By Honorary Reporter Carrinna Buthelezi from South Africa

Summer in Korea and South Africa come alive with the unique traditions of each country. Despite their differences, both countries love the sunniest season.

Drone show along Hangang River

In Seoul, a must-see summer event is a drone show along the Hangang River. As the sun sets, synchronized drones light up the sky to create vivid images and tell captivating stories. Thousand of visitors gather on grassy slopes with picnic blankets to enjoy the warm breeze and vibrant atmosphere. As the first drones take flight, the crowd falls silent but soon produces gasps of wonder and delight.

Visitors should arrive early for good seats. The grand finale brings big applause in celebrating the magic of a summer night in Seoul. The drones' precision and grace form intricate patterns, colorful fireworks, animated characters and heartwarming messages.

People gather along the Hangang River to see a drone show.  (Carrinna Buthelezi) 

Cheonggyecheon Stream

Strolling at night along this stream in Seoul is an enchanting summer experience. As the sun sets, residents and visitors go on leisurely walks amid a serene atmosphere.

Once hidden beneath a ramp, the stream spans 11 km with paths, bridges and lush greenery. Colorfully illuminated waterfalls add a magical touch ideal for photos.

Families bond and friends chat along the stream, while street performers and artists add to the ambiance with music and art. As night falls, the stream turns into a peaceful retreat allowing reconnection with nature away from the urban hustle and bustle.

Cheonggyecheon Stream (Carrinna Buthelezi)

Summer rhythm in South Africa
Halfway across the world, South Africa embraces its own brand of summer magic. As the Southern Hemisphere tilts toward the sun, a vibrant energy permeates every corner of the country.

Sharing barbecue 
A major summer tradition in South Africa is braai (barbecue), which brings together friends and family for a leisurely day of grilling, socializing and enjoying the great outdoors. From succulent sausages to flame-grilled meats and vegetables, braai is a feast for the senses that celebrates the country's culinary heritage. 

Family braai in Johannesburg, South Africa (Carrinna Buthelezi)

Cricket
For many South Africans, summer is synonymous with cricket. As the sun beats down on grassy pitches across the nation, fans cheer their favorite teams in exhibition games, single-day internationals and T20 showdowns. The sound of leather on willow, the roar of the crowd and the tantalizing aroma of boerewors rolls create a lively atmosphere. 

Beaches
Like in Korea, South Africa’s stunning beaches are a major draw in summer. From the rugged shorelines of the Western Cape to the golden sands of Durban's Golden Mile, beachgoers flock to the coast to soak up the sun, surf the waves and enjoy water sports. Beach braais, sundowners and long walks along the shore are all essential elements. 

Beaches in South Africa (wanderlustmovement)

Summer festivals and events in South Africa include the Cape Town Minstrel Carnival in January and International Jazz Festival in March, as well as craft markets, food fairs and concerts. 

Cape Town Minstrel Carnival (Jaco Marais/Netwerk24)

Commonalities and contrasts
While Korea and South Africa might seem worlds apart, they share common summer traditions like outdoor activities to escape the heat and socialize.

Food is another major factor ranging from the icy refreshment of naengmyeon (cold buckwheat noodles) in Korea to the sizzling flavors of braai in South Africa.

Korea's popular summer events include the Boryeong Mud Festival and the traditional event Chilseok, while South Africa showcases its diverse musical and artistic heritage with tribal beats, jazz, and a minstrel carnival.

In timing, Korea's summer runs from June to August during the Northern Hemisphere’s warmest months, whereas South Africa's lasts from December to February in line with the Southern Hemisphere's seasonal cycle. So as Koreans celebrate peak summer, South Africans gear up for their own summer festivities.

Despite these contrasts, I discovered common threads like the joy of basking in the summer sun, sharing meals with loved ones and exploring the outdoors.

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.