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bernard Rowan

Remembering Pungnap 2-dong

I lived in Seoul for six months or so some years ago, and my memories of my time there remain vivid and fond. Living in a neighborhood was an educational and enjoyable experience for me, however brief. Neighborhood life buzzed and teemed most hours of the day, and the density of businesses and signs of economic and social life impressed me.

2018-05-22 17:20

The Korean rose

Spring is a time when I think of Korea's national flower, the mugunghwa, or the Korean rose, even though the shrub doesn't yet bloom. The wonderful flowers remind me of Korea's beauty. Common today outside of Asia, this national flower's history and life say a lot about Korea. Let's talk a bit about the Korean rose.

2018-05-08 17:46

Going to the birds!

South Korea is a beautiful country, and citizens take pride in the environment. Nevertheless, advancement compromises the health of Korea's bird species _ among others. The effects of the country's development and advancement miracle need new miracles. Or perhaps changed habits. South Korea now ranks high among polluting countries, even if much of the pollution amounts to dust. It's not all from China, and it's harming man and nature, including Korea's birds.

2018-05-02 16:42

Summit world and Korea

It's spring in the Northern Hemisphere, or at least getting to be spring! A scan of news articles shows it's also summit world with Trump on parade. U.S. President Donald Trump may have or will have or won't have summits with, variously, Arab League nations, other American nations including Cuba, faith leaders in Washington, and Vladimir Putin. There's little like summits to raise public awareness of issues and promote a leader's diplomatic goals and personal style. The same goes for a planned summit in May with Kim Jong-un.

2018-04-10 17:33

The autocratic moment

The world today stands in the gaudy and dangerous grasp of autocracy. Leaders of too many powerful nations are veering toward autocracy. Seemingly blinded, blindsided and blithe populations increasingly divided by invidious distinctions are allowing it to occur. And unwelcome parallels to early 20th century leaders are starting to emerge.

2018-03-27 16:37

A living national treasure

Im Kwon-taek is famous for directing many of the best Korean films. Over the last 55 years, he's created 100-plus classics for present and future audiences. I think he deserves recognition as a Living National Treasure. Let me tell you why.

2018-03-13 16:56

Trump's bald spot on trade

Trump spent some time this week talking about how he covers up his bald spot. He needs to talk about the bald spot in his trade policy and how he can't cover it up.

2018-02-27 17:02

Unification soap opera

I'm going to write about the unification flag and hubbub surrounding it these days. But before I do, a few disclaimers. I'm a fan of eventual unification. The 1950-53 Korean War is an unending monstrosity. It can't prevent South Korea's continuing advance, but the grotesque division is something to live down. Second, I am thrilled for South Korea and the world the Winter Olympics is happening in PyeongChang. I've enjoyed watching from Chicago, and everything I've witnessed occurs with the usual attention to detail, welcoming atmosphere, and thorough enjoyment of competition in global friends...

2018-02-13 18:43

Growth of Korean forests

South Korea is now a green space to envy. I've read forests cover about 60 percent of Korea's land! A cursory look at a few Korean websites reveals dozens of distinctive and widely known forests that beautify the land. They provide support for a healthier environment and create the basis for multiple industries. They improve the quality of life for millions of Koreans and visitors.

2018-01-30 17:13

Of accumulated evils and foolishness

President Moon Jae-in has hit his stride. The New Year speech had many initiatives and proper recording of successes. Moon can claim to have improved one of the coldest ties on the planet with the North's offer to join the Winter Olympics. The chairs in Panmunjom's meeting rooms have warmed just a bit with recent use. Moon also repeated important promises about employment, chaebol reform, and a people-centered economy.

2018-01-16 17:12

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