By Honorary Reporter Tsetska Pashovska from Bulgaria

Photos = Tsetska Pashovska

I attended this year's Treasure Island Mijo Port Anchovy & Seafood Festival from May 11-12 in Namhae-gun County, Gyeongsangnam-do Province. This was my first overnight trip away from Seoul and it was a refreshing change. Leaving my comfort zone was challenging, but the county-organized trip allowed me to see how people make a living by catching anchovies, a cherished symbol of the island.

These two women are sellers at the market in Namhae-gun County, Gyeongsangnam-do Province.

After approximately four hours on a bus, we got closer to our destination and my anticipation was building. This was my first time to see another side of Korea. Far from the noise and lights of a city, Namhae-gun offered comfort and deep connection with nature from the moment I arrived.

While making our way through the village built on top of a hill, I saw a breathtaking view of the enormous sky spreading over a village where older people were harvesting. All they needed were their hands, hats and a welcoming heart that were visible even from afar. In under 15 minutes, the locals took us to Namhae Topia Land, a valley with bushes and trees. 

Honorary Reporters and K-influencers pose in front of Namhae Topia Land.

The fluttering butterflies and peaceful surroundings of the valley reminded me of my hometown. Though thousands of miles separate Korea and Bulgaria, this moment of appreciation made the distance feel insignificant.

As a guest in Korea, I realized that trips connecting one with nature can alleviate homesickness by offering a sense of belonging. Namhae-gun is a place where I can get such healing. Our group made stress-relief pockets similar to those found in Korean saunas. Filled with tree scents, these items help reduce stress.

We ended the day at the festival, a symbol of the county. We first saw the simple yet ingenious method of catching anchovies with tree stoves and canals. Producers creatively prepared delicious dishes using the small fish, plus we took part in children's activities and ate at food trucks, which were my favorite.

Samples of food at Treasure Island Mijo Port Anchovy & Seafood Festival

On the cloudy morning of May 12, we started at a seaside restaurant serving fresh fish with side dishes and rice. Though different from European breakfasts, we embraced this part of Korean culture. 

Our next stop was 10 km away at a German-style village built to honor German assistance during the Korean War. Now a popular tourist spot, the venue features cozy cafes and German-style houses perfect for photos.

Decoration at German-style village 

Despite the cloudy weather, we continued our adventure, hoping for sunshine. By the time we reached our final destination after visiting the Namhae open market, the sun had emerged, illuminating the famous Namhaedaegyo Bridge. 

A lady there said the 50-year-old bridge is a picturesque and historically significant spot as it was the site of the last battle in the Imjin Waeran, or a series of Japanese invasions of Korea in the late 16th century.

Namhaedaegyo Bridge 

msjeon22@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.