Origin of Korea's staple food-KIMCHI!

Kimchi

How to make your own kimchi!

Kimchi polarizes opinions. To be completely honest, I was once a detractor too. But Kimchi is an acquired taste. I've gained a liking for Korean food since studying here in Ann Arbor.  And Kimchi is a mandatory appetizer for every meal. So how did the koreans invent such a unique tasting appetizer that has come to define the country and its culture?


Well, Many Koreans at the time of Si-Kyong lived in the Manchurian region, and it is believed that they made kimchi to preserve the vitamins and minerals in vegetables for the long, cold winters in Manchuria. Interestingly, it was only in the 1700s that red pepper was incorporated into the dish and this gives Kimchi its spice. Kimchi is extremely nutritious and easy to make, not to mention easy to store as well. I have actually tried making a bottle of Kimchi and it is a great supplement to a rice meal. Moreover, you could store it for as long as you want! And that is especially attractive for College students, who have little time to prepare their own nutritious meals. I highly encourage you to try making kimchi and, just for informative purposes, I have included a kimchi-making video so that you, too, could follow suit. 


For more details regarding Kimchi's nutritional value and history, please visit http://www.lifeinkorea.com/culture/kimchi/kimchi.cfm?xurl=origin

Paekche: The peak of revolutionary art

A seated Buddha from the site of the Kunsu-ri Temple in Paekche, Korea.

 A smiling bangasayusang from Silla or Paekche

Paekche is widely considered to be home to the greatest art among the 3 states. Paekche buddhist sculptures are often characterized by its naturalness, warmness and harmonious disposition. As seen from the facial expressions of both sculptures above, a cheerful, kind and comforting smile makes the art a lot more friendly and welcoming. In fact, this expression so distinct that there is a term called "the paekche smile", which is synonymous with Paekche's art. Of the 3 kingdoms, Paekche art was stylistically the most realistic and sophisticated.  More notably, Paekche's art played a contributing role in influencing the art of Japan during the same period.  

Indian Buddhism

Mahayana Buddha

The fact that most of the notable art sculptures are associated with Buddhism speaks volumes of the religion's influence. Although somewhat distinct, the "Paekche Smile" on the buddha sculptures isn't uncommon, since most sculptures from different buddhist-dominated countries(refer to images above) are also synonymous with smiling and kind-looking facial expressions. Please draw comparisons and let me know, through the comments section, what you think are some of the obvious differences when looking at Buddhas from two different cultures. 


Please also visit http://www.asianinfo.org/asianinfo/korea/scu/paekche_period.htm for greater details on Paekche Art.