D&D's Trip to Korea: Seoul

A visit to Korea just wouldn't be complete if we skipped the capitol city, Seoul, right? So, we jumped on the bus and stepped into the busy streets of Seoul. Personally, I'm not a big fan of Seoul. The city is overflowing with too many streets, shops, and people. But, once again, this trip is not about me. It's all about David. So, off we went.

We first made our way to the royal palaces starting with Kyeongbok palace (경복궁). It was the home to the royal family during the Chosun era starting from 1395. Unfortunately, it burned down during the Korea-Japanese war in 1592. It became the home to the royals again in 1865 ish. It has some wears and tears and some ruins that happened during the Japanese occupation, but has gone under extensive reconstruction. After enduring hundreds of years of history, it stands so beautifully, right in the middle of the busy streets of Seoul.

 The yellow ribbons tied around in the city are to remember the victims of the Sewol ferry tragedy. The people continue to mourn and pray...

The first day we arrived in Seoul was also the day Korea would face Belgium in the World Cup series. Cities were busy in preparation for the match.

"Red Devils" waiting in the strees of Gangnam to unite as a country and cheer for the Korean team!

The second day, we met up with my cousin Hyemin and walked about the streets of Insadong, a small area that still tries to preserve oriental traditions. It's a great place to pick up traditional Korean souvenirs.

 After Insadong, David and I went to another royal palace, Changdok palace (창덕궁). When Kyeongbok was ruined in the fire, the royals moved to Changdok palace (so I believe). Changdok palace is known for their ponds and gardens. We were also told that lots of K-dramas are filmed in this area.

Since we were on a tight schedule, we immediately left for Namsan tower. I've always wanted to take my boyfriend to the tower and "lock our love" on the tower as many couples do in Korea. I am so lucky I was able to go with my husband and fulfill my lifelong wish. David, as usual, was so eager to fulfill another cheesy. girly, romantic wish and was very willing! 

 Kim Soo Hyun, the love of my life... 

 The view of Seoul from Namsan tower.

With the love of my life, Kim Soo Hyun David Eng!

After Namsan tower, my grand uncle and grand aunt (whom we stayed with) and cousin  treated us out to ... pig feet! At 10PM. I love Korea

The last day, we decided to shop till we dropped. And literally, we did. We went to Hongdae ( a busy area in Seoul that is usually full with shops that are targeted towards college students). We were too busy shopping, this is the only picture we took during the last day of our trip to Seoul. David's first time eating street food, which he enjoyed very much. We crawled back into my parents house at 2AM. (Did I mention my curfew was 9PM until I left for college?)

We are back in Gwangju and now have very little time left before we are back to reality. We are both dreading to see the end of our trip. Why can't vacations be any longer?

P.S., I notice I'm wearing the same two dresses in every blog post since our trip. I promise I have more clothes. But, I guess a little more shopping wouldn't hurt as well. DAVID!!