Explore Korea Now

 Looking for the perfect Korean souvenir beyond skincare? Discover traditional crafts, teas, snacks, and cultural gifts that share Korea's soul. Forget Sheet Masks — Let’s Talk Meaningful Korean Souvenirs When you Google “souvenirs from Korea,” you're bound to see endless lists of sheet masks and K-beauty products. Don’t get me wrong — I packed plenty on my first trip too. But if you want to bring home something that feels like Korea , you’ll want to look beyond cosmetics. Trust me. Here’s your guide to authentic, cultural Korean gifts that go beyond trends and tell stories. These are souvenirs that your friends will talk about — and maybe ask you to bring more of next time. 🏛 Museum Shops: Where Culture Meets Shopping If you’re in Seoul, head to the National Museum of Korea’s gift shop . It's a haven of meaningful items: from miniature Pensive Bodhisattva statues to notebooks bound with traditional hanji paper. I once picked up a metallic bookmark shaped like an old pa...

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...

 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...

Planning a trip to Korea? Shopping is an unmissable part of the experience! From innovative skincare products to delicious snacks and unique cultural souvenirs, this guide covers everything you need to know to shop like a pro in Korea. 1. Korean Skincare: World-Renowned Beauty Secrets Korean skincare is globally celebrated for its cutting-edge innovation and effectiveness. No trip to Korea is complete without visiting Olive Young , the go-to health and beauty store. Top Picks from Olive Young : Laneige Water Sleeping Mask : Hydrate your skin overnight with this cult favorite. COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patch : A quick fix for breakouts. Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum : Luxurious and highly effective for glowing skin. Peripera Ink Velvet Lip Tint : Vibrant, long-lasting colors perfect for any occasion. Pro Tip : Shopping for a gift? Olive Young offers premium packaging and exclusive travel kits, making it easy to pick up the perfect present. Reserve a spot on the Olive Young Shuttl...

When I was planning my first trip to Korea, one big question kept popping up: Should I go to Seoul or Busan? Both cities are amazing, no doubt. Seoul is the capital—a buzzing, ultra-modern city packed with culture and history. Busan? A laid-back coastal gem with beaches, seafood markets, and ocean views that make you forget you’re in one of Korea’s largest cities. If you're stuck between the two, here’s my honest breakdown—based on my time in both cities—and some suggestions to help you pick the one that fits your travel style best. ✨ Vibe Check: What’s the Overall Feel? Seoul is fast-paced, stylish, and full of things to do. Think neon-lit streets in Hongdae, endless shopping in Myeongdong, and late-night food stalls in Gwangjang Market. It feels global, dynamic, and always in motion. Busan , on the other hand, moves at a different rhythm. It’s a coastal city, so there’s more breeze, more space, and a relaxed attitude. You can walk barefoot on Haeundae Beach in the morning, hike ...