After living in Korea for almost a year, it is easy to forget the current situation between North and South Korea. It is not discussed, mentioned, or a hot topic in conversation. It is just accepted, with the hope that there will be a reunification between the divide. I have learned to not burden myself with worries about the the threat to the North. I have always felt safe, close to a South Korean air base and the constant presence of American soldiers (though I see most out in the late hours of the weekend). Today, was a bit of a reality check.
My students were dismissed about ten minutes early to bypass the traffic for an emergency drill. About ten minutes later the drill started. All traffic was shut down for about 15-20 minutes. The main streets were cleared. This is to allow any military vehicles or emergency evacuations to travel without conjestion. It was an erie feeling, seeing a city shut down its street traffic. In a way, it was quite serene.
The moment soon came to an end, but I was reminded of the threat that is constant. The air drills ocurred in the evening and continued the belief of a possible war that occur at any moment.
