HAN'S THE SHOWTIME...

2004-12-13T03:08:00.000-05:00

「The Natures of Tragedy are Expressed in the Great Works of William Shakespeare.」

Shakespeare is renowned as the English playwright and poet whose body of works is considered the greatest in the history of English literature. Since the 18 century, Shakespeareana has been studied by students, scholars, and dramatists. And also, it has been the subject of comprehension criticism principles, and was to be the only door to the play world of dramatic companies.

I will briefly introduce Shakespeare's biography. During the period of Queen Elizabeth I, which was the climax of England Renaissance, he was born in Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire. His father was a farmer, a merchant, and at one time, held public office. His mother was daughter of farmer. Shakespeare was the eldest son. When his father had worked for public office, his family was wealthy, so he could study at good education facilities. But, when he was 13 years ago, his family was declared bankrupt, so he could not advance to University. At age 18, he married Anne Hathaway, who was a local farmer's daughter eight years his senior. Their first daughter (Susanna) was born six months later, and twins, Judith and Hamnet, were born in 1585, but they died at early ages.

The life of Shakespeare can be divided into three periods. For the first 20 years were season of staying in his hometown, Stratford-upon-Avon, which include his schooling, early marriage, and fatherhood. The next 25 years, he worked as an actor and playwright in London, and the last five years were retirement period . He came back to Stratford where he enjoyed moderate wealth gained from his theatrical successes. For about 20 years from 1590, he concentrated his whole mind upon writing plays, and showed 37 works on stage 37 works. After 1608, the power of his pen declined, so he went to hometown, enjoyed in comfort for the rest of his days. Finally, William Shakespeare died on April 23, 1616, and was buried two days later in the chancel of Holy Trinity Church where he had been baptized exactly 52 years earlier.

Shakespeare's works can be divided into four periods. The beginning period is with what is referred to as an experimental period starting around 1591 and ending around 1593. The works of the first period were Titus Andronicus, Love's Labour's Lost, The Two Gentlemen of Verona, The Comedy of Errors and The Taming of the Shrew. The second period, which was ended around 1601, marked the establishment of Shakespeare and included the tragedy, Romeo and Juliet, several comedies, The Merchant of Venice, A Midsummer-Night's Dream, Much Ado about Nothing, The Merry Wives of Windsor and the history plays, Henry IV, Parts I and II, Henry V, Richard II, King John and Julius Caesar. The third period marked perhaps the apex of Shakespeare's works with the 4 great tragedies, Hamlet, Othello, Macbeth, and King Lear but also comedies such as Twelfth Night, All's Well that Ends Well and the Roman epic history play, Antony and Cleopatra. The final period ended around 1611. Cymbeline, Henry VIII and romances such as The Tempest and The Winter's Tale were that period's works.

HAMLET

The characteristic of Hamlet is leaving problems that can not be solve forever. This person's characteristic holds an important position in the history of literature. Since the 19th century, Hamlet's characteristic has been compared with Don Quixote's action styles. According to Goethe and Coleridge's comments, Hamlet is pure, introspective, and melancholy man. This view was main stream at that time, but it is quite different from criticism from the early part of this century. Many Shakespearian critics have explicated Hamlet's new characteristics and described him as being a cynical, aggressive, and strong man. One more reason for the appeal of Hamlet, which Hamlet made a deep impression me, is the great lines with his music and imagery.
So tell him, with the occurrents, more and less,
Which have solicited?The rest is silence.
The last line of Hamlet before he died, leaves deep impression of as calmness and sublimity on the reader. And soon, our soul is soaring to the heaven.

OTHELLO

The case of Othello is different from Hamlet's, the point of 솟 tragedy which befalls him is that it is true for him. Despite a big of racial and cultural gap, he married Desdemona secretly, but their happiness was gone soon. Thans, he plays into Iago's hands. In addition, he is a warlike, simple-minded, and innocent man. So, he mistrusts wife's faithfulness and strangles her to death. Later, Othello realizes his foolishness, but there is no way to break the process of self-destruction. True love should be protected by love. If it has weak points, the shield will be broke. But Othello does not die. In the hopelessness, different from Macbeth, his soul can be relieved from darkness. At result, his soul is revived.

KING LEAR

Among Shakespeare's tragedies, King Lear is the saddest play. In this play, the points of focus are love, devotion, and trust in the family. King Lear's characters have universality. Kent, Gloucester, and Cordelia are loyal and noble people. They illustrate the conversion of consciousness which beats wickedness. Goneril, Regan, and Edmund, who are ungrateful and immoral people, descend into ruin. In King Lear, both types of characters have a tragic end. Shakespeare created new types of tragedy. They are marked by a lack of wisdom called darkness. Lear loses everything, but gains eternity. After craziness, he knows true. Humanity's greatness and high ideas can be gain through bearing hardships and divine test. Shakespeare shows human development galvanized by desperation through King Lear's death.

MACBETH

Macbeth is my favorite works among all of Shakespeare's tragedies.
This play has a tragic focus. Originally a loyal and honest man, Macbeth descent into murder and betrayal is the tale of how ambition can tarnish even the purest of souls. Driven by loyalty to King Duncan, his own "Vaulting ambition," leads to him killing King Duncan to secure his own destiny. The man at the end of play is one we would barely recognize from the loyal Macbeth we meet at the beginning.
"As a man sows, so he shall reap." This play's topic is it.
Greed leads to ruin. Finally, Macbeth can not control his really garganthan ambitions. Only the way to escape is death. In this play, Lady Macbeth is an interesting character who is a "Femme Fatal." She lures Macbeth into an evil world, and also falls into darkness. Lady Macbeth's ambition for power leads her into an unnatural, phantasmagoric realm of witchcraft, insomnia and madness. But while Macbeth responds to the prophecies of the play's famous trio of witches, Lady Macbeth goes even further by figuratively transforming herself into an unnatural, desexualized evil spirit. The current trend of critical opinion is toward an upward reevaluation of Lady Macbeth, who is said to be rehumanized by her insanity and her suicide.

2004-04-25T22:53:00.000-04:00

Oh! My Gwang Ju. (3 OF 6)

I re-begin to criticize about Korea politics. From now, I will say about 5.18 Democracy movement of Gwang Ju. Gwang Ju situation was tragedy of modern Korea politics. After the President Park Jung Hee was murdered, most Koreans’ heart swelled with democracy’s hope. That period was called “the spring of Seoul.” This name was given from “the spring of Prague,” it was the famous democracy movement of the Eastern Europe.

BUT, Koreans’ such hope did not last long, it was broken only 2 months later. December, 12. 1979, Korea democracy fell into the dark. Jean Doo Hwan and his supporter carried out coup d’etat. After the President Park was murdered, Korea was laid a political vacuum. They seized the moment and assumed the reins of government using guns, and tanks. Korea government fell into their power. It was the disaster of Korea democracy. After that situation, demonstrations happened one after another every place in Korea and these demonstrations was going to extreme. Among of place, Gwang Ju’s demonstration was the biggest. In original, these demonstrations were fallen under the jurisdiction of police, but Jean Doo Hwan’s government dispatched an army, so created a scene of bloodshed. Really many citizens were killed by the army. The extreme case was that a ranger-commando force was dispatched. Plainly speaking, it situation was “the Killing Field.” There were two factor of that situation. First, Jeon Doo Hwan’s government needed to encroach on opposite power such as democracy movement quickly. Second, they needed to eliminate the opposite party, at those days; there were two leader of opposite party, Kim Dae Jung, Kim Young Sam. Kim Dae Jung’s public interest menaced to them. Gwang Ju was Kim Dae Jung’s support place.

Gwang Ju situation was really tragedy. For a long time, that situation was in veil because all an organ of expression was under government. As time goes by, it became clear, but accused them of a crime. That government’s politicians still take the power. I think that we must solve Gwang Ju situation for making democracy.

Due to break Gwang Ju situation, Korea democracy was fallen into dark. Korean needed to hope. Kim Dae Jung and Kim Young Sam fought for Korea democracy. AND, two Kim’s period was opened.

2004-04-25T21:30:00.000-04:00

The great detective Sherlock Holmes.

I like Sherlock Holmes. Since I was children, I would like to read Holmes’ mystery novel. Sherlock Holmes’ creator was Arthur Conan Doyle. He wrote 38 Holmes short stories of all. 38 series can separate 4 parts. First part is “The Adventure of Sherlock Holmes.” Second is “The Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes.” “Silver Blaze” is first short story of it. Third part is “The Hound of the Baskervilles.” Among of all parts, I most like 3rd part. Final part is “The Return if Sherlock Holmes.” There is mystery novel’s the season, is the summer. The summer is very hot, so it is hard to concentrate something. Mystery novel give thrill and cool, and interesting.

2004-04-25T21:29:00.001-04:00

2004-04-25T21:29:00.000-04:00

2004-04-22T00:36:00.000-04:00

It is pretty cold.

Last week's weather was really good. It was warm and sunny even pretty windy. While, to begin this week, the weather was getting cold. There is a proverb about it weather. I do not know there is such proverb in English. It is "a chill weather in the blooming season." The winter is jealous to bloom spring's flower, and gives cent to winter's bad temper, so blows cold wind. Depend on year; a chill weather's period is from ending of March till middle of April. Also, some years' chill weather is colder than the winter. In Korea, this period is pretty cold. People put on thick clothes instead of short sleeves. Also, the temperature changes to get cold a sudden, so people have trouble because of a cold. In spite so far away between Korea and the USA, there is chill weather in here. It is an irony.

2004-04-19T04:18:00.000-04:00

The long and winding road
that leads to your door
Will never disappear,
I've seen that road before,
It always leads me here,
Lead me to your door.

The wild and windy night
that the rain washed away
Has left a pool of tears
crying for the day
Why leave me standing here,
Let me know the way

Many times I've been alone
and many times I've cried
Anyway you'll never know
the many ways I've tried

But still they lead me back
to the long winding road
You left me standing here,
a long long time ago
Don't leave me waiting here,
Lead me to you door

But still they lead me back
to the long winding road
You left me standing here,
a long long time ago
Don't keep me waiting here,
Lead me to you door

When I had a hard time, I often heard this song. I am walking on hard way. Nobody can help me. When I was a child, I had many dream. I wanted to be a justice robot, the President, and the great scientist. BUT, I have no dream at now. What do I become? If I walk on really hard road, I will success in my life?

2004-04-19T02:44:00.000-04:00

I took a tutoring from Liz Williams and Fu-Chiao Yang. After finished tutoring, they answer something about my profile.

1) Have you already finished university?
No, I am still university student. I am a senior.
2) What was/is your major?
I have been studying two major, English Literature and Business.
3) How long have you been studying English?
For 13 years, I have been studying English since 1st year of middle school. Almost of Korean are, too
4) Do you like to write?
Yes, I really like to write something in Korean and English.
5) Why do you like to write? or Why do you NOT like to write.
There are so many topics about Korea’s issues, and I want to explain my opinions. In these days, I have a plan to write about Korea’s political issue.
6) Have you ever taken any writing classes in Korean writing?
No, but I am not sure. When I was really too young maybe in Kindergarten season, there were some writing classes, but I had not ever taken any writing class in recently.
7) Have you ever taken any writing classes in English writing?
Yes, my major is English literature. I had ever taken two writing class in Korea. At that time, my textbook was “Ready to Write” and “Paragraph Exercise.”
8) Do you write much in Korean?
Yes, I like to write my opinions on-line. Recently, there was Election of National Assembly Members, so I wrote really many essays in my support party’s website.
9) Why have you chosen to study English?
It is difficult question. In Korea, English is not optional subject in public school It is alike to Latin of ancient age. If I did not study English, I would not to be a college man. English is one of the most important subjects in public school in Korea. Therefore, English is very required subject to me. Also, my dream is to be a president of own company, and so I will come back and sell my items in the USA. If I can not speak English, I will never sell any items. I will study continuation.
10) What English class level are you in at in the ELC at MSU?
Lv 2.
11)When are you planning to return to Korea?
I will leave for Korea in the middle of May.

2004-04-11T23:40:00.000-04:00

Long island Ice tea

I like to enjoy cocktails. There are really many kinds of cocktails in whole world. In fact, cocktails were made for drinking easily. Some alcoholic drinks are hard to drink. Cocktails are easy to drinks. Among of them, I like Long island Ice tea. It is very cool and fresh. Also, it is easy to blend. For blending it, something need. First, I should prepare whiskey which is based for cocktail. Long Island Ice tea's base whiskey is Vodka, but it is not important. I can blend any whiskey. Next, I should prepare sour source. It can buy at store. If I didn't have it, lemon juice is pretty good. Finally, I should prepare ice cubes. Ice cubes are very important. I want to enjoy with you!!!

2004-04-11T23:21:00.000-04:00

My life is the long and winding road.

My life is the long and winding road. I thought about my life deeply during last weekend. First, what is the most important thing of my life? If I got a married, my most value things were my family, my wife and my children, but I am still a bachelor. What is it? Second, what is my best? I really want to be a good man. For being a good man, I must have strength skill than others, but I have nothing except of just my body. Finally, what does my future become? I really want to be a person who I am never ashamed to myself. I am walking on the long and winding road. I believe that it will make a sacrifice of oneself for my future. Goodbye….my girl.

2004-04-11T22:44:00.000-04:00

Baseball season was opened.

I like to watch baseball game. I had gone to stadium several times when I was in Korea. MLB is also good, but I had not gone yet. MLB season was opened at last week. My favorite team is RedSox. RedSox is really unlucky team. It is known happen about Babe Ruth. Also, they lost a close at last season’s playoff game. This season’s RedSox is one of the winners, they are reinforced many things. They traded a good pitcher and had many good batters. I am happy because ball’s season is opened.

2004-04-04T23:37:00.000-04:00

Finished short term break.

I enjoyed short term break since last Wednesday. In fact, my feel was so bad from last week. I got a homesick. About a month later, I will leave for Korea. When I leave, I will have a hard time. I will have to graduate and get a job for my future. My springtime of life will be finished. To advance the real world, I am not enough to prepare. I am not still capable enough, and wanting in experience. I am afraid my future. During break, I could not get a sleep well. Also, my feeling is still too bad.

2004-04-04T22:52:00.000-04:00

On line shopping's merits and demerits

On-line shopping has several merits and demerits. When I bought high price items, I would order at On-line shop such as Camera, Laptop, and Cigarettes. To me, On-line shopping is useful. First, on-line shop's items are cheaper than Off-line shop in general. Off-line shop's item price is included personnel expenses, so it is more expensive than On-line shop. Next, price comparison is easy. When I bought and saw some items, I mainly used in Yahoo's shopping mall. If you will visit at there, you can search each mall's presented price sort by price. It is pretty convenience. Also, there is no closed time at On-line shop. It is possible to order at anytime.

On the other hand, there are some demerits. First of all, if you order at On-line shop, you have to give attention. You can be defrauded. Also, refund and return are inconvenience. Finally, On-line shopping is good despite of some demerits. Cheap price is so good to me.

2004-04-04T21:55:00.000-04:00

I like to write in Korean and English in both languages. In my opinion, most important thing to write is experience. Of course, one person never does all experience. For example, there is a book; its title is “The Lord of Ring.” This book is written by J.K Tolken in 16th century. Was that period in fantasy world? It was really not. To get lots of experiences, the best way is that it reads many books. If you read one book, you can get author’s experiences and ideas throughout reading that book. Also, writing many times, it is important to make good essays. It is about an interest. I have been written really many love letters to my girlfriend when I was teenager. At those days, I wrote 4 or 5 letter a week for her. It experience made a sacrifice of myself for interest of writing essay. Next, writing skill is also important. It is pretty hard to write in English. I did not used to leave out of consideration before such as the indent, signal words, topic, and synonyms. Until now, my essay’s audience is very simple, me, my girlfriends, or friends. Therefore, I did not need to take the form of writing.

BUT, it is became the wall to write me. Of course, there are some rules about making essay in Korean, but I could learn in natural. It is so difficult to write in English to me because I have been studying English, and also my English is not complete. Throughout tutoring, I realized my three deep-seated problems. One was that I did not have enough vocabularies. In fact, I want to increase my English vocabulary, but it is troublesome work. Second problem is that I have a tendency to write essay delicately. I did not to do brainstorm and make structure rarely. Finally, my essays have some Konglish (Korean style English) patterns. I sometimes first made some paragraphs in Korean, and later I would translate in English. If I translated Korean into English when I wrote an essay, I could write essay in fast. It is really bad habit. I am trying to overcome even it is not easy. I can realize my problems from tutoring and I will make my effort to break these. Practice is most important thing.

2004-03-28T21:18:00.000-05:00

Sherlock Holmes.

At last I finished to read one book. The book's title was Sherlock Holmes. Maybe almost people have been heard Sherlock Holmes once at least. In fact, I have been already read all series of Holmes in Korean. This book is wrote in English. I bought this book for last winter break, but I did not read it. This book had too bulky volume. It had all series of Holmes. Among of the series, my best is "The House of the Baskervilles." It was really interesting. Sherlock Holmes is a famous detective.

2004-03-28T21:10:00.000-05:00

The Spring comes

After it was rain, the Spring came. I went out and walked around campus yesterday's afternoon. It was sunny and really warm. I was sweat before long. If this Spring will be gone, I will have to leave for Korea. Therefore, this Spring is last season of my the USA living. Luck to me!!!

2004-03-24T00:27:00.000-05:00

FOR WHOM DEMOCRACY TELL. ( 2 of 6 )

After retired Lee Seung Man, Korea was in utter confusion. There was no leader, and we were still intense poor. Koreans needed the powerful leader who steered my country to prosperity such as the USA's F, Roosevelt. The President Park, Jung Hei was such man. He had a powerful charisma, and so a propelling power. He was an ex-solider. In fact, there are reciprocal in public estimation about him. Needless to say, Korea was reconstructed by his leading; we made roads, built schools and hospital, and many Koreans emerged from poverty. These are his affirmative face.

On the other hands, he was criticized. These were about Korea's Democracy, and I think that these bear now's problems. The President Park tried to walk the same way with Lee, Seung Man. He assumed the reins of government during 18 years as much as. Under the leadership of him, Korea's economy advanced, but, Korean's freedom and equality were going to darkness. He administered the affair of Korea by iron-fisted rule. Political movements which were opposed to him were muzzled; many movement people were tortured, were put in jail, and pressured on discussion. At those days, there were two parties out of power. They leaded democracy movements. Two leader's name was Kim Young Sam, and Kim Dae Jung. Later, they became the President of Korea. Also, he took a firm against North Korea. There were no the South-North dialogues. Like to the USA's McCarthyism, his government brainwashed citizens into anti-Communist education. Since that time for long time, it was impossible that read Das Kapital in the South Korea. Also, he used regionalism which was ruinous to the nation to remove political competitors. These really bad policies such as democracy's pressure, citizen's brainwash, and used regionalism were made possible his long taking power.

At that time, Korea's the President election system was not the direct election. His government established Yusin constitution for his dictatorship. Many movement people and citizens opposed strongly. These movements were also useless. He placed under martial law and removed the obstacles in his way. At those days, many Koreans were trampled upon human rights. Korea's Democracy lost hope, but his dictatorship was never forever. October, 26. 1979, he was assassinated. His all desire evaporated by just one bang of gun. Many Koreans were in high spirit. The period is called "The Spring of Seoul." BUT, Koreans did not realize that more adversity was coming soon.

2004-03-21T23:36:00.000-05:00

Hans’ a shelter uproar.

I stayed in my room throughout last weekend. At Saturday’s night, I had a fun thing. Last Saturday was fine day, but not good weather. It was sunny and warm during morning and afternoon, but it was really much windy toward evening. It was really windy. I have been ever seen such strong winds. Suddenly, I came into my mind one movie. That movie’s title was “TWISTER.” I could see a safety sing board which was on room door while I was going to next room. There were several safety information about tornadoes. I was become in horrible. I prepared to take shelter quickly. I made one shelter bag. I put my passport, money, food, water, even radio in the bag. Also, I called to my family and friends that tornado was coming soon and I prepared to take shelter. My mother was worried so much. BUT, nothing was to do. It was so fun thing.

2004-03-21T23:35:00.000-05:00

Korea's Democracy. ( 1 of 6 )

I will write about Korea's democracy by 6 series. I like to talk about political issues. I heard big news about Korea's political issue. That news was that Korea's the President was impeachment by the Nation Assembly. This issue is very important of Korea's democracy. I think that this problem is like to a time bomb. In fact, Korea democracy has many problems. The one of the biggest problems was brought to the fore.

I. Beginning of Korea's Democracy.

During the Imperial period, Korea was colony under Japan. After independence, there were two ideologies on Korea peninsula. One was the Socialism which was the North part. Another one was democracy which was the South part. In fact, Koreans spilt into two ideologies intensity. At those days, Korea's political leader wanted to elect whole country, and tried so much such as Kim Gu, Lee Seung Man who were the great patriots. These efforts ended in a failure. In South Korea, the President election was enforced in separateness. Lee Seung Man was sworn in as the first President of Korea. AND 2 years later, the Korea War broke out. North Korea's the socialism government was an unstable. Kim Il Sung who was a famous dictator wanted to concentrate about inside's complains. Both South Korea and North Korea rushed into war and the Korea War was doing for 3 years. After the Korea War was truce, the ideology was not important. Due to war, grounds were ruined, industry facilities were destroyed, and so many Koreans were died. After war's Korea was one of the poorest countries. We were really hard to maintain our livelihood. The President was still Lee Seung Man. He was one of the great patriots, but he became different. He was to be a dictator. He tried to change the constitution for his long-term power. He rigged election and abused of power and graft. During those times, one young student's dead body was founded. The student was tortured to death. All Koreans burst into anger and rose against his dictatorship. It is called 4.19 revolutions. In finally, Lee Seung Man retired from the political world after the lapse of 12 years. Koreans depended democracy, but we were still poor. Many Koreans wanted the strong leader who could overcome poverty. At that time, one man was on stage. He name was Park Jung Hei.

2004-03-07T18:02:00.000-05:00

There is a big difference between the USA and Korea's male students. Almost Korean college male students are older than the USA. The reason is that almost all Korean male must join the army without any exceptions. It is an important responsibility. Therefore, to understand Korean men, you have to know about the army. I have ever gone to the army when I was 21 years old. Within the rank of private, there are for sub-ranks. During first six months, I was a private, and next 6 months, was a private first class. For next 8 months, I was a corporal, and last 6 months, was a sergeant. When I was a private, I got a wound on my right big toe. At that time, I could not put on battle shoes for quite a time. I still have a scar. During the season of the army, I have learned many military skills, such as a rifle skill, hand grenade, basic field manual, assault, and first aid. My principle job was to be a tankman. Therefore, I had to learn about tank skills additionally. One day, I was struck with a maul bigger than my legs. The maul was used to caterpillars from the tank. When I was a private first class, I took a first vacation for 15-days. I had 2 sad experiences during my army season. One, my grandfather went to the heaven. Another one was that I broke up with my old girl. I was really sorrow, but I could not go and meet to them because I was carrying out an operation. I left the army when I was 23 years old. To Korean men, the army is a matter beyond the imagination for those who have not experienced it. Also, it is a good reminder.

2004-03-07T17:35:00.001-05:00

I have some points of likeness to my mother. First of all, I will describe my mother. My mother’s name is HUR, Won Ja. She is 49 years old. Her hometown is Busan where city is the Southeastern. She is short and thin. She has some wrinkles on the forehead because she always worries about me. Second, I am like to my mother in many points. I have thin hair because I alike mom. I am anxious that I will become bald. Then, she and I have bad teeth. From I was childhood; I often went to a dentist. I really don’t like a dentist. Finally, she has a good character. I am the same. My mother and I are very energetic people. In everything, I adopt a positive attitude. It is the most significant characteristic to inherit from my mom. I really love her.

2004-03-07T17:35:00.000-05:00

I decide that I will stay at MSU during Spring Break. In fact, I made a plan that I would visit in Europe because my old friends are living in the UK and German. I made a change in my plan, did not have much money. Also, I wanted to visit at the Southwestern parts in the USA, but I could not to do it. I did not seek traveling partners. So, I decide that I will stay in here and travel in Michigan. Even Michigan’s weather not too good, I love this place. First of all, I will rent a car at tomorrow for a week. I have been searched good places in Michigan. Then, I will visit in Detroit, and in Ann Anbor. Also, I will go to Boyne Highland and enjoy skiing. Every place is possible a one day’s trip. In last day, I will visit in Chicago at Saturday morning. There is NBA game at day. This match is LA Lakers Vs Chicago Bulls. I hope that my Spring Plan will be good.

2004-02-28T23:08:00.000-05:00

I am doing self-examination

About a half year ago, I arrived in the USA. During that time, many things have happened to me. I regretted to look back upon my memories. First, I am quite another man now. When I left from Seoul, my resolve was that I wanted to study English very hard but I did not keep it. I brought many English study books but I was not studying. Also, I had a really firm resolve. Among Korea's proverbs, there is "와신상담." Its meaning is that you have been living to struggle against difficulties for the sake of vengeance. I always wanted to print it in my mind, but my attention is already distracted. Then, I did not live an America's life worth living. My lazy streak always gets the better of me. Next, I am feeling sorry for my parents. I have to save money. My parents are working so hard for me, but I am doing nothing. I am a so thankless son. Also, I do not carry out my intention. Accomplishing my original intention is so difficult. I have not lived up to my original intention's resolution in the past. I have been gnawing my life by myself. But, I am never discouraged. Keep my heart up!!! Last morning, I bought a nice diary. I will write in there every day. And, I must learn about sincerity. The sincerity is the shortest way to my success.

2004-02-28T22:42:00.001-05:00

My roommate

I arrived in the USA at last summer. At that time, here was really strange land because there were no friends and acquaintance. I was so lonely. I took lots of helping from my roommate and floor friends. They are really good friends. My roommate’s name is Robert. He has an older brother and a younger sister, is the second son. He is from Livonia, Michigan. His older brother has studied at University of Michigan, so I had ever met him at last MSU Vs UOM’s college football game. His sister is a High School student. Robert is majoring in Business. He has a girlfriend. Her name is Erica. She is also a good woman. In fact, we treated each other like strangers in my first period. I was the first to break the awkward silence. After that time, we have drunken many times. I had many experience about the USA and American by him. Thanks Rob.

2004-02-28T22:42:00.000-05:00

A Feel of Spring

Today is so fine day. It is pretty warm and sunny. The cold of the winter lasted into last week. But, today’s really fine weather would put the winter to shame. I walked in campus after a long time. Snow is melting into the ground, and squirrels awaken from winter sleep already. I felt tiding of spring. If this spring will be finish, I have to come back to my country, Korea. From now on, I have got to try for crown of perfection. The spring is coming now, but my mind is still mid-winter!!!

2004-02-22T17:12:00.001-05:00

FOR MY GIRL

A few years ago, I broke up with my girlfriend. She and I had kept company really long time. It maybe was over 2.500 days. I met her when I was senior in high school on May, 1995. I fell in love with her when I saw her for the first time. She was really beautiful. After that time, she became my Venus, the Goddess, and my all. I dangled after her about 1 month more. Our attending school time was different. I went to the school earlier than her, so I would be late for meeting her. I made my effort to captivate her. I was always late in school, and wrote love letters everyday for her. My all effort bore fruit. Eventually, she became to love me. Our love was really platonic love. After captivating her, I used to write love letters about 2 or 3 letters a week. Like this, I fell in love with her during about 7 years.

In that time, what was my passion’s character? After farewell with her, I sometimes have thought about my love. The love makes to change a person. Due to her love, I also changed. But, I had a big mistake. I had been just waiting for her changing. I just waited…I should not to change. I realized that it was really wrong way. All the more, changing me was easier than. And so, I know that an alcohol is similar with love because if I drink much, I lost my sense.

Why did I brake up with that girl? I can not say reason in my heart.

2004-02-22T17:12:00.000-05:00

HAMLET

I studied from Kyunggi University till last year, with two majors English literature and Business. Both majors have something attractive to me. First, in my English literature class, I could read many masterworks. In fact, English literature was not particular too good because masterworks were so difficult to understand, and not fun. In the meantime, I met Shakespeare’s masterworks such as Hamlet, Macbeth, and so on. William Shakespeare inspired me with a love for learning. Works of Shakespeare are fantastic. Among his works, the first read book was Hamlet. Hamlet is a very indecisive me, his all tragedies were occurred such character. Owing to a defect in his character, he lost Ophelia who was his fiancé, did not avenge his father's murder, and he died. Just as one thought, lack of decision is only Hamlet’s. Definitely no, whatever is so hard to do best decision. Hamlet was a good lesson to me.

2004-02-18T16:39:00.000-05:00

MY BEST MOVIE ( 2 OF 2 )

Toto fell in love with Elena at the first moment. After this meeting, Elena became all of him, she was his the Sun, the Moon, and the Venus. Alfredo knew his love and some advised to him. I was deeply impressed with his advised. “A long time ago, there was a beautiful princess. She was all people’s goddess. One day, she came near being drowned while she was taking a walk. But fortunately, one soldier found and rescued her. She wanted to return present. His wish was that got a marriage with her. But, the princess did not have any idea that got a marriage with him. Naturally, she was the princess, but he was a soldier, a social position gap was really high. He saved her life, and she could not look away, so she allowed his wish. But, there was just one term. It was that waited and stood for him in front of her windows for 100 days. Since that day, he was waiting and standing for her. But, a day that was 99 days, he left.” Alfredo gave advice to him. It was right. Toto was the son of hunger family, but Elena’s father had own bank. Alfredo liked him so much. He did not want that Toto took a pain, and Toto was a young man. There are much works that young people must do, such as studying, and learning. Alfredo could expect the result of Toto’s love, in his thinking; it was plain that he would become that soldier. But, passion of his fiery love never stopped.

And eventually, Toto took Elena. But, their love was discovered to Elena’s father. Her father disagreed strongly, so she was going to study abroad to far away, and Toto went to the army. They promised that met in theater, but they did not keep. They missed each other. In fact, they could meet; Elena met to Alfredo while she was waiting for Toto. Alfredo dissuaded Elena from their love. She left a memo, and left in theater. Toto really missed her, but they did not meet again. And, Alfredo advised that Toto had to leave in here, in here, there were no hope and dream. Then, Toto left to Rome. Scene comes back to present again.

Toto went to Alfredo’s funeral. And, he met to Elena’s daughter by chance. Elena’s daughter was the perfect image of her mother. Then, Toto and Elena meet again after really long time. But, they are no longer young Toto and Elena, so their love never complete. Toto visit to Alfredo’s house. Alfredo left one film for him. Toto come back to Rome, and watch the film. The film has much kiss scene which was deleted by priest so long time ago. Toto smiles while he watching.

2004-02-16T01:14:00.000-05:00

BOTH COUNTRIES COLLEGE STUDENTS.

There are some differences between Korean students and American students. First of all, let’s talk about school works. In Korea, it is so difficult to enter a university, but in the USA, it is hard to graduate. I was surprised to hear that MSU’s graduate average was about 70 percents a year. Also, Korean college students take more credits then Americans. I took 21 credits for one term when I was in Korea. However, Robert who is my roommate takes 12 credits in this semester. Curriculums of Korean universities includes cultural subjects. Next, after school is different. Almost all Korean universities have many community or activity clubs. I joined three communities. Especially, major community was really fun. Then, I envy MSU’s education and school facilities. MSU has many labs, good dormitories, leisure centers such as IM West, and good libraries. In campus, there is a big football stadium which capacity is 70,000. I think that MSU is like one city.

In spite of such differences, I found a couple similar things. It is that American college students like drinking as much as Koreans. When I was a freshman, I had ever drunken 4 or 5 times a week. It was really many times then I thought. Of course, I seldom drink an alcohol in these days. And also, this similar thing is so random. Both countries students study hard when is just exam season. ^.^

2004-02-15T16:26:00.000-05:00

MY BEST MOVIE. ( 1 OF 2 )

I really like to watch movies in free time. I had ever wanted to be a movie director when I was a high school student. At that time, I watched one movie. That movie’s title is “Cinema Paradiso.” I had a girlfriend; she wanted to watch this movie, so I went to Movie Theater with her. I had not gone to the theater before that time. Therefore, not “Cinema Paradiso” is only my best but also my first date with her. After that day, I watched this movie more than 10 times. If you want to watch love movies, I recommend to this film for you. This movie’s episodes are autobiography of Giuseppe Tornatore who is the director.

The stage of this movie is Italy’s small island. Cinema Paradiso begins by the retrospect sequence. Also, almost contents of this movie are flashbacks. This movie’s hero is Savatore, a famous director. He has received that his old friend has died, so he goes to funeral. He is absorbed in memories of his childhood before departing to his hometown for attending funeral. In his remembrances, he returns to child, name is Toto.

Directly after the World War II, a small village of Sicilia, Italy, there was a public square, and an old and a small theater was which name was “Cinema Paradiso” in there. Toto lived with a mother, and a younger sister. His father was died by the World War II. Toto had only one hobby. That was watching movies. He always went to theater after school. All films were inspected by priest, so lots of kiss scene were deleted. His mother sometimes gave him scolding, because of sorrow about death of husband and the grim reality of life. Alfredo, he was a projectionist. He fell a call to this work. He disliked to come and learned to skill him where was a projection room, because a projectionist was uninteresting job and in those day, a cinefilm had high combustibility. Toto did not have a father, and Alfredo did not have any son or daughter. They became friends. Eventually, Toto worked in theater. One day, the theater was on the fire. By this accident, Alfredo became blind. When a new cinema was erected on the same site, Toto was no longer child; an adolescent Toto became the projectionist. And, he met to Elena.

2004-02-09T16:54:00.000-05:00

KOREANS' ETHNIC CUSTOMS

Korea is using both calendars Solar and Lunar. There are the 24 lunar terms. From ancient time, Korean divided one year to 4 parts which were Choon(spring), Ha(summer), Chu(fall), and Dong(winter) also they it re-divided 4 parts into 24 terms. Interval between one term and another term is about 15.2 days on the average. Consequently, one month has 2 terms mainly, but if there is one term in the middle of a month, that month has one term. In old days, such as Corea and Chosun dynasty, Agricultural industry was basis of ancient Korea, so according to 24 terms, people had done farming, also people used to a ceremonial occasion such as a coming-of-age ceremony, and weddings, funerals, and religious services.

I would explain some terms. The first term is Yipchoon. Its mean is “coming spring day.” It is about in Jan, 4 in solar calendar. Among 24 terms, Yipchoon is the first term, so this term represents the first month of the year or New Year’s Day. Chunboon(the vernal equinox,)is the fourth term. It is about March, 21. This term is the same length of daytime and night. In that time, it is much windy. This term is February by lunar calendar. For a moment, it is cold. Korean says the cold weather in the blooming season. This name was given from that flowers blooms aroused jealousy in the God of windy. Next, Haji(the summer solstice) is the 10th term. It is about in Jun, 21. Haji is the longest daytime length in the year. People finished rice transplantation until this time, and they waited for rain. If it was not rain until Haji, people held traditional Korean rite to pray for rain. Also, there are interesting terms, but it is not regular terms. They are Sambok(the hottest period of summer). There is between June and July in lunar calendar. After Haji(the summer solstice), the first 10 days later is Chobok(the beginning of the hottest period). Also, there is Chungbok(the middle of the hottest period) after 10 days later, and Malbok(the end of the hottest period)is after 10 days later of Chungbok. Do you know Dog soup? Koreans have dog soup at Sambok, but a few people enjoy this people. Instead of dog soup, people have chicken ginseng soup. Dog soup or chicken ginseng soup is highly protein food. This custom has meaning in preparing the winter. Next, Chuboon(the autumnal equinox) is the 16th term. At Chubbon, the length of daytime and night are the same. At this term, people harvest and begin to get everything readiness in winter. The 22nd term is Dongji(the winter solstice). At Dongji, length of the nighttime is the longest. It is about December 22. Among the 24 terms, Dongji is the famous term. At this term, people have red bean gruel. Red bean has meaning of anti-evil. The final term is Daehan(the coldest period). It is about January, 21.
Lastly, almost all big holidays in Korea hold by lunar calendar. Example, the New Year’s Day is in January, 1, and Chusok(the thanksgiving day in Korea, it is the biggest holiday) is in August, 15.

2004-02-07T01:32:00.000-05:00

MY BEST FRIENDS.

I have good friends. Their names are KIM, Nam Kun, KIM, Jong Gun, and PARK, Kyung Keun. We are the same age, 26years old. And, we are childhood friends. Among them, I met KIM, Nam Kun when I was a second-year elementary school student, 8years old. When we were young, we were really mischievous boys. All troubles of village were ours such as pressed bell and went away, hit to another’s dog, scribbled on the wall, and bantered to girls and made to cry them. We had been called four musketeers. We lived in the same apartment and went to the same middle school. We were sometimes at odds about little things and sometimes competed in good faith. At one time, we had fallen in love with just on girl. Of course, the winner of that competition was me. We are spending ours time how are like brothers and leaning on each other for long time. There is this speech to Korea proverb “If you have three friends, among them, just one friend is your teacher.” This proverb is right. During I live life, I had met the difficulty. Although some difficulty could solve by me, the others really needed to help. On all such occasions, my old friend helped me as was own works. Also, I helped to them devotedly. In the early morning, I was sleeping, my phone rang. I could hear dear voice. He was KIM, Nam Kun. They were drinking together. They are going through hard seasons these days. They have a job. Only I am still a student. They are worrying about job, marriage, and the future. I am really sorry to my friend because I am with them. Suddenly, I miss my friends.

2004-02-05T16:16:00.000-05:00

RETURN FROM LONG TRAVEL (4 OF 4)

I arrived in Vancouver, WA again. I tried to up-grade my ticket to a sleeping car, but I could not. The fares of the sleeping was so expensive, its fares was 450 dollars because of high-demand season. Also, the sleeping car remained just one. So, I made up my mind to have a hard time and rode a train. It was hard time from beginning. There were a few passengers in the train when I left from Chicago. While, it was just the opposite conditions. There were so many passengers enough to be hard to look for vacancy. From Vancouver, WA to Chicago, IL, during about 2 days more, I sleep curled up and could not have meals. I just had some food such as chocolates, biscuits, and water. In original, I planed to travel in Chicago, but I should cancel. Because that, I was really tired, and I did not have enough money. I arrived at Chicago again. And, I got a ticket for East Lansing. At last, I came back in East Lansing. The day was in December, 30. 2003.

2004-02-03T00:38:00.000-05:00

I ASK KOREAN TO RECONSIDER ABOUT RACIAL DISCRIMINATION

I watched two short films about racial discrimination. The day after Martin Luther King Jr. was murdered. In those days, every racial was treated discriminatingly to white people in the USA. Especially, black people’s circumstances were more violent. All democracy nations’ constitution is based on a God-given right. The Declaration of Independence of the USA is also same. ‘We hold these truths to be self-evident: That all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness ; that, to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.’ If all people are not equal, the United State of America might not be able to build up nation.

In today’s film were recorded during two days. “How do you think about different skin color people?” The teacher asked to students. Their answer was negative. The first day, blue-eyed students played black people role. Blue-eyed students wore a collar. They never could talk with brown-eyed student and have their own way. The second day, the teacher changed a situation. Brown- eyed students wore a collar and played black people role. The results of both days were the same. Students began to complain when passed no more than about 10 minutes.

I think that education of this method is good to students. There are some reasons. First, they have not learned about racial discrimination. Therefore, they did not know black people’s tragic life yet. Then, why was students hate black people? In those days, the idea was universally accepted what all white people held more superior position than black people, so students had a fixed idea. Lastly, this method is necessary to adults. I have ever joined in the Famine24 when I was freshman. The Famine24 was starvation experience event which nothing ate except water during one day. There was concert of singers who my girl friend liked at the end day, so she and I joined in that event. I thought so easily, but I realized that my thought was miscalculation as soon. I was really hard to endure. Everybody who joined in the event as well as me was similar. Whenever, whatever, and wherever I could have. I did not know happiness to eat. Of course, I have ever learned several times. But, it was really difficult to put myself in another’s place shoes. It is still so hard to me.

Then, do Americans have ideas about racial discrimination only? Its answer is NO, also do Koreans, too. I have read an article about a light yellow color some years ago. Most Koreans had learned that a light yellow color was a skin color. The skin color of Korean is yellow, so a light color was a skin color for convenience. This word had many problems because all cosmopolitans are not a light yellow color. Of course, Koreans do not use this word anymore now. At now, there are many illegal entrants in Korea. They are mainly working at 3D types of industry. Not only are these industries charging low wages but they also are not supplying social protection such as the three major labor legislations and medical insurance (this is the public service in Korea). Due to these conditions, some illegal laborers even live life such as slaves. It is so shameful. Korean is a small number human species. If was former days, Korean has much possibility to treat racial discrimination. Also, in colonial period, Koreans have ever treated nation distinction by Japanese. This event was about 50 years ago only but Korean forgets that tragedy already. I ask Korean to reconsider, and also I examine myself.

2004-01-29T21:42:00.000-05:00

MY SEATTLE TRAVEL (3 OF 4) – SUCCESS OF THE HALF-

I arrived at Christmas Eve in Seattle. I have watched a movie about Seattle; the movie’s title was ‘Sleepless In Seattle.’ I like this movie. Therefore, I looked forward to travel well. But, my guess was going wrong from beginning. It rained. I had to find my hostel by on foot because I did not have much money. But, it was so hard. It was getting darker, rained, and my luggage was too heavy to carry. Also, Seattle is hilly city. I walked for exceed 1 hour and arrived in my place. Fortunately, my hostel was good. I substituted noodles again and went out for a nice Christmas. But, it was hard to enjoy a good Christmas. Because, there were no people on the street with the exception of beggars, and almost all restaurants, bars, and shops were not service. The street of Seattle was so calm. I was confused. It was very different than Korea. Christmas culture of the US and Korea was very difference. In Christmas of Korea is festival, is not holiday. I always enjoyed Christmas with my good friend in a crowded street except when I really wanted to meet Santa Claus. I thought that almost Americans like to enjoy Christmas with family in own house. Naturally, there was no reason that no people were on the street. I was disappointment and came back in the hostel. There were a few visitors in the hostel. I was in anguish. I decided go to Christmas Eve mass soon. I went to St. Paul the Roman Catholic Church which is the biggest church in Seattle. I do not have the religion, so I have not went to church in Christmas. Christmas mass was finished about 1 o’clock midnight. The mass was interested. Not only I song a hymns but also donated some money (only 1 dollar) and prayed for my family and friends. I was happy because I could think about my family and friends much even though last Christmas wandered my expectations. I bought 4 cans of beer on the way back to the hostel. I wanted to enjoy Christmas myself. I came back and called to my home. No sooner had I heard to my mother’s voice than the tears were ready to well up in my eyes. I really missed my family and friends. My last Christmas became ‘Sleepless In Seattle.’ Next day, It was Christmas, I went to the Seattle Center. I wanted to go to the EMP music center. In EMP music center, there is Kurt Cobain’s the famous broken guitar who was NIRVANA’s leader. I like NIRVANA’s songs so much, such as ‘Smells like teen spirit’, ‘All apologies’, ‘Come as you are’, and etc. I visited in EMP center and went up in the Space Needle which is observation platform. Then, I had lunch and went to University of Washington. And, I visited in The Pike Place Market which is the famous sightseeing place in Seattle. I ate dinner at there. The street of Christmas was not busy, too. I came back in hostel early because I would leave next morning. I met a man who was from U.K. I played billiard with him. In fact, I met an English man at the first time. His English pronunciation was difference. I met a Swiss man and an Australian when I was staying in Vancouver. Their pronunciations were difference, too. Next day, I left in Seattle. I had to go to Vancouver, Washington. USA again.

2004-01-29T16:41:00.000-05:00

WHAT IS THE EQUALITY IN THE USA?

I have been very unpleasant at the US border near Seattle. I learned about the freedom and the equality in today class, but my unpleasant experience was opposite. I had scanned my luggage already when I crossed from the US to Canada. However, I scanned again at the US border. Just 5 people took a scan. But, there was a strange point. All people were non-American including me. A man and I were Asian. One man and a woman was Mexican, and one man was a black person. It was the same happen when I went to Vancouver. So, I asked to a border patrol “Why do you scan to only the international?” She answered “It’s random!” So, I asked again “I have scanned already, at that time; all scanning people were not American. Why you don’t scan to Americans? Why?” Her answer was the same “It’s random!” They scanned my underwear bag even. So, I said to her “This trunk was putted off at this morning, I putted on for 5 day, Are you feel so good?” But, she showed to keep expression that was unrelated. I was very unpleasant. I came back from travel and spoke with my friend about this happen. My friend had the same happen. He traveled to Los Angeles. He has scanned 3 times a day even when he came back from L.A. I think that it is really not random. Random means such as equality. I want to ask a question to them who are patrols or authorized people. “What do you think about equality?” Of course, they had studied about equality already when they were young. I have ever read a book little years ago. The book's title was ‘All I need to know I learned in the kindergarten’. According to this book, whether they never went to the kindergarten or did not practice which were learned or have nationality prejudice or racial. I really desire that my ideas are a bias by all means.

2004-01-29T02:00:00.000-05:00

MY INTRODUCTION

Hello! My name is BAE, Han Shin. Just call me "Hans." I'm studying English at MSU since last fall semester. I live in McDonel Hall with Robert who is my roommate. He is a very cool guy. We like drinking. There are always several beer in my room's refrigenerator. I'm studying two majors which are English Literature and Business. But, I like to study Business more. Because, I like money. Seoul is my hometown. My family live in there. My family is 4 people, parents, older sister, and I. My hobby is driving and skiing. But, I can't enjoy often because I don't have enough time and money. So, I enjoy reading books, internet, and watching movie in free time these day. And, if I have much free time such as a vacation and a break, I really like travel. The travel is always nutritious of me.

2004-01-28T02:10:00.000-05:00

MY VANCOUVER TRAVEL (2 OF 4) -FLY TO THE SKY-

I barely managed to arrive in Vancouver. I stayed in there during a week. First two day, I did sight-seeing. Vancouver’s the mountains and the sea was good. But, the weather was not good. Vancouver is often rain because of the Pacific Ocean. As Vancouver visitors, it is a good city. Vancouver sightseeing can walk enough because downtown is no so big. Also, the bus system is good. And, there are many tourist information centers. On the other hand, there are bad points. Vancouver is quite expensive living cost. And, there are many beggars on the street.
After staying with my juniors for 2 days, I left to Whistler. I really like skiing, and it was my dream that ride skiing in Whistler. Whistler is one of the best ski resorts of the world. I rode skiing for 4 days. Whistler was so really fantastic. Whistler ski resort consists of two mountains. One is Whistler Mt which is 2,600m; another is Blackcomb which is 2,400m. The highest mountain is Hanla Mt which is 1,950m in South Korea. I had gone up in higher mountain than most Koreans. First day, it was nice weather. Also, my condition is so good. I rode lift and went up to the peak of the Whistler Mountain. So, I enjoyed skiing in safety. Next day, I began to enjoy skiing at advance and extreme course. Whistler’s extreme courses were really difficult. I was going to frontier course from the peak. I had to ride ski with making my way. During skiing, the cliff was appearance in front of me. My ill-advised bravery occurred. I rushed to cliff. But, my choice was not good. I tumbled down from the cliff. That day, I tumbled twice. The third day, that day was the highlight of last travel. The weather was not fine from the morning that day. I went in a hurry at Whistler base. The weather condition was worse than my idea. It was snow. But, my challenge never stopped. I got mind to challenge course that was very famous course which was the saddle. I went up to the mid-slope by a gondola and transferred by lift and proceeded to the peak. “Oh! God!” The peak’s weather was really too bad. I could see less than inch face. I plowed my way through the snow. I could not find a right way. And I lost my way in the mountain soon. I felt that my strength drained off. I thought death for the first time in my life. Then, I found a small hut. The hut was a temporary meteorological observatory. I ate chocolates and water in the hut. And, I went out after I took a little rest. I took a picture in front of hut. That was the best picture of last travel. If you see that picture, you may know how much I was pathetic. I rushed into snowstorm again. I seemed to wander about 2 hours. However, some people looked like faint. The god did not abandon me. It was getting darker. I went in a hurry to my place. I was too tired. Lie down to bed, today happens were like dream. I challenged again the course which was the saddle again next day. It was very fine day like lie. I came back to Vancouver and met juniors after Whistler travel. I went to Korean restaurant with juniors. There were many Korean restaurants in Vancouver. We drank. Then, I saw a bill and surprised. Because drink money was paid 100 dollars. I had only noodles all the travel around because I did not have enough money (Noodles are the cheapest food in Korea. One pack is a less than 1 dollar) .My all effort went drink. Vancouver’s living cost was very expensive. In Korea, I never spent such much money for drink. Next morning, I finished Vancouver travel and left to next destination which was Seattle. The day was Christmas Eve. I swelled by expectation about a nice Christmas.

2004-01-26T23:52:00.000-05:00

MY LAST WINTER BREAK TRAVEL. ( 1 OF 4 )-HANS HAD A BIG MISTAKE-

I really like travel. I prepared for my travel plan during long time. But, I had lots of mistakes. Let's start my funny story. I left here in December, 14. 2004 when was end day of last fall semester. My travel's title was "MY LAST ADVENTURE." My choice was Amtrak. Amtrak's fares were cheaper about 200 dollars than an airplane from East Lansing to Vancouver, BC. But, it was so far from East Lansing to Vancouver, BC. I transferred the train in Chicago. I was very confused in Chicago. The Amtrak’s customer services were different from the Korail (Korea Rail Road). A seat number is marked on Korean ticket. But, I had to board my tickets. Also, I did not know it, so I might missed my train. I just caught the train. But, my mistakes were not the end. A sleeping car is unfamiliar to me because the longest railway journey takes about 5 hours in Korea. But, I had to take train about 2 days and more. I realized that my tickets were a sleeping car by right. But, my seat was a coach. It was horrible, so I tried to up-grade my seat. Fortunately, I could change my seat to a sleeping car. The sleeping car was so good. I could have meals without pay. Also, there was a shower booth. I did railway journey with watching scenery joyfully. But, I was not realizing that a big mistake came soon. At the last morning of train travel, I got up late. However, a crew awakened me, so I heard guidance that next station was Vancouver. But, it was early time no less than 3 hours than my schedule. So, I asked to a crew "Is next station really Vancouver?" Then, I might swoon on her answer. She said to "Yes, next station is Vancouver, Washington." I reconfirmed my tickets immediately. "OH! MY HOLY GOD!!!" My roundtrip tickets were printed wrong destination ‘To Chicago, IL. USA from Vancouver, WA. USA.’ It seemed to watch anti-climax of movie. I did not know process to save this happen. So, I decided to visit in Portland. And I should searched process trying all possible means that went to Vancouver. Fortunately, Portland station’s crew was very kind. He realized what I did not well English and I was in trouble. He saw my schedule and explained in point by point. As soon, I decided to go to Vancouver via Seattle. So, I boarded a train again for 10 hours. And, I could arrive in Vancouver at last. I would arrive at 10 o'clock a.m originally. But, I arrived in Vancouver, BC at 9:30 p.m. My juniors were in great anxiety to me. I could meet them that day midnight. I said to them about my big mistake. They laughed loudly. It was nonsense even if I think.

Next, my Vancouver, BC travel............coming soon

2004-01-26T09:34:00.000-05:00

Hi. I'm Han ^.^/ IT'S ABOUT ME.

I'm studying at ELC LV.2. My teachers are Dana, Graham, and Luraine.
I live on-campus in McDonel Hall with a roommate since last fall semester. His name in Robert. He is cool guy. We really like drinking. There are always several beer in my room's refrigenerator.

My majors are English Literature & Business. But, I like to study business more. Because I like money. My family is 4 people including me. I have 2 years older sister. Of course, I'm still single. I like to read books and watch movies in free time. I am reading "Shelock Holmes" these day. And, if I have much free time, I really like to travel.

WELCOME TO MY BOARD.