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I have worked a lot on fluidity for some time now and I can see that I have improved quite a bit. Lately, however, we've been learning slang terms and trending words in Korean. It's pretty fun learning about it because it makes me feel like I'm from Korea. In order to learn, we've been utilizing a lot of videos to see the circumstances of which the terms are used in order to be able to understanding the meanings. It's been an interesting experience because even my language partner himself was learning new terms as well. Since we are both not from Korea, it's sort of a learning experience for both of us which is cool. 

Once we watch videos and have a better understanding, we try to use the terms in day to day conversations and I've got to say, I feel a little cool using the new terms because I am still expanding my vocabulary arsenal. I think that watching videos and seeing conversations happen in front of our eyes is very helpful in learning and understanding Korean. I hope to work towards being able to use these new terms naturally and not need to think about what to say. I think that expanding my vocabulary can also help with speaking proficiently and with fluidity, so it's like an accumulative learning experience. 

Ancient Korea is probably not a very well known to many people compared to Ancient Greece, Rome, China, Egypt, etc. But I assure you that if anything it’s just as interesting or dare I say even more so. One of the better understood periods of time in Ancient Korea is the 삼국시대 (Three Kingdom period, 57 BC – 668 AD). The period was made up of the 3 kingdoms: Gogoryeo, Baekje, and Silla. This period saw significant political rivalries, military conflicts, and cultural developments between the 3 states. Goguryeo, in the north, emerged as a powerful kingdom known for its military prowess. Baekje, in the southwest, prospered through maritime trade and cultural exchange. Silla, in the southeast, eventually unified the peninsula later under its rule after forming alliances and defeating its rivals. This period marked the beginning of true (kind of modern) Korean history as it’s where most of present day Korea’s cultural and social influences originated. 

The weaker of the 3 nations was no doubt Baekje, but it still had very interesting developments. One of which were the tombs, specifically the Tomb of 무령왕 (King Muryeong) the 25th King of Baeke. The tomb is one of the most studied archaeological finds in Korea because of how preserved it is, and therefore is a major contributor to studying the Baekje kingdom. 

The tomb was actually found when nearby tombs were being drained, and the tomb itself was also untouched by anyone since the king and queen were buried there nearly 1500 years before. The tomb also has a lot of Chinese influences, such as the placement of the king and queen in the east and west parts respectively. However, the tomb was placed in the south which was different from Chinese practices of placing them in the north. This indicates a divergence from Chinese influences which was what much of the 3 kingdoms were influenced by. The tomb itself of course contains a lot of jewelry and possessions of the king and queen. Most famously, it contains the two crowns/diadems for the king and queen (금제관식). The crowns were the first crowns found for the Baekje kingdom, making them extensively studied.

As mentioned before, the tomb was the first tomb found to be untouched by any robbers since the burial of their respective royalties. This makes the tomb very valuable in studying the Baekje kingdom to understand its cultural and political landscape so far in the past. Furthermore, the artifacts and jewelry found within the tomb also follow traditions and designs found in ancient China and Buddhism. Much of thee ancient Korean states were actually Buddhist, showing that the Buddhist origin can be traced as far back as the 3 Kingdoms period and ultimately China.

Tomb Exterior

Tomb Interior

Royal Diadems

This month, we went on a cultural trip with a few of the SDLAP members to NOVA, where more Korean stores, restaurants, and activities can be found. During this trip, we tried to recreate what a normal hangout in Korea would be like. We had Korean food, Korean desserts, visited a Korean bakery, and also did karaoke, which is a very common activity in Korea.

Our first stop was a boba shop. Boba (bubble tea) originates from Taiwan but is not widely spread internationally. In Korea, there are multiple famous boba shops such as Gongcha, The Alley, and Amasvin. Gong Cha is definitely the most popular with unique flavors. They have also expanded their chains here in America. Recently, they released a product of spicy rice cakes (tteokbokki) made with bubbles as a joke for April Fools' Day.

Our second stop was karaoke, which was connected to a cafe. Unlike karaoke in Korea, most karaoke places here are connected to a cafe or a restaurant, or they are open to the public. Additionally, the prices of karaoke in America are much more expensive than in Korea.

Our third stop was a Korean bakery. Korea is well known for its bakeries, as bakeries and cafes are popular hangout spots. Hanging out at these cafes is a big part of Korean culture, especially on a day off. Korean bakeries also use a lot of unique ingredients that are hard to find in American bakeries. A very popular ingredient incorporated into bread is red bean paste.

The fourth stop of our cultural trip was a KBBQ restaurant. KBBQ is the most popular Korean dish in America, so we had to experience a place where we cooked the meat ourselves. This place was an all-you-can-eat restaurant that provided a variety of meats, including pork, beef, and intestines. They also provided popular side dishes like kimchi, steamed eggs, hot soup, and potato salad.

After KBBQ, we also had shaved ice, which is a very common dessert in Korea. Shaved ice comes in various flavors such as mango, strawberry, red bean, and ingulmi (bean powder).

Our final destination was H-mart, one of the most famous Korean grocery stores in America. Among Koreans, H-mart is the most accessible and best Korean grocery store with the most authentic Korean products. They have a lot of frozen foods as well as fresh produce and meat that are hard to find in other international markets.

During my personal time this month, I have been reading a lot of articles and watching a lot of Korean YouTube videos. The topics vary from business to current events happening in Korea. Naver news articles are definitely my go-to resource for following up on the main events happening in Korea. YouTube is also my favorite resource for trending topics, slang, and events.

For my cultural inquiry, I’ve been looking at both fictional and biographical narratives of CODAs (children of Deaf adults). I’d heard great reviews of the 2021 film CODA with one of my favorite Deaf actresses, Marlee Matlin. All Deaf characters are portrayed by Deaf actors, and the use of ASL is prolific in the film.

As a daughter of two Deaf parents, Ruby is often responsible for interpreting. Her parents work as fishermen within a hearing community. The family finds themselves in internal conflict as Ruby debates whether to stay home and help the business or, ironically, to pursue her passion for music in college. Her parents understand the importance of her independence and passion while recognizing their inability to function without a means to communicate with the broader fishing community. In a particularly tense moment, they lose their fishing licenses after not being able to hear sirens.

Despite their inability to connect through music, they continue to show up in support of their daughter, ultimately encouraging her as she’s accepted into music school. Some of their employees learn sign, and they are able to communicate without relying on their daughter.

The Deaf community’s reception to the film was varied, with casting and complexity of characters being praised. There was also great excitement around seeing Deaf representation on such a major scale. As we know, representation is only the beginning, and inaccuracies surrounding the CODA experience were critiqued. Creative liberties, for example, that Ruby was studying music, felt trite and derogatory to some Deaf viewers. Times in which Ruby was expected to interpret were also unrealistic, particularly when she is asked to interpret in a medical setting.

From an ASL perspective, it’s lovely to watch the subtle differences in how the Deaf and hearing actors sign, with the latter being a bit more formulaic and relying less on syntactic features found in ASL but not English.

At the end of the day, this film stands more so as a testament to Deaf acting than as an accurate portrayal of the CODA experience, but I enjoyed watching it with a critical lens.

Traditional bathhouses are an essential part of South Korean culture. One type of traditional Korean bathhouse is also known as 찜질방 (jjimjilbang), which directly translates to heated rooms. The history of jjimjilbang culture can be traced back centuries to traditional Korean bathhouses, which played an important role in maintaining hygiene and promoting communal well-being. Over time, these bathhouses evolved to include better amenities, such as saunas and relaxation areas. Sauna culture has been a part of Korean society for thousands of years, with early records dating back to the Goguryeo period (37 BC - 668 AD).

Upon entering a jjimjilbang, visitors are typically greeted with gender-segregated bathing areas equipped with tubs, saunas, and showers. Beyond these facilities, jjimjilbangs offer lounging areas, sleeping rooms, fitness facilities, and dining areas serving Korean snacks and refreshments. A popular snack combination includes hard-boiled eggs, often cooked within the saunas, accompanied by sikhye, a traditional fermented rice drink.

The main amenities offered in jjimjilbangs include hot and cold sauna rooms, each providing distinct benefits such as relaxation, stress relief, and health restoration for both body and mind. These sauna rooms often feature unique themes or elements tailored to enhance the overall experience. Typically, a variety of rooms with different temperatures are available to accommodate guests' preferences and desired level of relaxation. The walls of these sauna rooms are often adorned with natural materials like wood, minerals, crystals, stones, and metals, enriching the ambiance and aroma to create an authentic atmosphere. These materials are chosen not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their traditional medicinal properties, which contribute to the therapeutic environment within the rooms. For instance, one such room is the mineral salt dry sauna, where Himalayan salt is utilized for its benefits such as improved lung function, weight loss, detoxification, and hormone balance. These dry saunas represent just a few examples of the diverse offerings found in jjimjilbangs.

When visiting a Korean sauna or jjimjilbang, it is essential to observe certain cultural customs and rules. Firstly, it's customary to remove your shoes before entering the facility and wear the provided uniform or robe inside. In communal areas, such as saunas and bathing areas, it is important to maintain modesty and respect others' privacy by keeping towels or robes on. Additionally, it's customary to shower thoroughly before entering the baths or saunas to ensure cleanliness. While inside the saunas, it is common to rotate between different temperatures and types of saunas for maximum relaxation and health benefits. Finally, it is important to clean up after yourself and follow any specific rules or guidelines posted within the facility to ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.

In conclusion, the jjimjilbang culture of Korea represents more than just a place to bathe. It embodies a holistic approach to well-being, socialization, and community bonding. With its rich history, diverse amenities, and widespread popularity, the jjimjilbang continues to play a vital role in the fabric of Korean society, offering a place of relaxation and rejuvenation for generations to come.

https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/first-time-korean-bathhouse 

https://travel-stained.com/jjimjilbang-korean-bathhouse-guide/ 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jjimjilbang

Today I explored Peggy Gou who has carved out a significant hole in the electronic music scene with her innovative blend of house, disco, and techno, all while infusing elements of her South Korean heritage into her music. This fusion has catapulted her to global fame, and her track "It Goes Like" is a perfect example of her emersion in melding catchy melodies with vibrating beats to engage listeners globally. The absence of what some may call “traditional vocals”, a landmark of numerous of Gou's songs, alongside the song's infectious beat, expertly crafted synth patterns, and dynamic bassline, underscore "It Goes Like" as my preferred track from her discography. The song's structured progression and recurring catchy hooks show Gou's talent for harmonizing disparate electronic music styles into a smooth and groundbreaking sound reflective of her cultural roots. Gou's status as a popular Asian female DJ in the worldwide electronic music lense lends cultural significance to her work, including "It Goes Like," which, while not explicitly referencing South Korean culture exactly, but symbolizes a break from industry norms traditionally dominated by men. Her work blends her musical and cultural influences, shaping the way for the upcoming generations of musicians and broadening the display of Asian artists in the EDM scene. To me, "It Goes Like" is more than just music; it's an immersive experience. Its ability to uplift, and transport its audience to a place of musical euphoria speaks volumes about Gou's artistic vision. Beyond enriching the auditory taste, this track, and her entire discography, provide a window into the synthesis of cultures through the universal pathway of music. Given its instrumental nature, "It Goes Like" shifts the focus from lyrical analysis to the exploration of the emotions and feelings evoked by the music itself. The track's lively beat and vibrant energy may be interpreted as manifestations of liberty, happiness, and the transformative power of music, inviting listeners to delve into their personal interpretations and connect emotionally with the piece. This aspect demonstrates the profound communicative potential of instrumental music, capable of communicating messages as effectively as lyrical pieces. My engagement with "It Goes Like" has significantly enriched my appreciation for the diversity of electronic music to express emotions, challenge societal norms, and celebrate cultural diversity. Peggy Gou's "It Goes Like" stands as a perfect testament to the influential role of electronic music in shaping cultural and emotional landscapes, serving as a mountain of innovation and inclusivity in the musical world.

The traditional Korean tea ceremony, known as 다도 (Dado), is actually something completely novel to me. This cultural artifact is not just a ritual but a philosophical journey, emphasizing mindfulness, respect, and the art of sharing, so I wanted to investigate such a profound practice that I had never even heard of as a Korean-American. 

The Korean tea ceremony is a testament to the subtlety and depth of Korean tradition, rooted in Buddhist practices and the Confucian principles of respect and humility. Unlike its Japanese counterpart, which can appear similar, the Korean tea ceremony is less rigid, focusing more on the natural ebbs and flows and the intrinsic beauty of the tea-making process. It is a meditative practice that encourages one to slow down and appreciate the moment, reflecting the Korean philosophical concept of 정 (jeong) with the person partaking with you — a deep-seated affection and empathy towards others that I briefly explored previously.

Dado is steeped in history, tracing back to the Goryeo Dynasty (918–1392), where tea was regarded as a medicinal beverage and a symbol of nobility and refinement. However, it was during the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1910) that tea culture flourished, embedding itself into the fabric of Korean society. The tea ceremony was not only a social ritual but also a spiritual exercise, aiming to harmonize the mind, body, and soul. The setting for these ceremonies is often as important as the ritual itself, with tea rooms and gardens designed to reflect the natural beauty and tranquility of the Korean landscape, encouraging a connection with nature. Central to the ceremony is the preparation and sharing of tea, made from carefully selected leaves and served in beautiful, often handmade, ceramic ware. Each element of the ceremony, from the choice of tea utensils to the precise movements involved in serving tea, is imbued with symbolism and meaning. The meticulous preparation of the tea, including the temperature of the water and the steeping time, is considered an art form, reflecting the dedication and skill of the tea master.

Through my exploration of the Korean tea ceremony, I have learned not only about the historical and cultural significance of tea in Korea but also about the values of patience, attention to detail, and the importance of living harmoniously with nature. These values resonate deeply with the Korean ethos and are reflected in the language and expressions used to describe the tea ceremony and its elements, and although I thought it was a more esoteric practice today, a mere vestige of past practices, I did learn that it is still well-known today.

When I go abroad to Yonsei this fall, participating in a tea ceremony is a clear bucket list item for me––partly due to its novelty and its significance. As I continue my journey of language acquisition, the insights gained from studying the tea ceremony have enriched my understanding of Korean culture and have provided a source of inspiration and reflection in my daily life. I did know some tea-related words prior to my perfunctory research, however, these were primarily just the names of teas rather than the instruments, concepts, and adjectives associated with tea making. 

Koreans cherish a plethora of festivals and holidays throughout the year, each deeply rooted in centuries-old traditions and cultural values. These celebrations offer a glimpse into the vibrant tapestry of Korean heritage. Let's delve into a few notable Korean festival customs:

Seollal (Lunar New Year): Seollal stands as a cornerstone of Korean tradition, marking the beginning of the lunar calendar with festivities that resonate with familial warmth and reverence. Families come together to honor their ancestors, partake in sumptuous feasts featuring traditional delicacies like tteokguk (rice cake soup), and exchange heartfelt well wishes. A poignant moment unfolds as children perform the sebae, a respectful bow to their elders, receiving blessings and tokens of prosperity in return. Immerse yourself in the solemn beauty of the sebae ritual through this captivating video clip: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lblXfHG9mdE

Chuseok (Harvest Moon Festival): Chuseok paints a picturesque scene of gratitude and abundance as Koreans gather to celebrate the autumn harvest. Families embark on a journey back to their ancestral hometowns, where they pay homage to their forebears with elaborate memorial rituals and offerings of food. Amidst the festivities, folk games add a playful charm to the occasion, while moonlit strolls offer an opportunity to bask in the splendor of the full moon. Step into the joyous realm of Chuseok celebrations through this captivating photo album showcasing traditional games and activities: https://blog.naver.com/koreaculturecenter/221825371230

Buddha's Birthday: A moment of reverence descends upon Korea as devotees come together to commemorate the birth of Buddha. Temples come alive with the soft glow of lanterns, beckoning pilgrims to partake in spiritual contemplation and prayer. The Lotus Lantern Festival takes center stage, adorning the streets with a dazzling array of themed lanterns and vibrant floats, a testament to the enduring spirit of Buddhist teachings.

These festivals serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of Korean culture, weaving together threads of ancestral reverence, gratitude for nature's bounty, and the profound teachings of Buddhism. 

   In my learning journal #3 I want to reflect a little bit more on my Hungarian grammar learning progress, more specifically on the past tense, in Hungarian - múlt idő. Chapter 4 in MagyarOK A2+ book is completely devoted to the past tense topic even though some of the basic explanations and rules came up earlier in the book. However, I believe that past tense in Hungarian is one of the most challenging grammar topics because of all the verb conjugations,  various cases, and spelling complexities it involves in itself. Now, let’s dive a little deeper into this topic, and new rules that I have learnt in the past couple of weeks:

There are two main ways to form the past tense in Hungarian: definite conjugation and indefinite conjugation.

First, let’s look into the definite conjugation. This type of conjugation is used when the subject and the direct object of the sentence are known and specified.

• To form the past tense for regular verbs, you typically add a suffix to the verb stem according to the specific conjugation pattern. For example:
  • “Szeret” (to love) → “Szeretett” (loved)
  • “Ír” (to write) → “Írt" (wrote)
• Some verbs have irregular conjugations in the past tense, so you need to memorize their forms. For example:
  • “Van” (to be) → “Volt” (was)
  • “Megy” (to go) → “Ment” (went)

Secondly, indefinite conjugation is used when the subject or the direct object of the sentence is not known or specified.

• In indefinite conjugation, you typically add a different set of suffixes to the verb stem. For example:
  • “Szeretni” (to love) → “Szeretett” (loved)
  • “Írni” (to write) → “Írt” (wrote)
• Irregular verbs still have irregular conjugations in the indefinite past tense. For example:
  • “Van” (to be) → “Volt” (was)
  • “Megy” (to go) → “Ment” (went)

Thirdly, it is important to mention that the endings of the past tense forms change based on whether the subject is first, second, or third person, and whether it is singular or plural.

Below are the basic endings for regular past tense conjugation:

• First person singular: -tem/-tem
• Second person singular: -tél/-tél
• Third person singular: -ett/-ott/-ött
• First person plural: -tünk/-tünk
• Second person plural: -tetek/-tetek
• Third person plural: -ttek/-ttek

And for irregular verbs, you need to memorize their specific past tense forms as they don’t follow a regular pattern… That is what I am currently doing. It is a very interesting but at the same time very challenging topic. I hope you enjoyed learning about the past tense in the Hungarian language :) More to come!

   For my cultural post #3, I have decided to write about the Memorial Day of the 1848 Revolution which is celebrated in Budapest on March 15th and is considered one of the big national holidays. While brainstorming the topics I can write about in this post, I realized that, unfortunately, I do not know much history, or background about such an important event in the history of Hungary. So, this made me browse through and read different articles, and webpages that can give me more in-depth information and knowledge regarding this topic. Here is what I learned.

   As I already said, the Memorial Day of the 1848 Revolution refers to one of the most significant events in Hungarian history that commemorates the revolution against the Habsburg monarchy and the fight for independence and freedom, which occurred in 1848 and 1849. “This revolution was part of the wider wave of revolutionary movements that swept across Europe in 1848, often referred to as the ‘Springtime of Nations’” (Wikipedia). Various grievances such as political oppression, social inequality, and economic hardship contributed to and fielded the revolution in Hungary. “Inspired by nationalist and liberal ideals, Hungarians sought greater autonomy from the Austrian Empire, which was ruled by the Habsburgs. The revolution began on March 15, 1848, when a peaceful demonstration in Pest (now part of Budapest) escalated into a full-fledged revolt. The demands of the revolutionaries included the establishment of a constitutional monarchy, civil liberties, and Hungarian independence within a federated Habsburg Empire” (Wikipedia). Unfortunately for Hungarians, the revolution faced stiff opposition from the Habsburg monarchy, which managed to maintain control over its territories. “And despite valiant resistance by Hungarian forces, the revolution was eventually crushed by the combined Austrian and Russian armies. The Hungarian leaders were captured, and many were executed or imprisoned. The defeat of the revolution resulted in the restoration of Austrian control over Hungary and the imposition of repressive policies, including the abolition of the Hungarian Constitution and the suppression of Hungarian culture and language” (Wikipedia).

   Even though this was a very tragic period for the Hungarian nation, the Memorial Day of the 1848 Revolution holds significant importance in Hungarian national consciousness. It serves as a reminder of the Hungarian people’s struggle for freedom and independence and their enduring spirit of resistance against oppression. Various official ceremonies are held across the country, typically beginning with the raising of the Hungarian flag. These ceremonies often take place in prominent public spaces, including squares and government buildings. Luckily enough I was able to be in Budapest on March 15th, 2019 when I witnessed how important the Memorial Day celebration is for the Hungarian nation. Also, different processions and parades are held in cities and towns across Hungary, with participants carrying national flags, banners, and symbols of Hungarian patriotism. As I remember one of the biggest parades was passing through the Parliament and onto the riverside until the Chain Bridge; I enjoyed watching these people, and I felt like I was even a part of such a historic and important event. And of course, families and communities are actively engaged in the celebration, they come together to spend the holiday through social gatherings, picnics, and festive meals. A lot of traditional Hungarian foods and drinks are served on the markets. In my opinion, goulash is the best :)

   I hope you enjoyed reading my cultural post, and that you have learned something new and useful about one of the major Hungarian national holidays - the Memorial Day of the 1848 Revolution! I am going to include a collage of pictures below in which you can see some of the most famous locations in Budapest where the main celebrations took place. 

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hungarian_Revolution_of_1848

A key staple to Korean cuisine is the idea of banchans, also known as “side dishes” or “appetizers,” that are set at the middle of the table alongside the main course. Therefore, I wanted to delve into the origins of banchan and how it has evolved throughout the years.

Banchan dates back to the mid-Three Kingdom period, around the 300s AD. The reason is due to the large influence of Buddhism in which meat consumption was highly discouraged. In addition to Buddhism, due to the mountains and cold winters, Korea was not able to produce large amounts of vegetables, therefore the citizens would store vegetables in pots. By doing so, they were able to ferment them and have food available for the winter, creating kimchi. Banchan has also been served to the king during the Joseon Dynasty with a traditional cuisine called hanshik. The flavors in this cuisine were very mild and refined, served with 12 banchan side dishes.

One important part of banchan is the familial aspect of it. For example, there is something called kimjang, which is a kimchi-preparation event, where large amounts of kimchi is laid out so all members of the family can work on it. The event provides the chance for everyone to come together and participate. Parents would also prepare kimchi to give out to their children as a token of affection.

Originally, kimchi was served in water and at the time, radish was the main vegetable used. Besides kimchi, there are also other popular banchans that people make. These include bean sprouts, cucumbers, and sesame leaves pickled in soy sauce. In more high end Korean restaurants, they would even serve egg rolls, tteokbokki, and ganjang gejang. The dishes offered are similar to those that would be served at home so customers feel more welcomed and comfortable. Restaurants take great pride with their banchas since it is the best way to ensure customers are satisfied by their meal. In restaurants, the customer has free refills of banchan, so when it’s all eaten, you simply have to ask for more. The reason behind this is due to the fact that banchan was cheaper than rice during difficult times in the economy such as the Korean war. It was expensive to give refills of rice, but to make sure the customer was full, they offered a second round of the side dishes. Therefore, it is very rare to have to pay for these dishes since the idea of banchan being free has been ingrained in Korean society. 

In addition to the idea of free refills, there is also the relationship customers create with the owners of the restaurants, especially those owned by an “emo,” or auntie in korean. This helps create a nice and comfortable atmosphere. Nowadays, there are restaurants that have a self-service system so the customers are the ones to choose how much of banchan they want to eat. This also helps reduce the burden on the staff since they would have made the dishes in bulk. Overall, the origins of banchan is pretty interesting and it is fascinating to see how there is so much history on Korea’s famous side dishes. 

Last weekend, I watched this Korean show called Physical 100. It is about 100 competitors competing to win the title of "best physique" in Korea. I noticed that there were a couple competitors who weren't Korean, but spoke the language fluently. I can notice that they have an accent, but can understand everything being spoken. However, this one competitor was reading a sign in Korean and he had some trouble reading it. I thought that this was pretty interesting because this shows that there are multiple aspects of being fluent in a language. I thought that this resonated with me because I also have an American accent when speaking Korean although I can speak the language almost fluently. However when it comes to reading and writing, I'm not as fluent as I speak. I'm able to speak for the most part without unnatural breaks, but when it comes to reading, I read fairly slow and sometimes pause because I'm going too fast. Writing is my weakest point as I sometimes misspell words and need to make sure I spelled the words right before sending a text.

To work on these weaknesses, I am practicing reading and writing a lot to not only be fluent, but also proficient because I would say I'm only proficient and fluent in speaking. I may be criticizing myself a bit harshly, but I just want to able to communicate competently in every aspect of Korean. There is a stereotype for Korean Americans born in the United States to not be able to speak Korean or speak it well, so I want to break that stereotype for myself. Currently, we are working on these weaknesses of mine and I have to say, I am improving little by little. I thought it was pretty interesting to see someone with similar weaknesses as me in Korean.

A law was passed recently to allow the police to release mugshots/pictures of perpetrators/individuals charged with crime - bringing about both positive and negative effects. Unlike America, where mugshot records are publicly available, in Korea, these mugshots have been blurred/censored in media, sometimes even only referring to the person as their last name, such as Mr. Kim or Ms. Park. By doing so, the government protects the identity of the perpetrator as one of their given rights, but this has raised many concerns. What happens when said perpetrator escapes or is released, only to commit another crime? How can the public population be aware of such criminal identities if they don't have any information about the criminal? 

Of course, these are extreme scenarios. Certain procedures mean information about the suspect can be released to the public/press, given the right conditions. However, the laws upholding the privacy of the criminal have often hindered the release of information to the public, resulting in minimal effects. There have been numerous serial crimes in the past couple decades in which controversy had sparked from the lack of disclosures on suspects to the public, raising extreme concerns. There are and has been a subset of people who remain advocates for the privacy of the perpetrator, of course to a certain extent, as this issue has to do with violating one's human rights.

I believe this issue is heavily intertwined with the culture in Korea, or Asian countries in general. Crime rates in Eastern Asia are especially low in comparison to the West - laws inhibiting guns, stricter drug controls, etc. definitely contribute to this, but a greater inhibiting factor is social perception and culture. Perhaps a reason Korea can afford to protect the identity of their perpetrators is the lower crime rates, but what ends up happening in such suppressive cultures is the emergence of extreme ciminals. Korea is a heavily collectivist culture, compared to the West which is heavily individualistic. A collectivist culture places emphasis on the connections between an individual and their family, and their society as a whole. The group is much more important as a whole, rather than one's individualistic gains/needs. This, combined with your common negative social perception of crime, is quite the repressor, as committing a crime is much more consequential to your family, friends, community, etc., in terms of identity, shame, etc. Committing a crime isn't doesn't just bring about legal repercussions, it also paints you as a shameful entity of society.

With the new law, people hope that the public remains safer thanks to better divulgement of information. The bill itself was passed unanimously, voted in 215-0 in favor of passing. This says a lot about the previous practice, and while this has sparked the debate between privacy and transparency, hopefully it creates a positive outcome.

Dating shows have been a big deal in Korea, with the most popular ones being “Heart Signal,” “Exchange,” and “Single’s Inferno.” These shows have gained immense popularity both in South Korea and internationally. Each show has different themes and concepts to set themselves apart from competitors. Out of the three, I am a huge fan of “Exchange” and “Single’s Inferno.”

“Exchange” has the most unique theme, in my opinion, where ex-couples come on the show to go on dates with each other. The information about who the exes are is disclosed, which makes the show more interesting. One couple that dated for 6 years became really famous after the show. For the first time, a new couple was created, which I believe is still together to this day. “Exchange” part 2 is currently airing on Apple TV and is getting a lot of attention in Korea as well as in foreign countries. Some streamers in Korea are even becoming famous by creating reactionary videos of the show.

“Single’s Inferno” features attractive singles going to an island to survive and play games to earn a night off the island for a date. This show is very similar to the American show called “Bachelor in Paradise.” I watched a few episodes with one of my students, Chasey, and she pointed out some major cultural differences. Because Korea is more conservative, she found the interactions to be very awkward. While people on "Bachelor in Paradise" casually have more sexual interactions, Koreans mainly focus on their conversations and earning tickets for a date. It is very rare for these Koreans to physically interact with one another. Another difference is the outfits that the cast brings to the show. The level of scandal is very different in America and in Korea. People on "Bachelor in Paradise" usually only wear swimsuits and bikinis, while in Korea, they still wear revealing clothes but remain fully clothed. There was a lot of backlash when a Korean girl brought a scandalous pajama to the show. It seems to be a harsher setting for Koreans to be on these shows because they have to care a lot more about public judgment. While being flirty with each other, the cast still have to be conservative and cautious with their actions and appearances.

Overall, people on these shows tend to appear to increase their fame. Typically, if a person receives positive reviews, they become social media famous with a lot of sponsorships. A unique case was a guy named Dex, who is now a celebrity for his humor and attractive looks. These Korean dating shows are great examples of cultural differences and dating styles in Korea.

Exchange Season 1

As far as my four areas I wanted to explore as a way to practice Korean and engage with the culture I am only really succeeding in the area related to gaming. I have been forced to engage with Korean daily due to my video game clients being in Korean, and despite not knowing what I am reading all the time it does make me sound things out, and try to comprehend what I am reading. I have been incorporating the IPA sometimes when I am thinking about sounds in Korean. Especially vowels when I am comparing how a similar vowel in English is different on the IPA vowel chart. I think I need to put more effort into the grammatical areas of Korean specifically. The song breakdown idea in my learning plan hasn’t really been explored yet, but it would present a good opportunity to engage with the grammar and spelling of a lot of unique words and phrases, and then when I listen to those songs it can better stick in my mind as I can translate and think about what I am listening to. As far as the cultural aspect is concerned I can’t say I am learning too much more than I already know from living there. I am enjoying some of the preliminary research on the research presentation I am planning to do on Korean E-sports. I definitely emphasize pragmatic competences in my learning so far because I have been exposed to a lot of abbreviations, niche lingo, and even Korean adapted English words and phrases. All of this has helped me get a better handle on some of the cultural references and how different tones and patterns of speech are employed based on the social circumstances. 

One thing I've noticed about our major cities is the presence of cafes, or the lack thereof. Chance is, there will probably be a cafe around the corner or down the block, whether it be a franchise, chain store, or a small-independent cafe. But the presence of these cafes are arguably lacking, relative to Europe and Korea. Many of European cities' infrastructure is designed to be more human-friendly (bike-friendly, better walkability, etc), perhaps allowing better interconnection between cafes and their surroundings. There exists a significant social aspect of the cafe culture as well, highlighting it as a place of leisure and relaxation. In America, I think the mentality is to grab and go - get your caffeine and dip. In fact, a lot of our cafes are kind of designed more around the retail aspect, having an extensive menu and numerous other products like mugs, and less on the cafe-space aspect, offering limited space in relation to the cafes of Korea.

In Korea, you'll find a cafe quite literally around the corner. In fact, you'll find a bunch of them, whether it be 24/7 study cafes, pc cafes, board-game cafe, music-space cafes, pet cafes, or just your normal cafe - some side by side, some on top of others, even some underground. Even amongst these normal cafes, there are clear distinctions, with some being chain stores, and some being extensively (or minimally) decorated for social media. But most importantly, unlike the states, the presence of these cafes are highlighted as they act as focal meeting areas, study spots, date locations, or just a place to socialize. I'm not saying we as Americans don't have this - we do, but I think the idea of cafes as a social/leisure place is more actualized in Korea.

As for why, there are multiple reasons. Korea is a relatively small country with a decent population - major cities lack common areas for people to use for socialization/leisure, and these cafes offer the people a third space. Social media has a very large presence in the younger generations, and these cafes offer decorative spaces for pictures, taking advantage of such incentives. Finally, these cafes are the perfect study spot - food and beverage in the proximity, within the city, and often spacious. As mentioned earlier, there are cafes solely focused towards studying, being open 24/7. I actually was at one of these a few times, and not only is it packed at night, but it is dead-quiet. I think the strong presence of study cafes must have to do with the study/educational culture of Korea.

There has been a term has been popularized in Korea in recent times - "카공족" (cagongjok). It essentially means "cafe study tribe", and as you can guess, it refers to the people who often study at cafes. But the reason why such an innocent act as received a name is because these people will quite literally study or work at the cafe extensively for 6+ hours, almost "living" in these cafes. While long usage of cafes is not inherently wrong, it can often hurt the cafe's profitability as the customer will probably only buy a couple of things, and then take up space. What makes these situations worse is that some people will bring their entire work/study setup, taking up an entire table that could be used by more people. A image below, something I found funny, is a setup a cafe-owner took a picture of, where a customer brought their printer. But all in all, this shows the extreme presence of cafe culture in Korea.

Since my last language journal, I have continued to use Korean media as the medium for my learning. With my language partner, I have selected certain pieces of media best fit for education, whether it be podcasts, talk shows, or dramas. For example, I've noticed over the past few weeks that talk shows are the best for improving practical comprehension, as a lot of these shows revolve around current psychosocial culture, and the vocabulary/flow/grammar used is best representative of the Korean used by the average Korean person. However, within these talk shows, there are many genres and topics, one being a talk show that uses a mixture of English and Korean for the sake of comedy and international outreach. Another talk show is one that revolves around the guest's fridge, and a substantial portion is dedicated to discussing about the contents of that fridge. These examples are some of the talk shows I've omitted, as I didn't think they would contribute much to my learning. Rather, I have chosen talk shows that really are centered on inquisitive and/or casual discussions between the host and guest.

One example of this is Yoo Quiz, a show where 2 renown hosts ask their guests, which range from celebrities to normal people, and just chat with them. Whilst this sounds incredibly dry on paper, the carefully selected host personalities (lighthearted and upbeat) as well as the casual environment of the show (there is no set location) allows for a relaxed, entertaining, and informative discussion. Watching this show has been really helpful as the scope of guests is quite wide - I've heard all sorts of jargon, dialects, and sayings.

Another show I've been watching is 나영석의 나불나불 (Nattering with Nah) on youtube, where a famous producer whom I am a fan just films his extremely casual conversations with his guests, whom are all actual friends/connections of his, and not on the show for the sake of the show. Whether it be set during a meal at a restaurant or at home, this show feels extremely casual, allowing me to better comprehend true dialogue excluding formal and specialized language.

I have done this "selection" of sort amongst different media to cater to my learning needs, and so far it has been great. Watching these with my partner allows me to ask her clarifying questions, and it is both informative and fun.

Spring 2024 SDLC112

Cultural Post #4

태극기 "Taegeukgi"

David Kim

30262888

david.kim123@richmond.edu

태극기 Taegeukgi is the national flag of South Korea. It has a unique design that reflects several key aspects of Korean culture and philosophy. The Taegeukgi was first officially adopted as the national flag of Korea on March 6, 1883, during the reign of King Gojong of the Joseon dynasty. During the Japanese occupation of Korea(1910-1945), the Taeguekgi was banned, and the Japanese flag was imposed as the official flag. However, the Taeguekgi continued to be used by Korean independence activists as a symbol of resistance. After Japan’s defeat in World War II, Korea regained its independence, and the Taeguekgi was reinstated as the national flag. In 1948, the Taekguekgi was designated as its national flag when South Korea was officially established as a separate country. During the Korean War, the Taegukgi became a symbol of South Korean resistance against North Korean invasion, as well as a symbol of hope and unity. Today, the Taegeukgi is a symbol of Korean identity and is displayed proudly on various occasions, such as national holidays, sporting events, and official ceremonies.

The Taeguekgi has a red and blue Taeguek circle in the center and four black trigrams surrounding the circle on a white background. The white background of the flag represents purity, peace, and homogeneity, which is highly valued by the Korean people and culture. At the center of the flag is the 태극 Taegeuk, which is a red and blue symbol representing the concept of yin and yang, the duality of the universe in Korean philosophy. The red section represents positive cosmic forces, and the blue section represents the negative forces. Together, they symbolize balance and harmony. It also represents the truth of nature that all things are created and evolve through the interaction of yin and yang. 

Surrounding the Taegeuk are four sets of black trigrams collectively called 건곤감리 geongongamri or 4괘 kwe, each in the corners of the flag. These trigrams are derived from the Chinese I Ching (Book of Changes) and represent the four classical elements, directions, virtues, and natural phenomena. They are also associated with the four guardian spirits that protect the country and its people. The left top one is called 건 geon, which symbolizes the sky. The right bottom one is called 곤 gon, which symbolizes earth. The right top one is called gam, which symbolizes the moon or water. The left bottom one is called 리 ri, which symbolizes the sun or fire. You would read or write in the order just like when you write the alphabet n, from left top to right bottom. Then you will have 3,4,5, and 6 strokes in a consecutive order. 

The Taegeukgi has a specific set of proportions. The width of the flag is twice its height, and the diameter of the Taegeuk circle is half the width of the flag. These proportions are meant to create a harmonious and balanced appearance. The Taegeukgi flag represents the values of the Korean people who respect nature and harmonization. 

Korean Source

https://encykorea.aks.ac.kr/Article/E0058892 ;

https://www.mois.go.kr/chd/sub/a05/birth/screen.do

English Source

https://www.mois.go.kr/eng/sub/a03/nationalSymbol/screen.do