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Narrative Essay: My Trip to South Korea

I had always wanted to visit South Korea and I recently had the chance to spend a week in this amazing country. Unlike its northern neighbor which is pretty much closed to visitors, South Korea is a welcoming and hospitable country. It is an interesting place with a unique culture and a highly developing economy.

I flew into the capital Seoul. On arrival in the city, it was the marked contrast between modern skyscrapers and high design shopping malls and shanty towns that was immediately striking. Wide streets lined by fancy boutiques lead to a labyrinth of narrow alleyways with tiny traditional shops and eateries and there is a clutch of great tourist attractions.

My tour itinerary began on Seoul’s main boulevard, Sejongro, because I wanted to see the Royal Palace (Gyeongbok), the President’s residence, known as Cheongwadae or the Blue House, and the American Embassy. From here it’s a fairly short walk to Bukchon where there is the city’s largest collection of privately owned traditional wooden houses. It’s a charm with beautiful architecture and small courtyards, with the houses interspersed with quaint cafes and art galleries.

Taking the same route the next day, I took a trip into the mountains that peak behind the President’s House, and climbed the one known as Bugaksan. This affords the opportunity to pass through the Sukjeongmun Gate and through the city’s ancient fortress wall. From here the Seoul Fortress is easily accessible and there are also amazing views of Seoul.

Shopping in the Orient is an amazing experience so I made sure to pay a visit to the Shinsegae downtown department store. This huge emporium sells probably everything you can imagine and is a complete charm in the way the bottom floors sell all the basic staples of daily life – including the ubiquitous kimchee (fermented cabbage) and are frequented by Korean housewives while the upper floors cater to the well-heeled and brand conscious. As fascinating as it is, the new rooftop garden is a welcome respite. But, if you are going to shop in Seoul, it’s a must to visit the street stalls and hawkers of the Namdaemum Market where the wares seem to be spread out in a blanket of never-ending stalls. Be prepared to be seriously jostled by the crowds, but it’s also the chance to feast on the best street food.

One of the most surprising sights and a rue delight is the Cheonggyecheon Stream. Running for just under 4 miles through the city, the stream is remarkably quiet given its location, because it is 15 foot below street level. The serene setting, accentuated by waterfalls and bridge is a favorite strolling spot for romantic couples.

With a flying visit to Itaewon, the popular ex-pat neighborhood near to the main US army base, my time in Seoul came to an end. I was enthralled and captivated and hope I get to return one day.

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• South Korea
• 15 Reasons Why You Should...

15 Reasons Why You Should Visit South Korea at Least Once in Your Lifetime

While South Korea might not yet be the number one travel destination for many around the world, there are plentiful reasons why you should visit the country of the morning calm on your next vacation. From history to culture and food to religion, take a look at our guide to the top reasons why you should visit South Korea at least once in your lifetime.

1. pulsating culture.

Natural Feature

Due to their long history, South Koreans have a variety of traditions they have kept alive throughout centuries. Still today, you can watch traditional Korean dance and music performances, while people love to dress in traditional clothes ( hanbok ) – you can rent it to wear around Seoul and Jeonju , for example. Even in modern Seoul, you can still find traditional hanok house neighborhoods with lovely teahouses that have been in existence for decades. This mix of old and new is truly fun to explore when traveling in South Korea.

2. Rich History

The history of South Korea is long and dating back over a thousand years. Due to the natural isolation of the Korean Peninsula, the country’s culture hasn’t changed as much as in other regions. Still today, you can stand in awe of some of the most significant cultural heritage sites of the country, such as Gyeongbokgung Palace , the main palace situated in Seoul . The city of Gyeongju is also a place of historic value and is often called a ‘museum without walls’. Gyeongju was the capital of Korea during the Silla Dynasty from 57 BC – 935 AD and is home to countless royal tombs, palaces, and temples that are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites.

3. Year-round Festivals

When you are for the first time in South Korea, make sure you visit a festival . Every year, there are more festivals in South Korea than one could attend, with a couple of main festivities everyone likes to join in with. When the snow melts and the weather gets warmer, pink and white cherry blossoms transform South Korea into a magical wonderland for a short period at the beginning of spring, and thousands of people come to see the blossoms from all over the country. Buddha’s Birthday is another major holiday celebrated in May with lantern parades and performances at local temples, while in fall, Koreans celebrate their own version of Thanksgiving during Chuseok and honor their ancestors during proudly conducted ceremonies. In fact, there are festivals in every month of the year for every taste.

4. Exciting Food

Koreans are very proud of their unique cuisine. This is another result of the country’s natural isolation and climate leading to particular food preparation methods. Take kimchi , for example, the country’s number one side dish made from salted and fermented vegetables that are kept in jars for months, one of many practices used to protect food during harsh winters. Over the centuries, Koreans have created a fascinating and rich food culture made up of meat dishes, stews, soups, noodle dishes, seafood and many vegetable side dishes. Visit South Korea and you should spend an entire day roaming street markets sampling your way through this concert of flavors.

5. Vibrant Cities

While Seoul is arguably the most thrilling city in South Korea, it’s not the only large city that’s worth a visit. Despite its small size, South Korea has plenty of exciting cities from north to south. Busan in the very south, for example, is the country’s second largest city and located on a beautiful coastline with sandy beaches and clear ocean water. Jeonju in the west of the country is one of the last places featuring a traditional old town with Korean hanok houses and a beautiful destination in spring and fall. Each of Korea’s nine provinces has its own local cuisine and attractions that are worth exploring.

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6. K-pop Culture

South Korea is world-famous for its exciting music culture. K-pop is not only a music genre, it’s part of Korean culture that captures people all over Asia and the world. Walking down main pedestrian streets in South Korea, you will hear the latest hits of the industry. K-pop fans visit South Korea in waves and visit their favorite group’s or singer’s music label, get a K-pop makeover or visit K-pop-themed cafés. If you’re not yet into Korean music, we guarantee you that after you visit South Korea, you will be.

7. Korean Trendsetters

K-pop and Korean fashion go almost hand in hand. However, in recent years, South Korea has not only become known for coming up with quirky outfits for their boy and girl groups but also setting global trends in regular fashion. Seoul Fashion Week, for example, is becoming more and more visited by international designers and fashion labels who visit fashion shows to import Korean fashion lines to their home countries in Europe, America, Africa and all over Asia. Visiting Seoul, visitors will also notice that South Koreans, in general, are very fashionable and love to experiment and show off their hot streetwear on the streets of Seoul. Visit Dongdaemun, Gangnam or Myeongdong to get your own sets of Korean outfits to take home with you.

8. Quirky Entertainment Options

Entertainment is very important to South Koreans and they come up with new ways to keep themselves amused almost every month. We have all heard of the quirky themed cafés all over Seoul that offer visitors the chance to pet cats or dogs, play with racoons, cuddle with meerkats and engage with all kinds of other animals. There are also themed cafés that allow you to dress up as a princess and take pictures or eat food shaped like poop. Karaoke rooms have also been part of Korean entertainment for decades and are popular among all age groups. PC rooms are also well-visited, usually by a younger crowd, who compete in a variety of online games with people from all over the world – so much so that South Korea has become a leading force in global e-sports.

You can find even more tranquility and inner peace when joining a one- or two-day templestay program, which allows you to spend some time living like Buddhist monks in temples across Korea. While the Korean templestay program might not be as heard of around the world, it’s a well-established organization offering English-speaking programs to anyone around the country. Whether you want to experience a templestay in downtown Seoul or in rural South Korea on top of a mountain, the options are endless and the results are incredibly rewarding.

Futuristic Modernity

In contrast to its historic landmarks, South Korea is a pioneer in creating new and innovative structures. Looking at Seoul, for example, you are surrounded by futuristic buildings in one part of the city, such as the Dongdaemun Design Plaza by Zaha Hadid, while traditional hanok neighborhoods lie just around the corner. Earlier this year, Seoul proudly opened the world’s fifth largest skyscraper piercing majestically out of the ground overlooking the Han River. It comes with little surprise that some of the world’s leading companies are also located here, including Samsung, Hyundai and Kia.

Make-up and Skincare

Ever wonder why Korean women (and men!) have flawless and stunningly beautiful skin? Koreans see taking care of their skin as an essential part of their daily lives and they spend more money on skincare and beauty than anywhere else in the world. Many Koreans even have a ten-step morning and night routine they strictly follow day after day to maintain their beautiful skin. It’s therefore no wonder that South Korea is home to countless skincare and make-up brands offering the most innovative and futuristic products on the global market. If that’s not a great reason to come to Korea, then we don’t know what is!

Quiet Countryside

As South Korea is not yet a worldwide popular vacation destination like its neighbors China and Japan , you will find untouched rural areas giving insight into traditional Korean lifestyle. While around 20% of all South Koreans live in and near Seoul, it’s especially the small rural villages where you can find peace and quiet. The well-connected railway and express bus systems make it easy to also explore the less visited areas of the country. You’ll be surprised that you can find lush rice terraces and hidden temples right here in South Korea.

Stunning Coastline and Beaches

Due to South Korea being a peninsula, the country offers miles and miles of beautiful coast and stunning beaches. Korea also has a lot of beautiful islands, the most popular and largest one being Jeju Island . Jeju Island is one of Korea’s most visited destinations thanks to its exceptional natural wonders and breathtaking beaches. Another beautiful beach and coastal region is Jeollado in the west of the country. Moreover, the eastern coast is famous for beautiful sunrises, the earliest in the country.

Picturesque Mountain Ranges

South Korean attractions include beautiful national parks. Despite its small size, South Korea is home to 22 national parks with countless mountains. The island of Jeju has the highest peak in South Korea, the shield volcano Hallasan. Another popular hiking area is Seoraksan, the third tallest mountain in the country at 1,708 meters (5,603 feet). You can hike around this national park on Culture Trip’s 10-day adventure around South Korea . It’s exactly this combination of mountains and coast that make South Korea such a thrilling destination.

Four Amazing Seasons

Due to South Korea’s location in East Asia, the country is blessed with changing seasons. This makes Korea an exciting place to travel and live. No matter when you travel to Korea, you’ll be surprised with breathtaking seasonal changes in nature, such as cherry blossoms in the spring, flower fields in the summer, colorful foliage in the fall and a white wonderland in the winter. Besides the changing weather, each season also has special festivals and also dishes, such as the Taebaeksan Snow Festival in winter and cold noodles in summer.

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All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

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My first trip to seoul, korea.

After leaving Bangkok, I didn’t think I could encounter a bigger city but landing in Seoul I could see I was in for a shock. Seoul is such a dense city, with thousands of people on the street around you at all times. SO MANY PEOPLES! I couldn’t believe it, but I loved my trip to Korea.

My flight from Bangkok to Seoul was very tiring as I was in an aisle seat and ever since I can remember I’ve never been able to fall asleep for the life of me when I’m sitting in an isle seat. We had left for the airport in Bangkok at 11:30pm and landed in Seoul at 10:30am local time. Not having slept a wink you can imagine how delirious I was. I even fell asleep in the taxi on the way to the hotel, which looked like a racing car I might add. The moment I landed at the airport, I immediately noticed the cleanliness and that continued on throughout Seoul. As big and crowded as the city is, the people and city of Seoul take so much pride in cleanliness, order and efficiency! Everything is so exact and timely. I was very impressed. Once I checked into the Grand Hotel in Myeongdong I decided to lay down and try to rest a bit before venturing out but a couple dozen emails later, I realized a nap wasn’t going to happen so I got dressed and went for a walk.

I ended up in a nearby mall’s food court only to be impressed once again by the spread in the basement food court of a mall in Asian. I don’t think I can describe it accurately and it’s something everyone should see for themselves but imagine a large group of immaculate restaurants serving the most enticing food you’ve ever seen. By large, I mean thirty plus restaurants all next to each other so when you make the rounds you can’t decide what looks better so you often end up over-eating at multiple places and that’s how I packed on the weight that I am working off as we speak. What I want to stress to everyone is the importance of doing a lap around the whole cafeteria (if you can even call it that) before you make a decision of where to eat on your second lap. It’s definitely an experience to say the least!

I can’t stress enough the cleanliness of Seoul! I ended up doing a mixture of subways and taxis while I was there and having been in subways and public transportation in other cities I was so impressed at how clean it was down there! The bathrooms were immaculate and everyone in the subways followed the same rule and gave up their seat to anyone their senior. I thought that was so honorable.

The people of Seoul were so respectful. For example, every interaction ended with “kam sam ham ni da” a formal thank you. When presenting anything, it is customary to hold the right arm when extending your hand. The children are also very well behaved in public. I can say for certain I did not see a single child throwing a tantrum or being disrespectful. Not once.

For as much tourism as there is in that city they do a great job for keeping order. There are lines even in the escalators (the right side for people standing still and the left for people that want to climb up faster to make the exit of the subway systems more efficient. I also really loved the accuracy of their posted signs. For example, the signage for indicating the bathroom locations also have an exact distance of how many meters from your location it is. Also the digital signs indicating the location of the subway train in real time as it’s approaching you was extremely helpful.  Not that you are there bored by a means because you can entertain yourself with the many ads displayed on the walls as well as large LED screens that frankly were better quality then what I have at home! What I though was extremely amusing was all the plastic surgery ads as soon as you enter the ritzy part of town which is known for their abundant plastic surely centers. The advertisements showcase the before and after pictures of surgeries such as jaw shaving, eye lip/eye fold surgery (the most popular one), feet, nose, lips, toes… Really anything you can think of! You can walk around that part of town and see patients walking around hiding their scars and stitches with the white surgical masks people tend to wear to help combat the bad air pollution.

On top of the surgeries, people there are obsessed with preserving their youthful appearances. They will be covered from head to town in blistering heat as well as using an umbrella to combat the high UV rays that supposedly plague the area. To me everything seemed normal but I guess people there check the UV index as casually as I check the weather. Also, the skin care scene there is unparalleled by any other country. You can’t walk more than 15 feet before you see another skin care store. I am not exaggerating! They are that abundant there. As you would expect I did some shopping and will be posting my reviews of their skin products as soon as I’ve tested them. I would literally be walking down the street and at the end of the day end up with at least five free samples. Not to mention, when you purchase any products they usually throw in a bunch of free stuff and give you a discount! I felt as if I had hit the jackpot. I even bought skin care for men which I will make my guy friends try and report back to me. All the beauty stores were intoxicating and I couldn’t help myself but shop.

On another note, I greatly enjoyed the food in Seoul. I was already a big fan of Koran BBQ and absolutely love Kimchi so you can imagine I was in haven. I tried a few different Korean BBQ places and was even taken to a Korean BBQ type place that was inspired by a part of China that is mainly muslim. Instead of the traditional pork and beef dishes they served lamb skewers that we cooked at our table on a contraption that rotated our skewers for us.

I also got to experience a little bit of the nightlife in an artsy section of town called Seo Gyo Dong where the design students study. The area was cluttered with cafes! I was in heaven. You could literally walk down the street and pass a cafe a minute. We stopped at one called the Green Cloud Cafe where I discovered a new type of tea made from fruits and honey. In that part of town, I also had my first Korean Popsicle which I went on to have another and another… I mainly tired the watermelon one and the cantaloupe one and I was again surprised with the accuracy of the taste! In the watermelon Popsicles, the pieces that looked like seeds actually tasted like seeds. We also went to a pork only Korean BBQ place where I probably consumed more pork than I have in my whole life. I also noticed that Seoul had so many options of decadent desserts at every cafe. So many choices and so many calories, but I did try a few. I stuck with the traditional Korean choices, things I wasn’t going to find easily back in the states.

I was very lucky to have been traveling with friends and some were locals to Seoul. That made it so much easier to get a great tour of the city. One night we even stopped by a bar that a great little alternative rock band playing live music. It was reminiscent of what a small live music night at a bar would be in the Silver Lake area of Los Angeles. Then, we even headed to a children’s park in the center of that area where teenagers and college kids go to drink and hang with friends. There we randomly happened to catch a dancing act by two ladies that had set up shop to show off their moves and they were quite good! I was told another popular night time activity besides the obvious club scene is the Karaoke bars that get quite competitive with their grading scale. There are also Karaoke places where youngsters go to “be alone/ have adult meetings/ spend time together”… You get the picture. I guess that’s a pretty normal thing because it is customary for young people to live at home with their families until they get married so they have to get hotel rooms and go other places to be alone. Although I noticed that the Korean youth is quite reserved and conservative which may have something to do with the low birth rate and the declining population growth.

All in all, I had an amazing time on my trip to Korea! It was eye opening and entertaining and I will definitely be visiting Korea again to explore other parts of the country, such as the islands and the coastal city of Busan.

Things you must try in Seoul:

• The street food is fantabulous!!!!
• 32cm green tea ice cream cone
• Korean Popsicle bars: The shark one, the watermelon one and the Melona one. You’re welcome!

This is a little Vlog I did while in Seoul. Don’t forget to Subscribe to my YouTube channel .

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11 Reasons Why Korea is Worth Visiting

There are many reasons to visit Korea, today we’re going to talk about the 11 reasons why you should visit Korea.

Many people are wondering every day if it’s Korea that they want to visit. There are many other beautiful countries so, is it really Korea that you want to visit. That question I asked myself many years ago.

After thinking about it for many days, I’ve finally decided to visit Korea, and it was the best choice of my life. There are many places you should visit. We’ll explain below what you should visit Korea . Let’s get right to the juicy info.

1. Seoul 

Seoul should be the first place to visit if you’re going to Korea. It’s the capital of Korea and definitely worth visiting. There are many fun things you can do while you’re in Seoul like, going to the karaoke bar, visiting cafes, or just relaxing.

It might be a bit more expensive if you’re eating out all day so what I did when visiting Seoul was creating a budget. By creating a budget that suits your lifestyle gives you more room to work with. The last thing you want to happen is to run out of money.

I saw that one of my friends I was traveling with didn’t bring enough, so I covered him. He felt pretty bad, so make a budget and stick to it.

Another place you should visit is the Jangseng Geongangwon in the Gangnam District. They have one of the best cocktails that you can get. Try to enjoy it for as long as possible because time flies by, especially if you’re planning to party a lot.

2. The Culture

Korean culture is very traditional, where people still bow to each other. In other countries, you don’t see this happen often. We’d rather give a handshake than bowing, but in Korea, this isn’t the case at all. So, try getting used to bowing, especially when you see elders.

This was a mistake I made in the beginning when I asked where the train station was. It’s pretty disrespectful if you don’t bow, so make sure you do. Another tip is to take your shoes off when going inside a house or apartment.

This is very important because Koreans really dislike walking inside with shoes on. Koreans are known to be very clean, and make sure you keep it like that.

There are also different pronounces to use when talking to people. Older people are called differently. Try learning more about the Korean language if you’re planning to stay in Korea for a very long time.

3. Korean Shopping

Shopping in Korea is very fun because you have a wide range of choices. There are many designer brands you can purchase from. However, the most fun stores are the ones on the market. There are many affordable pieces with very high quality.

The only thing you should look out for is to avoid getting ripped off. It doesn’t happen often but still, in case, make sure to ask yourself if the price is worth it. When I was visiting some other countries, people in street markets tried to rip me off by paying 4x the price other people were paying.

A great tip is to bargain. Another plus that I really liked when shopping in Korea is the online sites. Shopping online on stores like GMarket is extremely easy and fast. The delivery is often within delivered next day.

4. Hanbok (Korean traditional clothing) 

Hanboks are traditional Korean clothing. It’s very fun to wear. You can find these types of clothing pretty much everywhere you go. The best place to wear a hanbok is when visiting a Korean is in Seoul. Yes indeed! You can wear your hanbok everywhere, and people won’t look weird at you.

There are two types of hanboks for men and women:

These hanboks are very popular, and if you have the chance to visit Korea, make sure to wear a Hanbok. It’s really fun, especially if you’ve never worn one before. The most fun experience was when meeting different foreigners wear Hanboks , and you should try to do that too.

5. Korean BBQ 

Korean barbecue is very popular in Korea and other countries. It’s one of the must-try foods when visiting Korea. The meat is on a different level. You might not notice it, but the quality of meat they have in Korea is insane.

It can be a bit more expensive, but if you have the budget, it’s definitely worth it. I’ve been craving wagyu for a long time now, especially in Korea, because that’s really on a different scale. If you like eating Korean barbecue already, then this will blow your mind.

Many people in television programs or game shows often win a pack of high-quality meat. Yes, you’ve guessed it right a pack of high-quality meat from a game show. It’s because of the value, and many people can’t afford to eat it every day.

This reason alone should be enough to visit Korea, the quality of meat is different when you compare it to the USA, Europe, or Canada. Also, Koreans have a different way of cooking meat. They grill it on a plate while foreign countries do this on a regular barbecue.

6. Karaoke Bars in Korea

Karaoke bars are really fun, especially if you’re going with friends. However, karaoke bars are also a place to rest and chill. Many people visit them alone when they want to release stress. It might look lonely at first, but that’s not really the case because hundreds of people visit alone every day.

In Karaoke bars, you can get drinks, food, and snacks. So, it’s a great place to chill and relax. If you’ve never been to a karaoke bar before, make sure you do. You can’t find many karaoke bars in foreign countries because they aren’t popular enough.

In Korea, this is the opposite, and karaoke bars are one of the most popular activities you can do. Another plus is that you can practice your singing skills, it’s not expensive at all.

So, you don’t need a big budget to practice singing, and you don’t have to worry about singing in Korean because there are many English songs you can sing.

7. Fashion – Seoul Fashion Week

Fashion is huge in Korea, and it’s often because of the celebrities promoting new products. Every year there’s a Seoul Fashion Week. This is where the most popular celebrities attend the walkway. It has been one of the most popular fashion activities in Korea all year round.

If you’re really into fashion, this could be a great reason for you to visit. You could impress everyone else by wearing something that no one has ever thought of. 

What I really like about Seoul is that you can wear anything you like and people won’t look weird at you. The fashion styles in Korea are very different from the ones overseas, and that’s really what makes it special.

Make sure to visit Korea if you’re really into fashion and want to attend the Seoul Fashion Week yourself. It’s a great way to expand your network in the fashion industry and build connections.

8. Korean Drama 

Korean Drama is huge in Korea. Hundreds, if not thousands, of people, watch it every day. Korean drama has been expanding to different countries by releasing the episodes on Netflix. This is, of course, very lucrative for Korea itself because it creates another income source.

Streaming Korean drama is very easy, and you might even see one of your favorite actors/actress walking outside. That can really happen because it has happened to one of my friends that saw a huge crowd surrounding an actor.

Many Korean dramas are put together very well, and that’s what the audience likes. Korean drama could be one of the reasons why Korea is worth visiting, and this is probably because you want to visit the same restaurant’s people eat at in dramas.

Another reason could be that you want to visit the places where the dramas are shot at. Well, I’ve done both and must say that it’s definitely worth it.

9. The Weather

The weather in Korea is awesome. Even if it rains, you see hundreds of people walking outside. If you’re planning to visit during the summer, make sure to use lots of sunscreens. Getting sunburned in Korea is very common, and it has happened many times to me.

If you ever have the opportunity to visit Korea during the spring, make sure you do. It’s beautiful with all those cherry blossoms. You can’t find these anywhere else in the world, and this has been one of the reasons why I keep coming back to Korea.

The majority of people that are planning to visit Korea are often visiting during vacations. This is also when it’s the busiest on the streets, but that makes it even more fun. 

10. Easy and Fast Transportation

Using transportation is very easy and fast in Korea. It doesn’t require much knowledge since even people that can’t read Korean can easily travel. I’ve been to Korea multiple times now, and traveling has been one of the most fun trips.

You get to see many beautiful places while also feeling comfortable. Every time I’m traveling to another city in Korea, it’s a pleasure to travel by train. It’s one of the best transportations I’ve ever used, and I hope my other countries will follow.

I highly recommend getting a  Korean rail pass , especially if you’re planning to travel a lot through Korea. Traveling to Jeju island and other smaller villages is easy but make sure to plan in advance. You don’t want to get lost.

What I normally do is plan the whole trip and buying the tickets in advance, which’s less expensive, and the stress is also gone.

K-pop is huge in Korea and has slowly become one of the most popular music genres worldwide. The Kpop boyband BTS has been blowing up lately, which makes K-pop as a music genre also get more popular. If you’ve never heard about this, you’re really missing out.

What I really like about K-pop is that there are many different groups. In fact, there are too many to follow them all. However, the ones that are the most popular often have the best songs. I highly recommend you checking some groups out, especially if you’re planning to visit Korea.

K-pop is one of the main reasons why foreigners visit Korea, and it’s a great destination for tourists . When visiting Korea, make sure to visit a lot of K-pop cafes that are started by idols themselves. 

Which City Should You Visit In Korea?

The city that’s most visited in Korea is Seoul, and the main reason is because of the wide range of activities you can do. It’s affordable, and there are many other foreigners you can meet. Another plus is that there are many students that live in Seoul , which makes it even more attractive.

Why Do People Still Visit North Korea?

The majority of people that still visit North Korea are often the ones that want to know more about the history or find some secret hidden things they don’t show to the outside world. Those people don’t go the North Korea to enjoy and relax because they’re keeping their eyes on you 24/7.

Now that you’ve come to the end of this article, you’ve probably known the 11 reasons why people want to visit Korea. So back to the question, is Korea worth visiting? Yes, in my opinion, it definitely is because of the great activities you can do.

The nightlife, food, and much more things you can do make Korea really special. Even if you’re into fashion, Korea is a great hotspot to build new connections and meet people. Korea has been attracting more tourists every year.

This is probably because of Kpop, BTS has been blowing up lately, and many other Kpop groups. Other reasons could be because people really enjoy visiting Korea and like sightseeing.

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Essay on South Korea

Students are often asked to write an essay on South Korea in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on South Korea

Introduction.

South Korea, officially known as the Republic of Korea, is a country in East Asia. It’s known for its green, hilly countryside, centuries-old Buddhist temples, and high-tech cities.

South Korea is located on the southern part of the Korean Peninsula. It is surrounded by the Yellow Sea to the west, and the East Sea to the east.

Capital City

The capital city, Seoul, is a bustling metropolis with modern skyscrapers, high-tech subways, and pop culture alongside historic palaces, and street markets.

Korean culture is rich with tradition, including the popular Korean music, K-pop, and Korean dramas that are famous worldwide.

South Korea has a robust economy, being one of the world’s leading industrialized nations. It’s a global leader in technology, electronics, shipbuilding, and auto manufacturing.

250 Words Essay on South Korea

South Korea, officially known as the Republic of Korea, is a country in East Asia, constituting the southern part of the Korean Peninsula. Its rapid economic growth, technological advancements, and rich cultural heritage make it a fascinating subject of study.

Economic Growth and Technological Advancements

South Korea’s economic growth, often referred to as the “Miracle on the Han River,” transformed it from a war-torn nation to an economic powerhouse. It is home to renowned multinational corporations like Samsung, Hyundai, and LG. Moreover, the country’s technological advancements, particularly in the fields of IT and robotics, have positioned it as a global leader in innovation.

Culture and Heritage

South Korea’s rich cultural heritage, embodied in its traditional music, dance, and art forms, coexists with its modern pop culture. The global phenomenon of K-pop and Korean dramas (K-dramas) has significantly increased its cultural influence, a phenomenon known as the “Korean Wave” or “Hallyu.”

Political Landscape

The political landscape of South Korea is marked by its democratic system and ongoing tensions with North Korea. Despite these challenges, South Korea has maintained political stability, contributing to its economic and social progress.

South Korea’s journey from devastation to prosperity, its technological prowess, and cultural richness offer valuable insights into the transformative power of innovation, cultural preservation, and resilience. It stands as a testament to the potential of human endeavor in shaping a nation’s destiny.

500 Words Essay on South Korea

South Korea, officially known as the Republic of Korea, is a vibrant nation that has made significant strides in economic development, technological advancement, and cultural exportation over the past few decades. Nestled on the Korean Peninsula in East Asia, South Korea epitomizes a successful blend of traditional Asian culture and Western influence.

Economic Development

South Korea’s economic narrative is one of the most compelling stories of the 20th century. From the ashes of the Korean War, the nation rose to become the 10th largest economy in the world, a phenomenon often referred to as the “Miracle on the Han River.” South Korea’s economic model, heavily reliant on chaebols (family-controlled conglomerates), has been instrumental in this rapid development. Companies like Samsung, Hyundai, and LG have become global powerhouses, contributing significantly to the country’s GDP.

Technological Advancement

South Korea is a global leader in technological innovation and digital connectivity. With the highest internet speed in the world and a tech-savvy population, the nation is at the forefront of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. South Korea’s commitment to research and development, coupled with a robust education system, has fostered an environment conducive to technological advancement. The country is also home to the city of Songdo, one of the world’s first smart cities designed from the ground up.

Cultural Exportation

South Korea’s cultural influence, known as the “Korean Wave” or Hallyu, has swept across the globe. Whether it’s K-dramas, K-pop, Korean cuisine, or beauty products, South Korean culture has permeated every corner of the world. This cultural exportation has not only boosted the country’s soft power but also contributed significantly to its economy. The global popularity of groups like BTS and movies like “Parasite” are testaments to the country’s cultural influence.

Despite its economic and cultural prowess, South Korea faces a complex and challenging political landscape. The nation is technically still at war with North Korea, as the Korean War ended with an armistice, not a peace treaty. This geopolitical tension, coupled with the pressure of being sandwiched between China and Japan, presents unique challenges for South Korea.

South Korea is a nation that has successfully navigated the path from war-torn poverty to economic prosperity and global cultural influence. Despite the geopolitical tensions that persist, the country continues to forge ahead, driven by innovation, cultural richness, and an indomitable spirit. South Korea’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, strategic planning, and cultural vibrancy. It serves as an example for other nations aspiring to similar heights of development and global impact.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

• Essay on Sound
• Essay on Solar System
• Essay on Snowfall

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How To Plan a Successful Trip to South Korea

on April 12, 2022

South Korea is a country that relies significantly on tourism to survive. The country’s natural beauty and history, in addition to its expanding economy, make it a popular tourist destination for people from all over the world. It is, nonetheless, one of the countries hardest impacted by the pandemic flu. All airlines have cancelled flights to South Korea, severely restricting international travel. Because tourism makes for a substantial portion of South Korea’s GDP, this has a huge influence on the country’s economy.

Fortunately, the pandemic has slowly started to die down and travel has made a big comeback. South Korea reopened its borders on April 1, 2022, allowing people who have been completely vaccinated and have registered their vaccination status to enter the country and escape the seven-day quarantine period. People who are eager to explore South Korea and experience their cultures can now visit the country. However, they are still encouraged to take precautions before and during their trips to ensure they remain safe. If you’re planning a trip to South Korea, it’s imperative to plan so that you make the most of your time there.

Essential Travel Tips to Have a Great Visit

Prepare the required documents.

Before visiting the country, it is important to make sure you have all the necessary documents in order. Different nationalities may have different entry requirements, so it is best to be prepared ahead of time. Make sure you have a valid passport and any visas or other documentation that may be required. If you are not sure what the requirements are, consult the Korean embassy or consulate. Being prepared will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip.

In addition, the latest vaccination dosage must be administered within 14 – 180 days of your trip. Furthermore, you must submit a K-ETA application within 24 hours of boarding as well as a PCR test within 48 hours of boarding. Finally, you need to complete the Q-code form and present it whenever somebody asks.

Plan Your Budget and Stick to It

Whether you’re traveling for pleasure or work, it’s crucial to have a budget planned out and stick to it. Overspending can quickly ruin your trip and put a damper on the fun. By planning and being mindful of your expenses, you can enjoy your trip without going over your budget. Create a budget that includes all of the anticipated costs of your trip. This may include airfare, lodging, food, transportation, and any other expenses you may incur. You can consider renting a car because there are many car rental deals in  South Korea , especially if you visit in April when the price is 13% lower than the rest of the year.

Once you have a ballpark figure for what your trip will cost, try to stick to it as closely as possible. Splurging on one thing means you’ll have to cut back elsewhere.

Choose a Destination That Appeals to You

When planning a vacation, it’s essential to choose a destination that will be enjoyable and fulfilling. In South Korea, no matter what your interests or travel style, you’ll find a destination that suits you. Whether you’re looking for an urban adventure in Seoul or Busan, natural beauty and hiking opportunities in the rural countryside, hot springs, and spa resorts, or historical sites and traditional culture, the country has something for everyone.  If leisure is your first objective, you should go to Jeju Island . Seoul is the place to go if you want to experience K-POP and some of the best spots featured in K-Dramas. Different places provide different experiences and it is critical to pick one that meets your goal.

Book Your Flights and Hotels in Advance

Traveling can be an exciting experience, but it’s vital to plan to make the most of your time and money. One of the most essential things to take care of before you leave is booking your flights and hotels.  This will ensure that you get the best deals and that you have a place to stay when you get to your destination. Airlines often offer the best flight deals when purchased directly from them. However, several travel websites provide competitive pricing as well. Also, if you want to stay in a specific sort of accommodation during your vacation, make sure you reserve well in advance. Waiting till the last minute often results in increased prices or no availability.

Pack Lightly and Strategically

No one wants to drag a heavy suitcase around on vacation, especially when there are plenty of beautiful beaches and interesting shops to explore. You may have a pleasant trip without feeling weighed down if you pack light and intelligently. Pack clothing appropriate for the weather conditions at the time of your stay. You should also bring important documents such as your passport and tickets, as well as prescriptions if needed. Pack the necessities, such as sunscreen, insect repellent, hats, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes. Bring a map of the area or download an app like Naver that provides precise information when navigating South Korea. If you’re going on an outdoor excursion, be sure to pack appropriate clothing and gear to prepare for any potential emergencies.

Make Your Travel More Meaningful

There’s something about traveling that just seems to make life more meaningful. Experiencing new cultures, landscapes, and foods can be transformational, filling us with a sense of awe and wonder. But sometimes it’s not enough to just see a new place – we want to feel like we’re there. That’s where the video comes in. By recording the people and places you encounter and generating videos of the sights and sounds from your travels in slow-motion effect , you can create an immersive experience that puts you in the middle of your travels.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or just hitting the country for the first time, incorporating video into your journey can make it more meaningful. Plus, having a travel diary filled with videos is sure to bring back great memories long after your trip has ended.  So, what are you waiting for? Get started on your unforgettable journey in South Korea!

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South Korea 7 Day Itinerary

Looking for a sample itinerary and ideas on how to spend a week in South Korea? Read our post with South Korea 7 Day Itinerary. This detailed  itinerary is based on our own experience travelling in South Korea and includes visiting Seoul , Busan , Gyeongju and Gapyeong . 

We travelled to South Korea in 2023 and really liked the country. South Korea has a rich history, delicious food, hilly landscapes, beautiful coastlines, busy cities and pretty countryside. Many first time visitors to South Korea limit their visit to Seoul only. While Seoul is a vibrant city with lots of things to see and do, we wanted to see more of South Korea during our trip.

We didn’t want to move to a new location every night or two, rent a new place every time, pack and unpack often, and think about where to store our suitcases when between hotels. Therefore, we based our first part of the trip in and around Seoul , and the second part of the trip – in and around Busan . This way, we only had to book two hotels – one in Seoul and one in Busan, and could explore cities and make one day trips with a light backpack, leaving all the rest in the hotel.

Here is our 7 Day Itinerary in South Korea.

South Korea 7 Day Itinerary at a glance:

Day 1 – historical sights and night views of seoul, day 2 – jogyesa temple, bukchon village, gyeongbokgung and modern seoul, day 3 – day trip to gapyeong (petite france, nami island and garden of morning calm), day 4 – seoul parks, shopping districts and food markets, day 5 – busan (haeundae beach, x the sky, blueline tram and haedong yonggungsa temple), day 6 – day trip to gyeongju (daereungwon tombs, hwangridan-gil, bulguksa temple, gyochon village and donggung palace), day 7 – busan (gamcheon culture village, biff square, jagalchi market and songdo beach).

Planning a trip to South Korea

There are few things you need to plan and prepare before travelling to South Korea. 

First of all, you need to check whether you need a tourist visa to South Korea or Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (KTA), and obtain it.

Next, plan and sort out mobile internet for the trip (e.g. get a roaming, a local sim-card or rent a WiFi device  in South Korea). 

Also, think about bringing cash, how to get to Seoul from Incheon airport, how to use public transport, buying a train pass and getting useful mobile apps before going to South Korea.

Read about all this and more in our dedicated post Things to know before travelling to South Korea .

As the majority of international travelers to South Korea fly to Seoul, we start our 7 Day South Korea itinerary with this vibrant city.

Seoul is one of the biggest cities in the world and has lots of attractions and things to see and do. We recommend spending at least 3 days in Seoul to get a good overview of the city, see its big attractions and experience its busy life.

In the morning

On the first day in Seoul go to Ikseon-dong Hanok Village – a traditional Korean village with narrow streets, pretty houses, cafes and small shops.

Visit Changgyeonggung Palace complex built in the mid-15th century by King Sejong. Explore its many buildings and gardens.

Next, walk to Unhyeongung – a former royal residence . There are a couple of historical buildings and quiet courtyards inside. The entrance to the residence is free.

Have lunch in one of the many cafes and restaurants of Insa-dong street . Also, there are many souvenir shops and other stores on Insa-dong street if you feel like shopping.

In the afternoon

All of the attractions above are located within walking distance to each other. But to get to the next point of the itinerary you would need to take a bus or a subway. Read about using public transport and paying with Tmoney cards in Things to know before travelling to South Korea .

In the afternoon, go to Naksan Park to enjoy the views over the city. For the best night views over Seoul go to Eungbong Mountain Park. 

Read our detailed post on the 3 Day Itinerary for Seoul .

First stop on Day 2 is Jogyesa Buddhist Temple . Its main building – the temple with the Budha statue – is surrounded by a spacious courtyard decorated with paper lanterns. Jogyesa is open to the public and the entrance is free.

Next, walk to Bukchon Hanok Village – a traditional Korean village with small alleys and houses with hanok architecture. It’s located on the top of a hill between Changdeok Palace and Gyeongbok Palace. 

Gyeongbokgung Palace (or Gyeongbok Palace) was the main and the largest royal palace of the Joseon dynasty. It’s a big complex with many historical buildings and gardens. Plan to spend at least 1-2 hrs exploring Gyeongbokgung.

Just south to the Gyeongbok Palace lies Gwanghwamun Square . The square is surrounded by tall modern buildings and has two massive statues – the statue of King Sejong and the statue of Admiral Yi Sun Shin. 

Continue walking from the Gwanghwamun Square towards Cheonggye Plaza and Cheonggyecheon. Cheonggyecheon is a public recreational space right in the heart of Seoul. It has lots of cafes and restaurants around and is a great place to stop for lunch.

In the afternoon explore Seoul on the other side of Han river. In that part of Seoul you will find the famous Gangnam suburb, a viewpoint to Banpo bridge with its colourful fountain, the 123-story Lotte World Tower with its Seoul Sky observation deck, as well as Lotte World Magic Island amusement park, as well as many other Seoul attractions.

Enjoy some shopping at Lotte World Mall or visit Lotte World Aquarium . Get to the observation deck of the Lotte World Tower – the tallest building in South Korea and the 6th tallest building in the world.

Last stop of the day is Banpo Bridge and its colourful show of the Banpo Bridge Moonlight Fountain. You can watch it from the Banpo Hangang Park, which is a 20 min by bus from Gangnam.

On the Day 3 of the South Korea 7 Day Itinerary, take a day trip from Seoul. 

There are quite a few day trips you can take from Seoul – check them out on Klook or GetYourGuide . We would like to recommend the one that we took ourselves – a day trip to Gapyeong county . 

On the day we were picked up in the morning by a tour bus (you can choose one of the meeting points when booking the tour). We visited three places in the Gapyeong county – Petite France and Italy villages, Nami Island and the Garden of Morning Calm.

Petite France and Italy are purpose built miniature villages (one French and one Italian) with cute houses, display rooms, small alleys and squares. Built on a hill the villages have nice viewpoints over the Korean countryside.

After making a stop for lunch (with traditional Korean food of fried chicken, veggies and spices), we went on a ferry to Nami Island . Nami Island on the Han River has lots of alleys with tall trees on the sides, gardens, sculptures, cafes and a few small shops. It’s a nice destination not only for nature lovers, but also for those who watch Korean drama series – Korean drama “Winter Sonata” was shot at Nami Island.

Last stop of the day is the Garden of Morning Calm – one of the oldest private gardens in Korea. We visited in spring and it had many blooming trees and flowers. In autumn you will find there abundance of fall colours. In winter they decorate gardens with colourful lights and illumination. And in summer, of course, you can enjoy all the greenery of the plants in the gardens. 

The tour bus will bring you back to Seoul in the evening around 7pm. If not too tired, take a walk in the center of Seoul after dark. Seoul is always a busy city, even at night.

Spend the last day in Seoul with leisure walks in city parks, shopping in popular shopping districts and visiting traditional Korean markets.

Start the day with a walk along the Seoul City Wall and in the Naksan park . From the Naksan Park, walk down to Ihwa Mural Village and then continue downhill to Dongdaemun gate .

Dongdaemun is a large shopping district in Seoul. There are many shopping malls, Dongdaemun Market and DDP – Dongdaemun Design Plaza. 

Next, take a metro to Myeongdong – another popular shopping and dining area in Seoul. Have a break for lunch at Myeongdong.

In the afternoon walk to the Namsan Mountain cable car station at the foot of the mountain. Take a cable car to the top to see N Seoul Tower and enjoy the views over Seoul. Then walk  through the Namsan park down to the city below.

Finish your day with an evening walk in Seoul and visiting one of Seoul’s night markets, for example, Namdaemun Market . You can buy food from the stalls and eat it on the way, or sit down to eat at one of the food kiosks/shops.

We spent our last day in Seoul in a very relaxed manner. Slow walks, just taking in the views and the city, making stops to taste Korean snacks, drinks and food, enjoying the atmosphere of the busy and diverse city of Seoul.

Next in our South Korea 7 Day Itinerary is the city of Busan. Busan is known for its beautiful beaches and a laid back atmosphere typical of a coastal city. 

In the morning – take a train to Busan

A direct speed train from Seoul to Busan takes only 2.5 hours. Read the ‘Travelling by Train in South Korea’ section in our post Things to know before travelling to South Korea for the information on how to get train tickets and a special KORAIL pass for tourists. 

Arriving in Busan, first of all, go to your hotel to leave the bags. Most of the hotels will store your suitcases before the check in time. Alternatively, you can store the bags at Busan train station and get them later when you’re ready to check in to the hotel.

First point of interest in Busan is Haeundae . You can take a bus or a subway from Busan train station to Haeundae. Visit Haeundae Market to grab a bite at one of its food stalls or to have lunch in one of its food restaurants. A short walk from the market is Haeundae Beach – a 1.5km long sandy beach popular with the locals and tourists alike. Have a walk at the beach, go to Dongbaek Park and Lighthouse or visit SEALIFE Busan Aquarium. 

Visit Busan X the Sky – an observation deck in a skyscraper located at the far end of the Haeundae Beach. Pay a small admission price and take a lift to the 100th floor. Floors 98 to 100 are open to the public and have amazing views over Busan and its coastline.

Next, take a leisure tram ride along the coast. Walk to ‘ Haeundae Blueline Park – Mipo Station ’ and take a beach tram from there to the end of the line to Songjeong Station. All the seats in the tram are facing windows, so you will enjoy seascape views while on the tram. 

Get off the tram at the Songjeong Station and walk to the Songjeong Beach . Songjeong beach is another nice beach in Busan, and it’s usually not as crowded as Haeundae beach. Have a walk at the Songjeong Beach and stay for lunch at one of the waterfront’s cafes along the beach.

From Songjeong Beach either walk or take a bus to Haedong Yonggungsa temple. Haedong Yonggungsa temple is a buddhist temple built on a rocky seashore. The setting of the temple is very picturesque and it’s well worth a visit when in Busan. On the way to the temple, at the end of Younggung-gil street there is a small market with street food/snacks and souvenirs. Prepare to spend 1-1.5 hrs at Haedong Yonggungsa temple and around.

Depending on your interests, not far from Haedong Yonggungsa temple you can visit Busan National Science Museum, Skyline Luge Busan, Lotte World Adventure park or Lotte Mall.

In the evening we returned to Haeundae Market to eat a variety of Korean street food and sweets. This is where we tried Korean sweet pancake Hotteok filled with honey and seeds, and Korean 10 Won bread filled with molten cheese. Alternatively, have dinner in one of the many cafes and restaurants of Haeundae.

If you’re not too tired, take a bus to either Millak Waterside Park or Namcheon Seaside Park – to finish the day with the night views over Busan cityscape and Gwangan Bridge .

Read our detailed post on the  2 Days in Busan Itinerary

On the Day 6 of the South Korea 7 Day Itinerary, take a day trip from Busan to Gyeongju. Gyeongju was the ancient capital of Korea and has lots of historical sights and places to visit. Attractions in Gyeongju are quite spread from each other and so we decided the easiest way to see them would be with a guided tour. We recommend this day tour from Busan that can be booked on Klook – Gyeongju day tour from Busan .

First stop of the day is the Buddhist temple complex – Bulguksa Temple . Bulguksa Temple is on the UNESCO World Heritage List and is one of the most important historic and scenic sites in South Korea. If you visit in spring, make sure to also make a stop at the park nearby to admire cherry blossoms.

Next stop is Hwangnidan-gil – a busy street with traditional Korean architecture and lots of small shops and cafes. We had a nice lunch there at a restaurant serving traditional Asian hot pot food, and afterwards enjoyed a cup of coffee at a local coffee shop.

Minutes from Hwangnidan street is Daereungwon – a large ancient tomb complex. You will recognize it by several tombs next to each other looking like big green hills in a park. One of the tombs is open for visitors and has excavated artefacts on the display.

Next, visit Gyochon Traditional Village to have a look how people used to live in the olden days when Gyeongju was the capital. Walk the alleys of the hanok village, admire the traditional Korean architecture and make sure to get down to the river to take a picture of the rebuilt 8th century Woljeong Bridge.

Last stop of the day trip to Gyeongju is Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond . There is a reason why tour guides leave visiting Donggung Palace until the end. While not that impressive during daylight, after sunset the place transforms with all the lights on and reflections in the pond. 

Return to Busan for the night.

On the last day of the South Korea trip explore the southern parts of Busan city . 

First thing in the morning of our last day in South Korea was breakfast in one of the bakery cafes in Busan. Travelling in South Korea you will notice that bakeries are quite popular and the variety of baked products is great! So, after a cup of coffee with local baked goods we checked out of the hotel and went to Busan train station to store our bags. Then, with a camera and a small backpack we took a bus to Gamcheon Culture Village.

Gamcheon Culture Village is a neighbourhood in Busan featuring many colourful houses spread over a hilly landscape. Historically, this is where the poor lived for a long time, until in 2009 the government decided to renovate and make the village into a culture hub. Now, with the colourful painted houses, art installations, cafes and souvenir shops, Gamcheon Culture Village is a popular place to visit in Busan.

After walking in the village and taking hundreds of pics from its different viewpoints, walk to BIFF square. BIFF square is a busy area with shopping, cinemas, street food and alleys with handprints of famous Korean actors. Not far from BIFF square is Yongdusan Park and its Busan Tower (also known as Diamond Tower). It was on our itinerary until we realised we spent too much time trying all the different street foods and searching for a Busan souvenir magnet in the shops around BIFF square. As we were flying from Korea in the evening, we were conscious of time on our last day in Busan. But if you have enough time then I’d recommend going for a walk in Yongdusan Park and getting up to the observation deck of the Diamond Tower.

Next, visit Jagalchi Market – a famous seafood market that is the largest in South Korea. You will find here a huge variety of fresh seafood. In the indoor section of the market you can order takeaway or eat-in food made out of the fresh seafood right there at the market. We didn’t eat at the Jagalchi Market (we were too full after the stalls at BIFF square), but it was still an interesting experience to see such a huge fish market with so much seafood variety.

Next point of interest is a man-made beach in Busan – Songdo Beach. Together with its pedestrian bridge-trails – Songdo Cloud Trails, surrounding cafes and coastal views, Songdo Beach is a nice place to visit in Busan.

Take a cable car (Busan Air Cruise) from the Songdo Bay Station to the Songdo Sky Park . Enjoy the nice views from the Songdo Sky Park, have a walk at Amnam Park or walk the suspension bridge to the small island of Dongseom.

If you still have time (depending on when you need to leave Busan for Seoul and Incheon International Airport) I’d recommend taking one of the walks at Yeongdo . Go to Hynyeoul Munhwa Maul – a cultural village with a nice waterside walk, then walk along the coast and up to the Yeongdo Haneul Observation Deck to admire the views.

That was the end of our trip in South Korea as it was time to take a train from Busan back to Seoul and then to Incheon International Airport to take our flight back home. 

This South Korea 7 Day Itinerary was just perfect for us – not too long, but enough time to see South Korea’s biggest cities, many historical and cultural sites, enjoy Korean food and see some of the natural sights in the country. 

Read next –  2 Days in Busan Itinerary

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4 thoughts on “ South Korea 7 Day Itinerary ”

That sounds a great itinerary, the unique buildings are definitely something that piqued my interest.

I just recently started to contemplate going to Korea. 1 week seems to be the perfect time for a visit. Seoul and Busan sound like interesting destinations! Thank you for this great itinerary!

I have always wanted to visit South Korea. It looks like you thoroughly enjoyed your trip there. Lots of things to see and do and defintely eat. I hope the language wasn’y much of an issue. Thanks for sharing your itinenary with us.

Jan – https://flyingbaguette.com/

Language wasn’t an issue at all. Many Koreans speak English, and sellers know some basic words. And everyone so friendly and ready to explain with signs if necessary:)) Plus, we quickly picked up few words in Korean too 🙂

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My Dream Destination Is Seoul, South Korea!

Updated: Oct 21, 2023

Seoul, South Korea, is one of those cities across the world, which is famous for its vibrant culture, friendly people, late-night parties, and spicy Kimchi! Basically, this city is best for youngsters especially girls travelling solo to enjoy the thrill of their age.

Additionally, what draws me to Seoul is its language, dialect, dressing sense, modern and rural culture amalgamation, and the fantastic South Korean dramas that are filmed.

Those who are keen for travelling must already know that Seoul, South Korea, is a city never to miss. Here you experience the rundown of the busiest lives of South Korea.

You can even say it is New York, Mumbai, or Shanghai of South Korea. In short, the busiest, yet the liveliest city to live in South Korea.

The Features In Detail About Seoul:

The eating culture of Seoul is finger-licking good

There are more choices for side dishes than in the main course. People love it like the most amazing street food items to try whenever they step in Seoul. We can say, every street corner has an array of street food joints.

The way each side dish is cooked and served is another kind of experience. Many of these street food corners have little tents mounted. Then, others have some food vans at the corner.

People often sit in those tents after getting done with the work for the day. Be it a corporate person, or a wage worker, you can find anyone in those tented street food corners. That’s one of the fantastic experiences to observe and take home whenever you want to try a new dish, most likely to be spicy, tangy, and juicy.

Thus, such evenings always end up with Soju; the local beverage ordered most often by adults while consuming the spiciness blasted in the mouth by those unforgettable dishes.

Karaoke nights are the best to forget the stress

Seoul is full of Karaoke and live music restaurants and bars. Again, it is an addition to the party-culture embedded in its roots. Thus, for a young adult, who wants to enjoy life like it’s the best day to date, hopping from one Karaoke to another with Korean, and expat friends here is a must.

It is so compelling for an adult like me that I want to live those moments with full enjoyment and without any judgments.

Cheap study rooms to set your career right

Seoul is one of those cities that is home to a crazy amount of 24-hour operational study rooms. Most of the students in South Korea are focused on applying for government services at least once in their lifetime, which is similar to Indian students.

Thus, they are offering study rooms for an entire day at just Rs. 400-500 or $6 per day. This equates to be around 7000 South Korean Won per day. This is the cheapest way to study for your government exams for which you want to apply in the country while planning to become a permanent resident of South Korea.

There is a large scope for IT and E-commerce ventures

South Korea is one of the IT-friendly countries in the world. Whereas Seoul is more focused on creativity, IT, and start-ups related to E-commerce. Thus, it is one of the best dream destinations because I know there is a lot of scope for the IT sector here.

There is a dominance of smart homes

The majority of the upscale provinces of Seoul have smart homes. They are controlled by central keypads or your average smartphone – even from a far distance. Thus, chances of theft, burglary, fire, and other uncertainties your house might be vulnerable to, are cut down by a large number.

That is because the house owners can continuously be in touch with the happenings of their houses even when they are not in the house ! That’s an amazing relief to those who work for late hours outside, those who love to travel to other places, and those who live alone.

You can become a really responsible citizen, despite all the partying across the town while you are living in Seoul.

There is a crazy scope for bargaining!

Those who want to live out in Seoul at a very affordable cost can do so. That’s possible because South Korea is the land of the electronics industry globally, being the home to Samsung and LG.

Thus, Seoul, the country capital, has a lot of shops and vendors selling upbeat electronics products at a very low rate.

But, if you get to those provinces where there are multiple electronic shops lined together, you can always try your luck at haggling to buy the best products at the lowest prices in Seoul.

The inheritance of living a quality life

Most Korean in Seoul love to live a quality life. Thus, I want to learn how they work, what they eat, and how they are so happy about living with the stressful work culture. It is a very rare trait that is missing in most countries across the world.

Once we learn to live by that stress with a happy smile that comes straight from the heart, life will be more beautiful and happier like it never was.

Learn the art of passive income here

Most Seoulites love side-hustle. That means they are masters of part-time jobs that can equate to your monthly income easily. In fact, I would say the part-time or the gig economy has been strongly initiated by South Koreans.

This can also be one of the reasons why these Seoulites are so happy in their life. They know how to make their income work and multiply itself in the coming years. Apart from that, people living here do not hesitate to try out new experiences in life.

Because of such beliefs and mindset, I am incredibly drawn to Seoul. I want to know how to save, invest, and earn money in the most organic and smart way possible.

Thus, I find Seoul to be the best learning source and a dream destination for me at this moment.

So what's your dream destination?

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South Korea is the Best Place to Travel Essay Example

Introduction: the significance of travel and exploring different cultures.

Many people find it challenging on what they need to do and where to go for a vacation, and I tend to imagine that a lot of people may not get to understand my perspective about traveling. I believe that it is very fundamental to view the world and the various cultures since it enables us to be open-minded about new things and places and getting to experience life in different ways and tend to appreciate other cultures and places thus become more tolerant. With all the adventures and traveling in the world, each has their preferences that seem to be unique to everyone; and, every experience has that precious moment which would motivate and inspire an individual long after the traveling.

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Unforgettable Memories of Traveling to South Korea

I am adventurous, and I like to travel most of the time; however, my trip to South Korea left unforgettable memories in my life, and I found out that South Korea is the best place to travel. I felt the worth of every single day spent in South Korea. Various things make South Korea more attractive and one of the best places to visit such as the historical sites and the sports adventures. South Korean is one of the East Asian Nations and is known its green hilly countryside that is dotted with cherry trees and the ancient-old Buddhist temples; moreover, has beautiful coastal fishing places, high-technology cities like Seoul and sub-tropical islands. Most importantly, the Korean people are friendly and hospitalize visitors.

There are so many lovely things and places that one can always go to as many times as possible and still do not feel bored. If you are searching for a fun place to spend and take a break from a rough day, the best place to go is the Lotte World. The Lotte World is an amusement park is open at all time of the year. The park encompasses dynamic events and performances that are interesting. Nevertheless, the park is situated in near Seoul and is relatively accessible by use of public means of transportation. Again, The Park has magic Island and Adventure such as a plethora of attractions which is consisting of a carousel, Spanish pirate ship, and flume ride. South Korea also has an affinity of Seoul, Bukchon Hanok Village that represents the charm of Korea's ancient buildings and neighborhood where relatives of the royal family resided showing a beautiful scene. I made the most of my visit by finding more about the "Eight Scenic Spots of Bukchon."

With so many places to visit, planning a trip to Korea seemed to be the best travel ever with a lot of adventure. Moreover. The Korea Tourism Organization has built a list of the top most searched attractions in Korea, and one can quickly decide whether to go or not to visit South Korea by a simply conduction comparison study of the various places within the country. The best decision for one to ever make is to travel to South Korea either on a vacation or business trip. Can you gain anything without taking any risk? Therefore, it is worthwhile to risk some moments of our lives and enrich our awareness of the world and adventure, and there is no age limit for having to travel and relieve ourselves from the stress of work and boredom.

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Home — Essay Samples — Geography & Travel — South Korea — The Entry Requirements of South Korea: Practical Guide

The Entry Requirements of South Korea: Practical Guide

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Published: Aug 30, 2022

Words: 465 | Page: 1 | 3 min read

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Travel Experience Essay Example in English

One of the greatest experiences I have ever had in my life is my tour to Korea. I purposely went there to get exposure and learn more about the culture and aspects of the cultural traditions of these people. My journey was to take only one week. By the time I was coming back, I had learnt the Korean language. It was so interesting because I liked their accent.

As a teenager, my trip to South Korea was a very ill mi native and good experience that left other travelers yearning for more. For one travel to South Korea from China, nothing much is actually involved after checking the relevant aspects of the weather and taking any necessary precautions. In this regard, several airlines are available from China, which operates direct flights to South Korea. I used Cathay Pacific in this trip considering that the airline offered relatively proper passenger treatment than the other airlines of the city. It is one of the airlines that I used and had a pleasant experience. Seoul is one of the cities that have a bustling metropolis that is effectively inundated with a very rich heritage that truly impresses travelers. Typical of most Korean cities, culture plays a significant role in the history and affairs of this financial center. Since the trip started on 1st May 2012, one week in Seoul offered me sufficient time to explore the city and learn about its history and culture apart from enjoying its beautiful sceneries.

Landing in Korea was both exciting and overwhelming. The first thing I noticed stepping out of the airport was the weather, it was hot and humid, something that I have never quite experienced. Several taxicabs were available at the airport that charged modest fares to the various guestrooms around the city. Being one of the largest cities in Korea, accommodation in Seoul is generally much expensive, unlike most cities in China. Apart from taxis, the city has a number of public transport facilities that can effectively serve the travelers on their operations in the city. These include trolleybuses and the rapidly expanding metro system that covers most parts of the city. From the airport to the hotel I was staying wet and sticky all over with sweat. I was not certain whether it was from the heat or the excitement. That did not matter at that point; I was in Korea one of the wealthiest countries in the world.

My perception of Korea was based on Korean drama. There were similarities with the architecture and the food that was found there, and the crowds were something that I found fascinating too. Apart from the language barrier that did not bother me much I found out that the city was not that different from drama. Some of the things I found fascinating include reading the children bed time stories; in fact, western story has something for the child to learn. The Korean people also love their country and their culture and do strive to make the country better for them and their children. Many of the things that they did were almost identical to what we did back home. The time to eat, the number of meals in a day, and the time they go to work and how the run their day-to-day life was not different.

Most of the Korean cities offer varieties of accommodation services that can effectively suite any traveler to the cities. Many of the hotels, in many cities around the world, serve as chains of other international hotels. In this regard, the travelers will have the possibility to enjoy the comfort of the city while experiencing the best opportunities. In terms of food in the Korean cites the travelers will have the opportunities to experience the true taste of Korean cuisine, which certainly offers a lot of variety. Fish, crab, and dog are some of the foods that are in abundance, in the city of Seoul. People might really face a lot of challenges enjoying some of these foods. However, the huge variety of foods in the city will certainly make anybody feel at home. In this regard, foods such as oysters and seaweed offer a lot of delicacies.

Some of the things that were not similar were their eating habits, for example, they do not allow people to smoke while eating. I found this different because even in public places, they prohibit people from smoking. They place the dish on a central place at the table and people serve the amount they want into their plates. Families are carried as sacred; no one can abuse or misuse another person’s family. Therefore, they traditionally live together as one large family, taking care of each other. In China larger family lives together because of the high price of the house that young people cannot afford. Respect has been emphasized in Korea, the young respect the old, and the women respect their husbands. Even their way of saluting each other is different from the old to the new.

In downtown, they do not judge people by their wealth or poverty, strength or weaknesses. They believe that God was the one who provided for them, and they should be thankful of what they have and share with those who are less fortunate. They also hold their ancestors close to their hearts and believe that they protect them from wherever they are. I admired tourist attraction sites where my breath was taken away by the walls of the Forbidden City, and I can never forget walking at the top of the Great Wall.

Korean people are known for showing off especially in their hometown. Showing off what one has achieved is part of their tradition. They also love glorification and to be better than the rest. A given example of an ancient tradition is someone returning to their hometown or even their own house wearing “golden clothes”. Korean people detach from the rest once they think they have enough to sustain them. They do not like sharing information that might make other people superior to them. I found this quite the opposite. The people I met in Korea were down to earth and did not seem to be looking for praises. In fact, they were humble and assisted wherever they could. This trip was so successful because I came to learn more about this beautiful calm nation.

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South Korea says North Korea is again flying balloons toward the South, probably carrying trash

In this photo provided by South Korea Defense Ministry, South Korean soldiers wearing protective gears check the trash from a balloon presumably sent by North Korea, in Seoul, South Korea, Tuesday, June 25, 2024. South Korea threatened Tuesday to restart anti-Pyongyang frontline propaganda broadcasts in the latest bout of Cold War-style campaigns between the rivals after North Korea resumed its trash-carrying balloon launches. (South Korea Defense Ministry via AP)

North Korea’s military guard post is seen from the unification observatory in Paju, South Korea, Tuesday, June 25, 2024. South Korea threatened Tuesday to restart anti-Pyongyang frontline propaganda broadcasts in the latest bout of Cold War-style campaigns between the rivals after North Korea resumed its trash-carrying balloon launches. (AP Photo/Lee Jin-man)

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, third from left, boards the USS Theodore Roosevelt aircraft carrier at the South Korean naval base in Busan, South Korea, Tuesday, June 25, 2024 (South Korean Presidential Office/Yonhap via AP)

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, center, boards the USS Theodore Roosevelt aircraft carrier at the South Korean naval base in Busan, South Korea, Tuesday, June 25, 2024 (South Korean Presidential Office/Yonhap via AP)

A visitor uses binoculars to see the North Korean side from the unification observatory in Paju, South Korea, Tuesday, June 25, 2024. South Korea threatened Tuesday to restart anti-Pyongyang frontline propaganda broadcasts in the latest bout of Cold War-style campaigns between the rivals after North Korea resumed its trash-carrying balloon launches. (AP Photo/Lee Jin-man)

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, center right, his wife Kim Keon Hee wave the national flags during a ceremony to mark the 74th anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean War in Daegu, South Korea, Tuesday, June 25, 2024. (AP Photo/Ahn Young-joon, Pool)

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol speaks during a ceremony to mark the 74th anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean War in Daegu, South Korea, Tuesday, June 25, 2024. (AP Photo/Ahn Young-joon, Pool)

Protesters stage a rally demanding the stop of military exercises and propaganda amid rising tensions between North and South Korea, in Seoul, South Korea, Monday, June 24, 2024. South Korea is monitoring an expected change in the wind direction on Monday that could allow North Korea to send more trash-carrying balloons across their heavily armed border, in their latest bout of tit-for-tat psychological warfare. North Korea threatened Friday to retaliate after a South Korean activists’ group sent balloons carrying anti-North Korean propaganda leaflets across the border. The signs read: “Stop artillery exercise in the West Sea” (AP Photo/Ahn Young-joon)

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SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — South Korea said North Korea was flying balloons likely carrying trash across the border for a second consecutive day on Tuesday, despite the South’s threat to retaliate with anti-Pyongyang propaganda broadcasts in border areas .

The development comes as the latest round of Cold War-style campaigns between the rival Koreas is flaring after North Korea recently signed a major defense deal with Russia that experts say could embolden the North to direct more provocations at its southern neighbor.

A U.S. aircraft carrier temporarily docked at a South Korea port is to leave on Wednesday for a new trilateral military training involving the United States, South Korea and Japan. North Korea’s military on Monday called the carrier’s deployment “reckless” and “dangerous.”

South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said the balloons were moving southeast on Tuesday night after crossing the border. It asked the South Korean public not to touch any North Korean balloons that fall to the ground and to report them to police or military authorities.

Seoul’s city government later sent text messages to residents, telling them the balloons had reached the city, about an hour’s drive from the border, and urging them to be beware of any falling objects.

The balloons are North Korea’s sixth launch since late May. North Korea says the balloons activities are a tit-for-tat response to South Korean activists flying political leaflets via balloons.

On Monday night, about 100 North Korean balloons eventually landed on South Korean soil, mostly in Seoul and nearby areas. The trash carried by those balloons was largely paper and no hazardous items were discovered, according to South Korea’s military.

Previous North Korean balloon launches included manure, cigarette butts and waste batteries , along with scraps of cloth and waste papers. No major damage was reported. In response, South Korea redeployed gigantic loudspeakers on June 9 along the border for the first time in six years and briefly resumed anti-North Korean propaganda broadcasts .

Joint Chiefs of Staff spokesperson Lee Sung Joon told reporters earlier Tuesday that the South Korean military was ready to turn on its border loudspeakers again. A written Joint Chiefs of Staff statement said officials would examine unspecified strategic operational circumstances and that broadcasts’ resumption would depend on how North Korea acts.

The South Korean military didn’t immediately say how it would respond to North Korea’s latest balloon campaign.

In a Tuesday speech marking a Korean War anniversary, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol called North Korea’s balloon activities “a despicable and irrational provocation.” He said South Korea will maintain a firm military readiness to repel any provocations by North Korea.

Balloon launches and loudspeaker broadcasts were among psychological campaigns that the two Koreas specialized in during the Cold War. The rivals agreed to halt such activities in recent years, but have occasionally resumed them when animosities rekindled.

North Korea is highly sensitive to South Korean border broadcasts and civilian leafletting campaigns as it bans most of its 26 million people official access to foreign news.

Past South Korean border broadcasts included K-pop songs, weather forecasts and outside news. South Korean civilian leafleting campaigns have been led by North Korean defectors, who say they want to help the North Korean people learn the truth of their authoritarian government.

In a statement Friday, Kim Yo Jong, the powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, called those North Korea-born activists “human scum” and “disgusting defectors.”

South Korean officials maintain they do not restrict activists from flying leaflets to North Korea in line with a 2023 constitutional court ruling that struck down a law criminalizing such leafleting, calling it a violation of free speech.

Many experts say the North Korean balloon campaign is also likely designed to deepen a debate in South Korea over the civilian leafleting and trigger a broader internal divide.

Worries about North Korea intensified last week, when North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed on a deal requiring each country to provide aid if attacked and vowed to boost other cooperation. Observers say the accord represents the strongest connection between the two countries since the end of the Cold War.

The U.S. and its partners believe North Korea has been providing Russia with much-needed conventional arms for its war in Ukraine in return for military and economic assistance.

In his Korean War speech, Yoon described the Kim-Putin deal as “anachronistic.” South Korea, the U.S. and Japan issued a joint statement Monday strongly condemning expanding military cooperation between Russia and North Korea.

Later Tuesday, Yoon boarded the USS Theodore Roosevelt carrier docked at a southeastern port and told American and South Korean troops there that the two countries’ alliance is the world’s greatest and can defeat any enemy. Yoon became the first sitting South Korean president to board a U.S. aircraft carrier since 1994.

Yoon said the U.S. carrier is to leave the South Korean port Wednesday for a new trilateral South Korea-U.S.-Japan drill. The multidomain “Freedom Edge” exercise is aimed at sharpening the countries’ combined response in various areas of operation, including air, sea and cyberspace.

The U.S. aircraft carrier’s arrival is meant to cope with North Korea’s nuclear threats and its advancing military partnerships with Russia, South Korean officials said. North Korea has previously called major U.S.-South Korean drills invasion rehearsals and reacted with missile tests.

Taiwan warns against travel to China after execution threat

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Number of days over 35 C surges in world's scorching capitals

The number of days reaching a sizzling 35 degrees Celsius (95 Fahrenheit) in 20 of the world's largest capitals - from Delhi to Jakarta to Buenos Aires - has risen 52% over the past three decades, a think tank analysis found on Friday.