Discover Korea Now

 Picture this: you land in Seoul in December, step out of Incheon Airport in your favorite wool coat, take one breath of icy air… and immediately realize you have underestimated Korean winter by about three layers. If that sounds like a possible future you, this post is your warning and your rescue plan. In the next few minutes, you’ll get a clear idea of what winter in Korea actually feels like, how it has changed over the last couple of years, and exactly how to dress so you can enjoy all the cafés, Christmas lights , and night markets without shivering through the experience. What Korean Winter Really Feels Like On paper, Korean winter doesn’t sound that extreme. From December to February, many cities, including Seoul, sit around freezing: daytime temperatures often hover near 0°C (32°F), sometimes a little above, sometimes a little below. At night, it’s normal for the temperature to dip into the negatives, and on harsher days it can go down to -5°C to -10°C. The numbe...

 If you’re planning a 2–3 day trip to South Korea and wondering how to make the most of Seoul on a reasonable budget, this itinerary is for you. It focuses on traditional palaces, hanok villages, cozy cafes, night markets, and trendy Gangnam spots , all connected with easy public transportation. Why Seoul Is Perfect for a 2–3 Day City Break Seoul is one of those cities where tradition and modern life sit side by side : royal palaces next to glass towers, hanok alleys right behind busy shopping streets, and calm temples just a few minutes away from neon-lit night markets. For a short trip, you can focus on: History & culture : Gyeongbokgung Palace , hanbok rental , Jogyesa Temple Old vs new neighborhoods : Ikseon-dong Hanok Village , Insadong , Myeong-dong Modern city vibes : Gangnam, COEX , Starfield Library , Garosu-gil Markets & food : street food in Myeong-dong , Namdaemun Market A rough daily budget (per person, mid-range, excluding flights): Publ...

 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...

 When you’re traveling abroad, one of the first practical questions that comes to mind is simple but important: “Can I drink the tap water here?” If you’re planning a trip to South Korea , you might have already searched this exact phrase. And chances are, you’ve stumbled across mixed answers. Some guides say yes, others recommend sticking to bottled water, and then there are those confusing stories about “red water” incidents in Incheon a few years back. As someone who has lived in Korea and also guided countless travelers, I want to clear up the confusion and give you a real, experience-based answer. Let’s dive in. The Short Answer: Yes, Korean Tap Water Is Safe South Korea’s tap water meets — and often exceeds — international standards, including the WHO (World Health Organization) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency . In fact, Korean water authorities test for 60+ mandatory items nationwide , and in cities like Seoul , the number of tests goes beyond 350 different ...

Planning a trip to Korea ? You’re definitely not the only one — and lucky you, because you're about to experience a country that blends ancient temples, buzzing cities, and cozy street food stalls in the most unforgettable way. But before hopping on that flight, you might be wondering… 🧳 “What should I pack for Korea?” Let’s keep it simple: pack for the season , not just the destination. Spring (Apr–Jun) : Bring layers — light jackets and something waterproof (hello, surprise rain). Summer (Jul–Aug) : It’s hot. Really hot. Think light, breathable clothes, sunscreen, and a foldable fan if you want to feel local. Autumn (Sep–Nov) : Easily the best weather. A comfy sweater and sneakers will take you everywhere. Winter (Dec–Mar) : Cold. Expect snow. Pack a coat, thermal wear, and warm socks — Koreans don’t take winter lightly. Essentials that travelers love : A universal adapter ( Korea uses 220V, Type C/F plugs ) Comfortable shoes — your step count will be impressi...

Have you ever heard a Korean person say, “맵지만 맛있어” (It’s spicy but delicious) — with tears in their eyes and sweat dripping from their forehead? If you’re traveling to Korea and wondering whether you’ll survive local dishes like tteokbokki or buldak , you’re not alone. But here’s the good news: Korean spicy food isn’t just about pain — it’s about flavor, pride, and yes… sometimes a little masochism. Let’s dive into what makes Korean spicy food so special — and how you, as a visitor, can enjoy the heat without burning out.   It’s Not Just Heat — It’s a Whole Experience Korean spiciness isn’t like the sudden, explosive fire of Mexican habanero or the dry, scorching heat of Indian chili powder. It’s layered. Often, the spice is built on fermented flavors like gochujang (red chili paste), garlic, sesame oil, and soy sauce. It doesn’t punch you in the face at first bite — it creeps in, builds up, and then BAM — you’re sweating. But for many Koreans, that’s the point. Spicy food ...