News>Deployed servicemembers experience South Korean culture
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A South Korean airman plays a traditional Korean drum during the Traditional Korean Culture Experience Aug. 20 at the tent city on Osan Air Base, South Korea. The cultural experience allowed deployed U.S. servicemembers supporting Ulchi Focus Lens 2007 to get a better understanding of South Korea's rich and storied history and traditions. (U.S. Army photo/Spc. Bill Addison)
Staff Sgt. Carmela Rapadas tries to keep up on a Korean traditional drum with South Korean air force Senior Airman Kim, Ji Won during the Traditional Korean Culture Experience Aug. 20 at the tent city on Osan Air Base, South Korea. The cultural experience allowed deployed U.S. servicemembers supporting Ulchi Focus Lens 2007 to get a better understanding of South Korea's rich and storied history and traditions. Sergeant Rapadas is deployed from the Guam Air National Guard. (U.S. Army photo/Spc. Bill Addison)
by Senior Airman Stephen Collier
7th Air Force Public Affairs
8/23/2007 - OSAN AIR BASE, South Korea (AFPN) -- Clanging, banging and thumping were the sounds as deployed U.S. servicemembers experienced traditional Korean culture Aug. 20 at the tent city on Osan Air Base.
Airmen, Soldiers, Sailors and Marines deployed here in support of Ulchi Focus Lens 2007 got a firsthand feel for traditional Korean attire and entertainment through the South Korean air force's Traditional Korean Culture Experience.
1st Lt. Yang Seok Hwan, a South Korean air force operations command public affairs officer, said the South Korean airmen wanted to show their friendship, family atmosphere and gratitude toward those who traveled far to help defend them.
"Most U.S. (servicemembers) come to Korea during UFL and it is their first time in Korea," he said. "We can show them a little bit of Korea and this is the first impression for them."
During the cultural experience, members slipped into Korean men and women's ancient wear. They also took part in playing classic Korean symbols and drums. Soon after, members were treated to Korean games.
"Being in another culture, it's good to see what they do," said Marine Cpl. Randall Blankenship of the 1st Marine Air Wing weapons technician (armor). "These games are fun, too. I've also gotten out and seen the sights. Just the experience and knowledge of their culture is something I'll take back with me."
The U.S. and Korean alliance is important to keeping peace and stability on the peninsula, and events such as this help to build that alliance, Lieutenant Yang said.
"During UFL, (Americans) come here to work together to practice defending Korea," the lieutenant said. "This is a friendly situation for them and a break from the hard training and work. During the cultural experience, both U.S. and Korean can rest and come together and have a good impression between one another."
