Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is an opportunity to embrace diversity, sometimes even within the same family.
This year has become even more meaningful to my family and to me.
My parents, Korean immigrants who became U.S. citizens, have long wanted to travel with their grandchildren to support South Korea.
So, this spring break, six of us went on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to experience Seoul, a country that connects with our family's hearts.
A drive through Seoul, South Korea's capital, is a journey through technological and architectural wonders.
This city of 10 million people is both modern and old.
Our visit began at Gyeongbokgung Palace, one of South Korea's most revered treasures.
It was built in 1395 as the main royal palace and government seat of the Joseon Dynasty.
Centuries of carefully preserved history is now surrounded by towering skyscrapers.
A nearby boutique rents traditional Korean clothing called hanbok.
Visitors wearing Hanbok will have free entry to the palace.
The country welcomes tourists to experience its traditions first-hand.
So visitors from all over the world, including this family from Fresno, dress up in Korean royal costumes and tour the palace.
My parents became emotional watching their daughter and grandson embrace their traditions.
“I'm happy that my grandchildren can see the traditions and history of Korea. I'm so happy to be here with them,” said his father, Kyung “Jung” Kim.
“We are very lucky to have a rich history, and we want to at least pass that on to our children so they can be proud,” said my mother, Kyon'Sylvia. ' Kim added.
When we watched the changing of the guard ceremony, the Korean costumes were just part of the ceremony.
The ceremony was now performed for the first time to a worldwide audience, as it would have been six centuries ago.
It left a deep impression on my daughters, Makayla and Marissa. They did not hesitate to do their own reporting.
By the end of the day, this royal had worked up a king-sized appetite.
Hot barbecues and seafood feasts are just a few of the essential Korean meals.
Our trip then moved to Jeju Island, known as the Hawaii of Korea.
An ocean cruise around the island gave us an up-close look at the caves and turquoise waters.
Jeju Island has become an international tourist destination as many popular Korean dramas have been filmed in its beautiful scenery.
Our family became friends with other Korean American families in the tour group, including Karen Kim and her children from Southern California.
Karen works at Fresno First Bank, so it really is a small world after all.
The mother of two works remotely but travels to Fresno Bank several times a year.
We bonded over her visits to the Valley, but we also shared the same desire for our children to experience our heritage first-hand.
“I really wanted to show the kids. I have a 13-year-old and a 10-year-old Audrey here. I wanted them to learn more about their culture. And for me too.” explained Karen. .
The culture is literally deep-rooted, especially in Jeju Island's Ginseng Research Institute, where ancient herbs are cultivated for their health and medicinal properties.
Or you can sip a Starbucks and read about traditions in the famous Starlight Library, which is stacked floor-to-ceiling with an astonishing array of books.
However, what really caught our eye was this clothing store called “Clovis” from Korea!
Perhaps a little reminder that no matter where you go, there's still no place like home.
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