Seoul and Incheon: Getting Settled in South Korea

July-August 2022

Before moving to Incheon, South Korea, I decided to stop for a few nights in the capital city. I am glad I did because Seoul is an amazing city and certainly makes the list of my favorite cities. It was also nice to adjust to the 13-hour time difference before starting the new teacher orientation.

My first meal in Korea. You get kimchi with every meal at Korean restaurants. It is spiced and pickled vegetables. It started as a way to preserve vegetables to eat over winter.

Tapgol Park.

I did not recognize the game they were playing, but I was thinking about how socializing is so important at all stages of life to maintain good mental health.

Lovely Buddhist temple.

This was a fun children’s arts and craft center.

Made a new pencil case. Pretty sure I made some 6-year-old girls jealous because I got to pick out all the stamps I wanted and their parents only let them get three.

Traditional Hanok village.

Seoul is nestled between four mountains and has beautiful surrounding landscapes.

Jingwansa Buddhist temple.

Hongdae is a fun area for nightlife.

Changing of the guard at Gyeongbokgung Palace. Originally built in 1395, this was the main palace of the Joseon dynasty.

All large buildings are required to also have a sculpture. There is a lot of good modern architecture in Korea and I appreciate this support for the arts. This one makes me think of Up.

It is really nice having this clean steam going through the city. Nice place to rest your feet. Also running water and plants are good for the human spirit.

Lots of interesting, and often delicious, food options at Gwangjang market.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza.

Significant parts of the centuries-old city walls still stand.

I am really liking my new school in Songdo, Incheon.

Songdo is a nice modern area.

My mentor teacher suggested we get local fabrics for decorations to bring some Korea into our classroom. This lady was fun to buy from and gave us so much extra fabric.