Introducing Dramafever — Dramabeans
Thanks to Korea Beat for the link.
Dramabeans then points to a site (in closed beta) that will stream Korean dramas with English subtitles to American IPs (VPN or proxy needed when outside the states).
Actually, I really don't like Korean dramas (or any dramas for that matter). I watch them with my wife (and my son who loves them like cartoons) and they are simple soap operas. They have similar plots (Koreanized, of course), acting, and staging as American soaps. These are simple trash. HOWEVER......I'd really like to know what's going on without have to get translations from my wife, who would rather not talk (or listen to me) during the soap. Maybe I can get basic back stories here so I can better understand the most recent episodes.
Enjoy (if you can).
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Time to Reboot America
Op-Ed Columnist - Time to Reboot America - NYTimes.com
I don't always agree with Friedman, but I certainly agree with the thrust of this article. Anyone who has gone from Seoul to the States has seen this as well (though there is also lots of counter-evidence). How can you not be stricken by the speed with which new technologies are delivered and how the government promotes (however awkwardly) the city/country as a destination for foreign travel and investment.
In my home city of Chicago, I had always thought of the El (elevated train) as a convenient, expedient way of making my way through the city. After years in Seoul enjoying one of the best subway systems in the world, I was embarrassed by the El on a recent trip home. The trains and stations were filthy, the cars smelled (not uncommon in Seoul), the tickets costly, and the pace was excruciatingly slow. It seems as if I could have walked the journey as fast as the El traveled.
Without a sincere focus on the infrastructure of America, we will experience a fall in prominence in my lifetime that mirrors the rise experienced during my Grandfather's.
I don't always agree with Friedman, but I certainly agree with the thrust of this article. Anyone who has gone from Seoul to the States has seen this as well (though there is also lots of counter-evidence). How can you not be stricken by the speed with which new technologies are delivered and how the government promotes (however awkwardly) the city/country as a destination for foreign travel and investment.
In my home city of Chicago, I had always thought of the El (elevated train) as a convenient, expedient way of making my way through the city. After years in Seoul enjoying one of the best subway systems in the world, I was embarrassed by the El on a recent trip home. The trains and stations were filthy, the cars smelled (not uncommon in Seoul), the tickets costly, and the pace was excruciatingly slow. It seems as if I could have walked the journey as fast as the El traveled.
Without a sincere focus on the infrastructure of America, we will experience a fall in prominence in my lifetime that mirrors the rise experienced during my Grandfather's.
Friday, December 26, 2008
Santa, the Feds are gonna get you
Funny post from the Libertarians.
My favorite is,
* But Crooked Claus the Conniving Capitalist harms more than just animals — he’s hurting hard-working American laborers, too. Isn’t Santa’s Workshop really Santa’s Sweatshop, where his non-union employees don’t make minimum wage and get no holiday pay? Add the fact that OSHA has never inspected the place, and you have a Third-World elf-exploitation operation that only Kathy Lee Gifford could love.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Some Long Overdue Restaurant Reviews
I’ve had these restaurant business cards on my desk for a long time (as long as a year—I hope they are still open)
CEIA
CEIA is a Brazilian BBQ restaurant in Gangnam. I only have one other experience with Brazilian BBQ to go from, but it seemed pretty good to me. The service was good, the food was good, the atmosphere was so-so.
These places keep bringing out the meat all night, as long as you can stuff it down. If you are feeling the need for a good, old-fashioned meat feast, this is the place for you. They have beef, pork, lamb, and chicken to choose from. Some where slightly dry, but most were rather good.
The cost is around W 50,000 (from memory—could be less) and I’d say that it is worth every penny.
Location: Get off at Shinsa station and go out exit 1. CEIA is on your right side, slighly tucked away in an alley, so keep your eyes peeled.
Phone: 02-547-6633
Thai Garden
Thai Garden is one of a handful of Thai restaurants in Itaewon (technically Hannam-Dong). It has certainly been my favorite Thai experience so far in Seoul. Three things I look forward to at Thai restaurants are coconut milk, cilantro, and lemon grass. This place doesn’t skimp an any of these.
The price is reasonable (for Seoul standards), the quality is good, and the service isn’t bad.
WWW: http://www.thaigarden.co.kr
Phone: 02-792-8836~7
La Seine
La Seine is a buffet at the Lotte Hotel, Seoul. Like all hotel buffets, this one is rather expensive at W 60,000 for dinner. Also, like many buffets, this one is just not worth it. They dabble in a little of everything, which means that there is really no depth in their offerings. The quality is mediocre, and the dishes dry and/or overcooked.
You’d be much better off hitting some of the specialty sea food buffets around town at half this price. I went to one last night, Ari Ari, in Gangnam (Gangnam station, exit 6, roughly 500 meters on your left, can’t miss it).
WWW: http://www.lottehotel.com
Phone: 02-317-7171
Sushihiroba (스시히로바)
Sushihiroba is a sushi place in the Lotte department store in Myoung Dong. The experience was so-so overall. When we first got there, the selection was terrible, with most being the rolls with vast amounts of mayo and crap on top (feel my disdain?). We had to ask for mayo-less sushi. Eventually, they worked into a better selection (by the time we were full). Otherwise, what we had was pretty good. The fish wasn’t that frozen crap that you get at the cheaper places, and that is saying a lot.
The price wasn’t terrible. A little over W 50,000 for my wife and I. I’m a huge eater, but my wife is not. That was about 18 plates.
WWW: http://www.sushihiroba.co.kr
Phone: 02-726-4070
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Italian Restaurant Ha Nul Jung Won (하늘정원)
Ha Nul Jung Won is a recently opened Italian restaurant right outside Dongguk University subway station exit #1. This is the area around the Shilla Hotel and the Sofitel Ambassador Seoul.
Before I start complaining, I better get what I liked out of the way first. The restaurant is in an old house, though not hanok. It has a nice patio (not too useful this time of year) and the inside is going for a rustic look. It is a pretty good atmosphere for a quick lunch and probably good for a long dinner.
I went there for lunch. Lunch has a fixed menu that changes daily (or at least should). It was basic, but good. They had a table with salad and bread that people could serve themselves. It reminded me of a kimchi table at many restaurants and cafeterias. Both the salad, with an onion vinegarette, and the bread were good. We ate a lot of these, though not just because they were good (see problems below). They served oil/vinegar at the table and a kind of pickled cucumber (standard in Korea). The main dish was "pasta with cream sauce." It was a light cream sauce with mushrooms, onions, and green/yellow/red peppers and a mix of pasta types: fettuccini, bowtie, and rigatoni. I was skeptic, but these were all pretty good. Lastly, and rather importantly, the meal was only W8,500, which is pretty good for Italian in Seoul.
Now the bad and I'll be quick about it (though they weren't). Service was terrible. This was probably due to the fact that the kitchen couldn't get these simple dishes out quickly. We waited for 30 minutes for the ONE dish that they were making that day. The serving staff couldn't keep track of who to give the food to when it did come out. My wife was served then they served a couple other tables around me, then I was served. As I mentioned before, we tore into the salad and bread as we waited. However, they ran out of both (or said they did) as we got our meal. I would have loved some bread with that cream sauce.
That's it. The good and the bad of this new place. The price was right and the food was too. If they get over the lousy service (not easy in Seoul), they will have a killer place. This is a business area with few western food options, which helps to explain why they were packed for lunch on a Tuesday.
You can probably tell that I'm writing this really fast. That's mostly what you'll get from me: mistakes, poor style, and all. I'm going to try to get more of these reviews up from now on in order to add to the greater body of food knowledge here in Seoul/Korea. I'm not very good at getting pictures (can't get them from my phone), so you'll have to gaze at the words on the page :)
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
See Santa Live from the North Pole! | Santa.com
See Santa Live from the North Pole! | Santa.com
I don't know whether this is cool or scary. A guy at Santa.com streams live every day and answers questions from the chat.
I don't know whether this is cool or scary. A guy at Santa.com streams live every day and answers questions from the chat.
Monday, December 8, 2008
Study Finds Joy To Be Contagious
The Harvard Crimson :: News :: Study Finds Joy To Be Contagious
So, can I sue gloomy people for endangering my health? Just another reason to be happy. Happiness breeds happiness.
So, can I sue gloomy people for endangering my health? Just another reason to be happy. Happiness breeds happiness.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
ALAK 2008, Seoul National University
Today was a busy day. I participated in a rather long CALL Fair and gave a paper presentation. I think that the CALL Fair went well, but the paper....not so much :) However, I'll post some of the materials here just in case you'd like to take a look.
CALL Fair
My CALL Fair presentation was titled, "Online social networks for specialized language learning environments." It was mainly focused on using Ning to quickly and easily set up an online social network and demonstrating the functions built into Ning sites. I also spent a little time (more with some than others) discussing other options.
Here is the proposal (.doc)
Here is the presentation that I put together, but didn't really use.
I chose, instead, to take them directly to sites to see for themselves. I put together a quick and dirty site at ALAK 2008 Test Site that you are free to play with. I'll leave it up for a least a little while. I also showed them my class Ning site, which is closed to the public, LiveMocha (a language learning online social network), and Teach the People (Facebook application), as well as a few other sample sites (see notes sheet for collection of sites).
Paper Presentation
I don't think my paper presentation went nearly as well. In "Changing Learning Theories," I really bit off more than I could chew for this one. I have an ambitious goal of doing an overview of Behaviorism, Cognitivism, Constructivism, and Connectivism as well a potential applications of Connectivism to language learning teaching and learning. Did I mention that I had 20 minutes to do this in? I had to rush through too much and I didn't explain the newest theory on the block, Connectivism, well enough for the majority who had never heard of it. I should have just cut out the other learning theories (assuming that the audience had some knowledge of them) and focused on Connectivism and language learning. Oh well, take a look at the presentation for yourself. I put quite a bit in the notes, so be sure to check those out.
Paper (.doc)
Feel free to chime in with any comments, suggestions, criticisms, or just to say hi.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
'The Woman Who Can't Forget' | Newsweek
Book Review: 'The Woman Who Can't Forget'
Story about a woman who couldn't forget and the nightmare that it really is.
Story about a woman who couldn't forget and the nightmare that it really is.
Friday, November 14, 2008
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Tolerance fails t-shirt test
First, let me say that I love this little girl. What a great experiment. I just wish that I had thought about it.
A middleschool student in Oak Park, IL decided to do an experiment. She wore a "McCain Girl" t-shirt one day and an "Obama Girl" shirt the next. She wrote down all of the comments that she recieved on each day.
The results were what you'd expect from middleschoolers (older folks are more likely to screw you behind the scenes). She was treated with contempt for wearing the McCain shirt and praised for the Obama shirt.
She did this with the approval of the history teacher who used it as part of a lesson after the results were in. From my point of view, it's a great experiment and a great beginning to her research career (though she luckily didn't have to go through human subjects approval).
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Flash 10 broke me
Looks like the newest Flash 10 (10,0,12,36 to be precise) broke the last.FM widget embedded at the top of the page. Hopefully, it will eventually be fixed by either last.FM or Adobe (won't hold my breath). I'll just leave it up for now.
However, this is what happens when you rely so much on propriety software. You are at their mercy. It only gets fixed when they say it gets fixed. Wouldn't it be nice if an open source option came into vogue?
Don't write in and tell me how many great options there are. The reality is that Flash is on nearly every computer (at least those running Windows and Mac OS, but likely Linux too). Until there is something that can challenge this dominance, few are going to develop for it.
However, I shouldn't let last.FM off the hook too easily. So far, they are the only system broken as far as I can tell.
So, until then, I sit back and what for the king to decide what to do with me. Shall I be spared or OFF with my head!
However, this is what happens when you rely so much on propriety software. You are at their mercy. It only gets fixed when they say it gets fixed. Wouldn't it be nice if an open source option came into vogue?
Don't write in and tell me how many great options there are. The reality is that Flash is on nearly every computer (at least those running Windows and Mac OS, but likely Linux too). Until there is something that can challenge this dominance, few are going to develop for it.
However, I shouldn't let last.FM off the hook too easily. So far, they are the only system broken as far as I can tell.
So, until then, I sit back and what for the king to decide what to do with me. Shall I be spared or OFF with my head!
Monday, November 10, 2008
Man admits killing teacher over 21-year grudge - CNN.com
Man admits killing teacher over 21-year grudge - CNN.com
Uhm, scary?! Is this a warning not to beat your students or simply to get out of Korea before they can do damage to you? A little of both, I guess.
A guy kills his teacher who beat him 21 years earlier for cheating on a test. Let's just hope there aren't many copycats out there.
Uhm, scary?! Is this a warning not to beat your students or simply to get out of Korea before they can do damage to you? A little of both, I guess.
A guy kills his teacher who beat him 21 years earlier for cheating on a test. Let's just hope there aren't many copycats out there.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Breakdown Prohibition
Cheer Up
Originally uploaded by nahkahousu
I really thought that this should say 구토 금지 (pardon the Google translation for "vomit prohibition").
Great picture though :)
Saturday, November 1, 2008
YouTube - Sarah Palin Got Pranked
YouTube - Sarah Palin Got Pranked
Can you say, FUNNY! In all her folksy goodness, Palin talks to who she thinks is the French President. However, I'm glad that these guys didn't go too overboard. Now it just seems like a pile-on.
Can you say, FUNNY! In all her folksy goodness, Palin talks to who she thinks is the French President. However, I'm glad that these guys didn't go too overboard. Now it just seems like a pile-on.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Perfect way to improve test scores
Saturday Morning Breakfast Cereal: "<a href='http://www.smbc-comics.com/index.php?db=comics&id=1303'>
<img src='http://www.smbc-comics.com/comics/20081002.gif'></a>"
<img src='http://www.smbc-comics.com/comics/20081002.gif'></a>"
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Three Alley Pub Itaewon
Three Alley Pub Itaewon
I've heard a lot about Three Alley Pub, so my wife and I stopped in tonight. The place was smokey and the chairs were uncomfortable. What do I expect from a pub? I was just hoping to get some decent pub food. I got an OB (yeah, I know, but I'm cheap) and my wife got a Long Island Ice Tea. The OB was great, but the LIT tasted like sewage. A blind monkey could have poured better. LITs are easy to make. I don't know how they messed that up.
We with the drink in hand, we decided it was best to order one entree and see how they did. We got the Beef and Guinness Stew. It was pretty good, but pretty obvious that the sauce from either from a can or mix and the potatoes and meat were added later. The bread served with it was really good. Actually, the bread made the meal. We decided not to risk another order, so we hit some street food and Cold Stone on the way home.
I've heard a lot about Three Alley Pub, so my wife and I stopped in tonight. The place was smokey and the chairs were uncomfortable. What do I expect from a pub? I was just hoping to get some decent pub food. I got an OB (yeah, I know, but I'm cheap) and my wife got a Long Island Ice Tea. The OB was great, but the LIT tasted like sewage. A blind monkey could have poured better. LITs are easy to make. I don't know how they messed that up.
We with the drink in hand, we decided it was best to order one entree and see how they did. We got the Beef and Guinness Stew. It was pretty good, but pretty obvious that the sauce from either from a can or mix and the potatoes and meat were added later. The bread served with it was really good. Actually, the bread made the meal. We decided not to risk another order, so we hit some street food and Cold Stone on the way home.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Seoul Eats: Review: Hamburgers in Seoul
Seoul Eats: Review: Hamburgers in Seoul
There are 2 kinds of Americans in Korea who aren't looking for good burgers: (1) vegetarians, and (2) those who were locked in a closet for 20+ years before being shipped to Korea (I've met a few of the latter).
This why Daniel Gray's research into where to get good burgers is so welcomed. These days I might have one or two days a month that I can go out into the world (beyond my neighborhood) and enjoy a good meal. Most of the time, I am looking for meat. Occasionally, I get hamburgers on the brain and can't relax until I satisfy that hunger. I've been unsatisfied for a long time.
On a suggestion that came either directly or indirectly from Daniel Gray, I went to the #1 on his list, Wolfhound. It was certainly the best burger that I've had in Korea. I was a little disappointed in the meat as it had a lot of filler and tasted more like a meaty meatloaf than a burger. I followed up with Daniel and he recommended the Corner Bistro and Tony's Aussie Bar and Bistro for places that offer a plain meat (can we say that about hamburger?) patty and a good bun. I'll have to give them a try.
There are 2 kinds of Americans in Korea who aren't looking for good burgers: (1) vegetarians, and (2) those who were locked in a closet for 20+ years before being shipped to Korea (I've met a few of the latter).
This why Daniel Gray's research into where to get good burgers is so welcomed. These days I might have one or two days a month that I can go out into the world (beyond my neighborhood) and enjoy a good meal. Most of the time, I am looking for meat. Occasionally, I get hamburgers on the brain and can't relax until I satisfy that hunger. I've been unsatisfied for a long time.
On a suggestion that came either directly or indirectly from Daniel Gray, I went to the #1 on his list, Wolfhound. It was certainly the best burger that I've had in Korea. I was a little disappointed in the meat as it had a lot of filler and tasted more like a meaty meatloaf than a burger. I followed up with Daniel and he recommended the Corner Bistro and Tony's Aussie Bar and Bistro for places that offer a plain meat (can we say that about hamburger?) patty and a good bun. I'll have to give them a try.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Monday, October 20, 2008
Gal to Gal Virtual Walk 2008
Gal to Gal Virtual Walk 2008
This is virtual walk to support people with stage IV breast cancer. It is a great organization and a nice twist on traditional "walks". The cost is $5, but you can give as much as you'd like. The money goes towards programs to help families through this very difficult, and sometimes drawn out, experience.
If you'd like to join the walk, join my group "Global Walkers" and we can walk together.
This is virtual walk to support people with stage IV breast cancer. It is a great organization and a nice twist on traditional "walks". The cost is $5, but you can give as much as you'd like. The money goes towards programs to help families through this very difficult, and sometimes drawn out, experience.
If you'd like to join the walk, join my group "Global Walkers" and we can walk together.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Super ex
YouTube - Super ex
Funny and rather true. I hate to spread the hate for ex pat teachers, but whatcha' gonna do?
Funny and rather true. I hate to spread the hate for ex pat teachers, but whatcha' gonna do?
Thursday, October 16, 2008
YouTube to McCain: You Made Your DMCA Bed, Lie in It
YouTube to McCain: You Made Your DMCA Bed, Lie in It
Repeat after me, "Karmic Justice." The McCain campaign has been getting their advertisements pulled down left and right since many contain clips from other sources (CBS for example). These are certainly fair use examples, but the way that the DMCA works, it makes no difference in the initial take down request.
I don't know McCain's history with the DMCA. Not many voted against it, so I assume he voted for it. I'm not even happy that it's happening to him. I'm just happy that it's happening to someone in government. Maybe now that they've been screwed by it as many others have, it will get fixed.
Repeat after me, "Karmic Justice." The McCain campaign has been getting their advertisements pulled down left and right since many contain clips from other sources (CBS for example). These are certainly fair use examples, but the way that the DMCA works, it makes no difference in the initial take down request.
I don't know McCain's history with the DMCA. Not many voted against it, so I assume he voted for it. I'm not even happy that it's happening to him. I'm just happy that it's happening to someone in government. Maybe now that they've been screwed by it as many others have, it will get fixed.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Glassbooth - Quiz to help you choose best 2008 presidential candidate
Glassbooth - Quiz to help you choose best 2008 presidential candidate
This is a cool site. There is a 2-part quiz. The first quiz seems useless when you are doing it, but it informs the second part that measures the strength of your opinion on these issues. The first part measures how important to you different categories of issues are. You assign values until you use up all of your "points". I think that this makes you focus on which issues you care about and how much. The second part is a Likert scale from strongly disagree (oppose) to strongly agree. The statements are based on general differences in policy proposals/support from politicians.
The result pairs you with politicians and tells you how well you match. I was 87% Nader. I'm not surprised. I've even voted for him in the past (I'm a 3rd party guy). It's tough who to identify with when you are middle of the road. Also not surprisingly I was a 65% match with Obama and 33% with McCain. That about sums up my opinion on all of them :)
Obviously, there is more to think about than how well you match overall.
This is a cool site. There is a 2-part quiz. The first quiz seems useless when you are doing it, but it informs the second part that measures the strength of your opinion on these issues. The first part measures how important to you different categories of issues are. You assign values until you use up all of your "points". I think that this makes you focus on which issues you care about and how much. The second part is a Likert scale from strongly disagree (oppose) to strongly agree. The statements are based on general differences in policy proposals/support from politicians.
The result pairs you with politicians and tells you how well you match. I was 87% Nader. I'm not surprised. I've even voted for him in the past (I'm a 3rd party guy). It's tough who to identify with when you are middle of the road. Also not surprisingly I was a 65% match with Obama and 33% with McCain. That about sums up my opinion on all of them :)
Obviously, there is more to think about than how well you match overall.
Is college worth it?
Is college worth it? -- chicagotribune.com
This is a great article in that it brings home something that many educators have been saying for years, "Why go to college"?
This isn't to say, at the article also states, that there aren't great reasons to go to college, including broadening horizons, meeting people from diverse backgrounds, and a little something called education. However, the return on investment isn't what it once was. They often cite salaries of people who go into business-related fields, but not those in social services. Those in business are easily making $50,000+ relatively soon after graduate. They will pay off their debts. Those other professions, though, make much less and will likely need to get advanced degrees to bridge the gap even slightly.
We need students to begin making these calculations on their own. Return on investment isn't just about money, but to be in debt for 20 years is a terrible existence. This is beginning to drive lower-cost alternatives and will change the educational landscape over the next decade (yes, that soon).
As I near the end of my formal education (I swear I'm done after this phd), I have to say that it's been pretty good to me. I'm comfortable, I'm saving a little money, and I have a generally rosey outlook on life. In order to get this, though, I've had to go through years of graduate work that was bartered for office and teaching work at the universities I attended.
I wish someone had sat me down when I was 17 and laid this out for me. I can't say that I would have done anything differently (I just wanted to party after high school and college was the best place to do it), but I might have save me (more so my parents) a little money by making different decisions. By the time my own son is preparing for post K-12 life, I don't even think this will be an issue. It will be part of a well-worn system by then. At least I hope so. Have 2 of "the talks" is just too much.
This is a great article in that it brings home something that many educators have been saying for years, "Why go to college"?
This isn't to say, at the article also states, that there aren't great reasons to go to college, including broadening horizons, meeting people from diverse backgrounds, and a little something called education. However, the return on investment isn't what it once was. They often cite salaries of people who go into business-related fields, but not those in social services. Those in business are easily making $50,000+ relatively soon after graduate. They will pay off their debts. Those other professions, though, make much less and will likely need to get advanced degrees to bridge the gap even slightly.
We need students to begin making these calculations on their own. Return on investment isn't just about money, but to be in debt for 20 years is a terrible existence. This is beginning to drive lower-cost alternatives and will change the educational landscape over the next decade (yes, that soon).
As I near the end of my formal education (I swear I'm done after this phd), I have to say that it's been pretty good to me. I'm comfortable, I'm saving a little money, and I have a generally rosey outlook on life. In order to get this, though, I've had to go through years of graduate work that was bartered for office and teaching work at the universities I attended.
I wish someone had sat me down when I was 17 and laid this out for me. I can't say that I would have done anything differently (I just wanted to party after high school and college was the best place to do it), but I might have save me (more so my parents) a little money by making different decisions. By the time my own son is preparing for post K-12 life, I don't even think this will be an issue. It will be part of a well-worn system by then. At least I hope so. Have 2 of "the talks" is just too much.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
$1000 Of Stock
$1000 Of Stock
Originally uploaded by sandossu
Too funny picture and commentary. I don't know if would be as funny if I had invested $1000.
Saturday, October 4, 2008
JALT Conference 2008
The Japan Association for Language Teaching (JALT) contacted me about advertising their conference at the end of the month (OCT 31). I was happy to do so. It's a great organization and I just wish I could go myself. Please see the picture below for more information or go to their website at http://jalt.org/
Hey Sarah Palin (with lyrics/subtitles)
YouTube - Hey Sarah Palin (with lyrics/subtitles)
This much be a music day for me. This is hilarious (thanks Jared). It is a commentary on Sarah Palin to the tune of "Hey There Delilah". This is tooooooo funny. Listen to the lyrics.
This much be a music day for me. This is hilarious (thanks Jared). It is a commentary on Sarah Palin to the tune of "Hey There Delilah". This is tooooooo funny. Listen to the lyrics.
A E I Love U - EV Boys newest
YouTube - A E I Love U
It's difficult to follow up on classics (in this case, Kickin' it in Gumcheon), but this is certainly fun too. It's the kind of thing that foreigners in Korea (particularly English teachers) can appreciate. The most memorable line is (and I'm paraphrasing) "she won't take me home, because he dad hates waeguks (foreigners)".
It's difficult to follow up on classics (in this case, Kickin' it in Gumcheon), but this is certainly fun too. It's the kind of thing that foreigners in Korea (particularly English teachers) can appreciate. The most memorable line is (and I'm paraphrasing) "she won't take me home, because he dad hates waeguks (foreigners)".
If you call me names, I'll kill myself.
More Limits Planned on Internet Anonymity
Please don't get me wrong, I take suicide very seriously. It is a grave issue, and nearly what I would consider an epidemic in Korea, with one of the highest suicide rates in the world. However, the big brother approach to suicide prevention is misguided.
The Korean government already requires "real name" registration on many of the largest websites. The intent is to stifle rumors (false ones) by holding people accountable for their posts. Korea is one of the few countries in the world where this kind of policy would actually work (in a limited way). The Korean tech industry in insular. Local internet companies rule the roost, with foreign companies in distant, distant 2nd/3rd/etc (witness Naver's success within Korea). In most other countries, laws like this would be laughed off as citizen flocked to companies outside of Korea. Here, however, this has a real impact.
Does it really work? Obviously not or else they wouldn't be still talking about it. While it certainly dampens the rumor-mill, it doesn't mussle it. Now they are going after smaller sites in an attempt to further clamp down. This will fail. There is no hesitancy in my conviction. It will fail.
Like most misguided, heavy-handed approaches to governance, this policy hurts the innocent more than the culprits. It will stop the political dissenters, the whistle-blowers, and those who have been wronged. It will provide fodder for laughable libel laws that prevent people from warning the public against real dangers: corrupt politicians, criminal businesses and business people, and even harmful products (see recent melanin scare).
These public figures are not committing suicide because of online rumors. They are committing suicide because they are sick. They need medical/psychiatric attention, not post-suicide ramblings against name-callers. They need for society to quit looking for others to blame and get people with problems to help. Choi Jin-sil, as the article pointed out, told at least two people that she was going to kill herself. Sometimes signs that people are thinking about suicide are difficult to see, but you've got to be kidding me! She could have walked down the street with a sign saying I'm going home to hang myself and not been clearer.
Instead of suppressing everyone's free speech, let's start by educating the public on what to look for and how to help people with suicidal thoughts. Instead of millions in oversight for monitoring discussion groups, try spending it on building awareness of mental health and changing public perception of getting mental help?
EDIT - I found this shortly after publishing. At least someone out there is looking at the issue (though not directly related) in a rational light. More rational than me for that matter. Check out the editorial here.
Please don't get me wrong, I take suicide very seriously. It is a grave issue, and nearly what I would consider an epidemic in Korea, with one of the highest suicide rates in the world. However, the big brother approach to suicide prevention is misguided.
The Korean government already requires "real name" registration on many of the largest websites. The intent is to stifle rumors (false ones) by holding people accountable for their posts. Korea is one of the few countries in the world where this kind of policy would actually work (in a limited way). The Korean tech industry in insular. Local internet companies rule the roost, with foreign companies in distant, distant 2nd/3rd/etc (witness Naver's success within Korea). In most other countries, laws like this would be laughed off as citizen flocked to companies outside of Korea. Here, however, this has a real impact.
Does it really work? Obviously not or else they wouldn't be still talking about it. While it certainly dampens the rumor-mill, it doesn't mussle it. Now they are going after smaller sites in an attempt to further clamp down. This will fail. There is no hesitancy in my conviction. It will fail.
Like most misguided, heavy-handed approaches to governance, this policy hurts the innocent more than the culprits. It will stop the political dissenters, the whistle-blowers, and those who have been wronged. It will provide fodder for laughable libel laws that prevent people from warning the public against real dangers: corrupt politicians, criminal businesses and business people, and even harmful products (see recent melanin scare).
These public figures are not committing suicide because of online rumors. They are committing suicide because they are sick. They need medical/psychiatric attention, not post-suicide ramblings against name-callers. They need for society to quit looking for others to blame and get people with problems to help. Choi Jin-sil, as the article pointed out, told at least two people that she was going to kill herself. Sometimes signs that people are thinking about suicide are difficult to see, but you've got to be kidding me! She could have walked down the street with a sign saying I'm going home to hang myself and not been clearer.
Instead of suppressing everyone's free speech, let's start by educating the public on what to look for and how to help people with suicidal thoughts. Instead of millions in oversight for monitoring discussion groups, try spending it on building awareness of mental health and changing public perception of getting mental help?
EDIT - I found this shortly after publishing. At least someone out there is looking at the issue (though not directly related) in a rational light. More rational than me for that matter. Check out the editorial here.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Toe Soek Choen Samgaetang - Korean, stuffed, whole-young-chicken soup
Samgaetang is a Korean chicken soup that contains a whole young chicken stuffed with sweet rice, ginseng, garlic, chestnuts, jujubes, and some other possible ingredients.
Toe Soek Choen (토속촌) is probably the most well-known, yet unknown, samgaetang place in Seoul. It is one street north of Kyoungbuk Palace in a side alley (subway line #3--orange line--not sure which exit). Google maps doesn't get in close enough to pinpoint the location, but the map below gets you to the area. When you get there just look for the line (there is always a line).
View Larger Map
I've had samgaetang dozens of times. I've been to places that I really like (most that I don't know the names of), but Toe Soek Choen is certainly the best that I've had so far. I've even had fresh-killed chicken in a little country restaurant outside Ilsan, which was my favorite up until now. This place was better. The broth was light, but not bland. It was flavorful, but not overpowering. The Chicken fell apart, perfectly cooked. The stuffing was simply amazing.
The service was quick and efficient. No frills. Order soup, get soup fast, eat soup, pay, leave. However, all of this is in a traditional Korean house in the middle of Seoul. Not an old, small house mind you, but a large house that likely belonged to someone of significant wealth at some point. Of course, all of this is lost when you are packed into rooms, shoulder to shoulder with other samgaetang connoisseurs.
If you're in Seoul and haven't tried this yet, get there and get some. They also serve Dakdoeritang (spicy chicken stew), which I'll definitely try next time.
Toe Soek Choen (토속촌) is probably the most well-known, yet unknown, samgaetang place in Seoul. It is one street north of Kyoungbuk Palace in a side alley (subway line #3--orange line--not sure which exit). Google maps doesn't get in close enough to pinpoint the location, but the map below gets you to the area. When you get there just look for the line (there is always a line).
View Larger Map
I've had samgaetang dozens of times. I've been to places that I really like (most that I don't know the names of), but Toe Soek Choen is certainly the best that I've had so far. I've even had fresh-killed chicken in a little country restaurant outside Ilsan, which was my favorite up until now. This place was better. The broth was light, but not bland. It was flavorful, but not overpowering. The Chicken fell apart, perfectly cooked. The stuffing was simply amazing.
The service was quick and efficient. No frills. Order soup, get soup fast, eat soup, pay, leave. However, all of this is in a traditional Korean house in the middle of Seoul. Not an old, small house mind you, but a large house that likely belonged to someone of significant wealth at some point. Of course, all of this is lost when you are packed into rooms, shoulder to shoulder with other samgaetang connoisseurs.
If you're in Seoul and haven't tried this yet, get there and get some. They also serve Dakdoeritang (spicy chicken stew), which I'll definitely try next time.
Friday, September 26, 2008
Handshake key to landing a job, scientists claim
Handshake key to landing a job, scientists claim
I occassionally warn/inform my students about this perception in American culture. Handshakes are certainly common in Korean society, but what is considered proper firmness (and duration) is different. Koreans apply less force and tend to engage longer than Americans. Not to mention the fact that they tend not to maintain eye contact during the handshake. Additionally, women tend not to shake hands as much as they would in America and, if they do, the pressure is nearly indiscernible.
From my anecdotal data (personal experience and interviews), the reason for this are varied:
(1) Firm handshakes imply a confidence that is seen to be more aggressive, pompous, or otherwise disrespectful. This seems to be more of a no-no when dealing with someone that should be respected such as guests (me in most cases), elders, and superiors.
(2) Duration notes endearment or a desire to communicate affection (whether real or just the impression thereof).
(3) Lack of eye contact is similar to reasons in #1. This does not mean that there is no eye contact, but it is not sustained. Even if the gaze is in the region of the eyes, it's often just off the eye (eyebrow, nose, forehead, etc.).
(4) The handshake is still largely a male-male greeting. The more "westernized" people are, the more likely they are to shake your hand (both male and female). By westernized, I really mean that they have consistent contact with foreigners (non-Koreans & non-Korean residents), including those educated in English-speaking countries.
So, how do you explain proper handshake criteria to Koreans? You don't, just demonstrate it. If you need to explain it, you might say that the grip is firm enough to squish tofu, but light enough not to damage a grape :)
In addition, make sure they understand some of the cultural understandings (though these may differ from person to person or region to region). Weak handshakes may indicate moral/physical weakness, dishonesty, lack of confidence, and other negative characteristics. Strong handshakes are the opposite: moral/physical strength, honesty, confidence, and other positive characteristics (supported by the study above). These beliefs are not always (or even ever) true, but they are ingrained into the American psyche.
I occassionally warn/inform my students about this perception in American culture. Handshakes are certainly common in Korean society, but what is considered proper firmness (and duration) is different. Koreans apply less force and tend to engage longer than Americans. Not to mention the fact that they tend not to maintain eye contact during the handshake. Additionally, women tend not to shake hands as much as they would in America and, if they do, the pressure is nearly indiscernible.
From my anecdotal data (personal experience and interviews), the reason for this are varied:
(1) Firm handshakes imply a confidence that is seen to be more aggressive, pompous, or otherwise disrespectful. This seems to be more of a no-no when dealing with someone that should be respected such as guests (me in most cases), elders, and superiors.
(2) Duration notes endearment or a desire to communicate affection (whether real or just the impression thereof).
(3) Lack of eye contact is similar to reasons in #1. This does not mean that there is no eye contact, but it is not sustained. Even if the gaze is in the region of the eyes, it's often just off the eye (eyebrow, nose, forehead, etc.).
(4) The handshake is still largely a male-male greeting. The more "westernized" people are, the more likely they are to shake your hand (both male and female). By westernized, I really mean that they have consistent contact with foreigners (non-Koreans & non-Korean residents), including those educated in English-speaking countries.
So, how do you explain proper handshake criteria to Koreans? You don't, just demonstrate it. If you need to explain it, you might say that the grip is firm enough to squish tofu, but light enough not to damage a grape :)
In addition, make sure they understand some of the cultural understandings (though these may differ from person to person or region to region). Weak handshakes may indicate moral/physical weakness, dishonesty, lack of confidence, and other negative characteristics. Strong handshakes are the opposite: moral/physical strength, honesty, confidence, and other positive characteristics (supported by the study above). These beliefs are not always (or even ever) true, but they are ingrained into the American psyche.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Asus Adds 3G to Eee PC
Asus Adds 3G to Eee PC
I don't know if this excites me, but it's a step in the convergence. Laptops are getting smaller and better connected, while phones are becoming mini-computers. At this point, I don't know which I'd prefer if given the chance. Since, my vision is pretty good, I don't mind small, high-resolution screens. I'm getting sick of lugging around my current Toshiba M4 tablet. It seems like a monster compared to the new, lovely computers that I've been checking out in Yonsan.
I will state right now. I will NEVER buy another full-sized laptop, nor will I ever again buy a phone that I can't use like a computer. I don't know if the ones I want have even been made yet, but I'm now willing to jump in and start sampling. The Asus line-up is pretty good, but there are some other really cool minis to choose from and more coming out every day (it seems).
As for phones, there's no way I'm getting an iPhone. Why are these people willing to sell their souls for this phone? Apple is the worst of the worst when it comes to letting people play in their sandbox. Well, I like playing with other people. Some of the greatest applications come from these folks. When Apple opens the app store, I'll consider an iPhone.
Of course, Windows Mobile 6.1 is no gem either. I hear nothing but bad reviews and even with many companies putting their own shells over the system, it's not great. However, I can put any app I find nice on MY OWN PHONE! MS isn't coming in saying, "I'm sorry you can't run this because it competes with our apps" FAIL!
Android has potential, but the HTC launch was pretty pathetic. I really do like the phone basics: great keyboard, screen (better with HTC HD, though), and ideal. However, let's face it, the phone is a fail. No video, propriety headphone jack, no Exchange support, and locked into Google apps (especially locked into 1 account). Come on guys...let's get a better one out soon. I do, however, have a great feeling about the future of Android. V2.0 will likely be a buy.
I don't know if I'd feel the same way if you lived back in the states. Mobile is important here because I walk or take public transportation everywhere. In the states, I throw my bag in the car and walk 20 feet to the coffee shop/office/etc. Mobile is not as important. Right now I want to check my mail on the way to work/home so I don't have to waste time doing it when I get there. My commute is wasted time. At this point, I listen to a ton of podcasts, but I could certainly take on email in addition.
Rambling long enough. Time to sleep and dream about my future toys.
I don't know if this excites me, but it's a step in the convergence. Laptops are getting smaller and better connected, while phones are becoming mini-computers. At this point, I don't know which I'd prefer if given the chance. Since, my vision is pretty good, I don't mind small, high-resolution screens. I'm getting sick of lugging around my current Toshiba M4 tablet. It seems like a monster compared to the new, lovely computers that I've been checking out in Yonsan.
I will state right now. I will NEVER buy another full-sized laptop, nor will I ever again buy a phone that I can't use like a computer. I don't know if the ones I want have even been made yet, but I'm now willing to jump in and start sampling. The Asus line-up is pretty good, but there are some other really cool minis to choose from and more coming out every day (it seems).
As for phones, there's no way I'm getting an iPhone. Why are these people willing to sell their souls for this phone? Apple is the worst of the worst when it comes to letting people play in their sandbox. Well, I like playing with other people. Some of the greatest applications come from these folks. When Apple opens the app store, I'll consider an iPhone.
Of course, Windows Mobile 6.1 is no gem either. I hear nothing but bad reviews and even with many companies putting their own shells over the system, it's not great. However, I can put any app I find nice on MY OWN PHONE! MS isn't coming in saying, "I'm sorry you can't run this because it competes with our apps" FAIL!
Android has potential, but the HTC launch was pretty pathetic. I really do like the phone basics: great keyboard, screen (better with HTC HD, though), and ideal. However, let's face it, the phone is a fail. No video, propriety headphone jack, no Exchange support, and locked into Google apps (especially locked into 1 account). Come on guys...let's get a better one out soon. I do, however, have a great feeling about the future of Android. V2.0 will likely be a buy.
I don't know if I'd feel the same way if you lived back in the states. Mobile is important here because I walk or take public transportation everywhere. In the states, I throw my bag in the car and walk 20 feet to the coffee shop/office/etc. Mobile is not as important. Right now I want to check my mail on the way to work/home so I don't have to waste time doing it when I get there. My commute is wasted time. At this point, I listen to a ton of podcasts, but I could certainly take on email in addition.
Rambling long enough. Time to sleep and dream about my future toys.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
100 Korean Foods You Gotta Try — ZenKimchi Korean Food Journal
100 Korean Foods You Gotta Try — ZenKimchi Korean Food Journal
Great list by ZenKimchi. I certainly agree that these are special foods in Korea; however, I don't agree that you've GOTTA try them :)
I'm a food lover; thus, I've tried many of these, but certainly not all. I've had intestines and stomach and I don't care to have them again no matter how it's prepared. Beef liver is another one of those foods that I stay away from. Lastly, I just can't stand myeolchi (small, whole, dried fish). Raw octopus (live or dead) tastes like rubber and the baby ones have a nasty inside. It's not so much that they have heads, I just hate the consistency.
With that said, the ones that I've tried are bolded below as per Zenkimchi's request. Some are guesses as I'm terrible with names of dishes.
1. Myeolchi Bokkeum (Stir-fried Anchovies)
2. Samgyetang (Ginseng Chicken Soup)
3. Bulgogi (Grilled Marinated Beef)
4. BulDalk (Burn-your-pants-off Spicy Grilled Chicken)
5. DalkBal (Spicy Chicken Feet)
6. Korean Fried Chicken
7. Dalk Galbi (Stir-fried Marinated Chicken and Veggies)
8. San Nakji, chopped (Semi-live Baby Octopus)
9. San Nakji, whole (Live Octopus)
10. Sundubu Jjigae (Soft Tofu Stew)
11. Juk (Rice Porridge)
12. Galbi (Grilled Short Ribs)
13. Galbitang (Short Rib Soup)
14. Shinseollo (Fancy Hot Pot)
15. Gobchang Gui (Grilled Beef Intestines)
16. Seng Gan (Raw Beef Liver)
17. Galbi Jjim (Stewed Ribs)
18. Bossam (Steamed Marinated Pork with Lettuce Wraps)
19. Japchae (Clear Noodles Stir-fried with Pork and Vegetables)
20. Jaeyuk Bokkeum (Spicy Stir-fried Pork)
21. Kimchi Jjim (Stewed Kimchi with Tofu)
22. Ddong Jip (Chicken Gizzards)
23. Odeng/Eomuk (Street-side Fish Noodles)
24. Hoddeok (Stuffed Street-side Pastries)
25. GeiJang (Raw Fermented Crabs)
26. Hongeo (Fermented Skate)
27. Gochujang Samgyeopsal (Grilled Pork Belly Smothered in Red Pepper Paste)
28. Lotteria’s Shrimp Burger
29. Sae-u Kang (Shrimp Flavored “Fries”)
30. Doenjang Jjigae (Fermented Bean Paste Stew)
31. Cheonggukjang (Stinky Fermented Bean Paste Stew)
32. Boshintang (Dog Soup)
33. Seonji Haejangguk (Hangover Stew with Clotted Cow Blood)
34. Ddeokbokki (Chewy Rice Cakes in Spicy Sauce)
35. YukHui (Raw Beef Salad)
36. MiyeokGuk (Seaweed Soup)
37. Mae-eunTang (Spicy Fish Soup)
38. Nakji Bokkeum (Stir-fried Baby Octopus)
39. Ojingeo (Dried Cuttlefish)
40. Beondaeggi (Silkworm Larvae)
41. Golbaenggi (Sea Snails)
42. Jangeo Gui (Grilled Eel)
43. Jaratang (Turtle Soup)
44. Bogeo (Blowfish)
45. Sae-u Sogeum Gui (Salt Grilled Shrimp)
46. Deodeok Root
47. BindaeDdeok (Mung Bean Pancake)
48. Pajeon (Green Onion Pancake)
49. Bibimbap (Mixed Rice and Vegetables)
50. Boribap (Mixed Barley Rice and Vegetables)
51. Marinated Garlic
52. Patbingsu (Shaved Ice and Red Bean Treat)
53. Dotorimok (Acorn Jelly)
54. Naengmyeon (Chilled Noodles)
55. Makkoli/Dongdongju (Rice Beer)
56. Bokbunja (Raspberry Wine)
57. Soju (Rice Whiskey)
58. Andong Soju (Strong Rice Whiskey from the Andong Region)
59. Jogae Gui (Grilled Shellfish)
60. Haepari (Jellyfish)
61. Gyeran Jjim (Steamed Egg)
62. Corn Ice Cream
63. Dolsot Bibimbap (Mixed Rice and Vegetables in a Sizzling Stone Pot)
64. Mandu (Stuffed Dumplings)
65. Ddeokguk (Chewy Rice Cake Soup)
66. Songpyeon (Stuffed Chewy Rice Cakes)
67. Hot Bar (Fried Fish Batter Street Food)
68. Shikhye (Sweet Rice Punch)
69. Any product with Green Tea in it
70. Gujeolpan (Nine-section Dish)
71. Yogurt Soju Cocktail
72. Baechu Kimchi (Cabbage Kimchi)
73. Any Kimchi that’s over 3 years old [I HOPE NOT :( ]
74. Baek Kimchi (White Cabbage Kimchi)
75. Shake-’em-up Dosirak
76. Mul Kimchi (Water Kimchi)
77. Oi Sobagi (Stuffed Cucumber Kimchi)
78. Ggakdugi (Cubed Radish Kimchi)
79. Sae-u Jeot (Salted Tiny Shrimp)
80. Myeongran Jeot (Salted Pollack Roe)
81. Changran Jeot (Salted Pollack Guts)
82. Ssamjang (Mixed Soybean and Pepper Paste)
83. Kalguksu (Hand-cut Noodle Soup)
84. Ramyeon (Ramen Noodles) in a Tin Pot
85. Entire Hui Meal (Korean style Sashimi)
86. Gimbap (Seaweed Rice Rolls)
87. Jokbal (Pigs Feet)
88. Sundae (Blood and Noodle Sausage)
89. Yeot (Traditional Korean Candy)
90. Naengi (Shepherd’s Purse)
91. Kimchi Jjigae (Kimchi Stew)
92. Budae Jjigae (“Army Base” Stew, traditionally including hot dogs and Spam)
93. Agu Jjim (Stewed Monkfish)
94. Haemultang (Seafood Soup)
95. Nurungji (Hot Water Mixed with Rice Scrapings in a Stone Pot)
96. Sujebi (Rustic Dumpling Soup)
97. Janchi Guksu (Thin Noodles in a Seaweed Broth with Condiments)
98. BungeoBbang (Goldfish-shaped Stuffed Pastry)
99. Raw Ginseng or anything with Ginseng in it
100. MakHui (Chilled Sashimi Soup)
Great list by ZenKimchi. I certainly agree that these are special foods in Korea; however, I don't agree that you've GOTTA try them :)
I'm a food lover; thus, I've tried many of these, but certainly not all. I've had intestines and stomach and I don't care to have them again no matter how it's prepared. Beef liver is another one of those foods that I stay away from. Lastly, I just can't stand myeolchi (small, whole, dried fish). Raw octopus (live or dead) tastes like rubber and the baby ones have a nasty inside. It's not so much that they have heads, I just hate the consistency.
With that said, the ones that I've tried are bolded below as per Zenkimchi's request. Some are guesses as I'm terrible with names of dishes.
1. Myeolchi Bokkeum (Stir-fried Anchovies)
2. Samgyetang (Ginseng Chicken Soup)
3. Bulgogi (Grilled Marinated Beef)
4. BulDalk (Burn-your-pants-off Spicy Grilled Chicken)
5. DalkBal (Spicy Chicken Feet)
6. Korean Fried Chicken
7. Dalk Galbi (Stir-fried Marinated Chicken and Veggies)
8. San Nakji, chopped (Semi-live Baby Octopus)
9. San Nakji, whole (Live Octopus)
10. Sundubu Jjigae (Soft Tofu Stew)
11. Juk (Rice Porridge)
12. Galbi (Grilled Short Ribs)
13. Galbitang (Short Rib Soup)
14. Shinseollo (Fancy Hot Pot)
15. Gobchang Gui (Grilled Beef Intestines)
16. Seng Gan (Raw Beef Liver)
17. Galbi Jjim (Stewed Ribs)
18. Bossam (Steamed Marinated Pork with Lettuce Wraps)
19. Japchae (Clear Noodles Stir-fried with Pork and Vegetables)
20. Jaeyuk Bokkeum (Spicy Stir-fried Pork)
21. Kimchi Jjim (Stewed Kimchi with Tofu)
22. Ddong Jip (Chicken Gizzards)
23. Odeng/Eomuk (Street-side Fish Noodles)
24. Hoddeok (Stuffed Street-side Pastries)
25. GeiJang (Raw Fermented Crabs)
26. Hongeo (Fermented Skate)
27. Gochujang Samgyeopsal (Grilled Pork Belly Smothered in Red Pepper Paste)
28. Lotteria’s Shrimp Burger
29. Sae-u Kang (Shrimp Flavored “Fries”)
30. Doenjang Jjigae (Fermented Bean Paste Stew)
31. Cheonggukjang (Stinky Fermented Bean Paste Stew)
32. Boshintang (Dog Soup)
33. Seonji Haejangguk (Hangover Stew with Clotted Cow Blood)
34. Ddeokbokki (Chewy Rice Cakes in Spicy Sauce)
35. YukHui (Raw Beef Salad)
36. MiyeokGuk (Seaweed Soup)
37. Mae-eunTang (Spicy Fish Soup)
38. Nakji Bokkeum (Stir-fried Baby Octopus)
39. Ojingeo (Dried Cuttlefish)
40. Beondaeggi (Silkworm Larvae)
41. Golbaenggi (Sea Snails)
42. Jangeo Gui (Grilled Eel)
43. Jaratang (Turtle Soup)
44. Bogeo (Blowfish)
45. Sae-u Sogeum Gui (Salt Grilled Shrimp)
46. Deodeok Root
47. BindaeDdeok (Mung Bean Pancake)
48. Pajeon (Green Onion Pancake)
49. Bibimbap (Mixed Rice and Vegetables)
50. Boribap (Mixed Barley Rice and Vegetables)
51. Marinated Garlic
52. Patbingsu (Shaved Ice and Red Bean Treat)
53. Dotorimok (Acorn Jelly)
54. Naengmyeon (Chilled Noodles)
55. Makkoli/Dongdongju (Rice Beer)
56. Bokbunja (Raspberry Wine)
57. Soju (Rice Whiskey)
58. Andong Soju (Strong Rice Whiskey from the Andong Region)
59. Jogae Gui (Grilled Shellfish)
60. Haepari (Jellyfish)
61. Gyeran Jjim (Steamed Egg)
62. Corn Ice Cream
63. Dolsot Bibimbap (Mixed Rice and Vegetables in a Sizzling Stone Pot)
64. Mandu (Stuffed Dumplings)
65. Ddeokguk (Chewy Rice Cake Soup)
66. Songpyeon (Stuffed Chewy Rice Cakes)
67. Hot Bar (Fried Fish Batter Street Food)
68. Shikhye (Sweet Rice Punch)
69. Any product with Green Tea in it
70. Gujeolpan (Nine-section Dish)
71. Yogurt Soju Cocktail
72. Baechu Kimchi (Cabbage Kimchi)
73. Any Kimchi that’s over 3 years old [I HOPE NOT :( ]
74. Baek Kimchi (White Cabbage Kimchi)
75. Shake-’em-up Dosirak
76. Mul Kimchi (Water Kimchi)
77. Oi Sobagi (Stuffed Cucumber Kimchi)
78. Ggakdugi (Cubed Radish Kimchi)
79. Sae-u Jeot (Salted Tiny Shrimp)
80. Myeongran Jeot (Salted Pollack Roe)
81. Changran Jeot (Salted Pollack Guts)
82. Ssamjang (Mixed Soybean and Pepper Paste)
83. Kalguksu (Hand-cut Noodle Soup)
84. Ramyeon (Ramen Noodles) in a Tin Pot
85. Entire Hui Meal (Korean style Sashimi)
86. Gimbap (Seaweed Rice Rolls)
87. Jokbal (Pigs Feet)
88. Sundae (Blood and Noodle Sausage)
89. Yeot (Traditional Korean Candy)
90. Naengi (Shepherd’s Purse)
91. Kimchi Jjigae (Kimchi Stew)
92. Budae Jjigae (“Army Base” Stew, traditionally including hot dogs and Spam)
93. Agu Jjim (Stewed Monkfish)
94. Haemultang (Seafood Soup)
95. Nurungji (Hot Water Mixed with Rice Scrapings in a Stone Pot)
96. Sujebi (Rustic Dumpling Soup)
97. Janchi Guksu (Thin Noodles in a Seaweed Broth with Condiments)
98. BungeoBbang (Goldfish-shaped Stuffed Pastry)
99. Raw Ginseng or anything with Ginseng in it
100. MakHui (Chilled Sashimi Soup)
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Professor Wikipedia - CollegeHumor video
Professor Wikipedia - CollegeHumor video
This is hilarious. The best part is professor Brittanica. Good stuff.
This is hilarious. The best part is professor Brittanica. Good stuff.
Adviser calls BlackBerry 'miracle' McCain 'helped create' - CNN.com
Adviser calls BlackBerry 'miracle' McCain 'helped create' - CNN.com
Does this mark the point when information literacy becomes a necessary trait in a leader? It always has been, you say? No, no, no. It's always been the assistant's job. It's possible that these things can no longer be solely off-loaded to staff.
I think that this is a silly article, but it does show that this is an issue on the horizon (even an attack ad).
Does this mark the point when information literacy becomes a necessary trait in a leader? It always has been, you say? No, no, no. It's always been the assistant's job. It's possible that these things can no longer be solely off-loaded to staff.
I think that this is a silly article, but it does show that this is an issue on the horizon (even an attack ad).
Monday, September 15, 2008
YouTube - Nine Inch Nails - Head Like a Hole
YouTube - Nine Inch Nails - Head Like a Hole
It's hard to believe that this song is nearly 20 years old. I don't even think I discovered it for myself until a couple years later, but it certainly introduced me to a whole knew genre of music. Just love it.
It's hard to believe that this song is nearly 20 years old. I don't even think I discovered it for myself until a couple years later, but it certainly introduced me to a whole knew genre of music. Just love it.
Storytelling 101
Storytelling 101
Nice presentation on making good presentations. Emphasizes the need for a good story behind the presentation.
Most academics seem to think that they just need to push the information out to the audience and that these types of presentations are for business or just "non-scientists". This is certainly far from the truth. You want people to remember your presentation and, in fact, remember you (conferences are more about networking than exchanging ideas). I'm sure that you remember good speakers much better than poor ones...which do you want to be?
Nice presentation on making good presentations. Emphasizes the need for a good story behind the presentation.
Most academics seem to think that they just need to push the information out to the audience and that these types of presentations are for business or just "non-scientists". This is certainly far from the truth. You want people to remember your presentation and, in fact, remember you (conferences are more about networking than exchanging ideas). I'm sure that you remember good speakers much better than poor ones...which do you want to be?
Monday, September 8, 2008
If Garfield Was In Glengarry Glenross
» If Garfield Was In Glengarry Glenross
This is certainly my favorite scene from the movie and I love it coming from Garfield's mouth.
Check it out.
Here is the video version
This is certainly my favorite scene from the movie and I love it coming from Garfield's mouth.
Check it out.
Here is the video version
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Brain Cells Observed Summoning a Memory - NYTimes.com
Brain Cells Observed Summoning a Memory - NYTimes.com
Yet another step on the stairway to knowledge. It's something that has been expected for a long time, but it's great to have some physiological evidence to back it up. This certainly seems to support information processing theories as well as those of situated cognition.
Yet another step on the stairway to knowledge. It's something that has been expected for a long time, but it's great to have some physiological evidence to back it up. This certainly seems to support information processing theories as well as those of situated cognition.
Saturday, August 30, 2008
YouTube - The Process
YouTube - The Process
If you've ever done any design work or simply committee-driven decision-making, you'll enjoy this one.
If you've ever done any design work or simply committee-driven decision-making, you'll enjoy this one.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
The Linguists
The Linguists
This documentary looks great. I would love to see it. It is, of course, an issue that has been on my radar since my masters program, but also one that I rarely stop to contemplate. The trailer looks great and I can't wait to get my hands on the video (don't think my wife will be interested though :)
This documentary looks great. I would love to see it. It is, of course, an issue that has been on my radar since my masters program, but also one that I rarely stop to contemplate. The trailer looks great and I can't wait to get my hands on the video (don't think my wife will be interested though :)
Golf Tour’s Rule - Speak English to Stay in Play
Golf Tour’s Rule - Speak English to Stay in Play
I don't usually write these sort of responses to news articles, but I am disgusted with the LPGA on this decision. They have enacted a rule that players must be "conversant" in English by 2009. There are so many things wrong with this policy, where do I start?
1) How does a country like the United States mandate a language that players must speak? We are a country of immigrants. We are a country that does NOT have an official language. We are a country that is supposed to respect the cultures of others. We are a country that is supposed to resist being exclusionist. Isn't it good enough that they play well?
2) What does "conversant" mean? How will they measure it? What are the cutoffs? Is there going to be a multiple-choice test? Perhaps an interview? This is a joke. Language professionals can't agree on what "conversant" means, much less a group over-privileged country club society-types.
3) I really hope that this doesn't pass legal challenges. The discussion in the article ran both ways on this issue. I'm assuming that this was vetted by a legal team, but I also assume that they will run afoul of rules in at least one state in which they play. Not to mention, they may alienate some of the very marketers they wish to impress.
4) I disagree that this targets Korean players alone; however, they will likely be affected the most. Even a Korean who has all of the vocabulary and grammar knowledge to be a rock star in interviews, often cannot participate adequately in a conversation. Conversation skills have not be emphasized in the past and are only now receiving a considerable amount of lip service (that's a start) from the government. In addition, there is going to be a speaking component in future college entrance exams, which should shift the educational focus for future graduates. However, at this point, this policy is very likely to hurt Korean athletes.
All-in-all, I am disgusted with the LPGA and I hope that they come to their senses before this policy reaches fruition in 2009.
I don't usually write these sort of responses to news articles, but I am disgusted with the LPGA on this decision. They have enacted a rule that players must be "conversant" in English by 2009. There are so many things wrong with this policy, where do I start?
1) How does a country like the United States mandate a language that players must speak? We are a country of immigrants. We are a country that does NOT have an official language. We are a country that is supposed to respect the cultures of others. We are a country that is supposed to resist being exclusionist. Isn't it good enough that they play well?
2) What does "conversant" mean? How will they measure it? What are the cutoffs? Is there going to be a multiple-choice test? Perhaps an interview? This is a joke. Language professionals can't agree on what "conversant" means, much less a group over-privileged country club society-types.
3) I really hope that this doesn't pass legal challenges. The discussion in the article ran both ways on this issue. I'm assuming that this was vetted by a legal team, but I also assume that they will run afoul of rules in at least one state in which they play. Not to mention, they may alienate some of the very marketers they wish to impress.
4) I disagree that this targets Korean players alone; however, they will likely be affected the most. Even a Korean who has all of the vocabulary and grammar knowledge to be a rock star in interviews, often cannot participate adequately in a conversation. Conversation skills have not be emphasized in the past and are only now receiving a considerable amount of lip service (that's a start) from the government. In addition, there is going to be a speaking component in future college entrance exams, which should shift the educational focus for future graduates. However, at this point, this policy is very likely to hurt Korean athletes.
All-in-all, I am disgusted with the LPGA and I hope that they come to their senses before this policy reaches fruition in 2009.
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Taking the Summer Off
I'm going to be taking this summer off from Web 2.0 stuff, including this blog.
I've come to the point were my interest in Web 2.0 technologies is becoming detrimental to other aspects of my life, particularly that part about finishing my degree. Therefore, I'm going to take the summer off to focus on making the most of my indoor time and maximize my outdoor time.
Have a wonderful summer. I'll see you again some time in late August or early September.
Dan
I've come to the point were my interest in Web 2.0 technologies is becoming detrimental to other aspects of my life, particularly that part about finishing my degree. Therefore, I'm going to take the summer off to focus on making the most of my indoor time and maximize my outdoor time.
Have a wonderful summer. I'll see you again some time in late August or early September.
Dan
Monday, May 26, 2008
In Korea, a Boot Camp Cure for Web Obsession - New York Times
In Korea, a Boot Camp Cure for Web Obsession - New York Times
This is awesome, but I think that it would be great for all kids. Get out and do fun activities. This isn't treatment, it's camp!
Now, I don't want to be too glib about this. I agree that it's a serious issues and the participants here are extreme cases that need extreme interventions. This might be a good way to break them down and build them up, but it's not going to help them to live is a society of computers, where every basic task they have to complete is mediated by a computer (and likely the Internet).
From the picture here, it's pretty obvious that this is not in Seoul. I'd love to see grass in Seoul :) That's the biggest problem with this approach. When they go back to the city, what should they do?
These kids (at least those in K-12) have to time to go hiking, though the mountains surround Seoul. They are scheduled to within an inch of their lives. The "Internet" here mostly refers to games that they play after those scheduled times (mostly at night) and usually take away from their sleep time. There's no time to do anything that is more than a short distance from home.
I suggest a program that gives them alternatives that can be done given those boundaries (because those boundaries aren't going to be taken down any time soon). Both outdoor and indoor activities, both group and individual activities. If this can be done, it's more likely to last.
This program is just another hagwon (private institute program) that promises cures and provides only temporary relief of symptoms. When they get back to their real lives, they'll head straight to their computers to post their pictures, update their mini-homepys (Cyworld home page), and let their friend know exactly what they've been up to in hours of chat conversations.
This is awesome, but I think that it would be great for all kids. Get out and do fun activities. This isn't treatment, it's camp!
Now, I don't want to be too glib about this. I agree that it's a serious issues and the participants here are extreme cases that need extreme interventions. This might be a good way to break them down and build them up, but it's not going to help them to live is a society of computers, where every basic task they have to complete is mediated by a computer (and likely the Internet).
From the picture here, it's pretty obvious that this is not in Seoul. I'd love to see grass in Seoul :) That's the biggest problem with this approach. When they go back to the city, what should they do?
These kids (at least those in K-12) have to time to go hiking, though the mountains surround Seoul. They are scheduled to within an inch of their lives. The "Internet" here mostly refers to games that they play after those scheduled times (mostly at night) and usually take away from their sleep time. There's no time to do anything that is more than a short distance from home.
I suggest a program that gives them alternatives that can be done given those boundaries (because those boundaries aren't going to be taken down any time soon). Both outdoor and indoor activities, both group and individual activities. If this can be done, it's more likely to last.
This program is just another hagwon (private institute program) that promises cures and provides only temporary relief of symptoms. When they get back to their real lives, they'll head straight to their computers to post their pictures, update their mini-homepys (Cyworld home page), and let their friend know exactly what they've been up to in hours of chat conversations.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Fear, secrecy kept 1950 Korea mass killings hidden - washingtonpost.com
Fear, secrecy kept 1950 Korea mass killings hidden - washingtonpost.com
This is one of those things that seems so obvious, but I have never heard it mentioned in my time in Korea (though there seems to be a considerable amount a work being done my the Truth and Reconciliation Committee). Regardless of where the war is, people are killed, both civilian and military. War movies are made on the callous actions of a few (or a even a policy) in laying judgment on their captives.
I really do hope that Korea acknowledges this and works to give a voice to the victims and their families. As is too often the case, people not directly affected just want the nastiness to go away and not interfere with their righteous few of their history and brethren. I hope this is one of those times where this urge is overcome.
This is one of those things that seems so obvious, but I have never heard it mentioned in my time in Korea (though there seems to be a considerable amount a work being done my the Truth and Reconciliation Committee). Regardless of where the war is, people are killed, both civilian and military. War movies are made on the callous actions of a few (or a even a policy) in laying judgment on their captives.
I really do hope that Korea acknowledges this and works to give a voice to the victims and their families. As is too often the case, people not directly affected just want the nastiness to go away and not interfere with their righteous few of their history and brethren. I hope this is one of those times where this urge is overcome.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Change of Title/Scope
Hi folks,
For anyone who still follows this nearly dead blog I wanted to leave a note on the changes that I'm going to make. I started this blog years ago as a place to discuss language learning and technology. This role has shifted to my IUCALL blog (which will soon change names as well) leaving this blog as a general repository for miscellaneous stuff.
It's time to just redo this site and use it for the kind of miscellaneous postings that I didn't have a place for previously. I'm going use this as more of a personal site to document the junk in my life that few people will be interested in: restaurants, days out with the family, and so forth. Since I happen to live in Seoul, you might be interested in that part of it. So, soon to come. More pictures, videos, and write-ups of my daily life in Seoul.
Dan
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Study says many studies suck / Research shows we are far too drunk on stupid studies that tell us what research shows
Study says many studies suck / Research shows we are far too drunk on stupid studies that tell us what research shows
If he thinks that medical studies are inane, he should take a look at a journal in education :)
If he thinks that medical studies are inane, he should take a look at a journal in education :)
Saturday, January 26, 2008
All English Classes to Be In English. Really. : Korea Beat
All English Classes to Be In English. Really.
I'm becoming a big fan of Korea Beat. These are the timely articles that you just don't get in the Korean English dailies.
I've heard rumors of the Lee Myung-bak's transition team proposing that high school Science and Math classes by 2010. That is just insane. These guys are just talking crazy after being locked in a room for a couple weeks brainstorming wonderful policy moves. However, I haven't seen this printed yet, so I don't really believe it (yet).
The proposal detailed in this post, namely that English teachers will have to teach in English and students will be required to take tests focused more on communication than grammar knowledge, seems reasonable. Can you imagine having a language teacher who couldn't communicate passably (note I don't say well) in the target language? This is certainly the case with many English teachers in Korea. It is my impression that the numbers are greatest in the elementary schools and decrease in middle schools and then again in high schools.
I understand being afraid of change and, thus, the resistance from some teachers (noted in the article). However, I also think that the good of the student must come before the good of the teacher. If you don't know your topic well enough to teach it, you should either learn it or change your teaching responsibilities.
Regardless of what I think here, though. History shows that many of these suggested changes never make it to the policy stage and of those that do, few last. Just think about it. By the time it is enacted and the grace period ends, this presidency will be nearly over. No re-election for Korean presidents. The political will and juice just won't be great enough to make it last.
Dan
I'm becoming a big fan of Korea Beat. These are the timely articles that you just don't get in the Korean English dailies.
I've heard rumors of the Lee Myung-bak's transition team proposing that high school Science and Math classes by 2010. That is just insane. These guys are just talking crazy after being locked in a room for a couple weeks brainstorming wonderful policy moves. However, I haven't seen this printed yet, so I don't really believe it (yet).
The proposal detailed in this post, namely that English teachers will have to teach in English and students will be required to take tests focused more on communication than grammar knowledge, seems reasonable. Can you imagine having a language teacher who couldn't communicate passably (note I don't say well) in the target language? This is certainly the case with many English teachers in Korea. It is my impression that the numbers are greatest in the elementary schools and decrease in middle schools and then again in high schools.
I understand being afraid of change and, thus, the resistance from some teachers (noted in the article). However, I also think that the good of the student must come before the good of the teacher. If you don't know your topic well enough to teach it, you should either learn it or change your teaching responsibilities.
Regardless of what I think here, though. History shows that many of these suggested changes never make it to the policy stage and of those that do, few last. Just think about it. By the time it is enacted and the grace period ends, this presidency will be nearly over. No re-election for Korean presidents. The political will and juice just won't be great enough to make it last.
Dan
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Scarcity of Native English Speakers Drives Up Salaries : Korea Beat
Scarcity of Native English Speakers Drives Up Salaries
My feelings on this article (thanks to Korea Beat for the translation) are mixed. My first reaction was, "GOOD". I love higher salaries :) However, after reading it I have other concerns.
These requirements are going to drive away qualified teachers who can go elsewhere, which leaves more unqualified folks who are willing to wait to get in. Though I am in favor of reform, let's face it, most of these regulations won't stop 99% of the undesirables. These new regulations are futile, because most pedophiles haven't been caught, most recreational drug users can stop for a couple weeks to beat the test, and the interviewers will have no clue what to look for (I guarantee that they have had NO training for this). I think that the drug test and background checks are reasonable, but provide another way to interview it if has to be done. The goal should be a system that enables people to come a month after signing a contract. This is best for the workers and for the hagwons.
Another problem is that this might keep bad teachers at their jobs. With easier access to teachers, owners could release bad teachers and bring someone else in with little extra cost. Now, these same teachers are more likely to keep their jobs no matter what their behavior (we've all heard the horror stories, right?).
Though there are certainly problems, a shortage might be a silver lining. A "native" teacher shortage could fuel change initiatives. Better training for Korean English teachers is a great start. I've met middle school English teachers who couldn't even communicate with me. My Korea was as good as their English, which is really, really bad.
Check out the article for more specifics.
Dan
My feelings on this article (thanks to Korea Beat for the translation) are mixed. My first reaction was, "GOOD". I love higher salaries :) However, after reading it I have other concerns.
These requirements are going to drive away qualified teachers who can go elsewhere, which leaves more unqualified folks who are willing to wait to get in. Though I am in favor of reform, let's face it, most of these regulations won't stop 99% of the undesirables. These new regulations are futile, because most pedophiles haven't been caught, most recreational drug users can stop for a couple weeks to beat the test, and the interviewers will have no clue what to look for (I guarantee that they have had NO training for this). I think that the drug test and background checks are reasonable, but provide another way to interview it if has to be done. The goal should be a system that enables people to come a month after signing a contract. This is best for the workers and for the hagwons.
Another problem is that this might keep bad teachers at their jobs. With easier access to teachers, owners could release bad teachers and bring someone else in with little extra cost. Now, these same teachers are more likely to keep their jobs no matter what their behavior (we've all heard the horror stories, right?).
Though there are certainly problems, a shortage might be a silver lining. A "native" teacher shortage could fuel change initiatives. Better training for Korean English teachers is a great start. I've met middle school English teachers who couldn't even communicate with me. My Korea was as good as their English, which is really, really bad.
Check out the article for more specifics.
Dan
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
YouTube - Did You Know 2.0
YouTube - Did You Know 2.0
I'm likely behind on promoting this video, but better late than never. It isn't a new message, but it's a great new way to present the message.
What is the message, you ask? It's that our approach to education (and policies across the board) need to change in order to compete in the 21st Century. Education needs to stay ahead of the change instead of consistently lagging behind.
We, as a global society, need to consider not only how our physical neighbors will fare in this change, but how the rest of the increasingly connected world will as well. I'm weaving in my personal interpretation here, but I have a feeling that the producers would agree.
Enjoy.
Dan
I'm likely behind on promoting this video, but better late than never. It isn't a new message, but it's a great new way to present the message.
What is the message, you ask? It's that our approach to education (and policies across the board) need to change in order to compete in the 21st Century. Education needs to stay ahead of the change instead of consistently lagging behind.
We, as a global society, need to consider not only how our physical neighbors will fare in this change, but how the rest of the increasingly connected world will as well. I'm weaving in my personal interpretation here, but I have a feeling that the producers would agree.
Enjoy.
Dan
Sunday, January 13, 2008
YouTube - People in Order (correct version)
YouTube - People in Order (correct version)
This is a fun video. While not easy, this is the type of video that your students could do and learn quite a lot from.
Dan
This is a fun video. While not easy, this is the type of video that your students could do and learn quite a lot from.
Dan
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