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Aqua Planet Jeju: The Ultimate Rainy Day (or Hot Day) Family Stop on Jeju Island
Jeju Island is packed with breathtaking outdoor spots, but sometimes the weather just doesn’t cooperate, or you need a break from the intense heat. An aquarium is always a fun stop and thankfully here on Jeju Island we have the best aquarium in South Korea, Aqua Planet Jeju (아쿠아플라넷 제주). Just a short drive from Seongsan Ilchulbong, Udo Island, and Seopjikoji in the southeastern side of Jeju, Aqua Planet Jeju is the largest aquarium in Korea and ranks among the top ten in the world for marine life diversity. We’re talking over 48,000 creatures and over 500 species, a 6,000-ton main tank, and performances that blend education, culture, and showbiz…
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Seongsan Ilchulbong: Why You Can’t Skip Jeju’s Sunrise Peak
Known as “Sunrise Peak”, this 5,000-year-old volcanic tuff cone is one of Jeju Island‘s most iconic sights, and for good reason. Climb to the summit of Seongsan Ilchulbong (성산일출봉) for a cinematic view out over the oceans, one that makes the stairs worth it. If you’re going to take one “hike” in Jeju Island, let it be this one. And to be honest, it’s not even that much of a hike, I did it in a dress and Birkenstocks. Jeju’s Sunrise Peak is a must visit and it’s a family-friendly hike to the top. Get ready for those views! (This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a certain…
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How to Experience the Changing of the Guard at Gyeongbokgung Palace
Flags flutter in the wind. Boots step in rhythm on the cobbled stone. Drums set the beat across the courtyard. The Changing of the Guard at Gyeongbokgung Palace is a choreographed flashback to Korea’s royal past. Bold colors. Fierce faces. Just ceremony. If you’re visiting Seoul, Korea, this is one of the most vivid, photo-worthy, and FREE experiences you’ll find. But, there are some pro-tips to enjoying it and seeing the main palace of the capital. Let’s break it down. Here’s how to enjoy Gyeongbokgung Palace’s Changing of the Guard like a pro, not just a bystander with a phone out. (This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive…
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Hwachae: How To Make Korean Fruit Punch This Summer
The weather has warmed up and we celebrated the coming of summer fun with our first watermelon of the season, by making hwachae, of course. We scooped out our watermelon, tossed in peaches, kiwi, passionfruit, blueberries, ice, and Milkis. Within minutes, it was gone, devoured by hungry mouths. That’s hwachae for you, refreshing, beautiful, impossible to resist, and fun to make together. If you’re looking for a hwachae recipe, or a way to amp up your fruit bowl this summer, this is it. Here’s how to make Korean fruit punch. Fruit is tasty and so delicious in the summer. Amp up your fruit bowl this summer Korean style: (This post…
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Gaeseong Mandu Koong: Where To Eat North Korean Dumplings In Insadong
In the winding alleyways of Insadong, one of Seoul’s most touristy districts, it’s still possible to find cafes, restaurants, and shops tucked away around corners that have been there for decades. Gaeseong Mandu Koong (개성만두 궁) is one of those places and you have to know about it to find it. Visit this restaurant in Insadong and you’re not just eating dumplings, but you’re taking in the history of a family that stretches from North to South Korea. Established in 1970 by a Gaeseong native, this restaurant is now in its third generation of family ownership. The large dumplings stuffed with pork, mushrooms, or kimchi are filling, the soup delicious.…
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Hongeo: Korea’s Fermented Skate Fish and Why Koreans Love It
Whenever I think of hongeo (홍어회), I wonder about the first person that ever ate it. The first person that caught a whiff of the ammonia-odor that emanates from the delicacy and thought, “Yeah, let’s put that in my mouth and see what happens.” To be honest, there are a few Korean foods that I ponder upon with that same question. Made from skate, a type of cartilaginous fish, that has been fermented, this Korean delicacy is not the first dish or even the tenth dish I would introduce someone to when we’re talking about Korean food. But at some point, when the approachable Korean dishes have been exhausted, I…
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Korea In July: The Weather, Tips From A Local, Flowers and Things To Do
July in Korea is when summer truly makes its presence known. It’s hot, it’s humid, and yes, there’s a good chance you’ll experience some rain. But that doesn’t mean you should avoid visiting in July. Not at all. This month has its own kind of charm if you’re prepared to embrace it. After nearly two decades in Korea, I’ve learned that July is all about balance. Some days are steamy and sunny, perfect for beach trips and iced drinks. Other days bring refreshing monsoon rains that make the lush greenery even more vibrant. Pack a light raincoat, plan for early morning or evening outings, and be ready to enjoy Korea’s…
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There Is Just Something About The Way KORELIMITED Pays Homage To Korean Heritage
Some streetwear brands make noise with logos. Others tell stories. KORELIMITED does both, but the reason I love them is the stories. This LA-based Korean fashion brand blends bold streetwear aesthetics with symbols and stories from Korea’s rich cultural heritage. With every limited-edition drop, KORELIMITED reminds us that fashion can be more than just clothing, it can be a conversation about identity, resistance, and pride. Whether you’re Korean, Korean American, fell in love with a Korean and married into the culture (ahem, that’s me), or found Korean culture through K-pop, K-dramas, or travel, KORELIMTED is one of the best Korean fashion brands to explore for meaningful fashion. KORELIMITED is a…
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Bokbunja: The Korean Black Raspberry Wine With a Hilarious Name
I remember my first sip of bokbunja (복분자) in 2006, my first year in Korea. The wine shelves at the time were limited. There was a lot of local Korean wine that tended toward very sweet, and one Australian wine with a kangaroo on the label that served as the reliable alternative. Most evenings we went for the kangaroo. Come holiday time or a party when something with more character was needed, it was bokbunja. I had a bit too much that first year and took a lengthy break, only recently returning to it when I sat down to an eel dinner with my father-in-law. The pairing was excellent. With…
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What Is a Norigae? Meaning of the Korean Hanbok Charm & Where To Make One In Seoul
If you’ve ever admired the elegant lines of a Hanbok, a traditional Korean dress, chances are you’ve spotted a norigae (노리개), the graceful tassel charm that dangles from the coat strings or skirt of the traditional attire. After living in Korea for many years and collecting norigae from markets and Hanbok shops, I’ve come to appreciate how much symbolism and craftsmanship is packed into these small charms. Recently, I stopped into the Leesle modern Hanbok shop in the vibrant Hongdae district of Seoul, Korea to make my own. It’s a little tassel with a lot of charm. If you like crafting and want to create your own unique souvenir from…
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The Biggest Mistake Tourists Make in Seoul: Underestimating Its Size
If you’re planning a trip to Seoul, Korea and your itinerary includes hopping from your hotel to Gangnam over to Hongdae and back to your hotel in one day here’s your reality check: you’re going to spend more time underground than above it. Bright-eyed tourists show up with jam-packed plans to hit Gangnam, Hongdae, Myeongdong, and Insadong and what seems efficient ends up being a lesson in how to use the Seoul subway system (<- Yeah, I have a guide for that too). Seoul is massive! It’s not just big in population or reputation, geographically, it’s a sprawling metropolis of 25 districts, each with it’s own vibe, attractions, and character.…
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Play The Gayageum In Seoul: The Most Unique Cultural Experience You Can Have In Korea
I’ve lived in Seoul, Korea since 2006 and I’ve had my fair share of unforgettable experiences, eating like a Joseon royal at Gyeongbokgung Palace, sipping tea in the beautiful tea houses of Insadong among them. But the the day I played the gayageum (가야금) while wearing a Hanbok? That is definitely one of the most unique experiences you can have in Korea, if you ask me. What makes it even more special is how unfamiliar the gayageum is to people outside of Korea. Learning to play the gayageum feels like joining a secret club, one where you walk away not just with new skills, but with a deeper, more personal…
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Teterot Salon: Where To Buy A Stylish Modern Hanbok In Person Or Online
If you’re wandering the maze-like alleyways of Ikseon-dong, one of Seoul’s most photogenic neighborhoods, you’ll eventually stumble upon something special among the rows of Ikseon-dong cafes and restaurants: Teterot Salon (때때롯살롱). Not just a boutique, it’s a modern take on Korean heritage, and one of the best spots to pick up a stylish modern Hanbok in Seoul. (Bonus for those abroad though, Teterot Salon also has an online shop!) On the hunt for a new modern Hanbok to add to my collection, I already have three and one traditional one, I had heard about this shop from friends and wanted to visit for myself. Whether you’re looking for a piece of…
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Korea In June: The Weather, Tips From A Local, Flowers and Things To Do
June in Korea is when summer starts to take hold, but don’t let the rising temperatures deter you. Not at all. June can be absolutely lovely, filled with warm breezes, vibrant greenery, and plenty of ways to stay cool while enjoying the season’s best offerings. Having spent nearly two decades exploring Korea, I’ve come to appreciate the rhythm of summer here. Some years, June feels mild and inviting, while others jump straight into the humidity and heat. If you visit during one of the warmer stretches, just plan for early morning adventures, take advantage of shady spots, and cool off with a refreshing bowl of naengmyeon or bingsu. And don’t…
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Creating Scented Memories: Greedy Scent Perfume Workshop in Seoul
Perfume culture in Korea has taken off in recent years. In 2025 alone, the country’s fragrance market is projected to hit $468.91 million, with a steady annual growth rate of 2.3% through 2030. What’s driving this growth? A perfect storm of emotional wellness, aesthetic expression, and self-care trends. A few years ago, the term “korgasm” (코르가즘), a blend of nose in Korean and orgasm, emerged to describe the deep emotional pleasure triggered by scent. Not just about smelling good, perfumes became a small luxury and small acts of self-love. What came after that was a boom in shops for creating your very own personalized aroma and that’s where Greedy Scent…
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Kyochon Pilbang: Seoul’s Upscale Chimaek Speakeasy in Itaewon
If you think all Korean fried chicken joints are the same, you haven’t been to Kyochon Pilbang (교촌필방) in Itaewon. This isn’t your average chimaek experience that’s for sure. Chimaek is that beloved combination of chicken and beer, or maekju as it’s called in Korean. KyoChon Pilbang is a fried-chicken restaurant glow-up if there ever was one. It’s an upscale, secretive hideout that is 30 years of tradition in a sleek, artsy space. It’s probably not where my husband and his friends would go for a standard chicken and beer night out. But it’s absolutely where you go when you want a chimaek experience that’s actually memorable — on a…
