Historical & Cultural Tours
Visit royal palaces, temples, hanok villages and the remains of ancient capitals
The Pantheon: Korean Gods and Goddesses
Pantheons are the gods of a collective. Everyone knows about the…
Joseon’s Tragic Love Story: King Jeongjo and the Court Maid
The legendary love story between King Jeongjo and Uibin Seong…
The Gumiho: Korea’s Nine Tailed Fox
One of the oldest forms of entertainment in the world is…
8 Korean Mythical Creatures
Stories about Korean mythical creatures date back thousands of…
The Dreadful History of Suwon Hwaseong Fortress
Suwon is famous for its incredible fortress. In 1997, Suwon…
Purple Island Hype: Is it Worth the Trip?
The Purple Island, aka Banwoldo Island, is a small fishing…
Benefits of Korean Green Tea
Tea is more than just a beverage in Korea, in fact, it’s more…
True Crime Korea: Mystery of the Daegu Frog Boys
More than 20 years ago, 5 boys disappeared while searching for…
How to Get Tickets to BTS Yet to Come in Busan
We all know how popular BTS is, and their group’s upcoming…
Drag Queens, Cocktails & Arcade Games: Rabbithole Arcade Pub
In Itaewon, a regular Drag Queen Show at Rabbithole Arcade Pub is…
Korean Goblins: How Much Do You Know?
Korean mythology is absolutely amazing and swamped with fantastic…
Fairies in Korean and Indonesian Mythology
Even though I am familiar with Korean history and politics in…
Recent Stories
Unique Self Care Experiences in Korea
We must admit that 2022 was a tough year for all of us. We faced a lot of challenges on our way, overcame some fears and insecurities, learned new lessons, and became stronger. At the same…
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Gongju National Museum: Peer Inside Ancient Tombs
The Gongju National Museum is one of the museums that I enjoyed the most in Korea so far. It displays many stories and artifacts of the area that I live in (Chungcheognam-do). Plus, you can…
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2023 Year of the Gentle Rabbit
2023 is the year of the gentle black rabbit. Considered to be one of the luckiest signs in the lunar zodiac, this year is sure to be great! The year of the Black Rabbit Dear reader, I hope…
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Traditional Korean Funeral Practices: Burial Mounds Pt 2
Traditional Korean funeral practice has its own unique features and history. In part 1, we discussed the theory, religion, and philosophy of Korean peninsula. However, today I want to tell you…
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Best Hanok Cafes in Seoul
As December is the last month of the year, and it’s always the hardest one. We are eager to meet our deadlines, sum up our progress, and make plans for the next year. Needless to say, it is…
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Free Korean Traditional Alcohol Tasting at The Sool Gallery in Seoul
Alcohol is quite an important part of Korean culture. While the first Korean liquor that comes to mind is probably soju, there are numerous traditional Korean alcohols. Luckily, you can enjoy…
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A Day in Seosan: Korean History Buff Destination
Have you ever heard of Seosan? Chance are, you probably haven’t. However, in my opinion, you are missing out on something amazing. This city in Chungcheonnam province offers everything…
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Traditional Korean Tea Experience at Wild Tea House
In a small city in the Southern end of Korea, you can find one of the best traditional tea experiences out there. At Wild Tea House you can experience tea ceremonies, craft your own mixed…
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Hanoks: Variations and Restorations
As an architecture student here in South Korea, I have had the unique opportunity to get the inside scoop on how Hanoks are made and restored. Here are a few unique features that make…
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Traditional Korean Funeral Practices: Burial Mounds Pt. 1
Traditional Korean funeral practices are extremely complex. They stem from a tradition of Shamanism, Buddhism, and strict Confucian guidelines. Here is a simplified breakdown of traditional…
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What To Do In Gangwondo This Winter
Has it crossed your mind to visit Korea in winter? Spend Christmas here, or watch it snow? We will tell you some information that may help you if you decide to visit Korea in winter… or…
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Viva Arte in Seoul
Wondering what to do in Seoul this winter? Do you feel the urge to colorize your life and discover new things in town? Are you an art lover, a photographer, or just a curious soul that needs…
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Top Modern Hanbok Brands
Hanbok (한복) is a set of traditional clothing that has been worn by Koreans for over 1,600 years. Its historical importance is constantly linked to the Joseon Dynasty, even though it has older…
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Door Designs of Korean Buddhist Temples
This is a close-up look at one of the rarest books by the father of Korean documentary photography, Joo Myung-Duck. Door Designs of Korean Buddhist Temples is a collection of photographs…
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Best Fish Markets in Korea
Going to fish markets may not be the first thing on your mind when you plan your itinerary for visiting Korea. However, if you are from a country outside of Asia, you will find it to be an…
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Yeosu Media Art Pavilion NocteMare
Exhibitions with various art objects are located not only in Seoul or Busan. To visit one of these places, you can go, for example, to Yeosu. This is a large city in the very south of the…
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Daegu Concert Experience
If you are familiar with K-pop, then I’m pretty sure you know about the K-pop festivals that have been taking place all over Korea. My roommate and I wanted to experience one, so when we…
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Tomb of King Muryeong
The tomb of King Muryeong (무령왕릉) for a long time was a mystery that thrilled many historians. Found officially in the city of Gongju, the tomb of King Muryeong explains relationships from the…
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Cliffside Temple in Busan: Haedong Yonggungsa
If there is one temple to visit in Busan, it is without a doubt Haedong Yonggungsa (해동용궁사). Its location is right by the sea, along a cliffside which makes it one of the most unique and…
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Life in the Korean Countryside: Bongjwa Village
I have always been someone, who loves nature more than the city. Nature has always been my safe place. Normally, when I need to escape, I head to the mountains for a hike away from city life.…
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The Deranged Prince and Wailing at Changdeokgung
Korean Royal Palaces are symbols of this country’s monarchical past and now stand proudly as its most notable landmarks. Nevertheless, these palaces, despite countless renovations, have stood…
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Dadaepo Beach: A Must-Visit Busan Destination for ARMY
Annyeong ARMY! First off, I would like to start by welcoming everyone to this wonderful dynamic city: Busan! Busan has been my home for the past year and a half. As a result, I have had the…
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Nature’s Revenge: The Jangsan Monster
South Korea has a history that goes back thousands of years. Most local tales are ancient, having been passed down through the generations. However, this story is different. It has all the…
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5 Traditional Korean Desserts You’ll Fall in Love With
I don’t know how you feel about it, but I deeply love pastries and other confectionery treats. We find some things here and there, but having Western dishes in Korea is just like having Korean…
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5 Underrated Attractions on Jeju Island
Autumn is the best time to visit Jeju. The weather is perfect. Jeju is so big that you can not possibly explore it completely, even if you go there ten times. Last week I got a chance to visit…
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Murder from Beyond the Grave: The Legend of Two Sisters
Korea has fairly rich folklore with a variety of stories that were spread during the Joseon period. Most famous among Korean folklore are mystical stories related to murders. In this article,…
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Haunted Palaces: Queen Min and Gyeongbokgung
Korean Royal Palaces are the symbol of this country’s past monarchies. Now, they stand proudly as its most notable landmarks. Nevertheless, these palaces, have stood for hundreds of years and…
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Gwangyang: A Hidden Gem Along the Southern Coast
While traveling in Korea many people usually visit Seoul, Busan, and Jeju, the most popular tourist cities. However, Korea has also beautiful places in small towns, too. Currently, I am living…
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An Unforgettable Journey to Yeosu
I have frequently traveled throughout the South Korean peninsula during my stay. But, if I had to single out the best destination to travel to, it would be none other than Yeosu. I loved the…
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Seokpajeong Seoul Art Museum: Where History meets Art
Calling all those who hold art near and dear, as well as lovers of historical sites! Seokpajeong Seoul Art Museum is the place for you! With over 600 years of history, this art museum and…
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Free Exhibition at the Asia Culture Center in Gwangju
If you love art and interactive galleries, you won’t want to miss this free exhibition in Gwangju at the Asia Culture Center. Explore the beginning of the earth, the importance of water,…
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Hanulbapsang Banchan Restaurant in Jeonju
Hanulbapsang Restaurant in Jeonju offers traditional Korean cuisine. Which, yes, a lot of restaurants in Korea offer traditional Korean food. But, here they serve a crazy number of side…
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The Cruelest King of Joseon Dynasty: Yeonsangun
There are some rulers who enter the history books for their cruelty. Among them, Ivan the Terrible (the Russian tsar in the 16th century), Caligula (Roman Emperor from A.D. 37 to 41), and Vlad…
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How Noraebangs Work: A Guide to Korean Karaoke
Noraebangs (Korean karaokes) are a huge part of Korean culture, whether it is as another round for your night out or a break time for elementary school students from their hectic schedules.…
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Jeju World Heritage Festival
The Jeju World Heritage Festival is back for in-person events! This festival marks the promotion of the cultural significance of the volcanic island’s UNESCO World Natural Heritage sites. It…
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Korean Herb Of The Month: Ginkgo Biloba
Welcome back to another Korean Herb Of The Month article! Known as a “living fossil”, this tree can be traced back to the time of the Three Kingdoms in Korea. The golden kernels of…
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Tropics in Glass: Geoje Jungle Dome
Do you ever feel like escaping the city to enjoy a day in nature? I want to offer you a whole different experience in nature – Geoje Jungle Dome! Geoje Jungle Dome is the largest glass…
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Number Superstitions in Korea
Do you believe that a specific number can bring good or bad things into your life? Maybe you have lucky numbers, but have you ever heard of number superstitions on a societal level? There are…
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Korean Ghost Stories
Do you like tales of the macabre? The creepy stories that will keep you up at night? Legends that will make your toes curl? If so, Congratulations! You have found the correct post. So many…
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Chuseok at Jeonju Hanok Village
During Chuseok last year, instead of just staying indoors as we did in 2020, my friends and I decided to go on a day trip to Jeonju. We went there on Sunday, a day before the official Chuseok…
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A Korean Folktale: The Green Frog
So, a few months back, I joined a reading club at my university. There are numerous books in several categories, including fairytales and children’s literature. And there I came upon a…
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Gender Roles and Chuseok
Gender roles have become a topic of debate this Chuseok. According to traditional Confucian beliefs, women have no place at the Chuseok alter and, should essentially stay out of the kitchen.…
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5 Free Things to Do in Gwangju
Korea is a small country, and it has a lot of advantages; one of them is that domestic travel can be done so easily and fast even within just one weekend. So, in March I decided not to waste…
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Cultural Differences Between Chuseok and Mid-Autumn Festivals
As a Chinese Malaysian living in Korea, Chuseok season makes me feel right at home. There are so many similarities between Chuseok and the Mid-Autumn festival I am familiar with. Both are…
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Korean Traditional Souvenirs
If you are a tourist looking for the perfect Korean traditional souvenirs to bring back with your from the land of morning calm, this article is for you! What memorable souvenirs you can bring…
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Tim Burton Exhibition at DDP: Last Chance to See!
Tim Burton Exhibition “The World of Tim Burton” at Dongdaemun Design Plaza brings back memories of childhood dreams. It immerses you into the head of Burton by interacting with his creations.…
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Youngdo Velvet: Maker Historical K-Drama Sets & Costume
Ever wonder who the creator of your favorite historical K-drama sets and costumes is? Well, chances are it is Youngdo velvet. They have been designing traditional and modern velvet pieces…
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A Weekend in Mokpo: Stunning Korean Port City
Last weekend, I had the opportunity to visit Mokpo, a small town in Jeollanamdo Province. It is located at the southwestern tip of the Korean Peninsula. Mokpo is famous for its port and…
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What to Do During Chuseok in Korea as a Foreigner
Chuseok in Korea, the Korean Mid-Autumn Festival, is one of the most joyful and cheerful times of the year. This year, 2022, Chuseok will be held from September 9th to September 12th. Koreans…
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Jeonju Nanjang Museum: Time Travel to Post-War Korea
Time keeps moving on and we can’t go back. Only memories can remind us of those times. These memories are usually in the form of photos and videos. But, who would have thought, you could…
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Types of Traditional Divination in Korea
We have all heard about the common divination used in Korea. Such as tarot or the saju pillars. However, today I will introduce to you a few different types of traditional divination used in…
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Haedong Yonggungsa Temple: The Most Beautiful Temple in Korea
Thanks to one of my university’s trips for foreign students, I discovered the most beautiful temple in Korea. Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, located in Busan, lives up to the hype. Sitting along…
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Korean Traditional Medicinal Practices to Improve Your Daily Life
Even if you are still in your 20s, your health condition may not be as great as you would like it to be. Am I right? The modern lifestyle and the fast-paced way of living may have started to…
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How to Make Korean Rice Water at Home for Skin & Hair
Most of us dream of having the flawless glass skin of Korean celebrities that we see every day on TV. However, unlike these celebrities, many of us ordinary people can’t afford to buy…
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Muism: Folk Religion in Korea
Most people know about Buddhism, Catholicism, and many other modern religions worldwide. However, not much can be said about the beliefs of our ancestors. Folk religions are ancient and can be…
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Sokcho in One Day
Do you live in Seoul or Gyeonggi and feel like you need a quick getaway? Guess what! You don’t have to go all the way to Busan for a beach getaway. The next closest beach destination is…
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Korean Herb of The Month: Cinnamon
Cinnamon, also known as Gyepi (계피) in Korean, is a popular spice used in pastries and beverages all over the world. It is well known for its fragrant scent and its multitude of uses. However,…
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The Oldest Cafes in Seoul
Seoul, as a contemporary city with history around every corner, is full of unexpected delights. It goes without saying that coffee shops are no exception. In this article, I will be your…
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Seoul Festa 2022: Racecars, Kpop, & Shopping
Seoul Festa is one of the biggest summer festivals in South Korea. It includes performances by some of the top K-pop groups, a car race, international DJ performances, and shopping events.…
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Korean Bathhouse: Naked but Confident
Jjimjilbangs (찜질방), a Korean bathhouse, are a really big part of the country’s culture. It is a place where locals go to socialize, and friends and family members go to tighten their bonds.…
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Gongju Gongsanseong Fortress
Gongju Gongsanseong Fortress is one of the main attractions in this ancient city which was once the capital of the Kingdom of Baekje. This UNESCO World Heritage site has been standing for more…
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Seoul 6,000 Years Ago: Amsa-dong Prehistoric Museum Site
When you think of historic sites in Korea, the first thing that probably comes to mind are places like Gyeongbokgung Palace or Bukchon Hanok Village. However, you can go back way further.…
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Arte Museum Valley Gangneung
You probably have seen a lot of stunningly beautiful photos from the Arte Museum chain. All of them have media installations with vibrant colors, sounds, and complementary scents. They are a…
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History, Art, and Cheese in Jeollabukdo
Visiting Jeollabukdo, I was introduced to a side of Korea I never would have imagined. The quiet rural villages of Namwon and Imsil were overflowing with history, art, and cheese! Let’s…
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Asian Mythology: The Sons Who Turned to Stone
Filial piety is a recurring theme in folklore, especially in Asian countries which uphold the value almost to the extreme. In these Asian myths, one from Korea and one from Indonesia, we can…
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Mamamoo’s Solar Stars in Mata Hari the Musical
Mata Hari is a fantastic musical. However, in Seoul, you not only get the chance to see the world-famous musical in person, but you may also get the chance to see your favorite idol perform.…
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Sambok: Three Hottest Days of Korean Summer
Sambok are the three hottest days of summer in Korea according to the traditional calendar. Traditionally these are days to rest and reserve your strength. Although Sambok are no longer…
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Film Festivals in Korea
Following international hits like Train to Busan and Squid Game the Korean film industry is gaining more and more recognition. And, with that Korean film festivals are also getting bigger and…
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Ansan Multicultural Food Street: Taste of Nusantara
When most people think of multicultural neighborhoods in Korea, the first place that comes to mind is usually Itaewon. However, there is one vibrant multicultural neighborhood in Korea…
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Colombian Community in Korea
Today, as a Colombian, I am proud to let others know about how the Colombian community unites and expands throughout Korea. Plus, I will share with you the two most important events held to…
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Foreigner-Friendly Clinics: Traditional Medicine in Seoul
The Seoul Oriental Medicine Association recently launched an initiative to increase inclusivity. 33 facilities in Seoul have been designated as foreigner-friendly traditional medicine clinics.…
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Korea’s Cafe History
Seoul’s cafe scene evolved year after year by combining western culture and elements of modernity. Now, Seoul has more cafes than any other city in the world. In today’s article, I…
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The Path of a Joseon Scholar: Donamseowon
Have you ever wanted to experience the life of a Joseon dynasty scholar? Well, Donamseowon is a historical Confucian Academy and one of Korea’s many UNESCO World Heritage sites. This is…
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Jeju Island Trip With My Korean Bestie
I am going on a trip with my Korean bestie who loves photography as much as I do. We are planning a 3-day photography tour to Jeju Island. She is the first to admit her English is not great.…
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Korean Herb of the Month: Motherwort
Motherwort, also known as ikmocho (익모초), is an herb that is used in traditional Korean medicine. Even though it is not well-known, motherwort is used in many ways due to its incredible health…
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Without You! Korean Tinder Museum Date Illustrated
Dear reader, today I am bringing you some tea from the Korean tinder date scene. I’m sure many of you who are interested in Korean pop culture wonder what it would be like to date a…
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K-Pop History: The Birth of K-Pop
You probably know the boy group BTS or the girls from Black Pink, right? Maybe you also know previous K-Pop generations such as Girls Generation, or Super Junior. But do you know K-Pop…
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Korean Traditional Alcohol
It’s no secret that Koreans love alcohol. With a vibrant drinking culture surrounding its signature drink soju, Korea is internationally known as a party destination. However, South…
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3 Badass Women in Korean Mythology
In most Korean myths and legends, we mainly hear about the fall of kings or the mighty heroes who save ancient kingdoms. However, we rarely come across their female counterparts. Women in…
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Korean Herb of the Month: Mugwort
In Korea, mugwort(쑥), is one of the most common herbs featured in Korean mythology, food, beverages, cosmetics, and traditional medicine. It is used in rice cakes and in traditional Korean…
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Fortune Telling in Korea
Fortune telling in Korea, as well as some other kinds of divination, has been popular since ancient times. Korean shamen are an integral part of traditional culture and many still believe in…
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Free Activities in Seoul
Traveling on a budget? Well, what if I told you that you could have a full-filled day in Seoul without spending any money at all? Here are six free activities in Seoul! Free Sightseeing…
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Korean and Indian Culture: Similarities Half a World Apart
South Korea and India are approximately 5,000 km apart. This is no insignificant distance. However, although geographically separated, the two countries share some striking cultural and…
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Blue House Opens to the Public
For the first time in 74 years the Blue House, South Korea’s presidential office, is open to the public. Upon his inauguration, president Yoon Seok-youl relocated the governing headquarters of…
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BTS Gangwon Tour: Feel the Ocean Breeze
One of the best ways to travel in Gangwon Province is on a BTS Gangwon Tour. Gangwon Province is my favorite place in Korea. The Eastern sea is simply too breathtaking! This province has the…
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Gunsan: An Instagrammable History
Have you ever found yourself scrolling through Instagram late at night, looking at all the locations on your feed? The urge to set off on a new adventure, explore recent areas, and post your…
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Korean Traditional Medicine: Exploring Yangnyeong
Growing up in Singapore, where traditional medicine is still highly respected and widely used, it was natural that I wanted to know more about the world of Korean traditional medicine. So, I…
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What is Aegyo? Cute or Weird?
Have you noticed this tendency for adult Korean women to sound like spoiled brats when talking to men in Korean dramas? This “act” is called aegyo in Korea, kawaii (Japan), and…
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Dangun: The Legend of Korea’s First Kingdom
There is a beginning, a middle, and an end in most stories. However, most legends, especially creation stories, are not as structured as this. The Legend of Dangun is one of these stories that…
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Spring in Gyeongju: A Day Trip
There is nothing more beautiful than spring in Korea. The snow (what little we had) has melted. The cherry blossoms have bloomed. And now, the leaves are growing and gaining color.…
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2 Spring Exhibitions in Busan
Now that spring has arrived, it’s time to embark on exciting travels across the country. There are numerous things you can do visit amusement parks, go to the beach, and smell some fresh…
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A Cherry Blossom Adventure Pt.1
Finally, it was the end of March, spring had sprung and it was time to view cherry blossoms blooming while sipping on a delightful cup of tea in the courtyard of a traditional teahouse in…
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An Introduction to Korean Shamanism
Korean Shamanism is an important part of life in South Korea, both in the past and in modern times. Korean Shamanism (무교) is an ancient cultural practice and is a commonality shared between…
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The Best Things to Do in Gyeongju
Gyeongju is commonly referred to as the roofless museum of Korea. The ancient capital of Silla has a lot to offer. From historical sites to natural wonders, the possibilities are endless. But,…
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3 Mythological Creatures in Korean Dramas
Most of you have probably watched at least one Korean drama. Maybe you wanted to learn a little bit of Korean culture, or your favorite singer made a cameo appearance. But, I think for most of…
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Buying Hanbok: Custom Made and Second Hand
Everyone in Daegu has heard about Seomun Market. It’s one of the oldest traditional markets in Korea. And for a good reason! If you can’t find what you are looking for, it probably…
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The Eternal Wonders of Ahopsan Forest
If you are a K Drama lover, you might remember the time travel portal in The King: Eternal Monarch. Well, that mystic gateway to another dimension actually exists! And, I decided to visit the…
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Arang’s Ghost: A Vengeful Water Spirit
Arang’s Ghost is only one of many Korean water ghost stories that have haunted generations of Koreans. This is the tale of a beautiful woman, brutally murdered whose soul is out for…
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IU to Korean Odyssey: Japanese Colonial Jeongnangak
The Sujeong Cultural Empathy Center also known as Joengnangak is one of Korea’s last remaining buildings from its Japanese colonial period. The building features Japanese traditional…
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Accidentally Wes Anderson: A World of Inspiration
A true visionary of this age, Wes Anderson continues to inspire and awe the many people who view and are touched by his masterpieces. Rooted in impeccable composition and balance, the…
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