A Memorable Trip to Seoul for a Special Award Ceremony
KR 서울특별시 종로구 새문안로2길 10 디펠리스 지하 원기옥 광화문점 1층
원기옥 광화문점 (Wongiok gwanghwamun)
This two-day, one-night trip to Seoul began with an invitation to an award ceremony celebrating my sibling’s writing achievement.
Between bread bought in a rush, quiet hotel moments, museums, cafés, and shared meals, the trip became a collection of calm, emotional memories.
More than sightseeing, this journey was about support, pride, and savoring small, thoughtful moments together.
A sudden trip to Seoul for a proud reason
I was invited to an award ceremony because my close younger sibling received a prestigious award.
I wanted to congratulate them in person, catch up after a long time, and enjoy Seoul, so I planned a short two-day trip.
The trip already felt special because it centered on someone I genuinely admire.
Choosing bread instead of flowers
At first, I planned to buy flowers in Seoul.
But I imagined my sibling receiving plenty of bouquets already, and suddenly bread felt like a better idea.
Honestly, I think I would prefer bread too, so it just felt right.
A rushed but thoughtful bakery stop
With only minutes left before the train departed, I rushed into Samsong Bakery.
I bought a set of eight corn breads, sticking to their signature item since it’s well-loved and easy to share.
It felt like a small but sincere gift.
KTX first-class and a cold walk in Seoul
I used a KTX first-class upgrade coupon for this trip.
The amenities had changed a bit, with different cookies and no nuts, and you now have to grab water yourself.
After arriving at Seoul Station, I realized my accommodation was within walking distance, so I checked the map and walked despite the freezing weather.
Early check-in luck at Shilla Stay Seodaemun
I finally arrived at Shilla Stay in Seodaemun around 12:30 PM.
Although check-in officially starts at 3 PM, they kindly allowed early check-in since a room was available.
I was assigned a room with a view of the Nonghyup headquarters, which secretly made me very happy.
A quiet stop at the Seoul Museum of History
Since the hotel was close to the Seoul Museum of History, I dropped off my luggage and headed there.
My main goal wasn’t the exhibition but the museum shop.
I had been eyeing a collaboration bag from Seoul Museum of History and Oimu for quite some time.
A satisfying souvenir purchase
The Oimu book bag usually costs around 50,000 won, but this collaboration version was only 35,000 won.
It was more affordable than expected, so I bought two—one for my sibling and one for myself.
It felt like another small celebration.
Quiet reading time before the ceremony
Back at the hotel, I bought coffee and cake and settled in to read.
I hadn’t planned to bring a book, but I carried Wuthering Heights just in case.
It turned out to be the perfect companion while waiting.
Attending the award ceremony with mixed emotions
Before leaving, I took my time getting ready, even though I’m never great at makeup.
I wore a lavender blouse and dress I had saved for a special occasion.
Watching my sibling receive such recognition made me feel proud, happy, and just a little envious in the best way.
Dinner, rest, and a peaceful hotel night
After the ceremony, we had dinner at a reserved restaurant near Gwanghwamun.
The atmosphere was clean and calm, and the food was satisfying.
Later, I returned to the hotel alone, read late into the night, and enjoyed the quiet comfort.
Breakfast, checkout, and lingering comfort
I almost missed breakfast after turning off my alarm, but still made it downstairs in time.
The meal was decent, and the overall atmosphere remained calm and restful.
It wasn’t a luxury hotel, but the balance of comfort and price made me want to return.
Café conversations and an unplanned long goodbye
After checking out and leaving our luggage, we went to Gabes Coffee near the museum.
The vintage interior felt like something out of The Great Gatsby.
Our conversation flowed so well that time slipped away without us realizing.
A warm ending before heading home
We changed our plans from a late lunch to an early dinner and enjoyed salmon sushi near Seodaemun.
On the way back to Seoul Station, my sibling surprised me with trendy chewy cookies as a gift.
This trip reminded me how meaningful it is to share literature, support, and quiet joy with someone you love.
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