It’s a sad, sad tale. Many a tourist in Korea has bought souvenirs in Myeongdong, only to discover “Made in China” blatantly printed on the back when they get home.
In an effort to upgrade the quality and creativity of souvenirs, the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) has sponsored an official souvenir contest for artists and craftsmen in Korea for the past 15 years.
Art and craftThis year, first place went to ceramic artist Chang Sung-joo, 36, from South Jeolla province, for his entry titled “The Sound of the Sea.” The prizes were announced late last week.
“The Sound of the Sea” is a small ceramic “fish with personality,” according to the KTO press release -- a jjangttungeo, or a bluespotted mudhopper, hailing from the mudflats of Suncheon, to be precise. Chang has been making ceramic art in Suncheon for 11 years.
The clincher seems to have been the fact it is also a pipe, and one can actually play music on it … or at least make some high-pitched noises, anyway.
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