Tuesday, October 29, 2013

What Comes in a Can and Rhymes with Ham?

Sometimes, cultural icons will follow us from one country/culture to another.  Often these stress good things such as ubiquitous public restrooms and free WiFi.  Sometimes they steed from the darker side.  South Korea meet Spam.

Notice the local spam clone Richam.

Monday, October 28, 2013

Pairing

South Korean culture has a big focus on young adult love/romance.  There seems to be a substantially larger formal social construct around dating.  This is part of a culture that is undeniably modern and decidedly non-western.  A fun example is the matching his-and-her underwear in this shop (one of many).  How many men do you know that wouldn't be caught dead with matching pink undies?

We are traveling to Jeju island next. You should be looking forward to an account of our visit to the love park there.

Sunday, October 27, 2013

Party Hard

The series of mini posts generated by my thumbs of thunder via my smartphone continues.

We went to have some traditional Korean barbeque with friends after a movie (in a DVD bong).  I discovered that these Koreans really know how to party.  Or at least blow off some steam.  The table next to us contained some university students.This is what 6 shots of high-test sake (Asian equivalent of whisky) will do to you.  This guy couldn't have weighed more than 125lbs.  I am guessing a post-exam celebration? Notice the charcoal grills on the tables.  Patrons cook their own food on them.  An interesting method.


Saturday, October 26, 2013

The Engrish is Strong

Any non-native English speaking country that has English signage is bound to have some questionsEngrish (mangled English); South Korea is no exception.  Unlike many less technically advanced countries they can at least use spell check.

Wedding Crashing

Crazy Korean wedding ...stuff.  One word, overwhelming.  Well, two actually; the second is karaoke.  An experience not soon to be forgotten at the least.

Tuesday, October 22, 2013

Traditional Contemplation

Enjoying some traditional Korean architecture at the hidden gardens and attached palaces in Seoul.  The lack of a laptop will prevent the writing of posts for the time being.  Rest assured we will be gathering resources and posting material over the next few weeks.   Until next time. annyeonghi gaseyo.

Monday, October 21, 2013

EastBound, Way East

A quick update between flights.  Asia, here we come.  Can you guess what country this is?  The hint is parallel.