A Journey in Search of Korea's Beauty

by Bae Yong Joon

Unfledged Yet Earnest Record of a Journey in Search of Korea's Culture A Journey in Search of Korea's Beauty was a yearlong project that Bae Yong Joon undertook in order to learn more about traditional Korean culture from the unfledged yet earnest point of view of one Korean, and to record in a down-to-earth way what he learned and felt in the process. He chose 13 subjects he has been interested in out of the traditional Korean culture and folded into six categories. This book is intended not only for foreign readers who would like to learn more about traditional Korean culture but do not have easy access to it, but also for Korean readers as well who are in search of this country's beauty.

432 pages, Hardcover

First published December 1, 2010

Reviews

[Wajiha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book Atleast 3 +++ times. I would read it again. The book tells a person about the culture, food, religion, places to go see, and most importantly all from bae young's perspective. :)

[Peter Chung · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not your ordinary travel book as actor Bae Yong Joon goes in search of cultural heritage and in doing so discovers more about himself and life. The book searches for specific spots and distinctively Korean features such as Temple Stay or Hanok (Korean Traditional House) or Kimchee making. I bought it as a gift for a traveling friend who decided to get married here in Korea. The book looked so interesting that I bought one myself.

Although a few chapters didnt excite me especially the extensive context on pottery, the book overall contained a good mix of culture, Korean lifestyle, important insight into Korea's history and way. The most endearing parts were Bae's philosophical insights and struggles while the discovery of the Art of Tea and Temple Stay left me wanting more. The sections on Hanbok and Kimchi were very well done along with the culture of wine and games.

The book was detailed enough for me to feel literally a part of the journey into the mountains and welcoming homes and arts of Korea. A few parts drag but is far from a boring travelers guide or history class. I also sensed a bit of exaggeration here and there to try to make bigger impact or meaning in areas that Bae tries to highlight. That said, the book was a good read for anyone interested in journey and in areas of Korea that many or most Koreans dont even have detailed knowledge of.

Much more than a travelers guide to Korea. The stories are smart and the writer provides a good amount of philosophical questions on living that provides an added reward to readers. Very endearing book.