Would you like to participate in a traditional family-style Kimjang? (FYI, if you love cooking and Korean food the answer is, “YES!”) Then, sign up immediately for this 2-day traditional cooking event at the Songtan Traditional Market. Come learn how families work together to prepare their kimchi for the year. This is an all-inclusive event that includes snacks, meals, and numerous side quests like making kimchi for needy families in Pyeongtaek! (PS Vegan option available) Event Details Let’s start off with the details. This all-inclusive traditional kimjang event with Sue at the Songtan Traditional Market includes: Costs and Dates Schedule It’s important to remember that a traditional kimjang is also a bit of a vibe. That means we all do a lot of “hurry up and wait” so no firm schedule is followed and a lot more happens than appears on the plan. We created the following schedule as a thought exercise of how we think kimjang might go. However, Sue will have the ultimate say in the heat of the moment. Quite frankly, start times may change a little, so be prepared for that. Songtan Traditional Market Support In 2023, the Songtan Traditional Market will provide additional funding to make this an all-inclusive event AND provide supplies so we can make kimchi for people in need! With the Songtan Market’s support, the International Resident Kimjang becomes more than a learning opportunity, it’s also a chance to give back. We could not be more excited about and thankful for their support. Kimjang is actually a very complicated and expensive event to coordinate. Now that we understand the overview, let’s dig into more of the event details like what kimjang even means. Vegan Kimchi Sauce Making Option Available If you are vegan, you can make a vegan version of the kimchi! We will teach you different kimchi-making options for vegans. With the sauce for the primary kimchi, you will also learn how to make a variety of other kimchi types with the same sauce. We will also make sure that there are some vegan options available to you for meals and snacks. Please understand, there will be non-vegan options present so you will be around meat at the event. What is Kimjang In 2013, Korean kimjang became recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Heritage activity. For Kimjang each year, Korean families come together to help the matriarchs assemble the family’s kimchi for the year. The event takes three days and requires many people to come together in order to clean, soak, and prepare the kimchi for all of the family members. Kimjang Experience v. Traditional Kimjang There are many kimchi-related experiences for new residents and tourists, but nothing compares to a full kimjang. When you go through the entire process of kimjang you step into the heart of the culture. For me, personally, participating in the totality of this event made me feel more connected to my life and friends in Korea. A Unique Opportunity to Fully Participate in Kimjang Since Kimjang is a family-focused work event, few international residents in Korea have the opportunity to experience this event in its entirety. Many Korean moms will say, “It’s too much work.” when foreigners ask to join. They might be correct… but I have been determined to start a kimjang for international residents. I want everyone to have this experience if they would like the challenge. Kimjang with Ms. Sue Therefore, when Ms. Sue said she would teach the South of Seoul community how to make kimchi, I insisted that we host a true kimjang. An event that doesn’t just showcase how to make the national dish, but also celebrates the strength and hard work of Korean women and their passion for their families. Additionally, while we learn to make kimchi and take some home to our families, we will also be making kimchi for people in need in Pyeongtaek. The Songtan Market is providing additional supplies and working with local organizations so that the international resident kimjang can bless the wider community. About the Event Host and Kimchi Expert Ms. Sue’s hometown is in Jeju-do, however, she now lives in Pyeongtaek with her Husband and 2 adult children. Although Sue speaks and understands limited English, she loves working with the international community. Also, it’s her dream to help support the international residents in Pyeongtaek by offering deeper insight into Korean life. South of Seoul volunteers will work with Ms. Sue to create additional materials to make the kimjang run relatively smoothly. Additionally, such materials can be taken home for reference in later years. About the Food & Hospitality Come ready to eat a lot. Sue goes all out for this event. Each day you will have food when you arrive, snacks along the way, and one huge meal on the final day. About This Year’s Homework This year we did an early, mini kimjang to create homework for attendees. There will be a series of videos to watch in order to prepare for the event. We learned from last year’s kimjang event and discovered what foreigners need to know before the event in order to make the best kimchi. This homework will be released as a second blog in a few weeks. Lanae Rivers-Woods, MAITLanae Rivers-Woods moved to Korea in 2011 where she lives in the countryside with her family, friends, and puppies. She holds a BSSW (Bachelor’s of Science in Social Work), a MAIT (Master’s of Arts in International Teaching), and registered by the Pyeongtaek Korean Times with the Korean government as a Cultural Expert. Ms. Rivers-Woods used her 15 years experience as a social architect, UX/UI designer, and technology consultant to found South of Seoul in 2015. South of Seoul is a volunteer organization that leverages technological tools to mitigate cultural dissonance in multi-cultural communities. Through South of Seoul, Ms. Rivers-Woods works with independent volunteers, non-profit organizations, businesses, local & federal government, universities, and US military organizations to develop solutions to support English speaking international residents in rural South Korea. Additionally, Ms. Rivers-Woods founded the South of Seoul smart phone app available for Google Play and iPhone. The app provides information a resources for those living and traveling in South Korea. When she isn’t in South of Seoul development meetings or working her day job, Ms. Rivers-Woods loves to be outside at skate parks, the beach, or playing in the mountains. www.southofseoul.net

The post Traditional Kimjang with Sue at the Songtan Market 2023 appeared first on South of Seoul.

Looking for local events where you can get to know more people and connect with local resources? Give the Songtan Traditional Market Fusion Events a try! Join Us at Market Fusion: A Cultural Convergence Event! We invite you to attend the Songtan Traditional Market event series designed to bring our community together. The Market Fusion: Cultural Convergence Events are set against the vibrant backdrop of a Korean Traditional Market, this series promises to be an unforgettable blend of culture, learning, and fun! Songtan Market Fusion Event Details Why Attend Market Fusion? To get started, let’s talk about why you should attend these Songtan Market-sponsored events. There are four reasons that stand out: Event Leaders Now, that you are a little interested. Let’s explore who will lead the Market Fusion Events. Three South of Seoul volunteers will share their expertise and information: Local and Sustainable Cooking, Chef James Canter Chef James Canter is passionate about promoting local food sources and sustainability. He believes in making culturally rich foods based on locally sourced ingredients. Chef Canter is excited about sharing easy recipes that use ingredients sourced from Traditional Korean markets. James Canter, a former Executive chef trained in Tampa Bay, has over two decades of culinary expertise and has since expanded his skills across the U.S. where he gained a deep understanding of global cuisine. He recently moved to South Korea from the United States, where he used to collaborate with local fishermen, farmers, and ranchers to offer sustainable dishes to his patrons across various venues. Among his accolades are recognitions like “Best Places of Northern California”, 2008’s best new restaurant in Tampa Bay, and awards in various culinary competitions. He’s also had the privilege of cooking for Vice President Dick Cheney and other notable figures. James has received awards like “RGV Iron Chef”, international “Iron Chef” paella, and “King of Paella” from the Culinary Institutes of America, San Antonio. His past projects were listed among the “Top 100 Texas Restaurants” by Texas Monthly Magazine. In South Korea, Chef Canter has been working with local farms, South of Seoul, and volunteer organizations that support US military personnel such as the MWR. His passion for food and community goes unmatched. You can see Chef Canter presenting a recipe in the YouTube video below: Photography and Culture, Katie Howell Ms. Howell focuses on community building, cultural communication, and photography. Her events will focus on tips and tricks for taking ethical photographs in cultural spaces. Learn more about the laws regarding social media photography and the language and skills to navigate these rules. You will even get out into the market to practice the skills with other attendees. With a deep-rooted passion for community building, Katie has dedicated herself to fostering connections and understanding across diverse groups. As a Volunteer Ambassador for the Pyeongtaek International Exchange Foundation (PIEF) and Art Camp USA, she functioned as a US representative, bridging the gap between foreign and local members of the community in Pyeongtaek. This included volunteering for the Talk Café initiative, where she led discussions for Koreans to hone their English conversational skills and developed her commitment to cultural exchange. Additionally, Katie co-founded the South of Seoul Language and Culture Exchange group in 2015 and still manages it today. The group focuses on promoting cross-cultural events across Pyeongtaek. In addition to promoting events planned by others, Katie leads a variety of language exchanges and events throughout the year. Katie was also a founding volunteer with the South of Seoul volunteer organization. Her love for photography is evident in her captivating captures. Each frame she captures tells a story, reflecting her keen eye for detail and her understanding of the world around her. Social Media and Videography, Lanae Rivers-Woods Ms. Rivers-Woods founded South of Seoul in 2015, a volunteer organization that uses technology and social media to help international residents assimilate into life in the South Korean countryside. Her Market Fusion sessions will focus on efficiently using videography to share memories and capture information without taking away from living the experience. Before moving to South Korea, Ms. Rivers-Woods worked in the fine arts field for a decade she specialized in community organization. She managed galleries, curated shows, and consulted with artists to develop their careers by leveraging technology and social media. In South Korea, she volunteers to use her community organization knowledge to improve information distribution and community communication. As an early adaptor, Ms. Rivers-Woods has nearly 20 years of experience in social media. She looks forward to sharing her tips for making social video creation easy and sustainable. Event Schedule: Now let’s look at the schedule to see what you have time for. When you signup you will choose the Songtan Market Fusion event dates that work for you! We have a total of 10 events and each one will have a different language and skill focus. Events will include both class time and practical application activities in the market or the market kitchen. Join the Fusion! Market Fusion is not just an event; it’s a journey. A journey where cultures converge, skills are honed, and friendships are forged. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, this series promises something for everyone. Spots are limited, and given the unique nature of this event, we expect them to fill up fast. So, don’t wait! Register now and be a part of this cultural extravaganza. See you at the market! SOS.SEC Sponsored ContentENG: South of Seoul Strategy and Education Consulting (SOS SEC) in a Korean company that specializes in bridging the gap between Korean culture and other diverse cultures. With a profound understanding of the complexities and nuances of cultural dissonance, SOS SEC is dedicated to facilitating meaningful connections and fostering mutual understanding between individuals and businesses. SOS SEC partners with the South of Seoul Blog to provide Korean businesses the opportunity to present their organizations to the international community in Korea through Sponsored Posts. All SOS SEC-created content featured on the South of Seoul blog is paid content. KOR: South of Seoul Strategy and Education Consulting (SOS SEC)는 한국 문화와 세계 각국의 다양한 문화를 이어주는 다리 역할을 하는 한국 기업입니다.SOS SEC는 문화 차이 속에서 발생하는 복잡한 문제와 뉘앙스를 깊이 이해하고 있으며, 이를 바탕으로 개인과 기업이 서로를 더 잘 이해하고 연결될 수 있도록 돕고 있습니다. 또한 South of Seoul 블로그와 협력하여, 한국 기업들이 스폰서드 포스트(Sponsored Posts)를 통해 한국에 거주하는 국제 사회에 효과적으로 자신들의 브랜드와 조직을 알릴 수 있는 기회를 제공합니다. South of Seoul 블로그에 게재되는 SOS SEC 제작 콘텐츠는 모두 공식 유료 콘텐츠로, 한국 기업이 국제 사회와 더 가까워질 수 있도록 돕는 맞춤형 홍보 솔루션입니다. sos.sec@southofseoul.net

The post Join the Market Fusion Events in Pyeongtaek appeared first on South of Seoul.

Wondering what a Field Day in Korea looks like? What games do attendees play and what it would be like to attend? We’ve had these questions throughout the years thought it would be nice to share the PIEF Field Day event from April 2023 to show what you might expect from a Korean Field Day event in the future. Listen to the BlogCast Don’t want to read? Listen to the South of Seoul BlogCast which provides accessible content through the use of AI technology. We don’t have time to read each article but we do our best to make more of our content accessible. If you would like to join our Accessibility Team apply to volunteer with South of Seoul. What is Field Day In Korea, we LOVE playing games together. Every year, the schools have something called Sports Day or Field Day where different classes compete against each other while playing fun team games. The name of the event may be called either Sports Day or Field Day depending on who translated the Korean name. For this blog post, we will use the term Field Day. In addition to having Field Days at schools, Korean communities may throw Field Days for families and kids to get together and play games. In 2023, the Pyeongtaek International Exchange Foundation (PIEF) decided to create such an event that brings US Military Families and Pyeongtaek Citizens into the community together. Add Field Day to Your Bucket List If you live in South Korea, you should try to attend at least one Field Day while living here. Joining a Field Day brings you into the heart of the culture around you. It’s where you fall in love with the Korean passion for games, friendly competition, and cheering each other on. Field Days hold warming and it’s where you can often make new friends. Honestly, go out of your way to get involved in one of these events if you see it. The following 20 second video shows a glimps of the fun had at PIEF Field Day in 2023 despite the weather: If you live in South Korea, you should try to attend at least one Field Day event while living here. Joining a Field Day brings you into the heart of the culture around you. It’s where you fall in love with the Korean passion for games, friendly competition, and cheering each other on. Field Days hold a warm feeling and it’s where you can often make new friends. Go out of your way to get involved in one of these events if you see it because they help you connect with the deeper social vibe. Field Days and Weather Field Days often occur outside in large fields or play areas. Since such events include large numbers of people and rowdy events that need space, it’s uncommon for such events to be canceled or moved inside due to weather. This means attendees should come prepared for anything. However, if there is a lot of rain attendance may be limited. The 2023 PIEF Field Day experienced some surprisingly cold wind and rain in 2023. There were a few touch-and-go moments when we all thought, “Maybe this won’t happen today” but it all worked out in the end. PIEF had emergency raincoats for everyone and there were tents for attendees to stand under. Having this type of cold weather in late April in South Korea almost never happens so everyone was caught off guard. It’s unlikely an event planned at the end of April will ever have weather quite like this again. Many of the activities need to be changed or modified for the event due to the weather conditions, however, the organizers kept everything moving and managed the changes with surprising grace. The Hardcore Fun Lovers Showed Up Even with bad weather, die hard fun lovers show up to Sports Day ready to play. Even for PIEF Field Day 2023, a few hundred awesome and excited attendees showed up to PIEF Field Day and put their hearts into it. Kids and parents let themselves embrace the fun to play games and laugh together in the rain. The smaller crowd made the event feel more communal and folks had more time together. Honestly, we think this was the ideal size for a Field Day event. The mood was perfect. Everyone Joins a Team For Field Days, attendees join teams. Each team needs to work together to complete different tasks and games. In mixed age events like the one organized by PIEF, the Field Day games include activities for adults and kids so that everyone could get involved. Not every game included everyone from each team. This allowed team members time to rest and it also meant that those who just wanted to watch could feel free to do so. Some international parents didn’t realize they would be included in the PIEF Field Day games but they quickly adapted. It was fun to see people working together and having a great time despite the language barriers. There is something especially heartwarming about watching an adult’s guard come down as they start to relax into the fun. The Field Day Games In Korea, events like PIEF Field Day hire special companies who bring out very fun games for everyone to play. This means the games may change each year and they may bring games you’ve never tried before. However, they often have many familiar elements regarding teamwork, racing around cones, and general mayhem. Additionally, the event planners try to make sure the events and activities aren’t too complicated. They keep activities simple and easy for the average person to do. No one needs to be a professional athlete or especially good at activities. You just need a heart for fun and the desire the cheer on others having fun. The MC Makes the Day Usually, the MC makes or breaks a Korean Field Day event. Their job is to be funny, get people involved, make people feel comfortable, and keep the good vibes rolling. You can’t imagine how hard that can be to accomplish when you are MCing an event in two languages. Thankfully, PIEF hired a wonderful MC for the event who made both English speakers and Korean speakers feel comfortable. South of Seoul volunteers have always been impressed by the effort PIEF organizers put into finding the right MC and organization to partner with for their events. The PIEF organizers always strive to find teams that can smoothly go between cultures and make everyone feel they belong. Obviously, there will be confusing language issues here and there, and they handle such hurdles with grace. Field Day Safety Since Field Day can be hectic, event organizers like PIEF take planning for safety very seriously. Attendees do sign waiver forms and emergency services keeps an ambulance on hand “just in case.” They even communicate the nearby hospitals and information related to how injuries may be handled. Follow PIEF for More Events Interested in participating in events like Field Day or other fun acitivities? Follow PIEF on Facebook to see what they having planned. South of Seoul partners with PIEF to support their community development work and we love what they do! PIEF has two locations in Pyeongtaek-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea. One PIEF location is in Sinjang-dong near Osan Air Force Base: The second PIEF location is in Paengsong-eup near Camp Humphreys US military base: SOS.SEC Sponsored ContentENG: South of Seoul Strategy and Education Consulting (SOS SEC) in a Korean company that specializes in bridging the gap between Korean culture and other diverse cultures. With a profound understanding of the complexities and nuances of cultural dissonance, SOS SEC is dedicated to facilitating meaningful connections and fostering mutual understanding between individuals and businesses. SOS SEC partners with the South of Seoul Blog to provide Korean businesses the opportunity to present their organizations to the international community in Korea through Sponsored Posts. All SOS SEC-created content featured on the South of Seoul blog is paid content. KOR: South of Seoul Strategy and Education Consulting (SOS SEC)는 한국 문화와 세계 각국의 다양한 문화를 이어주는 다리 역할을 하는 한국 기업입니다.SOS SEC는 문화 차이 속에서 발생하는 복잡한 문제와 뉘앙스를 깊이 이해하고 있으며, 이를 바탕으로 개인과 기업이 서로를 더 잘 이해하고 연결될 수 있도록 돕고 있습니다. 또한 South of Seoul 블로그와 협력하여, 한국 기업들이 스폰서드 포스트(Sponsored Posts)를 통해 한국에 거주하는 국제 사회에 효과적으로 자신들의 브랜드와 조직을 알릴 수 있는 기회를 제공합니다. South of Seoul 블로그에 게재되는 SOS SEC 제작 콘텐츠는 모두 공식 유료 콘텐츠로, 한국 기업이 국제 사회와 더 가까워질 수 있도록 돕는 맞춤형 홍보 솔루션입니다. sos.sec@southofseoul.net

The post Discover Korean Field Day with PIEF appeared first on South of Seoul.

Would you like to participate in a traditional countryside, family-style Kimjang? (FYI, if you love cooking and Korean food the answer is, “YES!”) Then, sign-up immediately for this 3-day traditional cooking event and learn how families work together to prepare their kimchi for the year. The event will cost $45 per person and be a ton of hard work and fun. What is Kimjang In 2013, Korean kimjang became recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Heritage activity. For Kimjang each year, Korean families come together to help the matriarchs assemble the family’s kimchi for the year. The event takes three days and requires many people to come together in order to clean, soak, and prepare the kimchi for all of the family members. There are many kimchi related experiences for new residents and tourists, but nothing compares to a full kimjang. When you go through the entire process of kimjang you step into the heart of the culture. For me, personally, participating in the totality of this event made me feel more connected to my life and friends in Korea. A Unique Opportunity to Fully Participate in Kimjang Since Kimjang is a family-focused event, few international residents in Korea have the opportunity to experience this event in its entirety. Many Korean moms will say, “It’s too much work.” when foreigners ask to join. They might be correct… but I have been determined to start a kimjang for international residents. I want everyone to have this experience if they would like the challenge. Kimjang with Ms. Sue Therefore, when Ms. Sue said she would teach the South of Seoul community how to make kimchi, I insisted that we host a true kimjang. An event that doesn’t just showcase how to make the national dish, but also celebrates the strength and hard work of Korean women and their passion for their families. Additionally, while we learn to make kimchi and take some home to our families, we will also be helping Ms. Sue process the kimchi for her family for the year. This part of Kimjang is critical since helping family is the essence of the event. About the Event Host and Kimchi Expert Ms. Sue’s hometown is in Jeju-do, however, she now lives in Pyeongtaek with her Husband and 2 adult children. Although Sue speaks and understands limited English, she loves working with the international community. Also, it’s her dream to help support the international residents in Pyeongtaek by offering deeper insight into Korean life. South of Seoul volunteers will work with Ms. Sue to create additional materials to make the kimjang run relatively smoothly. Additionally, such materials can be taken home for reference in later years. Sue actually attended our Thanksgiving this year and couldn’t stop talking about how excited she is to have lots of guest for Kimjang. About the Location Sue has a gorgeous office and activity space that she has updated just for the kimjang event 2022! We will have plenty of space to work and attendees can feel comfortable with plenty of indoor and outdoor space for taking breaks together. The amount of work she has put into making us all feel comfortable and “at home” gives me warm fuzzies. Types of Kimchi Ms. Sue will teach three types of Kimchi for the 2022 Korean Kimjang. The cabbage and radish kimchi can be eaten over time. However, the fruit kimchi should be consumed within about 7 days of the 2022 Kimjang Culture Event. What to Expect at a Kimjang Kimjang is hard work. As we will be lifting things, moving things, washing things in cold water, and mixing a lot of stuff together, it is important to make sure you prepare accordingly. We are working on the exact times of things: If You Can Attend All Days Sunday will be the most important day of the event, we recommend coming to all 3 but we understand there are unique situations. Please just message us and we can try to figure it out. Event Cost Per Person We have done everything we can to keep the price of the event within reason. Our goal is to break even and use all of our manpower to help Ms. Sue with her family’s kimchi so that she doesn’t have to do it alone this year. Adults: $45 or 55,000 krw** The kimjang cost includes: **You will need to bring your own rubber gloves, kimchi Tupperware, and work clothes (i.e. apron). Kids: $10 or 12,000 krw Kids able to participate in the labor of making kimchi can attend with their parents. The fee covers additional costs related to food, snacks, and the final dinner together. Additional Kimchi: If you would like to make more kimchi, we can do a ticket add-on so that you can take more home. We will work out the price for adding additional kimchi. Kimjang Schedule (We were able to change this to 2 days because of the number of attendees!) Kimjang takes a total of two days. So, this means attendees should leave their schedules open for two days of working together. What to Wear and Bring Kimjang is messy. Therefore, you need to wear old clothes that can get wet and stained. You will also need to bring heavy-duty rubber gloves and Tupperware for taking home the kimchi. Register Today You can register today! Just fill out the form below and a South of Seoul volunteer will be in touch with the next steps. 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. In addition, you can find many local events posted in the group to check out. 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. Lanae Rivers-Woods, MAITLanae Rivers-Woods moved to Korea in 2011 where she lives in the countryside with her family, friends, and puppies. She holds a BSSW (Bachelor’s of Science in Social Work), a MAIT (Master’s of Arts in International Teaching), and registered by the Pyeongtaek Korean Times with the Korean government as a Cultural Expert. Ms. Rivers-Woods used her 15 years experience as a social architect, UX/UI designer, and technology consultant to found South of Seoul in 2015. South of Seoul is a volunteer organization that leverages technological tools to mitigate cultural dissonance in multi-cultural communities. Through South of Seoul, Ms. Rivers-Woods works with independent volunteers, non-profit organizations, businesses, local & federal government, universities, and US military organizations to develop solutions to support English speaking international residents in rural South Korea. Additionally, Ms. Rivers-Woods founded the South of Seoul smart phone app available for Google Play and iPhone. The app provides information a resources for those living and traveling in South Korea. When she isn’t in South of Seoul development meetings or working her day job, Ms. Rivers-Woods loves to be outside at skate parks, the beach, or playing in the mountains. www.southofseoul.net

The post Traditional Kimjang with Sue 2022 appeared first on South of Seoul.

Over 100 people will attend the first co-hosted Craft Beer Pop-up event by the Pyeongtaek Craft Beer Society and Osan Craft Beer Club on November 11, 2022. Let’s take a look at the event and why I’m so excited. Plus, tips on how you can still come to get some Nomadic Beer if you didn’t get a ticket! Nomadic Brewing Interview After Event Update: The event was amazing! Kimchi Rednecks did a lovely interview with the Nomadic at the pop-up event watch it here: The Pop-up Highlights Community Dooley Pet’s Riverrun Café in western Pyeongtaek will host Pyeongtaek’s premiere beer-tasting event. Osan Craft Beer Club, based in Songtan, and Pyeongtaek Craft Beer Society, based at Camp Humphreys, are hosting this event as a fundraiser for Homeward Bound, a no-kill animal shelter on Osan AB.  I am super excited to be a part of this event because it promises to be a great time and the event represents a lot of good things about Pyeongtaek. The Nomadic Brewing Pop-up Saves Animals The first goodness coming from the Nomadic Brewing Pop up will be a direct donation to Homeward Bound. Homeward Bound has been around for 11 years and provides compassionate care to and finding loving homes for the relinquished and unclaimed animals of Osan AB and USAG Humphreys. You can find more information regarding Homeward Bound at their website: https://www.homewardboundosan.org/. They are always in need of volunteers. The Nomadic Brewing Pop-up Has Great Beer The second thing I look forward to is the beer. And this is not ordinary beer. The head brewer from Nomadic Brewing Company, based in Jeonju, will be bringing his finest beers to this event. He hasn’t told us which beers he will bring, but every Nomadic beer I have tasted has been delicious. These beers are very balanced and often have very delicate flavors that are best tasted with the brewer guiding you through the experience. Check out their sites below for more. The Nomadic Brewing Pop-up Brings Us Together Finally, the reason I love craft beer is also the best thing to come from the Nomadic Brewing Pop-Up. The best craft beers are not crafted to make money nor to get us drunk, but rather to provide an excuse to gather on a Friday afternoon, to enable us to meet new people and experience new places and flavors, and to support this thing we call the craft beer community. This community is not a formal thing, but it is the group of independent brewers, their families, the pubs and distributors who choose good beer, and consumers like us. OCBC and PCBS are helping to grow this community here in Pyeongtaek and even across Korea. OCBC and PCBS have introduced craft beers to several bars in Songtan and Anjeong-ri. We have organized day trips and overnight trips to Seoul, Osan, Dongtan, Suwon, Jeonju, Pyeongchang, Gangnueng, Ulsan, and Busan.  We haven’t done this without assistance. The sponsors for this pop-up event have made generous donations and are also tireless supporters of craft beer and the community in Pyeongtaek. Please find them and thank them and support their endeavors too. Where is the Event The event will be held at a new coffee shop, just west of Camp Humphreys. Dooley Pet’s Riverrun Café is nicely situated on the bank of the Anseong River and has easy access to the walking trail along the river. Even if you can’t make it out on the 11th, this is a great place to stop off at during a drive in the country or a bike or stroll along the river. Pets and children are welcome! Do I have to Have a Ticket to Attend? You do not have to have a ticket to come for beers. Tickets allow others to enter the raffle, get discounts on beers, get a free shirt, and discounts on drinks. However, if you don’t have a ticket you can still get beers for regular price and enjoy time with a great group of people. Event Timeline If you don’t have tickets, join us after 15:00! Pop-Up Sponsors 11 Nov Pop-up Event Sponsors (and craft beer community supporters): Follow Osan Craft Beer Club Join Pyeongtaek Craft Beer Society Michael Brown, MBA and Founder Osan Craft Beer ClubMike Brown retired from the Air Force, holds a Master’s in Business Administration, and is a co-founder of the Osan Craft Beer Club. Mr. Brown worked as a Korean language analyst and translator and currently lives with his family in South Korea. As a leader of the Osan Craft Beer Club, Mike Brown brings together casual beer lovers and advanced craft connoisseurs to share knowledge of the craft beer industry in South Korea. Additionally, he works with breweries, distributors, and the community to support and promote the growing craft beer scene across South Korea. www.facebook.com/groups/545864773526672/

The post Nomadic Brewing Pop-up SOLD OUT! appeared first on South of Seoul.

Want to know more about Nomadic Brewing, the featured brewery at Pyeongtaek Craft Beer Society (PCBC) and Osan Craft Beer Club (OCBC) upcoming Pop-up at Riverun Cafe in Pyeongtaek, South Korea? Get to know them in the following blog. Nomadic Brewing Interview After Even Post Update: Kimchi Rednecks interviewed Nomadic Brewing a the Craft Beer Pop-up! Check out the event video here! Nomadic Brewing Pop-up at Riverun Cafe November 11th, 2022 – PCBS adn OCBC will host a Nomadic Brewing pop-up and Fun Run at Riverrun Cafe in Pyeongtaek-si. The ticketed event will benefit the Homeward Bound Osan Animal Shelter. The event will include both a fun run and beer tasting popup at one of Pyeongtaek-si’s epic river view cafes. Purchase tickets for the Craft Beer Pop-up through either PCBC, OCBC, or Cosmic Cat Donuts in Songtan or Paengseong. Thank you to South of Seoul as well as other local businesses such as FedMedi, Shuttle Food Delivery, Tailgate, AWOL, Chicken & Beer Pub, Carrot Mart 2, and Loft33 for their support for the Craft Beer Pop-up and bringing Nomadic Brewing to Pyeongtaek-si. About Nomadic Brewing Nomadic Brewing Co. is an independently owned and operated brewery located in southwestern South Korea in the city of Jeonju.  The brewery’s motto, “Balanced beer, balanced life,” feels evident in all aspects of Nomadic:  they make the beer with local ingredients whenever possible, the food menu includes varied, unique, and healthy options, and the pubs are only open five days a week to allow the staff to recharge. The Founder The owner and head brewer, John, is from arguably the best state in America, Michigan. John formally studied brewing in Chicago, IL, and Munich, Germany, at the World Brewing Academy. His focus on his craft is evident in the high-quality and balanced flavors of his beers. Nomadic typically offers five signature beers and upwards of ten seasonal brews. Nomadic has a very limited distribution area, and it is virtually impossible to find Nomadic beers in Pyeongtaek. Current Nomadic Beers Some of Nomadic’s beers include:  Nomadic Brewery Locations Nomadic’s brewery is in Jeonju along with its two pubs. One pub, the Beer Temple, is collocated with the brewery, while the Beer Garden is conveniently situated in the historic Hanok Village. The Hanok Village is the largest collection of traditional homes in Korea. It is a destination that requires a day or two to experience all that is offered. Guests can even stay in a Hanok room overnight, and many fine restaurants also occupy traditional Hanok structures.  Nomadic Brewing in South of Seoul Blogs Nomadic Brewing has also been mentioned in the following South of Seoul posts. Follow Osan Craft Beer Club Join Pyeongtaek Craft Beer Society Join Pyeongtaek Travelers Michael Brown, MBA and Founder Osan Craft Beer ClubMike Brown retired from the Air Force, holds a Master’s in Business Administration, and is a co-founder of the Osan Craft Beer Club. Mr. Brown worked as a Korean language analyst and translator and currently lives with his family in South Korea. As a leader of the Osan Craft Beer Club, Mike Brown brings together casual beer lovers and advanced craft connoisseurs to share knowledge of the craft beer industry in South Korea. Additionally, he works with breweries, distributors, and the community to support and promote the growing craft beer scene across South Korea. www.facebook.com/groups/545864773526672/

The post Nomadic Brewing PSCS Craft Beer Pop-up appeared first on South of Seoul.

Pyeongtaek’s biggest Halloween festival happening Saturday! in Anjeongri! Do you live for Halloween and love creating amazing costumes? Be sure to signup for the Halloween Costume Contest in Pyeongtaek. The Halloween in Anjeong-ri festival coming up this weekend and you could win prizes! If you want to know more about Halloween in Korea or Pyeongtaek keep readying, or jump straight to costume contest information. About Halloween in South Korea Over the past decade, Halloween has slowly inched it’s way into Korean culture as a commercial ‘Holiday’ where businesses strive to attract customers with displays and attractions. However, in some areas near US military bases, such as in Anjeong-ri, the holiday takes on a more traditional meaning with events for kids and families. About Halloween in Anjeong-ri (안정리) In Anjeong-ri, Pyeongtaek near Camp Humphreys Army Base, the city and community organizations put on a great Halloween festival for kids and adults. The celebration changes a little each year but generally includes activities, costume contests, decorations, and more. It’s great fun for the US military, international Korean residents, and the Korean community alike. About the Costume Contest The Halloween Festival in Anjeong-ri costume contest offers prize money ranging from 500,000 to 200,000 KRW. This is the perfect place to let your cosplay-loving self run wild. You do need to register for the costume contest here: Registration Google Form. The registration form looks like the one in the image below. It contains important additional information about the event and registration is in English. Competition Date&Time The event will be held on Saturday (2022. 10. 29) at 16:00~19:00 in Anjeong-ri. The time may vary based on changes in schedule due to weather or other issues. The organizers may contact registered participants if changes occur or they will post the time change at the event. In short, prepare to be a little flexible with the timing because things happen. Halloween Festival in Anjeong-ri Even if you don’t feel like being in the Halloween Costume Contest, be sure to visit Anjeong-ri this Saturday for the Halloween festivities! The Halloween Festival in Anjeong-ri is a great time to enjoy fall, celebrate Halloween, have fun with family/friends, and build community! Event Hosts and Planners The Halloween Festival in Anjeong-ri is planned by the Pyeongtaek International Exchange Foundation, Pyeongtaek City, and Pyeongtaek Citizen Times. Such organizations put in a great deal of work to support the international community in Pyeongtaek. We love to support their work! South of SeoulFounded in 2015, the South of Seoul team consists of volunteers on three continents working together to support English-speaking people traveling or living in South Korea. South of Seoul volunteers work with organizations and individuals across South Korea to improve equitable access to information across South Korea. Much of South of Seoul’s information focuses on Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea. Blogs published under the authorship of “South of Seoul” include blogs compiled by multiple volunteers to improve access to standardized information unrelated to individualized personal experiences. www.southofseoul.net

The post Pyeongtaek Halloween Costume Contest and Festival appeared first on South of Seoul.

Pyeongtaek-si hosts events in the same locations. Here is a list of those locations and some tips on how to make attending events less stressful. Where do public events happen in Pyeongtaek? Pyeongtaek-si hosts many wonderful events year-round (when it’s not a pandemic). Since Pyeongtaek has many different neighborhoods, the locations may be up to 1 hour apart. Such distance means that just because an event is in ‘Pyeongtaek’ does not mean it is your location in Pyeongtaek. Since Pyeongtaek has many rural areas, you can’t assume you will be able to easily reach the location by public transportation. You will need to double-check how far each event is from your home and how to reach the location easily. Plan Ahead by Scoping out Pyeongtaek Event Venues in Advance In order to emotionally and mentally empower yourself to attend events, South of Seoul volunteers recommend getting familiar with all of the event locations listed below. Knowing how to reach these public event locations (either by car or public transit) may include such steps as 1) visiting locations before you plan to attend an event there, 2) finding parking areas you are comfortable with, or 3) checking out nearby restaurants will make it easier to attend events in the future. This prep work will make it easier to say, “YES, LET’S GO!” when you see events advertised. We have seen this system work far better than trying to find event locations, parking, and restaurants on the day of the event. Those who don’t scout out event locations prior to the day of the event usually experience 1 of 3 outcomes: 1) become overwhelmed a few hours before the event, 2) experience difficulty finding the venue or parking and give-up, or 3) arrive late and too stressed to enjoy the event. We don’t want you to have these de-motivating experiences so we are providing you with a way to scope out all the public event locations in Pyeongtaek in advance. Parking at Public Events Most of the public event spaces have public parking locations. For example, both city halls have large public parking lots. Additionally, parking in these public lots will be free after 5pm. Remember that on the day of the event, traffic into the area may take longer than expected and parking will fill up quickly, which means arriving early and finding parking is always a smart plan. We like to show up early, park, and then walk to dinner or lunch near the event. Additionally, leaving events may take longer than you prefer. Due to all these variables related to event traffic and not knowing an area, we recommend leaving yourself 30 minutes to 1 hour of padding before and after an event so that you don’t need to be stressed. With all that said, let’s learn about all the cool public event venues and locations in Pyeongtaek. 7 Primary Outdoor Pyeongtaek-si Event Locations The following outdoor events areas in Pyeongtaeksi are where you may find such things as: Winter holiday lights Buddha’s Birthday displays Pyeongtaek traditional folk art performances Lunar New Year decorations Korean/American events Concerts Festivals Many of these events will only be advertised 1-2 weeks before the event. Korea does not usually do early advertising for their city-organized events. Events related to US holidays such as Halloween will be held in the areas near US military bases. Events related to US holidays such as Halloween will be held in the areas near US military bases. 2 Pyeongtaek International Exchange Foundation Event Locations In addition to the events planned and hosted by the Pyeongtaek-si government, the PIEF Foundation also hosts smaller city events at its two locations near US Military bases. Located near Camp Humphreys US Army Base. Located near Osan US Ar Force Base. 5 Locations for Pyeongtaek Art Events Pyeongtaek-si offers year-round arts programming when pandemic restrictions are not in place. The majority of the events are offered for free. This includes concerts, magic shows, plays, and more. Events will be advertised throughout the city on giant banners and on the Pyeongtaek-si website. South of Seoul also tries to promote all events in English to our followers. This arts center is located near Pyeongtaek City Hall near Lotte Mart. These events will usually be in Korean without English translation. Don’t let this stop you, the events are wonderful. Located next to Songtan Pyeongtaek City Hall and not far from Pyeongtaek Branch of Suwon Immigration. These events will usually be in Korean without English translation. Don’t let this stop you, the events are wonderful. Anjung Arts Center is near the Swimming Pool. These events will usually be in Korean without English translation. Don’t let this stop you, the events are wonderful. Located on the edge of Pyeongtaek Lake and includes the Pyramid shaped pubic art exhibition building. Located on a side street just off of Anjeong-ri Rodeo street. They usually have small art classes year-round that also have English-speaking translators. Not far from Songtan/Pyeongtaek City Hall, this cultural space is used less often than others. South of SeoulFounded in 2015, the South of Seoul team consists of volunteers on three continents working together to support English-speaking people traveling or living in South Korea. South of Seoul volunteers work with organizations and individuals across South Korea to improve equitable access to information across South Korea. Much of South of Seoul’s information focuses on Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea. Blogs published under the authorship of “South of Seoul” include blogs compiled by multiple volunteers to improve access to standardized information unrelated to individualized personal experiences. www.southofseoul.net

The post Pyeongtaek-si Event Locations appeared first on South of Seoul.

Who is SOS Public Health trying to reach? Today, University of Utah alumni, Lisa Peck, and South of Seoul are launching the first Public Health survey. This survey aims to reach the English-speaking international population living in South Korea. The target international population includes expats, migrant workers, students, religious missionaries, and military affiliated individuals and families. Listen to the BlogCast Don’t want to read? Listen to the South of Seoul BlogCast which provides accessible content through the use of AI technology. We don’t have time to read each article but we do our best to make more of our content accessible. If you would like to join our Accessibility Team apply to volunteer with South of Seoul. Please note that the pronunciation of some Korean words may be inaccurate due to AI technology’s limitations. Take the Survey Now! What is the SOS Public Health survey assessing? The SOS Public Health survey will assess the international community’s general access to primary medical care in Korea. The survey estimates approximately 25 minutes to completion. This robust survey consists of 84 questions broken down into the following sections: All survey responses will remain anonymous. The information provided by respondents will not be tied to their identity in any way. Why is SOS Public Health implementing such a robust a survey? SOS Public Health desires to understand what the international community truly needs in regard to primary medical care. The information provided in this survey will allow SOS Public Health to find gaps in community knowledge and pinpoint specific obstacles that the international community face with primary healthcare. Furthermore, SOS Public Health will use survey data to focus research efforts in these areas to better educate and inform the community of ways to advocate for themselves in the healthcare setting. How can I participate in the SOS Public Health Survey? Any and all international residents currently living in South Korea are welcome to participate in the SOS Public Health Survey. This survey will be available from today, Monday, July 12th until at 11:59 p.m. Friday, July 23rd. Implemented solely online via Google Forms, the survey can be accessed from a computer, smartphone or tablet device. Simply scan the QR code provided below or click this link to begin. What can I do to help if I am not eligible to participate in the survey? If you are not an international resident currently living in South Korea, you can help by sharing the survey link with family and friends who are international residents in South Korea. The survey link will be posted on the SOS Public Health and South of Seoul Facebook and Instagram pages for easy sharing. The more responses received from the survey, the better research conducted will be which, in turn, will allow South of Seoul to better serve the South Korean international community. Sharing is Caring Over the years working with the international community in South Korea, South of Seoul discovered a disconnect in information sharing between South Korean organizations and the foreign community in regard to primary health care. With a lack of information dissemination, many members of the community struggled to access basic health care. This discovery led to the creation of the South of Seoul Public Health Program (SOS Public Health). Follow SOS Public Health for More Resources Follow us on Instagram or Facebook to stay updated on SOS Public Health Initiatives. If you have questions about healthcare in Korea, visit the Health and Wellness in Korea Facebook Group, or feel free to message SOS Public Health with any questions or concerns. Apply for an SOS Public Health Practicum Opportunity Are you a graduate student looking for practical experience in public health? Apply for a an SOS Public Health Practicum! Click below to learn more about the SOS Public Health Practicum Program. Research Design & Implementation Team Intern Supervisor Primary Researcher & Author Lisa Peck, MPH, CPHMs. Peck graduated from the University of Utah Asia Campus (UAC) in Incheon with a Master’s in Public Health and her Certification in Public Health (CPH). Ms. Peck also holds a Bachelor’s Degrees in Linguistics and one in International Studies with a Global Health emphasis. Ms. Peck is Korean American and speaks both English and Korean. She has moved between the US and Korea since childhood, finally settling in Korea after graduating from UAC. In 2021 Ms. Peck founded the South of Seoul Public Health Program which focuses on research and initiatives regarding the health and wellness of multinational residents in South Korea. Additionally, Ms. Peck oversees the SOS Public Health Graduate Student Practicum Program which provides mentorship and training for Master’s in Public Health students. The program works with two students a semester with a focus on ethical UX research design, survey development, and initiative implementation. www.southofseoul.net

The post Participate in the First SOS Public Health Survey appeared first on South of Seoul.

Before we begin, we want to make sure to thank the City of Pyeongtaek for donating the trash bags, PIEF for their consummate support, to PUB 210 for donating a prize and of course Sig Flips the Table who brought this idea to life and brought us all on board with her vision. We look forward to catching the video of the event from On Your Mark World in the near future. When Sig Flips the Table decided to head-up the First (hopefully annual) Earth Day Pyeongtaek we were really excited to support her efforts. We are big lovers of the earth and all it’s air and other cool stuff the keeps us alive. Plus, we love getting together with people and working. Nope, neither of these things are a joke. We love Earth and work. Since we are sort of in charge of documenting and sharing what’s happening around town, our Earth Day was a bit longer and more busy than most of the groups. We started in Paengseong and then moved over to Songtan. We were super excited to see a variety of different groups out picking up trash and bringing the communities together.  It was pretty inspiring to be honest. Here are few of the Earth loving folks who pitched in. Here you can see a before and after of the magic that we worked. It took four trash bags to clean up this particular lot. However, in Songtan (nearish Osan AF Base) we found a different story.  Despite the fact the SOS group seemed to be the only ones active in the area on Earth Day, the place was super clean. The residents do an amazing job. The business area needed some work, but the parks and residential areas were nearly spotless. Even the empty lots weren’t that neglected. We felt very proud of adopted neighborhood. It’s defiantly loved by it’s residents. In an hour we only managed to fillup two bags between three people. It was fabulous to get to meet people we’ve only seen online, give back to the community that’s given us so much support for the last seven years, and support the wonderful tradition that Earth Day as become over the years. Hopefully next year even more people will get out and celebrate together here in Pyeongtaek. You can download the South of Seoul App from:

The post Earth Day 2017: Wrap Up appeared first on South of Seoul.