Seaside Reflection

This week, I traveled to the port city of Busan to attend the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), one of the largest film festivals in Asia. It was my first time in this city, and it certainly lived up to its reputation. The bright blue beaches caught my attention as soon as I got off the KTX train station. The large skyscrapers near the ocean also made my jaw drop in amazement. Busan has a different vibe than Seoul—it feels more relaxed and touristy. Although I only spent a few days in the area, I felt comfortable. I understand why it’s such a tourist hotspot. The city’s energy is unmatched, and its proximity to the ocean reminds me of beach cities in the United States.

Without a doubt, I had a great time in Busan. I watched two movies (Zombie Child by Bertrand Bonello and Extreme Job by Byeong Heon Lee), ate delicious seafood, and made great memories with my friends. Nonetheless, I started to feel a little homesick and guilty for enjoying this time without my parents. My study abroad program plans cultural immersion trips to different places in South Korea for its participants. I’m lucky enough to get these opportunities and explore the country to its full potential. However, I can’t help but want my parents to be there, experiencing these things with me.

My parents rarely get to travel outside of Georgia. They work nearly every day, and when they get time off, they usually spend the day resting at home. I know they would love to visit South Korea and spend a weekend in Busan. My mother would enjoy vacationing in a Korean-speaking city. It would make her more comfortable and confident. My father would love the beautiful scenery. He loves to take pictures of nature; it is his form of artistic expression. These thoughts came to mind while I stood on the edge of the Pacific Ocean—bare feet touching the cold water and nose inhaling the salty breeze. I swore to bring them to Busan in the future.

I am appreciative of these thoughts. They allowed me to reflect on myself and my study abroad experience. I know my time in South Korea is limited, so I must treasure every day I spend here. When I go back, however, I must remember how these moments made me miss and appreciate my parents. I need to spend more time with them and get to know them on a deeper level. My trip to Busan was a wake-up call. I don’t plan on ignoring it.