Day Twenty Four // K O R E A

I've been reminiscing about my time in Korea recently. I've been thinking about the people, the food, the places, and the sweet memories I made there. It's hard to believe that I left Korea three years ago because it feels like I just came back. If you used to follow me on my previous blog, you'll know that I held no reservations on how I feel about that small country. I love it with all my heart. I think about the cafes I used to sit at, the buses I used to ride, and the beautiful sights I used to see and it makes me feel somewhat homesick. I can't wait to go back someday. 

Udo Island was one of my places to go to when I lived in Jeju. It's about a two hour bus trip and a ten minute ferry trip, but is all so worth it. Biking around the island takes about two hours and the view is absolutely stunning. Imagine riding a bike while hearing the waves crash and smelling the salty air - perfection to say the least! 

The sweetest 3rd graders you'll ever meet. They were so stoked for their Christmas party that day and showed me their best Christmas spirit! 

This was my last view of Seoul. It taken the day before I left to go back to America. Looking at this picture brings back so many emotions - mainly just sadness. Even till today, I still feel sad because I was truly so sad on that day. I know the hustle and bustle of Seoul is not for everyone, but it was one of my favorite things about Korea.

 I miss the beautiful cafes found on every corner! The cafe culture in Korea is amazing. 

Korea has a mixture of old, traditional buildings among new, modern structures and I love how culture is integrated so well with innovation. 

Again, you can't beat the cafe culture in Korea. I mean, look at the aesthetic! Even my tea was too beautiful to drink, haha.

I don't need to tell you how amazing Korean food is. When I go back to Korea, I'm going to make a list of my favorite foods and eat them all when I get there! The meal above is one of my favorites! The broth is savory and spicy and the noodles are cooked to the perfect softness. So yummy!

Let's be honest, I wouldn't have survived Korea without these two: Tim and Lue. They helped me navigate the subway system, taught me how to order food, and gave me the best company during my year there. We had so much fun eating, exploring, and spending nights together in Airbnbs and guesthouses! I miss them so much.

Going down memory makes my heart ache because my time there was so precious. I thank God that He made allowed a season of healing, fun, and excitement to happen. I would've never had such dear memories to hold onto. Korea is such a special, special place.