Korea is quite different from the west, as you might expect. The group generally takes precedence over the individual. Even more so, doing what's "right" by Korean standards takes precedence over what the individual actually wants for him or herself. Everything is shared--be it food, holding a heavy armload of belongings on the bus (even between strangers), or a tiny patch of grass under the shade of a tree that, in our western minds, there is absolutely NO space for anybody else. Well, in Korea, there's always room for another person.
(In the late spring or early summer, on one of the first warm days, I set out during my lunch hour toward the river to relax and get out of school for a bit. Not being used to the heat after an incredibly cold winter, I took a seat under a single tree in a park in a little patch of shade. This park stretches across several blocks along the river, and there are trees a plenty along the way. But, in typical Korean fashion, two middle-aged females who were walking along the path decided that they'd come sit directly behind me, about two feet away. Of course they couldn't have chosen that tree, or that tree over there (both within plain sight, of course). Personal space is a notion that, in Korea, is quite non-existent).
Some of this I don't think I could ever get used to. My "need" for personal space that has been instilled in me from a young age is too strong (though, I can easily put it on hold temporarily when in a place or situation that doesn't accommodate it). But, there are some things that I've gotten used to here--one of them being ALWAYS having people around me to do things with.
Korean people don't like to do things by themselves. It's a pity for someone to have to eat alone. Girls and women--and even boys and young men--go around hand in hand, or with their arms linked. Movement in groups is how it's done here, and the thought of going on a trip or shopping alone is a frightening one to many Korean people (as it can be for many westerners, of course).
As somebody who enjoys--and often prefers--to do things solo, I find it a bit surprising that in nearly two years of living in Korea, and of all the weekend trips I've taken, I have never taken a solo trip. Yes, during this time I've traveled solo to Mongolia. But, other than that, the only trips I've taken alone have been to the airports in Seoul or Busan, a quick trip out of town to take care of a logistical issue, or out of town (or the country) to meet up with friends.
This phenomenon has been one of the most amazing things about my time in this country. Never before have I had so many opportunities to explore a country in-depth with some incredible people who have become very dear friends. The memories made in these two years far exceed what I could have ever hoped for. BUT, it's time for a change.
This weekend, with 10.5 weeks and counting left on my contract, I will venture out on my first solo trip in Korea. I can't believe it's taken me this long to do this! We have a three-day weekend (Monday's a national holiday) so I will head up to the far north to Seoraksan National Park for two full days of hiking before spending a day in Seoul.
Three friends and I attempted a Seoraksan trip just a few weeks ago, but were unlucky in that the remnants of a hurricane decided to pass over the entire country of Korea. So, our view from the top of one particular hike (after hiking for a few hours in the rain), was this:
... When it should have been something more similar to this:
So, this weekend I shall return for attempt #2. I will (eventually) let you know how it goes...
Regardless, I'm beyond excited to have a weekend of my own where the only person I have to consider is--ME! It will be me, my thoughts, the mountains and the fresh air. Oh, and the hundreds of Koreans I will be crossing paths with along the way...
(The photo below from my trip to Jeju Island is not an unusual sight on top of a peak; and, I've heard that during the peak season (which is NOW) one can see the lines of people marching up the mountains here from very far away. Hopefully I'll hike myself deep enough into the park to get away from at least some of the crowd...)
