Post on 01-Mar-2020
UP KOREA RESEARCH CENTER
2018 KOREA ESSAY CONTEST
"Exploring New Channels of Mutual Interests
between Korea and the Philippines"
in partnership with
Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines
Copyright © 2018 by the UP KRC and authors
All rights reserved, except that authorization is given herewith to academic
institutions and educators to reproduce articles herein for academic use as
long as appropriate credit is given both to the authors and to this publication.
The views expressed in each paper are those of the authors of the paper.
They do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of the UP KRC, its
Editorial Committee, or of the University of the Philippines.
The essays were prepared for the research project of the Korea Research
Center at University of the Philippines (UP KRC) supported by the
Academy of Korean Studies Grant (AKS-2015-INC-2230012).
ISSN (Online) 2599-4277
UP Korea Research Center
Address: Ang Bahay ng Alumni, UP-CIDS Lower Ground Floor,
Magsaysay Avenue, University of the Philippines, Diliman,
Quezon City, 1123, Metro Manila Philippines
Tel : +63 2 981 8500 loc 4266
Email : pkrc@up.edu.p
1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Theme of the contest
Speech of Grand Prize Winner
Grand Prize Winner
Through Our Literature
Jesus C. Deytiquez
1st Prize Winner
Crisscrossed: An Exploration to Korea-Philippines
Architecture and Urban Plan Exchange Possibilities
Mark Anthony Cabigas
2nd Prize Winners
To the End of the Tightrope: Reinforcing Filipino-Korean
Relations through Foreign Aid
Jeanette Garcia
3rd Prize Winners
Harmony in Movements
Daniellea Denise Ajose
Honorary Mention
It’s more than Just the 3K’s.
Austine Lee
Notes about Contributors
2
3
5
12
19
25
31
38
2
"Exploring new channels of mutual interests
between Korea and the Philippines"
Since Korea and the Philippines established diplomatic relations in 1949, the two countries have been nurturing ties to build a closer relationship. Last decade, a significant milestone was reached when Korea became the top source of foreign tourists visiting the Philippines. The Filipino community in Korea has also been steadily expanding. The Korean popular culture also invaded the archipelago and Korean products are now easily available in the corners of the country's major shopping malls. In spite of these positive developments, there is often this general impression that the Philippines-Korea relations have somehow been limited to the domains of tourism and business and are primarily driven by the economic leverage that Korea currently enjoys. Along this line, we call for essays that explore some of the ways that could potentially enrich the Philippines-Korea relations, particularly in the areas/domains that gained little or no attention from both countries. More specifically, we call for essays that could put forward proposals on how to make the Philippines a more interesting enterprise for Koreans— not only in the domains mentioned above, and conversely, how to diversify the Filipinos’ interest in Korea apart from being a tourism or employment destination. In this year’s essay contest, we hope to eventually be able to find channels where genuine interests between Korea and the Philippines could be pursued, mutual understanding fostered, and the relationships between these countries and their people deepened.
3
Speech of Grand Prize Winner
Since I started my essay with the words of George MacDonald from Phantastes, I shall like to tell what I learned from this experience through the words he used to end that novel: Yet I know that good is coming to me—that good is always coming; though few have at all times the simplicity and the courage to believe it.
Jesus C. Deytiquez
MA in Language and Literature
De La Salle University Manila
4
5
Through Our Literature
Jesus C. Deytiquez
“I saw thee ne’er before;
I see thee never more; But love, and help, and pain,
beautiful one, Have made thee mine, till all
my years are done.”
—George MacDonald, Phantastes
What can be the new channels of mutual interests between Korea
and the Philippines? I believe I can provide one. But let me first
tell you my story that happened in our country’s Summer
Capital. Let me tell you how I met the lady from The Land of the
Morning Calm there.
As the only child of my busy parents, I spent almost all of my life
alone in a sleepy and rustic sitio in the middle of the vast expanse
of rice fields of Nueva Ecija. And in that place I met beauty first
through nature, and then through the books that I read or
literature. Up to this day, these two messengers of beauty never
fail to turn countless of lazy or rainy afternoons into ecstatic
6
moments for me. I always think that beauty really winks at me
through them. And through the same beauty of nature in Baguio
City, and through a World Literature class of a university there, I
met one of the countless forms that beauty has; she has the eyes
as starry as the evening sky, the hair as black as the tender
mother night, the face as white and flawless as alabaster, and the
lips as red as a delicate mountain rose in the freshness of the
morning.
I was blessed with the privilege of being her seatmate in that
night class, and the one to answer almost all of her questions
concerning some things she didn’t quite understand (most of
them were about country-specific ideas). She was one of the top
students of that university, but she was humble enough to be the
one to approach me, and ask for my help if she needed it. Truly,
only the childlike can desire for the truth, goodness, and beauty,
and consequently, be the one to obtain it. Through the cold and
dark lamp-lit sidewalks, and under the rainy night sky of that
mountain city, we walked together for two times. The two of us
also sang a song in front of the class one night; the song was
about longing amidst the passage of cold summer nights, and is
by the well-known Filipino rapper who died many years ago.1
With her physical loveliness and the beauty of her childlike
personality, it was no peculiarity that I was attracted to her. But I
never really courted her or confessed to her what I harbor for her;
1 Cold Summer Nights by Francis M.
7
I was too shy and was courting another girl from my hometown
back then.
After that single semester of being with her, because of several
reasons I will not bother you my dear reader with, I transferred to
a college in Manila. I can still remember the last time I saw her.
The memory of our time together still haunts that mountain city. I
never saw her again after that. I believe she returned to Seoul
after she graduated.
But now, after about four years, I am writing countless of stories
and poems inspired by her. I am submitting them to different
contests and publications local and abroad, in order for me to
earn and save enough money to see her once again, and maybe,
even be able to give some of my published works to her, if we
meet again, as a way for me to let her know what I long to tell her
all this time: that I love her. If to love is to will for the good of the
beloved, then I truly love her. It was the beauty of nature and
literature that enabled me to meet that angel of beauty; I believe
the same beauty shall give me wings to follow her one day.
I also believe that besides the blessing of the beauty of nature of
Korea and Philippines, the beauty in the literatures of both
countries can also be a way for the two to meet halfway. Sadly,
excluding the prevalence of K-dramas and the intense interest of
Filipinos for them, I perceive that there is almost no sharing of
literatures between Korea and Philippines. Personally, I always
8
visit bookstores, but I cannot find any Korean books in them
except the ones for translation purposes, which, of course, is very
in demand, probably because of the booming Korean pop
culture or job opportunities. To get the view of an academic from
Korea, I emailed Professor Myeong Jeong of the Korean
Language and Literature department of Yonsei University
concerning this issue, and he answered that, “Korean
Researchers and Writers scarcely know the Philip[pine]
literature,” and then added, to my surprise, that, “Only few
[Korean] researchers heard the name Jose Rizal through the
famous book, ‘The Imagined Community’ of Benedict
Anderson”! Imagine that!
Literature helps us to learn and appreciate the culture and history
of another country. As a lover also of foreign literatures—
especially novels from the United Kingdom—I can attest how I
learned many things about different countries through my
reading of the literatures from them; accordingly, take also for an
example my own bewilderment when I saw through a K-drama
that the concept of goblin of Korea is very different from the
concept of goblin of the western countries—such bewilderment,
I believe, can be avoided if the Korean folklore is more accessible
to us through literature. On the other hand, I wonder if Koreans
know our folklore? I guess the words of Professor Jeong earlier
already answered that question.
9
America, Japan, and Philippines are not only connected by
economics, politics, or history, but also through their mutual love
for comics, especially nowadays when Globalization is strong;
meanwhile, Korean comics or “Manhwas” are almost unheard
or unread in the Philippines compared to the Japanese comics or
“Mangas” and American comics by DC and Marvel. According
to John Zamar, an organizer of Komikon which is a convention in
the Philippines for comic book enthusiasts, there are no
manhwas being showcased or sold in the said convention.
Nevertheless, through my reading of “Nineteen, Twenty-one”
by John and Jenna, which is the only manhwa that I am familiar
with, I learned some Korean honorifics and even saw how very
important education is for Koreans.
A country’s literature is a good mirror of its present, past, or
even possible future; it follows that literature is also a good way
of sparking an even more blazing mutual interests or relationship
between two distinct countries, for it enables them to
contemplate their differences, and most especially, their
sameness; Professor Jeong also said to me in our
correspondence that the identical experiences of Korea and
Philippines in the past, may help the potential binding power of
literature between the two countries.
So, the translations of works of literature from and for both
countries, and the promotion for such sharing by both sides, I
10
believe, will bring much good to strengthen and deepen the
relationship between Korea and Philippines. I believe that
potential, good, and new channels for mutual interests between
Korea and Philippines can be found in literature and its numerous
forms. The beauty of literature can bring two countries separated
by land and seas together, like how it enabled me to meet her in
that night class, and perhaps, see her and be with her again,
someday, somehow, somewhere.
11
References Jeong, Myeong K. “Re: Prof. Jeong: Correspondence for an Essay/Paper
about Phil-Korean Lit. Relationship.” Received by Jesus Deytiquez, 23 Apr. 2018.
John and Jenna. Nineteen, Twenty-one, Easy Going Scans, Online Manga Viewer. Easy Going Scans, Online Manga Viewer, read.egscans.com/ 19-21. Accessed 23 Apr. 2018.
“Komikon.” Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia, 7 Apr. 2018. Web. <en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/ Komikon>. Accessed 23 Apr. 2018.
MacDonald, George. Phantastes: A Faerie Romance for Men and Women. Mike Lough and David Widger, Project Gutenberg, 8 Jul. 2008. Project Gutenberg, 8 Jul. 2008. <www.guternberg.org/3/2/325>. Accessed 23 Apr. 2018.
Zamar, John. U. Personal interview. 23 Apr. 2018.
12
CRISSCROSSED:
An Exploration to Korea-Philippines Architecture
and Urban Plan Exchange Possibilities
Mark Anthony Cabigas
Decades after the tragic history in Korean Peninsula in 1950,
Korea-Philippines Relations continue to endure in progress. The
two countries' bilateral connection by now is not only limited to
military assistance and appropriations but has incredibly
extended in the domains of economy, employment, migration
and residency, education and language exchange, tourism,
immigration policy and as far as technology and fashion trends,
pop culture, cuisine and cosmetics. Hence, with all of the
aforementioned areas of interests and diplomacy where the two
countries have successfully developed mutualism, the Korean
and Filipino communities now come to the question: Where else
could this relation go? How far could the enduring connection
between the Land of the Morning Calm and the Pearl of the
Orient Seas able to get?
Researching about the common societal issues and problems
which both South Korea and the Philippines are facing today,
there are indeed intertwining cases – in environment, labor and
13
mental health, which can be looked as a mutual advocacy.
However, dealing with those problems demand internal
considerations with culture and laws to solve hence making it
slightly complicated. Thus, if probing problems in environment,
labor and mental health quite complicated in opening doors for
mutualism between Korea and the Philippines, then look out to
the domain which both countries can relate still and, at the same
time, possible for implementation through deliberate planning
and consultations – Urban Planning and Architecture
South Korea is actually lacking of extensive plains; its lowlands
are the product of mountain erosion. Approximately 30 percent
only of South Korea consists of lowlands, with the rest consisting
of uplands and mountains. Hence, it is indeed plausible how
Korea has able to establish a metropolitan civilization like in large
cities of Seoul, Incheon, Ulsan, Suwon, Gwangju, Daegu, Daejon
and Busan. Another excellent urban strategy Korea has
developed is its valuing the maintenance, preservation and
conservation of their green corners and of their heritage.
Actually, Korea's capital and urban center – Seoul, despite its 25
million residents, is home to five UNESCO World Heritage Sites:
Changdeok Palace, Hwaseong Fortress, Jongmyo Shrine,
Namhansanseong and the Royal Tombs of the Joseon Dynasty.
This kind of urban planning is exactly what the Philippines is
needing especially today when environmental and heritage
advocacies are making noise due to continuous devaluation
14
thereto. If Philippines could team up with Korea's way of urban
planning, Philippines could develop a sustainable urban plan that
are both ecocentric and anthropocentric; also conducive in
preserving country's heritage.
For instance, year after the devastating Siege of Marawi in May
2017, the city is still on its long way of renovation process and
still needing intense rehabilitation efforts – encompassing
sustainable urban design and landscape architecture. Thus, if
South Korea and the Philippines could formally establish mutual
collaboration in urban planning, where Korea is undoubtedly
plausible, the rehabilitation process of the City of Marawi will be
fast enough– yet still considering sustainability, livability, ecology
and culture, and the locals can occupy the city and restore their
lives already. Establishing such mutual cooperation and
knowledge exchange in urban planning will be also be helpful in
dealing with the pending aftermaths of natural hazards like
typhoons and earthquakes, and insurrectional wars in the future.
Moreover, since South Korea's urban planning is also known for
its valuing of heritage structures and landscape parks,
conservationists who promote the restoration of cultural
structures in the city have nothing to worry anymore because it's
assured that despite urbanism, the rich culture and Muslim
heritage of the Maranao people in the only Islamic city of the
Philippines will be resurrected, preserved and maintained.
15
Furthermore, the use and spread of Korean urban style–
characterized by high-tech architectures, in the Philippines,
especially in provinces with boosting economy and tourism will
be helpful in decentralizing the urban spirit and attention to the
rest of the archipelago, out from Metro Manila. This might also
lead to the decongestion of Metro Manila since people have no
longer to migrate into because urbanism has spread across the
country. With the rapid increase of population in the country's
urban areas especially in Metro Manila and the uncontrollable
urban sprawl in the countryside, an urban plan that is similar to
Korea is helpful.
Indeed, urban planning and architecture are great things to talk,
deliberate and look forward as a mutual goal especially that the
Philippine Government has recently launched its 'Build, Build,
Build' Program which aims to bring another golden age of
infrastructure project to uplift economy, create jobs and benefit
the public. It is important that amidst development, good and
healthy urbanity is maintained.
It might sound quite ambitious, but with the growing and
tightening link between Korea and the Philippines, things can go
possible. Additionally, with country's growing number of prudent
architects like Architect Paulo Alcazaren, former president of the
Philippine Association of Landscape Architects, who believes in
creating projects that save heritage structures, create more open
16
green space necessary for disaster risk reduction management,
provide housing for both ends of the spectrum, integrate an
urban but shaded and green pedestrian core that will allow
walkable and bikeable access, link districts, allow reasonable
profit for developers, and bring back good urbanity and pride of
place, where everyone is welcome and development is
sustainable, this contemplating project will surely be pursued
with mutual help.
On the other hand, if efficient urban plan and practical housing
design and architecture are what South Korea can offer to the
Philippines, the Pearl of the Orient can offer something incredible
too.
South Korea is home of many tantalizing modern architectural
construction. Actually, Seoul was thereby named the 2010 World
Design Capital. While, Philippines is hailed for its magnificent and
well-preserved colonial architectures that create European
ambiance in the Far East; ambiance that Koreans deeply want to
experience. Asking most of the South Koreans in Korea of where
is their dream destination abroad, you would gather answers of
places in European countries like Venice and Rome in Italy,
Santorini and Athens in Greece, Paris in France and others in the
Balkan Peninsula and the Mediterranean region extending as far
as in Russia. One of many reasons why Europe is a dream
destination to most of South Koreans is the magnificence and
17
grandeur of Europe's architecture characterized with Gothic,
Neoclassical, Baroque and Artdeco architectural styles–
architectural styles which the Philippines is undeniably rich at. As
a matter of fact, the Manila's colonial district of Intramuros–
where colonial culture and architecture are vibrantly alive, is one
of the main destinations and itinerary of many Korean tourists
who want to experience Europe in Asia. Thus, if Philippines could
share its ideas and prowess in Western Architecture, Korean
architecture will surely expand to the way the public will greatly
appreciate it. Thereby, Koreans will no longer have to expensively
travel to Europe to experience the Western and Mediterranean
heritage. Instead of going to Europe, why not make Europe come
to the local.
Indeed, art is the best equalizer. No matter how extensive the
gap between the economy and technologies of South Korea
from the Philippine's developing economy, it has not hindered
the two countries from establishing a sustainable and continuing
relationship. Organized urban planning will not only benefit the
K-Pop and K-drama fans and the cosmetic enthusiasts but the
general public too. Bringing European design to Korea will not
only entice the local tourists but will become potential
destinations for foreign tourists as well. By having that kind of
bilateral exchange of knowledge, prowess and skills, the aim of
creating mutualism between Korea and the Philippines will be
18
met – sharing visions of upholding the quality of living and
interests of both countries involved.
References: Alcazaren, P. (2016). Urban Design Esquisse: Proposed Redevelopment of
the Rizal Memorial/Harrison Park District. Retrieved from: https://www.facebook.com/paulo.alcazaren/posts/10155513205614488.
Yecyec, J. (2018). Gov't to build P400-million military camp in Marawi. Retrieved from: http://news.abs-cbn.com/news/01/30/18/govt-to-build-p400-million-military-camp-in-marawi
Roy, D. Economic and Social Issues in South Korea. Retrieved from: https://www.eastwestcenter.org/research/visiting-fellow-programs/posco-visiting-fellowship-program/economic-and-social-aspects-of-korea-related-issues
19
To the End of the Tightrope:
Reinforcing Filipino-Korean Relations through Foreign Aid
Jeanette Garcia
It has not been so long as a hundred years ago when the
international community found itself in disarray – states
constantly at war with one another, knives on each other’s
throats and missiles aimed and ready to fire – just so each major
power could get an abundant share of the fame, political
influence and economic advantage while leaving the peripheral
states ransacked and as if beyond repair. The dark days of the
consequent wars have remained in our history books, in various
internet platforms, but more so engraved in the identities that
each country assumed to uphold come the post-Cold War era.
After all the mayhem, state leaders, along with international
organizations, have done their fair share of the effort to assure
that conflict between nations are kept to a minimum and that
good state relations are maintained as a step towards global
development – where power is not merely concentrated behind
flags that could be counted with the fingers of a single hand, but
rather wielded and distributed across numerous nations, allowing
for interdependence and diplomacy.
20
Under the same vision, several mechanisms, such as that of
foreign aid, have been re-set in motion. Although lacking its
deserved interest, both in the academe and in practice, foreign
aid has played a vital role in stabilizing countless state
relationships over the years. Foreign aid was initially presented as
an avenue for developed countries to extend assistance to other
countries which are not faring as well as they do by means of
monetary assistance. It was launched under the altruistic banner
of fostering global interdependence, development and
camaraderie. “International programs to alleviate poverty
include bilateral aid from richer to poorer countries, multilateral
aid from international organizations, grants at below market
rates, technical assistance and debt forgiveness programs, just to
name a few.” (Alesina and Weder 2002)
The sudden boost and excitement in the idea of foreign aid,
fueled by the context of growing globalization, has driven the
developed countries to assume responsibility and take part in the
enterprise, one of which is Korea. Beyond a mere participation,
Korea’s stake in the current aid politics lays a groundwork for
further inspiration when it officially became the first recipient
turned donor country upon expressing intent to join the OECD-
DAC countries in 2010.
As a former recipient country and now as a significant provider of
ODA in its own right, Korea leads by example, bringing its direct
knowledge and expertise to bear on how aid can drive economic
21
and human development. As a result, Korea’s role in
development co-operation is highly valued, allowing it to play a
key bridging role on the global stage, particularly on issues of
development effectiveness and inclusive growth.
-OECD Development Co-operation Peer Reviews, KOREA
2018
Korean aid occupies the limelight as it claims to know how it felt
like to become a recipient and a country in need of assistance,
thus upon graduating from the recipient status vowed to
contribute and help many other countries graduate from being a
recipient as well. Kim and Lee (2009), in their study on South-
South Development Cooperation focused on development
cooperation and official development assistance – presenting
ODA as the ideal and usual tool for developed nations to assist
the developing ones. Aside from the aim of Kim and Lee (2009) to
reconcile whether development cooperation from the non-
OECD/DAC countries represent a new South-South cooperation,
in high contrast with the traditional North-South scheme, their
study also aims to present an overall comparison of the ODA
activities of emerging donors such as Korea with those of
traditional donors’. Beyond the fears and heavy criticisms on
the emerging donors’ overall role, which were pointed out by
the authors, their study still holds a positive outlook on the
activities of these new donor countries and encourage that
increased empirical based research be conducted to provide a
22
more concrete assessment of the contributions and efforts made
by emerging donors. Countries like Korea were even described as
often surpassing those of the traditional donors’ efforts and
contributions in terms of meeting the OECD/DAC guidelines in
providing more aid for least developed countries (LDCs) and in
regions of extreme poverty. (Lee, 2012) This goes to show that
some donors, regardless of being traditional or emerging, are
still providing aid out of the desire to extend a helping hand
towards the poorest countries instead looking out for their more
private interests as highlighted by the present chunk of literature
available on aid politics.
In a speech made by Mr. Oh Joon, 2010 Korean Deputy Prime
Minister of Foreign Affairs, he emphasized how Korea half a
century ago was one of the poorest nations in the world,
endeavoring to emerge from the ashes of the Korean War to
rebuild itself. This too was referenced by Mr. Sangbak Lee,
Deputy Country Director for Korea International Cooperation
Agency (KOICA) Philippines, one of Korea’s major aid agencies,
in the recent 5th Philippine-Korean Studies Symposium as he
discussed on Korean-Philippine development projects and
programs; and during his introduction touched on the topic of
Korean aid. Additionally, Mr. Sangbak even recalled to the 1950s
during the Korean War when food aid from the Philippines was
being sent to Korea, this was on top of some 7,500 troops that
Philippines sent over a five-year period in support of collective
23
security forwarded by the UN and the late president of the UN
General Assembly in 1950, Filipino General Carlos Romulo. Such
long history of bilateral relations between the two countries that
started way back in the late-1940s is not only enshrined in
memory but even in the Philippine currency (the 500 peso bill),
the PEFTOK Memorial in Manila, the Marikorea Monument in
Marikina City and the annual commemoration of the Philippine
Embassy held at the Philippine Monument in Goyang City and in
Yeoncheon County every September for all the Filipino lives lost
in the Korean War. These stories or wars and common struggle
that Korea and the Philippines share to the present day have
been reinforced and in the speeches of such important
personalities, they would often express their gratitude saying that
Korea will never forget how Philippines was there in the past to
support them when they needed help. Presently, efforts like that
of foreign aid are being disbursed and together, Korea and the
Philippines looks forward to the day that Philippines makes its
own breakthrough from the rubble.
Inspired with the initiatives led by Korea in reaching out to poor
and developing nations, this essay aims to posit its support and
advocacy of strengthening bilateral relations through foreign aid.
As Korea sets itself apart from traditional donors who are
currently holding back on their contributions in the middle of
economic crises, Korea signals forward and always forward to
giving aid to those in need and outperforming its own records
24
every year. In light of this, developing countries, such as the
Philippines, dares to hope – not in the sense that there will always
be a reliable country like Korea to have our backs or to support
us monetarily, but rather a hope that somewhere in the future,
countries like ours, will as well transition from a developing
country to a country overflowing and providing development
assistance like its Asian neighbors, and in that dream graduation
from being a recipient country, Philippines will surely look to
Korea and as a form of gratitude, do the same for the next
countries.
REFERENCES Alesina, Alberto, and Weder, Beatrice. 2002. “Do corrupt governments
receive less foreign aid?” American Economic Review. 92(4): 1126-1137.
Kim. M, and Oh, J. 2012. “Determinants of Foreign Aid: The Case of South Korea”. Journal of East Asian Studies. 12: 251-273
Kim, E. M. and Lee, J.E. 2009. “South-South Development Cooperation: Humanitarian and Global or Merely National?” International Development and Cooperation Review 1: 67-108.
Korea 2018. 2018. “Extract from: OECD Development Cooperation Peer Reviews.” The DAC’s main findings and recommendations: 16-22
Lee, Kye Woo. 2012. “Aid by Korea: Progress and Challenges.” Korea’s Role in Economic Development: 45-57
25
Harmony in Movements
Daniella Denise Ajose
Back in elementary, I can remember being too enthusiastic when
August arrives, because it is during this month when our school
holds its annual celebration of Buwan ng Wika. Aside from
spending less hours on class and more time on rehearsals and
preparation, what I loved about this event is I get to perform
onstage. For some reason, I loved wearing Baro’t Saya while
sporting a sleek bun, and dancing to the tune of folk songs such
as Mamang Sorbitero and Leron-Leron Sinta.
Buwan ng Wika had always been a happy memory to me. It was a
day filled with colorful performances, mostly celebrating the
Filipino culture. Every year is definitely something to remember.
Nonetheless, there was this one particular instance I would never
forget. While watching my fellow schoolmates showcase their
talent, one performer captured my attention. Like everybody else,
she wore a Filipino costume, but I can say that her physical
appearance is quite different from us. Her skin is too pale, and
her eyes are so small that when she smiles, I can barely see them.
I was unsure of her nationality, but I was certain that she has a
foreign blood. Despite her difference, she performed gracefully
26
without hesitations. Her happiness that day was incomparable.
That was when I wondered: how can she enjoy something so
foreign to her? How can she be so passionate at something she
is not completely familiar with?
Growing up, I never really imagined being so immersed in
another culture until Hallyu entered my life. The tables have
turned when I became hooked with Korean dramas and Korean
pop music. Hallyu was actually my inspiration why I took up a
Korean class as an elective this semester. At first, it was merely
Hallyu that I want to further understand, but along the process, I
also became interested with other aspects of the Korean culture.
The course enlightened me not solely on the positive side of
Korea, but also on its long history and contemporary issues.
Indeed, every session has given me a glimpse of the Korean
culture. Nevertheless, I would consider our Korean Sword Dance
performance as one of the best experiences.
At first, I found the dance complicated. Unlike K-Pop, the music
used in Sword Dance has no lyrics; hence, one must really pay
attention to its beat and rhythm. Aside from that, our teacher is a
professional performer in South Korea, which made the whole
experience more challenging. Despite the language barrier, she
was able to successfully teach us such a difficult dance. A couple
sessions more, I became more passionate in performing the
Sword Dance. Oddly enough, I felt like I had been dancing it for a
27
long time. The dance was unfamiliar, yet it felt close to my heart.
Now I could understand how my foreign schoolmate was able to
love something strange to her culture.
While I was reminiscing my Korean culture experiences, it
dawned upon me that we can better understand a culture
through its traditional dance. Both Philippines and Korea have
rich cultural heritage, and it is mostly expressed through art and
performance, particularly through dance. For the past years,
both the Philippine and Korean government made efforts to
strengthen the ties of both countries. Aside from the promotion
of tourism and business, traditional dance has been one of the
effective channels of mutual interests between Koreans and
Filipinos.
As the saying goes, “dance is a universal language, and we all
have the ability to speak it.” It does not require certain level of
language competence and fluency, because in dancing, you
communicate with your movements and emotions. Furthermore,
dancing is not merely a form of entertainment; rather it serves as
a vehicle through which we can unveil the complexities of
another culture.
Though dancing has many forms and genres, I believe that we
can acquire a deeper understanding of one culture through its
traditional dance. Traditional dance plays a significant role in
28
preserving a culture and passing it on to the next generations.
Through learning such dance, we would gain knowledge not only
on the performance per se, but also on its music, costumes,
historical background, et cetera.
For an instance, Cariñosa, a traditional Filipino dance of Hispanic
origin, illustrates the traditional courtship in the Philippines. It
especially highlights Maria Clara who is said to be the Filipino
women’s epitome of nobleness. On the other hand, Koreans are
famous for their Ganggangsullae. This dance is actually a ritual
performed to bring about bountiful harvest. What is more
interesting about this dance is that it is exclusively performed by
women. In the male-dominated, traditional Korean society,
young women were not allowed to sing loudly or go out at night
unless they are doing the Ganggangsullae.
Th examples I have mentioned are only a portion of each
countries’ plethora of beautiful traditional dance. As you can
see, each dance embodies a significant part of each country’s
culture. These dances reflect respective culture’s history,
customs and ways of living.
In this time and age when globalization is very much prevalent, it
is important that we practice cultural relativism. Cultural
relativism is “the idea that one must suspend judgment of other
people’s practices in order to understand them in their own
29
cultural terms” (Haviland, 2011). Among the many ways, cultural
relativism can be best achieved if we immerse in the culture we
wish to understand.
That is why I firmly believe that traditional dancing can foster a
healthy environment for both Koreans and Filipinos. Dancing
may even serve as a perfect avenue for visiting each other’s
countries. The Philippines-Korea Cultural Exchange Festival, for
an instance, conducts competitions wherein Koreans must
perform Filipino traditional dance, and vice versa. The event is
held either in the Philippines or Korea; thus, the performers are
given the opportunity to travel outside their country. These
cultural festivals are only some of the concrete evidences that
prove how traditional dance can bridge cultures and establish
international friendships.
There is more to Korea than its K-Pop and K-Drama, just as much
as how the Philippines is more than just its beaches. Performing
traditional dance only takes two feet, a music and an open heart,
but little did we know, it can unite cultures and bring very
different people in harmony.
30
References Crawford, B. (n.d.). Philippine fold dance history. Retrieved from
https://dance.lovetoknow.com/Philippine_Folk_Dance_History. Accessed in 17 May 2018.
Haviland, J. B. (2011). Musical spaces. Embodied interaction: Language and body in the material world, 289-304.
Logan, C. (2017). Understanding different cultures through dance. Retrieved from https://www.22westmedia.com/magazine/opinion/ understanding-different-cultures-through-dance-emphasizing-the-power-of-dance-in-bringing-people-together. Accessed in 18 May 2018.
Na, K. (2016). Ganggang sullae ring dance. Retrieved from http:// folkency.nfm.go.kr/en/topic/GanggangSullaeRingDance/3145.Accessed in 18 May 2018.
Philippines Travel Site. (2016). Ten interesting Philippine folk dances Retrieved from http://folkency.nfm.go.kr/en/topic/GanggangSullae RingDance/3145. Accessed in 18 May 2018.
Quora. (2016). What is the history of cariñosa dance from the Philippines? Retrieved from https://www.quora.com/What-is-the-history-of-carinosa-dance-from-the-Philippines. Accessed in 17 May 2018.
31
It’s More Than Just the 3 K’s.
Austine Lee
Once upon a time, in a land not so far away, a girl—let’s hide
her identity and address her as “Miss A”—whom with no
regrets, fell into the world of K-Drama and bonded by her pursuit
of new music outside of the mainstream western pop, eventually
developed a very special fondness for K-POP which kindled Miss
A to learn its language in order to break the barrier. Yep, you
guessed it right. I am Miss A and one thing’s for sure, a myriad
of Miss A’s are scattered all throughout the Philippines and
hearing K-POP songs on the radio become all the more frequent
as time has gone by.
A quick run-through of the history of the Philippines that we
have learned through the years of studying Philippine History in
our grade school and high school days, we recall all the tattered
Philippine flag, the seemingly endless bloodshed for
independence and painful battle scars our ancestors got from the
ruthless hands of the colonizers, primarily the countries Spain,
America and Japan; it would be an understatement to describe it
as a “tragedy.” In spite of all the egregious mark it left us and
the demerits it harbors, it also has its merits that are still well
32
apparent in the country. Yet, over the past few years, no country
has ever made a massive impact into our lives than 대한민국 or
South Korea—albeit the fact that we have never been a colony of
South Korea. The funny thing is, it doesn’t have a pulse but it’s
like a living thing and it grows; a catalyst, I should say. Most of us
may think that the relationship between the Korea and the
Philippines only revolves around the 3 K’s—K-POP, Korean
Drama and Korean Cosmetics—however, according to the
Philippine Embassy, the ties between the two said countries have
blossomed whilst incessantly standing side-by-side for decades
in the areas of trade, political-security concerns and socio-
cultural exchanges for decades despite the disparity in terms of
language. Prior to this, through the implementation of the K-12
program, the Korean Embassy and the Department of Education
(DepEd) have signed an agreement to teach Korean language in
public schools. Over such a long period of time, both countries
indeed have cultivated an extremely steadfast collaboration in a
myriad of areas. Be that as it may, there are still quite a number of
unexplored domains that would benefit both parties.
Firstly, fighting hand in hand against pollution towards a greener
growth. South Korea and the Philippines are part of the world’s
biodiversity hotspots and the said countries both have stunningly
beautiful natural landscapes, but they may not count for much
when, in other parts of these countries, pollution runs in total
ruin. When it comes to air pollution, without a doubt, China gets
33
most of the attention and often neglect other countries like
South Korea and especially the Philippines which are both
massive producers of air contaminants. It is observable that
majority of the said countries’ private and public sectors tend to
focus on how to improve the economy, neglecting the vast and
far-reaching effects of the environmental damages—earning the
title “worst air quality” among foreigners visiting these
countries. This should serve as a wake up call for both countries
to acknowledge their responsibility and to go the extra mile to
promote more awareness in order to prevent its further ruin by
addressing the issues of pollution together.
Secondly, taking action to end poverty and hunger. The reason
why people joking say that the ‘P’ in the Philippines stands for
‘poverty’ is unquestionable. Majority of families living in
Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao are living within or below the
poverty line. The South Koreans faced a similar challenge as they
agitate to put an end to poverty and hunger as the aftermath of
the Korean War which is also known as “the Forgotten War.” In
the letter written years ago by a Korean who has a heart that
commiserates our country, Jaeyoun Kim (김재연), “after the
Korean War, South Korea was one of the poorest countries in the
world. Koreans had to start from scratch because entire country
was destroyed after the Korean War, and we had no natural
resources. Koreans used to talk about the Philippines, for
Filipinos were very rich in Asia. We envy Filipinos. Koreans really
34
wanted to be well off like Filipinos. ” They have seen poverty up
close compared to most other countries in Asia—with over 4
million people were killed, countless of families lost their homes
and would wait in line for food while rubbing their stomachs in
hunger. In spite of this economic decline, their economy has
experienced vigorous development in such a short period of
time. South Korea is a ray of hope that may alter the perspective
of many and put an end to poverty and hunger that is
experienced by our fellow Filipinos.
And lastly, addressing mental health issues—its stigma and
discrimination that traps people in a cycle of illness. It is not a
secret that mental health issues—primarily depression—
skyrocketed as social media platforms become more popular
than ever. Millennials love social media, there’s no question to
it. However, there are countless subtle dangers of social media
that are either unknown or ignored by the people. Not to blow
smoke, but in a lot of ways, I’ve personally seen how social
media has indeed been a double-edged sword; at its best, social
media gives voice and serves as a platform for anyone who is
willing to engage. Consequently, at its worst, it triggers sadness
as a result of the endless comparison game as you scroll through
your feed. A shocking result of 1 in every 3 Filipinos suffer from a
mental illness was shown by a psychiatrist told the National
Academy of of Science Technology (NAST), as she called for more
vigorous government effort in making mental health care
35
available all over the country. Another study conducted by the
Ministry of Health and Welfare indicates that 1 in 4 Koreans
experience mental disorders, but only 10% seek professional
help. The study also concluded that an increasing number of
people are diagnosed with depression and the disease is more
prevalent among women. A myriad of misconceptions regarding
mental illness are floating around which makes the recovery from
the illness more difficult. People with mental health conditions
shoulder a double burden. On one hand, they struggle with the
symptoms of the illness. On the other, they are plagued by the
stigma as well as discrimination in a world of people mostly
uneducated about mental illness. This calls for a joint action from
these two countries to share their best strides in addressing
mental health issues as a way of building confidence and
standing up to public stigma.
Once upon a time, in a land not so far away called the Philippines
where norms, language and cultural differences may appear
persistent within its neighboring countries around Asia—stood
side-by-side with a country that is indisputably close to the
hearts of the Filipinos because then again, roses are red, violets
are blue, it’s more than just the 3 K’s cause there’s more
domains to view. Currently, the channels of interest may be few,
but the exploration starts with no one else other than me and
you.
36
References Korean’s Message for the Filipinos Written by Jaeyoun Kim
http://www.muonline.biz/zhyper/archive/index.php/t-288113.html History of Korean War https://www.nytimes.com/2018
/01/01/world/asia/korean-warhistory.html 1 in 4 Koreans experience mental disorders, but only 10% seek
professional help: Survey http://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/1-in-4-koreans-experience-mental-disorders-but-only-10-seek-professional-help-survey
1 in 3 Pinoys have Mental Health Problem https://www. philstar.com/headlines/2017/10/12/1748271/1-3-pinoys-has-mental-
health-problem
37
38
Notes about Contributors
Jesus or Jessie Deytiquez is a young man from the vast, sleepy, and nostalgic province of Nueva Ecija. He earned his BA in Political Science in San Sebastian College-Recoletos Manila. He is now pursuing MA in Language and Literature in De La Salle University Manila. His flash fictions like "Sound and Light" and "Eulalia" can be read in cafelitcreative cafe.blogspot.co.uk (May 26 and July 1); His
"The Cold and Rainy Mountain City of Nostalgia" in www.fd81.net/freds-blog/travel-stories-treat-for-easter; And "The Sparrow's Nest" in www. storyhouse.org/jesusd2.html. Like C.S. Lewis, who is one of his favorite writers, the sight of far away and deep blue mountain ranges and the worlds of wonders in books taught him longing or Sehnsucht. He met his muse in a rainy and cold mountain city. He now aspires to see her once again, this time not in the middle of the pouring rain, but in the middle of the falling snow.
Mark Anthony Cabigas is a first year undergraduate student currently enrolled at the Philippine Normal University (PNU-Manila). He recently graduated his Senior High School with High Honors last April at Manila Tytana Colleges under the Academic Track with the strand Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS). He was also recognized as First Honors when he moved up from Pasay City North High School– Main, garnering Best
in Social Studies for four consecutive years. In addition, Cabigas is also an advocate of history, heritage and culture – having attended several lecture series about cultural conservation hosted by both public and private institutions.
39
Jeanette Garcia is a fourth year BA Political Science student of the University of the Philippines. A member of University of the Philippines Arirang and University of the Philippines Political Society to where she has served as the Editor in Chief of the official organization paper in 2017. Her research tracks mainly focus on East and Southeast Asian Politics. In fact, in the recent 4th Junior Conference of the Leong Center for Chinese
Studies in Ateneo de Manila University, she has presented her research on Foreign Aid and Chinese Politics. Recently, she has taken interest in the dynamics of Korean Politics which also aided her as she participated in the 2018 Korean Government Invitation Program to represent both Philippines and her university.
Daniella Denise Ajose is an incoming 4th year student, taking up Bachelor of Arts in Speech Communication at University of the Philippines- Diliman. Denise is currently a member of three organizations in UP, one of which is UP Arirang, a Filipino-Korean friendship organization. Her fondness for Korean culture started way back her grade school days, when she first subscribed to Hallyu. With her growing interest for the
Korean culture, she took up Korean language electives, Koreyano 10 and 11, and learned Hangul for two semesters. Recently, she also enrolled in GS 197, a special topic course dedicated to discussions on contemporary issues in Korean culture and society.
40
Austine Lee, often referred to as "the typical quiet girl who loves to scribble stuff on the back of her notebook" is a 19 year old, Marketing Management student from the home of the growling tigers, the University of Santo Tomas. This essay contest was her first leap of faith; not to mention, it was her first ever writing contest to join. Beyond anything else, taking this leap of faith was the start of her journey in exploring more of her poetic and creative side.
41
On April 27th 2016, the University of the Philippines launched the Korea Research Center, with the support of the Academy of Korean Studies (AKS) Korean Studies Promotion Service, aiming to provide Filipino scholars and researchers with opportunities to widen their interest in Korean studies. The Center hopes to be a venue for students and professionals to produce meaningful comparative researches and also to promote collaborative partnerships among Korean and Philippine institutions. The Center serves as a university-wide hub that helps promote and develop Korean Studies in the University and the country. It sponsors interdisciplinary and inter-college research and education activities on Korean studies, as well as facilitates the training of the next generation of Koreanists in the country.
The activities of UP KRC are supported by the Academy of Korean Studies – Korean Studies Promotion Service (KSPS) Grant funded by the Korean Government (AKS-2015-INC-2230012).
42
UP Korea Research Center
Address: UP-CIDS Lower Ground Floor, Ang Bahay ng Alumni, Magsaysay
Avenue, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
Tel : +63 2 981 8500 loc 4266
Email : pkrc@up.edu.ph
Facebook: www.facebook.com/UPKRC
ISSN (Online) 2599-4277