Explore Korea Now

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 is a...

Korean Convenience Stores: Must-Visit Spots for Travelers | Korea Travel Tips  Discover how Korean convenience stores like CU and GS25 are transforming the travel experience for tourists. Learn why these stores are more than just snack stops—they’re full of local culture, essential services, and real travel support. Table of Contents How Convenience Stores Became a Traveler's Best Friend Your First Night in Korea: Jet Lag and Triangle Kimbap AI Translation in Korean Convenience Stores: Language Made Easy Korean Convenience Store Services That Save You Time Discovering Korean Culture Through Every Aisle Why These Little Shops Leave a Big Impression How Convenience Stores Became a Traveler's Best Friend If you’re planning a trip to South Korea, your checklist probably includes things like visiting palaces, trying street food, and catching a glimpse of K-pop culture. But let me add one more thing you might not expect to fall in love with: the convenience store. Yes, I’m talking ab...

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 planning your first trip to South Korea, you've probably got a checklist: book flights, find a hanbok rental for Instagram-worthy palace photos, maybe even practice a little Korean. But then comes the less glamorous stuff—like figuring out how to pay for a subway ride or buy a snack without digging through unfamiliar coins. That’s where  WOWPASS  comes in. And if you're anything like me—someone who’s easily flustered when lines are long and menus are all in Korean—you’re going to love this little card more than you expect. I used WOWPASS for my entire two-week trip across Seoul, Busan, and beyond. Here's the real, human version of what it was like to travel with it—and why I'd absolutely use it again. My First 5 Minutes With WOWPASS Landing at Incheon Airport after a 13-hour flight, the last thing I wanted was to fumble with ATMs or try explaining myself in a jet-lagged daze. So when I spotted the WOWPASS booth—with friendly English-speaking staff and zero...