Lan Wandered

Traveling to South Korea in 2015 was probably one of the most memorable trip I have done so far in my life, not just because it was the first country I visited solo outside the Philippines, but it was also the first time that someone appreciated and acknowledged my hard works, thus, it will always have a special place in my heart. To my previous boss (Mr. Kim Chongkwang) in Kepco KPS, thank you very much for the trust and believing in my knowledge and capability. I know how solid you fought for me to be selected as the representative of KPS in our branch for most outstanding employee of the year during that time, for that I am always grateful for the opportunity. This experience will always be part of my success journey and a memory that I will always cherish. Hence, inspire me to write this article.

KEPCO-KPS Mechanical Team Photo with our Manager Mr. Kim ChongKwang

This is the only photo I’ve got with our Mechanical team, so for this article purposes, I wanted to include this also. Such a great people!

My story for a trip to South Korea

I joined KPS for our project in Batangas in 2014, and it was 2015 in summer season when I was selected for a one-week Korea trip. It was also the first time that they sent someone from that project, so I was unaware that the trip was, surprisingly, a gathering of all the most outstanding employees of the year for projects of the company around the world. I was only told that I was selected to attend a conference as a gift for my hard work, and my boss told me that you will know everything once you are there and just enjoy. At that moment, I was really filled with thrills and excitement. At the early stage of my career, I was able to receive this appreciation. Subsequently, upon arrival, I realized that I am also the youngest among the delegates and the only one coming from the Philippines, so it’s really a big privilege and honor for me to be part of that assembly. I met the CEO of the company and people in the top management, as well as representatives from India, Pakistan, and Jordan. And by the way, one Filipino was also there from the Madagascar project, together with their HR, the only woman in our group. It was really a nice experience conversing with locals and co-delegates, as well as learning their culture and background.

Activities we did in South Korea

The first three days of the tour were mostly focused on the conference gathering and visiting the main building of KPS and their power plants operating in Korea. Astoundingly, we received gifts of appreciation from plants that we visited. It was really nice, please see the photo above for the gift I received. I was also able to experience riding a train from one station to another while traveling to provinces where Power Plants are situated. 

On the fourth day, I clearly remembered the time when I was lost in Seoul while we were walking. From our hotel, we’re supposed to take our dinner, and while walking in the central part of Seoul, I realized that there’s a lot of people, and it’s packed, so I unknowingly lost track of my group when we were about to cross the street. And since I could not find them, I decided to return to our hotel. Thankfully, our group realized that I was lost and was looking for me. One Korean guy who was assigned to our group returned to our hotel lobby, hoping that I was there, thus happy to see me waiting. It was an awkward moment for me, and I felt sorry for not focusing on our group, but fortunately, I found that they were really concerned about me, which I appreciated. After that, we all enjoy eating our dinner.

The last day was more of fun and adventure as we tour around Seoul and learn about their culture and amaze with stunning structures and buildings as well as the overlooking view of the city.

Places we visited in Seoul

Gyeongbokgung Palace

It is considered to be the most prestigious of the Joseon Dynasty’s palaces, with a main hall and a pavilion. It has an amazing and beautiful vista of palace structures, mountains, and trees. The landscape, with many trees and a wide pond with two islands in the background, further enhances the scene’s elegance.

12 Korean Zodiac Animals statue.

Near to the national folk museum in Gyeongbokgung Palace, you will find the 12 korean zodiac animals statue. These are the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig deities.

N Seoul Tower

Situated at almost 500 meters above the city, this communication and observation tower provides overlooking panoramic views of the city from its perch on the side of Mount Namsan.

Bukchon Hanok Village

Experience korean traditional culture and architecture in Bukchon Hanok Village. This well-preserved district situated in central Seoul, in the area between the Gyeongbokgung Palace and the Changdeokgung Palace, gives you a feel for what is Korea 600 years ago.

National Folk Museum of Korea

Features the history and art that includes a numerous collection of works and objects going back more than a million years. There are ancient and prehistoric artifacts, sculptures, paintings, and other artwork along with a large collection of antiques object.

Seasons in South Korea

Spring-March to May, temperatures ranging from 7 to 18 degrees Celsius (If you want to see beautiful cherry blossom, visit on this month)

Summer-July to August (With some rain), temperatures can range between 23 to 30 degrees Celsius

Autumn- September to November, with temperature ranging from 19 to 21 degrees Celsius

Winter-December to February, temperature ranging -10 to +10 degrees Celsius

My Final Verdict

Overall, I would say that my trip to Korea was amazing and will always have a special place in my heart. It was full of learning, fun and adventure. The journey has opened my mind to many possibilities and what it was like to be in another country aside from my own. It also leads me to many opportunities in my life, especially in my career, and I can’t wait to return for my next solo travel at my own pace and time. I would love to experience the winter, autumn or spring seasons next time.

Requirements in Visiting South Korea

For Filipinos who is planning to visit South Korea, obtaining a visa is required before your departure. Meanwhile, South Korea has a visa-exempt list of other countries whose citizens can enter the country without a visa, please check online for confirmation.

By the way, if I can remember, I was given a business visa during that time, a short-term visa for business trips if you have an upcoming business meeting, conference, or any business-related engagement. Below are the requirements I prepared prior to my Trip.

• Passport– must be valid for 6 months before the date of travel
• Completed Application Form- filled and signed visa application form with accurate and verifiable information.
• Letter of invitation– required especially for Business Visa. Since my previous company main branch is based in Korea, they provided me the letter of invitation.
• Cover Letter– A signed cover letter clearly explaining the trip’s main purpose in case of tourist visa.
• Flight booking– A copy of a return flight ticket reservation to prove that you intend to return to the Philippines after your visit.
• Bank statement– A signed bank statement covering a period of 3 months to prove your financial capacity. In my case, since my company finance for my trip, I only provided a copy of my bank statement with at least 60,000 PHP savings.
• Proof of Accommodation– confirmed hotel booking where you will stay in South Korea.

There you go, I believe if you prepare all of that, everything will go smooth. When your applying online, your visa will be forwarded to your email address within 72 hours of your application is approved.

So, have you been to South Korea? Please share your thoughts and experience.

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