Itaewon is different. It’s the most international neighborhood in Korea.Where East meets West.Where you can find any cuisine on Earth. But it’s also changed.Here’s what you need to know in 2025. Not sure if Itaewon is for you? Compare neighborhoods in our Best Neighborhoods in Seoul guide. What is Itaewon? Itaewon (이태원) sits next to … Read more
Seoul’s subway is incredible. Clean, cheap, on-time, everywhere.Possibly the best metro system in the world. Once you understand it,you’ll never need taxis. Here’s everything you need to know. You’ll need a T-money card for the subway. Get one first — see our T-money Card Guide. Seoul Subway Basics The System Fact Detail Lines 23 lines … Read more
Dongdaemun never sleeps. This is Asia’s largest fashion district.26 shopping malls.30,000+ stores.Open until 5 AM. If you’re serious about shopping,this is the place. Prefer daytime shopping? Myeongdong might be better. Compare in our Myeongdong Shopping Guide. What is Dongdaemun? Dongdaemun (동대문) = “Great East Gate.” Originally a wholesale fashion district.Now mixed wholesale + retail. Known … Read more
Korea has more cafes than any country. Seriously. Over 100,000 cafes nationwide.More Starbucks per capita than the USA.Cafes on every corner, every floor. Why? And how do you navigate it? Here’s your guide. Korea’s Coffee Obsession By the Numbers Stat Number Cafes in Korea 100,000+ Coffee consumption 353 cups/person/year Starbucks locations 1,800+ Cafe industry value … Read more
Bukchon is a living museum. 600-year-old traditional houses.Narrow winding alleyways.Seoul’s most photographed neighborhood. But there’s a right way to visit. Here’s everything you need to know. Bukchon is right next to Gyeongbokgung Palace. Plan to visit both using our Gyeongbokgung Palace Guide. What is Bukchon? Bukchon (북촌) means “North Village.” It sits between two palaces: … Read more
Myeongdong is Seoul’s shopping paradise. Overwhelming? Yes.Crowded? Absolutely.Worth it? If you know where to go. Here’s how to shop Myeongdong like a local. Myeongdong is also famous for street food. Check our Korean Street Food Guide for what to eat between shopping. What is Myeongdong? Myeongdong (명동) is Seoul’s main shopping district. Think Times Square … Read more
Packing for Korea isn’t complicated. But there are things you’ll needthat you might not expect. And things you think you needbut definitely don’t. Here’s my practical packing listbased on 35 years of Korean life. The Essentials Documents Item Notes Passport Valid 6+ months beyond trip K-ETA Pre-register online (some countries) Flight tickets Printed or digital … Read more
Gyeongbokgung is Korea’s most iconic palace. 600 years of history.The symbol of Joseon Dynasty.The most visited attraction in Seoul. Here’s how to experience it properly. Quick Facts Info Details Name Gyeongbokgung (경복궁) Built 1395 Size 410,000 m² Hours 9 AM – 6 PM (varies by season) Closed Tuesdays Admission 3,000원 adults Free Entry Wearing hanbok … Read more
Your phone is your best travel companion in Korea. But you need the right apps. Google Maps doesn’t work well here.Many Korean apps don’t have English. Here are the apps that actually help. These apps need mobile data. Make sure you have a SIM card or eSIM first. See our Korea SIM Card Guide. Essential … Read more
Korean convenience stores are different. They’re not just for snacks and drinks.They’re a lifestyle. Here’s what you need to know. Convenience stores are perfect for recharging your T-money card. Don’t have one yet? Read our T-money Card Guide. The Big Three Korea has three major chains: Chain Color Stores CU Purple 17,000+ GS25 Blue/Orange 16,000+ … Read more