Winter Snowboard Trip !

Insadong Visit

Insadong: Culture and Crafts Aplenty
Insa-dong Street is one of the most memorable attractions in Seoul and represents the focal point of Korean traditional culture and crafts. Stores in Insa-dong specialize in a wide variety of goods that can only be purchased or appreciated in Korea: hanbok (traditional clothing), hanji (traditional paper), traditional teas, pottery, and folk crafts.

The Deep Roots of Insa-dong Street
Insa-dong Street stretches over 700 meters between the Anguk-dong Rotary and Tapgol Park (Jongno 2-ga). During the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910), the street was dominated by Dohwawon, a place of study for painters. The area is still a center for the arts, and painters, craftsmen, and art lovers continue to set up shop along the narrow alleys, making it a unique place full of folk crafts, pottery, and paintings. The street offers rich opportunities for visitors to experience Korean traditional culture and arts. Various art events and festivals are regularly held along the street.

From Expensive Ceramics to Daily Use Items
Approximately 40% of Korean crafts are exchanged in Insa-dong. Some products even trace back to the Three Kingdom Period (57 B.C.-668 A.D.) The most popular items are Korean ceramics ranging in price from hundreds of dollars to thousands of dollars. Other items sold in Insa-dong include earthenware, calligraphy materials, antique furniture, hanji, hanbok, teas, souvenirs, and cute accessories. Nearby shops include cafés, restaurants, ateliers, and galleries specializing in a diversity of items.

Vehicles are not permitted on the street during weekends, making it more amenable for visitors to look around. Insa-dong is also close to other tourist attractions such as Cheonggyecheon Stream and Gyeongbokgung (the royal palace during the Joseon Dynasty).

Ansan 안산

Since some vegetables and foods are not available in our town here, last week we decided to go to Ansan, where many southeast people including Cambodian people lives and those things are sold. Though Ansan is really close to our town here, it was really a tired journey because there has no direct train line from our town to there. Thus, we had to take another line which took us about 2 hours to our destination. We really had a nice shopping there because we could find many things we wanted for long time, however. We also had a chance to eat ពងទាកូន and សម្លតុងយាំ​​ which were sold by Vietnamese and Thai Restaurants there. Really delicious! Gonna go again when we are free. Here are some photos...

Ansan

Along the road where we could buy something

Hey! Cambodian flag

Thai store where we bought our vegetables and foods

ពងទាកូន

សម្លតុងយាំ

Forgot to mention! We also bought ធូរេន

One shot while coming back

Global Technology and Korea for 2012

Gartner, known as an IT research and advisory firm, announces a notable ‘technology’ every year. It has introduced ten potential strategic technologies every October. The uprising technologies in 2012 were announced in Symposium/ IT Expo 2001, Orlando Florida.

Gartner’s “Technologies for 2012

(Source: Yonhapnews)

The top ten strategic technologies for 2012 include Media Tablets and Beyond, Mobile-Centric Applications and Interfaces, Contextual and Social User Experience, Internet of Things, App Stores and Marketplaces, Next-Generation Analytics, Big Data, In-Memory Computing, Extreme Low-Energy Servers, and Cloud Computing. There was a huge change in the list. The cloud computing which ranked first last year has dropped to 10th.
Amid rising interests on developing effective energy-saving technologies, such as low energy servers, green IT and so on, Gartner expressed his interests in the effective use of energy. Let’s find out some of the technologies that drew his attention.

Mobile-Centric Applications and Interfaces

Over the last 20 years, the user interface (UI)has changed a lot. Since the development of media tablets, UI has adopted the ‘touch’ function from ‘click’ function. Gartner predicted that’mouse’ and ‘keyboard’ applications that needed ‘click’ will be changed into the ‘touch’ applications. He added that applications will become more and more mobile-friendly solutions.

(Source: Yonhapnews)

That means the applications will be simpler easier to use in mobile devices. In addition, Gartner analyzed that a variety of applications with voice and motion recognition function will be shown up soon. At this moment, many companies are developinging the applications for a variety of mobile gadgets and technologies fitting into the gadgets.

Low-Energy Consuming Servers

Efficient use of energy has always been an issue to all companies. Gartner has mentioned the importance of technologies related to ‘Green IT’ in ‘Strategic Technologies for 2010’. Once again, he mentioned energy efficiency in detail with Low-Energy Consuming servers for 2012.

The more important the technology related to analysis becomes, the higher the frequency of using servers becomes. Fortunately, the technology that is not only low energy-consuming but also effective has emerged. Gartner said it is possible to do the 30 times or more processes. Moreover, the energy efficiency and speeding up the process is expected since the burden of the server would decrease as well. Gartner predicts low energy sever technology is likely to increase.

Korea’s Technology in 2012

(Source: Yonhapnews)

Well, then, how about the prospect of Korea’s technologies this year? Let’s take a look.

Growing Interest in the Third Platform

After the mainframe and client server era, a new platform, so-called ‘third platform’ is dominating IT field. New platform era based on development of mobile market, introduction to cloud service, SNS and big data technology, has begun, like a new platform era emerged on a 20 to 25 year cycle. The awareness on this matter will be expanded in 2012.

Expand the Use of Multi-Client Devices

Now, the era of multi-client devices has started. The supply of smartphone has already surpassed over desktop and laptop computer in terms of number. Multi-client environment is expected to be common as mobile devices in both shipments and expenditures would take over PC market in 2012. This change will prompt the change of application market including lead of control and OS through boosting private and cooperative market.

It seems that mobile technology is the biggest issue nowadays. Maybe in near future, smartphones will replace PC. What kind of new technologies will emerge this year? It’s exciting.

Khmer Restaurant in Korea

Nowadays, there is one Khmer restaurant which first existed about one month ago. It's located in Ansan, a place I already posted in the blog a long time ago. The restaurant's name is ខែ្មររីករាយ. The owner of the restaurant is Korean but the cheif is Cambodian who was brought from Cambodia. There are many kinds of Khmer foods served there and of course the foods are very delicious. I just went there last Saturday with my friends to have a nice dinner over there. Here are some photos I took on that day :

The Khmer restaurant located in the second floor

Main Door

Inside the restaurant

ភ្លាសាច់គោ

ត្រីបំពង

Here we are !

Another food was ឆាក្តៅភ្លៅកង្កែប, but I forgot to take the pic of that food.

ICISTS-KAIST 2011

Since 2005, ICISTS-KAIST conferences have brought together hundreds of students and professionals from around the world to examine socioeconomic issues related to rapid developments in science and technology, and to discuss how science is changing or has the potential to change human society. Gathering individuals from various academic disciplines each year, ICISTS-KAIST has developed into an international and interdisciplinary forum for exchange.

By participating in our 7th annual ICISTS-KAIST conference, delegates will gain a better understanding of the interrelation of science, technology, and society in the Information Age, and their roles and responsibilities as future leaders in a rapidly changing world. Through our unique and engaging program, we hope to inspire delegates by opening their eyes to a new world filled with opportunities that only recent advances in science and technology have made possible, and provide them with the knowledge required to thrive in a rapidly changing society. Prepare for the future through ICISTS-KAIST 2011.

Seoul Bus and Subway Fares to Rise

Starting February 25th, downtown Seoul bus and subway fares will increase by 150 won.

Consequently, public transportation card holders will be charged 1050 won on downtown (blue and green) buses as well as on subway systems; 1,850 won on red bus; and 750 won for maeul (town) buses. Accordingly, prices of Subway Commuter’s Pass (for multiple journeys) and Single Journey Tickets will go up to 46,200 won from 39,600 won, and 1,150 won from 1,000 won, respectively.

The fare increase applies to adults only. Fares for children and senior citizens will remain the same.

Incheon, South Korea !

A historic city surrounded by islands

Incheon is the second largest port city in Korea. The Incheon Port is where Korea’s modernization began at the end of the 19th century, when it opened to foreign nations for the first time. Incheon is also home to the world’s top-ranked Incheon International Airport. As such, it is a gateway to the capital city of Seoul, and a major transportation gateway in Northeast Asia for destinations worldwide.

Around the historic Incheon Port are China Town, Jayu Park, Wolmido Street of Culture, and the coastal wharf. There are many islands near Incheon, including Ganghwado Island, where there are many ancient historical sites such as Bronze Age dolmens; Yeongjongdo Island, the location of Incheon International Airport; and various other islands where famous Korean movies and dramas were filmed. Recently, Songdo International City is emerging as a new hotspot with skyscrapers filling this Free Economic Zone.

17th Asian Games

In 2014, Incheon will hold the 17th Asian Games. Member athletes of the 45 Olympic Councils of Asia (OCA) will participate. This will be the third Asian Games held in Korea, following the ones in Seoul (1986) and in Busan (2002). A number of stadiums will be built specially for this event, including the main stadium, whose shape will evoke sea waves and wind; the Dream Park stadium, which will be built as an environment-friendly park; and the Ganghwa Stadium, where taekwondo competitions will take place.

• ☞ Period: September 19 - October 4, 2014 (for 16 days)
• ☞ Venue: Throughout Incheon
• ☞ Size: 45 member countries (13,000 athletes and officials, 7,000 media representatives)
• ☞ Events: 28 Olympic events, 8 non-Olympic events
• ☞ Website of the 2014 Incheon Asian Games: www.incheon2014ag.org

Korea Grand Sale Free Shuttle Bus Service

During the 2012 Korea Grand Sale period, the Visit Korea Committee is operating a free shuttle bus service connecting major shopping and cultural destinations in Seoul three times a day, three days a week. The shuttle bus departs from Lotte Hotel (Sogong-dong), and goes through Myeongdong and Dongdaemun, before crossing over Hangang River to the Gangnam area to make stops at Sinsa-dong Garosu-gil road, Hyundai Department Store (Apgujeong Main Store), Cheongdam-dong Fashion Street, Bongeunsa Temple and COEX .

Honeymoon in Jeju Island, South Korea !

Seoul Bike Show to Begin on February 24

The 2012 Seoul Bike Show, an exhibition of the latest bicycles from around the world, is set to run from February 24 through 26 at the Korea International Exhibition Center (KINTEX) in Ilsan, Gyeonggi-do.

The Show will feature various types of bicycles like mountain bikes, electric bikes, toddler and children bikes, as well as bicycle gear and accessories including parts, clothing, etc. Moreover, visitors may try riding any of the bicycles representing 40 different brands after registering onsite.

Unique Cafe over the Han River

Han River, which passes through Seoul is considered the most significant river among Koreans. You can enjoy the view from riverside or neighboring parks. However, there are also other places to recommend. If you want to see the river comfortably inside, regardless of weather, go to the Han River observation cafes. You might feel different from the other cafes as all of these observation cafes were built on the Han River Bridge. It will be a fun to find out the uniqueness of each cafe.

Han River has total of 10 observation cafes over seven Bridges. Among these, we chose six cafes thought to be more interesting and unique than the rest.
Let's find out the unusual and attractive cafes to enjoy the Han River at a glance. The cold wind always comes with the river, so don't forget to wear the warmest outfit.

Cloud Cafe & Red Sky Cafe on Dongjak Bridge

Cloud Cafe and Red Sky Cafe are located each at upstream and downstream of Dongjak Bridge. Both cafes occupy three floors of the building from 3rd to 5th, and outdoor observation deck is on 6th floor. The operating hour is from 10 am to 2 am from March to October during the high-demand season, and from 10 am to midnight from November to February during the low-demand season.

For those of you who want to go to either one of cafes mentioned above, we recommend you to take a bus no.502 or a subway to Dongjak station (line no.4). It takes only three minutes’ walk from where you get off. To Cloud café, go to exit no.1, and to Red Sky café go to exit no.2. For drivers, there is a parking lot over a Dongjak Bridge, which charges 300 won per 10 minutes. If you park at other parking lot in Banpo Hangang Park, it costs 1000 won per 30 minutes, from Monday through Saturday, and 200 won per extra 10 minutes. For whole day, it costs 10,000 won. On Sunday and national holidays, it is free of charge.

(Photo: Yonhap News)

Cloud cafe and Red Sky cafe draw attention as a comfortable resting place with lights from the ceiling and scents of aroma. In addition, both of these places have been recognized as the most appropriate places to see the fountain show around Banpo Bridge, floating Island, and 63 Building, and also beautiful scenery of the Han River with sunset. Of course, they serve the wonderful cuisine.

If you ever used a water-taxi, you’ll get 20% discount in all menus of Red Sky cafe. Red Sky cafe is the only one in alliance with Han River water-taxi, so do not miss the chance!

Cafe Ariddaum(pretty) Yangwha & Cafe Ariddaum(pretty) Sunneu on Yangwha Bridge

Ariddaum Yangwha is located at upstream direction of Yangwha Bridge, and Ariddaum Sunneu is located at downstream direction separately. They stand facing each other with Yangwha Bridge between them. They have oriental and occidental themes. Ariddaum Yangwha adopted the oriental lattice interior, and Ariddaum Sunneu adopted the occidental tables and chairs, separately.

(Photo: Yonhap News)

Unlike the other observation cafes, these two are located on a pedestrian passage. So, in order to reach from the waterside of the Han River, you have to use a rather unique elevator moving on a slant line. In terms of transportation, you can take a walk for about 15 minutes from the exit no.3 in Sunneudo subway station (line no.9), or use the bus either no.604, 5712, 6712 or 6716.

The operating hour is from 10 am to midnight in high-demand season (Mar.-Oct.), and from 10 am to 11 pm in low-demand season (Nov.-Feb.). Comparing to the previous Cloud and Red Sky Cafe, you can tell the difference from their operating hour. However, the same parking charge applies to all the Han Liver Cafes.

Both of these cafes sit in back-to-back position in direction, so each opposite side of the wall is toward a different view. The Cafe Ariddaum Yangwha avails the views of the Han River, Dangsan Railroad Bridge, Yeouido, etc., and the Cafe Ariddaum Seoneu avails the views of Seoneudo Park, Seongsan Bridge and World Cup Fountain.

In addition, they sell the coffee from East Timor through fair trade, and all menus are free of sugar, trans fat and chemical additives at all. They sell not only coffee but also they prepare alcohol liquors such as wine, makgeoli (rice wine), cocktail, etc. and also various drinks like herbal tea and juice, which satisfies the various tastes of people at the same time.

Marushimteo on Jamsil Bridge

On July 2011, 12 major facilities on Han River were renamed. Now, they all have new names after pure Korean words. Marushimteo is also one of the, which changed its name, which used to be ‘River View Spring’.

(Photo: Yonhap News)

The operating hour is from 10 am to 11 pm. Walk toward Jamsil Bridge for about 10 minutes from exit no.7 in Jamsil subway station (line no.2), or by bus no.302, 303, 320, 8361, 2412, 2415, 3215, and 3216 to get to the café..

This place has been managed by the Seoul Foundation of Women & Family, and used as a place for women. Recently a female owned flower shop named ‘travelling painter’ moved into the place. You can buy some various flowers and flowerpots as well. Marushimteo also provides useful information on employment for women and promoting programs. It sells coffee, fruit juice, jujube tea, sweet pumpkin, makgeoli (rice wine) , etc. The price is lower than elsewhere. Computers are set up for visitors’ convenience. Besides, after 8 o'clock in the evening, the observation deck on 3rd floor turns off the whole internal lights to provide the vivid night view. It will be more romantic, if you come with your lover.

Well, there is one more place you shouldn’t miss. It is “Jamsil Under-water Reservoir Fish Road" which is a pathway to make fish easily move up to the uperstream of the river. A little fish also can pass through the artificial valley as it is only 10cms high. Every Saturday from April to October, from 11:00am to 12:30pm, an interesting and educational program named ’The Han River Fish Ecology Classroom opens for public. The target audiences are from kindergarten kids to junior high school students, including their family. Unfortunately, the program doesn’t open in winter.

Semal Cafe on Hannam Bridge

Hannam Semal cafe built on the southern end of Hannam Bridge is the first Han River Observation café among others. From here, you can see the Namsan Mountain, Banpo Bridge, moonlight rainbow, Jamwon Han River Park at a glance.

(Photo: Yonhap News)

The operating hour is from 10 am to midnight in high-demand season, and from 10 am to 11 pm in low-demand season. You can come here by a transfer bus from exit no.4 in Sinsa subway station (line no.3) or exit no.6 or 7 in Nonhyeon subway station (line no.3). You can also come by bus either one of no.140, 142, 144, 241, 402, 408, 420, 421, 470, 471, or 472.

The most attractive thing of Semal Cafe is to be specialized for bike users. To prevent losing the bikes, it operates a unique place called "housing bike keeping place" and keep developing the set menu for bike users. In addition, in winter time, this place provides a free experience of herbal teas event for bike users. Moreover, this place has been the most distinguished by bike manias for its convenience.

The most popular menu of this place is a three color makgeoli cocktail. This unique menu is a magical cocktail which has three colors and three tastes. Along with this, you can taste various oriental teas such as Yeosu stone-mountain organic-farming citron tea, south sea organic-farming plum tea, etc. Such as Yangwha Bridge, the coffee brought from the East Timor in fare trade, is very popular.

Another consideration of Semal Cafe is mat-rental. It is available with 3000won in deposit. So you can enjoy the moment sitting on the picnic mat in the Han River Park from the spring to the autumn. As such, the Semal cafe sets a good example as a first-born brother, to think about a minor but essential and short-cut policy to make the Han River cafes be the friends of the citizens.

Just as the winter sea, compared to the summer, winter river gets relatively few visitors. Meanwhile, this cold season could be the best opportunity to monopolize the whole view of Hna River on your own. Why don’t you refresh yourself with the warmest tea over the river?