Before giving an update on my travels, I thought it would be interesting to compile a list of some of the observations I have made of South Koreans in Seoul for the would be traveller. As a tourist myself, I soon had to adjust to the customs and traditions of those around me and I have tried to adhere to their way of life as much as possible.
Here are a few examples:
- When holding heavy luggage on a train, someone who is seated may try and take it off you. Do not worry, they are not trying to steal you belongings. Rather helping you with your load
- There seems to be an obsession with doughnuts in Seoul - everywhere you turn there is a 'Dunkin Doughnuts' store and many markets sell them by the box load
- Although foreigners misunderstandings of Korean traditions are largely accepted and expected, it is important to observe the following rues while using chopsticks. Do not pass your food around with them, use them to point at other diners, drum them on the table or lick food off them - it's seen as very rude
- You are never far from a toilet in Seoul and many are fitted with a control panel that allows you to flush while using it to avoid embarrassment
- Unlike their neighbours in Japan, the majority of South Koreans dislike cats and often associate them with superstition. It is rare to see a South Korean keeping one as a pet
- It is rude to use strong eye contact when addressing someone who is older or in a higher position then you and it is not uncommon for South Koreans to ask your age when you first meet them so they can judge how to address you. In front of an elder, lower your gaze and only use direct eye contact when talking to someone of equal status
- Some South Koreans opt to have surgery to create a fold in the upper eyelid. It apparently costs around 500 pounds and gives a more desired, western style look.
As you can imagine I could list many more! My last few days in Seoul were filled with visits to two more palaces, a musical concert showcasing traditional Korean music and walks along the promenade by Hangang River in Yeouido Province. Deoksugung Palace, smack bang in the heart of the city allowed me to witness the changing of the guards ceremony - where men in traditional costume chant along to a beating drum while marching around the square. Really entertaining!
From there I met Bok-Dong for a quick lunch and we headed to the river - the sun was shining and the locals were out in force with families cyling along the paths, street performers entertaining children and food stalls galore. I braved my fear of the creepy crawly and tried eating a stewed bug, a popular snack in South Korea. I can't say I would try it again as it was quite chewy in texture but i'm proud that I tried it!
Later that evening we attended a music concert led by Bok-Dongs university lecturer. Divided into four sections and including an array of korean instruments, the concert showcased the beauty of their art and at one point became so melodic and soothing I was nearly lulled to sleep! Overall a great day!
My final two days were spent exploring a famous shopping district in Seoul to pick up some gifts for my family and visiting a friend I went to university with who is currently working as an English language teacher. The two hour train journey on Korea Rail was fast and efficient as expected and after a subsequent short bus ride I arrived in the city centre where I met up Lily and Jack. We then headed to the hostel to meet their friends. Later that evening I given the opportunity to sample Soju, a famous alcoholic drink in South Korea that tastes a bit like sweet wine - yum! The following day we looked around the city, visited ancient tombs built for royalty, walked through cherry blossom fields and visited Buddhist temples. So much fun and great company :)
I'm really not ready to leave South Korea. This week has been a whirlwind and I couldn't have asked for a better trip. I will definitely return in the future. So goodbye South Korea, it was a blast...hello Beijing!
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