미지센터의 청소년 국제교류이야기

Solomon and Wright

               
               Frank Lloyd Wright, architect of the Solomon Guggenheim museum, once stated that the Metropolitan Museum of Art looked like “a protestant barn” compared to the Solomon Guggenheim museum. In fact, the Solomon Guggenheim museum (also known as the Guggenheim), is in itself a work of art. When I visited New York on the 16^th of January, the Guggenheim museum’s ribbon-like structures stood out amid boxy skyscrapers and flats. The interior was no less amazing: along an upward spiral path was a brilliantly designed ceiling that matched the organic design of the exterior walls.

                
               I was also drawn by its famous collection of impressionist, early modern and contemporary art. Like its design, the Guggenheim seemed to specialize in abstract art like those of Seurat and Kandinsky. I decided to go into detail of works that were popular with visitors, as well as works that the visitors found interesting.

The Founding Fine Arts

           What attracted the most attention was the Solomon Guggenheim Founding Collection, the first collections of Solomon Guggenheim. I found Kandinsky’s work to be the most flamboyant in terms of colors and shapes, as his vivid use of prime colors and basic geometric shapes truly caught attention. For many of the visitors, it was the usage of color and lines that truly hit home. “I don’t understand some of the things the man is trying to explain,” said a visitor, “but I love how he expresses himself.” “I’m just in it for the shapes,” explained another visitor.

          Naturally, the work of Picasso also garnered enormous attention. Unlike Picasso’s other works or that of Kandinsky’s, Picasso’s works at the Guggenheim used copious amounts of grey and brown. Picasso’s distinct usages of cubes were also eminent in his artworks, combined with the dull colors, and reminded many visitors of the streets New York. “The paintings like a city within a city,” said an onlooker. Other people, however, had different opinions about Picasso’s works. “The sharp angles, along with the unclear but distinct shapes, gives the subject ‘volume’”, remarked a visitor.

          Seurat’s work, unlike Picasso’s or Kandinsky’s, was less about the representation of the idea and more about the usage of techniques. His famous paintings composed of tiny dots gave visitors an impression of painstaking work put into his paintings. The colors of the paintings, softened by the usage of dots, blend with each other and gave the visitors an impression of serenity as well as nostalgia. “Everything matches with each other, and the paint flows with the painting rather than to contrast with it.”


Photographs of Persona

           
         At the exhibition halls of the Bohen Foundation and the Deutsche Guggenheim Commissions, there is a stark contrast with the paintings of the other exhibits. The grayscale photographs (with a small number of them in color) present the ideas of the artist without any divergent interpretations that come from vague paintings. I’ve decided to look into the works of Sally Mann, Hiroshi Sugimoto, and Sam Taylor-Wood. Many of the photographic artworks was taken by Hiroshi Sugimoto, and from his photos, it is clear that he was a minimalist. His photos contain a single subject, with no additional objects, backgrounds or persons. Many visitors felt solitude when the viewed his photographs. “The images leave a strong impression, because there are no other objects in the photos to dilute the main image,” commented a tourist.

         
         The photographs of Sally Mann and Sam Taylor-Wood, unlike Sugimoto’s, do contain a background. The background, say the visitors, is able to give the viewer more detail into their subject matter. The background also seems to emulate a storyline alongside the subject, giving the viewers an opportunity to interpret the photo uniquely. “It is about a man living in a dreary city, and continuing a monotonous existence within this world,” explained a visitor after observing Soliloquy IV by Sam Taylor-Wood. “It’s about a man who lives a secretive existence amid the vast city,” explained another observer of the same artwork.


Wacky Works

              
              A question that has posed me when I went to report on MoMA could also be found in the Guggenheim. For the visitors, some of the works that were in display did not qualify as art at all. When the visitors saw the Surface Veil III by Robert Ryman, many ridiculed it for containing virtually no brush or pen stroke. “No depth and just a scam – that is the Surface Veil,” scoffed a visitor who went to look the artwork. “He’s making modern art a travesty by assuming the notion notion of ‘if a person calls it art, its art’ far and wide,” remarked a tourist from England.

            
               However, some visitors gave the artists credit. “I like the sculpting of the various pieces and how they are laid out by the artist,” complimented a visitor from China. “I think it’s unique to step away from painting skills to the thought processes of the mind,” said another. The number of people who liked the so-called art numbered only four people out of 30 people interviewed. 10 of the 30 people did not like the art at all, and 16 of the other visitors said that they hated it.

              Whether an artist uses paint, a camera, a chisel, or nothing at all, art is constantly evolving. Guggenheim is an excellent timeline of various artistic styles and techniques, but it is something more. It is a sanctuary for artists to express their ideas, visitors to learn more about themselves, and progressive artists to propel the artistic world into new levels.

Korea’s own department store opened in Tianjin!

"How magnificent it is! Korea is wonderful!"

After got out of taxi, I and my friend soon realized that we were facing a grand building in front of us. It was LOTTE department chain store in Tianjin which was far more distinct than other normal Chinese department stores for its splendid appearance.

Feeling a kind of nostalgia for its Korean looks, we entered the store. As it was a week before Chinese holiday quite a lot of people were roving around which in turn made a lively atmosphere. And when we saw a variety of products displayed in a very luxurious shop window and mannequins display clothing in the center of first floor, we thought we were in Korea for a moment as it was a sight which was hardly seen around in Tianjin.

         ▲external appearance of Tianjin LOTTE department (Tianjin LOTTE provided)

  

▲interior photos (left and right)

A Korean department!

Tianjin LOTTE department is a store founded with full Korean capital and it opened on June 2011. Since it is considerably rare that Korean brands invest and build their own shops in oversees independently, this store attracted many people’s attentions after the news released stating that Korean brand LOTTE was planning to start a store in Tianjin with investing 100% Korean capital.
 
Since its opening in June last year, Tianjin store has achieved several successful results. When I asked to the general manager of Tianjin branch of LOTTE about distinct differences that this store has tried to emphasize, he said various kinds of marketing and meticulous service would be leading ones.

Soon I became wondered how indigenous people think about it. So I directly went there and was able to meet many Chinese and some Koreans as well.

An army sergeant who was on leave gave me a satisfied smile and said overall ambience was so nice and clean in response to my question which was ‘which point do you think LOTTE has their own distinct in compare to other authentic Chinese department stores?’

As I asked the question to a teenage boy, the boy exclaimed that this store was so magnificent. To be specific, he said not only there were lots of high quality products but also service was great.

"Korea is wonderful!" The boy thankfully praised Korea and made my shoulder a bit mighty.

In fact, the store opened with the target of offering distinguishing service and good products, said the general director of Tianjin LOTTE.

Most customers liked its pleasant atmosphere and sophisticating design. Especially many people showed great pleasure to the rest areas distributed in various quarters in the market. 
 

▲Rest areas around the Tianjin LOTTE (Tianjin LOTTE provided)

According to the interview with the manager, many rest areas here and there are only a part among a number of kinds of services it provides which can hardly find in other markets in China.
Some of them are bowing deeply at the waist, MVG rounge service for best customers, shuttle buses and cultural activities. Also as I mentioned above, it has its own special marketing to appeal customers.

In the interview, he explained they have adapted some good Korean productions in regard of indigenous conditions.

For instance, there are ice cream shape DM (direct mail) for children, flyers which can be seen with 3D glasses etc. Those have given a kind of refreshing jolt to Tianjin people and Tianjin LOTTE intends to keep trying many new things by sharing ideas with Korean head office.
In addition to them, new brands in Tianjin have launched in Tianjin branch which all together have shaped it to become a distinguishing department store as this kind of market has been unprecedented in Tianjin.

Also I asked visitors one more question.

It was ‘did you know that LOTTE in Tianjin was owned by Korean or the brand is Korean’s? And can you feel any Korean ambience around here?’

1 out of 2 people replied that they knew LOTTE was a Korean.

A Chinese middle aged woman said that she thought either Korea or Hong Kong. In response to my second question, she replied a discount market furnished every floor is barely seen in Chinese ones so it can be Korean style. (picture below)

                           ▲discount market which is common in Korea but not in China

Three Chinese undergraduates claimed many Korean brand products represent it as a Korean market.

 

▲Korean goods (clockwise/ galaxy tap, Korean traditional things, Basic House, Tonymoly)

Yet, in contrary to my expectation that there would be a few emphasises as a Korean own market, the general director stated that it does not much try to put stress on being a Korean store.
To become a global market, it advocates 'global standard' instead of persisting Korean style, he explained.

What significance does it have?

LOTTE department of Tianjin showed a possibility that Korean market can also be successful for itself in oversees including China.
Furthermore, it would be a good precedent of how to put Korean markets themselves into global marketplace.
 
However, the manager of Tianjin branch said that he thought it hasn’t reached a stage which can call this a ‘success’. Instead he claimed that they are focusing on strengthening the basics and it would be an important point when it comes to running business in China.

With heavy responsibility as a first and sole Korean independent market opened in China, they are trying to provide better service, better environment for customers at all times.

In response to my question why was it China, he stated that for China’s marketability and potential power many companies enter to China including them.

Youth are the leading role in the global market

"I think domestic market has reached saturation. At present a lot of students not only study foreign languages, but also go study abroad. Like this, quite large part of employees in our company is proficient in foreign languages. It represents in part that being global has been a requisite for each country's growth.
Or perhaps it is no overstatement to say that the border concerning economy had been eliminated already long time ago. Therefore you, youth, are so much precious asset in our country as you are the leading role in the global market.

Although it is important to study on the desk, I think it is significant to know global history and culture as well. Not merely ‘studying’ language, but learning them with interest would be far more effective. Even if it would be seemed as only theoretical advice, being faithfully prepares for your future with regarding the globe and reading many books will be a great property for you all."

After the interviews with the manager and customers, I felt very proud of my country, Korea. I hope more and more Korean brands would bravely go into the abroad market and thus introduce the excellence of Korea to the whole world.

 

It seems that the word “diplomat” is not just localized by the one person these days. VANK (Voluntary Agency Network of Korea) is truly helpful for those who want to become a diplomat. VANK selected a total of 724 university students as ‘Global Ambassadors of Korean Culture and Tourism.’ Over 860 students applied for the program, 474 students were selected as on-line representatives and 250 students were selected as off-line ambassadors.

The main host of the program, VANK, was founded in 1999, with the leader Ki-tae Park. The website VANK was mainly made in order to increase intimacy within Korea and to try to give accurate information about Korean culture and history. A vigorous youth, Mr. Park felt his heart glowing with patriotism when he was a university student. When he was doing his computer class’s assignment, he found that there were a lot of cartographic companies marked as Korea’s own island, Dokdo to Dakeshima or Liankrut Rock. By constantly sending written protests, the maps’ amendments could be made thanks to Mr. Park. As this method (sending protests) actually worked, Mr. Park thought that by expanding his idea, there would be a lot of progress in rectifying errors. With this said, VANK sends promotional kits (including leaflets, maps, stickers, etc.) to anyone who shows affection toward Korea. Also, in the website, there are sets of detailed information on how to deal with faulty information concerning Korean history and culture.

However, Mr. Park thought that just giving the kits that VANK had made and offering information by website was not enough. Rather, he believed that people should be educated in order to use the tools wisely. Because of the necessities, VANK made the program named ‘Global Ambassador of Korean Culture and Tourism’ and the course is heading to cultivate the 4^th ambassadors.

The ‘Global Ambassador of Korean Culture and Tourism’ program is especially for these following students. Firstly, it is for the people who are planning to go abroad for different purposes such as but not limited to: traveling, study, and volunteer work. Secondly, it is for the people who would like to introduce Korea for foreigners in Korea currently or pen-pals.

On 28^th December 2011, from 10am to 6pm, there were instructive lectures given by prominent figures in tourism and cultural circles for the future ambassadors. Unfortunately, the lectures were only given to the 250 off-line ambassadors considering place and time. As the Korean government authority selected 2010 to 2012 ‘Visit Korea Year’, the lectures were largely focused on tourism. The lecturers’ main role was to not only offer ways to introduce Korea effectively but also to find ways to increase the number of foreign tourists.

 

During the ‘introduction of precedents’ period, one of the 3^rd Global Ambassadors of Korean Culture and Tourism, Miss. Sul Lee further elaborated on how she managed the whole activity. Miss Lee participated in a workcamp in England, and she wanted to have a bond with international students from all over the world. So, she chose her keyword as ‘communication through empathy’. Miss. Lee firstly showed English information leaflets about Korean culture and history to international students, then, she asked them to translate into their own languages. In order to increase intimacy and customize language preferences, she wanted to show the translated version (the ones that the international students made) when she comes across with foreigners from different countries. For more information, following is an interview with Miss Lee.

 

1. What is the main reason you applied to the 3^rd ‘Global Ambassador of Korean Culture and Tourism’ mainly hosted by Voluntary Agency Network of Korea (VANK) and Visit Korea Committee last year?

                                                                                        ▲ Photos provided by Miss. Lee

Last summer, I was preparing for an England workcamp where people from various countries work, camp together, and experience each others' culture. Although I really like to meet new people, as the camping period was not short and the program was mixed up with diverse nationality, I had to know and be prepared for a lot of things. I believe prior knowledge and hands-on experiences can make smoother and richer conversations. Specially, I should have had subjects informing people about Korean culture, but making promotional packages by searching Internet one by one was not easy. At this point, VANK Global Ambassador was a very attractive project because the program offered me useful promotional kits and educational opportunities on how to introduce the Korean culture easily.

 

2. Why did you select ‘communication through empathy’ as your keyword while you were an ambassador?

                                                                                        ▲ Photos provided by Miss. Lee

As Koreans are passionate and patriotic, they have high pride introducing Korea and taking the lead in correcting some historical errors such as Dokdo. I started ask myself, “For foreigners, how this can be interpreted? Can this be the same meaning? Unilaterally giving information about Korea cannot interest them. The real purpose of informing Korea is to remind that: we are not different as we are living in the era of globalization. I think a brilliant speaker is not the one who speaks well, but listens carefully and sincerely. Therefore, my first step as an ambassador was understanding friends' culture with awareness and feeling empathy. Although I was the only Asian, it didn’t really matter. The only difference was their natural cultural habits, but I tried not to relate with culture shock and rather, tried to understand it. I always remembered how important empathy is, afterwards, they asked some questions about me and Korea. From then on, I realized the real meaning of 'communication'.

3. Where did you get the idea of making and sharing an information leaflet of Korean history and culture which was translated into several different languages?

There was one friend from Czechoslovakia to whom I gave a VANK world map. She told me that she wanted to get friends' signs by their mother tongue for her special memory. There, I got the idea. I continually thought that it would be nice if I make not only a collectable item, but one that could also have promotional meaning. The sign that Czech friend made just contained a personal sayings like guestbook, but I thought that when the contents included an introduction of Korea-related information and my profile, it could be very practical by taking both sides! Thus, as I was very impressed with excellent 2nd ambassadors' creative ideas and looked carefully around me, I also created an impressive idea by applying things that I saw.

 

4. Any difficulties or obstacles? If any, how did you overcome those difficulties?

Actually I do not have an excellent English skill yet, but I am not trying be obsessed with perfection. English is just a tool as a language. What asked for them is to translate Korean information into their own languages: my profile, and very simple things, not the ones like reports. In history part, they didn't have enough knowledge. In this situation, I used VANK’s data to answer their questions or misunderstandings. During Q&A period, there were great opportunities to know about the field I did not even care about. Here, one thing to remind is that you cannot just ask for them thoughtlessly. I also try to be a ‘friend’ to them, not an informer.

5. For the very last question, anything to say for those who are wishing to become a ‘Global Ambassador of Korean culture and Tourism’?

                                                      ▲ Mr. Park and Miss. Lee/   Photos provided by Miss. Lee

I really do care about ‘real communication’ that I mentioned before. Listen to partner's thoughts first and represent my opinion. That is my diplomacy philosophy. Everything has a goal and so do you. That makes you your job to be done effectively. You can have a pride in your 4^th Global Ambassador of Korean Culture and Tourism!

After the education programs were over, 5 missions were allotted to ambassadors which should be finished by 29^th of February 2012 on their own blogs. Firstly, they should write an epilogue about the education program on. Secondly, they should use VANK’s kit and write about how it effected. Thirdly, ambassadors should state their own opinion toward Visit Korea Year. Fourthly, it should discuss how the ambassadors felt about introducing Korea. Lastly, they should pick one subject, and make a promotional material for foreigners. After the whole mission is over, students will be able to be selected as real ambassadors. I hope everyone does their mission well and as a participant I truly have great expectations about the performances of the ambassadors selected this year.

* For more information about Vank and Global ambassador of Korean Culture and Tourism, please visit http://wings.prkorea.com/

Apply Now ☞ http://wch.mizy.net

2012 Overseas Instructors Recruitment.docx

Looking Back

2012 is only weeks away. Christmas is less than a week away. As 2011 draws to a close, I decided to cover the holidays and the last few days until 2012. Because of the Global Recession, the Arab Spring, the death of terrorists and dictators, the Fukushima Nuclear Accident, and many other events in 2011, this Christmas will be like no other. I decided to cover how Americans will spend their last days of the year, and how events that took place this year will influence their holiday plans. Because I covered important events during 2011, I thought it would be interesting to see how the events I reported on would influence the lives of many Americans.

Shopping & Gifts, 2011

For many Americans, Christmas and New Year shopping is an almost-ritualistic event. I went to Soho, one of the most popular shopping districts in Manhattan, to see how events of 2011 influenced the shopper’s purchases. Soho has traditionally been a shopping district for expensive clothe boutiques, such as Armani and Prada, and had little (if at all) inexpensive clothes stores. However, I was surprised to find several buildings that housed inexpensive clothe stores. UNIQLO, a Japanese clothes firm that sells relatively inexpensive clothes, has recently opened for business in Soho. I was also surprised to see that many of the inexpensive stores were packed with customers, compared to their high-end counterparts.

This rule also seemed to apply to many shoppers I have interviewed. Out of 30 shoppers, 25 have said that they have spent less in shopping this year than the previous year. 20 have said that they have spent less than the previous decade. “I can’t afford gifts that I could have bought before the recession,” explained a New Yorker. “I just plan to buy gifts for my family and my girlfriend,” stated a college student of NYU.

However, the obstacles of the recession did not seem to affect the purchase of smartphones. In fact, the death of Steve Jobs and the release of the iPhone 4S has increased fervor in Apple products. “My kids want the newest smartphones, and you know, it’s Christmas,” said a haggard mother with her children in the Apple store. “The new functions in the 4S are worth the purchase,” said another customer. When I asked him which particular “function” made the purchase worth it, he refused comment. The release of many other products, such as the Samsung Galaxy 2S and the new 4G smartphones, has only increased the demand for smartphones.

Travelling, 2011

Many Americans used to travel to other vacation spots during the holidays to rest and escape the cold weather. However, there is a severe decrease in holiday trips compared to previous years. I asked 15 interviewees across Manhattan (Union Square, Rockefeller Center, and Zucotti Park). Out of 15 New Yorkers who travelled to foreign destinations last year, only 7 were planning to take a trip this year. Many stated that their economic situations did not give them space to travel. “I need to save up money whenever I can,” said an office worker. “I can’t even afford the airplane tickets this year, let alone travel,” said another. “Buying presents is hard enough – no travelling.” Decreased number of air commuters has only made airline tickets more expensive, as airline companies try to cover up losses with increased prices.

However, for some of the travelers, the reasons were somewhat different. One New Yorker, whose family lives in Greece, decided not to go and visit his family during the holidays because of the situation in Greece. “Have you seen the news? Greece has hit the can,” said the Greek immigrant. “There’s just too much violence and instability.” Another family, of Japanese origin, gave up on a family trip to their native Japan. “My parents lived near the Fukushima nuclear plant, and they had to evacuate,” said the father of the family. “We do not wish to burden them,” added his wife, “and the radiation emitted may be harmful for our children.” A college professor outside New York, who came to New York to visit relatives, told me that she had to cancel her trip to Egypt because of the violence and turmoil in Egypt. “I wanted to learn about Egyptian history and see the pyramids up close, but it looks like I will have to see Egyptians making history from my home TV.”

Many of the New Yorkers told me that they were planning to stay in New York instead of travelling to other places. “I’m just going to skate in Rockfeller Center with my girlfriend,” said a New Yorker. “It’s not the place that counts, it’s the mindset.”

Homecoming & Family Time, 2011

A Farewell and A Greeting

New crystals fitted for the Times Square Ball of 2012 (image from Long Island Press)
 

       Who said that donations are only done by money? The Hat Knitting Campaign defines another type of donation in the global world.

           When people think about the world ‘volunteer’ or ‘donation’ we often think about the red charity boxes that we put money into. Or often people relate volunteer work to cleaning up after messes or other physical activities. However, Save the Children’s Hat Knitting Campaign is defining a new type of volunteer for the people across the world. Since 2007, Save the Children, an international organization helping the world’s child poverty, has been pursuing the ‘Hat Knitting Campaign’. This campaign is meant to help infants dying due to diseases that can easily be treated. What makes this campaign special is the fact that instead of just simply donating money; participants knit hats with their own hands to ship to infants in developing countries. Now beyond just money, there are efforts sent along with the donations.

           The ‘Hat Knitting Campaign’ is growing steadily with lots of attentions. Now this campaign is celebrating its 5^th year and stands with a goal to ship 15 thousand knitted hats to Zimbabwe and Bangladesh. To hear about the enormous spread of contribution-culture set by this campaign, I interviewed Park Young Ee from the Save the Children Communication Team.

           The ‘Hat Knitting Campaign’ holds its significance for defining a new type of ‘volunteer’ and ‘donation’. Instead of just donation money, each time I knit I can think about the infants that will be wearing the hat in my hands after a couple months. The participants love, effort and care will be shipped across the Zimbabwe and Bangladesh. The positive energy this campaign is sending not only to the participants but also to the people across the world is making the world feel like a warmer place.

Photos are credited to Save the Children

 캐나다 밴쿠버 시내 한복판에 슈퍼맨이 서류가방을 들고 출근을 하고 마녀가 가게에서 주문을 받는 날. 바로 10월 31일 할로윈 데이(Halloween Day)이다. 매년 10월 31일은 할로윈 데이로 캐나다를 비롯해 많은 서양 국가에서는 이 날을 기념하기 위해 남녀노소 모두가 만화 캐릭터, 마녀 등 평소에 하지 않는 특이한 분장을 하고, 아이들은 ‘Trick or Treat’을 외치며 이웃들의 집을 방문한다. 우리나라에서는 볼 수 없는 이색적인 광경이기에 한국 유학생들 및 관광객들도 모두 들떠 있는 모습을 쉽게 발견할 수 있었다. 

우리나라에서는 경험할 수 없는 흥미로운 할로윈

 우리나라에서는 할로윈이 사실상 없다. 외국어 학원이나 놀이공원에서 할로윈 기념행사를 개최하긴 하지만 서양에서 즐기는 할로윈과는 사뭇 다르다. 항상 외국 영화나 드라마에서만 보던 할로윈을 캐나다에서는 직접 경험해 볼 수 있었다. 아이들을 키우는 집과 노부부가 사는 집에서는 특히 할로윈을 위해 1-2주 전부터 집 마당을 장식하고, 동네 아이들을 위해 초콜릿과 사탕을 사놓았다. 할로윈 당일, 시내에서는 주로 젊은이들이 원더우먼, 슈퍼맨, 마녀 등의 개성 있는 분장을 하고 사람들과 어울리는 모습을 발견할 수 있었다. 반면 주택가에서는 대부분 가족 단위로 할로윈 분장을 하고 있었다. 

할로윈 당일에 해가 질 무렵, 사람들은 집 마당에 놓은 ‘Jack-o'-lantern’(할로윈을 기념해 호박 속을 파 표면을 개성 있게 장식해 놓은 호박 등불) 안의 초에 불을 붙여 놓는다. 불이 켜져 있는 집은 아이들의 ‘Trick or Treat’ 방문을 환영한다는 의미이다. 만약 ‘Jack-o'-lantern'의 불이 꺼져있거나 집에 불이 꺼져있다면 방문을 하지 않는 것이 예의이다.
 

Trick or Treat!
 

 저녁 6시가 넘자 귀엽게 변장을 한 아이들이 한 손에는 바구니를 든 채 부모님과 동네를 돌기 시작했다. 아이들은 이웃집 문을 두드리며 ‘Trick or Treat’을 외치는데, 이는 “과자나 사탕을 주면 장난치지 않을게요.”라는 뜻이다. ‘Trick or Treat’은 3살의 어린 아이부터 초등학생 정도의 어린이들이 이웃집들을 방문해 사탕이나 초콜릿을 받는 할로윈의 대표적인 풍습이다. 내가 살고 있는 캐나다 BC주의 주택가에서도 어김없이 아이들이 다양한 의상을 한 채 사탕, 초콜릿을 바구니에 한가득 담고 돌아다니는 모습을 쉽게 볼 수 있었다. 모든 가정에서 수시로 집 대문을 두드리는 아이들을 살갑게 대해주었으며, 특히 노부부들은 아이들의 방문을 더욱 반기는 분위기였다.
 

익살스러운 장난이 허용되는 할로윈 데이

 할로윈 데이에는 평소에는 할 수 없던 장난들을 마음껏 할 수 있다. 올해 할로윈에도 역시  개성있는 할로윈 장난들을 볼 수 있었다. 집 마당을 공동묘지로 꾸미는 것은 예삿일이었고, 지붕과 차 위에 거대한 거미를 올려놓거나 좀비와 해골, 귀신을 집 앞에 설치해 놓기도 했다. 할로윈을 맞이해 집을 잘 장식하거나 톡톡 튀는 장난을 많이 준비한 집이 단연 인기가 많았다. 내가 거주하는 동네에서 가장 사람이 몰려 있는 곳은 공동묘지로 마당을 꾸며 놓고 붉은 조명, 뿌연 연기와 함께 소름끼치는 음악을 틀어놓은 집이었다. 주민들은 평범한 일상 속에서 지내다가 익살스러운 장난들에 매우 즐거워하는 듯 보였다. 

 할로윈 데이는 귀신을 쫓기 위한 켈트족의 풍습에서 비롯되었으며 지금은 모두가 함께 즐길 수 있는 기념일로 자리 잡았다. 일상에서 할 수 없는 독특한 분장과 장난을 하며 특별한 추억을 쌓을 수도 있고 ‘Trick or Treat’과 같은 풍습으로 이웃들과의 관계를 더욱 돈독히 할 수도 있는 좋은 기회이기도 하다. 진정한 할로윈을 경험해보고 싶다면 캐나다 등 할로윈 데이를 즐기는 국가에서 보내보는 것도 좋을 듯하다. 

특별한 할로윈을 보내는 방법!

1. 외국에서 할로윈을 보내게 된다면, 한번쯤은 시내가 아닌 주택가에서 보내는 것을 추천!

 캐나다 밴쿠버의 경우, 할로윈 당일 저녁시간 쯤 많은 사람들이 독특한 할로윈 복장을 한 채 축제를 벌인다. 또한 곳곳에서 열리는 할로윈 기념 파티에 참석해 할로윈을 보내기도 한다. 물론 축제와 파티도 참석하면 재밌는 시간을 보낼 수 있지만, 주택가에서는 우리나라에서는 볼 수 없는 할로윈을 경험할 수 있다. 한번쯤은 익살스러운 할로윈 장식들과 함께 실제 동네 아이들이 집집마다 돌아다니며 하는 ‘Trick or Treat’ 등을 보며 가족과 이웃 중심의 할로윈을 보내는 것도 소중한 추억이 될 수 있을 것이다.

2. 할로윈 의상 입어보기!

 캐나다에서 할로윈 데이를 보내게 된다면 꼭 할로윈 의상을 입어보길 권장한다. 한국인들에겐 할로윈이 낯선 문화이기 때문에 할로윈 의상을 입지 않는 사람들이 많이 있다. 하지만  할로윈 의상을 입는다면 할로윈의 즐거움이 배가된다고 확신한다. 할로윈 시즌 전에는 많은 가게에서 할로윈 의상을 판매하므로 직접 친구, 가족들과 함께 할로윈 의상 쇼핑을 해보는 것도 색다른 경험이 될 것이다.  

  

3. Pumpkin Patch에 가보기!

 'Pumpkin Patch'란 할로윈 데이 장식을 위한 호박을 파는 곳이다. 'Pumpkin Patch'에 가면 깜짝 놀랄 정도의 넓은 호박 밭이 눈앞에 펼쳐질 것이다. 이곳에는 호박을 비롯해 다양한 호박 장식품, 할로윈을 기념하는 행사들이 마련되어 있다. 할로윈을 위한 호박은 'Pumpkin Patch'에서 구입해보는 것도 할로윈을 즐기는 방법 중 하나이다. 

 

 

4. Trick or Treat for UNICEF!

 할로윈이 어린이 자신들이 세상에 얼마나 큰 영향력을 끼칠 수 있는지도 보여줄 수 있는 날이 될 수도 있다. 바로 ‘Trick or Treat for UNICEF’를 통해 아이들과 학생들은 자신만의 특별한 모금 활동을 해볼 수 있다. 캐나다 어린이들에게는 ‘Trick or Treat for UNICEF’이 오래된 할로윈 전통 중 하나이다. 할로윈 밤에 이웃집을 돌아다니면서 캔디와 함께 전 세계 어린이들을 위한 모금을 해보는 활동인데, 이웃들의 인정을 마음껏 느낄 수 있는 할로윈에 소중한 봉사를 통해 나눔을 실천해보는 것도 좋은 경험이 될 수 있을 것이다. 아래 ‘Trick or Treat for UNICEF’ 사이트에 들어가면, 온라인 및 오프라인 할로윈 모금활동을 하는 방법이 상세히 나와 있다.

*사이트: http://youth.unicefusa.org/trickortreat/participate/

“Occupy Wall Street!”

        The protests are aimed against the banks and major financial institutions (many of them concentrated near Wall Street of Manhattan), hence the name of the protest: ‘Occupy Wall Street.’ The protesters call themselves the 99%, because in their opinion they represent the majority of Americans throughout the United States. They protest against the government and the wealthy of the United States, or the 1%. From Occupy Yoido in Seoul to the Indignados in Madrid, many protest against the so-called 1%.

         As I neared the park, the beating of drums and the shouting of slogans began to overwhelm the usual cacophony of street traffic. Over 300 people were inside the park or near the streets surrounding the park, holding banners or placards with protest slogans. The wall of police officers, protestors, slogans, news vans, Guy Fawkes masks, police batons and blockades blotted out what used to be recreational space for New York residents.

The Demographics

         According to my interviews, I found that 17 people were from the Millennial Generation (born after 1982) and 10 people from Generation X (late 1960s~ 1982). Only 3 people were born before the late 1960s, which indicated that this protest was mainly a movement by America’s youth. This seemed to me that this protest was mainly focused on issues relating to the employment and social welfare of youths, as well as their dissatisfaction with the bailout package given to major commercial banks.

…or Occupy Zucotti Park?

I asked the protestors about their reasons for camping out at Zucotti Park, a public space for residents of Manhattan. Many of the citizens I have interviewed (albeit the 30 protestors) complained about the noise made at night as well as sanitation problems created by the protestors. Many citizens were wondering why they weren’t protesting on Wall Street, which contains the NYSE as well as major financial buildings.

When I asked this particular question to the 30 protestors, 7 people joked that this park was the only viable campsite near Wall Street. 2 people stated that the occupation of public space was symbolic for the protest movement. However, 21 people stated that they did not know why they were camping out in Zucotti Park. “I’ve asked the same question myself,” said one of the protestors, “but I wasn’t able to get a satisfying answer from other people – they don’t know why themselves.”

We are the 99%?

I continued to ask the 30 protesters questions, this time about their motives and their goals. For the majority of protestors (22 people), their motives were similar: protesting against the bailout of major banks while they have to suffer for it. One of the protestors, a social worker, stated that funding for her department was slashed because of austerity measures taken by the U.S government. “We, as well as the downtrodden, should not suffer for those who drink champagne every other party,” was her statement. Many other government workers, whose salaries were cut as well as their department’s budget, nodded in assent.

The other 8 people had different motives, particularly those who were not involved in the public sector. Some complained about the unemployment rate, as well as President Obama’s policies on economic issues. Some wanted justice against Jerry Sandusky, the football coach of Penn State University who was accused of sexual abuse against children. One particular protestor was a self-declared anarchist, and was protesting against order and authority itself.

As for the goals of the protestors, there was a painful gap in unity. There were so many different suggestions that I wasn’t able to tie their suggestions to a particular group. One of the protestors wanted the consolidation of an efficient universal health care system. Another wanted to increase taxes for wealthy citizens, or the ‘1%.’ Goals for the protest movement included government reforms, enact the Dream Act (a bill that will allow the children of illegal immigrants to study in the US), create a socialist society in the United States, improve wages for public sector workers, destruction of Israel, and countless other opinions.

Boiling Point

(photo from http://articles.cnn.com/2011-11-17/us/us_new-york-occupy_1_police-clash-riot-police-occupy-protesters?_s=PM:US)

“Books, thousand of eyes looking at the future”, Seoul International Book Fair 2011

The history of the Seoul International Book Fair 2011

"Abilympics" is the combined word of "Ability" and "Olympics".

The first International Abilympics (IA) was held in Japan in 1981 to celebrate 'The United Nations International Year of Disabled Persons.' Its main goal was to support full participation of persons with disabilities in our society and promote their self-reliance and has been held every 4 years in various countries. This year, the South Korea hosted the Abilympics to the world.

 

At center in Yangjae, Seoul                                                             Opening ceremony of the 8th IA

The 8^th International Abilympics 2011 was held in Seoul, South Korea from the 25^th to the 30^th of September which took place at the AT Center and at the Olympic Park Stadium (Olympic Hall).

57 countries participated and the world’s most highly skilled contestants with disabilities gathered. Skills of contestants are put to test; there are 40 categories of skills competition.

On September 26^th, a spectacular opening ceremony at Olympic Park, Seoul marked the beginning of the 8^th International Abilympics.

 

In the event, Yoon Ok Kim, the first lady of South Korea, the president of IA, and the chairman of the Korea Employment Agency for the Disabled addressed a welcoming speech. After the official schedule, there were special performances that showed Korean traditional culture.

 

The contest began on Sept 27^th at the AT center, Seoul. From Basket making to computer programming, there was a wide variety of tasks that took place during the contest.

Competitions took 5 hours long on average; contestants were totally focused and put a lot of effort into each assigned task. I was so touched by their passion and their great skills. They made so many creative objects, painting, and even furniture.
Many other different programs were also held. There was a Theme Park in which contestants from all over the world could experience Korean culture.
 

Also, many booths were set which exhibited various cultures and traditions of other participating nations. This enabled contestants to enjoy other cultures, widening their perspectives. Furthermore, contestants could get work experience such as crafts, cooking, cake decorating and balloon art.

The contest provided contestants with great opportunities to learn about careers and skills which could further be developed.

 

6 days of the 8^th International Abilympics in Seoul culminated in success on Sept 30^th as followed by the closing ceremony at Olympic Hall, Olympic Park, Seoul. Awards were given to all winners. There were a total of 23 gold medals, 22 silver medals, and 15 bronze medals—South Korean contestants received the most.

After the Award ceremony, all participants, delegations, and guests enjoyed a special farewell banquet and had a time to interact with others from different countries.

After the party, I happened to interview one contestant named Herman Gatete from Rwanda. I asked short questions since he had to get into the bus; his interpreter was next to him while translating his responses.

He has a hearing disability and participated in ‘Wood Carving’.

 

After the party, I happened to interview one contestant named Herman Gatete from Rwanda. I asked short questions since he had to get into the bus; his interpreter was next to him while translating his responses.

He has a hearing disability and participated in ‘Wood Carving’.

 

Did you enjoy the 8^th International Abilympics in Seoul?

: Yes, I felt really comfortable for the last six days because all Korean staffs were nice and the AT center was well prepared for the contest.

What is the meaning of this contest to you?

: This is my first time participating in the IA. So, this contest is especially meaningful to me. I could be more confident about myself and it gives me a kind of hope in which I can dream what people without disabilities dream of becoming.

 

I was also happy to meet people with disabilities from many different countries.

 

He seemed very satisfied with the contest in Korea and I was so glad to hear that Korean volunteers were friendly. Not only the contestants but also volunteers learned valuable things from the showcased event.

 

Lee JooSil who volunteered as an interpreter said “The contest gives the message that contestants have infinite possibilities by offering many different job experiences. I was also impressed by the contestants’ talents. It a beautiful experience to witness. IA contestants faced challenges and developed special skills, even though they are physically disabled.

 

There is one thing I learned from them as I worked as a volunteer in the contest. We tend to misjudge and have prejudice towards people with disabilities, who seem to be inferior to those who are not physically or mentally disabled. We encourage disabled people when they try to do things that normal can people do. But the thing is, they can outshine people without disabilities in many aspects, only if they’re given enough opportunities in our society, like the International Abilympics.