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HIEXPAT
· BLOG · ENTERTAINMENT · STUDYING
Beginner Survival Korean: 10
expressions you need to know
Beginner Survival Korean 101:
Korean is a scientific, colorful and complex linguistic beast of a language that offers learners the
chance to explore a plethora of possibilities with regards to speaking and interacting with locals.
Korean is a wonderfully compelling language to learn, and it continues to be more challenging
and engaging as your level increases.
Since you’ve decided to explore the depths of this article, chances are that you’re fairly new to
the idea of learning Korean. It’s important to start with some of the most basic, yet essential
words, terms and phrases that can prove to be useful and essential in all sorts of different
situations.
With these 10 words/expressions in your repertoire, there should be no doubt that Koreans will
start to think that you’re almost Korean yourself!
10. 헐 (heol)
English translation: ‘OMG’/ ‘whaaat?!’
This is one of the most widely used expressions in Korea nowadays, and both children and
adults use it. In a nutshell, it expresses the emotion of being shocked, surprised or just in
complete awe of something. The closest English equivalent these days would probably be
‘OMG’. Maybe you tripped, tumbled to the ground and spilled the entire contents of your coffee
on the pavement in front of a huge crowd of people. This kind of situation calls for those
people around you to say it. It’s not really rude, it’s just they really are taken aback by what just
happened. This word sums up all those feelings in a single term. Another scenario could be
your friend told you a very scandalous story about something that happened with another one
of your close friends, and you are really at a loss for words. Insert this expression and you’ve
conveyed all possible emotions in one, simple word.
9. 대 박 /짱 (dae-bak)/(jjang)
English translation = ‘awesome’/‘wicked’/ ‘sweet’
This is another expression that can be used in so many different situations. It is also used in
surprising or somewhat unbelievable instances, but it can also just be used to describe a
situation that is just 100% awesomesauce. There are many equivalents in English, such as:
awesome, wicked, sweet, amazeballs, killer (some of these slang terms are outdated in English,
but you get the point!)
8. 엄 청 (eom-cheong) /완 전 (wan-jeon)
English translation: ‘seriously’, ‘extremely’, ‘perfect’, ‘completely’
In Korean, the most common way to say ‘really’ is 진짜 (jin-jja) or 정말 (cheong-mal). These
expressions are used SO frequently, that as I studied Korean over the course of 5 years, I found
myself wanting to find other words to use instead of these. I realized there are a few other
options, and that it is important to question just HOW much emphasis you want to express in
what you are talking about. So, if you want to use eom-cheong, this is equivalent to ‘seriously’
‘absurdly’ or ‘extremely’ and it should be used in more exaggerated cases. W an-jeon on the
other hand, is more equivalent to ‘completely’ or ‘perfect’ in English. So, if something is
absolutely perfect and blew away your expectations, you could use this term.
7. 답답하다/답답해 (Dap-dap-ha-da/dap-dap-hae-yo)
English translation: ‘I’m frustrated/ I can’t express myself in words’
This expression is so incredibly useful in so many situations, especially those in which you find
yourself feeling at a loss for words. You feel so frustrated or taken aback by something, and you
wish there was some way to describe that indescribable feeling that you have deep in your
chest. Well, now’s the right time to use this expression.
6. 못 살 겠 다 /못 살 겠 네 (Mot-sal-get-da/mot-sal-get-ne-yo)
English translation: ‘I can’t live anymore’
(GIF credit: GIRLGIF.TISTORY.COM)
This is a really fun expression that you can use in most situations when you feel down and in
the dumps. If you feel like life has crashed & is burning in front of your very eyes, you can use
this expression to tell the world you feel like there’s no moving forward and you want to give up.
It literally translates to ‘I can’t live anymore/I don’t want to live anymore’. It’s typically used
sarcastically, not so much as a verbal note to tell the world you’re planning on biting the dust.
Koreans take the discussion of ending one’s life (or the life of another) very lightly, which brings
me to the next term you need to know.
5. 죽 을 래 / 뒤 질
? (Jug-eul-lae/dui-jil-lae?)
English translation: ‘Do you want to die?’
This is a really fun term to use with friends, but to some who are not familiar with Korean
culture, the literal translation can seem a bit morbid. We can translate it a few different ways:
‘Do you want to die?’ ‘Do you want me to kill you?’ or it could be loosely compared to ‘drop
dead’. If you say this to someone, it is not a serious threat. If you do use it seriously, it is a bit
strong and could result in a bit of trouble. Use it in a cute way with friends. Did someone call
you out on some recent weight gain or tease you about a touchy subject? Fire this off, and
laugh it off. It’s just a cute way to respond to something that may have shocked you, but wasn’t
outright offensive.
4. 됐 어 /됐 거 든 (Dwaess-eo-yo/Dwaess-geo-deun)
English translation: = ‘Just forget it!’ , ‘Whatever’ , ‘Drop it!’
This expression fits perfectly into those situations when you just want to stop the discussion of
one topic and move quickly into another. Maybe you’re just jokingly annoyed with your friend
and you want them to know that in a cute and non-confrontational way. Use a cute tone and
use freely. However, if you use a stronger, aggressive tone when saying this, it could become a
lot more serious and the friend may awkwardly switch to another conversation. That, or no
further conversation will ensue. So, use at your own risk.
3. 꺼 져 (Ggeo-jyeo)
English translation: ‘‘Get lost’, Get the f**k away!’ or ‘Get out of here!’
The most important thing to know about this expression is that it should be used with caution. If
you use this casually with people you aren’t close with, it can be pretty offensive. It can be used
in a playful manner with some friends (not everyone), and some Koreans don’t appreciate its
use. On the other hand, the reason you need to know this… is because it can come in handy if
someone is harassing you or giving you a hard time. It’s quite strong and will get your point
across if you have someone bothering you or giving you unwanted attention. As I mentioned at
the beginning – use this phrase selectively. It is useful, but only in certain situations.
2. 어 쩔 (Eo-jjeol)
English translation: ‘So what?’ / ‘So what!’
This is a very great expression to use with friends if you want to let them know (in a joking way)
that what they said didn’t impress you. It can also be used in a sarcastic manner, in the same
way. It’s basically equivalent to ‘so what?’ in English and it’s quite playful in Korean. It’s a great
term to use with people you are really close with, and Koreans will be impressed if you use it
casually in conversation.
1. 멘 붕 (Men-boong)
English translation: = Short for ‘ 멘 탈 붕 괴 ’ (Men-tal-bung-gui) which means
‘Mental breakdown’.
This is a shortened version of a slang term that has a place in so many different situations. This
is when you’re so stressed and so out of it, that you feel like your brain has just completely shut
down. If you’re so lost in your own world from the work that’s piling up on top of you, you can
use this expression and everyone will totally understand how you’re feeling. I personally use this
one a lot!
___
So, I hope you enjoyed this list of the top 10 terms/expressions that all Beginner Korean
learners should know. Keep your eyes peeled for another installment soon, that will focus on
more difficult expressions aimed to help more advanced learners step up their Korean slang
game.
Leave a comment below if you liked this piece, and that’ll let me know that
you’re interested in seeing more!
HIEXPAT
· HOW TO...
How-to: Public vs. Private English
Teaching Jobs in Korea
If you’re here reading this article, chances are you’re new to the expat community like me or
you’re planning to become one in the near future. While this site is aimed at Expat’s currently
living in Korea, it is becoming a great resource for those hoping to make the transition to living
in Korea themselves. What brought you to read this piece today? I’m sure it has something to
do with you wanting to teach in Korea and you’ve probably had the idea planted in your head
for some time. You did a lot of research, but are still hesitant about the information you’ve come
across. Either that, or you’re working here already and are looking to try out another option.
WELL, here’s an easy-to-navigate ‘how-to’ guide that aims to highlight the most essential, key
points and basic differences between ‘public’ and ‘private’ institutes in Korea, and what can be
good or bad about the two. Take a read through, and I hope it gives you a good idea about
what you will be signing yourself up for.
Let’s get started, shall we?
First, ask yourself the following questions: 1) Public or Private?
2) Kindy, Grade School or Adults?
Make sure you are certain about what kind of environment you want, and stick to it. If you
decide to go through a recruiter, chances are they will try to force you into aprivate
kindergarten, because that is where the majority of foreigners are being hired these days. The
big problem with working in some kindergartens (not all), is you may end up becoming a
glorified ‘English’ mascot instead of an actual teacher. You, at times, may feel like you are just
parading around and acting like a fool to appease the children and to assure the Korean
parents (who are shelling out the money) that there is a teacher in the school who speaks the
English language fluently. If you want adults, go for it! If recruiters try to give you something you
don’t want, look on your own.
Now, once you’ve made your choice, make sure you have this: A bachelor’s degree. You
likely already know this, but it is important that you have it in your hand before even thinking
about applying. This is essential to get the whole process started. However, you don’t need
much more than this to get the basic, entry-level teaching jobs. If you want something with
higher pay/at a university, you’ll need more experience and certification. You’ll also need a visa,
but that’s an entirely different topic altogether. Check out our new piece titled ‘All About
Working in South Korea‘ or visit the website for the Korean Consulate General closest to you.
Let’s get into the meat of this article! Here’s a breakdown of the key points to keep in mind
when considering public vs private:
PUBLIC: I haven’t personally worked for a public school, but I have a lot of close friends who
took this route. If you decide to skip the private academy route and come through the
government program EPIK (the best way to go), you are likely to have a smooth transition to
Korea and a much smaller chance of getting royally screwed over by your employer.
Pros:
§
A stable working environment that should run like clockwork (in theory)
§
A good chance to experience the education system in Korea from the inside
§
You will most likely develop close relationships with your students
§
If learning Korean language is important to you, chances are you’ll end up
somewhere outside of Seoul and that will give you a lot more chance to speak
Korean in your free time
§
Pay is usually not as high as private, but it is enough to pay for expenses and
leaves some left over to save
§
Longer Vacations (Usually 2~3 weeks)
§
Start and finish work early (7 or 7:30 to 3 or 3:30 is typical)
Cons:
§
Often times public schools offer a lower salary than academies
§
If learning Korean is not important to you, there is a high possibility you will be
confined to a very remote area in Korea (countryside is far less accessible and
convenient than Seoul in terms of shopping, transportation and expat
communities)
§
Typically the hours are firm, and non-flexible
§
Large class sizes (25-50+ students)
§
Less resources
§
Hiring time happens twice a year (December-February for March start or JuneAugust for September start)
§
You could end up being the only foreign teacher at your school
PRIVATE:
In my experience, private schools pay well, but you will probably end up working more hours in
the long run. Also, private schools are often run for the sole purpose of making money and you
have to be sure to do a lot of research about every school you consider. Some private English
academies treat their employees poorly, and often go out of business due to sketchy and
fraudulent activity. This isn’t always the case, but be careful when looking into these jobs.
Pros:
§
Pay is typically a bit higher than public
§
Hours can be more flexible than public (day shifts or evening shifts available)
§
More room to use your own personal creative flair in the classroom
§
Lesson plans are more flexible and improve skills are very valuable in these jobs
Cons:
§
Contracts are restrictive & have many loopholes/unclear details (read contracts
very carefully & question EVERYTHING)
§
Your pay may be delivered to you later than posted in your contract (take these
issues to the labor board – it is illegal)
§
Your insurance (may) become void and null if you ever end up very, very sick.
There are cases of foreign teachers falling ill and needing hospital care. Some
private academies will cancel insurance when teachers can’t make it into work.
This makes the insurance a very unstable benefit
§
There can sometimes be less chance to get close with students
§
Usually only 2 weeks of paid vacation a year (depends on your school)
§
Chances are you will have 3~4 (or more depending on size of school) foreign
teachers working in the institute with you
So, that’s the breakdown of things I have noticed in my time as Korea teaching English. I
haven’t been here for too long, but with my experience teaching English in both Canada and
Korea, I have been through my fair share of ups and downs. I do sometimes feel like a mascot,
but the job has many rewarding qualities. I was very adamant about working with adults, but
went against my personal preferences just to get here as quickly as possible.
The most important thing I want to emphasize here is – always stand your ground. If you want
to come here, there is a good chance that you will have a good experience. This country is
beautiful, the people can be very welcoming if you put in the effort to appreciate their language,
culture and traditions. Just be sure to do your research and ask a lot of questions when
deciding where you want to work and what you will be doing. There are just as many people
who have had unpleasant experiences in Korea, but that can happen in almost any country. It is
important to be open-minded and try your best to be true to yourself in the process.
Teaching is a rewarding job, especially when you develop close relationships with students!
Still unsure about something and looking to ask an actual teacher rather than an agency who’s
mostly looking out for the schools that they promote? Leave a comment and start a
conversation with myself, or other expats who may be reading this article who have
experienced some of these things themselves.
Happy job hunting!
HIEXPAT
· ENTERTAINMENT
“It’s Time to Face the Music, K-Pop!”:
Raw Talent vs. Manufactured Beauty
Note: This is an opinion piece, and I know some of you may not agree entirely with my point of
view. If you have anything to add to the conversation, please feel free to do so in the comments
below (just no foul-language or hating on anyone who doesn’t feel the same way that you do). I
would love to hear what you have to say about the topic at hand!
“Face the Music, K-Pop!”: Raw Talent vs. Manufactured Beauty”, Written by HiExpat
Contributor, Andrew Fraser
It’s undeniable. Korean pop music (known worldwide as K-Pop) is catchy and infectious, with
over-the-top production values that rival those coming straight out of Hollywood. K-Pop songs
are often impeccably produced and are accompanied by colourful, visual feasts for the eyes
that aim to leave the viewer gasping for air and cheering loudly for their favourite bias.
So, are there really any issues to discuss? Any problems with the current K-Pop formula? I
suppose, on the surface, one might assume that there’s always room for improvement – but
how much are we talking? Personally, I think there are a number of important issues that need
to be highlighted, analyzed and addressed. I figured I would take the time to write this piece
because it would allow me to use my voice to take an objective look at the world of K-Pop from
all possible angles. The end result? It will allow me to uncover the root of any problems that are
currently plaguing the industry and keeping it from reaching its ultimate goal of making K-Pop a
staple around the globe.
The problem with manufacturing and training
Let me explain. The first problem with a large majority of modern day K-Pop acts is that most of
them are just… OK. Underneath all the glitz and glam, these groups and performers lack
impact, substance and lasting appeal. The ability to pull off hard-hitting choreography and
model-esque good-looks are shaped and moulded after years of training, but the best
performers have the drive and natural talent that just can’t be taught. Let’s be honest –
the funky hairstyles, flashy fashion and polished vocals can only take a performer so far. What
are the manufactured stars missing that those with natural talent have? Well, simply put, they
don’t have the same energy, passion or charm required to stand out in the crowded market.
Without these qualities, they can’t create a deep and everlasting impression that makes us
want to keep coming back for more.
There is still A LOT of natural talent in K-Pop
To be fair, I need to point out that K-Pop acts haven’t always been as manufactured as they are
today. There are tons of long-lasting, influential K-Pop acts that have been pleasing Korean
music aficionados for years. The first generation of idols; H.O.T, Sechs Kies, g.o.d, SES, Fink.l,
Shinhwa and a handful of others. The focus then moved to the second generation of groups;
DBSK (동방신기), Girls’ Generation (SNSD, 소녀시 ), Big Bang, IU, 2NE1, Kara, Wonder Girls’
and so many more. The groups mentioned are just a handful of the popular groups who have
songs that will never be forgotten and have helped make a name for K-Pop around the world.
That isn’t to say that there wasn’t a lot of training and money put into making these idols that
superstars that they are, but I think that the industry has taken it to a new, unprecedented level
in recent years.
If we fast-forward to
present day, there are so
many K-Pop acts/groups
that it’s nearly impossible
to keep tabs without losing
your mind in the process.
Even worse, a lot of them
fail before they even get a
chance to be recognized.
It might be due to a lack of
substance, or just terrible
promotional effort on
behalf of their agencies.
Regardless of the reason, there are too many groups in the industry, and a significant portion of
them will likely flop. Why does this happen so often? My theory is that when Korean society
started to put more and more pressure and emphasis on the importance of being beautiful, the
music industry took a step back and started to follow suit. This resulted in a lot of good-looking
idols, but they seem to lack natural, raw talent that musicians are usually expected to have.
Regardless of how much training you put someone through, if they lack charisma and drive, it is
likely that they won’t be able to handle the pressure that comes along with working in the music
industry. It’s not all about fame – it’s about really wanting to bring joy to the fans.
That’s not to say that there aren’t influential acts in the K-pop scene that are actually good –
there are a ton of them. Beast can be compared to H.O.T back in the days. Apink has the same
appeal that SES had and 2NE1 has the girl power essence that Fink.l brought to the scene. Exo
are handsome, have killer dance moves and are proving themselves to be the next Super
Junior/2PM.
Who deserves more time in the spotlight?
Aside from those acts who are popular and attractive, there are a lot of solo performers and
duo acts that don’t get as much respect. Artists like Ailee, Akdong Musician (AKMU) and Lee
Hi, to name just a few, are praised for their talent, but don’t get as much attention as the ‘idols’
do. Let’s take a list at my top 3 list of the most underrated acts in the industry:
1. Ailee (에일리)
I can’t praise her enough. She is a powerhouse, with a voice that rivals
some of the best singers of our time. She brings the house down every time she performs. She
proves herself time and time again, and she is a serious force to be reckoned within K-Pop.
Sadly, she still isn’t as popular as some of the idol groups, and I just can’t understand
that. Neitzens often comment on her weight (apparently she’s too chubby, which is absurd) and
talk about a photo scandal that came up in the media a little while back. I just wish people
would cut her some slack and start realizing that solo singers deserve the spotlight as much as
idol groups do. She is insanely talented and she is still one of my favourite artists in the K-pop
universe.
2. Akdong Musician (AKMU, 악동뮤지션)
This brother-sister duo is incredible.
Their voices harmonize perfectly, and Lee Chan-hyuk (the brother) pens all of their songs on his
own. Lee Soo-hyun (the sister) has an undeniable charm and they have mastered the perfect
balance of humour and catchy riffs/hooks to compose songs that cannot be compared to
anything else out there. Trust me, if you listen to their music, you’ll be hooked. Once again,
though, they are often criticized because of their looks. When they are brought up in
conversation, the first thing mentioned by some Koreans is how unattractive they are. I have
even heard parents talking about how sad it is that they look the way they do. Honestly, they
look fine to me. They are so young, and are still growing into themselves. The important thing is
that have an incredibly rare
talent, and they write their
own music. Let’s focus on
that, shall we?
3. Lee Hi (이하이) A young diva with a deep, soulful voice. She has the kind of voice that
tells a story and puts anyone listening at ease. Her songs evoke a sense of reflection and she
just brings the feels. Similarly to Ailee, though, fans like to mention she is a little too overweight
and they bring up the fact that she not a very talented dancer. Seriously, does every singer
need to be unreasonably slim and be skilled as a dancer? She’s all about the voice, and that’s
what she should focus on (like Adele). Some performers are great singers and dancers, and
that’s fine. On the other hand, if they have one skill, let them put their efforts into that.
Last words:
To wrap things up, I just want to say that there are tons of brilliant
performers in Korea, and I’m not denying that. What I don’t necessarily always agree with is the
fact that image and beauty seem to always be valued over skill and natural talent, and thus,
really driven artists are sometimes not given the respect that they truly deserve. They work
diligently for years to hone and polish their craft, only to be pushed to the curb to pave the road
for manufactured idols who have more money and marketing backing them up to ensure that
they succeed.
I’m not telling you to stop enjoying well-produced K-Pop – because I enjoy it, too. However, I’m
just hoping you can spend more time spreading the love for the under-represented artists after
reading this. Let’s show these artists how much we appreciate their music that comes straight
from the heart. Music that has touching, meaningful lyrics that we can all relate to. Music that
reminds us of the days when music was about music, and music alone.
HIEXPAT
· CULTURE
Plastic Perfection: Are South Koreans
Infatuated with Beauty?
An ad promoting jaw surgery in South Korea.
An opinion piece by Kimchee Magazine contributor, Andrew Fraser.
Lately, South Korea has been getting a lot of negative attention online from people all around
the world due to its increasingly casual attitude toward plastic surgery. It isn’t breaking news
that Korea has one of the fastest-growing plastic surgery industries, and Koreans are being
mocked and criticized for having an easy-going attitude about going under the knife. One
important thing to keep in mind, though, is that Korea is NOT the only country that has turned
plastic surgery into a popular trend. The U.S, Brazil, Japan, China, and the U.K all have a fairly
large number of its residents deciding to get surgery. So we can’t act as if South Korea is the
only place where these surgeries are taking place.
Personally, I have never had any plastic surgery done and I don’t think I would ever consider it.
I’m more than happy with my face and body, imperfections and all. That’s not to say that I
wouldn’t support a friend or loved one if they decided that getting surgery would have a positive
impact on their lives. There are conditions that come along with my support, though. I can
understand getting surgery if it is related to health problems that the individual is facing or if they
are verbally or physically abused by the people who surround them. In the end, we all deserve
to be happy. We all want to be accepted by our friends and loved ones. We all want to live a
normal, successful and fulfilling life. So, I have nothing wrong with supporting the idea of getting
plastic surgery – as long as it is to help build confidence to help you become the best that you
can be.
A Lack of Support: One of the biggest issues with plastic surgery popularity in Korea is that
people who are labeled as being ‘ugly’ by the general public aren’t given the support they need
to build confidence about their appearance or abilities. Instead, they are led to believe that the
most obvious way to fix the problem is to just get surgery. Most Koreans believe that in order to
get the upper hand in the competitive job market, they need to be beautiful. As a result,
Korean youth have developed deep-rooted anger related to beauty ideals and are under the
impression that good looks, above all else, give you the best chance of securing a high-paying,
well-respected job in modern-day society.
Plastic Surgery on Television: Considering how popular plastic surgery has become in
Korea, it was only a matter of time before several television shows appeared that were
dedicated to showcasing success stories of those who have undergone surgery and ended up
with flawless results. ‘Let Me In’, the most popular plastic surgery transformation program in
Korea, invites women with ‘abnormal’ facial or body issues and presents them with the
opportunity to undergo surgical procedures to help improve the parts of their physical
appearance that they are most self-conscious about. It is important to understand that this is
not a free makeover; there is a large selection committee (including plastic surgeons and a
psychiatrist) who only select candidates who can be substantially helped by getting surgery. I
personally believe that this kind of program takes the high road by highlighting what benefits
plastic surgery can have on our lives, and in famous cases like that of plastic surgery success
story Huh Ye Eun (before & after shot at the beginning of the article), she was able to gain
confidence and strength that she never knew she had.
W hat About Natural Beauty? Stop comparing! I need to take a moment to step back,
though, because I think that only a small portion of the Korean population actually get work
done for these personal, health-related reasons. To most foreigners, Koreans are beautiful
enough without any need to undergo plastic surgery procedures, but some of them can’t
accept that fact because they are constantly compared to others who are apparently ‘more
beautiful’ than them. On top of that, if someone is chubby or have been cursed with a look that
doesn’t match what the majority of the population considers to be attractive or worthy of
success, those ‘ugly’ people might end up feeling betrayed and could label themselves as
unworthy. They are basically forced to write themselves off as failures before even getting a
fighting chance.
Mirror, Mirror, On The W all… Who Is The Fairest Of Them All? So what kind of face
and image are considered to be MOST beautiful in Korea? Well, for women, the ideal look is
that of actress and model, Kim Tae Hee. For men, Won Bin is considered to be the most
handsome in the eyes of most. Of course, there is no doubt that these two celebrities are
attractive and have undeniable charm, but it doesn’t mean that every Korean should feel the
need to constantly compare themselves to these unattainable ideals. Furthermore, Koreans
seem to be going for a more ‘westernized’ look, one that includes double eyelids, smaller
cheekbones, button nose, and a sharp, defined jawline.
Without these features, they feel as if they will be criticized and picked on for looking too
traditionally Korean. But, could it end up going too far? Could they start to lose their identities in
the process of all this change?
Kim Tae Hee: Considered to be one of the most beautiful female celebrities.
This is the one part about living in South Korea that was hard for me. I met a ton of gorgeous,
kind-hearted people – both inside and out. I would compliment a person on their looks, and
would often get a response like: “No way! I wish I looked more like Kim Tae Hee…” “I’m not
beautiful, I’m just ugly!”. Even though these comments were followed by laughter and a
seemingly positive tone, I knew they were suffering underneath.
The Conclusion? We shouldn’t look down on people who choose to get plastic surgery. We
must look at it on a case-by-case basis. There are individuals all around the world (not just in
Korea) who suffer and cannot find happiness within themselves. Plastic surgery, when done for
the right reasons, can help give people a second chance at life.
Won Bin: One of Korea’s Sexiest Men
On the other hand, if it is used to improve upon something that clearly doesn’t need to be
improved – that is where the problem is. We need to celebrate natural beauty, and it is
important to never forget that we are all individuals. We have traits we inherited from our blood
relatives, and if we get surgery to take that away, we lose our identity along the way. As long
Koreans start to learn about the importance of celebrating one another for being beautiful in
different ways, the plastic surgery ‘issue’, won’t really be an issue any longer.
IT’S YOUR TURN!
What do you think? Do you agree ordisagree with my opinion?
Do YOU have something that you want to add to the conversation?
Have YOU ever had plastic surgery or are you considering it?
Tell us your story in the comments below! I’d love to hear from you.
Author’s Note: First, I want to acknowledge that, after reading several threads and articles
online, I realized a lot of people hate on South Korea for its apparent ‘obsession’ with plastic
surgery. However, I want to make it clear that no one should be spewing hate or negative
comments about Koreans before taking the time to really understand what life is really like in
South Korea. We all have a right to our own opinions, but try to read through this article and
listen to both sides of the story – and then feel free to tell me how you feel. I tried to be openminded about the topic, and even though I shared my personal opinions, I tried to write this
article in a neutral manner, highlighting points from both sides of the argument. If you have any
praises or criticisms about this article, please feel free to share them in the comment section at
the end of the article.
· CURRENT TOPICS
Expat TV sensation Enes Kaya battles adultery accusations
HIEXPAT
Over the past few years, Koreans have slowly started to open up to the idea of foreigners living,
working and fully integrating themselves into modern-day Korean society. Of course, while
some are still against the idea, the appearance and popularization of foreigners featured on
Korean television has really helped to change the minds of both young & old generations alike.
Which is why recent accusations against Enes Kaya (popular TV sensation from ‘NonSummit’ couldn’t have come at a worse time. Foreigner-focused TV is all the rage in Korea at
the moment, and Koreans are being introduced to different ideas and perspectives from these
various cultural ambassadors. However, the perspective of foreigners in the eyes of the average
Korean might change drastically after today (regardless if rumours about Kaya are true or not).
A still from the popular Korean TV show, ‘비정상외담’ (Non-Summit)
It all started a few days ago (Dec. 2) when the first woman in question (who still remains
anonymous) finally decided to ‘come clean’ about her apparent bizarre and shocking
encounters with Kaya, who is reported to be married to a Korean woman and has a child, as
well. She claimed Kaya told her he wasn’t married and seduced her with lewd comments and
made several advances at her. Rumours of this first encounter spread so fast online, that the
star has already apparently decided to pull the plug on all of his future TV appearances for the
time being. There are snaps and screenshots of various texts/ messenger conversations
between Kaya and the mystery woman available online that, if true, could result in severe
backlash against the star. Now, after a few days, more women (via an article posted on
Koreaboo.com) have come forward claiming they had similar interactions with Kaya.
Photos of the alleged messenger conversations between an anonymous woman and Kaya.
The most shocking claim from Kaya can be found in snapshots of his KakaoTalk conversations
with the first anonymous woman, where he denied on several occasions the existence
of a wife and child, saying that the network/ TV producers fabricated stories
about a fake marriage and advised the woman that he was actually single. The odd thing is
that Kaya admitted publicly several years ago that he got married to a Korean woman.
So, where’s the real truth here? We can’t confirm what is absolutely true or completely
false as of yet, but what we can say is – Kaya’s career in Korea has come to a sudden,
screeching halt. He has developed quite the name for himself here in Korea over the past 11
years, but his image may be permanently tainted and there will likely be no chance for him to
recover from such a press nightmare. He has since spoken out, saying that he will be
working with his lawyer to clarify and clear up any false accusations, but it’s unclear if his
evidence is strong enough to beat out what has already surfaced online.
Let us know what you think about all of this. Did you ever watch Non-summit? As a fellow
expat or Korean native, were you a fan of Enes, and do you think that his alleged behaviour
gives all foreigners a bad name and an image of being ultimately dangerous and deceptive?
Leave your comments below!
HIEXPAT
· CURRENT TOPICS
A Reflective Piece: The Sewol Ferry Incident
I must admit, I wasn’t sure that I wanted to write anything about this heartbreaking news on the
blog because of how sensitive the topic is. However, I have a special place in my heart for
Korea, and I often think of it as a second home. I met so many incredible people while I lived
there as an exchange student, and I never thought that my experience living abroad in another
country could be so comfortable and familiar. Despite being known for their blunt honesty,
Koreans are passionate and caring and have so much love and compassion for those who
show a deep appreciation for their culture and their country.
It is for that reason that I felt an urge and responsibility to speak up for myself and on behalf of
the whole team here at Kimchee Magazine Korea to show our respect, as well as take some
time to share some thoughts and opinions about the current situation that is plaguing the
people of South Korea.
THE BASICS
As you have likely already heard, the Sewol ferry carrying somewhere between 450-475
passengers (the exact number isn’t quite known) capsized due to a sudden turn while it was
heading toward Jeju Island from Incheon. That’s about the only information I want to report
here, and if you need more information, this report by CNN gives you more in-depth details.
REFLECTING ON THE INCIDENT
Instead of acting as a reporter, I just want to send love words of support in this time of need.
Regardless of the size of the disaster and the number of people affected, it is important to
remember that families have been torn apart and people’s lives have been selfishly taken due to
mistakes that could have been avoided with more planning and careful consideration.
I may be living in Canada at the moment, but I still spend a lot of time dreaming about going
back to Korea. When I heard this news, I was devastated. What frustrated me the most about
this whole ordeal, though, were the false reports about the safety of the passengers that gave
the families and relatives false hope. Furthermore, I’m not sure what the captain was thinking
when he decided to save himself before any of the passengers. He may have saved his own
life, but he has brought shame upon himself and his dignity may never be able to be restored.
On top of that, there is a lot of talk about who is responsible for the re-design of the ferry.
Apparently, it is was originally built to code, but it was renovated to add room for a higher
capacity. Interestingly enough, though, the ferry was only around half capacity when it
capsized, so was the additional revenue worth the risk? If that was the driving force for the ship
being built too large, what’s the use of that extra money if hundreds of lives were lost earning it?
THERE’S A LESSON TO BE LEARNED
A lesson for all of us: greed and selfish behaviour bring nothing but sadness and suffering.
There is no denying that it is important to be independent and take care of oneself. We need to
thrive and survive in this dog-eat-dog world, but I think in recent years, we have taken the fight
for survival a little too far. We have forgotten how important it is to be there for the people who
make this world the beautiful place that it is. The more time we spend caring about the wellbeing and happiness of those who surround us, the more that we will all prosper as a result.
When disasters like this happen, the most important thing to take away from it is that we can’t
be selfish. We need to look past our differences, and realize that pain and suffering is
something that no one should have to deal with. The South Koreans are experiencing so much
pain and agony right now and we should do our part by taking a moment of silence to send
good vibes and positive energy to those in need.
#PRAYFORKOREA
So, if you can, stop what you are doing for a minute or two, and send your thoughts and
prayers to South Korea. I’m sure they will be greatly appreciated. Use hashtag
#prayforsouthkorea on Facebook and Twitter to show your support.
· CULTURE · TREKKING HIEXPAT
Jeung-do: Jeolla-do’s Hidden Treasure,
A Non-Smoker’s Paradise!
Are you looking for the perfect escape from the stressful, fast-paced life in Seoul? How about
spending some time away from the crowded streets, in a place where time stands still! You may
not be convinced that such a place exists, but on Jeung-do, an island located in the Sinan
region of Jeollanam-do, people truly understand the importance of embracing the simple things
in life. Still not sold? Well, consider this – if you are a non-smoker or you have been looking for
the perfect opportunity to kick the dirty habit, this could be your dream paradise. Smoking on
this island is highly frowned upon, you won’t be able to buy cigarettes easily, as
about 80% of the island’s population are dedicated non-smokers.
Just a little background information about Jeung-do, it is the 7th largest of a
whopping1,004 islands located in that region of South Korea. It has also become known as
one of South Korea’s most well renowned ecological tourism destinations due to its abudance of
fresh air, fascinating salt farms, a world-famous salt museum and mind-blowingly gorgeous
views of the ocean. It’s an island steeped in natural beauty, and it’s the perfect getaway for
those of you who want to clear your mind of stress and negative thoughts.
Not too long ago, this island was off most people’s radars, but thanks to the popular show on
KBS, 2 days and 1 night (1 박 2 일), this island and its enchanting beauty have been introduced
to entire population of South Korea. If you are looking to learn more about this beautiful island
and what it has to offer, you should check out the episode for yourself. It features a star-studded
cast who are all heavy smokers, and challenged them to go without smoking for the duration of
their trip. Hilarity ensued, and many laughs were had.
Watch: KBS “2 Days and 1 Night”, Jeung-do “No-Smoking Island”
Special
The cast of 2 days and 1 night couldn’t believe that they don’t sell cigarettes on the island!
Thinking of heading to check out this beautiful island for yourself? Here are a few easy ways to get there!
Option A: Train
Step 1: Take a train from Yongsan to Mokpo Station.
Step 2: From Mokpo, grab bus #1 bus to Mokpo Intercity Bus Terminal
Step 3: From the there, get on the next bus to Jido.
Step 4: From Jido Bus Terminal, ask about the shuttle bus to Saokdo Jisingae Dock.
Step 5: Take the boat at the Saokdo Jisingae dock, and get off at Jeungdo Dock.
Option B: Bus
Step 1: Take a bus from Seoul Central City Express Bus Terminal to Jido.
Step 2: From Jido Bus Terminal, ask about the shuttle bus to Saokdo Jisingae Dock.
Step 3: Take the boat at the Saokdo Jisingae dock, and get off at Jeungdo Dock.
Boat Schedule: Saokdo to Jeungdo
Boat Departure Schedule:
6:40am, 8:30am, 10:00am, 11:00am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm, 3:00pm, 4:30pm, 6:00pm, 8:00pm, 10:00pm
For more detailed instructions, including transit fees & alternative train and bus routes available,
check out the visitor information for Jeung-do here on Visit Korea’s website. You can find
detailed information about the people of Jeung-do, local cuisine & general visitor information.
‘Time stands still’ on Jeung-do. Let’s go together!
· CULTURE · CURRENT TOPICS HIEXPAT
Op-ed: Safety vs. Profit – What is truly
more important to Korea?
An Op-ed written by HiExpat blogger: Andrew Fraser
December 31st, 2014
As I started taking a look back at 2014 in Korea, I initially thought it would be nice to do a piece
for the end of the year that tied both good and bad events together as a replay of what
happened this year. However, during my research and brainstorming sessions, I realized that 3
huge events in South Korea really rocked this country and changed the way that Koreans
thought about safety procedures. Instead of simply covering events on the surface, I wanted to
dig deeper into these avoidable ‘accidents’ and discuss how a serious change in 2015 can really
help Korea continue to grow and work toward a safer and happier future as a prosperous
country.
As unfortunate as it is to say, Korea really did experience a lot of pain, heartbreak and
devastation this year and it was a tough pill to swallow for most residents. Let’s take a look back
on the major events that stopped and caught the attention of everyone living in this beautiful
place that we call home.
The Sinking of the Sewol Ferry
세월호 침몰 사고
April 16, 2014: The entire country witnessed an unimaginable disaster. Koreans are known for
their quick day-to-day pace and are rarely seen taking a rest for anyone or anything. However,
shortly after the news of the Ferry sinking broke, this entire country came to a standstill. Dread
hovered above the heads of the whole population, and it is likely that those who lost their
children, friends and colleagues in the disaster will never stop mourning. The rest of the country
finally took a breath and showed their support over a series of months following the disaster as
bodies slowly started turning up through routine search and rescue missions.
A total of 304 individuals lost their lives – that is by no means a small number. As sad as it is to
say, it took an event with such a rippling effect to really shock Koreans into remembering that it
is important to stop, look & cherish every single person around you. It is impossible to know
when or how loved ones will pass, but we should truly understand the value of enjoying every
moment we have with them.
Flowers resting on the desks of students who lost their lives in the tragic accident.
Grate Collapse at Seongnam Music Festival
October 17, 2014: Another horrific disaster that claimed innocent lives shocked and left the
entire country asking “why?”. At an local music festival in Seongnam, Seoul, 16
concertgoers tragically lost their lives in a 20 metre drop as an unsupervised ventilation gate
outside of the safety zone collapsed beneath their feet. The reason why they were even allowed
to be standing on top of the grate is unknown, but it raises a lot of questions about the safety
regulations in Korea, and just how strongly they are (not) enforced. Korea can be strict about
many things (such as garbage disposal and recycling), but problems with lack of safety
regulations remain to run amuck. This disaster and the sinking of Sewol have really opened the
eyes of many Koreans, and the country should work toward a more stable set of regulations to
be more stern about safety regulations in 2015. Being more concerned with making money than
the lives of innocent people will do nothing but cause economic collapse in the future.
A photo of the aftermath of the outdoor concert grate collapse in Seongnam.
Ladies Code’ Car Accident
2014 was a really rough year for the K-pop industry. A lot of singers and members of
various groups and units called it quits and decided to pursue more prosperous careers, as Kpop contracts have recently been outed and labelled as ‘slave contracts’ that force members to
live on a very small allowance, while never letting them get their hands on any of the earnings
that they worked hard to bring in.
On top of that contract foolishness, yet another K-pop group was in a terrible car accident (this
happens quite often in South Korea). Only this time, instead of members being hospitalized and
making it out with a couple of scrapes and bruises, two members (Go EunBi & Kwon RiSae) of a
new 4-member group ‘Ladies’ Code’ died as a result of a tragic crash while traveling at high
speeds in rough, wet conditions to rush to an appearance. One member died instantly, and the
other died after being unconscious following a serious brain surgery.
Conclusion of tragic events
So what can we do to avoid these kinds of situations in the future? How can we ensure that
innocent lives are not lost as a result of simple, foolish mistakes? All 3 of these events listed
above really are a cry for help. This country and its people are suffering as a result of poor safety
laws, lack of regulation about the way things are to be done and little repercussion for not
following the rules. These safety protocols need to be taken more seriously, as a lot of lives
were lost as a result of ignorance and lack of respect for the value and precious nature of human
life.
In order to ensure that Korea does not experience similar happenings in 2015, we must all
question the safety laws and speak up about this growing issue. In order for change to happen,
the people have to come together as a collective to question procedures. We have to speak up
and fight for change.
The unfortunate truth is that, in all 3 cases, its seems that money was the most important factor:
First – In the Sewol Ferry instance, the team behind the renovation of the ferry simply wanted to
ensure they maximized profit by adding as much additional space for passengers as was
humanly possible – at risk of the ship not meeting safety standards.
Second: With regards to the crate collapse at the outdoor concert in Seongnam, there was no
security team dispatched to stop fans from crowding on top of the grate for a better view of the
stage. As a result of a desire to save money by selling more tickets and not hiring adequate
security, 16 people died. This should NEVER have happened, and it could have easily been
avoided.
Third: Car accidents are not rare in any country, sadly. A lot of people perish in car accidents
around the world, but the number of singers and celebrities injured and killed in automobile
accidents is alarming in South Korea. This was one of the worst accidents in the last decade or
so, and it really brings light to the intense, somewhat abusive treatment of talent in Korea. They
are rushed back and forth from performance to performance, regardless of weather conditions
and their mental health is rarely taken into consideration. It seems like it’s all about money, and
less about there physical and mental well-being.
All in all, there’s one thing I want to say to the government, those in charge of safety regulations
in this country and everyone reading this article – we really need to make a change before it’s
too late. It’s time to take note of what is happening, and more strict rules MUST be put in place.
If these events aren’t enough evidence that change needs to happen, I don’t know how many
more innocent lives need to be lost before everyone will start to come around and realize that
something is REALLY wrong. If you agree, let me know in the comments below. I may not be a
native Korean, but I have witnessed a lot of tragic disasters in my time here (and observing news
while living back in Canada) and I know it’s about time for a change.
Let’s make it happen.
Now, take a moment to remember those whose lives were lost this year. May all of the victims of
these devastating accidents rest in peace, and it is important for us to reflect on 2014 with a
heavy heart and a sense of responsibility to ensure these kinds of accidents do not occur
moving forward into 2015.
Ladies’ Code members ‘Go EunBi’ & ‘Kwon Rise’. Their unexpected passing comes as a reminder that life is
too short and safety should be considered above all else.
HIEXPAT
· ENTERTAINMENT
K-Pop Spotlight: ‘Give Love’ for AKMU!
If you aren’t familiar with the four letters ‘A’ ‘K’ ‘M’ and ‘U’ – you’re seriously missing out.
Originally known by the name ‘Akdong Musician’, Lee Chan-Hyuk (18 years old) and Lee
Soo-hyun (15 years old) are a brother-sister duo who got their start on K-Pop Star, Season 2
and are currently taking the Korean pop world by storm. They embody a certain ‘neu-kkim’
(느낌= a certain ‘feeling’, something special.. As in,’느낌 아니까’= I get the feeling, I know the
feeling) and their unique melodies and undeniably catchy lyrics give you that warm and fuzzy
feeling inside that no one can resist.
Lee Chan-hyuk & Lee Soo-hyun
FUN FACT: Despite the flood of popular Korean artists, groups and idols over the years, it is
kind of rare to come across anyone who can honestly take credit for writing an entire album on
their own. Well, Lee Chan-Hyuk wrote and produced the entire first album that AKMU released
under their label, ‘YG Entertainment’. They deserve a serious round of applause for introducing
us to the softer, more honest side to Korean music that hasn’t quite been explored much up
until now.
STUDIO ALBUM: Their first studio album, ‘Play’, was released online on April 7th
(3,326,063 downloads so far) and a significant number of physical copies were sold after it
was released in stores on April 9th. The album is a delightful pop record filled with upbeat, midtempo and ballad tracks that are guaranteed to satisfy. The entire album has a lot of love and
passion poured into it, and you can feel it in each and every song on the album. It has
an organic quality that rarely exists in the music industry on a global scale, so these two are
worth checking out.
‘GIVE LOVE': To get you started, I want to introduce you to their most recent single, as well
as a few links to some of their older songs to give you the full scoop on these talented siblings.
Their most recent music video, released on May 1st, spreads a powerful yet simple message
about ‘giving love’ to the people around you. Releasing this song as their 3rd single was timed
well as it helps to bring some hope and closure for those who are suffering and who have
been affected by the tragic Sewol Ferry incident. Even though there is still a dark cloud hovering
over the people of South Korea, we need to do our part to mend and heal the wounds as time
continues to tick along. If you want to do your part, you can share this video on Facebook,
Twitter and various other social networking sites to help ‘Give Love’ to the people of South
Korea. ♥ http://bit.ly/Skh5W8 Use hashtags #givelove #AKMU & #kimcheemag to ensure I
can give you props for doing your part!
‘Give Love’ and show your support! Share this video with friends, family and spread the word.
#givelove #AKMU #kimcheemag
W ant to check out more AKMU goodness? Here are some links to their most
catchy tunes (both new and old):
‘Give Love’
‘200%’
‘얼음들(Melted)‘
‘I love you’
다리 꼬지 마(Don’t Cross Your Legs)
매력있 (You Are Attractive)
HIEXPAT
· ENTERTAINMENT
De-mystifying Korean Blood Types
If you’re living in North America (like I currently am), it is fairly likely that you have no idea what
your blood type is. You may happen to know if you got blood taken recently and remembered
to ask or your parents might remember, but it’s not something that we spend a lot of time
thinking about. If you think about it, though, it’s something we SHOULD know about (in case
we need blood in an emergency), but that’s a whole different topic.
Let’s dive right into the topic of dating:
If you choose to go out on a date here in Canada (for example), one of the most common
questions might sound a little something like this: “Hey! What’s your astrological sign?” “Oh, I’m
an Aries! How about you?” “I’m also an Aries…” “Okay, well that might not work, we’ll probably
butt heads”.
In Korea, on the other hand, blood type is the burning question on everyone’s mind. There are
oodles of websites dedicated to identifying the blood types of famous celebrities in Korea, and
some even base their compatibility and future with a certain individual solely based on their
blood type compatibility. Blood type is taken pretty seriously in Korea, and it is made even more
obvious through countless mainstream dramas and films that feature story lines and themes
that focus heavily on Korean couples who struggle and get into trouble because of mismatched blood types.
Apparently the linking of blood types to personality originated in Japan way back, and regained
popularity again in the 70’s. It became a huge craze and then spread to occupy the minds of
Taiwanese and South Koreans alike.
Curious about which traits match their corresponding blood types? Take a look at our lists
below for a description of what to look out for in A, B, AB and O blood types. (Keep in mind
that not everyone with these blood types acts exactly like what these lists say, but it gives you a
pretty good idea!)
Blood Type A: The stubborn, yet patient perfectionist
A’s Positive Traits: They are generally introverted and keep to themselves sometimes, which
means they prefer to be quiet. They are good at keeping secrets, so you can expect them to
stay tight-lipped. They are also very patient, punctual (always on time!) and inclined to be
perfectionists in everything that they do. They are also loyal to their friends, families and
partners.
A’s Negative Traits: They have obsessive tendencies, and are incredibly stubborn. They don’t
like to share their feelings, which can be frustrating when you want to talk about something
serious. They are also not known for their ability to drink, so if you want a strong partner who
can hold their liquor, A 형 may not be for you.
Blood Type B: The free-spirited, absent-minded lover
B’s Positive Traits: They are creative, free-spirited, open-minded and can be flexible in most
situations. They have a positive nature and are very passionate partners.
B’s Negative Traits: Unfortunately, though, B tends to be very absent-minded, and they are not
known for being responsible in their own personal endeavours. They occasionally think only
about themselves and don’t care much about what others think of them. They can be selfcentered in situations where they most certainly shouldn’t be.
B blood types have a bit of a ‘bad’ reputation in Korea, especially among men, and they often
tend to be labeled as lady killers. If you’re looking for the perfect husband material, B may not
be the best place to look. Of course this isn’t all men, but it depends on how much influence
blood types have on you.
Blood Type AB: The apathetic, two-faced harmony-loving realist
AB’s Positive Traits: They tend to be level-headed, relaxed, and have an impressive level of selfcontrol. They have strong personal ethics and are empathetic, and extremely rational. This
partner is a great one to have around when you need a rock to keep you firmly planted on the
ground.
AB’s Worst Traits: On the other hand, AB appears to be very unattached, uninterested and
withdrawn in many cases. They are often too critical, can never make a decision when
prompted to do so and are not good at forgiving people who cross them.
Of all the blood types, AB may possibly be the most human of all. They do the majority of their
thinking with their heads, and less often with their hearts. They very responsible, know how to
budget (but might be pretty stingy in most cases). They are pretty distant with most people, but
they are good at negotiating and keeping the peace between close friends and loved ones.
When it comes to relationships, though, they can be hard to trust in the long run. Their twofaced reputation isn’t something that they are very respected for.
Blood Type O: The multi-talented, vain and passionate warrior
O’s Positive Traits: They are go-getters, who never give up on their goals and dreams. They
continuously reach for the stars, even when the going gets tough. They have a lot of energy and
are incredibly expressive when it comes to competition and taking risks.
O’s Negative Traits: Their constant desire to succeed and rise above the rest makes them look
incredibly conceited, inconsiderate and heartless in the eyes of others. They also tend to care a
lot about looks and probably spend most of their time in the bathroom looking into the mirror.
O are indeed warriors and will never give up without a fight. At both work and in social
situations, O tend to make the best leaders as they know how to take control of a situation.
Their passionate nature gives them an edge in leadership that others don’t quite possess, but if
they let it go to their head, others will likely avoid spending time around them.
Did you learn something new about blood types in Korea? Feel a little more in touch with your
Korean blood type personality traits? If you know the blood type of your current partner, do the
two of you match quite nicely – or do your personalities completely clash according to our
blood type standards? Let us know in the comments below!
TODAY’S QUESTION: “How important is blood type to you? Does it dictate the
success or failure of your relationship?”. Leave a comment with your
answer. W e’d love to hear what you have to say – let’s start the conversation!
HIEXPAT
· ENTERTAINMENT
The Truth About Aegyo (애교)
We’re sure you’ve heard the term ‘aegyo’ before, especially if you have lived in or have spent
any amount of time in Korea (or are investing time in learning about the culture). It’s virtually
everywhere – it’s popular on television shows, in memes on the web and it’s likely that you’ll
see a lot of coat sleeve pulling, shoulder patting and pounding, as well as high-pitched, childlike sounds that aim to overwhelm and confuse unsuspecting victims with high doses of mindmelting cuteness.
However, it’s very existence and purpose seems to be somewhat shrouded in mystery for
many who live outside of Korea. After having spent a lot of time studying the language and living
in Korea as an exchange student, people who are new to the concept of aegyo often asked
me: “Do people ACTUALLY find ‘aegyo’ to be cute or attractive in any way? My answer to that
question? It depends on you, and what level of cuteness you can tolerate before your body just
shuts down. Some can handle it in truckloads, while others cannot stand it whatsoever.
Oppaaaaaa~! *chu*
Just in case you need to explain it to your friends in 30 seconds or less, here’s
a quick definition:
AEGYO: In Korea, aegyo is serious business. It’s basically the art of acting mind-numblingly
cute via the use of high-pitched sounds, child-like expressions and exaggerated gestures. It
can be seen in both verbal and written forms. When a person chooses to use aegyo, it is likely
that it is for one of several reasons:
Reason #1: They want something from someone else, or they really want to get on
someone’s good side. In the case of a girl using aegyo around her boyfriend, it would mean
that she probably wants him to take her somewhere or to buy her a nice dinner – something of
the like. This could be considered to be somewhat manipulative and artificial in nature, but it’s
hard to refuse when someone looks at you with puppy dog eyes… *looks at the photo at the
top of this post* Am I right, people?! AM I RIGHT? Okay… so maybe not. I’ll let you be the
judge.
Reason #2: Their partner (or the friends and family around them) constantly crave it, and
couldn’t live without having someone in their lives constantly acting cute… every minute, of
every hour, of every day.
Okay, who are we kidding – there’s really only one true motive for using aegyo. For the most
part, people (more often girls) use aegyo to win over their partners, and it’s not very likely you’ll
see it being used anywhere else. This is especially true among girls who hang out together –
aegyo rarely makes an appearance (unless the girls are having fun joking around or teasing
each other). Some girls love to use it on guys when they spend time together alone, but if more
than one female is present, the aegyo gets turned off.
Here’s an example of how a conversation might go between a girl using aegyo and a guy on
the receiving end:
Aegyo girl: “Oppa! I’m sooooo hungry~ will you pleeeeeease take me to that yummy BBQ
restaurant we both love? Oh, and I don’t get paid for a few more days, so could you pay this
time? Please? Oppaaa~!! I love you! (kiss)”
Aegyo-obsessed boy: “OF COURSE! How could I say no to the cutest girl on the planet? Let’s
go – I’ll buy you whatever you want! Just promise that you’ll never stop being so cute, OKAY?
Buuuuing buuuuing~!
Aegyo girl: “Yay~! Oppa, thank you! ^^! SARANGHAE OPPA!
It may seem sickeningly sweet, and in all honesty, it kind of is. In small doses, it can be
adorable and fun to use with friends, but as we can see in the conversation above – it often
gets overused. Note to anyone reading this who loves to use aegyo a little too much – tone it
down. The recipient will still enjoy it, and will probably appreciate it more if you use it JUUUUST
a little less.
So, that’s about all I have to say about aegyo. It can be difficult to define, and it has an equal
number of both fans and haters, but it’s here to stay! If you love it, embrace it. Otherwise, do
everything in your power to avoid it.
QUESTION TIME! Let’s get some discussion going here:
Where are you on the aegyo tolerance scale?
1 being ‘I HATE IT W ITH A BURNING PASSION’ and 10 being ‘AEGYO IS MY LIFE’.
Let us know in the comments below!
Some poeple just can’t use aegyo, no matter how hard they try. *sigh*
HIEXPAT
· FOOD
KFC Korean Fried Chicken
Don’t worry – we’re drooling at the sight of chicken, too. You’re not alone.
Too busy drooling over Yangnyeom Chicken? Well, get
ahold of yourself! Korean fried chicken is as mouthwateringly succulent as the photos lead on, so before
you run off to pick some up for yourself, do yourself a
favour and check out Kimchee Magazine’s exclusive
guide on how-to conquer the beast that is ‘Korean
Fried Chicken’.
Fried Chicken in Korea is a special breed of delicious, deep-fried goodness. Forget chicken
wings you’ve eaten anywhere else, because Korean fried chicken is where it’s at. Koreans have
been eating chicken for just as long as the Americans have, and in my opinion – they have them
beat.
What varieties of fried chicken can you find at most 치킨집 (Chicken houses) in Korea? Let’s
start with the basics:
흐라이드치킨 (Fried Chicken): This is the original, and the safest option if you’re afraid to try
something new. Fried twice to create a juicy, crisp exterior that creates a flavour explosion in
your mouth after every bite.
양념치킨 (Yangnyeom Chicken): If this is your first time, you’re in for a big surprise! In essence,
these beauties are deep-fried twice (for a crispier texture and seal in the juices) and are coated
in a finger-licking sticky, sweet and spicy sauce.
마늘치킨 (‘Ma Neul’ Garlic Chicken): If you can’t handle the heat, there’s another Korean
favourite that is sure to please – the sweet, savoury Soy Garlic Chicken. This chicken is coated
in a delicate sauce usually made of: brown sugar, garlic, ginger, crushed red peppers, and
sesame oil. Finally, it is topped with a few sprinkles of white sesame seeds. You can’t go wrong
with this choice!
파닭 (‘Pa’ Green Onion Chicken): Still not convinced that the other options are for you? There’s
one more special menu item that is sure to impress, and you can get it at most 치킨집 in
Korea! This light, fresh chicken is coated with a savoury, soy-based sauce that is topped with
thinly julienned green onions. These spring onions pack a punch, though, so this might not the
best option for a date with your sweetheart.
무 (Mu, White Radish): Finally, we can’t forget the side dish that tames the greasy nature of the
chicken and washes the taste of each flavour out in preparation for the next. This miracle side
dish is known in Korean as ‘mu’, or white radish. It is a staple and it’s difficult to imagine fried
chicken coming without it.
WARNING: In order to enjoy fried chicken culture in Korea, one must add beer to the mix.
Korean chicken and beer go hand-in-hand, and it’s strange to see someone eating chicken
without a beer next to them. It’s so popular, in fact, that Koreans combined the words ‘chicken’
and ‘beer’ in Korean language to create a new slang word: 치= 치킨 and 맥 = 맥주, the final
result is 치맥! (Chi-maek).
So, I hope you enjoyed our simple, easy-to-follow guide to some of the most iconic fried
chicken delicacies that you can find at most chicken houses in Korea. If you still find yourself
questioning how different it can really be when compared to chicken in other countries, stop
right there! Korean fried chicken has an incredibly addictive quality and its excellence can not be
compared. You will see the light soon enough, I promise…
Are you living in Korea? If so, check out a list of the top 5 chicken restaurants with the best
reputations in the links below! Also, let us know in the comments which type of Korean chicken
is your favourite. Where is your go-to 치킨집?
BBQ : http://www.bbq.co.kr
Cheogajip : http://www.cheogajip.co.kr/
Kyochon : http://kyochon.com/main.asp
Pelicana : http://www.pelicana.co.kr/
Toreore : http://www.toreore.com/
HIEXPAT
· ENTERTAINMENT
Merry Christmas from HiExpat
We, Here at HiExpat want to thank all our readers for their love and support for our website
through the year. We are constantly growing and it is all thanks to you guys. We wish you many
happy returns this Festive Season.
Some well wishing messages from the HiExpat Bloggers:
Izza Glino from the Philippines: A Merry
Christmas to all HiExpat Readers! I, on
behalf of the rest of bloggers would like to
wish you all the best this holiday season.
Remember to appreciate every blessing that
2014 had made in your life and strive for a
better 2015. Thanks and God Bless!
Jana Valdueza who is a student here in
South Korea: To all my readers! Thanks for
having the time to read my blogs. Next year,
I’ll try to find the best scoop and what’s hot
and what’s not! on the Korean scene. Merry
Christmas and A Happy New Year
everyone!!
Nikoline Nygaard from Denmark: Happy
holidays everyone! Thank you for supporting
everyone on this site by reading and
commenting. I think I speak for everyone when I say that we greatly appreciate it, and will do
our best to keep posting awesome articles for you all.
Andrew Fraser from Canada, currently based in Seoul: To all HiExpat friends and readers
across the globe – thank you for all of your continued support! As a blogger with a passion for
the written word and a desire to engage and interact with people from all different backgrounds
and cultural communities, I feel it is important that I share my honest thoughts and feelings on
all different kinds of subjects and topics. I look forward to sharing more of my work with you in
2015! Keep your eyes peeled.
Happy Holidays, and I wish you all the best moving forward into the new year. May 2015 be the
year of change, growth and evolution for all of you. The best is yet to come!