By : Valentina Dimova
Nestled along Korea’s southern coast, Namhae is a breathtaking island known for its rolling green hills, stunning ocean views, and deep-rooted agricultural traditions. Recently, a group of enthusiastic students embarked on a meaningful journey with Adventure Korea’s Outdoor Education Program, where they combined exploration with hands-on volunteering. This unique program offered students an opportunity to step outside their comfort zones, engage with local communities, and experience the beauty of Korea beyond the usual tourist paths.
Throughout the trip, students took part in various activities designed to foster teamwork, environmental awareness, and cultural exchange. From helping local farmers in the fields to learning about Namhae’s rich heritage, every moment was an adventure filled with discovery and personal growth. This trip was more than just a getaway, it was an experience that left a lasting impact on everyone involved.
After arriving in Darengi Village, the students had the opportunity to explore its scenic landscapes and learn about the challenges facing the community. As a small, rural village known for its terraced rice fields, Darengi has been struggling to retain its younger population. With this in mind, the students were tasked with brainstorming ideas to help make the village a more appealing place to live. Their insights and suggestions were presented to officials working for the village mayor, who listened attentively to their fresh perspectives on sustainability and community development. Beyond discussions, the students also took part in a volunteering activity, working together to clean up a property that will soon be transformed into a space for tourism, events, and sports activities. This hands-on contribution gave them a deeper sense of connection to the village and its future. To end the day on a cultural note, they participated in a traditional Korean instrument lesson, where they learned about the rhythmic sounds that have been part of Korea’s heritage for centuries.
The following day was filled with meaningful interactions and new activities. The students started by playing football with individuals with disabilities, engaging in practice drills together before competing in a series of friendly matches. This experience fostered teamwork and inclusion among everyone involved. After returning to Darengi Village, they took part in a restoration project, carefully placing fallen stones back into the village’s historic stone walls, helping to preserve an important piece of local heritage. Their efforts continued as they assisted a local farmer, harvesting freshly grown spinach, gaining firsthand experience in the hard work behind rural life. As night fell, the students set out on a moonlit walk through the village, carrying lanterns that illuminated the winding paths, making for a peaceful and reflective end to the day.
The next day began with a visit to a nearby church, where the students joined the congregation in a heartfelt service. They participated by singing and playing instruments, creating a warm and uplifting atmosphere that connected them with the local community. Afterward, they headed to an elderly care home, where they dedicated their time to giving back. Their first task was cleaning the building’s interior, ensuring a more comfortable environment for the residents. Then, they moved outside to remove moss from the brick pavement surrounding the home, working together to restore the area. As a final gesture, the students put on a talent show, bringing joy and laughter to the elderly residents with their performances. Later in the evening, they returned to Darengi Village and performed the talent show once again for the village’s elderly, creating another heartwarming moment that strengthened their bond with the local community.
The next day marked a new chapter in the journey as the students said farewell to Darengi Village and traveled to their next destination. Their first stop was a kindergarten, where they spent the morning engaging in craft activities with the young children, creating colorful artwork together and sharing moments of laughter. In the afternoon, they moved outside to join the kids for playtime and a sports lesson, running, jumping, and playing games that filled the air with energy and excitement. To end the day on a refreshing note, after coming back to the accommodation, the group made their way to the sea, where they played along the shore in the sand, and soaked in the beauty of Korea’s coastal landscape.
The last full day of the trip was packed with adventure and exploration. The group traveled to Tongyeong, where the students had free time to explore the vibrant seaside market and take in the lively atmosphere. One of the highlights of the visit was seeing a historic warship, which fascinated the students with its design and rich history. After a satisfying shabu-shabu lunch, they continued their journey through Tongyeong with an exciting experience: a zipline ride over a breathtaking forest landscape. At the very top, they visited scenic viewpoints that offered a panoramic look over the city. After hiking back down and taking the zipline once more, the adventure continued with a thrilling luge ride, a first-time experience for many as they raced through the winding course. To wrap up the eventful day, the group enjoyed a delicious Korean BBQ dinner, taking in the warmth of their final evening together and reflecting on the unforgettable memories they had made throughout the trip.
The next morning, after sharing a final breakfast together, the students took part in one last volunteering activity, a beach cleanup. Equipped with plastic bags and gloves, they spread out along the shoreline and nearby streets, diligently collecting as much trash as possible. After an hour of dedicated effort, they gathered together to compare their gathered trash, feeling a strong sense of accomplishment. Seeing the impact of their work firsthand, they reflected on how their contributions helped the local community and the environment, bringing the journey to a meaningful and fulfilling close.
Afterward, the group stopped for a quick tonkatsu lunch, enjoying a final meal together before preparing for the long drive back. Though the trip had come to an end, the memories, friendships, and lessons gained throughout the journey would stay with the students forever. Through their volunteer efforts and cultural experiences, they not only contributed to the communities they visited but also gained a deeper appreciation for Korea’s rich traditions and natural beauty. The Adventure Korea Outdoor Education Program provided them with an opportunity to step out of their comfort zones, make a difference, and create unforgettable moments, an experience they would cherish for years to come.
