Week 11

   Brrrr... It is getting chilly here! I have heard this will be the last "warm" week to enjoy the beautiful fall leaves and autumn weather. Lately, I have been preparing some presentations for my Fair Trade and Education for Development classes that we will deliver next week. I also visited some fun sites in Seoul, including the "Trick Eye Museum" in Hongdae, where you can take wacky pictures with your friends (see my favorite below) and the Lantern Festival a few blocks away from me. Large lanterns (comparable to floats you see in parades) are placed in the middle of the stream for a few blocks. You stroll along the stream and gaze at them in admiration, as well as learn a little about Korean history along the way. Mariem and I also made our own lantern that we sent floating down the river!
  There has been much political tension going on in South Korea, if you haven't yet seen on the news. I was able to witness thousands of individuals walk and chant down the street last Saturday, calling for the resignation of President Park Guen-hye. President Park is accused of being manipulated by a close confidante in many political affairs. The confidante allegedly has no political experience and is associated with a cult leader. President Park still has a year left in her term and has immunity while in office, hence the people's cry for her resignation. Her approval ratings are now dipping below 5%.  I was very impressed at how peaceful the protest was, considering the vast number of people involved. I have heard that protests will persist until Park steps down.
  I am also attaching a video I have compiled of Mariem and I's Jeju Island trip a couple weeks ago (see my last post for a detailed description). I hope you enjoy it!

Taking up ballet at the Trick Eye Museum. 

A display at the Lantern Festival. 

Montage of Jeju Island!