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Discover Hidden Travel Gems, Unique Attractions, and Must-Visit Destinations in Korea

Explore Korea Like Never Before

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Explore Korea's Hidden Underground Shopping Gems

1. COEX Mall at Samseong Station

What's even more amazing than Korea’s vibrant night streets is the vast underground shopping areas. COEX Mall, located beneath Samseong Station on Subway Line 2, is one such place.
Even with a map, it's easy to lose your way in this enormous mall. Since its 2014 renovation, which introduced sleek white tones, the number of people getting lost has surged.
With everything from movie theaters to restaurants, clothing stores, and accessory shops, COEX Mall offers a complete experience, making it unnecessary to leave. That said, navigating your way out can be quite the challenge!

2. Gangnam Station Underground Shopping Mall

Gangnam Station on Subway Line 2 is not only known for its bustling streets but also for its underground shopping mall. It's perfect for those looking to do some light shopping, with a wide range of clothing stores and accessory shops available.

3. Express Bus Terminal Underground Shopping Mall

The underground shopping mall at the Express Bus Terminal, where Subway Lines 3, 7, and 9 intersect, is another hidden gem. You might find yourself asking, "How is this great item available at such a price here?" With price tags clearly marked, you can simply pay the listed price and enjoy the bargains.
Korea’s underground shopping malls offer a unique and convenient shopping experience that rivals the lively street scenes above ground. From the vast COEX Mall to the popular Gangnam Station and Express Bus Terminal malls, you'll find a variety of items, great deals, and endless exploration opportunities. Whether you're seeking fashion, food, or fun, Korea's underground shopping scene has it all.
The World of Underground Shopping Malls in Korea
Shopping
Travel
Woman

Essential Tips for a Safe and Comfortable Trip to South Korea

1. Expect to Be Stared At

First, you will be stared at wherever you go. Korea is a country comprised of a single ethnic group, so regardless of whether you're white, black, or Asian, it's common for people to look at you, especially in public places like the subway, buses, or taxis. Don’t take it personally—no offense is intended by Koreans.

2. Korea Is Extremely Safe

Second, Korea is incredibly safe, even 24/7. There are almost no thieves because they are sure to get caught. CCTV cameras are everywhere, covering all areas, so there are no blind spots. Feel secure no matter where you go.

3. Be Polite

Third, politeness is crucial. Koreans highly value manners and etiquette. Most Korean men are required to serve in the military, and in school, regardless of gender, students used to be punished for mistakes (though this no longer happens). Always remember: "Manners make the human."

4. Don't Hesitate to Ask for Help

Fourth, don't assume Koreans are cold. They may appear blunt at first, but it’s likely because you haven’t asked. Once you ask, they’ll gladly help and answer your questions sincerely. This is especially true for information desks and police stations, where people are exceptionally friendly.

5. What's the Last One?

What could the last important tip be?
5 Things You Must Know Before Traveling to Korea
Shopping
Culture
Travel

Discover Korea’s Love for Extremes in Food, Spice, and Sports

Extreme Love for Hot and Cold Food

Korean people are quite unique in their tastes.
They're crazy about extremely hot soup, not just warm. Boiling soup in a ceramic bowl called ttukbaegi is served so hot that it’s bubbling, and they scoop it up with a stainless steel spoon, enjoying every sip.
On the other hand, they are equally passionate about cold dishes. One popular example is naengmyeon, served in a large stainless steel bowl with frozen broth that’s so cold it feels like your head might burst. This love for extremes is deeply rooted in Korean food culture.

The Ultimate Spicy Challenge

You may know that dishes like kimchi and tteokbokki are spicy, but in Korea, there’s a level of spiciness that goes beyond what most people can handle. Take Buldak Bokkeum Myeon (fire chicken noodles), for example—it’s so spicy, it has even sent people to the hospital! Various tteokbokki brands also offer sauces with spice levels that are truly extreme, pushing your taste buds to the limit. If you’re thinking of trying them for fun, be careful—one bite could ruin your entire trip!

Archery: Where Precision Meets Extremes

Korea’s love for extremes extends beyond food into sports. Archery, an Olympic event, is one of the most precision-demanding sports, and in Korea, the competition is fierce. There's a saying that the Korean national team trials are as intense as an Olympic final. The athletes undergo intense training, which includes practicing against noise at baseball stadiums and even competing with archery robots to sharpen their skills. Koreans, it seems, don’t know how to do anything halfway!

People Who Push Beyond Limits

Whether it's food, spice, or sports, Koreans take everything to the extreme. They live life without moderation, turning simple things into extraordinary experiences.
Korea, a Country of Unconditional Extremes
Culture
Food
Why the Irresistible Smell of Deli Manjoo Drives Koreans Crazy in Subway Stations
Shopping
Food
Travel

Discover the Best Korean Dramas on Netflix: From Fantasy to Romance

Goblin

Translated Content:
"Goblin" is a hugely popular fantasy drama about an immortal goblin and his bride.
The cinematography is stunning, and the soundtrack is perfect.
The acting by the leads, Kim Go-eun and Gong Yoo, is fantastic, and the supporting roles played by Yoo In-na and Lee Dong-wook are just as great.

Reply Series

The Reply Series is set in the years 1988, 1994, and 1997, portraying the lives of young people and their families.
It’s full of relatable, charming characters and heartwarming stories about relationships and the warmth between people.

Kingdom

If you love horror or zombie shows, Kingdom is a must-watch. Set in the Joseon Dynasty, it’s a historical drama featuring battles with zombies. Get ready for heart-pounding thrills and intense action!
Must-Watch 4 Korean Dramas on Netflix
Culture
Celeb

Explore the "Museum Without Walls"

– Gyeongju's Rich Heritage and Hidden Gems

Have you heard of the city of Gyeongju in Korea?
It’s often called the "museum without walls."
Everywhere you go, you’ll encounter cultural heritage sites.

Architectural Beauty

At night, "Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond" shines even brighter, while "Cheomseongdae" stands firm both day and night. You definitely need to see the Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto, which showcase Korea's exceptional architectural beauty.

Modern Delights

Don't forget to spend some time on Hwangridan-gil, where you'll find popular restaurants, cafes, and shops that MZers love.

Travel Tips

Traveling from Seoul to Gyeongju takes about 2.5 to 3 hours by KTX, 3.5 to 4 hours by express bus, or around 4 hours by car.
Not Seoul, but Gyeongju: A Cultural Journey
Travel
Culture

Is Korean Difficult to Learn?

Hangul, the Korean alphabet, was invented in 1443 by King Sejong the Great.
It’s incredibly logical, with just 24 letters, making it one of the easiest alphabets to learn.
You can master it in just a few hours!

Grammar Differences

Grammar in Korean is quite different from English.
For example, in English, you say “I eat pizza,” but in Korean, it’s “I pizza eat” (나는 피자를 먹는다).
Additionally, there are honorifics—different ways of speaking depending on who you're talking to, adding another layer of complexity.

Pronunciation Challenges

Pronunciation can also be tricky. Korean includes sounds that don’t exist in English, such as the double consonants “ㅃ” or “ㄸ.” These unique sounds can take time to master.

Comparing Languages

Learning Korean is a whole new adventure for many Americans, who often find languages like Spanish or French easier due to similar vocabulary and sentence structure. With Korean, you need to familiarize yourself with new characters and grammar rules.
Uncover the Truth About Learning Korean: Challenges and Tips for Beginners
Culture
Travel

Discover the Global Impact of Korean Webtoons on Movies and Dramas

Korean webtoons have become a global sensation, attracting millions of fans every week.
From $3.7 billion in 2021, the webtoon market is expected to skyrocket to $56.1 billion by 2030.

Popular Adaptations

Train to Busan, Along with the Gods, Sweet Home, Itaewon Class, D.P., and Mask Girl
—these are just a few examples of movies and dramas adapted from popular Korean webtoons.

Market Growth

Naver Webtoon boasts 82 million users, and Kakao's Piccoma recorded $673 million in transactions last year. The success of webtoons is opening doors for Korean comic artists on a global scale.

Unprecedented Success

108 Webtoons on Naver Webtoon have surpassed 500 million views each. And in June 2024, Naver Webtoon was listed on the U.S. NASDAQ.

Future Releases

That Movie & Drama Was Made from a Korean Webtoon
Culture
Celeb

Special Swimming Pool in Korea

The Han River, a huge river that runs through Seoul, the capital of South Korea.
People in Korea spend a lot of time relaxing and exercising at the Han River parks.

Summer Fun

In the summer, the outdoor swimming pools at the Han River in Seoul open up for some fun right in the city. They usually operate from June to August each year, and in 2024, they'll be open every day until August 18th, unless there's bad weather like a typhoon.

Affordable Admission

The admission fees are quite affordable: about $2.30 for children, $3.10 for teens, and $3.80 for adults.
Dive into Summer Fun at the Han River Swimming Pools in Seoul
Travel
Culture
Man
Woman

Explore why pajeon and makgeolli are the ultimate comfort foods for Koreans on rainy days.

When it rains, Koreans all seem to think of the same food, like they have some kind of telepathy.
That food is pajeon, a Korean-style pancake made by mixing green onions, seafood, and flour, and frying it in oil.

Ultimate Pairing

It's often paired with makgeolli, a traditional Korean rice wine that's milky white. Together, pajeon and makgeolli make up the ultimate rainy-day comfort food for Koreans.

Other Favorites

Sure, there are other rainy-day favorites like spicy ramen, kalguksu, and sujebi, but nothing beats pajeon and makgeolli.

Unique Reasons

So why do Koreans love pajeon and makgeolli so much on rainy days? Maybe it's because the sizzling sound of frying pajeon is similar to the sound of rain.

Tradition

Traditionally, in rural areas, people would take a break from work on rainy days and enjoy pajeon with makgeolli at home.

Delicious

Korean Soul Food on a Rainy Day
Culture
Food
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A Fun and Tasty Adventure

In this YouTube Shorts video, the creator uses a spinning wheel to decide what Korean dish to eat. It’s such a fun idea—perfect for those moments when you just can’t decide what you’re in the mood for. The wheel lands on all sorts of tasty options, like the spicy tteokbokki or hearty bibimbap. It’s a playful way to explore Korean food, making the experience feel light and exciting.

Embrace the Flavors

Korean food is all about bold flavors, and this video is a great reminder of how much variety there is. It’s like having a friend guide you through their favorite dishes, but with a fun twist. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by too many choices, this roulette approach takes the pressure off and adds a bit of excitement to your meal.
Trying new foods can be a little daunting, but this video shows how fun it can be to dive into Korean cuisine. Whether you’re already a fan of Korean food or just curious to try something new, this playful approach is a perfect way to explore the delicious world of Korean dishes.

Keywords

Korean food, food roulette, tteokbokki, bibimbap, kimchi stew, Korean cuisine, try new foods, explore flavors, fun meal ideas, Korean dishes, easy meal decisions, Korean comfort food, spontaneous dining, food adventure, culinary exploration.
Let's Spin the Wheel: A Fun Way to Pick Your Next Korean Meal
Family
Food

Explore 24 Themed Gardens in the Serene Jadegarden of Gangwon-do, South Korea

Themed Gardens

Botanical Haven: Jadegarden is a small yet enchanting botanical garden nestled in the forest of Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do. Spread across a large area, it features 24 themed gardens designed to preserve the natural topography as much as possible.

Summer Retreat

Lush and Cool: The garden is known for its lush, cool environment, making it an ideal destination for a refreshing walk, even during the summer. Visitors can also enjoy convenience facilities, offering places to rest and have a drink while exploring.

Filming Location

K-Drama Connection: Jadegarden is also famous as the filming location for the popular Korean drama "Young Lady and Gentleman," which ranked 3rd in the world drama rankings on Netflix. This adds a touch of cultural significance to your visit.

Perfect Drive

Driving Destination: If you're renting a car for your trip to Korea, Jadegarden is an excellent stop on your driving itinerary. It’s a perfect addition to your travel plans if you're exploring Chuncheon, providing a scenic and relaxing experience.

European Charm

European Inspiration: One of the highlights of Jadegarden is its European-themed garden. Visitors can enjoy a unique blend of Korean and European aesthetics, showcasing how European ambiance is beautifully recreated in Korea.
Discover Jadegarden: A Hidden Botanical Gem in Chuncheon, South Korea
Cafe
Dating
Nature

Discover the Breathtaking Views at Cheongok Mountain's Yukbaekmajigi Observatory

Yukbaekmajigi Observatory

Scenic Location: Cheongok Mountain, a popular travel destination in Pyeongchang, Gangwon-do, is home to the Yukbaekmajigi observatory. This spot is renowned for its breathtaking alpine scenery, making it a favorite among tourists.

Photography Spot

Perfect for Photography: If you love taking pictures, this is a place you should visit at least once. The expansive views and natural beauty of the alpine region provide an ideal backdrop for photography.

Expansive Plateau

Wide Plateau: The mountain boasts a vast, plateau-like plain, roughly the size of six combined soccer fields. This open space allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the serene landscape.

Nature Walks

Nature-Friendly Experience: Cars are not allowed, enhancing the natural ambiance of the area. The opportunity to walk around and enjoy the stunning views makes Cheongok Mountain a perfect getaway for nature lovers.
Cheongok Mountain is a hidden gem in Pyeongchang that offers unparalleled views and a nature-friendly environment. Whether you're a photography enthusiast or someone seeking a peaceful escape, this mountain provides an unforgettable experience. The wide plateau and picturesque scenery make it an ideal spot to connect with nature and capture stunning photos.

Keywords

Explore the Scenic Beauty of Cheongok Mountain
Relaxing
Nature
Family

Experience the Magic of Sokcho-Eye Before It's Gone

Sokcho-Eye Overview

One of the must-see travel courses in Gangwon-do, Korea, Sokcho-Eye is the largest landmark Ferris wheel in the region. It’s the only Ferris wheel in Korea located on the beach, providing a unique seaside experience.

Impressive Features

Sokcho-Eye stands as tall as a 22-story apartment building and has 36 Ferris wheel cars, each accommodating up to 6 people. This means up to 216 people can enjoy the ride simultaneously.

Spectacular Views

From the top, you’ll get a breathtaking view of the East Sea of Korea. The view from such a height will leave you with an indescribable emotion, capturing the beauty of the sea at a glance.

Nighttime Beauty

At night, Sokcho-Eye sparkles in various colors, offering a different kind of beauty that transforms the Ferris wheel into a luminous spectacle.

Urgency to Visit

However, there’s an urgent reason to visit Sokcho-Eye soon. Sokcho City has declared the Ferris wheel an illegal structure and has ordered it to be dismantled. The project cost of about $7.4 million will be lost once it's destroyed.

Rising Popularity

Experience the Magic of Sokcho-Eye Before It's Gone
Sea
Friends
Dating
Family

Discover the Free-to-Use Byeolmadang Library in Korea

Byeolmadang Library

The Byeolmadang Library, located at 175, Suseong-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea, is a free-to-use cultural space that offers a unique experience. Open daily from 10:00 to 22:00 (KST), this library is a place where you can relax, read books, or listen to lectures.

Trendy Spot

The library is a popular trend spot in Korea, drawing both locals and tourists. It provides a serene environment ideal for immersing yourself in a good book or gaining knowledge from various lectures.

COEX Branch

In addition to the Suwon location, there is also a branch in COEX, Seoul. This location is approximately an hour by train from Seoul, making it accessible for those exploring the capital city.

Social Media

Stay updated and connected by following their social media handles @starfield.library and @starfield.official.

Outro

Visiting the Byeolmadang Library offers a delightful blend of relaxation and cultural enrichment. Whether you are reading, attending a lecture, or simply soaking in the ambiance, this library is a testament to Korea’s rich cultural landscape. With branches in Suwon and Seoul, it’s a must-visit for anyone interested in Korean culture and literature.

Keywords

Keywords: Korea, Korean culture, Byeolmadang Library, Suwon, Seoul, Starfield, COEX, Korean travel, cultural hotspot, reading, lectures, Korean trends, relaxation, learning, South Korea, library, tourist attraction, train travel, cultural space, free-to-use.
Experience Korean Culture at Byeolmadang Library: A Trendy Spot for Relaxation and Learning
Relaxing
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Family

Discovering Cheonggyecheon Stream: Seoul's Serene Urban Oasis

Cheonggyecheon Stream is a waterway that passes through the center of Seoul, the capital of South Korea. It has established itself as a representative resting place in downtown Seoul.

Accessibility

Several stations on the Seoul subway are located near the Cheonggyecheon Stream, making it easily accessible. Notable stations include:
•
City Hall Station, Lines 1 and 2
•
Gwanghwamun Station, Line 5
•
Euljiro 1-ga Station, Line 2
•
Euljiro 3-ga Station, Lines 2 and 3
•
Jonggak Station, Line 1
•
Dongdaemun Station, Line 1
On weekends, Cheonggyecheon-ro operates as a ‘car-free street’, making it convenient to use public transportation.

Outro

Cheonggyecheon Stream offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban convenience in the heart of Seoul. As a prime location for relaxation and sightseeing, it invites locals and tourists alike to experience the tranquility amidst the bustling city. Whether you are commuting via the nearby subway stations or strolling on the car-free weekends, Cheonggyecheon Stream stands out as a must-visit destination.
Explore Seoul's Premier Downtown Resting Place Along Cheonggyecheon Stream
Relaxing
Nature
Family
Dating
Friends

Explore Restaurants, Cafes, Shopping, and Unique Attractions at Sinsa Station

Quick Access

Sinsa Station can be reached within 10 minutes by bus from Gangnam Station.

Garosu-gil Attractions

At Sinsa Station, a street called Garosu-gil is active, so you can enjoy a variety of things at once, including restaurants, cafes, and shopping. You can also walk to Jamwon Hangang Park, located nearby.
(*Garosu-gil: Street located in the direction of Exit 8 of Sinsa Station)

Unique Plastic Surgery Clinics

One special thing is that there are a lot of plastic surgery clinics in Sinsa Station. It could be called a plastic surgery museum, and there is even a building consisting entirely of plastic surgery departments from the first floor to the top.
Sinsa Station offers a unique blend of trendy cafes, diverse dining options, and exceptional shopping experiences on Garosu-gil. Its proximity to Jamwon Hangang Park adds a touch of nature to your visit, while the abundance of plastic surgery clinics showcases Korea's advanced cosmetic industry.

Keywords

Keywords: Sinsa Station, Garosu-gil, Seoul travel, South Korea, Seoul Subway Line 3, Gangnam Station, Jamwon Hangang Park, plastic surgery clinics, Seoul attractions, trendy cafes, dining options, shopping experiences, K-culture, Seoul trip, Korea travel, Seoul tourism, unique destinations, plastic surgery museum, advanced cosmetic industry, Garosu-gil shopping.
Discover Sinsa Station: The Heart of Seoul's Trendy Garosu-gil
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