With the combination of friends in town and new teachers to break in, I've had the chance to be a tourist in my own city again this past month. Most notably, this has manifested as a trip to the zoo and one to the War Memorial.
There are some weird things about an Asian zoo, but not many. I did feel a little too close to the animals, but never in an unsafe way. The exhibit of the Americas made me feel a little strange. The exoticism of what seems so ordinary in America puts into perspective just how far away I actually am. However, after multiple cages of wild dogs I can't take your zoo seriously anymore. Coyotes? Not zoo worthy. Racoons and possums? I've hit more with my car than your zoo can afford to import.
The War Memorial is a museum that I've always intended to go to but never gotten around to it. Although it contains them most comprehensive exhibit on the Korean War, it is situated near the army base in Itaewon rather than near the DMZ itself. Probably the most interesting feature was the extensive collection of air, land, and sea vehicles on the lawn, not to mention missiles and other large weapons. Both the outside and the inside of the building were adorned with various commemorative statues. There are two open-air wings of the museum dedicated strictly to the names of the countless soldiers who served during the war. The museum also goes to great lengths to recognize each and every one of the countries who helped secure South Korean independence, complete with videos of each nation's specific contributions to the cause. More than just a recount of the important battles, it was a very somber place, truly earning it the title of War Memorial.
