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Beyond the Border: Korean Films That Reflect a Nation Divided
To South Koreans, North Korea is both the closest and the farthest place away. Not only in Korea, but abroad as well, North Korea has become a source of intrigue that has captivated the film industry. Amidst the division of North and South Korea, South Koreans, harboring fantasies of reconciliation and unification, find themselves drawn to content about inter-Korean relations, seeking to fulfill these fantasies through such narratives. Get ready to dive into how Korean dramas and movies have reflected and explored the complexities of a nation divided: War movies in Korea On June 25, 1950, with the onset of the Korean War, the Korean Peninsula was divided into North…
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Build An Epic Korea Itinerary By Visiting Crash Landing on You Filming Locations
If you are already interested in Korean content, chances are high that you have already heard about Crash Landing on You (사랑의 불시착). This Korean drama offers a deep exploration of the nature of love and human relationships, along with an understanding of the relationship between North and South Korea. Crash landing on You is not just a romantic comedy, but a drama that delivers a wide range of emotions that led to its major and continuous popularity. You could build a pretty epic Korea itinerary based on the filming locations in the Crash Landing On You Korean drama. Get ready to find beautiful places in the country: What is…
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Mystical Realms of Korean Mythology in Popular Films
Today, we embark on a fascinating journey to explore how Korean myths and folktales, more than just stories, have endured through time and continue to shape our understanding today. These ancient narratives are not merely legends; they are cultural treasures that unveil the richness and diversity of Korean culture. They bring to life a world where nature, humans, gods, and spirits intersect. Among Korea’s foundational myths is the tale of a bear and a tiger transformed into humans after consuming garlic and mugwort. We also encounter stories of mischievous doggae-be (goblins), known for stealing treasure and considered symbols of good fortune and protection, despite their playful nature. Another key element…
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How To Celebrate The Year of The Dragon In Korea
Happy New Year! 2024 is the Year of the Dragon, the blue dragon or wood dragon to be precise. The dragon is the only mythical creature among the twelve zodiac signs and is a symbol of strength, prosperity, and success. In Korean, this year is called “Gapjin” (갑진) and if you want to celebrate the Year of the Dragon in Korea, there are a number of things you can do. So, what does the Year of the Dragon mean? And, how can you celebrate the Year of the Dragon in Korea? Here’s what you need to know… (This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a certain percentage of a…
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A Guide To Korea’s Winter Bloom: Where To See Camellias
When you picture winter in Korea, you probably picture snowy mountains, ski resorts, and steamy street food stalls. That said, did you know there are flowers that bloom in the winter in Korea? While there can be plenty of snow and plenty of cozy indoor spots to hang, if you head to the southern provinces of Korea, you’ll be able to find flowers! Yes, flowers in the winter! Camellias (동백꽃) bring a splash of color to the winter canvas, offering a delightful experience for visitors and locals alike. As the cold sets in, a natural wonder unfolds across the southern regions of Korea that are the pick-me-up you might need…
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National Foundation Day In Korea and The Myth That Started It All
I have visited a lot of museums and exhibitions in Korea over the years and I’m always drawn into the tales and stories of Korean myths and folklore. If you learned about the Roman gods and Greek mythology in school and loved the tales and lore, you’ll likely be interested in the Korean mythology as well. The origin story of Korea is quite the tale and if you haven’t heard it yet, get ready to discover the beginning of Korean mythology and why today National Foundation Day (개천절) is celebrated. Get ready to dive into Korean folklore, myth, and legend: (This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a…
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How To Play Yut Nori: Korea’s Traditional New Year’s Game
If you live in Korea and stay through a traditional Korean holiday, chances are high that you will come across the traditional Korean game known as yut nori (윷노리). Even if you’re not celebrating with a family, you can find the game played at schools, yut nori sets can be found at folk museums, and you can even find sets in local toy stores. Yut nori is a fun Korean game and if you’re looking for something fun to do this Lunar New Year with your kids, this is a great game that you can also prepare yourself at home. Yut nori is a fun traditional Korean game that weaves…
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Moxy Seoul Myeongdong: The Coolest Hotel In Seoul
Looking for one of the coolest hotels in Myeongdong in Seoul, Korea? It has to be Moxy! Moxy invites the young at heart and free-spirited travelers to experience a unique stay that seamlessly blends the excitement of Myeongdong’s lively streets with the hotel’s contemporary and unconventional approach to hospitality. If you’ve never stayed at a Moxy before… I’ll fill you in on the unconventional part below. Moxy Seoul Myeongdong is one of the coolest hotels in Myeongdong: (This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a certain percentage of a sale if you purchase after clicking at no cost to you. Thank you for your support.) Basic Info How…
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Arte Museum: The Immersive Exhibition To Find In Korea
Ever on the lookout for immersive art experiences, we couldn’t help but step in to the media escape that Arte Museum provides. If you’re like us and always looking out for the cool places to go and things to do in Korea, then there is no doubt that Arte Museum (아르떼뮤지엄) has already been on your radar. Created by d’strict, a digital design firm, there are Arte Museums located in Gangneung, Jeju, and Yeosu and soon to be one opened in Busan, Korea. In a country that grapples with fine dust every year which causes a major issue with spending time outside, especially if you have little ones, the focus…
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Korean March 1st Movement: Movies To Watch For The Holiday
Among the pivotal events in Korean history, March 1st holds a deeply significant place. On that day in 1919, in collective defiance against Japanese colonial rule, the Korean people initiated Sam-il Un-dong (The March 1st Independence Movement / 3.1 운동). March 1st is now celebrated as one of South Korea’s five major national holidays. It is a day of remembrance and reflection, honoring the courage and unity of those who stood up for their nation’s independence. It serves as a solemn reminder of Korea’s history of sovereignty and the spirit of independence activists. Get ready to learn about the March 1st Independence Movement Day in Korea and movies to learn…
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The Sulwhasoo Clarifying Mask: The Perfect Peel Off Mask
I tried the Sulwhasoo Clarifying Mask and it quickly became my favorite peel off mask on my shelf. Amp up your skincare routine and peel off this mask to find smoother, clearer, and supple skin. As someone always on the lookout for gentle yet effective exfoliation, I couldn’t resist trying this Sulwhasoo creation. Actually, I should rephrase, any time I can try any Sulwhasoo product, I jump at the chance and I was able to get this from Amore Seongsu the last time I was there. Whether you’re a seasoned skincare aficionado or a beauty explorer, Sulwhasoo’s Clarifying Mask invites you to unveil the secrets to enduring radiance and youthful…
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Discover The Views From Oryukdo Skywalk in Busan
Head to where the East Sea and the South Sea converge and you’ll spot the Oryukdo Islets that paint a mesmerizing picture in the emerald sea. Comprising five islands that sometimes become six as the tides change, this natural wonder off the coast of Yongho-dong, Nam-gu, Busan, is a must-visit destination for those seeking the perfect blend of geological marvels, marine sanctuaries, and cultural heritage. On one of my first trips to Busan with my husband he took me to nearby Igidae and I couldn’t get enough of the rocky coastline and blue waters in this area. While the view is spectacular, it seems to be the Oryukdo Skywalk (오륙도…
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OUL: A Unique Blend of Heritage and Modern Mixology in Seoul
When I first moved to Seoul, I was young dumb and, let’s face it, skint (a word I learned form my British roommate at the time) for most of my time. We frequented cheap pubs and drank beers outside of convenience stores, which is not illegal in Korea FYI. Having gotten older wiser and having less nights out, when I do go out, now I’m on the hunt for the best bars in Seoul, upscale cocktail bars, and just generally unique bars in Seoul. One bar where all of those describers ring true is in the lux Four Seasons Hotel. Hotels can have some pretty cool bars, let’s be honest,…
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Ikseon-dong: Where To Eat and What To Do
Ikseon-dong has become one of the most popular little Hanok villages in downtown Seoul. While people visit Bukchon Hanok Village to see the old Hanoks in all of their grandeur, Ikseon-dong attracts visitors for food, cafes, and fun. The alleys are narrower and instead of traditional, the shops that have moved in seem to pay homage to the history and traditions of the area through upscale eats and artistic experiences. You can find quirky, cute, and fun places to hang out in this historic district of Seoul, Korea. Ikseon-dong also makes for a great area to stay in as I found when I stayed at the Moxy Hotel. From adorable alleyways…
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Moxy Seoul Insadong: A Trendy Urban Hotel in the Heart of Seoul
Right outside of Jongno 3-ga Subway Station and south of the popular Ikseon-dong Hanok Village sits Moxy Seoul Insadong, a hotel that blends youthful energy with the historical charm of the area. Featuring a rooftop bar, cool communal spaces, and murals, Moxy Hotel in Insadong is a great hotel in the heart of the historic area of Seoul for tourists, remote workers that are traveling, and staycationers. I’m often asked where to stay in Seoul, and I often recommend the Insadong and Bukchon areas which often lands people on Hanok hotels, but there are great modern hotels in the area as well and this is one of them. Moxy Seoul…
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Chimaek: A Journey Through Korea’s Favorite Combo
Korean fried chicken has made waves in recent years across the internet for various reasons. Some people think it’s crispier than popular American-style fried chicken. Some think the sauces make it more appetizing. Whatever it is, fried chicken in Korea is now a staple on everyone’s must-eat lists in South Korea and there are a lot of Korean fried chicken brands to choose from. While you might look up “what to eat in Korea?” and expect to see things like kimchi, a plethora of rice dishes, and Korean bbq, you might not expect to see Korean fried chicken up there. Why is it so popular? How did Korea become a…
![Hantangang Sky Bridge [한탄강하늘다리], Pocheon, Korea](https://thesoulofseoul.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/IMG_6700-2.jpg)
