Yesterday was another busy, fun Saturday. I met an old friend I hadn't seen in over 2 years. Jihye and I were originally conversation partners at VCU and then we became friends. We both thought the same thing: it's unbelievable that we are able to meet each other in both of our native countries...a true cultural exchange. I'm very lucky. Plus, she lives only one stop away on the subway! I hope we get to spend more time together while I'm here.
Jihye suggested going to Soondae Town next to the Sillim subway station because she knows I like 'soondae' (a Korean blood sausage with rice and other ingredients mixed in). I happily agreed. I didn't know there were so many ways to experience 'soondae' until I came to Korea. I usually eat just the sausage with a dip. Yesterday we ate 'baek soondae,' which is noodles, veggies, and 'soondae' fried together on a large pan. A special sauce and perilla leaves to wrap the mixture are on the side. It was the bomb.com!
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| Before the 'baek soondae' was fried. Note the lovely apron they gave us to wear. I was so happy to see Jihye. |
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| Here's the food after it had cooked for awhile, the aroma was savory and yummy. |
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| Later on Saturday I made my first real visit to Hongdae, a popular night spot for young people in Seoul both Korean and foreigners. I went out to celebrate my coworker, Channey's, last weekend in Korea with her friends. I'm not sure what this group in the photo were doing, but it was interesting. They reminded me of Asian mimes because they weren't saying anything, just moving around and making gestures. Asian performance art is coool. |
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| Channey and I at the Hawaiian restaurant...after dinner we did some hookah, then checked out a couple of clubs. It was a long, fun-filled evening and I'm glad I went. |