Hi there! Thanks for taking the time to read my profile.
I joined Couchsurfing in 2013 but didn’t actively use it until 2017, when a German traveler I met in Hong Kong inspired me to give it a try. She explained how it worked and encouraged me to connect with this amazing community. That meeting motivated me to write this profile and dive into meaningful cultural exchanges.
About Me
Describing myself is a challenge, but I’ll try. I am a curious, open-minded, and empathetic person who loves meeting new people and learning about their cultures and lives. While I enjoy social interactions, I also value solitude for reflection and personal growth.
I strive to live with purpose, embracing life’s opportunities to grow, connect, and make a positive impact. Traveling has been one of the most transformative aspects of my life, shaping my perspective in countless ways.

My Journey So Far
In 2017, I walked the Camino de Santiago, covering nearly 800 kilometers over five weeks. It was a life-changing experience that introduced me to a global family of friends from Denmark, Germany, Slovenia, Finland, Ireland, and Italy. Together, we shared laughter, tears, and deep conversations, forming bonds that went beyond friendship. After the Camino, I visited these friends in their home countries, deepening those connections.
Beyond Europe, I volunteered in Cambodia (2015-2016) for six months, teaching underprivileged children and orphans in Takeo Province. This experience taught me the importance of compassion and resilience. Back in Korea, I’ve supported cancer patients, helped the homeless, and participated in initiatives like delivering coal briquettes to families during winter.

I also actively advocate for historical justice, particularly for Korea’s “Comfort Women.” These women were victims of horrific war crimes during Japan’s occupation of Korea, yet they’ve never received a sincere apology from the Japanese government. Many are now in their 80s and 90s, and I believe their stories deserve to be heard and acknowledged. By sharing their history, I hope to inspire greater awareness and empathy worldwide.

Passion for Environmental Conservation
I deeply care about protecting our planet and take small but meaningful steps to live sustainably. For example:
I always carry a tumbler and a small reusable bag for shopping to reduce waste.
I use biodegradable detergents and avoid products that harm the environment.
I’m particularly interested in combating marine desertification through initiatives like underwater reforestation ("sea forestation").
I believe that individual actions, when combined, can lead to significant change. I’m always eager to learn more about sustainability and share ideas with like-minded people.

Cultural Exchange and Community
Since childhood, I’ve been fascinated by different cultures. My first European friend was a Danish exchange student I met in 2011. Through her, I connected with many other international friends, sharing Korean culture and hospitality. My mother even cooked traditional meals for them when they visited our home. These experiences taught me the joy of cultural exchange and the value of global friendships.
In 2017, I was honored to attend a Danish friend’s wedding during my travels. Moments like these remind me of the beauty of human connection across borders.

Faith and Values
I am a follower of Jesus, and my faith is a core part of who I am. However, I believe in respecting and loving all people, regardless of their beliefs, backgrounds, or identities. I strive to live out the unconditional love and kindness that Jesus embodied.
I’m also passionate about social justice and standing up for what is right. For example, I participated in Korea’s peaceful candlelight protests during the 2016-2017 movement to impeach a corrupt president. I believe in the power of collective action to bring about meaningful change.
Hobbies and Interests
Nature and Hiking: I love immersing myself in nature. Walking the Camino de Santiago deepened my appreciation for the beauty of our planet, and I often hike Korea’s stunning mountains.
Food and Cooking: As a vegetarian (close to vegan), I’m passionate about healthy eating. I love experimenting with different cuisines, from Korean to Thai, Vietnamese, and Italian. Sharing meals is one of my favorite ways to connect with others.
Lifelong Learning: I’m an avid reader with a keen interest in science, philosophy, and history. Expanding my knowledge and understanding of the world is something I deeply value.
Personality
I’m an optimist at heart. Even in challenging times, I focus on what I can be grateful for. Life’s ups and downs have made me mentally resilient and deeply empathetic toward others. I believe in kindness, understanding, and the power of small actions to make a big difference.
Why I’m on Couchsurfing
Couchsurfing, to me, is about meaningful connections and cultural exchange. I’m here to meet inspiring people, share stories, and learn from different perspectives. If I stay with you, I’d love to share my culture, cook a meal together, or simply enjoy thoughtful conversations.

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Added 21 January 2025

Camino de Santiago: My Journey of Healing and Gratitude
In February 2022, my life took an unexpected turn. A sudden accident not only left me physically injured but also exposed me to betrayal and injustice. I was defrauded by my landlord, leading to a legal battle for the return of my deposit, and was falsely accused of property damage I didn’t commit. Though I was ultimately cleared of all charges, the emotional toll was overwhelming.
For someone who had always strived to live honestly and uprightly, this period felt like the trials of Job—unfair, exhausting, and heartbreaking. Each day brought challenges that shook me to my core, yet through it all, I held onto my faith. Every morning, I found solace in prayer and scripture, pouring out my tears and burdens to God. Even as I submitted evidence to prove my innocence, I sought strength not in myself but in Him.
It was during this time that my heart yearned for the Camino de Santiago, a place I had walked before and considered my spiritual home. The Camino had always been a journey of reflection and renewal for me, but now it became a beacon of hope—a path to reclaim my joy and gratitude.
In 2023, barely a year after my accident, I returned to the Camino for the third time. At that point, I could barely straighten my legs, move my fingers, or even walk without pain. The physical and emotional scars made every step feel impossible, and I even found myself in moments of despair where I questioned if I could keep going. Yet, in those darkest moments, God’s love lifted me. Slowly but surely, I found healing in the simple rhythm of walking, the beauty of nature, and the kindness of strangers.
That Camino became a turning point. Every day, I walked with tears of gratitude, singing praises and feeling the overwhelming love of God through the people and experiences around me. By the time I reached Santiago, I felt alive again, full of hope and peace.
Winter Camino 2024-2025: Carrying My Cross
This past winter, from December 2024 to January 2025, I completed my fourth Camino. Walking through the harsh cold, with a heavy pack and lingering physical pain, this journey was unlike any before. The weight I carried was not just physical but symbolic—a reminder of the burdens I had faced and the cross I had chosen to bear.
Each step through the freezing paths became a prayer, a meditation on resilience and surrender. The physical challenges were immense; some days, the aftereffects of my injuries left me feeling numb or paralyzed. Yet, even in those moments, I found strength in my faith. I entrusted every burden, every pain, and every worry to God, finding solace in the knowledge that He walks beside me.
This Camino reminded me that life, like the path, is filled with trials, but it’s also filled with beauty, redemption, and grace. The kindness of those I met along the way, the majesty of God’s creation, and the quiet moments of prayer and praise filled me with gratitude. Completing this pilgrimage was not just a physical achievement but a spiritual triumph—a testament to God’s unwavering love and the resilience He has given me.

Why I Speak English Well
As a native Korean, I often get asked how I speak English so fluently despite never having lived in an English-speaking country. The answer lies in my deep love for people and my natural curiosity. Ever since I was a child, even when I didn’t know my ABCs, I would approach foreign visitors in Korea to offer help. I believed that, for each person I met, I was like a cultural ambassador representing Korea.
This mindset inspired me to explore different languages and cultures. Over time, I immersed myself in English through music, movies, and conversations, enjoying the process rather than treating it as a chore. Although my language skills aren’t perfect, I’ve grown to love learning and using new languages as a way to better understand the world. I also believe that language is one of the most essential elements of culture, so I never hesitate to try learning a new one.
English, as a global language, holds special importance to me, and I always strive to improve. I know I have more to learn, but that excites me because the journey itself is so rewarding.

Reflection
My life has been far from easy, with countless turning points and challenges that tested my strength and faith. Yet, through it all, I have learned to give thanks. I am here today because of God’s grace and His endless love.
The Camino de Santiago has been more than just a journey; it’s been a mirror to my soul and a canvas for my faith. Every step has been a reminder that, no matter how heavy the cross, I can lay it at the feet of Jesus and continue forward with hope.
To those reading this, I want to share that life may not always be easy, but there is beauty in perseverance, joy in gratitude, and peace in faith. May we all find our paths and walk them with courage and love.

我为什么加入 Couchsurfing

I aspire to live like a local wherever I go, immersing myself in the rhythms of daily life and embracing the diversity of cultures and traditions around me.

兴趣

• arts
• writing
• books
• singing
• architecture
• photography
• make up
• animal welfare
• human rights
• italian food
• cooking
• vegetarian
• vegan
• organic food
• sauna
• gardening
• flowers
• politics
• reading
• traveling
• drawing
• live music
• classical music
• jazz
• opera
• hiking
• backpacking
• kayaking
• camping
• sailing
• skydiving
• christian
• track and field
• extreme sports
• philosophy
• language exchange
• volunteering
• solo travel
• adventure travel
• sightseeing
• historic sites
• beaches
• mountains
• nature
• watching movies
• learning languages
• exhibitions
• africa
• reading books
• playing guitar
• learning new things
• aurora borealis
• different cultures
• australia
• canada
• love
• lego
• world history
• norway
• switzerland
• curiosity
• northern lights
• denmark
• make new friends
• northern europe

音乐、电影和书籍

Music
Music is my universal language, and I enjoy exploring all genres to experience the unique "flavors" each has to offer. Whether it’s classical, opera, rock, Christian music, new age, hip-hop, R&B, or jazz, I find something to love in every style.

If I had to pick one genre for daily listening, it would be classical music—it brings me a sense of calm and peace. I also adore Jeff Buckley’s mesmerizing voice.

I enjoy singing too! I can perform timeless Italian classics like *O Sole Mio*, *Torna a Surriento*, and *O Mio Babbino Caro*. I even know a few Indonesian songs and, of course, pop songs and beloved Korean hits.

Speaking of Korean music, I highly recommend listening to Park Hyoshin’s soulful voice—it’s truly magical. Korea has so much more to offer beyond idol groups, with artists like Jaeil Jeong (*Parasite*’s composer), Sohyang, Lena Park, Naul, and the globally acclaimed pianist-composer Yiruma showcasing their incredible talents.

Additionally, Korean traditional music has found its place on the global stage through artists like **LEENALCHI**. Their modern reinterpretation of *pansori* (traditional Korean narrative singing) has captivated audiences worldwide, leading them to perform at major festivals across Europe and beyond. It’s a brilliant example of how tradition and innovation can create something extraordinary.

K-pop sensations like BTS and traditional Korean music blend past and present, creating something uniquely powerful. Music for me isn’t just sound—it’s a bridge connecting hearts across cultures.

Movies
Movies are a portal to different worlds and emotions. I enjoy a wide range, but I have a special love for classic films, especially musicals. The Sound of Music is my all-time favorite, alongside Mary Poppins, My Fair Lady (anything Audrey Hepburn!), Amadeus, August Rush, The Pianist, and Step Up.
I also love thought-provoking films like Forrest Gump, Troy, A River Runs Through It, and Seven. Historical and biblical epics such as The Passion of the Christ, Ben-Hur, and The Ten Commandments hold a special place in my heart.
That said, I can’t resist a bit of action and adventure! I’m a fan of Indiana Jones, James Bond, and the Marvel and DC universes. I also appreciate documentaries that inspire and educate.
Recently, Squid Game captivated global audiences, and I found it fascinating to see the world discover a new layer of Korean storytelling.

Shows
I love the energy of live performances—theater, opera, classical concerts, or even a Beyoncé concert! One unforgettable experience was watching Slava’s Snowshow with my mom over a decade ago—it felt magical.
While I don’t watch much TV, I’ve always enjoyed Infinite Challenge, a legendary Korean variety show that captured creativity and humor. Experiencing live art, whether it’s a philharmonic orchestra or an immersive theater production, always leaves me inspired.

Books
Books have always been my gateway to imagination and understanding. My favorite book is the Bible, which provides me with wisdom, guidance, and a deeper appreciation of love and life.
I also enjoy timeless classics like Le Petit Prince, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, What Men Live By, and works by Shakespeare. Among my favorites are Pride and Prejudice, Crime and Punishment, The Great Gatsby, 1984, and Capital: Critique of Political Economy. I find joy in children’s books, too—they always bring a smile to my face.
Recently, I’ve been incredibly proud of Han Kang, a Korean writer who was honored with the Nobel Prize in Literature. Her poignant storytelling introduces Korean literature to the world with incredible depth and grace.
Beyond fiction, I often read books about health, nutrition, and cancer—topics that resonate deeply with my life.

A Final Thought
Through music, movies, books, and live performances, I seek to connect with the world’s diversity and creativity. Whether it’s sharing a Korean meal, discussing global phenomena like BTS or Squid Game, or diving into deep conversations about art and culture, I love moments of genuine connection.
I hope to bring this same passion and curiosity to every experience and conversation, making each meeting meaningful and memorable.

我做过的一件不可思议的事情

My Camino de Santiago Pilgrimage

The Camino de Santiago has been a transformative journey throughout my life, and each pilgrimage has brought new lessons, challenges, and profound gratitude. My most recent Caminos in 2023 and 2024-2025 were especially significant, shaped by personal struggles, faith, and resilience.

April 27 – May 31, 2017: My first Camino was the Camino Frances, an 800-kilometer pilgrimage from St. Jean Pied de Port in France to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. It was life-changing, filled with connections to incredible people from around the world. Together, we became a “Camino family,” sharing meals, stories, and unforgettable moments that bonded us deeply.

May – June 2019: Two years later, I walked the same route again. Revisiting familiar paths while meeting new people reminded me of the Camino’s timeless beauty and its ability to bring peace and renewal.

April 10 – May 6, 2023: This Camino marked one of the most challenging periods of my life. In February 2022, I was involved in a devastating car accident where I was run over. Miraculously, my bones weren’t broken, but my nerves were severely damaged, leaving me in constant pain with lingering aftereffects that I still struggle with today.

Walking the Camino Frances just a year after the accident was physically and emotionally overwhelming. I carried not only the pain of my injuries but also the emotional weight of what I had endured. Despite the tears and suffering, I met three incredible people along the way who became my support system. With their kindness and encouragement, I was able to complete the journey. Our bond grew so strong that we even celebrated our one-year anniversary of meeting with a trip together in April 2024.

December 13, 2024 – January 11, 2025: This winter Camino was one of the most significant experiences of my life. 2024 had been a year of intense struggle for me. After the accident, I moved to a new home in August 2022, only to face two years of unbearable living conditions. The house was plagued with leaks, and despite my efforts to resolve the issues with the landlord, they ignored my requests.

When the lease finally ended in August 2024, the landlord refused to return my deposit, leading to immense stress. I pursued legal action, including a lawsuit and a tenant’s lien registration, but they countered by falsely accusing me of vandalism and trespassing. The criminal case ended with my full acquittal, but the civil case required me to compromise financially to move on with my life. These experiences left me drained both materially and emotionally.

It was during this time that I felt a deep calling to return to the Camino, seeking healing and connection with God. Despite the freezing weather, limited resources, and the physical pain of my injuries, I walked the Winter Camino with a heart full of faith. Each step felt like carrying the burdens of my life, but I was reminded of Jesus carrying the cross.

The solitude allowed me to reflect deeply and lean into my faith. I prayed with every step, finding strength in humility and surrendering fully to God’s will. There were days when the pain was unbearable, but through prayer and determination, I completed the journey. This Camino became a symbol of resilience, gratitude, and renewal, marking a pivotal moment in my life.

Why the Camino Means So Much to Me

The Camino de Santiago is more than just a physical journey—it is a spiritual and emotional path that reflects the struggles and joys of life itself. Each pilgrimage has taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, faith, and the beauty of human connection.

The 2023 and 2024-2025 Caminos were especially meaningful because they came at times when my life was filled with immense challenges. From recovering after a life-changing accident to enduring legal battles and emotional exhaustion, the Camino gave me a space to heal, reflect, and rediscover my faith.

The solitude of the winter Camino, the kindness of strangers, and the reminder of God’s unwavering love carried me through the hardest days. It taught me to walk with humility, gratitude, and trust, knowing that even in life’s darkest seasons, there is hope and purpose.

The Camino continues to be a source of inspiration and healing in my life, reminding me to embrace every step, no matter how difficult, with faith and a grateful heart.

教，学，和分享

I believe that everyone has something unique to teach, shaped by the beautiful differences in our lives.

Languages fascinate me, and I dream of learning as many as possible—not just to communicate, but to truly connect and understand the world from diverse perspectives.

I also love sharing the joy of food—whether it’s my favorite vegetarian dishes or authentic Korean cuisine. Let me know if you’d like a taste of Korea!

我可以与沙发主分享些什么

I enjoy sharing meaningful experiences and engaging in deep, heartfelt conversations. I believe that stories and connections are the best gifts we can give one another.

If ingredients are available, I’d be delighted to cook Korean dishes for you, prepared with a plant-based twist. From hearty stews to fresh side dishes, I’d love to give you a taste of Korea through healthy and delicious meals!

我游览过的国家

Cambodia, China, Denmark, England, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Ireland, Malaysia, Netherlands, Northern Ireland, Philippines, Portugal, Scotland, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, United Kingdom, Viet Nam

我居住过的国家

Denmark, South Korea