Koreabridge

Classified Ad Type: 

• Job Wanted

Location: 

• Seoul

Neighborhood: pusanContact person by email

Hi! My name is jasmine and i am currently searching for a full-time teaching job with housing. i am a native english speaker from united states who is currently living in Pusan. 

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MasterTOPIK.com
Learning strategy which is the fastest and easiest way to reach the target TOPIK score,
at a reasonable price of $14 a month.    Stay Connected! MasterTOPIK
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Classified Ad Type: 

• Job Wanted

Location: 

• Other

Neighborhood: LOS ANGELES, CA Contact person by email

SALES ASSOCIATE JOB IN KOREATOWN IN LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA AT 7-ELEVEN. 

 

WE ARE LOOKING FOR FULL-TIME & PART-TIME EMPLOYEES. SPEAKING KOREAN IS A BONUS!! 

 

PLEASE CALL OR TEXT SUNNY AT 310-699-9387

Classified Ad Type: 

• For Sale Items

Neighborhood: Daeyeon Contact person by email

Hello, 

I have some extra Hookah Tobacco/shisha Tobacco and  I want to sell them. The price is 15,000/packet that is really low compared to Coupang. Net Weight: 50 g per packet

 

Please send me an email If you are interested,

 

— From Korea with Love
Chrissantosra.wordpress.com

 

 

Join 473 other followers

 

Classified Ad Type: 

• Job Wanted

Contact person by email

Hi everyone,

Due in part to the wider current situation (which has caused a long-term shortage of students), I will be available again in January next year. In fact, I can be free as early as December 20th, 2021. My current E2 visa expiry date is in April 2022.

I have been living and working in South Korea since 2003 and have worked in a wide range of situations (public and private) since first arriving here. This has included working twice with the military, as well as public elementary schools and private institutions such as YBM Premier and Jung Chul, and I have lived in many different areas around the country. This has also included a number of years as a TESOL teacher trainer (my current position). 

I hope that respondents will appreciate that I am an older candidate and that I am seeking a new role suitable for someone like myself. At the moment (until December 20th) I am teaching adults and would like to do something similar if possible, although I would add that I am a science graduate and do not involve myself in literary analysis, preferring to focus more on grammar and speaking skills. 

As part of my duties, I have been responsible for planning whole syllabi and the lessons contained therein, and this experience also includes planning and executing whole summer and winter camps in both the private and public sectors. More recently, due to the Covid situation, I have transitioned from purely classroom-based instruction to running online classes using Zoom.

Ideally I would like to progress to a new (and possibly non-teaching) role, so I would therefore also be open to other opportunities. I would also like to return to the Changwon/Masan/Busan area, if possible.

Please contact me through this web site in the first instance if you would like more information about myself (including a resume), or to discuss any opening that you may have.

—

Eighteen years in Korea - and counting!

—

Burger n' Kimchi are the most unlikely, wildest husband-and-wife team consisting of Burger (an American Expat living in Busan) and Kimchi (a born and bred Busanite). We absolutely love Busan, South Korea and would like to share a glimpse with you through our own unique lens.

        

      
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The "Korean Made Simple" series is finally complete. Three textbooks, three workbooks, and audio files for all of them. To celebrate, I made a video showing off what you'll get when you order them.

You can check out my book, "Korean Made Simple" on Amazon here: http://amzn.to/2bDBi6h (affiliate)

Or get your copy of the eBook from my web site (where you are now) here: http://www.gobillykorean.com/p/learn-korean-with-korean-made-simple.html

And you can download the free audio content from the books here: https://gobillykorean.com/download-the-audio-content-for-korean-made-simple-for-free/

The post Learn Korean with "Korean Made Simple" appeared first on Learn Korean with GO! Billy Korean.

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Hi 안녕하세요 I'm Won!
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Private Korean lesson (Conversation, Pronunciation, Writing etc)
You can check more detail on my Instagram page

— From Korea with Love
Chrissantosra.wordpress.com

 

 

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Classified Ad Type: 

• For Sale Items

Location: 

• Busan

Neighborhood: Bexco/Centum CityContact person by email

Queen size bed (Frame/Support base / Memory Foam mattress ) - everything is free to take. 

Big sofa (easy to assemble and dismantle , light weight ) also for free. 

But it needs to take this on this weekend (Dec 4 or 5). 

kakao id : shivakorea

 

Thanks 

IMG_2782.jpg IMG_2783.jpg IMG_2784 (1).jpg sofa1.jpg sofa2.jpg

Since September 1st, 2021, Korea has required travellers from 112 countries to apply for the Korea-ETA (K-ETA). The K-ETA is an electronic travel authorization program that will save travellers time when they arrive in South Korea by reducing paperwork at the airport.

But what is the K-ETA? And who needs it? If you’re not sure, you’re not alone. There are a lot of questions about whether or not you need to get a K-ETA, how long it lasts for, whether it works instead of a visa (it doesn’t), and if there are any exemptions (there are).

If you don’t have the K-ETA, you won’t be allowed to travel to South Korea. This guide will help you avoid this problem, explain who needs the K-ETA, how to apply for the K-ETA, and answer a range of other questions regarding this travel document.

Save yourself the time and hassle on your trip to Korea with this guide to the K-ETA.

Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking one of these links. Affiliate Disclaimer

1: What Is The K-ETA?

The K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) is an online electronic travel authorization that visa-free foreign visitors need to obtain before entering the Republic of Korea for tourism, visiting relatives, participating in events or meetings, and for business purposes other than profitable activities.

If you are ready to apply now, you can start the process with the button below.

K-ETA Website

However, if you want to know more about how to apply for the K-ETA, who needs to apply for it, or want any other information the Korea Electronic Travel Authorization, then please keep on reading.

2: Who Needs To Apply For The K-ETA?

The K-ETA is required for nationals of:

A: Korean visa waiver countries
(66 countries)

B: Designated visa-free countries
(46 countries)

The K-ETA is required for foreign nationals who intend to enter the Republic of Korea for tourism, visiting relatives, participate in events or meetings, and business purposes other than profitable activities.

Please note: If you normally need a tourist visa to travel to South Korea, then you won’t need to obtain a K-ETA.

Please note: Eligibility for K-ETA is based on your nationality, not your country of residence or where you’re travelling from.

Only 50 countries are eligible for the K-ETA now. Please check below to see if your country is currently active.

A: Korean Visa Waiver Countries

Nationals from countries that concluded a visa waiver agreement with the Republic of Korea will need to obtain the K-ETA. This applies to the following countries:

Asian Visa Waiver Countries

• Israel (suspended)
• Kazakhstan (suspended)
• Malaysia (suspended)
• Singapore*
• Thailand (suspended)
• Turkey (suspended)
• United Arab Emirates (suspended)

*Singapore currently operates a vaccinated travel lane with South Korea to allow for quarantine-free travel between those two countries. You can find out more about the Singapore – Korea VTL below:

Singapore-Korea VTL European Visa Waiver Countries

• Austria
• Belgium
• Bulgaria
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Ireland
• Italy
• Latvia
• Liechtenstein
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• Netherlands
• Norway
• Poland
• Portugal
• Romania
• Russia (suspended)
• Slovakia
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom

American Visa Waiver Countries

• Antigua and Barbuda (suspended)
• Bahamas (suspended)
• Barbados
• Brazil (suspended)
• Chile (suspended)
• Colombia (suspended)
• Commonwealth of Dominica
• Costa Rica (suspended)
• Dominican Republic (suspended)
• El Salvador (suspended)
• Grenada (suspended)
• Guatemala (suspended)
• Haiti (suspended)
• Jamaica (suspended)
• Mexico
• Nicaragua
• Panama (suspended)
• Peru (suspended)
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia (suspended)
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Suriname (suspended)
• Trinidad and Tobago (suspended)
• Uruguay (suspended)
• Venezuela

African Visa Waiver Countries

• Lesotho (suspended)
• Morocco (suspended)
• Tunisia (suspended)

Oceania Visa Waiver Countries

• New Zealand (suspended)

Please note: Countries on this list are subject to change at short notice due to the ongoing global pandemic.

B: Designated Visa Free Countries

Nationals from countries that are designated visa-free entry to the Republic of Korea will need to obtain a K-ETA. This applies to the following countries:

Asian Visa-Free Countries

• Bahrain (suspended)
• Brunei (suspended)
• Darussalam (suspended)
• Hong Kong (suspended)
• Japan (suspended)
• Kuwait (suspended)
• Macau (suspended)
• Oman (suspended)
• Qatar (suspended)
• Saudi Arabia (suspended)
• Taiwan (suspended)

European Visa-Free Countries

• Albania
• Andorra
• Bosnia and Herzegovina (suspended)
• Croatia
• Cyprus
• Holy See
• Monaco
• Montenegro (suspended)
• San Marino
• Serbia (suspended)
• Slovenia

American Visa-Free Countries

• Argentina (suspended)
• Canada (suspended)
• Ecuador (suspended)
• Guyana
• Honduras (suspended)
• Paraguay (suspended)
• The United States

African Visa-Free Countries

• Botswana (suspended)
• Kingdom of Eswatini (suspended)
• Mauritius (suspended)
• Seychelles (suspended)
• Republic of South Africa (suspended)

Oceania Visa-Free Countries

• Australia (suspended)
• Fiji (suspended)
• Guam
• Kiribati (suspended)
• Marshall Islands (suspended)
• Micronesia (suspended)
• Nauru (suspended)
• New Caledonia
• Palau
• Samoa (suspended)
• Solomon Islands (suspended)
• Tonga (suspended)
• Tuvalu (suspended)

Please note: Countries on this list are subject to change at short notice due to the ongoing global pandemic.

Is it mandatory to get a K-ETA when visiting Korea?

Yes. If a person, who is a national of a K-ETA required country, does not have a K-ETA, he or she will not be allowed to board the flight or ship bound for the Republic of Korea.

How long can I stay in Korea if I have a K-ETA?

Generally up to 90 days, but the allowed period of stay may differ by nationality. The minimum amount of time is 30 days and the maximum is 3 months. Please check the K-ETA website to confirm your period of stay.

Korea-ETA Period of Stay 3: How To Apply For The K-ETA

This section will describe how to apply for the Korea-ETA, how much to pay, and what you will need to prepare for your K-ETA application.

What do I need to prepare to fill out the K-ETA application form?

You will need a valid passport, email address, and a credit or debit card to pay the K-ETA application fee.

If you are applying with your PC, instead of your mobile device, you will need an identification photo for uploading your facial image.

When do I need to apply for the K-ETA?

You should apply for the K-ETA at least 24 hours prior to boarding the flight or ship bound for the Republic of Korea.

How long does it take to apply for a K-ETA?

It will take approximately 10 minutes.

How long does it take from submitting the K-ETA application to receiving the results?

You should receive the results by e-mail, within 24 hours after completing the K-ETA application.

How can I check my K-ETA results?

K-ETA approval results are sent to the e-mail address which the applicant provided upon application. You can also check your K-ETA approval status with your application number on the K-ETA official website.

How much is the K-ETA fee?

The K-ETA application fee is 10,000 KRW (additional fees not included). If you visit a website charging more than 10,000 KRW, then it is not likely to be the official Korea-ETA website.

Please note: you should only apply for the K-ETA on the official website – www.k-eta.go.kr. You can access the website from the link below.

Don’t sign up for the K-ETA on any other website.

K-ETA Website Can I get a refund if my K-ETA application is refused?

No. The 10,000 KRW fee for applying for the K-ETA is non-refundable, even if your application is unsuccessful.

Can I apply for K-ETAs for other people?

Yes. One applicant can apply for up to 30 people, such as family members, and can proceed with the K-ETA payment as well. All results will be sent to the applicant’s email address.

How do I pay for the K-ETA fee?

You can use debit cards or global credit cards such as VISA, Master, JCB, or Express.

How long is the validity period of a K-ETA?

The validity period of a K-ETA is 2 years from the date of approval.

However, if the passport used for the K-ETA application expires in less than 2 years, that K-ETA approval will be valid until the passport expiration date.

In what cases do I need to re-apply for the K-ETA during the validity period?

Note that if there are any changes to your information (nationality, name, sex, date of birth, passport number, passport expiration date, infectious disease and criminal record) you are required to apply for a new K-ETA, even if the previous K-ETA is still valid.

Is there anything else I need to prepare when I am visiting Korea again within my K-ETA validity period?

Even if you are entering the Republic of Korea again within the validity of your K-ETA, you must update any changes to your purpose of entry, address in Korea or contact information through the K-ETA website (My Application Status – e-Arrival Card) before entering Korea.

The Ministry of Justice will not be responsible for any disadvantages caused due to failure of information update by the traveler.

4: Do I Need A Korea-ETA? K-ETA Exemptions

This section will detail possible exceptions to who needs to get a K-ETA, whether the K-ETA applies to transfer passengers, and other exceptions in regards to the K-ETA.

I am from a K-ETA required country but I already have a valid Korean visa. Do I need to get a K-ETA?

No. If you have a valid Korean visa, you do not need to get a K-ETA.

I am from a K-ETA required country but I am a registered foreign resident in Korea. Do I need to get a K-ETA?

No. Residence Card holders (registered foreign residents) don’t need a K-ETA.

Do flight or ship crew members need to get a K-ETA?

When a flight or ship crew member is entering the Republic of Korea as a crew member, that person does not need to get a K-ETA.

I want to travel to Jeju Island. Do I need to get a K-ETA?

No. Those who wish to travel directly only to Jeju Island do not need to get a K-ETA.

If the traveler wishes to visit other places in Korea after visiting Jeju Island, that person needs to get a K-ETA before entry.

Visiting Jeju Island In Winter I am a transfer passenger. Do I need to get a K-ETA?

No. Transfer/transit passengers who are not entering Korea do not need to get a K-ETA.

I am a transfer passenger but I need to enter the Republic of Korea for my luggage connection. In this case, am I eligible for K-ETA exemption?

No, you aren’t eligible for an exemption. If you need to go through check-in process after entering for luggage connection, you need to get a K-ETA.

I have a valid ABTC. Do I need to get a K-ETA?

No. Valid ABTC holders will be able to receive their boarding pass without a K-ETA.

Please note: An ABTC card is an APEC Business Travel Card. For more details about this card, check the link below:

APEC Business Travel Card I am a diplomatic/official passport holder and I will visit Korea for official purposes. Do I need to get a K-ETA?

In principle, diplomatic and official passport holders are required to obtain a K-ETA. However, for those who requested for K-ETA exemption through relevant organizations in advance, and received approval from the Ministry of Justice, will not be required to get a K-ETA.

I am a member of the United States Forces Korea (USFK). Do I need to get a K-ETA?

No. According to the ‘Agreement under Article IV of the Mutual Defense Treaty between the United States of America and the Republic of Korea, regarding Facilities and Areas and the Status of United States Armed Forces in the Republic of Korea (SOFA)’, members of the United States Armed Forces (USFK service members) do not need to get a K-ETA.

Please note: you will need to present your DOD ID card instead of your passport upon check-in for issuance of your boarding pass.

Do dependents of members of the United States armed forces and members of the civilian component need to get a K-ETA?

Yes. In principle, dependents of USFK members and members of the civilian component are required to obtain a K-ETA. However, those who request K-ETA exemption through the competent authorities of the United States to the Ministry of Justice, and receive approval, they may be exempt from the K-ETA requirement.

5: Problems With Your K-ETA Application

This next section deals with any potential problems you might have when applying for a K-ETA, including any mistakes and how to resolve them.

What happens if I submit false information on the K-ETA application?

In case of submitting false information, the K-ETA approval will be refused or cancelled, and that person may by subject to penalties or face entry restriction according to relevant Korean laws.

What do I do if I made a mistake on the application form?

Before submitting your application, you will be able to correct any mistakes that you made.

I received K-ETA approval with incorrect information. Will I be allowed to enter Korea?

You may face disadvantages such as entry denial. Please re-apply for your K-ETA.

Does my identification photo (face image) for my K-ETA application have to be the same as my passport photo?

No. It does not have to be the same photo, but should comply with the following conditions.

• Should be in colour
• Should be in image file such as JPG
• Image size less than 100KB
• Pixel density less than 600×600
• No accessories such as hats, scarves, or sunglasses
• Recommend less colorful patterned clothing
• Full face, front view (75% of the image)
• Eyes should be open looking straight at the camera

How will my photo and personal information that were provided upon application for the K-ETA be used?

Information provided for the K-ETA application is collected in accordance with Article 7-3 (Electronic Travel Authorization) of the Immigration Act and Article 8-3 (ETA Issuance Criteria) of the Enforcement Regulations of the Immigration Act.

Collected information will be stored in the Immigration Control Information System, and may be disclosed to other government agencies of the Republic of Korea in accordance with relevant domestic laws and regulations.

My K-ETA application was disapproved. What can I do to enter Korea?

You should visit a Korean Embassy (or Consulate) located in your jurisdiction and apply for an entry visa.

Where can I ask questions about K-ETA?

You can make inquiries online with 4 languages (Korean, English, Thai, and Russian) through the K-ETA official website ‘Ask Us’.

6: Other FAQs About The K-ETA

This final section contains some of the other frequently asked questions about the K-ETA process, when you need to apply, and how to apply.

Do I need to get a K-ETA every time I visit Korea?

No. Once you are approved for a K-ETA, you do not have to apply for 2 years. However, if the passport used for the K-ETA application expires in less than 2 years, that K-ETA approval will be valid until the passport expiration date.

If I have a K-ETA, am I allowed to work in Korea?

No. You cannot engage in profitable activities in Korea with a K-ETA. You must obtain a separate visa that allows you to work and participate in employment activities in Korea.

I am travelling with a friend, can we apply for a K-ETA together?

Yes. One applicant can apply for up to 30 people, such as family members, and can proceed with the K-ETA payment as well. The K-ETA results for each person will be sent to the applicant’s e-mail. Each applicant can also check the K-ETA approval status with the application number and passport number on the K-ETA official website.

Can I fill out the K-ETA application in any language?

No. Only English is available for filling out the K-ETA application. The questions on the application form is available in English and Korean.

During the current COVID-19 situation, who can apply for K-ETA and enter Korea?

Please see the list of the active or suspended countries at the start of this article.

During the COVID-19 situation, do I still need to submit a negative PCR test result after I receive a K-ETA?

During the COVID-19 situation, quarantine related documents such as negative PCR test results are required even if you receive K-ETA approval.

Do I Need To Self-Quarantine If I Have A K-ETA

Unless you have a quarantine exemption, or are from a country such as Singapore with a recognised Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL), you will need to self-quarantine. Currently, the quarantine period for arrivals to South Korea is 10 days.

Still Have Questions About The K-ETA

If you’re still unsure about the K-ETA and how or why to apply for it, then feel free to join the Korea Travel Advice Facebook group and ask experienced travellers, guides, expats, and tourists who share a love for travelling in Korea.

Korea Travel Advice Group

If you think the K-ETA applies to you and you’re ready to book your K-ETA, then here’s the link to the website again:

K-ETA Website Useful Resources For Travelling To Korea

Planning a trip to Korea and want some more information, advice, or tips? Then check out some of my other articles about visiting Korea and make your trip planning a lot quicker, safer, and easier.

Budget Hotels In Myeongdong Unique Korean Experiences To Try Korean Culture & Etiquette Guide Basic Korean Phrases For Tourists Korean Season Guide

Below are some useful Korean resources that will help you to book tours, find hotels, and save money travelling Korea.

Useful Korean Resources: Tour agencies:
Klook | Trazy | Get Your Guide Hotels:
Klook | Hotellook | Booking.com Learn Korean:
90 Day Korean | Korean Class 101 Money-Saving Passes:
T-Money Card | Discover Seoul Pass Mobile Internet:
4G Sim Card & WiFi COVID-19 Travel Insurance

If you’re travelling to Korea these days, it’s good to get COVID-19 travel insurance, which will protect you from a number of problems, including cancellations, hospital care, and other unplanned problems.

A great provider of travel insurance that I personally use when travelling is World Nomads. They offer great cover and their prices are very reasonable. Click below to get a quote now.

Get Quote FAQs About The K-ETA

Here are a few final FAQs about the K-ETA that covers some of the most popular questions asked about the Korea-ETA process.

Who Needs A K-ETA?

A K-ETA is required for foreign nationals from 112 countries who intend to enter the Republic of Korea for tourism, visiting relatives, participate in events or meetings, and business purposes other than profitable activities.

How Can I Apply For The K-ETA?

You will need a valid passport, email address, and a credit or debit card to pay the K-ETA application fee. If you are applying with your PC, instead of your mobile device, you will need an identification photo for uploading your facial image. Visit the official website at www.k-eta.go.kr to apply for the K-ETA.

How Long Does The K-ETA Last?

The validity period of a K-ETA is 2 years from the date of approval. However, if the passport used for the K-ETA application expires in less than 2 years, that K-ETA approval will be valid until the passport expiration date.

Can I Use A K-ETA For Multiple Trips To Korea?

Yes. You can use the K-ETA multiple times within the 2 year validity. However, please note that if there are any changes to your information (nationality, name, sex, date of birth, passport number, passport expiration date, infectious disease and criminal record) you are required to apply for a new K-ETA, even if the previous K-ETA is still valid.

Do I Still Need To Self-Quarantine With A K-ETA?

During the COVID-19 situation, quarantine related documents such as negative PCR test results are required even if you receive K-ETA approval. Unless you have a quarantine exemption, or are from a country such as Singapore with a recognised Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL), you will need to self-quarantine.

Liked This? Pin It For Others

If you enjoyed reading this article, then please go ahead and share this with your friends on Pinterest.

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Travel tips to help you explore, travel, enjoy, and see all the joy and wonders of South Korea

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Korea Travel Advice Facebook Group
 

Location: 

• Busan

Business/Organization Type: 

• Education Related

Website: 

Hello

 The Academy, 숲속은성유치원/학원 is looking for two new full-time teachers. One to start January 2022 and March 2022. Currently only accepting applicants already in South Korea. The school is located in Gupo-dong, Buk-gu District in Busan.

Time: 9am - 6pm. ( 25 minutes of kindergarten classes in the morning and afternoon elementary class are 50 minutes each with a 10-minute break in between. Lunch is provided by the school and you DO NOT eat lunch with the children. )

Students: Kindergarten and Elementary

Salary: 2.3 mil won

Vacation: 9 Days ( 5 days for summer vacation and 4 days for winter vacation ) and all red days ( Public Holidays )

Housing: an Apartment is available close to the school or a housing allowance of 300 000 won is given. 

Teachers: The teacher has to be from one of the 7 English-speaking countries. South Africa, America, England, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and Ireland.

Visa: E-2 visa sponsorship. F-4 visa holders can also apply. 

Benefits: health insurance and pension.

We are looking for someone who is already in South Korea already.

Please send your resume and a photo of yourself to the following email. [email protected]

Thank you

A Golden View of the Port in Masan, Gyeongsangnam-do from Seongdeokam Hermitage. Hermitage History

Seongdeokam Hermitage is located in Masan, Gyeongsangnam-do. More specifically, it’s located on the north-eastern slopes of Mt. Daegoksan (516.8 m). Seongdeokam Hermitage was first built in 1933 by the monk Baekyongseong – 백용성. The hermitage was built for the well-being of local fishermen and townspeople, which makes sense, since it’s located so close to the Masan harbor. Currently, Seongdeokam Hermitage is home to ten different buildings, gates, and shrines spread throughout the entire grounds. Like most new temples, Seongdeokam Hermitage continues to expand and grow.

Hermitage Layout

After navigating your way down some local side-streets, you’ll finally be welcomed to Seongdeokam Hermitage by a three-in-one modern shrine hall. Around the exterior walls to this multi-purpose building, at least at the entry, are various incarnations dedicated to Gwanseeum-bosal (The Bodhisattva of Compassion).

It’s just to the left of this building, and taking a right in the bend in the road, that you’ll backtrack towards the three-in-one shrine hall. The first thing to greet you at this building is the hermitage’s kitchen. Just a little further along, and you’ll next come to a passageway that will direct you towards the hermitage’s main hall, the Daeung-jeon Hall. Before stepping inside the Daeung-jeon Hall, take a step out onto the terraced area that gives you an amazing view of the shimmering port off in the distance. The view is especially beautiful in the early morning hours.

As for the Daeung-jeon Hall, and stepping inside this shrine hall, you’ll find a statue of Seokgamoni-bul (The Historical Buddha) resting all alone on the main altar. He’s joined on either side, under their own canopies (datjib), by Gwanseeum-bosal to the left and Jijang-bosal (The Bodhisattva of the Afterlife) to the right. But it’s the Shinjung Taenghwa (Guardian Mural) and Gamno-do (Sweet Dew Mural) that are the highlights of the Daeung-jeon Hall. First, the Shinjung Taenghwa almost appears cartoonish in its design. As for the Gamno-do, it follows the traditional form of a Gamno-do mural: it has three sections. The upper and middle sections follow the traditional standards of the genre with Buddhas and Bodhisattvas in the upper section and an Agwi (Hungry Ghost) in the middle section. However, where the Gamno-do mural at Seongdeokam Hermitage diverges is in the bottom portion of the painting. Instead of realistically portraying the six realms of existence in some ancient or mythical form, the Gamno-do mural at Seongdeokam Hermitage is firmly rooted in the past fifty years of world history. More precisely, instead of having people that might look like they inhabit a world centred around a Goryeo or Joseon Dynasty time frame, we see images of those people that have shaped our world in the present. In the mural, rather remarkably, you’ll see painted images of Osama Bin Laden, George W. Bush, 9/11, the DMZ, the Vietnam War in the form of the famous picture of the national police chief of South Vietnam executing a Vietcong fighter, the Gwangju Uprising from May 18th to 27th, 1980, and the famine in Africa during the 1980s. It truly is something special and a one-off.

To the rear of the three-in-one shrine hall structure is the Gwaneum-jeon Hall. Housed inside the Gwaneum-jeon Hall, you’ll find beautiful paper lotus flowers hanging from the ceiling. And resting on the main altar, you’ll find a multi-armed and headed statue dedicated to Gwanseeum-bosal.

The final set of shrine halls at Seongdeokam Hermitage are located to the left, rear of the three-in-one shrine hall that includes the Daeung-jeon Hall. Just past the monks’ dorms, and housed a little further up the hillside, is the Samseong-gak Hall, the Sanshin-gak Hall, and the Yongwang-dang Hall. The largest of the three is the Samseong-gak Hall. This shaman shrine hall houses a triad of paintings. In the centre hangs an older Chilseong (Seven Stars) mural. This painting is joined to the right by a more modern Chilseong painting; while to the right, you’ll find mural dedicated to Dokseong (The Lonely Saint).

The final two shrine halls at Seongdeokam Hermitage, which looks more like shipping containers with their large, heavy metal entry doors, is the Sanshin-gak Hall and the Yongwang-dang Hall. Housed inside the Sanshin-gak Hall is an atypically painted mural of Sanshin who looks almost elfish in appearance. But you be the judge.

How To Get There

From the Masan Intercity Bus Terminal, you’ll need to take Bus #101. You can take this bus or Bus #122 at the Daeshin Bookstore, which is situated just outside the terminal. You’ll then need to take either bus for ten stops and get off at the Burim Market stop. From this stop, you’ll need to walk towards the neighbouring hillside for ten minutes to get to Seongdeokam Hermitage.

Overall Rating: 6/10

Seongdeokam Hermitage is home to quite a few unique features like the modern Gamno-do (Sweet Dew Mural) with the likes of Osama Bin Laden and George Bush on it. Additionally, you should have a look for the elfish Sanshin (Mountain Spirit) mural and the ornate Gwanseeum-bosal (The Bodhisattva of Compassion) statue inside the Gwaneum-jeon Hall. And to top it all off, the hermitage enjoys a beautiful scenic view of the neighbouring port of Masan.

A look towards the three-in-one main hall at Seongdeokam Hermitage. The view from the Daeung-jeon Hall towards Masan. The main altar inside the Daeung-jeon Hall. The cartoonish Shinjung Taenghwa inside the Daeung-jeon Hall. The highly unique modern Gamno-do (Sweet Dew Mural). Another look from the Daeung-jeon Hall. Inside the Gwaneum-jeon Hall with a look at the Bodhisattva of Compassion. A Punggyeong (Fish-shaped Wind Chime) hanging from the eaves of the Daeung-jeon Hall. A look up towards the Samseong-gak Hall. The entry to the Sanshin-gak Hall. With an elfish image of Sanshin (The Mountain Spirit) inside. —

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This past Sunday I did a live stream about the grammar form ~다기보다(는), which is also ~(이)라기보다(는). This form is used to describe things, and shows that the description that comes after this form is better than what comes before it. There are several ways to translate it, including "rather."

The post ~다기보다는 "Rather" | Live Class Abridged appeared first on Learn Korean with GO! Billy Korean.

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