And so it goes, in the midst of spelling bees hosted at my school. A rather fitting example through which to describe the educational experience here in Korea. Kids here become subject at a young age to the competitive rigours demanded of them by schools, family life - 21st century affluent-asian society in general. These kids spend an unreal amount of time at desks and behind texts, memorizing grammar and the correct spelling of "aggressive" and "mischief."

South Korea's "economic miracle" is without doubt a product of a workforce willing to spend 13 productive hours a day on the clock. These kids in school are just getting ready to become a part of the machine. GNP as a measure of progress just looks so hot on a country this season!