How I came to ringing Hyowon’s giant Bell

Posted on February 9, 2019 by Stefan Voswinkel, Business & Career Mentor, Photographer

I wanted to walk the entire length of the Suwon Fortress Wall – which entails a steep hill. I was richly rewarded by getting warm on a sunny but chilly day, and a fantastic view across the city. And then I heard this deep, deep, sound of a bell and got curious. Soon I see it….and, of course, wanted to take a picture.

BUT some lady in a ticket booth nearby screamed at me through a loudspeaker that I had to pay. I replied that I hadn’t taken a photo yet and didn’t want to pay for that. She corrected me stating that my mere presence on the bell grounds warranted payment. So I paid the 1,000 Won (CAD 1.30, please accuse me of being cheap 🙂 And then I paid another 1,000 Won because I had discovered I could ring that giant bell myself three times – what a value! And I teared up when I saw what each ring meant. It made my day! On my way down the hill I encountered a giant Buddha statue.

Published by Stefan Voswinkel, Business & Career Mentor, Photographer

I have travelled to 31 countries so far. What exploring means to me: Venture into the Yukon backcountry by snowmobile - arriving at spectacular vistas with my buddy; enjoying world cafés (non-franchise please!) and the interesting conversations that blossom there; collaborating with free spirits. I feel attracted to people who truly care and have a backbone. Accountability and life-long learning are important to me. Political correctness is not my thing. My interests include all things aviation, the global economy, entrepreneurship, drumming (funky grooves!), winter photography and Korea. I’m passionate about mentoring and coaching others. I am tutoring professionals from around the globe in conversational German and English. If you are interested in my professional experience and expertise, please see my LinkedIn profile. https://ca.linkedin.com/in/stefanvoswinkel All texts and photos are mine. Please respect my copyright and name the source if you quote me. View all posts by Stefan Voswinkel, Business & Career Mentor, Photographer