Thursday, July 28, 2005

Seoul, South Korea - 24-26 July 2005

South Korea, the Land of the Morning Calm, remains one of my favorite places to visit. Personally, I think it deserves a second title: the Land of Excellent Food. I truly feasted to my heart's content while I was there. From the smoky richness of tteok-galbi (short rib patties) to the comforting warmth of samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup), bossam (tender fatty pork), makgeolli (rice wine), and beyond - each meal was a celebration. 

Beyond the cuisine, I was struck by how deeply many South Koreans live out Confucian values: a strong work ethic, deep familial ties, and genuine respect for the elders. As an avid fan of Kwon Sang-Woo and Bae Yong-Jun (stars of Stairway to Heaven and Winter Sonata), I secretly hoped for a star-struck encounter, but fate had other plans.

My short time in Seoul was made extra special by reconnecting with my college friend Mi-jin, who warmly hosted me and generously carved out time to show me around the city she calls home.

Above: On the bus ride from Incheon International Airport to downtown Seoul

Above: Where I waited for Mi-jin to pick me up

Above left: Mi-jin, Yong-Hyun, and Ah-Young

 Above left: Three generations ~ Mi-jin with her parents and daughter, Ah-Young

Above right: Gyeongbokgung (Palace)

Above right: This guard's a giant!

Above: Cheong Wa Dae (Blue House) ~ the official residence and office of the South Korean president

Above: Lunch at Jirisan Restaurant in Insa-dong's Hanjeongsik Alley, a cozy spot in Jongno District serving traditional Korean cuisine

Above left: Starbucks in Hangul

Above: A colorful array of tteok ~ Korean rice cakes that blend texture, tradition, and just a touch of sweetness

Above: Pyeonghwa Sijang (Pyeonghwa Clothing Market), also known as the Seoul Peace Market, is a well-known wholesale fashion market in the Dongdaemun district

Above left: Daniel Henney ~ an emerging actor in South Korea for his role in My Lovely Sam Soon

Above: Posters of Bae Yong-Jun

Above right: Korean street food ~ tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and eomuk (fish cakes) on sticks

Above: Standees of Kwon Sang-Woo

Above: Myeongdong Shopping Street

Above left: Jeon and makgeolli ~ a classic Korean pairing of pan-fried pancakes and lightly sparkling rice wine

Above: Seoul Tower

Above: Gwangjang Market (often spelled Kwang Jang Market) is one of Seoul’s oldest and most vibrant traditional markets, and it’s beloved for two main things: authentic Korean street food and textiles

Above: Lotte Department Store

Above: Samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) lunch with Mi-jin

Above: Jjin-mandu (savory steamed buns) and noodle soup with Mi-jin ~ a comforting meal before catching the train to Gwangju

Above: Back in Seoul after a whirlwind tour of Damyang and Gwangju with Regina ~ sharing one last dinner of bulgogi (grilled, marinated beef) with Mi-jin before my flight

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