Explore Korea (한국 탐험하기)
Top places to see in Korea. Where to go in Korea and what to do. Want to travel in Korea? See more outside of Seoul. (한국에서 볼 수 있는 최고의 장소. 한국에서 어디로 갈 것인지, 무엇을 할 것인지. 한국에서 여행하고 싶으세요? 서울 외곽에서 더 많이 보십시오.)
-
Naejangsan National Park: Korea’s Most Famous Fall Foliage Destination
Fall foliage in Korea with those vibrant reds, warm oranges, and dazzling yellows is a sight and when it comes to getting out to see it and there is one spot in Korea that Koreans flock to year after year. Naejangsan National Park (내장산국립공원) is where Korea truly shows off her colors. Every November in Korea, this mountain in Jeongeup, Jeollabuk-do, turns into a living painting of red maples, golden ginkgoes, and deep orange oaks. There are some great hiking trails in Naejangsan, but it also has one of the most family-friendly trails in Korea as well. It’s a perfect spot to be immersed in fall foliage without strenuous hiking…
-
Korea In November: The Weather, Travel Tips, Flowers and Things To Do
November in Korea is the gateway to winter, but it still holds onto the last golden moments of autumn. That doesn’t mean it’s all chilly winds and bare trees. Not at all. November can be cozy and warm in its own way, especially if you’re prepared to embrace the changing season. After years of experiencing November here, I’ve come to love its quiet charm. The crowds thin out, the foliage lingers in the south, and it’s the perfect time for a peaceful getaway. Layer up, grab a warm drink, and enjoy Korea’s scenic trails, historic sites, and the start of its festive winter lights. Will you be traveling to Korea…
-
Urban Regeneration in Korea: Factories, Bunkers, and Parks Turn Arts & Culture Hubs
You might think trash plants and bunkers don’t belong on your travel list, but in Korea they make for some of the coolest arts and culture spaces around. Over the past decade, cities around Korea have turned oil depots, rail stations, and military sites into cafes, galleries, playgrounds, and performance halls. If you want to travel like a local, see urban regeneration in Korea, and visit some truly inspiring art spaces, these regenerated spaces from Seoul to the DMZ, Jeonju, Daegu, and Incheon should be highlights you look for. Check out this guide to how Korea is reusing spaces to create thriving cultural hubs: (This post contains affiliate links, which…
-
Korea In October: The Weather, Travel Tips, Flowers and Things To Do
October in Korea is peak autumn, and it’s every bit as magical as it sounds. The days are cool but not cold, and the skies are often a brilliant blue. That doesn’t mean it’s all crisp air and falling leaves just yet. Not at all. October has an energy that combines the best of summer’s warmth and autumn’s charm. Having spent years exploring Korea in October, I can confidently say it’s one of the best times to visit. The foliage is breathtaking, with fiery reds and golden yellows in every direction, and the air is perfect for hiking, strolling, or just sitting back with a warm drink. Whether you’re here…
-
Museum of Contemporary Art Busan: Where Art and Nature Meet
Picture Busan, Korea and visions of beaches and seafood may come to mind, but there’s also a thriving art scene waiting to be explored. We’re most often in Busan outside of beach season, so we’ve seen a lot more museums than sand. One of the best places to dive into contemporary art in Korea is in Busan, the Museum of Contemporary Art Busan (MOCA Busan) (부산현대미술관) was opened in 2018 on Eulsukdo Island. The building itself is a piece of art, wrapped in living greenery as part of the installation Vertical Garden by French botanist Patrick Blanc. Inside, you’ll find rotating exhibitions, interactive installations, and even a dedicated children’s library…
-
Korea In September: The Weather, Travel Tips, Flowers and Things To Do
September in Korea marks the start of autumn, where the summer heat begins to fade, and the air turns crisp and refreshing. Well the summer heat is supposed to fad. Last year, it was the hottest September on record. September is usually a delightful mix of warm days and cooler nights, perfect for enjoying both outdoor and indoor activities. After almost two decades here, I’ve learned that September is the month where Korea’s nature really begins to transform. The first hints of autumn colors appear in the mountains, and festivals celebrating the harvest season are in full swing. Pack layers to stay comfortable, and get ready for beautiful hikes, cultural…
-
Saeseom Island: The Island You Can Walk To From Seogwipo via Saeyeongyo Bridge
Seogwipo on Jeju’s southern coast is famous for its waterfalls, seafood, and vibrant portside atmosphere, but if you head just a few minutes from the bustle, you’ll find one of my favorite peaceful escapes: Saeyeongyo Bridge (새연교) and Saeseom Island (새섬). Recently, my daughter has been taking a class in the city for a couple hours each week, and this has become our go-to spot for a quiet walk that fits perfectly into that window of time. You’ll spot the bridge to the island first with its striking sail-shaped design, Saeyeongyo is the longest pedestrian bridge in Jeju. At night, it lights up in colorful illuminations that shimmer against the…
-
Podo Museum Doesn’t Have Grapes, But It’s One Of The Best Art Museums In Jeju
Come to Jeju Island in South Korea and you’ll find a Citrus Museum, a Lemon Museum, and a Podo Museum (포도뮤지엄). Imagine my surprise when I rocked up to the Podo Museum, podo means grape in Korean, and there weren’t any grapes in sight! Jokes aside, Jeju Island isn’t just about beaches and lava tubes, though those are beautiful and interesting, it’s also home to a growing collection of inspiring art museums. Among them, the Podo Museum has quickly made a name for itself as one of the most thought-provoking cultural spaces on the island. Did I enjoy my visits? I did and I think you will too. Here’s what…
-
Korea In August: The Weather, Tips From A Local, Flowers and Things To Do
August in Korea is the peak of summer, and it definitely feels like it. The heat is intense, the humidity is high, and the air is thick enough to remind you that this is summer in full swing. But that doesn’t mean you should avoid Korea in August. Not at all. This month has its own energy and excitement if you know how to beat the heat. After nearly two decades here, I’ve come to see August as the season of festivals, beach days, and late-night strolls. Sure, the midday sun can be overwhelming, but mornings and evenings are perfect for exploring. Pack a fan, stay hydrated, and don’t miss…
-
Jeju’s Weirdest and Most Wonderful Art Stops: The Arario Museum Collection
When you think of Jeju Island, visions of beaches and volcanoes probably come to mind, but there is a pretty vibrant art scene on the island beyond the natural wonder too. At the heart of the scene are three Arario museums (아라리오 뮤지엄). This trio of artistic inspiration sits in the Old Town of Jeju City. Much like Arario Museum in Space (아라리오뮤지엄 인 스페이스) in Seoul, these museums in repurposed motels and a vintage cinema house a collection of contemporary artworks that are bold, bizarre, and boundary-pushing. If anything, the collection is certainly a conversation starter and if you’re visiting Jeju City’s Old Town, these art museums make for…
-
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…
-
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…
-
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…
-
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…
-
Living in Jeju Island: 5 Perks Only Locals Know About
While Seoul is where the vast majority of people seem to take up residence in South Korea, there are a number of reasons to live somewhere else… anywhere else, in the country. Take Jeju Island for example. Given the moniker the “Hawaii of Korea”, this island has palm trees, beaches galore, and a number of perks that only residents of the island can enjoy. (Actually there are a few things you mainlanders can enjoy too, so pay attention.) More foreigners and Koreans alike are choosing Jeju Island for its natural beauty, slower lifestyle, and surprising local benefits. We moved to Jeju, Korea six months ago and here are five reasons…
-
Things To Do In Incheon: 25 Picks Beyond The Airport
When people tell me they’ve been to Incheon, I usually ask which part, and inevitably, it’s just the Incheon International Airport they’re referring to. Does that really even count? Not if you ask me. Incheon is massive! It’s the third largest city in Korea and covers an area that includes vibrant seaside neighborhoods, quiet island beaches, revitalized cultural hubs, and historical districts that shaped the nation’s past. Each area has its own personality, its own story, and its own reasons to visit. What started as a casual day trip many years back turned into multiple return visits, and now I tell everyone: don’t skip Incheon. It’s not just one neighborhood,…
