During my travels this weekend, I did have time to visit a nearby McDonald’s. Visiting McDonald’s in Korea is a little adventure for me because it is familiar but so foreign at the same time as the Korean culture puts its spin on the Golden Arches.
When I walked into the McDonald’s near Uiejeongbu Station, I was amazed at the small size of the counter. I am used to the big lobby sized areas to have multiple lines, but this one settled for just one. The menu is similar and the Happy Meal promotion seems to be similar, although I unaware of the promotion happening in the States. The menu boards are bright and colorful and it is a video screen that changes to different advertisements while you wait. The small waiting area was understandably crowded as each of us waited one by one for our turn to order.
As I was called on to give my order, I soon found out that the girl behind the counter knew little English. She did understand what a “Number One” was, but I feared she fully did not grasp the word “combo”. I reemphasized “A coke and fries” and hoped for the best. I feel for her. She tried very hard to understand me and get my order right, at the same time getting me to move along for the next customer.
Thankfully, she did understand my order and when my number was shown on the big screen, there was a nicely wrapped Big Mac, Fries, and a Coke. I like the fact that if you eat in, these McDonald’s give you a plastic cup to drink out and return in a special place at the trash can. It is a nice touch.
I enjoyed my visit to McDonald’s this weekend and look forward to visiting a few more throughout the year.