Growing up in Streator, Illinois, I had never experienced the subway. In rural Illinois, getting anywhere relies entirely on having a car and a full tank of gas - it is a completely un-walkable city! In stark contrast, South Korea offers a seamless array of transportation options. Trains, subways, buses, taxis, bikes, and walkable streets make getting around quick and efficient.
Moving to one of the world’s largest cities has opened my eyes to how isolated life in the country can feel, especially when it comes to mobility. The size difference is striking too; South Korea is smaller than the state of Illinois yet packed with vibrant urban centers. Coming from a place like Streator, there’s a wealth of new experiences to embrace, so be ready to take notes—there’s a lot to learn!
It's important to mention that Seoul, where I’m staying, doesn’t represent all of South Korea, just like Chicago doesn’t show what all of Illinois is like. Outside the city, getting around can be tougher, especially in the countryside. Still, I think South Korea has much better public transportation than the United States. Living in such a big city with so much to explore helps you learn a lot about yourself.
