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This page is graphically intense with long load times due to photos. However, the photos and narratives by the men who served at Osan Air Base makes the wait well worthwhile. The opinions expressed are those of the author and in no way represents any official statement of Osan AB or the USAF. 
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LIFE GOES ON AT SHINJANG MALLMain Gate RoadAfter 1955, the common name of the shanty town was "Chicoville" (Chicol Village or Chicol-ni). There was also reference to Chicol-ni as "C-rats Village" (C-rations). Some people jokingly referred to it as "Mudville" because the roads were all dirt and when it rained, it became a sea of mud. Some older residents differentiated between the Chicol-ni as the area between Main Gate and Namsan-tau, while the other "new claptrap construction" was called Chong-mun Eup (Front Gate Town). However, the usage seems to be limited and most called the entire area Chicol-ni -- including the areas up to what is now Songbuk Farmers market. Main Gate Aerial View (1957) In 1957, the dirt road ran diagonally from the Main Gate and past the house of Mr. Nam, a rich man with a big tree in his yard. Most of the "roads" after the top of Milwal-dong were simply narrow alleyways that snaked down the hill into the Shinjang 2-dong area. At the time all of the area was rice fields. A little further down the road from the Main Gate was another small alleyway that ran diagonally down the slope from the main road and basically followed the route of the present Jungang Road. The alleyway was filled with traditional Korean makoli houses or "Kyoungju" houses -- and prostitutes as well. Mr. Son Kwang-chil remembered that his mother would plead with his father -- who would go there after slaving all day with his pony carts -- to come home from the places, but he would simply blow his mother off. The alleyway snaked its way down to the Shinjang 2-dong area that was rice fields. The area surrounding this alley way was filled with flimsy wood and vinyl houses that would catch fire in a flash. In 1968, a massive fire leveled the whole area as the fire spread quickly. After the fire in 1968-1969, the houses were rebuilt with concrete in one or two story structures. (Source: Verbal conversation Kalani O'Sullivan with Son Kwang-chil, 15 July 2006) In 1976, a road was constructed up Milwal dong in 1976 after Park Chung-hee personally approved the measure due to a request by the Osan AB Commander. He stated the need for a new road -- besides what is now the Shinjang Mall Road -- to access the Main Supply Route 1 (MSR-1). Another road was then cut from the Milwal-dong road up over a new overpass to the MSR-1 to Jwa-dong at the top of the ridgeline. Mr. Oh Sun-soo and his family owned land just outside the Main Gate. The shop (GQ Tailor) and home was torn down to make way for the Milwal Road expansion. Of course, Mr. Oh Sun-soo complained that his family was not recompensed adequately -- holding up a "zero" hand sign gesture. However, the family picked up and restarted the business in a new location. Over the years, the shop has relocated a few more times and has become a landmark business in Shinjang Shopping Mall. Mr. Son Kwang-chil, the owner of Hanyang Kalbi, has been a resident of Milwal Road since 1957. He watched the small dirt road widened on both sides that cut down the houses fronting the road. It appears that during this construction, the graveyard that existed next to the perimeter fence in Milwal-dong was removed the remains were subjected to a mass cremation. There were protests from nearby residents whose relatives were buried there to the local government, but to no avail. The majority being poor and disenfranchised as North Korean refugees had no power to stop the action. The road through the Shinjang area was the only access to the base so many shop sprang up along the road -- first as clap trap structures and later as more substantial buildings of concrete. Many of the original structures from the 1960s near the Main Gate area and in the Jungang marketplace remain today -- though their exteriors have been upgraded. In the 1970s, the Mokchon railway crossing was closed when the overpass of the railroad tracks was opened in 1978. The road still went down the center of the Shinjang Mall area to reach the Mokchon residential areas. The road to Namsan-teo still had not been built at the time. The through the Shinjang Mall area was paved, but most remember that it was in poor condition. At the same time of the overpass construction, there was a major reconstruction in the Rodeo alley area leading from the overpass to the Shinjang Mall road. Three-story concrete structures were built. Also the winding alleys in the Jungang marketplace were widened and straightened for vehicular traffic. In the 1980s, the road to Namsan-teo was built by Songtan City cutting through land ceded by the base to the Beta Gate area. The old clubs of Aragon Alley remained in the same locations but again upgraded their appearances as the Miracle of the Han started to trickle down to the area. In 1992, Songtan City ceased to exist and was incorporated into the Pyeongtaek City. After this it lost its identity as a separate entity -- and became one of many suburb communities of the Pyeongtaek. In the 1990s, life continued on as the older shop owners who originally started business along the area started to retire and turned their businesses over to their children. New facades went up on the store fronts giving the street a busy appearance as all the shops and bars vied for the attention of the passerbys. The old bomb dump area near the Beta Gate was ceded back to the ROK and construction began to expand into the area as new roads were built from Route 1 into the base Doolittle Gate. In the 2000s, the Mall was closed off to vehicular traffic -- more as a political move by the Pyeongtaek administration to make the facilities into a true special tourism zone. Towards the rear of the Shinjang Mall area, the roads and parking areas were greatly improved. Plans were laid out to connect the back roads directly to the road leading to the Doolittle Gate at an intersection leading to Osan City and the small country villages. The Mall area has seen many changes from a muddy road to the long Mall of today. Through annual Friendship Festivals, the Mall honors its longtime relationship with the USAF of Osan AB (K-55). (Updated: April 2008) Kasey Lee's Tailor: Mr. Lee Kyong-chu -- or Kasey Lee as he is commonly known as -- is the owner of the Kasey Lee Tailor Shop and in 2005, the President of the Songtan Chamber of Commerce for the past 20 years (in 2008 he handed the reins to Choi Im-sa) and chairman of the Songtan Merchant's Association. In 2004, he was the recipient of the USFK Friendship Award as a distinguished member who promoted friendly relations between the US and Korea. He received the award for furthering mutual respect and understanding in the Osan area. "Mr. Yi's (Lee's) personal effort has greatly improved the relationship between the Osan community and the servicemembers," said General LaPorte, USFK Commander. "His actions go beyond the normal call of civic duty as he devotes his heart to strengthening our alliance."  Mr. Lee Kyong-chu (Kasey Lee) (2005) (Kalani O'Sullivan)
Mr. Lee has operated his tailor shop from 1968 and has seen many changes over the years. He explained that the trees along the frontage road in the 1980s was removed because the trees blocked the signs of the shops -- not because of any hazard. His shop used to be up closer to the gate before and he explained he liked the trees because in summer the shade kept the shop cool. However, now he needs an air conditioner. (Telephone: (031)-666-4166 / Cell: 016-480-4166 / Fax: (031)-666-4166 / Email: kaseylee@kornet.net )
 (Source: Pyeongtaek History (CD), Pyeongtaek Si Sa) (NOTE: Kasey Lee's Tailor Shop moved closer to the Main Gate.)
Hyong-Price Insurance Agency Mr. Jim Price of the Hyong-Price Agency located across the alleyway from the 7-11 store, has been a fixture in the Shinjang area for many years and an invaluable source of information. He first came to Songtan while in the military in 1963 and has a wealth of knowledge of the growth of the local area from a clap-trap town to a Special Tourism Zone. His agency provides reasonable automobile insurance for American military driving in Korea. He is a past commander of the VFW Post 10216, as well as one of the few remaining members of the Tuskegee Airmen. Through his efforts the ties between the military and the local schools have been strengthened through awards programs to students. Though "slowing down" he remarked with a grin, he keeps busy with the agency and other interests.   (L) 7-11 at Shinjang Mall across from Hyon-Price Insurance (2002) (Unknown) (R) Mr. Jim Price and former Chief of Police Kim Yong-bin (2000) (Jim Price) Daehung Hotel (298-62, Shinjang) The Daehung Yaugwan (Inn) was established about 1963. At that time, it was located up near the railroad spur that intersects the Shinjang Mall Road. (In a 1966 photo, the sign for the Inn can be seen along the road with an arrow pointing towards the inn to the left as one headed toward the MSR-1.) The Daehung Inn relocated to the Shinjang Road fronting the Main Gate in 1970 and is still operated by the same owner, Mr. Hong Yang-ho and his wife. The hotel has the standard shuttle to base as well as laundry service. Rooms are equipped with computers and internet along with 45" TVs. Morning coffee is always free. (Telephone: (031)--666-5204 / Fax (031)-663-6730 / Email: daehung2@kornet.net )  Outside gate walking up Shinjang Mall Road (Oct 1966) (Thomas Utts) Just ahead is the rail spur. The double telephone pole to the right was removed in 2003. This is the location of Jungangsijan(7) Road. To the right is the Shin Jin Barber Shop and a Restaurant. This was the location of the Olive Clothes Shop owned by Kang Sung-yoon in 2005. There was also the Samsong Dong watch Shop. To the left was the Daeho Inn and Daehung Inn. The sign for the Daehung Yaugwan (Inn) is seen in the 1966 photo to the left. It was established about 1963. The Daehung Inn relocated to the Shinjang Road near the Main Gate in 1970 and is still operated by the same owner, Mr. Hong Yang-ho.   (L)Daehung Hotel Lobby (R) Daehung Hotel (2005) (Kalani O'Sullivan) Hanyang Kalbi Mr. Son Kwang-chil, the owner of Hanyang Kalbi, has been a resident of Milwal Road since 1957. Hanyang Kalbi is a family-business and Mr. Son, his wife or one of his daughters are usually at the cash register. Hanyang Kalbi is located near the Citibank at the T-intersection leading to Shinjang Road and the overpass. Mr. Han operated a wholesale business from the same location as the restaurant starting in 1988. In 1998, Mr. Son opened the Hanyang Kalbi Restaurant in the same location. Bag Lady's Tour of Songtan states: "Han Yang Bulgogi House: Back down on the street, turn to the right. This bulgogi house will be on your right. It is one of our two favorite bulgogi houses in Songtan. You can either sit on the floor Korean style or in chairs American style. Either way you will experience some great Korean food and culture." Base Ops states: "For good Korean food, turn right out the gate and about one block down is Han Yang." Mr. Son is the son of a North Korean refugee who operated a delivery service using pony-drawn carts. According to Mr. Son, his father was head of the union for the pony operators in the area and owned seven ponies. Mr. Son provided a wealth of information of the area as a long-time resident who grew up on the hill of Milwal-dong just below the fire station. He attended Songshin Elementary School in 1965. Mr. Kim Tae-yong, 51, Manager of the On-base taxi service, a life-long resident of Songtan related the fact that he attended Songshin Elementary School with Mr. Son -- sitting at the same desk with him -- and graduating with him from the first class in 1968. Mr. Son went on to attend Hyomyeong Middle School and High School in Seojong-ni. Hyomyeong Middle School (then St. Theresa's Middle School) was founded with the donations and labor of the Catholic airmen of the Osan AB's 18th FBW in 1953. (NOTE: Mr. Son has lived in the same location since the 1950s and has been a great help in identifying the old locations on Milwal-dong.) Both he and his wife are Lion's Club members and active in community. (Source: Verbal Conversation with Son Kwang-chil translated by Nam Kyu, Korea Hotel General Manager, 18 Aug 2005)
Mr. Son requested old photos to place on his restaurant walls to show the history of the Shinjang area and Osan AB. We were more than happy to provide these photos. The photos were an instant success to the military customers who had no idea of the history of the area. Mr. Son requested more photos and again we were glad to provide them as it has stimulated an interest in the history of the area. (Telephone: (031)-664-1340)   2006(L) Mr. Son's daughter in front of the framed historical photos (May 2006) (R) Hanyang Kalbi interior (July 2006) (Kalani O'Sullivan) Shinjang Mall RoadPhoenix Hotel Originally, on the same location as the present Phoenix Hotel, Mr. Oh Sung-bok, owned the Phoenix Eel Skin Factory (upstairs) and Phoenix Eel Skin Shop (first floor). It was first established around 1974 and manufactured the eel skin wallets and accessories that were the fashion at the time. Everyone coming TDY to Osan AB had instructions to pick up some eel skin wallets as presents for the people back home. Eel skin leather would wear forever, but unfortunately, the thread used for stitching would give out long before the eel skin would. Phoenix Eel Skin Factory and Shop on left (1974) (Frank Schallenberger) When the Namsan-teo road was built in 1986 between the base and the Shinjang road area, the old Osan Hotel that abutted the base was torn down to make room for the road. At that time, Mr. Oh decided to convert his property into a hotel. The construction of the Phoenix Hotel was started in 1986 shortly after the road was built. It opened its doors in Oct 1987. The owner remains Oh Sung-bok and the hotel operates as a family-owned business. Mr. Oh's two sons, Oh Nam-sik and Oh Choon-sik, work there as managers.  Phoenix Hotel at Shinjang Mall Entrance (23 Sep 2006) (Frank Schreiera) The hotel has 34 rooms. The rooms are equipped with 29" TVs with DVD players, computers and internet free, and a big-size refrigerator. It has the free shuttle service to the base. However, the biggest plus to the hotel is that as of Apr 2008, the room rates were 30,000 won per night. This is a significant savings as compared to the other hotels with rates of 55,000-70,000 won per night. However, the hotel is NOT base contracted -- meaning that the Tumuli Lodge if it is full will not send you down to the Phoenix Hotel. If you're on a shopping trip from another base/camp, this is the hotel to choose for savings as a no-frills place to stay!!! On the premises, there is Miss Hin's Hamburgers on the first floor and the Hamburger Shop on the second floor where you can get a beer or some soju. On the ground floor, there is a travel agency, DVD rental/sales, and AGI insurance agency.   (L) Mr. Oh Nam-sik, Manager (R) Mr. Oh Choon-sik, Manager A&B Men's Wear: An Old Student Comes to the Shinjang Mall Though A&B Men's Wear does not fit our criteria of "old businesses" or "second-generation shops," we bent the rules because Monica Kim is our old English student from Kunsan. In April 2008, I had a surprise when an old student of mine, "Monica" Kim (Kim Mokyong) visited my home. Years ago I taught both Monica and her children at my English hagwon in Kunsan. Her son, "Mike", is now a student in high school in the US in Appalachia -- where according to Mike, "everyday is a camping trip." Her other son "Willy" is in Middle School in Chonju and will be heading to the US next year. Anyway, the big surprise was that Monica said she was starting a business on Shinjang Mall, A & B's Men's Wear. It was rather surprising that Monica would be switching from an art design teacher to a shop owner, but in another way, I wasn't surprised at all. When I was teaching her years ago, she was part of a "housewive's group" whose aim was improving their English skills to benefit their children. I also taught the children of these housewives English in their early years. Later on most of the kids of these housewives ended up in American schools -- except for Johnny Son who is in Beijing University and Emmy Son who returned from China to study at Gunsan Girl's High School. But all of these women were highly educated and I could see that somewhere down the line-- after their kids were ready to go out on their own -- they would try to use their fluency in the English language to do something for their own satisfaction. Thus Monica's new venture into the clothing business is no surprise to me. It combines her esthetic tastes -- as an art design teacher -- along with her English language skills.  Kim Hyo-bum, Monica Kim (Kim Mokyung), Jane (Apr 2008) (Kalani O'Sullivan) A & B Men's Wear opened in the first week of April in a small cubby-hole of a shop. Right next door is A&B's Women's Wear in a similarly small cramped space. It opened its doors in 2007. The A&B Men's Wear shop is located very near to the front gate on the main mall -- about four shops down on the right as you enter the Mall. It's in a tiny space, but as it's just a starting business, it's normal. If business improves, they can move to a better location -- but being on the main Mall is a big plus. Despite its small space, in its first days, it seemed to be doing a thriving business from both Americans and Koreans. The shop specializes in Ed Hardy designer jeans and T-shirts -- in the punk-rock tradition. The target market is the 20s-30s market -- which is the main clientelle for the Mall. The prices of the jeans and T-shirts are very competitive when compared to the other shops on the mall. (Telephone: (031)-666-7941) I asked Monica why did she choose Songtan Mall as a location instead of the Kunsan or Chonju area -- as her home is in Chonju. The choice she said was from her co-partner who runs the procurement end of the operations. Much of the stock will be imported from China and the promise of volume sales to Americans at Songtan made it a good location. At the shop, she has a young Filipina, Jane, who helps with the sales with Americans. On the weekend I stopped by, she was doing a brisk business so it is a good sign for the future.   (L) Monica Kim in A&B Men's Wear (R) A&B Men's Wear (Apr 2008) (Kalani O'Sullivan) My only problem was that I wanted to buy her potted flowers for opening (in the Korean tradition), but it is too small a shop with no place to put the flowers ... and my buying a pair of jeans is out of the question. The jeans are "too young" for an old fuddy-duddy like me to buy. Thus we took her out for dinner at Casa Bella's in Aragon Alley instead -- and had "gyros" (lamb in pita bread) though I used to call them "koos-koos" (Saudi Arabian). We wish her the best of luck in her operations. Viking StoreIn 1978, Mr. Lim song-yul started Lim's Brass Shop in what became the Shinjang Mall Road. Currently Mr. Lim operates the Viking Store selling gifts and souveniers on the Mall. (Phone: (031)-611-3571)  Shopping for brass at Lim's Brass Shop -- Girls unknown (1978) (Ken Shallenbarger)   (L) Mr. Lim Song-yul of the Viking Store (R) Viking Store (R) Exterior of Viking Store on Shinjang Mall (Nov 2005) (Kalani O'Sullivan) Mr. Oh's Custom Tailor Co. The shop was originally started in 1964 by Oh Sae-mun. The shop was purchased in 1976 by Chong Pyong-un, the current owner. The name "Mr. Oh's Custom Tailor" was retained because during the name was well-established with the large numbers of TDY personnel who flowed through the area. Because of the quality workmanship, the word-of-mouth of satisfied customers sent others to the store. When Mr. Chong took over the shop in 1976, the road was just being expanded when the Sameul-undong (new village) program of Park Chung-hee completely modernized the streets of Songtan. Since that time, he has had a front row seat next to the main gate to see all the changes that have been made.  Mr. Chong Pyong-un (2008) (Kalani O'Sullivan) If one looks at the walls of the tailor shop, they are festooned with the photos of past commanders from Osan AB. In fact, on the day we visited, Mr. Chong was awaiting the commander of 7th AF to come and pick up his suit. That the shop has been around for 40 years attests to the craftsmanship that goes into each custom-made product and the quality the customer will be assured of. The shop specializes in tailor made suits, uniforms, formal wear. In addition, party shirts -- an essential summer wear item -- and party suits are other specialties. (Phone: (031)-666-4850 / Email: mrohs5@hanmail.net.) Lucky Shop The shop opened in 1978 and has been in the same location ever since. It is run by Choi Jae-hyun. The shop specializes in jackets, sports shirts, caps and children's sportswear. The specialty of the shop is specially embroidered Mason wear. Custom embroidery and (Telephone: (031)-662-2218 / Email: luckyshop@hotmail.com)   (L) Lucky Shop on the Mall (R) Lucky Shop Owner Choi Jae-hyun (2005) (Kalani O'Sullivan) Song's Plaques Song's Plaques has been a landmark since the 1960s in Songtan. The shop was established by Song Chang-hyon in the 1960s and had become a well-known shop amongst American customers selling plaques and brassware. During the Vietnam War a brisk business was done on the Songtan Road area with multitudes of TDY personnel stopping through Osan AB. The first place they headed was downtown to pick up some Korean brass. By the 1970s, the shop was established as a "must-stop" for visiting TDY personnel. The shop was sold to Hong Sung-man around 1971, but the name "Song's Plaques" remained because of its recognition value. Mr. Hong Sung-man retired in the 1990s and turned the shop over to his son, Hong Ki-bong. After Hong Ki-bong passed away, the store was run by his wife, Lee Mi-young, and his son, Hong Dong-hyun.   Song's Plaques (April 2008) (Kalani O'Sullivan) The shop is famous for its unique plaques and mementoes -- and well-known for its speedy service on the custom plaques that are ordered. Around the shop shelves are filled with trophies, statues, name plates and souvenir items. Along the walls are examples of the types of ornate plaques the shop makes. (Phone: (031)-666-2237 / Fax: (031)-662-5519 / Email: setboo@unitel.co.kr.)   (L) Song's Plaques (R) Interior Song's Plaques (April 2008) (Kalani O'Sullivan) Mr. Bo's GQ Tailors GQ Tailors, one of the oldest establishments outside the Osan AB Gates changed hands and moved to a new location in late 2005. It was founded by the family of Mr. Oh Sun-soo just outside the gate in 1962. The shop was on the right as you exited the gate. The shop and home was torn down to make way for the Milwal Road expansion and straightening in 1970. Park Chung-hee personally approved the measure after the Osan AB Commander stated the need for a new road -- besides the Shinjang Mall Road -- to access the Main Supply Route 1 (MSR-1) that follows the ridgeline. Of course, Mr. Oh Sun-soo, the owner of Victoria Hotel, complained that his family was not recompensed adequately -- holding up a "zero" hand sign gesture. However, the family picked up and restarted the business in a new location. Over the years, the shop has relocated a few more times and has become a landmark business in Shinjang Shopping Mall. (SEE Victoria Hotel) Mr Oh transferred the GQ Tailor Shop ownership to his long-time manager of the shop, Mr. K.W. Yun. The shop was on the main street leading to the overpass. "Mr. Bo's GQ Tailor's" received some nice remarks from the Base Ops. It stated, ""Mr. Bo's GQ" is around the corner and will custom make an A-2 flight jacket with all the trimmings (including a liner) for $140. A complete mess dress will set you back $260 (you have to provide the insignia)." In Aug 2005, the shop moved to a new location on the Shinjang Mall that combines the Boston Shoe Store operation with the GQ Tailor Shop. As one walks in the door the shop is on the left. The suits and uniforms on the rack are indicative of the fine quality and attention to detail that the shop has become famed for. The shop also makes party shirts -- an essential item for the summer months -- as well as women's dresses. (Phone: (031)-665-5455 & 664-5455 / Fax: (031)-665-5455 / Email: gqtailor@hitel.net.) 
Mr. K.W. Yun in front of new shop (2005) (Kalani O'Sullivan) 
(L) Old Shop along main street in front of Main Gate (2004) (Kalani O'Sullivan)(R) New Shop on the Shinjang Mall (2005) (Kalani O'Sullivan) Boston Shoe Store Boston Shoe Store has a long history in Songtan making quality custom-made shoes. The store was originally founded by Shin Young-chol in 1968. Mr. Shin retired and turned the business over to his son, Shin Dong-hoon in 2002. The store shares its space with Mr. Bo's GQ Tailors on the central mall area. 
Mr. Shin Dong-hoon in Boston Shoes (Apr 2008) (Kalani O'Sullivan) The current owner, Shin Dong-hoon, is married with three children, 2 boys and 1 girl. He specializes in all types of shoes from dress shoes to military footwear. Mr. Shin proudly pointed out that his shop makes all types of custom made boots from motorcycle boots to western boots. (Phone: (031)-666-3882 / Email: bostonshoe@hotmail.com.) Mike's All Seasons Shop Mr. Kim Chu'n-kyong established Mike's All Season Shop in 1977 and sold it in 1983. The current owner is Kim Yu-gung (Mike). He was the manager of the shop until 1988 when he bought the store. As the owner for the past 20 years, he has provided quality products to his customers. As a result, his shop is a landmark on the Mall. The store specializes in patches, hats, jackets, t-shirts, uniforms and coins. The shop is well-known to frequent shoppers at the Mall because of the variety of goods that can be custom-made at the shop. The shop has remained a fixture on the Mall for decades. Bag Lady's Tour of Songtan states: "Mike's All Seasons: Quite possibly one of the most popular merchants in Songtan, Mike carries sportswear for every fan and does wonderful customized work. He is able to make T-shirts, sweatshirts, warm-up suits, hats, coins, etc. He has an extensive clientele and good prices. He is on the web! Bring a design for him to work up (silkscreen) for special events, etc.".) (Phone: (031)-611-9207 / Email: ykk2386@hanmail.net / Website: http://www.mkdesigns.com.)
  (L) Mike's All Season Shop (2002)(Unknown) (R) 2005: Employees of Mike's All Seasons Shop: Oh Young-seok, Kim No-mi and Song Sun-young (2005) (Kalani O'Sullivan) Mike's Arcade (Mike's Arcade Clothing Company & Mike's Gift Shop) Mr. Kim Chu'n-kyong was the original owner of Mike's All Season Shop which he established in 1977. He sold it and started Mike's Arcade in 1983 just down the Mall. Along the way, there was a tussle over the "ownership" of the name, Mike between Mr. Kim and another merchant. Mr. Kim prevailed and the shop has been in continuous operation. Mike's Arcade is a family-operation and well-known amongst the frequent shoppers to the mall for its friendly service. In 2007, the store split into two separate operations with two different owners. Mr. Kim Chu'n-kyong and his wife, Geum Ok-gill, took over the operations of King's Custom Tailor Shop within the Arcade. The name was changed to Mike's Arcade Clothing Company. They stock leather jackets and leather goods along with a wide assortment of angora sweaters, jackets, t-shirts and name-brand jackets such as Colombia jackets. (Phone: (031)-662-1704 / Email: mkark66@yahoo.co.kr.)
 Mike's Arcade Clothing Company (Kim Family) (Apr 2008) (Kalani O'Sullivan) Bag Lady's Tour of Songtan states: "Mike's Arcade: If you are pressed for time, and need to get some things fast--here is the place. It could be called a one stop shopping outlet. Located inside are a few areas: leatherwear, sweaters and souvenirs. One of the few places in the area to buy Korean Dolls, Mike's Arcade is located in the rear alley which hosts Mr. Lim's and Royal Bag and also on the corner of the main Shinjang Shopping Mall. Fountains are also available to purchase and usually line the side of his store in warm weather." The other half of the Arcade is owned by Lee Mi-hwa is called Mike's Gift Shop. When I was there to update this section, I was surprised when the owner recognized me as a teacher and knew where my office is. It's nice to be recognized. The shop stocks a wide assortment of souvenir goods: wooden Korean masks, pewter good, celadon pottery, Korean dolls and white porcelain. If you need a gift from Korea in a hurry, this is the one-stop shop to go to. (Phone: (031)-665-7896 / Email: hsmhsb@nate.com.)   (L) Owner and Son of Mike's Gift Shop (R) Shop (Apr 2008) (Kalani O'Sullivan) Ebenezer's Jewelry The Ebenezer Jewelry Store has been changed over the years as the Songwang Bag Shop, then Songwang Blanket Shop and finally the Ebenezer Jewelry Store -- though the sign says in hangul "Songwang Sa." Strangely, the sign has a biblical reference to the name, Ebenezer, printed on the store sign. (1 Samuel 7-12: "Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen. He named it Ebenezer, saying, "Thus far has the LORD helped us.") The shop carries jewelry, watches and clocks. (Phone: (031)-666-2254 / Cell: 010-2757-3109) Mrs. Choi Hong-ryon shown in the 1974 photo below, in 2007 was 74 and had turned the ownership of the shop over to her son. Mrs. Choi is well-known amongst the long-time residents as a "nice adjema" -- a complement indicating her giving and generous nature.
 Mrs. Choi Hong-ryon of Songwang Blanket Shop (1974) (Ken Shallenbarger)
AQ Tailors Mr. Lee In-jae first started his tailoring business along with his older sister in Songtan in 1973 near the Clover Hotel -- and the called Clover Tailors. The Clover Hotel and the Yongchan Hotel were the only two hotels in Songtan at the time, though there were smaller inns. The Clover Inn was next to what is now the Songtan Tourist Hotel in Shinjang 2-dong. In 1979 he founded AQ Tailors and moved to Aragon Alley. When asked what does "AQ" stand for, he simply stated it was a name -- like "GQ" from the magazine. In 1998, he moved to his present location directly across from the Golden Gate Club.  Lee In-jae, Lim Jong-chan, Shin Sa-tong (Apr 2008) (Kalani O'Sullivan) Mr. Lee has three children: three daughters and one boy. Mr. Lee commented that the Shinjang Mall as a walking area was not as great as people might expect. When the road ran down in front of the shops, there was what would be called "Korean drive-by shoppers" who would see the shop and stop in. Since the Mall was closed to vehicular traffic, he feels there was a drop in business from the Korean clients though business from American GIs remains good.   (L) AQ Tailor (R) Interior of AQ Tailor (Apr 2008) (Kalani O'Sullivan) Entering the store one sees rows and rows of quality tailor-made suits on the racks, a photos on the walls to give the customers ideas of what type of suit or coat they would desire. On the right are stacks of shirts and accessories to complete the ensembles. The three gentlemen working in the store are highly experienced tailors just waiting to put together just what the customer desires in the way of clothing. (Phone: (031)-666-4786 / Email: aqtailor@yahoo.co.kr.) Kwang An Optical The owner, Chung Seo-yong, first started the shop with his brother, Chung Han-young, in 1962. Since 1975, he has been the single operator. The shop located between Aragon Alley and the Stereo Club has been in the same location since it was started. The shop offers anything for your optical needs. (Phone: (031)-666-6767)  Songtan Road (1977) (51st FW Archives) (SITE NOTE: Stereo Club is the sign partially shown on far right. Counting five signs to the left is Kwang An Optical.) Mr. Chung remembered back in 1971 when the area was flooded and the only way supplies could be brought in was by helicopter. He remembered when the Sameul-undong (New Village) was instituted in the Songtan during the Park Chung-hee era in 1976. He showed me pictures of the USAF assisting the Catholic Church in Songtan with earth-moving equipment to build roads. He remembered that before this time, the town turned into a muddy bog on the dirt roads. He also shared a article of his brother in the base papers from many years ago. He has seen many changes in the area.   (L) Kwang An Dong Optical (R) Chung Seoyong (Apr 2008) (Kalani O'Sullivan) Sin Bo Sa Jewelry The owner, Cho Sun-im, started the shop in 1980. The shop specializes in topaz, diamonds, pearls, ruby and other precious stones. There are also an assortment of clocks for sale. It has remained in the same location since 1980. (Phone: (031)-666-6767)  Interior of Sin Bo Sa Jewelry (Apr 2008) (Kalani O'Sullivan) Smile Monogram The shop may be one of the oldest family businesses in Songtan. The business was started in 1953 by Joo Hong-ki as a photography shop at what was then Chicol-ni Village. It operated on the second floor of the same location as the Smile Monogram up until the 1980s. Over the years, the Joo family has seen Shinjang-dong change from a vilIage filled with shanties built from scrap in the 1950s to concrete structures in 1960s and the opening of the overpass in the late 1970s. The Miracle of the Han brought massive changes in the 1980s and Shinjang Mall in the 2000s upgraded the area.  Main street outside of Main Gate (1978) (Ken Shallenbarger) (SITE NOTE: In the photo below, Ji Hong-ki's photography studio was located behind the telephone pole on the right on the second floor. Though Joo Soon-hyun, the owner of Smile Monogram, is from Songtan, though he was educated in Seoul. In 1991, he founded Smile Monogram on the same location as his father's shop. Though there have been major changes in the area, the impacts to his and his father's businesses have not been affected by the physical changes in the Shinjang Mall area. The shop manufactures a wide variety of name tags, baggage straps and embroidered patches -- custom-made to the customer's requirements. Etched metal necklace tags and unit coins are also offered at the store. Unfortunately, Smile Monogram does NOT ship to the US. (Phone: (031)-611-4073 Email: SMWORLDQ@naver.com)   (L) Smile on Mall (R) Smile Monogram (2008) (Kalani O'Sullivan) Hong's Custom Leather Tailors Mr. Hong Seung-hoy first founded his shop in 1981across from the main gate -- next door to Ebenezzar's Jewelry (at that time a blanket shop). In 1988, he moved to his present location near the Stereo Club. He has three children -- 2 boys and 1 girl who still live in Songtan.  Hong Seung-hoy (Apr 2008) (Kalani O'Sullivan) When one enters the store, it is apparent that Hong's Custom Leather Tailors specializes in leather coats and other types of informal coats or jackets. On the racks are all sorts of leather coats in different color leathers and styles -- from fleece-lined suede to custom dyed-leather jackets. The craftsmanship and quality are evident in all the products displayed throughout the shop. (Phone: (031)-662-4338 / Email: hoseh@hanmail.net.)   (L) Hong's Custom Leather (R) Interior of Hong's Custom Tailor (Apr 2008) (Kalani O'Sullivan) Kim Brothers Shop Mr. Choi Chung-hyun, the owner of Kim Brothers Shop, is originally from Paju City and moved to Songtan in 1971 and then started his business in 1972 as the "Lucky Shop" on the corner of Aragon Alley. The shop at the time sold jackets and sweat suits. In around 1986, Mr. Choi relocated the shop next to the Stereo Club and renamed the store, "Kim Brother Shop". He started to specialize in leather coats. In 1992 he moved to his present location across the street from the Stereo Club.  Aragon Alley. Lucky Store is to the right as one enters the alley. (1974) (Ken Shallenbarger) Mr. Choi has seen a lot of changes to the Shinjang area over the years. He has 1 daughter and 1 son with 3 grandchildren now.  Choi Chung-hyun (May 2008) (Kalani O'Sullivan)   Choi Chung-hyun (May 2008) (Kalani O'Sullivan) The Kim Brothers Store specializes in leather goods and leather coats -- as well as full motorcycle racing outfits. Along the walls are colorful examples of the leathercraft jackets in the many styles available. As can be expected, his business is seasonal, but his clientelle are Americans, Japanese and Koreans because of his specialty work. He does do mail order work if one sends a picture of what he wants along with measurements. Please contact the shop via email if interested. (Phone: (031)-666-2171 / Fax: (031) - 663-2667 / Email: kimbrothers2002@yahoo.co.kr Lim's Custom Tailoring Co. In 1971, the Lim family moved from Inchon to Songtan and started a small shirt-making operation in the Yongchon Arcade (where the Blue Opera is now). At that time, the shop specialized only in shirts. It started off as a small shop with the Yongchan Arcade in the rear, but the shop was bought out and the Arcade expanded to encompass the entire area. The tailor shop was located along the left side of the arcade as you entered. The mother and eldest brother, Lim Sim-chul, ran the operations while the younger brother Lim Sim-uk attended Hyomyeong High School in Seojeong-ni. When Sim-uk graduated in 1977, he joined the family business. The mother, now 78, has retired and the tailor shop business is run by Lim Sim-uk (#4 son), while Lim Shin-chul (#3 son) operates a OLDI classic brand shoe store on the Mall, while Lim Shin-bin (#2 son) owns Lim's Ladies Clothes shop.  Lim Custom Tailor Co. (Mar 2008) (Kalani O'Sullivan)   (L) Wife in shop (R) Mr. Lim Sim-uk (22 Mar 2008) (Kalani O'Sullivan) Mr. Lim Sim-uk has been married 24 years and has three children. As of Mar 2008, (1) his eldest son was in the Army on a 28-month conscription; (2) his middle daughter was in Oklahoma attending University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond, OK; and (3) his youngest 16-year old son was preparing for a one-year homestay in the States in Aug 2008. The business relocated in Mar 1999 to near the front gate of Osan AB (across from the 7-11 store). Later in Feb 2005, it relocated to its present location on the corner across from Burger King. Located on the second floor, the room is lined with photos of past commanders as well as certificates from the base for its participation in fund drives and support of the USAF in Korea. One of the earliest photos shows Mr. Lim Sim-uk in 1979 with General Rodgers, then 314th Air Division commander. To one side of the shop is a small putting hole showing Mr. Lim's interest in golf. (Phone: (031)-666-2621/ Email: Sulim0329@naver.com)  Lim Sim-uk with Gen Rodgers (1979) As a testiment to the quality and durability of the work from the shop, Mr. Chris Lambert of Destin, FL wrote in Mar 2008, "The photo was from April 2001. I have had so many fun times wearing that suit, I've worn it out and have "party" stains that I can't get out of it now." The photo he attached to his email is also still posted proudly on the sideboard in the tailor shop. He also forwarded a photo of the same suit during a cruise in 2007.   (L) Chris Lambert in front of Lim's Custom Tailors near the main gate (Apr 2001) (R) Chris Lambert and wife on cruise with same suit (2007) (Chris Lambert) OLDI Classic Shoe Shop In 1971, Mr. Lim Sim-chul had already gotten out of school in Inchon and matriculated to Songtan with his family when he started into the clothing business in Songtan. With his mother, he started a shirt-making business in the Yongchan Arcade (where the Blue Opera is now). At that time, the shop specialized only in shirts. It started off as a small shop with the Yongchan Arcade in the rear, but the shop was bought out and the Arcade expanded to encompass the entire area. The tailor shop was located along the left side of the arcade as you entered. In 1993, he split away from the family business and started a shop selling ready-made clothes. The old shop was located just around the corner from where his shop is now. The mother, now 78, has retired and the tailor shop business is run by Lim Sim-uk. In 2004, he started a new business selling OLDI brand shoes on the Mall up near the bank. Decorated in rich reds, the store excudes the charm of name brand shoes of quality and elegance. Mr. Lim has two children, one in the Air Force and the other in college. If you, stop by the shop, either he or his wife, Kim Mi-young, will be there to gladly help you with your shoe needs. (Phone: (031)-665-1004)   (L) OLDI Classic Shoe Shop on Shinjang Mall (R) Mr. Lim Sim-chul (22 Mar 2008) (Kalani O'Sullivan) Lim's Ladies Clothes The owner, Lim Shin-bin, is the #2 son of the original small shirt-making shop owner in Yongchan Arcade in the 1970s. Lim's Ladies Clothes was part of Lim's Tailor Shop, but split away to form its own specialized shop in 1998. It moved to its present location near the Osan AB Main Gate in 2006. The shop is closed on Sundays as the family attends services in Seoul.  Shin Jay-on of Lim's Ladies Clothes If you stop by the shop, most likely you will meet Shin Ja-yon, Mr. Lim's wife. They have two sons, 30 and 27, both living in Songtan. Though Mr. Lim was originally from Inchon, Mrs. Shin is a native of Songtan. She remembered the Jaeil Theater (now gone) that was where the Woori Bank is now. She remembers that as a child she could go to two movies for the price of one starting in the afternoon. What a bargain to be able to spend 4 hours at the movies for the price of one ticket as a child. (Phone: (031)-667-1677) Tai Ho Lu Restaurant Another business dating back to the 1960s is the Tai Ho Lu Chinese Restaurant that is located behind the Dong Sung Realty next to the Parking Garage. In the 1966 photo, it is directly behind the large building to the left (Jaeil Store) next to the rail spur. The current owners are Sun Shing-Shyi and his son Sun Teh-Wei. The restaurant was established by the Sun Shing-Shyi's brother in 1963. At first glance the restaurant seems modern with an automatic door opener. However, the original roof is of transite indicating late 1960s construction, but it has been covered by another roof that is tar-shingled. The concrete exterior was upgraded with ceramic tiles in 1983. If you open the back door of the restaurant, the abandoned rail spur leading to the Beta Gate. It is directly outside the restaurant in extreme close proximity to the restaurant and one of the reasons the the railspur was shut down by the USAF for cargo transportation.  Railspur entrance used by customers as the "short cut" to the restaurant The restaurant is well-known to the local populace. The fact that it has survived for over 40 years in the same location is the best testimonial as to the quality of its food. Large servings at a modest price -- not fancy, but tasty and filling. The restaurant is both an in-house and delivery restaurant. In cold weather, we like to stop by and order the "Udon" (noodles) for 4,000 won for a filling dish. (Phone: (031)-666-3858 / Email: tehwei@naver.com.)   (L) Tai Ho Lu Restaurant near Railspur; (R) Sun Teh-Wei and mother Oscar Beauty Shop Becomes Hyundai Money Exchange A landmark in the Shinjang area for many years was the Oscar Beauty Shop which remained in operation until 2002. It was located near the railroad spur that crosses the Shinjang Mall just in front of the Tail Ho Lu Chinese Restaurant. After it closed, the Dong Sung Realty Office of Mr. Kwon Oh-hoon was situated in the building from 2003. Currently, the Hyundai Money Exchange is located there run by Choi Mi-hong which started in 2006. (Phone: (031)-664-1181/1182)   (L) Hyundai Money Exchange (R) Choi Mi-hong, owner of Hyundai Money Exchange (Apr 2008) (Kalani O'Sullivan) One can see that this building was one of the original structures as one has to step DOWN to enter the building. Over the years, the road has been built up so that one must step down to enter the office. The original owners resided upstairs, but it is no longer used. The office is typical of the 1960s construction with concrete wall and corrugated transite (asbestos/concrete) roof. Living quarters were located above the store, but is now blocked off. The Mall side has a false front but behind it one can see the corrugated iron roofing added later.  Outside gate walking up Shinjang Mall Road (Oct 1966) (Thomas Utts) (SITE NOTE: Just ahead is the rail spur. The double telephone pole to the right was removed in 2003. This is the location of Jungangsijan(7) Road. To the right is the Shin Jin Barber Shop and a Restaurant. This was the location of the Olive Clothes Shop owned by Kang Sung-yoon in 2005. To the left was the Daeho Inn and Daehung Inn. There was also the Samsung Dong watch Shop. The Oscar Beauty Shop was also on the left. It remained in operation at the same location until 2002.
Universal Art: The Universal Art Shop is owned by Mr. Kang Shin-kol, 75, who moved to Chicol Village in 1955. He opened the Art Shop in 1956. The shop remains a family-run operation with his son working there as well. The shop contains numerous affordable Korean prints and art works specifically geared for the American trade. The variety ranges from traditional pieces to modern art works. The art work in the shop are primarily prints -- either framed or unframed. The friendly employees speak English and can explain the Korean art pieces to the American customer. (Phone: (031)-666-2039)   Mr. Kang proved to be an invaluable resource for his wealth of knowledge of the area. Over this years, Mr. Kang has seen Chicol Village expand into what was simply called "Songtan" -- though it progressed from Songtan-myeon (district) to Songtan-eup (town) to Songtan-shi (city) and then incorporation into Pyeongtaek. He remembered the old main gate before the other roads and overpass were built in 1978. He has seen the changes that the road leading to the MSR-1 (Tanhyun Road) changed from a dirt road to a oil-soaked road to a macadam road to what it is now. Mr. Kang was a great help in identifying areas within the Shinjang Mall area such as pointing out that the owners of many long-gone shops. Mr. Kang was also helpful in identifying the areas during the poverty stricken times of the 1960s and early 1970s that has been all but forgotten. (Source: Verbal Conversation between Kalani O'Sullivan and Mr. Kang Shin-kol, 18 Jun 2006 and April 2008.) An interesting friend of the Universal Art Gallery is Kwon Kum-soon, a housewife, whose family was originally from Seoul. They fled southward from the North Korean invasion and arrived in the Songtan area in 1951. It is obvious that her family was one of those that missed the last train out of Seojong-ni that departed loaded with refugees to Taegu just hours before the main body of North Koreans arrived. The North Koreans simply swept through the area and did not remain in the impoverished villages as they pushed south towards the Pusan Perimeter. She and her family have remained in the area ever since -- settling in the Namsan-tau area. Over the past fifty years, she has seen many changes in Songtan and the Shinjang Mall area. Her identification of the 1954 & 1956 photos of the Yong-chon Hotel Spring provided the verification we needed to positively identify the spring. (Source: Verbal Conversation between Kalani O'Sullivan and Ms. Kwon Kum-soon, 18 Jun 2006.) In 2008, while updating this section, Mr. Kwon was very helpful in identifying photos from 1955 of the Namsan-teo area -- and helping us locate the site of the long-gone Clover Hotel. He also contributed some photos from the early 1950s from his private collection for use on the site. We are grateful for his assistance. Nolbo Chip Restaurant: The Nolbo Chip Restaurant is owned by Mr.Shin Chan-ho, 69, who moved to Chicol Village in 1969. He opened the Nolbo Chip Restaurant in 1985. His son Shin You-seok manages the restaurant. The restaurant is a popular family restaurant with excellent service in a good location. The shop serves spicy traditional Korean fare toned down slightly for the American tastes. It's located next to the Golden Gate Club. (Phone: (031)-665-0175 / Email: burbon73@yahoo.co.kr.) Mr. Kang has one son and two daughters. He was a great help in identifying areas within the Shinjang Mall area such as pointing out that the owners of many long-gone shops. In reviewing the old photographs of the area, he was able to identify many buildings and owners. (Source: Verbal Conversation between Kalani O'Sullivan and Mr. Kang Shin-kol, 18 Jun 2006. We wish to thank Mr. Kim Tae-yong, 51, Manager of the On-base taxi service, a life-long resident of Songtan for his help in translating for Mr. Kang. Mr. Kim grew up in the Shinjang Mall area and in fact attended Songshin Elementary School with Mr. Son of Hanyang Kalbi -- graduating from the first class in 1968.)   Mr. Shin's family lives on the top floor of the building behind a locked gate. As one enters his home, he proudly pointed out the calligraphy of former Presidents, including Kim Young-sam. An avid collector, we marveled at his collection of calligraphy dating back 400 years and more. The calligraphy is considered a high form of art and his collection is most impressive in its diversity and historic value. These pieces cover all the walls of his home and spills over into another area where he built a display room. Interspersed with the calligraphy are old ink drawings of various subjects that appear to be very old -- some approximately 400 years old. He is also a collector of "life stones" -- Korean stones naturally formed into interesting shapes or representations of animate things. The collection fills a shelf on one wall. On another shelf, he has some very rare stones that were naturally formed into the shape of Korea -- along with some humorous shapes of animals and other things. On the rooftop, another of Mr. Shin's hobbies, wild orchids, are proudly arranged in neat rows under a covered area. Over the past 25 years, Mr. Shin has climbed the mountains to bring back prized varieties of wild orchids. To most Americans, Korean wild orchids look like grass, but they are very expensive and prized for displays in Korean homes. However, it is an avocation that requires great skill in identifying the plants in the mountains and patience in nuturing these hardy plants in a city environment. Mr. Shin was honored by having one variety of these wild orchids named after him, the Shin Chan-ho orchid. Arranged neatly in rows, Mr. Shin proudly showed off his orchids different varieties explaining the variations of leaves of different varieties from leaves tinged with yellow (like a forest snake) to others with variegated leaves.  Myong-In Mandoo Next door to the Nalboo restaurant is the Myong-In Mandoo. The owner, Shin Jeong-hae, is the daughter of the Nalboo restaurant, Shin Chan-ho. Shin Jeong-hae was born in Songtan, but went to elementary school in Kunsan, middle school in Songtan and high school in Suwon. As a second-generation Shinjang Mall merchant, she has grown up in the area and seen the many changes that have taken place over the years. The shop was established in 2005 and serves a variety of mandoo (dumpling), both fried and soups. In addition, the menu offers a variety of kimchi-soups, om rice, kimpap and noodle dishes. According to Ms. Shin, the shop does a good business because of its location. Just inside the door, there is a small food sales area for the walk-by crowd.   (L) Myong-In Mandoo (R) Shin Jeong-hae, owner of Myong-In Mandoo (April 2008) (Kalani O'Sullivan) Peace Music Shop: The Peace Music shop is a family-owned business with the owner, Yang Tu-sup and his two sons. Mr. Yang was born in Pyeongtaek and founded the show in 1971 next to the Stereo Club. It moved to its present location in 1978 next to the Yongchon Alley. The store carries a large variety of electric and acoustic guitars as well as amplifiers -- and a full assortment of musical supplies. It's easy to find the shop by the acoustic guitar music that is played from the store on the mall. (Phone: (031)-666-2620 / Fax: (031) -611-2630 / Email: phmusic@lycos.co.kr.)    Picasso's The owner of Picasso's, Hwang Yong-han, a native of Songtan, is actually a second-generation merchant of Shinjang Mall. His father, Hwang Tae-gyu, came from Sumsa and moved to Songtan in 1963. He started the Daehung Glass Shop in 1980 and sold all forms of glass from windows to picture frames. The family relocated to Songtan at that time and lived in the rear of the store. After he passed away, his wife continued to run the shop and also sold traditional Korean dolls. Picasso's was built on the same location as the Daehung Glass Shop (near Burger Kings on the Mall) in 1994. You will usually find either Hwang Yong-han or his wife there to help you with your needs in custom photo puzzles, framing and matting. They have one daughter and one son.  Hwang Yong-han and his wife (May 2008) (Kalani O'Sullivan) Picasso's specializes in large-sized framed prints of masterpieces that sell for around $100. This is inexpensive considering that mail-order framed prints start at $65 for small-size framed prints and $185 and up for large-sized framed prints. At the shop, large size unframed posters/prints run between $30-40, while unframed small-medium prints run between $6-10. Add about $20-40 for a custom frame. However, when you consider cost of framed prints, remember that the Shinjang Mall galleries contain framed oils in the same price range. It all depends on your interior decoration tastes. Unfortunately, the shop does not handle a mail-order business.(Phone: (031)-668-8789 / Email: posterday@hotmail.com) My daughter bought some small unframed prints in the $8-10 range from this shop to put on her wall. The prints I bought were to complement the oil paintings that I have on my walls. For example, I bought a Linnea Pergola print, "Hills of San Francisco", to complement an original cubism oil painting that hangs in my bedroom -- and it looks wonderful.   Picasso's on Shinjang Mall (Aug 2006) (Kalani O'Sullivan) Bo-suk Dang Jewelry The shop was established by Son Bae-sik in 1957. Mr. Kang Shin-kol, owner of Universal Art, recalls that he and Son Bae-sik had ramshackle shops made of wood -- a scarce commodity in the post-war years. The shops didn't extend as far to the rear as they do today because the incline dropped off steeply in the rear.  To the right is where the original shop of Son Bae-sik was located. (1959) (Ed Stirling) Son Bae-sik turned over the shop to his sons, Son Woo-hong (Michael) and Son Oh-sung (John) in 1972. The shop was run as a family business. Later, Son Jeong-eun (Theresa), Son Woo-hong's daughter, started working there. In 2006, Son Oh-sung split away and established GQ Jewelry nearby.  At the large 2-story building to the left (by the telephone pole) is where the rail spur leading to the Bomb Dump (Bravo Gate area) ran across the Shinjang road. (1965) (Harry Tezlaf)   The store is located on the central Mall near Yongchan Alley. The shop not only sells fine quality jewelry, but also handles watch repairs. (Phone: (031)-663-2066 / Email: ordering@hanmail.net.) GQ Jewelry The store's owner is Son Oh-sung (John Son). Prior to opening the store in 2006, he operated Bo-suk Dang Jewelry with his brother as a family business. The store is located on the central Mall near Yongchan Alley. The shop not only sells fine quality jewelry, but also handles watch repairs. (Phone: (031)-668-9844 / Email: gq9844@yahoo.co.kr.)   The first time I met Mr. Son was to bring him my cheap imitation OMAX watch because the pin for the wristband fell out unexpectedly and was lost. He had it repaired in a flash. The next day, I brought him my Polo watch to change the battery as a satisfied customer. Mr. Son has three children: 2 daughters, one in college and one a baby, and one son in high school. He sent a message to his American friends, "Hi, lots have changed. If you come back, you'll be surprised. Americans came to help Korea, and we thank you always." Victoria Hotel: The Victoria Hotel was renovated in 1999. There are 30 rooms and the hotel offers the standard amenities of shuttle service. The Victoria Hotel received some very nice remarks from the Base Ops rating it a "Nice Hotel." It stated, "We stayed at the Victoria Hotel and were very impressed with the friendly staff. They didn't have any beer in the fridge in the lobby so they actually went out and brought us free beer at 1 in the morning despite it being –10 C outside. The front desk staff is more than happy to have food delivered for you. Command Post can get you a phone patch (661-7000); it wasn't listed on the card in our rooms. Making calls is a big pain in the butt. The hotel is located smack-dab in the middle of all the shopping." It went on, "The front desk has a little book of the places that deliver. Victoria Hotel was nice. Rooms are clean and well maintained. The A/C works this is very useful during Monsoon season. Centrally located to all shopping, night life and four blocks to the base front gate. Hotel has free drinks in a refrig in the lobby, water soda and beer for the guests. The owner walked to freedom with his Mother across the border from the Evil North when he was a child. Reliable Hotel shuttle van to the base." (NOTE: Mr. Oh denied this story of coming from North Korea. The family is originally from Are Konji-ni near the Songbuk Elementary School according to Mr. Oh. (Source: Verbal Conversation between Kalani O'Sullivan and Oh Sun-soo, 18 Jun 2006.) Mr. Oh Sun-soo is the owner of Victoria Hotel and the former owner of the GQ Tailors established in 1962. Mr. Oh is a two-time councilman for the area and highly respected member of the community. Born in the village of Are Konji-ni (Lower Konji Village) in the Donggeuk-dong area, he is one of the most knowledgable persons on the early history of the area. The family moved to right across from the Main Gate and established the GQ Tailors. However, when the government expanded the roads in 1976, his family's property was "expropriated" -- meaning they were given a pitiance for the land. Mr. Oh stated that the money received for the land was not enough to purchase new lodgings and the family took a loss. Over the years, his family acquired the Victoria Hotel and operated in the same location for over forty years. Some may remember that the VFW Post 10216 used to be located in the basement of the Victoria Hotel for many years before it relocated to the Pacific Hotel.  Now retired, the day-to-day management of the Victoria hotel is in the care of Mr. Oh's son, On Yong-shik, but he still can be found at the main desk as he has for years. He and his family live on the premises. (Phone: (031)-663-2121/2122 / Email: hotelvictoria@yahoo.com.)   Aragon AlleyChon Kwang Dang Jewelry At the corner of Aragon Alley, Mr. Yi Eun-hak started the Chon Kwang Dang Jewelry Shop in 1962. Over the years, the shop has been upgraded, but it remains in its original location. When one enters the store, one will be greeted either by Mr. Yi or his wife who are always behind the counter. As one enters the store, one is dazzled by the gold jewelry that are on display in showcases within the shop. Fine jewelry of impeccable craftsmanship is offered at reasonable prices. We bought our nephew his first birthday gold rings here. (Phone: (031)-666-2244)
  (L) Chon Kwang Dang Jewelry on Aragon Alley; (R) Mr. Yi Eun-hak, owner of Chon Kwang Dang Jewelry Shop (2005) (Kalani O'Sullivan) Cho Pharmacy Right next door, Mr. Cho Hoon started the Cho Pharmacy in 1965. These two shops are the only remaining original shops along Aragon Alley. The pharmacy has become a fixture on the Mall. Though it is off-limits to military, we have observed many dependents who visit the pharmacy for over-the-counter drugs for common ailments. This indicates that there is word-of-mouth that Cho Pharmacy can be trusted for medical needs due to his long experience as a pharmacist. When Mr. Cho started his shop in the 1960s, it was a time when there were few doctors in the impoverished country, so as a pharmacist, the country counted on him to treat the minor ailments of the populace. There were many drug (yak) shops in the early days of the Songtan area, but his is the only shop that remains of the original shops along the Mall area. (Phone: (031)-666-2526)   (L) Cho Pharmacy on Aragon Alley (2005) (Kalani O'Sullivan) (R) Mr. Cho Hoon, owner of Cho Pharmacy (2005) (Kalani O'Sullivan) (NOTE: Cho Pharmacy established in 1965. In the 1974 pic above under Chon Kwang Dang Jewelry, Cho Pharmacy is on left with "Yak" (drug) sign.) Korea Hotel: (302-48, Shinjang) The Korea Hotel was established in 1987 on the site of a Korean yaugwan (inn), the Tong Shim Inn. The owner of the Korea Hotel is Mr. Chang Chong-kyu and the General Managers are Yi Yong-hyon and Yi Nam-kyu. There are 65 rooms and the hotel provides the standard amenities of shuttle service and each room is equipped with internet computers for its guests. There is a game room/recreation center for the guests in the lobby area. Downstairs there is a nightclub, The Korea Hotel Club. The club has been a center of the nightlife on the Shinjang Mall since the hotel opened. (Phone: (031)-662-3927 / Fax: (031)-666-2317 / Email: koreahotel@hanmail.net.)  Mr. Yi Nam-kyu, General Manager (May 2006) (SITE NOTE: We want to express our appreciation to Mr. Yi Nam-kyu for his help in helping to translate for us in our interview with Mr. Son Kwang-chil, the owner of Hanyang Kalbi in Nov 2005.)   (L) Korea Hotel in Aragon Alley (R) Yi Yong-hyon, General Manager (22 Jan 2006) (Kalani O'Sullivan) Yong Chon Alley Yongchan Alley Entrance (Apr 2008) (Kalani O'Sullivan) Yong Chon Tourist Hotel (304-14, Shinjang) The oldest continuous establishment in the Shinjang area is the Yongchon Hotel which can trace its roots to a bathhouse established in 1953. The spring was one of three in the area. (NOTE: We first questioned the photo as we had other photos of a spring next to the perimeter. We now know that there was a second spring located in the rice fields across the present Jae Yok Road (near Hobak Road). We learned in 2006 that there was a third spring located under the present Arnold Palmer Golf Shop) The spring could be seen as one walked up the road to the MSR-1. At first the spring was open, but later it was fenced off. (SITE NOTE: In our interviews with local Koreans, we found that the desperately poor who lived in the area could not afford even the small prices for the Yongchon Bathhouse and would gather during summer in Milwal-dong in a valley (near the commissary) for the base laundry at the top of the Milwal-dong hill to discharge its water.) Behind the hotel front desk, the wall paper depicts the photo of the spring well with a fence around it. As the Shinjang Mall expanded the spring was capped as is said to be directly below the Yong Chon Hotel in the underground parking garage of the hotel.  Spring (1954) (Walter Faulkner)  Spring (1956) (Jeong Tae-ho) The Young chon Hotel has 71 rooms. It has a restaurant, coffee shop, and night club. The banquet facilities are on the second floor and arrangements can be made for wedding receptions and banquets. There is a swimming pool on the sixth floor and parking in the annex across the street. In addition, there are two saunas -- women's sauna on the first floor and men's sauna on the second floor. It has the standard amenities of shuttle bus service and internet. (Phone: (031)-663-4000 / Fax: (031)-663-2527 / Email: ychtl@hanmail.net / Website: http://www.youngchon.com.) In the 1977 photo below, the Yong Chon Hotel is the first building on the right. There was a small bar row in the alleyway next between the hotel and the next building. The next buidling belongs to Mr. Kim Sang -do whose family resided on the third floor. The Hilltop Club is the bar to the right. It was leveled when the Jae Yok Road was extended to Plaza Road. Across the street from the Yong Chon Hotel, the Yong Chon Annex parking garage was built. Mr. Jong Tae-ho is semi-retired acting as the President of the Yong Chon Hotel and leaves the day-to-day operation of the hotel to his son, Jong Yeon-hong. As a long time resident of the area, he has a wealth of information on the community's growth and we appreciate his assistance. (SITE NOTE: We also wich to thank Mr. K.S. Choi, General Manager, for his assistance with the history inputs.)  Looking Up Young Chon Hotel Alley (1977) (51st FW Archives) (NOTE: The Yong Chon Hotel is the first building on the right with the Yong Chon Western Restaurant. The sign reads "Hotel Yong Chon Lang." Where the Oriental Antique Company is in the photo, is now the Shinjang Shopping Mall.)
 
(L) Young Chon Hotel (2005) (Kalani O'Sullivan) (R) Young Chon Hotel Staff: (Left to Right) Kim Han-sik, K.S. Choi (Manager); Ma Ki-ben; Jong Yeon-hong (owner) (2005) (Kalani O'Sullivan) Kim Sangdol Electronics Shop (Yongchon Pi-Pi) Another long-time resident of Songtan is Kim Sang-do who operates a small electronics shop (Yongchon Pi-Pi) next to the Yong Chon Hotel and whose family resides on the third floor of the same building. (Phone: (031)-664-1353) People remember when came to Songtan and worked at many hard labor jobs. Eventually, he procured the property where his shop and residence is now. A pleasant man, he remembers how the Hilltop Club, a fixture in Songtan for many years, was torn down to make way for the constructon of Jae Yok Road running through the rear of the Shinjang Mall and the expansion of the area. Jae Yok Road joined the Yong Chon Alleyway.  Looking Down Yong Chon Hotel Alley (1976) (Harry Tezlaf) (NOTE: The Yongchon Hotel is on the immediate right. Next is Kim Sang-do's home on the left on the third floor. To the right of the photo at the intersection is the Hilltop Club which has been demolished to expand Jaeyok Road.)  Kim Sang-do, owner small electronics repair shop, and Jong Tae-ho, President Young Chon Hotel (2005) (Kalani O'Sullivan)
Rodeo AlleyOB Makju and Chicken Bar to Twin Blanket Shop Mr. Kim Young-hi used to own the OB Makju (beer) and Chicken bar to right of the 1978 photo below. The bar was established in 1978. Afterwards, Mr. Kim established the Twin Blanket Shop in 1985 near the same location.At the Twin Blanket Shop, one will be greeted either by Mr. Kim or his wife who will extend any help in selecting just the right item to suit your needs. The shop offers a wide variety of cushions, comforters, mink blankets and Korean floor pads. (Cell Phone: 010-4011-2975)
 Rodeo Alley (1978) (Thomas Utts)   (L) Rodeo Alley (2002) (Unknown) (Mr. Kim's OB Makju and Chicken Bar was on the right of the photo near the entrance to Rodeo Alley) (R) 2005: Mr. Kim Young-hi, owner of Twin Blanket Shop. (2005) (Kalani O'Sullivan) (SITE NOTE: In 2008, when we stopped by to update this page, Mr. Kim had sprouted a goatee.) Jackson Park Shop The Jackson Park Shop (formerly My Shop) is located in the basement area of a building to the left just as you enter Rodeo Alley from the Shinjang Mall. The shop is a family operation with Mr. Park Young-sim as the owner. The shop primarily offers clothing for younger people in a wide variety of long and short-sleeve shirts, t-shirts, and blue jeans. (Phone: (031)-611-3250) When we stopped by to update this page in 2008, we found that Mr. Park, 62, was had a very interesting background. He is a ROK Vietnam vet who served with the ROK Tiger Division (Maeng Ho) at An Khe from 1967-1970. Most Koreans Vietnam vets are reluctant to talk about those experiences and Mr. Park simply related the experience of being under fire in a cryptic manner -- of course, relating the large amounts of enemy fire he underwent. He left the ROK Army as a sergeant in 1970. The Tiger Division became legend in 1972 at the Battle of An Khe Pass. Mr. Park operated a shop on Aragon Alley at the end of the lane in 1974. Thus he has seen many changes along Shinjang Mall over the years. He moved to his shop to Rodeo Alley in the 1980s and has remained in the same location ever since. (Conversation Kalani O'Sullivan and Park Young-sim on 9 Apr 2008.)   (L) Looking up the street to the Opera Club. (2005) (Kalani O'Sullivan) (R) Mr. Park Young-sim, owner of My Shop on Rodeo Alley, with daughter and grandson (2005) (Kalani O'Sullivan) Mr. Han's Shop As one enters Rodeo Alley, on your right one sees a small cubby-hole shop with scarfs and ties outside. This is Mr. Han's Shop owned by Han Myung-jae. He opened the shop in 1986. His shop sells scarfs, ties and gift sets. He is originally from Songtan and before opening the his shop, he worked for other shops in the Songtan area. He remembers the Rodeo area before the overpass construction in 1977-1978 and then the massive reconstruction of the area completed in the early 1980s. I have known Mr. Han's Shop since we first moved here in 2005. Though I don't often usually wear ties -- besides church -- there are times when I feel like I want to look like a teacher and put one on. I bought my first tie from Mr. Han's Shop in 2006 -- and because he has such a engaging personality as a salesman, I ended buying a group of ties afterwards.   (L) Mr. Han's Shop (R) Han Myung-jae, owner of Mr. Han's Shop (April 2008) (Kalani O'Sullivan) Han Myung-jae says he likes to walk and hike as an hobby -- "walking everywhere" he jokingly says. When asked about his business, he said that for him the best season was just before Xmas. However, lately business has been falling off because he feels that there are diminishing amounts of TDY personnel. He claims that permanent party folks don't buy much -- and that's probably true since after you have a few ties, you don't get more. (Conversation: Kalani O'Sullivan and Han Myung-jae on 9 Apr 2008.) Chong Un Bulgogi House The Chong Un Bulgogi House is one of the oldest restaurants in the area. It was founded in 1972 and has operated in the same location ever since. The restaurant is owned by Kim Chong-un and is well-known in the area amongst Koreans and Americans for its tasty food. Walk down Rodeo Alley and it is on your right. (Phone: (031)-666-4270) There is on-the-floor seating on the first floor and tables and chair seating on the second floor -- along with private rooms. The service is prompt and friendly.   (L) Chong Un Bulgogi House Entrance (R) First floor seating (April 2008) (Kalani O'Sullivan) The restaurant specializes in Sokalbi (beef ribs); Taeji kalbi (pork ribs); Kalbitang; and Bibimnaemyong -- along with other noodle and soup dishes. I had the Bibimnaemyeong -- gochujang (soybean-pepper paste) over cold green-tea noodles garnished with a slice of pickled beef and pear. What was nice was they served a bowl of mul-naemyeong (soup for the water variety) along with it. It was mild for a pepper dish and my nose didn't start running until ten minutes after I left the restaurant -- a sign to me that it was an excellent dish. It was a delicious and filling dish for 5,000 won. No-name Alley ("Pacific Hotel Alley" connect to Jungang Market Road)Smile Sweater Shop I was walking down the alley and the sign caught my eye. I remembered seeing the name in a photo of Aragon Alley. I stopped into the shop and inquired if it was the same shop. The owner, Kim Yun-cha, stated that "yes" -- she had a shop on Aragon Alley which she started back in 1978 -- on the corner and shared the space with the present Chon Kwang Dang Jewelry. She had moved from Seoul in 1977 and started her shop a year later. In 1981 she moved to her present location. Aragon Alley looking towards Shinjang road. On the top right corner, the sign has the first part of "Smile Sweater Shop" where the shop was on Aragon Alley next to Chon Kwang Dang Jewelry. (1984) (Unknown) She specializes in ladies wear and children's clothes. Of course, she rotates her clothing styles dependent on the season -- or as she joking stated, "4-seasons wear." She has two children, both of whom live in Seoul. (Tel: 662-1491)   Veterans of Foreign Wars -- Hill 180 Memorial Post 10216 Though it is not a business per se, it has been in operation for over 40 years on Shinjang Mall. We've known about the post for a long time -- dating from when we were in Kunsan. It is one of the longest continuously operating posts in Korea. Started in 1964, it was located in the Victoria Hotel until 1977. Then it went through a series of relocations and finally ended up in its present location in the basement of the Pacific Hotel. Though the VFW had been in existence in Songtan since 1964, it changed its name to the Hill 180 Post after the fight to recognize Hill 180 as a major battle ground at the start of the Korean War was historically approved by the USFK. The Hill 180 Post was chartered in April 1987. The post is named after the famous Korean War Battle of Bayonet Hill in 1951 led by Army Capt Lewis Lee "Red" Millett who received the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions during that battle. The battle marked one of the most famous bayonet charges in US military history against the Chinese who held Seoul at the time. Col Millet has visited the post many times in the past starting in 1998, but after 2003 his failing health has prevented him from attending the annual Bayonet Hill ceremonies. Over the years the post has been active in doing charitable works both on-base and off-base In the 1970s, many of the elementary schools in the area benefitted from scholarships from the post and photos of their participation are exhibited in their historical files. Currently, the Post supports the activities of a Boy Scout troop at Osan AB. As one enters the Post, there are tables around the room and a pool table. To the left is the bar. The walls are decorated with pictures of a military theme and there is a shelf of military aircraft models. The atmosphere is friendly and a smile greets you when you approach the bar. Of course, being a military association it is open only to its members.     In speaking with Ron Davis, past Commander and Past District Commander, much of the history of the VFW was lost in 2000 during a flood which destroyed their post. All that seems to have been salvaged was some old water-logged photos and documents. Ron stated that the real corporate memory of the Post lay with Jim Price, owner of Price-Hyon AIG Insurance Agency, who had been with the Post from the beginning. (Phone: (031)-662-7560 / Website: http://www.vfw10216.com/) Nana Dress Maker Shop Opens in 1972 In 1972, Mr. Kim Pyong-yong, 61, opened the Nana Dress Maker Shop on the ground floor of a building on what is now Rodeo Alley. It was just below what was then a popular black club called Papa Joe's. He rented the shop in this location at the time.  Papa Joe's after it relocated to the Songtan side due to 1973 off-limits action in Jwadong. On the ground level to the left of the photo, one can see "Nana Dress Maker" shop. (1978) (Harry Tezlaf) In 1985, he moved to the present location in the alley across from the Asia Hotel. The reason is that he owned the building. The shop is now known as "Nana Fashion Shop" but the same seamstress that worked there thirty years ago still sews there. Unlike other tailors in Shinjang, he has remained in the same profession without changing. Mr. Kim, however, no longer works full-time there though he still designs the dresses and cuts the patterns. He works twenty days a month as a AAFES taxi driver on base. His son, 27, also works on base. (Source: Verbal interview with Kim Pyong-yong by Kalani O'Sullivan on 12 Aug 07.)  Kim Pyong-yong (Aug 2007) (Kalani O'Sullivan) Jungang Market Road AreaSesame Art Sesame Art was founded in 1988 near the Main Gate by Chae In-seo. He has been in business selling paintings to the Americans of Osan AB ever since. In 2002, he moved to his present location in the Jungang Marketplace area. (Phone: (031)-667-5005)  (L) Chae In-seo (R) Sesame Art (Apr 2008) (Kalani O'Sullivan) Of course, Sesame Art has the more recognizable Van Goghs or Picassos copies -- though it may end up giving them a mass-produced feel. Like most art galleries, Sesame Art handles mostly tourist art which ends up adorning the walls of the dorms or offices on the base. These are typically of aircraft or military themes or the mass-produced landscape or still-life varieties that are inexpensive. However, there are occassionally some large exceptionally high-quality oil paintings done by local artists hidden amongst the tourist art. Unfortunately, they are well out of my price range as these paintings can run from $250 on up. These paintings are usually rare finds amongst the galleries on Shinjang Mall which caters mostly to the lower-end tourist trade.  Sesame Art Gallery displaying "tourist" paintings on street (Aug 2006) (Kalani O'Sullivan) I'm not an educated art critic nor claim to even have a smidgen of artistic sophist |
