THE NAkDONG RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT - K

K-water Summer 2011 vol.26
Best K-water, Best Project
The Nakdong River
Restoration Project
Overseas Project
Supplying the High-quality Drinking
Water in Siyang County, China
Sharing Neighborly Love
K-water’s Sacheon Regional Office
Water System Check Service
summer 2011 vol. 26
4
K-water project 1
The Nakdong River
Restoration Project
18Sharing Neighborly Love
Water System Check Service
20
K-water news
8
K-water project 2
The Han River
Restoration Project
22Walk on the Riverside
10
K-water project 3
28
The Yeongsan River
Restoration Project
Seomjin & Boseong Rivers
Korean Food
Bibimbap
32Royal Palace in KOREA
12Overseas Project 1
Supplying the High-quality Drinking
Water in Siyang County, China
Deoksu Gung
38Experience a Korean Tradition
Talchum(mask dance)
14Overseas Project 2
Xebangfay operation
in Khammouane Province, Laos
42Pond of Korea
The Pond of Wunjoru
16Overseas Project 3
Bright green scenery of summer
In June, all of mountains and fields soak up bright and fascinating green.
Green mountain and fields are reflecting on the mirror-liked surface of
small lake where waters from small streams join and flow together. On a
dead tree trunk taking a long journey from a stream and settled on the
side of lake, grasses just sprouting grasses grow. June herald the summer
and all lives are going greener and greener.
4
Technical Assistance Project for
the Operation & Maintenance
of Likimro Hydropower Plant
22
32
K-water project 1
Reviving the ecology and to making the local economy prosperous
The Nakdong River
Restoration Project
The Nakdong River Restoration Project maximizes positive economic effects that the river could
generate at the same time rewrites the history of it by creating ’12 Scenery’ on the riverside and
waterfront spaces with themes reflecting each regional features.
Editor LEE SUN MIN photoGRAPHER LEE MIN HEE
Future of green growth is unfolding with flaps of
the wings of a whooper swan
Gyeongnam District 1
The versatile weir linking Changnyeong and Haman is
being built at the southern tip of the Nakdong River, and is
an important asset that not only prevents flooding and
water quality deterioration but will also revitalizes local
economy. The versatile weir connecting Changnyeong
and Haman will write new culture and history of the river.
E
very weir that is constructed in the Nakdong River basin
will have a hydroelectric power plant. This weir will have
a 5,000kW hydroelectric power plant, generating
25.4GWh of green electricity a year, contributing to low
carbon green growth. As of May 2011, the weir was 91%
finished, dredging was 99% done and the entire project was
81% completed. The weir is designed in the shaped of a swan
with its big wings soaring into the air, reflecting the meaning of
green growth. It is an environmentally-friendly versatile weir
constructed to have a skyline that is harmonized with the
K- water Vol. 26
Expressing a hope to bring back life through
ecological restoration
Gyeongnam District 2
The versatile weir linking Changnyeong and Haman will
not only refurbish the river and control floods, it will also
provide water to the Upo Wetland and restores
ecosystem. Let’s take a look at a blueprint for the multifunction weir that will realize an environmentally-friendly
ecosystem and local economic development at the
same time.
O
n the left side of the multi-function weir joining
Changnyeong and Haman are Sinam-ri, Namjeeeup, Changnyeong-gun, Songgok-ri, Libang-
myeon, and Changnyeong-gun. On the right side of it are
Jeonggok-ri, Nakseo-myeon, Uiryeong-gun, Yulji-ri, Deokgokmyeon, and Hapcheon-gun. In other words, the weir is
located in a place where Uiryeong-gun, Changnyeong-gun
and Hapcheon-gun converge. With the largest marsh in
Korea, Upo Wetland, existing nearby, the versatile weir
symbolizes a crested ibis(endangered bird) ascending in the
surrounding landscape, and designed to control floods and
air to give off a message of hope and to signal a plan to send
droughts. Since it is difficult to make a watercourse
water to Upo Wetland to restore the ecosystem. Zone 20,
connecting upstream and downstream of the versatile weir
where the versatile weir is located, has the 7th weir out of 8
linking Changnyeong and Haman, an artificial fish way with a
weirs in total in the Nakdong River Restoration Project section.
gentle gradient will be installed instead. This environmentally-
Zone 20 covers the upstream and downstream of the weir
friendly fish way is expected to emerge as another tourist spot.
which is 21.2km in length.Currently, movable weirs, floodgates
One side of the fish way will be made of glass to let visitors
and a bridge protection system on the right side of the weir
observe the movements of the fish and aquatic creatures with
have already been finished. The project is expected to
their own eyes.
proceed smoothly until its completion in December.
Water, Nature And People
4/5
The hub of the Nakdong River and proven to be
a masterpiece weir,
Gangjeong Weir
The Gangjeong Weir, thought to be a masterpiece out of
8 weirs along the Nakdong River, has excellent scenery
with 6 out of 12 Great Sceneries of the Nakdong River
belonging to the Gangjeong Weir section.
The Gangjeong Weir, symbolizing the culture of Dae
Gaya, is expected to be a landmark in the region after the
completion of the project.
K- water Vol. 26
T
he Gangjeong Weir is located 168km from the tip of the
downstream and 166km from the tip of upstream of the
Nakdong River, meaning it has been placed right in the
middle of the river. Hence, it is also called the Nakdong hub
Gangjeong Weir. It is the largest of 16 weirs in the 4 Rivers
Restorations Project with a total width of 953.5m. Its large size
and length required 200,000m³ of concrete, the biggest
volume of concrete used among its peers. There will be the
Main player to make a healthy nature and river
with cultural activities,
Dalseong Weir
The concrete structure and dredging at the Dalseong
Weir project site is scheduled to be completed within
June. The work for riverside spaces will be finished as early
as this year. Dalseong Weir is shaped like a cruise ship to
wish for a new voyage and shows wishes for a new year.
F
or the Dalseong Weir project in the Nakdong River, 406.8
billion won will be spent to refurbish 22.27millionm² of the
river to restore its natural look, and to install 10 water
framework directives, 6 bridge protection systems, 15
pumping stations, 6 flood gates, 3 movable weirs(45m) and
fixed ones(409m), as well as natural and artificial fish ways. It is
a project to create an eco-friendly river.
Up to now, the construction project has been proceeding
construction of two hydroelectric power plants with 1,500kw
smoothly as planned. The Dalseong Weir is designed in the
generation capacity, enough for 3,000 nearby households to
shape of a cruise ship sailing the Nakdong River, with 96%
consume for one year. As of the end of May 2011, 95% of the
already completed, dredging is 97% completed, and the
dredging has been completed. Despite its large size, there
eco-park is 26% done. By June, the weir and dredging will be
has never been a single accident happened since the
finished and in the second half of the year the focus of the
construction began.
work will be placed on building an eco-park.
As a weir constructed in a place where Gaya(a
An Eco-watercourse and bicycle paths are scheduled to
confederacy) culture was thriving, the Gangjeong Weir reflects
be completed by October. The concept of the versatile
the cultural characteristics of Gaya everywhere. Shaped after
Dalseong Weir, which is shaped like a sail ship, is a blue saver
gayageum(a twelve-stringed Korean harp), the bridge, which is
symbolizing safety. The length of the versatile weir is 579m in
used as a public road(Wu Ruk Gyo), has a different structure
total with a movable weir accounting for 120m and 459m for
from other bridges with the bridge and the weir being
the fixed weir Movable weir which has “Rising Sector Gates”
separated, imitating the shape of gakbae(liquor glass).
that makes possible overflow and underflow.
Water, Nature And People
6/7
K-water project 2
Reborn as an environment-friendly river where wildlife and ecosystem are preserved
The Han River
Restoration Project
T
he Han River Restoration Project is being conducted as
a “green growth model” according to which local
economic growth and environment preservation is
1
harmonized. The project is composed of 7 zones in all, and has
a total length of 117km across 3 provinces(Gyeonggi,
Chungcheong, Gangwon). Along the Han River, 3 Weirs(Ipo,
Yeoju and Gangcheon) will be constructed and they are all
The keyword in the Han River Restoration Project is “environment-friendly.” The focal point of the Han
River refurbishment section of 117km spanning 3 provinces(Gyeonggi, Chungcheong, Gangwon) is
creating a Han River that has a lively ecosystem. To this end, measures have been prepared to
preserve wild animals and plants, to create a river with living things, and to improve water quality.
designed to be environment-friendly. The incline of the weirs is
Editor LEE SUN MIN Photographer LEE MIN HEE
works, 40 million㎥ of water will be secured behind the 3 weirs
designed gently to fit the gradient of the existing river, speed
of flow and characteristics of fish. Eco-friendly fish ladders
made of natural materials will be built. After the completion of
and flood control capacity will increase by 90millionm³.
2
Among them, the Gangcheon Weir, which is K-water’s
3
1 Integrated Control Center will be responsible
responsibility, is in a 17.5km section from Yeonyang-ri, Yeoju-
for the Han River management after the
eup, Yeoju-gun to Jeomdong-myeon. The weir, whose
project’s completion. 2 The main work process
at the Gwangcheon Weir is the installation of
biggest beneficiary is Yeoju, is scheduled to be completed by
flood gates. The second flood gate has been
December, 2011. The Gangcheon Weir area(Zone 6) that has
finished and trial runs are being conducted.
3 An image of a waterfront space under
the Eight Great Sceneries of Yeoju and symbolizes a soaring
construction in the Han River
white heron will have various spaces for recreation including
water sports, gold and silver beaches, a forest of reeds for
3
walking, eco-woods and water for hands-on experiences,
during the early and mid 1980s, when concrete shore
and ecological preservation full of blooming wildflowers with
protection was installed, the current Han River Restoration
a boat that has a yellow sail plowing through water in the
Project uses natural shore protection, which minimizes its
background.
impact on wetlands. There are 9 wetlands in the Han River
Refurbishment of the river’s course and the Gangcheon
project zone and 6 of them are affected by the project.
Weir construction will secure 14.60 million tons of water. The
Methods to preserve the wetlands intact is well worth
formation of artificial wetlands and the construction of a
preserving and important sand plains made of silver and gold
facility for non-point source pollution will prevent water
sands have been chosen after consultation with experts.
contamination and reduce non-point source pollution
Moreover, measures have been arranged to protect rare
respectively. Furthermore, 14.4km of embankments will be
animals, plant colonies, and their habitats in the project zone.
reinforced, the environment of the 16km of the river will be
Fifteen ecological wetlands will be newly created in the
improved, 14.30 millionm³ of the river’s course will be
upstream of the Bukhan River of Gweeyeo district and
refurbished, 30kms of bicycle paths will be installed, one
Geomcheon district. Waterfront eco-belt project where an
versatile weir will be built and one hydroelectric power plant
eco-forest of 1.25million km²(some 40 times the area of
will be constructed.
Yeouido, island) is being created and will be completed in
2012. Along the project zone, there will be a formation of
The Han River Restoration Project is environmentfriendly
“Environment-friendly” is the keyword for the Han River
Restoration Project. Unlike the Han River Development Project
K- water Vol. 26
Water, Nature And People
154kms of riverside land and 305kms of bicycle paths linking
3 provinces. As well, 7 ferries will be restored, including Ipo and
Chanwoomul, bringing back the tastes and memories of old
ferries.
8/9
K-water project 3
T
he Yeongsan River, which used to provide water for the
breadbasket and was called the “lifeline of the
southern province,” has turned into the “death river”
1
because of severe water contamination. The river saw its
functions decrease, as it became unable to prevent natural
disasters, suffered water quality deterioration to grade 4, and
caused hardship to marine life. One of the main reasons for
this is due to the estuary dam which was built as part of the
Comprehensive Yeongsan River Development Plan carried
out to prevent sea water from flooding and to refit the
Hampyeong Stream which was prone to deluges during the
summer. The estuary dam was blamed for destroying the
2
ecology and water quality degradation. On top of that, the
use of water from the 4 dams constructed along the
Yeongsan River for agriculture frequently dried up the river.
Therefore, the focus of the Yeongsan River Restoration Project
is on water quality improvements and flood prevention.
Prevention of floods and resolution of water shortage
To mitigate the damages caused by floods, the course of
the river from the estuary dam to the Damyang Dam will be
3
dredged. Reservoirs for agriculture, riverside ponds and
1 Bicycle path under construction in zone 8.
2 Construction site of the Seungchon Weir
downstream. 3 A wetland park is being built in
detention reservoirs will be built to secure 120million㎥ of water
for flood control. Once the old and dilapidated embankments,
Hampyeong district 2 where the Hampyeong
including 20km of those along the Seomjin River, have been
Butterfly Festival is held.
reinforced and the estuary dams of the Yeongsan River are
expanded, the level of water in Yeongsan Lake will be
lowered by 30cm when flooding occurs to reduce flood
damage.
Serving two purposes; ecological restoration and economic revival of the local economy
yellow sails and the construction of an open ferry to allow for
The Yeongsan River Ecology Restoration Project focuses
the movement of Naju Ship, a wooden boat from the Goryeo
The Yeongsan River
Restoration Project
on recovering the environmental and ecological functions of
Dynasty. The Seungchon Weir at zone 6 symbolizes rice grains
the river and on enhancing natural purification. The existing
produced in the Naju Plains and looks like a dynamic scene of
wetlands will be saved as much as possible and damaged
a huge rotating pinwheel.
The Jooksan Weir and Seungchon Weir will be constructed
and romance that the Korean forefathers enjoyed. A variety
The Yeongsan River Project is expected to fundamentally resolve water related problems such as
floods and droughts caused in part by climate change, to improve the quality of contaminated
water, and to restore the river’s ecology. In addition, over the course of the project, designated
areas for water sports and cultural activities will be created, and the river will be refurbished to reflect
the local history and culture. Editor LEE SUN MIN photo provided by Four Major Rivers Restoration Project Headquarters
in the Yeongsan River. Zone 2 of the Yeongsan River
of cultural experiences will be possible by the creation of
Restoration Project is the Jooksan Weir reflecting the spirit and
“arena of symbolic boat route” showing cultural icons of old
breath of the river which has been running through the
days such as a boat with yellow sails and by letting people
southern province for 2,000 years. The effective value of the
know and experience the historical meaning of the boat
weir will be maximized through the launching of a boat with
rout.
K- water Vol. 26
Water, Nature And People
marshes will be turned into waterfront spaces for other
purposes.
The Eight Great Sceneries of Yeongsan will be composed
of waterfront spaces that seem to have the same elegance
10 / 11
overseas project 1
K-water is in China, the largest water market in the world
Supplying the High-quality Drinking
Water in Siyang County,
Jiangsu Province
Siyang County
In December of 2010, K-water signed a concession agreement for
a local water project with the government of Siyang County, in the
Jiangsu Province, to provide water to residents in Siyang County.
Editor LEE JEOUNG EUN data provided by K-water overseas business division
A
s of 2010, the size of the water market in China was 50
trillion won, accounting for 38% of the world market,
making the country the largest private sector water
market. Some 20,000 water companies including
multinationals(Veolia, Suez, etc) are actively doing business.
To enter into the Chinese market(a requisite for a global water
company), K-water set its foot on a local water project in
1
Jiangsu Province, which has the biggest trade volume with
Korea than any other Chinese province. In December of 2010,
K-water consortium signed a concession agreement with the
local government to supply water. K-water consortium
180Km
380Km
provides water to more than 300,000 local residents through 2
water treatment plants with a daily capacity of 100,000 tons.
K-water’s Deputy General Manager Jae-Hak Kim was
Nanjing
dispatched to Siyang County as a vice president of the
Shanghai
Special Project Company(SPC). He says Currently, “we are
2
3
1 Specialist are inspecting 2nd water treatment plant in Siyang County.
2 Living standard in urban areas is relatively high but rural areas in China
are like Korea was in the 1970s. 3 Top management of SPC.
taking over the existing water treatmen plants. Our operation
will be stabilized in this year. I am proud that K-water supplies
water in the largest water market in the world and I am
playing a part in it. I used to only do technical work but here, I
carry out various duties such as personnel relationship,
K-water is in charge of the most important part,
operation management and technical support
administrative affairs, budgeting, external business activities,
Siyang County has one million people and the vast
etc. Doing so is not easy but I do my best because this is a
majority of them are farmers. The living standard in urban
good chance to build my capabilities.”
areas is relatively high but the countryside is no better than
Korea was in the 1970’s. As such, clean drinking water is not
supplied in rural areas and it is not uncommon that people
use water from a river without any kind of treatment or
I will do my best as if I were the CEO
of K-water. Zai jian! Jae-Hak Kim
The goal for this year is to cut operating
costs by linking two treatment plants,
which were initially operated separately
However, drawing on its experience in managing the local
tap water operations of 18 municipalities including Nonsan city, in
Korea, K-water started to provide clean water, heightening the
expectations of local residents. The Siyang County government
and to increase water sales by shutting
just thought of K-water as just another one of those state-owned
off underground wells.
enterprises until it came to know K-water’s technical skills in the
I was surprised to see that the Chinese
water management recently. Now, other local governments in
system is not well-organized compared to Korea’s. But we are
working out our difficulties by cooperating with the Overseas
Jiangsu Province began to show their interest.
Business Division. I have difficulty communicating with local
“Along with the Overseas Business Division, we are making
workers in Chinese but I try to identify possible problems and
efforts to form a network in China to boost confidence and
solve them by visiting the worksites with the Chinese workers.
awareness in K-water. We are especially striving to be
It is rewarding. I will do my best, thinking as though I am the
CEO of K-water while I am here.
K- water Vol. 26
underground water whose quality is not proven.
Water, Nature And People
considered for follow-up projects to be carried out in nearby
areas.”
12 / 13
overseas project 2
T
he purpose of the water supply and sanitation
improvement project in the Xebangfay District,
Khammouane Province, Laos, is to build an intake/filtration
station with a daily capacity of 900m³ and to install some 25km of
1
pipelines for 5 villages in the region. This project includes
outsourcing of baseline survey, on-site training and health
education for residents, and equipment and material support.
Currently, we are preparing to start the construction. The
goal for this year is to finish 70% of the construction, and
complete baseline survey and education for filtration plant
operation,” said Deputy General Manager Chang-Ho Kwak
of Xebangfay operation. Mr. Kwak says that the popularity of
and confidence in K-water is so strong that he does not have
difficulty carrying out his duties. The reason why K-water is well
recognized in the country is that it led the Bolikhan Project, the
most successful project carried out by the Korea International
Cooperation Agency(KOICA). Furthermore, the trainees who
were educated in at K-water’s education center are
2
1 Since Laos does not have a well developed water supply system, many
people use underground water. They are taking water without any water
quality tests. 2 Many people fetch water from afar because they do not
have tap water in their houses.
everywhere and are very supportive of the project.
Laos, a laid-back country with beautiful smiles
Mr. Kwak thinks it is the world view of Buddhism that makes
morning and evening, and who observe Buddhist doctrine
that forgives anyone in the world.
Lao people say po pan yang(english as ‘that’s fine) even
Mr. Kwak adds, if people, who are racing to pursue
after going through French rule and the country’s checkered
efficiency and maximization of profits only, stop and look
history. ‘Po pan yang’ is a way of life for Lao people who are
back, the day will come when the world requests free aid of
living in cities full of Buddhist temples, who routinely witness a
forgiveness from Laos.
long parade of monks paying tribute to Buddha in the
K-water is making various efforts to maintain close ties with
the Lao government. K-water staff members participated in a
World Day for Water event(composed of a marathon,
Make more K-water partners through
more international education
programs Chang-Ho Kwak
Mekong River cleaning campaign, and an academic
Xebangfay operation
in Khammouane Province, Laos
There are many K-water fans at the
the Minister of Water Resources and Environment
Xebangfay project site and they are very
Administration. As part of its CSR(corporate social
K-water, which is actively doing overseas business in under developed countries,
is carrying out a project to provide water and improve sanitation in Xebangfay District,
Khammouane Province, Laos.
K-water makes Laos happier with water
supportive of the project. They received
international education and training at
Administration, and received an appreciation plaque from
responsibility) efforts, K-water conducted an on-site
K-water’s education center. During the
investigation and water quality test in the villages of Tongyai
winter, why don’t we invite officials in charge of education
and Thongnoy in Bolikhamxay Province. These villages are
from Laos since they have never experienced winter?
experiencing severe water shortages, and are now working
I am sure there will be some difficulties for them adjusting to
winter in Korea but they will have lasting memories for the rest
of their lives and K-water will have a lot of good partners.
on the details. K-water is now preparing a master plan for a
hydroelectric power generation plant and reviewing issues
related to the Luang Prabang water and sewage project.
Editor LEE JEOUNG EUN data provided by Xebangfay operation in Khammouane Province, Laos
K- water Vol. 26
seminar) run by the Water Resources and Environment
Water, Nature And People
14 / 15
overseas project 3
K-water is in a thirsty India
Technical Assistance Project for
the Operation & Maintenance
of Likimro Hydropower Plant
T
o normalize a hydropower plant that had been
operated abnormally due to some malfunctioning
generators, the government of Nagaland state in India
publicly invited tenders to operate and maintain the plant in
November 2005. As a technical partner of NEC Energy Pvt. Ltd
(Indian firm), K-water participated in the tender and became
the final and successful bidder. After signing a technical
1
assistance contract in March of 2006 for operation &
The technical assistance project for the operation & maintenance of Likimro
hydropower plant is K-water’s first technology export to a foreign country that proved
K-water’s technical prowess in power generation which has been
accumulated over the past 40 years.
maintenance of the plant with NEC, K-water started
Editor LEE JEOUNG EUN data provided by K-water’s Overseas Business Division
Nagaland in India and has a generating capacity of 24 MW
participating in a project to give technical assistance in the
operation & maintenance of Likimro hydropower plant.
Likimro hydropower plant is located in the state of
(8 MW 3 units), a total head of 806 m(second largest in Asia)
and annual electricity generation of 135GWh.
2
3
1, 3 K-water staff transferring technologies to the local staff. Thanks to
dedication, hard work and support of K-water engineers, the water power
plant that used to suffer frequent breakdown and malfunction has got
Even the Indian government is satisfied with
K-water’s technology
back on the right track. 2 water-turbine-generator that is used to generate
electricity.
K-water provides technical assistance for operation&
maintenance to increase efficiency in plant operation and
not much to drink. It is very meaningful that K-water won the
electricity generation. It provides services in the areas of
tender thanks to its technology to operate & maintain the
generation facility diagnosis, hydrological investigation and
hydropower plant, which is due to its accumulated
analysis, training for O&M staffs, overhaul of turbine
experience over the past 40 years.
generator, routine maintenance of facilities, technology
Currently, K-water operates and maintains 9 hydropower
transfer, and provides consulting on operation &
plants and 19 small hydropower plants. Now, K-water’s
maintenance. Young-Ho Kim, the manager of K-water’s
technological excellence is recognized overseas. In fact, the
overseas division. He added that there is plenty of water but
Indian government has a strong confidence in K-water.
Thanks to dedication, hard work and support of K-water
We will establish a foothold to make
inroads into India, the world’s largest
water market Young-Ho Kim
India is emerging as the largest water
breakdowns and malfunctions has gotten back on the right
track and continuously provides electric power to the state of
Nagaland. The Indian government was satisfied with this
market in the world. Although Likimro
result. The trust and confidence of the Indian government led
technical assistance project is small in
to its request to extend the technical assistance contract with
size, the project is highly meaningful in
K-water after the first project. Following the first technical
that we can get a foothold to get into the
Indian market by building a partnership and acquiring
assistance project(from 2006 to 2010), the second project
business information over the course of the current project.
(from 2011 to 2015) is now under way. The costs of the 2
Judging from the request to extend Likimro contract,
projects are USD 570,000 and USD 380,000 respectively. This
it is clear that K-water is recognized in the Indian market.
year, four engineers are scheduled to provide technical
We will penetrate the water and the electricity markets in
India, our target country, by making more efforts.
K- water Vol. 26
engineers, the power plant that used to suffer frequent
Water, Nature And People
assistance services for 25 days on overall operation &
maintenance.
16 / 17
sharing neighborly love
E
K-water’s Sacheon Regional Office
Water System
Check Service
very month, K-water’s Sacheon CS team checks water
most customers, especially in regards to dealing with customer
safety, water leaks and water supply facilities for free.
complaints. The CS team is made up of elite staff members.
With the help of 120 Volunteers from Sacheon City, it
Each group of two is assigned to a northern, southern and
has done various volunteer works from free repair help for
central part of the district and they are on standby for 24 hours
agricultural implements and home appliances to hair dressing
to respond to customer complaints. The town has been relative
besides providing water services since 2008.
wealthy growing fruits from ancient times.
CS spent the busy morning volunteering because of their
“Before the water supply introduced to our town in 2009,
customer service duties at work in the afternoon. Fortunately,
we depended on ground water. As you can see from our
they were not so busy because Sucheong-ri had less work to
town’s name, we have had clear water for drinking. But
be done than other villages. With many orchard farms in it, its
today’s environmental pollution makes us drink tap water”,
water system was in good condition-fewer water leakage
said Jun-Kyung Choi, a village head and veteran who came
problems, and fewer water taps and water meters needed to
back to his hometown, Sucheong-ri, after a long period in the
be replaced than in other areas.
military service.
“Checking water leaks in their houses costs about 300,000
He said his home town has kept a good bond with K-water
won, which is quite expensive for farmers, but we do it for free
since 2002. In the spring, villagers help them with its gardening
during our monthly visits. We also replace broken water
and in autumn the staff gives them a hand to reap fresh sweet
meters with new ones without any service fees.”
persimmons. In addition, K-water’s support and participation
in the local events strengthens their bonds. Its volunteer work
A Village with clear water growing Fresh sweet
persimmons
in Sucheong-ri, Sacheon, Gyeongnam province was done
around lunch time. Having in mind the elderly woman
The Customer Service team at K-water’s Sacheon Regional Office makes monthly visits to towns
and the countryside within its district to provide water system check services such as checking
water safety, water pipes, and water leaks for free. This month they visited Sucheong-ri.
K-water has provided tap water to the village since
expressing relief after fixing a water leak, an old man smiling
Sacheon City put it in charge of the local water supply facilities.
at the roof improvements, the man briskly driving a newly
Soon-Gwan Hong, a deputy chief of CS team, said “Sacheon
repaired cultivator, it will continue its monthly visits in the
Editor LEE JEOUNG EUN Photographer LEE JIN HA
regional office is one of the busiest regional offices, with the
coming May.
K- water Vol. 26
Water, Nature And People
18 / 19
K-water and Kolon advance
into China, the world’s
largest water market
growth and urbanization. As a result,
a contract with the county government
it has struggled with challenges of
to take over the water supply facilities
improving the existing facilities and
enhancing efficiency.
with production capacity of 100,000㎥
water per day in December, 2010.
K-water and Environmental Facilities
Well recognizing all the challenges that
According to the contract, they are in
Management Corporation(EFMC, an
the county faces, K-water and Kolon and
charge of not only providing water to the
K-water will give its helping hand to them
affiliate of Kolon) held the opening
Shenzhen Water Corporation, a leading
local for 29 years but related services like
and do all it can do”. It is not the first time
ceremony of the joint local subsidiary,
water supply company in China, signed
charging and collecting fees.
ranked ten in the water taste contest.
for K-water to send drinking water to
SPC, at Siyang country in Jiangsu
ones on March 22 and 24 respectively.
Given those, good quality and taste of
natural disaster-hit areas. It provided
Province. At the ceremony,
The rest was sent in April by ship. K-water
the bottled tap water is guaranteed.
bottled drinking water to Pakistan and
representatives from the companies and
Thailand in 2005 and to the Philippines in
government officials of the county were
2009 when they were severely hit by
present. By setting up a local subsidiary,
natural disasters like earthquake, tidal
K-water and EFMC start water supply
waves and typhoon. K-water has
business in the region.
provided humanitarian support not only
Located at 380 kilometers northeast to
for overseas areas but for local ones
Beijing, Siyang county with around 1
when the country was suffered from the
million population has suffered from
foot-and-mouth disease, it sent water to
serious water shortage and low water
the disease-stricken region.
quality caused by rapid economic
K-water sent 330 tons of tap
waters to the quaketsunami-stricken Japan
and Hanjin Shipping bore all of the
Gun-Ho KIM, president of K-water, said
distribution expenses including shipping
“I offer words of consolation to people of
costs. The bottled tap water was
Japan who have suffered from the
produced at Cheong-ju and Milyang
unexpected natural disaster. I hope the
K-water sent bottled drinking tap water
purification plants. The Cheong-ju
stricken areas will be restored quickly.
(total 330 tons:300,000 of 500ml bottled
purification plant was awarded a 5-star
As a member of the international society,
water and 100,000 of 1800ml) in response
rating by American Waterworks
to a shortage of safe drinking water.
Association and the Milyang plant
It already sent 90,000 bottles and 60,000
Fostering water Sommelier
for tap water!
tap water. 30 applicants were enrolled
K-water will foster ‘water sommeliers’,
water and necessary skills to taste water.
trained and knowledgeable water
professionals, to test quality and taste
Singing a partnership
contract with Philippine
Ayala Corp
law, the Philippine government provides
Those who complete the training course
The international business division of
division will make utmost efforts to help
are qualified to enter the ‘K-water Best
K-water signed a strategic partnership
K-water leap forward to Global Top 3 in
tap water. The main purpose of nurturing
Water Sommelier Contest’(scheduled in
agreement with Ayala Corporation to
the power generation market with the
them is to make sure that tap water is a
the second half of this year) and the
push ahead with ‘Kapangan Hydro
project in Philippine where financial
source of safe and good taste drinking
winner will receive a prize.
the water sommelier training program
which provides basic knowledge about
investors a portion of collected fees as
incentives and purchase protection
guarantee. The international business
electronic plant’ project. The project is to
stability and profitability in BTO is proved
water with objective assessments by the
build and operate 50MW conduit type
as companies in advanced countries like
sommeliers about safety and quality of
power plant for 50 years. Under the local
the U.S, Japan and Norway entered into.
K- water Vol. 26
Water, Nature And People
20 / 21
Walk on the Riverside
Take a trip down memory lane and listen to the
train whistle along riverside
Seomjin &
Boseong Rivers
The Seomjin River flows from Gokseong along Mt. Jiri into Hadong. The Boseong River diverging from
the Seomjin River at Abrok Dumulmeori into Boseong-gun(county) is very attractive and has
a pristine nature. A slow stroll along the river gives a chance not only to admire beautiful nature but
also to reminisce about childhood memories. Editor LEE JEOuNG EUN Photographer MOON DUK GWAN
K- water Vol. 26
Water, Nature And People
23 / 23
destination thanks in large part to the steam locomotion.
Now, more than 400,000 tourists visit the train village annually.
Along the train tracts are Seomjin River Rail Bike(5.1km) and
the Train Village Rail Bike(1.6km). Families and lovers are
paddling on the railway, giving off endless sound of laughter
at the riverside in Gokseong. Next to the train village is a
filming place. “Tae Guk Gi:The Brotherhood of War” is one of
the famous movies filmed there. The locale is not large in size
but right place to take a time travel to the past. A coal
storehouse next to the tracks has been there since 1933.
A rope boat showing aesthetics of slow motion
There is ferry for a rope boat in Hogok-ri, Godal-myeon,
Gokseong-gun. As its name suggests, the rope boat moves by
a pull at a rope tied to both sides of the river. It’s a 4km walk to
Chimgok-ri located at the other side of the river but it takes
just 5 minutes by the boat. Many people used the boat when
there were not many cars around. Nowadays, the boat is
more popular with tourists than residents. The boat slowly
cutting through the blue surface of the Seomjin River
symbolizes the aesthetics of slowness. A five-day interval
village market also reminds visitors of old days. A fair being
The Seomjin River in Gokseong has fast and
held every 5 days is full of street vendors who happen to be
strong current because it is flowing along the
skirt of Mt. Jiri. A father and a son are leisurely
dropping lines in water from a small boat and
enjoying their time.
T
old ladies. Thirty to forty female vendors in their 70s and 80s sell
ravelling Gokseong, Jeollanam-do involves aesthetics
organic vegetables harvested from their own kitchen garden.
of slow motion and an itinerary of going back to the
Say “give me more,” and the female sellers would give a
past. There are 2 rivers; the Seomjin River flowing to
full plastic bag of lettuce by saying “deal, I am feeling
Gurye and Hadong, the Boseong River-a major tributary of the
generous.” Buying things from those female sellers and having
Seomjin River. Th ere still remain a steam locomotion running
an amiable chat with them is an experience never to be had
along the Seomjin River, and a boat that moves by a pull at a
in one of those big box-retailers in cities.
rope tied to both sides of the river. The Boseong River has
woods and expanse of sand preserved in their pristine state.
There are many master craftsmen in this market. In an old
forge made of red clay, a blacksmith makes things with his
The place where the steam locomotion runs is the Seomjin
hand by banging and smoothing. An 80 something man has
River Train Village in Gokseong. The steam train runs at 25 to
been making rice puffs for more than 4 decades, a lady
30km on meandering tracks along the foot of mountains. The
selling chopped noodles made of adzuki beans, and a
train travels 13.2km of old Jeolla Line 3 to 5 times a day,
female who has been running a restaurant of boiled rice soup
starting from the train village in Ogok-myeon where old
for over 70 years.
The steam train runs on meandering tracks
along the foot of mountains.
Gokseong Station is via Chimgok Station to Gajeong Station. It
is beautiful to watch the slowly and quietly winding flow of the
K- water Vol. 26
Silently meandering Boseong River
Seomjin River where the steam whistle of the train, now all but
The Boseong River with pristine nature diverges from the
forgotten, is heard. Gokseong has become a famous tourist
Seomjin River at Gokseong Abrok Dumulmeori into Boseong-
Water, Nature And People
24 / 25
gun in southwest. Conversely, it can be said that the river
starts from Mt. Ilim in Boseong-gun, flows around Honam
region and converges with the Seomjin River at Abrok
Dumulmeori in Gokseong. The Seomjin River in Gokseong has
fast and strong current because it is flowing along the skirt of
Mt. Jiri whereas the Boseong River flowing along wide fields
into Boseong-gun runs very slowly because of a very gentle
gradient of the riverbed. Therefore, the Boseong River is calm
and almost still like a lake.
Nowadays, most rivers are embanked with concrete like
an artificial lake. However, the Boseong River has pristine
nature with lush woods and wide sandy plains. Thick forests
are stretched out, having green shadows reflected on the
surface of water in places where the river winds in S shape.
Fog formed above a distant mountain after rain has its
shadow on the surface like a picture.
“Pristine water” of the river accompanies “unspoiled trails
in forest.” At the skirt of Mt. Dongri that the Boseong River flows
1.8km trail from temple’s entrance to Iljumun is like a cozy,
comfortable and curvy tunnel covered with lush trees.
around is a thousand year old Buddhist temple, Taeansa.
There is a 1.8km trail from temple’s entrance to iljumun(gate).
It is like a cozy, comfortable and curvy tunnel covered with
lush trees along a small valley.
A long walk along the trail leads to Neungpagak, a bridge
as well as a pavilion made with solid wood over hill stream.
Placement of a roof atop a bridge or an upper deck to
protect them from rain was a common architectural style
used in old bridges in Europe or the Americas just like the
Bridges of Madison County. However, that particular style is
rare in Korea. For those who sit on Neungpagak and watch
flowing water down the hill would not envy Gwangpoonggak
of Soswaewon in Damyang. Neungpagak acts as a gateway
to magnanimity of Buddhism away from earthly life. Neungpa
is translated in English as “walking with soft steps.” As such,
Neungpagak softly connects the humanly world to the world
of Buddha. A narrow path from Neungpagak to iljumun is also
beautiful. There are many scenes set in slow motion in
This area is famous for horse-shoe crabs, fried sweet fish and sweet
fish sashimi. Byeolcheonji Garden serves delicious horse-shoe crab
Gokseong. Whether walking along the Seomjin River from the
soup with dried radish greens. Hasangchon is famous for marsh
Seomjin River Train Village, or strolling along the Boseong River
snail soup with bean paste, dried radish greens and curled mallow.
with pristine nature, people can enjoy the beauty of nature to
the full only when they tread slowly to the pace of
surroundings.
K- water Vol. 26
The famous restaurants near
The train village
Water, Nature And People
Jirisan Soonhan Hanwoo Myeongpoomgwan directly operated by
Gokseong Livestock Cooperatives serves beef to die for. Dolsil
Hoigwan in Seokgok is well known for its grilled bulgogi with rice and
side dishes. This restaurant uses honey to make bulgogi marinade.
26 / 27
Korean food
A bowl of nutrients, health food for people all over the world
Bibimbap
Bibimbap looks delicious and is good for body and weight loss. It is the best health food and
widely loved. Let’s take a look at the taste and nutrients of bibimbap, which is like a beautiful
watercolor painting of nature. Editor YANG IN SIL Writing & photo excerpts 75 kinds of Bibimbap and rice served
with toppings(cooking by JHUN JI Young, LEESCOM publishing company)
B
ibimbap, “the leader of globalization of Korean foods,”
is being reborn as a health food for people the world
over. Bibimbap restaurants are appearing in the U.S and
China, and the most popular Korean dish in Japan is none
other than Bibimbap. Unlike western foods mainly made of
butter, oil, bread and noodles, Bibimbap ingredients such as
vegetables and rice are boiled and have far less calories and
more nutrients.
Appealing taste made by harmonization of
unique flavors of each ingredient
Bibimbap is a food eaten after mixing steamed rice, meat
and various vegetables together. A variety of food items
make Bibimbap a well-balanced diet. The main ingredient of
Bibimbap is rice, whose glycemic index is lower than that of
bread or noodles and discourages increase in blood pressure.
Vegetables in Bibimbap are rich in vitamin E and
folic acid, which are powerful natural antioxidants
preventing aging of cells.
Another ingredient of Bibimbap, vegetables, is rich in vitamin
B and folic acid, which are powerful natural antioxidants
preventing aging of cells. Vegetables are also rich in fibroid
materials, preventing constipation and absorption of heavy
metals into body. Long-term intake of one food, no matter
how good it is, causes nutrient imbalance. However,
Bibimbap is exception because it has a diverse array of
nutrients such as carbohydrate, protein and fat. Therefore,
one bowl of Bibimbap can provide most nutrients. Bibimbap is
K- water Vol. 26
Water, Nature And People
28 / 29
Bibimbap is a food eaten after mixing steamed rice,
meat and various vegetables together. A variety of food
items make bibimbap a well-balanced diet.
good for dieting, as well. Rice has fewer calories than bread
Letting the world know the excellence of Korean kimchi
Korea Kimchi Association
and noodles, takes longer to be digested and absorbed, and
gives longer satiety than bread and noodles. Capsaicin in
There’s always a place for Kimchi on a Korean dining table.
Bibimbap sauce or red pepper paste helps perspiring,
Kimchi is not a mere side dish but a restorative. AndréJ. Cointreau,
accelerating excretion of body wastes, contributing to
the President of Le Cordon Bleu International talked about the
weight loss.
excellence of Kimchi, “its fermentation process removes sick cells,
and it has anti-cancer properties and works strongly against
cholesterol.” American magazine Health chose kimchi as one of
Bibimbap shows the beauty of mixing better than
any other food
There are different colors in Bibimbap including white rice,
Yukhoe(raw beef) Bibimbap from Hampyeong, famous for
yellow and white fried egg slices, and colorful vegetables.
cattle market, is a mixture of various vegetables and yukhoe,
Bibimbap has all 5 directional colors of white, green, red,
and very nutritious. This particular Bibimbap has a great
yellow and black and is a dish with the “energy of the
chewing texture and taste of yukhoe in harmonization with
universe.” 5 directional colors are based on the Yin-Yang
aroma and crispy noise of lettuce and sesame leaves.
Food, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. The purpose of
its establishment is to increase kimchi export by upgrading kimchi
quality, to make kimchi globalization take root by spreading kimchi
eating practice, to increase farmers’ income, and to assist
promotion and growth of domestic kimchi industry.
The Korea Kimchi Association promotes Korean kimchi through a
variety of activities including symposiums and seminars to boost
School, which says the energy of yin and yang created the
Haeju Bibimbap is from Hwanghae Province. Unlike other
world, and in turn yin and yang formed Five Elements of fire,
kinds of Bibimbap that uses simple steamed rice, it uses fried
water, earth, wood, and metal. Bibimbap’s 5 directional
rice with salt added. On top of fried rice are flowery
colors are the ingredients intended for visual harmonization.
vegetables such as bracken, spinach, bean sprout, and
establishment of Korea-
Traditional fermented foods such as red pepper paste, bean
Chinese bellflower, and chicken or beef, fried egg slices,
Vietnam diplomatic
paste, and soy sauce used as Bibimbap materials all have
shredded red pepper garnish, and shredded laver sprinkled.
the kimchi industry, low-salt kimchi shows, Kimchi Love in seoul
Festival, kimchi promotion activities in Japan, the Traditional Korean
Kimchi Fare as part of 2010 Cultural Exchanges commemorating
relations, the World
Kimchi Culture Festival,
already proved to have medicinal properties. Red pepper
Originally, Naju Bibimbap was prepared in Naju
paste giving hot taste to Korean foods is rich in elements good
marketplace by putting rice, seasonings, vegetables all at
Festival, etc. Shedding
for body such as fine vegetable protein, vitamin C, carotene,
once in a brass bowl with a lid and shaking it. A mixture of red
new light on the cultural
etc. Bean paste has the strongest cancer-fighting properties
pepper powder, rather than paste, and bean paste is
of all fermented foods, improves liver functions and lowers
blended with other ingredients and garnish is added on.
blood pressure. Soy sauce greatly helps neutralize harmful
materials, removing them from body.
K- water Vol. 26
the World’s 5 Healthiest Foods. The Korea Kimchi Association was
established in 2005 as an affiliated organization of the Ministry for
the Bangkok-Korean
and scientific value of
kimchi(pride of Korea)
and solidifying kimchi’s
Since Ulleungdo(island) Bibimbap uses dried mountain
standing as an
outstanding fermented
vegetables such as Athyrium alpestre, Aster glehni, Aruncus
food will serve as
Bibimbap is a bit different depending on ingredients,
dioicus var. kamtschaticus, Japanese Goldenrod, etc, it has a
seasoning and recipe used in different regions of Korea. Well-
great chewing texture. In addition to sea weeds like sea
kimchi to go global.
know Jeonju Bibimbap uses beef leg bone broth in cooking
staghorn, seamustard, sea weed fusiforme, etc, and shell fish
//www.kimchiworld.kr
rice, giving it a delicate flavor. Other ingredients include
like mussel, short-necked clam, etc, Tongyeong Bibimbap
carefully grown bean sprout, well fermented soy sauce and
uses seasonal vegetables. Tofu soup with clams and octopus
red pepper paste, fresh raw beef and egg yolk at the top.
is added to go with Bibimbap.
Water, Nature And People
a foundation for Korean
*Here is correction for a misreport in the 2011 spring edition.
The organization that provided information & pictures on kimchi is the
Korea Kimchi Association.
30 / 31
Royal Palace in KOREA
The palace sharing all the sad misfortunes of the nation
Deoksu Gung
Deoksu Gung is a palace that was inhabited by various Korean royalties from King Seonjo,
Gwanghaegun, Injo to Emperor Gojong. During the Japanese colonial period, it was intentionally
heavily destroyed beyond recognition. It became a symbolic palace of overcoming
the national crisis experiencing Imjin war and rapid change in Greater Korean Empire.
Editor LEE JEOUNG EUN Photographer KANG MIN GU
Hamnyeongjeon
K- water Vol. 26
Water, Nature And People
33 / 33
1
2
I
t was originally the villa of Wolsan, King Seongjong’s brother
and it became a royal palace in the Great Korean Empire.
In 1593, after all the royal palaces had been burnt down
because of Imjin War, King Seonjo took up temporary
residence in it. It had been called a temporary palace in
Jeongreung-dong but in 1611, it got its name Gyungun Gung
as a royal palace. In 1615, After King Gwanghaegun moving
to a newly rebuilt palace, Changdeok Gung it remained a
royal villa. It came to the forefront as the Greater Korean
Empire began in 1897. During the period of its prosperity, it was
three times as large as it is now. It flaunted the power of the
Empire by containing many buildings, Jungmyeong-jeon and
other royal palaces in the west of it, across present American
ambassador’s residence, Seonwon-jeon in the north for Royal
ancestral rites, and Hwangu-dan, an alter to pray to a god of
heaven in south.
After Emperor Gojong stepped down from his throne,
Gyeongun-gung was demoted to just a palace where a
3
1 The stone-wall road of Deoksugung Palace.
2 Tiled roof and the animal zodiacs. 3 Traditional
chief gatekeeper rotation ceremony.
former Emperor lived, with its name changed to Deoksu
Gung. Removal of parts of royal official palaces and Hwangudan also made it lost its authority as a symbol of the Greater
Korean Empire.
Three years after the demise of Gojong, the Japanese
destroyed it by boring holes through its stone wall and
constructing the roads, school and a broadcasting station. It
got smaller and it lost its original shape. In addition, most
buildings in it were removed or sold, and it became a park to
be open to public in October, 1933. The Japanese act of
undermining the palace meant loss of Korean dynasty’s
Place where the king and government officials discussed national affairs
K- water Vol. 26
Water, Nature And People
35 / 35
sovereignty and autonomy considering how a king’s palace
meant to a dynasty society.
Japanese occupation reduced its size to currently, only
one third of the structures, and we can hardly see its original
Deoksu Gung is not a grand
building like Gyeongbok Gung
but its small and lovely
buildings are located. It is the
only one where medieval and
modern style is well
harmonized together.
form. However, it still remains a important historical place as a
symbol of going through the national crisis.
It boasts a good mix of medieval and modern Korea,
where there are modern-style palaces such as Seokjo-jeon,
Jeonggwan-heon, a western garden and a fountain. It is not
a grand building like Gyeongbok Gung but its small and lovely
buildings are located at the foot of Mt. Inwang full of nature:
The road from Hamnyeong-jeon to Seokjo-jeon is good to go
for a walk. In spring, variety of flowers, apricot, cherry,
Rhododendron weyrichii, dilatata and peony in full bloom. In
summer, zinnia and doves bathing in the fountain. In fall, the
beautiful fall foliage of yellow ginkgo and red maple leave.
Junghwamun
K- water Vol. 26
Water, Nature And People
36 / 37
Experience a Korean Tradition
Wearing a mask and acting a play through dance and dialogue
Talchum mask dance
(
)
Talchum(mask dance) is a masque-like performance where many people acting a play,
talking and dancing to music. Talchum is one of the major Korean cultural heritages criticizing
irrationalities of the society through humorous means. Editor LEE SUN MIN photographer LEE MIN HEE
K
eeping time with the janggu(double-headed drum with
a narrow waist in the middle) sound “Deong Deok
koong Deok koong, Deong Deok koong Deok koong”
and shouting “Nak Yang Dong Cheon Yi hwa Jeong(meaning
a pear blossom gazebo in Nak Yang Palace frequented by
mountain wizards)~,” a blond lady dances with skilled body
movement and two men awkwardly swings hansam(fabric
extensions attached to the sleeves of costume). They are an
American lady Cedarbough T. Saeji who came to Korea to
learn talchum, an American man Joji Kohjima and German
man Jan Cretzenberg.
Miss. Cedarbough extols talchum with smiling face, saying
“Even when I am tired, I become happy after dancing
talchum. I get much more excited after performing talchum
than I do aerobics or dancesport. I can learn Korean cultural
heritages as well. So doing talchum to me is like killing two
birds with one stone.” She has been doing talchum over 6
years. She is a doctoral student at the University of California,
Bongsan Talchum used to be
performed mainly in places
where a fair was held, satirizing
irregularities in society and
describing ordinary people’s
life in a humorous way.
Los Angeles(UCLA). Cedarbough earned her master’s on
Koreanology from Yeonsei University in Korea. She is
researching Korean group performances such as traditional
plays and shows for her doctoral degree. She started to learn
talchum for academic reasons. On top of talchum, she is
currently learning mask dance and drama like Goseong
ogwangdae and Songpa sandae noli.
K- water Vol. 26
Water, Nature And People
39 / 39
Joki and Jan were unable to continue and flopped down.
They said talchum was much more physically demanding
than they thought. Joji said “Standing with one leg reminds
me of Taekyun(Korean traditional martial art). Is this traditional
Korean posture? It looks like a crane leg and interesting.”
Jan nodded as if he agreed with Joji and complained that
talchum motion is more difficult than he imagined, “I usually
do not work out. That may be the reason why I had a difficult
time. Dancing with shoulders was especially hard and my
shoulders are killing me. But I get a kick out of doing this. I will
try again after practicing more.”
Jan, who has a keen interest in gukak(Korean classical
traditional music) and samulnori(Korean traditional percussion
quartet), goes back to Germany in late June but he want to
1
2
1 Joji Kohjima from U.S.A
2 Jan Cretzenberg from German
3 Cedarbough T. Saeji from U.S.A
learn more about Korea continuously. Joji, who was born to a
Japanese father and an American mother, got interested in
Korea while he was studying policies during Japanese
colonial rule of Korea. So he said he wanted to learn more
about talchum that symbolizes the culture of ordinary Korean
“I am learning the methodology taught by the Bongsan
line in the shape of “3” or “S” with your hand in the air. And
Talchum Drama Preservation Society. The instructor who is
repeat the process. Now, let’s start, “Nak Yang Dong Cheon
Wearing talchum costum, Cedarbough gorgeously
coaching me now has taught me from the start. My instructor
Yi hwa Jeong.” Watching Joji and Jan clumsily mimicking
performed talchum before the two unskilled but enthusiastic
is very kind and thoughtful.”
Cedarbough, Eun-Ju Kim kept correcting and coaching them
men. Thanks to her fantastic performance, Joji and Jan
kindly.
seemed that they would fall in love with talchum soon.
Cedarbough’s instructor Eun-Ju Kim of the society said
people.
3
that she becomes passionate whenever she meets foreigners
like Cedarbough eager to learn Korean culture.
She said “Most of those who want to learn talchum wish to
Best popular art composed of interesting stories,
dramas, songs and dances
know more about Korea. Usually, it takes one month(on a
Bongsan Talchum used to be performed mainly in places
lesson 2 times a week) or so to master basic body movements
where a fair was held, satirizing irregularities in society and
of talchum. Since the Korean mask dance is full of dynamic
describing ordinary people’s life in a humorous way. Bongsan
interesting stories, dramas, songs and dances
Bongsan Talchum
gestures and motions, dancers will be all in sweat
Talchum was mostly carried out in Hwanghae Province
Bongsan Talchum is one style of talchum out of many in Hwanghae
immediately. However, once your are into talchum, it’s very
(currently in North Korea). According to some accounts,
Province. It is said that talchum performers were invited at least once a
hard to get out of it.“
when a fair was opened in Haeju, Hwanghae Province, as
In Bongsan Talchum, dance--performed to the tune of yeombul(Buddhist
Eun-Ju Kim briefly explained talchum to Joji and Jan who
many as 20,000 people were gathered to watch Bongsan
visited the society for the first time, and began to teach
Talchum. It has been designated as Important Intangible
“bulim” immediately afterwards. Bulim is the first step in
Cultural Properties No. 17.
talchum performance and a request to a musician to give the
There are some 10 kinds of basic motions including
beat of instruments. “Nak Yang Dong Cheon Yi hwa Jeong”
Gogaejabi, Darkdulgi, hwangsogeoleum, woisawui,
(mentioned above) is bulim.
gyeobsawui, and yangsawui. Once you are familiarized with
“Hansam is put on your wrist. Raise both hands with
hansam at 45 degrees, bend your knees slowly and draw a
K- water Vol. 26
these, you will be able to perform most group dances.”
After practicing hard for an hour or so with the teacher,
year to almost all markets places that opened once every 5 days.
prayer), taryeong(traditional Korean ballad) and gutgeorigok(shaman
song) which are all played in Samhyeon-yukgak(organization of musical
instruments) comprising two kinds of piri(cylindrical double-reed bamboo
oboe), daegeum(a large transverse bamboo flute), haegeum(twostringed fiddle), janggo(double-head drum), and buk(drum) is regarded
as the main element and gestures, motions, interesting stories, and songs
are added. Compared to Yangju Byeolsandae Nori, motions and
movements in Bongsan Talchum are more lively and dynamic.
The Bongsan Mask Dance Drama Preservation Society(www.bongsantal.
com, 02-566-6356) give lessons to those who wish to learn talchum on
a regular basis.
Water, Nature And People
40 / 41
Pond of Korea
From running factories and cars
to cultivating our fields and providing food.
From lighting our cities
to providing clean energy for a green future.
K-water, making a happier world
The Pond of Wunjoru
Wunjoru in Gurye, one of the famous old houses in the southwestern part
of Korea, has a pond in front of it. The pond was set up to prevent a fire
because it is said that geographical features of the mountain to its south
could cause a fire according to Chinese geomantic system. The pond
water flows from east to west. The direction of water flow in its nearby
Seomjin River on its front side is opposite to that of the pond water.
The water flows in two opposite direction is considered great.
K- water Vol. 26
Water, Nature And People
3/3
Like a river flowing
Flowing rivers never go bad. Describe rivers flowing
down through heart of the land with Korean letters
‘강물(meaning water in English)’ with a humble
but never-ending wish our love continues like
ever-flowing rivers.
Title l Like a river flowing
Callygraphy l KANG BYUNG IN