The flea market was indeed a flea market although I'm not sure that the merchandise was especially useful for foreigners. It seemed to be typical junk that might be great if you were a collector or had a particular interest. None of us needed any old tools, a Victrola with a broken record, or used shoes so after a quick look around we headed off to find a place to eat.
We were right at Cheong Gye Cheon, a stream that used to be underground beneath a major road, but was restored and reopened 3 1/2 years ago as a lovely walking area in the middle of Seoul. I first visited it in October, 2005, less than a week after the grand opening. So after Burger King for lunch we started walking. The weather was sunny with temperatures in the high 50s so was very pleasant. It being a Saturday afternoon, there were a lot of people and a lot of families walking along.
Shani, from NYC working in Korea as a teacher/administrator, ventured across the stream on one of the stepping stone bridges.
We split up, with Shani and Rosie (a Brit), going off to find a loo and perhaps the subway, while I continued the walk since I knew it ended just north of City Hall, which is my neighborhood. I was walking happily along when the siren call of poongmulnori music caused me to climb the stairs up to street level. This is what I found:
The group was playing enthusiastically. I loved it -- particularly since most of the members looked to be in their 50s and 60s. MY people!!
They had their banner displayed and nearby a box for contributions. I obviously put in some won in appreciation.
As I walked on to return home (about a 2 1/2 mile walk total), I saw this whimsical outdoor cafe (not yet open). A bit strange, but many people stopped to take photographs. All seven dwarfs were there, hidden away.
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