My Korea: Jong-no, Insa-dong, Samcheong-dong

I was born in Seoul. With Seoul’s development, it just does not look like it did in the old days. But some places still keep their past appearance and the places I like have a double-sided character, just as Korea’s old-world grace meets new-world vitality. They give a comfortable impression. I feel affectionate toward, and spend more of my time in, these areas than any other places: Jong Road (종로), Insa-dong(인사동), and Samcheong-dong(삼청동).

These areas are close to my house and their buildings stand close together, roof to roof, so I can hang out anytime. The academies are concentrated in Jong-no; I attend one of them. After finishing classes, I usually stay there, do my homework, study languages, read books, eat lunch and do whatever I want. There are not only students but also businessmen here, and it is always crowded.

Cheonggye River runs along one side of Jong-no. When I want to get out in the air, I walk along Cheonggye River and listen to music. When I get weary, I drink beer at night near the river. It makes me refreshed. Sometimes I can see a busker on the road.

Across from Jong Road is Insa-dong. Actually, Insa-dong is just the street for going to Samcheong-dong. Because so many visitors and foreigners come to sightsee, every day is busy and messy. One day I went to a gallery by chance and looked around at some art pieces. They were really good. I could not figure out all of the pieces, but I learned every gallery in Insa-dong is free and has a wide variety of art.

Samcheong-dong takes about 20 minutes from Insa-dong on foot.

So many coffee shops and restaurants in Samcheong-dong have a good atmosphere. That is why it is a destination for dating couples as well. After finishing my job, I see international movies and have lunch. One of my favorite instant noodle stores is located there. This store is called Lamyeon Ddaenggineun Nal (라면 땡기는 날). They offer some really spicy seafood ramen. It is really hot and spicy, but once you eat it, it is so addictive!

These areas are already so famous to people and every day they are so crowded that it is easy to walk and enjoy my own time alone.