Everyone has had times when they’ve felt a little stressed out. Whatever the cause, there are times when we just need to get out and spend an evening alone. Here are three things I enjoy doing in Seoul by myself when I’m feeling a little overwhelmed. Give them a try and see if you enjoy them too!
Stressed and Alone in a New City
Being an undergraduate student, I often get stressed as the end of the semester approaches. Finals are around the corner, there’s a report due next Monday. I have so many things on my mind it is completely overwhelming. And it sucks.
On top of that, add the “I’m new to Seoul” factor, and sometimes I really want to just get away from it all. I am sure that I’m not alone and that many of you reading have also felt the same way. And so, I am sharing with you some of the things I have encountered while walking alone at night -one of the things I love most about Korea, and some cool experiences.
You see, South Korea wasn’t a very safe country just a few decades ago. It had gangs, delinquents, and all kinds of wrongdoers. But, after some policy changes and changes in government, South Korea came to be the safe country we know it as today.
Still, you always have to be careful. The fact that this is a safer country than others doesn’t mean crime has vanished completely. It just means you can be a little more carefree when it comes to valuables. You can do things like leaving your laptop in a café when you go to the bathroom or walk alone at night without fear. From what I have experienced Seoul is a city where women can feel safe walking around alone at night. So, security is one factor you don’t need to worry about much on your nights out alone in Seoul.
Noraebang
This is a classic. Norebangs are singing rooms. Near my place, there are a few noraebangs. You can actually hear people singing and having fun while walking past them.
The noraebangs I love the most are coin noraebangs. At coin noraebangs you pay for each song you sing, and you can even go there by yourself. You get a private room, a microphone, and you can put on your own show. My mood instantly lifts when I start singing my heart out – even if others at the noraebang might suffer.
I find that it is one of the funniest things to do on a night out alone in Seoul. It releases all my stress and, it is crazy cheap! I got to sing three songs for just 1,000 won. If you are looking for some cheap stress-releasing fun, definitely try these coin noraebangs!
Unmanned Ice Cream
Now that the weather is getting more and more humid and hot, sometimes going out for a walk can seem like torture. But don’t jump to conclusions, because right on the corner you will be able to find a place that is open 24 hours a day and serving ice-cold treats.
Unmanned ice cream stores are now super popular in Korea, and you can find them everywhere! Yes, it is true. You can go into a self-serve kind of store, pick your desired ice cream, pay, and leave. All without ever coming face-to-face with another human being.
So, in the middle of the night when you’re in a mood. You don’t need to interact with anyone. You can just go on an unmanned ice cream shop tour and try all of the amazingly unique ice cream flavors Korea has to offer.
The stream
Finally, if you feel like you need a little piece of nature you can just wander around. Eventually, you will find your way to one of Seoul’s many rivers or streams. If it’s beautiful during the day, I assure you it is more beautiful at night.
Sometimes I have found myself walking next to the Cheongyecheon, listening to music. Or just watching the water passing by. I just take in the whole drama-like scenery I am walking through. It is a very beautiful and insightful experience if you ask me, and I definitely love the peaceful me-time I get being there alone at night.
Walking along the stream never disappoints and you can even find some street food trucks nearby if you ever get hungry. Many work all night, so you won’t be missing out on some delicious bites!
Conclusion
Have you tried any of these activities while enjoying some alone time in Seoul? If so, what did you like doing the most? Let me know in the comments below!
If you’re a solo traveler, Click Here for some of the best things you can do to enjoy your time in Seoul!
