Korea: My Trip in Writing and Photos

Before anything else, I want to say thank you.

After returning from Korea, I had the opportunity to share parts of the journey through videos and the Korea dinner experience at Harvest. That evening—centered around food, conversation, and shared reflection—meant a great deal to me. I’ve heard so many thoughtful responses about the meal, the stories, and the feeling in the room, and I’m deeply grateful to everyone who was able to attend.

Most of the Dr Kimm prints have now been delivered. If you haven’t received yours yet, please feel free to reach out or stop by Harvest so I can get that to you personally.

This trip was only possible because of the support I received. What began as a personal journey to train, study, and reconnect with Korean culture became something much larger. A project shaped by encouragement, generosity, and belief from so many people. Because of that support, I was able to travel through Korea with intention, take my time, and begin putting words to experiences that will stay with me for the rest of my life.

I’ve started publishing the first series of blog posts from the trip. These are travel highlights and notes about experiences . They are reflections on training, culture, food, stillness, movement, and what it means to remain both a student and a teacher. Each post focuses on a different place or experience, allowing the story to unfold gradually.

Below is the first group of posts, presented in order, for those who wants to read through the journey from the beginning:

1. Korea: The Long Way

2. Korea: First Steps in Seoul

3. Korea: Let Go and Love Yourself – Baekyangsa Temple Stay

4. Korea: The Port City – Mokpo

5. Korea: Jeju Island

6. Korea: Busan and Song Eun Hyung at Haeundae Beach

7. Korea: Two Temples, Two Lessons – Sun Mu Do and Stillness

8. Korea: Steel, Ink, and a Quiet City – Returning to Seoul

9. Korea: Hapki Zen – A Day with Grand Master Han Jung Do

Thank you to everyone who supported this trip, followed along, shared kind words, or simply took the time to read. I’m grateful for the opportunity to keep learning, writing, and to bringing others back to Korea with me.

—Justin Martin