A number of foreigners visited Gangnam-gu attractions last May 21, 2011 (Saturday). Participants came from different countries including Canada, China, Italy, Mongolia, Myanmar, the Philippines, United States, to name a few. They were all selected to become Honorary Publicity Ambassador of Gangnam-Gu. Filipino graduate students from Catholic University namely Abigail Go, Caroline Manzano, Glenn Pepito, Horeb Elliot Dagandan , Karina Chua, Mark James Evangelista, Stephanie ‘Hani’ Afuang were fortunate to be chosen as ambassadors of the city.
Participants receive similar set of program, nametag, gift pack and Honorary Publicity Ambassador certificate like the ones the author got from the organizers of this event.
The ambassadors were given a tour of the famous Gangnam-gu attractions including Seolleung, Kukkiwon, U-Street, Samsung D’ Light, Horim Art Center, Marco Polo (COEX), among others. They were also treated to a sumptuous galbitang meal in Samwon Garden.
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Here's to give you a glimpse and further details of the places visited that day.
Seolleung Royal Tomb is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses the burial mounds of King Seongjong (1469-1494), his wife Queen Jeonghyeon, and King Jungjong (1506-1544) of the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). Sculptures of sheep and tigers surround the tomb, serving as guardians of the dead King. There is also a statue of a military officer in front of the tomb.
The author posing with the military officer statue that guards the Seolleung Royal Tomb
Kukkiwon, the World Taekwondo Headquarters, and home of the World Taekwondo Academy, is the official taekwondo governing organization established by the South Korean government. Participants are very blessed to be able to see such an astounding performance by the taekwondo masters who made amazing stints that left the audience to be struck in awe.
Taekwondo master's demonstrations include basic stances, self-defense, and board breaking to name a few.
U-Street is another great spot where tourists can experience the technology that Gangnam boasts about. It’s a high end street with medial poles where individuals can search information about best restaurants, shopping places, tourist spots, etc. People can also use this to search the internet, send messages to mobile phones, etc.
Filipino students striking a curious pose in front of U-Street's media poles.
Samsung D’ Light is another great place to be. It houses Samsung products and showcases Samsung latest technology. Surely, you will be busy trying all the gadgets that are in place.
Carol & I posing with our Koreans names in one of Samsung D' Lights interactive gadget 'playgrounds'.
Horim Art Center on the other hand showcases the rich culture of Korea. Tripitaka items were now being exhibited in the art center.
Participants are very privileged to have a view of the Gangnam district through the Marco Polo lounge located in the 52nd floor of the Trade Center (right beside COEX). Participants were treated with a nice view of the city coupled with delicious beverages and delectable snacks.
Striking a pose.
Students enjoying each other's company while chatting and relaxing in Marco Polo.
Thereafter, the participants were invited to Gangnam City Hall for the conferring ceremony. Each participant was given their Honorary Publicity Ambassador certificate by the mayor of the Gangnam district. Afterwards, the group had their commemorative photo together at the Gangnam City Hall.
Filipino international students with their investiture certificates
conferred by the mayor of Gangnam-gu
It was indeed another day of discovery – unearthing the charms of Gangnam-gu.
Special thanks to Caroline Manzano, Mark James Evangelista for some of the photos posted herein^_^
Related Articles:
http://www.koreaherald.com/national/Detail.jsp?newsMLId=20110524000729 http://www.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/SI/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=264106
By: Abigail Go, GEO Blog Editor
