'Land of the Morning Calm': 5 Things Americans need to Know about Korea

When you hear the word 'Korea,' what images enter your mind? Black and white photos of troops in the Korean War, or scenes from the Communist North? Ever since President Bush labelled the North as one of the "axes of evil" in his 2002 address, American perception of the Korean peninsula has largely narrowed to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea nuclear capabilities (the official name of North Korea). In a recent survey by Princeton University, only 11% of American voters "rate[d] North Korea favorably," making it the least favored regime world-wide. Caught up in this view, so many of us tend to forget that the peninsula is also home to the 12^th largest economy, and the ship-building capital of the world. Believe it or not, the Korean peninsula is a region vastly more complex and instrumental to the US than we imagine.

The main entrance to "Gyeongbokgung"- the Northern Palace

1. Opening the 5000 year-old doors: According to legend, the early Gojoseon* kingdom was established in 2333 BC, 300 years before the first Chinese imperial dynasties (*Gojoseon = Old Joseon, the 1st Korean dynasty). For the next 5000 years, the peninsula progressed through some of the most peaceful times in history, characterized by unusually long dynasties, and nonviolent power handovers at the turn of each era. However, this period of stability and “closed-door policies” came to a close with the implementation of the “Japan-Korea Treaty of 1856 (ie. Treaty of Amity),” which forced open the gates of Korean portsto both Japanese and European trade. About the same time the Wright brothers were amazing audiences with their control over flight, Koreans were watching the Japanese as they quickly took advantage of the treaty, and declared supremacy over the Korean peninsula. Until liberation in 1945, the citizens of "the Land of the Morning Calm" saw only a future of destruction as the Japanese mercilessly hounded the protectorate country, and embarked on inhumane brainwashing campaigns.

At the turn of the 20th century, Korea found itself embroiled in the conflicting interests of its neighbors: Japan, Russia, and China.

What began as a temporary boundary line is now a maximum security border; American and Korean troops patrol both sides of the DMZ (De-militarized Zone) at all times.

2. Division- Was it a Mistake?: After being liberated from Japanese rule, Koreans began planning for the road to reconstruction. (This movement was led by the Korean Provisional Government, which had functioned secretly in China during the Japanese occupation.) However, the Allied Forces were concurrently drawing up the "United Nations Trusteeship" (신탁통치), a treaty meant to aid in the establishment of a democratic government by dividing the peninsula into a US-led South and USSR-guided North. Although they began with good intentions, the two superpowers were unable to reach a “joint trusteeship,” and the hastily drawn 38^th parallel line became the official political boundary on August 15, 1948. Due to this, many older Koreans view the founding of the Republic of Korea with wistfulness and frustration for the united nation that could have been.

The DMZ today.

3. Rising Trade Star: Dwarfed by neighboring China & Japan, South Korea is often unacknowledged by the international community. But did you know that the Republic of Korea is the first in the world in ship-building (Hyundai Courtyard), second in IT development (Samsung-Galaxy, LG), and fifth in petroleum exports? This nation is the US's sixth largest partner in supplying imports, and its seventh largest market for exports, immediately behind countries like China, Japan, and Germany. This year marks the second anniversary of the US's Free Trade Agreement with South Korea, and according to Ambassador Froman, the KORUS (Republic of Korea Free Trade Agreement) is one of the most profitable deals the US has signed to date. Only 60 years ago, no one could have imagined that this poor country, demolished by decades of war, would ever reach the status it is at today.

Hyundai Industries shipyard in Ulsan, South Korea, reputedly the largest shipyard in the world.

4. Looking beyond the meme: As Americans, we tend to either tremble in fear at the prospect of nuclear invasion from North Korea, or scoff at the daily whims of its ruler, the world's most powerful "spoiled brat." But as citizens of the world's policeman, it's time we took our awareness beyond this level, and recognize the near 25 million people struggling under the Kim dynasty's despotic rule. We have to understand that after the collapse of the Japanese colonies, "the Great Leader" Kim Il Sung centered his entire nation around boosting the show of military finesse out of fear of future invasions. This set the stage for the world’s 5th most powerful military power, but it also resulted in absolute stagnation in the economy, and a vast famine (analysts to this day are not sure of the exact number of deaths). North Koreans live devoid of religious or speech freedoms, and their only exposure to the rest of the world is through the Chinese black market. Currently, any aid that the US or foreign NGO's attempt to give the regime are redirected as funds for the military. Before we can help the victims in North Korea, we must first crack the US's image as a calculating, backwards nation, its portrayal under Kim's "brainwashing" education techniques.

The heart-wrenching reality of families split by war in Korea has led to complete loss of contact between family members in the North and South. Through highly contentious family reunions, and the now-expanding Chinese black market, Koreans are just beginning to rekindle their old bonds.

5. We are one!: Koreans share 5000 years of history as a single people, and to this day, many firmly believe that reunification is in the peninsula’s near future. One of the many branches of the South Korean government is the ‘Ministry of Unification,’ and it has been the requirement of every presidential candidate to release a plan for union. Other indicators of this shared mentality can be found in the periodic “North & South family reunions,” and the Kaesong Industrial Complex, which until recently, allowed South Korean companies to employ thousands of North Korean workers in a ‘mutual benefit’ scenario. Through constant opportunities for interaction, both Kim Jong-Il and President Park Geun-hye are trying to steer their countries toward one destination. But the greatest hurdle lies in security, and such concerns have prevented a direct meeting between the two presidents (From the South, perceived nuclear and missile threats & from the North, the presence of permanent American troops). As American citizens, we are at a windfall, the enemy of one party and a strong rapport for the other. But in this conflict, it is our duty to keep in mind not just American interests abroad, but the interests of Koreans throughout the peninsula, and avoid the mistakes of our predecessors. 

Life- Hack: What we can learn from the life of President Park Geun-hye & other world leaders

​“Early to bed, early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise.” But, “those that sleep now can dream, while those that do not can achieve their dreams.” Whether it is from parents, teachers, our peers, or idols in history, we live in a world of increasing pressure to be productive and successful in life. Especially with the continual rise of brilliant new entrepreneurs in the Bay Area, the expectation that we follow in their footsteps surfaces every day. In spite of this, we are never told how to succeed, and the words of role models such as Benjamin Franklin and Ban Ki Moon often deliver contradictory messages. Could there be a secret step-by-step guide to becoming a noteworthy name in history? As author Brian Tracy once stated, “Successful people are simply those with successful habits.” Take a look at the habits of five famous figures, and what it took for them to be revered.

​President Obama has inspired many Americans with his dedication to a daily workout at 6:45 A.M, but the First Lady, Michelle Obama, normally leaves the gym at this time, returning home to pack lunch for her daughters. Her workout includes forty-five minutes of cardio and forty-five minutes of strength training, and she has yet to miss more than a single day at a time. What else can we expect from the founder of the “Let’s Move!” campaign?

         Adopting the lifestyle of his mother, a full-time novelist and mother of six children,Anthony Trollope believed firmly in the power of early morning inspiration, and would wake up at 5:30 A.M. to write. During this time, Trollope would sit with a watch in front of his paper, and demand of himself 3000 words by 8:30 A.M. or 250 words every fifteen minutes. At the end of his morning, he would immediately head off to a job in the postal service. Although work under such stressful conditions may seem difficult, Trollope managed to publish forty-nine novels in a period of thirty-five years, with his more famous works such as The Chronicles of Barsetshiremaking him the most celebrated English writer in the Victorian era.

           Most heads of state keep up with the height of technology in their country: not Park Geun-hye. The South Korean president is jokingly called “the notebook princess” for her adoration of the quickly-disappearing art of note taking. From meetings with high-profile leaders, to banquets with other Korean politicians, President Park is never seen without a notepad to jot down points that arise in discussion. This habit has both pleased and annoyed fellow officials, but it allows her to be prepared to deliver remarks at all times.

South Korean President and "notebook princess," Park Geun-hye, in discussion with President Obama.

         Many artists will attest to the saving power of a daily cup of coffee, and composer Ludwig Van Beethoven was no different. The first order of business every morning was to make breakfast, consisting of a large jug of coffee with exactly sixty coffee beans. (He often counted out the beans one-by-one himself.) Afterwards, he would pour in an incredible amount of sugar, near filling the cup to the rim, and mix it together with a concoction of very strong, black coffee. Perhaps it was such breakfast habits that contributed to Beethoven’s brilliance at the piano, conducting, and composing, even as a deaf musician.

​Neurologist and psychologist Sigmund Freud is famous for his discoveries on the power of human dreams, but he is also known for his well-groomed appearance. After waking up promptly at 7:00 A.M. each morning, the researcher would eat a light breakfast, and spend an hour at the barber shop, trimming his beard. It was once said of him that, “[Freud possessed] a commanding air… an air of power disciplined. Even Freud’s mustache and beard were subdued to order by a barber’s daily attention.” Freud worked hard to cultivate an image that appeased his patients, and through the daily routine, he created a ritual that eventually became an essential part of this incredible life.

       From artists, politicians, and writers, each of these giants possessed completely different habits, personalities, and working attitudes. So what was the secret to their success? Each of them lived strictly by a daily routine that allowed them to leave a unique imprint on the world. In order to make our contribution to society, perhaps it’s time each of us re-evaluate our lifestyles, and organize work and leisure around an unvarying time frame.

Frogs In a Well: What is our view of the world?

In a society where face-to-face communication has become a thing of the past, we are constantly hounded by conflicts resulting from misunderstanding and lack of empathy. The story of 'the frogs in a well' (originating from a Korean folktale: '우물 안 개구리') depicts the predicament of several frogs who stare up at the little circle of sky above their heads, and imagine it to be the entire universe. Limited by the stone walls around them, the amphibians have no desire leave the safety of their "haven," but they lose the opportunity at a life of incredible freedom in the great world just outside the well. 

Our greatest challenge today is to prevent ourselves from becoming trapped in this narrow worldview, and ponder on the perspective behind each country's actions, regardless of their implications at first sight. Imagine the outcome if the Taiwanese and Chinese people stopped to place themselves in each others' shoes, or if the US considered the historical and cultural significance of nuclear development before pressuring nations like Iran or North Korea. Through this "blog column," my goal is to introduce different perspectives on controversial current events, so as to extend deeper understanding of world happenings, and hopefully reveal a little more of the sky. Before our loyalty to a single nation, we are first and foremost citizens of the world, so never let the image of a united and peaceful Earth fade from your sight.

A New Asia: Building One Korea?

Far East Asia, the cornucopia of tomorrow’s economy, has long been racked with conflicts, ranging from territorial disputes, nuclear crises, and human rights abuse. However, there may be a single and surprisingly simple solution for US concerns in the area: the reunification of North and South Korea. Here’s how.

Russian advancement: Recently, American leaders have imposed strict sanctions on Russia in the fear that Putin will turn his gaze next on neighboring Ukraine or East Asia, where the stakes are high for a face-off with the US. Historically, Russia held a significant amount of power over North Korea, setting up its comrade’s government in 1945, and a “peaceful nuclear energy program” in the early 1960’s. Even though present-day Russian interactions with the North have grown chilly, a stronger Korean nation would warn off intrusions in the area, especially if it was backed by the US.

East Asia, with the divided Korean peninsula at its heart.

Nuclear threat: President Obama has stated repeatedly that complete nuclear disarmament is one of the main goals of his presidency. Even today, North Korea poses a threat to all countries in a wide missile range, forcing the US to tighten military security in the area. If the Koreas were united and North Korea disarmed, US troops would be granted more flexibility to address other regions of concern, and bordering global powers would be able to focus more on reviving their failing economies, versus boosting military force.

China: China has long been North Korea’s connection to the outside world, yet even it recognizes that continued relations with the closed regime are detrimental. The US has been gearing towards increased dialogue and leverage in the Chinese market, but conflicting views on the North Korean issue have been a stickler in negotiations (also in the Security Council). By playing on our shared goals of denuclearizing the Northern state, Korean reunification could be an opportunity to prove that cooperation is possible. If it means a halt in the flow of North Korean refugees across the border, Chinese opposition to a gradual disarmament and reunification is unlikely to take root.

China has long been North Korea's connection to the outside world.

Human rights: Earlier this month, the UN Commission of Inquiry on Human Rights published a report highlighting the shocking lives of North Korean citizens. Especially in political prisons, where children are on average three inches shorter than their Southern counterparts, living conditions almost mirror those of Nazi-enforced concentration camps. In the process of reunification, South Korea and international aid organizations could finally reach out to the regime’s victims, and accomplish a key aspect of the UN’s millennium goals. From reunification, perhaps other Tier 3 list countries will take the hint, and increase efforts to abolish human rights abuse.

Japan: Probably the US’s closest ally in Pacific Asia, this country has been cause for great headache in recent times due to the controversial actions of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. In a nation-wide campaign to recreate Japan’s imperialistic past, Mr. Abe pushed for Japan’s re-admittance as a “normal state,” with the ability to invade other countries, freezing relations with neighboring China and South Korea. Yet we must remember that Japan is tormented by a disaster-prone history with nuclear energy, and it’s not likely to risk an attack by North Korea without some form of self-defense. If reunification is the surest path to denuclearization in the Korean peninsula, then perhaps it’s the only way to talk Japan out of aggravating its neighbors. What with the Sino-Japanese tussle over islands in the East China Sea, a peaceful Japanese state would prevent full-out war between an American ally and a hopeful ally-to-be.

Korea: The main actors in the plot, North and South Korea both gain significantly from becoming one. In the short term, the costs of reinvigorating the northern economy could cut away up to 7% of South Korea’s current yearly GDP, while also fragmenting North Korean society as it has existed for the past seventy years. But it’s important to remember that before the disastrous 1900s, the Koreans shared 5000 years of history and culture. For decades, families separated by the 38th parallel have waited for the chance to glimpse their quickly aging relatives in scheduled family reunions. Within forty years of reunification, the combination of North Korea’s rich mineral deposits and human labor with South Korea’s technology-based economy could result in a powerful new member of the G-7. North Korea is a land of opportunity currently denied to foreign investment, and it could easily be an incredible source of capital to the South Korea, US, and participating powers. Without having to spend millions of dollars on border security, both Koreas could eliminate their mandatory military service, and introduce younger generations into the work force three years earlier. (The US also currently invests significant amounts of money and troops to protect South Korea.)

Today, the 38th parallel between the two Koreas is the most heavily guarded border in the world. But reunification is a clearly plausible future, if firmly supported by the United States. In the Korean War, South Korea was supported by the 21 different countries in the United Nations peacekeeping forces, where American troops made up 95% of the soldiers. Guided by the US mission, South Koreans were able to achieve the impossible and successfully defend itself from Communist takeover. If Americans and our government actively promote Korean reunification, other countries will join the cause, and what was once impossible will become the future: one Korea.

 

The future of one Korea is within our sight.

*The Treaty of San Francisco, signed at the end of WWII, mandates that Japan can only possess a standing army for defensive purposes.

**A system of rating governments for their efforts to prevent trafficking, established by the International Labor Organization (ILO). Countries in Tier 3 are subject to sanctions for not demonstrating effort to combat human rights abuse.

Choco Pies and Cup Noodles: the Keys to Peace in East Asia

Chocolate and marshmallow sandwiched into a pie. Cheap noodles packaged with instant sauce additions and toppings. For many people across the globe, choco pies and cup noodles are a coveted snack, cheap to buy and easy to eat. However, in impoverished countries such as North Korea, these food items are a forbidden delicacy, and symbolize the wealth of our modern society, a world they have never known.

            Immediately following its establishment after the Korean War, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea(North Korea) was almost completely sealed from all outside influences, allowing no foreigners to enter its borders. For a period of time, it seemed the regime would survive with aid from its Communist allies, but as this supply began to dwindle, a disastrous famine struck the entire country. In the 1990s, over 1 million North Koreans perished from lack of food and the indifference of its exclusive ruling party. At the same time North Koreans were quietly starving beneath the dear leader, their neighbor to the south was reaching the peak of an economic miracle. By the start of the 21^st century, South Korea had gone from one of the poorest countries to the thirteenth wealthiest economy in the world, acting as a donor to countries that had given it aid only decades before. In a desperate response and grasp for power, then North Korean dictator Kim Jong Il set aside all remaining supplies for the military, and redoubled efforts to begin a nuclear program. This act, although highly unfortunate, eventually became the common ground for the Kaesong Industrial Complex, a joint venture by the governments of North and South Korea that employed 53,000 North Korean workers. Although all wages were paid directly to the North Korean government, workers would receive “bonuses” of cup noodles and choco pies (the North Korean government forbid South Korean companies from giving monetary bonuses to their citizens). These small gifts were astonishing to the North Koreans, for they represented an unknown life in a society where such delicious food was commonplace and easy to obtain. As the delicacies began to find their way into North Korean markets, they became as valued as hard currency, becoming a bargaining chip for basic necessities and the face of growing dissent among North Koreans. The introduction of these foods would usher in a wave of illegal trade with nearby countries (i.e. China), and an increased awareness of the wealth of the outside world, in comparison to their own communist “utopia.”

Choco pies: a coveted snack food in both North and South Korea

This realization and the “money” brought in by sale of South Korean snacks could be the inspiration necessary to kindle a civilian coup de tat within the North Korean monopoly. As no foreign country is in a position to even suggest reform in North Korea, government overthrow can only occur at the hands of the people, leading to potential reunification in the Korean peninsula, and elimination of a serious nuclear threat. The American public has long focused its attention on the outrageous actions of Kim Jong Un, making him a household name. Yet, as we continue to hear of the sudden murder of the dear leader’s uncle, or the extensive wardrobe of Kim Jong Un’s wife, thousands of North Koreans die from human rights abuses and harsh labor in political prison camps. By providing North Koreans with more choco pies and cup noodles, we can refocus our North Korean spotlight away from the “dear leader” and to his “dear people,” and supply the people of the “hermit kingdom” with a symbol to inspire the revolution of the century. Choco pies and cup noodles for freedom!

Shin ramen black: the most popular cup noodle brand in South Korea, is gaining wide popularity throughout the North and the rest of the world today.

Pope Francis: Catching the Wave of Catholicism in Korea

Pope Francis recently captured the attention of the world, specifically Koreans, when he announced that he would be visiting Korea, his first trip to an Asian country, in August of this year, commemorating International Youth Day. This move is long overdue, especially due to the great rise in Catholicism across Asia and in Asian youth. The pope's announcement was greeted with great excitement by Korean communities, even outside the religious sense. But why all this fuss? As the first pope from a developing nation, and a powerful advocate for the poor, the pontiff has garnered great international fame as the leader to guide the Catholic Church toward change.

The pope's announcement of his Asia trip (Korea & back) came on his return flight to Rome from Brazil.

It’s a busy afternoon in Buenos Aires, and the subways are packed with travelling Argentinians. All are deeply occupied in their own business, pouring over maps or talking loudly into phones over the screech of wheels, and almost none bother to converse with the strangers around them. Amid the noise and bustle, an old man sits quietly in one of the railway cars. Set in a weary face, his haggard, deep-set eyes scan the other passengers, and a faint smile plays along his lips and crinkles the corners of his eyes. During the short subway ride, hundreds of people walk by the aging man, not noticing or caring that he wears a clerical collar, casually angled downward. Only after a photo of the scene is printed six years later for TIME’s ‘Person of the Year,’ people realize they were passing in the presence of future Pope Francis.

In his first year as Pope, Jorge Bergoglio has made clear that he intends to serve and live with the needy, a mission both reflected in his actions and written across his facial features. One of the most striking aspects of the pontiff are his dark, serious eyes. Whether he is delivering a homily at the Domus Sanctae Marthae, or praying for the needy in the streets, his piercing gaze searches specifically for all those who are ignored by society. Early this year, the Pope celebrated his birthday in the company of unexpected guests: three homeless men (and their dog), whom he invited in for breakfast from the streets of the Vatican. Likewise, Pope Francis has tried continuously to target groups in need, regardless of the controversy it sparks. In one of his most famous photos, he is pictured blessing the head of a man horribly disfigured by disease, his own head bowed with love and empathy for the victimized man. In all of his pictures, Pope Francis is portrayed as a strong-minded champion for the needy, and his all-seeing gaze is only further strength for a lifelong commitment to the poor. 

2018 Winter Olympics: Pyeongchang or Pyongyang?

Earlier this week, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) released a report that the 2018 Winter Olympics, originally set for Pyeongchang, South Korea, were being relocated north to the North Korean capital of Pyeongyang. The IOC’s decision came amid growing concerns on the wisdom of hosting an event so close to North Korea, especially after the security issues in Sochi. However, in a press conference regarding the decision, IOC president Thomas Bach announced, “By giving North Korea a major role in such an international competition, we hope it will take on more responsibility as an international player, and open up future conversations with their government.” Because much construction has already been completed in Pyeongchang, the two cities agreed to divide up the facilities, leaving the main Olympic village in the south, and moving the mountainous sliding sports to North Korea’s new Masik Ski Resort.  In secret visits to Pyeongyang before last week’s announcement, inspectors were reportedly well-pleased with the quality of the facilities, saying “[The facilities’] qualifications will easily meet the high standards of the international community.” Construction of a high speed rail between the two sites is scheduled to begin later this month, which will reduce commute time across the border to one hour. But will this temporary alliance really be possible?

The new Masik Ski Resort in Pyongyang, North Korea.

According to the Unified Korean Olympic committee, the answer is a definite “yes.”  In the original bid for the 2018 Olympics, the Pyeongchang commission reported, “[We hope] this event will be a significant milestone in the reconciliation and reunification process between North and South Korea” (The Conversation). Surprisingly, the single purpose of carrying out a huge operation has brought the two states to friendlier terms than ever before. At joint planning sessions, the outright hostility present at past talks is nowhere to be seen, and officials on both sides are cautiously optimistic for the future of Korean relations. As a side note, state-run media responded to doubts about the country’s ability to host the thousands of visitors accompanying the Olympics. Citing “the miracle of its nuclear state,” the secretary-general of the national ski association promised, “If we can make nuclear weapons and rockets, we can build an Olympic village.” Judging by the surprising responsiveness of the North Korean government, this could be one small step toward a safer and non-nuclear North Korean state. All that remains now is to see the nation fulfill its promise.

Construction and development of Olympic facilities is well underway in Pyeongchang.