If I were to choose one phrase to describe my experience this week, I think “a mix of past and present” would perfectly encapsulate my experience. The ways in which Seoul encompasses both the traditional and modern aspects of its culture and history was something that caught my eye as I visited various historical sites that were mentioned in CRKO 101/102/201/202. Something I truly appreciated about Korea was the way in which traditional palaces or temples were preserved within the bustle and hustle of the city. Therefore, the view combined the calmness of the traditional heritage parks and buildings with the chaos of the traffic and skyscrapers of the city. For example, Sungnyemun Gate, one of the main gates of the Fortress Wall of Seoul from the Joseon Dynasty, serves as a powerful historic reminder and landmark at the center of a major traffic roundabout in Jong-no. While tourists were definitely a major portion of the visitors to these historic sites, there were actually also a large portion of ordinary Korean citizens taking a stroll or break within the vicinity. It was almost as if access to these palaces or historic sites were the equivalent to simply taking a quick walk around the park for a quick breather or a break away from work.