I am currently working as a documentary photographer and visual journalist, recording the lives of "return to the land" farmers in South Korea. You can see my work on my website (yolantasiu.com) or on Instagram (@koreangrown).

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

My most memorable experiences from travelling came not from the places but from the people I was able to meet. I want to learn about other people's way of living and to see their city or village through their eyes.

Interests

Food politics, photography, design, journalism, and hiking are the five things that my life revolves around.

Ask me about anything. :)

• arts
• design
• photography
• education
• beer
• crafts
• live music
• hiking
• volunteering
• fermentation
• alternative lifestyles
• organic farming

Music, Movies, and Books

I enjoy all types of music minus classical (I don't dislike it -- it just puts me to sleep).
I also love going to live shows by both established and indie artists.

I enjoy most types of literature, especially non-fiction by the likes of Michael Pollan, as well as the simplicity of Kawabata Yasunari and Ernest Hemingway's writings. There is no difference between my hobbies any my work.

Recently read The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. The way I live my life is reflected in the book.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I have a number of ailments that make physical activities tough, and so I like to challenge myself with a new activity every year.
(Upcoming) 2 month, 1200km Shikoku Pilgrimage

(2018) 6 day, 140km walk around the northern coast of Sado Island, Japan
(2017) 7-day trek of Jiri Mountain 지리산 with students from Geumsan Gandhi Alternative School 금산간디학교, South Korea
(2014) Hiking Seorak Mountain and Halla Mountain

...But every day is another amazing experience on this planet!

Teach, Learn, Share

I work as a photographer and writer but have experiencing in teaching English, city planning, marketing, and product design. I am happy to share my knowledge or to connect those who might benefit from each other's company.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I love all things sustainability, food, and design.

I have been living in South Korea for the past 2 years, living in the countryside and experiencing a slower form of Korean culture. I would love to share what I have learned and hear from your experiences as well! Although I don't travel as much outside of Korea these days, I traveled a lot in Japan and can tell you a lot of great places outside cities.

Food. Yes. I love it all. Especially 맛창 (intestines). I also consider myself a decent cook, so if we have time, I would love to cook you a meal.

I am heavily involved in the indie art scene in Korea. I can tell you all about the latest exhibitions and introduce you to some amazing, up-and-coming artists.

For the farmers or anyone interested in sustainability, because I have been involved with agriculture since 2016, I can discuss with you issues of food production and politics. If you have a small farm or garden, I would also love to help out!

Countries I’ve Visited

Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Hungary, Japan, Nepal, Switzerland, United Kingdom

Countries I’ve Lived In

China, Hong Kong, South Korea, United States