April’s Book Club Pick, “Almond: A Novel,” is a coming of age story about Yunjae, a young boy with Alexithymia, who struggles to feel pain, anger, and empathy. Hugely popular among BTS fans, as RM, J-Hope, and Suga read it in 2020 in their reality show “BTS In the Soop.” So, let’s dig into this story focusing on themes of acceptance, love, and human connection.

About the South of Seoul Book Club

If you are familiar with the series, skip ahead to learn more about “Almond: A Novel.”

Looking for book recommendations? Welcome to the South of Seoul book club. We recommend a book every month. Such recommended books explore topics like 1) South Korean history or culture, 2) the complexity of cross-cultural life, 4) the exploration of life within the diaspora experience, and 5) lenses on Korean culture around the world.

Commitment to Accessibility

South of Seoul volunteers take book accessibility into consideration when recommending titles. We consider:

• Purchasable in English In Korea: Many translated titles can’t actually be purchased in English in Korea,
• Audio Version Available: Many people find audiobooks easier to consume.
• Online Versions.: International residents can’t afford to travel with many books. Also, many books may not be available in digital form from within Korea.

Commitment to Diverse Lived Experiences

South of Seoul volunteers seek to put lived experiences at the forefront of their recommendation choices. When considering authors we look for such things as:

• Korean authors who write based on their lived experiences in Korea.
• International residents who write based on their lived experiences in South Korea.
• Ethnic Koreans who write based on their lived experience in other countries.

Reading about Korean culture from a variety of perspectives may provide readers with a greater understanding of the country and culture.

Commitment to Supporting Mental Health

South of Seoul also includes book recommendations that support the lives and mental health of our community. This means that books may tackle the issues relationships, and more.

Book Recommendation By Melissa Edwards-Whittington

April’s South of Seoul Book Club recommendation, “Almond: A Novel” is brought to you by Melissa Edwards-Whittington of the KimchiRednecks. Edwards-Whittington has lived in Korea since 2017. She and her husband, Chuck, formed the KimchiRednecks YouTube channel to give people living outside of Korea or those coming to Korea, a glimpse of life here in Korea. Together with their three shih tzus, they post weekly videos about places to eat, things to cook, places to visit, or life in general living in Korea.

About The Author of “Almond: A Novel”

The author of “Almond: A Novel” is Sohn Won-Pyung, a South Korean author, screenwriter, and filmmaker. Born in Seoul in 1979, she earned her Bachelor of Arts in social studies and philosophy at Sogang University and in film directing at Korean Academy of Film Arts.

“Almond: A Novel,” her debut full-length novel, won the Changbi Prize for Young Adult Fiction in 2016. Also, in 2020, she won the Japanese Booksellers’ Award in translated fiction for the same work. In addition, she wrote and directed the Korean film, “Intruder” (침입자) in 2020.

Interview with Writer Sohn Won-Pyung

Almond To Be Made Into A Musical

My Experience Reading “Almond: A Novel”

The prologue puts it best, “I won’t tell you whether it has a happy ending or a tragic ending…neither you nor I nor anyone can ever really know whether a story is happy or tragic.” The story is about protagonist Yunjae, who suffers from alexithymia. Because of this disorder, part of his brain that controls feelings never fully formed, so he can’t feel any emotions. Due to this particular part of the brain being shaped like almonds, the author chose to use it for the name of the book.

Often labeled as a “monster” by his classmates, he struggles to understand why people feel that way. However, his grandmother and mother try to help Yunjae learn to manage and deal with his disorder in a world that does not understand him. They leave little post-it notes with reminders to smile, laugh, or say thank you.

Unfortunately, tragedy strikes when he is 16 when Yunjae’s mother and grandmother die. Therefore, he struggles and then, befriends the landlord of his family’s bookstore, Dr. Shim. Eventually, he meets fellow students, Gon and Dora. Through the relationships he builds with Dr. Shim, Gon, and Dora, he grows as a person and perseveres in spite of his condition. Although filled with moments of happiness and sadness, the story leaves you with a lot of meaningful life lessons.

More Commentary And Reviews On “Almond: A Novel”

The above review contains my thoughts and opinions. However, make sure to read other reviews to have a more rounded perspective toward the book. We all come to each story with our own social/cultural lens. Therefore, others may have perceived this book in a different manner and may help you decide if this is the book for you.

Brief Introduction to Almond by Won-Pyung Sohn

Almond by Won-Pyung Sohn

Online Purchasing Link

You can purchase “Almond: A Novel” by Sohn Won-Pyung in English on Amazon.

Find More Book Club Recommendations

Find More Book Club Recommendations

Did you like this recommendation? Be sure to explore our other volunteer-recommended books.

Also, check out the selections from South of Seoul Book Club 2023.

KimchiRednecks

The KimchiRednecks channel was created in September 2018 by Chuck Whittington and Melissa Edwards-Whittington. They moved to Korea in July 2017 with their three Shih Tzu daughters, Sookie, Minion, and Mayhem.

The YouTube channel started as a way to share their lives here with their friends and families back in the states. They both have a deep love for Korean culture, people, and food and love being able to share that with others.

Chuck Whittington graduated from Francis Marion University with a Bachelors in Information Systems Management. He has worked in Information Technology roles for over 20 years. Chuck has always had an interest in Korea and has traveled here many times in the past.

Melissa Edwards-Whittington graduated from Mid-Atlantic Christian University with a Bachelors in Bible and a Minor in Elementary Education. She has worked in various roles in customer service and marketing over the years.

The YouTube channel has many interests just like they do because it is an extension of their lives here in Korea. You will often find videos on their channel about daily life in Korea, cooking, foodie adventures, traveling and exploring, computer and tech pursuits, gaming, and working on the Subaru BRZ.

Over the years, many of their friends have joined them for their videos and adventures because they enjoy sharing their lives with those around them. In addition, they add new interests from time to time, like making moonshine in Korea.

Life is about growing and changing, and the longer the KimchiRednecks live in Korea, the more they learn to love this country and culture and all it has to offer.

The post SOS Book Club Pick: Almond: A Novel appeared first on The South of Seoul Blog.

Looking for the best bagels in Pyeongtaek? From classic favorites to innovations that use Korean ingredients, Pyeongtaek’s bagel shops offer mouthwatering bagel options. Come along as we investigate Pyeongtaek’s bagel scene.

Where Is Pyeongtaek?

Feel free to skip this section if you live in Pyeongtaek or know about the area. We try to make sure that everyone knows what area our blog post recommendations cover since we don’t know what part of Korea you may currently exist in when viewing our information.

Pyeongtaek-si is located in the southern portion of the Gyeonggi-do province. This large city includes two US military installations, Camp Humphreys, and Osan Air Base.

The bagel shop recommendations provided exist within different areas of Pyeongtaek-si. Therefore, in this blog post, South of Seoul provides addresses and phone numbers. Also, we recommend using this information in  Naver Maps or Kakao Maps instead of Google for the best results.

Let’s Talk Bagels

Bagels began with the Jewish community and became a treat people from many backgrounds now appreciate. The history of bagels is proof of the ongoing popularity of this straightforward yet adaptable dish. We want to start with bagel history because it’s important to understand bagels should be more than just round bread.

A Brief History of Bagels

While the bagel’s exact origins are unknown, it is believed to have begun in Eastern Europe, particularly within Polish Jewish communities in the early 17th century. The Yiddish word “beygl,” comes from the German word “beugel,” which means “ring” or “bracelet,” from which the English word “bagel” originates.

Jewish immigrants arriving in America in the late 19th and early 20th centuries brought their bagel recipes to the country. At the beginning of the 20th century, the manufacturing of bagels started to move away from local, family-run bakeries and toward bigger, commercial facilities. This resulted in the introduction of new tastes and varieties as well as improvements in bagel-making methods.

In the mid-1900s, bagel shops and delis expanded in many American cities like New York. This expansion contributed to bagels’ widespread acceptance. Therefore, bagels made their way across the nation and became a staple in American breakfast food options.

During the past few decades, bagels have grown in popularity, both locally and abroad. Modern bagels are available in a variety of tastes, and range from the traditional plain and sesame seed to the atypical blueberry and chocolate chip.

We celebrate the long history and enduring appeal of the modest bagel by cherishing every bite of these well-loved ring-shaped treats with a delicious schmear of cream cheese.

Traditional Method of Making Bagels

Likely, the first bagels were a bit different from those made today. Made with basic components like wheat flour, yeast, salt, and water, they were denser and rougher. The traditional method used for cooking bagels has been to boil the dough prior to baking. As a result of this process, bagels have a distinctive chewy crust and texture.

The art of making authentic bagels is a labor of love requiring expertise, patience, and meticulousness. The first step involves making a simple but essential dough using water, yeast, high-gluten flour, salt, and a tiny bit of honey or malt syrup for sweetness. Then, the dough must be kneaded (creating the gluten structure) and allowed to rise until doubling in size. Once the dough has risen, it is divided into portions and shaped into evenly smooth rounds.

Boiling is the next essential step that defines the bagel, not necessarily the shape. It is believed that the creation of bagels stemmed from, “anti-Semitic laws preventing Polish Jews from baking bread. To circumvent these edicts, Jewish bakers would boil the dough before baking it, a loophole that allowed them to bake.” Great bagels are boiled in water, frequently with a hint of honey or malt syrup. The boiling gives the bagel its characteristic chewy texture and shiny crust. The mineral complexity of the water used for boiling then impacts the crust of the bagel.

Finally, bagels are baked in a hot oven until they are golden brown on the outside and soft and thick inside. After all of the hard work, the result is a fragrant and tasty batch of real bagels. Enjoy them plain, toasted, or topped with a variety of spreads and fillings.

If you are curious about delving into the differences between bagels and bread, check out this article on Wildgrain.

General Bagels in Korea

Although not a traditional dish in Korea, Bagels have established themselves amid the diverse array of culinary options seen in cities such as Seoul and Busan. In Korea, bagel shops usually offer a modern twist on the classic recipe by fusing local ingredients with artisanal techniques to create a delicious blend of East and West.

Unfortunately, many bakers tend to skip boiling the bagels. They prefer to use the steaming functions of the ovens. This typically results in a much harder texture on the outside of the bagel and the inside bagel is less chewy.

Korean bakeries also like to combine traditional Korean ingredients infusing this well-known bread with inventive flavors like sweet potato, red bean paste, and green tea. Some may love this while others may only want the taste of home.

Therefore, bagel aficionados should remember to temper expectations. Although you may find a hidden gem offering authentic New York-style bagels, you may also find your bagel to be more of a Korean bread shaped like a bagel. Keep this in mind wherever you go.

Bagel Quality in Pyeongtaek

Over the last 2-3 years, bagel stores started opening in Pyeongtaek. Some even offer boiled and baked options in traditional flavors like Everything Bagels.

Let’s start with the boiled bagel options:

753 Bagel Bistro⁵

01086254210

Copy and paste phone numbers into Naver Maps to get directions

Hangul Address

경기도 평택시 팽성읍 안정리 99-43

New York style bagels and bagel sandwiches.

(Listing information provided by the South of Seoul app)

St. Urban Bagel⁵

010-6474-9940

Copy and paste phone numbers into Naver Maps to get directions

Hangul Address

경기 평택시 은성로16번길 16

In an old remodeled house reminiscent of Europe/Quebec, this bagel shop offers a range of tasty handmade bagels, cream cheeses, and a dependable list of coffee.

(Listing information provided by the South of Seoul app)

Not-boiled bagel options:

Always Coffee And Bakery⁰

0507-1381-2481

Copy and paste phone numbers into Naver Maps to get directions

Hangul Address

경기 평택시 팽성읍 안정쇼핑로 59-1 1층 상가

(Listing information provided by the South of Seoul app)

Nordinary⁴

0507-1305-4170

Copy and paste phone numbers into Naver Maps to get directions

Hangul Address

경기 평택시 용죽5길 57

New, minimalist cafe with great coffees and teas. Good options are cookies and waffles.

(Listing information provided by the South of Seoul app)

KimchiRednecks Grabbing Bagels In Pyeongtaek

We have not made it to visit all of the best bagel shops in Pyeongtaek. However, we have made it to two of the local favorites, 753 Bagel Bistro and Always Coffee and Bakery. Feel free to check out our YouTube channel for our adventures in and around Korea.

Join The Pyeongtaek Food & Fun Facebook Group

You are also welcome to join our Pyeongtaek Food & Fun Facebook Group. The South of Seoul moderated community of active and friendly Pyeongtaek international residents makes moving to Pyeongtaek easier. With so many different voices and opinions, it is always refreshing to see everyone’s adventures in our local community. In addition, all of the posts shared introduce our community to new places and old places that can feel new all over again.

While this list of best bagels in Pyeongtaek is not comprehensive of the entire area, we may have missed your favorite spot. Therefore, make sure to share with the community and share your favorite spots with us!

Volunteer With South Of Seoul

Interested in working with a fun team of talented volunteers? The South of Seoul volunteer team is always looking for other like-minded folks to research information, compile blogs, and edit content.

KimchiRednecks

The KimchiRednecks channel was created in September 2018 by Chuck Whittington and Melissa Edwards-Whittington. They moved to Korea in July 2017 with their three Shih Tzu daughters, Sookie, Minion, and Mayhem.

The YouTube channel started as a way to share their lives here with their friends and families back in the states. They both have a deep love for Korean culture, people, and food and love being able to share that with others.

Chuck Whittington graduated from Francis Marion University with a Bachelors in Information Systems Management. He has worked in Information Technology roles for over 20 years. Chuck has always had an interest in Korea and has traveled here many times in the past.

Melissa Edwards-Whittington graduated from Mid-Atlantic Christian University with a Bachelors in Bible and a Minor in Elementary Education. She has worked in various roles in customer service and marketing over the years.

The YouTube channel has many interests just like they do because it is an extension of their lives here in Korea. You will often find videos on their channel about daily life in Korea, cooking, foodie adventures, traveling and exploring, computer and tech pursuits, gaming, and working on the Subaru BRZ.

Over the years, many of their friends have joined them for their videos and adventures because they enjoy sharing their lives with those around them. In addition, they add new interests from time to time, like making moonshine in Korea.

Life is about growing and changing, and the longer the KimchiRednecks live in Korea, the more they learn to love this country and culture and all it has to offer.

The post Best Bagels in Pyeongtaek appeared first on The South of Seoul Blog.

March’s Book Club pick is “Greek Lessons.” The story follows a young woman and her professor of Ancient Greek, both of whom are alienated from the people around them due to limitations with their physical bodies. As the two become more connected, they share the pain and solace that they experience.

About the South of Seoul Book Club

If you are familiar with the series, skip ahead to learn more about “Greek Lessons.”

Looking for book recommendations? Welcome to the South of Seoul book club. We recommend a book every month. Such recommended books explore topics like 1) South Korean history or culture, 2) the complexity of cross-cultural life, 4) the exploration of life within the diaspora experience, and 5) lenses on Korean culture around the world.

Commitment to Accessibility

South of Seoul volunteers take book accessibility into consideration when recommending titles. We consider:

• Purchasable in English In Korea: Many translated titles can’t actually be purchased in English in Korea,
• Audio Version Available: Many people find audiobooks easier to consume.
• Online Versions.: International residents can’t afford to travel with many books. Also, many books may not be available in digital form from within Korea.

Commitment to Diverse Lived Experiences

South of Seoul volunteers seek to put lived experiences at the forefront of their recommendation choices. When considering authors we look for such things as:

• Korean authors writing about their lived experiences in Korea.
• International residents writing about their lived experiences in South Korea.
• Ethnic Koreans writing about their lived experience in other countries.

Reading about Korean culture from a variety of perspectives may provide readers with a greater understanding of the country and culture.

Commitment to Supporting Mental Health

South of Seoul also includes book recommendations that support the lives and mental health of our community. This means that books may tackle the issues related to living between cultures. This may include topics such as culture shock, language, relationships, and more.

Book Recommendation By Melissa Edwards-Whittington

March’s South of Seoul Book Club recommendation, “Greek Lessons” is brought to you by Melissa Edwards-Whittington of the KimchiRednecks. Edwards-Whittington has lived in Korea since 2017. She and her husband, Chuck, formed the KimchiRednecks YouTube channel to give people living outside of Korea or those coming to Korea, a glimpse of life here in Korea. Together with their three shih tzus, they post weekly videos about places to eat, things to cook, places to visit, or life in general living in Korea.

About The Author of “Greek Lessons”

The author of “Greek Lessons” is Han Kang, a South Korean author. Kang studied literature at Yonsei University and earned a graduate degree in creative writing from Seoul Institute of the Arts. Han Kang is internationally renowned for her 2016 Man Booker International Prize-winning novel “The Vegetarian.” She is the first Korean author to be nominated for the award. Her writing frequently delves into the complexities of human suffering, trauma. and the complexities of the human psyche.

My Experience Reading “Greek Lessons”

“Greek Lessons” left me feeling quite ungrounded. The language of the book is beautiful and it is not a long read. However, I found it to be a more difficult read because of the way it was written. Our story alternates between two characters, sometimes abruptly. The narrative for one character is written more in the first person, whereas the other character is in the third person.

The main protagonist is a young woman who has lost her ability to speak for the second time in her life. Her therapist feels that her loss of language has much to do with the loss of her mother and the loss of custody of her son. She has always been intrigued by language, so she chooses to take Ancient Greek. Then, there is the Ancient Greek professor, who is slowly losing his sight. Both souls are adrift in the world and unable to connect in the city with those around them. In addition to losing his sight, the professor feels torn between the two cultures that he grew up with German and Korean, which increases his disconnect from the world around him.

The build up to the two characters truly interacting and connecting in the story takes awhile. I ended up feeling as if I, too, were trapped within their limitations. However, as brilliant as being able to capture the reader in that way, I felt like it took so long to get to a point of connection that I felt a bit let down when the two finally reach out to each other. The ending felt quite abrupt and unresolved. Also, even though there were glimmers of hope in the book for both characters, I ultimately felt much sadness after reading this which I believe was the author’s intent.

More Commentary And Reviews On “Greek Lessons”

The above review contains my thoughts and opinions. However, make sure to read other reviews to have a more rounded perspective toward the book. We all come to each story with our own social/cultural lens. Therefore, others may have perceived this book in a different manner and may help you decide if this is the book for you.

A Narrator Locked in Silence, Who Finds Solace in an Ancient Language

‘Greek Lessons’ is an intimate, vulnerable portrayal of two lonely people

Two intersecting lives, each grappling with a unique loss

Online Purchasing Link

You can purchase Greek Lessons by Han Kang in English on Amazon.

Find More Book Club Recommendations

Did you like this recommendation? Be sure to explore our other volunteer-recommended books.

Also, check out the selections from South of Seoul Book Club 2023.

KimchiRednecks

The KimchiRednecks channel was created in September 2018 by Chuck Whittington and Melissa Edwards-Whittington. They moved to Korea in July 2017 with their three Shih Tzu daughters, Sookie, Minion, and Mayhem.

The YouTube channel started as a way to share their lives here with their friends and families back in the states. They both have a deep love for Korean culture, people, and food and love being able to share that with others.

Chuck Whittington graduated from Francis Marion University with a Bachelors in Information Systems Management. He has worked in Information Technology roles for over 20 years. Chuck has always had an interest in Korea and has traveled here many times in the past.

Melissa Edwards-Whittington graduated from Mid-Atlantic Christian University with a Bachelors in Bible and a Minor in Elementary Education. She has worked in various roles in customer service and marketing over the years.

The YouTube channel has many interests just like they do because it is an extension of their lives here in Korea. You will often find videos on their channel about daily life in Korea, cooking, foodie adventures, traveling and exploring, computer and tech pursuits, gaming, and working on the Subaru BRZ.

Over the years, many of their friends have joined them for their videos and adventures because they enjoy sharing their lives with those around them. In addition, they add new interests from time to time, like making moonshine in Korea.

Life is about growing and changing, and the longer the KimchiRednecks live in Korea, the more they learn to love this country and culture and all it has to offer.

The post SOS Book Club Pick: Greek Lessons appeared first on The South of Seoul Blog.

Follow the lives of a mistress and servant during the Japanese occupation of Korea in “Can’t I Go Instead.” Lee Geum-yi explores the complex relationship between the women, examining the extent to which loyalty and deception can be used to survive.

About the South of Seoul Book Club

If you are familiar with the series, skip ahead to learn more about “Can’t I Go Instead”

Looking for book recommendations? Welcome to the South of Seoul book club. We recommend a book every month. Such recommended books explore topics like 1) South Korean history or culture, 2) the complexity of cross-cultural life, 4) the exploration of life within the diaspora experience, and 5) lenses on Korean culture around the world.

Commitment to Accessibility

South of Seoul volunteers take book accessibility into consideration when recommending titles. We consider:

• Purchasable in English In Korea: Many translated titles can’t actually be purchased in English in Korea,
• Audio Version Available: Many people find audiobooks easier to consume.
• Online Versions.: International residents can’t afford to travel with many books. Also, many books may not be available in digital form from within Korea.

Commitment to Diverse Lived Experiences

South of Seoul volunteers seek to put lived experiences at the forefront of their recommendation choices. When considering authors we look for such things as:

• Korean authors writing about their lived experiences in Korea.
• International residents writing about their lived experiences in South Korea.
• Ethnic Koreans writing about their lived experience in other countries.

Reading about Korean culture from a variety of perspectives may provide readers with a greater understanding of the country and culture.

Commitment to Supporting Mental Health

South of Seoul also includes book recommendations that support the lives and mental health of our community. This means that books may tackle the issues related to living between cultures. This may include topics such as culture shock, language, relationships, and more.

Book Recommendation By Melissa Edwards-Whittington

February’s South of Seoul Book Club recommendation, “Can’t I Go Instead” is brought to you by Melissa Edwards-Whittington of the KimchiRednecks. Edwards-Whittington has lived in Korea since 2017. She and her husband, Chuck, formed the KimchiRednecks YouTube channel to give people living outside of Korea or those coming to Korea, a glimpse of life here in Korea. Together with their three shih tzus, they post weekly videos about places to eat, things to cook, places to visit, or life in general living in Korea.

About The Author of “Can’t I Go Instead”

The author of “Can’t I Go Instead,” Lee Geum-yi, is a South Korean author. She is well-known for her literary works, often exploring themes related to Korean culture, history, identity, and women’s experiences. Lee Geum-yi’s ability to capture the nuances of human experiences has earned her recognition among readers and scholars interested in Korean literature and the immigrant experience. Therefore, her work resonates with audiences, shedding light on important aspects of Korean history.

Q&A: Lee Geum-yi, Author of Can’t I Go Instead

My Experience Reading “Can’t I Go Instead”

After reading The Picture Bride by Lee Geum-yi, I was interested in reading more from the author. I enjoyed her writing style in the previous book. “Can’t I Go Instead” is a complex story of love, deception, duty, and honor. In 1920s Korea, Chaeryeong, a nobleman’s daughter, is given a gift from her father for her 8th birthday. He chooses to gift her a peasant girl. Sunam’s sister is chosen but she begs to go in her sister’s place. Seven-year-old Sunam becomes Chaeryeong’s maid and, ultimately, her replacement, inspiration, and savior. 

Years later, while Chaeryeong and Sunam are in Japan, Chaeryeong’s lover is arrested for being involved with the Korean independence movement. Therefore, her father steps in to find a way to save her from trouble with the Japanese. He agrees to have his daughter join the Woman’s Brigade to encourage other women to join. He promises Sunam if she takes his daughter’s place, she will be freed once her commitment is done. And he forces his daughter to be married and sent to the United States.

The story is heartbreaking and beautifully written with both hardships and moments of happiness intertwined. With their linked fates, Chaeryeong and Sunam are both thrown into worlds that are painful, unfair, and biased, and ultimately, they each have to face those difficulties. The character development and the story in this book were just beautifully done.

More Commentary And Reviews On “Can’t I Go Instead”

The above review contains my thoughts and opinions. However, make sure to read other reviews to have a more rounded perspective toward the book. We all come to each story with our own social/cultural lens. Therefore, others may have perceived this book in a different manner and may help you decide if this is the book for you.

Review: Can’t I Go Instead By Lee Geum-Yi

Online Purchasing Link

You can purchase Can’t I Go Instead by Lee Geum-yi in English on Amazon.

Find More Book Club Recommendations

Did you like this recommendation? Be sure to explore our other volunteer-recommended books.

Also, check out the selections from South of Seoul Book Club 2023.

KimchiRednecks

The KimchiRednecks channel was created in September 2018 by Chuck Whittington and Melissa Edwards-Whittington. They moved to Korea in July 2017 with their three Shih Tzu daughters, Sookie, Minion, and Mayhem.

The YouTube channel started as a way to share their lives here with their friends and families back in the states. They both have a deep love for Korean culture, people, and food and love being able to share that with others.

Chuck Whittington graduated from Francis Marion University with a Bachelors in Information Systems Management. He has worked in Information Technology roles for over 20 years. Chuck has always had an interest in Korea and has traveled here many times in the past.

Melissa Edwards-Whittington graduated from Mid-Atlantic Christian University with a Bachelors in Bible and a Minor in Elementary Education. She has worked in various roles in customer service and marketing over the years.

The YouTube channel has many interests just like they do because it is an extension of their lives here in Korea. You will often find videos on their channel about daily life in Korea, cooking, foodie adventures, traveling and exploring, computer and tech pursuits, gaming, and working on the Subaru BRZ.

Over the years, many of their friends have joined them for their videos and adventures because they enjoy sharing their lives with those around them. In addition, they add new interests from time to time, like making moonshine in Korea.

Life is about growing and changing, and the longer the KimchiRednecks live in Korea, the more they learn to love this country and culture and all it has to offer.

The post SOS Book Club Pick: Can’t I Go Instead appeared first on The South of Seoul Blog.

Wondering what to watch this year? Maybe try these 12 top K-drama recommendations for 2024. This year we created a watch list of Korea’s top K-dramas. The list may help you learn more about Korean culture, social asperations, and life.

Watching K-dramas to Help with Cultural Integration

Settling into a new cultural becomes easier with shared cultural knowledge. Since Korean pop-culture exists separately than other countries, you have to catch up. Catching up on local pop-culture means committing to the research. One of the easiest ways to do this includes binge watching Korean dramas.

Pop-culture provides an easy way to start a fun conversation and build relationships. As someone who moved to the Lower 48 without watching US TV or listing to US popular music, trust me that you need to do this. Fitting into society was painfully difficult to build friendships until I caught up on pop-culture. It turns out that many casual relationships begin with a shared understanding of current culture. When I moved to South Korea I did not make the same mistake. I paid close attention to pop culture related to my age group and it help my transition a lot.

In 2023, Lanae Rivers-Woods thought it would be fun to create a pop-culture starter guide that the South of Seoul community can follow along with over the year. Some people might start this journey once they arrive in South Korea, while others might choose to begin this journey in the months before their relocation.

South of Seoul K-Drama Recommendations

In response to this goal, in 2023 we lead an Arts & Entertainment Initiative including K-drama recommendations for those just getting into the genre. The recommendations in this post include the top dramas in recent years. Consider them a K-drama primer that will quickly take you down the rabbit hole. Once you complete this list, we encourage you to dig deeper into the K-drama history and find more dramas to watch from the past as well as current dramas.

Watching K-Dramas with English Subs

Interestingly, since you may need English subtitles for your K-dramas you may run into streaming issues in South Korea. A variety of websites popular with K-drama fans can’t actually stream in South Korea without the help of a VPN.

While living in Korea, we recommend the following online sites for K-Dramas while living in South Korea:

• Netflix
• Watcha (Not all series have English subs)
• Amazon Prime Video (not everything is available)

With some creativity like a great VPN, you may find other options for watching K-dramas with English subs on free sites. Keep in mind, not all VPNs work and sometimes they quit working for a while when sites find new ways to detect them. Since many of the options may not be entirely legal, we will leave these alternative choices up to you.

Although we figure most folks know what K-dramas are these days, not everyone does. Some people may not so let’s dig deeper into the K-drama genre as we start your recommendations.

Looking for more detail on K-dramas, check out our blog here:

Foundational Korean Dramas for 2024

Feel free to mix and match the order of these dramas to fit your taste. We create the list based on months to create a framework to build pop-cultural knowledge over time.

January: “Strong Girl Bong-Soon”

The endearing romantic comedy “Strong Girl Bong Soon” follows Do Bong Soon’s life. Despite being born with superhuman strength, she navigates love, life, and the difficulties of being a modern-day heroine.

February: “Alchemy of Souls”

The fantasy drama “Alchemy of Souls” delves into the ethereal journey of young mages who are forced to confront their darker destiny as a result of a forbidden spell known as “alchemy of souls,” which permits souls to change bodies.

March: Mr. Queen

Modern day head chef, Jang Bong-hwan, wakes up in the body of So-yong, Queen Cheorin in the Joseon period after a near-death experience. He cooks for Queen Sunwon to win her favor, trying to get back to his body in modern-day Korea. However, he quickly learns that So-yong is hiding something and that the King is not what he seems to be with a dark and suspicious side.

April: Twenty Five Twenty One

In present day, Kim Min-chae (daughter of Na Hee-do) runs away to her grandmother’s house and discovers her mother’s diary. In 1998, Na Hee-do, a member of Seonjung Girls’ High School’s fencing team, is disbanded due to the IMF crisis. She moves to Taeyang High School and joins the National Fencing Team. Baek Yi-jin’s family struggles, leading him to become a sports reporter.

May: My Demon

The show is about a devilish heiress to a company, Do Do-hee and a demon named Jeong Gu-won who loses his powers for a while. They agree to get married and find happiness during this short-term loss of his powers.

June: Black Knight

In this story, a good man agrees to go on a dangerous journey with the woman he loves. The love story goes back more than 200 years. When it comes to his love, Moon Soo-ho is willing to risk everything for it. Jung Hae-ra, who works as a ticket agent but has never been outside of Korea.

July: Strong Girl Nam-Soon

Born in Mongolia, Gang Nam-soon went missing when she was a child. As an adult, she goes to South Korea to find her parents. In the Gangnam area, she finds her mother, Hwang Geum-joo, a billionaire businesswoman, and her grandmother, Gil Joong-gan. The women become involved in a drug case investigated by Detective Gang Hee-sik about a company called Doogo, which is run by Ryu Shi-oh.

August: Song of the Bandits

The story takes place in the 1920s, during the rough time of Japanese occupation. After the Japan–Korea Treaty of 1905, the Korean military and police were disbanded, and other harsh measures were put in place. As a result, many people from Joseon crossed the Tumen River to Gando, which was then part of China (Qing), to find work or to fight for Korea’s independence. This story is about people who go to Gando, a place where there are no rules, and they work together to protect the Korean country. The story builds up to the Gando attack.

September: Cafe Minamdang

The show follows a former police officer who became a shaman and his coworkers as they deal with strange events. It also tells the story of the people who go to a sketchy café called Minamdang.

October: Hellbound

Hellbound is a supernatural series set in South Korea during 2022-27. An angel delivers prophecies condemning individuals to Hell, followed by supernatural monsters causing destruction. The series follows two organizations, the New Truth Society and the Arrowhead group, who gain power through fear.

November: The Good Detective

In Incheon, South Korea, the story revolves around detectives who hide and uncover truths. Kang Do-chang, a 18-year-old detective, uses personal connections and knowledge to investigate cases. Oh Ji-hyuk, a 9-year-old detective, uses proof and criminal thinking. Despite his wealth and past experiences, he remains silent about his feelings. Jin Seo-kyung, a five-year-old reporter, enjoys her job at a newspaper. The story highlights the challenges faced by detectives in uncovering truths.

December: The Glory

Moon Dong-eun, who used to be bullied, plans to get back at her bullies after getting a job as a homeroom teacher at the elementary school where the bully leader’s child goes to school. Some scenes are based on an event that occurred in Cheongju, where a group of middle schoolers forced a friend to pay money for about a month by beating and burning her with objects over and over again.

Additional Drama-Related Blogs

If you find yourself falling in love with dramas like so many before you, you may also enjoy these other South of Seoul Blogs:

• K-dramas to Watch in 2023
• Open Drama Sets Across South Korea
• Dramas and filming locations in Pyeongtaek, South Korea

KimchiRednecks

The KimchiRednecks channel was created in September 2018 by Chuck Whittington and Melissa Edwards-Whittington. They moved to Korea in July 2017 with their three Shih Tzu daughters, Sookie, Minion, and Mayhem.

The YouTube channel started as a way to share their lives here with their friends and families back in the states. They both have a deep love for Korean culture, people, and food and love being able to share that with others.

Chuck Whittington graduated from Francis Marion University with a Bachelors in Information Systems Management. He has worked in Information Technology roles for over 20 years. Chuck has always had an interest in Korea and has traveled here many times in the past.

Melissa Edwards-Whittington graduated from Mid-Atlantic Christian University with a Bachelors in Bible and a Minor in Elementary Education. She has worked in various roles in customer service and marketing over the years.

The YouTube channel has many interests just like they do because it is an extension of their lives here in Korea. You will often find videos on their channel about daily life in Korea, cooking, foodie adventures, traveling and exploring, computer and tech pursuits, gaming, and working on the Subaru BRZ.

Over the years, many of their friends have joined them for their videos and adventures because they enjoy sharing their lives with those around them. In addition, they add new interests from time to time, like making moonshine in Korea.

Life is about growing and changing, and the longer the KimchiRednecks live in Korea, the more they learn to love this country and culture and all it has to offer.

The post More K-Dramas To Watch for 2024 appeared first on The South of Seoul Blog.

Discover the history of the Korean immigrants in 1905 who traveled to Mexico in hopes of a better life in “Black Flower” by Kim Young-ha. Set during the Mexican Revolution, “Black Flower” narrates their journey seeking safety in a new country, with themes of identity, courage, and human spirit amidst hardship.

About the South of Seoul Book Club

If you are familiar with the series, skip ahead to learn more about “Black Flower.”

Looking for book recommendations? Welcome to the South of Seoul book club. We recommend a book every month. Such recommended books explore topics like 1) South Korean history or culture, 2) the complexity of cross-cultural life, 4) the exploration of life within the diaspora experience, and 5) lenses on Korean culture around the world.

Commitment to Accessibility

South of Seoul volunteers take book accessibility into consideration when recommending titles. We consider:

• Purchasable in English In Korea: Many translated titles can’t actually be purchased in English in Korea,
• Audio Version Available: Many people find audiobooks easier to consume.
• Online Versions.: International residents can’t afford to travel with many books. Also, many books may not be available in digital form from within Korea.

Commitment to Diverse Lived Experiences

South of Seoul volunteers seek to put lived experiences at the forefront of their recommendation choices. When considering authors we look for such things as:

• Korean authors who write based on lived experiences in Korea.
• International residents who write based on their lived experiences in South Korea.
• Ethnic Koreans who write based on their lived experience in other countries.

Reading about Korean culture from a variety of perspectives may provide readers with a greater understanding of the country and culture.

Commitment to Supporting Mental Health

South of Seoul also includes book recommendations that support the lives and mental health of our community. This means that books may tackle the issues related to living between cultures. This may include topics such as culture shock, language, relationships, and more.

Book Recommendation By Melissa Edwards-Whittington

January’s South of Seoul Book Club recommendation, “Black Flower” is brought to you by Melissa Edwards-Whittington of the KimchiRednecks. Edwards-Whittington has lived in Korea since 2017. She and her husband, Chuck, formed the KimchiRednecks YouTube channel to give people living outside of Korea or those coming to Korea, a glimpse of life here in Korea. Together with their three shih tzus, they post weekly videos about places to eat, things to cook, places to visit, or life in general living in Korea.

The History Behind “Black Flower”

People left Korea in large numbers in the early 1900s because of its unstable society and frequent natural disasters. Labor brokers started putting ads in the newspapers in 1904 In the port city of Incheon in Korea. They were looking for people who were ready to go to Mexico to work on henequen plantations for four or five years. More than 1,000 people were hired, and on April 4, 1905, they left from the port of Chemulpo, which is now Jung District, Incheon on a British cargo ship, even though the Korean government tried to stop them. A month later, on May 8, 1905, they got to the Mexican port of Salina Cruz, Oaxaca. From there, they took trains to get to their final location, which was Yucatán.

The labor brokers had not been honest about the work or that they were being sold into indentured servitude. Therefore, it was a difficult place to work; workers were beaten or jailed for not doing their jobs or not maintaining the status quo. When their contracts were up, most of them hadn’t even saved enough money to pay for the trip back to Korea, even though marketers had told them they would make a lot of money, and they didn’t really want to go back to their no longer-independent home country.

So, most of them moved to Mexico and either kept working on henequen plantations or moved to different places in the country. Some tried to move on to other places. For example, a Korean American community group in San Francisco tried to get some of them to move to Hawaii but failed. In 1921, when the price of henequen fiber dropped and Koreans were worried about their jobs, 288 of them left the port of Campeche for Cuba. Eight hundred of their children and grandchildren still live in Cuba.

For more details on this period in history, check out the following links:

The Korean Diasporas in Mexico and Eurasia

A Brief Account of Early Korean Emigration to Mexico

About The Author of “Black Flower”

Kim Young-ha is an award winning South Korean author. Born in Hwacheon in 1968, his family moved around often due to his father’s military service. Kim earned his undergraduate and graduate degrees from Yonsei University in Seoul. His career in writing began in 1995 after his discharge from the military. He has written many articles and reviews of movies, as well as more than seven books. Also, his novels have been translated into more than a dozen languages.

Before writing “Black Flower,” Kim did a lot of study in Guatemala’s Tikal and Antigua regions, as well as in Mexico’s capital city and Merida, capital of the state of Yucatan. In 2004, he won the prestigious Dong-in Literary Prize in 2004 for this novel.

An Outsider Within: A Chat with Kim Young-ha

My Experience Reading “Black Flower”

After reading “The Picture Bride” by Lee Geum-yi, I stumbled across “Black Flower.” The events of both books occurred around the same time in history. To be honest, “Black Flower” can be difficult to read at times due to the subject but also in some of the writing. This historical fiction is covering a very political time where Korea as a nation was in flux, ultimately becoming a protectorate of Japan.

At times, the story feels a bit bogged down because there are multiple characters and their stories involved. In addition, historical background is often interspersed in the middle of the narrative which can make this harder to follow. However, because the story was fascinating, I continued reading and I am glad I did. I learned a bit more about Korea’s history that is not often discussed.

More Commentary And Reviews On “Black Flower”

The above review contains my thoughts and opinions. However, make sure to read other reviews to have a more rounded perspective toward the book. We all come to each story with our own social/cultural lens. Therefore, others may have perceived this book in a different manner and may help you decide if this is the book for you.

Book Review: A Wilted “Black Flower” From Korea

‘Black Flower,’ novel about early Korean plantation workers, published in Mexico

Online Purchasing Link

You can purchase Black Flower by Kim Young-ha in English on Amazon.

Find More Book Club Recommendations

Did you like this recommendation? Be sure to explore our other volunteer-recommended books.

South of Seoul Book Club List for 2023

Check out the books from last year’s book club list.

KimchiRednecks

The KimchiRednecks channel was created in September 2018 by Chuck Whittington and Melissa Edwards-Whittington. They moved to Korea in July 2017 with their three Shih Tzu daughters, Sookie, Minion, and Mayhem.

The YouTube channel started as a way to share their lives here with their friends and families back in the states. They both have a deep love for Korean culture, people, and food and love being able to share that with others.

Chuck Whittington graduated from Francis Marion University with a Bachelors in Information Systems Management. He has worked in Information Technology roles for over 20 years. Chuck has always had an interest in Korea and has traveled here many times in the past.

Melissa Edwards-Whittington graduated from Mid-Atlantic Christian University with a Bachelors in Bible and a Minor in Elementary Education. She has worked in various roles in customer service and marketing over the years.

The YouTube channel has many interests just like they do because it is an extension of their lives here in Korea. You will often find videos on their channel about daily life in Korea, cooking, foodie adventures, traveling and exploring, computer and tech pursuits, gaming, and working on the Subaru BRZ.

Over the years, many of their friends have joined them for their videos and adventures because they enjoy sharing their lives with those around them. In addition, they add new interests from time to time, like making moonshine in Korea.

Life is about growing and changing, and the longer the KimchiRednecks live in Korea, the more they learn to love this country and culture and all it has to offer.

The post SOS Book Club Pick: Black Flower appeared first on The South of Seoul Blog.

A heartbreaking exploration of gender inequality and societal expectations in contemporary South Korea, “Kim JiYoung, Born 1982 gives voice to many generations of women subjected to sexism and misogyny. Let’s dig into the details of this iconic book.

About the South of Seoul Book Club

If you are familiar with the series, skip ahead to learn more about “Kim JiYoung, Born 1982.”

Looking for book recommendations? Welcome to the South of Seoul book club. We recommend a book every month. Such recommended books explore topics like 1) South Korean history or culture, 2) the complexity of cross-cultural life, 4) the exploration of life within the diaspora experience, and 5) lenses on Korean culture around the world.

Commitment to Accessibility

South of Seoul volunteers take book accessibility into consideration when recommending titles. We consider:

• Purchasable in English In Korea: Many translated titles can’t actually be purchased in English in Korea,
• Audio Version Available: Many people find audiobooks easier to consume.
• Online Versions.: International residents can’t afford to travel with many books. Also, many books may not be available in digital form from within Korea.

Commitment to Diverse Lived Experiences

South of Seoul volunteers seek to put lived experiences at the forefront of their recommendation choices. When considering authors we look for such things as:

• Korean authors writing about their lived experiences in Korea.
• International residents writing about their lived experiences in South Korea.
• Ethnic Koreans writing about their lived experience in other countries.

Reading about Korean culture from a variety of perspectives may provide readers with a greater understanding of the country and culture.

Commitment to Supporting Mental Health

South of Seoul also includes book recommendations that support the lives and mental health of our community. This means that books may tackle the issues relationships, and more.

Book Recommendation By Melissa Edwards-Whittington

December’s South of Seoul Book Club recommendation, “Kim JiYoung, Born 1982” is brought to you by Melissa Edwards-Whittington of the KimchiRednecks. Edwards-Whittington has lived in Korea since 2017. She and her husband, Chuck, formed the KimchiRednecks YouTube channel to give people living outside of Korea or those coming to Korea, a glimpse of life here in Korea. Together with their three shih tzus, they post weekly videos about places to eat, things to cook, places to visit, or life in general living in Korea.

About The Author of “Kim JiYoung, Born 1982”

Cho Nam-joo is a Korean writer and author, best known for the novel “Kim JiYoung, Born 1982” published in 2016. Born in Seoul in 1978, she studied sociology in Ewha Womans University. Then, she began her career in television as a scriptwriter and published two novels prior to “Kim JiYoung, Born 1982.” Cho left her job to raise her child, but found it difficult to return to work after this absence. Therefore, she began collecting data and articles, eventually crafting this novel about an average Korean woman. The novel has been translated in 18 languages and sold more than one million copies. Also, in 2019, it was made into a movie starring Jung Yu-mi.

My Experience Reading “Kim JiYoung, Born 1982”

Despite being a Korean context of the novel, “Kim JiYoung, Born 1982” is a relatable story for many women. The book chronicles the life of a depressed mother who has quit her job to raise her child and feels she is without purpose. After having the baby, her husband notices episodes where she develops a unique mental illness, resembling the personalities, mannerisms, and speech of other women. As she sinks into the psychosis, her husband sends her to a male therapist for help. At this point, we learn about her life from a child to adulthood.

Kim Jiyoung is a great example of the problems and unfair treatment that many women in South Korea (and around the world) face. The book talks about things like gender inequality, societal norms, and how hard it is to balance work and home life. Also, it makes a strong social statement about things like sexism, gender roles, racism, and the stresses of being a mother.

More Commentary And Reviews On “Kim JiYoung, Born 1982”

The above review contains my thoughts and opinions. However, make sure to read other reviews to have a more rounded perspective toward the book. We all come to each story with our own social/cultural lens. Therefore, others may have perceived this book in a different manner and may help you decide if this is the book for you.

https://www.theguardian.com/books/2020/feb/19/kim-jiyoung-born-1982-cho-nam-joo-bestseller-review

https://www.themistressofbooks.com/reviews/review-kim-ji-young-born-in-1982-by-cho-nam-joo

https://www.npr.org/2020/04/19/835486224/south-korean-bestseller-kim-jiyoung-born-1982-gives-public-voice-to-private-pain

Online Purchasing Link

You can purchase Kim JiYoung, Born 1982 by Cho Nam-joo in English on Amazon.

Find More Book Club Recommendations

Did you like this recommendation? Be sure to explore our other volunteer-recommended books.

South of Seoul Book Club List for 2023

KimchiRednecks

The KimchiRednecks channel was created in September 2018 by Chuck Whittington and Melissa Edwards-Whittington. They moved to Korea in July 2017 with their three Shih Tzu daughters, Sookie, Minion, and Mayhem.

The YouTube channel started as a way to share their lives here with their friends and families back in the states. They both have a deep love for Korean culture, people, and food and love being able to share that with others.

Chuck Whittington graduated from Francis Marion University with a Bachelors in Information Systems Management. He has worked in Information Technology roles for over 20 years. Chuck has always had an interest in Korea and has traveled here many times in the past.

Melissa Edwards-Whittington graduated from Mid-Atlantic Christian University with a Bachelors in Bible and a Minor in Elementary Education. She has worked in various roles in customer service and marketing over the years.

The YouTube channel has many interests just like they do because it is an extension of their lives here in Korea. You will often find videos on their channel about daily life in Korea, cooking, foodie adventures, traveling and exploring, computer and tech pursuits, gaming, and working on the Subaru BRZ.

Over the years, many of their friends have joined them for their videos and adventures because they enjoy sharing their lives with those around them. In addition, they add new interests from time to time, like making moonshine in Korea.

Life is about growing and changing, and the longer the KimchiRednecks live in Korea, the more they learn to love this country and culture and all it has to offer.

The post SOS Book Club Pick: Kim JiYoung, Born 1982 appeared first on The South of Seoul Blog.

A heartbreaking journey of self-discovery, this month we explore the life of Helena Rho in “American Seoul.” Let’s dig into this captivating narrative with themes of diaspora, heritage, and finding oneself in a world where borders blur and cultures intersect.

About the South of Seoul Book Club

If you are familiar with the series, skip ahead to learn more about “American Seoul: A Memoir.”

Looking for book recommendations? Welcome to the South of Seoul book club. We recommend a book every month. Such recommended books explore topics like 1) South Korean history or culture, 2) the complexity of cross-cultural life, 4) the exploration of life within the diaspora experience, and 5) lenses on Korean culture around the world.

Commitment to Accessibility

South of Seoul volunteers take book accessibility into consideration when recommending titles. We consider:

• Purchasable in English In Korea: Many translated titles can’t actually be purchased in English in Korea,
• Audio Version Available: Many people find audiobooks easier to consume.
• Online Versions.: International residents can’t afford to travel with many books. Also, many books may not be available in digital form from within Korea.

Commitment to Diverse Lived Experiences

South of Seoul volunteers seek to put lived experiences at the forefront of their recommendation choices. When considering authors we look for such things as:

• Korean authors writing about their lived experiences in Korea.
• International residents writing about their lived experiences in South Korea.
• Ethnic Koreans writing about their lived experience in other countries.

Reading about Korean culture from a variety of perspectives may provide readers with a greater understanding of the country and culture.

Commitment to Supporting Mental Health

South of Seoul also includes book recommendations that support the lives and mental health of our community. This means that books may tackle the issues related to living between cultures. This may include topics such as culture shock, language, relationships, and more.

Book Recommendation By Melissa Edwards-Whittington

November’s South of Seoul Book Club recommendation, “American Seoul” is brought to you by Melissa Edwards-Whittington of the KimchiRednecks. Edwards-Whittington has lived in Korea since 2017. She and her husband, Chuck, formed the KimchiRednecks YouTube channel to give people living outside of Korea or those coming to Korea, a glimpse of life here in Korea. Together with their three shih tzus, they post weekly videos about places to eat, things to cook, places to visit, or life in general living in Korea.

About The Author of “American Seoul: A Memoir”

The author of “American Seoul,” Helena Rho is Korean-American. Rho was born in Korea, but moved to Uganda as a child and eventually grew up in the United States. She earned her Doctor of Medicine in 1992 and practiced and taught at many of the top ten children’s hospitals in the states. She also earned her Master of Fine Arts degree in Creative Nonfiction from the University of Pittsbugh. Her works have been included in many anthologies and she has been nominated three times for the Pushcart Prize.

My Experience Reading “American Seoul: A Memoir”

Reading “American Seoul” was often heartbreaking as the author shares her personal experiences. Her words often reflect quite a bit of anguish and can feel negative at times. As I read about her life and experiences, I sympathized with her for the trauma that she encountered. Through her narrative, the reader can get a glimpse of what life can be like for someone when their language and culture starts to fade.

Rho’s father was the oldest son of the oldest son in a patriarchal line going back about 500 years. Therefore, this position created quite a bit of expectation on her father, particularly that of having a son. Feeling “shame” from having four daughters, her father decided to move the family from Korea to Uganda when the country welcomed Korean doctors.

Life in Uganda presented difficulties for the family as her parents were uncomfortable speaking English and chose not to speak rather than sound foolish. Rho and her sisters are taught English which causes her to lose her mother tongue. A few years later, her family immigrates to the United States. Rho completes her schooling and becomes the child who follows in her father’s footsteps and becomes a doctor. More difficulties arise for her as she marries and has children. Ultimately, I feel Rho does a great job portraying the difficulties of being born in one country and raised by foreign parents in another.

More Commentary And Reviews On “American Seoul: A Memoir”

The above review contains my thoughts and opinions. However, make sure to read other reviews to have a more rounded perspective toward the book. We all come to each story with our own social/cultural lens. Therefore, others may have perceived this book in a different manner and may help you decide if this is the book for you.

Online Purchasing Link

You can purchase American Seoul: A Memoir by Helena Rho in English on Amazon.

Find More Book Club Recommendations

Did you like this recommendation? Be sure to explore our other volunteer-recommended books.

South of Seoul Book Club List for 2023

KimchiRednecks

The KimchiRednecks channel was created in September 2018 by Chuck Whittington and Melissa Edwards-Whittington. They moved to Korea in July 2017 with their three Shih Tzu daughters, Sookie, Minion, and Mayhem.

The YouTube channel started as a way to share their lives here with their friends and families back in the states. They both have a deep love for Korean culture, people, and food and love being able to share that with others.

Chuck Whittington graduated from Francis Marion University with a Bachelors in Information Systems Management. He has worked in Information Technology roles for over 20 years. Chuck has always had an interest in Korea and has traveled here many times in the past.

Melissa Edwards-Whittington graduated from Mid-Atlantic Christian University with a Bachelors in Bible and a Minor in Elementary Education. She has worked in various roles in customer service and marketing over the years.

The YouTube channel has many interests just like they do because it is an extension of their lives here in Korea. You will often find videos on their channel about daily life in Korea, cooking, foodie adventures, traveling and exploring, computer and tech pursuits, gaming, and working on the Subaru BRZ.

Over the years, many of their friends have joined them for their videos and adventures because they enjoy sharing their lives with those around them. In addition, they add new interests from time to time, like making moonshine in Korea.

Life is about growing and changing, and the longer the KimchiRednecks live in Korea, the more they learn to love this country and culture and all it has to offer.

The post SOS Book Club Pick: American Seoul: A Memoir appeared first on The South of Seoul Blog.

Join us as we delve into the irresistible allure of Kimchi Mandu 김치 만두. These kimchi dumplings are the much loved Korean delicacy. Combining the sourness of the fermented kimchi with the hug of either steamed or fried dough, it is perfection. Let’s dig into this delicious dish!

About the South of Seoul ‘A Year to Learn Korean Cooking’ Series

If you are familiar with the series, skip ahead to learn more about Kimchi Mandu 김치 만두. 

Many of us only live in South Korea for a year. Time flies past faster than we can imagine. At South of Seoul, we decided to create a simple series that will offer 2-4 dishes to learn each month so that when you leave South Korea you have a slew of new dishes you feel comfortable making anywhere.

This series is a collaboration with Kimchi Rednecks. In 2020, they created the first blog in this series Online Resources for Learning to Cook Korean Food. These two love to have adventures in the kitchen and share the results with their community. Be sure to follow KimchiRednecks on YouTube for other great videos about living life in South Korea.

About Kimchi Mandu 김치 만두

Kimchi Mandu 김치 만두 is a Korean dish that tantalizes the taste buds. These dumplings are the essence of tradition and innovation in Korean cuisine. In addition, kimchi mandu has become a highly respected gem of street food tradition in Korea. The blend of hot fermented kimchi and tender frying/steaming dough has transcended cultural boundaries. Kimchi mandu charms food enthusiasts and culinary aficionados worldwide.

Steeped in a history that dates back centuries, this humble yet extraordinary creation has weathered the test of time. Although it has origins as a simple street snack, it has become a globally celebrated culinary treasure. Therefore, kimchi mandu has secured a special place in the hearts of Koreans and worldwide.

Ingredients and Preparation

Kimchi Mandu boasts a tantalizing blend of flavors and textures that reflect the essence of Korean culinary artistry. Typically, the filling consists of a harmonious marriage of finely chopped kimchi, coupled with minced pork, tofu, or a combination of both, enhancing the dumpling’s depth of flavor. Additionally, there may be dangmyeon (당면), sweet potato starch noodles, bean sprouts, onions or scallions.

The filling is encased in a delicate yet resilient wrapper (mandu pi 만두피). Typically, the wrappers consist of a mixture of wheat flour, water, and salt. Folded into various shapes ranging from crescents to pleated pouches, the wrappers ensure that the filling is securely enveloped. Next, prepare the kimchi mandu by steaming, boiling, pan-frying, or deep-frying for the perfect bite.

Tradition

Kimchi mandu has a rich cultural heritage that emerged from Korean culinary history. This savory delicacy has long been cherished as a comforting and portable snack. Therefore, it reflects the ingenuity of Korean cooks in utilizing simple ingredients to create flavorful and satisfying dishes. Over time, kimchi mandu has evolved to symbolize the fusion of tradition and innovation, embodying the spirit of Korean resilience and adaptability.

Beyond its culinary significance, kimchi mandu also holds a cultural resonance, often served during festive occasions and family gatherings, cementing its position as a beloved part of Korean dining experiences. However, kimchi mandu continues to stamp an impression of Korean cuisine in the international sphere of cooking.

Our First Experience with Kimchi Mandu

Although neither of us can recall the first time that we ate kimchi mandu, we both agree that this is a dish that we have enjoyed for many years. When we decided to make our first mandu dish, we decided that kimchi mandu was the best option. However, making mandu pi 만두피 from scratch was not on our radar. If you are looking for a fabulous recipe and information on making your own wrappers, check out Korean Bapsang for a blog and video.

Hurdles in Cooking Kimchi Mandu 김치 만두

Cooking kimchi mandu can present several challenges that require careful attention to ensure a delicious and satisfying end result. Therefore, we share some of the common hurdles, so you can be successful. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Flavorful Filling: One primary hurdle involves achieving the perfect balance of flavors in the filling, as the tangy and spicy nature of kimchi must complement the other ingredients without overpowering them. Therefore, we recommend reviewing recipes to see how chefs balance those flavors to make the perfect bite.
• Sealing Mandu Wrappers: Additionally, properly sealing the filling within the wrapper demands precision and skill to prevent leakage during the cooking process. Folding the mandu can be quite challenging, so go slowly. Therefore, we believe that the mandu doesn’t have to be beautiful as long as it tastes fabulous!
• Cooking Times: Maintaining the ideal texture of the wrapper, whether steamed or fried, also poses a challenge. It is important to mind cooking times and temperatures to achieve the desired softness or crispiness without compromising the integrity of the dumplings. When reviewing recipes, keep an eye on the timing to make sure you get the perfect mandu.
• Filling the Mandu: Moreover, ensuring that the filling is adequately cooked while simultaneously preserving the tenderness of the wrapper calls for extra attention to the recipe.

By navigating these hurdles, you can master the art of creating the perfect kimchi mandu that tantalizes the taste buds with every bite.

Three Kimchi Mandu Videos to Watch

Are you ready to tackle the challenge of making kimchi mandu at home? Here are three videos to inspire you to make your own! We like to include three perspectives on any dish that we present 1) a Korean chef making it in Korea, 2) a Korean chef making it in a foreign country (provides options for substitutions), and 3) foreign residents making it while living in South Korea. These three perspectives provide a broader look at cooking the dish so that you can understand how to adopt it into your lifestyle.

Korean Making Kimchi Mandu

Korean American Making Kimchi Mandu

Americans in Korea Making Kimchi Mandu

Tips for Making Kimchi Mandu Vegan

Making delicious vegan kimchi mandu is entirely possible. To make vegan Kimchi Mandu, start by sourcing or making vegan kimchi. Vegan kimchi omits the shrimp and fish sauce often found in standard preparations. When living in Korea, you can order vegan kimchi on Coupang or on Gmarket. Use the search term: 비건 김치.

For the vegan kimchi mandu filling, mix together finely chopped vegan kimchi, sautéed mushrooms (like shiitake) for a meaty texture, crumbled firm tofu as a protein replacement, finely chopped green onions, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Ensure all ingredients are mixed thoroughly. You can get creative here and use fun local mushrooms.

To assemble, spoon a small portion of the filling onto a dumpling wrapper (check the ingredients to ensure it’s vegan), wet the edges, and fold, pinching to seal the edges. You can either steam, boil, or pan-fry your mandu, depending on your preference.

Once you finish, you can enjoy your vegan Kimchi Mandu with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds!

Let Us Know How It Turned Out

When you make kimchi mandu at home, be sure to leave a comment on this blog or our video. We would love to hear how your soup turned out. We love to hear about your adventures and experiences cooking at home!

Follow KimchiRednecks

If you are looking for other dishes (Korean or otherwise) or reviews of local restaurants, be sure to check out the KimchiRednecks channel. We also share a little behind the scenes in or our social media accounts on Facebook or Instagram.

Join Pyeongtaek Food & Fun

If you live in the Pyeongtaek area, share your Korean cooking experiences with us in the Pyeongtaek Food & Fun Facebook group. 

Try More Recipies In Our Year To Learn Korean Cooking Series

We have many more Korean recipes that will make your life in Korea more delicious.

KimchiRednecks

The KimchiRednecks channel was created in September 2018 by Chuck Whittington and Melissa Edwards-Whittington. They moved to Korea in July 2017 with their three Shih Tzu daughters, Sookie, Minion, and Mayhem.

The YouTube channel started as a way to share their lives here with their friends and families back in the states. They both have a deep love for Korean culture, people, and food and love being able to share that with others.

Chuck Whittington graduated from Francis Marion University with a Bachelors in Information Systems Management. He has worked in Information Technology roles for over 20 years. Chuck has always had an interest in Korea and has traveled here many times in the past.

Melissa Edwards-Whittington graduated from Mid-Atlantic Christian University with a Bachelors in Bible and a Minor in Elementary Education. She has worked in various roles in customer service and marketing over the years.

The YouTube channel has many interests just like they do because it is an extension of their lives here in Korea. You will often find videos on their channel about daily life in Korea, cooking, foodie adventures, traveling and exploring, computer and tech pursuits, gaming, and working on the Subaru BRZ.

Over the years, many of their friends have joined them for their videos and adventures because they enjoy sharing their lives with those around them. In addition, they add new interests from time to time, like making moonshine in Korea.

Life is about growing and changing, and the longer the KimchiRednecks live in Korea, the more they learn to love this country and culture and all it has to offer.

The post A Year to Learn Korean Cooking: Kimchi Mandu appeared first on The South of Seoul Blog.

Looking for the best meat pies in Pyeongtaek? Not only are there many options available but also there are many varieties too. So depending upon what you are craving, we have you covered.

Where Is Pyeongtaek?

Feel free to skip this section if you live in Pyeongtaek or know about the area. We try to make sure that everyone knows what area our blog post recommendations cover since we don’t know what part of you Korea you may currently exist in when viewing our information.

Pyeongtaek-si is located in the southern portion of the Gyeonggi-do province. This large city includes both US military installations, Camp Humphreys, and Osan Air Base.

The meat pie recommendations provided exist within different areas of Pyeongtaek-si. Therefore, in this blog post, South of Seoul provides addresses and phone numbers. However, we recommend using this information in either Naver Maps or Kakao Maps for the best results. As a result, such apps help you figure out how far each restaurant might be from you.

What Exactly Is A Meat Pie?

A meat pie is a savory dish consisting of a pastry crust filled with various types of meats, often combined with vegetables, spices, and sometimes a rich sauce. The specific ingredients and preparation methods can vary widely, depending on cultural traditions and individual preferences.

The crust of a meat pie is typically made from flour, water, and fat, which is rolled out and used to encase the meat filling. The filling itself can comprise a range of meats such as beef, pork, chicken, or lamb, often cooked with an assortment of vegetables like onions, carrots, and peas. Additionally, various herbs, spices, and seasonings are used to enhance the flavors.

Meat pies can come in different forms, including individual hand-sized pies or larger ones meant to be sliced and shared. They can be baked until the crust is golden and flaky, creating a delectable contrast with the moist and flavorful filling. The combination of a well-baked crust and a delicious meaty filling makes meat pies a popular comfort food in many parts of the world.

International Styles of Meat Pies

There are different types of meat pies as well which differ from place to place but yet are considered a delicacy across many cultures worldwide. Here are some international examples:

• United Kingdom: Britain is well-known for its fondness of pies especially the meat pie. The hot water crust pastry is known for one of the popular British pork pies. Steak and kidney pie, shepherd’s pie or even cottage pie are all popular variations.
• Australia and New Zealand: Minced meat pie and gravy are often contained in Australian meat pies that are commonly found in bakeries and convenience stores. Similarly, in New Zealand, the meat pie is common and composed of minced meat and numerous spices.
• South Africa: Pyes or meat pie is a well-known snack. It typically consists of a pastry crust filled with minced meat, although variations with other fillings are also available.
• Nigeria: Meat pies are a common snack or small meal in Nigeria. They usually contain minced meat, potatoes, carrots, and a range of spices, enclosed in a pastry shell.
• Jamaica: In Jamaican cuisine, meat pies are a popular street food. Jamaican meat patties often contain seasoned ground meat, typically beef, folded inside a flaky pastry shell. They are known for their spicy flavor.
• United States: Although not as widespread as in some other countries, meat pies are also part of American cuisine. Variations include the classic chicken pot pie and beef pot pie, often made with a flaky pastry crust and a savory filling.

These are only a few of the many meat pie traditions found across the world. The individual ingredients and flavors will however vary greatly depending on the specific culinary cultures and preferences.

Meat Pies in Pyeongtaek

There are many different options for meat pies in the Pyeongtaek area from a variety of international sources. We recommend trying them all and finding your favorites.

Biltong Box And Deli⁵

Hangul Address

경기도 평택시 안정로29번길 29

South African Biltong and meat pies. This is a take-out location.

(Listing information provided by the South of Seoul app)

Braai Republic (Pyeongtaek Branch)^4.9

031-657-7580

Copy and paste phone numbers into Naver Maps to get directions

Hangul Address

경기 평택시 팽성읍 안정쇼핑로 17-1

The friendly owners, cozy interior, and insanely good food will keep you coming back again and again. Their lamb chops and meat pies are to die for, and weekend brunch should not be missed.

(Listing information provided by the South of Seoul app)

DewDrop^4.6

031-651-1221

Copy and paste phone numbers into Naver Maps to get directions

Hangul Address

주소 경기 평택시 팽성읍 신흥북로29번길 40-5

A beautiful two-story coffee shop located next to The Brownstone apartments. Spacious, yet cozy. The staff are extremely friendly and the food/drinks are great.

(Listing information provided by the South of Seoul app)

Cottage Meat Pie⁰

0507-1439-6674

Copy and paste phone numbers into Naver Maps to get directions

Hangul Address

경기 평택시 중앙시장로25번길 1 1동 1층

Delivery via Shuttle. Take out available. Meat pies, brunch items, cheese steaks, chili

(Listing information provided by the South of Seoul app)

Seasonal Availability (usually mid-October until March):

Le Pain ^4.7

0507-1339-5336

Copy and paste phone numbers into Naver Maps to get directions

Hangul Address

경기도 평택시 팽성읍 신흥북로49번길 22

Convenient little cafe with indoor and outdoor seating. Great brunch options!

(Listing information provided by the South of Seoul app)

Meat Pies in Asan

Kkoala Pie⁰

0507-1347-8116

Copy and paste phone numbers into Naver Maps to get directions

Hangul Address

충남 아산시 둔포면 아산밸리중앙로 79-6 1층 꼬알라파이(

(Listing information provided by the South of Seoul app)

Meat Pies in Cheonan

Vodiy Uzbek Restaurant⁰

010-2177-0777

Copy and paste phone numbers into Naver Maps to get directions

Hangul Address

충남 천안시 서북구 성환읍 성환1로 251

This seriously authentic Uzbek restaurant is both affordable and delicious. Located near the train station, this is an easy stop from either downtown Cheonan or Pyeongtaek. It's a must for lovers of lamb, meat pies, and dumplings.

(Listing information provided by the South of Seoul app)

KimchiRednecks Grabbing Meat Pies In Pyeongtaek

We have not made it to visit all of the best meat pies in Pyeongtaek. However, we have made it to two of the local favorites, Braai Republic and Biltong Box and Deli. Feel free to check out our YouTube channel for our adventures in and around Korea. We hope to make it to some of the local kkwabaegi shops for a video soon!

Join The Pyeongtaek Food & Fun Facebook Group

You are also welcome to join our Pyeongtaek Food & Fun Facebook Group. The South of Seoul moderated community of active and friendly Pyeongtaek international residents makes moving to Pyeongtaek easier. With so many different voices and opinions, it is always refreshing to see everyone’s adventures in our local community. In addition, all of the posts shared introduce our community to new places and old places that can feel new all over again.

While this list of best pies in Pyeongtaek is not comprehensive of the entire area, we may have missed your favorite spot. Therefore, make sure to share with the community and share your favorite spots with us!

Volunteer With South Of Seoul

Interested in working with a fun team of talented volunteers? The South of Seoul volunteer team is always looking for other like-minded folks to research information, compile blogs, and edit content.

KimchiRednecks

The KimchiRednecks channel was created in September 2018 by Chuck Whittington and Melissa Edwards-Whittington. They moved to Korea in July 2017 with their three Shih Tzu daughters, Sookie, Minion, and Mayhem.

The YouTube channel started as a way to share their lives here with their friends and families back in the states. They both have a deep love for Korean culture, people, and food and love being able to share that with others.

Chuck Whittington graduated from Francis Marion University with a Bachelors in Information Systems Management. He has worked in Information Technology roles for over 20 years. Chuck has always had an interest in Korea and has traveled here many times in the past.

Melissa Edwards-Whittington graduated from Mid-Atlantic Christian University with a Bachelors in Bible and a Minor in Elementary Education. She has worked in various roles in customer service and marketing over the years.

The YouTube channel has many interests just like they do because it is an extension of their lives here in Korea. You will often find videos on their channel about daily life in Korea, cooking, foodie adventures, traveling and exploring, computer and tech pursuits, gaming, and working on the Subaru BRZ.

Over the years, many of their friends have joined them for their videos and adventures because they enjoy sharing their lives with those around them. In addition, they add new interests from time to time, like making moonshine in Korea.

Life is about growing and changing, and the longer the KimchiRednecks live in Korea, the more they learn to love this country and culture and all it has to offer.

The post Best Meat Pies in Pyeongtaek appeared first on The South of Seoul Blog.