Unique Traditional Gangnam Experience

Unique Traditional Gangnam Experience

Today is the appointment ceremony for the Publicity Ambassador of Gangnam-gu. In line with this, we were toured around the area so we could have better understanding of the places.

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Gangnam-gu, located in the Southern part of Seoul, has been actively promoting its district especially before the G20 Summit was held in South Korea. They aim to provide a friendlier environment to the foreigners in the neighborhood of Gangnam-gu. Some of the initiatives for this is putting up the electronic bus stations, U-pole and etc.

Ddeok ( Rice Cakes )

Jeon ( Korean Pancake )

We first visited the Eunma Apartment Complex, where locals and foreigners can experience Korean traditional food. The Apartment is one of the oldest built buildings in the area and was maintained as it is to preserve its look. This is the authentic market where one can buy ddeok (rice cake), jeon (Korean pancake), kwaja (snacks), kimchi and etc. The market just gives me so much of the feeling of abundance which I have first felt when I entered the Complex: Abundance of food, colors, interaction, and etc. Normally, when we go to a restaurant or food stalls, there are only limited foods sold. They run by the idea of specialty. But when I entered this complex, I just said “wow”. I do not have to go elsewhere to buy things I need. It even has the basic needs in one’s house, even non food items. Too sad we have limited time; otherwise, I could have ate or bought some there.

We also went to The Boundaries of Prince Gwangpyeong’s Tomb, where they also have the 必敬齊 (Pilgyeongjae), which is a Korean royal cuisine place. This is another place that gave me an eye opener that how could this place be a dining place at the same time where the tomb of Prince Gwangpyeong is located in the city. It gives you a feeling of going back to the ancient dynasty. It temporarily makes you forget that you are in the busy city with the relaxing environment in the area. The house was built by the great grandson of Prince Gwangpyeong, Lee Chon-Soo wherein the direct descendants are still living (See photo, man on the right). Also, this place is called必敬齊 (Pilgyeongjae), originated from the Chinese characters where it meant Respect to Elders is a Must.

 

Both of these places for me are showing respect to their elders and ancestors as they are preserving the things they have from their ancestors. At this age and time, it is seldom that we get this kind of mentality. Thus, we must spread the word and be one now.

Karina Chua

5 March 2011