Kim-Yu-Jin, University of Ulsan
Imagine a bright warm sunshine day, a cool breeze blowing through your hair, a wide open sea with leaping whales welcoming you, and breathtaking traditions everywhere. You might think that there could never be a place like this, but this place does exist, and it is the very city in which I live. Yes, apart from mountains, beaches, and a thriving industrial sector, Ulsan has much more to offer, and is a great city that you should come visit for at least two additional reasons.
First, it is such a great place to learn more about whales. Whales only show up in places where there is an abundance of krill for them to eat, and where the ocean temperature is around 5℃-10℃, making Ulsan the perfect spot for these marine mammals. Since ancient times, people were helped by whales and now Ulsan is working together as a city to protect whales from becoming extinct. In the summer, the city hosts its annual Whale Festival to promote their protection, and offers dolphin watching cruise tours. There is a whale museum for people who would like to know more about them and you can even buy some cute dolphin shaped breads over there. So, if you want to see them with your own eyes, you should definitely come to Ulsan.
Secondly, should you decide to visit Ulsan, you will get to know more about Korea’s special pot, called an Onggi. Onggi is a special kind of pottery which ancient people used to store food, and is uniquely Korean. What is special about Onggi is that they have tiny holes that help with ventilation and keeping food fresh. Ulsan is famous for them because about 50% of Onggi that we use today were made in Ulsan. If you visit Ulsan, you will be able to see the world’s biggest Onggi, and the Onggi museum and potters who continue to make Onggi pots to this day.
As you can see, Ulsan has a lot to offer visitors, particularly with regards to marine mammals and ancient Onggi pots. Besides these two reasons, there are lots of other gems and reasons why you should visit my hometown someday. Should you choose to do so, I guarantee that you that you will not be disappointed.
