by Journey, age 8 from Seoul, South Korea, asks Santa his Korean name, the Han River, and the city’s mix of old palaces and skyscrapers.
Dear Santa, my name is Journey, and I am eight years old. I live in Seoul, South Korea, where my halmoni says our city has a really old palace right in the middle of skyscrapers.
Dear Journey, a city with a palace tucked among skyscrapers deserves a very appreciative flyover, your halmoni picked a truly striking hometown.
Santa, I have three questions.
What is Santa called in Korea? My harabeoji just calls you Santa, but he says the pronunciation sounds a bit different.
Your harabeoji is right, Journey, in Korea I am often called Santa Kullosu, a pronunciation shaped by the Korean language. Both versions carry the very same warmth and kindness.
My halmoni says Seoul sits along the Han River. Is that true?
It is true, Journey, the Han River flows right through your city, an important part of its history and landscape. I always follow that glimmering path to help find my way to your rooftop.
My halmoni says Seoul has old royal palaces standing right next to modern skyscrapers. Is that true?
It is true, Journey, Seoul beautifully blends centuries old palaces with towering modern buildings. That kind of thoughtful balance between old and new is really something worth admiring.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Journey Kim
Seoul, South Korea
P.S. Will you say hello to Santa Kullosu for me?
Already passed along, Journey, he sends his warmest wishes right back.
