BUS

I wanted to visit Jinju for a long time, especially after hearing so much about its famous lantern festival, and ,finally, I got the chance to experience it myself! We set off early in the morning and traveled comfortably to the southern part of Korea. The journey took only about 3.5 hours, which felt surprisingly quick thanks to the smooth ride. Upon arrival, we enjoyed a delicious lunch with several options to choose from. I decided to try bibimbap with raw beef (yukhoe), a regional specialty of Jinju—and it was absolutely amazing, fresh and full of flavor. After lunch, we boarded a traditional-style boat and cruised along the Namgang River. The gentle breeze, the calm water, and the historical atmosphere made it incredibly relaxing. From the river, we admired the beautiful Jinjuseong Fortress while listening to stories about the city’s past. We learned about the Imjin War and the siege of the fortress, which played a crucial role in Korean history. One of the most touching stories we heard was about Nongae. She was a gisaeng (a traditional Korean entertainer) who became a symbol of loyalty and courage. During the Japanese invasion, she sacrificed her life by luring a Japanese general onto a rock above the Namgang River and throwing both of them into the water. Her bravery is still deeply respected in Korea, and standing near the very place where this happened gave me chills. We also visited the Jinju Namgang Yudeung Exhibition Hall, a museum dedicated to traditional Korean lanterns. It was fascinating to see the variety of lantern designs, from simple historical ones to elaborate artistic creations. After that, we headed to the Jinju Nongae Festival, which takes place inside the fortress itself. The area is huge and full of life. There were many workshops where visitors could try making crafts, and local artisans were selling beautiful handmade goods. The entire atmosphere felt vibrant and authentic. We watched the parade, the official opening ceremony, and most memorably, the ritual honoring the spirit of Nongae. The ceremony was emotional and powerful, with traditional music. As the sun set, the fortress became even more magical, with lights and lanterns creating a truly unforgettable scene. After dinner, we made our way back to Seoul, tired but incredibly happy and inspired. A huge thank you to our driver and guides, who made this trip smooth, comfortable, and truly special. This journey to Jinju was not just a trip—it felt like stepping into history, culture, and heartfelt stories that I will remember for a long time.