What’s in a name?

“What’s in a name?  That which we call a rose
By any other name would smell as sweet.”
–Juliet (Romeo and Juliet)

Perhaps to Juliet, Romeo’s name was meaningless. However, to most of us, the name we give our child is incredibly significant. In the months leading up to a child’s birth, the name is often one of the most hotly debated topics. Family, friends, strangers even offer suggestions and critique of possible baby names. In some cultures grandparents have a significant say in the baby’s name; in others, originality is lauded. And frequently, in cases where the new child straddles two cultures or citizenships (such as a child born to one Korean and one American parent or a child born to Korean-American parents), families strive to incorporate a name from each culture or language into their decision.

Security Message for U.S. Citizens

The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens that despite current political tensions with North Korea there is no specific information to suggest there are imminent threats to U.S. citizens or facilities in the Republic of Korea.  The Embassy has not changed its security posture and we have not recommended that U.S. citizens who reside in, or plan to visit, the Republic of Korea (ROK) take special security precautions at this time.  The U.S. Embassy takes as its highest priority the welfare of American citizens in Korea.  Should the security situation change, the Embassy will issue updated information.

To read the complete security message, please visit https://korea.cms.getusinfo.com/acs_message04april2013.html.

License to Drive

Always check with Korean authorities about the most up-to-date procedures before applying. This information was accurate as of 3/28/13

If you’re a resident in Korea for more than 1 year and you want to drive, you’ll eventually have to pay a visit to the local Korean DMV to obtain a Korean license (don’t worry, it’s not as painful as it sounds).  For those of you here less than 1 year, you may use an international license (more information here).

Last week we sent a team of embassy employees over to the Gangnam DMV to check out the process and get the inside scoop on how things work for Americans trying to drive here.

Korea By Numbers: phone numbers you should keep on hand

 Need advice or assistance while in Korea?  English-language help is just a phone call away.

Who Wants to Go For a Lunch Run?

Well, it that time of the year again. With New Year’s fitness resolutions a fading memory and summer beach season still months away, one can be excused for indulging in an extra helping of that favorite comfort food while banishing any impulse to get off the couch and hit the gym. As the weather warms up in Korea, it also happens to be an ideal time to go for a run. . .perhaps during the workday lunch hour?

Every Year is an Election Year

Living temporarily in Korea?  Don’t forget to vote back home!  Request a ballot today for your state’s spring 2013 primary and local elections.

All About Yellow Dust

Ah, spring in Korea!  After a long winter, it’s time to unpack our short-sleeve shirts, walk to the local outdoor gym, and maybe plan a trip to a cherry blossom festival or two.  However, every silver lining has its cloud.  Spring is also the season for yellow dust.

What is yellow dust?

Yellow dust, also known as Asian dust or hwangsa, originates as fine particulate matter swept into the atmosphere from China’s Gobi Desert.  Spring weather patterns in northeast Asia sometimes carry this dust east through northern China, where it can pick up industrial  pollution, and on across the Yellow Sea to Korea.  Dust concentrations vary greatly from place to place and day to day.