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bernard Rowan

Autocratic moment extended

This column follows up on my earlier piece about the autocratic moment. At that time, I commented on the rise of authoritarian and totalitarian leaders in global nations this century as a phase to be endured. Xi, Putin, Kim Jong-un, and sadly, Donald Trump, all fit the mold. There are others; such as Duterte. My purpose remains to instill patience and determination in the hearts and minds of democratic citizens and fans of democracy worldwide. Recent events only make that more important.

2020-08-11 16:54

Yi Kwang-su and war

Recently I've been reading stories of South Korean families' experiences during the Korean War. These stories present the bitter realities of fighting and overcoming the communists. They prefigure the greatness of South Korea today. Among them is the account of a family led by Lee Choonwon (Yi Kwang-su). Thanks to his daughter, Lee Chug-hwa, posterity will benefit from learning of her mother's battle to save her family, and her determination to keep her medical practice going. Choi Yearn-hong has shared with me her story, which I will write about for this column. Yi's story will form part of...

2020-07-28 17:08

5 recollections of Korean War

“The [Korean] War almost destroyed the fate of South Korea and its new democracy, Then the United Nations mobilized soldiers from 16 nations. They fought back from the brink in defense of the Naktong River. Now, South Korea is a model of democracy and freedom. We are thankful to you, living and dead, and to your sons and daughters. Sacrifice shall never be forgotten. The War is, and shall not be, forgotten.”

2020-06-24 17:20

Future Korean leaders

I want to share a few thoughts about future Korean leaders. I hope readers will think of this column as insights less than recommendations. I'm an observer of Korean politics, society, and culture, and a student of American foreign policy. My comments address the future of Korean leadership.

2020-06-16 18:17

Wonderful world of K-golf

Golf has come to Korea big time! On the heels of such standouts as Pak Se-ri, K.J. Choi, Grace Park, and many others, Korea has advanced in building this sport. According to an August 2017 report in Forbes magazine, the country ranks third in the world as a market for the sport. Topgolfcourses.com notes South Korea boasts 500 or more golf courses in various locations, with many open to the public. Green fees run high on weekdays, and are even higher on weekends. More Koreans today enjoy playing and watching the game than ever before.

2020-06-02 17:12

Why Korea matters to me

In this time of a COVID-19 pandemic, I've tried to preserve my equilibrium by calling to mind my blessings. This experience teaches me anew that humanity tries but doesn't fully control nature. It shows me how precious and fragile is the bond of life. It teaches me also how our world has grown interdependent. It calls us to work as a family of nations. Kant spoke about this in “Perpetual Peace.”

2020-05-05 17:44

Eat Korean sashimi

I like Korean raw fish or “hoe.” Enjoying a plate at the seaside with friends in Busan, among many possibilities, is a great way to dine.

2020-04-21 17:02

Personal space and social distancing

When I prepared for my first visit to Korea, I read a passage in a cultural education guide about Koreans' understanding of personal space. Americans, as readers likely know, have an exaggerated conception of personal space.

2020-04-07 18:41

Facing down coronavirus

Since my column a month or so ago, the Coronavirus pandemic has spread to global proportions. Many nations, including South Korea and the United States, are grappling with this virulent strain.

2020-03-24 17:20

Rites of spring

Let's talk about a trilogy of Korean festivals that herald and celebrate spring, its coming and flowering. Samjinnal, Hansik or Hanshi, and Dano are Asian holidays, also Chinese, found in Korea. While I don't think they surpass other yearly festivals in popularity, they help us understand the agricultural roots of traditional Korean culture. They also involve many fun activities and learning.

2020-03-10 17:18

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