The morning running route will consist of a trip down what looks to be a river, which runs through the middle of the city. After about a 15-20 minute out sessions I will turn around and head back towards the hotel. The run will culminate with a “Rocky Balboa” like jog up around 100 stairs to the top of a small ridge, which contains a small house and a beautiful monument, which overlooks the eastern part of Gwanju…
We had some rest time this morning that was highly appreciated by all members of the group. Dr. Olsen, Molly and myself went for a walk prior to breakfast, which was the point where I found my running agenda while we are in Gwanju (pronounced g-won-jew, for all of those who are curious).
After breakfast we had worked our just a few logistics and were picked up by Sang Hyun Choi and another man who would later play a beautiful rendition of a classical South Korean song called arirang (a-rrri-raaaang) and one of the most beautiful performances of Amazing race, all with a Korean type flute made of wood. More to follow on the video tape.
Lunch was held at a traditional Korean restaurant where we sat on small pillows and were treated to a luxurious Korean lunch complete with singing, drum playing, and musical instruments. All participated in the events.
Finally a trip to the Gwanju Folk Museum where we learned about pretty much everything that has to do with the origins and traditional cultures of this magnificent city. The group was getting pretty tired at that point, as the time was nearly 4am where we are from.
The most amazing part of the day came when I had the pleasure of meeting with my first host family. They live in a house just outside of Gwanju. I had a great conversation with Rebecca, one of the daughters of my host mom. She is in agreement with a close personal friend of mine from Iowa that George Clooney is a, “sexy man”. I would have to say that this conversation was very special to me, as today I have made a new friend, and that always makes a day beautiful beyond words…
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