April’s Book Club Pick, “Almond: A Novel,” is a coming of age story about Yunjae, a young boy with Alexithymia, who struggles to feel pain, anger, and empathy. Hugely popular among BTS fans, as RM, J-Hope, and Suga read it in 2020 in their reality show “BTS In the Soop.” So, let’s dig into this story focusing on themes of acceptance, love, and human connection. About the South of Seoul Book Club If you are familiar with the series, skip ahead to learn more about “Almond: A Novel.” Commitment to Accessibility South of Seoul volunteers take book accessibility into consideration when recommending titles. We consider: Commitment to Diverse Lived Experiences South of Seoul volunteers seek to put lived experiences at the forefront of their recommendation choices. When considering authors we look for such things as: Reading about Korean culture from a variety of perspectives may provide readers with a greater understanding of the country and culture. Commitment to Supporting Mental Health South of Seoul also includes book recommendations that support the lives and mental health of our community. This means that books may tackle the issues relationships, and more. Book Recommendation By Melissa Edwards-Whittington April’s South of Seoul Book Club recommendation, “Almond: A Novel” is brought to you by Melissa Edwards-Whittington of the KimchiRednecks. Edwards-Whittington has lived in Korea since 2017. She and her husband, Chuck, formed the KimchiRednecks YouTube channel to give people living outside of Korea or those coming to Korea, a glimpse of life here in Korea. Together with their three shih tzus, they post weekly videos about places to eat, things to cook, places to visit, or life in general living in Korea. About The Author of “Almond: A Novel” The author of “Almond: A Novel” is Sohn Won-Pyung, a South Korean author, screenwriter, and filmmaker. Born in Seoul in 1979, she earned her Bachelor of Arts in social studies and philosophy at Sogang University and in film directing at Korean Academy of Film Arts. “Almond: A Novel,” her debut full-length novel, won the Changbi Prize for Young Adult Fiction in 2016. Also, in 2020, she won the Japanese Booksellers’ Award in translated fiction for the same work. In addition, she wrote and directed the Korean film, “Intruder” (침입자) in 2020. Interview with Writer Sohn Won-Pyung Almond To Be Made Into A Musical My Experience Reading “Almond: A Novel” The prologue puts it best, “I won’t tell you whether it has a happy ending or a tragic ending…neither you nor I nor anyone can ever really know whether a story is happy or tragic.” The story is about protagonist Yunjae, who suffers from alexithymia. Because of this disorder, part of his brain that controls feelings never fully formed, so he can’t feel any emotions. Due to this particular part of the brain being shaped like almonds, the author chose to use it for the name of the book. Often labeled as a “monster” by his classmates, he struggles to understand why people feel that way. However, his grandmother and mother try to help Yunjae learn to manage and deal with his disorder in a world that does not understand him. They leave little post-it notes with reminders to smile, laugh, or say thank you. Unfortunately, tragedy strikes when he is 16 when Yunjae’s mother and grandmother die. Therefore, he struggles and then, befriends the landlord of his family’s bookstore, Dr. Shim. Eventually, he meets fellow students, Gon and Dora. Through the relationships he builds with Dr. Shim, Gon, and Dora, he grows as a person and perseveres in spite of his condition. Although filled with moments of happiness and sadness, the story leaves you with a lot of meaningful life lessons. More Commentary And Reviews On “Almond: A Novel” The above review contains my thoughts and opinions. However, make sure to read other reviews to have a more rounded perspective toward the book. We all come to each story with our own social/cultural lens. Therefore, others may have perceived this book in a different manner and may help you decide if this is the book for you. Brief Introduction to Almond by Won-Pyung Sohn Almond by Won-Pyung Sohn Online Purchasing Link You can purchase “Almond: A Novel” by Sohn Won-Pyung in English on Amazon. Find More Book Club Recommendations Did you like this recommendation? Be sure to explore our other volunteer-recommended books. Also, check out the selections from South of Seoul Book Club 2023. KimchiRednecksAbout Melissa Edwards-Whittington & Chuck Whittington (KimchiRednecks) Chuck and Melissa—also known as the KimchiRednecks—have been living in Korea since 2017 and documenting their life abroad since launching their YouTube channel in 2018. Originally created to share their adventures with friends and family back in the U.S., KimchiRednecks has since grown into a vibrant and dynamic platform that reflects their love for Korean culture, food, travel, and everyday life. From foodie explorations and recipe experiments to gaming, tech, and car projects (especially the BRZ), their content offers a fun and honest window into expat life. Chuck Whittington is a graduate of Francis Marion University with a degree in Information Systems Management. With over two decades of experience in IT, Chuck combines his technical expertise with a long-standing fascination with Korea—having visited many times before moving permanently. He’s the tech-savvy side of KimchiRednecks and brings a love for innovation, gaming, and cars to the channel. Melissa Edwards-Whittington holds a degree in Bible with a minor in Elementary Education from Mid-Atlantic Christian University. She has worn many hats over the years—working in customer service, marketing, and now also serving as a volunteer Co-Editor and Social Media Marketing Manager for United on the RoK Magazine. Her writing and digital work focus on building community and supporting military-connected and expatriate populations in Korea. Melissa also volunteers with South of Seoul, where she helps manage online social media groups, supports local language exchanges, and creates original content to assist newcomers and long-term residents alike. Together, Chuck and Melissa share their lives with their three beloved Shih Tzu daughters—Minion, Sookie (forever in their hearts), and Mayhem—who are frequently featured in their videos and social media posts. Whether they’re sipping coffee at a neighborhood café, exploring hidden corners of Korea, or experimenting with homemade whiskey and brandy on their second channel, Shining with KimchiRednecks, Chuck and Melissa are passionate about sharing the real and ever-evolving journey of life abroad. One of their greatest joys is cooking, and they frequently document their culinary adventures—especially their experiences learning to prepare Korean dishes and other global cuisines—on their YouTube channel, inviting others to celebrate food, culture, and connection alongside them. Follow Chuck, Melissa & the KimchiRednecks Adventures: YouTube: @kimchirednecks YouTube: @shiningwithkimchirednecks Instagram: @kimchirednecks Facebook: KimchiRednecks United on the RoK Magazine: www.unitedontherokmag.com

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March’s Book Club pick is “Greek Lessons.” The story follows a young woman and her professor of Ancient Greek, both of whom are alienated from the people around them due to limitations with their physical bodies. As the two become more connected, they share the pain and solace that they experience. About the South of Seoul Book Club If you are familiar with the series, skip ahead to learn more about “Greek Lessons.” Commitment to Accessibility South of Seoul volunteers take book accessibility into consideration when recommending titles. We consider: Commitment to Diverse Lived Experiences South of Seoul volunteers seek to put lived experiences at the forefront of their recommendation choices. When considering authors we look for such things as: Reading about Korean culture from a variety of perspectives may provide readers with a greater understanding of the country and culture. Commitment to Supporting Mental Health South of Seoul also includes book recommendations that support the lives and mental health of our community. This means that books may tackle the issues related to living between cultures. This may include topics such as culture shock, language, relationships, and more. Book Recommendation By Melissa Edwards-Whittington March’s South of Seoul Book Club recommendation, “Greek Lessons” is brought to you by Melissa Edwards-Whittington of the KimchiRednecks. Edwards-Whittington has lived in Korea since 2017. She and her husband, Chuck, formed the KimchiRednecks YouTube channel to give people living outside of Korea or those coming to Korea, a glimpse of life here in Korea. Together with their three shih tzus, they post weekly videos about places to eat, things to cook, places to visit, or life in general living in Korea. About The Author of “Greek Lessons” The author of “Greek Lessons” is Han Kang, a South Korean author. Kang studied literature at Yonsei University and earned a graduate degree in creative writing from Seoul Institute of the Arts. Han Kang is internationally renowned for her 2016 Man Booker International Prize-winning novel “The Vegetarian.” She is the first Korean author to be nominated for the award. Her writing frequently delves into the complexities of human suffering, trauma. and the complexities of the human psyche. My Experience Reading “Greek Lessons” “Greek Lessons” left me feeling quite ungrounded. The language of the book is beautiful and it is not a long read. However, I found it to be a more difficult read because of the way it was written. Our story alternates between two characters, sometimes abruptly. The narrative for one character is written more in the first person, whereas the other character is in the third person. The main protagonist is a young woman who has lost her ability to speak for the second time in her life. Her therapist feels that her loss of language has much to do with the loss of her mother and the loss of custody of her son. She has always been intrigued by language, so she chooses to take Ancient Greek. Then, there is the Ancient Greek professor, who is slowly losing his sight. Both souls are adrift in the world and unable to connect in the city with those around them. In addition to losing his sight, the professor feels torn between the two cultures that he grew up with German and Korean, which increases his disconnect from the world around him. The build up to the two characters truly interacting and connecting in the story takes awhile. I ended up feeling as if I, too, were trapped within their limitations. However, as brilliant as being able to capture the reader in that way, I felt like it took so long to get to a point of connection that I felt a bit let down when the two finally reach out to each other. The ending felt quite abrupt and unresolved. Also, even though there were glimmers of hope in the book for both characters, I ultimately felt much sadness after reading this which I believe was the author’s intent. More Commentary And Reviews On “Greek Lessons” The above review contains my thoughts and opinions. However, make sure to read other reviews to have a more rounded perspective toward the book. We all come to each story with our own social/cultural lens. Therefore, others may have perceived this book in a different manner and may help you decide if this is the book for you. A Narrator Locked in Silence, Who Finds Solace in an Ancient Language ‘Greek Lessons’ is an intimate, vulnerable portrayal of two lonely people Two intersecting lives, each grappling with a unique loss Online Purchasing Link You can purchase Greek Lessons by Han Kang in English on Amazon. Find More Book Club Recommendations Did you like this recommendation? Be sure to explore our other volunteer-recommended books. Also, check out the selections from South of Seoul Book Club 2023. KimchiRednecksAbout Melissa Edwards-Whittington & Chuck Whittington (KimchiRednecks) Chuck and Melissa—also known as the KimchiRednecks—have been living in Korea since 2017 and documenting their life abroad since launching their YouTube channel in 2018. Originally created to share their adventures with friends and family back in the U.S., KimchiRednecks has since grown into a vibrant and dynamic platform that reflects their love for Korean culture, food, travel, and everyday life. From foodie explorations and recipe experiments to gaming, tech, and car projects (especially the BRZ), their content offers a fun and honest window into expat life. Chuck Whittington is a graduate of Francis Marion University with a degree in Information Systems Management. With over two decades of experience in IT, Chuck combines his technical expertise with a long-standing fascination with Korea—having visited many times before moving permanently. He’s the tech-savvy side of KimchiRednecks and brings a love for innovation, gaming, and cars to the channel. Melissa Edwards-Whittington holds a degree in Bible with a minor in Elementary Education from Mid-Atlantic Christian University. She has worn many hats over the years—working in customer service, marketing, and now also serving as a volunteer Co-Editor and Social Media Marketing Manager for United on the RoK Magazine. Her writing and digital work focus on building community and supporting military-connected and expatriate populations in Korea. Melissa also volunteers with South of Seoul, where she helps manage online social media groups, supports local language exchanges, and creates original content to assist newcomers and long-term residents alike. Together, Chuck and Melissa share their lives with their three beloved Shih Tzu daughters—Minion, Sookie (forever in their hearts), and Mayhem—who are frequently featured in their videos and social media posts. Whether they’re sipping coffee at a neighborhood café, exploring hidden corners of Korea, or experimenting with homemade whiskey and brandy on their second channel, Shining with KimchiRednecks, Chuck and Melissa are passionate about sharing the real and ever-evolving journey of life abroad. One of their greatest joys is cooking, and they frequently document their culinary adventures—especially their experiences learning to prepare Korean dishes and other global cuisines—on their YouTube channel, inviting others to celebrate food, culture, and connection alongside them. Follow Chuck, Melissa & the KimchiRednecks Adventures: YouTube: @kimchirednecks YouTube: @shiningwithkimchirednecks Instagram: @kimchirednecks Facebook: KimchiRednecks United on the RoK Magazine: www.unitedontherokmag.com

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Follow the lives of a mistress and servant during the Japanese occupation of Korea in “Can’t I Go Instead.” Lee Geum-yi explores the complex relationship between the women, examining the extent to which loyalty and deception can be used to survive. About the South of Seoul Book Club If you are familiar with the series, skip ahead to learn more about “Can’t I Go Instead” Commitment to Accessibility South of Seoul volunteers take book accessibility into consideration when recommending titles. We consider: Commitment to Diverse Lived Experiences South of Seoul volunteers seek to put lived experiences at the forefront of their recommendation choices. When considering authors we look for such things as: Reading about Korean culture from a variety of perspectives may provide readers with a greater understanding of the country and culture. Commitment to Supporting Mental Health South of Seoul also includes book recommendations that support the lives and mental health of our community. This means that books may tackle the issues related to living between cultures. This may include topics such as culture shock, language, relationships, and more. Book Recommendation By Melissa Edwards-Whittington February’s South of Seoul Book Club recommendation, “Can’t I Go Instead” is brought to you by Melissa Edwards-Whittington of the KimchiRednecks. Edwards-Whittington has lived in Korea since 2017. She and her husband, Chuck, formed the KimchiRednecks YouTube channel to give people living outside of Korea or those coming to Korea, a glimpse of life here in Korea. Together with their three shih tzus, they post weekly videos about places to eat, things to cook, places to visit, or life in general living in Korea. About The Author of “Can’t I Go Instead” The author of “Can’t I Go Instead,” Lee Geum-yi, is a South Korean author. She is well-known for her literary works, often exploring themes related to Korean culture, history, identity, and women’s experiences. Lee Geum-yi’s ability to capture the nuances of human experiences has earned her recognition among readers and scholars interested in Korean literature and the immigrant experience. Therefore, her work resonates with audiences, shedding light on important aspects of Korean history. Q&A: Lee Geum-yi, Author of Can’t I Go Instead My Experience Reading “Can’t I Go Instead” After reading The Picture Bride by Lee Geum-yi, I was interested in reading more from the author. I enjoyed her writing style in the previous book. “Can’t I Go Instead” is a complex story of love, deception, duty, and honor. In 1920s Korea, Chaeryeong, a nobleman’s daughter, is given a gift from her father for her 8th birthday. He chooses to gift her a peasant girl. Sunam’s sister is chosen but she begs to go in her sister’s place. Seven-year-old Sunam becomes Chaeryeong’s maid and, ultimately, her replacement, inspiration, and savior.  Years later, while Chaeryeong and Sunam are in Japan, Chaeryeong’s lover is arrested for being involved with the Korean independence movement. Therefore, her father steps in to find a way to save her from trouble with the Japanese. He agrees to have his daughter join the Woman’s Brigade to encourage other women to join. He promises Sunam if she takes his daughter’s place, she will be freed once her commitment is done. And he forces his daughter to be married and sent to the United States. The story is heartbreaking and beautifully written with both hardships and moments of happiness intertwined. With their linked fates, Chaeryeong and Sunam are both thrown into worlds that are painful, unfair, and biased, and ultimately, they each have to face those difficulties. The character development and the story in this book were just beautifully done. More Commentary And Reviews On “Can’t I Go Instead” The above review contains my thoughts and opinions. However, make sure to read other reviews to have a more rounded perspective toward the book. We all come to each story with our own social/cultural lens. Therefore, others may have perceived this book in a different manner and may help you decide if this is the book for you. Review: Can’t I Go Instead By Lee Geum-Yi Online Purchasing Link You can purchase Can’t I Go Instead by Lee Geum-yi in English on Amazon. Find More Book Club Recommendations Did you like this recommendation? Be sure to explore our other volunteer-recommended books. Also, check out the selections from South of Seoul Book Club 2023. KimchiRednecksAbout Melissa Edwards-Whittington & Chuck Whittington (KimchiRednecks) Chuck and Melissa—also known as the KimchiRednecks—have been living in Korea since 2017 and documenting their life abroad since launching their YouTube channel in 2018. Originally created to share their adventures with friends and family back in the U.S., KimchiRednecks has since grown into a vibrant and dynamic platform that reflects their love for Korean culture, food, travel, and everyday life. From foodie explorations and recipe experiments to gaming, tech, and car projects (especially the BRZ), their content offers a fun and honest window into expat life. Chuck Whittington is a graduate of Francis Marion University with a degree in Information Systems Management. With over two decades of experience in IT, Chuck combines his technical expertise with a long-standing fascination with Korea—having visited many times before moving permanently. He’s the tech-savvy side of KimchiRednecks and brings a love for innovation, gaming, and cars to the channel. Melissa Edwards-Whittington holds a degree in Bible with a minor in Elementary Education from Mid-Atlantic Christian University. She has worn many hats over the years—working in customer service, marketing, and now also serving as a volunteer Co-Editor and Social Media Marketing Manager for United on the RoK Magazine. Her writing and digital work focus on building community and supporting military-connected and expatriate populations in Korea. Melissa also volunteers with South of Seoul, where she helps manage online social media groups, supports local language exchanges, and creates original content to assist newcomers and long-term residents alike. Together, Chuck and Melissa share their lives with their three beloved Shih Tzu daughters—Minion, Sookie (forever in their hearts), and Mayhem—who are frequently featured in their videos and social media posts. Whether they’re sipping coffee at a neighborhood café, exploring hidden corners of Korea, or experimenting with homemade whiskey and brandy on their second channel, Shining with KimchiRednecks, Chuck and Melissa are passionate about sharing the real and ever-evolving journey of life abroad. One of their greatest joys is cooking, and they frequently document their culinary adventures—especially their experiences learning to prepare Korean dishes and other global cuisines—on their YouTube channel, inviting others to celebrate food, culture, and connection alongside them. Follow Chuck, Melissa & the KimchiRednecks Adventures: YouTube: @kimchirednecks YouTube: @shiningwithkimchirednecks Instagram: @kimchirednecks Facebook: KimchiRednecks United on the RoK Magazine: www.unitedontherokmag.com

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Discover the history of the Korean immigrants in 1905 who traveled to Mexico in hopes of a better life in “Black Flower” by Kim Young-ha. Set during the Mexican Revolution, “Black Flower” narrates their journey seeking safety in a new country, with themes of identity, courage, and human spirit amidst hardship. About the South of Seoul Book Club If you are familiar with the series, skip ahead to learn more about “Black Flower.” Commitment to Accessibility South of Seoul volunteers take book accessibility into consideration when recommending titles. We consider: Commitment to Diverse Lived Experiences South of Seoul volunteers seek to put lived experiences at the forefront of their recommendation choices. When considering authors we look for such things as: Reading about Korean culture from a variety of perspectives may provide readers with a greater understanding of the country and culture. Commitment to Supporting Mental Health South of Seoul also includes book recommendations that support the lives and mental health of our community. This means that books may tackle the issues related to living between cultures. This may include topics such as culture shock, language, relationships, and more. Book Recommendation By Melissa Edwards-Whittington January’s South of Seoul Book Club recommendation, “Black Flower” is brought to you by Melissa Edwards-Whittington of the KimchiRednecks. Edwards-Whittington has lived in Korea since 2017. She and her husband, Chuck, formed the KimchiRednecks YouTube channel to give people living outside of Korea or those coming to Korea, a glimpse of life here in Korea. Together with their three shih tzus, they post weekly videos about places to eat, things to cook, places to visit, or life in general living in Korea. The History Behind “Black Flower” People left Korea in large numbers in the early 1900s because of its unstable society and frequent natural disasters. Labor brokers started putting ads in the newspapers in 1904 In the port city of Incheon in Korea. They were looking for people who were ready to go to Mexico to work on henequen plantations for four or five years. More than 1,000 people were hired, and on April 4, 1905, they left from the port of Chemulpo, which is now Jung District, Incheon on a British cargo ship, even though the Korean government tried to stop them. A month later, on May 8, 1905, they got to the Mexican port of Salina Cruz, Oaxaca. From there, they took trains to get to their final location, which was Yucatán. The labor brokers had not been honest about the work or that they were being sold into indentured servitude. Therefore, it was a difficult place to work; workers were beaten or jailed for not doing their jobs or not maintaining the status quo. When their contracts were up, most of them hadn’t even saved enough money to pay for the trip back to Korea, even though marketers had told them they would make a lot of money, and they didn’t really want to go back to their no longer-independent home country. So, most of them moved to Mexico and either kept working on henequen plantations or moved to different places in the country. Some tried to move on to other places. For example, a Korean American community group in San Francisco tried to get some of them to move to Hawaii but failed. In 1921, when the price of henequen fiber dropped and Koreans were worried about their jobs, 288 of them left the port of Campeche for Cuba. Eight hundred of their children and grandchildren still live in Cuba. For more details on this period in history, check out the following links: The Korean Diasporas in Mexico and Eurasia A Brief Account of Early Korean Emigration to Mexico About The Author of “Black Flower” Kim Young-ha is an award winning South Korean author. Born in Hwacheon in 1968, his family moved around often due to his father’s military service. Kim earned his undergraduate and graduate degrees from Yonsei University in Seoul. His career in writing began in 1995 after his discharge from the military. He has written many articles and reviews of movies, as well as more than seven books. Also, his novels have been translated into more than a dozen languages. Before writing “Black Flower,” Kim did a lot of study in Guatemala’s Tikal and Antigua regions, as well as in Mexico’s capital city and Merida, capital of the state of Yucatan. In 2004, he won the prestigious Dong-in Literary Prize in 2004 for this novel. An Outsider Within: A Chat with Kim Young-ha My Experience Reading “Black Flower” After reading “The Picture Bride” by Lee Geum-yi, I stumbled across “Black Flower.” The events of both books occurred around the same time in history. To be honest, “Black Flower” can be difficult to read at times due to the subject but also in some of the writing. This historical fiction is covering a very political time where Korea as a nation was in flux, ultimately becoming a protectorate of Japan. At times, the story feels a bit bogged down because there are multiple characters and their stories involved. In addition, historical background is often interspersed in the middle of the narrative which can make this harder to follow. However, because the story was fascinating, I continued reading and I am glad I did. I learned a bit more about Korea’s history that is not often discussed. More Commentary And Reviews On “Black Flower” The above review contains my thoughts and opinions. However, make sure to read other reviews to have a more rounded perspective toward the book. We all come to each story with our own social/cultural lens. Therefore, others may have perceived this book in a different manner and may help you decide if this is the book for you. Book Review: A Wilted “Black Flower” From Korea ‘Black Flower,’ novel about early Korean plantation workers, published in Mexico Online Purchasing Link You can purchase Black Flower by Kim Young-ha in English on Amazon. Find More Book Club Recommendations Did you like this recommendation? Be sure to explore our other volunteer-recommended books. South of Seoul Book Club List for 2023 Check out the books from last year’s book club list. KimchiRednecksAbout Melissa Edwards-Whittington & Chuck Whittington (KimchiRednecks) Chuck and Melissa—also known as the KimchiRednecks—have been living in Korea since 2017 and documenting their life abroad since launching their YouTube channel in 2018. Originally created to share their adventures with friends and family back in the U.S., KimchiRednecks has since grown into a vibrant and dynamic platform that reflects their love for Korean culture, food, travel, and everyday life. From foodie explorations and recipe experiments to gaming, tech, and car projects (especially the BRZ), their content offers a fun and honest window into expat life. Chuck Whittington is a graduate of Francis Marion University with a degree in Information Systems Management. With over two decades of experience in IT, Chuck combines his technical expertise with a long-standing fascination with Korea—having visited many times before moving permanently. He’s the tech-savvy side of KimchiRednecks and brings a love for innovation, gaming, and cars to the channel. Melissa Edwards-Whittington holds a degree in Bible with a minor in Elementary Education from Mid-Atlantic Christian University. She has worn many hats over the years—working in customer service, marketing, and now also serving as a volunteer Co-Editor and Social Media Marketing Manager for United on the RoK Magazine. Her writing and digital work focus on building community and supporting military-connected and expatriate populations in Korea. Melissa also volunteers with South of Seoul, where she helps manage online social media groups, supports local language exchanges, and creates original content to assist newcomers and long-term residents alike. Together, Chuck and Melissa share their lives with their three beloved Shih Tzu daughters—Minion, Sookie (forever in their hearts), and Mayhem—who are frequently featured in their videos and social media posts. Whether they’re sipping coffee at a neighborhood café, exploring hidden corners of Korea, or experimenting with homemade whiskey and brandy on their second channel, Shining with KimchiRednecks, Chuck and Melissa are passionate about sharing the real and ever-evolving journey of life abroad. One of their greatest joys is cooking, and they frequently document their culinary adventures—especially their experiences learning to prepare Korean dishes and other global cuisines—on their YouTube channel, inviting others to celebrate food, culture, and connection alongside them. Follow Chuck, Melissa & the KimchiRednecks Adventures: YouTube: @kimchirednecks YouTube: @shiningwithkimchirednecks Instagram: @kimchirednecks Facebook: KimchiRednecks United on the RoK Magazine: www.unitedontherokmag.com

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A heartbreaking journey of self-discovery, this month we explore the life of Helena Rho in “American Seoul.” Let’s dig into this captivating narrative with themes of diaspora, heritage, and finding oneself in a world where borders blur and cultures intersect. About the South of Seoul Book Club If you are familiar with the series, skip ahead to learn more about “American Seoul: A Memoir.” Commitment to Accessibility South of Seoul volunteers take book accessibility into consideration when recommending titles. We consider: Commitment to Diverse Lived Experiences South of Seoul volunteers seek to put lived experiences at the forefront of their recommendation choices. When considering authors we look for such things as: Reading about Korean culture from a variety of perspectives may provide readers with a greater understanding of the country and culture. Commitment to Supporting Mental Health South of Seoul also includes book recommendations that support the lives and mental health of our community. This means that books may tackle the issues related to living between cultures. This may include topics such as culture shock, language, relationships, and more. Book Recommendation By Melissa Edwards-Whittington November’s South of Seoul Book Club recommendation, “American Seoul” is brought to you by Melissa Edwards-Whittington of the KimchiRednecks. Edwards-Whittington has lived in Korea since 2017. She and her husband, Chuck, formed the KimchiRednecks YouTube channel to give people living outside of Korea or those coming to Korea, a glimpse of life here in Korea. Together with their three shih tzus, they post weekly videos about places to eat, things to cook, places to visit, or life in general living in Korea. About The Author of “American Seoul: A Memoir” The author of “American Seoul,” Helena Rho is Korean-American. Rho was born in Korea, but moved to Uganda as a child and eventually grew up in the United States. She earned her Doctor of Medicine in 1992 and practiced and taught at many of the top ten children’s hospitals in the states. She also earned her Master of Fine Arts degree in Creative Nonfiction from the University of Pittsbugh. Her works have been included in many anthologies and she has been nominated three times for the Pushcart Prize. My Experience Reading “American Seoul: A Memoir” Reading “American Seoul” was often heartbreaking as the author shares her personal experiences. Her words often reflect quite a bit of anguish and can feel negative at times. As I read about her life and experiences, I sympathized with her for the trauma that she encountered. Through her narrative, the reader can get a glimpse of what life can be like for someone when their language and culture starts to fade. Rho’s father was the oldest son of the oldest son in a patriarchal line going back about 500 years. Therefore, this position created quite a bit of expectation on her father, particularly that of having a son. Feeling “shame” from having four daughters, her father decided to move the family from Korea to Uganda when the country welcomed Korean doctors. Life in Uganda presented difficulties for the family as her parents were uncomfortable speaking English and chose not to speak rather than sound foolish. Rho and her sisters are taught English which causes her to lose her mother tongue. A few years later, her family immigrates to the United States. Rho completes her schooling and becomes the child who follows in her father’s footsteps and becomes a doctor. More difficulties arise for her as she marries and has children. Ultimately, I feel Rho does a great job portraying the difficulties of being born in one country and raised by foreign parents in another. More Commentary And Reviews On “American Seoul: A Memoir” The above review contains my thoughts and opinions. However, make sure to read other reviews to have a more rounded perspective toward the book. We all come to each story with our own social/cultural lens. Therefore, others may have perceived this book in a different manner and may help you decide if this is the book for you. Online Purchasing Link You can purchase American Seoul: A Memoir by Helena Rho in English on Amazon. Find More Book Club Recommendations Did you like this recommendation? Be sure to explore our other volunteer-recommended books. South of Seoul Book Club List for 2023 KimchiRednecksAbout Melissa Edwards-Whittington & Chuck Whittington (KimchiRednecks) Chuck and Melissa—also known as the KimchiRednecks—have been living in Korea since 2017 and documenting their life abroad since launching their YouTube channel in 2018. Originally created to share their adventures with friends and family back in the U.S., KimchiRednecks has since grown into a vibrant and dynamic platform that reflects their love for Korean culture, food, travel, and everyday life. From foodie explorations and recipe experiments to gaming, tech, and car projects (especially the BRZ), their content offers a fun and honest window into expat life. Chuck Whittington is a graduate of Francis Marion University with a degree in Information Systems Management. With over two decades of experience in IT, Chuck combines his technical expertise with a long-standing fascination with Korea—having visited many times before moving permanently. He’s the tech-savvy side of KimchiRednecks and brings a love for innovation, gaming, and cars to the channel. Melissa Edwards-Whittington holds a degree in Bible with a minor in Elementary Education from Mid-Atlantic Christian University. She has worn many hats over the years—working in customer service, marketing, and now also serving as a volunteer Co-Editor and Social Media Marketing Manager for United on the RoK Magazine. Her writing and digital work focus on building community and supporting military-connected and expatriate populations in Korea. Melissa also volunteers with South of Seoul, where she helps manage online social media groups, supports local language exchanges, and creates original content to assist newcomers and long-term residents alike. Together, Chuck and Melissa share their lives with their three beloved Shih Tzu daughters—Minion, Sookie (forever in their hearts), and Mayhem—who are frequently featured in their videos and social media posts. Whether they’re sipping coffee at a neighborhood café, exploring hidden corners of Korea, or experimenting with homemade whiskey and brandy on their second channel, Shining with KimchiRednecks, Chuck and Melissa are passionate about sharing the real and ever-evolving journey of life abroad. One of their greatest joys is cooking, and they frequently document their culinary adventures—especially their experiences learning to prepare Korean dishes and other global cuisines—on their YouTube channel, inviting others to celebrate food, culture, and connection alongside them. Follow Chuck, Melissa & the KimchiRednecks Adventures: YouTube: @kimchirednecks YouTube: @shiningwithkimchirednecks Instagram: @kimchirednecks Facebook: KimchiRednecks United on the RoK Magazine: www.unitedontherokmag.com

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Let’s learn more about Korea’s complex history by reading The Island of the Sea Women this month. February is cold, so it’s a great time to curl up at home with a book and memories of the sea. About the South of Seoul Virtual Book Club Looking for book recommendations? Welcome to the South of Seoul book club. We recommend a book every month. Such recommended books explore topics like 1) South Korean history or culture, 2) the complexity of cross-cultural life, 4) the exploration of life within the diaspora experience, and 5) lenses on Korean culture around the world. Commitment to Accessibility South of Seoul volunteers take book accessibility into consideration when recommending titles. We consider: Commitment to Diverse Lived Experiences South of Seoul volunteers seek to put lived experiences at the forefront of their recommendation choices. When considering authors we look for such things as: Reading about Korean culture from a variety of perspectives may provide readers with a greater understanding of the country and culture. Commitment to Supporting Mental Health South of Seoul also includes book recommendations that support the lives and mental health of our community. This means that books may tackle the issues related to living between cultures. This may include topics such as culture shock, language, relationships, and more. Book Recommendation by Molly Hayden February’s South of Seoul Book Club recommendation, The Island of the Sea Women, is brought to you by Cultural Liaison and journalist Molly Hayden. Molly has volunteered for South of Seoul since 2022. Ms. Hayden helped launch the South of Seoul book club. See her last book review here: SOS Book Club Pick: The Birth of Korean Cool. About “The Island of Sea Women” “The Island of Sea Women” by Lisa See, a Chinese American Author, is a harrowing fictitious tale steeped in historical relevancy. Set in Jeju, it follows the culture and matriarchal society of haenyeo – female divers who harvest sea life by hand. The timeline weaves through the Japanese colonialism of the 1930s and ‘40s, followed by World War II, the Korean War, its aftermath, and into the present day. The story beautifully narrates the evolution of the haenyeo but also looks to the growth of the island itself, the generational trauma passed down, and the locals’ attempts to hang on to a legacy.” Molly Hayden About Haenyeo Haenyeo (also spelled “haenyo” or “hanyeo”) are female divers from the island of Jeju in South Korea. They traditionally dive into the ocean to collect seafood, such as abalone, sea urchins, and octopus, without using breathing apparatus. They are known for their strength and endurance, and the profession has been passed down through generations of women. Haenyeo played a significant role in the economy and culture of Jeju and was designated as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2016. However, the number of haenyeo has been declining in recent years due to aging, a lack of interest among young people, and changes in the seafood industry. Efforts are being made to preserve and promote the tradition of haenyeo, including through government support and tourism. More Commentary and Reviews For more on The Island of Sea Women: A Novel read the New York Times review Lisa See Sets a Coming-of-Age Story in the Tumultuous Seas of Occupied Korea. Online Purchasing Link You can purchase The Island of Sea Women: A Novel in English on Amazon or on Coupang. Find More Book Club Recommendations Did you like this recommendation? Be sure to explore our other volunteer-recommended books. Molly HaydenJournalist Molly Hayden has worked in the journalism field in Germany and the United States. In 2021 she relocated to South Korea. As a volunteer Cultural Liason and Content Creator, Ms. Hayden reports on a variety of life & style topics with a focus on families living in rural South Korea.

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