Perhaps these are just my own preconceptions but my idea of summertime in Korea isn't so idyllic as the Gershwin standard apparently makes it out to be. First of all, there are the monsoon rains to contend with and I'm more likely to see umbrellas keeping people dry instead of decorating some summertime festival.
In fact, the brollies can do double duty as shields from the scorching sun. So if you're dripping and turning redder than a bowl of kimchi tchigae, you may be hard pressed to find ways to cool off so here are some suggestions. First, hanji fans aren't merely quaint decorations. They can be pretty handy when you're caught in a place without any air-conditioning or if you're a greenie and haven't the heart to switch on the air-con or even fans.
OR you can run the risk of looking juvenile and face the outwardly-disdainful but inwardly envious stares of adults as you take the plunge alongside these kids into Seongnae Stream in Songpa District, Seoul.
If the water isn't enough, treat yourself to a cooling full-body mudpack at the Boryeong Mud Festival ( held between 17th and 25th July this year) OR volunteer to be covered in sand to protect your fair complexion from being sun-toasted in sand sculpture contests for festivals like the Busan Beach Festival.
Emulate the lifestyle of vampires, even though you're not a fan of Twilight, The Vampire Diaries or True Blood and only venture outdoors when the sun goes down. Lots of open-air concerts to take advantage of during this season such as the Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival or if you are won-pinching, check out the free performances in front of City Hall every evening at 8 pm until October.
Better still, join former g.o.d. member, Sohn Ho-young in special performances entitled "Ho young 2 Ocean" Concerts ( 8th - 25th July, at the KT& G Sangsang Art Hall). The thoughtful entertainer is planning to help his fans cool off with a sprinkler system and he'll even play bartender to make cocktails for some lucky fans. On second thought, THAT is more likely to create more steam and sizzle.
Spectacular fireworks display are an additional bonus for summertime night-owls. Good luck finding a spot along the Hangang far from the madding crowds, though, that threaten to add to the sweltering stuffiness. Otherwise head downsouth for the Pohang Fireworks Art Competition from the 24th to the 29th of July at the Pohang Cultural Art Hall.
Alternatively, you may brave the outdoor sun, heat and humidity and trail school-groups as they go on nature walks or take part in harvesting activities. The kids here look as if reaping barley is lots of fun but I'd rather be indoors sipping glasses of sikhye. For a recipe and video demo on how to make this delicious and refreshing drink made from barley malt powder, check this out.
For something with a little more kick, I'd indulge in bottles of maesilju ( Korean plum wine). Click here for the recipe. Also, see previous posting on almost everything plummy.
Then I'd sober up with a virtuous bowl of samgyetang ( generously laced with ginseng wine, of course!) like the ones served to the senior citizens below.
Happy surviving summer, everyone!
Sources:
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