Cheers to 23 Years

For those of you who may not know, I recently turned 23 on May 10th. I decided to celebrate my 23rd birthday in style this year. I taught classes, lesson planned for the following week, and then ate tteokbokki while watching a god awful Transformers film. Adulthood rules! Of course, Tom gave me a few presents (a wallet, a Lego succulent set, and a shrimp neck pillow) and even bought me a little ice cream cake from Baskins Robbins.

The following day we decided to head to Gwangalli Beach to visit the Eobang Fish Festival. The festival is a celebration of traditional fishing culture dating back to the Joseon Dynasty. Honestly, it was fitting I was given a shrimp pillow the day before. What better way to start the weekend than with some fish? Walking around, we saw many people dressed in traditional clothing from that era. Men were wearing fake beards and mustaches (apparently that was the style back then) while the women were wearing modest hanboks. It was really fun seeing how much the people of Busan got into the spirit of celebrating.

Dozens of vendors were set up on the sidewalk, selling homemade goodies. Jewelry, woven bags, plushie keychains, vibrant scarves, and personal caricatures were only some of what was offered. There were quite a few foreigners around, which was a little jarring for the both of us seeing as how we are typically the only foreigners in a given setting. We headed down the length of the beach to take in the sight. Again, there were traditionally dressed men and women lining the pathway, taking photos with kids. Statues of soldiers were perched in the sand while further down the beach miniature hanoks (traditional Korean houses) had been constructed. There was even a little area where children could catch their own fish. An inflatable pool was set up with knee high water where foot-long fish swam. I watched as kids took plastic bags and scooped up the fish. There were helpers armed with nets in case the children needed any help. Tom and I had a little laugh watching the entire event unfold. We then headed back to my apartment to put together my Lego succulents.

The following day was quite eventful. One of Tom's co-teachers was getting married, and he had been invited (therefore I was also invited). I had a little panic on the appropriate dress to wear (I ended up buying a dress but still went with something I had in my closet. Girl problems, am I right?). Gifts in hand, we headed out to the venue area. The main ceremony was held in a hotel wedding hall, and the space was gorgeous. A large crystal chandelier was the focal point of the room, and flowers were lined along the aisle. According to Korean custom, you first take a picture with the bride before she walks down the aisle. Yes, she'll meet with hundreds of guests to take photos before she even says "I do". Her dress was stunning, and she radiated so much happiness. Another custom that was a little eye-opening was that only close friends and family members actually attend the ceremony. Everyone else heads to the buffet for a head start on eating. It felt odd to watch her walk into the ceremony space, and then immediately make a beeline for food.

The buffet was one of the best, if not the best, I have ever had. There were dozens upon dozens of foods and dishes just waiting to be sampled. Tom and I grabbed our first plates and loaded up. I started with some seafood soup (there was not a single piece of seafood in the spoonful I grabbed), smoked duck, steak, green beans, and chili shrimp. Everything was amazing bar the seafood soup. Tom's plate, on the other hand, was stacked with chicken, pork, beef, duck, and the occasional green bean. Plate 2 consisted of tuna, a few different pieces of nigiri, a grilled mussel (little disappointing), another piece of smoked duck, and some passion fruit. Tom's second plate was piled high with various meats; surprise, surprise. Again, everything was absolutely amazing. My third, and final, plate was filled with various fruits and desserts. I wanted to try a little of everything. Even though I tapped out at 3 plates, I still felt I got my money's worth. Tom certainly did based solely on the amount of steak he inhaled. The man can eat, I have learned.

Overall, the wedding was enjoyable, albeit short. I enjoyed getting dressed up as did Tom. Also, how many people can truly say they have attended a wedding in South Korea?? I can now!