OSU-PNU 2006

Today was the first day of the lunar month (a new moon), so a free lunch was being served to all who visited the temple today. We didn't think we would get to participate in this because there were many people waiting in line when we got to the lunchhall. We decided to see some sights first and then return. When we did, we were able to get in quite quickly.

Eun-A (P class) and Hyo-Eun (N class) were two students I ate with. The food was served cafeteria style; the menu was seaweed soup, rice, and four types of panchan (sidedishes) - kimchi, cucumber kimchi, beansprouts, and a chopped green vegetable. Each food was put in it's own place on the metal trays seen in the picture. The dining hall was divided into two parts - one with tables and one without. We sat in the room without, which is more the traditional Korean style of eating. After eating, we took the metal trays to the kitchen and washed them along with our spoons and chopsticks ourselves. Then we took them to one of the workers for inspection. Unfortunately, I did not pass inspection the first time. There was a small bit of rice stuck to the tray, so I had to return and rewash the tray. I passed the second inspection. :)