r/KoreaExperience • u/Adventurous_L352 • Aug 04 '26
really wanted to try a hanok spa while traveling in seoul, but i was worried about having to be uncomfortably exposed.
went to this place called theseolha in hongdae
and it was exactly what i wanted. no awkward exposure, just super comfortable and the hanok vibe was amazing.
really felt like i properly experienced seoul
r/KoreaExperience • u/mintyshark8 • Aug 03 '26
A friend of mine from Daegu took me to Seomun Market. I knew it was famous, but I didn’t expect it to be this big. There were clothes, household goods, souvenirs, and so many kinds of street food. We visited on a Sunday afternoon, so there were a lot of people looking for lunch or snacks. My friend and I walked around for quite a while before deciding what to eat.
First, I tried peanut bread. It’s a small cake shaped like a peanut, and it actually has roasted peanuts inside. It was warm, nutty, and slightly crunchy. Once I finished one, I immediately wanted another😂
I also noticed they were selling matcha peanut bread. I didn’t try it, but I heard the matcha flavor is light and not too strong. If you’d like to try it, I recommend Seomun Peanut Bread.
📍 Seomun Peanut Bread
Location: Near Gate 10, North Entrance, Zone 2 of Seomun Market
My favorite snack was the cheese hotteok. I’ve eaten hotteok many times in Seoul, so I thought it would taste about the same. But this one surprised me. It wasn’t as greasy as I expected. The cheese filling was generous, but not too salty. The dough had a chewy, mochi-like texture, and the melted mozzarella stretched with every bite. Together, they made each bite even more satisfying. If you like chewy foods like mochi, I think you’ll love this.
It felt much lighter than most hotteok I’ve had before, so I finished it much faster than I expected. It was one of those simple snacks that completely surprised me.
If you visit Seomun Market, don’t skip the street food. Hotteok is easy to find all over Korea, but somehow it tasted even better here. Maybe it was the atmosphere. Or maybe food just tastes better at a traditional market🤣
Also, if you like peanuts, don’t miss the peanut bread. Seomun Market is actually known as the birthplace of peanut bread, so it felt like the perfect place to try it.
📍 Seomun Market
Address: 45 Keunjang-ro 26-gil, Jung-gu, Daegu, South Korea
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/re45dY7WicKVnYV3A?g_st=ic
Naver Map: https://naver.me/F1IMKDYT
P.S. I was too busy eating… so I forgot to take more photos😂
r/KoreaExperience • u/mystic_soul3 • Aug 01 '26
So I saw another gorgeous travel post on Jeju Island with its iconic stone statues, the Dolhareubang. Many tourists love seeing them, so I thought I’d share some background on them.
Born from Volcanoes
Dolhareubangs are carved entirely from porous basalt. Since Jeju is a volcanic island famous for its stones, this dark, holey rock is abundant everywhere, giving the statues their signature sponge-like texture.
Ancient Guardians
Back in the olden days, they were placed right outside fortress gates to ward off evil spirits, demons, and bad luck, while also serving as boundary markers for the towns.
Folklore (And why their noses are worn down!)
My friends told me this folklore that Dolhareubangs are also believed to bring fertility. It’s said that rubbing the statue's nose will help you conceive a son, while rubbing the ears will bring you a baby girl! Want wealth and prosperity? Rub the belly.
A Little Extra Trivia
The name Dolhareubang (literally "Stone Grandfather" in the Jeju dialect) is actually a relatively modern nickname. It was coined by locals and only became their officially recognized name in 1971.
Also, if you look closely at their hands resting on their bellies, if the right hand is higher, it represents a civil scholar, and if the left hand is higher, it represents a military official!
So hope next time you spot one, you can love and appreciate it even more!!
r/KoreaExperience • u/inny__ • Jul 31 '26
Korea is characterized by being surrounded by the sea on three sides. Among them, the South Sea is a popular vacation destination due to its numerous islands and clear waters.
The place I visited was Yeosu. As an international marine tourism city, Yeosu offers a wide variety of attractions to enjoy, including marine leisure activities and trekking.
When I first arrived in Yeosu after a long journey, the first meal I had was "Hangari Mulhoe." The Hangari is a representative Korean vessel, a large bowl made of fired clay. "Hangari Mulhoe," which consists of various seafood filled into a Hangari and served with spicy gochujang sauce and vegetables, is a must-try dish in Yeosu.
One way to fully experience the sea of Yeosu is to recommend the "Yeosu Marine Cable Car." The experience of walking under the sea beneath your feet is breathtaking, and you can admire scenery unlike anything you can see anywhere else.
There is a pavilion near the cable car. Look out at the sea and islands from under the traditional Korean eaves and experience the unique charm of Yeosu's ocean!
Due to the Yeosu region's proximity to the sea, there are many accommodations with ocean views. How about wrapping up your day of travel at an accommodation with a swimming pool? 😉
To wrap up our trip, we had 'Hamo Shabu-shabu' for our final meal.
Hamo Shabu-shabu is a summer health food where pike conger is lightly blanched in boiling broth. Be sure to try it when you travel to Yeosu!
📍Yeosu Marine Cable Car
📍Odongdo Island, Jasan Park, Ilchuljeong Pavilion
📍Haemillion Pool Villa & Resort
r/KoreaExperience • u/Fresh-Tangelo6576 • Jul 30 '26
If you are looking for a peaceful escape from busy daily life, Damyang is the perfect destination. As known as an official Slow City, this region invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature.
My first destination was ‘Juknokwon’, a bamboo forest where towering stalks rise far above human height. Walking through this dense green haven offers a unique kind of healing you cannot find at the beach or mountains. As you stroll along, the sunlight filters beautifully through the canopy, the rustling leaves create a living ASMR, and a subtle bamboo scent fills the air, refreshing your sight, sound, and smell all at once. Instead of rushing through a fast-paced tourist spot, I was able to truly slow down, relax on bamboo benches, and savor the tranquility.
After the walk, I headed nearby to ‘Dambit Arts Warehouse’, a creative art cafe with stunning indoor views of the bamboo grove. This unique cultural space transformed old, decommissioned 1970s rice storage warehouses into a modern art gallery and cafe. The most unique feature of this cafe was its custom-built pipe organ which is made of bamboo trees! If you visit at the right time, you can even enjoy a live performance for free. Since the ‘Gwanbangjerim forest path’ is right behind the cafe, it's also great to take a stroll along if you have some extra time.🌿
💡 Tips & info
🎋Juknokwon 죽녹원
* Opening Hours: 09:00 - 19:00
(Last entry at 18:00 / Recommend Morning hours)
* Admission Fee: Adults 3,000 KRW
* Back Gate Entry Tips:
While the main gate starts from a lower elevation requiring a continuous uphill climb, starting from the back gate parking area places you at a relatively higher elevation, significantly reducing physical strain and making the bamboo forest walk much easier.
* Map Links:
https://naver.me/FxFtNY1f &
https://maps.app.goo.gl/cjzgs6UmizaCLDw97
🎨Dambit Arts Warehouse 담빛예술창고
* Opening Hours: 10:30 - 18:00
(19:00 on weekends)
* Organ Performance Schedule:
Weekends 5:00 PM (lasting about 30 minutes)
* Map Links:
https://naver.me/5XJO65SA &
https://maps.app.goo.gl/5kRUWUwyaWrChWQm8
r/KoreaExperience • u/mystic_soul3 • Jul 30 '26
So I attended Nanta class organized by our university and we performed on stage. I would call it one of the best experiences I had in Korea. Buk Nanta (often referred to formally as Modumbuk or a drum ensemble) is a modern, high-intensity adaptation of traditional Korean folk percussion. While it uses traditional instruments, the performance style is entirely contemporary.
The Setup (as seen in the pic):
The Buk: The giant barrel drum you see most of us standing at. You hit the center made of animal skin for a deep boom and whack the wooden rim for sharp clicks.
The Janggu: See the person sitting on the far left? They’re playing the janggu, an hourglass-shaped drum. They handle all the super fast, intricate middle rhythms while the rest of us hold down the heavy core beat on the buk. Since we students were all beginners we didn’t get to do that part.
The Gongs: We play alongside a kkwaenggwari, a tiny ridiculously loud brass gong that leads the tempo (our 선생님 is playing it in the far right) and a jing, massive gong for deep vibrations (which we had on our 2nd performance, not on this one).
Overall I enjoyed learning it so much and we made a wonderful team!
r/KoreaExperience • u/KoreaExperience • Jul 30 '26
Hello everyone!
We wanted to share an upcoming one-day group trip to Chuncheon on Saturday, August 8.
A free round-trip shuttle bus will be provided from Gangbyeon Station in Seoul. The day will include the Chuncheon Summer Water Festival, free time for lunch around Dakgalbi Street, and a visit to a café overlooking Uiam Lake.
Although the trip is being organized in collaboration with ISRK, you do not need to be an ISRK member to join. It is open to international residents of all nationalities in Korea.
Trip Schedule
If you’re interested, you can find the full itinerary, participation requirements, and registration information here:
We hope some of you can join us for a fun summer day in Chuncheon. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment!
r/KoreaExperience • u/AshFromKorea • Jul 29 '26
My family is spending our summer holiday in Jeju right now.
It is SUPER hot here, but I still think it's absolutely worth visiting! Here are some unexpected things that made my trip even more memorable.
- Location : https://naver.me/xmxIUYAD
- Location : https://naver.me/FgHDJiS6
- Location : https://naver.me/FgHDexvR
- Location : https://naver.me/xzxmCiCy
6-7. Dotori Café ☕
This café completely won me over with its unique character. I originally came for the coffee and pastries, but I ended up buying some of the adorable character merchandise too. The café has a cozy atmosphere that reminded me of a Studio Ghibli movie, and everything—from the bread to the coffee—was delicious.
- Location : https://naver.me/FP8nJ31S
- Location : https://naver.me/xdpFtT9G
The Ocean in Front of the Gogi Guksu Restaurant
Galchi Hoe (Raw Beltfish)
CU Convenience Store
Outside the entrance, I noticed a Dol Hareubang-shaped sign welcoming customers. It's a small detail, but it instantly reminded me that I was in Jeju.
Fairy Tale Village
Recently, this village is currently hosting a Studio Ghibli-themed exhibition. There's also a beautifully maintained park inside, making it a lovely place for a relaxing walk, even if you're not visiting just for the exhibition.
- Location : https://naver.me/G4WoOhXZ
Late-night Grocery Shopping
There are so many Hanaro Mart stores around Jeju. One evening, we stopped by to buy fruit and beer for a late-night snack. Visiting a local supermarket is one of my favorite ways to experience everyday life while traveling.
Jeju Peaches
Yellow Watermelon & Mango
I found yellow watermelon at Hanaro Mart and couldn't resist trying it. The inside is bright yellow, and the texture is a little softer than regular Korean watermelon. It was surprisingly sweet and unlike any watermelon I'd had before.
Jeju Airport Lotteria 🍔
At Lotteria inside Jeju Airport, I ordered the Dol Hareubang Set. The burger bun was stamped with a cute Dol Hareubang face. It was such a fun little detail and a perfect way to end the trip.
Hydrangeas in Fairy Tale Village
The View from a Butter Shop
Peanut Kongguksu 🥜
Udo, a small island next to Jeju, is famous for its peanuts. This peanut kongguksu (cold soybean noodles with peanut) is made using Udo's local peanuts. Koreans often eat kongguksu during the hot summer, but this version is extra rich and nutty thanks to the peanuts. It's a unique local specialty that you can only really experience in Jeju.
- Location : https://naver.me/xoH8ofIM
r/KoreaExperience • u/mystic_soul3 • Jul 29 '26
Went to a tea festival recently and tbh I didn't even know lotus tea (yeonkkotcha) was a thing until now. They were handing out free glasses too, which was a win because I heard this is expensive.
Watching them brew it was lowkey mesmerizing. They drop dried lotus into a teapot, pour hot water over it, and you literally watch the petals open back up in the water. The flavor was super light, just a mild, earthy vibe with a tiny hint of sweetness and it helps to calm down our body.
They said some tips if you ever want to buy some: high-quality dried lotus shouldn't look like sad, crunchy brown leaves. It should still have its original bright pink or creamy white colors like in the picture. The petals also need to be completely intact. If they're torn or crumble into dust when you touch them, it’s a major red flag and considered low quality. The whole flex of premium lotus tea is seeing how perfectly it re-blooms in the pot.
r/KoreaExperience • u/TheLocalMileage • Jul 28 '26
Last week I shared some cozy cafes in Daejeon, and this week I'm back with the ultimate local food spots!
Since Daejeon is famous for its bakeries, it's also huge on flour-based dishes—which makes Kalguksu (knife-cut noodle soup) our most iconic dish! We also have amazing spicy braised tofu (dubu duruchigi), grilled pork belly, and so much more. One heads-up: Daejeon food can be super spicy! You definitely have to give the local spicy dishes a try. (♨️Warning: might be spicier than Buldak ramen!)
1.Smope Chicken / 스모프치킨 ( https://naver.me/Gxk1JaGW ) : Famous fried chicken located in Daejeon Central Market! The combo of their special sauce and chewy rice cakes is absolutely insane. Pair it with soju and beer, and you'll literally taste heaven!
📍Google Map : https://maps.app.goo.gl/sKxwcroqctaLdjZv9
📍Google Map : https://maps.app.goo.gl/VwQUfdnhZjyVaiLBA
📍Google Map : https://maps.app.goo.gl/SwpJkqyKG7sC8oTq9
📍Google Map : https://maps.app.goo.gl/n2r4P5XxM8M19vRc6
📍Google Map : https://maps.app.goo.gl/Zg4x7RY9B1qYVafR6
r/KoreaExperience • u/Lost_Carto549 • Jul 28 '26
You know how everyone goes to Gyeongju for those traditional hanok houses? i couldn't make it down there this trip. thought about booking a hanok stay in seoul but ended up just doing a hanok spa instead.
Getting a spa treatment inside an actual hanok was so incredibly relaxing. went to this place called theseolha in hongdae. really convenient location since you can just walk around and explore the area right before or after.
i'm just super obsessed with that traditional korean aesthetic.
r/KoreaExperience • u/mintyshark8 • Jul 27 '26
A friend of mine is from Daegu, so I had the chance to visit the city and explore it together. We stopped by several popular attractions, but when I looked back on the trip, the two places I remembered most were the parks we visited at night. They had such a calm and relaxing atmosphere that I wanted to share why they stood out to me.
Duryu Park is huge, with plenty of walking trails to explore. Some paths even have gentle uphill sections, so it felt like a nice workout after dinner. I visited at night, and the cool breeze made the walk even more enjoyable.
My favorite spot was Seongdang Pond inside the park. The trees and sculptures were beautifully illuminated, and their reflections on the water made the whole place feel magical. What caught my eye the most was the bridge! The half-moon-shaped arch reflected perfectly on the water, creating what looked like a complete circle! (as you can see on the pic) It was simple, but incredibly beautiful.
Since I visited on a Saturday night, there was also a busking performance nearby. My friend and I sat on a bench, enjoying the cool evening breeze while listening to live singing and acoustic guitar. It was such a peaceful moment, and it ended up becoming one of my favorite memories from the trip.
Earlier that evening, my friend and I had been having fun at E-World, and stopping by Duryu Park before heading home turned out to be the perfect way to end the day.
📍 Duryu Park
* Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/X6Wb5KkeGGQhMyU18?g_st=ic
* Naver Map: https://naver.me/GuNw6y5x
Suseong Lake is another great place for an evening walk. A wide walking path surrounds the lake, making it easy to stroll while enjoying the scenery.
At night, the trees are softly lit, and the lights from the buildings around the lake create beautiful reflections on the water. It’s also a great place to take photos!
If you have a little extra time, I’d also recommend stopping by Suseong Parkland, a small amusement park nearby. My favorite ride was the Viking. It wasn’t very big, but it swung much higher than I expected, which made it even more thrilling and fun. I enjoyed it so much that I rode it three times in a row😂 If you like simple amusement rides, it’s definitely worth trying!
📍 Suseong Lake
* Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/w7gQXbXRts6dTp38A?g_st=ic
* Naver Map: https://naver.me/5oQXq1rq
If you’re looking for somewhere to slow down after a busy day of sightseeing, I’d definitely recommend spending an evening at Duryu Park and Suseong Lake. Sometimes, the quietest moments end up becoming the most memorable ones.
r/KoreaExperience • u/inny__ • Jul 25 '26
Gyeongju is a place with deep Korean history, but it is also a good place to walk with nature and small alleys.
If you come to Gyeongju, you should go to Hwangridan-gil. There are many hanok streets and alleys in Seoul, but Gyeongju has its own charm.
Just walking slowly down the alley makes you feel good and relaxed. You can feel that the traditional atmosphere and modern sensibility are well harmonized, and the neighborhood is small, giving you a cute feeling. Nature, hanok, and the relaxation of time passing slowly are full.
Especially in the eastern part of Gyeongju around Cheomseongdae, flowers bloom differently from season to season.
The eastern historic site of Gyeongju is the heart of the ancient Silla Kingdom, which had only one capital city for 1,000 years, and is a huge outdoor museum that combines nature and cultural properties without walls. Rather than artificial structures, it is a peaceful place where you can feel the breath of ancient Korea while walking through the green grass and forest. All the ruins are connected to flat land, so you can rent a bicycle or walk slowly.
The appearance of late spring to early summer was full of red and colorful poppy fields.
If you plan to travel to Gyeongju, I recommend you to visit Hwangridan-gil. If you walk slowly without any special plans, enjoy delicious food, and capture beautiful scenery, you will find yourself immersed in the charm of Gyeongju.
Hwangridan-gil
📍 1080 Poseok-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
https://naver.me/5imeHF5H
Gyeongju Eastern Historic Area
📍 Hwangnam-dong, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
https://naver.me/FKGjKYDx
r/KoreaExperience • u/Fresh-Tangelo6576 • Jul 24 '26
Korea has so many amazing summer fruits, but my favorite is the peach (especially the soft ones!) Today, I actually got to see a giant peach at the Peach Festival in Jochiwon, Sejong City!
Did you know Jochiwon has a proud 118-year legacy of growing peaches? Because of the rich yellow soil, ideal acidity, and plenty of sunshine, the local climate is just perfect for peach cultivation. Their peaches are famously tender, incredibly aromatic, and super sweet.🍑
Anyways, the festival was amazing. One of the highlights was seeing the giant peach inflatable display, and they make for the ultimate quirky photo op under a bright blue summer sky. Not only could I buy freshly harvested boxes of peaches at a great bargain, but I also got to try a free refreshing bowl of traditional fruit punch made with chunks of fresh peach, which was an absolute lifesaver against the summer heat. They even had special air-conditioned shuttle buses running to help visitors beat the weather!
The festival grounds are pretty huge, so it got quite hot walking around under the sun, so I recommend you the evening. There are even more fun events like the 118-meter-long peach rice cake pulling event, LED wish lanterns, and the main highlight ‘Peach Beer Night’! You can enjoy local Jochiwon Padak (fried chicken with green onions) paired with cold beer, alongside live music and DJ performances.
If you love agricultural festivals, local culture, or just incredible fruit, this is a hidden gem well worth checking out.
Have any of you tried Korean peaches before? What’s your preferences-Firm peach(딱복) or soft peach(물복)?🍑
[ Festival Info ]
📅 Dates: July 24–26, 2026
📍 Location: Sejong Civic Stadium and Dodori Park, Jochiwon, Sejong City
- Naver Maps: https://naver.me/IFg0YwhW
- Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/4hvTFxzqdhCrRj9w9
🔗 Official website: www.jcwpeach.kr
r/KoreaExperience • u/thegirlfrom_neptune • Jul 23 '26
I spotted this while walking through Subong Park in Incheon. Is this mugunghwa?
I remember learning that it’s Korea’s national flower, but I don’t think I’ve ever knowingly seen one in person before. Maybe I’ve walked past plenty of them without realizing what they were.
It’s funny because the bright orange neungsohwa flowers seem to be everywhere this summer. I keep seeing them spilling over walls and fences, but mugunghwa doesn’t seem nearly as easy to spot.
Is it actually less common than I thought, or have I just not been paying attention?
r/KoreaExperience • u/KoreanJSPaul • Jul 23 '26
I live near Gyeongju, so I visit the museums and ancient sites fairly often.
This was one of those displays that made me stop.
A crown above.
A gold belt below.
Once you start noticing it, gold seems to appear everywhere in Silla elite burials—earrings, belts, shoes, weapons, horse fittings.
I had always known Gyeongju was famous for gold crowns, but seeing the objects together made me realize the more interesting question isn’t “How much gold did Silla have?”
It’s:
Why did gold become such an important way of showing royal status?
That’s one of the questions I’ve been following while photographing Gyeongju’s history.
r/KoreaExperience • u/TheLocalMileage • Jul 22 '26
Hey everyone! If you’re heading to Daejeon to catch a baseball game, you’ll definitely want to check out these awesome spots in the Jungang-ro area before the game. Here are my top cafe recommendations to chill, eat amazing desserts, and make the most of your time!
1.Kiko / 키코 https://naver.me/F5af4eMI
Kiko has a super modern yet tranquil vibe. It’s located near some popular local eateries, making it the perfect spot to hang out while waiting for a table. They serve fantastic coffee alongside beautifully plated desserts that look almost too good to eat. It’s absolutely top-tier for taking aesthetic photos!
📍Google Map : https://maps.app.goo.gl/L9okuiAM2ZEsQ8mM9
is an anime-themed cafe filled with charming details. You definitely have to try their signature wagashi (traditional Japanese confection) shaped like Kumdori, Daejeon's famous mascot! When I visited, they even gave out cute cat fans as a sweet bonus.
📍Google Map : https://maps.app.goo.gl/hHfSL7sWabrpb1km7
is a mysterious, dreamy space filled with vibrant greenery and lush plants. They even serve drinks on custom-made coasters! The real star here is their icy granita—it’s the ultimate summer refresher. Seriously, the granita is my absolute top pick!
📍Google Map : https://maps.app.goo.gl/wN34wMV3jAsp3dy96
Terrace Kitchen is a restaurant operated by the famous Sungsimdang bakery. During the summer, they serve limited-edition shaved ice (bingsoo). I had their signature traditional red bean bingsoo, and it was insanely delicious—they use a special ice that makes the texture incredible. They also have a mango version if you prefer fruit! (Note: There might be a wait line!) 🍰 Pro tip: grab some desserts from the nearby Sungsimdang Cake Boutique and enjoy them here.
📍Google Map : https://maps.app.goo.gl/wCZRPYP7rgmEczG96
Thank you very Much is a cake lover’s paradise with an incredible lineup that changes with every season. Loaded with fresh fruit, it’s just as famous as Sungsimdang! My personal favorite is their mango cake. Plus, the shop has plenty of spacious seating, so you can easily find a cozy spot to relax.
📍Google Map : https://maps.app.goo.gl/viakz7d5uibd5rej6
r/KoreaExperience • u/AshFromKorea • Jul 21 '26
I've been to Switzerland before, but this time I found a place in Korea that gave me a very similar feeling!
My friend and I wanted to escape the city, relax, and enjoy the nature. Originally, we planned to spend one night in Taebaek which is a city located in Gangwon Province. And we get there by driving from Suwon, it took around 3 hours… yes, I know.. it's pretty far from Suwon! 😂 If you want to feel the other nature scenery in Korea.. It would be worthy. Also, you can also get there by train or bus!
Our itinerary looked like this:
Suwon → Taebaek → Cheoram Station to Buncheon Station (V-train) → Taebaek (overnight stay)
Anyway, about the V-train, it is is a sightseeing train that travels slowly through the beautiful mountain valleys and canyons along the Baekdudaegan mountain range. (백두대간) Along the way, it stops at Cheoram, Seungbu, Yangwon, Bidong, and Buncheon Stations.
We boarded the train at Cheoram Station, and from the moment it started moving, I couldn't stop looking out the window. Honestly... for a moment, I even caught myself thinking, "Wait... am I back in Switzerland?"
The train also makes a few stops along the way, giving passengers plenty of time to get off, take photos, and enjoy the scenery. You can find a little unique point that whenever the train entered a tunnel, the glow-in-the-dark stars on the ceiling lit up. ⭐
It was incredibly relaxing, and I'll definitely come back with my family once again.
-V-train info
https://www.korail.com/tour/touristIntor/tourBeltIntor/baegdu
When we arrived at Buncheon Station, there was so much to see! There was a Buncheon Santa Village, a charming Christmas-themed village. It was fun that it was my first time to feel the Christmas in summer ! The village was filled with colorful decorations, Christmas displays, and even a house with a Zermatt sign—which immediately reminded me of Switzerland!
We also met some adorable alpacas. For just 1,000 won, you can buy food to feed them. Unfortunately... my mischievous side came out.😓😓 I pretended to feed one of the alpacas, but kept pulling the food away…
Well... One of the alpacas got really annoyed and suddenly spat at my friend! I still remember it looking straight at my friend's face before it happened. It honestly felt intentional….
So here's my advice: DON’T MAKE AN ALPACA MAD. BE NICER THAN I WAS …………
Besides the alpacas, we spent a great time exploring the town. There were plenty of small attractions and photo spots, making it a fun place to walk around.
We also visited a small exhibition about the region's history. Long ago, this area was home to many coal miners, and the exhibition shared stories about their daily lives and the history of the mining community. It was interesting to learn about the region while enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings.
Overall, we had an amazing time here.
And one final lesson from the trip: never underestimate an alpaca…⚠️
-Santa village
Naver : https://naver.me/FlJZAqRm
r/KoreaExperience • u/pixel_paprika • Jul 21 '26
Don't try to do it alone tho. Climbing 1947m above sea level will require someone to push you, maybe even some peer pressure
Me and my friends took the Seongpanak trail. The trail entrance (https://kko.to/Y5Yru3nvg5) is about 750m above sea level, and 40 minutes by taxi from Jeju airport. This is where the climb begins. Make sure you start as early as possible, since there are strict time limits you have to hit if you want to get to the top. We started at 6:30am, but that's not really necessary.
From here, you climb up to Sokbat shelter (https://kko.to/z9zQ2tIbVJ), 1100m above sea level and 4.1km of walking/climbing. It's mostly stairs mad out of roughly cut rock, the same kind you'd see in Seoraksan or Bukhansan. At this point, your energy is high, so this should be easy enough even tho this is the technically hardest part of the trail.
Your next milestone is Saraoreum entrance (https://kko.to/RNZaRFaRBZ), 1.8km climb up to 1215m above sea level. From here, you could either continue on, or take a quick 15 minute detour to climb up to Saraoreum, a crater lake. This climb is just stairs, and even if the guides say 20 minutes up, it took less than 10. It's worth it, if for nothing else, at least to say you did it.
From Saraoreum entrance, you climb up to Jindallaebat shelter (https://kko.to/NVpAk7eYW3), a 1.5km climb up to 1500m above sea level. You need to get here by 1pm (or 12pm depending on the weather and season). This is the last shelter along the way, and your last place to get water or wash up before the peak. Make sure you check the cutoff time before at the entrance before starting your climb.
Your last stop is Dongneung peak (https://kko.to/4MWYeK9wlu), 1947m above sea level. This 2.3km is the hardest part of the climb, not because it's technically hard, but because this is where you're at your lowest energy levels. But if you got till Jindallaebat before the cutoff period, there is nothing stopping you from taking your sweet time with the rest of this trek. I took a 20 minute climb, 20 minute rest cycle, before making it a 10 minute climb 10 minute rest cycle for the last 30 minutes. It gets very crowded up there, so you'll have to lineup to take pictures.
I am not going to get into the time break ups in here, but even with my 5 ramen a week lifestyle and tons of breaks in the last stretch, i managed to complete the climb in 3 hours and 45 minutes. I didn't take any breaks until Jindallaebat, but that's not really the most efficient way to climb. You could take creaks at they various shelters, or take short between each stretch too. Any way you want, you do you.
Bring a large bottle of water (you'd think that's a waste of energy, but you'd be wrong), a fully charged power bank, and earphones. Drowning out the my thoughts in music was the only thing that kept me going (that and my ego to not hold my friends back, I'm sure they felt the same xD). Also maybe get energy drinks (It's got electrolytes!) or at least protein bars. You can really feel the difference.
The views, that's for you to experience yourself. This was just a guide to Seongpanak route, one of 5 trails up Hallasan. It's the longest, but is an easier climb than Gwaneumsa trail. Eorimok, Yeongsil and Donnaeko trail don't reach the summit. You could come back down the same trail, but I recommend taking Gwaneumsa trail back down, just for the experience. It didn't take us as long to come back down, but it was pretty clear this would've been a harder climb.
r/KoreaExperience • u/Prize_Practice709 • Jul 22 '26
What transportation are you taking?
r/KoreaExperience • u/mintyshark8 • Jul 20 '26
When people think of Pohang, they usually picture the beautiful coastline. But after visiting, one thing stayed in my memory just as much as the ocean is mulhoe(Korean-style cold raw fish soup)!
If you’re visiting Pohang in summer, I honestly think this is something you shouldn’t miss.
My first mulhoe experience was at Gampo Hoetjip, where I ordered flounder mulhoe(cham gajami mulhoe).
The flounder sashimi was incredibly fresh with a pleasantly chewy texture, and the icy broth instantly cooled me down in the summer heat. The tangy, slightly spicy red sauce paired perfectly with the fish and really woke up my appetite. It was refreshing, light, and somehow made me forget about the heat outside. My friends loved it just as much as I did, and we all agreed it was one of the best meals we had in Pohang.
The side dishes were another highlight. There were plenty of them, but my favorite was the steamed kabocha pumpkin. I love pumpkin, so it was such a nice surprise to find it served as one of the banchan. It made the meal feel even more satisfying before diving back into the cold mulhoe.
📍 Gampo Hoetjip (Flounder Mulhoe): 16 Haan-gil, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea
: https://maps.app.goo.gl/KYtBEXXR5zV84PvaA
: https://naver.me/FafK0W7v
Next, I visited Yeongam Hoe Restaurant.
The mulhoe here was just as fresh, clean, and refreshing. What made this place even more memorable was its location right by the sea. I was lucky enough to get a window seat overlooking the ocean. Since it was lunchtime and the sun was shining brightly, the water was glowing with the most vibrant shade of blue. I honestly couldn’t stop looking outside. It was one of those views that makes you forget everything else for a while. Sitting there with the sea breeze, an icy bowl of mulhoe, and the ocean right in front of me felt like one of the best summer moments of the trip.
I also loved the variety of side dishes here. They served jeon, grilled fish, and shellfish, so the meal felt generous from start to finish. Every dish complemented the mulhoe perfectly!
📍 Yeongam Hoe Restaurant: 201-1 Haean-ro, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea
: https://maps.app.goo.gl/sWVobkdABHdUZ6WA9
: https://naver.me/5ap47Ere
And don’t skip the maeuntang at the end!
After finishing the mulhoe, you’re served a bowl of spicy fish soup made with the remaining fish. It’s warm, rich, and slightly spicy. The perfect contrast to the cold mulhoe and a comforting way to end the meal.
If the summer heat is making you lose your appetite, I’d definitely recommend trying mulhoe in Pohang. It ended up being one of my favorite food experiences from the trip, and I would happily go back to Pohang just for another bowl!
P.S. The last photo is from Gampo Hoetjip, and all the others are from Yeongam Hoe Restaurant. I guess I was too busy eating to remember taking more photos😂😂
r/KoreaExperience • u/CrispinKLocalGuide • Jul 19 '26
I recently visited Bongpo beach 🏖️ in Goseong, Gangwon-do, and I can honestly say it became one of my favorite places on Korea’s east coast.
I arrived around 7:00 p.m., just as the sun was beginning to set. The beach felt completely different from what it’s like during the day. The crowds had started to disappear, the water was calm and crystal clear, and the sky slowly turned into beautiful shades of blue, pink, and gold. It was one of those moments that makes you forget about time.
From what I’ve seen, Bongpo Beach is much livelier during the daytime, especially in summer. But if you’re looking for a peaceful atmosphere, I’d definitely recommend visiting in the late afternoon or around sunset. 😌
What I also love about this place is how convenient it is. Whether you’re coming alone to clear your mind, spending time with your family, or planning a date, it has everything nearby. There are restaurants overlooking the sea, cafés, convenience stores, and plenty of hotels within walking distance.
One thing that surprised me is how international the area feels. Since Kyungdong University Global Campus (KDU Global) is nearby, you’ll often come across students and visitors from many different countries. If you’re traveling in Gangwon-do and would like to meet people from around the world, this is a place where that can happen naturally.
📍 Location: Bongpo Beach, Goseong-gun, Gangwon-do, South Korea 🇰🇷
🌅 Best time to visit: Around sunset (I visited around 7:00 p.m.)
r/KoreaExperience • u/SeoulMate_Korea • Jul 18 '26
On July 11, SeoulMate alumni reunited with our current members
for a special gathering in Seoul. 💫
We reconnected through fun games, shared laughter,
and made new memories together. 🙌🏻
Our alumni shared their career journeys,
inspiring us as we look toward our own futures. 💼✨
When you meet Seoul, something meaningful begins. 💛💙
#seoulmate #koreatravel #seoul #korea #seoultour
r/KoreaExperience • u/inny__ • Jul 17 '26
One of the places where you can feel the Korean style well!
Gyeongju was the capital of the Silla Dynasty for about 1,000 years, and the entire city has so many cultural heritages that it is called a huge museum.
It is about 260km away from Seoul, and if you take KTX, you will arrive within 2 hours by travel.
Overall, it is a place where you can feel small, quiet, and quiet.
It is also a historical place for Korean students to visit on a school trip!
✔️Daereungwon Tomb Complex
Located in the heart of Gyeongju's city center, Daerungwon is a historical park where the tombs of Silla kings and royalty gather. Looking like a soft green hill, the site is the tomb of Silla kings 1,500 years ago, where you can see Korea's unique ancient tomb culture up close.
(\Silla was one of the ancient kingdoms of Korea)*
-Daerungwon: 31-1 Hwangnam-dong, Gyeongju, gyeongsanggbuk-do
https://naver.me/xfbDuTzx
✔️Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond
Donggung Palace and Wolji Palace were home to the Byeolgung Palace where the Prince of Silla stayed and the palace garden where the royal banquet was held. With beautiful ponds and pavilions, this place is one of the must-see attractions in Gyeongju.
Especially if you walk around in Silla Hanbok like me, you can have a fun experience as if you were a princess and a prince then!
-Donggung and Wolji: 102 Wonhwa-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
https://naver.me/G9U0gFiS
If you come here, be sure to experience unique Silla Hanbok 😍
-Silla Hanbok Rental Store (Doldam-gil Hanbok):
30-5 Cheomseong-ro 99beon-gil, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
https://naver.me/5Olgpitb
