Published by the Gwangju International Center since 2001
Lindsay Nash and Whit Altizer are already waiting outside the GIC building, Whit’s index fingers clasped tightly by their toddling son, Finn, who is enthusiastically practicing his new upright mobility skills. Hughie Samson soon joins us, and we wait a little while longer for the photographer.
In the past, Korea was often referred to as the ‘Hermit Kingdom’ because of its rather insular and inward-looking tendency to avoid involvement in the world beyond its own borders. But, just like a child grown to maturity, nicknames are often outgrown.
Yi So-yeon was born in Gwangju and spent the first 15 years of her life living among the people of the city. When she began studying at Gwangju Science High School, she also began nurturing what has been a life-long passion for science and learning.
With the passing of the U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA), opinions have been strong on its ratification. Multiple demonstrations have been held in Seoul denouncing the agreement, erupting in violent clashes with the police.
Although the majority of new teachers landing at Incheon are unattached, Korea isn’t a singles party anymore.
This is the story of Yang Kum-deok, one of many Korean middle-schoolers taken during the 1940s to work in the Mitsubishi factories in Japan. What was presented to be the opportunity of a lifetime soon tragically turned into a living nightmare for her and many others, in which the battle for justice still rages on to this day.
Gwangju’s mayor, Kang Un-tae, who was elected in 2010 and will serve until 2014, shares his experience and network from previous elected positions as mayor of Suncheon (‘89-‘90), mayor of Gwangju (‘94-‘95), minister of Internal Affairs (’97), and as a member of the National Assembly (’00 and ’08).
Dr. David Shaffer provides answers and insight about teaching English in the Gwangju News monthly column “Letters to KOTESOL.”
