seoul and seoulite

Temporaily au revoir

2011-08-12T20:12:00.001-07:00

http://jamieinboston.blogspot.com

Since July 2011, I am now in Boston to attend the graduate school in Boston, MA. Please visit the new blog and see what I am doing there! :)

back to my blog

2011-01-20T08:34:00.000-08:00

Yes, I know. It seemed to be a decade since I left here with silence.

Of course, one of reasons why I have not been able to upload posts was my random schedule at work, contributing to spending time with bed rather than reading books or something else that would be productive.

But I confess that I wasn't strongly confident in my writing skills due to my poor practices. Even though spending more than 6 hours to write various documents that require professional writing techniques, I always felt the huge obstacle when refining expressions or reorganize the whole contents, which eventually indicates my misunderstanding.

Consequently, rather than emphasizing the countless practice, I simply avoided what I have to and it now turns out to be a huge barrier to degrade my ability to express my thoughts with words. It ultimately helps me waste time and decrease the concentration on writing. Perhaps my dear friends' advice - be surrealistic and never care what you are writing for - would be the answer.

No matter what it comes, I am a writer who illustrates my world and have to be the writer who can strategically organize and describe key messages unless I quit the job.

Let me know if you dislike my scribbles.

What makes me happy at work

2010-09-30T03:43:00.001-07:00

Here I introduce some stuffs making me delightful at work. Yes, I know there are a lot but just part of them :)

Evian facial water spray. It suddently became my one of top-priority cosmetics products because of sudden weather change from rainy summer to dry autumn. Argh, why should I suffer the dehydration even though my face is oily?

In Korea, September is a great period to taste fruits such as apple and pear because they are just harvested. Recently, the company sent an apple box for thanksgiving(chu-suk) and the taste was AWESOME. :-)

Behind the apple, definitely that is my deskptop I work with every weekday. Tons of emails to check and manage, documents I write and edit, and countless webpages to search information through the internet... Yes, desktop is my (undeniable) partner.

My small photo gallery at desk (on my right side!). Find who they are.

...and c'est moi with iPhone!

So what is your favorite things to make u happy?

Design for all! - Seoul Design Fair

2010-09-23T02:01:00.000-07:00

About a week ago, I visited a grand design exhibition called 'Seoul Design Fair' organized by Seoul Metropolitan Government. :)

It is an annual event since 2008 and this year's theme is 'Design For All' - indicating design as an enhancement of quality of life for human and faciliation of communcation to make the world harmonious.

Thus, rather than professional or profound, it is more accessible to see and understand all design concepts and to expand one's horizon. Lastly, it's a great opportunity to access to the main stadium of Jamsil Olympic Stadium, the homeground for Olympics 1988.

Here are some pictures I took with iPhone 4 :-)

Enjoy and visit http://sdf.seoul.go.kr/ for more detailed information.

South Gate of Main Stadium, this place is the core building of Jamsil Olympic Stadium. Definitely it was the official place for all ceremonies in 1988 Olympics.

Eco Green Garden with green trees :)

asian amulet carved on juniper

Green Garden Panorama filled with plants,

that white mosaic wall is Korean traditional gate

At Pavillion 'Living In Seoul Exhibition' this place has a theme of goods we usually see and use at home. Breakthrough designers from Korea, Japan, and China pariticpated in this project and revealed their interpretation of living and the design.(A bamboo gate and table designed by Chinese Designer)

At Seoul Brand Exhibition, a wall filled with Korean traditional clothes.

Varifying the way to tie clothes can make a huge difference.

Wooden imitation of Sungnyemun(Or Namdaemun, South Gate)

its wooden portion atop was seriously damaged in 2008 :(

Another digital interpretation of Cheongyecheon

(a name of stream located in Seoul)

At Business Lounge with free coffee from Nespresso!

One fine saturday in Seoul

2010-09-18T23:43:00.000-07:00

Hi, it has been a while since I posted pics and scribbles here. Recently I joined an enormous PR project at work which is currently on process. Though everyday is hectic to focus on every single schedule, I always try to focus on what to upload here and what topic would be informative for you.

So today I post some pictures I took in Hyoja-dong and Gwanghwamun about 2 weeks ago. :)

I still have tons of pics to upload here...

2010-09-05T06:51:00.001-07:00

but I am still focusing on how the camera reacts to my face.

back to Seoulite

2010-08-30T21:46:00.001-07:00

at Nusa Dua Beach

There must be a huge wanderlust in my ego. hah!
New blog posts will be updated soon.

Food Parade in Weekend

2010-08-22T00:17:00.000-07:00

Blueberry Mojito and Chocolate Waffe at cafe 'at' in Seorae Village

Visiting this cafe is one of my favorite pleasures to spend time with friends in Seoul. I personally love its coffee and waffle which serve smooth sweetness.

Strawberry Smoothie at cafe 'Angel-In-Us Coffee'(located on the first floor of 'Kyobo' building in Gangnam area) Though the taste was enough sweet to make me happy, I was rather in the status of guilty for being late to attend the first bible study for new members at church. Laziness never guarantees any opportunities to grab the best gemstones.

Lunch at cafe 'Migo Bakery' nearby Shin-Nonhyun Station(across from cafe 'Angel in us') I came across this place after attending 12 o'clock service and found a gorgeous lunch set named 'Simple lunch for busy office workers'. FYI, it consists of fried vegetable rice, 2 pieces of ham and egg toast, tomatos, tangerine and pickles and costs KRW 5,900. (one free cup of coffee included!) Only served every 12pm to 2pm. Recommendation for foreingers who want to grab quick and light lunch with reasonable price in Gangnam!

D-4 off to Bali, Indonesia

2010-08-19T08:02:00.000-07:00

Nikko Bali

Novotel Nusa Dua

Things to do in Bali
1. Pampering moment at peaceful beach in Nusa Dua
2. Chillout at bar located in Semiyak
3. Enjoying fresh seafood at beach in Jimbaran
4. Laying on the sunbed nearby the hotel poolside
5. Night-out in Kuta or Semiyak
6. Take a deep cultural breathe in Ubud
7. Forget what captured me and follow what my body and soul want
8. Make my vaction the most with friends
9. Get surprise gifts for family, friends and co-workers
10. Read book, book, book :)

taking a walk along the lake

2010-08-17T08:20:00.000-07:00

At Seok-chon(石村) lake park, Songpa, Seoul

Veggie style in Itaewon

2010-08-15T03:32:00.000-07:00

Vegeterian Salad at cafe 'Neal's Yard'

Too much balsamic sauce was not good to taste fresh vegetables. :(

European style with bold colors and pictures on wall.

Check this blog post if you're interested in.

Personal recommendation? Mint-chocolate latte

Interactive-off show

2010-08-14T09:58:00.000-07:00

let the party begin!

all actors and actresses standing on the stage with fancy dance steps

me with the rocker-style actor, Yes I know he is just an ACTOR

Oh maybe I should see the original version in Manhattan if there is a chance to revisit the big apple :) http://www.awesome80sprom.com/

updates from Seoul since March 2010

2010-08-13T09:51:00.000-07:00

Still ALIVE as Seoulite in Seoul :)

Jamie Style Salad for my D+12 Danish Diet Dinner

- boiled broccoli
- chopped tangerine, apple,
- tomato (completely different traditional italian red one)
- salary

For brief UPDATES since March 2010
- Still working as PR Publicist at InComm Brodeur. Now I've been working in this industry for last 2 years. I still love what I do and everyday seems to be a good lesson to experience. Recently I am seriously considering which area (e.g. IT PR, Risk Management, Change Management, etc.) I should focus on to accelerate my strength and interest.
- This year I am lucky to join PR activity for eBook, one of emerging IT gadget in the whole IT market. Comparing to previous experiences to work with IT B2B clients, this project is meaningful to broaden my horizon which ultimately enlighten me on how to define and deliver exact key messages and how to approach the target audiance. You'll see the huge difference between fashion editor and IT-professional journalist if there is a chance to explain what you're supposed to introduce. :)
- Twitter wowed me. Without any natural recognition, checking tweet on every hour became one of my daily tasks. To me, it is a global and dynamic platform to track what is going on and how people react when facing a breaking issue. ...Or it's another space to refine my personal thoughts in 140 words. @jamiekim
- Summer vacation in Bali, Indonesia within 10 days!

Please leave your comments if you're here :-) (Maybe your message will motivate me to escape from the laziness and to continue writing blog posts from Seoul. haha)

old days in 2008

2010-03-07T08:06:00.000-08:00

Q got sacred arm! zoooooooom!

at 'TOZ' business meeting room with CEO at Poken.com,
it was my unforgettable first business meeting EVER with poor communication skills.

March 6th, 2010

2010-03-06T08:02:00.001-08:00

...As if we were tourist with 'V' sign at Gangnam Station. :)

Psalm 55:22

2010-01-10T04:50:00.000-08:00

Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall.
- Yes, LORD :) I trust You and I thank You for everything.

Adieu 2009, Bonjour 2010

2010-01-03T04:24:00.000-08:00

New Year's Resolution in 2010
- soybean soup
- super traditional Korean beef (undescrible to explain in English)
- meat market
- other Korean cuisine

- 'Theory' brand shop in Seoul (garment)
- exercise: Korean dance or what?

- be BFF with 'T' and 'G'
- off to the country 'P' in July
- back to Starbucks in Daechi-dong in 2011 to recheck the list above

being 2NE6 (two-N-E-six) does not mean to get older from 25 but to greet the opportunity - blooming one's flower that has the most beautiful aroma.

So, bonjour to 2010 and say hello to new 2NE6 Jamie!

Joshua 1:8

2009-12-04T07:23:00.000-08:00

"Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful" - Joshua 1:8

Yes, your words are the light leading my footsteps :)

Autumn in Seoul

2009-11-01T07:16:00.000-08:00

Haechi Square with tiny fontains at Sejong street

Perhaps this is the perfect time to prepare 'things-to-do in Winter o9-1o' with a homemade-style waffle and healthy fruit juice. :) Yes, I am back!

New start at InComm-Brodeur

2009-07-20T05:11:00.001-07:00

I moved to new place called 'InComm-Brodeur' last week. As a subsidiary branch from Brodeur Worldwide, the office is 10-15 minute away from home by taking subway and bus. Yay :)

Thankfully, a dear friend of mine offered me to apply the full-time position and I finally received the offer letter about a month ago. Though saying g-bye to ex-office (Shout Communications Korea) was not easy at all, I rather chose to build a better career path by working with vast customers from different industries. Seriously, no regrets for this decision.

Happily, new co-workers at InComm-Brodeur are kind, dilligent, and passionate to their work. Rather than being workaholic (uh, honestly, no!!), the company advocates something fun, enjoyable, and active. It encourages me to become more positive and enthusiastic on my professional. Despite of this faltering economic crisis, I am such a lucky woman to enter the new environment with eminent talents and proactive work atmosphere.

I guess being diligent on what I do is the best response to give them back. :)

Ooooh, btw, I changed my hairstyle last week. Hope you like my new transformation!

hi friends!

2009-06-29T22:58:00.000-07:00

Hi friends! It has been a long time since taking a break for posting. I apologize for leaving here for a while due to my personal schedule. :(

Surprisingly, June 23rd was my first year of working at Shout as PR professional as well as my first place to work. Plenty of moments to taste achievements and depressions made me to be strong and learn what being professional means. Though I am still on the lane to learn more and more, no regrets are remains to change my career from Computer Science to Public Relations. I wish this transformation could ultimately become a great motivation to become an IT evangelist advocating developers.

More updates will be posted soon! Stay tuned! :)

a question

2009-05-23T04:40:00.000-07:00

D'Sound 'Tatooed on my mind'

Sometimes I ask myself a simple question.
'what does twenty five mean to me?'

Simple, but very profound to respond

'Lollipop' sung by Big Bang and 2NEI

2009-05-15T00:29:00.000-07:00

Lolli-lolli-lollipop, oh you're my lollipop :)
Make some grooves with lollipops!

A recent TV commercial advertising LG cell-phone

exotic saturday night

2009-05-03T09:06:00.000-07:00

french mussel cuisine at 'La cigale de Montmarte'

Jamie, do you really think they are enough for dinner? You're kidding, right? (FYI, that pink shirt buddy is attending Korean 'West Point' as senior)

Zzzzzzzzz taking a nap before taking a glass of german beer

Jamie with ULTIMATE margarita

at Buddaha's birthday fiesta in Itaewon, Seoul

thursday scribble

2009-04-30T08:10:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine visited Seoul today while taking his final vacation in army. (FYI, every man in 20-something has to attend army for 2 years in Korea. Sounds a bit strange, right?) Luckily, Thursday night was perfect to enjoy a ceaseless chat with a cup of coffee and recollect what things happened about 3~4 years ago. More than ever, I felt myself to be more relaxed when being with close friends. Though being a sociable person to hang out with people from school to work, I come to realize that the moment I find myself better is to be with people who have been tremendously supportive and so close.

How fortunate I am to have invaluable assets in my life :)

(Picture at Starbucks nearby Yeok-sam station)

one romantic night in Seoul with woong san

2009-04-26T06:56:00.001-07:00

razzle dazzle and boogie woogie seoul
with seductive artist, woong san

Harmonize the diversity - YouTube Symphony Orchestra

2009-04-19T02:35:00.000-07:00

A breathtaking moment to see the power of music and passion performed by people all around the world. Perhaps music is an universial language bonding all together to sing the most joyful happiness.

a minuscule prank creates the catastrophe - Domino Pizza's video on YouTube

2009-04-18T08:42:00.000-07:00

"Ewwwwwwww"

Automatically, all I could do was to feign my face after checking a mail from Hyunsoo oppa. He sent an article published on . (Perhaps, he made up his mind to join my debate group. haha) It was all about a video prant two young Domino Pizza's staffs composed and evoked an unexpected shock to abate corporate popularity. Surely, who would say 'it is still fine' if your pizza contains fetid and unfavorable ingredients? Their mindless behavior brought a marketing crisis and displayed the power of social media that tons of online users shared this video and commented with a variety of perspectives. (At least, I am sure that they are mostly negative) Consequently, the company had to release official apology through major online platforms and charged two staffs.

I found something interesting from this case rather annoying about unpalable food. That is the massive influence of social media which brought a damage of brand identity. Within a few days after two mindless employees uploaded the vidieo, people became shocked and rapidly spreaed this seriousness out through the internet from website to website. The company no longer posted offical announcement of apology and lawsuit against two staffs. No matter how instant the company was to prepare a statement, it showed itself a serious leak of unprepared media communication. Of course, I believe some of primary executives have already understood the importance of online marketing and communications. However, they should have aware of themseleves to instruct staffs or monitor issues. Rather, posting a number of messages to outline the supreme pizza quality through Twitter, the company needs to design profound storytelling of overcoming this disaster and open its ears to listen what customers still insist. Or training system should be reorganized to keep coherent corporate message Domino Pizza has to emphasize.

Bitter but didactic

saturday afternoon in Buam-dong

2009-04-12T04:44:00.000-07:00

walking along the street where artists portrayed their paradises

friday night getaway

2009-04-11T05:35:00.000-07:00

'binzip(empty house) project' party at club 'Circle'
with cocktails, house musics, and gorgeous seoulites

Bloomming blooming

2009-04-05T07:10:00.000-07:00

Yes, I still need something girlicious regardless of my age. It is because spring has come and cherry blossoms are blooming to kick off the beautiful floral fiesta. :)

Happy birthday mom!

2009-04-04T06:14:00.000-07:00

(I bought that strawberry cheese cake! The taste was SUPER GORGEOUS!)

Though people around the world are busy for making jokes for April fool's day, every the first day of April is one of my important days to celebrate mom's birthday. This year I prepared some gifts which she has craved to receive - books, a popular cosmetics, Bobbi Brown book and lip gloss, and Christian Contemporary Music sung by Young-Oak Shin. Purchasing every single gift, I could imagine how much she would be happy to love it. Thankfully, her response from my presents was a warm and big hug.

At evening, I visited a Korean style restaurant selling traditional alcohol called 'Dong-dong-ju' with mom and sister. Surprisingly, my aunt and her daughter(cousin 'Ji-min') appeared with a beautiful flower basket. 3 hours meal and conversation was not enough to go back to reminiscents of our grandfather, grandmother, and relatives. During this wonderful dinner, I was completely out of stresses filled with paperworks at office and concerns of myself. I felt more comfortable to go back to family reunion and enjoyable to celebrate one's precious day.

Mom, you are still my BEST SOULMATE forever and I LOVE YOU :) mwah!

updates since Feb 26th

2009-03-28T09:53:00.000-07:00

One fine day at cafe located in Seoul

Hi friends :) It has been a LONG DECADE since I left a post here. Truly, the schedule at work was more crazy than I ever imagined. You'll never know how much BABY JUNIOR takes a time to finish daily paperworks. What is more, there was a massive press conference launching Internet Explorer 8 developed by Mircosoft. (Okay, I am sure that you may know IE released the new version. Check the website above!) To me, the last week for the big event seemed to be a catastrophe to take every step from RSVP check to arrange press-kit(Press Release, sub-materials) for journalists who were supposed to be at the launching day. Until becoming (somehow? I wish!) PR consultant, I would not ever recognize how hard and complex organizing an official event was! Thankfully, there have been few negative feedbacks, which eventually made our team happy and most of journalists were satisfied with the presentation and demo video casted by an adorable 8-year-old girl and well-known IT Evangelist from Microsoft Korea.
Anyway, it was a great opportunity to learn how wise Account Executive(AE) should be where there are unexpected issues from journalists to the client. Understanding what the problem is and making the most appropriate decision with one's insight are what the professional has to learn.

Except hectic workloads at office, everything is FINE and wonderful. :) I am still in love with hanging out with friends and heading straight to cafe and restaurant, enjoying a glass of wine with mom, and craving to purchase some fine shoes while standing in front of the store window.

thursday thoughts

2009-02-26T05:01:00.000-08:00

Yes, indeed I screwed up again. Practice and the theory never allow the accordance unless there is a strong will. At that moment, I was a sort of pathetic movie actress or a main character of miserable novel. Instant useless thoughts from quitting job to bursting all tears and making noises passed my head, which seemed to be cool, at least.

Well, I realized how wasting of time being addicted to fall into idiot imaginations it was. Thankfully, Grace unni (Eun Hye, in Korean) shared what she has been experienced at office, which was absolutely helpful to become a bit encouraged. Comparing to her first year at IBM, she became a woman who craves something dynamic and creative at her field. Who would believe her who once sobbed while listening to the music from iPod on the way back to home? All she mentioned was be flexible whenever there are unexpected wall to face. In contrast to school, no one will ever forgive what I did something wrong or inappropriate. Unless there are an effort to understand what is right and wrong, nothing will be changed.

Oh, how lucky I am to have this beloved friend who shares what she had! Maybe this is the right time to burst my tears. Perhaps I have to pray for her and for myself to our heavenly father :) Thank you god for giving a great opportunity to experience what I never had at office and sending a friend who granted words of encouragement!

(* Picture at cafe 'Table 2025' located in Chungdam-dong, Seoul)
(** Oooh, what happened today was there was an media interview my client had to attend. I was luckily in charged of translating both Korean and English. Concerns really happended while I was at meeting. All I remember is murmurring, blushing my face, and become taciturn for a few seconds.)

Graduation 2009

2009-02-24T03:51:00.000-08:00

School of Computing, Soongsil University
Class of 2004 (Year of entrance)

Scripture of Feb. 15th

2009-02-16T03:58:00.000-08:00

From Miletus, Paul sent to Ephesus for the elders of the church. When they arrived, he said to them: "You know how I lived the whole time I was with you, from the first day I came into the province of Asia. I served the Lord with great humility and with tears, although I was severely tested by the plots of the Jews. You know that I have not hesitated to preach anything that would be helpful to you but have taught you publicly and from house to house. I have declared to both Jews and Greeks that they must turn to God in repentance and have faith in our Lord Jesus.

"And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there. I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me. However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace.

Acts 20:17 ~ 24

It took a time to listen his voice. While standing at the stage to say good-bye in front of countless friends, I was almost about to burst all my tears and would like to escape the instant silence. After the sending, all my friends from group (a group for those who was born in 1985) came together, grab my hands and started to pray.

"I don't know what to describe about our father's grace and unfailing love. He has already had a plan to bring me to here (Sarang church - the word 'Sarang' means love) and meet all brothers and sisters who shared every second warm happiness and his holy praises. I realized that I am such a weak person who needs a warm hand. Thank you for all who taught me how great and genial his love is."

Au revoir to my unforgettable college group in Sarang church and bon courage to New Ministry Harvest (a.k.a NHM - a ministry for English native speakers in Sarang church)

St. Valentine's eve in Seorae Village

2009-02-12T20:31:00.000-08:00

Friday night was more than a dinner party to enjoy with friends. I have to admit we - members of team3 from the conference HPAIR-KAIST 2005 - were fabulous! I was happy to join the reunion with my sister (on the left side of the group pic) who wanted to meet new friends and receive some advices. Since we had different backgrounds from Computer Science to medicine, she considered the dinner would be more than enjoying the exotic taste of Italian pizza in Seorae Village.

Though I was pretty weary due to new duties at work, countless chats with beloved friends was a great mental theraphy. It is the reason why I still love to meet friends - especially team3 members!!! Although we don't have common interests and backgrounds, memories for 4 days at KAIST (like a Korean MIT) was priceless and unforgettable. Before finishing college days, I joined a bunch of seminars and short-term projects with people from different schools or organizations. Due to the short term, it was rather natural to say hello and g-bye at the place you stood. However, my team (a.k.a C2C network) was more than a hell0-and-goodbye participants. Il-Gyu oppa and Yoon-Jae oppa became my supportive mentor in Finance and Medicine and Erika and Jisun became best friends sharing all concerns and happinesses.

I have to admit I am such a fortunate person to have these beloved friends!

(Il-Gyu oppa, Yoon-Jae Oppa and my Sister)

(Erika, me, and Jisun at cafe Serre)

btw, the restaurant was AWESOME! Visit Seorae Village in Seoul and taste the genuine Italian pizza! Maybe I could be your host to guide hidden IT PLACES in Seoul! :)

Microsoft Connection Day

2009-02-08T18:40:00.000-08:00

About two weeks ago, I had a special invitation from Microsoft Korea to participate in blogger conference called 'Microsoft Connection Day'. This session was to meet well-known influential bloggers in Korea and get to know what the latest Windows Live Services was. Noticing the list of bloggers, perhaps I was the least person having a low reputation or popularity in local blogsphere :( Indeed, however, nobody would say "BORING!" to join the small party if there are a bunch of online celebs and staffs of Microsoft - one of worldwide IT guru.

What made me a bit relieved was to meet Angus again! Since we met on late June 2008, having a short conversation from "hi" to "welcome back " was not a big deal. As a representative Product Manager of Windows Live Platform, he revisted Korea with his boss - John Richards, Senior Director - was about to join Q&A session. The session was not enough to complete countless and various questions and I had no choice but to toss just one question.

I am currently looking foward to join the after party tomorrow to see more detailed information of Windows Live. Perhaps this is the right time to learn what my client is doing in this hectic market :) Ciao!

Ski trip on lunar's holiday

2009-02-07T20:41:00.000-08:00

Hi friends! Sorry for being late to post recent pics and stories of mine. :( Let me say how lazy I am to post new updates! I swear to publish regular scribbles at least once a week! (Well, if you're good at Korean, visit http://jamieblog.tistory.com/)

During the Lunar's holiday on January, there was a one day trip to Ski Resort called Pheonix Park with friends. They were members of W.A.T.CH (We Are The Champions) - a group for participants joining the English quiz program - who turned to be 25 (in Korean age) just like me! Since we noticed a discount price for 25 at the resort, everything became clear to go straight and have fun.

Oh my, it was the second skiing I ever tried since I was 14. While my brain was busy to calculate how to pose and what angle would be ideal not to fall down, my legs had no control not to accelerate the speed. Of course, the first track at begineers' course was awful to fall down again again and again. (After heading back to home, the back pain lasted for a week) It took about at least 2 hours to be fully flexible and understand how to make a safe curve. Still, the advanced course was a nigthmare which angle was more than 20 degrees! arghhhhhhhhhhhhhh! Regardless of the pain, I had no choice but to kept skiing until the next day afternoon in negative 15 degrees!

The dinner party was definetely AWESOME to celebrate the reunion. Although all of us - PR Account Executive, two US grad school applicants, two undergrads - have been busy to keep in touch, we kept our close friendship and this break was meaningful to recollect the most joyful reminiscence while in 20.

Best wishes on the rest of 20s and the friendship! Whahoo!

(A toast for 25 with Soju - a traditional alcohol)

cafe

2009-01-04T05:35:00.000-08:00

Seemingly the short holiday break was not enough to take a rest. Once you wake up, it was miserable to realize a new day has come; which makes me feel a bit doleful (exaggeration :P) to go back to work. No more relaxation until there is a strong decision to quit the job. (...which is NOT A WISE idea as far as I am concerned with!)

Luckily, I had an opportunity to meet a friend who worked together at IBM Korea 2 years ago. Due to her master's degree at KAIST, we were not able to keep in touch and finally arranged the day to visit cafe <General Doctor>, a cafe which a doctor organizes the place and serves coffee and cake. The place was beyond the imagination to see a cat lying on the floor nearby the hot steam device and people enjoying their coffee with laptops. A silent but cozy to be relaxed!

It reminds me of being an excursion to either Jiyogaoka or Daikanyama in Tokyo, Japan; which I've never been. Comparing to fancy cafes located in Apgujeong or shinsa-dong, this place, nearby hongik university, seems to be more liberal due to the school location. Moreover, it is a good location to enjoy free concerts or small-sized artist groups' performances with live concert halls. :)

My last weekend of December

2008-12-27T08:02:00.000-08:00

It is always joyful to spend the time with friends who worked together at IBM Korea last year. Even we never imagined how close our friendship would be. There have been countless lunch, dinner, coffee time and an unforgettable party on this summer. Instead of 2008 farewell party, Yujin, Phoebe and I decided to have a dinner at a fancy restaurant located in Shinsa-dong. Yujin's choice to restaurant was gorgeous and the food was awesome. Without the early reservation, we would never allow to take the seat due to the holiday season.

We've been enjoying hectic conversation from work to personal issues which seem to be a regular topic on every chat. Since Phoebe and I started the career as Account Executive (AE) in Public Relations (PR) industry, all we shared was issues of local journalists and recent topics of IT. I felt I am lucky to meet a friend who works at the same realm. Her advices were surely helpful. Yujin will start her job at IBM Korea. Girl, she is brilliant to finally achieve the place where she had worked before. Perhaps she will insist on selling her products (either server or storage) to me, which may be possible! haha

After that, we went straight to the bistro called , which is one of popular places around Shinsa-dong. This place is one of my favorite bistro in Seoul which sells drinks, wines and some dishes. Our conversation was still endless and the sparkling wine was absolutely great! All I remember is we laughed and giggled a lot. Without this fun, I would struggle the stress all day and all night. Spending the weekend with friends seems to be one of blisses if you have a job and earn your living. :)

Knitting the LOVE for African babies

2008-12-25T18:05:00.000-08:00

(An image from Google)

Erika and I had a great time to spend the holiday with a knitting kit for African babies. This donation project is organized by Save The Children(http://www.savethechildren.org/) - a NGO which supports children suffering the severe poverty and illness. It has widely gained the popularity not only to raise the awareness to Africa but to heighten the hobby to knitting. As a knitting buff, this idea proposed by Erika was surely attractive.

I hope the baby receiving the hat on next year would like to be happy and become healthier. Surely, I will upload the picture soon! (...which may take a time to finish the complete version!!)

his holy birthday party, December 25th

2008-12-24T21:36:00.000-08:00

(Picture at starbucks with Sun Mi)

It was undeniable to stop crying while celebrating Jesus Christ's birthday. I was attending christmas service and a sudden cake with candles was carried by pastor Moon. Everyone started to sing 'birthday song' which was more spiritual and holy than I ever experienced. Yes, christmas is supposed to celebrate our savior's birth instead of hanging out and purchasing christmas gifts. It is a holiday not just taking a day off but to reconcile what we did and praise his name for this mercifulness. Hopefully, people would understand christmas is not just for enjoying the romantic atmosphere they ever dream as if they were actor or actress in the movie. It is a fiesta to remind his birth and have a birthday party in his name and holy spirit.

Happy birthday, my savior! Your unfailing love and presence is beyond the description. I am nothing without you. :)

me2day party!

2008-12-24T04:08:00.001-08:00

a great escape from reality

and an excursion to the world

you're connected with a friend you may know!

Perhaps Jamie is standing right in front of you and says hi!

happy holidays:)

Itaewon excursion

2008-12-21T08:20:00.000-08:00

(left: Erika, moi and Jisun)
Happiness seems to be an opportunity you can share something exciting and meaningful with people you really love. Though Itaewon - a place in Seoul well-known as an exotic district with a variety of restaurants and shops and for foreign people from US Army - was not familar with me, a nice european cafe was the perfect choice to recollect reminiscence of trip to Europe on 2006 and have a long conversation with girls - Erika and Jisun- and Jisun's boyfriend, Keith, from Hong Kong. Our chat was surely talktive and endless.

Taking a deep connection to the theme 'travel' was an addiction to remind memories. Our conversation plane was from Seoul to Hong Kong, Cambodia, somewhere in Europe, US and somewhere in Africa. It was unstoppable to realize how fascinating travel grants and the difference you never experienced. Perhaps we are still on the journey to see the next freshness which may be challenging but worthy to experience. Maybe Keith was here last year to see what Korea can give to him and Jisun means :) Their Christmas date will be surely unforgettable and attractive.

Warm hot Belgium Chocolate and friends in Itaewon was more than a Sunday break you ever imagined. :] Zai Jian!

Wedding and Stillwater reunion

2008-12-20T03:20:00.000-08:00

(left to right: Sharon, Jamie, Ju Hyung, Eun Kyung and Na Hee)

Home sweet home!

This is what I felt while meeting friends from Stillwater. Mostly, they had same exchange student program either on 2007 or 2008 and all attended the church. Isn't it a bliss god gave to us?

Saturday afternoon was for Jung Hyun oppa (oppa means a male who is close and older than a girl) It has been pretty known he had an elegant girlfriend and they finally gave a vow each other in front of hundreds of visitors. Songs for the couple was beyond the description. I was about to burst tears. Truly, it was deniable to be moved if you were at the ceremony. After the wedding, about 10 people went straight to cafe and had an endless chat from church to Stillwater updates everyone in Seoul has been curious about. 120 minutes conversation was not enough to fall into the reminiscence.

It was only 4 months I had everything in Stillwater which was certainly a short-term experience comparing to Seoul and Los Angeles. But I gained what I never expected and his unfailing love. Maybe he had already planned to enjoy this saturday afternoon with friends and take a time to recollect what I did last year. :)

Christmas parties

2008-12-19T05:39:00.000-08:00

Christmas is about to celebrate Jesus Christ's birth and we are committed to praise his hame :) This year I am thrilled to spend several parties with friend - colleagues from IBM Korea, friends from ICSITS-KAIST 2005 and co-workers at Shout. Although there are plenty of arrangements to check and make it work, concentrating on what I really like seems to be a bliss. Perhaps he allowed me to experience what this season's ultimate happiness means. Oooh, a morning services at church will on 't0-do' list for christmas! Indeed, carol songs and pastor's sermon is necessary!

Yeepie! :)

December

2008-12-17T19:52:00.000-08:00

Group picture with Shout people! There was a short break for everyone last thursday to take a group pic for christmas card. Everyone dressed up with white shirt, jean and red accessories from hat to ornaments. It was pretty unexpected to recognize people exactly have little interest in Elmo. I still cannot forget the guy at SF airport who tried to tickle the doll and gave a big hug. You can imagine how Elmo is a monster living the next door on sesame street!

Approximately 6 months has passed since I started the first career at Shout. Meeting a huge client was one of fortunate work I ever acquired. Of course, it is undeniable to work all busted workloads 24/7 and mailbox is always flooding which is unstoppable. Charming women at office seemed to be an ideal model I had to respect and now the reality explained I expectd too much.

Ahhh, when will be the perfect time to recollect the reminiscence of baby days? :]

Christmas spirit in Seoul

2008-12-12T18:15:00.000-08:00

Fancy lights and ornaments decorated the city. People started to change their atmosphere reminding of christmas spirit. Yes, everything happended in Seoul while I've been doing my job with crazy paperworks. There was no enough time to take a deep breathe and recognize the season is coming but to see (polaloid) christmas tree at work. How desperate I am! :(

But who can ever deny the happiness of christmas shopping if a person has a mind to deliver something special for someone? Luckily, a sale for a nice purse gave a huge joyfulness to purchase, which a part of my budget was for. Perhaps when there is an opportunity to spend the money you earned and make something ta-da for someone, it leaves no doubt to say WORTHY.

All this kind of tiny moments teach what money means to one's life.

21st christmas in Seoul, be filled with laughs and smiles :)

Updates

2008-11-24T03:38:00.001-08:00

Short messages for updates

#1 TWITTER! Whahoo

#2 what if the internet goes away tomorrow?

#3 SEOUL is still cold :(

#4 D-31 to CHRISTMAS! :)

Gossip girl

2008-10-29T05:47:00.001-07:00

There are small events for me to relieve all stresses and encourages the mental condition.
Surely, is one of treatments which is usually for wednesday. A bit childish to see tons of love affairs which seem to be unrealistic and fake, however, I see nothing but what girls love to be interested in, fashion, the big apple and dandy boys. Numerous imaginations rotates in my head, intriguing me to move straight to NY or Los Angles, my soul home.

Awwww, so what will be the next episode for N and little J?!

October 27th, 2008

2008-10-27T05:37:00.000-07:00

Headache irritated me all day all night at the office. It was clueless whether the chill weather stimulated the early symptom of cold or not. All I could assume was either the monday stress or bad posture while sleeping. Cozy bathtub fulfilled with bubbles and aroma fragrance are what I craved.

I fee like eschewing from all burdensomes for a while.

sunday scribbles

2008-10-25T09:24:00.000-07:00

I used to have role model for physical apperance while in high school. Truely, she had about 5'8'' height with an excellent slim shape, reminding of model. After time flies, her first career became flight attendant who serves the bright smile 24/7. She enjoys being in the sky.

Another dearest friend was met at same high school. The word 'energetic' and 'active' were for her who had a husky voice. Her strong personality covered my timidity and the relationship was pretty okay until the graduation came. College seemed to innovate her life, consequently, she became the fashion designer and currently is working as the assistant at a cetain company. Analyzing the next season's fashion and fabric quality, everyone knows what designers do, are what she is doing. Essays reveal how passionate she is. :)

I am not the exceptional. A girl took the step into the world of advertisement and PR with analytical and monotone background, engineering. There have been no extraordinary experiences improving either writing skills or remarkable communications. Only a simple motivation drove me to be involved in different industry and I am somehow pouring what I possessed.

Life seems to be full of unexpectancies that you'll easily be collapsed or make a huge laugh. Sometimes, it looks so scary or even hazardous, intriguing me to escape or hide myself. However, as time flies and there is a moment to recollect the behavior, I have nothing but to admit all changes or sudden appearances are part of life scenario which are expected to appear on the stage. That is, experience without anticipation gives temporary chaos and it disappers soon.

Things I never imagined still pop in front of my eyes. I don't know when I will be well-trainned to control myself and see everything audacious, however, things will not get worse than the expectancy unless the world seems to be charming to live and have fun.

Give a toast for all friends who has driven the different direction of the road like me =)

saturday fever

2008-10-24T20:43:00.000-07:00

no concerns for workloads upcoming on next week
no concerns for reckless issues I've been captured more than 5 months
no concerns for the next day dinner with family

so there should be amusements intriguing me

New blog for mommy?

2008-10-24T00:22:00.000-07:00

A tiny idea with no expectancy or plan intrigued me to become serious. I mean, would it be interesting to create a blog for mom who is a pharmacists? Since there have been tremendous blogs containing specialized topics from food to travel, there seems to be something extraordinary to post essays and advices as a pharmacists.

Wait a minute, pharmacists are ought to share healthy talents which connects to the mission of web 2.0! :P I'd better make some roadmap to fully manage and build some strategies.

4 months

2008-10-23T04:58:00.000-07:00

4 month passed since I started my career, Account Executive for Online PR (Public Relations). It is still unbelievable to realize how time flies so fast. A bunch of papers, articles and unexpected translations are fully waiting on 't0-do list' at office and I have nothing but to move ahead without looking back what I have ever done several minutes ago. When the moment for harsh disciple comes, the only thing I can do is to become mute and put chin down to the ground. Shouldn't there be more bossy attitude?

On the way back to home, I love this 15 minutes to spend and recollect what this is all for. Surely, tears sometimes come out, which is tough to endure, and loud musics are one of theraphic treatment to remove all concerns. After anxieties and angers fly away, there is one thing remaining in my brain, the unfailing love proven by our holy father and family who has been supportive as the buttress. No matter how the world is tragic and full of astonishments that are mostly unexpected, hope still dwells in your side if the relationship with God and the family exists.

This is what makes me to be energetic whenever I easily fall into self-depression. You'll never know how ridiculous I am to make myself pathetic and precipitent. However, as long as I am holding his warm hand and the bond in the name of family, there will be no dramatic desperation but the challenge to fight against the self-weakness.

Yeah, how lucky I am! :)

Finale of Project Runway Season 5

2008-10-20T05:37:00.000-07:00

Regardless of all my academic backgrounds, I heart fashion which gives incessant inspirations on my creativity. Certainly, there are no absolute style source to become artistic or designer,however, all motivations to make me more active are mostly derived from fashion, music and art collections. What is different finally chanages what I see the world and think.

Certainly, it was glad to watch the last finale runway of Season 5. I have to say that the elimination of Jerrell was a bit shocking. Vintage style with the sophisticated look was one of my interests among designers' collection and Jerrell and Kotro was candidates. Kenley's show at Bryant Park was beyond the expectation. To be honest, which judge would ever like the cynical critic with no allowances to listen others' perspectives? There wouldn't be no chances for her unless she allured the strong attention on her garments.

Whenever there is a moment to fall into the imagination, I used to stand at the long runway as the model for the designers. Delivering the message the cloth contains seems to be more attractive and I may assume myself to pull out. Although choosing myself to become Account Executive in PR industry, I will still crave to dream what can bring the creativity not in text-based message but in color and nonverbal way. Wouldn't be sanguine to stand in front of friends' camera and make it work just as Gisele? haha

Great applause to all designers from Season 5. :)

October 13th, 2008

2008-10-13T04:53:00.000-07:00

I really don't get it about this blog system in Google. :(

fireworks in seoul

2008-10-04T09:26:00.001-07:00

seductive moment to relieve what I've been concerned with and inspired opportunity to overcome all anxieties

Sunday morning

2008-08-23T19:02:00.000-07:00

The sky seemed to be seen adorable until the hot and humid air surrounds the whole city, Seoul. Maybe, it is because of the Olympics spirit making all Koreans to be energetic. Of course, even I was not the exceptional but to merely read articles but to watch the whole match during last week. Thanks to the high-qualified technologies, a full-screen TV and the internet connection, it is boundless to recognize that sports and buffs goes everywhere.

Last night, the entire places in Korea was shaken due to the miracle of acquiring gold medal in baseball, Beijing 2008. In the last nineth, the expected scenario was not on the reality: the players grabed the chance to take two players of Cuba to be eliminated with a quick and precise throwing. Realizing the 3 seconds, all Korean members suddenly gathered to the ground and shouted to the sky for the first and the last victory in the Olympics history. Sining the national anthemn was the memorable than ever.

Maybe the sports is the movie that needs no budget to make a miraculous story and succeed.

sleepover party at Erika's house

2008-08-10T03:25:00.000-07:00

enjoying every second with yummies and friends and the Olympics :)

Go Korea and show the potential!

Dokdo Island

2008-07-16T17:43:00.000-07:00

http://www.dokdo-takeshima.com/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liancourt_Rocks

The truth will always be exposed no matter how pointless lies act.

baby steps

2008-07-10T03:40:00.000-07:00

okay, shall I write daily steps as a baby assistant account executive at the office?
Until the september, collecting clients' articles from websites is the only duty for a day. As my company serves for Online PR, everything is connected to the internet. So it goes without saying that no electricity at the office would be a hazard. I mean, you may be able to stay at home and work!
More specifically, there are several categorized teams and I am one of them to deal with. Luckily, those customers for me were well-known enterprises in that industry. About 90 to 100 minutes, I gather all related issues including competitors, market, and even the client's news. It is pretty interesting to notice that there are various informative media in the crazy web. Pretty countless to figure our the whole structure and the pattern of all topics! After collecting them, the issues should be recorded with a certain format which is extremely critical! Baby still makes tons of mistakes which even a wrong color of a word is one of them.
Overally, it takes about more than 4 hours to fully end up and the work for summarizing is on the next step after I have a short break for a lunch. As all employees are assigned to take their specific job, it is pretty funny to realize that the office is completely dead and silent in the morning.
While trying to lessen the impulse to take a nap, I usually take the step to have a sort of fun by cutting out the shape of article and attaching them on the document, which hopefully helps to overcome the sleepy soul. I wish I could take a sip of coffee which can energize the brain and the pathetic ego! If a luck comes, 4 o'clock will be perfect to leave and go out. Yeah, LITERALLY IF THE LUCKY MIRACLE HAPPENS! It is inevitable to become mentally and physically exhausted to overwork due to my early morning start at 7am. To me, every second should be punctuate to follow the flow of my health condition but it seems that other co-workers consider that I still need to be there with them, which is a huge chaos!
Still miserable to realize that the baby time is not over. However, without this harsh experience, there will be no chance to be more wise and sensitive about what I do. Perhaps, or Absolutely, all well-known celebs or leaders struggled their dark period and that would ingited their fire to illuminate the future.
Hah, how impatient I am! Maybe this training term will make something different :)

hot summer in Seoul.

2008-07-09T04:37:00.001-07:00

ARGH! It is up to 80 fahrenheit in Seoul!!!

Whenever being outside of cool building, it takes about a few seconds to become pretty damped and thirsty, which makes me to feel like rushing to Starbucks and catching a cool ice-americano.

Beyond that, the more worse truth is that there are no vacations for me AT ALL :(

Bill Gates, Looking Back and Moving Ahead

2008-07-03T23:38:00.000-07:00

these video clips are originally supported by Microsoft
and check the genuine version through this website.

http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/presskits/leadership/default.mspx

man, I should have asked all questions about SaaS stuffs MS plans to ignite to Angus who I met!

On Teheran street

2008-06-23T18:07:00.000-07:00

High skyscrapers are being easily seen in Seoul on several areas and one of them is where I work, Yeok-sam. Both side of the main street, Teheran-ro, rigid and tall buildings are located which represents top IT enterprises in Korea and all over the world. Just like the entier IT market is not always stable and steady but crazy, so is the place with numerous people on early morning and evening around 9am and 6pm.
As a baby Account Executor(which should be an intern for 3 months!), I am currently assisting to collect recent issues of specific topics of IT that clients mostly are interested in. Pretty simple and time-demanding to finish but my physical status, especially the eye, goes so exhausted after passing the most critical deadline term. Argh, how pathetic my eyes are that no breaks are almost allowed on morning period.
But, working with my experiences and knowledge achieved at school or related field are remarkably helpful to utilize at office, which means the time can be lessen to pour tons of efforts on understanding and memorizing all IT terms.
I still feel everything is chaotic from my desk to the overall atmosphere of this office. A profound silence will not be broken until the afternoon and nobody ever says HELLO because of high-concentrated-morning-duties. All I can do is screening the monitor, clicking websites, furtively sending text messages or accessing to blogs, and yawning :(
Maybe this bordom exists only at this building. How can baby acknowledge what will be the next until becoming a kid?

Memories in 2007

2008-06-22T06:13:00.000-07:00

Enjoy the video of my memories :)

Meeting Angus

2008-06-20T23:45:00.000-07:00

pretty unexpected to meet Angus, the senior technical product manager of Windows Live Platform, Microsoft. Luckily, I was invited to the dinner presented by Tistory, a company for providing blog services just like blogspot or wordpress in Korea. This instant surprise made me a bit confused to prepare what to ask. Of course, hot issues of MS and Yahoo was on the top, which I finally never asked.
Everything in Hong-dae(streets nearby Hong-ik University) seemed stylish and crazy, which various 20-something girls are interested in. Maybe the company moved their office to this place to be motivated with their idea on blog services.

Anyway, after the meal was finished, a cozy wine bar was the next round to taste a some-kinda-gorgeous wine. Angus seemed to be pretty exhausted due to the jet-lag but he feigned to be more energetic with aussie-style jokes. Deep and interesting topics of MS services and issues of Web Development were exchanged on the table and there were little chance for me to ask because of little experiences as a student, which made be a bit frustrated. However, it was pretty inspiring to overally understsand how the IT market is pretty hectic and there are no guarantees for tomorrow whether this huge dinosaur will be survived or not. Perhaps this world is betting a golden lottery ticket :P

Fun, Fast, and Fierce; those are what I may keep in my mind!

coffee in seoul

2008-05-26T07:27:00.000-07:00

I wasn't a huge fan of coffee before visiting to Stillwater, Oklahoma on last year. After participating in the early morning service at church, I was almost bound to go straight to the coffee & bakery shop called . It was appropriate to feel the coziness just like a place. A small amound of budget was for the perfect breakfast meal with free-amount of coffee, warm bagels and various spreads. That seductive meal was the reason why I visited and loved a lot.

Coffee gives an instant energy and a relaxation to lessen the anxiety. Perhaps it can also serve to be a remedy to heal one's intensity.

Seoul and Seoulites seem to change the paradigm of this mental theraphy. Inevitable power of ads and mass media rocked those who adores the lifestyle of celebs who carries bling-bling accesories holds a grande size of coffee. Whenever there is a chance to pass the window of coffeeshop, a bunch of people either reads a book(which seems not to be either masterpieces or books of philosophy) or listen to the music while gazing outside of the glass, not focusing on what they drink.

As every human possesses one's color, there are no reasons to argue what coffee really works to us. Maybe this essay would be meaningful to complain how those dream-seekers are stupid to merely seek the abundance.

Be better to become wise by myself.

snacks

2008-05-24T09:28:00.000-07:00

Perhaps Seoul is the most blessed city to enjoy the feast of snacks that you can even taste on 24/7. As soon as the strong temptation appears, there is no reasons but to go straight to either convenient store or small spot of snacks with a small amount of budget.

What is more, tons of cafes in European style are getting popoular in certain ares such as Sam-chung-dong, Shin-sa-dong, and streets in Hong-Ik University. Delicious belgium-style waffle with ice-cream and maple syrup would be perfect to take a long date to feel the exotic in Seoul.

Maybe, this is the reason why I cannot easily make up my mind to escape this hectic city. :(

fireworks in seoul

2008-05-16T07:48:00.000-07:00

A fabulous firework in Jamsil nearby my place :)

the real world

2008-05-13T23:21:00.000-07:00

okay, I planned to start with fancy words to express "hola!" for this blog, but my sudden change to become discouraged enforces to reorganize what I did during this afternoon. A scheduled interview was waiting in Yuk-sam, the place with various IT companies stannd. Appropriate suit, black shoes, and well-categorized resume seemed to be perfect to meet the CEO of the company at 2pm. That was the naive imagination until I faced to meet the director. Words such as acumen, robust, and critical are for her. All random and unexpected questions came out from her mouth and instant sensitivity and creativity were highly encouraged to approach and answer them. It seemed to be all fine except the last question, the date to begin. A crucial status between employee and student was the fundamental problem. Damn, I honestly depicted thoughts but no hopes seem to be appear soon.

So regretful but fresh to experience.