BUS, TRAIN, CAR

I recently had the opportunity to join a free two-day trip to Yeongju, organized by a Korean organization. Though it was short, the experience was rich in culture, nature, and warm human connection — truly unforgettable. We began our journey with a visit to Buseoksa Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient Buddhist temple, surrounded by serene mountains, left a deep impression on me. Its wooden halls, some of the oldest in Korea, stood gracefully against the breathtaking backdrop of nature. The peaceful atmosphere and panoramic views made it feel like time had slowed down. In the evening, after dinner, we played traditional Korean games, including some inspired by scenes from Squid Game Season 2. It was incredibly fun and helped everyone relax and bond in a lighthearted way. Laughter filled the room, and even though we had just met, we quickly became friends. The next morning, after breakfast and check-out, we took part in a unique experience — a Punggi Insam (Ginseng) workshop. We learned about the health benefits of ginseng, got hands-on experience working with fresh local ingredients, and even made our own ginseng wine, which we got to take home. It was a special souvenir that added a personal touch to the trip. In the afternoon, we visited another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sosu Seowon, Korea’s first Neo-Confucian academy. Walking through its peaceful grounds, I could feel the respect for learning and tradition that the place was built upon. Nearby, we explored Seonbi Village, a well-known filming location for Korean dramas, where the traditional atmosphere made us feel like we had stepped back in time. Our final stop was at the Sunheung Mural Tomb, where we viewed vivid ancient wall paintings that brought Korea's early history to life. Our accommodation at the Sobaeksan National Park Nature Center was another highlight. The rooms were clean and spacious, surrounded by mountains and overlooking Dansan Reservoir. The fresh air, peaceful surroundings, and nourishing buffet meals made it a perfect retreat. One of the most memorable moments was stepping outside in the early morning and watching the mist rise over the reservoir — absolutely magical.