Educational Journey to Residential Choices: A Tale of Two Cities

Introduction:
Hello! My life’s journey has taken me from the esteemed University of Tokyo to the dynamic Seoul National University, culminating in a life in Gwanak-gu, Seoul. As a Japanese national who has experienced education in both Tokyo and Seoul, I’ve observed a unique phenomenon: the influence our alma maters have on our post-graduation residential choices. This story gains another layer, as my wife, too, is a proud graduate of Seoul National University.

The Tokyo-Keio Line Connection:
My narrative begins in Tokyo, where I pursued my undergraduate studies at the University of Tokyo. In this city, a common pattern among graduates, especially from prestigious institutions like Tokyo University, is the tendency to settle in areas along the Keio Line. This choice is influenced by a mix of familiarity, convenience, and an unspoken loyalty to our university days. For many Tokyo University alumni, the Keio Line is more than a transportation route – it’s a connector to past experiences and a sense of belonging.

Seoul’s Gwanak-gu: A Parallel Tale:
Shifting to Seoul, where both my wife and I completed our education at Seoul National University, a similar trend is evident. Many alumni, including us, find themselves living in Gwanak-gu. The draw to this area isn’t solely due to the more affordable real estate or the lower cost of living. Gwanak-gu offers a comfortable mix of accessibility to places like Gangnam and a quieter, more familiar setting reminiscent of our university days.

Understanding the Phenomenon:
This phenomenon of university alumni choosing specific neighborhoods post-graduation spans different cultures and cities. It’s woven from nostalgia, ease, and a desire to maintain a connection to our formative years. These areas, whether it’s along the Keio Line in Tokyo or in Gwanak-gu in Seoul, represent more than geographical convenience. They are tributes to our academic journeys, anchoring us to a part of our identity shaped within university walls.

Conclusion:
Reflecting on our choices to live in Gwanak-gu after Seoul National University, I realize this pattern transcends personal preference. It’s a narrative shared by many graduates, crossing cultural and geographical lines. Our educational institutions shape not only our careers but also where we choose to call home. Our journey starts in lecture halls and extends into the neighborhoods we inhabit, a testament to the lasting impact of our university experiences.