Korea: That and beyond.
A Foreigner's Journey, Part 1.
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기사입력 : 2023.09.25 02:21
Buckle up for
the ride of a lifetime! After the unexpected intermission of our humdrum lives
in 2020 with the surprise appearance of the coronavirus, travel is back in the
game. Picture this: a vast world awaiting exploration, a trusty suitcase in
hand, and an unquenchable thirst to call every nook and cranny 'home,' even if
just for a few days. The world is bursting with captivating destinations, some
well-known and some hidden gems. But one rising star on the travel scene that's
impossible to ignore is South Korea, a mesmerizing country in the heart of East
Asia. I've been fortunate enough to wander its vibrant streets twice—once in
2019, just before the pandemic swept in, and again in 2023. Let me tell you,
Korea is a stunner, rivaling even the hottest spots in Europe. It has
everything a globetrotter could dream of, and it serves up experiences that
will stay etched in your memory forever.
Think skyscrapers shining like stars, seemingly reaching out to the night sky; whimsical, charming cafes adorning every bustling street corner; and, of course, the culinary journey that ranges from the fanciest restaurants to the humblest street food stalls. And oh, the parks! Lush greenery, serene lakes—you name it. Gwanggyo Lake Park in Suwon, for instance, is a dreamy escape, a place where leaves whisper secrets in the early autumn breeze and ducks wade peacefully in the cool lake waters. As the sun dips, the town lights and bridge reflections on the water create a scene straight out of a fairy tale. Can you feel your heart doing a happy dance?
But wait,
there's more! Ever experienced the magic of Songdo Central Park in Incheon?
It's like a scene from a romantic movie—perfect for a moonboat ride or a
leisurely picnic with your pals. Korea's parks are simply enchanting, exuding
cleanliness, charm, and aesthetic bliss. If you're a tranquility seeker like
me, these spots will be your newfound havens. And let's talk about the streets
and sidewalks—cleanliness is on point! Even with a minor shortage of public
bins, the cleanliness of Korea's streets, pavements, public transport,
buildings, and shops is jaw-dropping. It's a testament to the people's sense of
responsibility, order, and their care for their shared spaces.
But hold on to
your hats, because there's a whole cultural extravaganza awaiting you!
Libraries that'll make bookworms rejoice, museums that are a delightful trip
through history, theme parks that scream excitement, and cultural landmarks
that transport you through time. Gyeongbokgung Palace, Sungnyemun Gate,
Hyeonchungsa Shrine, Namsan Tower, Seoul Sky - Lotte World Tower—these places
are like portals to another era, brimming with knowledge and the thrill of
bridging the past and present. Korea is a country that wears its history like a
badge of honor, a place where tradition dances hand-in-hand with modernity,
creating an unmatched quality of life.
And how could I
forget the heart and soul of Korea—the food and the people! Korean cuisine is a
dance of flavors—spicy and sweet, a delightful surprise for the taste buds.
From the beloved Miyeok guk (a seaweed and beef soup that's my culinary love
affair) to Kal-guksu (a noodle dish that'll have you reminiscing for days), the
food here is a gastronomic journey worth savoring. And gim (laver) with rice
and kimchi? A simple delight that never fails to make my stomach sing!
Oh, and the communal grills at restaurants! Picture this: sizzling meat,
bubbling cheese, fresh veggies, and a flavorful broth—all coming together to
create a culinary masterpiece right at your table. The warmth of sharing a
hearty meal with loved ones, sipping soju, and relishing the flavors—it's a
feeling I crave every single day.
But Korea isn't
just about the sights and tastes; it's about the heartwarming people. During my
visits, I've been welcomed with open arms and genuine kindness. The times I
felt under the weather on the subway, strangers noticed and went above and
beyond to help, surprising me with their thoughtfulness. Koreans are a generous,
humorous bunch with hearts of gold. They're the reason Korea feels like a
second home to me. Beyond the glitz of bustling Seoul, it's the people who
breathe life into this beautiful country.
So, let's toast to Korea—the land of breathtaking sights, twinkling
skyscrapers, windswept parks, K-pop beats, and warm-hearted souls. It's all that and
beyond.
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