Peace Camp 2016 - Highlights
In my previous blog post, I promised to update my blog as often as possible… although due to limited wifi & free time, spending 40 minutes everyday writing an article was basically out of the question. The 2016 Peace Camp, hosted by the MPVA (Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs) was action packed from day one. I told my friends how we practically did in a week, what most people living here haven’t done all their lives! We stayed at Yonsei International University, located in Songdo – a
In my previous blog post, I promised to update my blog as often as possible… although due to limited wifi & free time, spending 40 minutes everyday writing an article was basically out of the question.
The 2016 Peace Camp, hosted by the MPVA (Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs) was action packed from day one. I told my friends how we practically did in a week, what most people living here haven’t done all their lives!
We stayed at Yonsei International University, located in Songdo – a man made island located in the Incheon area. Upon arrival I immediately realised how humid it is compared to the rest of Seoul. Thankfully my 10x15ft dorm room, I shared with our French Team Mate, Victor, had a solid aircon going – slept with it on the whole night! Also, I’m glad I got a roommate from a fairly cold climate, otherwise it might have been rather tough dealing with someone scared of an aircon.
The first day was rather chilled. Had an amazing breakfast, then had a little journey into Seoul, to experience some more Korean things. For the first time here in my few years here, I actually wore a Korean Hanbok. Pretty comfy too.
We were also given a brief introduction lecture to the Korean War. Really interesting, despite already being very familiar with it.
That night, was very interesting – we were dancing to Maroon 5 songs. Some dude from a Korean Dance Group came to us and taught us a certain song.. everyone knows how bad I am at dancing, but at least it was a lot of fun!
Day 2, we took the KTX Bullet train, and cruised down south to Busan at 300km/h. Pretty amazing to think a big, heavy train can travel this fast. Amazing stuff!
We spent the day in Busan, first going to the Korean War Cemetery.
After this we got spoilt to an amazing lunch – had everything from Curry, to Sushi, to Steak – all at once! Perfect!
The rest of the day, consisted of exploring Busan. I was being dumb and didn’t bring my flip flops and as you can imagine, beaches and shoes don’t work well together, so being the South African I am, I ended up exploring Busan barefoot… Everyone thought I’m an idiot, but I’m fine with it. I didn’t die. And no sand in my shoes :).
Took the train back to Seoul that evening. Once again, at 300km/h. Lovely!
Day 3
We woke up early again… But this time, we went to see North Korea… well the border. DMZ, aka the Korean Demilitarised Zone.
Apparently the DMZ is usually closed on Monday’s.. however, they organised this tour specifically for us.
I also assume this is why there were so many commies standing on top of the North Korean building at the DMZ.. all dumbstruck by the sudden visitors early on a Monday morning… Also interesting is that I’m pretty sure I saw the North Koreans filming us or something from up there… I definitely saw them with a video camera!
Later the day, we went to Everland. Having gone on most of the rides during my first year in Korea already, it always remains a thrill! However, I learnt something new… Do not have 2 beers and then go on a continuously spinny ride…. I was so close to vomiting and the bus ride back home was a nightmare!
Unfortunately I didn’t have any battery on my phone, so I couldn’t take photos at the theme park, but I screenshot a snapchat group photo.
The 4th day was pretty chilled. Nam (Our awesome team leader) & I had the privilege of giving our teammates a tour of Seoul – yes, I can honestly say I know Seoul better than any city at home – especially for it’s size. Scottburgh isn’t a city, so that doesn’t count.
That evening we went to the Premiere of the movie Operation Chromite (인천상륙작전). Even the main actors (who I’ve never heard of before) were there…. my Korean friends, were freaking out when I sent them a snapchat of the actors – apparently they are big shot Celebs in the Korean Film Industry.
The final day of Peace Camp was once again action packed. It started of with the 63rd Armistice Agreement Ceremony, meaning the day that the Korean War signed a cease fire treaty (or something like that).
They also gave a few special honour medals, including a Mr. Muller from South Africa. Thought it’s pretty cool.
After this, we had like the best lunch ever, with the world’s most epic view over the city.
That evening we had a banquette with some really big shots… Like always, I was a little underdressed. But it’s chilled. I had such a good time and am honoured that I got to meet many important people, such as the new South African Ambassador to Korea and Mr Muller who got the award at the ceremony earlier the day.
That’s when I realised the trip is about to come to an end.
What an awesome week! Stoked I went and absolutely blessed to have met all those people from all around the world!
Cheers!
The MPVA also made a really cool video of the camp. You can check that out here: