Seoul itself was a fantastic place to explore. I stayed near Mapo-gu, which was comfortable and conveniently located. The city’s public transport made getting around easy, whether it was hopping on the subway or grabbing a taxi. I also had a lot of fun using the local bike rental system. Figuring out the Korean app was a bit tricky, but I eventually managed to rent bikes. Riding through the city on the Ttareungyi bikes was an incredible experience. I really got a feel for the vast size of Seoul and its different districts on a very physical level. Did you know Seoul has a lot of hills?
One of the absolute highlights of my trip was climbing Baegundae Peak in Bukhansan National Park. The hike was challenging but completely worth it. Standing at the summit, I was rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire city. Seeing Seoul from that height gave me a whole new appreciation for its vastness, the way the urban landscape is intertwined with nature, and how the different districts stretch out in all directions. It was a truly unforgettable experience.
In between conference sessions, I managed to check out some of Seoul’s cultural gems: Gyeongbokgung Palace with its grand architecture, the charming Bukchon Hanok Village with its traditional houses, and the bustling Myeongdong shopping streets. And, of course, I had to indulge in some incredible Korean food: bibimbap, bulgogi, and kimchi were definitely highlights!
Looking back, the forum was an invaluable experience. Presenting my work, meeting so many passionate people, and diving into new ideas left me feeling both inspired and motivated. Next time, I’d probably stay even closer to the venue to make the most of networking opportunities, and I’d set aside more time to explore the city. Attending events like this is such a great way to stay on top of the latest trends in sound and music technology—and I’m already looking forward to the next one! I’d also like to express my gratitude to my lab for making this journey possible. Their support was instrumental in allowing me to share my work and connect with such an inspiring community.
