PROK partnership with Iksan 2024

By Hayeon Kim

Posted Dec 10, 2024 in Faith

PROK partnership with Iksan 2024

“I was genuinely surprised at the joy of making and strengthening connections with the lovely people of Iksan and Seoul. God’s love was most definitely present throughout this trip.”  - Megan 2024

As an Australian with a Korean background, returning to Korea with a team of 16 serving as the translator for the group was a privilege, a learning curve, and a new-found appreciation for my cultural ties to the country. For 4 days in Seoul, we immersed ourselves in Korea’s vibrant sights, the bustling streets of Gangnam, and the flavours unique to Korean cuisine. These 4 days allowed for a glimpse into Seoul – a dynamic city, allowing us to experience the cultural differences from Australia.

Experiences included a traditional Korean meal Han Jung Sik: a Korean tabletop filled with endless side dishes, Gyeongbokgung palace: the main palace of the Joseon dynasty, countless shopping trips, nightlife experiences and street foods. We were privileged to be able to visit the DMZ: the border between South and North Korea. We were incredibly lucky where we experienced the first snowfall in Korea, a first for many of us.

But it was with our partners in Iksan where we fully experienced the cultural roots and ties of Korea. Throughout the trip, I found myself thinking about the word “정” (Jung). When I asked Google to define it, the answer was predictable and didn’t quite capture the essence of the word. Google defines Jung as love, affection, sympathy, or attachment. However, I’d like to critique Google with this translation as Jung is so much more than that. It isn’t a word that can be captured with a single word or a neat definition. It is a difficult concept to express, however, throughout this trip, I feel as I finally understand the true meaning of Jung; or at least how it presented itself to me throughout the trip.

For me, Jung came alive in Iksan. It was how I saw strangers become friends in an instant, conversations feeling like reunions between long lost friends rather than introductions – even with the presence of language and cultural barriers. It was in the care and warmth of our homestay hosts, who went above and beyond, treating us not as guests, but as family. They ensured we felt like home, even when “home” was 9,000 kilometres away. It was felt in the food prepared with love. Every meal was more than nourishment – it was a labour of love. You could see it in the careful presentations, the efforts that went to suit our various dietary concerns and the joy as they watched us enjoy their cuisine. It was seen when bidding farewells to our Iksan partners who had driven with us all the way to Seoul from Iksan. That was when I truly understood the meaning of Jung.

What struck me the most about Jung is that it isn’t bound by time or certain circumstances. It lingers in the smallest gestures – a laugh shared between slightly awkward situations when Google translate didn’t quite do its job perfectly. It isn’t something that can be forced, but something that exists naturally weaving itself into memories and experiences.

Although we didn’t have a common language, we shared the love of God. Throughout this trip, I learnt that God is full of Jung.  His love is one that lingers, a presence that fills moments in Korea with meaning. He has a bond that allows us to connect with others. I believe God’s Jung is a gift, grateful to be able to experience this throughout the trip.

Yes, Korea was better than words can express. However, I found myself thinking, “Would it be the same if I wasn’t with the people I were with?” Every single member of the PROK team brought a unique and charismatic charm to the trip. Our leaders, Reverend Naomi Duke, Reverend Lawrie Linggood, Moderator Peter Morel and Adrian Duke, were more than leaders. Their dedication for this partnership was inspiring and the efforts they put towards the trip made it so memorable.  I cannot thank them enough.  

Lastly, I don’t think this trip would have been the same without the young adults who I had the absolute privilege of sharing my culture with. Watching you experience Korea for the first time was so heartwarming. From trying unfamiliar foods with to watching you attempt to communicate with our partners, you most definitely embody courage, strength and have heart.

I will treasure the memories I have made throughout the last 12 days and the valuable lessons, and the personal growth I have gained for a long time to come. I aspire those who have the opportunity to participate in the PROK trip in the future to do so. It was nothing short of incredible.

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