Subisu, Round 2

New Year's in Beijing!

2010-08-30T15:14:00.000-07:00

Sorry! Sorry!

I'm back like a bad dream! And for your viewing delight, I have some pictures and commentary from my trip to Beijing (Which took place in February)! I"m a busy woman. And I've been busy spending my hard-earned cash on lots of stuff, like a NEW NETBOOK, enabling me to bring my blog back to you!

Hoos yo mama?

So yes, earlier this year, I was fortunate enough to be able to spend a couple of frigid days in Beijing, China.

Colossus of capitalism.

Store mannaquins celebrate the year of the tiger.

Upon arrival, my tour group was taken to a place of great cultural significance to the Middle Kingdom: Yashow Clothing market. The firetrap was filled to the brim with floor after floor of what, can only be described in eloquent terms as "Prada", "Louis Vuitton", "Gucci", etc.

But the entertainment lies in the sales ladies, who promote their wares as solid gold. At solid gold prices. They flatter. They entice, They recriminate, they scowl. They can hold their own against the best Hollywood actresses. And yeah... I did haggle something from one of them.

Outside there were a couple of guys selling DVD's of AVATAR. How generous of Fox to have the movie available in theaters and for home viewing at the same time!

Santa's got bling! Even in February!

Mmmm boy!

That night, we feasted on "hot pot" or "shabu shabu", which is assorted meats and veggies available for you to boil at your table.

The next morning, we went to a jade factory.

Just in case the phoenix gets ideas.

Our friendly driver.

But the reason we got up that morning was to see that national icon The Great Wall.

I think I heard that the locks are put there by couples. If your lock is there, then your relationship will be as enduring as the great wall itself.

I also heard that an unfortunate French backpacker lost her life while using her cellphone here.

Now, I am a man. And I've got the beard to prove it!

People from all over the world were at the great wall. My personal favorites were a group of very elegant looking boys oozing Frenchness from every pore. But I didn't take a picture.

It doubles as turpenoid.

Wow, communism makes you progressively happier!

After lunch, we were taken to the Summer Palace.

And later to a pearl market. I would've bought some pearls if I'd had the cash.

All this wealth from oyster spit!

That night, people celebrated. I heard the popping of so many fireworks from my hotel room.

NEW YEAR'S DAY

Temple of Heaven

The Forbidden City!! Well, this is the place where I somehow lost my tour group, and after browsing what the place had to offer, I went on my own separate adventure of sex, lies, and international intrigue.

Mao money.

Later, armed, fortunately with cab fare and a paper with the hotel's address printed in Chinese, I made it back to my room. The tour guide gave me a call, and I and some of my fellow travelers met up with the rest of our tour group for dinner. My cab driver was cute. Damn you, Tower of Babel!

All in all, I must say that, while I recognize the blessing it was for me to be able to travel to China, I was disappointed at not being able to see much in terms of unique new year's day celebration. Where's the huge fireworks display? Where's the dragon dance? Where's the music and people acting the fool? We saw very little festivities in Beijing. In fact, much of the city seemed deserted. I felt like I was on the set of I am Legend.

That was a video I took of our short time at the great wall. The only video of mine that wants to upload on either Blogger or YouTube. I've had enough, and have wasted enough hours trying to get my videos to upload. I might try again some other day.

It felt good to be back in the "free world" after my trip to Beijing, despite the fact returning to a to an empty, lonely apartment doesn't feel like much cause for celebration. I highly recommend saving your dollars for such a journey, but only if you can travel with a good companion!

SUBISU

Humbug!

2009-12-25T03:36:00.000-08:00

Well, Christmas is rushing towards its end here, while those of you who live in the western hemisphere have yet to really begin your day.

Unable to find a slick way to insert this into the conversation, I will begin with what is perhaps one of the most annoying yet catchy ads Korea has yet produced:

You know you're in Korea when you see ads like this, but loan and insurance companies are evil everywhere!

For me, it hasn't really felt like Christmas, and today is just another day--pleasantly, a weekday off.
Since we last "spoke" the Talk scholars have gone to Busan. It was basically the same Busan trip as last year, but we ran late, so we were rushed from place to place. Still, I got better pictures this year:

Apparently, the guy in the statue is this guy's grandfather, who won some naval victory against the Japanese back in the day.

The traditional Korean food was OK, but my legs cannot fold. I limped away early.

The robot that was so spry last year has been sheleved and forgotten. That's exactly what they do to you in this world.

SUBISU

Autumn in Andong!!

2009-10-30T12:03:00.000-07:00

I t's been one hellava week (month, year), and it's only by the grace of God you and I have lived to see this Friday night. And finally, I have some photos that might be of interest to you--In high-def!

As much as my ego would love you to come here to read my brilliant thoughts and ideas about an endless variety of subjects, “Subisu” is a picture-based blog; an electronic scrapbook; a small glimpse of Korea through my eyes. It's inappropriate to stray too far too long off-topic.

But if there's nothing good on TV, your friends are out of town, the kids are sleeping over at Grandma's, the wife's not “in the mood”, you've checked your e-mail twice, and you've said your prayers, you can bookmark www.insideadrienne.blogspot.com and stay tuned to a woman who bears the burden of always being right!

So, the N1H1 virus keeps rolling on. Here in Ulsan, the Onggi (pottery) Festival, and the World Music Festival have both been canceled. Many events have been canceled nationwide because (I've heard) the government feels an event for more than 1,000 people (especially international visitors) poses too much of a health risk.

A couple weeks ago, my school was closed early for one day so it could be disinfected after one of the 6th grade students was a confirmed case, and I'm told, some other students have recently tested positive as well.

The head teacher of my school advised me today to be careful to stay healthy, and to call her and go to the hospital immediately if I have a fever.

Today made me think that perhaps I have taken too much of a laissez-faire attitude about N1H1, though, I did buy a couple bottles of the hand sanitizer thats' been doing brisk business around here. Also, the hypochondriac in me blitzkriegs even the suspicion of illness with meds, water, and vitamins. I can't afford to get sick. I'm a foreigner who lives all alone with no Mother to nurse me, and it's an inconvenient pain in the a$$ to get an appointment with an English-speaking doctor in the best of times. We're not in Seoul anymore, folks.

My semi-quarantine of social anxiety is pulling its weight at last.

So...last weekend, I finally went on another TaLK program culture tour. This time to experience the scenic autumn beauty of Andong. Wanna see?

No great journey can begin properly without meat--and you've got good odds when you begin your journey with some high-grade Korean beef.

"Eat me!"

Next, we were taken to a hanji (traditional Korean paper) factory. The secrets of how to make it may be lost soon, as the people who know are an aging, shrinking community.

The paper on the left is a letter that was found in an ancient tomb. It's a sad letter a young wife wrote to her husband after his untimely death; leaving her with a young child and pregnant with another! Our guide told us that in part of the letter she says "You told me we were going to live together until our hair turned gray. Why did you leave me first?"

The paper on the right is a chart for learning Chinese characters.

Apparently, Queen Elizabeth II visited this factory and this part of the country last year. In the photo below she politely accepts local hospitality. She doesn't look too thrilled, although; lets face it, she was never known for her warmth.

Next, we went to a traditional village theatre, where there was an outdoor play. The place was packed, so I gave up trying to watch, and waited outside.

More kimchi than you know what to do with!

"Bringing in the sheaves, bringing in the sheaves"

Later, after settling into Hotel Punggi, some of us took in some local color (some old guy making derrogetory comments about foreigners), and went to the norae yeonseubjang (Karaoke parlor). I got a perfect score for "Gettin' Jiggy with it."

I got a kick out of the nightshift guy's lego Jack Sparrow sweatshirt, so I took a picture. He was as bashful as any young maiden I've ever met!

Next day we went to the grounds of an old college, and nearby museum.

Here there was a row of statues, each representing the different years in the Chinese zodiac. I'm with my doggie. Why couldn't I have been born in a cooler year like "tiger" or "dragon?" But I suppose "year of the dog" is preferable to "year of the rat" or "pig".

Later, we were taken to a park. Our tour guide explained the history of the park, and it's treasures, but I've mostly forgotten.

persimmon!

For some reason, these apple here remind me of the apple trees in "Farm Town" on Facebook.

Andong apples are famous for their sweetness and juiciness. We were allowed to pick some from an orchard to take home. And I did, but I gave most of them to my coworkers at school.

Lastly, we were taken back to Ulsan, and had dinner at a restaurant called "Tofu Village". It was a good tour. We got to see a lot of the beautiful Korean countryside in autumn, and got to take in some experiences which would be unlikely otherwise. You'll never hear me complain about a tour. Free travel, food, and sometimes lodging is not something to complain about!! The fresh air did me good, I think--for I had not been feeling too well the previous week, but felt a lot better by Monday after this culture tour. Cheers!!

During the tour, I will add, it was painfully obvious how most of the people I knew and loved from last year have since returned to their own countries and their separate lives. Now, I've gotta be nice to a new group of people made up largely of strangers. Times were better when I could subject the old group of people to my abuse and neglect.

“Make new memories.” you say? Why reinvent the wheel??!!!

SUBISU.

Happy Independence Day Korea!!

2009-08-14T23:40:00.000-07:00

And all hail Mashimaro!

August 15th is the official independence day of Korea. On this day in 1945, Japan surrendured to the allied forces, ending 35 years of Japanese colonial rule. If only that were the happy end to the story!!

Seobiseuh

Never Can Say Goodbye

2009-07-26T04:00:00.000-07:00

MICHAEL!!!!!!!!

Good evening folks!! I'm in higher spirits than usual for a Sunday night, as I only have 2 days of class this week and some vacation time to look forward to. I'm kind've irked that the kids still have after-school class almost every day during Summer vacation. They need a break, my co-teachers need a break and I most certainly need a break. I don't think this time is particularly productive for anyone. Didn't you get the memo?! I've extended my contract! SUBISU round 3 is coming soon!

Yours truly after a long day at work.

O f course the bulk of my vacation time is not part of the schedule, but rather the result of going back to the good old US of A and then being more or less quarantined from work for a week out of concern about Swine Flu.

'sall good though. Rather satisfied it turned out this way. My school may beg to differ, but this is a good time to recharge and a good opportunity.

Actually, I have plans...like making my classroom look great, among other things. We're making all kinds of materials and decor for class---as most of the pre-made stuff I see to buy is too boring, ugly, not my style, or not exactly what I need. I want my room to be a wonderland of English goodness!! I hope whoever comes after me will appreciate the advantages they are benefitting from by the sweat of my brow!!!!

It's kind of sad that most of the fellow TaLKers that I've known are going home or have gone home already. We were the first generation, MAN!! We WERE THERE, MAN! We've got war-stories! Some people seem to be having trouble adjusting to civilian life, and I know *exactly* where they're coming from, having been through "Korea 1.0" back in '04. You can get through this! Don't be too proud to ask for help and support!! Don't be ashamed to cry like a little girl if you need too! FIGHTING!!!

Grant is delicious and nutritious!!

So, as everyone knows, the King of Pop is no longer with us, and his death has apparently affected me more than I thought; a bizarre dream I had a few weeks back seems to confirm that point. No kimchi and watermelon before bed!!

My kids love this video!

B ut his story is rather sad...another celebrity headed seemingly by inevitable destiny to self-destruction. And of course, "artists" often live and die tragically, young, and unhappy. Sometimes I think I may go that same route one day---haha, if I would ever be considered an artist!

S peaking on the appealing subject of death, former South Korean president Roh Moo Hyun's apparent sucicide (the one that was my parting gift leaving Japan) is also extremely sad and somewhat disturbing, and raises some interesting issues.

Apparently, the cause of the suicide were allegations of bribes, tax evasion, and insider trading--seemingly all supposedly attributed more to Roh's wife than himself. Roh denied knowledge of any bribes. Anyway, current president Lee Myung Bak was one of the figures most involved in the criminal investigation against Roh.

After Roh's death (he apparently jumped from a mountain), there was a great outpouring of grief and sentiment by Koreans for their ex-president, and more than a little vitriol and hatred outpoured on the current president, whom some believe is responsible for Roh's death.

T o put this in somewhat political perspective, Roh Moo-Hyun is remembered for being a more liberal leader, championing more of the concerns of the poor and having a very reconcilliatory attitude towards North Korea. Ironically he also was supposedly very anti-corruption.

Lee Mung-Bak is more a conservative leader, and certainly South Korea's relationship with the North has cooled since he's been in office. Interestingly, TaLK is LMB's program, its goal being to improve English education for kids in rual areas who's parents can't afford to send their kids to all these fancy hakwons (private institutes).

During the funeral, some shouted "murderer!" and "apologize for what you've done!" when LMB came to pay his respects.

By the way, the funeral was ENORMOUS.

The theologian in me twinges at the idea of holding an expensive, hero's funeral for someone who has committed suicide, though of course, a funeral is for the mourners, not the mournee.

And also as an outsider viewing how the Korean internet culture chews its public figures up and spits them out rather disturbs me. The high incidence of Korean celebrities and public figures commiting suicide really needs to be addressed and brought under control.

Sometimes I think that Korea is too insular. It is somewhat isolated geographically, by language, by history, and by a population that has had to absorb too much radical change in too short a time. Actually, it reminds me a lot of high school...

Anyway, it's all sad. That, AND high school. Sometimes I ask myself "Why am I here?"

And don't give me the smartass answer about "when a man and a woman love each other very much..."!!

My kids need help, and I need help, like, in every way. I am... I have always had a difficult time just trying to get into a rhythm of life to live in a functional way.

T here are many dreams and ideas I have for the future. I don't know, most of the time I feel too tired and discouraged, feeling and believing that I will never even begin to make them come to pass; you know what I'm saying? You feelin' me?

S uccessful people don't think about crap like that, they just *do* things, or at least try many things. I have always been intensely jealous of individuals who seem to be able to live outside their heads and experience life in a more natural and spontaneous manner. Are those people real, or is it all a front? I am a pretty good actress. Are you saying if I decided to put up a "front" of the person I want to be, rather than what I am, I would succeed in fooling everyone, even perhaps myself?!!! Dammit, I'll do it!!!

SUBISU

Atarashii!!

2009-06-10T17:24:00.001-07:00

Hi folks! Bet you thought you'd never hear from me again! It's been mean of me to deprive you of a taste of what I esperienced in Japan. After all, I did all this flag-waving about how exited I was to get to visit Japan, and then...silence after the dirty deed was done. That's like not calling the next day after a hot date. What can I say in my defense? Well, lots of things, actually, but it would all be tedious to listen to. Instead, why don't we just get right to some of the particulars of what went down in Japan mm?

First of all, being a nerd, I had in mind a somewhat educational goal for this trip. The artist in me wanted to be inspired. The animation nerd in me wanted to be smack dab in the center of a country with a long and rich animation and comics history. Who can satisfy these beasts?

Yeah, I had no choice in the end but to chop off all my hair... And no, I don't want to talk about it.

See you later, big rotary sculpture!!

So on May 17th, I was there at the rotary, catching the last bus that could possibly get me on time to Gimhae airport in Busan to take me to Tokyo. The old apartment was clean enough so as to save me embarassment in the event of my death. Got to the airport just fine, and somehow managed to get my flight to Tokyo.

After arriving at Narita airport, I marvelled at the state-of-the-art bathroom technology in Japan, which I still don't fully understand. Then I took the airport limousine (actually just a big tour bus) to my hotel, the Shinagawa Prince. Which is actually a nice hotel in a convenient location (very close to Shinagawa Station). My room was tiny, but I didn't come all the way over to freakin' Japan to care much about the room. I was out to see everything! Or so I thought in my nievite at the time.

Day 1: Mt. Fuji

Day 1 had me on a tour with some other folks to one of the iconic symbols of Japan, Mount Fuji. The tour bus took us to Hakone, where the distinctive snow-capped mountain stands quite majestically. I ended up talking with this lady from Denmark who was telling me about her life and her family. She had an interesting past. The tour does give you your money's worth, as you're shuttled about different areas of interest in view of the mountain. First, they took us about 1/3 of the way up, where there was a pretty decent view of the scenery below. Then, we were taken on some gondalas close to the area, and took a short ferry cruise. We also had lunch--interestingly Western food, though I heard that the reason for that is foreigners complained a lot about traditional Japanese food! Anyway, it was all kinds of cool to see the mountain up close, and experience its mighty presence. I must say that as an American, it's harder to grasp the concept of a national identity existing for a thousand years. It seems sometimes you can feel the weight of history when one visits significant historical sites such as this; where all the civilization around it is just old as hell!

view from the mountain

gondola view

The European-style ships seemed out of place to me, but I guess the Japanese think they're cool.

I love these koala cookies!! Why don't they have them in Korea? They're manufactured by the Lotte company!!

Temple gate

It was great to see one of the things I said I *must* see if I was going to Japan (the other "must-see" being the Studio Ghibli Museum). Goodbye Mount Fuji! I love you!!

Day 2: Akihabara and the National Museum

Okay, so I missed my tour bus that day, I felt sore about it, though I never actually *asked* anyone to book me a tour. I was dead tired the night before, and it took Christ to rouse me the next day; certainly not that flimsy automated wake-up call. You can listen to me pontificate about that, and other subjects right here:

This little bird hopped onto my table and demanded a handout. The wild beasts get more audacious every year!

Shinagawa station, waiting for the train to Akihabara.

Am I seeing things, or does Beyonce get a couple shades lighter every year?

I like the Space Invaders icon on the game building. Remember Space Invaders? That game was *tiiight*!

Day 2 found me in the Tokyo district of Akihabara, the anime and manga heart of darkness. And I must say, all in all, I was rather underwhelmed. First I thought it proper to visit the Anime Center, which was almost useless, except for perhaps some brochures about animation-related places in Japan in English I picked up. Anyway, you can share in part of the adventure right here:

For all of its' surface glitz, Akihabara seemed little but a cultural wasteland for fetishists of the worst kind, perverts, and borderline hikkomori. After visiting a store that held floor after floor of manga, anime, and related merchendise, the thought occured to me along the lines of "this place would make a glorious fire!"

When one starts fantasizing about arson, it's about time to go. I *had* been on a mission to find some classics like these:

Hakujaden (1958)-- Legend of the White Snake--a film said to have inspired a young Hayao Miyazaki. The film (a story of a Chinese legend) supposedly was made in part as a postwar gesture of peace and reconciliation o the rest of Asia.

Ribon-No Kishi (1967) known in the U.S. as Princess Knight) By the way that cover art is horrible. Am I right in thinking Princess Knight was the first Shojo manga? Written by Osamu Tezuka, and later made into an anime series, P.K. is a fairy tale of a princess who lives her life disguised as a boy.

Little Prince and the Eight Headed Dragon (1963)---Don't know the story, never seen the film, but said to have inspired others, including Genndy Tartakofsky who used this film as a main inspiration for Samurai Jack.

Belle and Sebastian (1981).--Saw this as a young kid, and absolutely *must* see it again, this, and Mysterious Cities of Gold.

Song of the South (1946), is, of course, not an anime, but Disney released it in other countries, but not in the U.S, because it didn't want to deal with controversy. Actually, I've seen S.O.S, and it's not any more racist than the other films made in that era, and less so than most. It's just people will get their panties in a bunch about it because, of course, "cartoons are for kids".

But, not finding any of these films, I left empty-handed. And was reminded in Akihabara why I can't stand 99% of anime, and even less of anime culture.

Tokyo wants the Olympics in 2016!!

***

Next stop, the National Museum!! But first, a musical intermission. "Let's go out to the lobby, let's go out to the lobby, let's go out to the lobby, and have ourselves some snacks!"

Finding the national museum was hard for some reason. By this juncture, I was exhausted, and tired of walking around. But at a point I resolved not to turn around as I had to be close. Eventually I found it, and plopped down in a seat for a long while, contemplating life, and such.

Peace and tranquility!

Look at the detail on this samurai armor. Gorgeous!

I like this warrior's pose. He's badass and he knows it.

I don't know about you, but whenever I go to a museum, I'm always very much reminded of the generations upon generations-billions of people who have been born, lived their lives, and died before anyone alive today was born. Like when they have exhibits of everyday items, I think "All those things *belonged* to someone. Those were her things." Someone with talent made this thing. , and now he's long gone. It's a little depressing, but it makes me all the more convinced there must be a point to all this. That we as humanity have a greater destiny and all that. I wax very philosophical when I'm hungry.

Anyway, after that, I dragged myself back to my hotel eventually. See you tomorrow, I'm beginning to see a disturbing trend, here.

Day 3-4: The Shinkansen to Kyoto

I checked out of my hotel on Day 3, and put my stuff in a big locker at the Shinagawa station. I went walking around for a while, and then came back for my stuff to take on the train. Shinagawa is a huge station, and it's a good one to be close to because it's a major hub for the city subway, the JR trains, and the Shinkansen:

So, I took one of those babies, and rode in style to Kyoto Station. It was night by then, and had a taxi driver take me to "Hotel Unizo" or so I thought. In reality, my poor Japanese got me taken to "Hotel Umizu" or something like that. The people at the hotel were kind though, and called me another taxi. Eventually, I got to my room, where once again, I hit the pillow and was soon dead to the world.

***

The next day, I went out a-hunting for the International Manga Museum. Yeah. I'm sure you are all simply riveted by now. Boredom is the price you pay for following a nerd, and not a normal individual with basic social aptitude.

I don't get it. What's with the chicken wire and astroturf?

At the time, the museum was having a wonderful exhibit on the comics of Jean Giraud, AKA "Moebius". Unfortunately, we weren't allowed to take pictures in the exhibit, and I nearly got mauled taking a small picture of one of his prints in the foyer (the pic didn't turn out so well, anyway).

Don't know Moebius? Well, you may not have seen his comics, but if you're into sci-fi you've certainly seen some films whos production design was influenced by him--either directly or indirectly. Ever seen The 5th Element? Blade Runner? Tron? The Empire Strikes Back? Willow? The Abyss? All had production design that were designed by Moebius himself or heavily borrowed from him.

The exhibit was small, but it was cool. Giraud's drawings are so beautiful, and it's great seeing original drawings, as the reproductions do not do justice. There was some info in the center of the room about some other European comics, and some of Moebius' work in their original language. I got a kick out of reading some of the comics. Compared to my past couple years of trying to decipher Korean and Japanese, it was refreshing reading something I could actually mostly understand.

Giraud and Hayao Miyazaki are also good friends, and you can see the Moebius influence in Miyazaki's "Nausicaa" manga. Giraud even named is daughter Nausicaa. Total barf!

Man, there are so many European comics I want to check out! Guess I gotta study French too.

Course I think the French and the Japanese have been having a lovefest for quite some time. Both cultures are unusually obcsessed (and are good at ) making beautiful art and architecture, cuisine, fashion, design, film, and comics.

Here are some pictures I took in the archive. Actually, I find this sort of early work more interesting than 99.99% of the stuff I see produced today.

action drawings by Hokusai. I really wish the photo had turned out better.

Stalin and Lenin go head to head!

Some early shojo. Why is it that they never made any comics or cartoons for girls in the U.S? --especially a girl above the age of 7. Even as cheesy as superhero comics and G.I. Joe could be, they sure as heck weren't as lame as Rainbow Brite, or My Little Pony!!

I don't want to meet that guy's eyebrows in a dark alley.

Ha! I love the Frankenstien FDR on the right.

Here I am, taking a government-approved picture inside a display based on the comic art of Sugiura Shigeru, whom I knew nothing about till the day I went to the manga museum. I doubt any of his works have been translated into English.

I do find it amusing that he actually produced a comic with the title "Mr. Roboto." (Mistaa Robotto). And all this time, I thought that was just a stupid song.

Afterward, I believe I took the train to Takarazuka, so I could possibly get over to the Osamu Tezuka museum. Osamu Tezuka is the one who started it all in Japan. The one to which all subsequent manga and anime pay homage to. The one who expanded the idea of what a comic could be and what a cartoon could be, and...

YOU'VE GOT TO BE KIDDING. IT's CLOSED?!

Yes. At first, I thought it was closed because I had simply arrived after closing time. So I wasted time and came back the next day--to which I finally absorbed the sign that said it would be closed until the 24th!! Needless to say, I was pi***ed, and with no one to perform karate moves on to pour salt on an open wound.

I mean, I could have used the time to take the Shinkansen down to Hiroshima, which was my original plan. Being the weird person I am, I wanted to stand on ground zero. But now, that hope was smashed like a crawly disgusting bug! I could neither go to this place, or to Hiroshima. What an insulting gyp!! There was no warning it would be closed on the website.

On a side note, right across from the Tezuka museum is a huge theatre. Takarazuka is famous for its all-female revues--and tons and tons of rich housewives (likely spending their husband's fortune, while said husbands toil away downtown) were pouring into the theatre to be entertained androdgenously!! If I had known Kyoto was going to be such a disappointment for me, maybe I would have gone to one of the shows.

So...yeah. No Osamu Tezuka, no Hiroshima, not even any geisha. Seems like I've spent most of my time in Kyoto walking around lost, or in transit, with not much to show for it.

THE USUAL SCENERY

I took a liking to this bohemian looking couple.

Not even the genius surgeon Blackjack can cure what ails this vacation.

Farewell Kyoto, we barely knew ye.

Day 5: Back to Tokyo

Day 5 I tried to console myself by finding yukata for myself and Dad, but not really seeing anything that was both inexpensive enough and attractive. Dad wants this big yakuza-style robe with dragons on it. I have failed you Father!! Please forgive me!! I didn't see any mens yukata with dragons!

Day 6: Ghibli Museum and Animation Museum

The next day helped heal the wounds of my let's just say, less than satisfactory time in Kyoto. I got to go to the Ghibli Museum!! Yay!

Totoro is forced to work a mind-numbing 9-to-5 like the rest of us, selling tickets. One minute you're a minor forest diety loved by children the world over, next minute you're reduced to Gary Coleman.

Long line to the real entrance

To those of you outside the realm of animation nerd-dom, you may not understand the mania of those fortunate enough to have discovered the works of Studio Ghibli--and especially those of Japanese animation deity, Miyazaki Hayao. The reason people are standing in this long line in the hot sun: pure love, son. Pure love.

Of course there is no photography allowed in the museum. The philosophy of the place is for it to be experienced, discovered, and enjoyed by its' visitors. Not for them to be stuck behind a camera.

Even if you're not a geek like me, I highly recommend visiting, especially if you have children. It's not like most museums, in chich you are not allowed to touch or explore; it's a place where such things are encouraged!

"What's this?"

Nowadays, people in the general public seem to think of animators as technicians, film as data, and animation as a genre. This musuem does a good job of refuting that misconception, I think.

Only if there's a genre called "AWESOME"!!!!!

It's late folks. Bear with me.

Child washing her hands at the Straw Hat Cafe.

So my time in Mitaka was all right. I wish I could be there for the Aardman exhibit!! Seriously, when I get rich, I'm gonna come here like, quarterly.

That dog isn't real.

Mitaka neighborhood

I think of the Suginami Animation Museum as somewhat of a work-in-progress. The museum is niether big (it shares a building with two other businesses), nor all that interesting in its exhibits, but I did get the chance to produce a bit of bad non-animation. Wanna see it?

The Cowboy Bebop anime has the *best* original soundtrack for a TV show EVER. Any jazz connoseiur should have it. CB was a good show, but it recieved *a lot* of help from its music.

Monster known as the old-school animation camera.

Small temple across from the museum

Crappy pic of Yasukuni Shrine at night

Yasukuni doors.

The rest of the day was uneventful. I went to the controversial Yasukuni Shrine, but it was night and my pictures were crummy. The shrine is controversial because it honors WWII dead who are considered to be war criminals in the rest of Asia. Everytime the Japanese prime minister pays his respects here, Japan's neighbors get upset. Perhaps it's not just this place that's the issue, but also the fact that Japan has never issued an official apology for it's role in WWII nor expressed any moral obligation for reparations.

Afterwards, I tried to find a cafe that hosts foreigners for English conversation called "Leafcup", but I never got to it. But...I did find a Wendy's!! But no fast-food pilgrammage would be complete without McDonald's and:

Fi rei o fi-sho!!

Yes. The entire year has culminated in this one moment when I sunk my teeth into a delicious fish-filet sandwich. Who knows how many more of these we'll have, as the oceans will soon be devoid of fish to filet.

Day 6: Sayonara

So, that was the day I had to leave, and go back to my regular life in Ulsan. But how can I? What if I just say I have swine flu?! I snagged a couple of knick-knacks from the gift shop, and then took the Narita Express back to catch my plane.

Now, I had all the while on vacation avoided watching the news on TV or checking it out on the internet, or buying a newspaper. I wanted to hear nothing depressing from the outside to mar my Japan experience; but on the way out, I decided to buy a Japanese newspaper to see what they're talking about. Ah, I should've known it would be a mistake:

"South Korea Shocked over Roh Suicide"

What the hell?!

Anyway, that is the subject for another entry (I do have something to say about the affair), but Japan--JAPAN! Like the little mermaid, "I want moooooooore!" As these photos may suggest to you, I traversed Japan as I do much anywhere else- as an outsider looking extremely outside, going from one spot to another as if the whole world was a museum!!!! I don't want to live like that anymore! I want messy interaction.--preferably with a good-looking guy between the ages of 25 and 37. How 'bout it? Hahahaaa!

here's a sampling of the swag:

Stitch pen I got at Mt. Fuji. They love Stitch in Japan. I like that he's biting it.

Lovely traditional fan. Now all I need is the outfit to go with it.

Nerd books I'll eventually read.

But I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to do the traveling that I have in Korea and Japan. I am extremely blessed and fortunate. What for, I wonder? True, the trip to Japan was not without its dissapointments, but I've got until The Big One hits to see it again. And next time, I will be at Ground Zero of Coolness!!!!

SUBISU

Jeju Self-governing Province

2009-03-07T11:15:00.000-08:00

So here is a pictoral recap of our TaLK cultural tour to Jeju island. Yes, Jeju. The Hawaii of Korea. A favorite destination of Korean honeymooners. It's not quite so romantic in February, but what can I say? It was a free trip with free food, transportation, and lodging at a nice hotel. Yeah. It was torture.

Jeju has a distinct culture from the rest of Korea. There's a Jeju dialect and lifestyle. I heard in ages past, criminals were sent to Jeju. I can imagine life here used to be quite harsh. Nowadays, it seems the main industry is tourism.

Strangely, one of our first destinations was this sex museum called "Loveland". Haha. Korea likes to pretend they're so conservative, but really they're just as sex-crazed as the rest of us, eh?

hahahaha!

Another, er, more culturally relevant place we visited was a traditional Jeju village with it's destinctive thatched roof houses.

Marie taking a break from her asian male fetish.

Collecting water

Traditional Jeju dinner.

Yakcheonsa Temple. Scott is amused about something.

Jeju orange grove

what a cute baby pinapple!

The promise of spring!

well darn it, I love being had.

Yeomiji botanical garden

Why you cryin'?

Music producer JYP in portrait form.

Glass Museum

Whew! The end! I can go to bed. Unfortunately, it's morning now.

SUBISU

Are Women Necessary?

2009-03-07T06:03:00.000-08:00

Darn you! Seducing us with your pizzas!

Buahahaa! I have your attention now, don't I? In the words of a famed "Onion" columnist, "It's been a while since I last rapped at ya." Whatchu want, a brownie?! I make no apologies!!

Months of bitching have bourne fruit: Last week, I finally recieved my own classroom. Now my students have a new location in which to be unruly, disrespectful, and rude.

Yes thespians, despite what you may believe, I cannot rule a classroom based on sheer force of personailty and skill. Classes can be chaotic and devolve into glorified babysitting. Here are some the usual suspects:

Class Clown-- Class clown is usually a boy too silly to be in class. Needs to be at home drinking milk.

Miss Needy--Cries daily. She needs constant coddling and attention. Another calcium-deficient infant.

Mr./Miss Cool--Better than the other kids at English. Think they're the hottest things since Rain's chicken breast -sculpted abs.

Pet Peeve--repeats everything you say in a mocking manner. Smiles cause he knows you can't strangle the hell'outa'm.

So, those are some of the bottomless pits you can pour your efforts into, if you so choose. Still ,there are those who are enthusiastic and want to learn. If only we could just teach them!

If you would be so gracious as to call anything I do "teaching." I do try, and it's encouraging to see one's work appreciated. Of course, the opposite is discouraging.

As I may have mentioned before, I'm fascinated by the ideas of masculitnity and femininty, and how they are represented in culture. One sees a lot more overt femininity here in Korea. Girls here act "cuter". They make more of an effort to look cute. But I've been wondering for a while; ARE WOMEN NECESSARY?

What I mean by that is, are what society generally agrees upon as being "feminine" traits of behavior or style essential for survival? What value does being feminine have other than guys think it's cute?

Cause I've been hard-pressed to think of anything that would be considered exclusively "feminine" that has any practical value other than people thinking it's desirable for some reason, but it's benifits aren't particularly quantifiable.

For instance, hunting, being able to win a fight, and getting a promotion to a high-powered job ( considered tradtionally masculine achievements) are all quantifiable. You can eat, you can survive, you can get rich. People who don't even know you will admire you for accomplishing those things. They're glorious.

Scrubbing the toilets to a glossy sheen is nice, but nobody will congratulate you for it.

Not that I believe that just because something isn't immediately quantifiable, it has little value. Quite the opposite. For instance, art and music. They improve quality of life exponentially. But they have little to do with you eating, having shelter, food, or clothing.--which is precicely why schools cut art and music programs when they're looking for ways to save money. Lord forbid they cut sports... games sell tickets, and victories against rival schools are glorious. Star players become heroes. And most men want to be heroes.

I've been thinking for a while what a pain it is to be a woman. As a woman, you have to constantly be worried, subconsiously or not, about your own safety. Yes. there's always that spectere of rape or physical violence in general in the background. Also, you gotta put up with crap your body does every month. And of course there are the "joys" of pregnancy and childbirth.

Sheesh. Am I sounding like some non-armpit-shaving, shrieking feminist that resents her own gender? Or maybe a lesbian? I don't mean to. I've just been wondering (as I'm surrounded by a culture that seems to value femininity more) perhaps because I'm on the outside. I feel distinctly un-dainty, dumpy, and unfeminine at the moment, I must admit.

What do y'all think? Are women neccessary?

Even peeing is inconvenient!! Gah!

SUBISU

It Lives!!

2009-01-31T06:13:00.000-08:00

Well, what I saw of this show had too much hop and not nearly enough hip.

Hi babes! I'm back after a long hiatus. How are you? Did you miss me? Have you finally come to your senses and decided to ask for my hand in marriage?!! I accept!

Well, some things have happened since you were last graced with my presence. I finished teaching (if that's what you'd like to call it) my "Winter Camp", took a rather awful trip to Seoul for mandatory, additional training, experienced lunar new year with my co-teacher and her in-laws, wasted my vacation vainly under mounds of homework, and am looking forward to what, I'm sure, is a stimulating, heartwarming, and action packed Monday back at school.

Sarcasm doesn't quite translate in print.

But I am, (this Saturday night, under a mound of seemingly endless, awful Algebraic homework) mourning the all-too-quick passage of my vacation. And what exactly have we accomplished?

Well, we have cleaned up the apartment, and bought some new work clothes, which I'm not finished with yet--cuz everyone here is so tiny. Fitting "The Ass" (TM) into this little pencil skirt just didn't work.

I *am* looking forward to seeing the kiddies, in that I have this cool craft project I want to do with them, and employing the old "board of education". I have some aggression to work through. English, shminglish. I wonder if they remember any of the things I've attempted to teach them. I myself am trying to forget!

N ext big personal events on the horizon are signing up for the Korean Language Proficiency Test, The unfortunate birthday of yours truly, and a visit to Japan, baby! There's nothing like having something to look forward to. I need help preparing for this test though; have mercy!

Hopefully this semester, I will have less students in class---students who really *want* to be there, hopefully, and not just because Mom says so. I'm trying to not stress out about it, but it can't be helped.

But boys and girls, what I *really* want is to be an organized, fun, un self-absorbed, (buahahaa), interesting individual that gets things, a lot of things done. Ah, the power to *do* is priceless. That, my friends, is a taller order than even you may realize. I have yet to accomplish this in all my 26+ years, and it ain't for lack of trying.

Anyway, I have to continue on with my busywork for a while longer before I get too sleepy. I will update again soon. I've got a lot to talk about. Who else is here to speak to?

SEOBISEUH

Christmas @ Chez Adrienne!

2008-12-25T04:24:00.000-08:00

Have a cookie.

Merry Christmas to one and all! Welcome to this virtual tour of my Korean home.

This is where the magic for this blog all happens. Yes, the atmosphere is thick with genius.

Workstation to try and hide the ugly.

Tools of the devil!

Front door, gas range, and ever-present tea kettle.

Cards for mee!!

Praise the Lord, Mickey D's delivers!

My futon, rolled up for the day, and wall of pretty boys. They're for an art project, honest!

"Wall of Pretty Boys Part Deux"

The seat of power.

Choirs of angels!

Pretty short tour, I know, but hey, it's a small apartment. The west wing is still being built. Still, it's been a good day, if for nothing else than the novelty of not being bothered on a Thursday. But alas, this day is over for me much too soon. Christ was not born in December, and this date has more to do with the pagan celebrations during Winter Solstice than anything else. Still it is a good thing to take time out to remember the birth of Christ and its significance, and the irony of his having been born with little earthly fanfare, in such a dark time, in such a dark place. I hope I'm not too blind to recognize the hand of God in my life.

On that deep note, I must bid you adieu. I've got class tomorrow.

visual confirmation!!

Love,

SEOBISEUH

Why Jeon-he Can't Read (English)

2008-12-20T09:58:00.000-08:00

No matter where I go, they always find mee!!

Define "meaning."

Hi babes! It has been a long time. How are you? Have you been well? How's the missus? My fingernails are digging into the remainder of my precious weekend. Thursday is Christmas, but like Ebeneezer Scrooge's unfortunate employee Bob Cratchit, it appears I only have Christmas day off, and must return to work "all the earlier the next morning."

S0, little Jeon-he can't read because he can't sound out his letters. As such, I'm going to try to teach "him" phonics. We'll see how that goes. But actually I don't think Jeon-he wants to learn English, and Jeon-he is too young to know what he wants, and Jeon-he has too many classmates too. Can't do anything about it. But my first Tuesday and Thursday classes can really be abysmal though, and all we've been seemingly been able to do thus is muddle through in a vaguely academic manner. What I want for Christmas is for half those kids to drop out. They may as well be playing outside or something.

For some reason, My heart has softened towards children since I was last in Korea; for I love even my obnoxious kiddies, and have become too lazy to be angry with them, apparently.

So, things are just going along, and I am in comparatively good spirits this holiday season, even if in all likelyhood I shall be spending it alone--which actually doesn't bother me. Perhaps I'm coming one step further in my apparent goal to become a hobo/old maid/crazy person who constantly talks to herself (all of the above), but I find Iusually prefer the peace of solitude, and become all weird and unappealing when I'm around others anyway.

Sure, you love me *now*, but I am so much better in print than in person. Plus you can pay attention to this blog, or press your other tab and watch the Victoria's Secret holiday fashion show on youtube, or perhaps something more hardcore...

Whatever you like.

As much as I'd like to regail you with adventures in Busan last week, the trip itself was kind of a snore:

hid-ee-yuss.

I mean yea, a bunch of world leaders come here...and solve nothing; but look cool while doing so. And there's a robot that takes photos and sends e-mails! Which apparently, I gave him the incorrect e-mail, because his photo of me is not in my inbox. Sorry Scott.

Here's a memorial dedicated to Korean War medics,

And we get prehistoric.

The discription of the trip said that we would be going to a "traditional market", so I was interested in that--but it turned out to just be a regular market, although one could definately argue that knockoff Louis Vitton handbags and bootleg DVD's are traditional.

One upside of that portion of the trip is that I got the last Christmas present I needed to send home, and got a code-free DVD player (two actually!). If anyone wants to buy a new, code-free DVD player, I've got the lowest prices this side of the DMZ.

Anyway, This entry must end abrputly. It's mad late, and some of us can't afford to lose their beauty sleep. See you Christmas!

SEOBISEUH

Happy Birthday, Daddy!!

2008-11-27T06:08:00.000-08:00

This blog post is just for my Pa "Char-seuh", who turns the tender age of...40 tomorrow.

서비스!

Harvest Time!

2008-11-02T03:48:00.000-08:00

Mmm...ricey!

Hi folks! I thought it would be churlish of me to continue to deprive you of another post, considering so much has happened. Hopefully, I shall write another entry or two within the week! These photos here are from last-last week's TaLK field trip to the wholesome countryside, full of rice, pumpkins, sweet potatoes, and pears. It's more wholesome country living than you know what to do with.

Isn't that cute...she thinks she can paint.

What's your beef? American? Get over it.

I've got the worst toothache.

I 'mo eatcha.

Pounding rice cakes, or whatever the kids are calling it nowadays.

Holding pen for incurably criminal children

Danielle, Mao, and Jacqui. Classic love triangle.

Free slave labor.

Pear tree branches that grow straight up

Clandestine pear I took home. Stolen goods always taste better.

Chicken AND beer? This is paradise.

After such a simple healthy experience, it was time to indulge in some good old fashioned materialistic hedonism at the center of the universe; Lotte Mart! Arms laden with even more useless goods, I headed home on the bus. Riding city buses in Korea is always an experience, as the drivers handle the buses like they're Ferraris.

Shakey!

Until next time,

SUBISU

Busan Comic World Festival 51!

2008-10-24T04:20:00.000-07:00

Just put it in my veins!!

Last Sunday, I had the good fortune to be invited by my former roommate Amanda to the Busan Comic World convention. Also on board too early for a Sunday was her man Glenn of course, and Scott, who knows everything about everything, except the Korean language.

We took a bus and then the subway to BEXCO convention hall.

Entering the inner convention hall, there were about three things to see. Largely, there were booths set up of people selling their various anime, anime-style swag and doujinshi. There were posters, cards, t-shirts ("daeth note?!"), mugs, key chains, and all sorts of other goodies. Events like these seem to be a rare outlet for those artists who like to portray the um...more "rainbowish" lifestyle in conservative Korea.

There was an especially long line of people in front of a booth selling stuff related to the manga Reborn! , so I got into it and bought a few things, including a manhwa I can never show my children.

Also present was some of the the Deleter company's comic book making supplies: comic paper, pens, Copic markers, manga software, etc. I found myself far more exited about this (and bought some paper and pens). Maybe this stuff was being resold illegally, as I was discouraged from taking photos!

crappy clandestine photo!!

And to round it all off, there was a large screen set up in the back apparently showing nothing but the opening credits sequences to different popular anime. I really hope they showed something more interesting later, but I didn't stick around to see.

Of course there were the various cosplayers, few of which we could identify. Some were advertising "free hugs".

Rose of Versailles, right?

Glenn gets some awkward first-time Fruits Basket love.

And just when you thought it was impossible to look like more of a dork...

I must admit that the experience was a tad anti-climactic, as those of us who are just weird enough to know about "nerd" conventions had higher expectations. There should have been more to see, it should have been bigger, it should have been more interesting. Amanda had her hopes nearly crushed as there weren't many Naruto-related sights to be seen; although she did probably find the only doujinshi in the universe that wasn't gay porn.

Comic World, as it turned out, was little more than a comic village; and apparently Busan hosts one every two months! Maybe they should have them less often and make them more anticipated events?

But it was fun to go out and experience a real manga/manhwa/anime convention in Asia with TaLKing friends.

As I've pontificated before into many a tired ear, I have a love-hate relationship with manga and especially anime. On the one hand, I have enjoyed many anime over the years, on the other hand, I find the anime style in general to be cold and soulless, and in terms of animation itself, prefer American style (when it's done well, which is sadly almost never). There have been anime that I thought were cute, fun, cool, or interesting, but besides some of Hayao Miyazaki's films, there are none that I *love.* I'll watch just about anything animated once, but there's very little I would actually spend money on.

Seeing these Korean kids dressed up in kimonos and watching Japanese anime was interesting to think about. What do they think about participating in this celebration of Japanese culture? Do they ever think about that sort of thing, or do they give a darn? Do Korean young people under the age of 30 really give two bento boxes about the Dokdo Islands, or Japan's WW2 atrocities, or is it just something that older people and the government go on about? Maybe they're just kids who like what they like, regardless of where its from. Korea and Japan have a lot in common. It would be interesting to know what the Korean youth's opinions are about Japan--hence one more reason I'm studying the language.

Anyway folks, that was the big event of last weekend--here at the beginning of another weekend, I'm sure we'll experience even crazier adventures, the likes of which this blog cannot hope to contain,

SUBISU

Ulsan World Music Festival!

2008-10-05T08:21:00.000-07:00

I think I'll wear a mask everyday.

This weekend, I went to the Ulsan World Music Festival. I said I would. Did I detect a wave of collective displeasure from the head office for not attending the obligatory mask festival in Andong? Perhaps, but I agreed to no such overnight trip, they just signed me up, or so the cryptic phone text message said.

Still, I'm glad I went to this instead, for I met some interesting people:

Two eligible young bachelors if I ever saw any.

I also met Dan Gauthier who owns the Ulsan Sun Magazine-- a publication for foreigners in Ulsan. For some reason I don't have a picture of him. Will the frustrations never end?

Pour moi?

Kickin' it old-school. Extremely old school.

Most of the guys in this band were really cute--you know, if you're into that. They played latin jazz, latin funk, and raggae. Who knew that Ulsan would invite some soul?

Goodnight, giant scary disembodied head!

Saturday night, I met Penny, a Senaglese -English girl from Bristol. She was teaching an African dance class On Sunday. I just watched as she tried to get Korean folks to bring the noise and the funk. In the end, Penny and her crew were the ones who supplied it. This is their organization, Tribe of Doris.

How can Monday be faced?

SUBISU

하 루 하 루 / Day by Day

2008-10-03T03:57:00.000-07:00

The buck...slows down significantly here.

As you can read from the post below, yeah, today is a national holiday, a fact of which I was vaguely aware, but didn't fully sink in until finding the school locked and deserted this afternoon.

So, I came back home (this little rectangle of sovereign American territory) to blog to yoo!

"I have often walked down this street before, but the pavement always stayed beneath my feet before."

"Everyone Loves" studio apartments

My children are very cute and I am concerned for their future. I wish I had some more candid photos of some of my classes. For that, we need an extra pair of hands.

My first class (1:10-1:50) is 1st and 2nd graders. --Really, too young to be in my class, and there are too many of them too boot (34-37?). It's more a battle of containing and directing their behavior towards something vaguely educational and organized. Even songs, chants, and games don't completely quell the chaos. Don't think it's worth My and my co-teacher's effort, really, unless perhaps you're talking about pay---in which case, we aren't being paid enough!

My second class (2:10-2:50) are 3-4th graders. They're all right. It's hard to think of activities for them sometimes, because they are neither here nor there. They're not babies who are enthusiastic about cute little actions songs like the 1-2 graders, yet, they aren't advanced enough to do the somewhat more interesting activities and subject matter of the 5th and 6th graders. I like them, though.

My third class (3:10-3:50) are the 5th and 6th graders. They're cool, because you can relate to them a little more. They can comprehend quite a bit of what they read--but with them you get all the adolescent insecurities, so they're really shy about speaking. Poor babies.

My fourth class (4:00ish--4:45) is my Youngo sarang bang class which means "English Love Room". Sounds kinda sexy. These are the best English students in the school--and their parents are proud of them and think they're hot stuff. Actually, few of them are as good at English as their parents seem to think, but it's a fun class of 13 or so students with whom I can do fun things with. This week, the theme was food, so I made some restaurant related dialogue skits for the kids to act out, complete with "menus" for the fake restaurant I dubbed "Chez Anglais".

So that is my usual day of teaching--, if you want to call it that. But I'm not even going to worry to hard about whether they know this or that. I have to keep in mind that I'm a sort of "Ambassador of English", or ambassador of America, or even an ambassador of African-Americans. I never had any aspirations to be a "teacher" in the professional sense of the word, and never will. The relationships and social interaction--the opportunities to speak with a naitive speaker, and have fun are the main things---which is actually perhaps the harder thing--me being woefully undersocialised and a private person by nature. ---Not to mention the language barrier.

Even when the kids act up or aren't cooperating, or a plan falls apart, or whatever, I find I can't stay upset about it for long. Often I find...after hours of anxious lesson-planning, that these precious plans have little bearing on what will really take place or how the week will go in general anyway.

So my kiddies (who I will probably never learn most of the names of) will hopefully be left with a positive impression of me and a good attitude about English. If we can say that at the end of the year, I'll be satisfied.

SUBISU

I Believe in Little Things

2008-10-03T00:28:00.000-07:00

Lonely English-speaking foreigners living in Korea!

Take comfort in the small certainties:

You're not short
Your music isn't nearly as wack
Your Mother tongue is the most widely spoken in the world

Speaking of music, I've more or less kept up with the general buzz from the world of kpop. I figured learning Korean through music might be more pleasant than books. The website popseoul is entertaining sometimes in just its general sarcastic tone.

It's a subject for a much longer post than I have the resources to write right now, but it's really interesting looking at the subject of masculine and feminine ideas in Asia. For example, most male pop stars in Korea, their look would be considered "gay" in the states--and a great deal of their music too, would simply be interpreted as a derivative imitation of what's already done in the states. Hence my skepticism at any native Korean pop music artist *ever* making a big breakthrough in the West. I could see perhaps a rap artist like that dude from Drunken Tiger (because he's good and can actually speak English), or some kind of indie rock group. They though, would still have to somehow be exiting or unique. But pop? the West is already drowning in enough mediocre pop acts of it's own--we don't need anyone else's.

Er...though, I'd have to admit that most of that gender role stuff is true. America is so...obsessed with the swaggering, chest beating, crotch grabbing, cap-popping kind of aesthetic. *everything* not full of this attitude is considered gay. Meanwhile a lot of Asia's pop culture seems to be obsessed with young men and women who look like delicate dolls. Personally, I find sometimes that simple fact to be a welcome break. Ultra femininity over Ultra masculinity for a change of pace.

I'd like to hear some Korean indie music outside of the usual processed, prepackaged stuff one hears around, but it's hard to find. And what's with the Korean music industry making it so hard for non-Korean fans to get a hold of their music? You'd think you'd need all the fan base one can get.

Typical example, this video by the kpop group SHINee, Sansogoteuneo (Love Like Oxygen). Only their second single and they're already doing a cover. A cover of a song that the "original" songwriter already stole mostly from Michael Jackson:

SHINee--Love Like Oxygen

And the "original" song performed by Martin Hedagaard, Danish singer, and winner of the televised singing competition, "X-Factor", Show the World

Sigh. How derivative can one get? Although, in defense of music today, I don't think that there's anything left to accomplish that hasn't already been done.

To end yet another entry on a tediously trite note; it's all just a little bit of history repeating.

SUBISU

Didn't You Get the Memo?

2008-10-02T20:55:00.000-07:00

Arirang, baby!

National Foundation Day--October 3
According to legend, the god-king Tan-gun founded the Choson Kingdom in 2333 B.C. This day fills citizens with nationalistic pride over the 4,000+ year history of Korea.

Reunited and it Feels so Good!

2008-09-11T20:37:00.000-07:00

After a long day of corrupting young minds...

In the immortal words of Sir Elton John, "the bitch is back!" Sort of. Despite the claim by some that dozens of unsecured wireless networks are floating around everywhere in Korea like the worrisome air pollution, I'm dead in the water in my apartment.

No doubt you, my multiplying fanbase, have been very sad in not recieving an update in so long. Well, this long hiatus hasn't exactly been a picnic for me either, for there's no one else in the vicinity to appreciate my subtle brand of humor.

I am teaching English (or at least trying on the illusion of doing so, at Ung Cheong elementary school, just outside of Ulsan city. The school has been around since 1922, and it's my aim to topple the pillars of history.

For most everyone else, presumably, they have just completed their second week of teaching. I just finished my first week, and reflecting upon my short time here, I am PUMPED! Certainly committed to becoming a better teacher. My kids are adorable and pretty malleable. Never in a million years will I learn hardly any of their names unless I take some drastic measures. What's with most Korean names having the same format and rhythm? Kim So-young, Park Min-su, etc. Still, the week in teaching went pretty well, as I know a lot of what to expect.

Anyway, Despite my wish to write a more detailed report, I am forced to resign, because I, my friends, am at a PC Bang. (sigh).

Until later,

SUBISU

SUBISU

The First Official Tim Tam Slam Jam

2008-08-19T06:46:00.000-07:00

The Lord's Bounty

Last night, some of us Ugly Americans displayed our ignorance further by not knowing what the world-famous Tim Tams are.

These chocolate biscuits are a product of Australia, and are said to induce near orgasmic pleasure in those who indulge in them and dunk them in tea. Or rather they were a purely Australian product before the great satan bought the company--buahahahaa!

I dunno about toe-curling extacy, but we managed to have an entertaining get-together tonight in Amanda and I's room with a bunch of folks from our group and beyond. During the evening of chocolate and Australian TV on Youtube, we were graced with the presence of: Jeremy, Steven, Carrie, Roger, Grant, Scott, Glenn, Amanda, Jacqui, and your truly.

The Batmen Steven and Jeremy. One has The Joker's laugh, and the other can do quite a disturbing impression of Heath Ledger's Joker. Wanna see a magic trick?

It has been suggested that this Tim Tam tradition continue, even after we are shuttled off to our different schools. We're building a federation, held together by general area, cell phones, Facebook, and blogs.

We're going to need all the help we can get because word on the street is that all of us in the TaLK program are embroiled in a political drama that transcends our humble lot. The rumor I've been hearing is that opponents to president Lee-Myung Bak may be quite pleased if the TaLK program fails.

Personally, I think the program will probably be a success--if nothing else it has the potential to inject some youthful energy into the English education system here. Can I get a witness? Check back later.

Given the rumors, I'm not surprised the amount of news coverage we've received so far. Yours truly was interviewed by a reporter from the Chosun Ilbo, and here I was trying to keep a low profile, and I've been on Korean TV too. I'm still looking for the brief clips, and will post if they're ever found.

By the way, have you ever seen where I am? Our group is living and learning at Dongguk University in Gyeongju city since last Thursday or so. Dongguk is a Buddhist-affiliated university and has been in existence since 1906. Apparently all the regular students are on Summer Break, so we have the run of the place. This is unfortunate, as we are growing restless and running out of toilet paper.

The official front of Dongguk U.

Symbol and mascot of the school

Cafeteria of torment

View from my room window when it was cloudy

The instruction here has been heavy on the philosophical, as it has been explained to us that our goal should not be to "teach English" in the traditional sense. Our job is to inspire the children to have a positive and enthusiastic attitude towards English and speaking English. We are to develop good relationships with our students, and develop lessons that make the most of this rare opportunity to speak and interact with a native English speaker. We are to inspire, challenge, and enable them to think on their own. At least, that's what I've drawn from it. The progress of the students should be measured in fluency rather than accuracy. The kids' regular instruction in school with dry repetition and even drier textbooks is not the sort of learning environment we are trying to create. Since we're teaching an after school program, we have more flexibility.

Earlier this week, we visited a school where we got to interact with some of the kids. They seemed to appreciate us being there, and they're mighty cute. Kids are especially good with ketchup on rye.

Okay, so only those two on the end are kids.

So far it's been fun or at very least interesting. Many of us TaLKers have taken Korean classes, and gotten introduced to Taekwondo, Zen meditation, Hanja papercraft, and traditional Korean dance. I got nothing to complain about. I've already experienced more interesting stuff in these short weeks than my whole year in Korea back in '04.

Tomorrow is our last official day here, and after that we will be spirited away to the areas we'll be teaching for one more week of local training. I'll be in Ulsan. As usual, we have no idea exactly what the future holds for next week, but does anyone ever?

SUBISU

TaLK Life Pt. 1

2008-08-15T04:09:00.000-07:00

Wait! You still have so much to live for!

Look, I'll show you!

We talk scholars attend class all day almost every day. Some of our speakers have had helpful information presented in a stimulating way. Others, not so much.

Still, this is an extraordinary opportunity to expand our horizons. I wonder what sort of people we will be afterwards. What sort of teachers. Are we too young and immature? Or we rise to the occasion, even greater than expected? But I don't care much if classes here are boring or exiting. Even now, I've received a lot more useful information than last time.

Iro na!!

Aww, young love.

Take it off!

Our orientation in Gyeongju, the place where we are learning to be compassionate, and employ firm yet kind correction with our young students.

Personally, as far as discipline goes, I prefer the good old fashioned Board of Education.

SUBISU

You know you're in Korea...

2008-08-10T08:08:00.000-07:00

When you see an MV like this:

SUBISU

Your Weekend Bows its Head in Shame when it Sees Mine Part 2

2008-08-10T06:17:00.000-07:00

View upon emerging from Hwarangdae station.

Sunday, I took a personal journey back to the old neighborhood.

View from the train crossing the Han river.

Nothing but pimps, hustlers, and drug dealers. Looks like I'll have to clean up this town again.

Next I went to Gwangwhamun station's Kyobo Bookstore to buy a few art supplies among other things. I'm making a stationary gift for my future principal, VP, and co-teacher. Gift-giving is a part of the culture. We shall grease the wheels of diplomacy with what's left of my art talent, seeing as I have no interpersonal skills.

NO MAS!!

SUBISU

Your Weekend Bows It's Head in Shame When it Sees Mine

2008-08-10T03:59:00.000-07:00

Changdeokgung Palace gargoyles, Seoul

The TaLKers loosened the leash on their scholars this weekend, and we were taken free of charge to Seoul to see the Changdeokgung palace , Insa-dong Market , and Cheong Wa Dae , or The Blue House, the home of the president of the ROK.

Insa-dong mini water garden. If y'all in the States had these, you know they'd be mostly full of trash, pennies, cigarette butts, and gum.

No great pictures at Insa-dong or at the Blue House. Insa-dong was mostly touristy shops, and there were photo restrictions at the Blue House. It began to rain, and I had nothing to protect the camera.

Security guard at Cheong Wa Dae: "No hittin', spittin', kissin' or cussin'!!"

"Grrrrrr!"

Don't hate. Jealousy is such an ugly emotion.

SUBISU

Subisu, Round 2

New Year's in Beijing!

Humbug!

Autumn in Andong!!

Happy Independence Day Korea!!

Never Can Say Goodbye

Atarashii!!

Jeju Self-governing Province

Are Women Necessary?

It Lives!!

Christmas @ Chez Adrienne!

Why Jeon-he Can't Read (English)

Happy Birthday, Daddy!!

Harvest Time!

Busan Comic World Festival 51!

Ulsan World Music Festival!

하 루 하 루 / Day by Day

I Believe in Little Things

Didn't You Get the Memo?

Reunited and it Feels *so* Good!

The First Official Tim Tam Slam Jam

TaLK Life Pt. 1

You know you're in Korea...

Your Weekend Bows its Head in Shame when it Sees Mine Part 2

Your Weekend Bows It's Head in Shame When it Sees Mine

Reunited and it Feels so Good!