From Seoul to Jeju: A Solo Traveler's Korean Venture

A complete package tour to South Korea, yet another solo adventure for me, this time with 14 strangers. Without a local Malaysian guide, the tour company representative met me at the airport for a quick check-in and briefing before we took to the skies (OSAKA SUNSETS & KYOTO ONSEN BARENESS) , arriving at Incheon International Airport by 9:00am. Our Korean guide was already there, and I was the first to greet him. Mysteriously, the remaining 13 took an additional 45 minutes.

Our journey commenced at Gyeongbokgung Palace, a magnificent symbol of Korean history and culture located in northern Seoul. Built in 1395 during the Joseon Dynasty, this grand palace, whose name translates to "Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven," showcases Korea's rich architectural heritage and royal lifestyle. The sprawling grounds are adorned with meticulously restored halls, pavilions, and gardens. Highlights include the imposing Geunjeongjeon Hall, used for royal ceremonies, and the National Palace Museum of Korea, displaying artifacts that narrate the country's royal history (NEW DELHI REVELATION & RAJASTHAN MAGIC).

Expecting off-peak tranquility, I was taken aback by the massive crowds, despite the palace's vast expanse. Navigating from one section to another, I was fascinated to discover specific areas designated for royal parties and the separate quarters for the King, Queen, and concubines. The mere mention of concubines made me giddy with excitement. The day continued with the ceremonial "Changing Of The Guards," a tradition I've witnessed in other countries but still, worth seeing here.

The experience was fantastic. Gyeongbokgung Palace, with its rich history and vibrant atmosphere, truly captivated me. On the way out, we passed the Blue House, the executive office and official residence of the Republic of Korea, before arriving at the National Folk Museum of Korea.

Located within the grounds of Gyeongbokgung Palace, National Folk Museum of Korea offers a captivating journey through Korea's cultural heritage with over 4,000 artifacts depicting the daily lives, traditions, and customs of Korean people. Visitors can explore recreations of traditional villages, ancient artifacts, and learn about pivotal historical events.

I wandered through the museum, took pictures, absorbed the knowledge, and it wasn’t long before I exited. An hour here was excessive; I finished in under half an hour. Though I didn't regret it, the experience wasn't particularly thrilling.

Lunch took place in a cramped Korean restaurant in a back lane of Myeongdong Street. My enthusiasm for this first-ever meal in Korea quickly waned as we struggled to understand the concept of Vegetarian Dolsot Bibimbap. The first flop of the tour. No one questioned the guide, and we ate more out of necessity than enjoyment.

Following this, we returned to the Incheon airport for our domestic flight to Jeju Island. Touching down in Jeju airport, the rain created such a mess for us to dash into the coach. Then come whatever, sightseeing must go on, right?

Our Jeju Island adventure began with the Ghost Road (Mysterious Road). This fascinating optical illusion, located near the Jeju City exit on Jeju's 1100 Road, has intrigued visitors for decades. The short stretch of highway creates the bizarre visual effect of objects, including cars, appearing to roll uphill against the force of gravity. The phenomenon is actually caused by the surrounding landscape, which distorts the horizon line and tricks the human eye into perceiving a slight downhill slope as an uphill incline. Despite the rain making pictures impossible, it was a fascinating experience, my first of its kind, and well worth the try. It wasn't eerie as some describe, but truly captivating.

 

Next, we visited Yongduam, or Dragon Head Rock. Rain continued as we cautiously made our way to the edge of the scenic coastline to see the rock resembling a dragon’s head and the nearby Smiling Mermaid statue. Dragon Head Rock, shaped by strong winds and waves over thousands of years, is steeped in local legend. The "Smiling Mermaid" adds an enchanting touch, symbolizing Jeju's connection to the sea and its mythical heritage. The view of the sea, stretching far and beyond, was the highlight - relaxing and calming.

Dinner followed at a family-run restaurant. With signboards in Korean, I couldn’t tell you its name. I’ve always loved banchan, the small side dishes accompanying Korean meals, even back in Malaysia. Our dinner opened with these appetizing dishes, followed by Kimchi Seafood Steamboat, appreciated for its spiciness and warmth on a rainy evening.

Our sightseeing ended once we checked into the hotel, before the continuation of our Jeju Island adventure the next day.

To be continued…