어서 오세요! From Kathmandu to Gimhae: A Journey of Discovery

By Nischal Lal Shrestha | On Fri, Dec 13 2024 | Filed under Thoughts

I am pleased to inform you that the Department of Computer Engineering has accepted your application for the 2024 GKS graduate program...

My acceptance email.

My fingers trembled as I read the email, a mixture of disbelief and excitement washing over me. The email marked the beginning of a life-changing journey. From the vibrant streets of Kathmandu to the serene charm of Gimhae City, my story as a GKS scholar at Inje University is one of growth, discovery, and connection.

As I settled into this new chapter, I realized that Gimhae is more than just a place to study—it's a city that truly lives up to its tagline, "Don't worry, be Gimhaeppy." With its natural beauty, rich culture, and peaceful atmosphere, Gimhae has become a welcoming home for me, offering a perfect blend of serenity and charm.

First Impressions of Gimhae City: A Hidden Gem

When I first landed in Gimhae, I was struck by how much it reminded me of home. The city, nestled among gentle hills, offers breathtaking views that evoke the mountainous beauty of Nepal. This sense of connection with nature instantly made me feel at ease in a foreign land. It was as if Gimhae and Nepal were distant relatives, sharing a love for nature and tranquility.

Source: https://www.gimhae.go.kr/eng.web

Once the capital of the ancient Gaya Kingdom, Gimhae feels like a vast living history museum.

One of Gimhae's greatest charms is its seamless blend of modernity and tradition. On one hand, there are vibrant urban spaces and cutting-edge infrastructure; on the other, peaceful hiking trails and parks offer an escape into nature. Walking along these trails, surrounded by tall trees and fresh air, reminded me of the tranquil moments I enjoyed back in Nepal.

Source: https://www.gimhae.go.kr/eng.web

Parks Everywhere: Gimhae: A City of Parks and Serenity

If Gimhae were a person, it would be a lover of parks

Parks Everywhere

If Gimhae were a person, it would be a lover of parks; I've lost count of how many times I've stumbled upon a new one, each with its own character, like the small, hidden park near my dorm where I first learned to say '사랑해요' (I love you) to the leaves turning in the autumn breeze.

A quick search on the Naver app reveals Gimhae's incredible abundance of parks. From small community green spaces to larger recreational areas, the city is a natural haven with parks offering everything from scenic walking trails to peaceful study spots. As an international student, I was amazed by how easily nature breathes through this urban landscape. These parks aren't just green spaces—they're living, breathing areas where students, families, and locals connect with the city's rhythm, making Gimhae a uniquely charming and livable place.

Exploring Gimhae: Beyond the Parks

Gimhae's charm extends far beyond its parks. I've explored some of its most fascinating attractions—hiking the Bunseongsan Mountain, stargazing at the Gimhae Astronomical Observatory, finding peace at Haeeunsa Temple, walking through the historical Royal Tomb of King Suro, enjoying the playful Gaya Theme Land, and discovering the beauty of Jangyu Daecheong Valley. Each place in Gimhae whispers its own tale; I remember standing atop Bunseongsan Mountain, the wind telling stories of ancient battles, while the Astronomical Observatory's dome seemed like a modern-day oracle, gazing into the cosmos.

Gimhae National Museum

Bunsanseong Fortress

Hwapocheon Wetland Ecological Park

Historic Site in Bongwhang-dong

Savoring Street Food

Gimhae's food culture has been one of the most enjoyable ways for me to connect with the city and its people. As I walked through local markets, I couldn’t resist trying dishes like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), hotteok (sweet pancakes filled with brown sugar), and kimbap (rice rolls wrapped in seaweed). The vendors were incredibly warm, often greeting me with '어서 오세요!' (Welcome!), their smiles as inviting as the hot steam rising from the freshly made tteokbokki.

Life as an International Student at Inje University

At Inje University, I’m not just pursuing a degree—I’m building a future. The friendships I’ve made, the knowledge I’ve gained, and the memories I’ve created will stay with me forever. Being an international student at Inje University has opened up a world of opportunities to connect with people from various corners of the globe. From day one, I’ve met peers from different countries, each bringing their unique cultures, perspectives, and experiences.

Tips for New International Students

If you're stepping into this adventure like I did, here's some advice from someone who's walked this path.

Learn Korean: Even simple phrases like “안녕하세요” (Hello) can bring smiles and spark connections.
Explore the City: Take time to wander around your new city. You'll discover hidden gems, parks, and local spots that will make your stay even more memorable.
Join Student Groups: Look for clubs or societies at your university. Whether it's a sports team, a cultural club, or an academic society, these groups are where you'll meet like-minded individuals and get involved in activities beyond your studies.

Final Words

To anyone considering studying in Korea, I say: Take the leap. Let Gimhae’s quiet charm and Inje University’s vibrant community become the canvas where you paint your dreams. They might just change your life as they did mine.

References

Gimhae City Official Website. https://www.gimhae.go.kr/eng.web
NamuWiki https://en.namu.wiki/w/%EA%B9%80%ED%95%B4%EC%8B%9C
Korea.net https://www.korea.net/NewsFocus/People/view?articleId=126849