Rea's World

Introduction Dongdaemun has every fashion item imaginable: fabric, clothes, accessories, and wedding goods. the newest fashion trends, along with the newest fabrics, often make their debut in the market. it is home to the largest clothing suppliers in Korea, and aspiring designers also come to here to hone and test their skills. Cheap and diverse clothes attract not just fashion leaders but also the average consumer. It has become a place frequented by major Korean and international buyers as well. Dongdaemun Market started as a traditional market in 1905 and experienced its first major tranformation in 1970s as it began to develop as a center of the textile industry (both wholesale and retail), further contributing to the fast economic growth of Korea at that time. With the later construction of mega shopping buildings in the area, the market became reborn as the most famous fashion street in Korea. Wholesalers across the country visit the market at night, forming an iconic night...

Introduction Tteokbokki, also known as ddeokbokki, topokki (in Japan) or dukboki is a popular Korean snack food which is commonly purchased from street vendors or pojangmacha. Originally it was called tteok jjim (떡찜), and was a braised dish of sliced rice cake, meat, eggs and seasoning. History Tteokbokki is a traditional Korean street food which can be usually purchased from street vendors also called 'pojangmacha' in Korean. The history of tteokbokki brings us back to the late Joseon dynasty. There are many hypotheses and controversy about its real origin. According to bibliographic data, the first tteokbokki in Korean history is said to appear in a cook book called " 시의정서 (siui jeongseo)" written in the late Joseon dynasty. However, based on the fact that tteok (the main ingredient, also known as rice cake) was produced even before in the Three Kingdoms period, it's possible to assume that the history is longer than what's usually considered. Tteokbo...

Introduction Cheonggye Plaza in Sejong-ro is situated at the fountainhead of Cheonggyecheon Stream. From Dong-A Ilbo Building, the starting point of Cheonggyecheon Stream, Cheonggye Plaza stretches all the way to Sindapcheolgyo Bridge. The Plaza is roughly 160m long and 50m wide and ha a beautiful fountain, an artificial waterfall, and a miniature replica of Cheonggyecheon Stream, as well as a walking path. The area commemorates the Cheonggyecheon Stream Restoration Project, and also symbolizes gathering, harmony, peace and unity. Cheonggye Plaza is roughly 2,500 square meters and is located at the starting point of Cheonggyecheon Stream. The square, created based on the design of Korean traditional bojagi (a colorful wrapping cloth), features the elegant beauty of traditional stonework that is colorful, yet tasteful. The Plaza also includes a model of Cheonggyecheon that provides visitors with a bird's-eye view of the formerly restored Cheonggyecheon Stream. At the Plaza, the...

Introduction Tofu jorim is a Korean side dish primarily made with tofu. In Korean, dubu translates into tofu and jorim literally means braised. However, tofu is not slowly cooked but rather pan fried for few minutes and then re-fried once more with a mixture of soy sauce, gochugaru, minced garlic, green onions along with other ingredients. Tofu jorim is very easy to make and also doesn't require a lot of time to prepare either. This side dish is considered very nutrious and healthy as tofu, soy bean curd, is cholesterol free, low in saturated fat and rich in minerals and vitamins such as iron and calcium. Tofu is also a great source of protein with low calories and known to help lower bad cholesterol levels when compared with other types of protein foods. Main Ingredients 1 pack firm tofu 1/3 cup corn starch or flour 1/4 cup onion (1/4 onion) 1/4 cup carrot 1/4 cup green onion (2 green onions) Some oil for frying Salt & black pepper Sauce Ingredients 2 tbsp s...

Introduction Changdeokgung Palace was the second royal villa built following the construction of Gyeokbukgung Palace in 1405. It was the principal palace for many of the Joseon kings and is the most well-preserved of the five remaining royal Joseon palace. The palace grounds are comprised of a public palace area, a royal family residence building, and the rear garden. Known as a place of rest for the kings, the rear garden boasts a gigantic tree that is over 300 years old, a small pond, and a pavilion. The palace gained in importance starting from the time of 9th king of Joseon, Seongjong, when a number of kings began using it as a place of residence. Unfortunately, the palace was burned down by angry citizens in 1592 when the royal family fled their abode during the Japanese Invasion of Korea. Thanks to Gwanghaegun, the palace was restored in 1611. Even today, it holds a number of cultural treasures such as Injeongjeon Hall, Daejojeon Hall, Seonjeongjeon Hall, and Nakseonjae. Ch...