A Day of Professional Development: KOTESOL International Conference 2012

On October 20th and 21st Sookmyung Women's University held the 20th KOTESOL International Conference. During this time teacher's and ESOL enthusiasts gathered to see presentations ranging from topics such as mobile language learning to gaining more participation from students. Yet most importantly it felt like a time to celebrate the profession of teaching English as a second or foreign language.

I for one enjoyed the presentations I attended and especially found the conference well organized and entertaining.

The opening ceremony (seen above) showcased key speakers and introductory speeches by the University's President and other figures.

A hot topic in the ESOL profession must be how new technology can be used by the teacher and students. Certainly the plenary presentation touched on this in their "Mobile Language Learning: Turning Challenges into Opportunities" by Mike Levy and Glenn Stockwell. Although, I am somewhat conflicted on being told how mobile devices can be used for education because I think for most of us this comes naturally. I would have liked instead to see actual lessons presented where the use of these devices pan out. Instead of a hodgepodge of how it all could work.

Yet the presentations I attended offered more focus on subject areas, which I was keen to gain more knowledge on.

The first presentation I went to was in the morning and was called, "Reading Fluency: Rationale, Measurements, and Interventions" by Elton LaClare. I found his presentation simple and to the point with no real fancy flare to it. Yet that was good as the subject he talked about is important to think about when teaching. How do we assess our students reading skills in a way that will be accurate but also useful to the student? He showed several ways one can do this and web tools that can help. Overall, a good presentation.

After lunch I stepped into the presentation, "The M & M's of Teaching English to Young Learner: Using Music, Movement, and Multiple Intelligence" by Kathleen Kampa. Now I should have known before heading in that this would feel more like an ad campaign for Oxford books, but it didn't hit me till later on.

Her presentation was very lively, useful and on point with getting kids up and moving in class. Certainly I agree that young learners need movement, music and lots of action to help them learn English. I would say I teach young learners but I feel there is a distinct difference between a 9 year old vs. a 6 year old. For one I couldn't really get my sometimes bitter students to get up and sing and clap. But don't get me wrong I do find physical ways to get them involved.

Kathleen's presentation was to show us how these interactive attributes can be executed in the classroom. However, I think she had everyone doing the exercises a little too much. I would have rather liked to hear more about the effectiveness of these devices, then swinging my arms around and touching my toes. It also made me feel like a horrible teacher for not teaching my kids this way. And I really wanted to ask her, "Do you think someone could teach in this style for 8 hours a day?" It reminded me of my hagwon days, and how they (parents and supervisors) expect you to be this active, cheerful person for every class, and the unrealistic nature this creates.

So I didn't quite swing my arms enthusiastically or shout out "triangle" as loudly as other folks. But if I am ever to be a room with 6 year olds again, I'll know what to do. Just turn every task into a chant, smile and swing my arms a lot.

Thankfully the next presentation I went to hit the nail on the head for what I was looking for. Jackie Bolen of the blog, "My Life! Teaching in a Korean University" gave an excellent presentation called, "Teaching: the Small Stuff that Actually Matters".

She outlined 10 useful items that teacher's can use to focus on when developing their career in the classroom. Although this presentation was set for University teacher's her general point can be transferred to other levels. I particularly agreed with her point, "Don't hide" as I for one think it is best to be out and about in your classroom. Not sitting or standing behind your desk, but up and around the room. Sure teacher's need to take a rest at some point, and this could be done during work time. But generally one should show they are in command of their classroom and let students know they are there to be involved with them.

After taking part in presentations one could wander through the hallways checking out materials and booths with sponsors of the program. However, this became quite dizzying and it kind of made me late to a few presentations.

Outside there were tents up with coffee and snacks for lunch. I enjoyed a pastrami sandwich from Suji's.

If you are interested in developing yourself further as a teacher, or would like to start understanding this profession more, than I highly recommend attending these functions. You can start by joining the KOTESOL organization, which will later give you discounted entry into these events. If anything attending workshops or conferences is a great way to network and meet other people interested in going beyond griping, to talking about how to improve the results in their students. For one of the key speakers said it best, "...we are here because we aren't just satisfied that our students are quiet and parents have stopped complaining ...", we are here to go beyond what is asked of us. 

First Time Teacher's in Korea: Some helpful points

Last weekend I randomly met up with a newcomer to Korea. He has been here about half a year and teaching down in Jinhae, which is near Busan. During our visit he expressed to me some difficulties getting use to teaching in Korea. Certainly some of the points he made were exactly how I felt when I first started teaching, and I couldn't help but see how far I have come. Recently he posted this on his Facebook:

"I'm not sure if I'm making any positive impact on my students...I wish I knew how to be a good teacher, but also a better human being. I don't think there's a book out there that teaches you both. I sense many students don't want to be here learning English. By the time they get to my class, they are too tired and don't want to learn. They have no idea how good they have it here. Not until the

y face some hardship. ... Sometimes I think I would be better off being in a place where underpriviledged children would really want to be educated. Sometimes being in a modern society can dehumanize anything worth humanizing. It's hard to be in a classroom when no one really wants to be there and learn. I don't care what culture I'm in, I don't tolerate disrespect from anyone. I'm a teacher, not a circus clown either. I do have some integrity for my profession."

*As you read keep in mind that I'm not an expert on all this, just someone with five years experience and also keen to observation. ;)

Main difficulties:

I. Feeling like a Clown:

I think for most new teacher's in Korea one of the very first things you notice in your classroom is that the students will not treat you like a true teacher. Depending on your school, this would apply to most classes where the age is under middle school (and possible high school). Students here, for the most part, see the foreign teacher as someone to play with and not treat the same as a Korean teacher. Unless you have experienced it already, the students will straighten up and put their heads down if a Korean person walks into the room, which often times leaves you feeling pointless. In this case you end up feeling like a clown or entertainer, and not a teacher. (However, after you build up your management style the students will end up respecting you...as you will see down further)

II. Lack of respect from students:

You walk into your classroom, or the students come in and the bell rings. They are mostly speaking Korean, not sitting nicely and not really "ready" for class. You say, "Sit down, be quiet, let's get ready!" And a few do, but most do not. Throughout the class kids continue to talk or act up when told to straighten out. Generally you feel not respected as a teacher in front of your students.

III. No training

Depending on your school and program you might receive a few days of training and observation before actually starting. But typically you don't experience this when you first teach in Korea. If you are part of the EPIK, GEPIK....etc entourage then you will end up going to orientation a few times. However, in my experience those events don't really prepare you for what realistically happens. All in all, training someone costs money and schools and governments will not go out of their way to shell out quality training. They hired you mostly for your background and native-speaking abilities. Not really on your accounts of teaching abilities. However, these days they are hiring "qualified" folks for the job. Even still, I think the general lack of training is a main complaint from new teacher's here, whatever your background may be.

Solutions, tips and ideas:
Now that I have brought up some main points about the top difficulties of first teaching in Korea, I would like to express ways to get use to it and improve yourself. Again I'm no expert, but would like to reassure you this job is possible.

I. Let go!

For one let go of taking your position here so seriously. Yes you are an important person and your an adult and should be treated like one. But the more you fight to be recognized as such and in a serious frustrated manner, the less your going to win. I hate to say this but you should delve into being the "clown". You don't have to end up acting like a fool or berating yourself in front of your students but finding your humorous and silly side will help.

The people who should really take you seriously at your school are the one's in managerial positions, like your hagwon boss or school Principal. When you are in the classroom let the seriousness go and try to find ways to make it a fun experience for the students. I'm telling you as soon as you start going with the flow you will end up getting their respect.

II. Constructing your "teacher self"

If you have come to Korea with little or no experience teaching, or no experience around children then of course you aren't going to get this right the first few months. Teaching in South Korea (especially with the younger crowd) is mostly about classroom management. In between the "Sit down!" "Everybody look, look at me!" you will be doing some actual teaching. I would say for your first few months research and figure out your style of classroom management. There are several well known techniques such as sticker charts (or stamps), stars next to names on the board, or group competition.

You can use sites like waygook.org to find great resources on management that works for teacher's in South Korea.

After you have down some kind of management system you can start to sense who you are as a teacher. For one your tone of voice should change in the classroom, in pitch but also in how you pace what you say. These kids are learning English as a Foreign Language after all, and you will need to accommodate to their listening levels.

Next see what you can do to make your lessons fun and enjoyable to both you and the students. If you are teaching from a set curriculum and have all the materials and books, then find ways to turn things into games and activities. Don't just have them read all at once together, try something called "popcorn" reading where they take turns.

There are an amazing amount of ways to make the classroom fun, but depends on you and the energy you have to bring to your classes. I for one couldn't keep up what I do for 8 straight classes, which is why I don't teach at a hagwon. But all in all, you need to embrace your teacher self and see what works and doesn't.

III. Network and get inspired

I agree that schools should do a better job of training, but also constructive oversight throughout the year. When a boss says, "One student dropped from your class. I might have to fire you" is something I don't think will motivate teacher's to do better.

I've come to realize that as expats we need to train each other. That is why I'm a part of the KOTESOL organization to get tips and feedback from other experienced teacher's. Even though most of the people in this group are University teacher's I think their advice can go a long way.

Also I use waygook.org to get tips and ideas that have been quite useful. Generally though talk to other teacher's but don't just gripe about your situation. Get ideas and talk about what works and doesn't. We are a great resource to each other.

Lastly:

I know not every new person here has issues with their teaching job, and jump into the classroom all giddy and ready for action. But for the most part figuring out ways to get the students participating and having a good time should be something we all strive for. I hope some of these tips I expunged will help you see that you are a valuable person here and can really do so much besides just sitting at your desk and delegating tasks to students. Get up! Have fun with your students, cause they have a lot to give in return.

Seoul Cambridge Day XII

On a lovely early Fall day I headed to Sookmyung Women's University in the Yongsan area. This campus is quite lovely and set atop a hill near a park. If you ever get the time I would suggest exploring this area as there are many restaurants, cafes and dessert shops nearby.

I came for the event Seoul Cambridge Day XII, as suggested by the KOTESOL organization. This event brought together teacher's and professionals to hear lectures on Cambridge materials and teaching methods.

I arrived early and enjoyed light snacks while browsing the selection of TESOL materials and mingling with other professionals.

Throughout the days lectures we were promised raffle prizes, of which I won none. A Kindle Fire was up for grabs, but alas was not passed along to me. However, I took in the lectures and ambience as best I could.

First lecture was by Steven Gershon who presented us with a topic about Writing and how that is one of the most challenging topics to teach in this profession. So he gave his thoughts on how to tackle this by using a process based method of teaching. Although I don't teach writing directly I thought his remarks were quite useful in what challenges students the most with writing.

The next lecturer was Gary Anderson who brought everyone up to speed on how Technology works itself into the classroom. For the most part it was what we already knew, except for the Interactive White Board technology which I have yet to use. I think mostly he remarked on how technology can be useful both inside and out of the classroom, by having students build e-portfolios.

I stuck around only for the next lecturer and didn't hear Gary give his final talk. This person was Judy B. Gilbert who gave an interesting and entertaining talk about pronunciation and ways we can make it more interesting for the student. Before she started we were handed little baggies including a kazoo, rubberband and a feather. All of which can be used to help students understand stress points in words and their "p" and "b" pronunciations.

Overall it was a fun experience with many new things to think about when it comes to teaching English. I was impressed by the volume and scale of the Cambridge University Press materials, and noticed that I already had a few copies at home. They supplied us with kimbop, pastries and snacks during break time, which was thoughtful. I would definitely recommend attending this event next year along with joining the KOTESOL organization if you feel like further developing your teaching skills. Also check out this Cambridge English Teacher website which I believe offers resources and tips.

Volunteered to Paint the Walls

It might be roasting hot outside, but that didn't stop me from volunteering my free time this Saturday to help paint the walls. The Mannam International Volunteer Association puts on regular trips and activities to help out in the community. It's funny how I came across this group. The first time I was walking to the station near my house and someone handed me a card. At the time I passed it off as another religious group wanting English speakers.

Later on I met someone new at one of the studio sessions at Jankura art space, and they told me how the group is a lot of fun and goes to many locations around Korea. So I became interested and exchanged emails with her.

A few weeks ago she told me about a mural painting project and I lept at the idea. A school out near Myeongil-dong needed their walls painted. However, this was no ordinary school and is one meant for disabled children. As I painted the wall, I couldn't help but imagine the cheerful smiles the students would have when they return to school and see the characters on the wall.

When I arrived I was handed a paint brush and paints by my friend and told, "I started to make this bunny, but I think you can do better." I suggested putting a black outline around it, and went from there. Although the "space bunny" wasn't as exciting to look at like Pororo next to it, I tried to spruce it up as I went along.

I gave him a blue space pack, pink ear and nose, and a blue big eye to look out at on everyone. I also tried to whiten him up in areas. I have to say I would tried to have stayed longer and help out on other parts of the wall, but I was beat from the heat. However, I left feeling accomplished and that I did some good.

Here are some pictures of the rest of the wall.

This group also has cooking classes, Korean classes and meet ups often, so if you want to meet new people than join up. You can meet people from around the world, as is hinted in the "International" portion of their name. Check out the Facebook group for another way to get connected.

A Response to This American Life's "American's in China"

A while back I listened to the podcast show of This American Life's episode, "Americans in China." As I listened I was amused to hear familiar tales of life in an Asian country, coming from seasoned expats. At the same time I was a little peeved that the good folks at This American Life didn't consider the same show but with Korea as their backdrop. Heck, why not even a similar show with both Korea and China together? Maybe now that Samsung is becoming a big hit abroad, popular media will pick up on what life is like out here. Until then I feel like responding to their episode with bits of my interpretations to life on the peninsula.

Point 1: Foreigners on TV in China might be more exploited than foreigners on TV in Korea.

In the beginning of the show you are treated to an introduction about how foreign folk (mainly non-Asian) are often asked to be shown on TV. Not just this but typically they are made to sing or dance for the audience, which makes some people feel like monkeys.

Benji: When foreigners go on TV shows, the most common thing is, they like to dress them up in old Chinese garb, like the Tang Dynasty clothes, and make them sing some old Chinese song and say some ridiculous phrase in Chinese. And then the host will come out and just kind of make fun of them ....
Like I've heard that in Chinese TV, the things that get the best ratings are children, animals, and foreigners, which just kind of says it all. It's just that foreigners are considered cute and adorable. It's kind of like a baby who can't take care of himself and needs to be loved.

Sound familiar? The thing is though I haven't felt like foreigners have been made to do the same thing here on Korean TV. Sure foreigners are interviewed and put up on Arirang TV or news shows, but they haven't been randomly plucked off the street and whisked to the studio. I've known several bloggers who have been on popular tv programs here, but they were given notice and a choice.

However, I would say that foreigners are often depicted in non-sensical and racist ways on Korean TV, as seen in the MBC video (the scandalous one that reveals the "truths").

Anyways the theme of the show seems to be about how foreigners are interpreted in the communities around China, and how the foreigners themselves have learned to live and love the country.

Point 2: Always the outsider

The show transitions into a segment about the senior expats in China and how they have become so adapted to the atmosphere, that their almost "Chinese" themselves. Then it grows into a segment about one family that lives in the rural part of the country. Where on the one hand they are the welcomed foreign traveler that brings English language to the village, yet on the other they are the complete outsider.

This piece centers around Michael Meyer who has written the book, "The Last Days of Old Beijing." He lives in the rural town of "Wasteland", which is uncanny enough. As a man married to a Chinese woman, he gets asked about his family there a lot. Yet even though probably every villager knows him by now, he still receives the stare.

In urban China, the sight of a foreigner no longer causes a crowd to gather and stare. But in the rural half, people still approach me with friendly, cautious curiosity, the way you might if a giraffe wandered down your street. I read that the comedian Steve Martin used to hand autograph seekers a signed name card that confirmed the person had met Steve Martin and found him to be warm, polite, intelligent, and funny. I've often thought of making a similar card to present with a silent smile, answering the usual six questions asked of me in this order.

I've had the same idea, to have a small laminated card with the basic details of my life on it. "Where are you from?" "How old are you?" "How long have you been in Korea?" "Yes I can eat kimchi and use chopsticks." ...etc. Something to present the next person who starts asking me these questions, to which I can hurry things along and get to more personal and fun questions about myself.

But he also expresses the encounters he has had that were humbling, like a construction worker who asked him a philosophical question about life. I too have randomly found myself having a strange yet deep conversation with Korean strangers on the street (in English).

The show continues to show how Michael's life in rural China becomes how he is a representation of his country. People ask him about political and economical life in America, and why they are such a superpower. Similarly, I've felt like a small diplomat over here covering for my country when huge issues occur.

He moves on to the disruption his presence causes in the village, that he really has no control over.

Like teachers, writers are worthy of pity in China, even out in the sticks. But I know the trouble my presence causes, cutting a wake across the surface of village life. China's distrusts the single traveler, the person without a work unit or even a name card, especially when the person is a la-wai, an old outsider, as foreigners are often called. And with reason-- we can always leave.
Chinese doesn't use tenses or differentiate between singular and plural. So one la-wai is the same as six la-wai. But in situations such as this, in a town so small, where I am a visitor, teaching, sure, and invited to weddings and funerals and New Year's dinners, but a guest always. I know how to describe my numbers. Just as there is a murder of crows and a school of fish, in China, even in the middle of Wasteland, the foreigner is always a hassle of la-wai.

I think I can never voucher for being that disruptive in my neighborhood, as I live in a highly dense part of Seoul. But I can say I've recognized my presence in the schools I've worked as one where people walked on eggshells around me. Not because I was a terrible person (I'm a nice person!), but because they didn't want to speak English or deal with whatever might happen. This only meant for me to warm up to people in my school slowly, so to make my presence a warm one.

~~

It's a fun podcast and gives you some insights into what expat life in China is kind of like. Certainly, interesting to see the similarities and differences. I do wonder what it would be like to be an expat of one country for a long time, and move to the next. Readjustments not only in language surely must be a hurdle to overcome. Anyways, take a listen to this podcast and see what you can discover for yourself.

Language Exchange Cafe Meetup: Hyehwa

These days I know I need to learn and use more Korean. Especially when someone asks me, "How long have you been in Korea?" To which I say, "Four years now." And then the usual response is, "Oh! You must speak Korean very well!" Sorry, not really.

It's a sad fact that clouds my life here in Korea, but don't get the wrong idea. I know how to read Korean very well and have a good bag full of phrases and sentences I can use to get by. I understand most of what people say around me, but as far as conversation and full understanding that is still yet to be accomplished. So I have decided to try out language exchange happenings through group meetups.

I found one such group through Meetup.com, and it looked promising. They have several locations you can go join, and I was pleased to see one open up near me in Hyehwa. 

Yesterday, I finally decided to head out to the meet up and see what would happen. I was kind of skeptical since I don't really have a heavy Korean language background and was worried the folks there would be expecting a lot.

I showed up to the Serendipity Cafe, where I looked at their menu and decided to just get a bottled lemonade instead. After sitting around on the 2nd floor, I realized that maybe the party was upstairs on the 3rd floor. I was right, and found a check-in desk at the front where you write down your name and stamp the paper according to the languages you know. Mine received a "K" and "E" stamp for Korean and English. However, I wish I could have just stamped half the Korean one.

I sat down and found myself sitting next to some friendly looking people. Things started off with a few giggles but the basic questions were asked, in English. I told the folks that I knew Korean but not enough to make conversation, yet was fine with just speaking English if they wanted. Conversations started and I found myself having a good time.

As time went on and I got to know the other half of the table, I did find myself learning some Korean and practicing it. The most problem I see is that my brain starts to really get tired fast of all the new language learning, but I trucked on.

Generally, I mostly wanted to meet new people and I accomplished that. Plus I got a sense of what it is like to go to one of these exchange things and I can see it probably depends who you sit next to. Apparently, the Hyehwa meet up was a lot smaller than the usual ones in Gangnam or Hongdae. I kind of can't imagine being part of a huge crowd for language exchange. I think I like the smaller scene better. I also think what was best was making new friends and if you feel like it can meet later on for more practice.

Anyways, if you are interested in joining one of their meetups I would highly suggest it. You can find them on the following sources.

• Meetup Page
• Facebook Page

If you know of any other groups that have worked for you with language exchange, do share with me as I would love to see what they are like. Anyways, I hope this language exchange business helps motivate me to really learn and use Korean this year. 

Sketch & The City 2012: Spring Outing

The view: A crowded urban exterior in the place called Itaewon.

                                The set up: Easel, art pad, watercolor pencils...

The progress:

Other view:

On Saturday, May 19th, I participated in the first Sketch and the City event for 2012, near the Jankura studio space in Itaewon. I came a little late but had enough time to set up and make something. It was a lovely spring day, with a cool breeze and sunny weather. 

People passing by enjoyed admiring the works in progress, making comments and saying "Wow!" It was a good time and gave me practice.

The final work:

Using watercolor pencils has been a fun new tool I've picked up, but I kind of missed using paint during this event. However, I'm still getting the hang of this medium, so we'll see.

Even if you don't have much experience with drawing or painting, I recommend joining the Sketch and the City events as a way to enjoy the Seoul scene.

Foreigner Joy Cooks: Spanish inspiration

Back in my home country I can easily go to the store and get a rice mix to take home. You know one of those "Spanish" or "Mexican" ready-made rice mixes that you just throw in a pot with some water, and you're done. Not really the case in Korea, where rice mixes tend to lean more towards a Korean flavor. In this case, I realized that I should just try to make the same thing but from scratch.

So I did some searching and found a good recipe from All Recipes.com titled, "Best Spanish Rice." Truth be told, I don't really know what true Spanish rice tastes like, and can only assume this recipe is not the real thing. But my gut tells me I'm mostly following an Americanized version of something here.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons oil

• 2 tablespoons chopped onion

• 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup chunky salsa

Thankfully, all of those items are easily attainable in Korea. The chicken broth can be found at Homeplus, and salsa is seen in regular supermarkets here, too. I also managed to get a hold of some cilantro from my local Lotte Mart, and knew I had to include it. The "Mexican-style Chili Powder" was my own addition I had brought back from home. 

The cooking process was quite simple and pretty basic.

• Saute onions in the oil in your large skillet / pot. I had no real sauce skillet thing so just used my regular pot.
• After onions have become slightly clear mix the rice into the pot and stir till it looks kind of brown.
• After this pour in the liquids (salsa and stock) and all your other extras (cilantro...seasoning). Stir and bring to a boil.
• Once simmering, reduce heat to low and let cook for 20 minutes. However mine finished before that, as I think my gas stove is just too powerful.

To complete this meal I made bean tacos to accompany the rice. The refried beans came from an order I made online via nicemarket.net. I haven't found refried beans at my local Homeplus or Lotte Mart, but have seen other canned beans, such as black beans and cannelli. I think a black bean taco could also work. Tortillas are something you could easily make yourself here, but if your like me you can just buy them locally. 

The final result was a wonderful and delicious meal, and made even more better because I didn't have to trek anywhere to get it. 

I highly recommend making this at your home, and maybe inviting some folks over to enjoy it with. 

hair In Love Salon: A Great New Place to get a Hair Cut in Seoul

On an impulse I went to a new hair salon with my friend last Thursday. It is called Hair in Love, and is located near Apgujeong, Seoul. The questions, "Where can I get a great hair cut in Seoul?" "Where can I go to get a hair cut with an English speaker in Seoul?" or "I want to find a salon that isn't too big but knows what they are doing?" Along with, "I have curly hair, where can I get my haircut in Seoul?" Can all be answered by going to this salon, where Jun the hair stylist speaks English and knows what he is doing.

I'll post directions at the end of this write-up.

The salon is a cozy one with only a few chairs for clients and some area for sitting. But I liked this as I didn't feel like just another head of hair in a large salon. We came on a Thursday afternoon, and from what I hear the weekend can get quite busy. This place also does hair coloring, perms and straightening, which according to some folks do a great job.

I went in for my usual spring hair-cut, and asked for, "More layers with it being longer in the front and shorter in the back." As Jun consulted with me he was quite intuitive and asked if I wanted an asymmetrical look, but I wasn't too sure about it. During the cut he was very attentive and not distracted at all. I tend to find that in larger salons the hair dresser often is multi-tasking.

Although I didn't ask for it, they blow dried my hair and straightened it after the cut. I guess next time I should of said that I want to keep the curly look. But it was fun anyways to sport a straight look for the evening.

Just so you get an idea, here is what I looked like before...

My hair cut was just 27,000 won, which is incredibly cheap compared to back home in the States. Plus I felt that was a reasonable price for one in Korea. My friend, however, got her hair dyed and cut a little which came to around 80,000 won. I don't know if that is a good price, but she says their service is really great for coloring.

Also she said, when his assistant is there you sometimes can get a massage.

Anyways, I would highly recommend trying out Hair In Love, and giving Jun some new business. It's a great salon that seems to know latest trends and also has a creative side to it.

The address:
19-19, cheongdam-dong, gangnam-gu, Seoul, Korea

Photo Map:

You want to head out of Cheongdam station exit 9, and get a taxi or walk up the long street till you get to Dosandaeroe street and turn left. You can see on the map. What you want to do is get to the building you see here on the right, that is gray and concrete. You want to walk up the street next to this alongside this building.

Then you want to be at the corner of the gray and glass building and make a right. The salon is just a bit up the street and on your left.

The green paneling on the building on the left there, that is the salon. I hope to get better instructions from my friend soon, but here is a workable map link you can use.

Plus this area has a lot of great restaurants nearby, and is near the Apgujeong Butterfinger Pancakes. Anyways, I hope you find yourself at this salon one day and having a great hair cut or treatment.

Telephone: 02-546-0366
Email: gondre88@daum.net

Life Drawing at Jankura Art Space

On the way to Jankura Art Space, in Itaewon, you can enjoy walking past many antique shops. Some of which look like hold actual antiques while others just seem like old furniture stores.

Jankura Art Space is the shared studio space from the artist Mike Stewart. Before it was the "Big Green Studio", but now he has a cozy space down a street in Itaewon. This lovely space offers life drawing and other art courses that one can take for a small fee. Also there is studio space, which can be rented out. I think currently the spaces are full.

I came on a Saturday for two sessions, the first being a clothed model and the second nude. I had a lot of fun at both and it was good to exercise my artistic muscle. Here are some shots of the work I produced, sorry for them being so shadowy.

When the model did a standing pose I had some trouble fitting the whole figure on the page, so I ended up just focusing on the shoes.

The nude model was enjoyable to draw and we had a lot of quick poses at first and then several longer poses towards the end.

Since getting to Itaewon isn't much trouble for me, I can imagine going back when I feel the need to get some life drawing done. I hope Mike uses the location as an opportunity for outdoor drawing when the weather warms up. ;)

Otherwise, if your interested sessions are typically every other Saturday from 6 - 8pm, and there are sessions on Sunday as well. Check out the website...