A Martial Arts Adventure: Day 7 in Seoul with the EMA Group
Hello, fellow adventurers! Welcome back to our epic martial arts journey through the vibrant streets of Seoul! As we continue our trip, Day 7 was nothing short of delightful, filled with cultural exploration and, of course, a sprinkle of humour. So, grab your dojang stamps and let’s dive into our itinerary!
As we reached Day 7, the official GHA Korea Martial Arts and Culture Tour has come to an end. Day 7 was free time for people to go explore Seoul, say goodbye to new friends and for some, start packing for the return home. For the EMA group it was another day packed with culture, cuisine, and a few quirky surprises with a visit to Insadong!
Rise and Shine: Buffet Breakfast Extravaganza
Our day began at the hotel, where the buffet breakfast was a feast worthy of champions. Imagine a spread featuring everything from waffles to savoury kimchi. We filled our plates like true warriors preparing for battle, ensuring we had the fuel needed for a day of exploration.
Mid-Morning: Subway Shenanigans to Insadong
After breakfast, we made our way to Insadong, a neighbourhood known for its rich cultural heritage and artistic charm. We hopped on the subway, and were there in no time. Upon arrival, we immediately felt the vibrant atmosphere, with galleries, tea houses, and traditional craft shops lining the streets.
Afternoon: Dojang Stamps and Bingsu – A Slice of Korean Culture
Our first stop was a shop where we picked up Korean name stamps, or dojang. These personalized stamps are a beautiful blend of art and tradition, often used for signing important documents. Choosing our designs was a fun process, and we left with unique keepsakes that reflect our names and this memorable trip.
We also visited a more traditional Bingsu restaurant where we treated ourselves to some delicious, traditional dessert.
Afternoon: A Journey Through Kimchi
Next, we visited the Kimchi Museum. Yes, you read that right! This was no ordinary museum; it was a celebration of Korea’s beloved fermented side dish. We learned about the different types of kimchi and its significance in Korean culture. A few brave souls even sampled some, leading to hilarious reactions that ranged from “Mmm, this is delicious!” to “Who knew cabbage could pack such a punch?”
Lunchtime: Savouring Authentic Korean Cuisine
After our cultural excursion, it was time for lunch! We found a local restaurant that served a variety of traditional Korean dishes. We feasted on delicious bulgogi, mandu, kimchi jjigae, and of course, more kimchi. Everything tasted amazing—each bite a reminder of why we travelled all the way to Korea.
Late-Afternoon: Coffee Break at the Poop Café
Now, here’s where the day took a wonderfully quirky turn: we visited the infamous Poop Café! Yes, you read that right again. This whimsical café features everything from cute poop-shaped pastries to drinks served in toilet bowl mugs. It was an Instagram dream, with everyone striking poses next to the “poop” décor. As we sipped our “number two” lattes, laughter filled the air. After all, what’s a martial arts tour without a little silliness?
Evening: Reflecting on a Memorable Day
As the sun began to set over Seoul, we reflected on the day’s adventures. From hearty breakfasts to unique experiences at the Poop Cafe, Day 7 was a perfect blend of culture, food, and fun.