Tales From The Dark Side

October 27, 2015, 6:37 pm

Tales From The Dark Side

by: Joe McPherson | .

Groove Korea (groovekorea.com) | .

published: October 28, 2015

A darkness lurks beneath the Seoul concrete. This bright neon-lit metropolis was borne from a violent scandalous history. Power struggles, of which there were many, regularly ended in bloodshed, right next to where currently stands a Face Shop. If you’ve never looked at Korean history, and I mean the deep stuff, you should grab yourself a book. It’s tumultuous, intriguing and tragic. It’s Game of Thrones in Asia. I personally lead Korea’s only ghost tour, The Dark Side of Seoul (www.koreafoodtours.com), and it covers the ghostly haunts, the massacres and the hidden sex scandals of the city. Here are a few stories to tell.

The Alley of Ashes

In the 1500s, a 12-year-old king was on the throne. Unfortunately he had a very ambitious uncle, Prince Suyang. One evening, King Tanjong and his entourage were progressing through an alleyway outside the palaces. Suyang and his men were waiting there in ambush. They struck, and there was a great battle in the streets. Tanjong escaped, but by the end of the battle, there were so many dead that they couldn’t count the bodies. The stench was so bad that they ended up burning the area to the ground. After that, the area was known as Jaegol, or the Alley of Ashes. Today, the area is officially called Jae-dong, or the Neighborhood of Ashes.

The Tomb Bridge

The founder of the Joseon dynasty, Yi Seong-gye, had two queens (hey, it’s good to be the king). He was very much in love with his second queen, Sindeok. However, the sons from the first queen didn’t like her so much, mostly because Sindeok kept trying to promote her sons ahead of them to be in line for the throne. Unfortunately, the king’s beloved Sindeok died and he was so broken-hearted that he built an elaborate tomb for her. While the king was in mourning, the prime minister hatched a plot with Sindeok’s sons to assassinate the first queen’s sons. The boys got wind of the plot and made a pre-emptive strike, killing Sindeok’s sons. This became known as First Strife of Princes (a very Game of Thrones name). The king was so distraught that he abdicated the throne and gave it to the first son from his first queen. Later, one of the younger sons, Yi Bang-won, convinced his brother to let him have the throne.

Soon after Yi Bang-won took the throne, a flood came through the Cheonggyecheon River, washing out one of the bridges. This man hated Sindeok so much that one of his first acts as king was to dismantle her tomb and use the stones to rebuild the bridge so that people would always walk on top of her grave. It’s still there today. Lovers and tourists continue to obliviously walk on her grave. Most don’t notice the plaques in Korean and English that tell what they’re walking on, even though the plaques demote Sindeok to concubine.

The Bloody Hospital

The second half of the 19th century, when the Joseon dynasty was in decline, witnessed a lot of bloody revolts. One such rebellion was the Gapshin Revolt of 1884. Pro-Japanese collaborators, who wanted the Hermit Kingdom to open up and modernize, tried to strike a coup. This resulted in a three-day battle in the middle of Seoul, mostly in the area between the main palaces, where the yangban aristocracy lived. The powerful and very kick-ass Queen Min was prepared. Sensing this was coming, she secretly requested aid from Qing dynasty China, who sent troops down. When the revolt started, the Chinese troops quelled it.

The next year, westerners were first being allowed in Korea. These were mostly diplomats and missionaries. They introduced themselves to King Kojong. The king greeted them but asked them to be patient because they had trouble finding proper housing for them. The king’s advisors reminded him that there were these newly empty houses from officials killed in the Gapshin Revolt. The king was appalled. He didn’t want to insult his guests by housing them in haunted houses. Yet when the westerners saw how cheap those houses were going for, they took them.

Missionary doctor Horace B. Allen took over the house that belonged to a Korean official, who was killed along with his family in the revolt. Dr. Allen converted the house into Korea’s first modern hospital, which later became Severance Hospital, which we still have today. In his journals, Dr. Allen recorded that they had to scrub the place down because of all the blood and gore. Two people, who have taken our tour, have said that they saw the ghost of a little girl near the site.

This is but one of many stories we tell on The Dark Side of Seoul Tour. It runs every Friday and Saturday until December, when it closes for the winter season. You can sign up at KoreaFoodTours.com.

More info:

What: The Dark Side Of Seoul Tour

Where: COEX Convention Center, Seoul

When: Every Friday and Saturday until December (then closed for winter)

Cost:

Dark Side Of Seoul

Regular Version: KRW 38,000 (single ticket), KRW 32,000 (group ticket of 4 or more)

Extended Version: KRW 43,000 (single ticket), KRW 38,000 (group ticket of 4 or more)

Website:www.koreafoodtours.com

Facebook:www.facebook.com/KoreanFood

Groove Korea website

Tags: Travel

↧

The Three Sister Isles

October 27, 2015, 10:14 pm

≫ Next: Wild Beauty

≪ Previous: Tales From The Dark Side

The Three Sister Isles

by: Barbara Bierbrauer | .

Groove Korea (groovekorea.com) | .

published: October 28, 2015

The Three Sisters

Think of island vacations and you probably think of resorts and beaches. Basically it’s the same any island you go to, right? Where there is a beach, there is water and sand, and sea all around. And then there’s that “going on vacation” feeling of not having to work. But all those preconceptions aside, what makes traveling really special is the people that you meet and the adventures you are bound to experience.

Island hopping can be a serious alternative to experiencing all those predicted notions and more. Separated only by a few kilometers, three sister islands in the Gulf of Thailand – Tao, Phangan and Samui — can offer the “basic package“ island hopping vacation with as many add-ons as needed. Guaranteed are the sandy or rocky beaches, clear water, jungles, sun and delicious food. And with easy accessibility via Bangkok to Koh Samui from Incheon Airport, or staying one night in the capital and then combining a comfortable night train with a bus and then a ferry to one of the islands makes Thailand’s beach jewel only a day away.

But the basic package is the only similarity the sister islands have. It’s as if the siblings have only their mother in common, and the fathers belong to three different cultures and races. The people and atmosphere differ from island to island with each destination offering unique experiences compared to the next.

Koh Tao

The smallest and least developed island is also considered the “youngest” of the three. The islet is a complete paradise for divers and snorkelers, with international diving schools spread all over the island. Greeting the sharks amidst a morning dive is no problem as there are plenty of them guarding the house reefs. (Just remember, the snorkeling mask makes them look twice as big and in reality they are a size of a kitten).

Koh Tao has been populated for less than 70 years and houses around 3000 residents. There is a distinct feeling of visiting a little village; the type where everyone knows everyone else, and information will undoubtedly spread as quickly as news about Harry Styles’ new haircut.

However, diving is the huge draw and social door opener in Koh Tao; irrespective of whether you are traveling alone or in a group, there are many diving groups where you can discover “your” people. Soon, you’ll have friends aplenty and may even find yourself sitting in the shade of patios, thumbing through marine life books with other fellow sun-bronzed and tattooed divers.

As with any sub-culture, Koh Tao people have their own patterns and codes that establish their own open, egalitarian and sincere characteristics that may differ from your initial impressions. The number of dives and the numerous sites that frequent your log book, the motives behind your tattoos, or the name card with those Financial Analyst or Lawyer titles on it doesn’t really matter. Lose yourself on the island as you will feel that you belong to Koh Tao and Koh Tao belongs to you.

Koh Phangan

Second sister, Koh Phangan is twice as big as Koh Tao and has a longer history and a larger population. As much as Koh Tao is about escaping the world above water and discovering underwater life, Koh Phangan is about stepping out of a materialistic reality and finding our own spirituality, inner peace, and balance.

Although a bigger retreat, you can get familiar with both the island and its people, and yet retain your anonymity. The roads are in better condition than Tao and offer a fantastic journey, even for those not yet-experienced bikers. A ride around the island can enable you to encounter working elephants, discover different beaches, or join up to 30,000 ravers for the legendary Full Moon Party on the shores of Hat Rin.

But what really makes the island incredibly interesting is its international population. Explore the beaches and it’s fascinating to learn everybody’s story. Meet the German girl who was a former clerk who emigrated to build a meditation and spirituality center while taking care of four abandoned puppies. Or converse with the Czech guy who sold his business in Prague to open a backpacker’s resort. Walk further down and try some Italian pasta made by the Italian guy who recently moved over or purchase a French baguette made by the French baker who calls Phangan home. In fact, probably every village has at least one business run by a Westerner. These people are all united by one life-changing decision – to leave their old life behind and start anew at the beach side surrounded by the jungle. Koh Phangan offers The Beach experience and you can certainly be Leonardo DiCaprio’s character forever. Or a week at least.

The international community on Koh Phangan also adds to the island’s incredible atmosphere, while the Thais continue to contribute their marvelous easy-going attitude and renowned friendliness. In addition, the Germans add their reliability, the Swedes their humor, and the Americans can offer a deliciously cooked steak. While the people are amazingly different, they are all joined together as one community, craving adventure and courage.

Koh Samui

Last, but not least, our trip brings us to our final island; the world-famous Koh Samui. Some 30 years ago, Koh Samui was what Koh Pangan is now – a paradise for backpackers, a destination for singles or young couples, not one for families with kids or for the older generation. That has changed over time as the popularity of the island has grown and accessibility has become easier. Direct flights from Samui’s own airport to Bangkok and many other Asian destinations are available hourly. However, tourists be warned that flight prices to Koh Samui airport can be up to four times more expensive than the mainland airport of Surat Thani.

Smaller towns on the island can offer a broad variety of what a tourist needs – coffee shops, bars, restaurants, food markets, bike rentals, dress shops and boutiques, selling fake Gucci and Prada.

However, a major difference between Samui and its siblings is the broad variety of resorts. It is not all about the diving or chatting with backpackers from Europe. In a slightly more upmarket itinerary, enjoy relaxing at the infinity pool, dining at the resorts’ restaurants, or drinking a cocktail at a beach bar. The variety of comfort and moderate-to-expensively priced accommodation is incredibly broad, providing numerous hostel and five-star lodging options.

Koh Samui is very much the right place for those who are allergic to making decisions. The stress levels remain low as choosing a meal from the menu or which pool that overlooks the sea to swim in remains high up on the agenda. You don´t have to leave your resort as you will probably have everything on your doorstep. Should you decide to make a journey behind the resort gates, the staff will arrange a comfortable tour in an air-conditioned vehicle for you. Although, be warned that the traffic is heavier than on the other two islands.

So which island is right for you? Well, the choice of the “right” island boils down to your personality and preferences. Whether you like to go for a bit of diving, refuse to shave for the vacation period, or simply want to change your life completely, the islands have it all on offer. So take a seat on an elephant, a sip of that Pina Colada, and be a bit of a chameleon by traveling to all three beautiful islands in the Gulf of Thailand. The sisters are awaiting you with open arms.

Groove Korea website

Tags: Travel

↧

Wild Beauty

October 29, 2015, 6:57 pm

≫ Next: A walking tour through Gunsan’s living relics of modern Korean history

≪ Previous: The Three Sister Isles

Wild Beauty

by: Robert Koehler | .

Seoul Magazine | .

published: October 30, 2015

Ancient rivers cutting deep valleys as they meander between weathered bluffs. Railways snaking their way along narrow gorges between the soaring heights. Tranquil mountain towns full of friendly, rustic charm. The county of Jeongseon – built around the small town of the same name – is everything you’d expect from the highlands of eastern Korea, and then some. While admittedly not the easiest place to reach from Seoul, those willing to make the effort are rewarded with a rejuvenating weekend of rugged vistas, fascinating local culture and a few high-adrenaline thrills.

An old mining town embraces its past

For most of the 20th century, the economy of Jeongseon – and, indeed, many of the surrounding towns in this less polished region of eastern Korea – depended on the rich veins of coal that ran beneath the towering peaks. Coal was so important to Korea’s national development, in fact, that the government, with great difficulty and at great expense, built a railway line through the mountains to connect the mines with Seoul and markets further afield. By the 1990s, however, demand for coal was flatlining, and the government “rationalized” the industry by closing many of the nation’s mines.

With its chief industry all but dead, Jeongseon turned to tourism to make ends meet. Tourism authorities have focused their efforts of the region’s natural splendor, but they’ve also put their historical legacy to good use. The old Samcheok Mine, whose black gold fueled the Miracle on the Hangang until its closing in 2001, has been transformed into the Samtan Art Mine, one of Korea’s grittiest – and, at 832 m above sea level, most remote – art and culture spaces. The mine shafts, main hall, marshaling yard and other facilities have been renovated for use as exhibit spaces, performance venues and even a restaurant/wine bar.

One of Jeongseon’s most popular attractions is the Jeongseon Auraji Rail Bike, a 7.2 km stretch of scenic rail bike track that runs through the narrow valley linking the village of Gujeol-ri with Auraji Station. Not so long ago, this was a functioning rail line used mostly by coal carriers, but declining traffic led to the line’s closure in 2001. Rather than let the old line rot, however, national rail carrier KORAIL, inspired by similar cases in Europe, converted it into a rail bike line carrying two- and four-seat draisines (old-style bicycles outfitted to travel along railroad tracks), allowing passengers to pedal along a landscape of rivers, mountains and tunnels. At the final stop, Auraji Station, you can catch a special sightseeing train, the A-Train, back to Seoul if you wish.

Zipping to Korea

Jeongseon’s biggest draw is its highland scenery – 22 of its peaks reach over 1,000 meters in height, and the hilltops offer some jaw-dropping vistas of endless, alternating lines of blue-green ridges and deep valleys.

Behind Jeongseon-eup is Arii Hills, a scenic lookout at a U-shaped bend in the Samhaengcheon River. The bend produces a strip of land that closely resembles the Korean Peninsula. If you’ve got a head for heights, the best vantage point is the Sky Walk, an observation deck with a glass floor built on a sheer cliff overlooking the river. You may have to wait in line, but the views are well worth it.

True adrenaline junkies, however, will make their way to the Zipwire, a zip-line that carries you from the peak of the Arii Hills lookout point down to the river below. If hurdling 70-120 km an hour from the top of a mountain while hanging from a wire hundreds of meters above the valley floor is your idea of a fun time, then this is your place.
If you happened to be in downtown Jeongseon-eup on the 2nd, 7th, 12th, 17th, 22nd or 27th of the month, check out the town’s historic five-day market (named for how frequently it occurs, not its duration). This is a good place to buy some medicinal herbs picked from the county’s wild mountains. It’s also a good place to try out some very chewy buckwheat noodles and a cup of corn makgeolli, a local favorite.

Hilltop seas of silver

Mt. Mindungsan – literally, “Bare Mountain” – is a big peak at 1,118.8 m, but its gentle slopes make it a relatively easy climb for hill walkers. As its name suggests, its peaks are oddly devoid of trees – in the old days, locals used to burn the vegetation to encourage the cultivation of wild herbs. Instead, the massif is crowned by large fields of silver grass. Starting in September, the fields of waist-high reeds begin to ripen, transforming the hilltops into shimmering seas of silver and gold.

The mountains reed fields are especially beautiful in the warm light of the early morning. You can camp at the peak, which comes with the added bonus of allowing you to see the star-filled nighttime skies, a rare treat for city slickers. The best time to visit is during the Mindungsan Silver Grass Festival (Sept. 19-Nov. 8), when you can finish off a day of hiking with good food and cultural activities.

Birthplace of Arirang

Auraji “Lake” is not a lake at all, but rather the confluence of two cool, clean mountain streams. Nowadays it’s a popular relaxation spot with a stone river crossing, some larger foot bridges, a viewing pavilion and small pedal-powered watercraft lazily plying the water. In the old days, however, this was the departure point for the raft people who transported Gangwon-do’s prized timber to Hanyang, or present-day Seoul, where it was used to build the royal palaces and other landmarks in the capital. Timber rafting was dangerous work anywhere in the world – see Joan Baez’s “The River in the Pines” – and Korea was no different.

This danger, combined with the tragedy it often brought, gave birth to Jeongseon’s best-known contribution to Korea’s musical heritage, the Jeongseon Arirang. This slow and mournful take on Korea’s beloved folk song, designated Intangible Cultural Asset No. 1 by the government of Gangwon-do, tells of the heartbreak of a woman whose husband, a raftsman, departed down the river one day never to return. The woman is still there waiting, her bronze statue staring longingly over the river and into the mountains beyond.

For six centuries, raft people sang the Jeongseon Arirang as they navigated the sometimes treacherous river passage to Hanyang. While Seoul’s version of Arirang is probably the best known, the Jeongseon version is the oldest and, hence, the “original.” The Jeongseon Arirang Festival (Oct. 9-12) celebrates this heritage with musical performances and contests, reenactments of river rafting and other events.

More info
The town of Jeongseon-eup has a few small motels and a good many pension houses. The top place to stay, however, is the High 1 Resort (www.high1.com), a ski-resort/casino complex in the mountains east of town. It’s best known for being the only casino in the country that Koreans are legally allowed to enter, but it has also got some good accommodation options

Like the rest of the province of Gangwon-do, Jeongseon produces high-quality buckwheat, potatoes and corn, the latter used to make milky rice wine, or makgeolli. Buckwheat noodles, or makguksu, are a local favorite. Another Jeongseon specialty is rice mixed with medicinal herbs, or gondeurebap. Ssarigol (T. 033-562-4554) in downtown Jeongseon-eup has been doing this dish longer than any other restaurant in the country.

Buses to Jeongseon-eup depart from Seoul’s Dongseoul Bus Terminal (travel time: about 3 hours). A more scenic, albeit longer, option is KORAIL’s special A-Train, which departs from Cheongnyangni Station at 8:20 AM and arrives at Auraji Station at 12:30. The train back to Seoul departs from Auraji Station at 5:10 PM. The trip takes about four hours, but the train is fitted with large sightseeing windows through which passengers can take in the scenic wilds of Gangwon-do. It doesn’t run every day, so check KORAIL’s ticketing website (www.letskorail.com) before you go.

Korea Tourism Organization website

Seoul Magazine

Tags: Travel

↧

A walking tour through Gunsan’s living relics of modern Korean history

November 2, 2015, 4:37 pm

≫ Next: Gyeongju, a fascinating city of historical importance and cultural heritage

≪ Previous: Wild Beauty

A walking tour through Gunsan’s living relics of modern Korean history

by: Im Bokyeong | .

Korea Tourism Organization | .

published: November 03, 2015

Getting to Gunsan from Seoul isn’t the most convenient ride, as it normally takes about three hours or more, though many travelers find the town a captivating destination because of its unique historical attractions and relics left behind from modern times. Gunsan stood the test of time in Korea’s dynamic history as the country changed drastically throughout the early and mid-20th century. Therefore, visitors can take in and soak up more of Korea’s past as they explore the intriguing city.

There are multiple ways of getting to Gunsan, which is located in Jeollabuk-do. As stated above, getting there will take roughly three hours by train, express bus (departing from Seoul Express Bus Terminal), or by car (via the Seohaean Expressway). As soon as you enter the city, you immediately feel as if you’re stepping back into the Korea of decades ago. Its old-fashioned buildings and early 20th century atmosphere are unlike that of any other cities throughout the country.

To get to the center of Gunsan’s modern history area, you’ll need to take a 35-minute bus ride from Gunsan Station, a 20-minute bus ride from the bus terminal, or a 20-minute drive via Gunsan IC. Often referred to as “the belt of modern history,” visitors can observe a vast amount of historical artifacts all in one area. The Gwangju government has also been promoting a special stamp tour as well by awarding travelers who successfully complete a series of cultural heritage-related “missions” set up across eight cultural sites designated by the city. Upon completing the missions, visitors receive Gunsan’s famous local specialty, japgok (mixed grains), as a prize.

As a tip for beginners, you may want check the city’s official website as well as call in to the Gunsan Modern History Museum prior to making your stamp tour itinerary. The museum not only has useful information about Gunsan, but also leaflets and tickets are available. There are even integrated tickets offered at marked down prices for major tourist sites like the Gunsan Modern History Museum, the Modern Art Museum, and Jinpo Haeyang Tema Gongwon (Maritime Theme Park).

Gunsan Modern History Museum

The Gunsan Modern History Museum proudly showcases Korea’s maritime history and its role in the past. Gunsan held a significant part in transforming the region as an international trading port as well as a contributor to national economical growth.

Just inside the entrance to the building is a sign with the message, “History becomes our future.” As it says, the museum brings to life the golden times of 1930s’ Gunsan, and recaptures the atmosphere of all the drastic changes that took place in Korea at that time through its relics and artifacts, all with the donors’ names inscribed next to them.

Jangmi Gallery & Entertainment Hall

The word jangmi in Korean means “rose,” however that is not the case here. Jang, the word for “place,” is combined with mi, the word for “rice,” indicating that this is a place for storing rice. But don’t be disappointed, as Jangmi Gallery and its performing venue have a very meaningful story, one that has continued on since Korea’s liberation from Japan in 1945.

Art activities in Gunsan during the period were known to flourish despite a number of imposed restrictions. Some great literary works, such as "Takryu" (Muddy Stream) by Chae Mansik, were born here. Performances based on his novel have been held here, and contemporary up-and-coming artists have also used the establishment to perform and share cultural values. In addition, hands-on activities like handkerchief dyeing, candle making, and others, are available to visitors.

Gunsan Modern Art Museum

First established as a bank, the building was changed into a museum displaying modern history and art. The Gunsan Modern Art Museum and its annex, with its memorial hall devoted to An Jung-geun, the activist who played a huge part in Korea’s independence movement, serve as a priceless lesson about Korea’s history. There is also a room with a variety of construction materials on display.

Jinpo Maritime Theme Park

The Jinpo Maritime Theme Park was opened in 2008 to commemorate Jinpodaecheop, the sweeping naval victory of Jinpo led by General Choi Mu-seon against the Japanese in 1380. Erected against a scenic backdrop of the local port and the ocean, the park houses 16 retired military craft from the navy, air force, and army. On display at the park are retired tanks, artillery, combat planes, and warships, including the Wibongham, which was used during the Vietnam War. Visitors can even venture through the inside of these decommissioned warships. The exhibition hall offers activities where civilians can have a hands-on experience of life inside the warship.

Lee Sung Dang Bakery

Just a 15-minute jaunt from the Jinpo Maritime Theme Park is Lee Sung Dang Bakery, the oldest bakery in Korea. It was originally founded as “Ijeumoya” in 1920 by a Japanese expatriate, but when the owner changed hands in 1945 to a man whose family name was Lee, the store came to be called Lee Sung Dang, meaning "Lee’s store" in the local language. Over time, Lee Sung Dang has gained a reputation for making the most delectable pat ppang (bread with red bean paste) and yachae ppang (bread with vegetable filling), of which reportedly no one can resist a second bite.

Gunsan Japanese-style residence of Sinheung-dong (Hirotsu House)

An additional 15 minutes on foot from the Lee Sung Dang Bakery will get you to a Japanese-style house in the area of Sinheung-dong. The building clearly shows the luxurious lives of Japanese landlords and how they exploited industrial benefits during the colonial times. The two-storey house is enclosed by red walls to keep out any intruders, and all rooms were equipped with tatami floors and traditional gardens. The place has been featured in movies like “General's Son” (장군의 아들), “The High Rollers” (타짜), and others.

Gowoodang

And just another 15 minutes to reach the Gowoodang guest house, which was built in the 1930s and given the name Gowoodang after the Jeolla-do dialect gowoodangkke, meaning “beautiful” or “lovely.” Guests here can spend a comfortable night on tatami floors and enjoy facilities like a bar, a coffee shop, and a lounge. Given that the place offers guests a chance to experience Japanese-style accommodation, the place is always full of travelers from all over the world. The buildings have been rebuilt and renovated, but still maintain their traditional charm. As with its popularity, booking in advance is required.

Korea Tourism Organization website

Tags: Travel

↧

Gyeongju, a fascinating city of historical importance and cultural heritage

November 2, 2015, 5:11 pm

≫ Next: Wonderful Oedo

≪ Previous: A walking tour through Gunsan’s living relics of modern Korean history

Gyeongju, a fascinating city of historical importance and cultural heritage

by: Korea Tourism Organization | .

Korea Tourism Organization | .

published: November 03, 2015

Situated in the southeastern part of Korea, Gyeongju in Gyeongsangbuk-do was the capital of the Silla Kingdom (57 BC – AD 935), which was ruled by 56 kings over 992 years, the longest period of any dynasty in the history of Korea. Over the course of almost a thousand years, Silla transformed itself from a small tribal nation to a kingdom occupying more than half of the Korean Peninsula. During that time, Gyeongju had steadfastly remained its capital. Gyeongju had previously been called Seorabeol and Gyerim, and the name Gyeongju first appeared on record in AD 935. These days, Gyeongju continues to show its importance even though more than a thousand years have passed since the fall of the Silla Kingdom.

Buddhism, which the Silla Kingdom adopted in the 6th century, helped strengthen the royal power and unite the people. The Buddhist religion also left fascinating cultural heritages. For this reason, Gyeongju features numerous Buddhist cultural relics, and is the top destination for school trips in Korea. The Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto are major historical sites in Gyeongju and the essence of Korean Buddhist culture. In 1995, both became the first sites in Korea to be designated a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage. In 2000, five historical sites in downtown Gyeongju became UNESCO World Cultural Heritages under the name of the Gyeongju Historic Areas. Thanks to this mass of culturally rich heritages, Gyeongju must continue to be preserved and recognized both at the national and global level.

Gyeongju can be reached by train or bus in four to five hours from Seoul. Home to the capital of the Silla Dynasty, Gyeongju has so many things to see that the whole city is often referred to as a museum without walls. In terms of city or population size, Gyeongju is just a small city. But having been the capital of a thousand year kingdom, Gyeongju cannot be viewed in just a few days. The downtown features many huge tumuli (tombs) and relics, which are very different from the royal palaces or tombs in Seoul. Here, relics from the Silla Kingdom are scattered throughout the city resulting in multiple sites being designated a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage under the name of the Gyeongju Historic Areas. So, we invite you to visit Gyeongju and explore the fascinating cultural relics of the ancient capital of Silla.

Major Tourist Sites by Category

Since so many historical relics from the Silla period are scattered throughout the city, you are advised to decide in advance which sites you want to visit based on your personal preference. Read on to learn more about the major tourist sites in Gyeongju.

UNESCO World Cultural Heritage
Those who visit Gyeongju for the first time will first no doubt remember the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites. Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto are hailed as the historical essence of Korean Buddhist culture. They were designated UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites in 1995. In 2000, five key sites in the heart of Gyeongju were collectively designated a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage and are known as the Gyeongju Historic Areas.

Temples

Bulguksa Temple

Depicting the ideal world of Buddha, Bulguksa is a precious historical site from the Silla Dynasty that showcases the rich Buddhist culture, which was the spiritual and religious backbone of the Silla Dynasty. The temple is an integration of the incredible craftsmanship and art during the 8th century. It is home to a number of national treasures, the most well-known being the Dabotap and Seokgatap Pagodas in front of Daeungjeon (Main Hall).

Seokguram Grotto

Seokguram Grotto looks like a natural stone cave. It was made in a dome shape and only used square blocks. The walls were covered with soil. Inside is Bonjonbulsang, a seated Buddha statue, which is hailed as the essence of Korean Buddhist art of the Unified Silla period. Created about 1,200 years ago, Seokguram exquisitely combines the Silla Dynasty's knowledge in architecture, science, geometry, and art. The superb architectural technique used is unprecedented in excellence.

Bunhwangsa Temple

Bunhwangsa Temple was built for the 27th ruler of Silla, Queen Seondeok, who ruled between 632 and 647 and was the dynasty's first reigning queen. The temple features Mojeonseoktap, which was built in 634 and is the oldest surviving stone pagoda from the Silla period. The pagoda was built with bricks cut from black andesite and has a unique form rarely found elsewhere.

Girimsa Temple

Girimsa Temple was first built in the 7th century, but it was rebuilt several times in the Joseon Dynasty. The temple is expansive and grand. Inside the temple compound, numerous buildings have survived the test of time, including Daejeokgwangjeon Hall where the statue of Birojanabul (Vairocana) is enshrined. The hall is a major Buddhist hall from the late Joseon era and features a solid structure and a magnificent spatial arrangement. Also impressive is the Samcheonbuljeon Hall where 3,000 Buddhist statues are enshrined.

Golgulsa Temple

Golgulsa Temple features a 4-meter high sculpture of the Maya Tathagata Buddha that stands on the top of a steep rock. The sculpture is estimated to have been built out of solid rock in the 9th century. Golgulsa also operates a Seonmudo (Buddhist martial art) School, drawing a large number of foreign monks. The school offers various programs, including a two-day program and a one-month program. At the Golgulsa Temple Stay & Seonmudo Experience, the day starts and ends with Seonmudo.

Temple Sites

Gameunsaji (Gameunsa Temple Site)

Gameunsa Temple was built to secure the divine aid of Buddha in order to protect the nation. All the buildings have been burned to the ground except for two three-story stone pagodas that stand next to each other. Construction of the temple began under King Munmu (ruled from 661 to 681) who unified the Three Kingdoms in 676. It was completed during the reign of his son, King Sinmun (reigned from 681-692). To allow the spirit of his father, who had once expressed his wish to become a sea dragon after his death to defend his country, King Sinmun ordered the area under the Geumdang Hall to be built in a way that the dragon would visit frequently.

Hwangnyongsaji (Hwangnyongsa Temple Site)

Excavation work is still on-going at the site of Hwangnyongsa Temple, which at first sight, just looks like an expansive field. The original plan was to build a palace, but it was decided to build a temple instead after reports were received that a yellow dragon had been spotted at the site. The temple was built over the course of 90 years under the rule of four kings. The Hwangnyongsa nine-story wooden pagoda, which was built as an act of devotion so that Silla might unify the Korean Peninsula, was destroyed, but it inspired the design of Gyeongju Tower and has a replica at the Gyeongju National Museum.

Major Sites

Gyeongju National Museum

The Gyeongju National Museum exhibits relics of the Silla period excavated in the Gyeongju region. The permanent exhibition halls consist of the Archeology Hall, Art Hall, Anapji Hall, and Special Exhibition Hall. Around 3,000 relics are on exhibit, including the Divine Bell of King Seongdeok (Emile Bell), which is National Treasure of Korea no. 29.

Cheomseongdae Observatory

Cheomseongdae is the oldest astronomical observatory in Asia. The observatory was necessary in the Silla period to aid in agriculture, a key sector. The movement of stars was used to predict the fortune of the nation. The number of stones and floors of Cheomseongdae are symbolic of altitudes. The digital hall right next to the entrance offers video information of how Cheomseongdae was built (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese).

Anapji Pond (Imhaejeonji)

This huge pond inside the royal palace of Silla is now lit up at night, creating a splendid night view. Relics unearthed at the site over a ten year excavation period are housed separately in the Anapji Hall at the Gyeongju National Museum.

Poseokjeongji (Poseokjeong Pavilion)

Poseokjeong Pavilion is located in the secondary palace of the Silla royalty. This place was used for banquets organized by the kings. Today, no buildings remain except for an abalone-shaped stone structure. The structure has curved granite blocks that created a groove around the pavilion and was used to float wine glasses. King Gyeong-ae (924-927) was killed at Poseokjeong Pavillion while indulging in pleasures. For that reason, Poseokjeong stands symbolically as the demise of the Silla kingdom.

Gyerim Forest

Gyerim Forest is associated with the legend of the founder of the Gyeongju Kim clan, which produced 38 of 56 Silla rulers. According to the legend, a rooster was heard crying from deep inside the woods. Nearby, a golden box was found hanging on a tree branch where the rooster was crying. A small child was found inside and was given the name Kim (meaning gold).

Royal Tombs & Tumuli

Daereungwon Tomb Complex (Cheonmachong)

Daereungwon is the largest tumuli (tombs) in Gyeongju. It is a collection of 23 tombs from the Silla period. The area has been turned into a beautiful park where visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk. Cheonmachong is the only tomb in Daereungwon that is opened to the public. Inside, visitors can view the tomb pattern and find burial goods recovered from the tomb.

Underwater Tomb of King Munmu

The underwater tomb of King Munmu (ruled from 661 to 681) who unified the Three Kingdoms (676) is about 36 kilometers away from downtown Gyeongju. According to his last will, King Minmu requested that he be cremated and scattered in the sea so that he can become a dragon and thwart foreign invasions. His remains were cremated in the Buddhist tradition.

Tomb of General Kim Yushin

General Kim Yushin (595-673) is a heroic figure who contributed greatly to the unification of the Three Kingdoms (676). He received the highest honorary title of Silla and was posthumously honored with the title King Heungmu. The tomb of General Kim Yusin is a large tomb measuring roughly 30m in diameter. The relief carvings of 12 Korean zodiac gods (half man, half animal) stand guard around the tomb.

Royal Tomb of Queen Seondeok

This is the tomb of Queen Seondeok (ruled between 632 and 647), the 27th king of Silla and its first reigning queen. It is a round-shaped tomb with earthen layers, 6.8 meters high and 23.6 meters in diameter. It is comparatively smaller than other royal tombs. The tomb itself doesn't have any unique features, but the pine trees surround the tomb, creating a cozy and peaceful ambiance.

General Tourist Sites

Bomun Lake Resort

Bomun Lake Resort is a general tourist resort around Bomun Lake. It features a deluxe hotel, hot springs, golf club, horse-rising resort, Gyeongju World theme park, the Shilla Millennium Park, and the Gyeongju World Culture Expo Park.

Shilla Millennium Park

The Shilla Millennium Park is a park offering education and entertainment about the history and culture of the Silla period. Inside the park is an outdoor set where the Korean drama Queen Seondeok was filmed. There is also an ultra-large performance venue, a craft village, and a replica of an aristocratic village of the Silla period.

Gyeongju World Culture Expo Park

The park was built to commemorate the Gyeongju World Culture Expo. Inside, there is the Silla Culture History Pavilion, 3-D Animation World, and World Fossil Museum. The Gyeongju Tower at the park is a replica of the nine-story wooden pagoda of Hwangnyongsa Temple. The tower is a new landmark of Gyeongju.

Recommended Travel Courses

Gyeongju Stamp Tour

The Gyeongju Stamp Tour offers a fun way of exploring the major tourist sites of Gyeongju. Visitors can get stamps at fifteen historical and cultural sites. At each of these destinations, you can find a booth where you can get a stamp tour booklet and a stamp. The booths are open from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., during which times the culture tour guides are at work.

Downtown and Namsan Mountain Areas
The downtown area was the center of the thousand-year Silla kingdom and is where the Gyeongju tour starts. This area is home to the largest number of cultural assets, and can be toured by bicycle or by foot. There are many accommodation facilities near the train station and bus terminal, and many restaurants are found near major historical sites. The Namsan Mountain area features many historical relics symbolizing the rise and fall of Silla. There are around 150 temples, 120 stone Buddha statues, and 90 stone pagodas scattered throughout the area. Namsan Mountain is only 500 meters high, so take one of the many hiking trails, and enjoy the sites along the way.

Recommended itinerary: Daereungwon Royal Burial Grounds → Cheomseongdae Astronomical Observatory → Bunhwangsa Temple → Donggung Wolji (Imhaejeonji, Anapji Pond)→ Gyochon Village → Oreung Tomb→ Poseokjeong

Seoak and Northern Areas
Seoak area is home to the tombs of King Muyeol and General Kim Yushin who envisioned the unification of the Three Kingdoms. The Seoak area can be toured by bicycle, but the Yangdong Village in the Northern area must be visited by car.

Recommended itinerary: Royal Tomb of King Muyeol → Tomb of General Kim Yushin → Yangdong Village

Bulguksa Temple, East Coast Areas
The Bulguksa Temple area features the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites of Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto. The two sites can only be accessed by bus or taxi as they are located in the mountains. There is a bus running between Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto. The East Coast area is home to the underwater tomb of King Munmu (30th king of Silla, ruled between 661 and 681), who unified the Three Kingdoms, and the Gameunsaji Temple site. The underwater tomb of King Munmu can be seen from Bongil Beach.

Recommended itinerary: Royal Tomb of King Wonseong (previously Goereung) → Bulguksa Temple → Dongri Mokwol Literary Museum → Seokguram Grotto → Gameunsa Temple Site

Gyeongju City Tour

The Gyeongju City Tour is a convenient way to explore Gyeongju and get to major tourist sites, including Bulguksa Temple, Seokguram Grotto, Gyeongju National Museum, Cheonmachong and Cheomseongdae. Currently, the city tour organizer offers four courses, and visitors can choose their own course for a one-day, two-day, or three-day trip. You can get on and off freely at Singyeongju Station, Gyeongju Express Bus Terminal, Bomun Lake Resort (hotels and condominiums), or Bulguksa Accommodation Complex. A video guide of each tourist site is displayed on a monitor in the front of the bus and is available in Korean, English, Japanese, and Chinese.

☞ Related Page
Gyeongju City Tour

Food and Regional Specialties

In Gyeongju, there are streets dedicated to a variety of local specialties such as hwangnamppang (soft bread with a red bean paste filing), ssambap (rice wrapped in a variety of vegetable leaves), kalguksu (a noodle dish made of handmade, knife-cut wheat-flour noodles), and tofu dishes. The following describes some of Gyeongju's most popular specialties.

Gyori Gimbap

Gyori gimbap (교리김밥) of Gyeongju of is one of the three major gimbaps (dried seaweed rolls) in Korea along with chungmu gimbap of Tongyeong, and mayak gimbap of Seoul's Gwangjang Market. A must-try local specialty for those visiting Gyeongju, gyori gimbap is characterized by a generous amount of thinly sliced fried egg that is placed inside the rolls. These savory rolls taste even better when eaten with a hot bowl of janchi guksu (thin noodles served in an anchovy-based broth).

Ssambap
A culinary aspect native to Korea, 'ssam' refers to eating meat or rice by wrapping it in a vegetable leaf. Ssambap (쌈밥) is a rice dish served with a variety of vegetable leaves, meat, rice, and side dishes. Though ssambap is readily available in many regions, Gyeongju ssambap is traditionally characterized by the number and variety of side dishes. Using seasonal ingredients, the servings are always fresh and plentiful. Dozens of ssambap restaurants are located along the road near the Daereungwon Tomb Complex.

Hwangnamppang

First introduced in 1939, the name 'hwangnamppang (황남빵)' originated from a district in Gyeongju called Hwangnam-dong. It is a Gyeongju specialty that has preserved the same traditional recipe and flavors for 70 years. The soft bread filled with sweet red bean paste has become one of the nation's favorite snacks. Each batch of bread is handmade from start to finish. In fact, you can watch the bakers at work through the bakery windows.

Chalborippang

Chalborippang (찰보리빵) is another popular specialty bread of Gyeongju. It is made with locally produced glutinous barley, which gives it a delectably chewy texture. There are dozens of chalborippang shops scattered throughout the city, so you can easily purchase and taste one. The price ranges from 5,000 won to 30,000 won per box depending on the size.

Gyeongju Gyo-dong Beopju

Beopju (법주), a local liquor, is associated with the Gyo-dong district in Gyeongju, where the Choi clan has been brewing this special libation for over 300 years. Made of glutinous rice, beopju is a kind of cheongju (refined rice wine). This transparent liquor has a yellowish tint, an alcohol content of about 17% and a very smooth taste. As it uses a secondary fermentation process, the whole brewing period takes about a hundred days. Most beopju liquors available for purchase have been aged for over a year.

Major Festivals

Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Festival
Ever year Gyeongju holds its regional cherry blossom festival. The festival takes place across three main venues, with a special focus on Bomun Lake Resort. During the festival period, visitors to Gyeongju can experience the intersection of culture and nature.

Gyeongju Cherry Blossom Marathon
In Gyeongju, you may participate in a marathon while the blossoming pink cherry blossom petals rain down on your shoulder. This fantastic marathon race is an annual celebration held every spring. The marathon course starts at Gyeongju World Culture Expo Park and provides multiple courses including a full course (42.195Km), half-course (21.0975Km), as well as a 10km and 5km course. There is even a walking course for Japanese visitors attracting more Japanese participants every year.

Silla Cultural Festival
Silla Cultural Festival is an annual celebration held every October throughout the downtown Gyeongju area. The festival is to celebrate and promote the Buddhist spirit as well as the time-honored culture of the ancient Silla Dynasty. During the festival you may enjoy a wide variety of traditional games such as Gungdo (traditional archery), Ssireum (traditional wrestling), Geunaetagi (traditional swing) and Juldarigi (a tug-of-war). Also organized are a variety of performances and hands-on programs.

Related Columns on Gyeongju
☞ Gyeongju
☞ Cultural Heritage Sites

Accommodations
List of hotels/inns in Gyeongju

Tourist Information Center
* Gyeongju City Hall:http://www.gyeongju.go.kr (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)
* Gyeongju Culture Tour:http://guide.gyeongju.go.kr (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)
* 1330 Korea Travel Hotline: +82-2-1330(Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)

Smart Tour Guide, a historic tour using smartphones

The Smart Tour Guide offers an extensive range of audio tours and is available for use on smartphones. Major historical sites and national museums in the region are introduced through basic and entertaining storytelling and made available in digital form. The audio tours include the Silla History Tour covering the Gyeongju area, the Baekje History Tour covering the Buyeo and Gongju area, the Gaya History Tour covering the Gimhae area, in addition to history tours through the National Museum of Korea, Gyeongju National Museum, and Buyeo, Gongju and Gimhae National Museums. Download your free Smart Tour Guide application at http://www.koreastorytelling.com/eng/ (Korean, English, Japanese) or on the Google Play or iTunes App Stores.

Korea Tourism Organization webisite

Tags: Travel

↧

Wonderful Oedo

November 2, 2015, 9:49 pm

≫ Next: Shopping in Seoul

≪ Previous: Gyeongju, a fascinating city of historical importance and cultural heritage

Wonderful Oedo

by: Jisu Lim | .

Busan Haps | .

published: November 03, 2015

One of the most secretive islands in Korea’s past, Oedo (pronounced WAY-do), is a little bit of paradise less than two hours from Busan and offers nature at its best for anyone looking for a respite from the city.

The small, 14.5-hectare island, just a 20-minute boat ride south of Goeje Island, gives the impression that you’ve been transported to Southeast Asia. Made famous by the Korean drama Winter Sonata, the island was discovered 40 years ago by husband and wife Lee Chang-ho and Choi Ho-suk, who transformed the little island into a lush European-style garden, which houses over 3,000 species of plants.

The blue waters of the South Sea provide the backdrop for the immaculately sculpted gardens with walking paths weaving under tall palm trees and rare flowers from all over the world. Oedo Botania, which opened to the public in 1995, includes a Venus Garden with 12 sculptures, an observation deck and many other hidden gems, making each turn something special.

Getting to Oedo takes a little bit of work if you are using public transportation. From Sasang Bus Terminal, take an hour-and-15-minute trip to Jangseungpo Bus Terminal, followed by a short cab ride to Oedo Terminal. From there, you need to purchase a ticket to the island, which runs 27,000 won, but also includes the ferry to tour around the cliffs of Haegeumgang with a stunning view of the water glistening among the cliffs of Goeje.

The ferry that drops you off at Oedo unfortunately doesn’t give you a lot of time to enjoy the gardens – you only get 90 minutes to stay before it takes off back to Oedo Terminal – but it still leaves enough time to stroll around the grounds and enjoy the panoramic views around you. The only possible downside of the trip is the hilly terrain for those who have trouble walking.

For about 100,000 won for two, it is a great day trip for a romantic getaway or to view a different side of Korea and leave the hustle and bustle of the big cities behind.

Busan Haps website

Tags: Chinhae, Travel

↧

Shopping in Seoul

November 2, 2015, 10:10 pm

≫ Next: My Paradise: Can't go wrong with Hong Kong

≪ Previous: Wonderful Oedo

Shopping in Seoul

by: George Kim | .

Groove Korea (groovekorea.com) | .

published: November 03, 2015

Some of it’s pretty obvious — like Dongdaemun Market — and some is a little off the beaten path — like Gangnam’s “Snowboard Street.” Hopefully the following list will save you some time and money.

1. Jewelry District

If you have someone to love and money to burn, head to Seoul’s Jewelry District on Boseok-gil (street). It’s in Jong-no (Jongno sam-ga Station, Line 3) so make a day of it and go to nearly Insadong for dinner.
The Jewelry District was established after the Korean War (1950-1953) and now crams in over 1,000 jewelry stores, some 300 design and manufacturing stores, and more than 20 licensed evaluators. You can get a good deal here — but you have to know your stuff.

2. Antiques

Antiques are harder to come by in Korea than in most other countries — mostly because the country was obliterated during the war then achieved spectacular growth in the post-war decades. Nonetheless, if you know where to look and are willing to spend quite a bit of money, there are beautiful antiques to be had.

Start at Insadong

It’s often said that half of the country’s antiques are here. In the market for a 17th century Jeoson Dynasty sword? You’re in luck — there’s a whole store of ’em. Traditional goods such as pottery, hanbok (traditional clothing), hanji (traditional paper), and folk crafts could all make good gifts. To get to Insadong, take Exit 6, Anguk Station, Line 3; or Exit 5, Jongno sam-ga Station.

Janganpyeong Antique Market

Go here if you’d like anything from old record players to furniture. There’re about 150 stores. Even if you don’t want to buy, this is a great market to stroll through — not nearly as many tourists as the other big markets in Seoul. Directions: Google it.

Hwanghak dong Flea Market

Who doesn’t like flea markets? With a little digging, you’ll find something special here. Sift through piles of antiques, “ancient” artifacts, junk from the war — old watches, cameras and tacky jewelry — anything you can imagine. To get here go to Sindang Station, Line 2, 6, and exit 2.

Antique furniture in Itaewon

This is where to go if you’re in the market for foreign antiques. Furniture from Europe, China and Japan can be yours for millions of won. To get here, go to Itaewon Station and take Exit 4.

3. Flowers

An easy way out if there ever was one: Buy your girlfriend some flowers for Christmas. Go the extra mile at Yangjae Flower Market, Gangnam Flower Market or Hansan Flower Market, where you can get custom made bouquets that will blow her away. Or do something special — buy some flowers wholesale and make the bouquet yourself. It won’t be as nice, obviously, but it will be from the heart (and you’ll save some money, too!).

Yangjae Flower Market

Quite a few nurseries in and around Seoul come here to sell their fresh flowers. Their auction room is quite a sight in the early hours of the day. Available here are flowers wholesale and retail. To get there from Itaewon, take bus 470, 471 and 140.

Gangnam Flower Market

Across from the terminal building, Gangnam Flower Market is located on the third and fourth floors of the Daehae building. You can get any kind of flower here you can imagine. Also check Terminal Flower Market in the underground shopping mall connected to Express Bus Terminal Station.

Hansan Flower Market

While not the biggest flower market in Seoul, its 50 or so shops will probably have what you need. Prearranged bouquets and the like are easy to come by here, as well as a large assortment of artificial flowers. The easiest way to keep your flowers alive in the winter — buy fake ones.

4. Electronics

Seoul has one of the biggest electronics markets in the world. Yongsan Electronics Market has over 5,000 stores in about six main buildings selling computers, cameras, game consuls, appliances and cell phones. If it uses electricity — it’s here.

Annoying for some people: Be prepared to bargain for whatever it is you’re buying. Before you leave your house, price check on the Internet or risk getting fleeced. To get there, go to Yongsan Station, Line 1.

Another option is Techno Mart — a 39-story shopping center known for its electronics stores and shaky foundation. Warning: In June, 17 middle-aged gym rats literally shook the building during a warm-up exercise, causing 500 people to flee. The mall hasn’t been quite as robust since the incident. If you still want to risk it, go to Gangbyeon Station, Line 2, Exit 1,2.

5. Behemoth malls

Korea does everything big — especially malls. If you love shopping, there aren’t many places in the same league as Seoul.

COEX Mall
COEX in Samseong-dong claims to be the largest underground shopping center in Asia. COEX is in every guidebook written for Seoul, so I won’t waste more space here. To get there, take the subway to Samseong Station, Line 2, Exits 5,6.

Lotte
Go to Lotte Department Store, then go ice skating, see a movie, go to Lotte World —the world’s largest indoor theme park, a duty free shop and folk museum. If you have kids, or if you’re a kid at heart, don’t miss the daily Christmas Parade at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. at the Adventure Theme Course.

Yeongdeungpo Times Square
Having just opened in 2009, Yeongdeungpo Times Square hasn’t made its way yet into Seoul’s shopping folklore in the same way that Lotte Department Store, COEX, Hyundai Department Store and Shinsegae have. It will. It’s two times bigger than COEX Mall — making it the biggest shopping center in the capital (I think there’s someplace bigger in Busan — a port city in the southeast, but media reports are scant). To get there, go to Yeongdeungpo Station, Line 1.

Shinsegae Department Store
Shinsegae was Korea’s first department store. Now it’s the biggest chain in the country, with three locations in Seoul. This is the place to go if you’re looking to pay full price for luxury brands. Directions: Google it to find the location nearest you.

I’Park Mall
I’Park Mall makes up about half of the Yongsan Electronics Mar ket in terms of the number of stores. There’s mostly electronics, but you can also find furniture and clothes.

6. Fashion

Rodeo Drive
Known as Rodeo Drive, this area is a hotspot for the latest high-end fashions. There are independent shops, department stores, theaters, upmarket cafes and parks. Come here to spend and be seen. It’s a 10-minute walk from Exit 2, Apgujeong Station.

Edae
The shopping area between the Ewha Train Station and Ewha Woman’s University is a popular destination for young women, as most shops specialize in affordable fashion. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants, too. Go to Ewha Woman’s University Station.

Myeong-dong
Myeong-dong is another of Seoul’s shopping areas that’s in pretty much every guidebook, so I’m not telling you anything you already don’t know. Go to Euljiro 1-ga Station, Line 2, Exit 6 or Myeongdong Station, Line 4, Exit 6.

Hongdae’s Sunday Bazaar
Similar to the Edae shopping area, Hongdae is a hotspot for the young and beautiful (and those that can’t afford to shop south of the river). Here you’ll find a maze of small fashion shops, dozens of art galleries, cafes and restaurants. Find bargains at the weekly flea market. Go to Hongik University Station, Line 2, Exit 5.

7. Markets

What would a list on shopping in Seoul be without a couple of its markets?

Gwangjang Market
This is the country’s first-ever market — or that’s what a marketing firm will have you believe. Here you can pick up some great Christmas presents: silk anything or satin hanbok (traditional dress). Go to Euljiro 4(sa)-ga Station, Line 2,5, Exit 8.

Dongdaemun Night Market
A classic outing — even if you’re not into shopping — is the Dongdaemun Night Market. Come here to find some bargains, take photos, drink, or wander through an endless maze of fashion stalls. Go to the hilariously named Doota Department Store to stay warm. Get off at Dongdaemun Station, Line 1, 4, Exit 14.

8. Online: Fake Ikea & Gmarket

Get your shopping out of the way whilst sitting in your underwear in the comfort of your own home; save money and time by shopping online. Check out Gmarket, one of the biggest e-commerce sites in Korea (and the only one that’s in English!) Check it out at www.gmarket.com.

Expats have been waiting for Ikea to open its doors in Korea for years. Rumors persist that the global titan has purchased — or is looking for — land in Paju, north of Seoul. But until that actually happens, you’ll have to settle for www.icompany.tv and www.diykorea.biz.

9. Toys “R” Us

This Toys “R” Us is the real deal. They have a brick-and-mortar location in Mok-dong, western Seoul and can be found online at www.toysrus.co.kr.

10. Snowboard/ski gear

There are a lot of options if you’re in the market for some snowboard or ski gear. Start with these websites to get a feel for prices before heading to the store.

Ronin
www.roninsnow.co.kr
Nonhyeon-dong, Gangnam-gu, 3F
(02) 1544-4915

Board Line
www.boardline.co.kr
Nonhyeon-dong Gangnam-gu, 2F
(02) 3446-0409

X-Poz
www.xpoz.co.kr
Nonhyeon-dong Gangnam-gu, 2F
(02) 6408-1141

Exsnow
http://www.exsnow.co.kr/
Myeong-dong, Miliore Shopping mall, 6th floor
(02) 2124-1985/6
Phoenix Sports

Gangnam-gu
www.phoenixsports.co.kr
(02) 3471-8686

I-Snowboard
www.isnow.co.kr
Nonhyeon-dong, Gangnam-gu, 1F
(02) 511-5114

Tags: Travel

↧

My Paradise: Can't go wrong with Hong Kong

November 2, 2015, 10:21 pm

≫ Next: Hey! Check out what's happening on your base!

≪ Previous: Shopping in Seoul

My Paradise: Can't go wrong with Hong Kong

by: Cpl. Casimir Krul | .

AFN Okinawa | .

published: November 03, 2015

Editor's note: This story appeared in 2015 edition of Destination Paradise. We are now accepting stories for the 2016 edition, which hits the streets in February. Submit your story and photos to paradise@stripes.com by Jan. 8, 2016, and we'll make you famous!

What a difference a two hour plane trip makes! A relative stone’s throw across the East China Sea lies the burgeoning international metropolis that is Hong Kong. Almost 20 years after this former British Colony joined China as a “Special Administrative Region,” Hong Kong provides visitors with the culture and experience of China without all the expensive and extensive visa paperwork. An even more recent development for travelers from Okinawa or Fukuoka, is the major drop in airfare, with direct flights to Hong Kong for around 7,000 yen or just under $60!

What can you expect from Hong Kong? A fascinating blend of British architecture, infrastructure and culture mixed with Cantonese language and cuisine. For travelers afraid of being outside of their linguistic comfort zone, Hong Kong also provides a bit of a reprieve as the country is officially bi-lingual with English.

Getting around Hong Kong couldn’t be easier. The city routinely receives awards for its efficient computer automated public transport system. When you’re flying home, you can even check your bags in at the subway station, and avoid all the hassle at the airport.

For those traveling with families, Hong Kong Disneyland is not to be missed. Kids may also love a more wild adventure through Kam Shan Country Park, commonly known as The Monkey Park, where they’ll come face-to-face with wild macaques! For couples traveling without children, China’s other Special Administrative Region; the former Portuguese colony of Macau is a short 45-minute ferry ride away. Try your luck at some of the most elaborate and luxurious hotels in the world. You may remember it from James Bond film “Skyfall.”

Whether it’s a weekend, a long holiday or an entire week’s leave, Hong Kong will not disappoint. An extra incentive for Marines: Hong Kong is within bounds for “special liberty,” so you can save up your leave days for a more far-flung destination or a trip home. Happy travels!

Tags: Travel

↧

Hey! Check out what's happening on your base!

November 5, 2015, 7:56 am

≫ Next: Listen up, dude! Head off base and hit a concert in Korea!

≪ Previous: My Paradise: Can't go wrong with Hong Kong

Hey! Check out what's happening on your base!

by: n/a | .

Stripes Korea | .

published: November 06, 2015

Editor's Note: Take a look at what's happening on your base. (This was updated Nov. 6)

OSAN AIR BASE

DMZ & TUNNEL #3: $55 for buffet lunch with beverage, transportation and guide. Nov. 3, 4, 17, 18 – Bus departs at 9 a.m., returns at 7 p.m.; Nov. 7, 14, 21, 28 – Bus departs at 7 a.m., returns at 6 p.m. Nov. 7, 14, 21, 28 – bus departs at 7:30 a.m., returns at 6:30 p.m. For more information, call ITT at 784-4254.

NOV. 7: Baekje Cultural Land & Buso Fortress - $45 for admission, transportation and guide. Depart at 9 a.m., return at 6 p.m. For more information, call ITT at 784-4254.

NOV. 7 & 21: Seoul Lantern Festival - $30 for transportation and guide. Bus departs at 3 p.m., returns at 11 p.m. For more information, call ITT at 784-4254.

NOV. 8: Zoo at Seoul Grand Park - $30 for admission and transportation. Bus departs at 9 a.m., returns at 6 p.m. For more information, call ITT at 784-4254.

NOV. 11, 27: Everland Amusement Park - $45 for transportation and day pass. Bus departs at 8:30 a.m., returns at 6 p.m. For more information, call ITT at 784-4254.

NOV. 11, 26: IKEA Shopping - $20 for transportation. Bus departs at 9 a.m., returns at 4 p.m. For more information, call ITT at 784-4254.

NOV. 13: Tommy Davidson Comedy Tour at Enlisted Club Ballroom, 8 p.m. Free. Open to all ranks. For more information, call 784-6900.

NOV. 14: Hiking Mt. Naebyeonsan - $35 for transportation and guide. Bus departs at 6 a.m., returns at 6 p.m. For more information, call ITT at 784-4254.

NOV. 14: Nami Island & the Garden of Morning Calm - $56 for admission, transportation and guide. Depart at 7 a.m., return at 6 p.m. For more information, call ITT at 784-4254.

NOV. 14: Kimberly Cole at the Enlisted Club Ballroom, 8 p.m. Free. For more information, call 784-6900.

NOV. 15: Wax Museum, Sea World Aquarium in 63 City Building & Deoksu Palace - $50 for admission, transportation and guide. Bus departs at 9 a.m., returns at 6 p.m. For more information, call ITT at 784-4254.

NOV. 20: Hard Rock Café & Seoul Night Tour - $35 for admission, transportation and guide. Dinner not included. For more information, call ITT at 784-4254.

NOV. 20: Combined Membership Night at the Officers’ Club, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Adults Only event. For more information, call 784-5530.

NOV. 21: Yeouido National Healthy Marathon – Register by Nov. 9. $45 (full, half, 10K, 5K) for participation fee, transportation and guide. For more information, call ITT at 784-4254.

NOV. 21: Lotte World Amusement Park - $45 for transportation and day pass. Bus departs at 9 a.m., returns at 6 p.m. For more information, call ITT at 784-4254.

NOV. 21: Live Country Band LRD and Country All-Nighter! At the Enlisted Club, 9 p.m.-3 a.m. For more information, call 784-6900.

NOV. 21: Family Fall Festival at the Youth Center, 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. For more information, call 784-4607.

NOV. 22: Beartree Park & Gakwon Temple - $40 for admission, transportation and guide. Bus departs at 8:30 a.m., returns at 4 p.m. For more information, call ITT at 784-4254.

NOV. 26: Korean Folk Village & Wawoojeong Temple - $40 for admission, transportation and guide. Bus departs at 8:30 a.m., returns at 5 p.m. For more information, call ITT at 784-4254.

NOV. 26: Thanksgiving Buffet at the Officers’ Club, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. For more information, call 784-5530.

NOV. 26: Tuff Turkey Challenge on Osan AB. For more information, call the Fitness Center at 784-5568.

NOV. 27: Tuff Turkey Challenge on Osan AB. For more information, call 784-5568.

NOV. 27: COEX Mall, Aquarium & Bongeun Temple - $40 for admission, transportation and guide. (2 children, 12 & under, per family are free) Bus departs at 9 a.m., returns at 5 p.m. For more information, call ITT at 784-4254.

NOV. 28: Hking Mt. Sanmaki Yetgil - $35 for transportation and guide. Bus departs at 6 a.m., returns at 6 p.m. For more information, call ITT at 784-4254.

NOV. 28: Star Wars Mini Marathon and Comic Con at the Enlisted Club, 4-9 p.m. For more information, call 784-6900.

NOV. 29: Seoul City Tour - $40 for admission, transportation and guide. Bus departs at 9 a.m., returns at 6 p.m. For more information, call ITT at 784-4254.

DEC. 3: Team Osan’s Holiday Party hosted by the 51FW at the Officers’ Club, 6-9 p.m. Open to all ranks.

DEC. 13: Han River Citizen Marathon. For more information, call the Fitness Center at 784-5568.

DEC. 19: Nutcracker Ballet at Seoul Art Center – Register by Dec. 7. R Seat - $65 for adults (ticket only), $80 (include bus fee); R Seat - $60 for child 8-13 years (ticket only), $70 (include bus fee). Age limit 8 years and older. Bus departs at noon, returns at 6 p.m. For more information, call ITT at 784-4254.

JAN 3: Polar Bear Swimming Festival in Busan. For more information, call 784-5568.

Ongoing classes: Couples' Communication, Marriage LINKS, Parenting Skills from Infants to Teens, Anger Management and Anger Awareness and Stress Management and Stress Awareness. Also, Family Advocacy offers counseling for individuals, families and couples who are experiencing difficulties. For more information, call 784-5010.

SPONSORSHIP TRAINING - Individual Appointments Available – All first-time sponsors and those who have not completed training during the past year, must complete Sponsorship Training at the following link: http://www.militaryonesource.mil/

FREE PHOTOGRAPHY CLASS: Sundays at 2 p.m. at McPherson Community Center. Open to beginners and up. Call 784-3123 for more information.

OPERATION WIRELESS: PCSing? Drop off your old cell phone at the Community Center before you depart. New to Osan AB? Operation Wireless can provide you with a used cell phone free of charge. Stop by or call the Community Center for details. *(Active Duty Only)*

TECH ZONE: Free Wi-Fi throughout the facility NIPRNET computers, Commercial computers Faxing/Scan/ Print services available Morale Phones

X-TREME BOWLING every Friday from 9 p.m.-midnight at the MiG Alleys Bowling Center. $22. For more information, call 784-4229.

CHAMPAGNE SUNDAY BRUNCH every Sunday at the Officers’ Club from 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. $14.95 for members, $16.95 for non-members. For more information, call 784-5530.

OLD SCHOOL R&B every Sunday from 8 p.m.-midnight at the Mustang Club. For more information, call 784-4311.

YOUTH PAINTING CLASS every Monday at the Community Center from 4:30-6 p.m. Class fee is $90 per 4 sessions, supplies included. For more information, call 784-3123.

CAMP HUMPHREYS

Humphreys Youth Sports is currently seeking volunteer coaches for Swimming, Basketball, and Cheerleading. Volunteer coaches' packet is available at www.humphreysmwr.com or stop by Youth Sports office (temporary location in Bldg. 572, room 114). For more information, call DSN 753-5612.

Passport operations has move to Bldg. 577, room 103. (CORRECTED) Operating hours are as follows: Monday, Tuesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday from 1 to 5 p.m. The phone number is 753-8729.

ICE- We Want To Hear From You. Submit an ICE customer comment card online using the link below or by scanning our ICE QR codes located at various facilities post wide. LINK --> http://ice.disa.mil/index.cfm?fa=site&site_id=209&dep=DoD.

All personnel who need to complete their NEO packets by having their Power of Attorneys notarized may stop by the Legal Office, Bldg. 578, between 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. They will be given precedence. For more information, call 753-6245.

The Veteran Administration (VA) WILL NO LONGER PROCESS Tuition Assistance (TA) Top-Up awards based on receipt of a TA authorization Form/Top- up Forms. On Sept. 4, 2015, the Department of Veterans Affairs updated the School Certifying Official (SCO) Handbook to advise schools and Soldiers that the VA no longer process TA Top-Up awards based on receipt of a TA authorization form. The VA has instructed SCOs to use the remarks section of the VA Form 22-1999 to identify those classes that the Service Member intends to request Top-Up benefits. For more information, call 753-8902.

As of Oct. 16 the Touch Club has been added to the OFF LIMITS list. The following off-post establishments and areas are OFF LIMITS by order of the USAG Humphreys Commander: Touch Club, Dixie Bell Bar, Spot Club, Hanseong Red Light District in Wonju and Glass Houses - Thousand Won Alley near AK Plaza in Pyeongtaek.

Reminder: All drivers who possess a military driver’s license (OF 346) are required to complete Special/Winter Driver Training. All Military, DA Civilians, KATUSAs and Korean Employees must complete this training prior to Sunday, Nov. 1. An operator who has successfully completed this training during their current tour, includes extensions, will not be required to repeat this training. For more information, call 753- 6644/6645

New Fall Features on the Alaska Mining Company’s menu includes Grilled Cheese and Tomato Basil Bisque, Shepard’s Pie, Chicken Burgundy Stew, Popcorn Shrimp Salad, Pork Cutlets, Meatball Sub, Shrimp Basket and Chicken Breast BLT. Come in and enjoy the taste of fall today. For more information, call 754-3101.

The Commissary has a shipment of Australian Turkeys coming into the commissary very soon. We should have plenty of turkeys for the holiday season.

The fingerprinting system has successfully moved over to the new Security Office (Bldg 577). "Walk in Hours" for fingerprinting are:

Tues. 0830 - 1130
Thur. 1300 - 1600
Fri. 0830 - 1130

Customers are encouraged to call to make an appointment with the Security office. Appointments can be made outside the hours listed for walk in.

The Post Theater will be closed for renovations (1 Oct-15 Nov 2015). The parking lot of the theater will be holding material so parking maybe limited.

Dental Assistant Training Program : American Red Cross & the Dental Clinic are holding a Dental Assistant Training Program from November 15 through February 2016. To be eligible you: Must be 18 years and older; Have a valid military i.d. with on-post access; Must be fluent in English and have a high school diploma/GED; Need a current TB test within 12 months. Must have a minimum of 1 year in country after completion of program! Applications can be picked up at the Red Cross, bldg. 584 1st floor. For further information, contact Red Cross at dsn 753-7172 or commerical 0503-353-7172.

The Department of Defense Dependents Schools (DoDDS) Career Practicum Program is concerned with several different areas of growth and development of students. Two of the important aspects of Career Practicum are to:
1. Help students better understand themselves through the actual employment of their skills and aptitudes in real-life settings 2. Offer the students opportunities to build their confidence, esteem, and reliability.
The Career Practicum Program is a living demonstration of the concept that education is a community wide responsibility. This program extends students' educational opportunities beyond the curriculum, physical, and financial resources of the school. Career Practicum work experience offers the students opportunities to explore career goals through practical experiences. Because educators recognize the wide differences in students in achievement, ability and interest, the DoDEA Career Practicum Program is designed to offer a unique opportunity in the development of individual career potential.
If your organization would like to assist the Humphreys High School students with unpaid on the job experience, please contact Ms. LaKeisha Jones at DSN:
754-9439 or Email: LaKeisha.Jones@pac.dodea.edu.

The Camp Humphreys Health Clinic is undergoing some renovations. We are all aware of the upcoming growth spurt that Camp Humphreys is undergoing. We will have an increase in patient population and as a result, an increase in providers and nursing staff. In order to accommodate our health care team, we have to move some people around. As a result, we have had to move our main waiting area adjacent to the original. So, as patients enter the clinic's main entrance they will walk to the right and the new waiting are will be on their left. Also, our Public Health Nurse, CPT Edward Murray and Health Promotions, Mr. Dave Elger have moved. They are no longer located in the Humphreys Clinic, but are now across the street in building 370 on the third floor, room 304 directly above Behavioral Health/Physical Therapy.

Melt and Pour Soap ($10 includes materials for 2 soap bars; 11 a.m. - Noon) Making Class Sundays at the Arts and Crafts Center. Register at least 4 days in advance. 753-6706.

Warhammer Club Sundays, 2 p.m. at the Community Activity Center Ballroom. For more information, contact MSG Michael Awai at 010-8978-8673.

Romp ‘n’ Stomp and Tummy Time Play Groups Mondays and Wednesdays (Cancelled Oct. 12 due to holiday), 9 – 11 a.m. at the Zoeckler Fitness Center. Romp ‘n’ Stomp is for children 0 – 3 years of age. Children run, jump, explore and learn how to interact with other children. A great opportunity to meet other moms, learn, grow and support each other. Tummy time is for newborns to babies who are crawling. Tips and tools are provided to parents during the playtime. Does not run on U.S. Holidays. 753-6287.

Youth Swim Club Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 5 – 7 p.m. at the Community Activity Center Pool. Runs until Nov. 13, free of charge. For ages 3 – 18. Registration is on-site. All participants must register at Parent Central Services. Space is limited. Registration will remain open until all spaces are filled. Swim Club is not swimming lessons. All participants must pass a swim assessment to be eligible to participate. 753-5612.

SKIES Piano (instructor: Ms. Gak). Ages 5 and up, 30 minute sessions. Mondays, 1:30 - 3:30 p.m., Wednesdays, 1:30 - 5 p.m. and Thursdays, 1:30 - 4 p.m. Classes are held at the Community Activity Center. $85 per month. Fees must be paid in full by the 25th of each month. New registration starts on the 26th of each month. For more information, contact 753-3413.

SKIES Tae Kwon Do (instructor: Master Choe) Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Ages 5 and Kindergarten: 2:55 - 3:40 p.m. at the Child Development Center; Grades 1 - 2: 4 - 4:45 p.m. at the Community Activity Center; Grades 3 and up: 5 - 5:45 p.m. at the Community Activity Center. $70 per month. Fees must be paid in full by the 25th of each month. New registration starts on the 26th of each month. For more information, contact 753-3413.

SKIES Judo (instructor: Master Jang) Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Ages 6 and up: 4 - 5 p.m. at Zoeckler Fitness Center. $70 per month. Fees must be paid in full by the 25th of each month. New registration starts on the 26th of each month. For more information, contact 753-3413.

SKIES Haedong Gumdo (instructor: Master An) Tuesdays and Thursdays. Ages 5 and up: 3:40 - 4:30 p.m. at Zoeckler Fitness Center. $60 per month. Fees must be paid in full by the 25th of each month. New registration starts on the 26th of each month. For more information, contact 753-3413.

SKIES Gymnastics (instructor: Mrs. Trombley) Mondays – Fridays at the Zoeckler Fitness Center Aerobics Room. Ages 5 and below: $25, Ages 6 and up: $40. Fees must be paid in full by the 25th of each month. New registration starts on the 26th of each month. For more information, contact 753-3413.

Youth Running Club Tuesdays and Thursdays, 4:30 - 5:30 p.m. at the Zoeckler Track. Free of charge, for ages 3 - 18. Registration is on-site. All participants must be pre-registered with CYSS and have an up-to-date physical on file. 753-5612.

Korean Painting Class Wednesdays, 5 - 6 p.m.; the first session will be an orientation class. After that, learn and practice further, on your own time. Register at least 4 days in advance. $7 per session includes materials. 753-6706.

Pasta Buffet at Alaska Mining Company Wednesdays, 5:30 – 8 p.m.; Adults: $12.95, Kids 6 – 15 $6.85; 5 and under eat free. 754-3101.

BOSS Board Study Group Wednesdays, 6 p.m. at Bldg. 588. Soldier will study for NCO/Soldier of the Month and promotion boards. On the last Wednesday of the month, there will be a mock board with senior enlisted Soldiers as panel members to provide feedback.

Soy Candle ($15 includes materials for 1 [5 oz.] candle jar; 11 a.m. - Noon) Making Class Thursdays at the Arts and Crafts Center. Register at least 4 days in advance. 753-6706.

Mongolian Barbeque at Alaska Mining Company Thursdays, 5:30 – 8 p.m.; Adults: $16.95, Kids 6 – 15 $6.85; 5 and under eat free. 754-3101.

Preschool Story Hour Thursdays, 10 – 11 a.m. at the SFC Ray E Duke Memorial Library; free, includes reading and a craft project. 753-8433.

Dungeons and Dragons - Pathfinder Thursdays, 7 p.m. at the Community Activity Center Ballroom. 753-8825.

Ping Pong Tournaments Thursdays, 7 p.m. at the Community Activity Center. 753-8825.

SKIES Korean Language (instructor: Ms. Shin) Thursday. Ages 5 - 18: 7 - 8 p.m. at Humphreys Community Fitness Center. $40 per month. Fees must be paid in full by the 25th of each month. New registration starts on the 26th of each month. For more information, contact 753-3413.

$.50 Wings at Alaska Mining Company and Gateway Gate Room Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, starting at 4:30 p.m. Choose from barbeque or buffalo. 754-3101.

Live Entertainment at the Gateway Game Room, Thursday - Saturday, 7 p.m. No cover charge. 754-3171.

Matting and Framing Class Fridays at the Arts and Crafts Center, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Register at least 4 days in advance. $15 instruction fee, materials not included. 753-6706

Humphreys Skate Club Fridays, 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. Location will be given upon registration. The last day of Skate Club is October 23. Free of charge. For ages 11 – 18. Register at Parent Central Services. Parents must sign release waiver forms before youth can participate. Registration closes October 19. All participants must wear a helmet. Register at Parent Central Services. For more information, contact 753-5612.

Steak Night at Alaska Mining Company Fridays, 5:30 – 8 p.m.; New York Strip - a true steak lover's steak: boneless, flavorful and juicy, served center cut and cooked to your preference, $23.95; Ribeye (14 ounce) - Angus beef at its best, well marbled for peak flavor and deliciously juicy, $27.95; T-Bone (20 ounce) - The king of steaks combines the rich flavor of a strip with the tenderness of a filet, $28.95. Includes salad buffet. 754-3101.

Canine Companion Reading Saturdays, 10 a.m. at the SFC Ray E. Duke Memorial Library. Reading is a great opportunity for children to build their imagination and skills for the future. Therapy dogs can be a wonderful way to help children discover how much fun the Library can be. It's only fun, but judgment free! The dog's handler is present to help the child with reading and comprehension. Pre-registration is required, either by phone or in person. Limited to eight children per day. 753-8433.

School Age Center Open Recreation Saturdays, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Runs throughout the regular school year. Free for all CYSS-registered children in grades 1 – 5. Features a planned activity and light snack. This is a drop-off program. Parents are not required to stay with their children. Signing up is a good idea, but not required. 753-8507.

Kid’s Art –Clay Candle Craft Making ($7 includes materials) or Balloon Lamp Decorating ($8 includes materials) Saturdays at the Arts and Crafts Center, 11 a.m. – noon; Register at least 4 days in advance. 753-6706.

Bingo Saturdays at the Community Activity Center, 12:30 p.m. Doors open at noon. Early Bird at 1 p.m. Open to ages 18 and up. If there are less than 20 players, bingo will be cancelled. No guests allowed in the bingo area. Everyone must play. 753-8825

16oz Saturdays at Flightline Bar and Grill Saturdays. $5 for 1 pound of wings with purchase of any beverage every Saturday at the Flightline Bar and Grill. Offer does not apply to take out orders. Sauces included Honey Barbecue, Parmesan Garlic, Asian Zing and Buffalo. 753-8189.

Latin Night Saturdays with DJ Alfaro at the Flightline Bar and Grill. Salsa dancing with Latin music from our DJ. Doors open 8 p.m. - 1:30 a.m. For more information, call 753-8189.

The Post Theater will be closed for renovations (1 Oct-15 Nov 2015). The parking lot of the theater will be holding material so parking maybe limited.

Do you miss your dog who's back at home while you're deployed? Then come by the USO Camp Humphreys, bldg. 375 and hang out with us while we host the Pet Visitation Program, sponsored by the American Red Cross, from 1230 - 1330 every Thursday.

Construction on the Camp Humphreys' Lodge new wing has begun. The contractor is now driving piles and noise and dust is expected around the Lodge. Pile driving is limited to 0700-1800 Mondays - Saturday, and completion is expected in late October.

As of Sept. 10 the Kom-Ji-Nae convenience store has been removed from the OFF LIMITS list. The following off-post establishments and areas are OFF LIMITS by order of the USAG Humphreys Commander: Dixie Bell Bar, Spot Club, Hanseong Red Light District in Wonju and Glass Houses - Thousand Won Alley near AK Plaza in Pyeongtaek.

Because of the ongoing transition the Camp Humphreys Commissary can get pretty busy at times. In an effort to help the community avoid the congestion, here are some suggestions on shopping times to avoid the crowds: Mondays from 9 to 11 a.m., Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Thursdays from 9 to 11 a.m. & 1 to 4 p.m. and Fridays from 9 to 11 a.m. The busiest days are Saturday and Sunday with an average of 1100 customers per day. For more information, call 753-6711.

As of Sept. 4 the Dixie Bell Club has been added to the OFF LIMITS list. The following off-post establishments and areas are OFF LIMITS by order of the USAG Humphreys Commander: Dixie Bell Club, Spot Club, Hanseong Red Light District in Wonju, Glass Houses - Thousand Won Alley near AK Plaza in Pyeongtaek and the Kom-Ji-Nae convenience store.

School Age Center Hourly Care is now available Monday thru Friday on a space available basis, from 2:30 to 6 p.m. on school days and from 7 a.m. to 5:30 pm. on non-school days (No hourly care available during field trip days). Reservations can be made by calling DSN 753-8507.

English-speaking volunteers needed. Pyeongtaek International Exchange Foundation (PIEF) has a program called “Talk Café” which is an English conversational club available to Pyeongtaek citizens. Volunteers are needed to lead the groups and facilitate conversation and help correct English when needed. Programs are held every Monday from 10 a.m. to noon at the Paengseong International Community Center. For more information, visit www.pief.or.kr/en. Participation Board/Volunteers, contact christinadyim@gmail.com, or call 031-692-4302.

The Installation Security Office has moved to Bldg. 577 next to the One-Stop.
All IN-PROCESSING and OUT-PROCESSING can be done in Room 125 of Bldg. 577.
Fingerprinting will still be done in DPTMS, Bldg. 1280 until we are able to move the Finger Printing system. Hours of Operations are Monday, Tuesday Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Thursday from 1 to 5 p.m. CLOSED for lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, call 753-6852.

The Installation Voting Assistance Office here on Camp Humphreys would like to remind everyone that they are located in Bldg. 543, Rm 4 near the One-Stop. For more information or assistance, call 753-7994 or email loenard.n.coburn.civ@mail.mil.

Join the Garrison Choir at Camp Humphreys! Members meet weekly to rehearse patriotic, classical, and contemporary music to be used for Garrison and community functions upon request. Looking for committed Soldiers who can attend weekly rehearsal and participate in performances. Please contact SPC Sydney Moore at samoore1213@gmail.com for more information.

Humphreys Central Elementary School is looking for substitutes for SY15-16.
If you are interested in substituting, please stop by and complete a substitute packet to join us for SY15-16. For more information, call 754-9310.

The ships delivering grocery items for our commissary may be delayed due to adverse weather. This may result in shortages of chilled juices, milk and some produce items. We regret the inconvenience and are working to remedy the situation expeditiously.

The Painted Door Thrift Shop is looking for volunteers that are eager to help our community. The more we get on the floor and sold the more scholarships and welfare grants we can give away in the Fall and Spring. So come on out and help us make a difference! Sign up link --> http://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0b4babaf22a5f94-volunteer.

Congratulations to the Camp Humphreys Commissary on their second place finish in the L. Mendel Rivers Award for the Best Small Commissary Overseas. To win, a store has to exceed DeCA's normal criteria for customer service, accountability, safety, operations and sales. The awards are named in honor of American statesmen who championed quality-of-life issues for the military community.

This is to inform all residents that the LOCK-OUT service for Bldg. 731 will transfer from the Army Family Housing Office to the maintenance team KOHOM effective immediately. The LOCK-OUT service hours are Monday to Friday from 5 p.m. to 8 a.m. Saturday, Sunday, U.S. and Korean holidays 24hr support. Please contact KOHOM at 031-654-7896 or 753-5202, if you require service.

Camp Humphrey's Clinic is looking for Nurse Volunteers to assist with the upcoming flu season. If you are a Licensed Practical or Registered Nurse and would like to assist with providing Unit Medical Readiness and Community Support, please contact the Immunization Clinic at 737-5626.

Frozen poultry products from Australia are now on sale in the Commissary. They are located in the freezer at the end of isle 6. For more information, call 753-6711.

As of Aug. 3 Seven Club has been REMOVED from the Off Limits list. The following off-post establishments and areas are OFF LIMITS by order of the USAG Humphreys Commander: Hanseong Red Light District in Wonju, Glass Houses - Thousand Won Alley near AK Plaza in Pyeongtaek and the Kom-Ji-Nae convenience store.

The USAG Humphreys Equal Opportunity Office is looking for volunteers; speaker, narrator, singers, dancers, event planners and decorators to participate in the 2015 Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15 - Oct. 15). Earn up to 20 volunteer hours by sharing your talent or expertise in Hispanic Culture. Simply contact SFC Colley at 753-6527 and 010-3977-9473 or email at letia.l.colley.mil@mail.mil.

As of July 13. The Drunk Bus has been REMOVED from the off limits list. The following off-post establishment s and areas are OFF LIMITS by order of the USAG Humphreys Commander: Seven Club, Hanseong Red Light District in Wonju, Glass Houses - Thousand Won Alley near AK Plaza in Pyeongtaek and the Kom-Ji-Nae convenience store.

Sponsors are reminded to make advance reservations at the Camp Humphreys Lodge to assist those arriving. This step will avoid unnecessary waiting and streamlines the check-in process for new arrivals. Special accommodations for pets, room cribs and other needs can be better met with advance reservations. Humphreys Lodge web page is: http://www.humphreysmwr.com/welcome-to-usag-humphreys-mwr/humphreys-lodge/

You can find the latest Post Shuttle Bus schedules on the garrison’s website or by going here --> http://www.army.mil/article/118146/.

Due to safety concerns, the Skate Park (near the Lodge and KATUSA Snack Bar) is CLOSED temporarily during construction in that area. We'll announce a time frame for the shut-down when we have those details.

Check out MWR's new group fitness classes! CYCLING: Indoor cycling is a group exercise class performed on stationary bikes. During the class, the instructor simulates hill-climbing, sprints, and races. It is a fantastic cardiovascular workout. You will be kept motivated by the instructor, the people around you, and the music. Get prepared for the workout of your life! Water and towels are a must. 30CORE: Core class is a half hour of intense core work. Set to upbeat music, you'll work your entire core and learn new exercises to help sculpt the body. This class is for all fitness levels, and is a great way to fit a quick but challenging workout into your busy day. Check out them, and the full schedule of classes, here: http://www.humphreysmwr.com/fitness/fitness-class-schedule/

The Camp Humphrey's Run team is looking for participants. Team training will take place of morning PRT every morning and weekend workouts are optional but highly recommended. Practice begins at 6:30 a.m. Male participants are required to run at least a 13 minute 2 mile and females must run at least a 14 minute 2 mile Interested service members should contact team captain SSG Monica Willard at 753-8806, 010-4290-0118, email: Monica.y.willard.mil or though Facebook, search Humphreys Runners.

Camp Humphreys Behavioral Health has moved to Bldg. 370 (former NCO Barracks), which is across the street from the main clinic entrance. Please use the street-level entrance nearest to the Burger King and the USO.

Are you registered for America’s PrepareAthon!? America’s PrepareAthon! is a national, grassroots campaign for action to increase community preparedness and resilience through hazard-specific drills, group discussions, and exercises. ‪#‎PrepareAthon www.ready.gov/prepare‬‬

Area III conducts weekly in processing Resiliency Training (CSF2) at Bldg. S-558 in Rooms 110 & 105, behind the Thrift Shop off of Freedom Rd. This training is DOD directed and is MANDATORY for all newly assigned personnel in the ranks of CPT & below, CW3 & below and SFC & below. Weekly lists are sent to all leadership with the schedule of those who are required to attend. The POC is Laurie Baty at 753-7994 or email laurie.c.baty.civ@mail.mil.

Navy Federal Credit Union at Camp Humphreys is currently hiring one part-time Member Service Representative. The position will be open until filled and applicants may apply online at www.navyfederal.org.

Humphreys Middle/High School has an official Facebook page! Head on over and click "like" to receive up-to-date information, pictures and announcements. --> https://www.facebook.com/humphreys.HS

Every Wednesday and Thursday: Comprehensive Soldier & Family Fitness training (CSF2) from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, in Bldg. S-558 (old elementary school), room's 110 and 105. Requirements for attendance: ALL CPT & below, CW3 & below and SFC & below. This training is Department of the Army directed and MANDATORY for all newly assigned Soldiers. Each Soldier is required to attend within 30 days of reporting to Camp Humphreys. For more information, contact Laurie C. Baty at 753-7994 or laurie.c.baty.civ@mail.mil

The Camp Humphreys Tax Center provides free tax preparation services to eligible clients. Eligible clients are active duty military service members and their dependents, military retirees, and civilian employees eligible for legal assistance. Come in for preparation of your 1040EZ, 1040, and most schedules, including A, B, C, D, and E (rental income), as well as your state returns. No appointments necessary just stop in between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Mondays through Fridays and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays. The Tax Center is located in the Consolidated Legal Center (Bldg. 578), which is across the street from the Child Development Center. For more information, stop by and talk to our tax specialists or call 753-5680.

This is the listing of Department of Defense Education Activity Korea District open continuously vacancy announcement positions. School Information Assistant (OA), GS-0303-05/06 - https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/391105700?share. Secretary (OA), GS-0318-05/06 - https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/391107500?share. Office Automation Clerk, GS-0326-04 - https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/391108700?share. Office Automation Assistant, GS-0326-05 - https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/391110400?share. Educational Aid, GS-1702-04 - https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/391250200?share. Please contact Mr. Nazario for questions and or concerns pertaining to these positions at Kevin.Nazario@pac.dodea.edu or 754-9305.

Federal Post Card Application (FPCA): Submitting the FPCA will register or confirm the citizen's registration, act as a request for absentee ballots for any elections to be held that year, and will inform the local election official of the citizen's current mailing address. The FPCA is a SF 76 and can be found at the following link: http://www.fvap.gov/eo/overview/materials/forms. Stay informed: Visit the FVAP's website at www.fvap.gov often for special elections that occur during the year, current news releases, other up-to-date information and resources.

Computer Universal Inc. is currently looking for a School Bus Safety Security Attendant.
Applicants must be a Military ID card Holder and have a current CPR / First Aid Certificate. For those interested please stop by the USAG-Humphreys Central Elementary School Student Transportation Office in Bldg.5120, Room 144. For more information please contact Mrs. Wolfe at 754-9332 or 0503-354-9332.

Camp Humphreys Medical Clinic will no longer operate an after-hours, urgent care or triage center. The operation hours of the medical clinic are 8:30 a.m.-noon and 1-5 p.m., Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday. The clinic is open from 1-5 p.m. on Thursdays, due to Sergeant’s Time Training. If there is an emergency between the hours of 5 p.m.-8:30 a.m. weekdays or any time on weekends, holidays or training holidays, please call 911 or transport yourself to a local Emergency Room. Beginning Jan. 5, the clinic is creating same day appointments in an effort to improve access to care. Please call 737-2273, select Option #2 and then Option #3, for Camp Humphreys. The clinic will schedule an appointment for the same day or not later than 24 hours from the time of the call.

The newest version of the Post Shuttle Bus schedule can be found here and at all covered bus stops http://www.army.mil/article/118146/

PROCEDURE CHANGE: The procedures for allowing non-SOFA status individuals to enter the Exchange and Commissary, just to enter and not purchase, has been rescinded, according to USFK J1 officials. These approvals were previously issued on memos from garrison and base commanders. The USFK Ration Control Regulation (USFK 60-1) will be updated shortly. Any individual who is requesting for "family members, guests, unaccompanied military and retiree spouses," that are not normally entitled to access to duty free goods while in Korea, should follow the Exception to Policy (ETP) procedures by filling out the "ETP form" (located in Appendix C) providing reasons that would fall under "humanitarian purposes." These forms should be submitted to the USFK J1 distribution box: pacom.yongsan.usfk.mbx,j1-jmod@mail.mil

There is live entertainment at The Flightline Bar and Grill and the Gateway Bar and Lounge each Thursday-Saturday. The Sweet Apples Band will be at the Gateway, from 4-7:30 p.m. and The Flightline B&G, from 9:30 p.m.-1 a.m., Friday and Saturday. They will also play at The Flightline B&G each Thursday, from 6-11:30 p.m. For more information, call 753-8189.

Total Army Strong succeeds the Army Family Covenant, and provides a broader, tailorable platform from which commanders can deliver essential programs to support a ready Army. Commanders will have flexibility to prioritize and adjust installation programs and services regardless of geographic location or component. Total Army Strong continues and underscores the U.S. Army's commitment and responsibility to the total Army family -- Soldiers, family members and civilians. For more information about this program, go to --> http://www.army.mil/standto/archive_2014-09-24/
https://www.facebook.com/usaghumphreys/photos/a.10150490370903749.391200.303374168748/10152838555528749/?type=3&theater

The providers at Humphreys Health Clinic would like to let everyone know that they have recently added an additional pediatrician and can now see the children of U.S. government civilian/contractor employees, as well as Non-Command Sponsored children. This is for children ages newborn-17 years old only. The new pediatricians are CPT (Dr.) Jeannie Bay and CPT (Dr.) Preston Leonard. Please go to the TRICARE Office to register your children. The clinic also has three other providers that can see pediatric patients, so they may not necessarily get a pediatrician if they are 12 or above. Call Mr Adewale Cofi, at 737-2780 (05033-37-2780) for questions about what documents you will require or find them on Facebook at Humphreys-Health. https://www.facebook.com/pages/Humphreys-Health/664062353617185

On-site Inspector General support is available at Camp Humphreys each Tuesday, in Bldg. 1131 (Room 108), from 9:30-11:30 a.m. and 1-2 p.m. The phone number is 753-3317. https://www.facebook.com/usaghumphreys/photos/a.10150490370903749.391200.303374168748/10152809210763749/?type=3&theater

Since car owners and buyers may not always know the vehicle they own or are purchasing still needs to be repaired because of a recall action, the following is a website for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration on vehicle recalls, including motorcycles. --> http://www.nhtsa.gov/Vehicle+Safety/Recalls+&+Defects NHTSA has a new search tool, which allows people to enter their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), to quickly learn if their vehicle has been repaired.

United States Forces Korea continues to make it clear to our service members and all the men and women supporting USFK, there is a zero tolerance policy for Prostitution and Human Trafficking for all service members in Korea. Check out their website for the newest policy letter concerning this issue http://www.usfk.mil/usfk/Uploads/140/12_Combating_Prostitution_and_Trafficking_in_Persons.pdf

Pedestrian Safety Warning: The east side of Bldg. S-1019 (DPW Self-help and HAZMART) is blocked off for ongoing road and utility construction. Runners and walkers should not attempt to cut through this area, as there is heavy equipment operating. Pedestrians should use the sidewalk and stay on the west side of the building.

So that the USAG-Humphreys Fire Department (located in Bldg. 889) can safely respond to incidents on the garrison, they ask that drivers do not use their parking areas as a thoroughfare to the Vet Clinic or the aircraft hangars. Individuals having business with the fire department are authorized access to the parking lot from Freedom Road. No one should enter the fire department parking lot from the Vet Clinic-hangar area through the no entry sign. Also, please do not conduct PRT in front of the fire department parking garage. They ask for everybody's cooperation in keeping these areas clear of traffic/personnel.

The Camp Humphreys DPW Environmental Office would like to remind the community that the Central Wetland Project, located near the construction site of the new hospital, is a "No Fishing Area." It is NOT a fishing pond or recreational activity area. For more information, call the Environmental Office at 753-3970.

The Army Disaster Personnel Accountability and Assessment System (ADPASS) is the Army's way of accounting for personnel and family members after catastrophes. It is a web-based, user-friendly system that enables the Army to collect accurate and timely reports in times of emergency. All Soldiers, civilians, family members and overseas defense contractors must report their status and whereabouts following any natural or man-made disaster, if directed to do so by the Secretary of Defense or their Major Commands. To learn more about the program, go to https://www.facebook.com/notes/us-army-garrison-humphreys-camp-humphreys/army-disaster-personnel-accountability-and-assessment-system/689759101063595

Toy Planes Soon Subject to Registration: The ROK government has decided to require owners to register unmanned aerial vehicles weighing 12 kg or less. The decision follows the recent discoveries of North Korean drones. At present, only aircraft weighing more than 12 kg are required to be registered. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport said Friday it plans to create a database cataloging all UAVs in the country. Unregistered unmanned planes caught flying over no-fly zones will be subject to higher fines. (This item was published in Korean media recently).

Curious about your VA Benefits? There are now two Department of Veterans Affairs Benefits briefers available to assist all service members, veterans, and family members with questions about VA benefits and services they may be eligible to receive. These benefits include education, health care, compensation, life insurance, home loans, as well as others. The office hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Friday, in the One Stop (Bldg. 544), on the 3rd Floor. To schedule an appointment, please email John.Wright.ctr@calibresys.com or stop by during office hours.

Postal News You Can Use: DoD 4525.6M and DD Form 2263 (Mailing Address/Combination Notice) states that users must "Check your receptacle (mail box) daily." It is understandable that this might be difficult at times, however all personnel assigned a receptacle should at least check their mail receptacle weekly. Customers that have not checked their mail receptacles will have their mail returned as follows: All Regular mail will be returned to sender on the 31st day as "Unclaimed." This includes mail with tracking numbers. The following Accountable mail will be returned to sender as "Unclaimed:" Express mail (returned on the 9th day), Insured, Registered and Certified mail (returned on the 16th day). Exceptions to this policy are personnel on TDY, leave, emergency leave, etc. A DD Form 2258 (Temporary Mail Disposition Instructions) must be filled out in advance to hold mail. Questions may be directed to your local mailroom or to the Camp Humphreys Post Office.

Patients can call the Nurse Advice Hotline 24/7 at 050-3337-1098 by cell phone OR 737-1098 by DSN line. Patients will be able to get acute issues or conditions addressed, leave a message for their provider, put in medication refills, and receive triage all by phone. If someone calls in about an acute issue, the nurse will ask them a series of questions to determine if they will give advice on the spot, have the patient come in, or get evacuated to Good Morning/Dankook.Also, the clinic is asking that anyone who needs to cancel their appointment(s), please call in advance directly to the Clinic Appointment Line at 737-CARE (2273), press 2 for “TMC”, press 3 for “CP Humphreys”, and press 1 for the “Central Appointment Desk.” They can speak with one of our PAD representatives who can immediately cancel their appointment in the system.

USFK Suicide Crisis Intervention Lifeline. The Hotline number is: DSN 118 and commercial 08-0855-5118. The Korea-wide toll-free number provides access to the Military Crisis Line and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The DSN number can be dialed from any military installation DSN phone and the commercial number can be reached from both LAN lines and cell phones.

See the latest change to Army Emergency Relief at www.facebook.com/notes/us-army-garrison-humphreys-camp-humphreys/new-aer-policy-allows-ncos-e-5-and-above-direct-access-to-assistance/633923866647119

NEW appointment policy for the Humphreys Army Health Clinic: 20% of all future appointments are “established” which means they are booked in advance. These can only be done for newborns after discharge, return to clinic requests from the provider, and those patients coordinated directly from provider to provider. A patient can’t call in and ask for a future appointment without acknowledgement and confirmation from their primary care manager (PCM). The remaining 80% of the appointments are open access appointments and can only be booked the same day. Active duty & command sponsored family members, as before, have priority with the appointment line opening at 8 a.m. At 1 p.m., the unfilled/un-booked slots will be opened up to everyone else. This still allows some chance for non command sponsored patients to get appointments but they can’t book in advance and will not be given “established” follow ups from the PCM as they are only entitled to space available slots. For more information, call 753-3936.

There has been a policy change regarding the use of Army Tuition Assistance: 1. Grades below a "C" for undergraduate college course work and grades below a "B" for graduate college course work, will be recouped or repaid (from the Soldier) back to the Army. 2. No fees, to include any supporting instructional fees, will be paid using Army TA. The actual cost of tuition up to $250/semester hour is the only cost that will be funded. 3. Army TA must be approved before the start date of the class. For more information, contact the Camp Humphreys Army Education Center, at 753-8904/01.

The Army Substance Abuse Program is now on Facebook. Visitors will find information on events, pictures from annual campaigns, closure dates, and all other information concerning the ASAP. The page can be found at www.facebook.com/pages/Army-Substance-Abuse-Program-Camp Humphreys/112831172248980

Patients can call the Nurse Advice Hotline 24/7 at 050-3337-1098 by cell phone OR 737-1098 by DSN line. Patients will be able to get acute issues or conditions addressed, leave a message for their provider, put in medication refills, and receive triage all by phone. If someone calls in about an acute issue, the nurse will ask them a series of questions to determine if they will give advice on the spot, have the patient come in, or get evacuated to Good Morning/Dankook.

Also, the clinic is asking that anyone who needs to cancel their appointment(s), please call in advance directly to the Clinic Appointment Line at 737-CARE (2273), press 2 for "TMC", press 3 for "CP Humphreys", and press 1 for the "Central Appointment Desk." They can speak with one of our PAD representatives who can immediately cancel their appointment in the system.

On-site Inspector General support to Camp Humphreys is located in Bldg. 756 every Tuesday, from 9:30-11:30 a.m. and 1-2:30 p.m. Anyone that would like to speak to the IG is welcome

OCT. 1 to NOV. 13: The Multi-Purpose Training Facility (Movie Theater) will be CLOSED for renovations.

OCT. 1-NOV. 15: The Post Theater will be closed for renovations. The parking lot of the theater will be holding material so parking maybe limited.

NOV. 9: There will be a scheduled POWER OUTAGE at noon and again at 2 p.m. that will affect the following buildings: 243, 264, 424, 800, 801, 809, 811, 817, 818, 829, 835, 836, 838, 840, 842, 845, 848, 850, 851, 853, 857, 858, 860, 861, 862, 863, 868, 869, 870, 872, 874, 887, 890, 891, 894, 898, 890, 891, 1009, 1011, 1012, 1013, 1014, 1016, 1018, 1019, 1020, 1022, 1027, 1030, 1031, 1032, 1033, 1034, 1035, 1038, 1040, 1043, 1044, 1049, 1055, 1056, 1057, 1058, 1064, 1065, 1080, 1083, 1098, 1099, 1644, 1645, 1801, 1802, 1804, 1805, 1809, 1810, 1860, 1948, 1949, 2001, 2002, 2010, 2011, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2019, 2020, 2022, 2024, 2025, 2037, 2050, 2051, 2053, 2054, 2059, 2060, 2061, 2062, 2063, 2064, 2067, 2082, 2096, 2097, 2098, 2105 and 2106. Point of contact is Mr. Chong, Nak Chin at 753-3007 or Mr. Chu, Chan Sikat 753-5647.

NOV. 9: Is the application deadline for the CYS Program Associate Homework Lab, NF-03. Camp Humphreys Child, Youth & School Services, Middle School and Teen Center is hiring for a Part-Time (guaranteed 20 hours per week), CYS Program Associate Homework Lab position. The salary is $31,315 - $35,000 Per annum. The position is posted from Oct. 9 to Nov 9. For information or to apply for the position see Vacancy Announcement number FENAFFK151528679SR at www.usajobs.gov.

NOV. 10 & 11: The Legal Assistance Office, Bldg. 578 will be CLOSED in observance of the USFK Training Holiday and Veterans Day.

NOV. 10 & 11: PASS & ID/DBIDS and the Vehicle Registration Offices (Bldg. 544 & Bldg. 724) will be CLOSED in observance of the USFK Training Holiday & Veterans Day.

NOV. 10 & 11: (UPDATE) The Finance Office will be CLOSED due to the Veteran’s Day holiday. For more information, call 753-8224.

NOV. 10: Tournament Tuesday Arcade Basketball begins at 7 p.m. in the Community Activity Center. Free to participate, prizes awarded to first and second place. For more information, call 753-8825.

NOV. 12: The Camp Humphreys Community Health Clinic will be conducting Flu Immunizations for the community from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Humphreys Community Fitness Center (Super Gym). For more information, call 737-5647.

NOV 14: The Red Cross will be having a community CPR class at 9:30 a.m. at the Humphreys Community Fitness Center (Super gym). Cost is $55. Must pre-register before day of class. For more information call 753-7172. Class consists of CPR, First Aid, and AED training that is good for two years.

NOV. 17: The Regional Contracting Office - Pyeongtaek will hold their next Government Purchase Card (GPC) class beginning at 8 a.m. in the Bldg. S-1406, Conference room. For more information, call 754-8290.

NOV. 17 & 18: Department of Veterans Affairs Briefings will be held in Bldg. 542. The briefing on Tuesday, Nov. 17 will begin at 9:30 a.m. The briefing on Wednesday, Nov. 18 will begin at 1 p.m. For more information, call 753-8839.

NOV. 18: The Humphreys Central Elementary School (HCES) Parent Teacher Student Organization (PTSO) is hosting a family BINGO Night from 5 to 7 p.m. in the school lunch room. Come join us for a night of games, fun and food. For questions, please e-mail hcesptso@gmail.com.

NOV. 19: Family Board Game Club begins at 2 p.m. in the SFC Ray E. Duke Memorial Library. Free to participate. For more information, call 753-8433.

NOV. 19: (DATE & LOCATION CHANGE) Area III Commander's Cup Presentation Ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. in the Zoeckler Fitness Center. The ceremony is open to everyone, please come out to help recognize those units that have distinguished themselves during this 2nd iteration from April thru September. Your hard work, team spirit, and dedication exemplify the Army Values and your dedication to mission accomplishment. Final Standings can be viewed here --> https://www.facebook.com/notes/us-army-garrison-humphreys-camp-humphreys/us-army-garrison-humphreys-and-area-iii-commanders-cup-standings-from-april-thru/962878663751636.

NOV. 19: The Camp Humphreys Community Health Clinic will be conducting Flu Immunizations for the community from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Humphreys Community Fitness Center (Super Gym). For more information, call 737-5647.

NOV. 20: Area III Commander's Cup Presentation Ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. in the Humphreys Community Fitness Center (Super Gym). The ceremony is open to everyone, please come out to help recognize those units that have distinguished themselves during this 2nd iteration from April thru September. Your hard work, team spirit, and dedication exemplify the Army Values and your dedication to mission accomplishment. Final Standings can be viewed here --> https://www.facebook.com/notes/us-army-garrison-humphreys-camp-humphreys....

THRU NOV. 20: A Letter to my Family Contest at the SFC Ray E. Duke Memorial Library. Tell us what the military family means to you. Three winners will each receive Alaska Mining Company gift certificates. Open to all ages! Entries may be of any length and may be either be dropped off at the library or uploaded as a message or post to the USAG Humphreys Family and MWR Facebook page. The winner will be announced on the library bulletin board and the MWR Facebook page on Nov. 27. For more information, call 753-8433.

NOV. 24: The Regional Contracting Office – Pyeongtaek will be CLOSED. For more information, call 754-8290.

NOV. 28: Tickets for the UFC Fight Night South Korea are on sale at the Community Activity Center. Ticket price is $90 for A seats and $70 for B seats (price includes transportation). Limited to 40 seats per area. The bus will depart for Olympic Park in Seoul at 6:15 p.m. from the Community Activity Center Parking Lot. For more information, call 753-8825.

THRU NOV. 30: Youth Winter Sports Season Registration. Basketball (Season runs Jan. – Mar.): For ages 3 – 15 ($20 for 3 – 5 year old developmental clinic, $40 for age 5 – 15 league. Uniform shirt included in cost. T-shirt for developmental clinic). Cheerleading (Season runs Jan. – Mar.): For ages 4 – 15 ($40 includes uniform cost). Winter Swim Team (Season runs Dec. – Mar.): For ages 5 – 18 ($65 includes swim suit and cap. This is not swim lessons. This is a competitive swimming program. All participants must be able to swim 50 meters with no assistance doing 1 of 4 strokes [freestyle, butterfly, breast stroke or back stroke]. All swimmers will be assessed prior to the start of the season to determine eligibility). To register: For current CYSS enrollees, stop by Parent Central Services in Bldg. 1127. For first time registrations, call and schedule an appointment. For more information, call 753-3413.

THRU NOV. 30: Monthly Mettle. 5 mile walk, 100 controlled burpees. Regular fitness challenges - compete to earn bragging rights! Complete anytime during the month. Post a photo or video of yourself completing the challenge to facebook.com/HumphreysMWR. All the month's entrants will be registered to randomly win a $25 MWR Money gift certificate. For more information, contact 753-5602.

DEC. 14: A Food Handlers Class will be held at the Camp Humphreys Community Activity Center (CAC) from 2 to 6 p.m. This class will fulfill the four hours of initial Food Sanitation and Safety Training, and the four hour annual refresher training requirement of TB MED 530, Tri Service Food Code. This class is designed for food service workers in a food service activity and will be presented in both English and Korean. For more information please contact Dale Eichhorst, at 737-5703 or email at dale.r.eichhorst.civ@mail.mil.

THRU DEC. 23: The National Test Center’s new operating hours will be the following: Monday from 2 – 5 p.m., Tuesday 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., Wednesday 2 – 5 p.m. and Thursday 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. The test center is located in Bldg. 558, 2nd floor, Rm 206. For more information, call 753-8687 or humphreyslab-asia@umuc.edu.

THRU DEC. 31: U.S. Army Digital Photo Contest runs Nov 1 – Dec. 31. Two divisions: Active Duty Military and other eligible participants. Categories include animals, design elements, digital darkroom, military life, still life, people and nature & landscapes. To enter, complete an entry form and submit photos online at https://cloud.mwr.army.mil/apptrac.

YONGSAN GARRISON

NOV. 1-DEC. 31: U.S. Army Digital Photo Contest submission dates. Complete entry form and submit photos online at https://cloud.mwr.army.mil/apptrac

NOV. 1-DEC. 21: Yongsan Lanes Bowling Center Holiday Meal Contest. You will get a ticket and your receipt every time you bowl. Write your contact info on your receipt and put both your receipt and ticket in the drawing box. Open to all SOFA ID card holders. For more information, call 723-7830.

NOV. 6-22: Seoul Lantern Festival, 6-9:30 p.m. $15 for military and civilian. For more information, call Moyer ODR Tours at 723-3293.

NOV. 7: Korean & American Friendship Table Tennis Tournament at Commiskey’s CAC, 1 p.m. For more information, call 738-6879/6880/6883.

NOV. 10: DOD Armed Forces Entertainment presents Kimberly Cole, 7 p.m. at Collier Community Fitness Center. Free admission. For more informtiaon, call 723-5721.

NOV. 11: Veteran’s Day Hiking Trip to Songnisan National Park, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. $42 for military, $47 for civilian. For more information, call Moyer ODR Tours at 723-3293.

NOV. 11: Seoul City Tour, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. $20 for family, $10 for adult, $5 for school age, for transportation. Free for child under 7 years old. For more information, call K-16 CAC at 741-6030.

NOV. 15: Live Worship with Michael W. Smith, 8 p.m. at Korea University Hwajeong Gymnasium. For more information, call Moyer ODR Tours at 723-3293.

NOV. 20-22: Humphreys Holiday Bazaar 2015 at Humphreys Communtiy Fitness Center. Fri: 6-9 p.m., Sat: 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Sun: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Dozens of vendors under one roof with an array of antique furniture, pottery, accessories and more! Photos with Santa on Sat. & Sun. For more information, contact Family & MWR Special Events at 753-8820.

NOV. 21: Biking Tour of YangPyong, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. K-16 van departs at 10 a.m. from K-16 CAC parking lot. $5 trip fee, $5 for rental (bike and helmet). Bring your own lunch. For more information, call K-16 CAC at 741-6030.

NOV. 21: Everland Family Trip - $10 for transportation. Full package fee (will be collected at Commiskey’s CAC): W29,000 (entry fee, amusement park, Safari World). Free admission for children under 3 years old. Bus departs Commiskey’s CAC at 8:30 a.m. Registration deadline is Nov. 17, 7 p.m. For more information, call Commiskey’s CAC at 738-6879.

NOV. 23-25: ACS Resilience Training for Spouses, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at ACS Gldg. 4106, Rm 124. For more information or to sign up, call 738-7505.

NOV. 24-25: ACS Newcomers Orientation Tour and Expo of Agencies, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. at ACS Bldg. 4106. For more information or to sign up, call 738-7505.

NOV. 26: Main Post Club Thanksgiving Buffet, 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. $16.50 for adults, $8 for children 6-10 years old, free for 5 years old and under. For more information, call 723-5678.

NOV. 26: K-16 Thanksgiving Special Events, 9 a.m.-6:30 p.m. at K-16 CAC, Bowling Center, and Landing Zone. For more information, call 741-6030.

Madden Football Game & Pool Tournament – Open to all soldiers and family members, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at K-16 CAC
K-16 Thanksgiving Turkey Bowling – Team bowling competition, 1-5 p.m. at K-16 Bowling Center. Open to all soldiers and family members.
Community Family Potluck and Dessert Competition, 5-6:30 p.m. Open to all soldiers and family members.
DFAC Thanksgiving Luncheon, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Thanksgiving Door Decoration Competition – The theme is “1920s Thanksgiving.” Finish door decoration by Nov. 23. Judging is Nov. 26, 9-11 a.m.

NOV. 28: Anseong Farmland Trip - $10 for transportation. U.S. ID card holders only. Full package (entry fees + tractor ride + horse ride + archery shooting) Korean Won only. W22,000 for adults, W21,000 for under 18 years old, free admission for children under 3 years old. Registration deadline is Nov. 25. For more information, call Commiskey’s CAC at 738-6879.

NOV. 28: Temple and Hiking Trip to Namhansansung, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Family - $20, adult - $10, school age - $5 for transportation. Free for child under 7 years old. For more information, call K-16 CAC at 741-6030.

NOV. 28: ACS Relocation Program - Transportation 101, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Learn how to ride the subway here in Korea and meet others. Sign up required. For more information, call 738-7505.

NOV. 28: UFC Fight Night at Olympic Park Gymnastics Arena, 6 p.m. Tickets on sale at Commiskey’s CAC. 70 slots available. Tickets sold on a first-come-first-serve basis. NO reservations. For more information, call 738-6879/6880/6883.

NOV. 30: Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony, 5:30 p.m. Next to the South Post Fire Station. Free hot chocolate, coffee, and treats (while supplies last). For more information, call 723-5721.

DEC. 4: Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony at K-16, 5 p.m. in front of K-16 CAC building. Come meet Santa Claus at Commiskey’s! Free hot chocolate, coffee, and treats (while supplies last). For more information, call 723-5721.

DEC. 5: USAG Yongsan F&MWR Army vs Navy Flag Football Game at Sims Family and MWR Field at Seoul American High School, 11 a.m. For more information, call 738-8608.

R & R BAR AND GRILL BINGO: Every Saturday 1-5 p.m. Up to $5000 in prize money every Saturday. For more information, call 723-5678/8785.

YONGSAN LANES: Mondays – Blue Head Pin Bowling Day, 5-8:30 p.m.; Tuesdays – Closed; Wednesdays – Open at 4 p.m., FED Bowling League at 6:30 p.m.; Thursdays – Philippine Embassy Friendship Bowling Fun League, 6:30 p.m.; Fridays – T.G.I.F. Bowling League, 6:30 p.m.; Saturdays – Blue Head Pin Bowling Day, 8-11:30 p.m.; Sundays – Blue Head Pin Bowling Day, 5-8:30 p.m. For more information call 723-7830.

K-16 BOWLING CENTER: COSMIC BOWLING NIGHT – Wednesday, 4:30-7 p.m.; LEAGUE NIGHT – Friday, 6 p.m.; ROCK-N-ROLL BOWLING NIGHT – Saturday, 6-11 p.m.; LADIES’ NIGHT – Sunday, 4-10 p.m.; RED HEAD PIN BOWLING – Sunday & Monday, 6 p.m. For more information, call 741-6240.

YONGSAN LANES: Bowl for your lunch discount. Mon-Fri, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Bowl two games at lunch time and receive 50% off any Hamburger Combo. For more information, call 723-7830/7938.

KUNSAN AIR BASE

NOV. 9: Bingo at Falcon CAC, 7 p.m. Free to all. Call Falcon CAC at 782-5213 for more information.

NOV. 13: Nine-Ball Tournament, 7 p.m. at Falcon CAC. Free to all. Call Falcon CAC at 782-5213 for more information.

NOV. 14: Pro Basketball Game in Jeonju (Jeonju KCC vs. Incheon ETLAND) noon- 6 p.m. $30 per person plus W10,000-45,000 for game tickets. Sign up by Nov. 12, 5 p.m. For more information, call ITT at 782-5213.

NOV. 14: Dirt Bike Trip (10 max) – 8 a.m.-5 p.m. $120 per person includes transportation, dirt bike rental, and guide. For more information, call Outdoor Recreation at 782-4938.

NOV. 15: Namdo Food Festival, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. $35 per person plus W3,000 for admission fees. Sign up by Nov. 12, 5 p.m. For more information, call ITT at 782-5213.

NOV. 20: Ping-Pong Tournament, 7 p.m. at Falcon CAC. Free to all. Call Falcon CAC at 782-5213 for more information.

NOV. 21 & DEC. 5: DMZ Tours - $45 per person plus W12,000 for lunch. Sign up by noon on the Wednesday before trip date. For more information, call ITT at 782-5213.

NOV. 21: Yellow Sea Fishing Trip, 5 a.m.-5 p.m. $100 per person includes transportation, boating fee, fishing rod, bait, tackle, and guide. For more information, call Outdoor Recreation at 782-4938.

NOV. 22: Buyeo (Capital of Ancient Baekje) - $35 per person plus W6,000 for admission fees. Sign up by Nov. 19, 5 p.m. For more information, call ITT at 782-5213.

NOV. 26 & 27: Thanksgiving Day Special: Free Wolf Pack Wheels Trip open to all U.S. ID card holders! Kunsan AB to Osan AB: 8 a.m., 1 p.m. Osan AB to Kunsan AB: 1:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m. Sign up starts Nov. 16 at Falcon CAC. For more information, call ITT at 782-5213.

NOV. 27: Chess Tournament, 7 p.m. Free to all. Call Falcon CAC at 782-5213 for more information.

NOV. 28: Mt. Cheongamsan Hiking Trip, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. $20 per person includes transportation and guide. For more information, call Outdoor Recreation at 782-4938.

NOV. 28: Independence Hall, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. $35 per person. Sign up by Nov. 26, 5 p.m. For more information, call ITT at 782-5213.

NOV. 29: Deoksan Hot Spring (Spa Castle) – 9 a.m.-6 p.m. $35 per person plus W28,000 for admission fees. Sign up by Nov. 26, 5 p.m. For more information, call ITT at 782-5213.

DEC. 6: Mt. Mai & Tap-Temple – 8 a.m. -5 p.m. $35 per person. Sign up by Dec. 3, 5 p.m. For more information, call ITT at 782-5213.

Paintball is Back - Saturdays, Reservations ONLY. $15 per person includes marker, protective equipment, and 100 paintballs ($3 per additional 100 paintballs). Show and sign up no later than 1030 on the Saturday of your choice. For more information, call Outdoor Recreation at 782-4938.

FREE LUNCH BOWL at Take it North Bowling Center, weekdays, 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Buy one lunch over $6 and bowl free.

BOWL FOR A BUCK at Take it North Bowling Center, Mon. & Tues., 10:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m. $1 per game, $1 per shoe rental.

LADIES NIGHT at Takei it North Bowling Center, Wednesdays, 6:30-10:30 p.m. Bowl three games free. Call 782-7659 for more information.

AIRMAN/SOLDIER SPECIAL at Take it North Bowling Center. Fridays & Saturdays, 7 p.m.-1 a.m. E1-E4 show ID card for 50% off Howlin’ Cosmic Bowling. Call 782-7659 for more information.

KARAOKE & GIRL’S NIGHT OUT: Wednesdays, 8-10 p.m. at Mickley’s Pub. Free. Call the Loring Club at 782-4312 for more information.

BUY IN TEXAS HOLD’EM: Tuesdays, Thursdays & Saturdays 6:45 p.m. at the Ballroom. $20/person, $10 for club members. Call the Loring Club at 782-4312 for more information.

WOLF PACK WHEELS: Located inside Falcon Community Activities Center, Wolf Pack Wheels provides safe, reliable, and affordable transportation between Kunsan and Osan Air Bases and Incheon International Airport. Kunsan to Osan: $20 one-way, same day travel (leisure)/$45 one-way, same day travel (official); Advance ticket prices: E1-E3: $18/E4-E-6: $19/E7 & above: $20/Club members receive a $1 discount; Osan to Kunsan: $20 one-way, same day travel (leisure)/$45 one-way, same day travel (official); Advance ticket prices: E1-E3: $18/E4-E-6: $19/E7 & above: $20/Club members receive a $1 discount; Osan to Incheon International Airport: $25 (leisure)/$35 (official). See the complete information on Howler Online. See the off-base bus and train schedule at Howler Online website.

DAEGU/CAMP WALKER/CAMP CARROLL

HENRY’S LUNCH & DINNER Burger of the Month November – Bourbon Black & Bleu Burger, $7.95. For more information, call Henry’s Place at 768-7300.

NOV. 1-19: Our Heroes’ Tree at Camp Carroll Library – Make an ornament for our Heroes’ Tree to honor the service member in your family! For more information, call Camp Carroll Library 765-8407.

NOV. 4: Good Neighbor Bowling Program at Camp Walker Bowling Center, 5 p.m. For more information, call 764-4985.

NOV. 4: Family Advocacy Program Commanders and SNCO Mandatory Briefing at Camp Henry Education Center, 3-5 p.m. For more information, call ACS Camp Henry at 768-7112.

NOV. 4, 18, 25: Employment Readiness at ACS Camp Carroll, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. By appointment only. For more information, call ACS Camp Carroll at 765-7900.

NOV. 5: PT 3 Nutrition During Pregnancy at Camp Henry Education Center, 10 a.m.-noon. For more information, call ACS Camp Henry at 768-7112.

NOV. 5, 10: Pickleball lessons at Kelly Fitness Center, 6 p.m. Sign up at your local fitness center. For more information, call 764-4800.

NOV. 6: Pay Day Scramble at Evergreen Golf Course, noon-5 p.m. For more information, call 764-4628.

NOV. 7: Picturesque Hiking Trip to Mt. Bisul - $10 tour fee for adults, $5 for children under 12. Depart Carroll CAC at 7 a.m., Walker Commissary at 8 a.m. Registration deadline is Nov. 4. For more information, call 764-4123.

NOV. 5, 12, 19: Financial Readiness at ACS Camp Carroll, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. For more information, call ACS Camp Carroll at 765-7900.

NOV. 9: Federal Resume Class at Camp Henry Education Center, 10-11:30 a.m. For more information, call ACS Camp Henry at 768-7112.

NOV. 9: Financial Readiness First Term Soldiers Brief at Camp Henry ACS, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information, call ACS Camp Henry at 768-7112.

NOV. 10: Watercolor Class at Camp Carroll CAC, 2-3 p.m. $2 fee for the class. Bring your own sketchbook, pencil, brush and watercolors. Sign up at the Camp Carroll CAC. For more information, call Camp Carroll CAC at 765-8325.

NOV. 11: Henry’s Place closed for Veterans Day

NOV. 11: Veteran’s Day Bowling Special at Camp Walker Bowling Center, all day. Active duty and retired veterans bowl for $2. Must show valid ID card. Shoes free. For more information, call 764-4334.

NOV. 11: “Salute to Veteran’s Day” Special at the Hilltop Club. For more information, call 764-4985.

NOV. 11: Veteran’s Day 10K Fun Run, 9 a.m. Register same day of event from 8-8:45 a.m. Race starts at 9 a.m. at Camp Carroll Story Field. For more information, call Camp Carroll Sports & Fitness Center at 765-8118.

NOV. 11: Veteran’s Day Special Bike Riding Tour - $30 tour fee for transportation with your own bicycle, $35 with a CAC rental bicycle. Tour along the bicycle path from Yeoju to Chungju Dam (77km/42 mile). Adults only. Depart Walker Commissary at 5 a.m., Carroll CAC at 6 a.m. Registration deadline is Nov. 8. For more information, call 764-4123.

NOV. 11: USAG Daegu Area Veterans Day Volleyball Tournament at Camp Walker Kelly Fitness Center, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Registration deadline is Nov. 5. For more information, call 764-4800/4225.

NOV. 11-12: The 2015 U.S. Army Soldier Show at Camp Carroll Fitness Center, 7 p.m.

NOV. 12: PT Real Life Part 3 at Camp Henry Education Center, 10 a.m.-noon. For more information, call ACS Camp Henry at 768-7112.

NOV. 12-13: USAG Daegu Army Family Action Plan Conference at Camp Walker Chapel, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Submit your issues today! Make a difference! For more information, contact Tess Compton at 768-7232 or stop by ACS.

NOV. 13: Henry’s Place closed for KEU Foundation Day.

NOV. 13: Korean Employee Union Foundation Day at Camp Carroll Hideaway Club, club opens 5 p.m.-2 a.m. For more information, call 765-8574.

NOV. 13: CYSS Basket registration deadline. $40 (ages 3-16). For more information, call 764-4859.

NOV. 14: Free Golf Lesson at Evergreen Golf Course, 10 a.m.-noon. For more information, call 764-4628.

NOV. 14: Army vs Navy Flag Football at Kelly Field, 2 p.m.

NOV. 14: Pottery Painting Class at Camp Walker Arts & Crafts Center, 3-4 p.m. $20 class fee (includes materials). Pre-registration required. For more information, call 764-5692.

NOV. 14: Shopping Trip to Busan (Busan International Market) - $15 tour fee for adults, $10 for children under 12. Depart Carroll CAC at 8 a.m., Walker Commissary at 9 a.m. Registration deadline is Nov. 11 For more information, call 764-4123.

NOV. 14, 15: Turkey Shoot at Evergreen Golf Course, all day. For more information, call 764-4628.

NOV. 15: Chess Tournament at Camp Carroll CAC, 2-4 p.m. For more information, call Camp Carroll CAC at 765-8325.

NOV. 15-30: Photos of Korea and Koreans photo exhibition at Camp Walker CAC.

NOV. 16: FRG Essentials at ACS Camp Henry, 9-11:30 a.m. at Camp Henry Education Center. For more information, call ACS Camp Henry at 768-7112.

NOV. 16: Interview Skills at Camp Henry Education Center, 10-11:30 a.m. For more information, call ACS Camp Henry at 768-7112.

NOV. 16: Sponsorship Training at Camp Henry ACS, 2-3 p.m. For more information, call ACS Camp Henry at 768-7112.

NOV. 16-17: AFTB Knowledge (K Level) at Camp Henry Education Center, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. For more information, call ACS Camp Henry at 768-7112.

NOV. 17: Newcomer’s Orientation at Camp Carroll Theater, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. For more information, call ACS Camp Carroll at 765-7900.

NOV. 17: “Lunch at Tiffany’s with the DCSC & Co.” November Luncheon, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Evergreen Community Club. $16 for members, $21 for non-members. Please RSVP by emailing emanning823@gmail.com

NOV. 18: Planning & Budgeting for the Holidays at Camp Henry Education Center, 3-4 p.m. For more information, call ACS Camp Henry at 768-7112.

NOV. 18-19: Resiliency Training at Camp Walker Chapel Annex, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. For more information, call ACS Camp Henry at 768-7112.

NOV. 19: FRG Treasurer’s Training at Camp Henry Education Center, 9-11:30 a.m. For more information, call ACS Camp Henry at 768-7112.

NOV. 19: PT Real Life Part 4 at Camp Henry Education Center, 10 a.m.-noon. For more information, call ACS Camp Henry at 768-7112.

NOV. 19: Camp Carroll Intramural Basketball League begins, 6-9 p.m. at Camp Carroll Fitness Center. For more information, call Camp Carroll Sports & Fitness Center at 765-8118/8287.

NOV. 19: Bench Press Open Competition at Camp Carroll Sports & Fitness Center, 6 p.m. Sign up deadline is Nov. 18. For more information, call Camp Carroll Sports & Fitness Center at 765-8118.

NOV. 19: Free Golf Clinic at Evergreen Golf Course, 5:30-6:30 p.m. For more information, call 764-4628.

NOV. 19, 20: Spouse Orientation at Camp Walker Chapel, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sign up required. For more information, call ACS Camp Henry at 768-7112.

NOV. 20: Recipe Exchange at ACS Camp Carroll, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. For more information, call ACS Camp Carroll at 765-7900.

NOV. 21: Newcomers Daegu Subway & Downtown Adventure, 9:15 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Depart from Camp Walker Lodge. 15,000 won per person includes subway tokens and a meal. MUST pre-register. For more information, call ACS Camp Henry at 768-7112.

NOV. 21: USAG Daegu Holiday Bazaar – Exchange parking lot, Camp Walker, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information or to rent a booth, call 768-9240.

NOV. 21: Young-ju Seonbi-chon Village Tour - $20 fee for adults, $15 for children 12 and under. Depart Walker Commissary at 8 a.m., Carroll CAC at 9 a.m. Registration deadline is

NOV. 19. To register or for more information, call 765-8325.

NOV. 21: Korean Traditional Board Game “Yut” at Camp Walker Library, 1 p.m. For more information, call 764-4318.

NOV. 21: Recreational 8-Ball Tournament at Camp Walker CAC, 2 p.m. Sign up deadline is Nov. 18. For more information, call 764-4123/5919.

NOV. 21: Parent’s Day Out, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. $35 per child, non refundable. Registration ends Nov. 13. For more information, call Parent Central Services at 764-5298.

NOV. 24: Newcomer’s Orientation at Camp Henry Theater, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. For more information, call ACS Camp Henry at 768-7112.

NOV. 26: Henry’s Place closed for Thanksgiving Day.

NOV. 26: Thanksgiving Day Bowling Special at Camp Walker Bowling Center, 4:30-9 p.m. For more information, call 764-4334.

NOV. 26: Medicine Ball Challenge at Camp Carroll Sports & Fitness Center, 6 p.m. Sign up deadline is Nov. 25. For more information, call Camp Carroll Sports & Fitness Center at 765-8118.

NOV. 26: Thanksgiving Turkey Shoot Bowling at Camp Carroll Bowling Center, 5-9 p.m. Bowl a “Turkey” and get one game for free. For more information, call 765-4470.

NOV. 26: Turkey Trot 5K Race/2-Mile Walk – Registration from 8:15-8:45 a.m., race starts at 9 a.m. at Camp Walker Kelly Field. For more information, call 764-4225/5263.

NOV. 26: Thanksgiving Holiday Brunch Features at the Evergreen, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. $17.95 for adults, $8.95 for children. Traditional Holiday meal including chef’s action station of western style breakfast and carving, soup and salad bar, variety selection of holiday desserts, beverages and champagne. For more information, call 764-4060.

NOV. 27: Spouse Group Meeting and Birthday Celebration at ACS Camp Carroll, 1:30-3:30 p.m. For more information, call ACS Camp Carroll at 765-7900.

NOV. 27: “Call of Duty” video game tournament at Camp Carroll CAC, 1-5 p.m. Sign up at the Camp Carroll CAC. For more information, call Camp Carroll CAC at 765-8325.

NOV. 27: Celebrate Thanksgiving Day with house band “Rhythm & Moves” at Camp Carroll Hideaway Club, 8 p.m.-midnight. For more information, call 765-8574.

NOV. 27-29: Korea Wide Post Level Thanksgiving Invitational Basketball Classic at Camp
Walker Kelly Fitness Center, Camp George DAS Gym.

NOV. 28: 9-Pin-No-Tap Bowling Tournament at Camp Walker Bowling Center, 2 p.m. Entry fee - $20 (6 games). For more information, call 764-4334.

NOV. 28: Recreational Table Tennis Tournament at Camp Walker CAC, 2 p.m. Sign up deadline is Nov. 25. For more information, call 764-4123/5919.

SAVE THE DATES!
DEC. 11: Gingerbread Making at Child, Youth & School Services.
DEC. 15: Cookie Making at Child, Youth & School Services.
BOSS Holiday Passport Challenge – 14 events throughout December.
DEC. 23: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders
DEC. 25: CAC Holiday Open House
DEC. 31: New Year’s Celebrations - Clubs

ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE (ESL) CLASS: Every Monday, 10-11:30 a.m. at Camp Carroll ACS Conference Room. For more information, call Camp Carroll ACS at 765-7900.

KOREAN LANGUAGE CLASS (Advanced): Every Monday, 2-3:30 p.m. at Camp Carroll ACS Conference Room. For more information, call Camp Carroll ACS at 765-7900.

FREE CREDIT SCORE & ANALYSIS: Call 768-8127/7112 for an appointment.

Grill your own steak night is back! Every Thursday from 5 – 8:30 p.m. on the outside patio at Henry’s Place! And step inside to catch live music from Night Tunes too!

FREE CREDIT SCORE & ANALYSIS: Check your free FICO credit scores and the educational information and tools in the FICO Standard product-available free of charge to eligible active duty service members and their spouses. Please call 768-8127 for an appointment.

HENRY’S PLACE - Dinner special, $8.95, Wed.-Fri., 5-8 p.m. Call 768-7300 for more information.

KARAOKE & LADIES NIGHT at the Hideaway Club, Camp Carroll, every Wed. 5-10 p.m. Call 765-8574 for more information.

CHILDREN’S STORY HOUR: Every Thursday. Camp Walker Library, 10:30 a.m., call 764-4318 for more information. Camp Carrol library, call for times at 765-8407.

Warrior Adventure Quest: Warrior Adventure Quest embodies unit cohesion, teamwork and stress management through outdoor recreation activities. It is made available through the Army Family Covenant promise to deliver Soldiers a quality of life commensurate to their level of service and sacrifice. Have your unit representative contact 764-4432 or 764-4426 to schedule unit training and high adventure!

NEWCOMER AND SPOUSE ORIENTATION: Every Tuesday at Camp Henry Movie Theater, 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m., 768-7112.

NEWCOMER AND SPOUSE ORIENTATION: Every Thursday at Camp Carroll Movie Theater, 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m., 765-7900.

PIZZA BUFFET EVERY WEDNESDAY: Evergreen Club, 5 – 9 p.m., 764-4060.

The Hang Out: Rock & Country club, Camp Carroll Bowling Center, Friday and Saturday nights, 10 p.m. – 3 a.m., 765-4470.

CAMP RED CLOUD/CAMP STANLEY/CAMP CASEY/CAMP HOVEY

The USO is currently accepting donations of: Individually packaged snacks, disposable eating products (flatware, plates, napkins, bowls, coffee cups), coffee & powdered creamer, Clorox/Lysol cleaning wipes & hand sanitizer, video games and controllers. PCSing soon? Save space by donating items to the USO!

COMMERCIAL BUS SCHEDULE UPDATE: CRC-Jackson-Yongsan (Myung-Jin Bus) – The shuttle bus that runs between Area I and Yongsan in Seoul, which has been a paid service, is now free. Casey-Red Cloud-Jackson – Additional bus runs have been scheduled for service between Camp Casey and Camp Red Cloud. For a complete listing of the new bus schedule please call 732-6662.

VISIT TO MYEONGJIN ORPHANAGE: once very month BOSS volunteers visit the Myeong Jin Orphanage to meet and interact with orphans. You can help ‘make a difference’ in the lives of these special young people simply by showing that you care. For more information, call 732-5417.

PART-DAY PROGRAMS: Available for preschoolers. Mon., Wed., Fri., 8:30-11:30 a.m. Follows the DoDes School Calendar. For more information or to register, call CYSS Parent Center at 730-3628.

HOURLY CARE: $4/hour. Mon-Fri, 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. For reservations call, 730-8525.

KOREAN LANGUAGE CLASS: Free. 3 p.m. every Sunday, 6 p.m. Every Thursday at CRC Community Activity Center. For more information, call 732-6246.

ENGLISH CLASS: Every Tuesday and Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at Kyungmin High School. Stanley BOSS council invites all BOSS members to meet and interact with local nationals by participating in their English lesson program. Contact your BOSS representative or call 732-5417 for more information.

HOOP-IT-UP ON FRIDAY NIGHTS: Every Friday, 4:30-6 p.m. at Camp Casey Hanson Field House. Free. Call Child, Youth & School Services at 730-3114 for more information.

HOURLY CARE AT THE CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER: Mon-Fri, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., $4 per hour. For more information, call 730-8525/3628.

THE SCHOOL LIAISON OFFICER works through CYSS with the local school community to address educational issues involving military children. If you Home School, information may be obtained on support services and resources offered through CYSS that may enhance your child’s at home program. For more information, contact your School Liaison Officer at DSN 730-3468 or commercial 05033-30-3628.

TAE-KWON-DO classes at Camp Casey Hanson Fitness Center every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Ages 6-13, 3-4 p.m., ages 14-18, 4-5 p.m. $75/month. For more information, call 730-6523.

HAP-KI-DO classes every Tuesday and Thursday at Camp Casey Hanson Fitness Center. Ages 6-13, 3-4 p.m., ages 14-18, 4-5 p.m. $50/month. For more information, call 730-6523.

SWIMMING classes every Tuesday and Thursday at Camp Hovey Indoor Pool. Ages: 6 months-2 years, 3:30-4 p.m.; Beginning, ages 7-18, 4-4:45 p.m.; Beginning, ages 3-6, 5-5:30 p.m.; Advanced, ages 7-18, 5:45-6:30 p.m. $55/month. . For more information, call 730-6523.

CRC Library is starting a Book Club. Sign-up sheet is available at CRC Library’s front desk. For more information, call 732-6723.

Tags: Travel

↧

Listen up, dude! Head off base and hit a concert in Korea!

November 5, 2015, 7:08 pm

≫ Next: My Paradise: Trekking through Cambodia's jungles

≪ Previous: Hey! Check out what's happening on your base!

Listen up, dude! Head off base and hit a concert in Korea!

by: . | .

Stripes Korea | .

published: November 06, 2015

Folks, Here's have a fresh list of concert listings, so take a look and make plans to check out a concert. (This was updated Nov. 6)

New Concerts

Chat-Shira
Seoul, Nov. 21, 7 p.m., Nov. 22, 6 p.m., Olympic Park Olympic Hall, 99,000-110,000 won; http://tinyurl.com/3e6rwhe.

The Nolza
Seoul, Nov. 22, 5 p.m., Korea University Hwajung Gymnasium, 77,000-88,000 won; http://tinyurl.com/3e6rwhe.

Kim Dong Wan
Seoul, Nov. 26, 8 p.m., Nov. 28, 6 p.m., Nov. 29, 5 p.m., Dec. 3, 8 p.m., Dec. 5, 6 p.m., Dec. 6, 5 p.m., Dec. 8 & 10, 8 p.m., Dec. 12, 6 p.m., Dec. 13, 5 p.m., Interpark Art Center Hall, 99,000 won; http://tinyurl.com/3e6rwhe.

SG Wannabe
Gyeonggi, Dec. 26, 7 p.m., Dec. 27, 6 p.m., Gyeonggi Arts Center, Grand Performance Hall, 99,000-110,000-121,000 won; http://tinyurl.com/3e6rwhe.

Davichi
Seoul, Dec. 30-31, 8 p.m., Yonsei University Grand Hall, 88,000-99,000-110,000 won; http://tinyurl.com/3e6rwhe.

Mika
Busan, Feb. 11, BEXCO Auditorium, 99,000-110,000-132,000 won; Seoul, Feb. 12, Jamsil Indoor Stadium, 88,000-110,000-132,000 won; http://tinyurl.com/3e6rwhe.

In Concerts

2PM
Seoul, Nov. 8, 4 p.m., Jangchung Gymnasium, 30,000-40,000 won; http://tinyurl.com/3e6rwhe.

Makisim & His Band
Daegu, Nov. 13, 7:30 p.m., Suseong Artpia (Yongi Hall), 77,00-99,000-121,000 won; Seoul, Nov. 14, 7 p.m., Yonsei University Grand Hall, 77,000-99,000-110,000-132,000 won; Busan, Nov. 15, 5 p.m., Bexco Auditorium, 77,000-99,000-121,000 won; http://tinyurl.com/3e6rwhe.

Eddy Kim
Seoul, Nov. 14, National Museum of Korea Theater Yong, 66,000-77,000 won; http://tinyurl.com/3e6rwhe.

B.A.P
Seoul, Nov. 15, 3 p.m., DDP Art Hall 2, free (standing); http://tinyurl.com/3e6rwhe.

Damien Rice
Seoul, Nov. 22, 6 p.m., Kyung Hee University Grand Peace Palace, 66,000-99,000-110,000-132,000 won; Busan, Nov. 24, 8 p.m., BEXCO Auditorium, 110,000-132,000 won; http://tinyurl.com/3e6rwhe.

BTS
Seoul, Nov. 27, 8 p.m., Nov. 28, 5 p.m., Nov. 29, 4 p.m., SK Olympic Handball Gymnasium, Olympic Park, 99,000 won; http://tinyurl.com/3e6rwhe.

Kim Yeon Woo
Seoul, Dec. 4, 8 p.m., Dec. 5-6, 7 p.m., SK Olympic Handball Gymnasium, Olympic Park, 77,000-99,000-121,000-143,000 won; http://tinyurl.com/3e6rwhe.

Kazumi Tateishi Trio
Daejeon, Dec. 11, 8 p.m., Chungnam National University Jeongsimhwa International Cultural Center Backma Hall, 55,000 won; Incheon, Dec. 12, 6 p.m., Incheon Culture & Arts Center , 55,000-66,000 won; http://tinyurl.com/3e6rwhe.

God
Seoul, Dec. 16-18, 8 p.m., Olympic Park Gymnastics Gymnasium, 88,000-110,000-121,000-132,000-143,000 won; http://tinyurl.com/3e6rwhe.

Pepperstones Concert “Bumper Year’
Seoul, Dec. 29-31, Yonsei University Centennial Hall, 77,000-88,000 won; http://tinyurl.com/3e6rwhe.

The Seoul Jazz Festival 2016
Seoul, May 2-29, Olympic Park, 127,000 won (two-day blind ticket for entrance); http://tinyurl.com/3e6rwhe.

Tags: Casey, Chinhae, Daegu - Camp Carroll, Daegu – Camps Henry, George and Walker, Humphreys, Kunsan, Osan, Red Cloud, Travel, Yongsan

↧

My Paradise: Trekking through Cambodia's jungles

November 5, 2015, 10:09 pm

≫ Next: Dude! Get off base and enjoy the festivals!

≪ Previous: Listen up, dude! Head off base and hit a concert in Korea!

My Paradise: Trekking through Cambodia's jungles

by: Kevin Dao | .

. | .

published: November 06, 2015

I found paradise as I was riding on my own elephant in the south eastern jungles of Mondulkiri Province of Cambodia.

Trekking through the jungles on an elephant was a great experience but bathing with one while crossing a river was unbelievable.

Words cannot describe how humbling it is to witness and participate in the bathing of the elephants with the village children. Watching them genuinely enjoying themselves made me come to the realization of how sheltered I am and how the simplest things in life can bring such happiness.

Along with my elephant experience, the Cambodian experience would not be complete without a visit to its archaeological sites. From the world famous Temple of Ankor Wat to the magnificent remains of its symbolic surroundings, each neighboring temple or shrine is as unique as it is beautiful.

Cambodia should be on everyones bucket list to visit, especially for those stationed out here in the Pacific. I found paradise there in the jungles of Cambodia and that is something that I will hold in my heart forever.

Tags: Travel

↧

Dude! Get off base and enjoy the festivals!

November 6, 2015, 12:25 am

≫ Next: Busan's Jagalchi Fish Market - Another side and taste

≪ Previous: My Paradise: Trekking through Cambodia's jungles

Dude! Get off base and enjoy the festivals!

by: . | .

Stripes Korea | .

published: November 06, 2015

Many fun and interesting events are going on in Korea. Don't miss out on the opportunity to enjoy the cultural experience! (This was updated Nov. 6)

Mindung Mountain Eulalia Festival

Date: Until Nov. 8
Location: Mindungsan Mountain area, Jeongseon-gun, Gangwon-do

Introduction:

The Mindungsan Eulalia Festival takes place in the Mindungsan Mountain area. Some of the events held include weekend mountain climbing, talent contests, Arirang singing contests, eulalia music concerts, a Mindungsan Gate ball competition and eulalia photo exhibition. Hands-on programs at the festival include a local food program, post card sending, mountain horseback riding and much more!

Transportation:

Train
- Take a train from Cheongnyangni Station to Mindungsan Station (Mugunghwa Line). For train schedules and reservations, go to www.letskorail.com.
- Exit Mindungsan Station and follow Mureung1-ro Street (무릉1로) for about 1.5km (or take a cab) to reach Jeungsan Elementary School (증산초등학교) where the trail going up to the mountain starts.

Bus
- From Dong Seoul Bus Terminal, take an intercity bus heading to Jeungsan (travel time: 4hr 20min / departs at 18:01).
- From the bus stop, follow Mureung1-ro Street (무릉1로) for about 1.5km (or take a cab) to reach Jeungsan Elementary School (증산초등학교) where the trail going up to the mountain starts.

Homepage: jeongseon.go.kr (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)

Masan Gagopa Chrysanthemum Festival

Date: Until Nov. 8
Location: Masanhang Port, Wharf 1

Introduction

Since its inception in 1960, chrysanthemum farming in Changwon (Masan) has proliferated, accounting for 13% of nationwide chrysanthemum farming. The Masan Gagopa Chrysanthemum Festival presents numerous exhibitions, cultural programs, food tasting, and many more.

Programs

Opening / closing ceremony, Pre-opening Eve Night event, chrysanthemum flower art exhibition, chrysanthemum flower industry promotion, chrysanthemum flower potted plant, wild flower exhibition, concert, performance, etc.

*Program details are subject to change and vary each year. Find more information at the official webpage.

Transportation

[Bus]
Take an express bus to Masan Express Bus Terminal.
Leave the terminal through the exit by the GS25 convenience store.
Cross the street, turn left and walk 100m to the city bus stop.
Take Bus 703, and get off at Jeil Girls' High School.
Cross the street, and walk 250m towards the harbor.

Homepage:festival.changwon.go.kr/gagopa (Korean only)

Iksan Ten Million Chrysanthemum Festival

Date: Until Nov. 8
Location: Jungang Sports Complex in Eoyang-dong, Iksan-si

Introduction

The annual Iksan Ten Million Chrysanthemum Festival is held every year from late October to early November at Iksan Jungang Sports Complex. The festival features an outdoor chrysanthemum exhibit, a national chrysanthemum artwork contest, cultural performances and many more.

Citizens, business, and organizations also put their own chrysanthemum flowers outside to support the festival and to promote Iksan's image.

Transportation

[Bus]
From Central City Terminal, take an express bus bound for Iksan Express Bus Terminal (approx. 2 hr 50 min).
Exit out from the bus terminal, walk left to take Bus 100 and get off at Jugang 1 Cha Apt. Bus Stop (14 bus stops; 24 min).
Walk back toward the big four-way intersection. Turn left at the intersection and go straight for about 15 min.
The venue will be on your left.

[Train]
Take the train from Seoul to Iksan (KTX) or from Yongsan to Iksan (KTX, Saemaeul, or Mugunghwa).
From Iksan Station, cross the street and take bus 65 and get off at Jungang Sports Complex (12 stops, 20 min).

Homepage: Gukhwa.iksan.go.kr (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)

Seosan Chrysanthemum Festival

Date: Until Nov. 8
Location: Gobuk-myeon, Seosan-si

Introduction

Seosan Chrysanthemum Festival takes place at in apple orchard in Gagu-ri, Gobuk-myeon, Seosan-si, Chungcheongnam-do. The festival grounds are decorated with color chrysanthemum exhibitions amidst bright red apples. Visitors can enjoy taking photos of the fully blooming flowers and ripe apples at this festival full of the scent of autumn.

Transportation

[Bus]
From Central City Terminal, take an express bus bound for Seosan Bus Terminal.
At Seosan Terminal Bus Stop, take bus 540 (Chorok, Jangyo 초록, 장요) and get off at Gobuk Bus Stop.
Walk straight about 160 m and the venue will be on your left.

Homepage: Seosan Tour & Culture seosantour.net (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)
gukhwaou.blog.me (Korean only)

Suncheon Bay Reeds Festival

Date: Until Nov. 8
Location: Suncheon Bay (순천만) & Dongcheon stream (동천) area

Introduction

Suncheon Bay is a treasury of nature, comprised of both flatlands and reed fields. Varying by seasons, visitors can expect different types of nature scenes. Migratory birds soaring through the skies in spring, mudskippers and mud flats in summer, turkey and reeds in fall, as well as, the rare hooded cranes in winter – about 200 species of migratory birds can be seen at this ecological tourism spot in Korea. In particular, the scenery unfolding in the fall season is considered to be a must-see tourist attraction for both overseas and domestic tourists as countless migratory birds and golden waves of reeds filled the bay.

Transportation

[Bus or Taxi]
From Suncheon Bus Terminal, take Bus 67 or a taxi to the festival venue (20min).
* Bus 67 schedule: 20-30min intervals

Homepage:reeds.suncheon.go.kr (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)

Seoul Kimchi Making & Sharing Festival

Date: Nov. 6 – Nov. 8
Location: Gwanghwamun Square, City Hall (Seoul Plaza) and Sejongno Park, Taepyeongno, Cheonggye Plaza

Introduction:

Seoul Kimchi Making & Sharing Festival is held in the area of Gwanghwamun Square. Registered as one of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, Gimjang (preparing kimchi for the winter) has drawn a lot of attention from all over the world. However, the culture of gimjang is slowly disappearing, as Korean culture becomes more globalized. Seoul goverment has planned this festival to revitalize the culture of gimjang, preparing almost 20 programs divided into the 5 sections of sharing, exhibition, hands-on programs, market place and food, and culture for visitors to enjoy the festival to the fullest.

Homepage:seoulkimchifestival.com (Korean only)

Asiana International Short Film Festival

Date: Until Nov. 10
Location: Cinecube / INDIE SPACE Theater

Introduction:

Asiana International Short Film Festival (AISFF) is the first and biggest international competitive short film festival. Over the years, it has received thousands of submissions from around the world, and screened hundreds of them. A highlight of the AISFF is the “In The Air” program, which determines films to play on Asiana Airlines flights. Furthermore, AISFF has established a fund to support short film production and industry leader development.

Transportation

Subway
Gwanghwamun Station (Seoul Subway Line 5), Exit 6.
- CineCube is located 5 minutes from the station.

Homepage:www.aisff.org (Korean, English)

Namdo Food Festival

Date: Nov. 13 – Nov. 15
Location: Juknokwon (Bamboo Garden) and Jeonnam Provincial College

Introduction:
Featuring history, culture, and evergreen bamboo tree forests as a clean and ecological city, Damyang holds Namdo Food Festival in the area of Damyang Stadium in front of Juknokwon. This festival introduces a food exhibition hall that comprises of a variety of representative food in Namdo, and an event offering various healthy foods. Other events include parades, food contests, sampling, agricultural products sales market, food ingredients hall, food market and cultural art performances alike to entertain visitors.

Transportation:
[Train]
From Yongsan Station (Seoul), take a train to Gwangju (광주).
From Gwangju Station, take local Bus 311 to Juknokwon.

Bus
From Central City Bus Terminal (Seoul), take an express bus to Damyang (담양).
From Damyang Bus Terminal, cross the road and take a Bongsan-Damyang (봉산, 담양) route bus.
Get off at the Juknokwon bus stop, and cross the road.

Bangeo Festival

Date: Nov. 12 – Nov. 15
Location: Moseulpohang Port

Introduction:
This popular festival is held every year in November at Moseulpo Port, the southernmost region of Jeju-do Island. It celebrates the ‘Bangeo Fish (yellowtail)’, which is largely caught in this area. The meat of ‘bangeo fish (yellowtail)’ is chewy and tender, and so it is very popular served raw. It is also used in a variety of other dishes. Visitors can enjoy fresh bangeo at the festival and then pack some up to take home.

Visitors can also try fishing and also sample some of Jeju’s other specialty foods such as heukdweji-gogigui (grilled wild boar meat), galchijorim (cutlass fish boiled in soy sauce with spices), and more. Don’t forget to admire the beautiful natural sceneries near the festival grounds and explore some of the many popular tourist attractions in Jeju.

Transportation:
Jeju International Airport.
Take bus 100 and get off at Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal.
From Jeju Terminal, take bus ‘Pyeonghwa-ro’ route and get off at Moseulpo.
It takes 50min-1hour by taxi.

Homepage:http://bangeofestival.com (Korean only)

Seoul Dance Festival

Date: Until Nov. 21
Location: Arko Arts Theater

Introduction

The Seoul Dance Festival is held in every autumn and is considered the biggest dance festival in Korea, drawing the participation of famous dancers and a range of newcomers. During the festival, there will be a variety of events for festival visitors both on and off the stage.

Transportation

[Subway]
Hyehwa Station (Seoul Subway Line 4), Exit 2.
Take a left at the first alley for 50 m and walk ahead then the venue will be located on your left.

[Bus]
102, 104, 106, 107, 108, 109, 140, 143, 149, 150, 160, 162, 273, 301 - Get off at Hyehwa, Marronnier Park.

Homepage: http://koart.or.kr/danceseoul (Korean only)

Historical Korean Drama Festival

Date: Until Nov. 22
Location: Korean Folk Village

Introduction
Historical Korean Drama Festival offers various hands-on programs in the theme of historical dramas and visitors can also closely watch historical dramas being filmed during the festival.

Traditional art performances along with fusion performances will take place at the festival as well as a b-boy show with gukak (traditional Korean music), and a performance of 12 Zodiac animal characters.

Surrounded by stunning beautiful scenery and formed like a village of the Joseon period, the festival site has a sense of realism, making it unique among historical sets.

Participants can enjoy varied hands-on programs such as hand-painting, fan-meeting and fan-signing with historical drama stars in person.

To get more information about this festival, visit the official website or make an inquiry at +(82)31-288-2941.

Transportation
[Subway + Bus]
1) From Sinnonhyeon Station (Seoul Subway Line 9), Exit 6, take Bus 5001-1 or 1560 to Korean Folk Village.

* 5001-1 (Red express bus)
Boarding location: From Exit 6 of Sinnonhyeon Station, go straight 250m and you will find the stop across from CGV movie theater.
Route: Sinnonhyeon Subway Station → Gangnam Subway Station → Yangjae Subway Station → Yangjae IC → Suwon IC → Singal → Korean Folk Village → Myongji University.

* 1560 (Red express bus)
Boarding location: From Exit 6 of Sinnonhyeon Station, go straight 250m and you will find the stop across from CGV movie theater.
Route: Sinnonhyeon Subway Station → Gangnam Subway Station → Yangjae Subway Station → Gyeongbu Expressway → Singal → Korean Folk Village 3-Way Intersection (Samsung Apt.) → Samsung Semiconductor → Byeongjeom

2) From Jonggak Station (Seoul Subway Line 1), Exit 3, take Bus 5500-1 to Korean Folk Village 3-way Junction.

* 5500-1 (Red express bus)
Boarding location: From Exit 3 of Jonggak Subway Station, go straight 200m to Tapgol Park
Route: Jonggak Subway Station → Dankook University → Seohyeon Subway Station → Migeum Subway Station → Singal → Bora Elementary School→ Korean Folk Village 3-Way Intersection (Samsung Apt.) → Kyunghee University

3) Take Bus 10-5 or 37 to Korean Folk Village or Nagok Village from Suwon Station (Seoul Subway Line 1), Exit 5.

* 10-5
Boarding location: From Exit 5 of Suwon Station, go forward 50m.
Route: Suwon Station → Gyeonggi-do Provincial Office → 2001 Outlet → Suwon Employment Center → Wooman Apt → Ajou University 3-Way Intersection → Premium Outlet Sanggal Station → Geumhwa Village 3rd Compound → Korean Folk Village 3-Way Intersection → Hanbora Village Entrance → Get off for Nagok Village

* 37
Boarding location: From Exit 5 of Suwon Station, go forward 50m.
Route: Suwon Station → Gyeonggi-do Provincial Office → 2001 Outlet → Dongsuwon Telephone Office → Court 3-Way Intersection → Sanggal Station → Geumhwa → Korean Folk Village 3-Way Intersection → Get off at Korean Folk Village

4) Take Bus 37, 10-5 or 5001-1 to Korean Folk Village or Nagok Village from Sanggal Station (Bundang Subway Line), Exit 3.

[Shuttle Bus 1] (Korean Folk Village ↔ Suwon Station)
* Operating hours
Suwon Station → Korean Folk Village: 10:30, 12:30, 14:30
Korean Folk Village → Suwon Station: 14:00, 15:30, 16:30
* Fare: Free of charge.
* Reservation required in advance for groups.
* Tickets must be purchased prior to boarding. Inquires regarding ticket purchase can be answered at the tourist information center.

[Shuttle Bus 2] (Korean Folk Village ↔ Sanggal Station)
Korean Folk Village (Main gate): 11:00, 13:00, 15:00, 16:30, 17:30
Sanggal Station, Exit 2: 11:05, 13:05, 15:05, 16:35, 17:35
Gyeonggi Provincial Museum: 11:10, 13:10, 15:10, 16:40, 17:40
Giheung Station: 11:20, 13:20, 15:20, 16:50, 17:45
Sanggal Station, Exit 3: 11:25, 13:25, 15:25, 16:55
Korean Folk Village (Main gate): 11:30, 13:30, 15:30, 17:00

※ Tourist information center is located 50m from Suwon Station, Exit 5.
※ The last shuttle bus does not operate during winter season.
※ Inquires: +82-31-256-6031 (Korean Folk Village Shuttle Bus Service )

* Visit the homepage to view more about the shuttle bus service.
Detailed Info on the Location: www.koreanfolk.co.kr (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)

Seoul Lantern Festival

Date: Nov. 6 – Nov. 22
Location: Cheonggyecheon Plaza to Supyogyo Bridge

Introduction:
Since its inception in 2009, the annual Seoul Lantern Festival has managed to put on remarkable displays of lanterns on the famous Cheonggyecheon Stream in downtown Seoul. During the festival period, hundreds of lanterns, each with a unique design and story, will be lit on Cheonggyecheon Stream.

Visitors can expect to see lanterns made by international artists, as well as local citizens.

Transportation:
Cheonggye Plaza/Gwanggyo/Jangtonggyo Bridge

Subway
Jonggak Station (Seoul Subway Line 1), Exit 4 or 5.
-Walk straight for 3 mins.

or

Euljiro 1-ga Station (Seoul Subway Line 2), Exit 2 or 3.
-Walk straight for 5 mins.

Bus
Blue bus: 101, 150, 163, 402, 405, 504, 506
Green bus: 1711, 7016, 7017, 7021,8000
Circular bus: 92S tour

Samilgyo
Subway
Euljiro 3-ga Station (Seoul Subway Line 2, 3), Exit 1, 2, 3, or 4,
-walk straight for 10 mins.

Bus
Blue bus: 140, 163, 470, 471, 501, 701
Direct bus: 1150, 5000, 5005, 5007, 7900, 9001, 9003, 9300
Express bus: 8100
Red bus: M4101, M4102

Seungyo
Subway
Jongno 3-ga Station (Seoul Subway Line 1, 3), Exit 12, 13 or 14,
-Walk straight for 10 mins.
nuljiro 3-ga Station (Seoul Subway Line 2, 3), Exit 1, 2, 4 or 5.
-Walk straight for 10 mins.

Bus
Blue bus: 163
Homepage:www.seoullantern.visitseoul.net (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)
blog.naver.com/seoullantern (Korean only)

Paju Jangdan Soybean Festival

Date: Nov. 20 – Nov. 22
Location: Imjingak Plaza

Introduction:
The theme of this festival is ‘soybeans’, a health food that has long been popular in Korea. In particular, the ‘Jangdan Soybeans’ produced in the Paju province have always been highly regarded for their taste and outstanding nutritional value and were even served to the king. Furthermore, in the early 20th Century, the ‘Jangdan Soybeans’ were designated as the most superior soybeans in Korea and were distributed throughout the country.

During the festival visitors can taste the soybeans and learn how to make dishes made from soybeans including tteok (rice cakes), tofu, and preserved soybeans.

Transportation:
Train
Munsan Station (Gyeongui Line)
From the station, take the shuttle bus to the festival venue.

or
From Gwanghwamun Station (Seoul Subway Line 5) , Exit 6.
Upon exiting the station, make a u-turn, and turn left at the corner.
Go straight about 120m to the bus stop.
Take Bus 9710 and get off at Munsan Station (문산역) (Estimated travel time: 2hrs).

Homepage:tour.paju.go.kr (Korean only)

Chrysanthemum Festival of The Garden of Morning Calm

Date: Until Nov. 30
Location: The Garden of Morning Calm

Introduction

While the Garden of Morning Calm brims with splendid seasonal flowers in the spring and the summer, it is during the fall months that the garden’s exquisite natural landscape takes on the most gorgeous hues. Visitors during the chrysanthemum festival will be able to enjoy the blazing fall foliage of the surrounding Chungnyeongsan Mountain and the golden waves created by the pine trees, as well as the myriads of fully bloomed chrysanthemums covering just about every corner of the 330,000 square meters of the outdoor garden. The Garden of Morning Calm makes a perfect outing for families to soak in the fall ambience and romance.

Transportation

[Bus]
From Sangbong Bus Terminal or Dong Seoul Bus Terminal take a bus bound for Cheongpyeong Bus Terminal.

OR

Take bus 1330 at Cheongnyangni Transfer Center (in front of Lotte Department Store) and get off at the Cheongpyeong Bus Terminal.

From Cheonpyeong Terminal, take a bus bound for The Garden of Morning Calm (아침고요수목원).

[Subway]
Cheongpyeong Station (Gyeonchun Line), Exit 1.
Go left until you reach the 3-way intersection and turn right. Continue straight toward the Cheongpyeong Catholic Church. Pass by Cheongpyeong Elementary School, turn left, and you will see the Cheonpyeong Bus Terminal.
From the terminal, take a bus bound for The Garden of Morning Calm.

Homepage: www.morningcalm.co.kr (Korean, English)

Silla Cultural Festival

Date: Until Dec. 3
Location: Gyeongju Arts Center, Seorabeol Culture Hall, Bulguksa Temple, etc.

Introduction:
Since 1962, the Silla Cultural Festival has been a representative cultural celebration held in Gyeongju’s Bonghwangdae, Hwangseong Park, and the downtown area. It is a cultural festival that brings out the spirit of the ancient Silla kingdom, which has a remarkable history and culture. It also introduces Gyeongju’s vision of being a hub of culture and tourism that combines the old and the new. The festival allows residents and tourists to unite while building an ambience of positive interaction, as well as spreading an image of Gyeongju as a historical and cultural tourism city that embraces its thousand-year-old heritage.

Homepage: www.gjfac.or.kr (Korean only)

Seoul Design Festival

Date: Dec. 2-6
Location: COEX Hall B

Introduction

The Seoul Design Festival began in 2002. Since its inception, the festival has aimed at presenting the future of design by showcasing the work of internationally renowned designers and up-and-coming designers from both home and abroad. The Seoul Design Festival venue is located in COEX, which is directly connected to Exit 5 and 6 of Samseong Station (Subway Line 2).

Transportation

[Subway]
Samseong Station (Seoul Subway Line 2), Exit 5 or 6.
COEX is directly connected to the station.

[Bus] (bound for Samseong Station)
Blue: 361, 362, 730, 301
Green: 3417, 3414, 3217, 3218

Homepage:www.designfestival.co.kr (Korean only)

Seoul Photo Festival

Date: Nov. 25-Dec. 25
Location: Seoul Metropolitan Library

Introduction

Seoul Photo Festival is held with the participation of citizens of Seoul-si, gathering their individual pictures to present the memory of picnic areas and reminding us of what family means. This special exhibition shows a part of leisure culture in the modern era, classified by period and location.

Transportation

[Subway]
City Hall Station (Seoul Subway Line 1, 2)
Euljiro 1(il)-ga Station (Seoul Subway Line 2)
Gwanghwamun Station (Seoul Subway Line 5)

[Bus]
Get off at City Hall Station Bus Stop.
- Green Bus: 1711, 7016, 7022
- Blue Bus: 103, 150, 401, 402, 604
- Village Bus: Jongno 09, Jongno 11

Homepage: www.seoulphotofestival.com (Korean only)

Seongsan Sunrise Festival

Date: Dec. 30-Jan. 1
Location: Area of Seongsan Ilchulbong

Introduction

Welcoming the first day of the New Year, Seongsan Sunrise Festival features a natural festival aiming to spread the natural values of Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, a UNESCO World Nature Heritage Site, to see the old year out and the new year in, and to share the traditional culture and artistic themed-tourism among visitors. Peaceful Jeju Island invites tourists to this festival held in Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, featuring an impressive scene that hasn’t changed since the sunrise that was recorded in the Palman Daejanggyeong for the Goryeo Dynasty. Visitors can make wishes for the coming year and enjoy the fascinating sunrise at Jeju’s tourism spot.

Transportation

[Bus]
From Jeju International Airport, take Bus 100 to Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal.
From Jeju Bus Terminal, take an intercity bus bound for Ilju Road (East) (동회일주).
Get off at the entrance of Seongsan Ilchulbong (성산일출봉).
Homepage
culture.jeju.go.kr (Korean only)
cyber.jeju.go.kr (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)

Lighting Festival

Date: Dec. 4-March 13
Location: Main gardens

Introduction

Held at the Garden of Morning Calm, the Lighting Festival is the biggest festival of lights in Korea, covering 100 thousand pyeong illuminated by 30,000 lights. The gleaming lights add a festive glow to the garden during the winter season.

The main gardens are Hakyung Garden, Hometown House Garden, Bonsai Garden, Moonlight Garden, Sky Path and Garden of Eden, with colorful lights adorning the trees. In the event of inclement weather, lights may be turned off for safety.

Transportation

Tags: Travel

↧

Busan's Jagalchi Fish Market - Another side and taste

November 8, 2015, 10:09 pm

≫ Next: Ice rink and sledding slope coming to Haeundae Beach this winter

≪ Previous: Dude! Get off base and enjoy the festivals!

Busan's Jagalchi Fish Market - Another side and taste

by: Anthony Velasquez | .

Busan Haps | .

published: November 09, 2015

One of the top attractions in Busan is enjoying raw fish (회) in the giant Jagalchi Fish Market building, where guests dine upstairs with great views of the harbor. However, it’s the strip outside the main hall, parallel to the sea, where one can find some fine food at less touristy places. With a little help from my friends, here are three restaurants for a more old-school take on Jagalchi.

엄마집 (Mom’s House)

Across from the Jagalchi Fish Market building, between gates 3 and 4, is Mom’s House, offering a delicious medium-sized set of various grilled shellfish (조개구이) for 40,000 won. Mom’s House serves eight aesthetically beautiful and texturally meaty large clams (대합) cooked over the grill in butter, onion and garlic; six succulent sea scallops (가리비); and two abalone (전복), so fresh they were crawling out of their homes before meeting the kitchen shears and fire. In addition, I was lucky enough to sample one that had the internal organ (내장) intact. This special little lima bean-shaped green bag, redolent of a mix of seafood and liver pate, was a real treat. I’m glad I accepted Son Mal Seon’s invitation into her house. 051-246-2673

매일산회 신동아시장 (Everyday Raw Fish Shop, Marine Products Market)

Diagonal from the Jagalchi Fish Market building is the even more colorful Marine Products Market building. It may be lacking in sea view, but sitting at picnic tables adjacent to the fish tanks and the cutting board where your meal is being prepared is as close to farm-to-table as you can get. This more modest market brings a mix of older and younger generations attracted to the casual atmosphere. If wondering which stall to choose, meet Joo Sung Soon right in the middle at #125 Everyday Raw Fish Shop. Joo, a gregarious English-speaking host, selected the freshest, large flatfish (가자미), five sea urchin (성게), and two small octopi (산낙지) for five people, for 50,000 won. The flounder here was tender and meaty, with a mild and buttery flavor. The sea urchin, known as the ‘foie gras of the sea,’ was less intense in taste but more refined. Adding a salty crunch to the experience were the black eyeballs of the octopi rolling in their squirmy heads. 010-6427-7829

남포횟집 (Nampo Raw Fish House)

If you like your food less twitchy, hang a right at the Marine Products Market corner, through the scores of street hawkers and a dozen other restaurants offering barbecue fish, for this shop that serves the best cheap eats around Jagalchi. For 10,000 won per person, three of us were filled to the gills with a platter of flatfish (가자미), cutlass fish (갈치), cod (대구목살), mackerel (고등어), and small red fish (빨간고기). The staff call it “barbecue” but really all are prepared lightly dredged in flour, then pan fried. Whatever you call it, these fish of various tastes were all well-seasoned, crispy-skinned on the outside and moist on the inside. This fish house is a great budget-friendly place to sample the local catch. 051-256-2558

Directions: Walk two blocks straight out of Jagalchi subway station, exit 10. At the GS25 convenience store turn right on Jagalchi-ro 47 beon-gil; go straight three blocks towards the Jagalchi Market Building. Make a short left to arrive at Mom’s House. Immediately to the right is the Marine Products Market building. Further to the right you’ll reach Nampo Raw Fish House. Salud!

Busan Haps Magazine website

Tags: Travel

↧

Ice rink and sledding slope coming to Haeundae Beach this winter

November 8, 2015, 10:24 pm

≫ Next: Seoul’s Medicine Market

≪ Previous: Busan's Jagalchi Fish Market - Another side and taste

Ice rink and sledding slope coming to Haeundae Beach this winter

by: Haps Staff | .

Busan Haps | .

published: November 09, 2015

Busan citizens will be able to enjoy skating and sledding at Haeundae Beach beginning in December.

An ice rink and sledding slope will be installed with a build-transfer-lease project in front of the Busan Aquarium.

The ice rink will be constructed to international standards, measuring 30 meters in length and 61 meters in width. A sledding slope nearby will be 30 meters in length and width.

A five-meter-high clear fence will be also installed to protect participants from sand and wind.

The ice rink and sledding slope will be open from 10 am to 10 pm daily.

Source: Busan eFM News

Busan Haps website

Tags: Travel

↧

Seoul’s Medicine Market

November 12, 2015, 3:57 pm

≫ Next: Visit the valley town of Hwacheon, Korea

≪ Previous: Ice rink and sledding slope coming to Haeundae Beach this winter

Seoul’s Medicine Market

by: Seoul Mates Korea | .

Seoul Mates Korea | .

published: November 13, 2015

I’ve always been fascinated with oriental medicine. Using herbal medicines and natural healing to stay healthy just seems like the right way to live. Growing up in a Western culture, where I am thankful to have highly developed scientific advancement of modern medicine, unfortunately I did not have a lot of exposure to natural curses and practices of oriental medicine.

When I arrived in Seoul I was excited to explore oriental medicine and see it being practiced first hand. One of the most exciting markets I have visited is Seoul’s Medicine Market. Korean is a country who’s culture is so enrooted in traditional medicine practice, that many of their everyday meals combine herbal medicine to incorporate health into everyday life.

Located outside Jegi Station in Dongdaemun, is the Yangnyeongsi Herb Medicine Market. You won’t have a doubt you are in the proper location, as you leave exit 1 and the smell of herbs intoxicates you. Vendors range from wholesale shops and pharmacies to street vendors and elders that sit on the ground peddling their goods.

A great way to get oriented with Oriental Medicine is to pay a visit to Seoul’s Yangnyeongsi Herb Medicine Museum first. This state of the art museum is free to visitors. The museum aims to pass on the history and culture of Korean oriental medicine. I was amazed as I walked down the many stairs, into the basement museum and a LED screen illuminated before my eyes giving me an introduction to Korean medicine. Once complete the screen split and a door opened into the museum. Talk about a display of Korea’s modern technology!

The museum features several sections including the “The History and Culture of Korean Oriental Medicine”, “Korean Oriental Medicine and the Human Body”, “Medicinal Herb Village Story”, “A Prescription for Harmony”, “Korean Oriental Medicine Experience Corner for Children” and “The History and Traditions of Seoul Yangnyeongsi”. Several hundred kinds of Korean Medicine are on display at the museum with explanations and descriptions.

The museum features a culture center offering samples of medicinal tea and other interactive activities. When I visited the center they taught me how to grind and pack herbs in a traditional package. I also had a screening to determine my body type and then was given tips on how to improve my lifestyle by an on site doctor.

Once back outside the museum, I walked into the market. The main street is decorated in a stunning archway with sculptors of traditional tools on each side. Roaming the streets I immediately was able to recognize some of the medicines I had seen in the museum. Dry frogs and antlers hang from stalls. Heaps of roots and leaves lie in piles. “Wow they really do use this stuff,” was the first thought that came to mind. It was exciting to actually be able to identify why it was being used. It is one thing to learn about medicine in a museum or book, but seeing it in everyday life is fascinating.

Herb clinics, where oriental medicine doctors give treatments, are scattered throughout the market. If you are looking for a specific treatment, visiting these doctors will surely be beneficial. Westerns often visit clinics to receive help natural healing with back pain, weight loss and immune system boosting. Many of these clinics also offer traditional treatments like acupuncture and cupping.

The traditional pharmacies, with large floor to ceiling wooden file cabinets, filled with oriental medicine, is a must see site. Old women sit in waiting rooms chatting and drinking medicinal tea as they wait for the pharmacist to open the large wood cabinets, engraved with Korean writing identifying the scientific name of the medicinal herb.

If you are looking to buy some of Korea’s world famous red ginseng entire buildings, located in this district, are filled, from basement to rooftop, with vendors offering various forms of ginseng at wholesale pricing. Ginseng has been found to aid in type 2 diabetes, physical and mental health stimulation, weight control, menstrual problems and immune system boosting as well as a variety of other benefits. Korea is the largest producer of ginseng. World sales of the product were over 2.1billion dollars in 2010, with over half coming from South Korea. In effort to build my immune system for the upcoming winter months, I picked up a bottle of red ginseng pills. I’m hoping for a healthy winter with the aid of this supplement!

During your time in Korea, I highly recommend a visit to Seoul’s medicine market! If you’d like to visit the market with a guide the Seoul Metropolitan Government offers a walking tour free of charge.

Subway: Jegi Station (Seoul Subway Line 1), Exit 2

If you love markets make sure to tune in every first Monday of the month where I highlight a different market in Seoul!

Want to explore another great market while you’re in the area? Cheongnyangni Fruit and Vegetable Market is right next door!

Tags: Travel

↧

Visit the valley town of Hwacheon, Korea

November 12, 2015, 4:34 pm

≫ Next: Korea's captivating Gwangmyeong Cave

≪ Previous: Seoul’s Medicine Market

Visit the valley town of Hwacheon, Korea

by: Kat Nickola | .

Stripes Korea | .

published: November 13, 2015

Korea can sometimes seem too crowded. It’s nice to have a place to escape for fresh air, village life and nature. One such place is Hwacheon; a cute mountain town in the very north of the country. There are no high rise apartments in Hwacheon; nothing giant to block views of the steep green mountains and pretty Bukhan (North Han) river. The town itself is small and quaint with one main shopping road and a nice central market area for getting food or fishing gear. It’s nestled in a V; shaped by the river and a tributary.

In the warmer months Hwacheon is a great place for camping or staying at minbak; for options drive east on route 460 along the river. The camping area is near a very tall waterfall. Though manmade, the waterfall is prettily nestled into the river valley and worth the short drive. There is a walkway to the top for a nice view, and in the winter the falls freeze to become an ice-climbing center.

Along this same stretch of the Han river, Hwacheon has created its own gorgeous little cycle-way. This is a great bike path along either side of the scenic gorge that is mostly paved or made out of decking to pedal over the water where the bank was too steep. There are even a few spots to cross floating bridges on your bike. Our favorite place along this bike path is south of town on the east side of the river. Near the end of the path is a beautiful garden designed as fields of flowers; a giant tree makes for pretty photo opportunities and a serene picnic spot.

Another favorite pastime in Hwacheon is fishing. The area is known for its mountain trout and the local stores sell lots of fishing gear. There are plenty of small tributaries that look perfect for casting.

High elevation activities abound in the mountains around Hwacheon. We spent one warm fall day rock climbing on mount Yongwasan, south of town. The views from the top were amazing. There is a trail to the peak, for non-climbers, but be warned that it is super steep (even for Korea!). Ropes along route can are there to help pull yourself up the trail. The effort is well worth it, though. From that peak Korea seemed natural and remote. There were mountain peaks and steep valleys as far as we could see. And, it may have been my imagination, but I think the air was clearer there; the sky bluer; the clouds whiter.

Hwacheon has a few other attractions as well. There is a wonderful, small, but well done folk museum that is free. It highlights the local village fishing and farming heritage. The building is just across the river from town. The river itself is an attraction; the waterfront has paddleboats to rent for enjoying the water and the stillness.

I would be remiss to not mention the one thing that does draw large crowds Hwacheon: The Sancheoneo (mountain trout) Ice Festival. In 2016, the festival with run from Jan 10 - Feb 1. Visit www.narafestival.com and click the language flag on the top right for details.

Hwacheon is far to the north and near the DMZ. You will notice a lot of military bases on the drive, and even some anti-troop-movement additions to the roadways if you know what to look for.

To get there, drive along I-60 eastward to Chuncheon and then follow route 5 north into Hwacheon.

Tags: Travel

↧

Korea's captivating Gwangmyeong Cave

November 12, 2015, 10:25 pm

≫ Next: Finding Seoul's hidden healing spots

≪ Previous: Visit the valley town of Hwacheon, Korea

Korea's captivating Gwangmyeong Cave

by: Korea Tourism Organization | .

Korea Tourism Organization | .

published: November 13, 2015

The name Gwangmyeong, which was given to this city located just southwest of Seoul, means “prosperous life.” Its natural environment, particularly its incredible geological features, attracts Seoulites to the city both for short day trips and also extended trips to escape the midsummer heat.

Gwangmyeong is easily reachable via public transportation. When going by bus from Incheon International Airport, it takes approximately 1 hour and a half, while it only takes about 35 minutes by subway from Seoul Station to Gwangmyeong Station. The city recently gained more popularity by becoming the home to large shopping centers like IKEA, Costco, Lotte Premium Outlets, and more.

Step into an underground world!

Gwangmyeong Cave, an abandoned mine spanning 7.9 km in length and reaching 275 m in depth, is different from other caves due to its unique location in the center of the metropolitan area of Seoul, thus becoming a top natural attraction for visitors not only from surrounding suburbs, but from Seoul as well.

Although it went through a huge makeover in 2011 to reopen with added safety structures, it was originally established in the early 20th century when Korea was under Japanese colonial rule. The cave was founded for industrial mining mainly to excavate gold used for war supplies. Despite its long, heartbreaking history, it has now successfully been turned into a living museum, exhibiting exotic and mysterious geological materials. The cave became particularly popular after an episode of the TV show Running Man was filmed in its tunnels.

Wine Cave

The cave will offer you more than just a mere history lesson. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to partake in wine tasting, with 78 different varieties of quality wine across eight different Korean vineyards! Once you’re done tasting, you can even purchase the wine you liked to take home after your journey through Gwangmyeong Cave.

Most parts of the cave have been kept intact since the mine was shut down at the end of the Korean War, and there are many geological features and thematic areas set up in the cave, such as the Golden Waterfall, the Golden Path and the Golden Palace.

The main highlight of these exclusive items spread throughout the tunnels is the golden statue of Aisha. Ancient legend has it that if you touch the pieces of gold coins sitting in her hand, you will be granted a prosperous and happy future. Therefore, there is usually a line of visitors in front of the statue hoping to see if the legend is true.

Address: San 17-1, Gahak-dong, Gwangmyeong-si, Gyeonggi-do
Directions: Take a taxi after getting off at KTX Gwangmyeong Station, Exit 6.
Hours: 09:00-18:00
Admission to cave every 20 minutes / No restrictions on weekends.
Admissions: Adults 4,000 won
Website:cavern.gm.go.kr (Korean only)

TIP:Gwangmyeong Cave's one and only shuttle bus, called the Elephant Train

This bright yellow tour bus is equipped with 23 seats for passengers, and shuttles visitors from 9:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. for a total of 12 trips (break time between 12:00 and 13:00). If you are planning to start a journey from Soha-dong in Gwangmyeong, make sure to check out this cool bus! Fare is fixed at 2,000 won for adults and 1,000 won for students and children. Operation ceases during the rainy season and winter.

Thrift shopping in the city

Gwangmyeong Traditional Market

Listed as the 7th largest traditional market in Korea, the Gwangmyeong Traditional Market houses over 400 stores and vendors selling products like specialty tteok (Korean rice cake), clothing shops, fruit, vegetables, and other commodities. Also, delicious and affordable street food is always available for visitors to indulge in. These foods, which represent the true local flavors of the area, include jeon (Korean pancake), dakgangjeong (sweet and sour chicken), and various hot noodle soups.

Shoppers to this market often come here to fill up their appetites before and after a city tour, and other times to take shelter from sudden rain showers. The roof of the market is in the shape of a dome, which adds an interesting modern feature, contrasting to the overall mood of its traditional atmosphere.

Address: 3-5 Gwangi-ro, Gwangmyeong-si, Gyeonggi-do
Directions: Near exit 10 of Gwangmyeong Sageori Station (Seoul Subway Line 7)

Lotte Premium Outlets

Lotte Premium Outlets in Gwangmyeong is a shopper’s heaven, with more than 300 designer brands, as well as a cultural complex that has performances, photo zones, and outdoor parks that cater to groups of various kinds. Teddy bear statues and other cute and enjoyable installments make it a great place for families to bring their children to enjoy the atmosphere while parents are focused on shopping.

Visitors from overseas are offered free vouchers for refreshments, which are available on the 3rd floor of the main building in the event hall. Take note that some restrictions may apply when using your coupon to purchase beverages, and those sales promotions only last until August 2015.

Address: 17 Iljik-ro, Gwangmyeong-si, Gyeonggi-do
Directions: About 700 m north of KTX Gwangmyeong Station, Exit 1
Hours: Mon-Thur 11:00-21:00 / Fri-Sun 11:00-22:00
Closed on Seollal and Chuseok Holiday (please check for updated info before visiting).
Website:store.lotteshopping.com (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)

More Info

Directions:
Seoul Station (Seoul Subway Line 1) → Gwangmyeong Station (Time: Approx. 35 min)

Yongsan Station→ (via KTX)→ Gwangmyeong Station (Time: Approx. 13 min / Fare: 8,400 won)

Incheon International Airport Station → (via KTX) → Gwangmyeong Station (Time: Approx. 1 hr and 10 min / Fare: 14,900 won)

Incheon International Airport→ (via airport shuttle bus 6004) → Gwangmyeong Station (Time: Approx. 1 hr and 20 min / Fare: 10,000 won)

Website: Gwangmyeong Tourism tour.gm.go.kr (Korean only)
1330 Travel Hotline: +82-2-1330 (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)

Korea Tourism Organization website

Tags: Travel

↧

Finding Seoul's hidden healing spots

November 16, 2015, 5:22 pm

≫ Next: CAC tour to Boriam Temple is time well spent

≪ Previous: Korea's captivating Gwangmyeong Cave

Finding Seoul's hidden healing spots

by: Korea Tourism Organization | .

Korea Tourism Organization | .

published: November 17, 2015

Famous tourist attractions are abundant in Seoul, but look around and you will find the city is dotted with relaxing spots where people can take walks or just spend a few minutes resting. A vacation plan should not be lacking in new experiences and sights, but isn't the purpose of vacation "rest and recovery?" When your busy schedule has you feeling fatigued, stop by one of these healing locations to rest your body and soul.

Cheonggyecheon Stream & Cheonggye Plaza

Cheonggyecheon Stream runs through the heart of Seoul from Jongno-go to Jung-gu. The stream and the green space it supports blend with the modern buildings all around for an atmosphere perfect for dates; many young couples can be seen dipping their toes in the cool water or strolling hand-in-hand along the promenades both day and night. Enjoy a carefree walk following the stream, stopping along the way to visit the many nearby tourists attractions, including the Jongno and Euljiro areas.

Address: Taepyeongno 1(il)-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul
Website:www.cheonggyecheon.or.kr (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)
Directions: Dongdaemun Station (Seoul Subway Line 1, 4), Exit 8. Approx. 6 minute walk. Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station (Seoul Subway Line 2, 4, 5), Exit 14. Approx. 12 minute walk.

N Seoul Tower

The observatory atop N Seoul Tower provides one of the most beautiful views of the city and it is no surprise why this site is constantly selected as a top date spots by couples. Another charm to Namsan Mountain is the walking trail, a quiet oasis in the middle of the bustling metropolis. Ride the Namsan Circulation Bus to the peak, and walk down the trail to enjoy the romantic ambiance of autumn in the city.

Address: 105, Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
Website:www.nseoultower.com (Korean, English)
Directions: Chungmuro Station (Seoul Subway Line 3, 4), Exit 2. Board Namsan Circulation Bus 02 and get off at N Seoul Tower Parking Lot.
Operating hours: Sunday-Friday 10:00-23:00 / Saturday 10:00-24:00
Fees: Observatory 9,000 won

Ttukseom Hangang Park

There are twelve citizen's parks along the banks of the Hangang River and people flock to the parks year round to enjoy outings with family and friends. The parks offer various amenities such as swimming pools, walking paths, bicycle rental locations and trails. Of all the parks, Ttukseom Hangang Park offers the most facilities for thrill-seekers, including sports climbing, windsurfing and extreme sports.

Address: 139, Gangbyeonbuk-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul
Website:hangang.seoul.go.kr (Korean, English)
Directions: Ttukseom Resort Station (Seoul Subway Line 7), Exit 2. Approx. 14 minute walk.
Bicycle rentals: Ttukseom Resort Station (Seoul Subway Line 7), Exit 2 & 3, located next to the plaza.
Operating hours: 9:00-Sunset
Fees: Bicycle 1 hour 3,000 won / Tandem bicycle 1 hour 6,000 won

Hongdae (Hongik University Street)

Hongdae is definitely the trendiest hangout for Seoul's youth. From amature musicians to clubs and street performances, there is something here for everyone to enjoy. If you're feeling hungry, wander through the winding streets and alleyways to find one of Hongdae's many unique cafes and restaurants. Recently, the railroad tracks for the previous Gyeongui Line were removed and the area around Hongik University Station, Exit 3 was turned into a park, bursting with energy and culture. If you're looking for a unique place to visit, don't miss this new attraction.

Address: Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul
Directions: Hongik University Station (Seoul Subway Line 2, Gyeongui-Jungang, AREX)

Haneul Park

Haneul Park is one of five parks that make up World Cup Park, and is closest to the sky, hence it's name (haneul means 'sky' in Korean). Haneul Park is most famous for its vast fields of silver grass. The feathery grass dancing in the wind is a beautiful scene, making this park a popular photoshoot location. Be sure to have your camera ready and your eyes open when you visit; you never know what famous people could be filming here!

Address: 95, Haneulgongwon-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul
Website:worldcuppark.seoul.go.kr (Korean only)
Directions: World Cup Stadium Station (Seoul Subway Line 6), Exit 1. Approx. 13 minute walk.
Operating hours: ~2 hours after sunset (January 20:00 / February, October 20:30 / March, September 21:00 / April, May 21:30 / June-August 22:00 / November-December 19:30)

1330 Korea Travel Hotline: +82-2-1330 (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)

Korea Tourism Organization website

Tags: Travel

↧

CAC tour to Boriam Temple is time well spent

November 16, 2015, 6:43 pm

≫ Next: How much do you know about Jeonju, Korea?

≪ Previous: Finding Seoul's hidden healing spots

CAC tour to Boriam Temple is time well spent

by: Park, Ga-Hyun | .

USAG Daegu PAO | .

published: November 17, 2015

DAEGU GARRISON — Camp Walker and Camp Carroll Community Activity Center recently organized a wonderful tour for USAG Daegu and Area IV Soldiers, family members, DoD Civilians, and retirees to Boriam Temple. Located in the southern portion of the South Korean peninsula, the temple is by far, one of the most famous tourist attractions for natives and foreigners alike.

For the members of the USAG Daegu and Area IV community, the tour to Boriam appeared to be more than they had anticipated. The amazing view, the clear blue sky, and fresh air was exhilarating. This scenery made it clear just why the CAC tour was so worthwhile. Additionally, the landscape of the temple and surrounding area was equally unforgettable.

As history goes, in 683, a monk, One-hyo, who was considered to be an influential person in Korean Buddhism, built this temple first, and then gave it the name of “Bo Gwang Temple.” After a considerable time, one man came to the temple site and prayed for 100 days that he would become king. His prayers were later answered and he later became king of a new dynasty. That man was Lee, sung-gye — the first king of the Jo-Sun dynasty.

In appreciation of his ascension to the throne, he changed the mountain name to “Guem Mountain”, which means “gold,” and the temple’s name to “Boriam Temple.” Throughout the year, many people come to Boriam Temple to pray for their family’s health and prosperity. They come to this location because they believe it to be the place where prayers are answered.

The Boriam Temple landscape is also a very good reason for making it a part of your bucket list. Located near the southern ocean coast, a view from the temple allows one to see the many beautiful islands, the magnificent cascading mountains, and the brilliant blue sea.

For U.S. personnel participating in the tour, Boriam Temple, as well as the trek along the numerous hiking trails, made for pleasant memories of an amazing cultural experience, and a great way to spend some precious leisure time.

Tags: Daegu - Camp Carroll, Travel

↧

How much do you know about Jeonju, Korea?

November 22, 2015, 10:50 pm

≫ Next: My Paradise: Hitching a ride to Bellows

≪ Previous: CAC tour to Boriam Temple is time well spent

How much do you know about Jeonju, Korea?

by: . | .

Korea Tourism Organization | .

published: November 23, 2015

A quaint and peaceful breeze sings in tune with the punggyeong bells as the warm sunlight gently taps on your shoulders. This is the image of Jeonju that many rave about after visiting, and words like these can take you back to the city’s many charms and attractions.

Popular sites like Hanok Village are the most well-known, but there are many more captivating places to be discovered, including Cheongnyeon Mall, Deokjin Park, Jeonju Zoo, and more. This column will outline some of these attractions, guiding you to the unique areas of Jeonju’s lesser-known.

Beautiful lotus flower walkways in Deokjin Park

Deokjin Park is one of the largest and most popular green areas in Jeonju. Every year near the end of June, the place bursts to life with lotus flowers in full bloom. Due to such a breathtaking view of its landscape, the park has earned the nickname “Deokjin Chaeryeon,” where chaeryeon is the term for floral patterned palanquin. A musical fountain operated at nighttime gives the place a romantic, calm environment, attracting visitors at late hours as well.

In order to enjoy the best view of the flowers, take the Yeonhwagyo Bridge, which crisscrosses the giant patch of lotus flowers. On the midway point of the bridge, the three-story Yeonhwajeong Pavillion offers great panoramic views of the picturesque area.

More Info
☞ Address: 390, Gwonsamdeuk-ro, Deokjin-gu, Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do
☞ Admission: Free
☞ 1330 Korea Travel Hotline: +82-2-1330 (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)

Meet animal friends and plant life at Jeonju Zoo

Next stop is Jeonju Zoo, located just about 1 kilometer away from Deokjin Park. The park was opened first in 1978 with 106 different species and about 670 animals in total. During the cherry flower season in mid April, the park stays open until night hours, giving more time for groups of families and others to have an eye-opening, experiential time.

Besides the zoo, the property also houses an amusement park called DreamLand, where children are sure to be entertained the whole day without a second to be bored. Adrenaline junkies can get their fill on the roller coaster, and other thrill seekers can find plenty of fun on the pirate ship ride, in the ghost house, as well as 12 other exciting attractions available.

More Info
☞ Address: 68, Sori-ro, Deokjin-gu, Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do
☞ Admission: Adults 1,300 won / Teens & Military Personnel 600 won / Children 400 won
☞ Hours:
March-October: 09:00-19:00, Admission closes at 18:00
November-February: 09:00-18:00, Admission closes at 17:00
☞ 1330 Korea Travel Hotline: +82-2-1330 (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)

New hot spot, Jeonju Nambu Traditional Market & Night Market

If you are a traveler seeking to experience the local culture, a must stop for you is Jeonju Nambu Traditional Market, which is located near Pungnammun Gate of Hanok Village. The exact date of establishment is still unknown, but experts postulate the market must be as old as Pungnammun Gate, meaning it would have been built during the middle of the Joseon Dynasty (1506-1637). According to folklore, the Jeonju Nambu Traditional Market was once highly influential in determining the national market price of rice.

Despite the large grocery retailers in Korea putting smaller, traditional markets out of business, Jeonju Nambu Traditional Market continues to thrive and flourish, just as bustling as it always was.

The energy in the market doubles once you go up to the second floor of Jeonju Nambu Traditional Market. Shops and stalls on this floor, called Cheongnyeon Mall (literally “youth mall”), have a different, more youthful style. Equipped with younger looks and a more energetic atmosphere, 35 shops in total attract people with delicious and affordable local foods as well as ethnic food ranging from a variety of countries. The night market opens on Fridays and Saturdays, starting at 6 p.m., and draws in large crowds every week.

More Info
Jeonju Nambu Traditional Market
☞ Address: 19-3, Pungnammun 1-gil, Wansan-gu, Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do
☞ Hours: Closed on Sundays (varies by store)
☞ 1330 Korea Travel Hotline: +82-2-1330 (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)

Night Market
☞ Address: Street stretching from the northern gate of Nambu Traditional Market to the main entrance of Cheongnyeon Mall
☞ Hours: Fridays and Saturdays only / 18:00-24:00
☞ 1330 Korea Travel Hotline: +82-2-1330 (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)

Cheongnyeon Mall: Overflowing with youthful energy

The Cheongnyeon Mall, housed on the 2nd floor of Jeonju Nambu Traditional Market, was not founded for commercial purposes, but rather a start-up ground for young entrepreneurs to stimulate low employment rates. Previously, the place was mostly used for storage, but now 32 unique stores successfully operate here.

Their charming and creative interiors and exteriors add more reason to visit each shop, including self-made murals, interesting maps, and posters with catchy phrases. Businesses in Cheongnyeon Mall have extended to restaurants, bars, handicraft stores, coffee shops, galleries, board game rooms, and more, all offering a high quality service that defeats the stereotype of traditional markets. Cheongnyeon Mall is open all year round, however, open hours may vary by store.

More Info
☞ Address: 2F of Nambu Traditional Market (19-3, Pungnammun 1-gil, Wansan-gu, Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do)
☞ Hours: Closed on Sundays (varies by store)
☞ 1330 Korea Travel Hotline: +82-2-1330 (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)

Jeonju’s famous street foods not to be missed!

No journey is complete without some lip-smacking morsels to munch on, and Jeonju Hanok Village [Slow City] is no exception. Street food in Jeonju is known to be as mouthwatering as it is diverse, and many visit the city for the sole purpose of grabbing a bite of these delicacies! From skewered octopus to vegetables broiled over charcoal, and assorted dumplings with various fillings to deep fried twisted bread, there is no shortage of tempting choices to be had. Unique eateries near Gyeonggijeon Shrine, Jeondong Catholic Church, and Omokdae are also worth a try!

* Gilgeoriya burger: Marinated pork, onion, cabbage, and Cheongyang peppers mixed in with a special sauce and stuffed into a baguette bun, this burger will fill you up to the brim.
- Price: 4,000 won

* Mojeong kkwabaegi: A scrumptious work of art, you won’t be able to put down this light, non-sweet snack.
- Price: 2,000 won

* Daurang dumpling: From giant pan-fried whole shrimp and fried dumplings to stir-fried glass noodles and dumplings fried until golden brown, there are over 10 different styles of homemade dumplings to choose from.
- Price: 1,500 won - 2,000 won

* Munkkochi: Plump octopus tentacles on a skewer and fried golden brown, this morsel is perfected with bonita fish and covered with a special sauce. Its delectable taste gets rid of the smell of the octopus, so even people who don't like the smell can try it without hesitation.
- Price: 3,000 won

Korea Tourism Organization website

Tags: Travel

↧