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A cold snap recently gripped the Korean peninsula, pushing mercury levels well below-freezing.
But the frigid temperatures didn't stop Koreans from embracing the special sights, sounds
and savory tastes that the winter season has to offer.
Paul Yi shows us more. Here high up in the snowy mountain pass of Daegwallyeong in the
eastern province of Gangwon-do, lies a sea of fish basking in the frigid, open-air.
It's here that the local specialty food called "hwangtae" or dried yellow pollack is made,
with the assistance of the freezing temperatures and piercing winds.
"If it is not cold enough, the meat will not freeze. That's why we are working so hard
to quickly freeze the fish in these cold conditions."
The tasty fish, however, will take some time to prepare after being frozen and thawed repeatedly
on these drying racks over the next four months.
Those looking to escape to a winter wonderland can travel west to Hwacheon County, where
a breathtaking ice amusement park has been built inside a cave.
Visitors of all ages are able to enjoy the colorful, bright lights that decorate the
various famous landmarks sculpted out of blocks of ice.
"It's a little cold, but there's so many fun things for the children to experience and
for the family to have a great time. We hope to come back during the trout festival."
Meanwhile, in the central city of Daegu, a shooting range provides a heart-thumping opportunity
to ring in the holiday season with a ***.
"I came here with my friends to go shooting after attending a wedding. Getting rid of
some stress feels good, and it's even more fun when there's a friendly wager."
Whether it's freeze-drying golden fish or squeezing off some rounds, the crisp, cool
air offers many reasons to get out and enjoy winter.
Paul Yi, Arirang News