Day Two: Global Knowledge Exchange and Development Center of Korea & Cheong Gye Cheon Museum

On day two of our study abroad, our group began the day by visiting the Global Knowledge Exchange and Development Center of Korea (GKED). At the GKED, we partook in a guided tour where we learned about the country's history as well as its continuous ability to overcome challenges and become a leader in innovation. One emphasis during the tour that I liked was the history of Korean agriculture and forestry in the 1950s to the early 2000s. During this time, Japan's colonization and the Korean War had already taken place, devastating agricultural lands and forests. Many Koreans, especially farmers, were experiencing issues regarding little agricultural growth and many were left with insufficient food supplies. In addition, many began searching for food, wood, and other resources that added to the deforestation issues which led to barren forests that resembled deserts. In order to address this issue, the government of Korea had no true rights to these areas, and could not force change. However, they encouraged the local land owners and workers by creating uplifting and inspiring songs to encourage locals to take action and begin nursing agricultural fields and forests back to health. This resulted in numerous public works projects that were focused on environmental practices.

After visiting the GDEK and learning more about Korea's history, we also toured the Cheong Gye Cheon Museum. While at the Cheong Gye Cheon Museum, we learned about the Cheong Gye Cheon River, which flows over 10 kilometers (over 6 miles) from downtwon Seoul, Gwanghwamun, Dongdaemun, Jungnangcheon, and then to the Han River where it connects to the Yellow Sea. Although this river is now a vibrant area where the environment and social interaction can integrate within the metropolitan city. Parts of our group previously visited the Cheong Gye Cheon River the first night we arrived. It was one of the most memorable places I have viewed so far, because it was vibrant with life. There were so many people gathered at this river enjoying the ambiance of the area as well as live music, and art.

It was interesting to learn at this museum how the Cheong Gye Cheon River was once a river before the 1950s. However, due to its increase in water pollution and other concerns, was covered and replaced with a highway in an attempt to reduce congestion and bring forth a form of gentrification. In the 1990s, stages for restoring the river began to take place after realizing that congestion increases as a result of induced demand and realizing the significance of the river and the importance of protecting the environment.