By Anthony Rosero
It will almost be eight months since I first arrived in South Korea. It’s an interesting feeling to know that I have been here for that long. I remember feeling so in awe about everthing. The people in the shops selling various Korean food. I was enamored by the food. The spicy taste of Kimchi and the mouth watering Bibimbap. I loved everything about Korea. I look back now and so thankful that nothing has changed much. I still love the food. I still enjoy the people but more importantly I’m beginning to understand my students. They are all special to me. I understand how much pressure they feel from the world around them that to see smiles on their faces is enough to make me glad to teach here. I can see how tired they are and how much they want a well deserved break. And so when I heard that Chusok was fast approaching I knew that my students can’t wait to sleep in an extra hour or two in their beds. This made me happy for them.
Chusok truly is a very important holiday in Korea. It’s a time when families could get together and remember their ancestors. Occasionally, they would visit their ancestor’s tomb offer various food and just be with family. It is almost very similar to Thanksgiving in the U.S. However, still very distinct in it’s root. This was also a special time for me because I was able to explore one of Korea’s beloved national park- Soreaksan National Park in Sokcho. This park has amazing mountains that tower high like mighty cathedrals. I could only imagine the magnificent view during Fall season. Unfortunately the clouds were hovering that when we reached the top peak no view was in sight. Regardless, I enjoyed my hike up the mountain. It is definitely my best hike yet. It took 3 hours to climb up and 3 hours to get back down.
I didn’t have much time to explore the city of Sokcho however I did visit the Abai Village well known as a place for North Korean refugees to settle and live. I rode a mini raft to get to the village island. I paid 200 Won. I also discovered that a really popular Korean drama show was filmed in this location. There were quite a few visitors there. But what I especially loved was the stuffed squid the village seems to sell in every corner.
Overall, I would really love to venture to Sokcho again. I like to see the mountains again and see the beautiful view. Korea truly is an amazing country. I love the people, the food and now I’m beginning to fall in love with its landscape.
