Explore Korea Now

 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 cr...

 Have you ever been approached by a smiling stranger while traveling? Maybe they ask where you're from, say your energy seems peaceful, and mention a project on “global harmony.” Sounds kind of nice, right? That’s exactly how it started for me—in a quiet Seoul park near a university. The woman was friendly, polite, and spoke fluent English. But something about the conversation felt... scripted. I later found out I had narrowly avoided one of South Korea’s more subtle tourist traps: religious recruitment targeting foreigners. Let me walk you through what I experienced—and what I wish someone had told me before I landed in Korea. 🎯 Why You? If you’re new in town, maybe traveling alone, you’re likely open to connection. You’re navigating a new culture, maybe even looking for meaningful interactions. Recruiters know that. That’s why they look for foreign tourists and students, especially those who seem approachable. You’ll often be approached in: University parks (like near Hongdae or...

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   ...

South Korea is a fascinating destination that blends modern cities, deep-rooted traditions, and an efficient public transportation system. However, many foreign travelers are unfamiliar with key aspects of daily life in Korea, leading to avoidable inconveniences. As a local who has spent years abroad, I want to share practical tips to help visitors navigate Korea more smoothly and enjoy their trip to the fullest.  🚇 1. Understanding Korea’s Public Transport System: Free Transfers & Smart Payments** South Korea has one of the world's most efficient and affordable public transportation systems. However, many tourists are unaware of the **free transfer system** that allows for seamless travel within cities.  **How Free Transfers Work** ✔ When transferring between buses or from a bus to the subway, **there are no extra charges if the transfer is made within 30 minutes**.   ✔ This **free transfer system applies up to three times** during a single trip.   ✔ To qual...