Discover Korea Now

 Planning a first trip to Seoul? This practical 2–3 day guide groups 15 top attractions by area and time of day— palaces , hanok villages , markets , the Han River , nightlife, and nature—so you spend less time commuting and more time enjoying the city. Seoul is one of those cities where you can accidentally “over-plan” and end up riding the subway more than sightseeing. The simplest way to avoid that is to stop thinking in a checklist of places and start thinking in routes . When you group neighborhoods and match them with the right time of day (daytime culture, sunset views, night markets, etc.), Seoul becomes easy, fast, and surprisingly relaxing. Below is a first-timer-friendly guide to 15 best things to do in and around Seoul , organized to help you build an itinerary that feels full—without feeling exhausting. The 3 “Moods” That Make Seoul Click Most Seoul highlights fit into three categories. A good itinerary mixes two moods per day (not all three), so you don’t burn out...

 When I first landed in South Korea , I thought I knew what to expect: skyscrapers , K-pop , crowded streets in Seoul . But within days I discovered something deeper — places where silence, sea, temples , and small alleys whispered stories that no guidebook fully captures. If you’re planning a trip to Korea and want more than just the usual highlights, let me take you by the hand and lead you through the spots that touched my heart. These aren’t the most famous places (though some overlap), but those that unexpectedly became my favorites. In this article, I’ll share my personal experiences—why these sites moved me, what they felt like in the moment, and practical tips you can use. By the end, you’ll want to trace your own paths through mountains, riversides, and historic towns. 1. Escape to Nature: Bukhansan National Park — Seoul’s Green Secret Many visitors don’t realize that Seoul is cradled by gentle mountains. Bukhansan is one peak that always stayed with me. At first, I ass...

 If you’re planning your first trip to South Korea—especially in the early autumn months—you’ve likely already stumbled upon a confusing little detail in your travel checklist: the e-Arrival Card. “What is it? Do I have to fill it out? And when exactly?” These were my questions too. I was traveling with my family in early September, and we had an itinerary that took us across half the country—from Seoul to Gimpo, to Jeju Island, then up through Busan. We weren’t sure which hotel to list, or whether it was too early to submit the form. Here's what I found out—and what will hopefully save you time and stress. 📋 What Exactly Is the E-Arrival Card for Korea? The Korea Electronic Arrival Card is a short digital form that replaces the traditional immigration slip you used to fill out on the plane. You provide basic information: passport details, travel dates, your accommodation address in Korea, and a contact number. It’s not the same as the K-ETA visa waiver (which many travelers also...

Planning a week-long trip to South Korea ? Whether you love bustling cities, scenic coastal views, or cultural gems , this guide ensures you maximize your experience with a balanced itinerary, minimal travel fatigue, and seamless transportation . Having traveled across Korea multiple times, I’ve fine-tuned this 7-day itinerary to give you the best mix of must-visit landmarks, hidden gems, and delicious food stops. Whether it’s Seoul’s historic palaces, Busan ’s breathtaking beaches, or countryside escapes , you’ll find the perfect adventure waiting for you! 🏙️ Day 1-2: Exploring Seoul – The Heart of Korea ✈ Arriving at Incheon Airport ? Grab a T-Money card for easy transportation. [ Full guide here ]. 🚆 Take the AREX Express Train to Seoul Station (43 minutes). 📍 Day 1: Culture & City Vibes in Seoul ✔  Morning: Gyeongbokgung Palace & Hanbok Experience 👑 – Nothing beats walking through Korea’s grandest palace in a traditional hanbok. Bonus? Free entry if you wea...