As I embarked on my study abroad adventure in Norwich, the prospect of navigating life in a small English town left me anxious, especially at the thought of being away from Korean food. For me, Korean food isn’t just about sustenance; it’s a taste of home, a comforting reminder of my family. I really didn’t think I would be able to find Korean restaurants in this small town in England, let alone anything related to Korea. However, the vibrant city had surprises in store, offering avenues for me to rejuvenate my heritage.
One of my initial concerns was the absence of Korean cuisines in Norwich. Yet, fate had a pleasant surprise waiting—an authentic Korean restaurant tucked away, run by a charming Korean couple. The aroma of familiar dishes like bibimbap and kimchi stew brought an overwhelming rush of nostalgia, soothing the homesickness that had begun to set in. I had dduckbokki, a traditional Korean spicy rice cake dish. Also, surprisingly, the UEA student supermarket was another beacon of hope, a treasure trove where I could find essentials like instant noodles and Korean cooking ingredients, and of course, my beloved kimchi. These discoveries were a lifeline, allowing me to savor a piece of Korea, even in the heart of England.
However, no matter how scared I was for the possibility of no Korean food, it wasn’t as scary as the anxiousness of wondering if I’ll make new friends and find my community at this new place. But, as luck would have it, I ran into a fellow exchange student from Korea on my way from London Heathrow Airport to UEA, who I befriended, and we became close as the semester went by. We traveled around England together, hitting cities like London and Birmingham!
The vibrant multiculturalism at the University of East Anglia also introduced me to a circle of Korean students. I befriended and became close to them. We explored Norwich together, conversing in our native tongue, sharing stories, and experiencing different cusines in Norwich. These chance encounters and shared experiences provided a sense of kinship and camaraderie, making Norwich feel a bit more like home.
My involvement in the Korean society at UEA was another enriching chapter. I had the opportunity to teach Korean to fellow students using K-pop lyrics. It was a rewarding experience. The music of K-pop transcended language barriers, serving as a bridge that connected cultures and fostered a deeper understanding of Korea’s vibrant music and culture. Also, being part of the university’s Taekwondo club, allowed me to express my cultural identity while embracing newfound experiences. I fostered connections with like-minded students who shared a passion for this Korean martial art form. It was a blend of discipline, tradition, and community.
Not to mention, one of the most unforgettable experiences for me in England was cheering for Korean football stars playing in the Premier League (highest level of the English football league system). Watching players like Son Heung Min (or better known as Sonny in England by Tottenham fans) and Hwang Hee Chan (also known as “The Korean Guy” in Wolverhampton) showcased the pride and celebration of our Korean heritage. Beyond the goals and cheers, it was a moment of unity and celebration of our roots. It was an unbelievable experience getting to see them, especially as my dad is a huge fan of Sonny, so going to see his team play and cheering for him at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London was so exciting.
In the backdrop of Norwich’s quaint streets and bustling university life, these connections and experiences helped me not only assimilate into English culture but also provided opportunities to nurture and celebrate my Korean heritage. It’s through these shared moments, flavors, and cultural celebrations that I found myself not just adapting to a new environment but reviving and reinforcing the ties to my roots.
As I continue my journey in Norwich, each encounter reaffirms the beauty of cultural exchange and the significance of fostering connections that bridge geographical distances. It’s the coming together of diverse cultures that adds vibrancy to life, and here in Norwich, I’ve found a place where my Korean identity thrives alongside the new experiences of an English adventure.
Discover how I connected with my Korean heritage in Mexico this past summer!