Category: Seoul Odyssey Diaries

Seoul Odyssey Diaries -> HOSPITAL EDITION 슬기로운 병실 생활

Leave a comment

When I started this Seoul Odyssey Diaries series I thought that I would be able to talk about cutsy aesthetic cafes and stuff… but well life is dynamic..

Everything started on a cold November evening (November 25th). My friend Bin and I were gearing up for our first private racquetball lesson at the Sport Time Sports Center in Yangjae, Seoul. She picked me up earlier, and we were super excited for our training session. After changing into our uniforms, we had our first class. It was pretty amazing because I immediately felt my Schlagkraft increasing, as well as the speed of sending the ball to the lower part of the wall.

For those unfamiliar, racquetball is a high-energy game where players take turns hitting a small rubber ball against a wall, aiming to make it challenging for the opponent to return it before it bounces twice. The objective? Outsmart and outplay your opponent to reach the agreed-upon score first.

After the training session, we got some extra time to play a couple of training games. Being the super motivated girly I am, I asked one of the guys to play a one-on-one game. It was pretty fun until I slipped and twisted my foot. Something in my ankle felt as if it ripped, and it was so painful I immediately fell to the ground and had to take a break. But everyone thought I was just tired and needed a short rest, and I didn’t mind, as my pride didn’t want to give up and be beaten just yet. Somehow, I stood up and finished the game, with adrenaline hitting my head.

The coach immediately noticed something was wrong, but another game was open, and they looked for another player, so I went in. After a couple of minutes, I felt the most disgusting feeling I ever had before—I felt something rip in my ankle and heard a strange pop sound. And then I knew—something was actually wrong. I ran out of the racquetball court, and the coach gave me some ice. Everyone seemed quite tired from today, so I somehow didn’t want to cause an inconvenience and was too shy to ask to take me to the hospital, so I just went home. The real problem is tho that I have panic fear of hospitals, doctors, and especially needles.

Eventually, I asked Minjun to take a taxi, pick me up, and go to the ER. They did not have an MRI machine, so they took an X-ray to see if my bones were okay. Thankfully, they were. Ligament problems were the main issue, I was told, but no other instructions were given, so I just went back home.

The next morning, Minjun rushed to work, and my lovely Seojin came over to help me and took me to a hospital near Sinchon, which had the best reviews in a mom’s cafe. And for real Seojin is my angel because without her help I would just…. So we went to the hospital, and the doctor there immediately even before the MRI told me that there was no other option than surgery as just looking at my ankle made it clear to him. They did a X-ray again but said that the MRI was fully booked today and I needed to come back tomorrow. The MRI tomorrow was also fully booked, but they told me they would make time in the morning right after opening, so I had to come back the next morning and should pack my hospital bag because there was no other option but to have the surgery as soon as possible. Seojin once again looked up the surgeon, and he was really highly rated and a good one, as it turned out, while I was just crying all the time. Haha, I was still super angry with the situation—I wanted to play racquetball and have fun. What’s more, I had to do my research and not have surgery, which recovery is set to at least 2 months until I could walk again and another 6 to be able to do sports… so this situation was so annoying I felt helpless and as if I don’t even know….

Eventually I went back home. And Seojin stayed with me the night, helping out, as at this point I had such bad pain I couldn’t even go to the toilet alone. And of course, I was told not to eat or drink anything after midnight as after the MRI tomorrow a direct operation would be possible.

The next morning was savage, as the first snow on the 27th beautifully covered the way to the hospital. After arriving, I did the MRI and found everything was just ripped—nerves, ligaments, etc. I was admitted right away, and surgery was scheduled for early afternoon. Tests (blood, heart etc.) were done while an IV line was inserted in my left arm. Due to my panic fear of needles, I almost fainted and had a low-key panic attack. Fun.

And then it started. First, a painful half narcosis, where a gel-like substance was injected into a nerve in my spine. After ensuring I couldn’t feel anything, I was put to sleep while strapped to the operating table, which felt pretty scary. Fun fact: I woke up during the surgery and found it freezing and a lowkey smell of blood.. Thankfully, I slipped back into sleep. The next thing I remember was seeing Seojin looking concerned while I shivered. I later learned that what was supposed to be a one-hour surgery ended up taking over two hours due to worse-than-expected conditions. One ligament was completely torn from my bone, while another was nearly shattered, complicating the procedure and prolonging it.

My surgery: ATFL, CFL repair ankle Rt. Imagine your ankle as a finely tuned orchestra, with each ligament playing its part to keep you moving gracefully. Among these, the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) and calcaneofibular ligament (CFL) are the lead violinists, ensuring harmony and stability. When these vital strings snap the symphony falters, and the ankle’s melody becomes a discordant tune.

The Surgical Sonata: A precise incision is made on the outer side of the ankle, unveiling the damaged ligaments beneath. The surgeon artfully reattaches the torn ligaments to the fibula, the ankle’s steadfast pillar, using an anchors. This meticulous reattachment aims to restore the ligament’s original strength and function. 

After my surgery, I endured an excruciating experience. The hospital was bustling with activity, and the staff, though highly skilled, were pretty busy. And I found myself in unbearable pain. When I called the nurse, she informed me that a potent painkiller had been administered intravenously, and she couldn’t provide more. Five agonizing hours later, unable to endure any longer, she checked and discovered that the IV had malfunctioned, leaving me without pain relief. For those five hours, I had endured the aftermath of surgery, including the incision, sutures, and bone anchor implantation, all without adequate medication. Haha.. haha.. Ha.. Thankfully she injected some extra painkillers to relieve the pain right away and made the IV function well.

I couldn’t sleep a bit because of the pain that is why the following morning I receive narcotic injections to alleviate the discomfort. But lovely people helped me endure. Eventually, a 3-week hospital stay started. Post-surgery, my ankle was put in a in a cast and wound antisepsis was performed once a day. Physical therapy becomes became the only fun activity as I was able to leave my hospital room. Wheelchair race it is for now.

Due to my injury, I had to forgo participating in the university racquetball tournament. Instead, I watched the live stream, while my friend Yubin supported me by bringing over delicious food and spending time with me. What more she got me into knitting. Yeah right.. knitting haha. I am deeply grateful to the wonderful people around me who helped me through this painful experience.

P.s. the knitted bag was for my mum as a Christmas gift, she was… let’s say quite stunned haha

Another adventure I experienced was on December 3, 2024, as I lay in the sterile confines of the hospital, the world outside was gripped by unprecedented turmoil. Former President Yoon Suk Yeol’s sudden declaration of martial law sent shockwaves through South Korea, a nation unaccustomed to such measures since the 1980s. The announcement came late at night, with the president citing the need to protect the country from “North Korean communist forces” and “antistate forces,” and to “rebuild and protect” South Korea from “falling into ruin.” My friends from back home were making fun of me, teasing that it was the best time to not be able to walk.

On December 6th, my birthday, I was granted a brief leave from the hospital. My dear friends, Seoijin and Yubin, had lovingly decorated my hospital room to celebrate. They took me out in a wheelchair to “Pog,” a cozy spot known for its European-style baked potatoes and pizzas with delightful dough where another couple of friends joined us. We also went to get some coffee and take some pictures. Afterwards, I came back to the hospital, and some more dear people visited me, and I actually had a wonderful day. I felt really thankful to have such precious people in my life. I got many heartwarming messages which made me teary, especially those from my little sister Klara and my mum. Their thoughtful gestures made my day truly special.

During my stay friends came to visit me and I was so thankful for their presence as at this time it actually felt as a present.I also got closer to the staff the nurses and docs and everyone kept joking that I moved in and made the hospital room my own. By the way, fun fact, I had to wrap my whole foot in plastic if I wanted to take a shower.

Another thing… All I did was to eat. I gained so much weight.. It is crazy. Still was very delicious. haha…….. I got three meals a day and because of my medications I had to eat at least a little bit but hospital food makes one even sadder so of course some sweets from friends and delivery food while chatting is the only thing one looks forward while in the hospital. Now I only need to loose the extra 9kd I’ve gained………

Random fact: during my hospital stay, I discovered my cherished “애착이불” (attachment blanket), which was actually a heated surgical blanket designed to keep patients warm during procedures. Despite its medical purpose, I couldn’t bear to part with it (I even took it home). This blanket, often used in medical settings to prevent hypothermia during surgeries, became my unexpected source of solace. Somehow it comforted me. This helped me also why my stitched were removed which also once again got me crying >.< ㅠㅠ

Despite the visits from friends, the confinement of the hospital room weighed heavily on me. I yearned to enjoy life beyond those walls and grappled with feelings of unfairness and existential doubt. I needed to get some work done, and I actually did so; nevertheless, the pain was pretty bad, and the best I could do was stare at my PC screen. To distract myself, I rewatched a couple of cliché K-dramas. One that was particularly fun was “Cheer Up” (치얼업), which introduced me to the OST “지금을 사랑해” (Enjoy This Moment) by Stella Jang. The soothing melody and heartfelt lyrics provided a comforting escape during those challenging times. Another K-drama that I really have really enjoyed was “When the Phone Rings” is titled “지금 거신 전화는”.

Upon my discharge on December 13th, the outside world felt more exhilarating than ever. Simply being outdoors brought immense joy. But the crutches that I had to use were more than delightful… What more, returning home presented significant challenges. My residence, perched atop a steep hill without stairs, became treacherous with the snow and ice. Navigating this path with crutches was nearly impossible, even with assistance. Moreover, taxis refused to drive to my house due to its dead-end location, further complicating my situation. These obstacles contributed to my extended hospital stay.

Eventually I had to go back to Lithuania for a week and this bought new troubles. What if the wound would pop open because of the changing pressure in the plane especially during take off and landing? Well thankfully everything went well.

Eventually I got back to Seoul and finished my tasks trying to get back to normal life as soon as possible.

As I was committed to my recovery, attending physical therapy twice a week. However, the extended period of immobility had taken a toll on my body. The muscles on my right side had atrophied significantly, leaving me unable to walk without assistance. Muscle atrophy, the loss of muscle mass and strength, is a common consequence of prolonged immobilization. Another thing was that I still felt pain in my ankle but well of course that’s normal.

Now – almost 3 months later I still have heavy pain. My ankle endured two flights from Seoul to Lithuania and back and then again so no wonder haha

I am back here in Kaunas and concentrating on the last stage of my PhD. The light in the dark is almost visible now. I also teach couple of courses so it is a busy schedule nevertheless, because of my ankle pain and still having problems to walk I feel tired sooner. Well, hopefully I am quick in recovery and can do sports again. Fingers crossed. 🤞

And for now…

…stay tuned

Au revoir

– M

Seoul Odyssey Diaries -> Seoul room toor 🎀

Leave a comment

As mentioned earlier, in Seoul, I reside in a villa with two rooms—a smaller one and a larger one—as well as a kitchen-corridor space. I opted to designate the smaller room as my sleeping area and the larger room as a combined living and workspace. I’ve included pictures of the spaces as they were on the day I moved in. Despite the presence of a bed and makeup area already in place, haha…

As I am working from home my, I realized the importance of creating distinct areas for relaxation and productivity. The living space had to be cozy but on the same time I wanted to have a office-cafe like mood. Incorporating a dedicated TV area and a functional workspace within the same room was essential to aligning my lifestyle needs with my interior design goals as sadly, in Seoul and the rent coast the living space I could afford was not allowing me to dedicate a separate room as an office.

To navigate this challenge, I began my self-guided interior design journey using a free design program. This allowed me to avoid the costly and time-consuming mistakes of buying furniture that didn’t fit or cluttered the space. I experimented with several different layouts, balancing a functional workspace with a comfortable lounge area where I could relax after a long day.

After finalizing the layout, I began searching for furniture, prioritizing affordability without compromising on aesthetics. I browsed Korean drifting apps such as Dangunmaket for unique finds and utilized promotion codes and sales to secure the best possible prices for what I envisioned as ‘perfect’ pieces.

Dangunmaket (단군마켓) which translates to carrot market (lol) is a mobile app in South Korea where users can buy and sell second-hand items, similar to other drifting or resale platforms. It allows individuals to list items they no longer need or wish to sell, and buyers can browse through various categories such as furniture, electronics, clothing, and more. The app facilitates communication between buyers and sellers through messaging features, enabling negotiations, inspections, and transactions.

And eventually everything started coming together… By strategically placing furniture and incorporating subtle design elements such as rugs and lighting I tried making the room pretty to my eyes. This approach not only optimized the functionality of the space but also reflected my personal style, contributing to a well-balanced living environment. One standout piece is my three-dollar thrifted lamp, adding a touch of whimsy and character to the room.

I tried giving the living room a bit of a modern feeling. Recently, the trend of Mid-century modern has been gaining popularity, and I must admit that I’ve eagerly jumped on this train as it aligns so well with my current aesthetics.For the TV area, my focus was on creating a cozy atmosphere with comfortable seating and ambient lighting, transforming it into a retreat for unwinding after a long day. Simultaneously, the workspace was designed to maximize efficiency and foster concentration, featuring ergonomic furniture and ample storage solutions to keep everything neatly organized.Even being in the same room I tried to kind of part this room into separate working and living spaces and tried doing so with the help of a rug.

I aimed to create a cozy bedroom, incorporating as much pink as possible. Lately, I’ve developed a bit of an obsession with the color pink points.

The kitchen mainly serves as a cooking space; barely eating there, but sometimes it’s nice to have an additional area to feel not as stuffed. The kitchen serves more as a living area for Kuki, my blue tongue skink.

Day by day, it’s starting to feel more like a home, though it’s also becoming increasingly chaotic, haha!

And for now…

…stay tuned

Au revoir

– M

Seoul Odyssey Diaries -> Finding a place to live in Seoul

Leave a comment

As I mentioned in my last post, I have moved to Korea lately… And finding a place to live was not an easy journey.

To give a bit of background on how the Korean housing industry works, there are essentially two main aspects to consider: the type of housing and the payment method. This allows individuals to choose from various options based on how they prefer to pay for their living arrangements.

In South Korea, housing options for the average person generally fall into three categories based on the size of the living space:

  • One-room (원룸): These compact studio apartments typically consist of a single large room that serves multiple purposes, often including a kitchenette and bathroom within the same space.
  • Officetel (오피스텔): Known for their blend of “office” and “hotel,” officetels are studio apartments that may include small kitchen facilities and often have (but not necessarily) separate areas for sleeping and living, making them slightly larger than traditional one-room apartments.
  • Apartments (아파트): Larger than one-room and officetel units, apartments in Korea usually feature multiple rooms, including separate bedrooms, a living room, kitchen, and sometimes additional amenities such as balconies or extra storage space.

Also, in Korea you use pyeong (평) which is equal to approximately 3.3058 square meters or about 35.58 square feet. It’s commonly used in South Korea to describe the size of rooms or apartments. For example, when looking at apartment listings or discussing the size of a room in Korea, you might hear measurements like “30 pyeong,” which would mean 30 times the size of one pyeong, or around 99.18 square meters

Among these options, apartments are typically the most expensive and sought-after due to their amenities and convenience. Studio apartments come next in terms of expense, while living spaces in villas—usually older in style and construction—are generally the most affordable option. (Other types of housing, such as share houses, goshiwons, and guest families, exist but will not be discussed here.)

Apartments, especially those in complexes, are favored for their added conveniences like private security, communal cleaning services, and nearby amenities such as convenience stores, study rooms, libraries, gyms, and sometimes childcare facilities. However, older apartment complexes may not offer as many modern amenities.

Studio apartments or officetels are typically smaller spaces often with high ceilings and loft-like features. Although they may not be in high-rise buildings like apartments, they tend to be modern and cleaner compared to equivalent spaces in older villa-style buildings.

Lastly, villa living spaces are often favored by students or individuals new to living alone due to their affordability. While some villas may be well-maintained or newly remodeled, many are older and less modern in design and interior, making them less luxurious compared to apartments.

It’s worth noting that while most people may not stay in villas for extended periods, there are individuals and families who prefer these quieter, less urban areas often found in regions with a more relaxed, small-town atmosphere.

I personally have only lived in a villa myself (in a one-room last year and two-room now) but have visited friends who live both in officetels and apartments.

Usually you can either rent or buy a home but in Korea there are more options for that. Buying is way too expensive so I will not talk about this option.. First thing to keep in mind, the deposits for housing in Korea are huge.. And when I say huge I mean HUGE. And the more deposit you pay desto cheaper your rent gets. Then there is this: pay a big amount at once and ‘pay no rent at all’ system as well.

For example let’s take a one-room (around 14 square meters) style place in a villa which includes a “kitchen” and also gets a small bathroom-toilet place as well. Of course the area in which you will choose to live has a big influence over the price as well. Let’s imagine this place is somewhere near a train station not too far from the main areas, still not in the expensive zone such as Gangnam or Haewha. You can pay 5k in deposit and pay 600 rent for a small one room place nevertheless if you pay 20k your rent will be 300 per month and if you pay 50k you will only pay 150 rent per month. If you use the second option you pay around 100k and pay no rent at all. The deposit will be given back to you after you move out. Of course stuff like internet, gas, water etc. are paid extra.

I will add pictures of the place I stayed at last year so that you have some imagination of what I am talking about. I used to live in Geondae, a 6 minute foot walk from line 2 and 7. This place was a 5k deposit and 600 rent plus utensils and the so-called maintenance coast. which added up to roughly 650-700 a month. In winter tho with heating costs it was more. My room was pretty small and had one single bed and a small dining area with a small kitchen-place.

You can also see the transformation this place made through the time haha..

This said I will give a small insight into how the process of house-hunting went for me this year. I knew from the beginning that I could only afford rent-style living. The first crucial step was selecting the right area to live in. Economic factors played a significant role since rent prices vary widely depending on the neighborhood. This meant I had to look beyond the bustling city center and explore more affordable options further out. For me, proximity to a reliable metro line was non-negotiable. I preferred living within walking distance of the metro because I’m not a fan of buses—they tend to make me feel queasy. Especially with the rollercoaster-like rides in Korea.

Considering the need to go to Sogang University (accessible via lines 2 and 6) quickly and occasional volunteering at the Lithuanian Embassy (requiring lines 3, 5, and 1), finding a location with minimal transfers to both places was crucial. While my favorite parts of Seoul—Seongsu, Anguk, Mulle, Hanam—are ideal, they are beyond my budget. I aimed for a place larger than a one-room apartment, preferably with three rooms: one for work, one for sleeping, and one for hosting friends—a kitchen space was also essential.

In the end, three neighborhoods caught my attention: Bulgwan and Yeonshine (accessible via lines 6 and 3) in the northwest of Seoul, near its outskirts; Miya or Suyu (line 4); and Gunza (line 7), closer to the center but farther from both the University and Embassy. Despite their distance, Bulgwan and Yeonshine stood out as the most affordable options for apartments larger than 15 square meters, based on listings from mobile housing apps like Zigbang 직방. More than Bulgwan the area of Yeonshine seemed living-friendly so it was set. Yeonshine it should be. It took about two months of intensive research to identify a couple of suitable options through the app and then arrange viewings with a Budongsan 부동산 (housing broker company). 

The photos on the app often differed significantly from the real apartments, adding to the stress of the process. After meeting with numerous brokers and visiting multiple apartments, I eventually settled on a decent-looking option that met my basic criteria, though the search was draining both physically and emotionally. The apartment I am living in right now actually is a bit uphill and it is quite tiresome to get home and I keep on contemplating every time I am going outside. But why did I choose this in the first place? Because the apartment that I visited before this one was literally on a mountain it was pretty cheap considering it having three rooms and a extra kitchen space and terrace, nevertheless climbing up to this place was literally hell (it was not even hot at that time) so visiting the place I live in right now seemed more than fine at that time haha

So… In the end, I signed a two-year lease since shorter options were scarce, especially in less central areas with fewer foreigners and exchange students. And so, I found myself settling into what I now consider home, at least for the foreseeable future.

I’ll delve into more details about the layout, decor, and overall feel of my new place in the next post, as this one has already become quite lengthy.

And for now…

…stay tuned

Au revoir

– M

Seoul Odyssey Diaries -> I am Back

Leave a comment

From the beginning of June I’m back in S. Korea, Seoul. It’s been a while since I last wrote something (I know, I always start my posts by apologizing for my absence…).

A lot has happened since my last update. More than a year has passed, and I actually spent June to December of 2023 in Korea, working at the Lithuanian Embassy and conducting my PhD research. After returning to Lithuania, I started teaching courses on Korea at Vytautas Magnus University (VMU) in Kaunas again. I also got engaged (yey).

I had promised myself that I would document my last journey in Korea, creating a diary-like record to look back on. Unfortunately, I failed to do so, and I’m quite upset about it. To prevent this from happening again, I’ve decided to set a goal of updating my blog once a week. I’ll write down the most important events, even if it’s just a couple of sentences, with some pictures to capture the moments.

Soooo… this said. I am back in Korea! This time, I was fortunate to win a Korea Foundation grant for PhD field study and research in South Korea, affiliated with Sogang University. I still have quite a bit of work left to do with my thesis, including collecting more interviews with middle and high school history teachers and delving deeper into the narration of Korean history. If everything goes according to plan, I will be able to defend my thesis next fall. Until then, I have to stay focused and keep working.

Since I came here for my research, having a dedicated workspace was a top priority for me. I tend to work best at night (not the healthiest schedule, I know), so having a home office usually works better for me than an actual office or library. I wanted to create a space at home that inspires me to work, and I think I did a pretty good job setting up a decent workspace. But I think I will do a separate interior post.

I mustn’t forget to mention my beloved lizard, my baby boy Kuki (aka Cookie), who is actually a blue-tongued skink. He’s finally returned home, and I owe a tremendous thank you to the gracious family of Lithuania’s Ambassador. They took care of him while I was in Lithuania, showing immense kindness and generosity.

There are a lot of things I still want to share with you, but for now, just a short greeting from Seoul.

And for now…

…stay tuned

Au revoir

– M

Seoul Odyssey Diaries -> YeonGoJeon – Let the game begin

Leave a comment

Hey beautiful friends & enemies~

It’s been a while, huh? I’ve been so caught up with school and homework lately. I knew it was going to be tough, but I had no idea just how many assignments and how much homework I’d get. Since I’m at least trying to be a decent student, I’ve been pushing through it all, trying to get everything done on time.

But enough about homework… Let’s talk about something way more exciting: YeonGoJeon (연고전)! For those who aren’t familiar, YeonGoJeon is one of the biggest sporting events in Korea, a rivalry between Yonsei University (연세대학교) and Korea University (고려대학교). This year, the event was packed with energy, as students from both universities came together for five major sports competitions: baseball, ice hockey, basketball, rugby, and football. It’s not just a sporting event—it’s a massive celebration of school spirit and tradition.

Since three of my best friends are at Yonsei, I had the chance to tag along and experience the games. Honestly, the atmosphere was so exciting! It wasn’t just the games themselves, but the overall spirit of the event that got me hooked. What really stood out to me were the cheer songs and the dance routines that everyone knew. No matter where you were, you could feel the energy building up around you. It was like everyone was a part of something much bigger than just a simple competition. The whole vibe was so contagious—it made you want to jump in and cheer along, even if you didn’t know anyone around you. I never thought I’d have so much fun chanting with hundreds of strangers, but here we are! I was totally caught up in the excitement.

Aside from the sports, the event was filled with incredible moments. I loved seeing all the students supporting their teams, wearing their school colors, and just having fun together. The sense of community was so strong—it wasn’t just about winning, but about sharing those experiences and celebrating together. I think that’s what made YeonGoJeon such a special event. Even if you weren’t a huge sports fan, you could still enjoy the festive atmosphere and cheer on the teams.

As I’ve mentioned (probably way too many times by now), three of my best friends are attending Yonsei, which means I get to tag along to a lot of their events. One of my friends, N, recently joined an after-school table tennis club, and she invited me to come with her to the rugby game. Let me tell you—it was one of the best experiences I’ve had in Korea so far. Not only was the game itself thrilling, but N’s table tennis club friends are some of the nicest people I’ve ever met. They made me feel so comfortable, and I instantly felt like I was part of the group. It was such a nice surprise to meet such warm and welcoming people.

The best part was that this whole experience gave me a deeper appreciation for the tight-knit communities that university events like this create. It’s one thing to attend a game as a spectator, but it’s a completely different experience when you’re part of the crowd—cheering, dancing, and laughing with people who share the same energy. It really makes you feel like you’re part of something bigger than yourself.

So yeah, while homework and assignments have been taking over my life recently, events like YeonGoJeon remind me of how much fun life can be, and how important it is to take a step back and enjoy these moments of community and excitement.

All in all, YeonGoJeon was one of the most thrilling experiences I’ve had so far, and I’m already looking forward to next year. I also can’t wait to join N at more of her club events and hopefully get even more involved in the university spirit here. Until then, back to the grind of homework and assignments, but at least I’ve got some great memories to look back on!

So that was kind of a short update for now~

And for now…

…stay tuned

Au revoir

– M

Seoul Odyssey Diaries -> First days @Sogang University

Leave a comment

Hey beautiful friends & enemies~~

It’s been a while since I last posted because I’ve been busy with all the preparations for the upcoming semester, as well as finishing up some leftover work for my university back in Germany.

I’m happy to say that I’ve almost finished decorating my room, and it’s been so much fun buying things like a comfy pillow, bed sheets, pots, and all sorts of essentials. It really felt like a new start for me as I got to set up my new space! I absolutely love the process of creating a cozy home, so it’s been a fulfilling experience.

And guess what? I’m officially a student at Sogang University now… Thihiihii~ 🎉

KakaoTalk_Photo_2017-09-01-00-07-58

A few days ago, on August 28th, I had my first day at Sogang, which was the orientation day. It was an exciting day, as I finally met all the people I will be studying with for the next few months. I also met our “buddies,” who are Korean students assigned to help us adjust to life in Korea. They’ll guide us around campus and share all the little hacks to make life easier here—super helpful!

For my courses this semester, I decided to take two: the first one is Korean philosophy, and the second is International Business. I’m a bit nervous about the Business course, to be honest, since I haven’t taken any serious economics classes since high school two years ago. I’m worried I might fail, but I’m determined to work hard and give it my best shot!

After hearing all the important information and safety rules, the official part of our first day was over, and we headed to a bar for a casual gathering with everyone. It was a great chance to meet more people and relax after all the initial info sessions.

I also had my placement test to determine which Korean language level I should be in, and they placed me in level 4 (Pretty annoyed with that as I finished level 4 already in Germany and even got TOPIK level 4… but well will be less work demanding, so more time to explore Korea). Starting next week, I’ll have Korean language classes from Monday to Friday, from 13:30 to 17:30. Even though today is the 1st of September and it’s the official first day of university, my first actual course will be on the 5th. Until then, I’ve still got some things to take care of, like opening a Korean bank account and getting my fingerprint scanned for the Alien Registration Card (yes, we’re literally called “aliens” in Korea… haha, crazy, right?! 😂).

I’ve taken a few walks around campus, but I’m still not fully familiar with the layout yet. I keep getting lost, even though it’s a pretty small space. It’s actually very cozy, though, with lots of cute little coffee shops and hidden spots around campus, making it a nice place to explore.

Of course, I want to join some extracurricular activities too. But I’ve heard that a lot of the clubs don’t accept foreigners. Still, I’m going to try my best to get into the tennis club and maybe a band or something music-related since I’m kind of losing it here without my guitar. Haha, music is life! 🎸

P.S. I’m so happy because fall has finally started! It’s absolutely my favorite season of the year… well, after Christmas, of course. (Yep, in my world, Christmas is the 5th season of the year HAHAHA) 🍂🎄

And for now..

..have a beautiful first day of fall

..au revoir

-M

Seoul Odyssey Diaries -> my little cute temporary BOX?!

Leave a comment

Hey beautiful friends & enemies~

A few days ago, one of my teachers from my english high school teacher messaged me asking how I was doing and how my room looks. That message got me thinking and inspired me to share it with all of you!

So, the deal is that I actually booked a slightly bigger room, but I’m still waiting for the other student to move out before I can settle in. However, it looks like I’ll finally be able to move on Monday! Yey~~ I’m super excited to have more space.

I’m staying in a goshiwon (고시원) in Sinchon near Exit 6 which is only a 15 minute walk to university. Goshiwons are these super affordable, no-frills rooms often rented by students or people staying short-term. They’re small but functional, with a shared kitchen area. My current room is pretty tiny—around 5 square meters—but I’m making it work! It’s been a challenge with limited space, but it’s nice to have a temporary place while I wait for my bigger room.

A major plus about this goshiwon is that there’s no deposit (no need to worry about a huge upfront payment!), and it only costs about 450,000 won (550,000 for the bigger room) won per month. Which is expensive for a Lithuanian but still affordable for the location and convenience!

Can’t wait to show you my new space once I move! It’s going to be a whole new chapter for me here in Korea, and I’m excited to see how my little room transforms as I settle in. 🏠✨

Stay tuned! I’ll definitely share more once I’m all set up!

And for now..

..keep happy

au revoir

–M

Seoul Odyssey Diaries -> Nom nom nom~

Leave a comment

Hey beautiful friends & enemies~

Just casually sharing everything I ate last week, because let me tell you, it was an absolute feast! We had such great luck with the food, and not a single dish or snack was a miss — everything was super delicious! So, let’s kick off this food journey~

The first thing I tried after landing in Korea was a 치즈케이크 맛 빵 (cheese cake mat bbang), a cheesecake-flavored bread that looks like a giant pancake. And, of course, it had 라이언 (Ryan) from Kakao Friends on it. Not gonna lie, I totally fell for Ryan’s cuteness — he’s just too adorable! Seriously, this bread was a perfect balance of fluffy and creamy, with a slight tangy sweetness from the cheesecake flavor. It was the perfect little treat to start my Korean food adventure!

KakaoTalk_Photo_2017-08-10-16-14-26.jpeg

The second thing I had was an absolutely delicious dinner. Since it was insanely hot (around 36°C when we landed, haha), we decided to go for some refreshing 냉면 (naengmyeon), cold noodles. This dish is made of spaghetti-like noodles served in a cold, flavorful beef broth, spiced up with a bit of vinegar, and topped with slices of cucumber, pear, and a soft-boiled egg. It was magically delicious and so refreshing — honestly, it was the perfect meal for a scorching day when the heat makes it feel like you can’t even breathe. The balance of the slightly tangy broth and the crisp vegetables made it feel like pure comfort food. It’s one of those dishes that makes you feel instantly refreshed and satisfied.

KakaoTalk_Photo_2017-08-10-16-14-21.jpeg

I absolutely can’t miss out on the times we had 치킨 (chikin), or fried chicken. Korean fried chicken is simply the best, hands down! It’s deep-fried to crispy perfection, then coated in a flavorful sauce that’s usually a mix of sweet, spicy, and savory—truly next-level. The crunch on the outside, paired with the juicy tenderness of the meat inside, creates a taste explosion in your mouth. Whether it’s the classic 양념치킨 (yangnyeom chicken), which is coated in a spicy-sweet sauce, or 후라이드치킨 (huraideu chikin), the crispy fried version, Korean fried chicken is always a winner. It’s often served with pickled radish (called 무절임 or mu-jeorim), which helps balance out the richness of the chicken. Seriously, if you’ve never tried it, you’re missing out on a piece of heaven! 🍗✨ 

Not to forget all the delicious 일본 음식 > 일식 (ilbon eumsik, Japanese food) you can get in Korea! This was actually at a pretty famous place in 강남 (Gangnam), a district known for its trendy spots and delicious food. My friend took me there, and it’s particularly famous for its 우동 (udong), or udon noodle soup, but this time we decided to go for a rice bowl instead. We had 덮밥 (deopbap), a rice bowl topped with tender beef, a soft-boiled egg, and some veggies, along with two crispy fried shrimp (새우튀김 or saeutwigim) and 고구마튀김 (gogumatwigim), which is fried sweet potato. The combination of the savory beef, crunchy shrimp, and sweet potato was simply perfection. Every bite was so comforting and satisfying! The flavors balanced out so well, and it’s just one of those dishes you crave after a long day. 😋🍤🍠

KakaoTalk_Photo_2017-08-10-16-14-07.jpeg

And of course, I can’t forget all the pretty 카페 (kape, cafes) with their delicious cakes! There are so many adorable spots in Korea to grab a dessert, and each one is more charming than the last. 😍🍰 The cakes here are not only yummy, but they also look absolutely cute and Instagram-worthy! Whether it’s a delicate 레드벨벳 케이크 (redeubelbet keikeu, red velvet cake), a fluffy 치즈케이크 (chijeukeikeu, cheesecake), or a perfectly layered 티라미수 (tiramisoo, tiramisu), every single cake is a work of art. I just love how each café has its own style, with some offering modern, minimalistic décor, while others are more cozy and vintage. There’s something so peaceful about sitting in one of these cafés, sipping on a 아메리카노 (amerika-no, Americano) or 바닐라 라떼 (banilla latte, vanilla latte) while enjoying a slice of cake. Definitely a must-try experience if you’re ever in Korea! ☕🍰✨

ChatGPT said:

One of my absolute favorite things in Korea are the small shops called 편의점 (pyeonheejeom), or convenience stores, where you can grab snacks, water, and pretty much anything you need at any hour of the day or night—24/7! 🌙✨ These little shops are a lifesaver, especially when you’re in need of a quick snack or some emergency essentials like bandages, socks, or soap. What makes them even better is that they sell everything in small, convenient portions, which is perfect for someone like me who’s always on the go. 🏃‍♀️

But the best part? Some 편의점 even have little corners where you can make yourself a cup of 라면 (ramyeon, instant noodles)! 🍜 Just grab your cup, choose your favorite noodle flavor (they have so many), add hot water, and boom—you’ve got yourself a quick, satisfying meal. It’s like a mini food station on every corner of the city, and honestly, it’s hard not to pop in every day! 😄 

KakaoTalk_Photo_2017-08-10-16-12-43

What I like the most are all these things you can grill on your table. There is a grill in the middle of the table, and you can order different dishes. We had 닭갈비 (Dak Galbi) and its variations like ours which was with spicy chicken breast, octopus, and veggies. Some noodles on the side and kimchi with radish. So delicious!

닭갈비 (Dak Galbi) is a popular Korean dish that consists of marinated chicken, typically cooked on a grill with vegetables like cabbage, sweet potato, and onions. It’s spicy, flavorful, and a fun dish to share with friends! 😋

 The best kind of ice cream in Korea is of course 빙수 (Bingsu)! It’s shaved frozen milk topped with a variety of toppings of your choice. We had the 블루베리 치즈케이크 빙수 (Blueberry Cheesecake Bingsu), and it was absolutely heavenly! 🍧

Bingsu is the ultimate summer treat in Korea, and the combination of the cold, fluffy shaved ice with rich toppings like fruits, condensed milk, or in this case, cheesecake, is just perfect for cooling off in the hot weather. Seriously, it’s a must-try when you visit Korea! 😍

KakaoTalk_Photo_2017-08-10-16-13-57

OMG, this was so delicious! It was 회덮밥 (Hoe Deopbap), which is raw fish on top of rice. The fish was incredibly fresh and so, so good. I got half 참치 (Chamchi, tuna) and half 연어 (Yeon-eo, salmon). The combination of the tender, melt-in-your-mouth fish with the warm rice was just perfect. 🍣🍚

We also shared a huge salad on the side, and let me tell you, the greens were so fresh and crisp. I can still be dreaming about this meal even months later… It was one of those unforgettable meals that really make you fall in love with Korean food. 😋

Since it’s summer, ice cream is definitely a must, right? And of course, I had to go for 녹차 아이스크림 (Green Tea Ice Cream)! 🍦🍵 There’s no better place to satisfy that craving than Baskin Robbins. The rich, creamy green tea flavor was just perfect, and it was so refreshing in the heat! You really can’t go wrong with this classic, especially in the summer. 😍

KakaoTalk_Photo_2017-08-10-16-13-04

Can we talk about how adorable it is when drinks are served in actual fruits? 🍉🍍 I was so impressed that I had to go back the very next day! On the left, you can see a delicious hot dish with octopus, meat, and veggies all drenched in a spicy sauce, and on the right, there’s a rice bowl topped with perfectly grilled octopus. Both were so mouthwatering, I can’t even describe how good they were! 😋

 Fresh iced grapefruit juice at the coolest café ever, Watco 왓코, right across from my university, Sogang University. 🍊✨ It was so cozy! At first, there were no free seats in the main area, so we ended up at a shoe shop nearby that had a cozy little spot to sit. The vibe there was amazing—super chill and perfect for sipping on that refreshing grapefruit juice. Definitely one of my favorite spots around Sogang!

KakaoTalk_Photo_2017-08-10-16-13-14

 Here, we tried 무뼈 닭발 (fried chicken feet without bones) on top of rice, and it was actually the house specialty. Honestly, it totally lived up to its title as the top seller! Crispy, flavorful, and surprisingly delicious—it was definitely a dish worth trying!

KakaoTalk_Photo_2017-08-10-16-14-12

Last but not least, my absolute favorite spot for coffee and light snacks while either getting some uni work done or just chilling with friends is Aki Coffee near Yonsei University. The atmosphere is perfect—super cozy with an indie vibe—and it’s so close to my place. They also have the cutest dog, which just makes everything better! I can already tell I’ll be spending a lot of time there. Can’t wait to be a regular!

 

And for now..

..keep it delicious… thehehee~

..au revoir

–M

Seoul Odyssey Diaries -> My first week in Korea

Leave a comment

Hey beautiful friends & enemies~

So here I am, sitting in Hollys Coffee (홀리스커피) (which is open 24/7, and let me tell you, this is one of my absolute favorite things about Korea — cafes never close!) and reflecting on my first week here, which has flown by ridiculously fast. Honestly, the past few days have been a whirlwind: unpacking, buying essentials I couldn’t bring from Berlin, and just meeting friends, trying new foods, and experiencing life here. Every hour seemed to zoom by, and every day felt way too short.

Right now, I’m staying in a cozy little room in a guest house just a few minutes away from my university, waiting to move into the bigger room I booked. I’m scheduled to move in on the 14th of this month, and I can’t wait! The room I have now is only about 5 square meters, so I can’t even roll out my yoga mat for my daily Pilates session (which means no workouts… and, honestly, part of me is kind of enjoying the break… I NEVER said that, haha). The new room I’ll be moving into is about 11-12 square meters, so I’ll finally have some space!

As for the weather… it’s been pretty bearable, which honestly surprised me. Yeah, it’s hot, hovering around 32-34°C (89-93°F), but the sun actually lifts my mood, and let’s be real, air conditioning is literally everywhere — even in metro stations (지하철 역)! Unless you’re walking outside, you hardly notice the heat.

Something else I’ve noticed this year in Seoul is how many foreigners there are compared to last year. I came to Seoul last summer, and it felt like there were half as many non-Koreans around. It’s still early in the school year, and already it feels like Seoul’s becoming more colorful and diverse than in recent years. Globalization is great and all, but I’ve overheard a lot of Koreans complain about the influx of foreigners. Like, I’m sitting in a cafe or walking around a restaurant, and there’s always someone who’s not Korean, and sometimes, it feels like that’s causing a bit of tension. It’s not that Koreans don’t drink or sometimes act out of line — but it’s their home, so I guess it hits differently. Just now, while typing this, the table next to me is getting all fired up, discussing foreigners at their university, and they’re even talking about how “tall” we are (haha… sorry, but is that really a reason to dislike us? Just because we’re tall? I’m 178cm). 😅

Anyway, there have been a few mishaps (because, of course, there always are!). Like, I forgot my phone at Daiso (다이소), a popular Korean store where you can get everything from home essentials to little knick-knacks. I only realized it an hour later and thought, well, that’s it, I’m an idiot. But, thank goodness, I was able to get it back after going back to the store. Phew! 😅

Oh, and another thing that I absolutely LOVE about Korea — street musicians! They’re everywhere. I’ve seen people singing solo, with friends, with guitars, or even just their voices. Honestly, it makes me a little envious. I miss music so much, so I’ve taken to visiting Coin Noraebang (코인 노래방) almost daily (this is a karaoke spot where you get a small private room and pay per song, not per hour). It’s cheap, and it’s such a blast to belt out your favorite tunes, even if you’re not the best singer. 🎤🎶

P.S. I’m thinking of doing a post dedicated to Korean food — with all the pictures of the amazing dishes I’ve tried so far. Would you guys be interested in that? Let me know! 🍜🍙

 

 

And for now..

..keep enjoying the last days of summer

..au revoir

-M

Seoul Odyssey Diaries -> Let the journey begin..

Leave a comment

Hey beautiful friends & enemies~

So here I am, sitting in Helsinki Airport (yep, wearing a dragon costume, don’t ask 😅), waiting for my connecting flight to Seoul. I moved out of my apartment yesterday, after two years of living there, and spent my last night crashing at a friend’s place. HUGE thank you to Dieu for the hospitality! ❤

As expected, nothing in my life ever goes 100% smoothly. Last year I forgot my passport, and this year, I almost missed my flight because my ticket was all kinds of wrong. Apparently, the agency I booked through mixed up my first and last name, so when I checked in, I wasn’t in the system. They told me at first that I couldn’t board and needed to call Finnair’s administration. Cue panic mode Oh, and of course, my luggage was massively overweight by more than 10kg. Classic, right? I honestly thought I was going to be stranded in Helsinki for a while, but luckily, I met this super nice person who worked for Finnair who seemed to be quite interested in me (lol.. I had to give him my number), and after a few minutes of magic, everything was sorted. Lucky! After a 5 hour delay of the connecting flights now finally, in less than an hour, I’ll be on my way to Seoul! 🛫

I feel super excited, like REALLY excited. But honestly, I don’t think it’s fully hit me yet that I’m actually moving to another country. Maybe it just hasn’t sunk in yet, who knows? It’s like one of those moments you can’t quite wrap your head around. But I guess I’ll figure that out when I’m walking the streets of Seoul for the first time.

I’ve finally packed up all my stuff (for the most part), and I think I’m pretty much done with all the major preparations for my exchange year. I’ll be taking the international business in English course, and of course, the Korean language course. I’ll have Korean classes every day except weekends, four hours a day! I’m excited to start the semester, but let’s be real, I wouldn’t mind a few more lazy days (because who doesn’t love vacation vibes, right?). But, there’s also the small issue of finishing up an essay for a course I took this year at my home university in Berlin. So, I’ll be spending plenty of time chilling in cafés, typing away.

I do owe you all a post about the BA+ program, don’t I? 😬 Sorry for the delay, I promise it’s coming soon!

P.S. Update: I failed my Japanese literature test… AGAIN. For the third time. Sigh Guess I’ll be retaking that course… For the THIRD time. I feel so smart, lol. But whatever, I’m just gonna leave that problem for later, haha. Wink 😅

Until next time, sending love from Helsinki (aka my layover). ✌️

 

And for now..

..think to double check everything

..au revoir

-M