IMG_2908 (by Issa S)
When I first saw the subway stations of Korea, I thought, “Wow, I’m going to love this place.” It was rush hour, and everyone around me was—well— predictably Korean, and I guess the unfamiliarity of the place made me see everything as awesome. My excitement went up a level. There was an adventure ahead.
I was fortunate enough to experience a month in the beautiful country of Korea, and it was extremely epic. So, for anyone who wants to travel around Asia, consider visiting Korea. It will surprise you. (Especially the food!) Here’s a list of some places and things that I did, visited, and ate. These are all in Seoul, which is kind of the center of most things in Korea. Also, my memory fails to remember the exact locations of these places, so I’m really sorry that I can’t include them here.
1. Myeongdong
I think it is safe to say that I did not see a single young Korean who dressed unfashionably. All the girls and the boys there dressed as if they were going to a party everyday. Myeongdong, was an ode to that observation. Known as their most popular shopping district, stores from all ranges can be found there. You can splurge on clothes from branded stores like Zara, H&M, and a big-ass Forever 21, and you can also go to the local boutiques located in the alleys. I spent most of my time in H&M (because I love their clothes there), but I also prioritized the boutiques because that’s where most of the authentic, modern Korean fashion is. Myeongdong is also a great place to spend a nice afternoon. In my opinion, you don’t need to shop to enjoy Myeongdong. You can go there just for the sake of pasyal. (However, you also need to brave through the sea of people that go there. It depends on the traveler, I think.)
And on a personal note, Myeongdong also gave me a really awesome memory when my friend and I got lost going home from there—it was just the two of us teenagers—and it was totally epic, wild, and an adventure.
2. Namsan Tower
You can either ride a bus going to Namsan tower, or ride a tram. I rode the tram. It was like a preview of the view you’d see on top of the tower. The view on top, though, was the real thing: a wide, fantastic view of Seoul. What made the experience even more beautiful were the the locks that surrounded the viewing deck. It was a nice feeling for me, knowing that all these people have locked their love in this beautiful place. Cheesy, but nice.
My fellow exchange student Jaja from Thailand! We bonded over shopping adventures together, just the two of us.
Host grandpa and I at Gwang-Hwa Moon square, Seoul! *cue SNSD & SuJu’s Seoul Song*
