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The Korea Times

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bernard Rowan

Poet for good life

By Bernard RowanMy column concerns the newly published volume of poems by Professor Choi Yearn-Hong, entitled “Snows of Kilimanjaro.” I came to know Professor Choi through my senior, Professor Park Eung-kyuk, and of late we've collaborated on a few projects related to Korean history and culture, including the poetry of Yoon Dong-ju.Choi's book of poems will appeal to Koreans, Americans, and many others. Its reflections mark a keen observer of our world and a humanitarian. The touching vignettes evoke more general meanings arising from episodes of his life. He and we learn from po...

2020-09-22 17:02

Next advance is now

I'm sorry to read that coronavirus has re-emerged in South Korea as a problem. The Korea Times pages suggest cases have risen to 300 per day. Some churches and large gatherings have created the context for the spread of the disease.

2020-08-25 17:55

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

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