Explore Korea Now

Planning your first trip to Korea? Seoul is a vibrant and exciting city, but like any major tourist destination, it has a few things to watch out for. One of the most common issues that travelers face—especially foreigners—is being approached by religious recruiters who often disguise their intentions with friendly conversation. Let me share my personal experience with this and give you some helpful tips to stay safe while enjoying Korea. 🗺️ Where It Happened: A Busy Street in Seoul This happened in Hongdae , one of Seoul’s most popular areas for tourists and young locals. It’s known for shopping, street performances, and cool cafes. But it’s also a common spot for tourist-targeted scams . As I was walking near Hongdae Station, two people came up to me with big smiles and said in English, “Excuse me, do you have a minute? We’re doing a cultural survey.” 🕵️ What Happened Next: The Approach At first, it seemed harmless. They asked a few generic questions and then invited me to a...

I came to Seoul expecting temples, food markets, neon signs—and I got all that. But what I didn’t expect? That I'd fall head over heels for its hiking trails. It started one chilly spring morning when I randomly followed locals in hiking gear onto a subway car. I ended up on a short, surprisingly peaceful trail on Inwangsan, with the entire city below me glowing under the sun. That single moment—wind in my hair, silence in my ears, and a 360-degree view of Seoul—changed everything. Since then, I’ve been chasing that feeling. If you’re craving a breath of fresh air (literally) on your Korea trip, here are 5 trails that gave me more than just great photos—they gave me stories. 1. 🏞️ Inwangsan (for Sunset and Shamanic Energy) Ever wondered what Seoul looks like at sunset from a mountaintop just 20 minutes from downtown? Inwangsan is your answer. 🕓 Time: ~1.5 hours round trip 🎒 Difficulty: Easy–Moderate 📍 Start Point: Dongnimmun Station (Line 3) I’ll never forget watching the sun d...

Thinking about traveling to South Korea but unsure about the budget? While South Korea isn’t as cheap as Thailand or Vietnam, it’s not as expensive as Japan or major U.S. cities either. In 2025, the cost of living in South Korea has risen slightly compared to previous years, but travelers can still explore Korea affordably with the right strategies. This guide breaks down real travel costs, comparisons with U.S. prices, and tips on saving money , so you can plan an amazing trip without overspending! 1. Korea vs. U.S.: 2025 Travel Cost Comparison How much does South Korea cost compared to major U.S. cities? Here's a direct cost breakdown for 2025: Expense Seoul, Korea      New York, U.S.      Los Angeles, U.S. Hotel (3-star) $80 – $150       $150 – $250 $140 – $220 Coffee (Latte) $4 – $6       $5 – $7 $4 – $6 Fast Food Meal $6 – $8        $10 – $15 $12 – $18 Public Transport (Subway, Bus) $1.20   ...

If you're landing at Incheon International Airport and wondering how to get into Seoul without immediately spending money on a taxi, train, or bus—you’re not alone. Most first-time visitors have no idea that there’s actually a free direct shuttle available from the airport to the city. Yes, completely free. No catch. When I arrived in Korea last spring, jetlagged and carrying way too much luggage, I was thrilled to discover this little-known gem of a service. I didn’t have to figure out the train lines or find change for a ticket machine—I just followed the signs and stepped right onto a clean, comfortable shuttle. So if you’re planning a trip to Seoul soon, here’s exactly how you can take advantage of this free airport transfer in 2025—what to expect, how to find it, and why it might be your new favorite way to start your Korean adventure. 🚍 What Is the Free Incheon Airport Shuttle? It’s a direct shuttle bus service provided for foreign tourists going from Incheon International...