Memories of South Korea: A Linguist's Journey and Love Tale
From the moment I stepped into South Korea as a Korean linguist for the USAF, my life was forever changed. Not only did I witness incredible cultural experiences and establish a deep connection with the country, but I also met my wife, a Korean telephone operator for the USAF, who had been working at Osan AB for four years. Our love story, one filled with adventure and profound memories, has been the highlight of my life, and continues to be so.
A Vivid Journey in Korea
My time in Yonsei from 1993 to 1994 was among the best months of my life. Despite not living in South Korea at that time but dating and clubbing with endless financial support from relatives, my memories of this period remain vivid. It was during my 10-day trip to Paju that a pivotal decision was made to move here, a decision based on strong and profound feelings. If you ask me, it was one of the strongest and most memorable decisions I have ever made.
The move into our newly built home, a memory I will never forget, stands out as the pinnacle of my morning in Korea. My wife coordinated the move harmoniously while I engaged in various gardening tasks such as planting evergreens and laying down stones. Although I was focused on the design of our yard, I was also overwhelmed with gratitude to God for the decision to save money without taking risks.
Unforgettable Adventures and Experiences
One of the most memorable adventures was hiking Bukhansan with a Korean buddy when we came face to face with a mountain lion. Our encounter – though slightly terrifying – added a unique element to our hiking experience. This story, combined with the traditional Korean New Year ceremony, such as wearing hanbok and participating in a dance, made me feel like an honorary member of the Korean community. Such experiences are truly cherished and remind me of the beauty and richness of Korean culture.
My wife is the light of my life and her commitment to our journey has been unwavering. Together, we have built a home and a life that we are both proud of. Changes have been made over the years, but every small improvement brings us closer together. Even mundane tasks, like installing inexpensive 3M plastic strips to seal the gap in our garage door, create a comforting atmosphere that warms our hearts during cold winter months.
Physical and Emotional Healing
Not all memories are filled with joy and excitement. One such memory includes my knee surgery, which was a turning point in my life. While it may seem strange to consider a medical procedure a positive memory, it was a significant step towards healing both physically and emotionally. The surgery not only restored my physical well-being but also provided an opportunity for reflection and renewed resolve.
Looking back, our time in other places like the UK and Japan also enriched our lives in different ways. However, the most cherished fondest memories inevitably revolve around our time in South Korea. If we were ever asked to make changes, we would likely not alter any of our experiences here. What started as a temporary post in the USAF has evolved into a lifelong love and appreciation for the beauty, culture, and people of South Korea. It’s a journey that continues to unfold, filled with love, laughter, and endless memories.