Literature

Sura, the Tidal Flat By Choe Kyu Hong Sura—a village embroidered like fine silk, The last remaining tidal flat of Saemangeum. Sura—a sanctuary for migratory birds, A sacred ecological realm That should brim with life. Sura stands In the midst of unending struggle, Caught in the clash of development and preservation, Gasping for breath. Sura—the final life-sustaining ground of Saemangeum, A promised land in need of a grand transformation Through the flow of seawater, A foundation for future generations.

Jacheondae By Choe Kyu Hong A thousand years ago, in Jungje-ri, Where rugged rocks layered upon steep cliffs, A violet spring once flowed— The retreat of the scholar Gowoon for quiet study. In his youth, he knelt and studied so long, The stones wore thin, marked with traces of his knees, And thus the name Jacheondae—the Violet Spring Platform. The well itself seemed to foresee the coming of a sage, And so sprang forth its violet waters, called Jacheon. Even a hundred years ago, This place was lauded as a historic site, Where pine forests stretched to the horizon And…

Himalayan Trash By  Choe Kyu-Hong The Himalayas groan in pain. Half-eaten Korean containers And bags tumble, Crying out as they flutter Down the cliffs. With the disgrace of a nation, Our dignity falls as well. Nature’s fury exposes The shameful conscience That must pay for its sins.