Korean performances

Nanta (난타)

The musical has a simple back story of three cooks attempting to finish preparing a wedding banquet within a strict time limit while the manager installs his incompetent nephew among the kitchen staff. The show involves acrobatics, magic tricks, comedy, pantomime and audience participation. The unifying element throughout the musical is the use of traditional Korean samul nori music, which in this case is performed with improvised instruments, such as cutting boards, water canisters and kitchen knives. The performance is almost completely non-verbal.

Details :http://nanta.i-pmc.co.kr/Nanta/en/About/AboutNanta.aspx

Destinations

Seoul | 서울

Korean capital city, Seoul, is located in the Midwest of the Korean peninsula.
It has been an area of strategic importance since prehistoric times, particularly in the realms of politics, economics, society and culture. During the Era of the Three States (4th to mid-7th centuries), the area was frequently used as a battleground among the ancient ruling kingdoms of Goguryeo, Baekje and Silla. It was designated as Korea’s capital city during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). Since then, the city has continued to grow to become the largest in the country. Following Korea’s independence from Japanese colonial rule in 1945, the city was named Seoul, which means ‘towering high.’ In 1949, it was designated as a metropolitan city by Korean government.
Seoul hosted the Summer Olympic Games in 1988 and the FIFA World Cup in 2002. Seoul has overcome many adversities and, with such tenacity, risen from the ashes of the Korean War to become a leading global city.

Details :http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/SI/SI_EN_3_6.jsp?cid=1364601

Deoksugung Palace (덕수궁)


• Description :The first palace with a European-style garden and fountain
• Transportation :Subway Line 1 or 2, Seoul City Hall Station, Exit #2, 5-minute walk
• Tel :+82-2-771-9951
• Details :http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/SI/SI_EN_3_6.jsp?cid=1364602

Hongdae, Hongik University street (홍대입구)



Hongdae is a neighborhood known for its youthful and romantic ambience, underground culture, and freedom of self-expression. Unique cafes, cozy galleries, accessory stores, fashion shops, live cafés and clubs, art markets, and gourmet eateries make this a popular hang-out for local youth and a fascinating place to walk around. These unique places plus the cultural events, street performances, and festivals held here make Hongdae an area that is always packed with people and excitement. Special streets such as ateliers’ street (lined with private institutions for art students preparing for university entrance exams), Picasso’s Street, and Club Street are also must-go places if you’re hoping to fully experience the Hongdae area.

Insa-dong (인사동)


• Description :A district of traditional cultural artworks such as antiques, arts, crafts and accessories
• Transportation :Subway Line 3, Anguk Station, Exit #6, 1-minute walk
• Tel :+82-2-734-0222
• Details :http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/SI/SI_EN_3_6.jsp?cid=1364602

Myeong-dong (명동)


• Description :A major shopping district selling the latest products in fashion and cosmetics
• Transportation :Subway Line 4, Myeongdong Station, Exit #6
• Tel :+82-2-757-0088
• Details :http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/SI/SI_EN_3_6.jsp?cid=1364603

N Seoul Tower


• Description :N Seoul Tower is a multi-cultural center offering a bird's eye view of Seoul. The tower and observatory light up the sky between 19:00 and midnight.
• Transportation :Subway Line 3 or 4, Chungmuro Station, Exit #2, take Bus 02 in front of Daehan Theatre
• Tel :+82-2-3455-9277
• Details http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/SI/SI_EN_3_6.jsp?cid=1364604

Busan | 부산

As most of us know, there's life outside Seoul. Busan is often an overlooked city, as many flock to Seoul, bright lights, big capital. But ask any Korean and they will tell you - Korea's second largest city Busan is by no means the ugly sister in the family. In fact, Busan is the real Korea. Colorful, brash but endearing, Busan is a rough diamond that certainly speaks for itself, as spending time with the locals will show you. Busan may feel like second fiddle for now but it's time is coming.

Details :http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/SI/SI_EN_3_6.jsp?cid=258277

Haeundae Beach



If you're going to head to the beach then there are seven in Busan to choose from. You must see Haeundae Beach - the most popular beach in Korea. Crowds cram this place every day in August and umbrellas mushroom across this 2km space but it has to be seen to be believed. Don't expect any great shakes as far as quiet beach resorts go, just enjoy it for what it is, it's an experience you won't forget. If personal space is more your thing, avoid July and August, there are less crowds and it is a more tranquil place - you may not be able to swim but a stroll along the white sands and the sounds of seagulls is perfect on a cool spring day. Just opt for exit 3 from Haeundae station, turn left and walk 250m.

• Directions :From Seoul Station(subway line #1 or 4 ) take KTX to Busan station( 2hr 30 min travel time) >> From Busan station walk 172m straight and take bus(# 1003)(04:20 to 22:20 / every 9 min / 31 min travel time) >> get off at Haeundae Beach stop and walk 169m to Haeundae Beach
• Telephone :+82-51-749-7614
• Details : http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/SI/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=264155

Jejudo Island | 제주도

Located southwest of the Korean Peninsula, Jejudo Island (제주도) is a volcanic island in the shape of an oval that measures 73km from west to east, and 31km from north to south. As Korea’s most southern region, the weather on Jejudo Island remains significantly warmer than the mainland even during the cold winter months. Jejudo Island is sometimes referred to as “Samdado Island” (삼다도, meaning the “three many”) because of its abundance of rocks, women, and wind. Wind from the ocean blows steadily throughout the year and past volcanic activity has littered the island with an assortment of beautiful and unusually-shaped black rocks. The island’s reputation of having an abundance of women points back to the time when fishing was the primary means of income and many men were lost at sea.

Details :http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/SI/SI_EN_3_6.jsp?gotoPage=1&cid=1068530&out_service=

Hallasan National Park [UNESCO World Heritage]



Hallasan (Halla Mountain) rises up proudly from the center of Jeju Island and is perhaps one of the island’s most memorable landmarks. Also called Mt. Yeongjusan, meaning ‘mountain high enough to pull the galaxy,’ Mt. Hallasan is widely acknowledged by scholars for its research value. Designated as a National Park in 1970, there are 368 parasitic mountains called ‘Oreums’ (peaks) around Halla Mountain.
Mt. Hallasan is famous for its vertical ecosystem of plants that results from the varying temperatures along the mountainside. Over 1,800 kinds of plants and 4,000 species of animals (3,300 species of insects) have been identified; to explore the mountain's treasures, simply follow one of the well-developed mountain hiking trails.
Hallasan Mountain is relatively easy to hike. With hiking courses less than 10km in length, it is possible to go to the peak and back in one day. However, the weather is very changeable and there is a lot of wind, so make sure that you are well prepared before you start climbing up the mountain.

• Directions
  Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal – Eorimok
  Take Bus 1100 (Jeju, Yeongsil, Jungmun), and get off at the entrance of Eorimok Trail.
  Bus schedule: 08:00, 09:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:20, 13:40, 15:00
  (April-October: two additional buses are operated at 6:30 and 16:00)
  Travel time: 35min
  Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal - Seongpanak
  Take Road Bus 5.16 (Jeju, Seongpanak, Seogui), and get off at Seongpanak.
  Bus schedule: 06:00-21:30, 10-15min intervals
  Travel time: 30min
• Details :http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/SI/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=264172

Gyeongju | 경주

Gyeongju (경주), located in southeast Korea, was the capital of the Silla Kingdom for 992 years (BC 57-935), the longest surviving kingdom in the history of Korea. Not only is it astounding that it was ruled by 56 kings spanning a period of almost a thousand years, it is equally remarkable that the kingdom of Silla originally started as a small tribal state and later expanded to occupy more than half of the Korean peninsula. The area was initially known as ‘Seorabeol' (서라벌) or 'Gyerim' (계림), and it wasn’t until the end of the era in 935 that it was first referred to as 'Gyeongju.'
Living up to its former glory as the capital of the longest-surviving kingdom in Korea, Gyeongju still shines today, more than a millennium after the kingdom’s demise. Buddhism was introduced in Silla in the 6th century and played a significant role in strengthening royal authority and unifying the people, becoming the foundation of the area's art, tradition, and culture. Consequently, Gyeongju is the home of the greatest Buddhist art treasures in Korea, and is the nation's most popular fieldtrip destination.
Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto are Gyeonju's most celebrated relics and are said to capture the essence of the Korean Buddhist culture. These two sites were the first sites to be registered as UNESCO World Cultural Heritages in 1995. In 2000, five districts were added to the list of World Cultural Heritages under the title 'Gyeongju Historic Areas.' Gyeongju is a virtual cornucopia of history, meriting praise and preservation worldwide.

Details :http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/SI/SI_EN_3_6.jsp?cid=996479

Bulguksa Temple [UNESCO World Heritage]



Bulguksa (불국사) is said to have been constructed as a representation of the ideal world of Buddha. This expansive temple is a valuable historic site, emanating the mystic beauty of Buddhism, the religious and cultural backbone of the ancient Silla Kingdom. In addition to the structure's compelling historical significance, it is also representative of the pinnacle of 8th century architectural prowess. The temple is home to numerous national treasures, the most notable being the Dabotap and Seokgatap pagodas in front of Daeungjeon Hall.

• Directions :From Gyeongju Intercity / Express Bus Terminal or Gyeongju Train Station, Take Bus 10 or 11 and get off at Bulguksa Temple.
• Tel :+82-54-746-9913
• Details :http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/SI/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=264261

What to eat

Quintessential Korean Food

김치 Kimchi Ingredients: Cabbage (or radish, cucumber, etc), julienne radish, minced garlic, diced green onion, salted fish, salt Spiciness: Description: Cabbages and other vegetables are soaked in salt water, then seasoned with different spices before being fermented. There are many different types of kimchi, such as cabbage kimchi (the most common), cucumber kimchi, radish kimchi, cubed radish kimchi, green onion kimchi, and more. It is a health food filled with vitamins, minerals, and more.

 

비빔밥 Bibimbap (Rice Mixed with Vegetables and Beef) Ingredients: Rice, fernbrake, roots of balloon flower, bean sprout, beef, red pepper paste, sesame oil Spiciness: Description: A dish made by mixing rice with various other cooked vegetables. Great for experiencing different vegetables, pleasing to the eye, and full of nutrients. Jeonju's variation of bibimbap is most famous.

 

불고기 Bulgogi (Beef in a Soy sauce Marinade) Ingredients: Beef (or pork), pear juice or sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, diced green onion, sesame oil Spiciness: Description: Beef or pork is sliced thinly then marinated in seasoning before being grilled.

 

갈비 구이 Grilled Galbi (Seasoned ribs) Ingredients: Beef rib (or pork rib), sugar, soy sauce, diced green onion, minced garlic, sesame oil Spiciness: Description: Ribs of beef or pork are sliced into easy to eat portions, then marinated in seasonings before being grilled. Suwon galbi is popular.

 

삼계탕 Samgyetang (Ginseng Chicken soup) Ingredients: Young chicken, sweet rice, ginseng, garlic, chestnut, jujube Spiciness: Description: A young chicken is cleaned out then stuffed with various ingredients before being boiled to draw out a delicious broth.

 

냉면 Naengmyeon (Buckwheat noodles in a cold broth)) Ingredients: Noodles made of buckwheat or starch, beef broth, thin slices of beef, julienne cucumber, julienne pear, boiled egg Spiciness: Description: Noodles served in cold beef broth- the soup is refreshing. There is also bibim naengmyeon, which doesn't have soup but is mixed with red pepper paste instead.

 

해물탕 Haemultang (Seafood stew) Ingredients: Crab, clam, shrimp, fish, radish, red pepper paste, red pepper powder, green onion, garlic Spiciness: Description: Various seafood are boiled before adding red pepper paste and red pepper powder. The broth is both refreshing and very spicy.

 

김치찌개 Kimchi jjigae (Kimchi stew) Ingredients: Kimchi, pork, sesame oil, green onion, garlic Spiciness: Description: First the pork is browned in the bottom of the pot before water and kimchi are added. If sour kimchi is used, it makes a better tasting stew.

 

닭갈비 Dakgalbi (Chicken ribs) Ingredients: Chicken, red pepper paste, pear juice, molasses, sugar, minced garlic, diced green onion Spiciness: Description: Chicken is seasoned with various spices, then grilled before eating. Chuncheon chicken ribs are famous.

 

설렁탕 Seolleongtang (Ox bone soup) Ingredients: Rice, beef, beef broth, diced green onion, minced garlic, red pepper power, pepper, salt Spiciness: Description: Beef is added to beef broth and stewed for a long time before being served with rice and various seasonings. The deep, rich taste of the broth, boiled for over 10 hours, is simply delicious.

 

갈비탕 Galbitang (Short rib soup) Ingredients: Beef rib (or pork rib), radish, diced green onion, minced garlic, pepper, sesame oil, sesame seed Spiciness: Description: Ribs are boiled with radishes to create a savory soup. Eaten together with rice, the broth is a delight.

 

죽 Juk (Porridge) Ingredients: Various grains Spiciness: Description: Water (6 or 7 times the amount of grain) is poured over grain and boiled for a long time. There are many variations of juk such as pine nut juk, sesame juk, jujube juk, red bean juk, beef juk, pumpkin juk, and abalone juk.

Popular Snacks

Korea is considered paradise when it comes to food. You can find everything from Korean, Western, Chinese, and of course such fast food restaurants like McDonald's and Burger King to foreign restaurant chains like Bennigan's and Outback Steak House. Among these choices the most reasonably priced food can be found at street vendors. Korea is unique in that not only does it have street carts to buy food from, but at night the streets are transformed with small tents that pop-up selling reasonably priced food and alcohol. At street carts, you can choose to eat standing beside the cart or have your food wrapped-up to bring home. Most Korean people consider the food sold here as a snack and do not usually eat it as a main meal. Many street vendors can be found near Sinchon, E-dae, Hongdae, and near many other university areas, as well as in the popular shopping districts of Apgujeong, Jongno, Myeong-dong, and Gangnam Station. Seasons also have unique specialties; bingsu is a refreshing iced treat in the summer whereas warm soup, gimbap, hotteok and bungeo-ppang are enjoyed in the fall and winter.

김밥 (Gimbap) Cooked rice is slightly seasoned with sesame oil, salt, and sesame seeds. Then it is placed on a sheet of dried laver. Strips of ham, pickled radish, seasoned spinach, and egg are then placed close together on the rice; it is then carefully rolled together until the roll is evenly shaped. The street vendors usually sell a mini-roll. Spiciness: Price: 1,500 - 4,000 won per roll

 

부침개 / 전 (Buchimgae/Jeon) Kimchi or seafood is stirred in a flour mixture, and then pan-fried in oil. Depending on the ingredients of choice, some types of buchimgae include kimchi-jeon and seafood-jeon. Spiciness: Kimchi-jeon - Price: 3,000 - 5,000 won per dish

 

떡볶이 (Tteokbokki) Rice powder is steamed and made into a long cylinder-shaped rice cake called garaetteok. It is cut into finger size pieces and cooked in a spicy and sweet sauce. Meat, vegetables or ramyeon can be added depending on different tastes. Tteokbokki, along with gimbap and odaeng (skewered fish cake), is one of the most common foods sold by street vendors. Spiciness: (depending on place) Price: 2,000 - 4,000 won per person

 

순대 (Sundae) This is a traditional sausage made of pig intestines stuffed with a mixture of bean curd, vegetables and potato noodles. Spiciness: (depending on place) Price: 2,000 - 4,000 won per person

 

어묵 (Eomuk) This is usually referred to as odaeng. Odaeng is a kind of fish cake. It is made of ground fish. This fish cake is skewered and soaked in boiling water along with radish and green onions. This popular dish is especially loved during the cold winter months. Spiciness: Price: 500 - 1,000 won for one skewer

 

튀김 (Twigim) This crispy fried treat is made in the same style as Japanese Tempura. Squid, dumplings, sweet potatoes, imitation crab, and assorted vegetables are among some of the most popular varieties of twigim that are served up on the street. Spiciness: oily Price: 2,000 - 3,500 won for 4-6 pieces

 

붕어빵/국화빵/계란빵 (Bungeo-ppang/ Gukhwa-ppang/ Gyeran-ppang) Bungeo-ppang gets its name from its fish-like shape. This sweet snack is molded in the shape of a carp, which is called bungeo in Korean. A pancake batter-like shell is filled with red-bean paste and then baked; it is especially enjoyed in the winter. Gukhwa-ppang is shaped like a flower and is slightly smaller than that of the similar tasting bungeo-ppang. Gyeran-ppang is also made of a pancake batter-like shell, but this is filled with an egg instead of the red bean filling. Spiciness: sweet Price: 500 - 1,000 won per piece

 

	호떡 (Hotteok) Flour and sugar are kneaded together and shaped into a small ball. Vegetables are sometimes added to the batter. Sugar and cinnamon are usually the staple fillings. Spiciness: sweet Price: 500 - 1,000 won per piece

 

쥐포, 마른 오징어 (Jwipo/ Dried Squid) Jwipo is a type of dried fish. At street carts, jwipo and dried squid are roasted over a bed of pebbles. Spiciness: Price: depending on size and taste, average prices range from 1,500 - 3,500 won and upwards one piece.

 

와플 (Waffle) Like Europe and America, Korea has also begun to enjoy the taste of the waffle. Waffles are usually topped with honey or apple jam and butter. Spiciness: Price: 1,000 - 3,500 won per piece

 

닭꼬치 (Dak-kkochi) Small pieces of chicken are skewered, coated in spicy sauce, and then grilled. Spiciness: Price: 1,500 - 2,000 won per skewer