It is almost a year since I came to Korea to pursue my bachelor degree. During this time, I learned a lot about this country and its people. South Korea genuinely has a distinctive synthesis of traditional and modern culture and is unique from all other parts of the world in several aspects.
Seoul- Heart of Korea
Seoul is a big city with a population of over 10 million. The city’s main feature is a combination of historical buildings and modern skyscrapers. For example, Gyeongbokgung Palace was built in the 14th century located among contemporary buildings. Another example is Changdeokgung Palace, which one of the rare landmarks in Seoul that has been able to preserve its exact historical appearance of the Joseon Dynasty. To admire the whole city, I recommend visiting N Seoul Tower. This place has been a favorite spot for Seoul residents and the capital’s guests since its opening, particularly at nighttime when the tower lights up. Moreover, the tower is surrounded by many other attractions of Korea like Namsan Park and Namsangol Hanok Village. So, it can be said that is a country of beautiful parks and national reserves.
Do you know that Korea is a mountainous country? So, what Korean people like to do is walking in the mountains or “tinsanhada”. Whenever I go to the parks, there are always people doing “tinsan”. What is interesting is that even old people go to the maintains. I think Korean healthy food and “tinsan” make this nation one of the world leaders in longevity.
Ecology
Unfortunately, the air condition in Korea is very bad. The Korean authorities are of the opinion that dangerous fine dust particles enter the country from neighboring China. In particular, South Korea’s Ministry of the Environment attributes up to 80 percent of fine dust during periods of severe pollution to foreign sources. Therefore, it is important to wear masks when the dust in the air is harmful. By the way, you can see the air purity indicators at all public transport stops to know today’s air condition.
Furthermore, Koreans are very serious about waste recycling. Every convenient store and street waste bins have two compartments: for recyclable and non-recyclable waste. So, make sure to do proper research about waste recycling.
Fashion features
What makes Korean people different is their style. Strangely, but people can put slippers and walk along the street, even in winter. Also, short pants are often worn, leaving the lower legs exposed. You can frequently notice couples wearing the same paired clothes, jewelry, and other accessories. As well, there is an interesting phenomenon as when members of K-pop groups or famous actors set a trend after several days this trendy thing immediately becomes popular among young people. The only thing that Korean girls are not welcomed to wear is a deep neckline and open shoulders. Also, Koreans love to wear sneakers with any outfit, be it dresses, skirts, or business suits.
Read more: Where To Shop To Dress Like Korean
The shopping districts of Myeongdong and Itaewon are home to popular fashion stores offering clothing, footwear, and accessories from world-famous brands. Most of the salespeople speak English.
Variety of leisure activities
The guests of the country can choose both a standard vacation and something exotic. The country has such tourist destinations: beach holidays, ecotourism and hiking in national parks, excursions to volcanoes, active tourism: mountain skiing, surfing, diving. Perhaps there is no such direction of recreation that could not be realized in this small country. The most popular and promoted ones are beach tourism and alpine skiing. The country has two coasts – the East and the Yellow Sea, the beaches are clean and flat, the sand is white. Resorts of the Korean islands, for example, Jeju, are great for families with children, many couples spend their honeymoon there. The best time for a beach holiday in Korea is from July to September.
Check out: Hamdeok Beach Jeju- An Epitome Of Serenity And Harmony
Among Koreans baseball, golf, medical and mountain tourism are very popular.
Souvenirs
The important thing to do in the last few days in Korea for all visitors is buying souvenirs. But what souvenirs represent Korea and the time spent here?
Street souvenirs shops
Pay attention to the products based on ginseng – South Korea is on the list of the leading countries in the cultivation and processing of this plant. On sale, you will find root concentrates and tinctures, teas, and natural cosmetics based on ginseng.
Other popular souvenirs are lacquered and inlaid with mother-of-pearl products like jewelry boxes. Korea also produces excellent quality porcelain dishes, ceramics, and various embroidered items. The textile is also on the same level as ceramics. To find these gifts, visit Namdaemun and Dongdaemun markets – the largest and oldest markets respectively. In these markets, you can really find everything from your preferences.
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