Seoul Walk

Chrysler LLC, seeing that life as it knows it is slipping by, has been looking for a suitor over the past few months, preferably another automaker to take over its ailing operation. Owned by Cerberus Capital Management, L.P., of equity management fame, the country’s third largest automaker just can’t seem to find a suitable partner. And, it isn’t as if they haven’t been trying.

In September, Chrysler began formal talks with General Motors — one that Cerberus hoped would result in GM acquiring Chrysler while Cerberus gained the remaining shares of GMAC, the financing company jointly owned by GM and Cerberus. Those talks were stopped last week when it became apparent that GM’s own dire status had worsened significantly.

In the middle of negotiating with GM, Chrysler sent out feelers to the Nissan-Renault partnership to see if there was any interest on the part of President and CEO Carlos Ghosn to acquire a stake in Chrysler, perhaps even the separate purchase of Jeep. Though Chrysler and Nissan had inked several strategic partnership deals throughout 2008, Ghosn turned down Chrysler’s proposition, choosing to continue with business as planned.

Most recently, rumors of a Hyundai take over surfaced fueling talk that the world’s fifth largest automaker would make a bid for Chrysler. Already a significant shareholder of Kia and the fastest growing automaker in the world, a Chrysler conquest would have made Hyundai the third largest automaker, immediately behind Toyota and General Motors.

But, Chrysler has learned that finding an automaker is one thing, but having them interested in you is entirely something different. Yesterday, Hyundai laid all rumors to rest by stating emphatically that they had their hands full expanding their own operation. Thus, the rapidly growing automaker from Seoul has decided to stay the course and let Chrysler fend for itself.

At this point in the game deliverance for Chrysler will probably come in the form of a government bail out, even beyond the loan money already promised by the federal government.  It’ll be a stopgap measure, one that could buy the automaker some time before reality sets in and the company finally goes under.

Chrysler and General Motors might still be forced together shotgun style by the federal government, but that move will only delay the inevitable: government bankrolling of corporate mergers just doesn’t work, resulting in eventual dissolution or the taking over of assets by another company. A prime example of this sort of scenario is Penn Central which eventually morphed into Conrail before its assets were sold to a pair of private railroad operators.

Could there still be a white knight in Chrysler’s future? Possibly, if that automaker is foreign based and the federal government sweetens the deal by basically handing over Chrysler (or Jeep alone) to a suitor. Neither Honda or Toyota are interested, but we still haven’t heard anything from Volkswagen.

Chrysler LLC, seeing that life as it knows it is slipping by, has been looking for a suitor over the past few months, preferably another automaker to take over its ailing operation. Owned by Cerberus Capital Management, L.P., of equity management fame, the country’s third largest automaker just can’t seem to find a suitable partner. And, it isn’t as if they haven’t been trying.

In September, Chrysler began formal talks with General Motors — one that Cerberus hoped would result in GM acquiring Chrysler while Cerberus gained the remaining shares of GMAC, the financing company jointly owned by GM and Cerberus. Those talks were stopped last week when it became apparent that GM’s own dire status had worsened significantly.

In the middle of negotiating with GM, Chrysler sent out feelers to the Nissan-Renault partnership to see if there was any interest on the part of President and CEO Carlos Ghosn to acquire a stake in Chrysler, perhaps even the separate purchase of Jeep. Though Chrysler and Nissan had inked several strategic partnership deals throughout 2008, Ghosn turned down Chrysler’s proposition, choosing to continue with business as planned.

Most recently, rumors of a Hyundai take over surfaced fueling talk that the world’s fifth largest automaker would make a bid for Chrysler. Already a significant shareholder of Kia and the fastest growing automaker in the world, a Chrysler conquest would have made Hyundai the third largest automaker, immediately behind Toyota and General Motors.

But, Chrysler has learned that finding an automaker is one thing, but having them interested in you is entirely something different. Yesterday, Hyundai laid all rumors to rest by stating emphatically that they had their hands full expanding their own operation. Thus, the rapidly growing automaker from Seoul has decided to stay the course and let Chrysler fend for itself.

At this point in the game deliverance for Chrysler will probably come in the form of a government bail out, even beyond the loan money already promised by the federal government.  It’ll be a stopgap measure, one that could buy the automaker some time before reality sets in and the company finally goes under.

Chrysler and General Motors might still be forced together shotgun style by the federal government, but that move will only delay the inevitable: government bankrolling of corporate mergers just doesn’t work, resulting in eventual dissolution or the taking over of assets by another company. A prime example of this sort of scenario is Penn Central which eventually morphed into Conrail before its assets were sold to a pair of private railroad operators.

Could there still be a white knight in Chrysler’s future? Possibly, if that automaker is foreign based and the federal government sweetens the deal by basically handing over Chrysler (or Jeep alone) to a suitor. Neither Honda or Toyota are interested, but we still haven’t heard anything from Volkswagen.

The modern society has let loose the Serial monogamist – Do they cause the increase in Divorce and Separations?

Divorce and separation rate increases all over the world. Most divorces are seen in industrial developed countries and could be linked to the living standard rising and change in social roles of men and women during the transition of society.

Humans struggle to be monogamous, and the serial monogamist describe some humans in this battle.

Statistics from the United Nations show a trend of rising divorce rates in many countries in recent years. The divorce rate has been high in many European countries and America, but now many Asian countries are catching up. The divorce rate in Korea, for example, is ranked third in the world.

Many factors influence the decision to divorce or separate. Some reasons commonly discussed in the literature include individual preferences, age, gender, cultural norms and social customs, economic opportunity, and institutional rules, e.g. family policies of marriage and divorce.

Trends in marital instability vary by country; however, a striking distinction is the difference in trends.

When you analyze relevant independent variables such as age, sex, employment, and education are analyzed in relation to marital instability for each country. Additionally, local economic indicators and development there is a pattern that these factors influence the probability of being divorced or separated differently for men and women.

The largest significant degree of divorces occur where married women working and the percent of non-farm labor. Both these variables represent not only what they appear to represent at face value, but also larger societal shifts in the way in which families live and interact with their surroundings

Changes in women’s roles in society and advances in economic development appear to follow similar trends in increase of divorces and separations.

The percent of married female labor participation in a local geographic region is associated with an increase in the probability of being divorced for both men and women, and associated with a decrease in separation for women and an increase in separation for men. Those with less than a high school education are more likely to be separated and less likely to be divorced than those with the equivalent of a high school education. And, finally, local economic development plays a role. Higher development in a local geographic area is associated with an increase in both divorce and separation.

Monogamy is the state of having only one husband, wife, or sexual partner at any one time. The word monogamy comes from the Greek word monos “?????”, which means one or alone, and the Greek word gamos “?????”, which means marriage or union. In many cases, the word “monogamy” is used to specifically refer to marital monogamy.

Social monogamy refers to two persons/creatures who live together, have sex with one another, and cooperate in acquiring basic resources such as food, clothes, and money.

Sexual monogamy refers to two persons/creatures who remain sexually exclusive with one another and have no outside sex partners.

Genetic monogamy refers to two partners that only have offspring with one another.

Marital monogamy refers to marriages of only two people.

Serial monogamy is characterized by a series of long- or short-term, exclusive sexual relationships entered into consecutively over the lifespan. This does not refer to a fifth variety of monogamy in regards to the four main types, but is a type of monogamy that can describe any of the four other varieties.

In common usage referring to humans, the two partners need not be married, but may be involved in a sexually monogamous relationship. This behavior is sometimes referred to as a form of, or replacement for,  polygamy.

In animal sexuality, serial monogamy often means that an animal will have a different, but exclusive, breeding partner each mating season. Generally, any animals that do not mate with one partner for life can be considered serially monogamous, including those who find a second mate only upon the death of the first.

Serial monogamy has always been closely linked to divorce practices. Whenever procedures for obtaining divorce have been simple and easy, serial monogamy has been found. As divorce has continued to become more accessible, more individuals have availed themselves of it, and many go on to remarry. It has been suggested, however, that high mortality rates in centuries past accomplished much the same result as divorce, enabling remarriage (of one spouse) and thus serial monogamy.

A serial monogamist is a person who has many sexual partners in his or her lifetime, but only ever one at a time. The serial monogamist will seemingly form what looks like a lasting commitment to one person, but the commitment is usually only superficial. Some serial monogamists are incapable of commitment for a long period of time.

The partnership in the relationship can either be through marriage or a boyfriend/girlfriend relationship. Usually, the serial monogamist is aware of the pattern that he or she follows. Each relationship may be entered into with a how long will this one last frame of mind.

The serial monogamist is usually fully aware of his or her inability to fully commit to another. This does not mean that serial monogamists do not try to commit, but it seems that commitment is not something they feel comfortable with. Compared to serial monogamy, true monogamy is a state in which one person stays with another for his or her entire life.

In the western world, true monogamy is becoming less and less common. Today we see that more marriages than ever split up within three years. Serial monogamists can stay with partners for that length of time or even longer. It is a source of frustration to some serial monogamists that they have been labeled with this title. The serial monogamist’s relationships can last longer than some marriages.

Fear of commitment and perfectionism play a large part in the serial monogamist’s thinking. Childhood influences also a play a large part. Bad role models from parents give serial monogamists an inherent fear of commitment. They are unable to cope with the pressure of the family unit for long periods of time and eventually seek their independence once again. If the partnership begins to show problems similar to those witnessed in childhood, then it will no longer mirror the ideal the serial monogamist has in his or her head.

Many people think that they can be the one to change the serial monogamist’s way of thinking. This is sometimes a futile effort. The pattern of serial monogamy is often so established that the serial monogamist can predict the month or year that the break up will occur. No one seeks to end a relationship willingly if there are no problems. For some serial monogamists, the fear of commitment is beyond their control.

Some people hold that serial monogamy is a psychological problem. They believe that the only way to deal with the serial monogamist’s state of mind is through psychological help. Other people think that the term serial monogamist is a cop-out. It can be used as a way for people to give weight to their incapability of sustaining a relationship. Whether it is a psychological problem or not, serial monogamy is usually not a state of mind most people are happy to live with forever.

People’s comments on the subject of Serial Monogamist

Finally I have found the answer to my last relationship failure. A wonderful 2+ year relationship with a man I am still in love with, even though we are now apart. He has had several long lasting monogamist relationships in the 20 years since he was divorced. I ended it , using my head and not my heart, because I found when I really needed him after an injury his depth of caring just wasn’t there, not capable of the ‘normal’ emotions associated with a relationship. I challenged him about being like this and he is quite happy to go the rest of his life like it, does not want to end up with someone having the responsibility of looking after him when he is old - ultimately I think this is because he is incapable of doing the same for the person in his life

I had a brief, intense 3 month relationship with a man who actually said to me, “my therapist calls me a serial monogamist”. What was I thinking? Esp. when I found his new girlfriend on a well known website and found that he is taking her to the same places, telling her the same things, creepy! Poor girls before and after me! I am glad I got “dumped” when I did. We should always maintain our friendships while we date, even if it is exclusively, you never know who will find you. It was hard, terrifying, life changing, but I have learned a lesson.

I guess I would call myself a serial monogamist. I’ve only ever had short term relationships. I just recently graduated high school and that dating world is all I’ve known. You know how when you’re with someone you spend all your time with them? Even if it’s just hanging out at so-so is house watching movies. I’ve always been the one to break it off and my friends can usually tell when I’m going to before I even do. I tend to exhibit the same symptoms over and over again. Some say it’s because I haven’t found the one, others say I have commitment issues. I guess both are true. But at some point I’d like to hopefully change my ways. I live in a fairly small suburb and my reputation has started to proceed me. Now it seems that no guy will date me because they’re afraid of just becoming another number on my list

Yes, maybe it’s best for the serial monogamist to move on through life at a fast pace without having “Legal complications” but, have you ever thought about the people who get left behind in your path of destruction? Those people often experience rejection to a point that it contaminates your self image. I know, I have just come out of such a “relationship” where I am the victim of a serial monogamist. It hurts so much; I can’t even begin to describe it to you. So, yes, there is one huge advantage in leading this life style, but only to the serial monogamist himself/herself. Nobody else enjoys the benefits associated to this kind of life style

I do believe that I am a serial monogamist and I wonder if this is why I tend to pick guys who could also be considered serial polygamists. I tend to always be in relationships and despise “cheating”, however after a break-up, I will say “I am going to be single for awhile and just enjoy It.”, and then within 2 weeks to 3 months I find myself in a relationship again. My longest relationship has only been 5 years and I average somewhere around 7 to 8 months. I have recently entered a new relationship, this one only 3 months after the divorce from a 5 year marriage. I do however want this one to “last forever”, whatever that is and think that maybe I should seek psychological help so that it can. Wow, the revelation is absolutely startling, but it helps me visualize the problem and hopefully now I can find a solution.

I was just dumped by what I consider a serial monogamist after almost 4 years. My boyfriend was the best in so many ways with the exception of the inability to communicate deeply and show what I would consider true emotion, in every other way he was the best guy ever, which is what makes the breakup even more difficult. His primary father is now on number five, while his second dad was emotionally and verbally abusive so I’m told by his mother. What kind of effect does this have on an individual who initially told me they wanted to spend the rest of their life with me?

I am a serial monogamist. I am not the least bit ashamed of it either. I did, however, figure it out a bit late; I’d had 2 failed marriages and had just backed out of a third. Now that I know I was only getting married because society told me I should, I quit getting married - makes life easier. Plus, if you tell the other person right up front that you are fine with long term but no “forever please” you tend to have very satisfying relationships that end amicably for both.

I am a serial monogamist & I am not the slightest bit happy about that fact & I guarantee that it’s not a cop-out. I have always gone into things with the feelings of “this could be the one” & as said in the article….it never is. Then I am left with the crying, the indecisiveness of “what if I am giving up too soon” and then it gets dragged out into the war of polarities for 10 years. I constantly ask “why can’t he be the one….why do I need to go through this nightmare again?” My condition has become absolutely explosive since my divorce 4 years ago in which I have only had one relationship since then ending in 7 months. No matter how I try it never works for an independent, self-reliant, strong & sober woman. Why am I incapable of having a good, happy & healthy relationship with the opposite sex? Why is it always an issue? I would love nothing more than to nest & have a loving husband….do I see that ever happening though? No…never. not for me. I have come to the terms that I am not one of the fortunate that will ever have the soul mate & life-long commitment. I accept it as best as I can, I hold my head as high as I can & I just continue on.

Many people fall into this general description without ever intending to be a serial monogamist. Many people enter a relationship intending it to be “the one”… but then find (for whatever reason) that the relationship won’t last. And so, they move on, or are left, with the idea that the next one might become the right one. To some extent, this is the process of dating many people when you are young and single, in the hopes of finding someone who is a “good fit”. In truth there are a number of individuals with whom one could settle down with, except in our modern culture, divorce, and hooking up, are considered more acceptable. Therefore, serial monogamony becomes more prevalent.

It is my goal to be a serial monogamist. Why would I want to be committed to one person my whole life? Once the relationships get boring I should be able to move on without any legal implications and so on. I don’t see how serial monogamy can be seen as a problem. People should be encouraged to live this way since it is more realistic to live this way than to commit to one person your whole life.

The people who need psychological help are the ones who decide to stay in a relationship fraught with difficulties “for the kids” or because they can’t admit that the relationship has run its course. Since we all have a limited number of years here I fail to see the sanity in staying with a partner you no longer love just because society says you have a psychological problem if you don’t. My parents have been married for over 35 years and I am pretty sure around 20 of them were spent unhappy. Now they are so old they have no choice but to remain together until one of them can escape through the death of the other. No thanks. You can keep your lifelong commitment stuff to yourselves.

Global trend of Divorce rate

The US: People fear divorce more than marriage

About 59% of America’s population of 300 million is married. Although over 90% of American adults look forward to married life, divorce rates are still very high. During the 1950s, more than 90% of married couples would stay together for ten years or more, but in the 1990s, this percentage has fallen to below 50%. In recent years, many older adults have been getting divorced after they turn 60, or even 80 years old.

American experts says that there are many reasons for the rising divorce rate, including people’s longer life spans, new generational values, and the growing economic independence of women.  Another reason is that it is extremely easy to get divorced in America. In recent years, as the economy has struggled and jobs have become harder to find, younger Americans are not willing to marry so quickly and those who are married are not so quick to divorce.

Korea: Divorce rate ranks 3rd in the world

According to Korean government statistics, the divorce rate in Korea is growing at an average rate of 0.5% per year. In the past ten years, the total number of divorces has increased by nearly three times. That is to say, out of every 1,000 couples, 2.8 of them will divorce, making  Korea’s divorce rate the third highest in the world after America and the UK.

There are various reasons why the divorce rate in Korea is so high, but the main reason is disagreements between the mother-in-law and wife. A representative from Korea’s family courts who handles divorce cases went on the record to say, “Divorce cases always increase after Mid-autumn Day, New Year and the summer holiday because couples are more likely to quarrel about going to the in-laws house. And then once they get there, as problems between the mother-in-law and wife become from pronounced, someone ends up demanding a divorce.”

Another factor that has led to rising divorce rates is a change in values.

More women are initiating divorce or separation procedures. 66.7% of divorces in 2003 were initiated by women, compared to 30.6% by men. Among the reasons cited for getting a divorce, 46.4% of divorces occur because the wife or husband is having an affair.

In order to curb the rising divorce rate, the government has enacted certain measures that have proven to be effective. In March 2005, the Seoul Family Court implemented a mandatory “thinking period” and counseling session which couples must complete before applying for a divorce..

India: Divorce rate twice as high as ten years ago

In India, there are no formal statistics concerning divorce rates due the large rural population and incomplete records, but it is widely acknowledged that the divorce rate has greatly increased.

Young couples divorcing is a major reason divorce rates have risen. The phenomenon of “family group marriages” is also noteworthy. In rural India, marriages between families are quite common. For example, the brothers of one family marry the sisters of another family at the same time. In a situation like this, once one marriage ends in a divorce and leads to deep enmity between the families, all the marriages are likely to end in divorce.

According to a recent survey, the higher a woman’s educational level, the less she cares about getting a divorce.

Germany: Legislation to make divorce more difficult

Divorce rates in Germany have remained high in recent years with no sign of declining. Statistics show that over 200,000 couples divorced last year. Most of the couples who divorce have already lived apart for the last six years of the marriage and at the seventh year they begin the divorce procedures. The German media has blamed this on rising unemployment rates which cause unhappiness in the marriage.

A “divorce economy” in German society has become popular, in which divorce-related magazines, companies, bars, and TV shows have added fuel to the fire. A famous marriage counselor has expressed concerns with the appearance of this phenomenon saying, this will probably encourage more people to separate from their partners. A German expert on the marriage law said, “People have the right to get a divorce, but they should not abuse this right. First and foremost, people who wish to divorce should consider their responsibilities to their elders, children, family and society. The fact is, because people are so hasty to divorce, the issues of single parent families, care for the elderly and children’s education have become crucial social problems.

In response, the German legislature is trying to pass legislation making it more difficult to get a  divorce. Divorce is not encouraged by the government. Once a husband wants to get divorced, he must give his wife half of his income for the rest of his life.

Brazil: Single girls seeking married men

The divorce rate in Brazil has doubled since 1985. Many experts believe that this is due to the 1988 abolition of a law that men could only have two divorces in their lifetime. Now, they can marry and divorce as many times as they like.

Sociologists believe that attitudes towards divorce have changed. In the past, women who divorced their husbands were looked down upon. Now, Brazilian women believe that if a woman suffers from domestic abuse, it is a shame to continue being with him. Statistics show that 73% of divorces and separations are initiated by women. In addition, infidelity is another reason for the break up of marriages. A psychologist, Mr. Louis, says that, in Brazil there is a strange phenomenon of single girls seeking out married men.

In order to maintain social stability, Brazilian law states that married couples must wait two years after their marriage to get a divorce. Furthermore, they must live apart for two years. The law also stipulates that people must wait two years after a divorce to remarry.

China: Rapid growth in divorce rates

According to statistics from the China Civil Administration Department, 341,000 married couples divorced in 1980, 800,000 in 1990, 1,210,000 in 2000, and 1,331,000 in 2005. From these numbers it is evident that divorce is a growing trend in China.

Xu Anqi, an analyst at the Shanghai Social Science Academy and standing director of the China Research Association for Women and Family says the reason for the growing number of divorces in China is multifaceted. First, society is going through a transitional period which is greatly affecting the stability of marriages. Second, as living standards increase people have higher expectations towards marriage and love. A third reason is, the simplification of marriage and divorce procedures has made getting a divorce much easier.

Xu Anqi believes that high divorce rates in certain areas do not necessarily indicate marriages are unhappy and society is unstable. A survey on marriages revealed that people are happier in an open country with looser divorce laws. That is because couples with problems can separate and those with stable marriages are more emotionally satisfied, which is beneficial to a harmonious social order.

Chen Xinxin from the Women Studies Institute of ACWF (All-China Women’s Federation) also thinks that improvements in women’s social status have resulted in increasing divorce rates. As women become more independent economically and spiritually, they are no longer regarded as socially inferior, and this is a reflection of women’s liberation and social progress.

(Source: Global Times)

South Korea is one of the smaller nations in Asia, with a size comparable to the state of Indiana. What it lacks in size it makes up for in abundant culture, turbulent history, exquisite cuisine and a generous and welcoming society.

If you want to experience South Korea’s rich culture, history, and cuisine, be sure to find discount airfare to Korea. cFares is a great place to find deals on wholesale travel to Korea. cFares offers amazing travel deals and discount airfare to Korea that just can’t be found anywhere else. So if you looking to book a flight to Korea but want the best deal possible, check out cFares for discount airfare to Korea. Wholesale travel to Korea is the answer to finding the best travel deal.

A Little Background before You Travel to Korea

The Korean peninsula has been literally and figuratively stuck between a rock and a hard place, namely Japan and China, for most of its existence. The region was prosperous under the three kingdoms of Goguryeo, Baekje and Silla during the first four centuries AD until the Mongolians raided the land and built an empire. The 16th century brought the end of the Mongolian Empire and the beginning of a massive game of tug-of-war between China and Japan over the strategic landmass. After World War II Korea finally broke free from Japan, with the USSR managing the North and the United States occupying the South. Today the North and South are two sovereign nations separated by a demilitarized zone. South Korea is officially known as the Republic of Korea (ROK) and commonly referred to simply as Korea.

There’s Still Soul in Seoul

Despite the fact that Seoul was largely burned to the ground during the Korean War (1950-53), the northern part of the capital city is still home to hundreds of spectacular palaces and shrines. The Chosun Dynasty’s Gyeongbokgung Palace is a 5.4 million square foot landmark with a 500-year history and stands among the remaining four palaces in Seoul. Nearly an entire day is necessary to explore the regal palace in all its magnificence. The Jongmyo Royal Shrine is a perfect next stop, as it was where the Chosun Dynasty worshipped. On the first Sunday of May each year a traditional memorial ceremony is held at the Shrine with all the grandeur of the occasion 500 years past.

The southern part of Seoul is the commercial center of the city and boasts a fascinating blend of traditional and hyper-modern architecture. It is also home to World Cup Stadium, intricately weaving shopping streets and even an amusement park, Lotte World. Make sure to visit the city gates, and then venture beyond into the strikingly lush and green landscape to travel Korea more personally.

When to Travel to Korea

Korea has a temperate clime, which results in heavier rain in the summer months (July and August) and a drier winter. Winter is white and snowy all over Korea and the ski season from November to March is extremely popular. There are 13 ski resorts in South Korea alone! After a day on the slopes it is common to relax in one of the many spas with natural hot spring baths. Summer is extremely crowded and very wet in Korea. For milder weather it is best to travel Korea in the spring or fall.

Traveling to South Korea any time of year is sure to be an exciting and rewarding experience, regardless of the weather!

For additional information on travel to Korea and other parts of Asia, visit

Korea, acknowledged as the ‘Land of Morning Calm,’ is located in the heart of East Asia, occupying a mountainous peninsula, stretching about 500 miles south towards Japan. In recent years, Korea has made an outstanding progress in reforming its economy, which has attracted foreigners to invest in almost all sectors of economy.

Korea also holds the distinction of being a stable nation in both political and economical wise. All these have strengthened the real estate market in Korea. Investing in Korean real estate allows you to beat inflation, procure tax benefits, ensuring for cash flow, and above all helps you to effectively plan for retirement. In a snap shot, property market in Korea is unique and presents a range of distinctive features.

However, the prices of real estate in Korea are relatively high. The prices are even higher in such prominent areas as Seoul. But, investing in property market in Seoul provides tremendous benefits, due to such attractive features as landlord-friendly leasing system, market lucidity, and easy convertibility of capitals.

The capital as well as commercial center of Korea - Seoul boasts of the largest concentration of commercial property in the nation, with its two significant business districts such as Yoido, which is home to a number of leading financial institutions as well as the Korean Stock Exchange, and Kangnam area. When compared to other prominent Asian global commercial destinations, Seoul’s property market is about 50% larger than that of Hong Kong and about 100% larger than that of Singapore.

The housing or residential development in the country is mostly dominated by the public services, with the instructions of Ministry of Constructions. Housing developments in Korea are primarily undertaken through government agencies such as the Korea National Housing Corporation and the Korea Land Development Corporation.

One of the greatest specialties of Korean property market is leverage, ie, its ability to tie up an important asset for exceptionally small amount. Another feature of investing in Korean property market is freedom, ie it can fetch you good income without affecting or hindering your present job.

Mostly, people invest in Korean real estate in order to provide it for rent or lease. Literally speaking, tenants pay for your investment property in the form of rent. Also, a great feature of Korean real estate is that it provides you with a regular cash flow, which turns out to be an important income, particularly when the mortgage on property is completely paid off. Above all, Korean real estate is regarded as one of the greatest assets. In short, with these unique features, perhaps there would be nothing perfect than investing in a real estate in Korea.

The laws pertaining to buying or selling of real estate in Korea is quite liberal and simple. Further, in contrast to some Asian nations imposing restrictions on foreigners to invest in real estate, Korea does not put forward any specific restrictions for foreigners to buy a property here, except for complying with the FLAA Act or the Foreigner’s Land Acquisition Act.

In order to register the property with the court registry, alien registration number is required. Further, a foreigner is required to submit relevant documents with the local government office within 60 days of the date of the execution of the purchase agreement. Likewise, a foreigner is required to obtain permission from the local government office, if he is interested to invest in any of the protected areas as stated by the FLAA. A resident foreigner can easily acquire a property in Korea, particularly if he has been in the country for more than six months. Some local banks even provide mortgages to resident foreigners just as they provide it to Koreans.

But, in order to ensure secure real estate transaction, it is important that you must have a clear idea on the steps involved in the process of buying a property in Korea. Further, prior to signing a purchase agreement, it is important to thoroughly check the status of the building or land you are going to acquire. Hence, it is recommended that you hire the service of a professional attorney or a reputable real estate agent.

With a myriad of real estate firms and property builders in the scenario, property search in Korea is not at all a tedious process. Apart from property search, these service providers render a range of other services in connection with sales, leasing, portfolio management, valuation, research, and consultation.

Speed of change

Looking out over the Han river, from the top of Seoul’s Grand Hyatt Hotel, one of several in Seoul which tonight will have no vacant rooms, the evidence of bustling economic activity manifests itself in a frenzy of construction activity.

That the same tract of land was rice paddies only 30 years ago and just 50 years ago, almost the entire country was reduced to a pile of rubble by invading North Korean and Chinese forces, should remind anyone that the speed of change has been extraordinary.

Korea has a well established reputation of being a ‘difficult’ market and it is true that, in the past, successive Korean governments have pursued protectionist policies, but any market is made more difficult, if those trying to gain access have not bothered to learn the prevailing rules.

There is, of course, no single factor which determines whether a business will prosper here, but awareness of the cultural background of a country must, as in all of East Asia, come very high on the list.

Cultural rules

Most visiting businessmen have been advised, or have read somewhere, that it is essential to carry business cards, that they should be translated into Korean and that they should be presented formally, preferably with both hands. Most come prepared to take off their shoes when entering a traditional Korean restaurant or somebody’s home. These rules are important and are addressed at cultural awareness programmes, but on their own; they only scratch the surface of what are far more complex issues.

The real key to operating successfully in Korea is to try to understand the way in which your counterpart thinks and what he expects from a business relationship. Only then can you decide if your objectives are compatible. If they are not, it may be preferable to look for an alternative partner.

To reach this level of understanding, it is essential to understand the society in which the individual has been brought up, the educational system which moulded him, the family and business relationships within which he operates, the hierarchies which govern those relationships and his ambitions, not only for himself, but for his family and his business.

Religion

In Europe, religion is normally treated as something personal and certainly not discussed in the workplace. Most Westerners coming into Seoul for the first time are bemused to see the night sky of Seoul, lit up by red neon crosses atop buildings, which look suspiciously like churches. Well, those crosses are Christian churches; 40% of the Korean population profess themselves Christian and Korea now sends missionaries to Europe. Not only that, Koreans often wear their religion very openly on their sleeve. Many tithe their income, sit silently in prayer upon entering a room, say grace before eating.

The point is that, if you do not appreciate the history and status of religion in Korea, it is quite possible to visit Seoul in an attempt to ‘form a relationship’ with somebody, and to depart, without having even tried to explore with him one of his principal motivators.

Loyalty to individuals

Koreans can be ruthless negotiators and formidable businessman, but they are also exceptionally loyal to those whom they trust. This loyalty tends to be directed towards the individual rather than the company and this, of course, raises a whole host of complicated issues for companies when they lose their ‘Korean expert’. For this reason, an awareness of cultural patterns needs to go beyond those with immediate responsibility for the market. Moreover, it is essential that when your Korean business partner visits you in your corporate headquarters, he be given the respect and courtesy that you have come to expect from him in Korea.

Original article at www.intercultural-training.co.uk

Korea, known as the ‘land of morning calm,’ is situated in a key location in East Asia. The mountainous Korean peninsula stretches about 500 miles south towards Japan. In recent years, the country has achieved tremendous economic growth. Modern Korea is a stable nation both politically and economically. A large number of foreigners are now attracted to invest in all sectors of the country’s economy including the property market. This has strengthened the property market in the country.

Korea is one of the prime property investment destinations in Asia Pacific. Not only is the country’s property market transparent, but the economy itself is very dynamic, offering much scope for growth and development.

The term ‘commercial real estate’ includes properties used for commercial, industrial, medical or educational purposes. Residential properties having more than four residential dwelling units also are considered commercial properties. Commercial properties include hotels, office buildings, shops, retail space, and warehouses.

Commercial property market provides massive investing opportunities. Investing in commercial properties means acquiring commercial properties such as mobile home parks, office buildings, retail properties, and even raw land. Commercial properties often carry a higher degree of risk. It turns out to be beneficial only, if you have a sound knowledge about this market.

The property market in Korea offers you much potential for growth, though the prices of real estate in the country are comparatively high. Korea’s property market prices have seen a rapid rise throughout the country, especially in the Seoul metropolitan area.

In 2002, residential property prices increased a sharp 50% over the previous year and commercial property prices hiked up by about 10%. This upward trend in the property prices is expected to continue for some years. The prices are still higher in such prime locations as Seoul. But, investing in commercial properties in Seoul offers you huge benefits, owing to factors such as the landlord-friendly leasing system, market lucidity, and easy convertibility of capitals.

Seoul, the political and commercial capital of Korea, has a large concentration of all types of commercial properties. The two most prominent business districts of Seoul are Yoido and Kangnam. Yoido is home to a large number of financial institutions including the Korean Stock Exchange.

The demand for the country’s commercial property is growing rapidly among global asset managers. Commercial property market in the country has matured to become more stable, and it is the least volatile in Asia with a steady vacancy rate at 4 percent. Asset managers forecast the Korean commercial property market will continue to expand for two to three years since the demand for office buildings and commercial space is strong, whereas supply is limited.

People invest in the country’s commercial properties mostly in order to provide them for rent or lease. The country’s commercial properties are regarded as one of the greatest assets. Commercial property market in Korea is an ideal choice for anyone who wishes to make the most of his money.

Laws pertaining to real estate transactions in the country are quite liberal and simple. Unlike many Asian nations that impose restrictions on foreigners to invest in properties, Korea does not prescribe any specific restrictions for foreigners to buy or sell a property. Foreigners should, however, comply with the FLAA Act (the Foreigner’s Land Acquisition Act).

During the past couple of years, the country’s property market has been greatly influenced by speculative demand, owing to the large amount of available capital and low interest rates. As the earning rates of financial capital have fallen in recent years, Investors have come to look upon real estate as a possible option that may yield large returns as the earning rates of financial capital diminished in recent years.

The real estate fiscal systems in the country include asset-backed securities (ABS), mortgage-backed securities (MBS), and real estate investment systems (REITS). These real estate products can be classified into two categories, depending on their characteristics. The first involves securities based on asset liquidity and the other involves real estate mutual funds or real estate securities.

The country’s real estate financing market will continue to expand in the coming years owing to the steady increase in demand. It is encouraged by government policies designed to promote the secondary mortgage market.

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As the capital and largest city in South Korea, Seoul is a financial and cultural center of Asia. The population of the city is over 10 million, making it one of the largest cities in the entire world. The entire metropolitan area includes a population of over 24.5 million inhabitants, the second largest in the world. This accounts for nearly half of the entire population of the country. Seoul is also a strong political force in Asia, administered by a the national government directly and separated into a system of 25 districts. Located on the Han River, the city lies approximately 50 km from its neighbor, North Korea.

The name of Seoul has changed dramatically over the years. Other names for the city include Wirye-seong, Hanju, Namgyeong, Hanseong, Hanyang and Gyeongseong. The modern name comes from the Korean word meaning “capital city.”

The city is believed to have been established in 18 BC as a small settlement. It soon became part of the Joseon Dynasty, eventually becoming the capital in 1394. During Japanese occupation in the early part of the 20th century, the city went through a historical and cultural upheaval. Many of the traditional design elements were modernized or destroyed. During the Korean War following Japanese defeat, most of the city was razed through fighting between U.N. and Communist forces. The city was rebuilt very rapidly, however, during the 1960s and 1970s. In the 1990s, the Joseon dynasty’s royal palace of Gyeongbokgung was restored to its previous splendor.

In 1986, Seoul hosted the Asian Games. This was followed by a successful presentation of the 1988 Olympic Games. It also hosted the 2002 FIFA World Cup, at which time the city constructed the amazing Seoul World Cup Stadium.

Culturally, Korea has a long tradition with its national sport, Tae Kwon Do. The city houses the Kukkiwon, where the World Tae Kwon Do Federation is headquartered. The city also features three baseball teams, two basketball teams and a football team.

Seoul is recognized as the fifth most expensive city to live in the world and the second-most in Asia. Its investments in high-tech digital technologies has made it a business leader throughout the world. Over the past few years, the country of South Korea has invested billions of dollars in development opportunities to keep the city at the height of global success.

The city offers one of the most well-developed and advanced transportation systems in the world. It is a global leader with a modernized train and rail system including and extensive subway infrastructure. It also offers environmentally friendly busing and supports two international airports.

Tourism is also one of the largest industries in the city. A variety of historic sites including the Hwaseong Fortress and Jongmyo Shrine, both world historical sites. A number of museums, parks and recreational options have also been created. Entertainment is quickly becoming one of the largest exports of Seoul and South Korea in general. A fledgling film industry as well as music and theater continue to make headway throughout Asia and the world, reaching European and American audiences and festivals to much acclaim.

For more information on Seoul, Korea visit http://seoulmicroblog.com and http://koreamicroblog.com

Surrounded by mountains, Seoul is a vibrant and fascinating city with a population of about 10 million. With more than a million registered motor vehicles and dominated by skyscrapers and multi-lane highways, it still manages to maintain a hidden history of ancient temples, palaces, pagodas and peaceful gardens. This ancient city has been the capital of Korea since the 14th century.

Weather

Seoul’s has a distinct four seasons:

Spring - nice weather. Temperatures range from 16°C (62°F) to 24°C (75°F).

Summer - hot weather and heavy monsoons (as well as typhoons). Temperatures range from 24°C (75°F) to 35°C (95°F).

Autumn - blue skies, sunshine and spectacular foliage fall. Little rain. Temperatures range from 12°C (55°F) to 20°C (70°F).

Winter - cold and dry. A good time to visit if you like skiing. Very few tourists and freezing weather. Temperatures between -6°C (20°F) to 10°C (53°F) with January bringing the most snow.

Shopping

Seoul is a heaven for shoppers with numerous mega-shopping centers. You can really shop till you drop. Seoul is famous for high quality goods coupled with excellent and reasonable prices.Only one caution: be prepared for large and massive crowds. Usually people including most tourists are polite, but there can be some pushing and shoving at times in and around the major shopping areas.

Namdaemun (The Great South Gate) Market

The downtown Namdaemun Market, the biggest traditional market in Korea (covers about 10 acres), offers everything from ginseng to kimchi to military uniforms. Among the popular items for tourists are clothes, shoes, fabrics, tableware, flowers, ginseng products, toys, and watches. It is a world-famous shopping paradise and an attraction that tourists should not miss. Most shops have their own factories and make the products themselves offering both wholesale and retail at an extremely low prices. Prices are generally 10% to 20% lower than prices at other markets. Hours vary by store, so it’s advisable to plan out in advance according with a shopping list before you start the actual shopping. Wholesalers operate from midnight to 6:00 a.m., and retailers are open from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Although most retailers close their stores on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of each month, many street vendors operate stalls in the alleys. Near the main street to the north of the market there is also an extensive underground arcade. Visitors can get travel information and interpretation guide service in English and Japanese for free.

Yongsan Electronics Market

Yongsan Electronics Market was formed by a host of small electronic dealers and has since developed into the greatest electronic shopping town in the East. It covers a whopping 78,650 square meters in size. It has more than 7,000 shops in 24 shopping centers which includes Electronics Land, Najin, Seonin, Wonhyo and a computer wholesale center. Visitors to this shopping town can enjoy shopping for almost all kinds of the latest electronic products and components, including computers, games and lighting equipment. The prices are about 10 to 30% cheaper for Korean made products, while imported items can go as low as 50% lower than elsewhere. Also, it is possible to receive larger discounts at the beginning of the year, at the beginning of the school year or during holidays. Most major stores are open from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm.

Shinch’on

One of the most famous shopping streets in Seoul, Shinch’on is located within walking distance of 4 universities. The are restaurants, cafes, cinemas and night clubs filled with youths wearing the latest fashions. It was a wild place to be on eve of public holidays.

Insa-dong

If you’re shopping for antiques, Insa-dong is the place. It’s a narrow street lined with antique stores, art galleries and secondhand bookstores. Dubbed “Mary’s Alley” by foreigner to Seoul, Insa-dong is the best place to purchase antiques, reproductions, calligraphy, paintings, and a wide variety of implements and articles from Korea’s past. Traditional teahouses and art galleries are also concentrated in this area.

Itaewon

Itaewon is famous for bargain hunting. If you like to dig through piles of junk to find hidden treasures, this is the place to go. Here you can find branded goods which were rejected for export at very attractive prices. These items are not bad in quality, they just are of irregular or odd sizes.

Apkujong

Apkujong-South of the river (Kangnam) is a place of fashion. It`s the land of upscale Department Stores, funky cool boutiques and luxury branded shops. This is the happening place for the latest in fashion. If you have the money, they have the goods!

Techno Mart

Techno Mart, a large shopping center, is occupied by more than 2,000 electronic shops located from the 1st to 8th floor. You can purchase electronic products, computers, sound systems, communication equipment, CDs and much more. Prices here tend to be 10% to 20% lower than other places.

Offering a variety of goods from the antiques to the latest in fashion and pricing ranging from bargain prices to top end exclusive prices, Seoul is truly a heaven for shoppers.