[Memories of Winter]

The other day, the Japanese news reported that Seoul received the largest snowfall in November. As I watched the snow-covered streets of Seoul being shown one after another on the news images, I remembered with great nostalgia my winter memories of Seoul where I spent about 10 years ago. I spent about a year in Seoul and experienced all four seasons, but for some reason, it is the scenery of Seoul in winter that I always miss so much. Perhaps it is because I was born and raised in Kyushu, where it rarely snows and I had never experienced the cold as in Seoul, but I think there is another reason as well.

I used to commute to school on Subway Line 2, which crosses the Han River on the way to school, but when a big cold wave came, which is said to happen only once every few years, the entire Han River froze over. Every day I wondered, “How in the world can such a big river freeze over?” I wondered every day as I watched the scenery. I was also surprised that once it freezes, it stays frozen for several days. I couldn't help but look forward to seeing the scenery from the train window every day.

The view of Gyeongbokgung Palace on a snowy morning left a particularly strong impression on me. It should have been in the middle of a big city, but that morning it was quiet and soundless as if the snow had covered everything, and the only sound I could hear was my footsteps crunching on the snow. Bukak Mountain behind Gyeongbokgung was also covered with snow, and the view of Gyeongbokgung in the morning sun was so beautiful that I felt as if I had stepped into a painting.

It is not only the winter scenery that makes me nostalgic. On my way home, I was so cold that I ran into a café and had a sweet potato latte. I remember how it warmed my cold hands as I wrapped them around the mug, and I felt an indescribable sense of relief. The warm pumpkin porridge that the landlord of my lodgings made to prevent me from catching a cold also warms my heart just by remembering it. The scenery I saw in winter, the food I ate, and the memories of the kindness I received from so many people all combine to make winter in Seoul a special place in my heart.

Many customers from Korea visit our showroom. I hope that the products made in Japan will bring back the beautiful scenery and happy memories of Japan. We look forward to seeing you at our showrooms around Japan.

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