What impression do ordinary Koreans get when told about debating? They might presume it has nothing to do with them, or even hope that fortunately, they would have no chance to participate in one throughout their lives. And imagine the eccentric looks they would give when urged to join a debate delivered in English! In general, many Koreans have an acute “phobia” for debating and a debate in a foreign language would certainly be scary for most of them. There is, however, a dongari which may be able to wipe out such chronic, irritating concerns and will make you feel much more comfortable and have more confidence in yourself in a debate.
SNUDA, the only official English debate club in SNU, is currently playing such a role. Despite its short history, this dongari is very systematic and well-organized. Along with the organized system, every member is eager enough to make other skeptical newcomers also become enthusiastic about debating. This enthusiasm was not an exception with their meeting with the Quill. Four members of the club, including the president, have joined the interview and gave advices and tips on debating.
Origin & History
SNUDA started in 2007 by Park Joon-yeong(02’ College of Business) and his friends. Park has felt that the most efficient way to improve their English skills in overall was to debate in English. So the English debate club was introduced to SNU. At first the club mainly consisted of students from the College of Business but as more and more students from other departments joined the club, the club went through gradual changes and became more professional. Many members of the club had participated in debate matches held in Korea, have gained many glories, and are eager to win the International Championship.
Club activities
The club activities are mainly divided into two categories; SNUDA members have “Regular Sessions,” and participate in debating competitions. The regular sessions are again, divided into two parts. During the “Debating Process” members of the club have a practice debate so as to enhance the members’ debating ability. On the “Issue Presentation,” members gather information needed for the debate from various fields of studies. Then there is the “Debating Competition” which is mandatory for all SNUDA members. All members of SNUDA take part in their first KNC(Korea National Championship) match. This is the opportunity to show and prove their improvements on debating.
The activities of SNUDA are not confined solely to debating, however. It is an English debate club, but at the same time it is a dongari. The whole atmosphere of the club could be somewhat strict but naturally, there are activities such as MTs and KIDA parties for members to bond together with less tension.
Interview with SNUDA
Two brief yet important questions were prepared and answered by the president and the members of the club to learn more about SNUDA.
Q. What is the general aim of your club?
A. Park Joon-yeong(02’ College of Business) - Our eventual goal is to win the International Championship. And we also hope that debating would flourish among SNU students. We are planning various projects so that SNU students could become more familiar and eager towards debating. In the fall semester, for instance, we are planning to host the National Championship debate. We are also thinking of publishing some manuals on English debating so that more students, even students with no experience could know about debating skills and take an interest in it.
Q. What is SNUDA like? Tell us about the activities, the atmosphere, and the merits of SNUDA.
A. Kim Sae-jik(02’ College of Natural Science) – My friends suggested me to join SNUDA. At the recruiting session of the club, I felt that this was the perfect club I had dreamt of. The untiring passion of the members, the promising improvement of one’s English speaking ability, and the thorough and systematic programs were so impressive that I couldn't help applying for the club right away. After entering SNUDA, I became more and more interested in debating. As a result, a person who once had difficulty to speak his opinion to many people has become surprisingly more confident and logical. I've taken part in some leagues since 2007, and now works as the administrator of the club.
A. Park Sae-seul(08’ College of Business) - Actually, I'm rather familiar with debating because I have joined many championships in high school. When I entered the SNU, at first I didn’t know there was an English debate club in this university. So it was not until sometime after that I got to know about SNUDA. At first, I was rather apprehensive because for me, the club seemed to be a bit ‘loose’ compared to other clubs that I have joined before. I now find, however, that worry was a groundless thought. I feel happy and content when I think of everything of SNUDA.
Many difficulties followed after SNUDA has been founded, as is often the case of every association in the beginning. It has been even harder for them because the club dealt with both “debate” and “English” – the two features quite disliked by many Korean students. The members of SNUDA, however, have strived and progressed day by day and are finally anticipating to win the International Debating Championship. SNUDA would be an ideal dongari for students interested in English and debating and who are willing to work hard and aim at a higher goal.
written by: Gang-ik Ju
2009년 4월 22일 수요일
[Vol.19] History within the Present - Looking into the History of SNU
Seoul National University is just about 60 years old. The history of the school is written on a number of books and papers but it also reveals itself within the modernized campus. With watchful eyes, and a mixture of curiosity and interest, history could be discovered and experienced everywhere.
Antique within non-antique; the modern Kkangtong cafeterias
How comfortable it is to find nice cafeterias at every corner in the campus, considering those days when there were less equipped facilities inside the school. The watery jjajangmyun our seniors used to eat for its’ cheap price has been raised to 1,500 won. The 1,000 won jjajangmyun, the trademark of the Kkangtong cafeterias has now become a legend.
Kkangtong cafeteria was affectionately named by students of Seoul National University out of the characteristics of the temporary building with tin-plate walls which was shaped like a can. The cafeteria has been a place of nourishment for people of Seoul national university for sixteen years since 1993. Now there are two KKangtong cafeterias; one in front of the College of Engineering and another in the presence of the College of Education. The increase of the seats in the KKangtong near the College of Engineering shows the continuing popularity of the cafeteria as it grew from 72 seats in 1995 to 120 seats in 2006.
Familiarity and reasonable price are the original charms of Kkangtong cafeteria. You should never expect gorgeous interior designs or various fusion menus in this unique dining hall. Rather, a meal is served by an aunty-like employee with kindhearted amount of cooked noodles or rice which is mainly priced between one or two thousand won. For many alumni of this school, Kkangtong cafeteria is the place that brings out the melancholy memory of university life; this is the place where they had filled their growling tummies with warm yet reasonably priced food.
However, Kkangtong cafeteria also shows the fact that nothing is eternal. The KKangtong cafeterias, contrary to their names, do not resemble a tin can anymore. The cafeterias have been under construction and added new menus and are charging higher prices which could give a bitter feeling to some older students who came for the reminiscent taste. Most of the freshmen however, have no recollection of the old KKangs. Still, the KKangtongs are still operating for every hungry student within the campus and both the historical and practical value of these cafeterias is for many students in SNU, priceless.
Jahayeon and Ohjak-kyo
Everyone knows Jahayeon. Located at the very center of the campus, the pond is a hard sight to miss, whether the cherry blossoms are falling gently on its waters or the trees are eerily illuminated by decorative lamps. It is such a familiar presence that hundreds of people pass it on their way to class each day without so much as giving a second thought, let alone another glance.
But Jahayeon as students know it today has not been around for very long. Not many years ago, there used to be a bridge cutting across the pond. A plain concrete arch, the bridge had generally been considered unsightly and its name – Ohjak-kyo(烏鵲橋), an allusion to the bridge of crows and magpies mentioned in one Korean folklore – was more often interpreted as 誤作橋, or a <>. Its awkward presence had inspired many utterly bizarre and wholly unfounded rumors over the years, ranging from the usual “couples who walk across the bridge together will break up” to “the bridge will collapse if a virgin walks across it past midnight.”
Ohjak-kyo was torn down by the university in 2003, following the unfortunate deaths of two students who drowned in the pond, despite claims by some students that the bridge had collapsed on its own.
The Origin of Nokdu Street
For students in Gwanak campus, Nokdu Street would be the place most frequently spoke of, along with Naksungdae and Seoul National University Entrance. Nokdu is home to many students with its numerous studio apartments and has a distinctive characteristic due to a large number of private institutes, bookstores, restaurants and bars. Because of the name Nokdu, which is a Korean word for “mung-beans,” there had been many assumptions that the origin of the street would somehow be related to this plant. The name of the street, Nokdu, however, is actually from a bar called “Nokdujip(which means Nokdu house).” Nokdujip was on the current Nokdu Street in the 1980s and served dongdongju(a traditional Korean wine). Nokdujip became popular among students for its low prices and eventually, the street was named after it.
University Uniforms
When high school or perhaps middle school students dream about university life, the first difference they might anticipate or in some cases, dread of, would be the fact that in universities, school uniforms do not exist. Unlike in Korean middle schools and high schools, in universities there is no one to scold you and to impose severe restrictions on your hair and clothing. After wearing monotone uniforms for six years on the average, freshmen tend to change their style completely, with much expectation towards university life.
This, however, could not have been possible in the 1950s, because there used to be a uniform in SNU then. The uniform of SNU was decided and made on March 2nd, 1947. The uniform consisted of a school hat, which was a beret and a jacket with a lengthwise zipper as a pocket and the SNU mark(the sha mark) embroidered on the arm. The SNU uniform seems to have been worn occasionally in the 1950s and in photos of school entrance ceremonies all the students are wearing the indigo-color uniform. After 50 years, the scenes have completely changed. Students in colorful garments are standing in the auditorium, but the expression of anticipation lingering on the faces is consistent as always.
The Master of Shoes of SNU
Along the roadside starting from the library to the student center building, where the golden bell in full blossom captures the eyes of passerby, there lays a cozy tin-roofed house where an old man fixes shoes.
Ha Yong-jin, 76, had a bullet wound from the Korean War he had entered in his early twenties. After the war, Ha became a person of national merit, and the government introduced a workplace in Seoul National University as a shoe repairman which became his ongoing job.
Working in SNU campus for more than fifty years, Ha talks about how the life in campus changed significantly in several decades. During the years, the school has even changed its location. "Those days were tough. Passing through one of the most revolutionary eras of our history, students were on the one hand, always down-and-out but on the other, full of good ambition." Along with that, Ha depicts modern students in the campus as the happy-generation living in the time of abundance.
People who drop by Ha's repair shop might glimpse that through an old man's proficient hand skill in handling shoes, deepened wrinkles in chances of smiles, benevolent tone of voice, the long history of Seoul National University could be found. The history is living underneath the ordinary and the SNU “master of shoes” is waiting to help the youth troubled by their shoes regardless of time or weather.
written by: Kim Sunjung, Helen Kim, Yum Sooyun
Antique within non-antique; the modern Kkangtong cafeterias
How comfortable it is to find nice cafeterias at every corner in the campus, considering those days when there were less equipped facilities inside the school. The watery jjajangmyun our seniors used to eat for its’ cheap price has been raised to 1,500 won. The 1,000 won jjajangmyun, the trademark of the Kkangtong cafeterias has now become a legend.
Kkangtong cafeteria was affectionately named by students of Seoul National University out of the characteristics of the temporary building with tin-plate walls which was shaped like a can. The cafeteria has been a place of nourishment for people of Seoul national university for sixteen years since 1993. Now there are two KKangtong cafeterias; one in front of the College of Engineering and another in the presence of the College of Education. The increase of the seats in the KKangtong near the College of Engineering shows the continuing popularity of the cafeteria as it grew from 72 seats in 1995 to 120 seats in 2006.
Familiarity and reasonable price are the original charms of Kkangtong cafeteria. You should never expect gorgeous interior designs or various fusion menus in this unique dining hall. Rather, a meal is served by an aunty-like employee with kindhearted amount of cooked noodles or rice which is mainly priced between one or two thousand won. For many alumni of this school, Kkangtong cafeteria is the place that brings out the melancholy memory of university life; this is the place where they had filled their growling tummies with warm yet reasonably priced food.
However, Kkangtong cafeteria also shows the fact that nothing is eternal. The KKangtong cafeterias, contrary to their names, do not resemble a tin can anymore. The cafeterias have been under construction and added new menus and are charging higher prices which could give a bitter feeling to some older students who came for the reminiscent taste. Most of the freshmen however, have no recollection of the old KKangs. Still, the KKangtongs are still operating for every hungry student within the campus and both the historical and practical value of these cafeterias is for many students in SNU, priceless.
Jahayeon and Ohjak-kyo
Everyone knows Jahayeon. Located at the very center of the campus, the pond is a hard sight to miss, whether the cherry blossoms are falling gently on its waters or the trees are eerily illuminated by decorative lamps. It is such a familiar presence that hundreds of people pass it on their way to class each day without so much as giving a second thought, let alone another glance.
But Jahayeon as students know it today has not been around for very long. Not many years ago, there used to be a bridge cutting across the pond. A plain concrete arch, the bridge had generally been considered unsightly and its name – Ohjak-kyo(烏鵲橋), an allusion to the bridge of crows and magpies mentioned in one Korean folklore – was more often interpreted as 誤作橋, or a <>. Its awkward presence had inspired many utterly bizarre and wholly unfounded rumors over the years, ranging from the usual “couples who walk across the bridge together will break up” to “the bridge will collapse if a virgin walks across it past midnight.”
Ohjak-kyo was torn down by the university in 2003, following the unfortunate deaths of two students who drowned in the pond, despite claims by some students that the bridge had collapsed on its own.
The Origin of Nokdu Street
For students in Gwanak campus, Nokdu Street would be the place most frequently spoke of, along with Naksungdae and Seoul National University Entrance. Nokdu is home to many students with its numerous studio apartments and has a distinctive characteristic due to a large number of private institutes, bookstores, restaurants and bars. Because of the name Nokdu, which is a Korean word for “mung-beans,” there had been many assumptions that the origin of the street would somehow be related to this plant. The name of the street, Nokdu, however, is actually from a bar called “Nokdujip(which means Nokdu house).” Nokdujip was on the current Nokdu Street in the 1980s and served dongdongju(a traditional Korean wine). Nokdujip became popular among students for its low prices and eventually, the street was named after it.
University Uniforms
When high school or perhaps middle school students dream about university life, the first difference they might anticipate or in some cases, dread of, would be the fact that in universities, school uniforms do not exist. Unlike in Korean middle schools and high schools, in universities there is no one to scold you and to impose severe restrictions on your hair and clothing. After wearing monotone uniforms for six years on the average, freshmen tend to change their style completely, with much expectation towards university life.
This, however, could not have been possible in the 1950s, because there used to be a uniform in SNU then. The uniform of SNU was decided and made on March 2nd, 1947. The uniform consisted of a school hat, which was a beret and a jacket with a lengthwise zipper as a pocket and the SNU mark(the sha mark) embroidered on the arm. The SNU uniform seems to have been worn occasionally in the 1950s and in photos of school entrance ceremonies all the students are wearing the indigo-color uniform. After 50 years, the scenes have completely changed. Students in colorful garments are standing in the auditorium, but the expression of anticipation lingering on the faces is consistent as always.
The Master of Shoes of SNU
Along the roadside starting from the library to the student center building, where the golden bell in full blossom captures the eyes of passerby, there lays a cozy tin-roofed house where an old man fixes shoes.
Ha Yong-jin, 76, had a bullet wound from the Korean War he had entered in his early twenties. After the war, Ha became a person of national merit, and the government introduced a workplace in Seoul National University as a shoe repairman which became his ongoing job.
Working in SNU campus for more than fifty years, Ha talks about how the life in campus changed significantly in several decades. During the years, the school has even changed its location. "Those days were tough. Passing through one of the most revolutionary eras of our history, students were on the one hand, always down-and-out but on the other, full of good ambition." Along with that, Ha depicts modern students in the campus as the happy-generation living in the time of abundance.
People who drop by Ha's repair shop might glimpse that through an old man's proficient hand skill in handling shoes, deepened wrinkles in chances of smiles, benevolent tone of voice, the long history of Seoul National University could be found. The history is living underneath the ordinary and the SNU “master of shoes” is waiting to help the youth troubled by their shoes regardless of time or weather.
written by: Kim Sunjung, Helen Kim, Yum Sooyun
[Vol.19] men’s beauty – how high is its position up in Gwanak?
Television might praise beautiful men. Some might scoff at “sissies” who are willing to skip breakfast to look at the mirror once more. That’s all very fine, but what do SNU think about this fever that is swiping through the society?
The Quill asked users of SNUlife, online community of SNU students, for their opinion about men’s beauty syndrome. Find out what your colleagues think.
*Following was extracted and translated from replies of article number 6968366 and 7026949 of SNUlife Gongsage (http://www.snulife.com/gongsage), through March 15th to April 3rd.
What do you think of men showing interest about how they look? It does not matter whether you are a woman aghast about men knowing much more about fashion than you do, or a man uncomfortable about this trend. Neither does it matter whether it is a response to men inside SNU who care about their looks, or prediction about where this phenomenon will end up. Please tell the SNU Quill what YOU think.
3. (Dinosaur)
Not interested in self-management or whatever, and
bleached hair+ ear piercing + face pale from makeup + red lips + skinny jeans + high-top shoes + big bag = gay-esque
Lack of any element mentioned above + they look awkward on him= a bit gay-esque
Lack of any element mentioned above + they look quite good on him= pretty much gay-esque.
4. (Sparrow)
So you mean all the men who care about how they look are gay? Personally I find men who have style much more attractive than those with flakey faces who carry backpacks with their shirts tucked inside their pants. Driving all of them as gay seems like a conclusion that is way too generalized, and it hints a sense of inferiority…….
Anyway, I am all enthusiasm about this phenomenon. Considering the money, time and effort we women put into ourselves, what men are doing now is still far from being sufficient.
12. (Grasshopper)
I am little taller than average, sometimes use slipsoles to heighten my height, and apply BB cream when I go out. Sports center, hair salon, and cloth shopping takes up a certain part of my life. Wow, things listed above make me sound like a guy who extremely cares about adorning. But wouldn’t it be better to keep oneself neat and clean as possible, if what we are born with is insufficient?
13. (Kangaroo)
Oh, if I only had time and money.
15. (Butterfly)
I’m a woman, and I prefer men who know how to adorn themselves without being too showy, like a swan waddles under water where we cannot see. Saying out loud things like “this product is better for skin” or “the clothes of this brand are….” is unattractive. Plus, I really wish men would not copy stars such as Bigbang or Jo Inseong under the title of “grooming.” Style that fits oneself, age, and circumstances is the truly stylish thing.
17. (Hummingbird)
I believe (I’m a man) one should be able to dress up to match the TPO at minimum, though that kind of sensibility is not something that can be gained overnight. Considering the overall style and mood even at choosing small things such as shirts or a pair of shoes, and gradually visualizing one’s ideal self image, would be the only possible way to gain it (and help is not that hard to get, actually.) It won’t be easy, but I really hope students would at least refrain from dressing up as if they are intended to pull out “hey, the way he dressed is so SNU student.” from others. Being confident while facing others and oneself would be the prerequisite, of course.
19. (Dark chub)
I used to be a man who was not even a bit interested the way I look or fashion so far, but I started to put a lot of effort into it recently. It occurred to me that I might never be able to be in romantic relationship with anyone for the rest of my life, as long as I keep on going like this. The concept that “women should wear makeup, but men does not need to” Is only a legacy of old, considering this concept premises women being at the position of being chosen (and therefore should adorn themselves as much as possible), and men having the privilege of choice. Since the social standard of men and women are changing, would not men should be caring about their looks as well?
Even with all this aside, people who care about themselves as far as they can simply look good. I also want to look so in others’ eyes, at least to those who care for me, and that is what drives me to look back once more at myself (but why, oh why does not my fashion sense improve?)
written by. Jo Eunsan
The Quill asked users of SNUlife, online community of SNU students, for their opinion about men’s beauty syndrome. Find out what your colleagues think.
*Following was extracted and translated from replies of article number 6968366 and 7026949 of SNUlife Gongsage (http://www.snulife.com/gongsage), through March 15th to April 3rd.
What do you think of men showing interest about how they look? It does not matter whether you are a woman aghast about men knowing much more about fashion than you do, or a man uncomfortable about this trend. Neither does it matter whether it is a response to men inside SNU who care about their looks, or prediction about where this phenomenon will end up. Please tell the SNU Quill what YOU think.
3. (Dinosaur)
Not interested in self-management or whatever, and
bleached hair+ ear piercing + face pale from makeup + red lips + skinny jeans + high-top shoes + big bag = gay-esque
Lack of any element mentioned above + they look awkward on him= a bit gay-esque
Lack of any element mentioned above + they look quite good on him= pretty much gay-esque.
4. (Sparrow)
So you mean all the men who care about how they look are gay? Personally I find men who have style much more attractive than those with flakey faces who carry backpacks with their shirts tucked inside their pants. Driving all of them as gay seems like a conclusion that is way too generalized, and it hints a sense of inferiority…….
Anyway, I am all enthusiasm about this phenomenon. Considering the money, time and effort we women put into ourselves, what men are doing now is still far from being sufficient.
12. (Grasshopper)
I am little taller than average, sometimes use slipsoles to heighten my height, and apply BB cream when I go out. Sports center, hair salon, and cloth shopping takes up a certain part of my life. Wow, things listed above make me sound like a guy who extremely cares about adorning. But wouldn’t it be better to keep oneself neat and clean as possible, if what we are born with is insufficient?
13. (Kangaroo)
Oh, if I only had time and money.
15. (Butterfly)
I’m a woman, and I prefer men who know how to adorn themselves without being too showy, like a swan waddles under water where we cannot see. Saying out loud things like “this product is better for skin” or “the clothes of this brand are….” is unattractive. Plus, I really wish men would not copy stars such as Bigbang or Jo Inseong under the title of “grooming.” Style that fits oneself, age, and circumstances is the truly stylish thing.
17. (Hummingbird)
I believe (I’m a man) one should be able to dress up to match the TPO at minimum, though that kind of sensibility is not something that can be gained overnight. Considering the overall style and mood even at choosing small things such as shirts or a pair of shoes, and gradually visualizing one’s ideal self image, would be the only possible way to gain it (and help is not that hard to get, actually.) It won’t be easy, but I really hope students would at least refrain from dressing up as if they are intended to pull out “hey, the way he dressed is so SNU student.” from others. Being confident while facing others and oneself would be the prerequisite, of course.
19. (Dark chub)
I used to be a man who was not even a bit interested the way I look or fashion so far, but I started to put a lot of effort into it recently. It occurred to me that I might never be able to be in romantic relationship with anyone for the rest of my life, as long as I keep on going like this. The concept that “women should wear makeup, but men does not need to” Is only a legacy of old, considering this concept premises women being at the position of being chosen (and therefore should adorn themselves as much as possible), and men having the privilege of choice. Since the social standard of men and women are changing, would not men should be caring about their looks as well?
Even with all this aside, people who care about themselves as far as they can simply look good. I also want to look so in others’ eyes, at least to those who care for me, and that is what drives me to look back once more at myself (but why, oh why does not my fashion sense improve?)
written by. Jo Eunsan
[Vol.19] TV and the Metrosexual : Real or Virtual?
Television, in its short period of development, has essentially changed and influenced the public through its powerful means: visual mass media. In a society based on lookism, standards on beauty are no exception to this influence. As the society began to turn its attention from women’s beauty - a rather clichéd topic - to men and their appearance, TV has created a new term and syndrome to match it. The word “metrosexual” has been presented to the society for quite some time, but unlike the Western world, the Asian mass media, especially Korean, failed to convert this new interest to a syndrome. However, times have changed since “metrosexual men” first appeared on TV. Now, men who are conscious of their appearance have become the ideal visual image that television desires.
The term “metrosexual” describes heterosexual men with a strong concern for their appearance, and/or whose lifestyles display attributes stereotypically attributed to gay men. For this to become the next trend, television has chosen visual ideals that can directly influence the public: celebrities and sports stars. They appear in TV as trendsetters, and present themselves as men who are interested in grooming themselves to match the “public needs.” The fashion of leading men in television dramas turns into a public interest, and men outside television are often seen copying their looks. These fashionable, beautiful men also complement their appearance with their lifestyle. Television dramas portray perfectly groomed men enjoying lavish brunch, telling the public that the new, sophisticated metrosexual ought to lead a life of style in every way.
In this sense, television plays an enormous role in changing the image of men. The rise of the metrosexuals, especially apparent in the hit series “Boys over Flowers,” suggests that the ideal image of an attractive man has changed from “manly” to “dandy.” Television has shown the public that it is natural for men to care about their appearance and lifestyle. This new image seems to have changed the sexist, stereotypical ideal of the past. TV’s idea of a metrosexual is not afraid of showing his feminine side, and to others this is appreciated as his ability to be conscious about his appearance and lifestyle.
However, when the Metrosexual Man comes to life in reality, he is not always welcomed. Despite the success of men’s cosmetics and beauty products, most people still look upon men wearing makeup as bizarre. Tidy hair and smooth, stubble-free skin are tolerated and “required” as basic beauty standards, but the idea of following the fashion trend for young men is often contradicted by women. Skinny jeans and high-top sneakers, worn by famous idol groups and young celebrities, are considered abnormal and awkward when normal men in everyday are concerned. Women are especially harsh on their standards of men’s beauty; the television-oriented image that are frequently seen are not a realistic part of what women think stylish men should wear. This infers that women still have a fixed image of their gender counterparts, which emphasizes men’s masculine side rather than their feminine one. People, men and women alike, still believe that men’s natural image, should it be set newly by television, has to be manly than feminine, despite the changing society.
Also, when it gets to more than just appearance, the metrosexual lifestyle is still hard to be found in everyday life. Coffee shop advertisements portray women rather than men as their potential customers. Thus, a man walking into a café and ordering coffee and waffles comes as a surprise to most people. The image of men chatting in these bistros is a rare sight, unlike what television illustrates as normal and ordinary. Feminine and delicate metrosexual men, leading their lives of style and fashion, are compared to an endangered species. People look upon them as special people with special jobs, which is a fantasy that has been created by TV. Thus, the metrosexual lifestyle is not easily accepted by the society as it is portrayed in most TV soap operas. These examples all add up to pose a question: can TV’s image of metrosexuality be transposed to the real life?
From these aspects, the term “metrosexual” can be identified as a term existing only in TV shows and commercials yet. Men who groom themselves as much as television suggests can only be approved when he is a celebrity that appears on television. The public only regards metrosexuals as men receiving help from makeup artists and fashion coordinators. In this sense, men’s grooming can only be justified as a prerequisite for presenting themselves as beautiful for the public to view. The lack of understanding real-life metrosexuals is existent in both men and women, which illustrates that the society has not been fundamentally changed to accept this new image of men. Television may be a powerful source in spreading a new public trend and ideal, but in the present, its effect remains as a virtual one.
written by: Kim Jisoo
The term “metrosexual” describes heterosexual men with a strong concern for their appearance, and/or whose lifestyles display attributes stereotypically attributed to gay men. For this to become the next trend, television has chosen visual ideals that can directly influence the public: celebrities and sports stars. They appear in TV as trendsetters, and present themselves as men who are interested in grooming themselves to match the “public needs.” The fashion of leading men in television dramas turns into a public interest, and men outside television are often seen copying their looks. These fashionable, beautiful men also complement their appearance with their lifestyle. Television dramas portray perfectly groomed men enjoying lavish brunch, telling the public that the new, sophisticated metrosexual ought to lead a life of style in every way.
In this sense, television plays an enormous role in changing the image of men. The rise of the metrosexuals, especially apparent in the hit series “Boys over Flowers,” suggests that the ideal image of an attractive man has changed from “manly” to “dandy.” Television has shown the public that it is natural for men to care about their appearance and lifestyle. This new image seems to have changed the sexist, stereotypical ideal of the past. TV’s idea of a metrosexual is not afraid of showing his feminine side, and to others this is appreciated as his ability to be conscious about his appearance and lifestyle.
However, when the Metrosexual Man comes to life in reality, he is not always welcomed. Despite the success of men’s cosmetics and beauty products, most people still look upon men wearing makeup as bizarre. Tidy hair and smooth, stubble-free skin are tolerated and “required” as basic beauty standards, but the idea of following the fashion trend for young men is often contradicted by women. Skinny jeans and high-top sneakers, worn by famous idol groups and young celebrities, are considered abnormal and awkward when normal men in everyday are concerned. Women are especially harsh on their standards of men’s beauty; the television-oriented image that are frequently seen are not a realistic part of what women think stylish men should wear. This infers that women still have a fixed image of their gender counterparts, which emphasizes men’s masculine side rather than their feminine one. People, men and women alike, still believe that men’s natural image, should it be set newly by television, has to be manly than feminine, despite the changing society.
Also, when it gets to more than just appearance, the metrosexual lifestyle is still hard to be found in everyday life. Coffee shop advertisements portray women rather than men as their potential customers. Thus, a man walking into a café and ordering coffee and waffles comes as a surprise to most people. The image of men chatting in these bistros is a rare sight, unlike what television illustrates as normal and ordinary. Feminine and delicate metrosexual men, leading their lives of style and fashion, are compared to an endangered species. People look upon them as special people with special jobs, which is a fantasy that has been created by TV. Thus, the metrosexual lifestyle is not easily accepted by the society as it is portrayed in most TV soap operas. These examples all add up to pose a question: can TV’s image of metrosexuality be transposed to the real life?
From these aspects, the term “metrosexual” can be identified as a term existing only in TV shows and commercials yet. Men who groom themselves as much as television suggests can only be approved when he is a celebrity that appears on television. The public only regards metrosexuals as men receiving help from makeup artists and fashion coordinators. In this sense, men’s grooming can only be justified as a prerequisite for presenting themselves as beautiful for the public to view. The lack of understanding real-life metrosexuals is existent in both men and women, which illustrates that the society has not been fundamentally changed to accept this new image of men. Television may be a powerful source in spreading a new public trend and ideal, but in the present, its effect remains as a virtual one.
written by: Kim Jisoo
[Vol.19] Redefining the relationship- men and beauty
American TV series “Gossip Girl” is famous for the characteristic fashion and style of the main characters. The way male characters style has especially attracted attention from both men and women all around the world. Korea, where men’s urge to be beautiful is just awakening, is not an exception.
Men who “groom” themselves
On March, 2009, the National Statistics office selected ten consumer types under the title “2009 Bluesumer 10 (Blue Ocean Consumer)” that enterprises, marketers and government facing current economic recession should keep an eye on. Among those ten types is “mirror- friendly man,” which refers to man who cares about how he looks. This is noteworthy because conventionally the word mirror was associated with women. Mirror-friendly man category shows how much men come to care about their outward look as far as to become influential consumers in the market. Men used to be thought to loaf around in shopping malls while waiting for their female companions to finish shopping. However, now they are spontaneous shoppers themselves.
There are industries that target men and they are making good profit. Internet shopping spots only for men are increasing. Internet websites such as http://www.ganzinara.com sell men’s apparel exclusively, and flourishing on-line shopping sites such as www.adamsapple.kr, which sells aesthetic products for men, boasts more than 14,000 members. Countless books, guides and magazines about men’s grooming that are in a good demand reflect this phenomenon as well. We can now see signboards of aesthetic shops and cosmetic lines that specialize in products for men on the main streets of fashion districts such as Gangnam and Myeongdong. Moreover, a recent statistic shows that the number of male patients who has done aesthetical surgery has tripled, and out of 100 operations, about 22 have been practiced on males. It is not “queer” anymore to see men promoting beauty products and clothes that are not related to masculinity.
Perception change on men’s beauty
The National Statistics office conducted a social survey with the title “adolescents’ worries,” during the years 2006 to 2008. According to this survey, 9.9 % of worries of men who are 15 to 24 years old was about was appearance, whereas it took up only 6.3% in 2006. “Appearance” was ranked on 3rd place after “studying (41.4%)” and “job (22.9%).” Experts say that as the time passes, the ratio that “appearance” accounts for is steadily increasing.
This phenomenon of which men show vast interest in their appearance is in part due to the changed perception in the society. Men’s grooming is no longer thought to be an awkward issue anymore, but rather as a factor which consists men’s competitiveness. Men’s changing self perception is another important cause of this phenomenon, as men now see their own body and outward image as a means of self presentation.
Now people think their appearance reflects one’s inner contentment. “After I got into university last year, after seeing a lot of men who adorn themselves well, I realized that appearance is an important factor in forming and expressing one’s self-contentment,” said Junho Song (Economics, ’08). This changed perception that is spreading throughout the society is now slowly but surely creating the environment where grooming men are not always considered homosexual like they used to. As a consequence, it is now relatively easier for men to show interest in good-looking.
However, social affirmation of men’s self grooming becomes a huge burden for men who are not so interested in adorning themselves. Junho said, “Before, there was an unspoken social agreement that it was enough for men to be a good breadwinner and that qualified for competent men. However, nowadays, most competent men have to qualify in both sectors: beauty and ability.” Evidently, this phenomenon is two-faced. For men who are enthusiastic about caring for their looks, this change of social atmosphere is a huge relief. For those who are not eager to adorn themselves, social demand asking men to be beautiful as well is merely a new source of stress.
It cannot be denied that what looks good on the outside seems good on the inside. The phenomenon where “looking good is a virtue” even for men is a tide one cannot easily go against. Now beauty no more is an exclusive possession to women. Whether it is a result of sexual equality or a prevailing lookism remains a doubt, but from the 21century and on, men can be the symbol of beauty as well.
written by: Kim Yo-Eun
Men who “groom” themselves
On March, 2009, the National Statistics office selected ten consumer types under the title “2009 Bluesumer 10 (Blue Ocean Consumer)” that enterprises, marketers and government facing current economic recession should keep an eye on. Among those ten types is “mirror- friendly man,” which refers to man who cares about how he looks. This is noteworthy because conventionally the word mirror was associated with women. Mirror-friendly man category shows how much men come to care about their outward look as far as to become influential consumers in the market. Men used to be thought to loaf around in shopping malls while waiting for their female companions to finish shopping. However, now they are spontaneous shoppers themselves.
There are industries that target men and they are making good profit. Internet shopping spots only for men are increasing. Internet websites such as http://www.ganzinara.com sell men’s apparel exclusively, and flourishing on-line shopping sites such as www.adamsapple.kr, which sells aesthetic products for men, boasts more than 14,000 members. Countless books, guides and magazines about men’s grooming that are in a good demand reflect this phenomenon as well. We can now see signboards of aesthetic shops and cosmetic lines that specialize in products for men on the main streets of fashion districts such as Gangnam and Myeongdong. Moreover, a recent statistic shows that the number of male patients who has done aesthetical surgery has tripled, and out of 100 operations, about 22 have been practiced on males. It is not “queer” anymore to see men promoting beauty products and clothes that are not related to masculinity.
Perception change on men’s beauty
The National Statistics office conducted a social survey with the title “adolescents’ worries,” during the years 2006 to 2008. According to this survey, 9.9 % of worries of men who are 15 to 24 years old was about was appearance, whereas it took up only 6.3% in 2006. “Appearance” was ranked on 3rd place after “studying (41.4%)” and “job (22.9%).” Experts say that as the time passes, the ratio that “appearance” accounts for is steadily increasing.
This phenomenon of which men show vast interest in their appearance is in part due to the changed perception in the society. Men’s grooming is no longer thought to be an awkward issue anymore, but rather as a factor which consists men’s competitiveness. Men’s changing self perception is another important cause of this phenomenon, as men now see their own body and outward image as a means of self presentation.
Now people think their appearance reflects one’s inner contentment. “After I got into university last year, after seeing a lot of men who adorn themselves well, I realized that appearance is an important factor in forming and expressing one’s self-contentment,” said Junho Song (Economics, ’08). This changed perception that is spreading throughout the society is now slowly but surely creating the environment where grooming men are not always considered homosexual like they used to. As a consequence, it is now relatively easier for men to show interest in good-looking.
However, social affirmation of men’s self grooming becomes a huge burden for men who are not so interested in adorning themselves. Junho said, “Before, there was an unspoken social agreement that it was enough for men to be a good breadwinner and that qualified for competent men. However, nowadays, most competent men have to qualify in both sectors: beauty and ability.” Evidently, this phenomenon is two-faced. For men who are enthusiastic about caring for their looks, this change of social atmosphere is a huge relief. For those who are not eager to adorn themselves, social demand asking men to be beautiful as well is merely a new source of stress.
It cannot be denied that what looks good on the outside seems good on the inside. The phenomenon where “looking good is a virtue” even for men is a tide one cannot easily go against. Now beauty no more is an exclusive possession to women. Whether it is a result of sexual equality or a prevailing lookism remains a doubt, but from the 21century and on, men can be the symbol of beauty as well.
written by: Kim Yo-Eun
[Vol.19] Blowin’ in the Wind: Answers for a Society Obsessed with Looks
“Seoulites are the world’s best-dressed hikers,” claims Lonely Planet. This sense of fashion is not just confined to hiking. It is rare to spot a lady without high heels or a fancy bag. Koreans are obsessed with how they look and they spend a lot of time, money, and effort in order to look perfect. This is because in this part of the world, looking good takes you a long way towards achieving what you want. In a country with very little natural resources, human capital is the most prized asset. Ruthless competition has made it so that ability alone can no longer guarantee success. It is becoming increasingly important to look good in order to ride an ascending success curve – for one’s professional or personal life. In the 21st century, the rules that determine success are the same as those from the time of dinosaurs – the Darwinian principle of ‘Survival of the Fittest’, only the definition of ‘fittest’ has changed with time.
With the emergence of the ‘Metrosexual’ man, men are increasingly trespassing on what was traditionally considered the territory of women. Men are no longer staying away from wearing pink, manicuring fingernails, sporting fancy handbags or wearing makeup. Thanks to a hyperactive media that makes Korea the ‘most connected’ country in the world, new trends spread like wildfire. The media and the business establishment are only too happy to bring the latest fashion to an ever-increasing consumer base. However, it is with the involvement of medical science, that this obsession to look good has reached new heights. Korea is widely considered the cosmetic surgery capital of the world. People choose to go under a cosmetic surgeon’s scalpel believing that good looks can achieve things - a career boost, an increase in confidence, success in love, and perhaps even ‘happiness’. In the fight for survival and success, ‘fitness’ is just a surgery away and everybody – from the common man to the political elite - is eager to boost one’s beauty.
Some people might be bewildered that, in a society based on Confucian principles, people can distort their bodies through artificial means to gain a competitive edge. However, moreso than the past, change is what drives the wheel of civilization forward. In this mercilessly competitive world, going an extra mile to prove one’s superiority is perfectly understandable. A deeper understanding of Oriental history reveals that obsession with appearance might actually have been embedded in the Korean psyche for hundreds of years, and is simply finding new ways of expressing itself in the 21st century. Confucian principles emphasize appearance, etiquette and achieving harmony. Having a beautiful, well-balanced and harmonious face is in accordance with the principles of ancient Korean culture. It is worth mentioning that throughout history, social and cultural conditions have often dictated the deliberate modification of body parts. The example closest to home is the ancient Chinese practice of creating ‘Lotus feet’ in which the growth of girls’ feet was restricted by forceful binding. In parts of the world as diverse as Russia, Peru, Egypt and Central America, growth of children’s heads were modified to give it an elongated look. In medieval Europe, corsets were used to achieve the perfect hourglass figure. All of these practices were painful to the person concerned but considered necessary to earn the respect of society and to differentiate between social hierarchies. When viewed as one in a series of historical trends in which society dictates the acceptable appearance of individuals, the current obsession with appearance amongst Koreans begins to make sense.
Fashion is a big industry. Without the urge to dress well, the busy streets on Myong Dong or Sinchon would be deserted! Korea has also joined the league of countries like Singapore, Thailand and India, as a prime destination for medical tourism. The perception of a cosmetic surgeon’s scalpel as the ultimate tool for achieving beauty has become no longer confined to Korea.
Enhancing looks gives an obvious advantage to a person in his/her daily life and career. But it remains to be seen just how much it can deliver. Are people willing to forego opportunities to improve real abilities for the sake of appearance? Are people truly happy with newfound confidence from an advancement in appearance? The answer, to quote Dylan, “my friend, is blowin’ in the wind, the answer is blowin’ in the wind!”
written by: Subhojit Chakladar
With the emergence of the ‘Metrosexual’ man, men are increasingly trespassing on what was traditionally considered the territory of women. Men are no longer staying away from wearing pink, manicuring fingernails, sporting fancy handbags or wearing makeup. Thanks to a hyperactive media that makes Korea the ‘most connected’ country in the world, new trends spread like wildfire. The media and the business establishment are only too happy to bring the latest fashion to an ever-increasing consumer base. However, it is with the involvement of medical science, that this obsession to look good has reached new heights. Korea is widely considered the cosmetic surgery capital of the world. People choose to go under a cosmetic surgeon’s scalpel believing that good looks can achieve things - a career boost, an increase in confidence, success in love, and perhaps even ‘happiness’. In the fight for survival and success, ‘fitness’ is just a surgery away and everybody – from the common man to the political elite - is eager to boost one’s beauty.
Some people might be bewildered that, in a society based on Confucian principles, people can distort their bodies through artificial means to gain a competitive edge. However, moreso than the past, change is what drives the wheel of civilization forward. In this mercilessly competitive world, going an extra mile to prove one’s superiority is perfectly understandable. A deeper understanding of Oriental history reveals that obsession with appearance might actually have been embedded in the Korean psyche for hundreds of years, and is simply finding new ways of expressing itself in the 21st century. Confucian principles emphasize appearance, etiquette and achieving harmony. Having a beautiful, well-balanced and harmonious face is in accordance with the principles of ancient Korean culture. It is worth mentioning that throughout history, social and cultural conditions have often dictated the deliberate modification of body parts. The example closest to home is the ancient Chinese practice of creating ‘Lotus feet’ in which the growth of girls’ feet was restricted by forceful binding. In parts of the world as diverse as Russia, Peru, Egypt and Central America, growth of children’s heads were modified to give it an elongated look. In medieval Europe, corsets were used to achieve the perfect hourglass figure. All of these practices were painful to the person concerned but considered necessary to earn the respect of society and to differentiate between social hierarchies. When viewed as one in a series of historical trends in which society dictates the acceptable appearance of individuals, the current obsession with appearance amongst Koreans begins to make sense.
Fashion is a big industry. Without the urge to dress well, the busy streets on Myong Dong or Sinchon would be deserted! Korea has also joined the league of countries like Singapore, Thailand and India, as a prime destination for medical tourism. The perception of a cosmetic surgeon’s scalpel as the ultimate tool for achieving beauty has become no longer confined to Korea.
Enhancing looks gives an obvious advantage to a person in his/her daily life and career. But it remains to be seen just how much it can deliver. Are people willing to forego opportunities to improve real abilities for the sake of appearance? Are people truly happy with newfound confidence from an advancement in appearance? The answer, to quote Dylan, “my friend, is blowin’ in the wind, the answer is blowin’ in the wind!”
written by: Subhojit Chakladar
[Vol.19] A Neo-Tsunami: The Luxury Boom
In spite of the economic depression that is sweeping the whole world, Korean consumption of luxury goods seems to remain unaffected. According to statistical data released by the Financial Supervisory Service and luxury brand corporations, Louis Vuitton Korea and Ferragamo Korea earned 168.9 billion won 55.3 billion won each, recording increases of 39.4% and 15.6% respectively. Koreans are buying up luxury items more than ever before. Even Seoul National University students are not free from this luxury boom. It is not unusual to see students carrying luxury handbags from Louis Vuitton or Gucci on campus. These items, while no doubt of fine quality, are obviously much overpriced relative to their design or function. Then what are the reasons for buying these items, what explains the boom, and what do other students think about this tendency?
Two causes can be attributed to this trend. One is social, one is individual.
First, there are a few social causes. The first cause is Asia’s rapid economic growth. According to Radha Chadha and Paul Husband, who co-wrote Luxplosion, Korea’s rapid economic development over the last few decades created confusion among consumers. Unlike Western developed countries, Asian consumers were not slowly introduced to the world of luxury items but were suddenly given the power to purchase such items without having yet established a firm foundation for a healthy spending culture. This leads to irresponsible addictions to luxury items even in times when such items cannot logically be afforded, such as in times of financial crisis.
The second societal reason is Korea’s distinctive cultural background. Unlike many Western peoples, East Asians emphasize the feeling of belongingness and the feeling of homogeneity. Even within East Asia, Koreans especially attach great importance to these feelings. So, if a Korean notices that many people carry luxury goods and he or she doesn’t, he or she may feel unworthy or ostracized. To maintain one’s identity as being part of the group that is leading Korean culture at the time, even those people who would not usually purchase overpriced items may do so.
There are also a few private causes for buying luxuru brand items. The first is luxury good’s high quality. An anonymous source (09) said that it is evident that luxury goods are of higher quality than standard market itmes. They are more durable and comfortable. He said, “If you can use luxury goods for a year and more comfortably while you can only use normal goods for three months, it is rational to use the former.”
Another reason is luxury goods’ great design. Most of luxury goods are not throwaway goods but able to be used for a long time. Therefore, it is important to take the goods’ design into account so that they do not go out of fashion too soon. Also, because companies of luxury goods can afford to employ more competent designers than normal companies, the design they create are publicly appealing.
However, some students view this trend negatively. They believe that buying luxury goods is a waste of money and students who buy such items are showing off or fabricating their social status. That is, if people who can afford luxury goods buy them, they are showing off their wealth, and if people who can't afford them buy them, they are fabricating their status. “If people don’t know that he or she is carrying Louis Vuitton or he or she is in an isolated island whose inhabitants are ignorant of luxury goods, he or she will not use them even if it’s durable as there’s no one to show his or her luxury goods off to.” said Park Hyun-Yoo (College of Humanities, 09).
written by: Yeon Dong-hyun
Two causes can be attributed to this trend. One is social, one is individual.
First, there are a few social causes. The first cause is Asia’s rapid economic growth. According to Radha Chadha and Paul Husband, who co-wrote Luxplosion, Korea’s rapid economic development over the last few decades created confusion among consumers. Unlike Western developed countries, Asian consumers were not slowly introduced to the world of luxury items but were suddenly given the power to purchase such items without having yet established a firm foundation for a healthy spending culture. This leads to irresponsible addictions to luxury items even in times when such items cannot logically be afforded, such as in times of financial crisis.
The second societal reason is Korea’s distinctive cultural background. Unlike many Western peoples, East Asians emphasize the feeling of belongingness and the feeling of homogeneity. Even within East Asia, Koreans especially attach great importance to these feelings. So, if a Korean notices that many people carry luxury goods and he or she doesn’t, he or she may feel unworthy or ostracized. To maintain one’s identity as being part of the group that is leading Korean culture at the time, even those people who would not usually purchase overpriced items may do so.
There are also a few private causes for buying luxuru brand items. The first is luxury good’s high quality. An anonymous source (09) said that it is evident that luxury goods are of higher quality than standard market itmes. They are more durable and comfortable. He said, “If you can use luxury goods for a year and more comfortably while you can only use normal goods for three months, it is rational to use the former.”
Another reason is luxury goods’ great design. Most of luxury goods are not throwaway goods but able to be used for a long time. Therefore, it is important to take the goods’ design into account so that they do not go out of fashion too soon. Also, because companies of luxury goods can afford to employ more competent designers than normal companies, the design they create are publicly appealing.
However, some students view this trend negatively. They believe that buying luxury goods is a waste of money and students who buy such items are showing off or fabricating their social status. That is, if people who can afford luxury goods buy them, they are showing off their wealth, and if people who can't afford them buy them, they are fabricating their status. “If people don’t know that he or she is carrying Louis Vuitton or he or she is in an isolated island whose inhabitants are ignorant of luxury goods, he or she will not use them even if it’s durable as there’s no one to show his or her luxury goods off to.” said Park Hyun-Yoo (College of Humanities, 09).
written by: Yeon Dong-hyun
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