The Expat Life Video

This morning I found a video called "The Expat Life" in Seoul, South Korea on the internet. It's a professional video with future episodes to come following the lives of some expatriates in Seoul.  It highlights the lives of the characters, their reasons for visiting Korea and staying, and some of their thoughts about the future as they determine whether or not to make Seoul home for awhile longer.
I expected only a brief five minute video, but soon discovered that it was a full 20 minute plus video about expat life.  It gave me all of the warm fuzzy feelings of the memories of living in Korea.  [ I did not live in Seoul.]

After living in Korea, I find myself able to identify with the people in the video. As soon as I returned to America, I had a desire and longing to return to the motherland.  Many people I know changed the course of their lives after visiting Korea.  In fact, a three week trip led me back to Korea the very next year to teach English and learn about my Korean heritage as a Korean American adoptee. Some friends have been in Korea for several years. Some only a few months with plans to say several more.  Others returned to their states to major in Korean studies or language and fulfill newfound dreams abroad.  Whatever your purpose and goal for going abroad, it will change you.

Check it!

http://vimeo.com/53194281

Warmth on a cool walk through Ewha

Life in a small town in California is much different from that of the busy lifestyle in South Korea.  Although I have been busy here my life does not seem the same. I have reminisced much about my days in Korea. 

Last year, February 2010, I visited Ewha Women's University campus with my Japanese friend.  The one memory I have of the inside of the buildings was how starkly clear and clean they appeared to be. With large windows, white walls, and open hallways one could only feel welcomed in. On a nice deceivingly (because it was so cold) sunny winter's day, walking down the halls I felt warmth seep in from the sun that shone through.  At the same time the bright white and starkly clean walls of the women's university felt somewhat cold only magnifying the outdoor freezing temperatures on my inner being.  I cannot conclude whether or not it was truly warm or cold. However, I can say that the hallways and rooms were well-lit.  Natural light is very important for my well-being as well as proper study habits.  The campus is fitting for women. Very pristine.  Ewha is a beautiful campus. I recommend taking a stroll on a fall or spring day when you happen to be in the Idae/Shinchon areas of Seoul.

Here are a few pics of the inside. You'll have to go there for a view of the outdoor scenery.  What do you think? 

bright quiet hallway

Japanese friend modeling in the open hallway