Any bloggers interested in writing for the Gwangju News? Of course you are!

Last post of the night, I promise. As you might now I usually put something together each month for the Gwangju News, a monthly magazine for the Gwangju/Jeollanam-do area. The editor has expressed some interest in getting "stuff with more meat" and in attracting more pieces from local bloggers. Getting some stuff of local interest that go beyond temple write-ups, restaurant reviews, promotional material, and stuff about Scotland. Those types of articles serve a purpose, and can often be really fun to read, but because of the internet, it's tough for a monthly magazine to be particularly newsworthy. And because participation in collaborative efforts is low among foreigners around here, it's tough for a monthly magazine to stay fresh. The dozen or so Korea blogs I read manage to put out several really good, interesting, and informative posts a week, and we're hoping to replicate that in the magazine, albeit at a slower pace.

Anyway, from what I understand, I'm the only one active in this area since "A Year in Mokpo" closed up shop last week. Lots of other blogs in Jeollanam-do, but not many about Jeollanam-do. However, not living in the area doesn't disqualify you from writing good stuff about it. And, as always, we're looking for interesting, intelligent pieces, too, from anyone willing to write them. I know I've talked to a few people interested in writing for the magazine, and would encourage you to go for it. Plus, your parents will be really happy to see your name in the paper.

I've sent emails to some of you, and will send a few more a little later. If anyone is interested in writing something, or in learning a little more about the magazine, you can leave a comment here, send me an email at deutsch.brian at gmail.com, or contact the editor at gwangjunews at gmail.com. The issues from the last year or so are available online, in .pdf form, here, the most recent one being released yesterday. The magazine is put out by the Gwangju International Center, which puts on a ton of talks, trips, and festivals for and by the foreign community. Oh, and the word count is about 600-700 words for one page and 1,000 words for two pages, so a very doable length. The deadline for each month is the 15th, so if you have anything you think'd be great for June, try to let us know soon. Thanks.