A Countries Food

Countries such as France, China, and Turkey are known to have the three best cuisines in the world. However, there is another country you may not be familiar with that also has a unique food culture. Traditionally people in this country have regarded food has medicine and to this day people in this country still eat certain foods as a source of medicine. This country’s cuisine is also known for fermented and natural foods. U.S. Health magazine released a list of the world’s top 5 healthiest foods, and Kimchi, this countries popular fermented food was picked.

Korean people have been making Kimchi for thousands of years. Kimchi has been engraved in the lives of Korean people. It has become an image to represent a country and one of the foods that foreigners most want to try. There are also over 200 different kinds of Kimchi, including cabbage kimchi the most well-known, radish kimchi, and white kimchi.

Korean ancestors would make bundles and batches of kimchi in the fall to prepare for the long winter. This process is called kimjang. It’s a process still practiced to this day and brings family and neighbors together. It is said that kimjang kimchi is has the best quality in taste because it was fermented right before winter.

 

Obang colors, yellow, blue, white, red, and black represent Korea’s second treasured food bibimbap. The obang colors reflect the yin-yang theory, which is a foundation of Eastern philosophy. Bibimbap is not only a healthy traditional Korean food; it stimulates appetites with its beautiful combination of colors. The bottom consists of rice and it is piled with different colored vegetables and meat, and then lastly in the center is an egg.

In Korea, food is not just something that is eaten. Food has a deeper meaning in Korea it harmonizes with nature and brings peace to people.

 

 

 

Taegeukgi (the National flag of Korea) Sticker Set

VANK’S Taegeukgi Stickers! 

Experience the different colors of Korea through this Taegeukgi sticker set. The stickers come in different sizes which is perfect to decorate anywhere.

1. Taegeukgi 

Taegeukgi is Korea’s national flag. It has a white background with a red and blue Taegeuk circle in the center and trigrams in all four corners. The Taegeuk circle represents harmony between yin (blue) and yang (red), reflecting the Korean people’s traditional belief that the creation and evolution of all things in the universe resulted from the interaction between yin and yang. The four trigrams stand for heaven, earth, water and fire.

2. Mugunghwa 

source: daum.blog

Mugunghwa is Korea’s national flower. It has been grown on the Korean peninsula for thousands of years. The Korean people have developed a special attachment to this flower, and Mugunghwa was naturally chosen to represent Korea. Mugung means eternity, which symbolizes the people’s patience and tenacity that enabled the nation to survive and prosper for 5000 years. Mugunghwa blossoms in various shades, such as white and pink, usually from July to October.

3. Hanok 

Korea’s traditional Hanok housing emphasizes harmony with nature. Hanok buildings were built of natural materials, such as wood, soil, and stone, with careful consideration not to damage the surrounding natural landscape.

you can also download these stickers HERE

http://data.prkorea.com/?p=4900

Public Diplomacy for Korean Unification

Korea is the last country in the world to be divided. When the world thinks about Korea, usually a divided country is what comes to mind. Korean people are tired of waiting for a unification to happen, so now they are voicing their opinions. Ambassadors of VANK are promoting the Unification of Korea not just in Korea but globally. If we take the unification of Germany an example, Korea may learn from Germany’s experiences.

The unification of Germany did not happen overnight. There was a bipartisan agreement on unification policy, German people’s strong desire for unification, and also they had international support.

A United Korea

There are many neighboring countries that have concerns when it comes to the unification of Korea.

First off, the United States are concerned that with a unified Korea, it could lead to Korea leaning towards China. The unification of Korea will not only contribute in solving poverty but it will also help solve the human rights issues in North Korea. The United States do not need to worry about a unified Korea leaning towards China, because Korea will focus on promoting democracy and peace in Asia.

China has also voiced its concerns on the unification. China is worried that there will be instability in China-Korea border areas after the unification. However, Korea does not intend there to be tension rather after the unification there will be no territorial dispute or military tension on our borders. The border areas will be an economic cooperation zone where we work together to develop Northeast China.

Lastly Japan’s concerns are that with a unified country, Korea might move into becoming an extreme nationalist country. Historically, a unified Korean nation led to friendly relationships with its neighboring countries in Northeast Asia. Also, a Korean unification will strengthen Korea’s national power. However, a unified Korea will never use the power to threaten its neighbors.

Korea will commit to promoting peace in Northeast Asia and will deliver a message of hope to other countries in conflict.

Soul of Asia, Seoul

Discover Historical sites in Seoul

The South Korean capital, Seoul has a long history that dates back to ancient times. Seoul was the capital of the Baekje Kingdom and the Joseon Dynasty for around 500 years. Currently, many relics and ruins still remain throughout the city. This map of Seoul was specifically designed to introduce major historical sites in Seoul. Where the past and present exist side by side let’s begin a journey to discover Seoul’s hidden charms.

Seoul Museum of History

The Seoul Museum of History is a city museum of Seoul which opened up on 2002. This museum shows the history and culture of Seoul and the lifestyle changes of people in Seoul.

 

Changdeokgung Palace

Changdeokgung Palace is the only royal palace from the Joseon Dynasty that was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built without harming nature, and is widely commended as being in perfect harmony and balance with its surrounding environment. Its rear garden shows the characteristic of Joseon’s palace architecture and garden culture that emphasized the harmonious coexistence of humans and nature.

 

War Memorial of Korea

The War Memorial of Korea is a war history museum, located in Yongsan-gu, Seoul. It exhibits many historical documents and other records of wars that occurred in Korea. The purpose of the museum is to prevent another war and to promote the peaceful unification of Korea by teaching people about war. Over 9,000 historical pieces are displayed at indoor and outdoor exhibition areas.

Seoul, city of magical one hour

Seoul has become a metropolitan city with sparkling buildings and striving IT. However, Seoul does not lose its history and culture amongst the vibrant city. Seoul has become a city that welcomes modernization while harmonizing with nature. In Seoul you can see 500-year-old palaces and in the same day by taking the subway you can go shopping at traditional markets or current Korean fashion shops. Let’s take a tour of Seoul through this video!

VANK would like to guide you through Seoul, the city of magical charms. Seoul is a city of miracles that gives hope to developing countries. Only 50 years ago, Korea was one of the poorest countries. However, Korea has worked hard to become one of the 10^th richest countries. Among all OECD member nations, Korea is the first to have transformed from a beneficiary to a donor. Seoul is a city of miracles. It is a symbol of hope for developing countries in Asia and Africa.

For over 600 years in Korea’s 5000 years of history, Seoul has remained as the center. Korean palaces adopted unique architectural aesthetics, different from Chinese and Japanese styles. Korean ancestors avoided altering nature. Their philosophy of construction was to have buildings in harmony with nature.

Young Koreans are motivated to become the new leaders of the 21^st century. With Voluntary Agency Network of Korea VANK, young Koreans become ambassadors for Seoul. With these young Koreans, Seoul is becoming a truly glittering city.

 

Let us show you the charms of Seoul. Come and Experience Seoul, the Soul of Asia.

 

Hangeul Stickers

 

VANK’s Hanguel stickers!

As Hangeul (the Korean alphabet) is increasing becoming popular around the world VANK designed these stickers to help make the learning experience more fun and easier.

These stickers not only help you learn the basic structure of Hanguel by using consonant and vowel stickers, they also include phrases and expressions in Korean to gain more knowledge of the culture. Interested in Hangeul? Use these stickers to introduce Korea to your friends!

you can also download these stickers HERE

http://data.prkorea.com/?p=4906

 

List of Comparisons: Have you heard about this country?

 

Ever since ancient times, this country has acted as a cultural bridge between countries. This country is Korea, where the 21^st century hub of Asia is located. Korea is becoming famous for its music, food, and traditional culture. However, there is more to Korea such as a King who created an alphabet for his people and an admiral who conquered numerous battles for his country.

Have you heard of this country?

For 5000 years of history Korea has created many remarkable cultural assets and heroes. However, such legacies are not well known outside of the Korean peninsula. Before watching this video here is an introduction of some of the legacies you can find in Korea.

VANK members visiting the Changdeokgung Palace

 1. Changdeokgung Palace

The palace is inherent majesty in harmony with nature.

The palace was built close to the residences of the common people to reduce the distance between the king and the people. It was also designated as a World Cultural Heritage by the World Heritage Committee on December of 1997.

This country pursued social unity and harmony between architecture and nature.

Changdeokgung Palace during the fall

2. Admiral Yi Sun-sin (1545-1598)

 Admiral Yi Sun-sin was a naval commander who is considered one of the greatest leaders in world naval history. Yi Sun-sin was never defeated in all his battles during the war. During the Hansando battle, Yi used an innovative tactic called Hakikjin (crane wing formation). He also used the Geobukseon (turtle ship), the world’s first ironclad vessel. Admiral Yi Sun-sin was a brilliant strategist, who used innovative tactics and technologies. After his heroic death, he gained fame of Korea’s greatest national hero. To this day people still admire Yi Sun-sin for his accomplishments.

Geobukseon (turtle ship), ironclad vessel
source: wordpress.com

 

 

3. King Sejong (1397-1450)

 Over 500 years after his death, one king is still greatly respected by his descendants. One of the greatest legacies was the invention of the Korean alphabet, Hangeul. King Sejong sympathized with the illiterate common people so he invented an alphabet specifically for the common people. King Sejong was a leader who truly cared about the people, regardless of their status. He not only created an alphabet for the common people, during the time he was king Korea’s science developed increasingly.

King Sejong’s legacy is still deeply ingrained in the life of Koreans.

 

 

4. Queen Seondeok

Queen Seondeok, was the first queen in this country’s 5000 years of history. When she took the throne in 632, Silla was the weakest of the three kingdoms. Despite challenges she faced, Queen Seondeok took care of the people and assigned talented people to proper positions. Queen Seondeok laid the foundation for the unification of the three kingdoms.

 

 

 

5. Goryeo Celadon

Goryeo Celadon has received much praise for being the best for its creativity and color. Goryeo applied Egypt’s inlay technique to decorate porcelain for the first time in the world. It created an innovative decorative technique for porcelain. Fusion of Egypt’s inlay technique and China’s ceramic forming technique. Korea’s Goryeo Celadon is estimated to be a major Korean relic of the blended cultures of the East and the West because it accepted Chinese ceramics’ culture to develop it into a unique product.

 

 

 

6. Jikji

Inscription of Jikji on the UNESCO Memory of the World registers in 2001. Jikji was printed 78 years earlier than the 42-line Bible. The metal type printing technology of this country largely influenced Japan and other Asian countries. This country has become a leading country in information technology by following the spirit of their ancestors, who created the best invention of all time, moveable metal type printing.

7. Korean diet

The Korean diet is as healthy as the Mediterranean. In Korea, food is the same as medicine. Food and medicine come from the same sources. Korean diet prioritizes health benefits. Generally, Korean cooking keeps the original flavors of each ingredient. Korean food is also receiving increasing attention as diet food in Australia, America, and many other countries.

 

 

Bibimbap is the harmony of five colors, indicated in the philosophy of yin, yang, and the five elements – white, yellow, red, blue, and black

Bibimbap reflects the philosophy of this country.

Kimchi, selected as one of the world’s top five healthiest foods by US Health Magazine.

Korean Culture Postcard (A)

This postcard includes two of the most important islands in Korea, traditional Korean clothing (Hanbok), Korean food, Korean holidays, the Korean alphabet, and lastly traditional Korean paper.

Through this postcard you can learn about Korean history, food, and people all in one place. You can also download this postcard and share with your friends the diversity and depth of the Korean culture!

Together let’s share our countries uniqueness through this cultural postcard!

Dokdo, Korea’s Eastern Island

Dokdo is Korea’s easternmost volcanic island that consists of two main islands. In 1905, Dokdo became the first Korean territory to be affected by Japan’s imperialism. Today, Dokdo strengthens our will to protect peace and freedom by reminding us of Korea’s history. This postcard also has some of unique animals found on Dokdo’s and other unique traits on the island.

Korean Traditional Dress – Women’s Hanbok

Hanbok is Korea’s traditional dress. When the Hanbok is worn, the multiple folds of fabric create an elegant volume which is comfortable for all body types. Because of its loose fit Hanbok is suitable for traditional Korean lifestyle, which is sitting on the floor. Women’s Hanbok consists of a long-sleeve top and a voluminous skirt with a underskirt and trousers underneath. Depending on a person’s social status and occasions, Hanbok was adorned with various accessories, such as a hairpin, a coronet, and a pendant.

Korea’s Food – Bibimbap

Bibimbap is one of Korea’s most popular dishes, and has begun to be recognized globally. Bibimbap is made by mixing rice with an egg, red pepper paste, and assorted vegetables. Depending on the region and the ingredients, there is a wide variety of Bibimbap in Korea. In this food postcard you can see some of the ingredients that go into making Bibimbap.

Hanguel

Hanguel is the native Korean alphabet invented by King Sejong (1397-1450) in 1443 during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). During the time King Sejong invented Hanguel, it was called “Humminjeongeum” which means proper sounds to instruct the people. Hundreds of years later the purpose and principles of invention are still explicitly known to us since the Hunminjeongeum manuscript was published with a commentary. The manuscript is even listed on UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register. King Sejong created Hanguel for the common people who could not afford to learn the difficult Chinese characters used by the nobles. Now, Korea has the lowest illiteracy rate in the world due to simplicity of Hanguel.

 

Download this postcard here

http://data.prkorea.com/?p=4724

If you reside in Korea you have the opportunity to subscribe to this website. Then by doing so you can receive VANK’s materials for free!

http://wings.prkorea.com/

 

 

Dokdo, Remeber the name

From an outsider’s perspective, the Dokdo conflict may seem like a territory dispute over an island. However, Dokdo is a constant reminder to the people of Korea what the Japanese war has taken from them.

Korea wants to remember the name Dokdo because it was the first Korean territory whose name was stolen by Japan. Japan annexed Dokdo and changed its name to Takeshima. By taking advantage of Dokdo, Japan defeated Russia.

Dokdo

 

Korea started to lose more than names.

1. Daehan Jeguk (The Korean empire) lost its name

The flag of Daehan Jeguk source: cafe.daum

2. Japan Assassinated Empress Myeongseong

 

Empress Myeongseong, Korea’s Last empress

3. Two hundred Asian women (Comfort Women) lost their names and youths.

 

 

A monument for Comfort Women in Seoul, Korea

Nobel literature laureate Oe Kenzaburo on September 28, 2012 said “To the Korean people Dokdo is a symbol of Japanese aggression and colonial rule”. The Korean people are committed to protecting Dokdo. Japan still refuses to atone for its wrongdoing and Korea is determined to protect Dokdo’s sovereignty. Japan does not want “Dokdo” to be remembered, but Korea will never forget Dokdo.

Dokdo, where you can see the sunrise first in Korea.

 

VANK International Interns

Atef Amri – France

1. Please give a brief introduction of yourself.

My name is Atef I am 24, and I am from France, Paris. I am currently a Master’s student at the Neoneoma Business School in Paris.

2. How did you start interning at VANK?

I am a member of AIESEC in France. AIESEC is the world’s largest student run organization with 124 countries involved. It is an organization that provides internships around the world such as paid internships and volunteer internships and through this organization I found VANK. In my business school we are required to do an internship and as I found VANK’s mission statement I decided to apply. I was interested in Asia because I knew little about the culture and I didn’t want to stay only in Paris so that is how I started interning at VANK.

3. What was the best part of working at VANK?

The best part about working at VANK was being surrounded by passionate people. Since everyone here is passionate about their work it really inspires you to work harder. They become curious about your country and that’s how you start to become interested in them and their country. I know I won’t be able to find a place as special and unique as VANK.

4.What would you say is the most regrettable thing?

When I first started to learn about VANK the first thing that interested me was Dokdo. So the most regrettable thing was not having the chance to go to the Dokdo camp because it was held before I arrived.

5. What were your duties as an intern?

The first task I had as an intern at VANK was to do a presentation about France. This presentation made me learn that VANK has an open-minded view that allows them to be curious about other cultures. I started to understand why they were so curious about other countries. It was because in order to have peace within the world there must be an understanding of differences.

Other tasks that I did were to translate videos and also I had the opportunity to translate the entire website “May we speak”. The most important task that I had was to look for contents on the internet about Korea in French. I found mistakes about Sea of Japan instead of East Sea and also Takeshima instead of Dokdo. After I found these mistakes I made an excel document of the websites and then I started to email these websites and inform them of their mistakes. Currently, I have started to get some feedback from these websites saying they will change Sea of Japan to East Sea. I also got to analyze some similarities and differences of France and Korea which was interesting. Lastly, I had the opportunity of being interviewed on different occasions.

6. Was your internship experience as you expected? Why or why not.

My internship experience was better than I have expected. Before interning here I thought that the work would be repetitive, but the tasks at VANK were diverse and everyday was different for me. I was able to do my work a little every day. Also, I never got bored because in France internship is perceived to be difficult and long but at VANK they allowed me to have new experiences every day.

7.What have you gained from your experience as an intern?

There are two main things that I have gained from interning at VANK, leadership and better communication skills. As a business student I had many presentations but through VANK I had the opportunity of speaking at a conference and I also presented at Sugang University about my experiences in Korea.

8.Describe some of your short-term and long-term goals.

My short-term goal is to go back to school and to study hard. Also, I have to finish 2 more years of my masters program. My long-term goal is to have an international career. I have always been interested in different cultures and I want to travel to different countries, especially in Asia. I would love to start my international career in Asia and stay there for two years then travel to a different country.

On a side note my hobby is sailing, which I love. I want to sail around the world in the Clipper race which lasts for one year. After graduation and before my professional career life I would like to participate in this race.

9.Is there anything you would like to say to the future international interns?

I would like to tell them to not be lazy because time goes by fast. Since time is limited go out to see the city and learn to be curious. Always ask questions about the food and culture or about anything such as tasks. Enjoy your time here and don’t be scared to try new things.

10.Before you came to Korea what was your impression of Korea? 

Basically, all I knew about Korea was that it was a very far place. In France I knew nothing about Korea. French textbooks don’t have context about the different countries in Asia. I only knew the simple and basic things such as the country is divided; Samsung is Korean, and Kpop.

11. What do you think about Korea, now that you have been here for 7 weeks? 

Korea is the soul of Asia. It truly is a beautiful country and people here are all nice, welcoming, and warm. Even on the streets people are willing to help me find directions. Sometimes in Paris people are so busy with their lives that they often forget to help others. Seoul is definitely a city that never sleeps; it is so different from Paris because shops usually close early. However, in Seoul a lot of shops and stores are open late into the night. Also, the food is amazing. In Paris I ate Chinese food so I was not cautious about trying Korean food. I also really like spicy food so my favorite Korean food is army stew.

12.What is your most memorable thing about Korea? 

The most memorable thing about Korea is the architecture. How the old traditional houses beautifully blend in with nature. In Paris you cannot see buildings and nature together but, in Korea you can see the culture within the city. In Korea, tradition and modernization have a good balance.

13. After working here what kind of place do you think VANK is? 

To me VANK is home and family. My experience here has been greatly shaped by these amazing people. Everyone here is like family and I was honored to have been part of it.

14.Is there any last words you would like to say to VANK? 

I would like to say I will miss everyone here. Time went by too fast and I will always remember my time here. I’m sad to leave but I want to say I love you VANK family.