Much apologies! The last blog was written in July. That is a poor effort on my part.
Today officially marks 6 months since I started at my school.
So many things have happened and my gosh time has flown by!
I will try and summarise what has happened since July...
In 3 months time my darling 3rd grade students- all 339 of them that I currently teach will move onto High School. In some ways I am a little sad to see them go because some of them I have developed a good student-teacher relationship with. Some I am not sure how they will cope ( I am talking about the ones that fall asleep at the back of my classroom when I am teaching), as High School students in Korea study so damn hard. Majority of High Schools students start their day at 9 am and do not get home til 10pm. Once they get home they crank out the books and study til early hours of the morning. As the end of year approaches many students are starting to get anxious about doing well for their final exam. As this exam will determine who gets into the best High Schools in Gwangju.
I am so glad that I made the choice to come to this part of the world to teach. Korea is central to most Asian countries. Next year we plan to travel to Japan, Hong Kong, China and other neighboring countries.
This year for Winter Vacation we were fortunate enough to take a well deserved 6 days to Jeju-do, known as the Hawaii of Korea.
The highlight was climbing Hallasan- The tallest mountain in South Korea: 1,950 metres above sea level. Hallsan was an active volcanoe until about 25,000 years ago. The track we took (Seongpanak trail) was 19.2km in total (up and down) and took us over 8 hours. It certainly was testing both mentally and physically. The last 20 minutes up I kept thinking "there is no way I can climb anymore, my legs feel like jelly and my feet hurt from walking over small sharp rocks from the last 4 hours. But you grit your teeth and power it up cos you know it is going to be a wonderful view from the top- and it was...just serene, beautiful, breathtaking and peaceful.
The other highlights from Jejudo included a visit to The Teddy Bear museum and a visit to The Chocolate Musesum, where I discovered you can get Kimchi flavoured chocolate! I dared not to try as I am still getting used to Kimchi- maybe next time.
We hope to go back to Jejudo at some stage and stay maybe on the Northside- there are more beaches up that way. Jejudo is also very cheap to fly to from Gwangju and takes only 30 minutes.
I recently celebrated my 27th birthday here. This birthday was definitely the most spoilt birthday I have had. Julian bought me a Pink bicycle equiped with its own little basket. He figured it was time I got my own rather than a) trying to fit my fat bottom on the end of his bike when he rides b) chasing after him when he rides, just so i can keep up c) Kicking him off his bike and insists he walks. This little beauty has saved me a lot of money so far and also helping me develop strong thighs.
I also learnt a very important lesson on my birthday. The Clash of Cultures: I wanted to celebrate my birthday with my Korean English Teachers, so I suggested dinner at the Outback Steakhouse. They agreed and everyone was excited. On that night one by one my teachers walked into the steakhouse armed with a large coffee cream cake from Paris Baguette, various products from the Body shop, Makeup, a beautiful Pot plant- I thought how kind and thoughtful. Definitely Spoilt!
My teachers kindly chose what to have for dinner for everyone as parts of the menu was in Korean. They chose a set menu - which included soft drinks, 2 large pastas, 2 steaks with various side dishes for 130,000 won (roughly $130- $150 NZ/AUD). We ate, we chated, we laughed, we cried ( as Julian is always so charming and hilarious). Then came the bill. My co teacher handed me the bill. I looked at the damage that was done and gave Julian the "can you pay for my half" look he threw in 60,000 won and I gave the bill to my co teachers. They looked at each other, talked in Korean for a bit, I asked "is everything Ok" "yes, yes" they replied. They paid and everyone said their goodbyes and left. The following Monday my co teacher acted a little strange, I just ignored it and figured she must of been tired from the weekend.
After school the same day she came up to me and said "Helen.....on your birthday, we were suprised you didn't pay the bill. We came with gifts and in our culture when someone invites you to birthday dinner, guests usually bring gifts and you pay. We were very very shocked we had to pay" my stomach did several backflips as I tried to defend myself.."Oh my gosh, I am so sorry. I did not know that. In my country if I go to dinner with my friends we usually split the bill" she raised her voice slightly "but you are in Korea! you should know these things!" I said "I am sorry I did not know that, If I had known I would of paid" then we just went back and forth with the same argument. In the end she said "go, go home" and did a gesture that hurt me a bit- she waved both hands at me suggesting I should go and that she couldn't look at me.
That night I had trouble sleeping. Crap I have pissed off a Korean. Its not going to be pretty the next day, and it wasn't. My co teacher ignored my for 3/4 of the day. We were in the same office and she said nothing to me, not even a "hi" in the morning. I apologised at lunch time and said it was all a "mis understanding" she said she felt a little bad when she said that to me yesterday and also said that I needed to learn this is how things are done in Korea. Lesson Learnt- never suggest dinner with a group of Koreans unless you are generous and can pay for the whole table.
On that note this weekend is Julians birthday. I am taking him to the Outback Steakhouse- where I can actually afford to pay for just him and me.
Happy Birthday Babe!
Thursday 30 September 2010
Sunday 25 July 2010
Down Right Dirty - The 2010 Boryeong Mud Festival
Hows it going people!
This blog entry is another article I've written for The Gwangju News. We went to the annual Mud Fest in super style. A great weekend. Sloppy stuff: enjoy!
Down Right Dirty – The Boryeong Mud Festival
Let’s face it: cleanliness can be overrated. And the Boryeong Mud Festival didn’t hesitate to prove that. Although it ran for nine days, it took only one weekend to show its teeth and bring out the filthiness of all in its path. As thousands descended upon Daecheon Beach for the 13th annual event, it was a case of every man, woman and child for themselves.
As you can imagine, the mud is trucked in by the tonnes. Historically, the plains inland from the beach were thought to hold mud that contained minerals which are beneficial for the skin. This theory was backed up by several research institutes over ten years ago and the town has not looked back since. Last year saw around 32,000 visitors flock to join in on the madness. Not only holding the festival, which generates big income, but also packaging and exporting several skin and facial products has helped put Daecheon on the Korean tourism map.
Day and night certainly held its contrasts on the opening weekend. Saturday saw rain and winds in the afternoon, which did nothing to deter the people. The beachfront held a greeting of mudslides (fantastic idea if not for the 4 hour line up), mud pits (great for a bit of rough and tumble) and plenty of random mud being hurled around carelessly. There is nothing like getting smashed by a flying aerial assault of earth’s finest and not giving a stuff. What was great to see was a mud painting te
nt, which literally covered people head to toe in all different colours. Some people looked like they had just walked off a horror movie set.
The destination is perfect as the sea was all too inviting. Choppy waves were helped along by careless jet skiers who were acting like lifeguards (maybe they were..?) Contrary to what was initially thought, sand proved to be a bigger problem at the end of the trip.
As the weather calmed and day rolled into night the scene was set for the perfect concert mood. The opening ceremony displayed some traditional Korean mud dancing and several other great performances on the main stage. One notable act was a Korean beat-boxer who was very impressive, and extremely humble with his talent. But the most memorable moment were the fireworks. Unbelievably good. A spellbinding display which seemed to last forever and, if they repeated the same every night, would make for an insanely costly exercise.
The Sunday saw the weather turn it on. A great day to check out the events. This is worth a mention: morning is definitely the best time to go. Most people are still in bed nursing hangovers, the mud is fresh (if you know what I mean), the lines are shorter and there is a greater sense of filthy freedom.
It wasn’t all roses and picnics however. There are certain areas with plenty of room for improvement that could help add to the event’s longevity. A few event staff agreed that there weren’t enough facilities. Also a few more mudslides and painting tents wouldn’t go amiss. When trying to find the back of the line during the day, a simple “no way am I getting in that” was the answer. Also the hunger of motel managers was at full scream. Whispers of people forking out up to 120,000 won a night for a small room left those without bookings with little option.
Don’t bother with taking any items for the day.
Leave the whites at home!
For those with glasses. Take plenty of contact lenses.
Try and check out the morning, you’ll get to see and do a lot more.
One word to sum up; Freedom. The Mud Fest is a simple idea with profound impact. If you missed out this year and will be around for 2011, it is well worth the experience. There is no doubt this event will get bigger, let’s hope the organisers realise this and get on top of it sooner rather than later. One thing’s for sure. You’d hate to be on clean up duties. 
This blog entry is another article I've written for The Gwangju News. We went to the annual Mud Fest in super style. A great weekend. Sloppy stuff: enjoy!
Down Right Dirty – The Boryeong Mud Festival
Let’s face it: cleanliness can be overrated. And the Boryeong Mud Festival didn’t hesitate to prove that. Although it ran for nine days, it took only one weekend to show its teeth and bring out the filthiness of all in its path. As thousands descended upon Daecheon Beach for the 13th annual event, it was a case of every man, woman and child for themselves.
As you can imagine, the mud is trucked in by the tonnes. Historically, the plains inland from the beach were thought to hold mud that contained minerals which are beneficial for the skin. This theory was backed up by several research institutes over ten years ago and the town has not looked back since. Last year saw around 32,000 visitors flock to join in on the madness. Not only holding the festival, which generates big income, but also packaging and exporting several skin and facial products has helped put Daecheon on the Korean tourism map.
Day and night certainly held its contrasts on the opening weekend. Saturday saw rain and winds in the afternoon, which did nothing to deter the people. The beachfront held a greeting of mudslides (fantastic idea if not for the 4 hour line up), mud pits (great for a bit of rough and tumble) and plenty of random mud being hurled around carelessly. There is nothing like getting smashed by a flying aerial assault of earth’s finest and not giving a stuff. What was great to see was a mud painting te
nt, which literally covered people head to toe in all different colours. Some people looked like they had just walked off a horror movie set.The destination is perfect as the sea was all too inviting. Choppy waves were helped along by careless jet skiers who were acting like lifeguards (maybe they were..?) Contrary to what was initially thought, sand proved to be a bigger problem at the end of the trip.
As the weather calmed and day rolled into night the scene was set for the perfect concert mood. The opening ceremony displayed some traditional Korean mud dancing and several other great performances on the main stage. One notable act was a Korean beat-boxer who was very impressive, and extremely humble with his talent. But the most memorable moment were the fireworks. Unbelievably good. A spellbinding display which seemed to last forever and, if they repeated the same every night, would make for an insanely costly exercise.
The Sunday saw the weather turn it on. A great day to check out the events. This is worth a mention: morning is definitely the best time to go. Most people are still in bed nursing hangovers, the mud is fresh (if you know what I mean), the lines are shorter and there is a greater sense of filthy freedom.
It wasn’t all roses and picnics however. There are certain areas with plenty of room for improvement that could help add to the event’s longevity. A few event staff agreed that there weren’t enough facilities. Also a few more mudslides and painting tents wouldn’t go amiss. When trying to find the back of the line during the day, a simple “no way am I getting in that” was the answer. Also the hunger of motel managers was at full scream. Whispers of people forking out up to 120,000 won a night for a small room left those without bookings with little option.
Here are some tips for next year:
Book early and with a group you trust (not with a random group of people from Seoul who crammed 15 people in a 20 square metre room… when you booked back in April).
Book early and with a group you trust (not with a random group of people from Seoul who crammed 15 people in a 20 square metre room… when you booked back in April).
Don’t bother with taking any items for the day.
Put enough cash into a small waterproof bag and leave it in your pocket.
Leave the whites at home!
For those with glasses. Take plenty of contact lenses.
Try and check out the morning, you’ll get to see and do a lot more.
Tuesday 29 June 2010
40 things you didn't know about food in korea
Lets talk food! everyone loves food. Since moving to Korea I have developed a fondness for korean food.
I have noticed huge differences between Korean food and Western food.
1. Kimchi is eaten everyday for breakfast ( I still can't bring myself to eat that..so ive been sticking to my sugarary cereal every morning).
2. Rice is eaten for breakfast, lunch and tea..no thanks.
3. Chocolate is found in small quantities..no king size chocolate here.
4. Food is so dirt cheap..that its cheaper to eat out than shop at the supermarket.
5. 7,000 won is enough to feed Julian and me at a Kimbap restaurant.
6. Coffee in stick sachets is the beverage of choice here, everyone drinks them after a big meal and its pretty common to have 4-8 sachets of that a day.
7. The reason people here are so tiny is because the food is pretty spicy. You are literally sweating during a meal which I believe raises the metabolism.
8. Cereal is full of copious amounts of sugar even in special K!
9. Probiotics ( I call them baby milk) can cure you of a sore stomach after spicy food.
10. Big Blocks of cheese dont exsist in the supermarket, if they do its bloody expensive. 3 slices of processed cheese can set you back 4,000 won ($4-5)
11. Cheese on pizza is so fake its sickening! You saturate your entire napkin in oil just from one slice of pizza.
12. Fried chicken and beer go hand-in-hand just like coffee and cigarettes.
13. On that note..cancer sticks are bloody cheap a packet will cost you between 2,000- 3,000 won. No wonder so many people in Korea smoke.
14. Alcohol is so cheap and can be found anywhere. A bottle of soju will cost you under 2,000won and a can of beer 1,200won. A Large bottle 1,500-1,800.
15.They have their own version of Cold rock (Australian icecreamery) Cold stone. But the flavours are way better..more cheese cake flavours and double the cookie crumb!
16.Bread is blooody expensive- gone are the days of .99 c pak n save bread :( Oh and bread only comes in half loaves.
17. I will drink less coffee..I will drink less coffee..I will drink less coffee.
18. A 6 pack of 1.5L bottled water only cost 3,000 won- bargin! why would you stand over your stove and boil jugs of water? What a waste of time!
19. The intensity of flavour in packet chips is no where as salty as chips back home.
20. On a hot day rock up to your local convenient store and grab an icecream bar/ solaem ( My friend calls its crack cos its so addictive) for 500 won..last time I bought an ice cream for .50 was back in 1990.
21. Ginseng gum and affragato chewing gum doesn't sound too appealing but it is pretty tasty!
22. I will eat less chocolate cream pie..I will eat less chocolate cream pie..
23. Eating dried squid while Naribanging heightens the experience. Gosh its addictive. Also cereal is served with your beers and soju..all part of the service.
24. Cherry coke is still a live in this country-yeahhhh
25. I miss cherry ripes..so if you are reading this send me some!!!
26. There are about 50 kinds of Wellbeing rice you can choose from. My favourite is the purple grains which turns your rice completely purple once cooked.
27. I dont know why but Kimbap is surprisingly easy to make...I have tried to make sushi for the past 5 years..still cant master it. But with Kimbap..Im the master chef.
28.Only spoons and chopsticks are used during breakfast, lunch and dinner. So if you have a super tough piece of steak to cut up ..use the edge of your spoon. I use the back of a spoon to spread peanut butter on my toast most mornings.
29.No matter how much you hate kimchi..just have a little bit..it will make your co teacher happy to see you enjoying their national dish.
30.There are soo many convenient stores! I have 5 convenient stores only 5 minutes from where I live.
31. Paris Baguette you are my best friend!
32. In the fish markets be careful...you might just stumble upon a turtle with no head :( luckily I haven't seen one yet. But my friend has.
33. I still need to try Silk worm larve and live octopus..tenticles still intact and moving.
34. Never blow your nose while dining with Koreans. No matter how incredibly spicy your meal is and how much your sinus is begging you to relieve it..just subtely sniff it back up.
35. Carry a toothbrush to school and brush your teeth with your teachers after lunch..while holding hands..just joking!
36. Obesisty in Korea is non-existent..I have yet to see a fat person in Korea. Actually..I take that back..Im considered overweight here! Standing next to my co teachers Im an elephant!
37. If you so much as eat too much and develop bloating..you will be asked if you are pregnant..not me but my friend got asked that and shes a rake!
38. Talking with your mouthfull is ok. Its a sign you are enjoying the food! Also spitting food at the person you are talking to is ok. Just subtely wipe it off..5 minutes after so it doesn't look obvious.
39. Rice cakes are delicious..you can choose from many flavours, textures, filings, colors..my favourites are the small marshmellow shaped ones that have a sweet honey centre.
40. You must eat your lunch within 5 minutes. If you take too long your teachers are waiting impatiently for you. Once you have finished your meal walk very very slowly back to your office.. I mean very slowly.
I have noticed huge differences between Korean food and Western food.
1. Kimchi is eaten everyday for breakfast ( I still can't bring myself to eat that..so ive been sticking to my sugarary cereal every morning).
2. Rice is eaten for breakfast, lunch and tea..no thanks.
3. Chocolate is found in small quantities..no king size chocolate here.
4. Food is so dirt cheap..that its cheaper to eat out than shop at the supermarket.
5. 7,000 won is enough to feed Julian and me at a Kimbap restaurant.
6. Coffee in stick sachets is the beverage of choice here, everyone drinks them after a big meal and its pretty common to have 4-8 sachets of that a day.
7. The reason people here are so tiny is because the food is pretty spicy. You are literally sweating during a meal which I believe raises the metabolism.
8. Cereal is full of copious amounts of sugar even in special K!
9. Probiotics ( I call them baby milk) can cure you of a sore stomach after spicy food.
10. Big Blocks of cheese dont exsist in the supermarket, if they do its bloody expensive. 3 slices of processed cheese can set you back 4,000 won ($4-5)
11. Cheese on pizza is so fake its sickening! You saturate your entire napkin in oil just from one slice of pizza.
12. Fried chicken and beer go hand-in-hand just like coffee and cigarettes.
13. On that note..cancer sticks are bloody cheap a packet will cost you between 2,000- 3,000 won. No wonder so many people in Korea smoke.
14. Alcohol is so cheap and can be found anywhere. A bottle of soju will cost you under 2,000won and a can of beer 1,200won. A Large bottle 1,500-1,800.
15.They have their own version of Cold rock (Australian icecreamery) Cold stone. But the flavours are way better..more cheese cake flavours and double the cookie crumb!
16.Bread is blooody expensive- gone are the days of .99 c pak n save bread :( Oh and bread only comes in half loaves.
17. I will drink less coffee..I will drink less coffee..I will drink less coffee.
18. A 6 pack of 1.5L bottled water only cost 3,000 won- bargin! why would you stand over your stove and boil jugs of water? What a waste of time!
19. The intensity of flavour in packet chips is no where as salty as chips back home.
20. On a hot day rock up to your local convenient store and grab an icecream bar/ solaem ( My friend calls its crack cos its so addictive) for 500 won..last time I bought an ice cream for .50 was back in 1990.
21. Ginseng gum and affragato chewing gum doesn't sound too appealing but it is pretty tasty!
22. I will eat less chocolate cream pie..I will eat less chocolate cream pie..
23. Eating dried squid while Naribanging heightens the experience. Gosh its addictive. Also cereal is served with your beers and soju..all part of the service.
24. Cherry coke is still a live in this country-yeahhhh
25. I miss cherry ripes..so if you are reading this send me some!!!
26. There are about 50 kinds of Wellbeing rice you can choose from. My favourite is the purple grains which turns your rice completely purple once cooked.
27. I dont know why but Kimbap is surprisingly easy to make...I have tried to make sushi for the past 5 years..still cant master it. But with Kimbap..Im the master chef.
28.Only spoons and chopsticks are used during breakfast, lunch and dinner. So if you have a super tough piece of steak to cut up ..use the edge of your spoon. I use the back of a spoon to spread peanut butter on my toast most mornings.
29.No matter how much you hate kimchi..just have a little bit..it will make your co teacher happy to see you enjoying their national dish.
30.There are soo many convenient stores! I have 5 convenient stores only 5 minutes from where I live.
31. Paris Baguette you are my best friend!
32. In the fish markets be careful...you might just stumble upon a turtle with no head :( luckily I haven't seen one yet. But my friend has.
33. I still need to try Silk worm larve and live octopus..tenticles still intact and moving.
34. Never blow your nose while dining with Koreans. No matter how incredibly spicy your meal is and how much your sinus is begging you to relieve it..just subtely sniff it back up.
35. Carry a toothbrush to school and brush your teeth with your teachers after lunch..while holding hands..just joking!
36. Obesisty in Korea is non-existent..I have yet to see a fat person in Korea. Actually..I take that back..Im considered overweight here! Standing next to my co teachers Im an elephant!
37. If you so much as eat too much and develop bloating..you will be asked if you are pregnant..not me but my friend got asked that and shes a rake!
38. Talking with your mouthfull is ok. Its a sign you are enjoying the food! Also spitting food at the person you are talking to is ok. Just subtely wipe it off..5 minutes after so it doesn't look obvious.
39. Rice cakes are delicious..you can choose from many flavours, textures, filings, colors..my favourites are the small marshmellow shaped ones that have a sweet honey centre.
40. You must eat your lunch within 5 minutes. If you take too long your teachers are waiting impatiently for you. Once you have finished your meal walk very very slowly back to your office.. I mean very slowly.
Saturday 22 May 2010
International DJ Fest, Seoul, May 2010
Anyang haseyo!
This was the weekend I had been waiting for. Great mates, great beats, great sun. The perfect way to welcome summer.
Here is the article I wrote and submitted to our local foreign magazine publication, the Gwangju News. I hope you enjoy ... ...
A Day at the Park
By Julian Raethel
Photos by Stefan Potgieter and Julian Raethel
The Nanji Han River Park in Seoul served up a real treat for music and festival junkies on the bright blue Saturday that was May the 8th. The 4th annual World DJ Festival dropped into full swing and there was no stopping the momentum.
Set against the beautiful backdrop of the Han River and the city behind it, this was the place to be. Over 60 local and international acts rocking four stages over 15 hours. Obligations be dammed, there was no holding back. Upon arrival in the mid-afternoon, it was certainly difficult to predict how many party-goers would show up. But as time progressed, and day turned to night, it was clear (or unclear for many) that there was a serious crowd to soak up the atmosphere. Facilities were excellent and all fears of missing out on a ticket were soon subsided with a warm smile from a friendly staff member.
As entry was swift it was irresistible for the body to start moving to the sway of the main stage. Korean artists, Soul Company hit us like a sharp slap in the face. What a welcome! Their ferocious and raw hip-hop energy made for one of the day’s highlights. Followed by an amazing performance by the powerful Brazilian drummers on the field, whose sound had the whole park mesmerised.
The acoustics were in top condition, given the circumstances of the park layout. Both the Main and Jager stages were right next to each other, separated only by stalls of food and liquor. Incredibly, no cross-feed of sound was evident. Very impressive.
The Fest Village added a nice cultural touch to the event. The area was riddled with traditional Korean music, makeup and other little surprises that provided a nice breather from the madness on the other side of the park.
As the day wore on DJs Limzi and Mackay are certainly worth a mention on the Jager stage. Ex-pat Irish DJ Mackay, who lives in Seoul now, created a very energetic vibe with his dirty hard house, weaved with funky electro rhythms. Definitely the recipe needed to get the day crowd jumping.
In the Black Zone, DJ Freekey was the pick of the bunch. His selection of smooth hip hop beats with some nice remixes brought the crowd to where it needed to be.
In the Black Zone, DJ Freekey was the pick of the bunch. His selection of smooth hip hop beats with some nice remixes brought the crowd to where it needed to be.
Headlining act The Freemasons played at the ridiculous time of 4.30am, just in time for the festival to reach its climax. Some roaring electronic grooves helped set the crowd on fire at the wee witching hours of the morning.
The 4th Annual World DJ Festival could hardly be denied as a roaring success. As one enthusiastic punter stated clearly, “great mates, great music and a wonderful way to welcome summer.” Let’s hope that the organisers roll with the track they’ve laid down and keep building on what was seen over the weekend.
Sunday 9 May 2010
My very interesting weekend by Helen:) x
This was the first weekend I had without Julian. (He went to the International DJ Fest in Seoul).
It was quite relaxing I must say..maybe I need more weekends without him....
Friday:
One of my Korean Co teachers mentioned to me about the gym she goes to and the aerobics class on offer, of course being the gym bunny I am I had to try it out!
Turns out it was not quite what I expected. I walked in the door and I was told to remove my trainers, which I thought was weird cos what was I meant to do the class in? barefeet? But neverless I was given a pair of someone elses trainers...ewwww. I was absolutely gobsmacked at what the women here wear to aerobics..it reminded me of something from 'Footloose'- Headbank, 3/4 tights (some wore little skirts over the tights), leg warmers, tanktops and here I am rocking up in my t-shirt and shorts..straight away I didn't fit in!
The class started smack bang on 8pm and the instructor who was this cute little asian lady with a face caked full of makeup and red lipstick shouted something in Korean and everybody cranked out these amazingly fast paced dance moves. I was so confused I had never done moves like these before! The ladies in front of me looked like professional dancers they leaped, hopped and thrusted like professionals. I tried to keep up with the lady in front of me..but of course I was like 10 beats behind her..so i just took the whole experience with a grain of salt and of course all you could do was laugh. The main difference I find with Western Les Mills style classes and Korean classes is, Les Mills is more high intensity, aerobic and strength moves whereas the korean class was more about dance and little bit of aerobics. To be honest my heart rate did not even go up. Maybe it was because I spent most of my time tripping up over my own feet. When the class finished everybody gathered around to share cans of cold beverages, some ladies just stripped off and walked to the showers. My co teacher asked me if I wanted to go again on Monday but how do you say it politely in Korean "no" I think I'll pass.....
Saturday:
The gang that didn't go to DJ Fest decided to visit a jimjilbang (Korean Public Bath house). We went to the Hyundai Wellbeing Land in Buk Gu. When we got there we were notified it was 6,000won per person for the whole day - A bargin! We were given horrible orange pants and orange t-shirts to change into. The boys had nicer ones- a grey t-shirt and navy pants. When the girls got into the changing room we were told to strip off all our clothes and shower together..none of us were keen on that idea. I dont know how the women do it here, every woman just walked around naked as if it was the most natural thing to do. Maybe that is the main difference with Western Women and Korean Women..then again they all had nice figures. We just changed into our ugly clothes and headed upstairs. Upstairs looked like a big hall with dozens of doors. Each door comprised of a room heated to different temperatures ( I guess these were the Steam rooms). My favourite room was the one heated to 56 degrees, inside was a dark room the floor was covered in small stones and they were hot hot hot! The idea was to lie on them and let the hot rocks do their thing. It was really intense to begin with, but once you lay there long enough your body would soon get used to it. There was a man fast asleep when we got in. We stayed there for 10 minutes and left with sweat drenching our clothes and sweat pouring off our forehead. Christina mentioned we had to see the ice room. That was literally what it was! a room with ice on all sides and even a snowman- it was freezing but so refreshing after coming out of a 56 degree room. Next some of us desperately wanted a massage. It was 20,000 won for 30 mins. I hesisted paying that but decided it was way cheaper than back home and exactly what I needed. I had a little lady massage me..and my gosh I didn't realise how much pain my back and neck was in. She was amazing but the 30 mins was hell to me (in a good way!). The Hyundai Wellbeing Land was famous for its Public Bathouse but none of us girls were keen to get naked with each other (yet). I think I will go in my own time and get naked then..but for now..im keeping my privates private!!!!
Sunday:
Today we just wanted to relax. We agreed to meet at Yang-don markets and check out the local produce. There was literally ( I kid you not) hundreds of stalls all selling the same thing..live baby octopus, eels, fishes, dried seafood, kimchi,animal guts and intestines..even live stock..some of the ducks were way too cute to be bought and slaughtered at home:( then Jarrod reminded me we did have duck last night :(
It was quite relaxing I must say..maybe I need more weekends without him....
Friday:
One of my Korean Co teachers mentioned to me about the gym she goes to and the aerobics class on offer, of course being the gym bunny I am I had to try it out!
Turns out it was not quite what I expected. I walked in the door and I was told to remove my trainers, which I thought was weird cos what was I meant to do the class in? barefeet? But neverless I was given a pair of someone elses trainers...ewwww. I was absolutely gobsmacked at what the women here wear to aerobics..it reminded me of something from 'Footloose'- Headbank, 3/4 tights (some wore little skirts over the tights), leg warmers, tanktops and here I am rocking up in my t-shirt and shorts..straight away I didn't fit in!
The class started smack bang on 8pm and the instructor who was this cute little asian lady with a face caked full of makeup and red lipstick shouted something in Korean and everybody cranked out these amazingly fast paced dance moves. I was so confused I had never done moves like these before! The ladies in front of me looked like professional dancers they leaped, hopped and thrusted like professionals. I tried to keep up with the lady in front of me..but of course I was like 10 beats behind her..so i just took the whole experience with a grain of salt and of course all you could do was laugh. The main difference I find with Western Les Mills style classes and Korean classes is, Les Mills is more high intensity, aerobic and strength moves whereas the korean class was more about dance and little bit of aerobics. To be honest my heart rate did not even go up. Maybe it was because I spent most of my time tripping up over my own feet. When the class finished everybody gathered around to share cans of cold beverages, some ladies just stripped off and walked to the showers. My co teacher asked me if I wanted to go again on Monday but how do you say it politely in Korean "no" I think I'll pass.....
Saturday:
The gang that didn't go to DJ Fest decided to visit a jimjilbang (Korean Public Bath house). We went to the Hyundai Wellbeing Land in Buk Gu. When we got there we were notified it was 6,000won per person for the whole day - A bargin! We were given horrible orange pants and orange t-shirts to change into. The boys had nicer ones- a grey t-shirt and navy pants. When the girls got into the changing room we were told to strip off all our clothes and shower together..none of us were keen on that idea. I dont know how the women do it here, every woman just walked around naked as if it was the most natural thing to do. Maybe that is the main difference with Western Women and Korean Women..then again they all had nice figures. We just changed into our ugly clothes and headed upstairs. Upstairs looked like a big hall with dozens of doors. Each door comprised of a room heated to different temperatures ( I guess these were the Steam rooms). My favourite room was the one heated to 56 degrees, inside was a dark room the floor was covered in small stones and they were hot hot hot! The idea was to lie on them and let the hot rocks do their thing. It was really intense to begin with, but once you lay there long enough your body would soon get used to it. There was a man fast asleep when we got in. We stayed there for 10 minutes and left with sweat drenching our clothes and sweat pouring off our forehead. Christina mentioned we had to see the ice room. That was literally what it was! a room with ice on all sides and even a snowman- it was freezing but so refreshing after coming out of a 56 degree room. Next some of us desperately wanted a massage. It was 20,000 won for 30 mins. I hesisted paying that but decided it was way cheaper than back home and exactly what I needed. I had a little lady massage me..and my gosh I didn't realise how much pain my back and neck was in. She was amazing but the 30 mins was hell to me (in a good way!). The Hyundai Wellbeing Land was famous for its Public Bathouse but none of us girls were keen to get naked with each other (yet). I think I will go in my own time and get naked then..but for now..im keeping my privates private!!!!
Sunday:
Today we just wanted to relax. We agreed to meet at Yang-don markets and check out the local produce. There was literally ( I kid you not) hundreds of stalls all selling the same thing..live baby octopus, eels, fishes, dried seafood, kimchi,animal guts and intestines..even live stock..some of the ducks were way too cute to be bought and slaughtered at home:( then Jarrod reminded me we did have duck last night :(
We didn't buy anything, though it was very interesting! There was so much to buy and see..maybe next time I'll buy an octopus for a pet??
We wandered 'Downtown' from Yangdon it was a good 20 mins walk in the sun. We had lunch at a beautiful restaurant Lawerance took us to..I had my favourite korean meal- Bibimbap (rice tossed in mild hot sauce and assorted fresh vegetables -YUM!!). It was only 5,000won which I thought was amazingly cheap- NOTE: must take Julian. The day ended with us going to the board game cafe - you must buy a drink to stay there for a minimum of 3 hours. We got monopoly and played for 2.5 hours..NOTE TO SELF: Never play monopoly with Foregieners as everybody has their own rules from back home...in the end with much debating and arguing we decided Laurence was the "winner" to avoid any tanties being thrown.
What an eventful weekend! And I even made the effort to find a payphone on the way home to wish my mum a Happy mothers day.
H x
We wandered 'Downtown' from Yangdon it was a good 20 mins walk in the sun. We had lunch at a beautiful restaurant Lawerance took us to..I had my favourite korean meal- Bibimbap (rice tossed in mild hot sauce and assorted fresh vegetables -YUM!!). It was only 5,000won which I thought was amazingly cheap- NOTE: must take Julian. The day ended with us going to the board game cafe - you must buy a drink to stay there for a minimum of 3 hours. We got monopoly and played for 2.5 hours..NOTE TO SELF: Never play monopoly with Foregieners as everybody has their own rules from back home...in the end with much debating and arguing we decided Laurence was the "winner" to avoid any tanties being thrown.
What an eventful weekend! And I even made the effort to find a payphone on the way home to wish my mum a Happy mothers day.
H x
Monday 26 April 2010
Gwangju: The Settling
Julian Raethel
WEEK 5 COMPLETE. OH YEAH.
Hello people. A lot has happened since we last spoke. I have been spending most of my internet time reading into the Melbourne Storm debacle. Loving it. Just loving it.
Anyway, I was horrified at my first Korean "experience" to the bathroom. I didn't know what the hell to do, I was looking at this thing scratching my head going "Well, this is going to be a challenge." I still don't know if I'm doing it right. Trial and error. Trial and error.
Soju has become a wonderful friend, and a powerful enemy, of mine. It is a love/hate relationship that will last our entire time together in this beautiful country. For those who don't know, Soju is a traditional Korean spirit made from potatoes. It tastes like Vodka and is dangerously cheap and accessible.
We went on an amazing 4.5 hour hike on Sunday up Mt. Mudeungsan (the highest mountain in the city). The views were incredible. See below for snapshots. Mountain goats aint' got shit on me! Good old Darren Mead dropped down from Seoul for the weekend so was good times.
May should be a great month with lots of "holidays", I had our school anniversary last week and my co-teacher was kind enough to take me to the Bamboo Forest. Mind-blowing picturesque surroundings. See below for snapshots.
Peace to all. Watch this space 
Final Week of April 2010
WEEK 5 COMPLETE. OH YEAH.
Hello people. A lot has happened since we last spoke. I have been spending most of my internet time reading into the Melbourne Storm debacle. Loving it. Just loving it.
Anyway, I was horrified at my first Korean "experience" to the bathroom. I didn't know what the hell to do, I was looking at this thing scratching my head going "Well, this is going to be a challenge." I still don't know if I'm doing it right. Trial and error. Trial and error.
Soju has become a wonderful friend, and a powerful enemy, of mine. It is a love/hate relationship that will last our entire time together in this beautiful country. For those who don't know, Soju is a traditional Korean spirit made from potatoes. It tastes like Vodka and is dangerously cheap and accessible.
We went on an amazing 4.5 hour hike on Sunday up Mt. Mudeungsan (the highest mountain in the city). The views were incredible. See below for snapshots. Mountain goats aint' got shit on me! Good old Darren Mead dropped down from Seoul for the weekend so was good times.
May should be a great month with lots of "holidays", I had our school anniversary last week and my co-teacher was kind enough to take me to the Bamboo Forest. Mind-blowing picturesque surroundings. See below for snapshots.
Peace to all. Watch this space
.
PHOTO 1:
Amazing Bamboo Forest in Damyang, an hour outside of Gwangju
PHOTO 2:
A nice couples shot of myself and Helen on Mt. Mudeungsan
PHOTO 3:
Leatherface Lives!
PHOTO 4:
Massive statue at the Memorial Park of the Gwangju Massacre. Very impressive.
Sunday 18 April 2010
Helens belated post-sorry
Hey people! My turn to hog the spotlight. Righteo... we have been here for nearly a month, so much has happened but I wont write every single thing down- only what has been interesting to me so far in Gwang-ju.
First night I arrived I actually had food poisoning and battling fresher flu from the night before, so the bumpy bus ride (from Seoul to Gwangju - 5 hours) was rather sickening..all I did was sleep if I had stayed awake I would of made a mess of the bus. When I arrived at the university to be picked up by my Co-teacher Mrs Cho she said I looked in a bad way, so she insisted I go see her cousin who was a oriential doctor. She drove me there in peak hour traffic (took about 40 mins) as soon as I got to the doctors surgery I nearly passed out. When I went to see him the first thing he did was stick a small accupture needle in my hand and said it would make me feel better-and it did! That needle however had to stay lodged in my hand for the next 24 hours..ouch. then he performed a treatment called 'Moxa' on me where 3 pods of herbs where placed on my stomach and lit on fire. It wasn't sore but i sure was getting kinda spacey from smelling the herbs. It was definitely an experience to remember-quite different from western doctors. They dont believe in prescribing Antibiotics..but to treat things from Natural sources. The next day we all had to get a medical examination-more needles and pee in a cup.. yay fun!!
We all started school the next day. Im very fortunate, I live only 5 mins downhill from my school Sang-il Middle School. There are 900 students at my school (co-ed). This year I am teaching only 3rd grade (16 year olds- korean age). The students are super friendly, curious, polite at the first sight of me. I felt like royalty as I walked through the hallways as every student would bow to me- sign of respect. I have my own wee office (that I share with 5 other teachers). On my first day i witnessed a student getting caned in front of me. The sight and sound make me sick to my stomach and i wanted to cry. Then I got told the student was being smart in class. It is a very common sight to see the teachers all carry sticks (some big broom stick handles) to class. Physical discipline is very much alive at my school. My first week I had to introduce myself (using powerpoint) to all my classes ( I see 12 different classes a week, so I had to talk about myself 12 times in a week!!!) during my presentation I showed a photo of Julian and the classes just went out the door..I had some crazy questions asked about him "are you going to marry him, where did you meet him, he is handsome, he is cute, what does he do, where did u meet, how many children will you have, do you think your boyfriend is handsome? ..."etc..and some crazy questions I got asked about me was "you have nice eyes..have u had eyelid surgery (apparently its common to do that here), what is your bloodtype? if you can fly where would you fly to? Do you like korean toliets? do you think I am handsome? and even a few marriage proposals. Everyday in class you don't know what to expect. The other day I had a shoe thrown at my head at 100km an hour..everyday is different. You have to think fast!
We are very fortunate we came with about 20 other foreign teachers (they are from America, Canada, South Africa, England etc..) so it has been a blast getting to know them and hang with them in the weekends. Things we do in weekend is go to Nori bong (karoke), Drink Soju, Go to the markets, shop, drink more soju. Koreans love their soju.
One thing I will point out before I end my post is...I cant believe how incredibly cheap things are over here. You can get a bus ride and subway ride for 1000won ($1-2 aus dollars) to go anywhere you want. The food is cheap as! Julian and I discovered Kimbap restaurant is the place to go eat for 3000won you get a big plate of food that could feed 2 people and its super delicious!
I will put some photos on soon..so watch this space....
First night I arrived I actually had food poisoning and battling fresher flu from the night before, so the bumpy bus ride (from Seoul to Gwangju - 5 hours) was rather sickening..all I did was sleep if I had stayed awake I would of made a mess of the bus. When I arrived at the university to be picked up by my Co-teacher Mrs Cho she said I looked in a bad way, so she insisted I go see her cousin who was a oriential doctor. She drove me there in peak hour traffic (took about 40 mins) as soon as I got to the doctors surgery I nearly passed out. When I went to see him the first thing he did was stick a small accupture needle in my hand and said it would make me feel better-and it did! That needle however had to stay lodged in my hand for the next 24 hours..ouch. then he performed a treatment called 'Moxa' on me where 3 pods of herbs where placed on my stomach and lit on fire. It wasn't sore but i sure was getting kinda spacey from smelling the herbs. It was definitely an experience to remember-quite different from western doctors. They dont believe in prescribing Antibiotics..but to treat things from Natural sources. The next day we all had to get a medical examination-more needles and pee in a cup.. yay fun!!
We all started school the next day. Im very fortunate, I live only 5 mins downhill from my school Sang-il Middle School. There are 900 students at my school (co-ed). This year I am teaching only 3rd grade (16 year olds- korean age). The students are super friendly, curious, polite at the first sight of me. I felt like royalty as I walked through the hallways as every student would bow to me- sign of respect. I have my own wee office (that I share with 5 other teachers). On my first day i witnessed a student getting caned in front of me. The sight and sound make me sick to my stomach and i wanted to cry. Then I got told the student was being smart in class. It is a very common sight to see the teachers all carry sticks (some big broom stick handles) to class. Physical discipline is very much alive at my school. My first week I had to introduce myself (using powerpoint) to all my classes ( I see 12 different classes a week, so I had to talk about myself 12 times in a week!!!) during my presentation I showed a photo of Julian and the classes just went out the door..I had some crazy questions asked about him "are you going to marry him, where did you meet him, he is handsome, he is cute, what does he do, where did u meet, how many children will you have, do you think your boyfriend is handsome? ..."etc..and some crazy questions I got asked about me was "you have nice eyes..have u had eyelid surgery (apparently its common to do that here), what is your bloodtype? if you can fly where would you fly to? Do you like korean toliets? do you think I am handsome? and even a few marriage proposals. Everyday in class you don't know what to expect. The other day I had a shoe thrown at my head at 100km an hour..everyday is different. You have to think fast!
We are very fortunate we came with about 20 other foreign teachers (they are from America, Canada, South Africa, England etc..) so it has been a blast getting to know them and hang with them in the weekends. Things we do in weekend is go to Nori bong (karoke), Drink Soju, Go to the markets, shop, drink more soju. Koreans love their soju.
One thing I will point out before I end my post is...I cant believe how incredibly cheap things are over here. You can get a bus ride and subway ride for 1000won ($1-2 aus dollars) to go anywhere you want. The food is cheap as! Julian and I discovered Kimbap restaurant is the place to go eat for 3000won you get a big plate of food that could feed 2 people and its super delicious!
I will put some photos on soon..so watch this space....
Monday 5 April 2010
Phase One: Seoul and the Gwangju Arrival
Julian’s Korean Blog
First Entry
Sunday 4 April
Okay people, these entries will be as brief as possible. I know some blogs can go on forever but I will attempt to make these strong and fast; like a punch in the mouth. Please refer to Miss Helen Chin’s blog page also, as we will be alternating from week-to-week.
Orientation: Seoul
Bang, we arrive. Fresh and inspired after our 20-hour stay in Taipei airport. Customs is so relaxed it is ridiculous. We walk out with our luggage and are aware of the long bus ride ahead. 10,000 WON (AUS$10) each it will cost. A man in his forties approaches and offers to take us to the University in his “taxi” for around 80,000 WON. We haggle and then decide to leave it. He is very persuasive but we still refuse. Two men in uniform then approach us. They take us to the ticket office to buy our tickets. One of the men is filming us. I’m not one to say no to appearing on camera but I prefer my money to be paid to me first! I ask the other what the hell is going on and he hands me a card. It says: “The man who just offered you a ride wasn’t a taxi driver…we have removed him from the premises…”
Not a bad welcoming committee, eh?
Very grateful, we get on the bus. One hour later we are off it with all our gear. It is 9pm Friday night and we are meant to catch a cab for less than 5 minutes to the University where everyone already is. I’m already regretting failing to take some true Korean language classes as Helen and I get in the taxi. We make it and meet our coordinators and roommates. My roommates’ name is Mike, he is a Filipino Canadian who I swear looks and sounds Mexican. You know what I mean, Essay?
Okay so orientation is awesome. 5 days of classes, field trips and Seoul nightlife. Saw this live show called Nanta! It is like Stomp but in a restaurant kitchen with Korean chefs and humour. Very funny and talented stuff. We are in the honeymoon phase people.
PS – Check out my mug and drawing. They rule.
Bang, we arrive. Fresh and inspired after our 20-hour stay in Taipei airport. Customs is so relaxed it is ridiculous. We walk out with our luggage and are aware of the long bus ride ahead. 10,000 WON (AUS$10) each it will cost. A man in his forties approaches and offers to take us to the University in his “taxi” for around 80,000 WON. We haggle and then decide to leave it. He is very persuasive but we still refuse. Two men in uniform then approach us. They take us to the ticket office to buy our tickets. One of the men is filming us. I’m not one to say no to appearing on camera but I prefer my money to be paid to me first! I ask the other what the hell is going on and he hands me a card. It says: “The man who just offered you a ride wasn’t a taxi driver…we have removed him from the premises…”
Not a bad welcoming committee, eh?
Very grateful, we get on the bus. One hour later we are off it with all our gear. It is 9pm Friday night and we are meant to catch a cab for less than 5 minutes to the University where everyone already is. I’m already regretting failing to take some true Korean language classes as Helen and I get in the taxi. We make it and meet our coordinators and roommates. My roommates’ name is Mike, he is a Filipino Canadian who I swear looks and sounds Mexican. You know what I mean, Essay?
Okay so orientation is awesome. 5 days of classes, field trips and Seoul nightlife. Saw this live show called Nanta! It is like Stomp but in a restaurant kitchen with Korean chefs and humour. Very funny and talented stuff. We are in the honeymoon phase people.
PS – Check out my mug and drawing. They rule.
PHOTO 1: MY AWESOME CUP I'M MAKING IN THE CERAMIC VILLAGE
PHOTO 2: GANDOLF!! YOU SON OF A GUN!! WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING HERE!!??
Gwangju: It begins
For those of you who don’t know. Gwangju is a small city (1.5 million people) in the south-west of Korea. We arrive after a 4-hour bus trip from Seoul and meet our co-teachers. Mine are really cool, two ladies, one is our age (27 in Korean years) and the other is in her late-thirties. We all disembark. No phone. No means of contact. Thankfully Helen and I live not 3 minutes walk from each other in the area of Sangmu and our middle schools (11-13 year-olds in English years) are just down the road from one another.
Day One of School: Unbelievable. I got told the students were excited about my arrival. But nothing like this. I’m David Beckham. No bullshit. I can’t walk down the corridor without being swarmed. It’s cool to have all this attention. I hope the students will ride this positivity all year.
To be continued……
For those of you who don’t know. Gwangju is a small city (1.5 million people) in the south-west of Korea. We arrive after a 4-hour bus trip from Seoul and meet our co-teachers. Mine are really cool, two ladies, one is our age (27 in Korean years) and the other is in her late-thirties. We all disembark. No phone. No means of contact. Thankfully Helen and I live not 3 minutes walk from each other in the area of Sangmu and our middle schools (11-13 year-olds in English years) are just down the road from one another.
Day One of School: Unbelievable. I got told the students were excited about my arrival. But nothing like this. I’m David Beckham. No bullshit. I can’t walk down the corridor without being swarmed. It’s cool to have all this attention. I hope the students will ride this positivity all year.
To be continued……
Andy (the man from Alabama) and me in The Wa Bar, Seoul
Behold!! The Almighty Singing Tree!
Helen and I in the woods
Me with Sonny (one of the Epik Coordinators). She and the others were so fun and awesome to be around. Thanks for everything!!
Helen and I in the woods
Me with Sonny (one of the Epik Coordinators). She and the others were so fun and awesome to be around. Thanks for everything!!
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