First of all, I think that a lot of the news that comes to North America has be made to make it seem like the situation is worse here than it really is. People here in South Korea are simply continuing with their lives as normal. Every little thing that the North does becomes "big news" so to sell more newspapers and make more money. Now obviously the situation is not ideal, but all of the threats (both past and present) have been proven to be empty.
Second, I think that the reason the rhetoric from the North has increased at this time is because of the newly inaugurated president here in the Seoul. South Korea's new president (a female) came into office in February. With this change I think that tensions between the two Koreas increased.
I still feel very safe here. I am not worried about a war starting. Reports have shown that North Korea's missiles are not directed at Seoul and their army does not appear to be on stand-by. I have received an email from the Canadian embassy, however they reiterated that travel is still remains at the "exercise normal security precautions" (lowest danger level), but advised to follow any developments that may occur. I also received an email from KU saying that although the threats are now different from before, they "have been proven to be void" and we should be more worried about the fact that it is supposed to snow overnight.
Anyways, please do not worry about the situation here. It would be outrageous for the North to start a nuclear war as their are too many allies against them and they would end up destroying the whole Korean peninsula anyways.
On a happier note, here is a picture of some flowers right beside CJ House. On Friday our group is going to the cherry blossom festival, so I will have even more pretty pictures soon!
I laughed out loud at your sudden transition to pretty flowers. Last night we prayed before bed that you wouldn't be scared and that you'd be safe, we also prayed for Kim Jong Un's heart to be softened that he wouldn't be making such poor decisions. Thinking of you!
ReplyDeleteThose are great things to pray for! Thank you so much!
DeleteWith all that i'm hearing about North Korea its nice to know that its still safe out there. That email from the university must have been funny. If you could I would love if you keep us up to date with the situation with the north, its interesting to get a perspective close to the action (or non action from what you have heard).
ReplyDeleteHaha yeah. All of the Koreans here seem pretty numb to the threats, which puts all of us exchange students at ease. I will definitely keep everyone updated and include more perspectives of the Korean people about the situation. I also find it very interesting to hear about their thoughts on the situation.
DeleteLots of news back here in Winnipeg, seems like almost daily there is an update from N. Korea. I checked again today and they are still offering the DMZ tour. I'm glad I went to the DMZ as it makes it more real seeing the pictures and hearing about Kaesong in the news.
ReplyDeleteOur thoughts and prayers are with you Kayla.
PS. Maybe I should mail you your wizard wand in case you need to work some spells :-)
Haha I wouldn't get any of my homework if you sent that to me! Thank you for keeping me in your prayers :)
DeleteWingardium Leviosa seems like it would be a great help to you right about now :).
DeleteTo lift my homework into the air? :P
DeleteI've been following news on N.Korea daily and pray "Mr.Kim" will behave himself.
DeleteThanks for keeping us so well informed and for all the beautiful pics.
My prayer for you is to stay safe and enjoy every day.
Love, Grammy
Thank you for your prayers and thoughts! I am glad you are able to enjoy my blog :)
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