Very interesting, but a very long day and very humid. It was about a fifty minute drive from Jamsil to the cemetery, which, I must admit, was pretty impressive. The grave sites are tiered and you must climb a very steep mountain to reach some of the more expensive plots. From what I have learnt, families purchase their plot or plots at exorbitant prices, but the government stepped in not so long ago and prevented certain
families from monopolizing huge tracts of land.
Despite the intense heat and face-melting humidity, I ventured to the peak. This proved to be a worthwhile trek, once I could behold the breathtaking views. So, after meditating in the aura of that other-worldly place, I took a leak and returned to the family unit. We drank some rice wine and kimbap (basically, California rolls) and enjoyed the serenity.
Next, it was off to meet my girlfriend's aunties for the first time. I was greeted by a woman who I presumed to be June's cousins, but was to soon find she was in fact her age-defying auntie. I then met her other, older but equally age-defying auntie. I couldn't believe they were in their fifties and I hope the same genes have somehow carried on and mutated my beautiful June's blood.
We drank some beer and ate some noodle and then continued onto the other auntie's home. And, unbeknownst to me, her father and his sisters planned our wedding (oh crap!). Another twenty minute drive later we arrived to a quaint little house in a back alley and were greeted by the terrifying bark of three wild dogs. All, however, turned out to be more frightened of their own shadows. Then more beer drinking and much more eating of Korean delicacies and sushi (and more damn wedding chatter).
Finally we called it a day and Tae Wook (June's younger brother) drove us home in the taxi.
It was a delightful day.
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