First, let me set the scene. I am not a Taekwondo Master. Nor even a Black Belt. In fact, I don’t have a belt at all. Indeed, I have never had a Taekwondo belt. So why, you are entitled to ask, am I writing an article about Taekwondo?

The reason is simple. In my day job at a leading UK team building company, a surprisingly large number of our wider event team members over the years are Taekwondo practitioners. Most of them are of black belt status and two of them have actually got on their martial arts CV that they have represented England. The reason for this is simple. One of the two is our Client Services Manager and she has roped in some of her Taekwondo friends. Basically, I feel qualified to write this through multiple third-party connections.

So here is what I have gleaned from them. In keeping with the majority if not all martial arts, Taekwondo offers a mixture of activity, self defence and approach to life in general – a philosophy if you will. One factor that mas made it so popular around the world and far from its Korean roots is that it is a very social activity, bringing together people from all walks of life and even generations. While it is an Olympic sport involving experts and watched by millions, it is also a very participative activity that can be enjoyed by all. The tenets of the art encourage camaraderie and even teamwork, so there’s a link to my day job there!

So what is it? Well, it is a martial art that originated in Korea. Its literal translation is “the way of the foot and the fist”, with Tae meaning to break with the foot, Kwon meaning the same but with the fist and Do supplying the way. Interestingly, it was born in the same year as me. 1955. It is certainly wearing its years better than me! Choi Hong Hi, a South Korean General and martial arts expert. I gather that Choi is something of a controversial figure within Taekwondo and not all factions view him as its creator, but I’m going with the local flow here.

When I say it was born in 1955, that isn’t strictly true. It gained its name then, but actually it has been around for well over a thousand years. Back in that day it was called Taek-Kyon. Basically, the people who unified Korea from the original three kingdoms that existed managed to do so largely by force and the force in question had Taek-Kyon at its disposal. The martial art helped the relatively young (by age of its members) army of the Hwarang-Do unify Korea. Once they had achieved this, they began to spread the word and get people across the kingdom engaged with the marital art.

It survived a near extinction event when the Japanese occupied Korea in Yi Dynasty times shortly after the turn of the 20th Century (1910 to be precise) and really took off once the occupation ended in the mid 1940s.

As I write, Taekwondo is enjoyed in an organised fashion by people in almost 70 different countries. Including this one, of course. And if the spirit and camaraderie of my colleagues here is anything to go by, it isn’t going away any time soon. So in answer to the question I raise in the title, it seems to me to be a martial art for all that engenders a great spirit among those who practice it together. Even those who have never taken a lesson in their lives can benefit from that if they know people who are already into it.

Lindsey and Juo met while Lindsey was studying abroad at Ewah Woman’s University in Seoul, South Korea back in 2015. She was there to study for a full year when out of nowhere Juo sent her a message on Instagram. Lindsey was hesitant at first but decided it would be a great way to make a friend in Korea. After a few times of casual friend dates, Juo asked Lindsey to be his girlfriend on his birthday in November or 2015. Since Lindsey returned to the US in June 2016, they have been in a long-distance relationship with Lindsey living in Florida and Juo living in South Korea. They get to see each other every 4 months for 2 months at a time. Giving their full effort in the relationship and using the distance to make their hearts grow fonder. Lindsey and Juo will both graduate from college this December and Lindsey plans on moving back to Korea in July of 2018 after applying to be an English teacher there.

Questions to Her

On Our first date…

I honestly kept thinking of all the things that could happen… with the worst-case scenario being a scene straight out of the movie “Taken”. He made the journey to my campus and waited patiently for me with flowers and heartfelt letter in hand. We grabbed lunch, tried to talk- but the nerves got the best of us, and then we went shopping for a winter coat since I had no idea how to prepare for the winter after spending my entire life in Florida.

During the first months of dating my deal-breaker would be…

any sort of lying. If you are not truthful in the early stages of our relationship, that is means for instability later on. The other (silly) thing for me would be eating with your mouth open… that has always just been a pet peeve of mine.

I learned He is right for me when…

He told me that he would always take care of me and that no matter how long it takes he’ll wait for the day that we can be together. His dedication sealed the deal.

I had culture shock moment when…

we decided to wear a couple outfit for the first time! In America, it’s not popular for couples to show off each other like that by wearing matching clothes, so when we did it I thought it was so interesting but I LOVED it at the same time. Now, I feel like Juo and I are matching some part of our outfits more often than not and we both enjoy that!

3 things I love about Him are…

the way he cares about me. He always asks me if I have eaten or how my sleep was. He offers me his coat when its cold or his shoulder when I’m feeling tired. For example, we were going home on the subway one night after a long day and Juo had taken the moment to use his jacket to cover my legs so I could sit comfortably in my skirt while resting my head on his shoulder.

Second thing is that he understands me. He takes the time to listen and hear what I’m saying. He’ll listen to me vent and then tell me everything’s OK and to let it go. He doesn’t let our language difference stand in the way. If he needs more explaining he’ll ask and does not ever say never mind or give up and to me that’s important.

Third, he gives his all to our relationship. He always thinks about our future and openly talks about it. He is comfortable around me and shows me his love continuously. There has never been a moment where I couldn’t feel his true mind or intentions. For example, one recent topic we have been stuck on is the idea of adopting a dog or cat when I move to Korea. It might seem like a simple topic but it really is planning a part of our future and wanting to grow together.

The biggest misconception about his country and culture was…

the idea that Korean guys in Korea would never see a relationship with a foreigner as a real one. I was always told to be cautious and that they may only see you as an easy target or a fun experience to brag to their friends about.

The most beautiful things he ever did for me was…

Make a personalized photo book of all of our memories from our first year together. As a one-year gift to me, Juo created a huge book filled with picture after picture of all of the things we had done together. He had dates written on all the pages and little captions for each photo. I couldn’t believe he had made something like that and to me, it was the most special thing I have ever received because I could see all the time and love he had put into it. It is something I will cherish forever.

Second thing was that he proudly waited for me at the airport with the most beautiful bouquet of flowers I have ever seen and we both fought back tears as we hugged each other for the first time in months. Seeing the love of your life standing there waiting for you with the biggest smile on their face is one of the best moments anyone in a long distance relationship can experience. Those moments are priceless.

During this relationship, the most important thing I learned about myself was…

that I can be patient and I can say that I learned what it meant to show love in ways beyond physical actions. Love can be seen in the words you say to each other and the effort you give every day. I know distance is only an issue in a relationship if you make it one. I have become such a patient person and I now understand that waiting is only part of our journey. Juo and I are in this for the long run and if it means waiting months on end then so be it. Honestly, it was a skill that I lacked in the past but this relationship has changed that.

If there is a piece of advice I could give to my fellow Western girlfriends who are into the AMWF relationships that would be…

to be yourself without limitations. There is never a limit on how much you can learn about another person’s culture. There is never a limit on becoming a better version of yourself without changing who you are. Finally, there will never be a limit on who you find love and a connection with. Know it’s OK to embrace those with different races, ethnicities, religions, and cultures because no one says you have to find love within someone or something familiar.

Questions to Him

Asking her out for the first time was…

exciting. I saw her for the first time on Instagram and thought she was so beautiful so I had to send her a message. After talking together for a while I couldn’t wait to meet her in person so, I just got my courage together and asked!

I learned She is right for me when…

She told me she would love me forever. Some people think that’s easy to say but to me, that is something so special because I can really feel her mind. Also, she always knows how to surprise me. For example, she would send me letters in the mail without reason and fill them with our photos. She always writes me a sweet message inside too.

I had culture shock when…

she told me there was not really a public transport system in Florida. She said there was no subway or big bus system and I was shocked! After I visited her in Florida for the first time I understood later that most people used cars so there was no need for public transport.

3 things I love about her are

She loves me unconditionally. I’ve never felt this kind of love before and it makes me feel special. No matter what, I know she’ll be by my side and I’ll absolutely do the same for her.

She’s always thinking about me. Recently she told me that whenever she is talking about me or thinking about me she’ll touch our couple ring that we wear. I feel like we share our feelings. If I’m happy I can share that happiness with her. If she’s sad I can understand her sadness and do my best to make her happy. She understands me, she makes me happy, she’s beautiful… how can I not love her? Sometimes I still can’t believe she is my girlfriend!

The biggest misconception about her country and culture was…

that I thought their eating habits would be similar to the ones I saw in movies and TV shows. I thought when I went to America I would see everyone eating fast food or frozen dinners every day, but that wasn’t true. I will say I do think eating out is definitely more popular there than in Korea but it is not what the movies make it seem like.

The things that She likes to do for fun with me…

are traveling and talking! We are obsessed with traveling and making memories across the globe. Every time we are together we always plan a trip. Our first trip together was to Tokyo, Japan in 2016! These days we are already planning our next trip for when I go to visit her in the US. With her, there is never a dull moment. Whenever we video chat or call or message we are always laughing about something or making each other smile.

During this relationship the most important thing I learned about myself was…

the need to understand. After being with Lindsey for almost 2 years, I have become better at understanding and listening. Even though she is American and I am Korean I realized that doesn’t play a role in our ability to understand each other. I feel like we know each other better because we both are interested in each other’s culture.

If there is a piece of advice I could give to my fellow Asian friends who are into the AMWF relationships that would be…

that if you are in long-distance now or would like to have a relationship with someone from a different country in the future I will just tell you not to give up! If you guys can’t stay together now, you have to show all your love and feelings for that person. Talk about your future. Get to know where you both want to be in the future and plan for that. It will keep you both excited and sets a goal for you all to reach.

For the uninitiated, Pepero Day is an observation in South Korea similar to Valentine's Day. It's named after the Korean Snack Pepero and its observed on November 11, with the date "11/11" resembling sticks of Pepero.

A popular notification is that the company Lotte who produces pepero was the one who started this observation. But popular legend has attributed to a group of middle school girls in Busan gifting each other boxes of Pepero as a wish to grow tall and slim. These days other than gifts among couples, teachers, friends gift pepero as a sign of friendship and love.

Like all things cute and trendy, it has since exploded into a whole cottage industry. On other days, regular pepero only cost 800-100 won per box, on pepero day you will find special gift boxes, and Lotte has also caught on to the trend by selling specifically printed boxes of pepero for this day. These days bakeries, chocolatiers and even department stores have been getting in on the occasion with gourmet pepero. Some include Italian dark chocolate wrapped pepero, exotic flavors like macadamia nuts and even a great size pepero!

Another popular trend much like on valentine's day, there has been an upsurge in home made Pepero sticks and decorations to give that added "awww" i love you factor. Crafty blogs on pepero decoration and gift wrapping with detailed instructions on how to make or buy decorations along with ideas on how to specially wrap wrap your deco pepero sticks

Not to be left out, a recent trend among older couples to celebrate this occasions is to wrap rolls of money in Pepero boxes as a practical gift. This has become popular among husbands who do not want to be seen carrying large gift baskets of Pepero as a way to humor their wives.

Pepero games as also been a part of popular Korean culture, with mock pepero sword fights, to waves to cast spells a la Harry potter. The most infamous use maybe the pepero kiss game, a popular staple on Korean variety shows where a couple will put each end of the pepero stick in their mouths and eat toward each other trying to stop just before their lips touch.

For whatever the reason, whether its giving pepero to say you are number one in my heart, friend or teacher it has become a part of popular Korean culture.

Welcome to the Kingdom of Swaziland!

Independence

Did you know- On September 6, 1968, the country – one of the most ethnically homogeneous republics on the Planet– proclaimed its national independence as the Kingdom of Swaziland within the Commonwealth. It thus became the forty-second independent country in Africa. Since that time, it has become one of the few monarchies in the Third World. For almost 70 years, prior to 1968, the United Kingdom had ruled the country as a British High Commission Territory. In fact, Swaziland was one of Britain’s last colonies on the African mainland.

Geography

Did you know- The modern country of Swaziland lies in southern Africa and is completely surrounded by formerly white-ruled South Africa and Mozambique (ex Portuguese colony).It covers about 6,704 square miles ( 17,363 km). The African monarchy–about the size of New Jersey–is the world’s 158th largest nation in area. What is more, it is one of the smallest countries by area among the former British colonies in Africa, along with Lesotho, Mauritius, Seychelles, and Gambia. This tiny kingdom enjoys a favorable climate. Most of the nation is covered with mountains (up to 4,500 feet), rainforests, and valleys.

Summer Olympics

Did you know- In 1968, the kingdom was one of the new nations of the world, but it did not become an Olympic country until 1972.

Foreign Relations

Did you know- The Kingdom of Swaziland, once an anti-Communist nation, maintains close diplomatic and economic ties with South Africa, and Japan, as well as South Korea and the United States of America. Since then, it is known for its strong ties with London. In the meantime, since its independence (1968), Swaziland is one of the few African states in the world that has not had diplomatic ties with the People’s Republic of China.

Water Resources

Did you know- Despite the country’s size -one of the smallest nations on Earth- the Kingdom of Swaziland is one of sub-Saharan Africa’s well-watered areas. Like Suriname, Solomon Islands, and Norway, it is home to a number of rivers. Major rivers include: the Ingwavuna river in the south, the Makondo river in the southwest, the Usutu and Ngwempisi rivers in the west, and Lomti and Black Umbeluzi rivers in the north.

People

Did you know- Over one million people living in the nation,the great majority Swazi-speaking blacks. Moreover, there are a number of citizens of Swaziland employed in South Africa and other countries.

Major International Organizations

Did you know- The nation became a member of the United Nations on September 24, 1968. At the same time, it became the twenty-eighth member of the British Commonwealth.

Power & Women

Did you know- By the early 1980s, this landlocked country made the world headlines when it had two Queens. Following the death of King Sobhuza II, the Queen regent Dzeliwe Shongwe ruled the tiny kingdom, between 1982 and 1983, and months later Ntombi Twala became the country’s second female Head of State since 1968. According to Swazi traditions, the new king is elected by the Queen Mother (Ndlovukazi or She-Elephant). In 1921, Sobhuza II, who was one of the world’s oldest reigning monarchs, had been hand-picked by the She-Elephant.

Language

Did you know- This monarchy is a country with two official languages, English and siSwati.

Wildlife

Did you know- Despite its tiny size, this land is famous for its vast variety of wild animals, such as elephants, lions, rhinoceros, and leopards. Otherwise, it also is well-known for its birdlife. In Lubombo, for example, there are over 350 species of exotic birds. In recent years, the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary has become one of the country’s most visited spots.

New Wonder

Did you know- The tiny kingdom is home to one of the world’s oldest mines. It was discovered in Ngwenya, district of Hohho, in 1970.This new wonder is one of Swaziland’s top tourist attractions.

Two Capitals

Did you know- Unlike a number of states in the world, this English-speaking nation has two capitals. Mbabane is the administrative capital, meanwhile Lobamba is the traditional capital. Mbabane -lies in Swaziland’s western highlands– is the largest city and was set up in the early 1900s. With a population of 100,000 people, Mbabane is home a number of traditional markets, excellent restaurants, stunning gardens, and amazing hotels. In the 2oth century, this Swazi place became one of the most peaceful cities in southern Africa. In the meantime, Lobamba has interesting places, such as the King Sobhuza II Memorial Park and the National Museum.

Economics

Did you know- This African monarchy is blessed with abundant water and some minerals, such as iron ore, asbestos, tin, kaolin, coal, gold, barite, and diamonds. On the other hand, from 1984 to 1994, the Kingdom of Swaziland boasted one of the world’s fastest-growing economies (6.5%), ahead of several Asian countries.

World-famous Visitors

Did you know- Pope John Paul II came to the country in 1988.

The figures for worldwide poverty are shocking. About three billion people – just under half of the World’s population – live on less than $2.50 a day; 22,000 children a day – over eight million a year – die due to the effects poverty (malnutrition and disease); one in three children (640 million) live without adequate shelter; one in five children (400 million) don’t have access to safe water; one in seven children (270 million) don’t have access to healthcare.

Given these ghastly statistics you’d think that nobody with any humanity could oppose increasing the amount of foreign aid we should give to those so much less fortunate than ourselves.

When most people think of foreign aid, they tend to imagine brave aid workers rescuing people from earthquakes, tsunamis, floods, famines and other such natural disasters. But this emergency aid accounts for an extremely small part of the foreign aid money we give either directly to charities or through our taxes to charities and various relief agencies. Perhaps just $5 billion to $6 billion of the $135 billion a year foreign aid is emergency aid. The other ninety five or so per cent of charity and aid money goes to what’s called ‘development aid’ – helping countries escape from poverty and putting them on the path to development.

In the last sixty years around $3 trillion has been donated by developed countries to help poorer countries. There have been some huge successes – extreme poverty has been more than halved, diseases like river blindness and smallpox have been all but eradicated and millions of lives have been saved from famine and conflict. Moreover, many aid recipients have managed to break free from poverty and achieve rising levels of prosperity for their people.

In the 1960s countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, China, Thailand, South Korea and Taiwan had lower income per capita than some African countries. Now, thanks in part to aid, they have shot ahead of their African counterparts. South Korea for example, used to have a lower income per capita than Ghana. By 2013 South Korea’s income per capita at $33,189 was close to ten times that of Ghana at just $3,461. Though the country which has achieved most in improving the lot of its population is probably China where, with very little foreign aid at all, close to seven hundred million people have been taken out of poverty in just thirty years.

Between 1990 and 2010, Kenya and Ghana each received about seventeen per cent of their GDP in aid and grew by just over three per cent a year. In contrast, China received less than one per cent of its GDP in aid and grew by over eleven per cent a year while Malaysia was given just over one per cent of its GDP in aid and grew by six per cent a year.

But while most formerly poor Asian and some South American countries have made significant progress on the road to development and modernisation, too many countries, particularly in Africa, have stagnated or even become more impoverished over the last few decades in spite of being given more in aid than any other part of the world.

In Europe, after the Second World War the US-sponsored Marshall Plan is generally credited for helping war-ravaged European countries to rebuild and become prosperous. So some people have demanded a ‘Marshall Plan for Africa’. There’s only one problem with this demand. Africa has already had its Marshall Plan – several times over. In the last fifty years Africa has been given the equivalent of around ten Marshall Plans. In today’s money, the five-year European Marshall Plan saw about $100 billion – $20 billion a year – being used to rebuild Europe after WWII.

In the last fifty years, Africa has received over $1 trillion in aid. So, Africa received about the same every year – $20 billion a year – for fifty years that Europe received each year for just five years. Yet there’s little evidence that those countries getting the most aid have benefited from this aid and a quarter of Sub-Saharan countries, including some of the world’s greatest recipients of foreign aid, are now poorer than they were in 1960.

In a democratic nation, online privacy should be & must be a basic human right. However, today, enormous numbers of internet service providers play with this basic human right in front of naked eyes to earn millions if not billions by trading your private data. You might be thinking why, what in the world you should spend the time to secure your online activity. And, it is natural. To answer this particular question, here are a few reasons you should know about.

Your basic human right: Today, millions of people across the globe doesn’t differentiate online and offline privacy. However, you need to always keep in mind that current legal system of democratic nations like USA, India, UK, E.U countries, Japan, South Korea and many countries strongly protects person’s right to privacy.

The organization like UNHRC, ICCPR, a number of national and international treaties, and written words on the constitution of several nations, enshrine “privacy” as a fundamental basic human right.

It was the year 2015 when The United Nations Human Rights Council noticed that the enormous progress in the communication technology has made it easier for corporations & government to record daily activity of an individual and they can easily block free speech. The authoritarian government can very easily crackdown on protests and they can even limit the spread of information, while a corporation can sale the data to the malicious third-party contractor for money. In short, online privacy makes you stronger than the government itself.

The absence of online privacy makes you unsafe: Whenever you are connected with the digital world, you leave behind a traceable and permanent trail of your private data. This recognized as “digital footprint”. What is this? Well, it’s your online biography! It can reveal your health information, shopping habits, sleeping patterns, keyboard stroke and much more. Scared yet? This vast amount of personal data can be accessed by various third-party vendors for targeting purpose. Don’t believe me? Open your preferred search engine and type in your name. I am certain you will be shocked to see the outcome. This data can put your reputation and physical safety at risk. Remember the incident when Pokemon Go was launched?

The risk to freedom of expression: Privacy is a fundamental ingredient of freedom of expression. Privacy control for certain group is absolutely necessary. Privacy is important for general people and it is crucial for the people who are involved with journalism, activism and opposition politician to avoid intimidation for their ideas. This people usually become the central pillar of any democracy and I think now you understand the importance of online privacy.

It can affect your reputation: Most of us, using the internet have at least one or two embarrassing stories we would like to keep private. If we travel back to 70s, people were good at keeping their privacy safe. However, in the digital edge, it is quite possible your private stuff stay alive inside your “digital footprint”. If we go back a few years ago, many of us heard about the “iCloud” fiasco! Remember those face of the celebrities hiding from the camera( I mean camera of journalist of course!)? That can be you!

In the conclusion, I want to say that please for sake of your own life, try to minimize your digital footprint. Stop uploading every single bit of your private information try to live beyond tracking and live freely. Your privacy matters a lot and doesn’t try to destroy it get some like or lovely comment. And if you think you do not care about this since you do not have anything to hide, then I would quote someone. Who is my hero and who inspire me the most- Edward Snowden. “Arguing that you don’t care about the right to privacy because you have nothing to hide is no different than saying you don’t care about free speech because you have nothing to say.”

Nearly every day, especially in this first – year of the administration, of President Donald Trump, we are confronted with actual, and/ or perceived threats, challenges, etc, both, at home, in the United States, as well as internationally. Obviously, the threat of terrorism, whether based on some theology, or emotional issues, is real, and, often, somewhat, scary! Is the rhetoric of Mr. Trump, comforting and unifying, or vitriol – based, adversarial and confrontational? Every two years, either the Summer or Winter Olympics, are held, on a rotating basis, and, at these, international adversaries, come together, to attempt to win medals, based on achievements, without regard to their national strengths, etc! At this year’s events, held in South Korea, for example, North and South Korea, have formed a joint, united team, even though, the leader of North Korea, has often threatened the rest of the area, with devastation, etc. Wouldn’t it be nice, if we could all, come together, in the real world, like at the Olympics, and be able to oppose and compete, in a peaceful manner, rather than the often – vitriolic one, otherwise? Here are 3 compelling aspects, and examples.

1. Competition, but sportsmanship: Rather than threatening others with devastation and annihilation, Olympic competitors seek to do all they can do win, and defeat their competition, but end up, exhibiting sportsmanship, and a highest degree of honor, and caring! If only, world leaders, were ready, willing and able, to pursue the highest degree of national success, etc, wouldn’t this be a safer, more secure, world? What the world needs now, is love!

2. National spirit, plus one – world: While there may be numerous individual needs, goals, and priorities, and a helpful, nationalistic spirit, etc, leaders must recognize, we share one world, and therefore, there must be a spirit of cooperation! One example, is protecting the environment, for the common good, and while many nations have come to understand this, President Trump continues to articulate an America – first philosophy, while denying, climate change science! You couldn’t have an Olympics, if any nation, decided, they were taking their ball home, and going – it, alone!

3. Being the best, versus good – enough: Olympic athletes train, to become the best at their individual sport! They realize, one only wins a medal, if he earns it, by becoming the very best! Far too often, we witness national leaders, focus on personal self – interest, and politics, rather than accepting good – enough!

If the world proceeded, with the true, Olympic spirit and ideals, there would be more, willingness, to agree, to disagree! It’s up to the electorate, to demand this, of leaders!

An apparently ancient method of curing natural garlic is making its way into headlines across the world. Black garlic has more antioxidant properties and is without the strong odor of garlic in its most raw form. Black foods have long held our attention for their mystery and potency. This revelation in garlic's potential as a panacea in its black form is exciting.

Naturally Mature

The most intriguing element of black garlic is that the process of maturing it is entirely natural. No chemicals are added to it. In countries like South Korea, the method's been used for countless centuries and was largely unknown to the rest of the world. There's a specific 'treasure island' in South Korea, Namhae-gun, where conditions have proven perfect for maturation and the black garlic originating there is of the highest quality.

Healthier than Raw Garlic

Made from naturally grown, organic garlic and matured through a tested and tested process that denies the addition of any chemical additives, black garlic's fat-soluble allsine becomes water-soluble s-ally-cysteine. Garlic in its raw state – used traditionally to inhibit diseases of many kinds including diabetes, forms of cancer and neurological illnesses – does have some toxic effects. Aged garlic on the other hand, causes less irritation and removes these toxic effects altogether.

The Qualities of Aged Black Garlic

This alternative to raw garlic is the result of a simple and wholly natural maturation process. Possessing all the qualities inherent in fresh garlic, as well as a host of antioxidant and anti-aging properties, aged garlic has many healthful effects. Boosting the immune system, protecting the heart, preventing damage to the liver, preventing the growth of tumors and spread of malignancy, this pure and aged form of one of nature's greatest panaceas also exhibits anti-allergy properties.

A Closely Guarded Process

Surprisingly, the real secret to maturing garlic in this way remains as closely guarded as the secrets of scents that makers of fine perfumes protect. And it's likely there's good sense in obtaining black garlic from the original source. This 'treasure island' in South Korea's Namhae-gun, safeguards us against artificial processes that may include chemicals or additives and only give the appearance of the true panacea if produced elsewhere.

Black Garlic's Attractiveness

As an ingredient in high-end cuisine, the taste is mysteriously sweet and syrupy. Culinary experts are amazed by the versatility of aged garlic. Being completely without odor and with a flavor all its own, its individuality is being compared with truffles, licorice and vanilla. The recipe lists are growing as this exceptional delicacy becomes a household staple.

Healthful and Wholesome

Popular for its exceptionally high antioxidant qualities, and without any of the odor or side effects associated with raw garlic, we're learning that black garlic is definitely worth the wait. In a sweetly mysterious mix of the tangy garlic we know and sweeter undertones, softer garlic emerges from weeks of humid maturing to bring health and harmony to our plates.

Busan does not get a lot of attention when South Korea is mentioned. Most of the time you hear about Seoul, South Korea’s capital city. This is a bit unfortunate, though, because Busan has plenty to offer. Located at the bottom of the Korean peninsula, this city offers beautiful scenery and great attractions.

1) Korea is a peninsula, and as such has many beaches, but Haeundae Beach is quite possibly its nicest and most famous. Don’t go there during the summer, though, because you won’t be the only one who wants to check it out. In fact, it gets so crowded during the peak season that most people can’t swim in the waters as much as just stand. Haeundae Beach is also where the Busan International Film Festival is hosted, which is Asia’s most successful film festival.

2) You’ve heard of fish markets, but you probably haven’t experienced anything like the Jagalchi Fish Market. It’s stunning and beautiful, and full of old Korean women selling buckets of fresh fish just caught that morning. You will see live crab clawing and crawling out of their sandboxes, and live octopuses thrashing their way out of their new fishtanks.

3) For those of you that are into shopping, it would be foolish not to check out the Shinsegae Department Store. It’s huge. So huge, in fact, that it has a banner across the front touting how it’s the biggest department store in the world, according to the Guinness Book of World Records. It’s so big that you’ll find movie theatres – some with professional chefs catering for you during the movie – luxurious spas, and even a full ice rink.

These three points have barely scratched the surface of Busan, as there are many other places and things for you to see while you are there, such as breathtaking temples and amazing markets. If you do have the chance to go three hours south of Seoul, you won’t regret the trip.

Visiting a country’s supermarket can be just as, if not more revealing, than traveling to all of its tourist spots. I live in South Korea, and have visited the N Seoul Tower, which is considered one of the big tourist destinations in Seoul. I told a Korean friend about it who has been living in Korea her entire life, and she has never been. But a Korean Supermarket: that’s another story. Go to a Korean Supermarket, where Korean people go at least once a week, and you’ll find so many interesting things out about their culture, and just awesome things in general, such as:

1) It’s exceptionally crowded. On the weekends, it’s overwhelmingly crowded. You won’t be able to walk straight and simply get what’s on your list. Be prepared to take detours. Be prepared to come to a grinding halt. What’s cool about this experience, though, is that your shopping carts are built for crowds. Not only does your cart go forward, but it goes left and right as well, smoothly and seamlessly. Find yourself lucky enough to push a cart in an empty aisle, and you’ll never want to push anything but a Korean supermarket cart again.

2) Free samples galore. Feeling hungry, but you’re on a tight budget? Go to a supermarket and eat more than you can possibly handle. We’re talking about free samples of fruits, milk, cheese, yoghurt, steak (yes, steak), donuts, and more. And there’s also no need to worry about that pesky one-sample-per-person rule. In Korea, you’ll find lots of people snapping up a bunch of samples, so don’t feel ashamed to do the same.

3) Get ready for some noise. Forget about the peaceful shopping music you might be used to. Instead of music, get used to shouting. Lots of shouting. Men shouting. They’ll shout from across the store, just to let you know about the sale. MEAT SALE! DELICIOUS MEAT SALE! COME HERE NOW AND GET THIS REALLY DELICIOUS MEAT ON SALE! You’ll know about the sale without even reading a sign about it. That’s these men’s jobs. And it’s not as easy as just going to the meat sale and grabbing some: there’ll be a line of people waiting to get their’s (remember the big crowds?). So wait in line to get a product, and then wait in another line to pay for it. Yikes!

This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the cool things you can find at a Korean Supermarket. I won’t tell you the rest, because that’ll ruin the fun. But, if you ever do find yourself in Korea, skip a tourist spot or two and head over to a Korean Supermarket. You won’t regret it!