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The Woman Who Commuted Between Two Cities, Feeling Split in Two

From Hankyoreh · (39m ago) Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Writer Kim Hwa-jin describes her feelings of being split between Seoul and Anyang in her early twenties, experiencing a sense of entering a different world when passing certain subway stations.
  • She recounts feeling that her experiences and self in Seoul were washed away upon returning home to Anyang, wishing to retain the

The Hankyoreh, a publication deeply rooted in South Korean society, presents a personal narrative that resonates with many who have navigated the complex relationship between the capital city and its surrounding regions. The article, penned by writer Kim Hwa-jin, delves into the profound sense of duality experienced by individuals living outside Seoul while engaging with the capital for work or study.

I felt like I was entering a different world...

— Kim Hwa-jinDescribing her feelings while commuting on the subway between Seoul and Anyang.

Kim's reflections on the "Anyang shower" – the feeling of being cleansed of her Seoul experiences upon returning home – capture a sentiment familiar to many Koreans. This phenomenon highlights the immense gravitational pull of Seoul, not just economically and socially, but also psychologically. The article subtly critiques this reality by illustrating how the capital's influence can overshadow or even erase the identities and experiences of those who commute or live on its periphery.

It felt like I was getting an 'Anyang shower' or a 'homecoming shower' every evening.

— Kim Hwa-jinExplaining how she perceived the washing away of her Seoul experiences upon returning home.

From a South Korean perspective, this is not merely a story about commuting; it's a commentary on regional disparity and the aspirational, yet often alienating, nature of Seoul. The narrative touches upon the desire for a unified identity, a longing to belong fully to the vibrant, opportunity-filled world of Seoul, rather than feeling like a visitor whose experiences are temporary. This internal conflict is a significant aspect of modern Korean life, particularly for young adults.

I felt like I was entering a different world...

— Kim Hwa-jinRecounting her persistent thoughts when passing Namtaeryeong and Seonbawi subway stations on her way home.

The article also beautifully illustrates the serendipitous encounters that can occur in Seoul's vibrant cultural hubs, like the cafe where Kim meets renowned authors. These moments, while personal, underscore the unique cultural landscape of areas like Hapjeong, which attract artists and writers, further solidifying Seoul's image as a center of creativity and inspiration. This contrasts sharply with how such encounters might be perceived in Western media, which might focus more on the literary aspect rather than the deeply personal and identity-related significance for the individual within the Korean context.

I wanted to unify myself, to one side. But it wasn't towards Anyang, it was towards Seoul.

— Kim Hwa-jinExpressing her desire to align her identity with Seoul.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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