Mediterranean tunes to resonate in mountainous Gangwon-do Italy is the home of opera while Spain is the country of guitar. Many artists over the years have been inspired by the strong sunshine and beautiful scenery of the two southern European nations. A number of composers including Mozart wrote music including opera pieces after…
Fun in the mud at one of Korea’s hottest summer destinations No discussion of the West Sea town of Boryeong is complete without mentioning the eponymous mud festival, which has gained a reputation as a particular favorite among expatriates. From its humble beginnings, this celebration of the city’s mud, touted for its rich…
Korean, Chinese leaders attend special lunch, economic forum President Park Geun-hye held a special lunch meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, who was on a state visit to Korea, together with First Lady Peng Liyuan, at the Korea Furniture Museum in Seongbuk-dong, Seoul. This was a reciprocal lunch meeting, since President Xi arranged…
Korean culture on show in Donau Park, Vienna A Korean culture festival in Vienna left a deep impression on Austrians. The Donau Park Korea Festival took place from June 26-29 and many events introducing Korean culture were held to mark the 122th anniversary of Korea-Austria diplomatic relations. With Korean national flags hanging high around the…
President Xi, ‘Korea-China relations better than ever’ Chinese President Xi Jinping makes a speech at the Global Education Center for Engineers at Seoul National University during his state visit to Korea, on July 4. Some 500 professors, students and government officials were present at the event. (photo: Jeon Han) “Annyeonghasimnikka?” Chinese President Xi…
Temple stay: A trip for inner healing Traveling is a journey of self-discovery, seeing a side of yourself you have never seen before. The meaningful moments that you come across in a place you have never been to sometimes point in the direction you have to go from now on. Staying overnight at…
Second Joseon fortress named UNESCO World Heritage site Namhansanseong, the mountain fortress located 30 kilometers south of Seoul in Gwangju, Gyeonggi-do (Gyeonggi Province), has been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. On June 22, the World Heritage Committee decided to grant World Heritage status to the mountain fortress during its 38th assembly,…
Biking in Seoul One of the best ways to spot spring’s arrival in Seoul—after the cherry blossoms—is the increased traffic on the city’s bike paths. Bicycling on Korean roads can be frightening, but despite some street-level shortcomings, Seoul and its surroundings offer a vast array of bike-friendly resources. Nearly any part of the…
Craftwork elevates culinary experience Refined and stylish plates and cups are used to give the finishing touch to meals served at the table, elevating the culinary experience. A wide range of such craftworks, from traditional tableware and brassware through to more modern lacquerware, are now on display at a special exhibition underway at…
Enjoy the Joseon palace, royal tombs This summer, visitors to Gwanghwamun Square and Gyeongbokgung Palace in central Seoul will be able to enjoy the romantic mood of the royal tombs and royal palaces of the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) through two summer events. In late June, a special demonstration of the rituals held for…
