Studying Abroad in Seoul by Michelle Villalon

Only a few highlights out of the many…

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I got to experience a traditional celebration held in the heart of Seoul. The Lotus Lantern parade was one of the liveliest and most colorful festivals that involved every race, gender, and age. The music can be felt from far away as the beats of the drums and chanting of the people came closer to the Jogseya Temple, where I was standing. The parade floats where extremely big and beautiful, they lit up the streets and people’s smiles as they passed by. The colors, the lanterns, the music, and the people, embodied the South Korean, and whole Asian communities, spirit of life and creation, making the lantern parade a deeply meaningful representation of their culture.

This image features a vibrant night scene with illuminated lanterns and a colorful dragon lantern. This indicates you attended a nighttime festival or celebration, experiencing the lively and festive side of Seoul’s culture. These lanterns were individually hand-made. Making each one unique and significant for the parade.

A Seoul police officer with a bright yellow raincoat as shown on this picture is keeping an eye on a wet street scene. A sense of security and order is added by the coat's reflective material, which gleams in the city lights despite the rain. A sensation of movement and life going on despite the weather is created by the blurry motion of figures and the backdrop of people holding umbrellas. The police officer's presence in the picture represents stability and safety, evoking a sense of resilience and peace among the chaos. Rain-soaked streets and shimmering reflections capture the tranquil beauty that only comes from urban pouring rain.

The study abroad students grew closer each time we went out to eat. Seol Mac Casual Pub is one of our favorite hang out spots. Aside from the amazing food and drinks, the environment will always be the main reason we go here. Along with us, other friend groups and adults are in the same headspace as us, enjoying the food and laughing the night away.

This is us on our way to have late dinner and fun talks, yet again.

The streets at night in Seoul were always super live. The photo captures the energy of Seoul's nightlife, with neon signs illuminating the streets and crowds of people moving through the vibrant cityscape. Signs in a variety of colors, including red, blue, green, and yellow, reflects the vibrant and energetic nature of the city. With people enjoying late-night restaurants, pubs, and stores, the environment is bright and energetic. The impression of living in a city where there is always something to see, do, and experience is perfectly captured in this photo. You feel alive and a part of the pulse of the city because of the excitement and limitless possibilities that affect the atmosphere.

Tanghulu is a dessert I was hoping to try once I got to Seoul and I did! Street Carts are quick bite foods I fell in love with my time here.
Myeong-dong’s live street at night. This photo showcases a bustling street in Myeongdong filled with neon signs and crowds, reflecting the energetic nightlife and popular shopping district of Seoul.
Classic Korean Corn Dogs Cart. This image features a street vendor selling various snacks, highlighting the delicious street food culture that Seoul is famous for.
Late karaoke nights were some of the most fun nights. As our neighborhood stayed up, me and my study abroad group did too. The dancing, singing, and sometimes even screaming would bring us all wholesomely together.

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The Cheonggyecheon Stream

The nature in all of South Korea is like no other. Its scenery is aesthetically pleasing, making one feel as if they never left home.

Walking along the stream, the clashes of the water against the rock are extremely relaxing.
This picture captures a serene stream surrounded by greenery in the city, showing the blend of nature within the urban environment.
For Buddha’s birthday, colorful decorations and lanterns were found hung up almost everywhere. The pinks, reds, and orange contrasted so well with the natural greens and solid blues in the background.

Walking along the river, I went past under a small bridge where it has symbolic cravings. The image shows the view of contemporary skyscrapers with brightly colored lanterns through the arch of a medieval stone building. This contrast draws attention to Seoul's distinctive fusion of modern development and ancient history. The arch's aged stones represent a bridge between the past and present as they frame the busy city beyond. The vibrant lanterns give a celebratory feel, implying both the continuation of tradition in the city and cultural events. Admiration for Seoul's rich cultural tapestry are evoked by this image, which embraces the vitality and inventiveness of modern life while expressing a profound reverence for past.

During my time in Seoul, I found myself immersed in a blend of historical and contemporary experiences. The intricate stone carvings at the temple reflected the city's rich cultural heritage, showcasing ancient artistry and religious symbolism.
The Jogyesa Temple

One of South Korea’s most esteemed Buddhist temples. This year, 2024, Buddha's birthday was celebrated with the Lotus Lantern Parade, culminating at the temple where people gathered in celebration. The temple's metal and iron warrior statues, protectors of Buddha, exuded strength and courage.

The grounds of the temple were magnificently illuminated with colorful lanterns, adding to the historical respect. An inflatable Buddha statue, which charmingly and approach-ably conveyed calm and awareness, gave a lively, modern touch.

The Gyeonbok Palace

The very first day in Seoul, my group and I went to the Gyeonbok Palace. I saw so many beautiful people dressed in elegant, traditional hanboks. I felt fulfilled I got to involve myself in this special traditional street activity.

Captured a cute couple match their outfits. This image shows a couple dressed in traditional Korean hanbok, sitting in front of a historic palace. This highlights your visit to one of Seoul’s cultural heritage sites, where you experienced the rich history and traditional attire of Korea.
This photo depicts a serene scene near a pond with mountains in the background. A person wearing a light green hanbok is standing by the water. This suggests you spent time enjoying the natural beauty and tranquil settings of Seoul, possibly in one of its many beautiful parks or palace gardens.

I came onto a peaceful garden full of lovely purple and white flowers while strolling through the busy city. It was a peaceful haven from the commotion of the city. I was able to recognize the intertwined natural beauty of Seoul's dynamic cityscape because of the serene and lovely retreat that was created by the bamboo woods contrasted with these vibrant blossoms.

This is a photo of me wearing a traditional hanbok next to the Gyeongbok Palace. Immersing myself in the South Korean culture and ways made me feel a sense of appreciation and respect towards the Korean community.

These are only some of the numerous memorable moments I had on my study abroad trip in Seoul. The whole trip was a highlight. There are countless of beautiful streets, delicious and authentic food, shopping sprees, connections with locals, and peaceful sceneries that are extremely unforgettable.

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