Finally, we reach the coast. The second-largest city, Hamhung is filled with a light mist – likely from the town’s heavy industry. Immense chimneys belch out steam and the factory gates are everywhere. The sea is flat, but we hope that have some waves tomorrow. We are warmly greeted at yet another luxury hotel. A little sterile for my tastes, but I’m probably not their usual type of client anyway. I ask the staff where the most tourists come from; if they are Korean or from elsewhere. I’m curious to leave the hotel and wander into the heart of town to see how “real” citizens of Hamhung live. I would really love to see that. I’m sure that I would enjoy their simple lifestyle.
Everyone seems very friendly. I come across a school, just as classes end for the day. The kids rush out of the school yard in a joyful frenzy. The street is filled with white shirts, red scarves and shouts of excitement
