After years of anticipation and a global pandemic that put our travel plans on hold, our dream of visiting Korea finally came true. The occasion was extra special: we were invited to attend the Mugungwah Lions Club induction ceremony on June 13, 2025. This trip held even deeper meaning for us, as we had originally planned to visit Korea in April 2020 to celebrate my wife China’s birthday, but those plans were derailed by the onset of COVID-19. Now, five years later, we were finally able to set foot in the Land of the Morning Calm.
Our journey began with a slight hiccup—a delayed flight from Manila. Despite our late arrival, President Lion Eo of the Mugungwah Lions Club and his team graciously waited for us at Incheon International Airport. Their patience and warm welcome immediately made us feel at home in a foreign land. After a quick, late lunch, we decided to change into more formal attire at the restaurant itself, knowing that we still had a two-hour drive ahead of us to reach Hongcheon, a town about 130 kilometers from the airport.
The drive from Incheon to Hongcheon was a scenic introduction to Korea’s natural beauty and impressive infrastructure. We passed through a series of tunnels carved through majestic mountains, a testament to the country’s commitment to making travel efficient and comfortable. The roads were smooth and the traffic well-managed, which made the long journey pleasant and allowed us to soak in the picturesque landscapes. As we left the admirable Incheon airport, the scenery gradually shifted to rolling hills and lush greenery, offering a glimpse of Korea’s serene countryside.
Our preparations for the trip were not without their own set of challenges. Initially, we planned to process our Korean visas through an agency, but we were advised to apply directly at the Korea Visa Application Center (KVAC) due to potential delays. The agency warned us that it might take more than 21 days to process the visas, which would have conflicted with our tight schedule. Some of our colleagues needed their passports for a trip to Vietnam just days before our departure to Korea, so we opted for the more direct route at KVAC. Thankfully, everything worked out smoothly, and we received our visas in 10 days in time for the trip.
From the moment we landed in Korea, one thing stood out: the country’s remarkable cleanliness and orderliness. The airport was spotless, and the efficiency of the transportation system was evident everywhere we went. Even as we traveled from the airport to Hongcheon, I was struck by how well-maintained the roads and public spaces were. It was clear that Korea takes great pride in its infrastructure and public services.
Our visit to Korea was not just a fulfillment of a long-held wish, but also a testament to the kindness and hospitality of the people we met along the way. From the Lions Club members who welcomed us with open arms to the everyday citizens who made us feel at ease, our experience in Korea was truly unforgettable. We look forward to returning someday and exploring even more of this beautiful country. More details about the event in my upcoming column next week. ||
