Saturday, October 3, 2009

KOREAN Chuseok

Korean Thanksgiving, Chuseok, and Week XXIII in Pusan. It's a lovely city by the sea, and my American hosts are fantastic. I love it here.

The train ride down was uneventful, aside from the fact I left Suwon Station at 11:30pm Wednesday night, arriving in Pusan at 4:30am Thursday. Toledo friend Greg picked me up from the station on his motorcycle, a Korean made Daehon, perhaps a 250cc. I can only imagine what the two of us looked like in the early morning hours riding from the station to his apartment.

Prior to my departure late Wednesday, I received a gift set from my hagwon; two cans of Spam, six cans of tuna, and two bottles of canola oil. Because Chuseok is a time to be thankful and celebrate with family/friends, it's the thought that counts. Besides, I'm not sure when, but I know this will come in handy someday. Also on Wednesday, I enjoyed lunch with good friend B.H., where we exchanged gifts and casual conversation.

After breakfast Wednesday morning, Greg and I hiked long the coast, napped, and visited Gwangalli Beach for frisbee and a swim in the ocean. Later that day, we hit up several of Pusan's finest bars, met many new friends, and participated in some debauchery until 5am Friday.

Chuseok is actually Saturday, and our plans include a day hike, beach time, and a delicious Korean meal prepared at Greg and Brian's apartment. I was told there are reservations for a beach hotel Saturday night and cookout/beach fire starting late in the afternoon. Whatever the details, I am game..

Happy Chuseok!

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Glad to hear things are going so well for you. YFC sends their regards