adidas party!

Adidas Originals Exemplify Street Style

A model wears a denim outfit from the limited edition collection ``adidas Originals by Diesel," during a fashion show at the aA Design Museum, Hongdae. / Courtesy of adidas Originals By Cathy Rose A. Garcia Staff Reporter Today's street fashion won't be the same without sportswear. Young people just love sneakers, track pants, sporty jackets and accessories, all of which are part of their wardrobe. Adidas Originals is at the forefront of street fashion, introducing innovative designs for sneakers, clothes and accessories catering to the young and hip crowd. Adidas Originals recently unveiled its spring/summer 2008 collection with unique products that ``celebrate originality'' at the aA Design Museum in Hongdae. Hongdae may seem like a curious choice as a venue for a fashion event, when most fashion brands always hold their shows in posh hotels or chic bars in Cheongdam-dong or Apgujeong-dong. Adidas Korea president and managing director Paul Hardisty said the choice of Hongdae as obvious because the area is known for its vibrant arts scene and creative energy. ``Adidas Originals is about street and sub-cultures. I would say it is more about music and arts. What better place to do it than in Hongdae and in an art gallery? We are introducing products that cater to individualistic people. Every one has their own character and people will find something special they like in every range,'' Hardisty told The Korea Times. Hardisty noted the Hongdae crowd, with its mix of young artists, designers and musicians, best defines the brand's target market. With thumping music from Japanese DJ Fantastic Plastic Machine, the fashion show featured clothes, shoes and accessories with themes inspired by music, culture, environment and sports. The catwalk included not just professional models, but also a handful of die-hard fans who are also make-up artists, stylists and tattoo artists. Japanese rocker Atsusi, a member of Dragon Ash, added a bit of excitement to the show when he showed creative dance moves while modeling the latest apparel. The six themes for spring and summer are: adidas Grun, Handbags for Feet, Original Games, Tournament Edition, Sounds of the City and Respect M.E. A pair of sneakers from the ``Handbags for Feet" collection by adidas Originals. / Courtesy of adidas Originals Adidas Grun shows the brand's commitment to becoming more environmentally friendly, with products such as the ``Forum basketball sneaker'' and ``ZX 500 runner,'' made from recycled materials. Handbags for Feet are for the fashionista who wants comfortable but stylish footwear, which are inspired by luxury handbag designs. Hip-hop star Missy Elliot's Respect M.E. collection features a new line called VIP Hop that uses matte gold and monogram prints in its design. On the other hand, Sounds of the City features collaborations with music industry icons such as Motown, Jam Master Jay and Blue Note. The Tournament Edition collection reinterprets the classic tennis styles worn by tennis icons such as Rod Laver, Stan Smith and Ilie Nastase. The Original Games collection is all about products inspired by the Olympics, as Beijing hosts the Olympic Games next year. The fashion show also featured several limited edition denim pieces from adidas' collaboration with Diesel, which will be introduced in shops next year. cathy@koreatimes.co.kr

kandinsky

Kandinsky, Other Russian Masterpieces in Seoul

Vassily Kandinsky's ``Blue Crest'' is one of the paintings included in the ``Kandinsky and Russian Masterpieces'' exhibition at the Hangaram Art Museum in Seoul. By Cathy Rose A. Garcia Staff Reporter The richness of Russian art and culture may be unknown among many Koreans, but the new exhibition ``Kandinsky and Russian Masterpieces'' is hoping to change that. Ninety-one works by prominent Russian artists such as Vassily Kandinsky, Kazimir Malevich, Natalia Goncharova and Ilya Repin are currently on display at the Hangaram Art Museum, Seoul Arts Center complex, southern Seoul. Two of Russia's most prominent galleries, the State Russian Museum and the Tretyakov Gallery, lent the works for the exhibition that covers 19th century to early 20th century Russian art, the first of its kind in Korea. It runs through Feb. 27. In an interview with The Korea Times, Tretyakov Museum deputy director Lidia Iobleva said it took three years to prepare for this exhibition since they had to decide which works would be able to travel to Seoul. Seoul National University professor Park Jong-so said, in the exhibition catalogue, that Russian paintings of the late 19th century are ``the culmination of the art of realism which depicts 'social reality just as it is.''' ``Korea will be able to see how 'art as an active force of social participation' (one of the essential characteristics of Russian art) manifests itself in the territory of high art, meet the questions of what is life and what is truth, and bump into those souls of art who are struggling to find the answers to these questions,'' Park said. The first part of the exhibition focuses on 19th century realism. If the lighting in the room seems a bit dark, it is done intentionally to create the appropriate conditions for viewing the portraits of famous writers and musicians. Russian painters chose to do portraits depicting the person as they were, with no attempt to beautify them. Among the works displayed are, Repin's portraits of authors Leo Tolstoy (``L.N. Tolstoy at Rest in the Forest'') and Ivan Turgenev; Nikolai Kuznetsov's portrait of composer Pyotr Tchaikovsky; and Vasily Perov's portrait of writer Fyodor Dostoyevsky. There are also historical, landscape and scenery paintings. Ivan Aivazovsky's ``Storm'' depicts chaotic seas in the middle of a storm, while Vasily Perov's ``Drowned Woman'' shows a soldier smoking while a dead woman lies in front of him. ``Oral Counting (in the S.A. Rachinsky public school)'' by Nikolai Bogdanov-Belsky depicts a group of young boys studying in class. In ``Oral Counting (in the S.A. Rachinsky public school),'' Nikolai Bogdanov-Belsky perfectly captures the confused look of young boys studying arithmetic in class. Firs Zhuravlyov's ``Before the wedding ceremony'' depicts a distraught bride who is about to marry an older man. In the 20th century, the experimental and avant-garde Russian movement emerged, as artists moved away from western European influences. The leading figure of this movement is Kandinsky, known as one of the first and greatest pioneers of pure abstract art. Four of his works, ``Blue Crest,'' ``Composition #223,'' ``River in Autumn,'' and ``Summer Landscape,'' are displayed in a separate room. Other notable works from this period are Goncharova's ``Hoar Frost'' and ``Larionov's Tree,'' and Malevich's ``Cow and Violin.'' Ivan Karlov, deputy director of the Russian Museum, said it is very hard to decide which of the works are the best or most important. ``It is difficult to choose because for me, all of them are the best. These works are like children to me,'' he told The Korea Times. Tickets are 12,000 won for adults, 9,000 won for 12 year olds to 17 year olds, and 7,000 won for children between 6 year olds to 11 year olds. The museum is closed on the last Monday of every month. Seoul Arts Center is a 10-minute walk from Nambu Bus Terminal subway station (Line 3, Exit 4 or 5). Local buses are also available. Visit www.2007kandinsky.com or call Seoul Arts Center (02) 525-3321. cathy@koreatimes.co.kr

korean art

National Treasures on Display in Houston

The crown with pendants from Geumgwan-chong (Tomb of the Gold Crown) is one of two Korean National Treasures on display at the Arts of Korea gallery, Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. / Courtesy of The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston By Cathy Rose A. Garcia Staff Reporter Two National Treasures from Korea are now on display at a newly-opened gallery dedicated to Korean art at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH) in Texas. The Museum of Fine Arts Houston opened the Arts of Korea gallery Saturday, making it the only gallery in the Southwest devoted to Korean traditional and contemporary art. Former U.S. President George H. W. Bush attended the opening ceremony. On exclusive loan from the National Museum of Korea are two national treasures from the 5th century Silla Kingdom, a crown with pendants (National Treasure no. 87) and a girdle with pendants (National Treasure no. 88). The two rare gold pieces are making their first appearance outside Korea, and can be viewed at the MFAH through January 2008. The Arts of Korea Gallery presents 5,000 years of cultural history, as well as contemporary art. MFAH director Peter C. Marzio said the museum's acquisition of Korean contemporary art distinguishes it from other installations. ``This new art stems from the emergence of Korean artists into the global interchange of ideas, and communicates the artists' complex response to their cultural past. Korea's long and distinguished history of traditional art is rarely presented here in the United States, so it is with sincere gratitude that we acknowledge the National Museum of Korea for its loan of so many important examples of traditional Korean art,'' Marzio said. The Arts of Korea gallery has four thematic sections, ceramics, Buddhist art, women's personal ornaments and contemporary art. Artist Suh Do-ho was commissioned to create an entrance gate to the gallery, which will be completed and installed next year. The main highlights of the exhibition are the gold crown and girdle, which were both retrieved from Geumgwan-chong (Tomb of the Gold Crown), Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang Province. The crown is made of sheet gold with stylized tree and antler-shaped elements, which represent the connection between heaven and earth; and the crescent-shaped jade ornaments called ``gogok,'' symbolizes resurrection of life and abundance. The gold girdle measures nearly four feet in length, and is adorned with 17 pendants of model fish, small knives and tassels. The ceramics display features a 20-inch tall Neolithic comb-pattern vessel, red-burnished jar from the Bronze Age, a turtle-shaped celadon ewer from the Goryeo Kingdom (918-1392) and a porcelain jar with a dragon and cloud design in cobalt blue from the late 18th to 19th century of the Joseon Kingdom. The Buddhist art exhibit shows how Buddhism has influenced Korean art. On display are figurative sculptures such as a ``Contemplative Bodhisattva'' from the Three Kingdoms period, ``Standing Buddha'' from the Silla period; and objects used in religious rituals such as the late ``Goryeo Ritual Ewer and Buddhist Bell.'' The section on women's personal ornaments and accessories feature intricate decorative pieces such as a Joseon period ornament with amber; an ornament with Jade, which show the unique Korean decorative knot called maedup; a celadon cosmetic case and mother-of-pearl inlaid mirror box. A selection of contemporary Korean art is also displayed at the Arts of Korea Gallery. Among the notable pieces are Shin Mee-kyoung's large carved Buddha made out of soap; Lee Bul's ``Untitled,'' a dynamic sculpture of wire, crystals and beads; and Atta Kim's ``Series of People, #073,'' from the ``Museum Project'' of a bride and groom in Western clothing in a glass box. Christine Starkman, MFAH curator of Asian art, said the juxtaposition of traditional art with modern Korean art, recognizes the contribution of Korean artists to the international scene. ``These artists very imaginatively engage with issues of Korean art history, globalization, and the nature of language and translation,'' she said. The Arts of Korea gallery, which was established with support from the Korea Foundation, is part of MFAH's commitment to Asian art. The museum will open a gallery for Indonesian art in spring 2008, while galleries for Chinese and Japanese art will open in December 2008. In January, MFAH will hold an exhibition ``Where Clouds Disperse,'' featuring ink paintings of Korean ink painter Suh Se-ok. A major exhibition ``Contemporary Art from Korea,'' co-organized with the Los Angeles Museum of Art, will be held in October 2009. The MFAH, founded in 1900, is the largest art museum in the Southwest. For information, visit www.mfah.org. cathy@koreatimes.co.kr

fashion forecast

Spring, Summer Fashion Forecast

A model wears an evening gown designed by Paris-based Korean designer Jaison. / Courtesy of PAP Busan By Cathy Rose A. Garcia Staff Reporter The Korean fashion industry wrapped up its spring and summer 2008 collections last week, although with seemingly less buzz and excitement than before. From late October to November, a flurry of fashion shows hit Korea. The Seoul Collection, Seoul Fashion Artists Association (SFAA) and Pret-a-Porter Busan (PAP Busan), not to mention individual designers and high-profile brands, have given their fashion forecasts for next season. Overall, the main look on Korea's runways was still very romantic, with lots of ruffles, muted tones and soft silhouettes. The color palette featured a lot of blacks, whites and grays, but bursts of neon color added some spice. Minimalist looks, tribal chic and artistic outfits were also spotted. Seoul Fashion Controversy marred the start of the fashion season, as SFAA members decided to split from the Seoul government-sponsored Seoul Collection. Both Seoul Collection and SFAA Collection drew noticeably thinner crowds respectively, as compared to previous years. The Seoul Collection, held between Oct. 19-26, featured 35 designers including Lee Young-hee, Imseonoc, Choi Bum-suk and Andy & Debb, and members of the New Wave Seoul and Korea Fashion Designers Association. Andy & Debb showed off clean, simple lines, and muted tones of sunflower yellow, cool gray and taupe in their collection. Choi Bum-suk also attracted attention for his softly chic and luxurious men's wear collection. On the other hand, SFAA held its series of fashion shows in a tent outside the National Theater of Korea last Nov. 20-22, which unfortunately marked the onset of a cold spell. People who braved the cold weather, shivered while watching the shows of 16 designers including Jinteok, Rubina, Oh Eun-hwan, Bakangchi, Chang Kwang-hyo and Sul Yun-hyoung. The themes for SFAA's spring and summer collection were ``romantic'' and ``nature,'' pastel colors and loose silhouettes with natural, eco-friendly fabrics. Grays, blacks and whitesgave a darker edge to the normally light color palette for spring. Jinteok's collection never fails to impress. On a white floored catwalk, models walked out wearing minimalist baby doll dresses with puffed sleeves, pared-down balloon skirts and A-line shapes. Cheerful colors such as orange, red, yellow, pink and blue popped up on sporty striped shirts and ruffled tops. The designer used silk chiffon, taffeta, shantung silk, tulle and jersey fabrics for her collection. Rubina brought a taste of African safari to the runways. She said she was inspired by travels to Africa, and aimed to create a romantic, feminine yet seductive mood for her collection. It featured one-piece dresses, oversized trench coats, loose blazers and a cocoon-style dress. She also used ethnic elements such as African-inspired beading, as well as animal prints for her collection. Bakangchi's ``vivi lady'' is the epitome of urban chic, as models walked down with bat wing-sleeved tops and puffed mini-pants. Lee Kyu-rye's models wore pretty dresses accented with ruffles, one of the key trends for next season. For the men's wear collections, Chang Kwang-hyo brought out sharp and slim suits in beige and black, while Kim Gyu-sik and Lee Ju-young opted for dark, futuristic looks. Lee's collection for Resurrection featured splashes of neon with metallic colors for a stylish rocker look for men. Models, including boy band SS501 member Kim Hyun-joong, strutted down the runway wearing black leather suits, metallic gold vests, cobalt blue tops and a lot of attitude. Kim Gyu-sik introduced a futuristic look for his men's wear collection which featured edgy motorcycle jackets. International Fashion Busan is trying to rival Seoul as the fashion capital of Korea. Pret-a-Porter Busan (PAP Busan), the last major fashion event of the season, distinguished itself from Seoul's fashion events by inviting foreign designers. In past years, designers such as Richard Chai, Doori Chung, Maria Cornejo and Michiko Koshino have shown their collections in Busan. This year, France's Christophe Guillarme, Japan's Minoru Adachi, China's Frankie Xie and Paris-based Korean designer Jaison added foreign flair to Busan's runways. Styles ranged from romantic dresses and sexy prints to dark, sophisticated looks. Guillarme brought his ultra-sophisticated, sexy designs inspired by mythical mermaids. He showed off different prints, such as silk burnt-out mix with smoky lace, python, aquatic flora and leopard, on slinky gowns and cut out dresses. He used kimono sleeves on some dresses, and experimented with rich colors such as turquoise blue, coral pink, antique gold, deep purple and lavender. Adachi's Mode Acote collection featured feminine looks with a touch of masculine appeal. He used a mix of synthetic and natural fabrics for his collection. Soft ruffles were featured on pale tops and airy dresses, while eyelets were used to accent dresses. Xie, who showed his collection at the Paris Fashion Week, designed outfits with flight attendants in mind. Stripes, short pants and knitted socks are reminiscent of American girls in the 1950's, while one-piece dresses over striped mini knitted sweaters recall the hip British style of the 1960's. Jaison, originally from Daegu and now based in Paris, showed off stunning evening gowns with rich detail and color. His design concept was based on a ``Night at Versailles,'' recalling the rich extravagance of the French palace. Busan-based designers Seo Soon-nam and Lee Young-hee (not to be confused with the hanbok designer Lee Young-hee) gave a hint of what the port city's emerging fashion style would be. Seo described her collection as ``elegant-retro,'' as she found inspiration from the feminine styles of the 1940's and 1960's. She used gray as her main palette, and accented it with rich colors including brown, dark blue, dark green, red, yellow and violet. Lee said she created modern, sporty looks based on simple but feminine shapes. This was seen in the black and white gingham, as well as colorful geometric prints found on flirty dresses. PAP Busan ended with a show by Seoul-based designer Park Choon-moo, who used a lot of black, white, silver and red in her collection. Inspired by the sun and moon, Park's collection featured bold circles on a gauzy sweater and cocoon-style dresses. While the fashion season may have started off on the wrong foot, Korea's designers have shown that their creative style and unique vision for spring and summer fashion still prevail. cathy@koreatimes.co.kr

designers in busan

Jaison, Christophe Guillarme Make Korea Debut in PAP Busan By Cathy Rose A. Garcia Staff Reporter The Pret-a-Porter (PAP) Busan is known as a stepping-stone for international designers to enter the Korean market, such as renowned designers Michiko Koshino, Maria Cornejo, Richard Chai and Doo-ri Chung, along with rising designers Belgian Christian Wijnants and French-Argentian Gaspard Yurkievich. This year, there were no big name designers, but certainly the presence of up-and-coming Paris-based designers Christophe Guillarme and Jaison added excitement to the event. Jaison, a Korean designer who opened his own showroom in Paris in 2005, expressed excitement at having the opportunity to showcase his designs in Korea for the first time. In an interview with The Korea Times, Jaison said he had always dreamt of going to Paris and fulfilling his ambition of becoming a designer in the world's fashion capital. ``I am inspired by Paris, the music and its people. I think Paris is a romantic and fantastic city. … Paris is the fashion capital of the world, and there you can meet buyers not just from France but buyers from all over the world,'' he said. Jaison graduated with a degree in textile arts from Kyung Won University in 2000, and then from the Ecole de la Chambre Syndicale in 2003. He worked as a stylist for Paco Rabanne, Eric Bergere, and as a couture designer for Fredric Alzra and Diamont Blanc. Since launching his brand in 2005, Jaison has already shown his collection in Paris, Moscow and Dubai to much acclaim. His romantic, extravagant designs are available in boutiques in Moscow, London and the Middle East, but Jaison is still looking to introduce his brand in Korea. ``If people here like my brand, I would love to bring it here,'' Jaison said. In an interview with The Korea Times, Guillarme said he was excited to have been invited to Busan, which he described as a ``lovely city'' with a charm similar to Cape Town in South Africa. The 28-year old French designer said he mixed both Italian and Parisian style for his dramatic collection filled with ultra-glamorous and seductive gowns. Guillarme said his 2008 spring and summer collection was the first time he had decided to go all out with his creative vision. ``I wanted to create something very different that you cannot see on another person. … I've decided not to make any compromises. I'm only making very strong, dramatic pieces with my sexy style. My most successful pieces are not commercial, but the one-of-a-kind designs. This is what people are expecting from me, and I'm glad to do this,'' he said. While this is his first time in Korea, Guillarme admitted he became a big fan of renowned hanbok designer Lee Young-hee after seeing her fashion show in Paris. Guillarme would like to enter the Korean market, saying he is willing to make appropriate design changes to cater to the customers. In Asia, his clothes are presently available in multi-brand shops in Japan and the Philippines. cathy@koreatimes.co.kr

linkin park rocks

Linkin Park Rocks Fans in Seoul

Linkin Park performed before a packed crowd at the Olympic Gymnastics Stadium, southern Seoul Friday evening. By Cathy Rose A. Garcia Staff Reporter American rock group Linkin Park may have been late for their concert in Seoul, Friday evening, but that didn't stop thousands of fans from screaming and jumping throughout the hour and a half show. The ticket indicated the Linkin Park concert would start at 8 p.m., but only Korean duo Dynamic Duo hit the stage at 8:15 p.m. Drunken Tiger also came out to perform and did a good job of pumping up the crowd's energy However, fans were left to wait for Linkin Park to appear on stage, causing many to complain and even boo. When Linkin Park finally appeared at 9:30 p.m., the crowd immediately roared with excitement as the group sang ``One Step Closer. This was followed by equally exciting performances of ``Lying from You,'' and ``Somewhere I Belong.'' Linkin Park lead singer Chester Bennington impressed everyone with his vocal range, doing well on both hard rock and slow numbers. Korean fans cheered whenever the cameras focused on group's turntablist Joe Hahn, who is of Korean descent. Mike Shinoda, emcee and vocalist, said he liked how the crowd sang along to the songs they were performing, describing it as ``loud and proud.'' Throughout the concert, Linkin Park performed memorable hit songs such as ``Papercut,'' ``Crawling,'' ``Numb,'' ``In the End'' and ``Points of Authority.'' The group's energy didn't seem to wane. Linkin Park also introduced several new songs from their latest album ``Minutes to Midnight,'' such as ``What I've Done'' and ``Bleed It Out.'' Linkin Park even asked the crowd to sing ``Happy Birthday'' for lead guitarist Brad Delson, who was celebrating his birthday on Saturday. The concert ended with `Faint'' that had the crowd screaming for more. It was four years since Linkin Park's first concert in Seoul in 2003, but fans still can't get enough of this group. At the concert merchandise booths, fans were given a chance to purchase blank CDs and a special code that would allow them to download the Seoul concert. Linkin Park wrapped up their Projekt Revolution 2007 world tour, which brought them to Europe, Shanghai, Tokyo, Osaka and Bangkok. cathy@koreatimes.co.kr

luxe

Books Look Into Asian Luxury Industry

Chinese shoppers walk past a Prada billboard outside a shop in Beijing, 19 June 2007. China is expected to be the world's largest luxury market in the next few years. / Yonhap By Cathy Rose A. Garcia Staff Reporter For anyone obsessed with luxury brands, ``Deluxe: How Luxury Lost Its Luster'' and ``The Cult of the Luxury Brand: Inside Asia's Love Affair with Luxury'' are must-reads. In ``Deluxe,'' Newsweek fashion writer Dana Thomas takes the reader on a trip down the ``dark side of the luxury industry to uncover secrets that Gucci, Prada and Burberry don't want us to know.'' What are some of the secrets she spills? Thomas reveals that many luxury handbags are mass-produced in China. The average markup for a luxury handbag is ten to 12 times production cost, and Thomas says Louis Vuitton's markup is up to 13 times production cost. ``Luxury is a necessity that begins where necessity ends,'' Coco Chanel once said. While luxury may have once been for the elite who can afford elaborate couture gowns, luxury is now for the masses. Throughout the book, Thomas laments the ``democratization of luxury.'' She notes how family-owned companies that used to create exquisite bags, shoes and clothes, have been taken over by multi-billion dollar conglomerates, which want nothing more than profits. ``The luxury industry has… become part of our social fabric. To achieve this, it has sacrificed its integrity, undermined its products, tarnished its history and hoodwinked its consumers. In order to make luxury `accessible,' tycoons have stripped away all that has made it special. Luxury has lost its luster,'' she writes. Consumers have fallen prey to the trap of buying ``luxury goods" with easily recognizable logos to enhance their status and ``buy into the dream." Thomas calls Louis Vuitton the greatest example of ``democratic luxury." ``It's big, it's broad reaching and it sells widely expensive stuff that nobody really needs,'' she said. In demonstrating how luxury brands have gone global, Thomas discusses the luxury market in Japan, where 40 percent of all Japanese own a Vuitton item. The Japanese luxury market is quite powerful, as the Japanese people's tastes influence the companies' products, designs and strategy Thomas also traveled to a factory in China, where she saw Chinese girls make luxury handbags, using Italian craftsmanship techniques. Production in China is not as cheap as one might think, and the quality is still good. However, she reveals some ``tricks'' used by luxury brands of removing the Made in China label and replacing it with a Made in Italy one. But don't think ``true luxury'' is dead, Deluxe satisfies readers' curiosity about how the famed Hermes Kelly and Birkin bags are painstakingly made in workshops in France; and how the classic perfume Chanel No.5 is created using the finest ingredients. She also cites ``luxury refugees,'' or designers who are disillusioned with the compromises and greed of the luxury corporate world, and have started independent businesses ``to create the best that money can buy.'' Among the luxury refugees are former Gucci designer Tom Ford, and French shoe designer Christian Louboutin. By the end of the book, Thomas still ponders on the future of the luxury industry, which she feels has lost its soul. ``Was there enough integrity or value left in these brands to allow them to continue to call themselves 'luxury','' she asked. Thomas writes in an easy-to-read style that won't bore readers. Anyone interested in luxury brands and fashion will find ``Deluxe'' a delight. If you always wondered why Asians are so crazy over luxury goods, you can check out ``The Cult of the Luxury Brand'' (``Luxeplosion'' is the Korean title), which attempts to shed light on Asia's ``luxeplosion.'' Authors Radha Chadha and Paul Husband delve into the psychology of Asian consumers, and why they have succumbed to the lure of Louis Vuitton and Gucci. In a telephone interview with The Korea Times, Chadha said she became fascinated with Asians' love for these goods when she moved to Hong Kong ten years ago. ``Luxury brands are used everywhere in the world. But Asians are much more passionate about it. Asia is now the biggest market for luxury brands, which is strange because the U.S. and Europe are wealthier,'' she noted. The book provides new insights into the luxury markets in Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan, China, South Korea and other Asian countries. It is interesting to find out what drives Asian consumers, from high school students to the wives of tycoons, to gobble up luxury goods. While consumers in different markets have distinctive tastes, they are all part of the ``cult'' of luxury goods addicts. Louis Vuitton is the best example of how to succeed as a luxury brand in Asia. ``Vuitton knows how to create exclusivity at the top, while simultaneously delivering luxury to the population at large. Pamper the elite, delight the office lady _ elitism and democracy in the same breath, managed harmoniously,'' they said. The book's chapter on South Korea examines Koreans' opposing views on luxury consumption, noting the ``tension between the reality of growing prosperity and the prescription of frugality can never be reasonably resolved.'' The Koreans' national obsession with beauty, credit card spending and an innate competitive streak are cited as the forces behind the growth of the luxury culture in Korea. Koreans' penchant for fake items is also mentioned, along with Itaewon and Dongdaemun as places where to find these high-quality reproductions of luxury brand handbags. Chadha and Husband noted South Korea is ``a case study of how swiftly the cult of the luxury brand can establish itself in an emerging Asian country.'' The book also offers a ``Luxeplosion model,'' which the authors say is a tried-and-tested formula used by luxury brands to create a cult in Asia. Using high profile celebrities, influential media and VIP customers to create a buzz for the brand is one of the key elements. After the buzz starts, the brand becomes the talk of the town. Soon, the masses will flock to the stores to buy the hottest items. ``Luxury brands have become a cult when people act on the buzz, when they pull out their wallets and buy the stuff. When you see large numbers of people carrying Murakami bags. When Gucci watches start ticking on wrists. … Your brand and the looks you promote are adopted by the masses. It's the culmination of the process, the sale consummated, the cult created,'' they said. cathy@koreatimes.co.kr

blu-girl

Molinari Shows Spring, Summer Collection

Models walk the runway wearing Italian brand Blumarine's edgy but romantic gowns during LG Fashion's Blumarine spring and summer fashion show at the Shilla Hotel, Seoul, Monday evening. Italian designer Anna Molinari, designer of Blumarine and Blugirl brands, attended the fashion show. This was Molinari's second visit to Seoul. She last visited Seoul in 2000 for another fashion show. / Yonhap By Cathy Rose A. Garcia Staff Reporter Italian designer Anna Molinari presented the 2008 spring and summer collection for Blumarine and Blugirl at the Shilla Hotel, Seoul, Monday evening. Blumarine's collection featured sexy halter gowns, jeweled tunic tops and khaki hot pants. On the other hand, Blugirl, a ready-to-wear line for girls and young women, featured soft, romantic looks with a 1950's twist. The fashion show started with the Blugirl collection. With the neon image of an American diner in the background, models walked the catwalk wearing 1950's inspired pieces. Flirty and feminine could best describe the summer dresses, which featured tight tube bodices with full skirts. Dresses came in soft floral prints in violet, pink and aquamarine; black and white checks; or animal prints. Adorable dresses in tiny polka dot prints with ruffled, layered skirts. You can almost imagine a young Audrey Hepburn wearing the slim Capri pants and black and white checkered button-up tops. There were also a handful of glamorous belted swimsuits, perfect for lounging poolside at a hip Hollywood hotel. On the other hand, Blumarine's collection is designed for jetsetters vacationing in Saint-Tropez. Models showed off bright colored cropped jackets, tailored hot pants and slinky long gowns in vibrant prints. Tunic tops and dresses came in fresh prints mixing green and pink; and orange and blue. Blumarine's cashmere and chenille track pants had a sporty but sophisticated feel, with embellished stripes down the sides. A pink animal print cropped jacket was paired with a body fitting mini-dress. Blumarine's edgy romantic style was evident in the deep V-necked gowns and high slits. At the end of the show, a model appeared wearing a stunning turquoise gown with hot pants. Molinari made a brief appearance at the end of the fashion show, receiving a round of applause from the appreciative crowd, which included celebrities such as Kim Jung-eun, Park Si-yeon, Ock Ju-hyun and Um Ji-won. Molinari last visited Seoul in 2000, when she presented her 2001 spring and summer collection. Molinari had originally presented her spring and summer collection in Milan last September. Blumarine is a fashion brand created by Molinari and her husband Gianpolo Tarabini. cathy@koreatimes.co.kr

ape with pipe

Ape With Pipe Brings Mediterranean Flair

From left are hummus with pita bread; salmon and brie quiche; and Tzatzaki chicken sandwich. / Korea Times Photo by Kwon Mee-yoo By Cathy Rose A. Garcia Staff Reporter With a name like Ape with Pipe, who wouldn't be intrigued by this Mediterranean bistro? Ape with Pipe, located near Noksapyeong Station (Line 6), may not be located on Itaewon's main street but it certainly is worth a visit. The menu offers several kinds of quiche, sandwiches, French-style potpies, salads and mussel dishes. For appetizer, we chose hummus with pita bread, which turned out to be slightly disappointing. The pita bread wasn't warm enough, and the hummus didn't have much flavor. Things got more promising when the pumpkin soup arrived. The pumpkin soup was thick and creamy, but not too cloying or sweet like those found in other places. The potato soup was also light and filling. But of course, the highlight of the meal would have to be the salmon and Brie quiche (12,000 won). The cheese melts in your mouth, blending perfectly with the smoked salmon. The quiche was served with a fresh green salad, but there was not enough dressing on it. The Tzatziki chicken sandwich (12,000 won) was also a good choice. The yogurt dressing was a perfect complement to the grilled chicken. We wanted to try the tempting desserts, such as chocolate mousse (5,000 won) and chocolate volcano cake (7,000 won), but were too full. Next time, we promise to try the tourtes or French style potpies, mussels Provencal and different kinds of quiche. The restaurant is vegetarian friendly as the menu indicates which dishes are vegetarian. It also has a good wine list, so you can chill out at Ape with Pipe during the evening. A cozy atmosphere permeates the place, with lots of warm sunshine through the huge glass windows on the terrace. This would be a good place to have a brunch on a lazy Sunday morning. Don't worry about the cold weather on the terrace, as the windows are only slightly opened and blankets are available. About the restaurant's quirky name, we were told it is a combination of the titles of two Picasso paintings, ``Boy with Pipe'' and ``Harlequin and Family with Ape.'' It doesn't really mean anything, but it does add an element of fun to the restaurant's reputation. Ape with Pipe is located on the hill overlooking Noksapyeong Station. The restaurant is open Tuesday to Sunday, 11:30 a.m. to 2 a.m., but the kitchen closes at 11 p.m. Lunch and brunch specials are served between 11:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Call (02) 749-0903. cathy@koreatimes.co.kr

love van gogh!

Van Gogh Retrospective Rated Best in Asia

“The Sower” (1888) is considered one of the most ambitious works Vincent Van Gogh made while he was living in Arles. The painting, bursting with intense bright colors and energy, is currently on display at the Seoul Museum of Art as part of the on-going Van Gogh retrospective. / Korea Times Photo by Cathy Rose A. Garcia By Cathy Rose A. Garcia Staff Reporter The rare opportunity to see Vincent Van Gogh's masterpieces in Seoul is not one to be missed, especially since the directors of the Van Gogh Museum and Kroller-Muller Museum from the Netherlands are calling ``Van Gogh: Voyage into the Myth'' one of the best Van Gogh exhibitions ever in Asia. The first Van Gogh retrospective in Seoul officially opened Saturday, with hundreds flocking to the Seoul Museum of Art over the weekend for a glimpse of the Dutch artist's works. ``This is the highest quality exhibition of Van Gogh's works in the last few years. This is probably the best exhibition in 50 years that came to Asia," Dr. Evert J. Van Straaten, director of the Kroller-Muller Museum, told The Korea Times in an interview. Among the 67 works on display are iconic masterpieces such as ``Irises," ``Country road in Provence by night," ``The Yellow House," ``The Sower," and ``Self-portrait." The 45 oil paintings and 22 drawings are on loan from the Kroller-Muller Museum in Otterlo and Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam. ``I envy the people who are going to look at the many paintings and drawings of Van Gogh for the first time because I think that can be a revelation… I think the exhibition that we selected and proposed is of a very high quality and good choice. This is actually quite a lot from our holdings, and so I think this is one of the best exhibitions ever to go abroad," Van Straaten said. The Kroller-Muller Museum only lends Van Gogh's works for a major exhibition every three or four years. Axel Ruger, director of the Van Gogh Museum, said the exhibition will allow people to see Van Gogh's development as an artist. In an interview with The Korea Times, he offers a few suggestions on how viewers can best enjoy the exhibition. ``Visitors should look at his works and just appreciate the way they are painted, the very fluid, energetic brushstrokes. When you look at the surface, you can see how beautiful the surface texture is, and the very vibrant, energetic colors. It is the energy and vibrancy of his works that are very exciting. That's what you look for because otherwise, these are everyday subjects, landscapes and portraits. The way it's painted, that's the true excitement," Ruger said. Born in Zundert, Netherlands in 1853, Van Gogh only decided to become an artist when he was 27 years old. The exhibition traces Van Gogh's 10-year career until his tragic death in 1890. The exhibition starts with the Dutch period (1881-1885), when Van Gogh started painting. This period is represented by dark, realistic paintings such as ``Man at table" and ``Peasant women digging potatoes"; and lithographs of ``Sorrow," a nude woman crouched down in sadness; and ``The Potato eaters," a group of peasants sharing a meal. Van Gogh's Paris period (1886-1888) is characterized by his experimentation with color, as seen with the cityscapes and flower still life paintings. Among the representative works are ``Roses and peonies," ``Flowers in a blue vase" and the ``Self-portrait," where he depicted himself in a straw hat and a yellow waistcoat edged in red. In 1889, he moved to Arles, where he created paintings with intense colors and energy. The works from the Arles period includes ``The Sower," bursting with vivid yellow color; ``The Yellow house (The street)," depicting the home where he stayed in Arles; and ``Portrait of Joseph Roulin," a portrait of a postman. Van Gogh committed himself to a psychiatric asylum in Saint-Remy in May 1889. During the Saint-Remy period, he created the ``Irises," as well as religious themed works such as ``Pieta" and ``Good Samaritan." ``Country road in Provence by night," created entirely from his imagination, is said to be the last work Van Gogh made in Saint-Remy. He left the asylum in May 1890, and moved to Auvers-sur-Oise. Among the representative works included in the exhibition are ``Chestnut trees in blossom" and ``Ears of wheat." Ruger said people continue to be fascinated with Van Gogh and his works because of what they know about his life. ``It is what we know about the artist. His life was relatively short, a tragic but exciting life. I think this is what connects us to the artist on several different levels," Ruger said. Van Straaten said he was impressed with the Korean organizers who worked hard to bring Van Gogh's works to Seoul. ``We thought that especially since Korea was asking so ambitiously and fervently, we agreed to have an exhibition. We also like very much that from the ancient times, Netherlands had a relationship with Korea. … Van Gogh was Dutch but we consider Van Gogh of the whole world. He is, in a sense, the Dutch gift to the world," Van Straaten said. The Hankook Ilbo, the sister company of The Korea Times, organized the event with the Seoul Museum of Art and KBS Korea. The exhibition runs through March 16, and is open Tuesday to Sunday. It is closed every Monday. Tickets are 12,000 won for adults, 10,000 for students (13-18 years old), and 8,000 won for children (7-12 years old). For more information, visit www.vangoghseoul.com (Korean, English available).

jdramas rule!

Japanese Dramas Charm Korea

By Cathy Rose A. Garcia Staff Reporter Yu Jung-eun started watching Japanese dramas when she was in her second year of high school. Now, the 23-year old university student still can't get enough of Japanese dramas, citing ``Nodame Cantabile'' and ``Team Medical Dragon'' as her favorites. ``I just fall in love with the actors of the Japanese dramas I watch,'' she gushed. For devoted fans of Korean dramas around Asia, it may come as a surprise that a growing number of young Koreans are turning away from homegrown dramas in favor of Japanese fare. In recent months, Japanese stars such as Kimura, Joe Odagiri and Hiroshi Tamaki have visited Seoul for promotional events, a sign of the increasing importance of the Korean market for Japanese stars. Around a thousand Korean fans, mostly female, even waited at the airport for Kimura's arrival in Seoul last October, and more showed up to catch a glimpse of him at the Pusan (Busan) International Film Festival Japanese Wave Much like how hallyu swept through Asia in the past few years, a Japanese Wave is slowly making its way through Korea. After the success of Korean dramas in Japan, its Japanese counterparts are gaining ground in mainstream media in Korea. Perhaps, it's not unrelated to the fact that Japanese dramas are the last to land in Korea. For decades, Japanese cultural products were banned in Korea due to strong anti-Japanese sentiment stemming from Japan's colonial rule of Korea from 1910 to 1945. Fans who wanted to get hold of J-pop music and movies had to rely on pirated CDs and the Internet. Since the Korean government eased its ban on Japanese cultural imports, Japanese movies, dramas and music are now more accessible. Cable channels such as MBC Drama, OnStyle and XTN have aired several Japanese dramas such ``Hero,'' ``Nodame Cantabile,'' ``Boys Over Flowers'' (Hana Yori Dango), ``Attention Please'' and ``Gokusen,'' among others. There is even a cable TV channel, Channel J, dedicated to showing Japanese TV shows. However, most Korean fans are watching Japanese dramas over the Internet through online streaming sites or by downloading episodes. The episodes have been subtitled in Korean by fans fluent in Japanese, for the benefit of other fans who do not understand the language. Some of the newer dramas are subtitled, within days of their initial airing in Japan. Type in the name of a Japanese actor or drama on Korean search engines, and you'll probably get hundreds of entries for cafes, blogs and photos. ``Il-du-jok'' is a term used for the fans of Japanese dramas. ``Il'' is derived from "Ilbon," the Korean word for Japan, ``du'' is for dramas and ``jok'' means community or tribe. There are many online communities and fan clubs devoted to Japanese dramas, such as www.ilbondrama.net and www.jmdc.co.kr. On Naver, there are more than 150 cafes about Japanese dramas, including one that boasts 67,532 members. The Ilbon Drama Web site is an informative site with news about Japanese stars, drama reviews, photos and a community where fans can meet other fans and gush over their favorites. There is even a shop where fans can buy clothes and accessories similar to those worn by their favorite stars. Like many Korean fans, Hwang Yeo-jin, a 20-year old university student, was attracted to Japanese dramas because of their unique storylines and variety of genres. ``Most Korean dramas, except for historical dramas, have very limited storyline. All the dramas look alike. That is why people seek new stories, and Japanese dramas provide that… The good points of Japanese dramas are their interesting plots and unusual twists," she said, but quickly added she still likes watching some Korean shows. Hwang also started watching Japanese dramas when she was in high school. Since then, she has watched numerous serials such as ``Pride'' and ``The Grand Family'' (Kareinaru Ichizoku), which both starred Kimura. ``Though not all of them, most of Japanese actors do their best and immerse themselves very deeply into their characters, and show the `character' not the actor himself,'' Hwang said. Yu echoed this sentiment, saying she enjoys the diverse themes and realistic characters in Japanese productions. ``Most Korean dramas are about love or blood ties. However, Japanese dramas are more diverse. There are dramas about how a young person grows into an adult, or a person fighting an illness, or a person's passion for sports. These subjects are related to various feelings we feel. It's more fun and people are easily moved by them,'' Yu said. However, she complains that Japanese dramas rely too much on manga or book adaptations and lack originality. ``There are many good dramas but some are too light and cartoon-like, lacking in realism. Most dramas are based on comic books or novels. I want to watch more original TV dramas,'' Yu said. ``Nodame Cantabile,'' ``The Story of Yamada Taro,'' and ``Hana Kimi: For You in Full Bloom'' are all based on popular manga. ``Glow of Fireflies (Hotaru no Hikari)'' and ``The Grand Family'' are based on novels, while ``1 Liter of Tears'' is based on a true story of a teenage girl coping with a degenerative disease. Lee Mi-jin, a 25-year old office worker, admitted she likes watching Japanese dramas because of the ``pretty boys'' who star in them. She named Kimura, Tomohisa Yamashita, Jun Matsumoto, and Shun Oguri as some of her favorite Japanese actors. ``I didn't think I would get addicted to these dramas, but I did. I think some of the actors are cute, but I like the dramas because of their fresh perspective and as they are more fast-paced than the usual Korean melodramas,'' she said. Despite the historical animosity between Japan and Korea, most fans do not think it is relevant when it comes to entertainment. ``I don't see anything wrong with liking Japanese dramas. I watch it because it is fun and entertaining. I don't want to be narrow-minded and stop watching Japanese shows because of our history with Japan. It has nothing to do with any of it,'' Lee said. Cultural Exchange Cultural exchanges between Japan and Korea are thriving. Japanese producers have already remade Korean dramas and movies such as ``Hotelier'' and ``My Boss My Hero.'' Korean producers are also seeing the value of Japanese dramas, comics and films. The popular MBC medical drama ``White Tower,'' which aired in January, was based on a Japanese novel and drama of the same name. The acclaimed ``Old Boy'' and the hit ``200-Pounds Beauty'' are based on Japanese comic books. More Korean production companies are planning to turn Japanese comics into dramas and movies. While some have expressed concern about the ``Japanese pop culture invasion,'' Hanyang University professor of Japanese culture Yoon Sang-jin was quoted in Seoul magazine as saying the Japanese Wave is a ``very healthy cultural exchange'' between the two countries. It does seem premature to sound alarm bells over the growing popularity of Japanese dramas and other forms of pop culture, especially since mainstream reception seems to be lukewarm. Ratings for Japanese dramas on Korean cable channels are still quite low compared to ratings for Korean and American shows. Japanese dramas are also facing competition from Taiwanese dramas, which are attracting Korean fans. Taiwanese dramas, "It Started With a Kiss" and "Hanazakarino Kimitachihe," have aired on Korean cable channels. Interestingly, both are based on Japanese manga. Even sales of J-pop CDs have not been significant, which is attributed to piracy and the overall downward trend of CD sales. One of the few exceptions is J-pop idol group Arashi whose albums have consistently sold well in Korea. The group's members include Matsumoto and Kazunari Ninomiya, who have appeared in Japanese dramas. Amid the hype surrounding Kimura's film, ``Hero'' floundered at the Korean box office beaten by the Korean film ``Le Grand Chef.'' ``Hero'' has only managed to attract an audience of 223,979 during the two weeks it has been showing in Seoul. For now, it seems the popularity of Japanese actors doesn't necessarily translate into high ratings or box office bucks.

that's hot... not ^_^

Paris Hilton 'Loves Everything About Korea'

American celebrity Paris Hilton By Cathy Rose A. Garcia Staff Reporter A barrage of flashing cameras greeted hotel heiress and American celebrity Paris Hilton when she attended her first press conference in Seoul, Friday. Hilton, who is currently in Seoul for a promotional tour sponsored by sportswear brand Fila Korea, smiled and showed off her trademark pose for photographers and cameramen at the Grand Hyatt Hotel. With her upswept blonde hair and glowing tan, Hilton wore a gold puffer vest, hot pink track jacket, gray tank top and purple track pants. Everything she wore, except for a pink Chanel purse, was from Fila's collection, which she is endorsing. The 27-year old fashionista, who is often seen wearing high-end designer brands, declared she loves the Fila brand. ``I love Fila. Girls who wear Fila have great style too. I love to mix the colors. The Fila brand comes in all different colors, so I can mix and match them. My favorite color is pink, so I wore this today,'' she said. This is her first time in Korea, so she gushed about the beautiful Korean scenery. Hilton also said she loved bibimbap and would like to eat more of it during her trip. ``I love everything about Korea. People are amazing. I look forward to coming here more often. I wish I had more time here. I'd love to see the Korean palaces, architecture and old streets,'' she said. Hilton, an heiress to the Hilton Hotel fortune, sees Korea as a great market for her brand. ``My fashion line is also coming out, which is clothing, outerwear, shoes, purses and jewelry. Also next is real estate, like hotels and restaurants. I try to be as professional as possible. I'm very excited to be in Korea. This is a great market for me. I'm happy to be here right now,'' she said. As for her acting roles, Hilton said she appears in the romantic comedy ``The Hottie and the Naughty'' to be released in February. She also just finished shooting ``Repo: The Genetic Opera,'' and is developing another TV show. When asked how she feels about the paparazzi following her every move, Hilton said she understands the photographers are only doing their job. ``I respect that. I can't complain about it. I love my life and I don't let it bother me,'' she said. On Thursday, Hilton filmed scenes for her guest appearance on the popular MBC show ``Reckless Challenge'' (Muhandojeon) at the Korea House in Pil-dong. She said she wore a ``gorgeous Korean wedding dress'' (hanbok) for the show. Hilton's one-year contract with Fila Korea is reportedly worth $1 million. Fila chose Hilton as its model last March because of her sexy, fashionable image. However, her ads were temporarily pulled last June, when she was sentenced to a 45-day jail term on a drunk driving charge. Fila was originally established as an Italian company in 1911, but is now owned by Fila Korea. cathy@koreatimes.co.kr

van gogh in seoul!

Van Gogh Show to Open in Seoul

Vincent Van Gogh’s “The Yellow House” (1888) is part of the exhibition “Van Gogh: Voyage into the Myth” that runs from Nov. 24 to March 16 at the Seoul Museum of Art. By Cathy Rose A. Garcia Staff reporter The first retrospective of Vincent Van Gogh's works (1853-1890) in Korea will open on Nov. 24, gathering the Dutch artist's masterpieces from the Van Gogh Museum and Kroller-Muller Museum in the Netherlands. ``Van Gogh: Voyage into the Myth'' will feature 67 works by Van Gogh, including 45 paintings and 22 drawings, at the Seoul Museum of Art. This is the biggest Van Gogh exhibition since the exhibition marking the 100th anniversary of the artist's death at the Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam in 1990. The Hankook Ilbo, the sister company of The Korea Times, is organizing the event with the Seoul Museum of Art and KBS Korea. Seo Soun-jou, the Van Gogh exhibit commissioner and Hankook Ilbo cultural project center director of exhibitions, said this is a comprehensive exhibition that covers the master painter's brief but fruitful 10-year career. The exhibition features representative works from Van Gogh's early Netherlands period (1880-1885), Paris period (1886-1888), Arles period (1889), Saint-Remy period (1889-1890) and Auvers-sur-Oise period (1890). Seo said it is amazing that Korea managed to host the Van Gogh retrospective, since it is the most sought-after exhibition in the world. He noted the Van Gogh Museum is not planning on holding another exhibition like this one for the next 10 years. Born in Zundert, the Netherlands in 1853, Van Gogh devoted his life to art, and lived in poverty until he died at the age of 37. He was categorized as a ``post-impressionist'' artist and created around 900 works during his lifetime. However, these were not recognized until after his death. While influenced by Impressionism, Van Gogh rejected the realistic painting styles, saying he wanted to ``paint unrealistic paintings to look more realistic than paintings that depict real things.'' Among the masterpieces on display at the exhibit are ``The Potato Eaters'' (1885), ``Self-portrait'' (1887), ``Irises'' (1890) and ``Church in Auvers'' (1890). This will be the first time Van Gogh's ``Irises'' will be showcased outside the Van Gogh Museum. Other significant works include ``The Sower,'' ``The Yellow House'' and ``Portrait of Joseph Roulin,'' which show the real essence of Van Gogh's art. Seo noted the Van Gogh exhibition is probably the most expensive one to be held in Korea. The total insurance value of the exhibition is 14 trillion won, with the value of ``Irises'' and ``Self-Portrait'' at a hundred billion won each. Seo hopes this event will be a stepping stone for future Van Gogh masterpieces to be exhibited in Seoul, such as the famous ``Sunflower'' and ``Cafe Terrace.'' The exhibition runs until March 16. It will be open Tuesdays to Fridays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and weekends, holidays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. It is closed on Mondays. Tickets are 12,000 won for adults, 10,000 for students (13-18 years old), and 8,000 won for children (7-12 years old). Children below 7 years old and senior citizens (65 years old and over) will be allowed to go in for free. Group discounts are available. For more information, www.vangoghseoul.com. cathy@koreatimes.co.kr

yangpa

Yangpa Aims for US K-pop singer Yangpa will hold a solo concert on Nov. 24 and 25. By Cathy Rose A. Garcia Staff Reporter Singer Yangpa is the latest K-pop star to try and make her Hollywood dream come true. Yangpa, who made a successful comeback in the K-pop scene last May after a six-year break, is now laying the groundwork for her debut in the United States. James Sun, a runner-up during season six of the hit American reality show ``The Apprentice,'' had recently approached Yangpa to discuss the possibility of making her American debut. In an interview with The Korea Times, Yangpa said she is excited about the possibility of entering the American music market, although plans are still in the initial stages. ``There's nothing specific yet, but I have sent my albums and videos to the U.S. I hope it will go well. … Right now, I'm concentrating on English,'' she said. Sun, CEO and founder of business networking site zoodango.com, reportedly has influential contacts in the American music industry that could help Yangpa's career. Yangpa, known for her lovely voice and emotional ballads, admitted she might have to change her style to suit the current trends in the American music scene. ``My popularity in Korea won't help me in the U.S., so I need to start over. I would have to take a totally different concept and image there. … I won't sing the same songs that I sang in Korea. I will have to take the concept and music that is popular in the U.S. and do that,'' she said. Yangpa admitted it would take a lot of hard work to become successful in the American music market, which is the biggest in the world. Inevitably, Yangpa faces comparisons with other Korean singers who are also currently trying to make inroads in the American music industry such as Lim Jeong-hee and Rain. She doesn't feel much pressure being compared with them, saying that all have different styles and personalities. Yangpa has already had some experience in the U.S., when she underwent training for a year to prepare for her fourth album in 2000. ``The American music industry seems to like the exotic image for Asian women. They wanted me to be sexy and exotic. Maybe I can take on that kind of image, if that's what they want from me. When I was training in the U.S., I was practicing R&B and soul music. I think I can have that charm that only Asians have,'' she said. Yangpa, whose real name is Lee Eun-jin, made her debut in 1997, as a sweet, full-cheeked high school student singing the wildly popular song ``Young Love.'' She studied at the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston, and released four hit albums until 2001. She took a six-year hiatus because of a conflict with her previous management agency. Last May, she returned to the music scene with her fifth album ``Windows of My Soul.'' Despite apprehensions that the long break may have affected her popularity, Yangpa's first single ``Love… What is it?'' topped the charts, proving fans are still loyal to her. She also wrote new songs such as ``Marry Me'' and ``You are Nice.'' The 28-year old Yangpa still looks youthful as ever, despite her protestations that she's ``old'' compared to the perky teenage singers dominating the K-pop scene. ``There are so many young singers now, but I also debuted at a young age. I'm lucky to still be singing after ten years. I think of them as my colleagues, and I don't feel like I'm better than them. I even feel like I'm newer than other artists now,'' she said, with a smile. Yangpa is currently preparing for her first solo concert since 1998, ``Show, Show, Show'' on Nov. 24-25 at the Ewha Womans University hall. She will be singing 20 songs, both old and new hits, during the concert. Second Moon and Dynamic Duo will also appear as special guests during the concert. Tickets for the concert are 77,000 won, 66,000 won and 55,000 won. For information, visit ticket.auction.co.kr (Korean only). After her concert, Yangpa will start preparing for her sixth album, which could be out by early next year. When asked where she sees herself 10 years from now, Yangpa said she still hopes to continue singing, write many songs and even a book. cathy@koreatimes.co.kr

ciara in seoul

R&B Diva Ciara to Perform in Seoul

American R&B singer Ciara poses for Korean photographers during a press conference at the Woo Bar, W Hotel in eastern Seoul, Thursday afternoon. She held her first concert at the Fencing Arena, Olympic Park, Seoul, Friday. / Yonhap By Cathy Rose A. Garcia Staff Reporter American R&B star Ciara may often be compared with other successful singers like Beyonce and Rihanna, but she wants to be known for her own unique musical style. ``Beyonce, Rihanna and I are all different from each other. I have a lot of respect for what they do. All I know is that I'm me. If you see me, you can see the difference,'' she said, in a press conference at the W Hotel in eastern Seoul, Thursday. Ciara is currently in Seoul to perform in her first concert at the Olympic Fencing Stadium, Olympic Park, Friday evening. The pretty 21-year-old singer described her second album ``Ciara: The Evolution,'' as a personal reflection of the changes in her life. The album has sold over two million copies since it was released last December. ``This album covers my life's changes through the years. I have evolved as an artist and a woman in many ways,'' Ciara said. ``This is definitely different than my old record. I just did what felt good to me. This album is all about having fun. I want people to dance and have a good time when they listen to it.'' Ciara burst into the music scene in 2004, with the hit dance song ``Goodies,'' which topped the Billboard charts in the United States. This was followed up by another hit song ``1, 2 Step,'' a collaboration with Missy Elliot; and ``Oh'' featuring Ludacris. Her debut album ``Goodies'' sold over three million around the world. She was nominated for two Grammy Awards. Her latest album has already spawned several hit songs ``Promise,'' ``Get Up,'' and ``Like a Boy.'' Ciara admitted she is inspired by the music of Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, Prince and Madonna. But when she's preparing for a concert, she loves to listen to Sade. At the press conference, Ciara was wearing a white top, a black leather cropped jacket and jeans tucked in funky platform boots. When asked about her fashion style, Ciara said she has a very ``spontaneous'' style and tries to be creative with whatever she's wearing. As a successful singer in the U.S., Ciara was asked to give some advice for Korean artists like Se7en and Rain, who are trying to enter the American music industry. ``The most important thing about the American market is to have a great melody, and to 'just be you.' Americans love great music productions. It would also be cool to have collaborations with American artists,'' she said. Ciara said she really likes Korean barbecue, and would like to sample different Korean dishes. She also wants to visit Dongdaemun Market to check out Korean fashion. ``People here are really sweet. It's a blessing to be able to travel around the world to perform. I'm enjoying it very much. I hope to be back at least once a month because Korea is such a beautiful place,'' she said.

off to the mountains

Rediscovering Korea's 'Spine'

A view of the steep drop as the hikers descend from Seo-bong in Deogyu-san national park, located between North Jeolla and North Gyeongsang provinces. / Photo courtesy of Andrew Douch and Roger Shepherd By Cathy Rose A. Garcia Staff Reporter New Zealander Roger Shepherd had already walked 350 kilometers of the Baekdu-daegan mountain ridge in June last year, before he realized he should be documenting his trek through the ``spine" of the Korean peninsula. The Baekdu-daegan is the mountain range that runs through the Korean Peninsula (both North and South Korea), passing through every province except for Gyeonggi, South Chungcheong and Jeju Island. Shepherd was so entranced by the range's beauty and the friendliness of the Korean people he had met during his trek, that he felt more foreigners should know about this hiking trail. Thus, the idea to traverse the 670-kilometer Baekdu-daegan mountain ridge in South Korea was born. Baekdu-daegan means ``white-head great-ridge.'' It starts at Mount Baekdusan in North Korea, and ends at Mount Jirisan in South Korea, running nearly 1,625 kilometers from end to end. But the two Kiwis are doing the South first. Shepherd, a policeman from Wellington, vowed to return to Korea to walk the entire Baekdu-daegan trail, and to write an English hiking guide so that other foreigners can explore the area. He met fellow New Zealander, Andrew Douch, who has been living in Korea for seven years and also interested in hiking through the Baekdu-daegan. As they did their research, Shepherd stumbled on a Web site dedicated to Korea's native mountain spirit, which was run by Kyung Hee University professor for tourism David Mason. They couldn't have found a better person to ask for help, since Mason has spent the last 25 years doing research on Korea's sacred mountains, one of which is Baekdu-daegan. On his Web site (www.san-shin.net), Mason described the Baekdu-daegan as the ``theoretical 670 km-long geomantic earth-energy main stream.'' The Baekdu-daegan ridge holds most of the highest peaks of Korea. More importantly, it has spiritual significance, since it is believed to be the life-energy source of Korea. It is ``important in traditional Korean thought, a key aspect of 'pungsujiri' (geomancy) philosophy and practices.'' Baekdu-daegan has roughly half of Korea's most sacred mountains, and the source of all of Korea's major rivers is found here. ``The Baekdu-daegan is believed by traditionalists of all sorts (Buddhists, Confucianists, Shamanists, Nationalists, Taoists and even many Christians) to continuously feed essential life-energy throughout the land of Korea, and thus into all its agricultural products and spring-waters, and thus into its people. Its unimpeded clear flow is considered necessary for the birth and raising of heroic and virtuous citizens, and thus for the health, strength and prosperity of the Korean nation,'' Mason said. Journey Begins The 2007 Baekdu-daegan Expedition Team is on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to go where no other foreigners (at least to their knowledge) have gone before _ to trek the entire South Korean portion of the Baekdu-daegan. Both Douch and Shepherd have taken time off work to do the hike, while Mason helps them by researching the historical and cultural background of the area. The team started its trek from Jungsan-ri, Jirisan National Park on Sept. 1, and traveled northward with the ``sun behind their back'' as Shepherd put it. When Douch and Shepherd met with reporters at the Buseoksa Temple over the weekend, they had already covered a significant portion. The trek was originally supposed to take 70 days, but they have progressed much more quickly. They are now expected to complete the expedition on Nov. 7 at Jinbu-ryeong in Seoraksan National Park. ``Walking has become our job. There's not much of that psychological barrier that we had at first. We were struggling with our fitness, we were like `Oh my God, there's four more kilometers left?' Now, we're like, `Oh, 4 kilometers more. Great!','' Shepherd said, as he and Douch met reporters at the Buseoksa Temple, near Punggi town in North Chungcheong Province. Douch said they had originally estimated walking an average of 10 kilometers a day to be able to finish the trek in 70 days, but they would sometimes walk as much as 25 kilometers a day. At the start, they brought heavy packs that contained three day's worth of food and supplies. But they soon decided to just look for minbaks (rural home-stay) after every day's hike, since there are many villages and towns near the Baekdu-daegan trail. It has turned out to be an interesting way to experience rural life in Korea's countryside. ``I'm now a big fan of rural Korea. There is a laid-back atmosphere in the small towns. People are friendly and curious. They always wear genuine smiles and feed us fruits. We are very grateful for that,'' Douch said. Like most hikers, they also leave their ribbons on the trail. Hiking through the Baekdu-daegan is gaining popularity among Koreans, who leave their ribbons to indicate their success in conquering the trail. Shepherd and Douch have not experienced any major problems during the trip, save for losing weight, a bad bout of gastroenteritis and some friendly arguments over Scrabble games at night. Douch recalled how an old man asked to check their backpacks because he thought they were stealing the expensive pine mushrooms that grow in the mountains. Another time, they were walking down the hill and found themselves in the middle of a Korean couple's outdoor party. When asked if they have experienced the spiritual power the ridge holds, Shepherd said he certainly feels a lot stronger than when they started the trek. ``You can't ignore that idea. It is certainly in the back of our minds. The energy from the Baekdu-daegan is mostly positive and the water from the streams is the provider of life. A lot of people admire and worship the mountains. So somehow it becomes ingrained in you,'' he said. Spectacular Scenery The 30-year-old Douch and 41-year-old Shepherd can't help but gush about the spectacular autumn scenery in Korea's mountains. While New Zealand has its own breathtaking natural scenery, they admit Korea has its own unique charm. ``I think the Korean scenery is probably on a par with any other part of the world. Some people would say New Zealand is such a beautiful country, but every country would have something that is truly remarkable about their landscape. ... We get to the top of these ridges, and we look out on a clear day and we will see lines of mountains all in contrasting lights. It's amazing,'' Shepherd said. Attempting to walk over 600 kilometers in the mountains might seem intimidating, but the two hikers said anyone with reasonable fitness could complete the Baekdu-daegan trail. Shepherd noted Korean mountains are very accessible for hikers, although basic knowledge of Korean is needed to read the signs. He suggests people do the trek during early autumn (September to October) or spring (April to May) to be able to experience cool, moderate weather and see the beautiful scenery. The Baekdu-daegan is currently the focus of the Korean government's efforts for preservation. In 2003, the government implemented a law mandating the preservation of ``the backbone of the Korean peninsula and the treasure house of its ecosystem.'' Last year, the area was designated a national nature preservation park. While these efforts are lauded, Douch and Shepherd suggest there could be more to help foreign hikers, such as English signs and more facilities for hikers. As they are on the brink of successfully walking the South Korean trail of the Baekdu-daegan, Douch and Shepherd still dream of trekking the North Korean portion. The Baekdu-daegan expedition team is planning on coming up with an English guidebook to help future hikers. There are also plans for a coffee table book featuring the photos of the trail taken by Douch and Shepherd, along with cultural information written by Mason. With this project, they hope that one day, the Baekdu-daegan can become an internationally known long distance trail like the Appalachian Trail, Sierra Crest Trail, Inca Trail and the Great Wall of China. You can track the progress of the 2007 Baekdu-daegan Expedition Team on their blog www.baekdudaegan.blogspot.com.

megdeth

Megadeth Promises Memorable Concert

Megadeth will perform at Olympic Hall, Olympic Park in southern Seoul on Oct. 28. By Cathy Rose A. Garcia Staff Reporter Legendary thrash metal band Megadeth might have undergone some line-up changes in recent years, but founder and frontman Dave Mustaine promises to give another energetic, memorable concert experience in Seoul Oct. 28. ``Even the critics agree that this is the best Megadeth. The old guys were all great, but this is a different band with a new energy. … For people who have never seen Megadeth before, this will be a positive, and fresh experience,'' he told The Korea Times, in a telephone interview. The new Megadeth line-up includes guitarist Glen Drover, Glen's brother Shawn Drover on drums, and bassist James LoMenzo. Mustaine had originally formed Megadeth after leaving Metallica in 1983, but the band has undergone several changes throughout the years. The band is one of the pioneers of American thrash metal music. Mustaine said the band will be playing for an hour and a half in Seoul, with a repertoire of old and new songs. ``We assure fans that they're not going to walk away without their money's worth,'' he said. Megadeth is experiencing a resurgence in popularity, with the release of their new album ``United Abominations.'' The album has received critical acclaim, even being compared to Megadeth's most popular album to date ``Countdown to Extinction.'' It includes politically charged songs that touch on topics like 9/11 and Afghanistan. When asked about Megadeth's secret to its longevity, Mustaine attributed this to being truthful to his fans. ``My secret is being honest with my fans. I have problems with lying. I hate being lied to. … What I always say is under-promise and over-deliver. We will deliver a great performance. We're going to be on fire. Trust me when I say that. We're going to let the music speak for itself,'' Mustaine said. Mustaine actually knows a bit about Korean culture, thanks to Taekwondo. ``I studied Taekwondo and I had to write an essay on Korean culture. So I wrote about kimchi. I love kimchi,'' he said. Mustaine has mellowed down through the years. When The Korea Times called him up, he said he was ``cleaning up in the kitchen'' at his home in California. He said he was very happy with his married and home life now. ``I can see myself making music for the rest of my life. But performing with Megadeth? I'm going to know when it stops. I thought it was approaching a few years ago. … I see the end is coming but it's not here yet,'' he said. Megadeth will perform at the Olympic Hall, Olympic Park Oct. 28. Tickets for the concert are 88,000 won and 66,000 won. For information, visit ticket.interpark.com (Korean only). No English reservation service available. Tickets will be available on sale at the venue on the day of the concert.

travel in style

It's More than 'Samsonite'

Samsonite president and chief executive officer Marcello Bottoli is transforming the brand from a pure luggage company into an aspirational travel lifestyle brand. / Courtesy of Samsonite Korea By Cathy Rose A. Garcia Staff Reporter Samsonite has been synonymous with sturdy, high-quality luggage. But in the last few years, Samsonite is taking a distinctly stylish turn, rolling out edgy, fashion-forward suitcases by top designer Alexander McQueen. The man behind Samsonite's rebirth as a fashionable, lifestyle brand is Marcello Bottoli, Samsonite president and chief executive officer. ``Being just a luggage company has kept the company flat for many years. We needed new ideas to grow. Being a lifestyle company allows you to expand into so many other categories, which means more opportunities,'' Bottoli said, in an interview with The Korea Times. Samsonite is expanding its line of products to include the high-end Black Label collection, and other travel accessories such as handbags, shoes and sunglasses. When Bottoli joined the company in March 2004, luggage sales accounted for 90 percent of the business. Now luggage sales are less than 60 percent of the business, but he said he would like to bring it down to 50 percent. ``We are convinced the brand is bigger than the business. The brand is worth much more than the size of the business. There are plenty of opportunities to stretch the brand into other categories,'' he said. Bottoli, a former CEO at luxury brand Louis Vuitton from 2001 to 2004, is fully aware of the risks of stretching the brand too thin. This is why Samsonite is focusing on products that combine the functionality of travel with contemporary and provocative designs that make consumers ``want'' the brand. ``If I make a pair of shoes that are the same as Ferragamo or Tod's, then why buy Samsonite? But if I make the ultimate travel shoe with Samsonite, it will work,'' he said, as he showed off a white Samsonite shoe designed by Italian shoe designer Alberto del Biondi. ``It is extremely light, made of fine Italian leather and has a lycra-like material that expands because your foot expands when you travel. It fits like a glove, but it retains its shape. The sole also massages your feet and stimulates circulation as you walk. I can wear it with a suit or a pair of jeans. It is all about travel,'' he added. The Samsonite Black Label Concertine collection is a line of fashionable soft leather travel bags, inspired by the classic concertina musical instrument. / Courtesy of Samsonite Korea Asia is an increasingly important market for Samsonite. ``Asia is the most exciting part of the world, business-wise, economic-wise, demographic-wise … Japan, Korea and China used to follow the trends, but now they are making the trends,'' Bottoli said. Samsonite launched its high-end Black Label 2008 collection with an exclusive preview party and fashion show in southern Seoul, Tuesday evening. Korean actor Jeoung Jun-ho and actress Uhm Jung-hwa walked the runway. At the event, Bottoli announced French actress Milla Jovovich will be the new model for the Samsonite Black Label ad campaign next year. Previous ad campaigns had featured French actor Jean Reno, British tycoon Richard Branson and Italian actress Isabella Rossellini. Samsonite global creative director Quentin Mackay said the new Black Label Weekend Collection combines the brand's rich, 97-year heritage, functionality with modern design and fashion edge. ``Today we want to live in luxury. A luxury that runs through everything we do, and make a statement along the way. The Black Label Weekend Collection brings to life these ideas and thoughts in a number of varied and luxurious travel pieces and accessories,'' Mackay said. The Weekend Collection has five distinct styles, namely Resort, Resort Signature, Concertine, Waifer and Bayamo. Resort is a modern interpretation of classic luxury leather bags, while Resort Signature features Samsonite's house monogram print on canvas. Concertine features stylish, accordion-like leather bags that can be expanded, while Waifer reinvents messenger bags. Bayamo is a collection of structured business and travel bags for men. Samsonite is also re-issuing the iconic trunk, which was originally launched in the 1920s and 30s. Only 2,500 pieces of the handmade trunk will be distributed around the world.

fashion again!

Seoul Collection, Preview of Spring Trends

By Cathy Rose A. Garcia Staff Reporter Top Korean designers gave a preview of upcoming fashion trends for spring and summer 2008, during the eight-day Seoul fashion week, which ended Friday. The Seoul Collection, billed as Korea's biggest fashion event, lost some of its luster as designers from the oldest fashion group, Seoul Fashion Artists Association (SFAA), chose not to participate. Instead, the SFAA will hold its own event in November. Only 35 designers, either independent or affiliated with Korea Fashion Designers Association (KFDA) and New Wave in Seoul (NWS), participated in the Seoul Collection. Last March, there were 48 designers who held fashion shows for their fall/winter 2007 collection. Despite the controversy, the Seoul Collection kicked off on Oct. 19 at the Seoul Trade Exhibition Center (SETEC), starting with the men's wear collections. For the general idea by BumSuk's spring and summer collection, designer Choi Bum-suk said he was inspired by Philippe Greenleaf, a character from Patricia Highsmith's novel ``The Talented Mr. Ripley.'' Models walked the runway holding stark black umbrellas, while wearing chic outfits that expressed ``light emotion but a luxurious classic style.'' Soft pink and gray suits showed up at Seo Eun-gil's collection G.I.L. Homme, while Jung Hyun-tae designed crisp, white layered sporty outfits for mvio's collection. Han San-hyuk took unisex dressing to the next level, where male and female models wore identical outfits. The women's wear collections started on Oct. 22, with NWS president and designer Park Choon-moo's show featuring dark, cocoon styles evoking an image of the moon. Renowned hanbok designer Lee Young-hee combined the characteristics of the two-dimensional Korean traditional costumes with the three-dimensional Western-style dress, to create hanbok with a modern twist. Husband and wife team Andy & Debb emphasized their signature style of simple and modern cuts in their collection. The clothes' silhouettes were clean and fluid, and done in sunflower yellow, light gray and fuchsia pink. Lee Eun-jung's E.J. Lee collection was fresh and stylish, encompassing a circular design for all the pieces. Heo Ha-na's collection for hana.h showed both loose and slim fitting clothes in linen, printed silk and chiffon. Park Eun-kyung took inspiration from the late Princess Diana's modern and elegant look. Imseonoc held her fashion show on Friday, featuring beautifully crafted clothes in green, navy, white, black and light orange. . While this year's Seoul Collection may have lacked designers, it was made up with star power. The Hallyu Fashion Festival, a free fashion show, was held on Oct. 21 at the Seoul Plaza, in front of City Hall. Designers Han Seung-soo, Park Herin, Hwang Jae-bock, Yang Sung-sook, An Yoon-jung and Lim Hyun-hee showcased designs from their 2007 fall/winter collection. The show attracted fans of hallyu star Choi Ji-woo, as well as actors Jeoung Jun-ho and Shin Hyun-jun. Celebrities Hyun Young, Shinhwa's Andy, Fly to the Sky's Brian, Baek Ji-young and boyband FT Island also took the catwalk to model the designer clothes. However, the show did little to promote Korean fashion, since many in the audience were only there for the pop musical performances. The next Seoul Collection, featuring 2008 fall/winter collection, is scheduled for March 2008.