My First AUTHENTIC Korean Meal

Since I am here in Korea, I made a mental decision, not just to view the culture, but attempt to embrace & experience the culture. One can discover many things about a nation's culture through its food. Before coming to Korea, I thought I was gonna face another dillema--What was I gonna eat? For certainly this Black girl from Detroit, whose family roots stem from the South, is not used to experimenting with her palate. But I'm only here for a short while, right? So I might as well dig in. BON APPETIT!

Kimchi- The flavor of Korea

Whenever one thinks of Korean cuisine, one of the first things that comes to mind is Kimchi. I had never tasted Kimchi before, but the basic premise of the ingredients reminds me of the southern "Chaw-chaw" that I have often heard about (I know I spelled that incorrectly, but,...I mean, it's not like they sell it in the store. Give a sister a break on that one!). Kimchi is a fermented mix of cabbage, radishes, peppers & seasonings. This "concotion" is served with most traditional Korean meals. Not only does it have a unique flavor, but it has a slightly pungent aroma likened to nothing I can describe.

Amazingly enough though, I cannot say that it is "nasty," nor can I say that it is "good." FLAVORFUL is how I would describe this staple in the Korean diet. One thing I must note: it can be awfully HOT! I believe I will enjoy it more as my palate matures. Preparing Kimchi is an ardenous process that has been around for over 3000 years! It is often said that, 'Necessity is the mother of invention?' Well, that is kind of how Kimchi got it's start in Korea history. During the winter months, it was impossible to get fresh vegetables. Preparing Kimchi was a way to provide essential nutrients to the Korean diet during this time of year. Large Kimchi pots can still be found on the roofs of many Korean homes.

Did I tell you that Koreans live in a very health conscious society? Actually, I think I have seen only a handful of fat people since I been here! Despite what you might think about this dish, it has all kinds of nutritional benefits like lowering blood pressure & cholesterol. If you don't believe me, check out this link (Kimchi Nutrition). I think a few of us in the US might need to add it to our own diets!

The "REAL" First Korean Meal

Korean BBQ

Some of you have been reading for a minute & might be wondering what happened during my first meal here in Korea. Well I have to tell you, it was quite different! First of all, I had been in Korea for almost a week when I had to leave Seoul on a business trip. No biggie right? I was kinda of nervous about it...after all, I had been in town less than a week and NEVER had tasted authentic Korean food.

As many of you know, my apartment building is absolutely great. It is attached to the COEX mall. This mall is huge & has no less than 3 food courts, & I am talking about some pretty large ones. Unfortunately, I walk past these mini-restauranteers most times on my way in & out of the building . Some of the aromas that can be found in these food courts can be quite tantalizing while others,....they just make me wanna up-chuck! So of course, in reference to eating with true Koreans, well,...we will just say that nervousness abounded.

My collegues are really nice gentlemen (bless their hearts) and they go out of their way to make me feel comfortable. Knowing that I am from America, they understand that my diet is quite different. Also, they understand that Korean traditions are quite foreign to me. So, they decided to take me to a Korean BBQ restaurant. BBQ, I can do that....right? I had been in Seoul for a minute, I was ready. However, I knew it was a bad sign when I saw a COW on the top of the building...most of you know, I really dont like red meat that much...Oh Joy! My collegues were so excited to take me on my first meal, I couldnt burst their bubbles by acting ungrateful and telling them that I wasnt pleased. Therefore, Academy Award Winner Keena made her arrival.

I have to admit though, I was blown off my circle when I realized that I had to TAKE OFF MY SHOES!! I thought that was a Japanese thing...guess not. Of course I didnt have on any shoes that were simple to remove like loafers or pumps....NO I had to have on boots, with heels no mind! Trying to take those off while standing was real treat! It was touch & go for a minute, but Praise be unto GOD! I did not fall :) My collegues did me a favor by requesting a "western style" table & chairs..Thanks guys. I guess they saw the trouble I had just removing my boots & knew that getting on the floor would present even greater challenges.

As with most ladies, it is pretty common to head to the ladies room before a meal to get your world together. Since we had been riding for a while, it was paramount that I take a trek to the bathroom....BUT WAIT! I had taken off my shoes, was I supposed to go in a BATHROOM with my shoes off? Yuck! Much to my delight, there were slippers at the entryway.

Now this part is gonna get a little PG-13 for some of you:

I immediately walked into a stall to relieve myself, I immediately walked back out...that stall didnt have a toilet. So I just went into the next one...ummmh....it didnt have a toilet either? I was totally confused, what was I supposed to do? But then it hit me, there was a hole in the floor, YES A HOLE IN THE FLOOR....well I NEVER!!!!! What was I supposed to do with that hole? I had to use my imagination, much like you are right now -------> After having this much fun before the meal, I had not clue of the adventure before me.....

That day for lunch we had a traditional Korean BBQ. For those of us that don't understand, let me explain a lil further. There were no ribs, not BBQ sauce, nor any pulled pork sandwiches. In the middle of our table there was a big opening, (kind of like the one in the bathroom actually :) and a big pan is placed over the whole. It similar to going to a modern fondue restaurant. Only on this adventure, we were not dipping bread in cheese, or strawberries in chocolate sauce. The waitress turned on the grill and added a bit of oil, she returned to the table moments later with a big tray of meat, yeah, red meat. Of course I was full of questions, they told me that it was similar to steak (tell me anything right?) She put some of these half dollar sized pieces of meat on the grill to begin cooking. Another trip to the table for her, and I was inundated with various dishes all over the table. The sad thing about all these dishes, I couldn't identify not one! Even the supposed western style tossed salad!

After a short time, the meat began to sizzle & surprisingly my dinner mates began to turn the meat over...with their chopsticks (Are u serious? they were just in your mouth) I was certain at the point that I was gonna be sick. First the bathroom, now this? That day, I tasted all kinds of things(after much inquiry)...surpisingly, most of the items were quite tasty (minus the steak...but that is just cause I dont like it). This meal consisted of so many courses, I didnt know if the meal would ever end. There was the meat (the waitress came back numerous times), then rice, and side dishes galore. Of course there was Kimchi. Soup came shortly after those & then tea to top it off. That meal taught me a few things, just cause it doesnt look good, or smell good, or just cause it is very different than what I am accustomed to, does not mean that the meal should be intimidating. And guess what...I didn't even get sick, I just syked myself out for nothing!

Western Cuisine -- All foods are not Created Equal in Korea

Although Seoul is filled with plenty of McDonalds, Burger King & even Popeye's Chicken fast food restaurants, their interpretation of our food is quite different. Many years ago during my first trip to Mexico, I was rather surprised to realize the Mexican food that I was eating in the US was TOTALLY different than the actual cuisine of the country. Even my favorite dishes were somehow infused with a different flavor. Unfortunately for me, that did not allow me to enjoy some of those dishes with the same fervor as I do at home. KOREA is no exception!

While in the office last week, I figured out that I was rather hungry & decided to go to the lower levels of my office building to the food court to gather some vittles. Since I had suddenly developed this ravenous appetite, I decided to get the first familiar thing that I saw. You know how you feel when you are "really" hungry, you don't want to try something that you MIGHT not like. So what did I decide? Mickey D's of course!!!

When I walked into the restaurant, I knew something was wrong immediately. All of you know that your McDonald's experience is usually one in which you enjoy sensory overload. First you see the Golden Arches, then.......you smell the fries, right? WRONG, not in Korea. My brain kept telling me that I was in the wrong place. But that is just a small thing. So, I took a look at the menu....Most of the writing was in Hangul (Korean Script), but they had English words posted up as well.....where is it though? My MOST FAVORITE sandwich in the world...it's not on the menu. I begin to panic, where is the filet of fish??? Apparently in this region it is replaced with the every popular "Shrimp Burger!!!"

McDonald's Shrimp Burger Combo

Kind of looks like a fish sandwich without the tartar sauce...Right???? There are other menu items that one can find uniquely in Korea, they include:

• The Bulgogi Burger (Pork patty with Bulgogi marinade)
• McBingsoo (Korean Shaved Ice)
• Corn Salad (as a side selection in place of fries)
• The 100 Won deposit on drinking cups if they leave the restaurant.

These unique menu items are rather common at fast-food chains and are based on the local tastes. So next time you are traveling around the world, check out McDonald's and see how they compare!

Korean Food Courts There was a brief mention of the Korean food courts in my building. Since I can't identify many things on the menu, I steer clear of these places. In them I have seen numerous unidentifiable foods. I consider myself a brave soul, but I have my limits. In an environment where they really eat cats & dogs, I have to be careful. Perhaps I just need a native Korean to explain some of the stuff to me so that I feel more comfortable.

PS I have only seen 3 dogs since I have been here!!!!TOTAL! Why do you think that is?

TTYL (Talk to you later)

K

Black History Month

So far during my time here in Korea, I have had an opportunity to travel around the country a bit for business. This gives me a chance to see many aspects of Korean life. Oftentimes when traveling to other nations, we only get to witness the lifestyle that is set before us in the tourist attractions. I have been given the unique option to see the various faces that define Korea.

On one particular trip, a collegue & I traveled to a town in the Southern region of Korea, called Yangsan, located in Kyongsangnam-do. This is a small industrial town that is trying to contribute to the growth of Korea through industrialization.

While visiting a manufacturing facility in Yongsan, to review their process, we experienced a small delay. Therefore, we were left with a little free time to talk with the management team. Many of them were very anxious to speak to us, as our customers are often excited when they know that you are helping to get them more business. Needless to say, many conversations commenced. However, there was one particular young man, that seemed to stare at me for a little while before coming over to start a conversation.

As we talked, sometimes during the conversation we would struggle. Although his thoughts were concise, his english pronunciation at times was a little challenged. Therefore, most times I would have to deduce what he was saying. But we perserved on through our conversation. He started to tell me about a great man that he really respected & looked up to. I understood the good things about the man, but did not understand who he was talking about. So I had to ask him who he was talking about.

"Ge-wash Carverator" he said.

"Who?..please say it slower," I said.

"Ge-wash-car-va-ra-tor"

I had no clue who he was talking about. So we just continued to talk...but then, he made a reference to the peanut.

"OH! George Washington Carver!" I screamed

"Yes, yes yes, he was a great man. All the things that he acheived despite the problems for black people....I admire him so much, 'cause I came from poor family. He inspired me," he said.

For me that was a great moment of truth. During the cultural training that my company sends employees to before an overseas assignment, I was told that during my voyage, that the Koreans would appreciate the fact that I had done much research on their country finding out about it's people and history. I never did imagine that I too would feel some much pride when discussing the history of my people on that day. To think a young Korean man from the small industrial town of Yangae was so motivated by the struggle of blacks in America, specifically George Washington Carver that it inspired him to realize his dreams. I know I might sound a little patriotic, but at that point I was so proud to be a Black American, I could have burst.

For those of you that might need to brush up on your American history, George Washington Carver was an inventor & scholar. He recognized the need for blacks to be educated, which drove him to start Tuskeegee Institute[College] for blacks. Furthermore, through his zeal for knowledge many blacks were educated during a time, where college was not available to many blacks (incidently he graduated from two top schools; the University of Chicago & Harvard University). He was quite brilliant & he alone discovered over 100 uses for the peanut!

[Please see link for more info ---> George Washington Carver]

Since this is Black history month, I only find it fitting that I challenge each of you out there. Please find a child, any child and share with them the story of George Washington Carver and hopefully it will inspire them to pursue excellence like it did for Tony in Yangae, S Korea.

Religion in Korea

Religion plays a key component in the lifestyle of many Koreans. Many of you probably think that because Korea is situated in the East that it would be mainly a Buddhist or Confusionist environment. In the US media, Buddhist monks complete with bare feet & shaven heads are commonly portrayed as the dominate religion in Eastern cultures. After a closer inspection of this subject, I learned that this is not necessarily the case here in Korea. Actually, Christianity is the leading religion in the nation. (WOW!) Approximately 50% of Koreans are Christian, and the remaining population is either Buddhist, Confusionist, or a mix of both religions. Now isn't that an interesting factoid? Half of this country believes in the risen savior, Jesus! The largest Christian Church in the world is located in Seoul, Korea. Youido Full Gospel Church boasts a membership of over 800,000 members. Although their main service is held in Korean, they also have English, Chinese, French, Thai & numerous other languaged services to accomodate the diverse church body. The main sanctuary only holds 12,000 people but there are 10 different services (along with 10 seperate choirs) each Sunday. The church belongs to the Assemblies of God fellowship. Youido Full Gospel Church (pictured above) Photo of main sanctuary of Youido Full Gospel Church Please see the church website for more interesting information regarding this great church and it's founding pastor. It also shares the pastor's testimony regarding salvation & the mega-growth of this church (for those of you that might be interested) My Christian Experience I make it no secret to anyone that I meet that I live for Jesus Christ, and believe him to be the risen savior that died for the sins of the world. Growing up in a christian household, I have been introduced to many aspects of the christian lifestyle. Being from a full gospel, pentecostal background I thought coming to Korea would present me with a church worship experience dilemma. NOT SO!!! Not only is the Youido Church in Seoul but, many other thriving spirit-filled ministries are here as well. My own christian experience has been in the fellowship of the Church of God in Christ (COGIC). The Grand 'Ole The Church of God in Christ is the largest Holiness-Pentecostal and African-American Christian denomination in the US. Having been a life-long member of this denomination, I am very familiar with our history as a church. The organization in which the largest church in the world is affliated, the Assemblies of God, separated from the Church of God in Christ in 1913 due to race relations during that time. It was not adviseable for other nationalities to fellowship or take advise from an African-American lead organization. Although the fellowships parted, the same belief system is followed by both groups. (Click on this link for brief history --> COGIC, Inc) Despite the fact that the COGIC is mainly an African-American attended church, there are church locations worldwide. A few of them even exist here in South Korea. One such church, The Word of Faith Mission COGIC is located in Yongsan, Seoul Korea. I have had the pleasure of attending their worship services since I arrived. Founding Pastor Woodrow Givens has been in ministry for over 22 years in Korea.

Some of my fellow COGIC buddies have asked me if I had found a COGIC church, I have indeed. Please see the live video feed from service on Sunday: Wherever You Go...You Have a Friend in Jesus The congregation is a diverse lot of mainly African Americans (from military base), Africans (from Nigeria), and Korean nationals. I was very impressed with their sincere worship & desire to please the Lord. I also noticed that they were very excited to have me worship with them. They were very friendly, and showed me true Christian love. During my first visit, I was introduced to many of the congregants who seemed really intrigued with the fact that I had only been in Korea a few days and had found their church. Only they did not realize that before I left the US, I had sought out their congregation. I was very happy to be in their presence as well, no matter how far I am away from home, away from my friends & family, I don't have to worry cause I always have a friend in Jesus. Does Church=Chicken? I had to ask myself this question after attending services at the local Korean congregation. As the membership body was very friendly & welcoming, I could not help but laugh when I was offered a plate of chicken...Yes, chicken! Many of you out there that are reading this blog have grown up in churches around the US where "Chicken" has always been the main staple of many Sunday dinners. I always thought that Chicken on Sundays was a "black thing" or a "southern" thing, but apparently ladies & gentleman, I was mistaken....'cause CHICKEN is a CHURCH THANG WORLDWIDE!!! Stay tuned, K

Asia's Version of Hip Hop

Che'Nelle "Hurray Up" While talking to some members of my family upon my arrival, I told them about a young Asian Hip-Hop artist that is very popular here in Asia. She is often seen on V-Music Channel (the Asian version of MTV). I wish I could have located a video of her speaking because you would not believe that she did not grow up in the ghettos of the US if you heard her talk. ANYWHO!...since my family seemed very interested in seeing her video, I thought I would share with the rest of you. Check out her video and tell me what you think! Asian Hip-Hop at its finest.

Why Are You Here?

Before I set out on my adventure here in the Orient, I was asked many times why I was making the journey to Korea by family members, friends & collegues . I would often answer the question with the most obvious reason,

"I am going to be working in our[Chrysler] Korean office."

On several occasions it was quite obvious that some individuals did not quite understand my excitement behind this statement. Rather, they felt quite uncomfortable with my desire to not just travel but to live & work abroad.

"But why Korea?...You actually want to go there?"they asked.

Unwilling to let them impact my joyful anticipation, I responded with a simple question,

"How many times in your life do you get to go on an adventure and live in another country?????"

Often they would just shrug their shoulders, or shake their heads in disbelief.

"But that is sooo far away," they said as if I had not thought through my decision.

"I KNOW, that's the point!" I replied unable to hide my excitement.

Before making the decision to come to Korea, I knew that traveling over 7,000 miles away from home was going to provide me with some unique experiences not available in Michigan, or the US for that matter. Hopefully, life changing experiences. Hence, I traveled here with the spirit of adventure on my mind. For many years I have worked in corporate America, gone a few places, seen a few things, BUT, never have I placed myself in such an interesting position. Here in Korea, I am totally out of my comfort circle, and I'm loving it! Many of you that know me, know how close I am with my family & how interactive we are within each others lives. Additionally, at home I know the full lay of the land, where to go, what to do, & who to do it with. Making this trek abroad, I have none of the traditonal security of home, but somehow, I find the challenge of establishing a life for myself (albeit it temporary) very exciting.

Americans in Korea

During my researching stage, I recognized that Korean is a mostly homogeneous society, where Korean faces dawn nearly every street corner. However, with the recent years of growth & prosperity witnessed in the Korean economy, Seoul has become a fierce player in the global marketplace. Surely with all this growth, Seoul has seen other black Americans...right? Of course they have! I have found that many Black & non-black Americans reside within the South Korean borders.

Soldiers in the US Military account for the greatest number of Americans in Korea. The US Military has had a very strong presence here in Korea, since the days of the Korean War(Anyone remember MASH 4077?). Securing the borders between North & South Korea and other governmental assignments attribute to the various military posts here in Korea. Amazingly, in all the years since the official cease fire of the Korean War (July 1953), there is still no peace treaty between North & South Korea. Therefore, a strong US military presence continues to keep the borders safe.

Korea's emphasis on global economic expansion with increased US business has opened up opportunities for many Americans to teach English. As a result, Korea has succumbed to strong western influences and many Koreans desire to speak English. Hence, we have another group of brazen Americans (various nationalities). These two sectors of Americans represented in the Korean population have created a unique subset of Black American culture.

Since my arrival, I have been asked many times which of the former two professions I represent. People tend to be quite shocked when I tell them I neither teach English or arrived here through some type of military assignment. Even while traveling, one of the Black flight attendants asked me if I was in the military. Is it so hard to think that a Black woman from the US can be in Korea chasing a different path? Apparently so...but they will just have to get over it!

K

The Sleep - Walking

I have to first start out this entry by apologizing for not updating sooner, but as many of you may have experienced from time to time, JETLAG is no joke. As a result, although I have loads to share with my family & friends, I have been soooo wiped out that I have not been able to keep my head up two minutes after getting back to my apartment at night! On average, I tend to wake up somewhere between midnight & three AM in the morning, and then I’m up….yep for the rest of the day. Hopefully this weekend I will be able to readjust my body clock…please pray ‘cause this part is not fun!!!

Things to Buy in Korea

Due to SEVERE sleep deprivation & trying to function in an environment that is fourteen hours ahead of what my body says, I am gonna cheat a little today. I came across this listing on one of the Korean tourist websites that might be interest some of you. Since not many people from the U.S. have had the opportunity or reason to travel to the Orient, I thought I would share with you some things that are available in Korea. Some of them are obvious selections, but I'm sure there will be a few items that you didn't know about. Enjoy, K

Alcohol & Liquors

Korea has a long tradition of drinking. As part of an agrarian society, many farmers developed grain alcohols from their local specialties. Korea's most famous drinks are all made from rice: soju, dong-dong-ju, and makkolli. The different regions of Korea each have their own distinctive methods for making drinks, with some local residents achieving Intangible Cultural Asset status.

Antiques

Popular antique items include Silla (668 - 935) paintings, ceramics, pottery, and metal craft work; Goryeo (918-1392) ceramics; and Joseon (1392-1910) wooden chests, furniture, and white celadon (pottery). Remember that the Korean Cultural Properties Preservation Law forbids the exporting of designated "important cultural properties." Take care when purchasing genuine antiques.

Bamboo

Koreans turn bamboo into a number of products, including beds, chairs, pillows, blinds, and ladders. Bamboo mats create a small pocket of air between the person and ground, offering a cooler environment from sitting directly on the ground.

Brush Paintings & Supplies

Calligraphy and brush painting are popular hobbies among the young and old. Brushes of all different sizes, inks of various colors, and traditional paper of many types of textures can be found at specialty shops, especially in Seoul's Insadong area.

Cloth & Clothing

Many different types of tailor-made and off-the-rack clothes can be bought in Korea. Korean tailors can custom make a suit and set of hand-made shirts in a couple of days. Korean sizes tend to be a little small for Westerners. That "large" T-shirt you buy in Namdaemun Market may not be large enough! Korea has a wide selection of fine silks and other fabrics. You can also buy hand made traditional clothes .

Electronics

As one of Korea's major exports, many types of electronics good are available, from computers and computer chips to TVs to microwave ovens to stereo equipment. Department stores, specialty markets, and brand name stores all carry a wide selection, but the prices tend to be higher than back home (due to heavy government subsidies of exported products). Prices at discount stores and the Yongsan electronics market can be as much as 30% cheaper. Domestic products use 220 volts, while most U.S. appliances use 120. Transformers from 220 to 110 and 110 to 220 can be found at most electronics stores. In Seoul, visit the Yongsan Electronics Market for the best buys.

Furs

With the deeply discounted price of fur products in Korea, you can almost save the price of your plane ticket by coming to Korea and making a purchase. Specialty fur shops and and duty-free stores usually have the best bargains. Most department stores also have off-season sales during the summer months.

Garlic

As one of the staple ingredients in many types of Korean food, garlic can be found at any market or food store. Koreans buy it whole, chopped, and powdered. Several areas are famous for their garlic yields.

Ginseng

The Greek words pan (all) and Axos (medical drug) combine to form panax ("cure all"), part of the scientific name for ginseng. A staple of Chinese herb medicine, ginseng is used as preventative treatment for a number of ailments. Because of the personal attention given by individual farmers and close government supervision of the process, Korean ginseng has a world-wide reputation for high quality.

Handbags and Suitcases

Korean shops carry a wide choice of purses, hand bags, back packs, travel bags, suitcases, and briefcases. Prices vary depending on the quality of the items, the types of store, and your bargaining skills. The items are made from cowhide, alligator, or eel skin, as well as a variety of synthetic. Handbags follow international fashion trends, and the latest styles from Europe are quickly copied by domestic makers.

Handicrafts and Traditional Goods

In addition to bamboo, brush painting supplies, and pottery, Korea produces many different types of traditional handicrafts. Lacquerware tables, chairs, wardrobes, and chests can be found in many homes. Brass is fashioned into vases, lamps, and tables. Wooden masks used for generations in plays and dances are also popular collectibles. Many women enjoy macrame and embroidery, and many shops can be found specializing in these items.

Jade

To Koreans, jade symbolizes purity. You can find a wide selection of necklaces, bracelets, hair pins, and statues made from this material. Ch'unch'on in Kangwon Province is rich in nephrite jade and many craftsmen work in the area.

Jewelry

Korean jewelers have a wide variety of rings, necklaces, earings, and bracelets made from local amethyst, topaz, and jade. Gold and silver are also popular materials, and diamonds are a girl's best friend in any country. Jewelers should be able to provide a certificate of authenticity for all items they sell.

Kimch'i

What would Korea be without kimch'i? There are over 40 different variations of spiced radishes or cabbage fermented with hot peppers, onions, salt, and garlic. Each family has their own way of making it, giving theirs a unique flavor. Not all kimch'i is hot, but some types do require some getting used to. However, once you get used to it, you will probably find yourself getting urges for it! There are even kimch'i museums showing the main types and the process of making it.

Leather and Eel Skin Products

Korea has great prices for all sorts of leather products. Find the coats, jackets, belts, gloves, shoes, and wallets you want in a multitude of designs and colors. Many of these products can also be found made from eel skin and other unusual materials.

Shoes

In addition to the numerous real and imitation Nikes, Reeboks, and Addidas sports shoes for sale, leather and suede dress shoes are also a good bargain. Like clothing, Korean sizes tend to be small, so you may have trouble finding larger sizes unless you go to It'aewon. Many places can also custom make shoes and boots.

Sporting Goods

In addition to shoes and sports clothes, Korea makes a wide selection of other sporting goods, such as tennis rackets, ski equipment, fishing rods, and baseball gloves. Famous makers like Nike and Reebok, as well as many Korea brands, have outlets in most major shopping areas.

Tea

Like other Asian societies, Korea has a long history of a tea culture. Many people enjoy drinking nok-ch'a (green tae) or insam-ch'a (tea with ginseng). Although many traditional tea houses have been replaced by coffee shops and bars, a few still thrive in Seoul's Insa-dong area. You can order tea online from the Life in Korea Food and Drink Store.

Watches

Watches in a wide range of prices can be had in Korea. Well-known name brands are on sale here, as well as many cheap imitations. Although some prices may be outrageously cheap, be sure you know the customs regulations for bringing counterfeit items into your home country. As any any country, beware of people selling $50 Rolexes!Korean jewelers have a wide variety of rings, necklaces, earings, and bracelets made from local amethyst, topaz, and jade. Gold and silver are also popular materials, and diamonds are a girl's best friend in any country. Jewelers should be able to provide a certificate of authenticity for all items they sell.