Advanced Reading

It was surprisingly hard to find books about contemporary South Korean context. I found lots of materials in the local library on the Korean War and a great deal on North Korea, especially in relationship to the United States.

However, I was blessed to be at a meeting with the interim president of NAPAD (the North American Pacific / Asian Disciples of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Rev. Guenhee Yu, send a stack of quick and easy reference guides to South Korea including a book on Korean Food, one of the Island of Jeju.

Additionally, the Ecumenical Officer for the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ),  Paul (Seung Un) Tche, recommended I read: Korea, The Impossible Country by Daniel Tudor.  The subtitle is: South Korea's amazing rise from the ashes: the inside story of an economic, political and cultural phenomenon.

The book was a helpful introduction to contemporary life in South Korea. It covered a wide range of topics from religion, to alcohol, to k-pop (hugely popular Korean music). I appreciated the perspective of an expat living in Korea and recognize that the author wrote from their personal experiences in the business and political worlds. I suspect that a voice missing from the story was that of the lowest classes in South Korea and those of migrants living there from other countries. This resource helped to introduce me to the cultural landscape and I appreciated having a resource that took such a broad look at so many aspects of life in South Korea.

Less than two weeks until we depart. Looking forward to the journey and thankful for partners who have been so helpful already.

May God's presence be near, may we cross paths with those God intends for us, and may we all listen closely and fully to those we encounter along life's journey.