Discovering the Magic of Korea
Born in Europe, they didn’t tell us much about Asia at school, let alone specifically about Korea. So, I didn’t know much about Korea until we moved here two years ago. In those two years, I have experienced Korea from within and have learned some exciting things. At first, it isn’t easy to live in Korea, but the country does start to grow on you over time. Hopefully, with this article, I can make you feel a bit of the Korean magic, provoking a wish to visit this country and experience some of it firsthand.
When I arrived in Korea for the first time, I still remember how shocked I was by the enormous high-rise buildings. They were high, and many of them were everywhere you look. There are more than 50 million people in South Korea, and they all have to live somewhere. As the country is full of hills and low mountains, the space is somewhat limited, forcing the people to use the 3rd dimension. This 3rd dimension concept was new for me, not because of the high-rise buildings, but because Korea is a three-dimensional country for many other things than housing. There are endless streets under the ground, and if you want to find a shop, café, museum, cinema, or restaurant, you always have to check which floor you need to be on, both under and above the ground.
Besides the complex physical structure of Korea, the Korean alphabet contributed to my first-time-visit shock as well. The Korean letters didn’t mean anything to me, and everything was a mystery to me when driving to our first hotel room. What would it all mean? If you are interested in why learning Korean is so hard for western foreigners, you can read more about that in another article I posted on LinkedIn a while ago.
Embracing the Culinary Adventure
Another thing I remembered was the first time that we needed to have lunch, and we decided to go to a restaurant with the children. We walked around in our neighborhood and didn’t know where to go, so we finally ended up by chance at a restaurant above the local supermarket where the menu was in Korean, and the waitress didn’t speak any English. We ordered some food, judging from the pictures on the menu. We ate dumplings, some cooked meat, and various kinds of Korean pancakes. We also ordered some wine, but Korean rice wine didn’t taste like wine at all. Everything was so different.
Uncovering the Layers of History
The importance of history is clearly visible if you live in Korea. There are many historical sites, temples, and museums to learn about, but Korea’s history is also present in how the Koreans look at themselves and other countries in the world. Of course, I can’t describe all of Korean history in this article, but a few things stand out that I want to mention.
Foremost, the Korean War (1950-1953) is still on everyone’s mind. After World War II (1940-1945), Korea was liberated from the Japanese occupation. The United States and Russia couldn’t agree on what to do with Korea, so they decided to split the country into North Korea and South Korea, just like they did with Berlin and Germany. Five years later, in 1950, the North invaded the South, and a brutal war emerged that lasted for three years and ended after the United Nations came to the help of the South and restored the border between the North and the South.
The United States was by far the most significant contributor to the UN mission, and this explains the enormous impact they have made on Korea. The Korean language has a lot of English loan words, and the American cultural influence is visible everywhere if you have an eye for it. The Korean war ended with a cease-fire, and until today, that hasn’t changed. Tragically, North and South Korea are the victims of a geopolitical fight, and there doesn’t seem to be a way out. Since then, the North and South have developed in radically different ways, resulting in the extreme difference that can be seen between the two countries now. North Korea is one of the least free and poor countries in the world, and South Korea has become a true democracy and the 11th largest economy in the world.
Another significant influence comes from Japan, with which Korea has a troublesome history. Since 1871, the Japanese have been strengthening their influence in Asia and specifically in Korea as part of their expansionist strategy at that time. They grew their power in Korea, forcing out the Chinese and the Russians. Then, in 1910, Japan occupied Korea, tried to break its culture, and make it entirely Japanese. Korea was liberated from the Japanese at the end of World War II, and the government started an enormous effort to restore the Korean cultural roots. The Japanese occupation has had a massive impact, which can still be felt today. The two countries are still unfriendly related, having postponed dealing with war atrocities, accusing each other of changing history after the fact.
Before that, the country has a long history of dynasties and kingdoms, of which the most prominently visible if you travel the country are the Joseon dynasty since 1392, the Goryeo dynasty since 918, the North-South states period of Silla and Balhae since 668, and the three kingdoms period of Baekje, Goguryeo, and Silla since 57 BC. Everywhere you go, there are stories to be heard about these times, and you can see the Korean people are very proud of their history.
Exploring Seoul’s Family-Friendly Attractions
Now that you have a better understanding of the rich history and culture of Korea, let’s dive into the family-friendly attractions that make Seoul an ideal destination for your next vacation.
Discover the Vibrant Myeongdong District
One of the most popular areas for families to stay in Seoul is the Myeongdong district. This vibrant neighborhood is a shopper’s paradise, with endless stores, street food vendors, and lively street performances. The area is also well-connected to the city’s efficient public transportation system, making it easy to explore other attractions.
Immerse Yourself in the Palaces of Seoul
No trip to Seoul is complete without visiting the city’s stunning palaces. The Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, and Deoksugung Palace offer a glimpse into Korea’s royal past. Wander through the beautifully manicured gardens, admire the intricate architecture, and even catch a traditional performance.
Enjoy the Views from Seoul Tower
For a panoramic view of the city, take a trip to the iconic N Seoul Tower, located on Namsan Mountain. Ride the cable car up the mountain and explore the observatory deck, where you can enjoy stunning vistas of the city skyline. The tower also houses a variety of restaurants and shops, making it a perfect family-friendly destination.
Discover the Unique Café Culture
Korea is renowned for its vibrant café culture, and Seoul is no exception. From traditional tea houses to quirky animal-themed cafes, there’s something to delight every member of the family. Spend an afternoon sipping on a warm beverage and indulging in delectable pastries while taking in the unique ambiance.
Explore the Charming Insadong Neighborhood
Venture to the Insadong neighborhood to immerse yourself in the traditional Korean culture. Stroll through the winding alleyways, browse the antique shops and art galleries, and sample traditional Korean delicacies. This charming area is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Visit the Enchanting Bukhansan National Park
For a nature-filled adventure, head to the Bukhansan National Park, just north of the city. Hike along the well-marked trails, take in the stunning mountain vistas, and visit the serene Buddhist temples. This urban oasis provides a welcome respite from the bustling city.
Discover the DMZ and the Joint Security Area
No trip to Seoul would be complete without a visit to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) and the Joint Security Area (JSA), which offer a unique glimpse into the ongoing tensions between North and South Korea. While the situation remains delicate, these tours provide a fascinating and educational experience for families.
Planning Your Unforgettable Seoul Adventure
With so many family-friendly attractions and activities, Seoul is an ideal destination for a memorable vacation. When planning your trip, consider staying in the Myeongdong or Insadong neighborhoods, as they offer convenient access to the city’s top sights and a wide range of accommodation options.
To make the most of your time in Seoul, research and book your tours and activities in advance, especially for popular destinations like the DMZ and the palaces. The public transportation system is excellent, so don’t be afraid to explore the city using the metro and buses.
Embrace the unique culinary offerings of Korea, from the delicious street food to the traditional restaurants. Be adventurous and try new dishes – you never know what hidden gem you might discover.
Most importantly, approach your Seoul adventure with an open mind and a willingness to immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of this fascinating city. With a little planning and a sense of wonder, you and your family are sure to have an unforgettable experience in Seoul.
