The day began very early at 5am in order to attend a morning prayer service at Myungsung Church, the largest Presbyterian church in the world with 150,000 members. The founder and pastor, Dr. Kim San Whan, preached the service to about 6,000 people in a sanctuary that holds 7,200. The group accidentally ran into him in the lobby and were able to say hello and take a picture (some of didn’t go to the service).
After service we went to our favorite breakfast spot, the Flower Cafe, and headed to Gyeungbokgung Palace for a tour. The palace was that of the the last king of Korea. It was absolutely beautiful and we had a great guide who explained everything is English. We were also able to see the changing of the guard, which was on par with Buckingham Palace.
Then it was time for lunch and shopping at the famous Insadong. There were tons of shops and all of us were able to find some great souvenirs and gifts. Then it was to the mall for more shopping and back to the guest house before dinner. We had quite a time catching a taxi since the city was preparing for a parade to begin the festivities to celebrate Buddha’s birthday next week. But we made it, got ready and headed for an amazing surprise from our fearless leaders, Ken and Sung Hee.
They took us to the Korea House, which is a restaurant and theatre. We ate an amazing seven course meal of traditional Korean dishes and then enjoyed a beautiful show of dancing and music. It was such a great treat to begin the end of our time in Korea. Tomorrow is our last day and then we will head for China.
Meeting with Dr. Kim.
Hanging out with one of the guards.
A section of the palace.
Octopus bibimbap for lunch!
Learning how to eat course one at dinner.
We had our own private building!
One of the many beautiful performances.
UPSem in Asia 
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