Heart and Seoul 2026 Day 3: Dreams and Origins

Our day began with a visit to Gamcheon Culture Village, a place where Kuya, ARMY Daughter, and I felt the energy of creation. Its colorful houses, steep pathways, and artistic spirit reminded us of Baguio City during the summer.

Our next stop was ZM-ILLENNIAL, where I had the opportunity to gift a copy of our new book, Planting a Forest of Hope. It was a small gesture, but a meaningful one, as the story tells of Kim Jong-ki, a Korean educator whose anti-bullying program transformed schools and communities.

What followed was a hearty lunch of grilled mackerel, seafood soup, kimchi-tofu stew, lettuce wraps, enoki mushrooms, eel, and an assortment of kimchi and vegetable side dishes. Like many Korean meals, it was generous, communal, and comforting—a feast that nourished both body and spirit before the rest of our day’s adventures.

At Haeundae, we rode the Sky Capsule to reach the beach. The panoramic view of the sea was breathtaking. The pine trees and coastal foliage were soothing, making the summer heat easier to bear. Once on the beach, I collected shells while my children walked barefoot along the shore. A moment when our inner children were set free.

All around us, post FESTA celebrations continued. BTS songs echoed from every direction; sand sculptures inspired by Keep Swimming stood proudly along the beach, while rows of red and white tents marked the Stamp Rally that had welcomed ARMYs during the previous day’s festivities.

The day ended with a visit to the Seo-dong Maze market where Jimin often ate noodles as a boy and to Busan Arts High School, where he studied and excelled academically. From there, we traveled an hour to Daegu, the hometown of Min Yoongi and Kim Taehyung, where dinner consisted of sweet-and-sour pork and jajangmyeon.

For the first time on this journey, I found no Filipino dish to compare it to or connect it with. Jajangmyeon stood entirely on its own. A Korean dish with its own history, character, and flavor. 💜 😊💜

#BTS_Arirang #bangtanpilgrimage2026

#Festa2026

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