My second journey to South Korea will forever stay in my heart.
It all began in Seoul, where I was warmly welcomed by my Servas host, Ms. Eunsuk Kim. From the very first moment, she felt more like a mother than a host. She held my hand as we walked through the streets of Seoul, pointing out flowers and different trees along the sidewalks. We even went on a day trip together to visit the palace, and the museum, it became one of my best days filled with laughter, beauty, and the comforting feeling that I was not a stranger, but part of a family.
From Seoul, I proceeded to Suwon for the Servas gathering at Suwon Youth Hostel. The atmosphere was full of warmth and cheer, as Servas Korea members from different regions came together and made presentations. I was especially overjoyed to reunite with friends I had first met during the 2018 Servas International General Assembly in Seoul and also those I met during the 2024 Peace School in Uganda. Then came the cycling.
I must confess, I was a beginner and using an e-bike for the very first time! At first, I was anxious about everything that could go wrong. But each time I looked at the Servas members ahead of me, I got inspired to go on and the cheers from fellow riders made me believe that I could do it and by the second day, I was fully absorbed into the happiness, joy, calmness and the tranquility of riding in the peaceful countryside.
The routes were beautifully planned, with plenty of stopovers to rest, refresh, and soak in the breathtaking scenery.
Even though I had a few little falls, nothing serious happened, and medicine was always at hand. The best part was the freedom of riding, the fresh air brushing against my skin, and the joy of cycling along the Han River with friends, surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery I have ever seen. The event was more than just cycling. It was about people, meeting old friends who had visited Uganda during our Peace School in 2024 and Peace Ride in 2019, and creating new friendships with Servas members from Korea and other countries.
Each smile, each conversation, each shared meal deepened the meaning of the journey.
After the peace ride, I continued my adventure.
In Pohang, I was hosted by a kind and generous family who introduced me to the city’s history where I visited the temples and tombs. Later, in Busan, my dear friend Hyeseung took me to the mountains with stunning views of the city. We shared a picnic at a temple, strolled the streets, and ended our day playing ping pong, a game I had just learnt.
This journey was possible because of the love, effort, and generosity of so many Servas Korea members. My heartfelt gratitude goes to Mr. Choi Byunghwan, Mr. Youngbom Yun, the wonderful organizing committee, my hosts Ms. Eunsuk Kim in Seoul, Ms. Lee and her family in Pohang, and Ms. Hyeseung in Busan, and all my Servas friends I met along the way. You made this journey unforgettable.
Korea gave me precious memories of peace, friendship, and love. And just as I was welcomed with open arms, I would love to extend the same invitation to you all, come and visit Uganda. My home country has so much to share, its beauty, its culture, and the warmth of its people. You will always find a home with us, just as I found a home with you in Korea.
By Prossy Nampijja
Servas Uganda