In November 2016, I took my high school-aged daughters to South Korea for the first time. My parents had been living in Pohang for over a year after spending over 40 years in the United States. It was a chance for my daughters to experience Korea and visit their grandparents. They were excited about the trip, and I saw it as a great opportunity to explore South Korea together.
After moving to the US at the age of 10, I resided in Seoul, from 1990 to 1996 following my college graduation. During this period, I worked as an English teacher for employees of prominent Korean companies. It proved to be a significant opportunity for me to reestablish my connection with my roots and fully engage in the culture. It was during this time that I met my first husband. Despite initially intending a brief stay, my marriage extended my time in Seoul to six years before eventually returning to the United States with my then-husband.
Returning to Korea after 20 years with my daughters evoked a sense of nostalgia. It provided me with the opportunity to witness firsthand the remarkable changes that had taken place in the country since my time there.
Exploring South Korea: Reconnecting with Family and Heritage
During our two-week trip to South Korea, we resided with my parents in Pohang, situated in the southern part of the country. We explored numerous historic sites and cherished quality time with my parents. It was a special occasion as we reunited with cousins whom I hadn’t seen in over thirty years. Reminiscing about our childhood adventures and hearing stories from the past brought back nostalgic memories.
My daughters cherished the opportunity to reconnect with our extended family during our trip, especially my aunt. She had been living in a nursing facility for over a decade due to severe arthritis. Sadly, she passed away last year, finding peace at last. Witnessing the elderly residents facing their final days was a sobering experience, leading me to reflect on my own future. After a heartfelt week in Pohang, we embarked on a train trip to Seoul, South Korea guided by one of my cousins who resides in the capital city.
South Korea Trip: Exploring Seoul's Modernity and Heritage
Upon arriving in Seoul, the transformation that had taken place in Korea over the past 20 years was truly remarkable. The advancements in public transportation, particularly the train system, showcased the country’s progress since my last visit. Our journey from Pohang to Seoul via the KTX bullet train was a bit costly but worthwhile due to the excellent service and short travel time it offered.
Once we reached Seoul, my daughters were captivated by the bustling streets filled with shops, restaurants, and an array of street food vendors. The city pulsated with modernity, showcasing cutting-edge technology alongside a plethora of delectable culinary options. With my cousin’s guidance, we visited Seoul’s historic palaces and ventured to the DMZ, learning about Korea’s intricate political landscape.
Seoul, bustling and densely populated, may not be for everyone due to the crowds, but if you don’t mind the hustle and bustle, you’ll find it vibrant and exciting. Writing about it makes me yearn to return. During our stay, we also spent time with my cousin, experiencing jjimjilbang, a Korean bathhouses, before heading home.
Exploring the Diverse Flavors of Korean Cuisine
Korean cuisine offers a diverse array of flavors and textures that cater to a variety of tastes. Street markets brim with culinary delights like sujebi, kalguksu, and hoteok—a sweet pancake filled with brown sugar and cinnamon—a must-try for visitors. Street food is not only affordable but also delicious, drawing crowds with its tantalizing aromas.
For those seeking alternatives to street fare, large malls like Lotte present a myriad of options, ranging from sushi to traditional Korean dishes and desserts like dessert rice cakes (tteok). The food courts in these malls boast an impressive variety of choices to satisfy every palate.
For adventurous diners, live octopus presents a unique culinary experience where the octopus is consumed while still moving. Another traditional dish, dog meat, has seen a decline in popularity over the years and was banned as of January 9, 2024. This ban reflects changing attitudes towards animal welfare and marks a significant shift in South Korea’s food culture.
It’s noteworthy that despite these exotic offerings, Korean food is rich in healthy options, with an emphasis on vegetables. For vegans, finding delicious plant-based meals is effortless in this country. Additionally, Korean food boasts a wide range of delicious and nutritious options suitable for all dietary preferences. While some delicacies cater to the adventurous palate, there are plenty of flavorful dishes to enjoy.
Embracing Heritage
The most rewarding part of our South Korea trip was reconnecting with relatives. It provided a unique chance to introduce my daughters to our heritage, allowing them to experience the beauty of the country firsthand. Since then, my older daughter Hannah revisited with her friends in 2023. She relished the street food and embraced her maternal roots once more. Her enthusiasm mirrors mine, as we eagerly anticipate returning to Korea.
With the global popularity of Korean cuisine, K-pop, and dramas, Korea has become a must-visit destination. The vibrant culture and rich heritage offer an unforgettable experience. Currently, I’m planning my next trip back to South Korea, excited to discover what awaits.
