Taking yourself to the limit: The climb
Korea Herald, May 22, 2009, Expat Living, pp. .
Written by Matt Lamers, Photographed by Peter Jensen-Choi
About International Guides of Korea
Written by Matthew Lamers
After a few years of playing with the concept of a foreign-guided and climbing service, Peter Jensen-Choi said it finally just sunk in and he agreed to go ahead with the idea with fellow climber Eddy Park. "It's definitely been one of the most challenging and interesting things I've had the chance to be a part of other than the Korean-sponsored Himalayan expeditions since coming to Korea," said Jensen-Choi.
Born in Daegu, Jensen-Choi, moved to Portland, Oregon, where he grew up. He has been back in Korea for 10 years "on and off" and teaches at Hyechon University in Daejeon.
International Guides of Korea offers rock climbing - including sport, ice and multi-pitch climbing - and guided tours.
Jensen-Choi said expats in Korea and tourists form all over the world take part in IGK courses. "Right now, we are taking out one or two foreigners per week on average for a course or guided session. For our monthly Community Climbs, we take out anywhere from four to 16 clients at a time."
IGK is familiar with a lot of the Korean climbing community and they run into Korean climbers while with clients. These run-ins usually end up in sharing a meal, drink or both, said Jensen-Choi. "These friendly meetings are great for clients because they get the chance to experience the camaraderie of the Korean climbing community."
But the best part about outdoor adventure sport is the healthy lifestyle it promotes. "It's a great escape and way to relieve the pressures of work, the city and what not. It gives folks a chance to do something away from the hodge-podge of the city. Getting out into the world of pine scented forests, chirping birds, and rustling trees are medicine for the heart and mind. Couple this with the physical challenge, exhilaration and reward of climbing and you end up with a healthier and stronger mind and body all around.
"We literally take our clients that extra mile to a healthier lifestyle. That's why our motto is 'Harder and Higher,'" Jensen-Choi said.
As an instructor, he participates because, aside from just enjoying being out and about in nature, he says he meets a lot of interesting people from interesting backgrounds. "Instructing and showing clients how to do things properly and watching them push themselves and overcome obstacles are a pleasure. Watching those who have come out with us on a regular basis progress to the point where they no longer need to be coached under the watchful eye for certain techniques or skills has also been very rewarding and very enjoyable for us.
Crystle Kozoroski, a client of IGK, says she enjoys it because it's a great way to be outdoors and meet new people, while learning an extreme sport safely. "I really appreciate the sense of security of having well-trained guides watching me while I scale an intimidating cliff," Kozoroski said. "The thrill of facing and overcoming your fears is exhilarating. They also accommodate all skill levels.
"The company allows a no-hassle experience by taking care of annoying details like reading a map or finding the right routes. Being able to take advantage of Korea's mountains and try a new experience one might not be able to do back home enhances life in Korea."
