Happy Halloween.

In our small experience here, we have seen many western traditions morphed into glamourized Korean versions because, let's face it... if there's one thing the younger Korean generations like more than western wear and attitude, it's western wear and attitude with sparkling over the top accessories.  One example, in Korean weddings the bride rents an over the top, sparkling princess dress. The vows, candle lighting ceremony, cake cutting with sword and group photos are all crammed into a 22 minute, bite-sized celebration in semi-western style. There's an emcee and flashing stage lights and sometimes, if your lucky, a shag carpet runway. 


Halloween is celebrated much the same way with the kids at our school. All regular curriculum is put on hold for the party day. All morning the kids took photos, watched a pumpkin carving demonstration (put on by Shane Teacher and Myself Teacher) and participated in bat pins and Halloween card crafting. Most of the teachers dressed up and ALL of the kids did. We bused over to stand in front of a busy home goods store and stood in lines while parents bombarded the kids. Dozens of moms and aunties were cramming their children's sacks with lollipops and jellies. Well, Korea's got the gist of it. After more picture taking we went back to school for lunch and afternoon activities. It was quite the spectacle. 

Ryan as "Hair-lee Pahter"

Shane showing pumpkin guts to Eric "Spy-dah Man"

"Princess" was a very popular costume.

"Trans-poor-mah" and "Bat-uh Man"

SAME, SAME! They're twins.

The cutest witch in the world.

After a fun Friday of kid wrangling, we spent the weekend with a few close friends... and another few thousand spectators. We were die hard fan who endured the dreary Halloween rains to see the International Fireworks Festival final show. It was totally worth it. I was lucky that my costume came with a built-in rain protection dome... aka umbrella. 


I could try and describe all of the extravagantness of the show but I think I'll just cheat and link you to a video that shows the best parts from the night. 

Occupying some time and space at Gwangan Beach. 

Tigger and Jellyfish

I shared my jellyfish.

Grand Finale

After fireworks, the 8 of us headed out for for a Halloween night out on the town. It all started at this bar, with the flaming alcohol bottles and fire spitting show, then ended... hmmm... ended... well, we know we made it home safely.