TUFA for short.
This photo catalog captures a study abroad experience in Hong Kong. But not just any study abroad experience, one during the full-fledged protests against the 2019 extradition bill in Hong Kong. That means tear gas in dorm rooms, universities with students under siege by the police, missing people, yet surprisingly with some bits of fun in between these tragedies.
There are two reasons for the name of this photo catalog. First unruly needs no introduction; and second tufa; a common limestone formation which looks like stalactites. There were tons of tufas in the places I got to climb while in my unconventional abroad experience. The catalog explores the philosophy and learnings about the culture from the countries I got to visit.
HONG KONG
the city of extremes
This is a city that has contrast embedded in its roots. I chose this destination for my foregin exchange without much thought, just knowing it had a good university and a completely different culture from mine. Yet, I was surprisingly welcomed to an amazing city with amazing nature. This is where the balance begins. The name Hong Kong even has a yin yang sound to it. From the cityscapes to the landscapes, from the richest of rich to the poorest of poor. The city is intensely diverse, you have everything you might want or need. This is the start of The Unruly Foregin Adventures, where we go on a journey through the power struggle between democracy, freedom of speech, liberty vs communism, authoritarianism, regulation, and censorship. Let the semester begin...
SOUTH KOREA
Nature, partying, and hard work
My journey led me to South Korea—a land where ancient traditions and cutting-edge technology coexist harmoniously. In Seoul, the vibrant culture was evident in the bustling streets, where neon-lit skyscrapers stood alongside historical palaces like Gyeongbokgung. The city’s markets, especially Gwangjang Market with its vibrant food stalls, stood out. An old lady there served up traditional Korean dishes that left a lasting impression. The energy was infectious, and South Koreans sure know how to party. Shout out to Soju-Bombs—if you haven’t heard of them, look it up; it’s worth it. Yet, beneath this lively exterior lies a society grappling with social pressure, where looking good and excelling are paramount. The "work hard, play harder" ethos was palpable, with excessive drinking often serving as an escape from daily stress. One morning, after a night out, I ventured to a nearby convenience store for water, feeling under-dressed compared to the impeccably styled locals—a testament to the pressure to maintain appearances, even on quick convenience store runs. While the pressure was there, the style was definitely appreciated and admired.
​
I stayed at Jin’s Paradise, a hostel run by the incredibly charismatic Jin. Jin was a one-of-a-kind, crazy Korean, and a tremendous host. He even challenged me to a push-up contest in a wager for the next round of beers. He would often chat about how everyone would go out hard but still rise early to hike around Seoul’s scenic trails. This love for nature was evident in how the city was intertwined with nature. Beyond the urban sprawl, I found solace in the serene landscapes of South Korea. The tranquil beauty of Baekyangsa Temple in Jangseong County, with its serene Buddhist retreats, offered a stark contrast to the bustling city life. The temple stay left lasting life lessons, that I still to this day remember fondly. Don’t always use a knife to cut, or you will become a knife.