BUCHEON ORGANIZES TOUR FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS OF THE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF KOREA

BUCHEON ORGANIZES TOUR FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS OF THE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF KOREA

The group poses for this posterity shot after the Luncheon

May 25, 2011 (Wednesday) Bucheon City – The City Government of Bucheon conducted a Tour for all International Students here the Catholic University of Korea.

infront of the City Hall

Souvenirs from the Philippines

 The said excursion was participated by 35 students coming from the Philippines, China, Colombia, Mexico, Iraq and Japan. It aims to foster friendship and solidarity which the City stands for. Bucheon is a sister city of Valenzuela, one of the major cities in the National Capital Region of the Philippines. 

An aerial view of the Session Hall

The City administrator was also glad to show us a section in the City hall featuring various gifts and memorabilia from the Philippines.

With the City Administrator for International Affairs

with the mascot, Back Kom

 A close up view of Back Kom

After our tour of the Comic Museum, we went straight to the City hall to meet and greet the City Mayor. However, due to his busy schedule, we were welcomed by his Secretary on International Affairs. 

Our sumptuous lunch

Chapji---tastes like Pancit

Before the luncheon, he gave a short lecture about Bucheon. Its achievements for the last years and what it offers to its citizens. As of present it was awarded the recognition of being the best place to live here in Korea as it offers a tranquil way of living away from the hustle and bustle of the Seoul Metropolis. It has a large residential area and the living standard is good according to the administrator.

Flowers outside the City Hall

Before the meeting ended, he handed a small token of appreciation to all of us… a cute and bouncy little polar bear named Back Kom: a character adapted from one of the popular animation shows.

Thank you Bucheon for this wonderful treat.

GLOBAL GANGNAM

GLOBAL GANGNAM

THE SECOND GOODWILL FESTIVAL FOR THE HONORARY PUBLICITY AMBASSADORS OF GANGNAM-GU

Gangnam-gu (강남구) is one of the twenty-five districts (or gu) that make up the city of Seoul. There are cities (si), counties (gun), districts (gu), towns (eup), townships (myeon), neighborhoods (dong) and villages (ri) in South Korea at the municiple level; above that are the provinces (do), special self-governing provinces (teukbyeol-jachido), a Special City (teukbyeol-si, which is Seoul, the capital), and metropolitan cities (gwangyeok-si).

     I am one of the fortunate students who were conferred the title of Honorary Publicity Ambassadors of Gangnam-gu. This honor is given to its outstanding citizens with a mission of disseminating information about Gangnam as the Center of Business, Entertainment, Tourism, Education, Design and Information Technology. Last May 4, 2011, Bi (Rain) the world famous Korean performer who was included in the 2010 Times 100 most influential people, also received the same designation.  Being a student-ambassador, our aim is to boost the image of this district through personal blogs and essays as well as include its attractions on tours to be conducted whenever there will be visitors from the Philippines and abroad (like our family members, friends and colleagues).

The District Office Building

Beautiful flowers decorate the main entrance of the building

    The said program is an outstanding project of the District Office as it greatly exemplifies how Korea: like a phoenix rose from its own ashes and soar high above the sky reaching its current status as a model country in Asia. It continues to show the world the unique charm and ingenuity of the Korean people that lead them to its economic success, its love for freedom, and its great attachment to its thousand years of history and tradition. Last May 21, 2011, the Goodwill Festival was held and all the HPAG Ambassadors were given a tour on several tourist spots including, Samsung D’light, Marco Polo Observatory and Restaurant at COEX, Samwon Garden – the largest fine dining restaurant in Seoul, The Royal tombs of King Seongjong – now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Horim Art Museum and the Media Poles at the Ubiquitous street. The participants also enjoyed a Taekwondo demonstration at Kukkiwon, the World Taekwondo Headquarters.  After that exhilarating tour, the conferment ceremony was held at the District Office led by the District-Mayor Shin Yeon Hee.

striking a pose before the conferment ceremony

     The student ambassadors coming from 14 countries like China, India, the Philippines, Singapore, South Africa and United States will be attending various forums, performances and exhibitions on call. News articles and features will also be published in the Gangnam News, monthly newspapers and other national publications.

HORIM ART MUSEUM: MORE THAN YOUR USUAL MUSEUM

HORIM ART MUSEUM: MORE THAN YOUR USUAL MUSEUM

     For art fanatics who wish to explore authentic Korean culture and various forms of arts through time, the Horim Art Museum in Sinsa-dong is the place to be. Opened in June 2009, this spacious edifice holds various performances and exhibitions from time to time. This futuristic structure has exhibition rooms on the second, third and the fourth floor, Museum Shop, and a lounge.

 The building, created under the theme of a ceramics and the teeth of comb pattern, is a piece of artwork in itself. Designed by world renowned Korean Architect, Tae Yong Yoo from the Tehje Architecture Office, the Art Center is composed of three main buildings connected to each other creating an ambiance of a small town. The indoor and outdoor facilities and fixtures have a wide and open space that is soothing to the senses and symbolizes the free spirit of the Korean society.

    Upon entering the museum, visitors will be greeted by a cave-like passage that leads to the exhibition halls. The mother of pearl decorations on the outer walls symbolizes a shield that when unwrapped reveals a magnificent treasure to behold. 

Some Tripitaka on exhibition

An ancient Chinese Tripitaka

The design also resembles a lotus flowering blooming amidst the hustles and bustles of city life.Jars of various sizes ranging from different dynasties are the highlight of this museum. Most of the artifacts are considered National treasures which represents a milestone in Korean history. Currently, the first Tripitaka Special Exhibition is housed on the second and third floors. It celebrates the 1000 years of its existence (1011 – 2011). The exhibit runs until September 30, 2011.

For bookings please call: Seoul-si Gangnam-gu Sinsa-dong 651-16 Horim Art Center1330 tt call center: +82-2-1330 
(Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)   For more info: +82-2-541-3525 (Korean)

THE MOUND TO ETERNITY

THE MOUND TO ETERNITY

The spirit tablets of the Joseon kings and queens are in Jongmyo Shrine, but their tombs are scattered all around Seoul. These tombs are decorated elaborately but mostly underground to protect them from theft and desecration. During the Kingdom years, regular ceremonies to remember and honor the dead were held on these spots. Today, these sites stand for the glorious past and the blissful present of the Republic of Korea.

    King Seongjong was the second son of Crown Prince Uigyeong, King Sejo’s first son. He reigned from 1469–94. He was only 13 years old when he ascended the throne. As a prolific writer and statesman, he promulgated the Grand Code of State Administration in 1485. The Expanded National Code (1492) was also issued and it perfected the laws and institutions of the state. Together with these achievements he stabilized the authority of the throne by engaging Neo-confucian literati to check the meritorious elites who wielded immense power at that time. He fathered 28 children by 12 wives and concubines. It is said that King Seongjong died in Changdeok Palace.

    Approaching the burial grounds tourists, will be greeted by a red gate (the red colour denoting holiness) with a taegeuk (yin-yang) symbol. The stone paths leading to the sacrificial building are noteworthy because there are two stone paths—the elevated path is for the dead King and the lower one is for living people. In the past, the memorial rites were performed in a sacrificial building but right now, rights in honor of the dead were carried right in offering tables.

    Small sculptures on the eaves called Japsang were carved in the shape of animals such as monkeys and were believed to exorcise evil spirits. The statuary includes human and animal guardians – some of the latter look like sheep. The stone lanterns are to guide the king’s spirit home and the stone figures serves as eternal servicemen loyal to the throne. Sculptures of sheep and tigers surround the tomb and are guardians of the dead King. There is also a statue of a military officer bearing a sword. In front of the tomb is an outstanding sight called the 'Mangjuseok,' which is a pair of stones designed to guide the dead King to his tomb.

    A short walk will lead you to the second tomb, that of King Seongjong’s second wife, Queen Jeonghyeon Wanghu. Along the path, are arrays of wild flowers that blooms in various colors like violet, orange, yellow and red. During the autumn season, a sea of colors will welcome you as the leaves fall and the sun reflects on an assortment of palette which will leave an awe inspring feeling to each and every visitors. Unlike the tombs of the Kings, the queen’s tomb, Wanghureung, is simple. It has no pavilions or sacrificial buildingsand is surrounded by only stone sculptures as guardians.

    The woodland paths will lead you to the tomb of King Seongjong and Queen Jeonghyeon’s second son, King Jeongjong (reigned 1506–44). The burial complex was surrounded with pine and ginkgo trees. Until his death in 1544, he worked hard to correct the mistakes of the imperial system and installed new political figures. At this tomb, you can see the full layout – the gateway and the double pathway to the pavilion where memorial rites were carried out.Seonjeongneung has a lush forest and benches on the promenade which is an ideal place to relax. The numerous small hills with clusters of trees create a border between the mystery and serenity of the royal tombs and the hustle and bustle of downtown Seoul.

Located at the heart of Gangnam, this place offers tranquil and pleasant promenades for couples and office workers.

Directions: From subway Exit 8 walk straight ahead for 500m and the entrance is on the right. Seonjeongneung comprises of the Seolleung Royal Tomb (선릉) and the Jeongneung Royal Tomb (정릉). 

MARCO POLO 52

MARCO POLO 52

Americano and pistachio cookies

   Namsan Tower in downtown Seoul is a major tourist attraction that provides a good 360 degree view of Seoul’s skyline. Now, if you want to experience fine dining and exquisite cuisines while enjoying the wonderful scenery of Asia’s sparkling city try Marco Polo. A first class restaurant located at the 52^nd floor of COEX in Gangnam. They specialize on Korean, Chinese and Mediterrenean dishes that will leave you spellbound. The place is a must for couples who want to share an intimate dining experience as the place is cozy and it has an unbeatable romantic ambiance. The chef can tailor fit the delicacies they prepare upon request and the people are all hospitable.

For reservations, you can call: Marco Polo (World Trade Center) 52F. World Trade Tower, 159-1, Samsung-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea, 02-559-7620

GALBITANG: A SOUP THAT TRANSCENDS HISTORY AND TRADITION

GALBITANG: A SOUP THAT TRANSCENDS HISTORY AND TRADITION

A SAMWON GARDEN DELICARY

    Samwon Garden is the largest first-class restaurant in Korea which can host about 1,200 guests simultaneously.It already hosted local and foreign dignitaries; prime ministers, VIPs from international conferences World Bank and IMF, The Berlin Philharmony Orchestra, Miss Young International contestants, and etc. During the 1988 Olympic Games many athletes and press members who visited our restaurant where impressed by our traditional atmosphere, good service, and exquisite cooking.

The Philippine President, Corazon Aquino also enjoyed a hearty meal during one of her stat visits in Korea. One of their specialty is the Galbitang,a variety of guk, or Korean soup, made primarily from beef short ribs along with stewing beef, daikon, onions, and other ingredients. The short ribs, or "galbi" also refers to grilled short ribs in Korean barbecue while the suffix tang is another name for guk. Hence, the Korean name literally means "short ribs soup" and is also called garitang, or galitang. The clear and hearty soup is made by slowly simmering galbi in water for a long timeand is eaten as a meal. It is similar to seolleongtang, a soup made from the bones of ox legs.Historical records on galbitang are found in records on table setting for Korean royal court banquets held in the 1890s. However, galbi was assumed to have been eaten since the end of the Goryeo Dynasty (918 – 1392). At present, Galbitang has been a representative dish served at wedding receptions.

As the largest fine dining restaurant in Seoul, it offers an unparalleled service and facilities that reflects the beauty, grandeur and the splendor of Korean cuisines that stands the test of time and will definitely delight each and every guest from around the globe. The next time you visit Seoul, Do not forget to visit Samwon Garden and you will definitely make you ask for more.

For reservations, pls call: Apgujeong Dong, Seoul, South Korea 02-548-3030

KUKKIWON: A JOURNEY OF A THOUSAND MILES BEGIN WITH A SINGLE KICK

KUKKIWON: A JOURNEY OF A THOUSAND MILES BEGIN WITH A SINGLE KICK

For Taekwondo aficionados and practitioners, Kukkiwon should be your top priority once you plan for a tour in Seoul

The author inside the viewing area

The Olympic Memorial Plaque outside the Kukkiwon Gym

Kukkiwon

Kukkiwon (국기원; 國技院),  is based at 635 Yeoksam-Dong (역삼동) in the Gangnam-Gu (강남구) district of Seoul, South Korea. It is the World Taekwondo Headquarters, and home of the World Taekwondo Academy:the official taekwondo governing organization established by the South Korean government. It is supervised by the International Sports Division of the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism.  Today, Kukkiwon is an important tourist attraction for visitors to Seoul. Kukkiwon offers a 'taekwondo experience' program for tourists at a cost of 20,000 won. The program includes instruction in basic stances, self-defense, and board breaking. The Seoul Times has reported that Kukkiwon will eventually move to the Muju Taekwondo Park, which has been designed by Samoo Architecture. The park is due to open in 2013.

Mission and Vision

Kukkiwon is the centre of taekwondo instructor education, being the home of the World Taekwondo Academy, and issues official instructor and dan (black belt) and poom (junior black belt, for practitioners under 15 years of age) certifications. The organisation's main aims are:

§  "Help people to develop their spiritual and physical strength by spreading our cultural asset, Taekwondo."

§  "Introducing Taekwondo's philosophy and skills in order to enhance the national prestige abroad."

Taekwondo black belters on the move

Structure

            Construction of the main building commenced on 19 November 1971, and was completed on 30 November 1972, with the organisation being officially named on 6 February 1973. The main building can accommodate 3,000 people. Standing at three storeys in height, the building's roof features kiwa (blue Korean tiles)—the same type of roofing as the Blue House (the official residence of the President of South Korea).

History

In May 1973, the Korea Taekwondo Association and Kukkiwon hosted the first World Taekwondo Championships, with 200 taekwondo competitors from 17 countries in attendance. Kukkiwon has had a permanent taekwondo demonstration team since September 1974. Un Yong Kim was the first President of Kukkiwon, and resigned from the position on 15 November 2001. Woon Kyu Uhm of the Chung Do Kwan was elected President on 2 March 2004. The President in late 2005 was Yong Gye Um. On 10 December 2009, Seung Wan Lee of the Jidokwan was elected as Kukkiwon's next President. In mid-2010, Won Sik Kang became the current President; he is also the current president of Song Moo Kwan, Korea.

Competition

According to the World Taekwondo Federation's (WTF) rules, taekwondo competitors seeking entry into WTF-sanctioned events must hold black belt rank (whether poom or dan) from Kukkiwon.  Kukkiwon has specified 21 articles in its regulations for poom and dan promotion tests. Article 2 of these regulations notes that they apply to all instructors and students enrolled as members of Member National Associations of the WTF. Article 4 stipulates that "WTF will support the Member National Associations to help perform the task of Dan promotion testing smoothly."

The organisation has contributed significantly to the introduction of taekwondo as a full medal sport in the Asian Games(from Seoul 1986) and the Olympic Games (from Sydney 2000). Despite these efforts, according to information published by the South Korean government, one of taekwondo's largest problems from an organisational perspective is that "over 90% of the taekwondo market operates separately from Kukkiwon, the World Taekwondo Headquarters"and there is a lack of communication between taekwondo organisations and Kukkiwon.