korean studies, try to ask your major's professor whether you can write your answer in english during the exam or not (Suprisingly, all my subjects can be written in english) but usually the lessons are all conducted in Korean so life can be a lil' hard.

Super fast internet service in Korea

Anyway, don't worry about that, as long as you study hard, I belief all will be fine. Learning Korean will be your best time in your life, plenty of time to watch Korean dramas (Korean broadband is super fast, everything can be watched or downloaded online), lots of field trips and plenty of foreign friends to be met. Take one step at the time peeps.

Weather:

"Mirror mirror on the wall, what is the nicest season of all?"

Spring is cold with lots of cold gush of windy wind. Summer is hot, humid and is almost the same as in Malaysia with lots of rainfall (but it depends on the place that you will be living in). Autumn is the same as spring while winter is freezing cold and lots of snowfall (Note: Southern parts of Korea have relatively few snowfalls). Between the seasons, there will be lots of rain so just be prepared with an umbrella.

For your info, I like winter

About the clothing, just bring warm sweater (if you are there during spring, during the start of semester), thick jackets and unless you cannot tahan cold weather, just bring one winter clothing will do. While for the rest of the seasons, just look and buy when needed, stores around Korea sell clothings based on the seasons so don't worry about not finding any clothing.

Ending

I always believe that it's better to learn through experience than through books. At the end of my Korean language class, I travelled to China. I myself do not believe that I would be traveling to other foreign countries within a year of my stay in Korea.

Believing is through seeing, experiencing is through traveling. Happy learning Korean, trust me, this is the best time of your 5 years in Korea.

"Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,

And sorry I could not travel both

And be one traveler, long I stood

And looked down one as far as I could

To where it bent in the undergrowth

Then took the other, as just as fair,

And having perhaps the better claim,

Because it was grassy and wanted wear;

Though as for that the passing there

Had worn them really about the same

And both that morning equally lay

In leaves no step had trodden black.

Oh, I kept the first for another day!

Yet knowing how way leads on to way,

I doubted if I should ever come back

I shall be telling this with a sigh

Somewhere ages and ages hence:

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I--

I took the one less traveled by,

And that has made all the difference."

~Robert Frost~

I earnestly hope you will learn and spend your time wisely. Remember that this will only be the beginning of a long journey studying in Korea. Hope to see you all soon.

Best Regards,

Kyle

*This post was written by me sometime back in another blog co-written by KGSP scholars of Malaysia. I edited some parts of it to bring relevance to this blog*

Pictures around Daegu

2011-04-30T18:09:00.004+09:00

In Korea, my hobby is always photography. Photography does not requires any qualifications and no training whatsoever to be good so I have to learn from scratch. When I was young, I got myself involved in playing chess because I prefer sitting down than actual sports - ermm...

Just kidding

Nope, it was because I like playing any games that requires thinking and strategy so I think chess club might suit me well. Besides, I would like to continue to be in the club I had participated since I was around 10 years old. But for now, photography.

My Memories under the Rain

Shot in Kyungpook National University, my university. Taken on rainy day to multiply the effects.

Raindrops

Raindrops can really transform a windscreen into a fascinating shooting subject.

The policemen

This picture was taken at a split second when one of the policemen started to turn around and look at the camera. Instantaneously, I clicked.

My master and my guard

This is a Siberian Husky. This type of dog is loyal, big and the black-white fur made it looked more aggressive (which they are not).

The Pink lantern

The lantern marks the upcoming of Buddha's birthday celebration. Korea has two major religions, Buddhism and Christianity. Though Paganism exists, it was not as widespread as now.

My childhood craving

When I was young, I like Candy floss. I took this photo just to remind me of how time passes so quickly and how as one grow up, our preferences also change as quickly as time.

This is me and my friend. I love photography. Do you plan to take pictures with me around Malaysia or Korea? I am still learning and I took them (photographs) with my heart, not the camera - hyperbolically lah... Hehe.

Daegu - Visit or not to visit?

2011-04-30T17:43:00.007+09:00

Hey!

In this post, I will introduce you to Daegu. This is like a "Lonely Planet - Daegu" narrated by yours truly.

My city, Daegu

The city name "Daegu" or "Taegu" for some might sound foreign to many people. Unlike Seoul, Daegu is still an undiscovered city with many sights worth seeing. In terms of buildings (for people who loves seeing big tall buildings), Daegu does not lack in this aspect either. The strength of this city lies in the history and culture.

Palgongsan Temple in Daegu

Daegu has lots of old historical buildings, the ones that are in good shape mainly because long ago, Korean military government placed Daegu as one of the region that was worth developing and also at the same time, to preserve the historical monuments for the younger generations.

Trivia:

Daegu is the city where SAMSUNG was founded. So if you are now using a Samsung phone or using computer powered by Samsung memory cards (Samsung has a huge global share in memory chips manufacturing) while eating Samsung burger (Yes, Samsung has it's foodstuff company) or wearing a Samsung suit (They too have high-end formal wear subsidaries). Then, remember that these products are all started in Daegu.

This links below are extremely helpful

1) Daegu Pockets

Highly recommended for travellers because it comes with places of interest with maps, how-to-get-there-by-bus, etc. The great part are, it is in English and is free too!

http://daegupockets.com/

2) AsiaRooms.com

Helpful because it has a detailed places of interest with some brief explainations on the touristic spots.

http://www.asiarooms.com/travel-guide/south-korea/daegu/index.html

3)Daegu City Website

Very helpful to know more about the events and stuffs related to Daegu.

http://english.daegu.go.kr/main.asp

4) Novohotel

Located right in the downtown *PS - I am not paid for it and this is merely for your info* but it might be expensive.

http://www.novotel.com/gb/hotel-7038-novotel-daegu-city-centre/index.shtml

In Daegu, there are lots of motels, rates varies but do have at least 20,000 Won for a night's stay.

The best time to visit Daegu is during spring or autumn. Summer is... well, hot... :)

A short video, but please be reminded that this is an old video and it only showcases a small part of Daegu. In this video, you can see the Daegu museum and the amusement park.

Hope it helps,

Kyle

Note - This is another article I wrote sometime back in a blog co-written by Malaysians under Korean Government Scholarship. Check it out at this link.

Jjimjilbang - What and where?

2011-04-29T00:38:00.005+09:00

Contrary to popular assumption, Koreans are in fact very liberal when sharing their culture. At first, they might be a bit shy but after getting to know them well, they can be great friends.

Korean Jjimjilbang or 찜질방 is one of a kind and can only be found in Korea. Besides widely known as the cheapest place to stay, there's more to be known and experience. Adventurous tourists planning to come to Korea must try this. But first, what is this Jjimjilbang?

Jjimjilbang (찜질방) is actually a public bathhouse where the bathroom is public, erm or should I say all in open view (only around the bathroom).. For the shy people it can be quite difficult because ultimately you will need to bare all if you are in the bathroom. Come on.. Who wears clothing while bathing?

Every 찜질방 has an open space where guests will be sleeping in a shared room together on the heated floor. There's a room where you can watch TV and a place where you can buy bottled water or snacks. It's very cheap to stay over here and is less than 15000 Won per night (varies from city to city).

However be reminded that 찜질방 is the last "frontier" for budget travelers so do not expect great service. Some Jjimjilbang do have separated rooms for different gender but to be safe, remember to ask first before staying.

Next to Daegu Station

Can you see the "사우나 찜질방" yellow signboard? This is it!

Right over here, behind the Daegu Bus Stop

In Daegu, we have one near the Daegu Station (대구역). It's located in front of the station and is directly behind the Daegu Station bus stop. It is called 사우나 찜질방(Jjimjilbang with sauna) so it might be great if you spent a night or two there.

Jjimjilbang is a must-stay for any tourists coming to Korea but I think only for the adventurous.

Japchae (잡채) - The Royal Dish

2011-04-28T12:42:00.009+09:00

This is the second series of Korean food I had tried and would be recommending to you (for this month). Everything I wrote in this blog are from my experiences. I had seen, tasted and tried (minus the one with "ADV" tag) so I hope you enjoy reading them all :)

These days, I did not expect myself to be writing a lot (still exam week) but since today I have some spare time, why not? Travelling is great but eating the food is another thing. Sometimes, we have to be careful on what we eat because some food might be unhealthy and some just do not match with our taste buds.

A stall around Daegu market

Until now, I cannot eat and bare with the smell of fermented shrimps that is widely used as sauce in some Korean food. Moreover, I try to avoid eating fermented beans (usually in soups) if I can. It is the same with ramyeon, I only eat it during periods when the cafeteria or shop closes for holiday.

I have a belief that still hold true to this day. It's "Eat what you can eat, try what you haven't try and if you do not like it, just taste some and make it your last" Long huh? To simplify, it means try eating something new, if you don't like it, just don't eat it the next time. ermm... Same lah.. lol.

Direct translation : "Five senses satisfaction..."

The Royal Dish - Japchae

In Korea, there's a famous cuisine called Japchae or 잡채. At first, I thought it was just another curious Korean noodle cuisine. However, after staying in Korea for almost 2 years plus, I knew at last why Japchae is famous. During the Joseon dynasty, Japchae was among the dishes known as the Royal Cuisine.

Therefore in the past, only the wealthy and affluent were able to taste Japchae (잡채). These day, it is very easy to find it but like the Jeon (전), it is still been served as a side dish. Japchae consists of vegetables (usually spinach and carrot), glass noodles, shredded meat, mushrooms and sauces.

To make Japchae Step by Step

The best Japchae is one with perfectly sliced/shredded meat. It must neither be sliced too thick nor too thin because the seasoning will not be absorbed into the meat. Japchae can be served either hot or cold.

Jeon (전) - Delicious, in every bite

2011-04-28T00:34:00.007+09:00

I gotta tell you something. Wanna know? Of all Korean food, my favorite is always the Jeon (전) or the Korean pancake. It's not Bibimbap, it's never fried rice with kimchi, it might not be Ramyeon and Kimchi jjigae? Of course not!

Though Jeon is one of the side dishes in Korean cuisine and is not the main dish. I love it to bits. I have no specific kind of Jeon or Korean pancake that I like, I like everything. Muahaha! lol

How to make 김치전 or Kimchi Pancake (Clip above)

There's many types of Jeon, from the pa jeon (파전) which is made from spring onion, kimchi jeon or 김치전 (made from kimchi), kul jeon (굴전) from the ever delicious oyster, Hobak jeon (호박전) or the pumpkin pancake and many many more.

Seafood pancake, Korean style

I like seafood, spring onion and kimchi pancake because it's simply simple yet nutritious. Not to forget, it's healthy too except the one made from oyster but well who really cares?

The best place to enjoy pancakes is usually at the market or restaurants (but it's quite difficult to find it over there because as said, it is usually served as a side dish and not main course). In Dongdaegu market, a big piece of pa jeon (파전) is around 4000 Won each.

The best place to try the Korean pancake is in Jeonju, the culinary region of Korea. It can be reached by bus from Daegu or anywhere with good bus terminal and will take less than 2 hours (if from Daegu).

Pancake as the main dish with 반찬 (side dishes)

The seafood pancake in Jeonju (전주) might be at least 15000 - 25000 Won per plate since Jeonju is widely known as the traditional Korean food village. Since a small bowl of bibimbap there is already 10000 Won (I wrote this before), there's a very high possibility that this type of pancake will be much more expensive.

At Jeonju..

It's really not easy to be on budget in Jeonju especially regarding the food expenses. You get good food instead! To make kimchi jeon is easy (watch the youtube video above) but it's easy said than done.. Well, but with the "right" determination and hunger for great home-cooked Korean food. You can make it yourself.

ADV - Lost in the fragrance of flowers, Spring Flowers Festivals

2011-04-28T00:06:00.003+09:00

For those thinking of a spring day out, then this might be what you are looking for!

The unusually cold March has gone and now we have warm sunlight telling us that Spring is just around the corner. The field flowers are welcoming the spring which returned after a long absence. The fragrance of Spring is reaching at the every corner including mountains, fields and even cities of Korea.

Uiseong Cornlian cherry flower festival (Uiseong-gun, Gyeongbuk-do)

Cornlian cherry flower (Photo with permission from Uiseong-County Office)

The ‘garlic’ town of Uiseong is now busy preparing for the upcoming spring festival. It will soon organize the festival of Cornlian cherry flower whose yellow bud can remind you of a shy girl. Starting from the ritual for good harvest, night for the multicultural family, Singing contest, Walkathon and other various events. It will be held from 26th March for a few weeks.

Why don’t we go for a Spring trip to Uiseong surrounded by the scent of these yellow flowers? It will definitely be a wonderful memory that you can have with your family and your friends.

Period: 26 March 2011 (Sat)~ 10 April (Sun)

Location: Sansuyu Square Hwajeon-ri, Sagok-myeon, Uiseung-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do

The Han River Spring Flower Festival (Yeongdeungpo, Seoul)

The Han River Spring Flower Festival

There is another festival for those who cannot afford to go out of Seoul. Office workers will be glad to hear this! There will be Spring Flower Festival in Yeoui-do from 8th April with the theme, “Harmony of Flowers, Nature, Human, and Arts”.

You may find over 13 types of 87,359 spring flowers, such as azalea, forsythia, royal azalea, bridal wreath, including 1,641 trees of prunus yedoensis.

Why don’t you go for the Han River Yeouido Spring Flower Festival for the weekends?

Period: 8~ 19 April 2011

Location: Yeoui-do Park Yeouido-dong, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul

Azalea Art Festival at Mt. Goryeo (Ganghwa-gun, Incheon)

Mt. Goryeo covered with Azalea

You might not know this Spring Flower Festival had recorded over 350,000 visitors last year including the people from capital area. Well, the name is “Azalea Art Festival at Mt. Goryeo”. This year as well, it will have the same festival that we can enjoy not only azalea but also the historical culture and clean environment of Ganghwa.

The festival will be consisting of art exhibition, photo exhibition and a small concert along the trail, cooking Hwajeon which is a pan-fried sweet rice cake with flower petals and street art performances and other various programs. It will be held from 4th to 9th April for 9 days, but the culture event will be held for 4 days during weekends. If you want to be a guest of this nature’s purple feast, this festival will be perfect.

Period: 9~ 24 April 2011

Location: Mt. Goryeo Hajeom-myeon, Ganghwa-gun, Incheon

Shinan Tulip Festival (Shinan-gun Jeollanam-do)

Shinan Tulip Festival

Shinan, Jeollanam-do, which is well-known for its heavenly nature, was selected by domestic flower experts as a best area for planting tulips with its fertile soil, abundant amount of sunshine, and a lot of sea breeze.

Since 2001, they have planted tulips in the nation’s largest area which occupied 10 hectares, and ready for the 4th Tulip Festival from 15 April. You will enjoy the various ceremonies from orchestra performance to Pungmul play, If you don’t want to miss it, do not hesitate!

Period: 15~24 April 2011

Location: Shinan Tulip Park, Imja-myeon Shinan-gun, Jeollanam-do

If you have a chance to see those flowers signaling the arrival of Spring, see in quick! But soon it will be gone and this is the best time to see the blossoms. Let’s go!

※ Source of Photos : Korea Tourism Organization

Edited from this link

Cyworld - The Koreans' Social Networking Site and to create one..

2011-04-27T22:23:00.016+09:00

"After some time, I finally made up my mind... I've searching everywhere..." 25 Minutes by Michael learns to rock

In Korea, there is no such thing as been isolated from the cyber space. Social networking, blogging and movie watching, all while on the go is common and everything we never dreamed of in the past is possible in Korea.

In Korea, the most common form of social networking website is still Cyworld (싸이월드). Ask any Koreans whether he or she has a cyworld account, they will give you a blank look with the expression like "Huh, which planet do you came from? Of course I have it!".

Sadly, Facebook's popularity has yet to penetrate the Korean masses. I have a facebook account and I value my privacy a lot. However, Facebook and Cyworld have lots of differences in terms of privacy.

In Facebook, Tom, Dick and Harry can have multiple accounts but in Cyworld, we can have only an account each and creating one is already a pain in the a**. The main difficulties for foreigner lie in the Korean language application and the tedious steps.

The webpage is all in Korean so no matter how enthusiastic we are in having an account, it's still difficult to navigate around. So to create one?

Creating an account Step by Step

First click on this link to Nate (Cyworld)

Unfortunately, since I already have an account, I couldn't go and explain further with slides since there's limit of an account for each people to prevent misuse of identity (unlike facebook) and privacy. Actually, after this step, it's quite simple.

Fill in your personal particulars and obtain the mobile phone no. confirmation before submitting the "form".

Just key in your mobile phone number in the 휴대폰번호 (Mobile phone no.) space, click the "Enter" button and you will receive a confirmation no. Just key it in the space below and you are done :)

However, I am not saying Cyworld is a better social networking website. I think Facebook is way better but it loses when comparing the connectivity among Koreans and the privacy issues if they were to compete head to head with each other.

Whats inside my Cyworld?

My main Cyworld page (top)

My profile (mine's blank, just an ordinary guy..)

My diary (I wrote it in Korean, if only you can read it)

My photo album

Creating a Cyworld account is really complicated so unless you really want one, don't create it if you do not have basic Korean language proficiency. I created one mainly to keep in touch with my Korean friends though I rarely check it (unless I receive notifications lah). :P

One Facebook is already more than enough.

Nevertheless, that's the only avenue for me to keep in touch with them. Many years later, when we are old, as time passes, most of us will definitely wish to have friends that stay true to us till the very end.

I never think beyond this though, I just hope for friends that I can get along well, learn a thing or two from them, learning and sharing our culture together and most importantly, to keep in touch. Do you?

The Colours, The innocence - Korean Hanbok

2011-04-16T09:42:00.003+09:00

My university's government scholar advisor has a peculiar dressing style. When we visited him in his office, he would always be in his Korean Traditional garment called Hanbok (한복).

"Tell them dear, that if eyes were made for seeing,

Then beauty is its own excuse for being..."

(Ralph Waldo Emerson of "The Rhodora")

The culture of wearing Hanbok started in ancient Korea but the present Hanbok that we can now see and wear originated from the Joseon Dynasty. Hanbok brings out the innocence and feminine side of the lady wearing it because Hanbok for woman is really a conservative traditional costume.

Before:

After :

I envy the women. For men, at first Hanbok did look like a piece of mismatched attire but only after through proper tucking, it turned out better. The emphasis is on the waistline especially when the attire is worn together with the loose belt so sometimes a guy can look a bit sloppy not because it's casual but because it's very loose.

Hanbok is worn only on special occasion these days since a piece of hanbok is really expensive. A handmade one can be made from silk and it can easily fetch more than a few million Won (A few thousand dollars).

Hanbok can be divided into many types and among them is the Jeogori (저고리) which is more easily seen among Koreans because of the less complexity unlike the ceremonial Hanbok.

Hanbok is usually worn on special occasions like Korean Thanksgiving Day (추석) and Lunar New Year (설날). Though, in weddings too, we can find couples wearing Hanbok and I always find woman wearing Hanbok look way better than the poor guy (because I am a guy. ^^).

But truthfully... Guys never look great in Hanbok. Do you find my advisor looking good in Hanbok? Only kids and women wearing hanbok, they do look great. Nevertheless, beauty lies in the eye of the beholder. Right? Hanbok can look great for everyone.

ADV - Korea-made apps rock the global market

2011-04-15T21:46:00.008+09:00

Today, many of you would have know what smartphones are and their many uses and fantastic applications available. Aside from its domestic success, made-in-Korea apps with its excellent technology are now stepping into the global market.

You might have seen that there are many made-in-Korea apps that were constantly ranked as top-sellers in overseas app store.

App store is an open market that sells applications for iPhones and iPads. Surprisingly, there is one Korea-made app that was ranked as the first top paid app in US. Do you know what it was? The name of the app is ‘Cartoon Wars’.

It is an arcade war game that combines “Defence Genre” and “RTS”. To win the game, you must capture the enemies’ castle by producing as many units as possible. ‘Jolla man’ which is a well-known cartoon figure in Korea, is the main character of the game.

Well, there are still many more made-in-Korea apps that are growing rapidly in the overseas market. Let’s check out some hot apps!

“Best of Britain” Galaxy Tab App by Samsung

Visitors searching for information with the UK tour mobile app in Galaxy Tab (Photo by Consumer Times)

Samsung Electronics and British Tourist Authority signed a partnership for utilizing the mobile contents to promote the London 2012 Olympic Games. With this contract, Samsung Smartphone users will be able to download the tour informations provided by the British Tourist Authority easily.

With a Galaxy Tab, there is no need to worry when traveling to UK. It has all the information you need as a tourist, such as museum, historic site, accommodation, restaurant, etc. This app will be available for download a month from now when Galaxy Tab is to be released in Britain.

Don’t be disappointed that you can’t have this application recently named as the ‘Best of Britain’ right now. Once it comes out, it will not only introduce its innovative technology to all countries of the world during and after the London Olympic, but also make you worry-free.

Various images of Galaxy Tab (Photo by Blog ‘Britain- You’re invited’)

Want to see cool apps? Here’s more

Edited until here but do read more at this link

15 April 2011

2011-04-15T11:59:00.005+09:00

If your tomorrow meets today, will the tomorrow be better than today?

Tomorrow is Charlie Chaplin's birth anniversary and Google did a fantastic job designing the homepage commemorating it. Cool. I always remember Charlie Chaplin with his trademark Hitler-like mustache and his walking cane.

“A tramp, a gentleman, a poet, a dreamer, a lonely fellow, always hopeful of romance and adventure.”

Charlie Chaplin (16 April 1889 ~ 25 December 1977)

Dongdaegu Market - Korean rice cake

2011-04-14T19:15:00.007+09:00

Around my university, there's lots of interesting places to go. For the I-have-lots-of-time type of guy, he will go directly to the downtown for movie and fine dining (He probably will be broke by the end of month if he's there too often though).

For the lazy ones, he will order food through delivery service. Sometimes, the very common place students from this campus will do is just to visit the market.

Why market? Well, to get to the bus stop (the very convenient 간남약국 bus station), we need to pass through a small lane that had been converted into a small market called 동대구시장 (Dongdaegu Market). This is the place where fresh market produce, freshly baked bread and Korean street food can be found.

The best way for any tourist visiting Korean market is to try out the rice cakes or Tteok (떡) available there. Tteok is served during celebrations or important day such as weddings and also to honor the deceased.

There's a particular rice cake that is very common in Korea, just ask any Koreans and they will definitely know that Songpyeon (송편) is the must-try. Other than Injeolmi (인절미), a type of rice cake made after the glutinuous rice flour was pounded and mixed with dried/powdered beans. It is extremely common to find Songpyeon of all rice cakes available.

Songpyeon

What is Songpyeon then? Songpyeon is made from glutinous rice flour and some sweet filling such as nuts that were added into the rice ball. It was then shaped to look like Chinese gold ingot (in my opinion). Songpyeon is usually eaten during Chuseok (추석) or Korean Thanksgiving, a day I always remember as one of the most eerily quiet day in my campus.

I think it's pumpkin cake

Sweet and fluffy

Korean Thanksgiving day falls on mid-autumn, the 15th day of the 8th month in the Lunar Calender. Ethnic Chinese too celebrates this day and during the Mid-Autumn festival, instead of Songpyeon, we will eat Moon cakes. East Asians like the ethnic Chinese and Korean share almost an identical culture.

Today is my "Songpyeon day", nah, it is just another day that I am again extremely bored. Tried Songpyeon and an unknown cake (I did not ask for the name, it looked nice so instinctively, I bought it. Just kidding. I bought it just to try out), which I think is the 호박빵 (Pumpkin cake). Each pack is 2000 Won.

If you are at Dondaegu Market, you can find 3 stalls selling tteok, just walk to the end of the market and there's a medium size stall on your right. This was the shop I went to. Nevertheless, I am not saying that the other stalls do not sell nice tteok. It was just that I bought my tteok at this stall on that fortunate day.

Suicide at KAIST - My Viewpoint

2011-04-14T17:07:00.006+09:00

Korea, among developed nations, is a country with the highest cases of suicide. In just a span of few months, 4 students and a professor committed suicide at the same university - KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology). For the Korean students there, they blamed it on the overly competitive environment since KAIST is among the top university in Korea.

KAIST has an unique system whereby students who do not attain CGPA of 3.0 and above will be penalized with deduction of the full scholarship given to all KAIST students. Some students already with study pressure will have to then find other means in earning money to pay the penalty if he/she failed to achieve the expected result.

The core issues are not the penalty imposed to "weak" students but in my opinion, the students' mindsets and through it, the Korean education system must change. From young, the students were taught to be the best so that they can easily find employments. Henceforth, the students hate failures and will usually work hard until he/she achieve what they want in life. For them, maybe entering the best university like KAIST?

When a person enters the best university, of course, he/she must do the best. If a person fails to achieve the expected result in a competitive environment, do you blame the system of penalizing the "weak"? Or do you blame the students? Again in my opinion, we should choose the right university not based on ranking or because of good employability in future. We should choose it based on the environment itself.

If a person knew that he could not cope with extreme stress, by all means pick a less competitive university. A less competitive university (most probably with lower ranking) does not equates the students as weak students. From young, I believe a university is the place to nurture us to be matured individuals and not wholly about studies. Though, my mum like all Korean mothers, thought of it otherwise - Good results are a must.

Hence, the students must be able to make decisions not based on other people's opinions but his/her true intentions based on his/her capabilities. Since what that shapes our lives are through our actions, if we want to live in a competitive environment, we should really be prepared for it. Instead of pointing the blame at the competitive environment, I think the students ought to be prepared when faced with it.

Though I do not blame the KAIST students for suggesting that competitive environment is the cause of suicide, but first, we must always ask, what makes the environment there so competitive? Isn't it the students' mindsets?

(This is just my opinion/views on the recent spate of suicide in Korea and I am sincerely sorry if I did offend anyone. I am just a 2nd year university student, so I am never a qualified person to comment on this. My view can be wrong because there are other better opinions around on the causes of suicide there at KAIST. Thanks for reading.)