SOUTH KOREA.
An yeong ha se yo (Hello)
I was in Korea for a one month (May-June 2005) industrial training, at Jinhae, stayed at a University in Gwangju and visited Koeje and Busan. This RVU is aimed for those who want to have a fair idea of the country, before their first visit.
PEOPLE:
People are very calm and helpful. But, the problem arises in language. Very few people know English and it is very difficult to get around. The helping nature of the people makes up for it. On a positive note, at least it is better than China, where even sign language may land you in trouble.
FOOD:
Contrary to the common perception, Koreans don’t eat everything under the sun. From sea, maybe. But, they too share our disgust for cockroaches, termites and the like. For vegetarians, Korea isn’t the place to be. For non veggies, the taste and preparation is quite different. Also, pork forms a basic part of the diet. This might be a problem for Muslims.
The food is well balanced and nutritious and delicious (ma shi so yoh). This explains the health of Koreans, their clear skin, 0% existence of baldness or graying hair and wrinkles. It is good (Jo ah yo)
DELICACIES:
Try Kim-chi (said to be their protector against SARS). And also, Octopus (live) and Pork barbecue. And don’t miss out on So-joo (Korean national drink) and Bok um Bak. Dog meat is on their exclusive list. So, might be hard to get it.
TRAVEL:
Long distance (about 300 – 400 kms) travel is by Komho express. The bus is quite comfortable and fast. Train is available only between Busan and Seoul. But, it comes no where near Bullet Train between Osaka and Tokyo. In Busan and Seoul, subways are the best mode of transport.
TOURIST SPOTS:
If you are at Seoul, then check out the amusement park, War museum, Lotte World, Seoul Tower and Seoul Olympic Stadium. These are worth their penny.
At Busan, you can go to Tae jong de resort, Nam po dong bazaar, Busan tower, Hae un dae beach, Aquarium, Gwang li bridge and Sok cheon.
There are many more places. The above mentioned are my favourites. Moreover, there are many hills in this country and you can take a trek, wherever you are.
COST:
Conversion rates may tell you 1 rupee = 23 won. But, expense will beat China and Singapore upside down. Cost of living is very (very) high. Don’t come on a shoe string budget.
SHOPPING:
Korea may well be the land of electronics majors (Samsung, Hyundai). But, get real. You will find the same stuff much cheaper at Dubai or Abu Dhabhi. (donno the logic, though). And, Singapore may claim to be a shopper’s paradise. Check out the price listings in the gulf market, before you bargain for an item.
I think that’s it. Learn a few basic Korean words before you head here. And, for smokers, please bring your stock (Wills, Marlboro) from India itself. Or, you might be forced to quit smoking (due to price, sigh).
Na jong e bob si da (see you later)
If possible, do comment/rate my review.