The Many Faces of South Korea
Note: While South Korea has been experiencing some political shifts recently, Gia and Carolina had the opportunity to visit this past October and were genuinely inspired by what they discovered. Their experience reaffirmed our belief that South Korea is a destination well worth exploring, and one that deserves a top spot on your travel wishlist.
We thought we knew what to expect from South Korea, but the experience reshaped our perspective in ways we never imagined. We arrived anticipating a hyper-modern society, but what we discovered was a country where technology coexists with a deep, rich cultural heritage and a history that continues to shape the present. It’s a land of many faces, each offering a new perspective on what makes this country truly so special.
Modern history
South Korea’s modern history is shaped by profound events that continue to impact the country today, and our visit to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) offered a powerful reminder of this ongoing division. Located about an hour north of Seoul, the DMZ, now rehabilitated for tourism, remains an active military zone. After passing through passport control, we visited old bunkers that once housed European and US military bases, which have been repurposed as exhibition halls. Our guide, Daniel, added an extra layer of depth to the visit, sharing personal stories from his time serving in the military at the DMZ.
However, the most eerie experience was our stop at the Unification Tower. Here, we peered through telescopes across the Imjin River into North Korea’s barren landscape, hoping to catch a glimpse of life in the empty fields—but we had no success.
Modern Culture
South Korea’s modern culture is perhaps best known for its global influence in entertainment and beauty. At the forefront of this is the K-pop phenomenon, which has taken global music charts by storm.
Another key aspect of South Korea’s modern culture is its beauty scene, which has become an international powerhouse, with brands like Sulwhasoo and Olive Young setting trends in skincare and cosmetics. The country’s obsession with perfection is reflected in its innovative spa treatments and beauty stores that have become destinations in themselves. We couldn’t resist trying a few treatments and products, joining the millions who are hooked on the world of K-beauty. See our post here.
Beyond entertainment and beauty, South Korea has a fun, quirky side that adds a sense of playfulness to daily life. Photo booths are a quintessential part of the culture, found on nearly every street corner. These booths, stocked with props and playful backgrounds, invite people to snap fun pictures with friends or even strangers. They’re open late into the night, with no security guards in sight—just a simple system where you pay, step inside, and take photos.
South Koreans have definitely found ways to balance their infamously intense education system and work culture with outlets like karaoke, photo booths, and a vibrant nightlife scene—all of which we found deeply enjoyable and lighthearted.
Art & Architecture
South Korea’s architecture offers a fascinating blend of old and new, where traditional elements coexist with modern design in a way that creates a dynamic urban landscape.
Seoul, in particular, is a sprawling metropolis with neighborhoods that are as distinct as they are diverse. We were struck by just how vast the city is. Even after spending five days there, we barely scratched the surface.
Each area has its own unique charm. For example, Bukchon Hanok Village offers a step back in time with its traditional Korean houses, influenced by Japanese architecture. It’s a pedestrian-friendly area where you can wander through narrow lanes, visit quaint coffee shops, and explore local shops selling souvenirs and handmade goods.
On the flip side, the upscale Gangnam district is all about modern luxury. Known for its high-end shopping, sleek restaurants, and vibrant energy, Gangnam is the place to spot K-drama celebrities and experience the city’s contemporary side. It’s also home to innovative local boutiques and restaurants that cater to the young and trendy crowd.
Hannam, another favorite of ours, has become the “new Brooklyn,” with a blend of trendy cafes, boutique stores, and creative spaces, offering a cool and laid-back vibe for those wanting something a bit different from the traditional tourist spots.
What was particularly fascinating to us was how Seoul’s architecture manages to be modern yet imperfect. While the high-end areas feature sleek, modern buildings, you’ll often find that the streets and sidewalks aren’t as pristine as you might expect. In some neighborhoods, like Gangnam, you’ll find high-end dining establishments alongside streets with electric wires running overhead and sidewalks that are a bit uneven. It’s this contrast—the mix of polished modernity and a touch of imperfection—that gives Seoul its character.
For those who appreciate contemporary design and art, Seoul’s art scene has been growing rapidly, particularly over the past decade. Places like Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), designed by Zaha Hadid, showcase cutting-edge architecture that redefines urban design. The space is a true testament to Seoul’s evolution into a cosmopolitan hub, blending art and fashion in ways that are bold and new. Seoul’s art scene is also thriving with galleries like Arumjigi Foundation and Kukje Gallery, which mix traditional Korean art with modern works, offering a fresh perspective on both local and international artistry.
Even the shopping experience is an exploration of modern design and aesthetics. High-end flagship stores like Dior and Gentle Monstergo beyond just selling products—they provide an immersive experience through stunning architectural designs and art installations that are designed to engage all the senses.
Culinary
No trip to South Korea is complete without diving into its incredible food scene. Korean cuisine is a fusion of bold flavors, diverse textures, and a mix of historical and cultural influences. Meals are often served family-style, where everyone gathers around the table to share dishes, making dining an experience of connection as much as it is about food.
From iconic Korean barbecue—where you grill your own meats at the table—to the endless variety of side dishes (banchan) that accompany every meal, Korean food offers a wide spectrum of flavors. And it’s not just about the well-known staples like bibimbap (rice mixed with vegetables, meat, and spicy sauce) or kimchi (fermented vegetables, usually cabbage or radishes). We were continuously amazed by how varied the cuisine is—from the crispy fried chicken (which is an American influence, but with a unique Korean twist and a lighter batter) to the street foods like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), hotteok (filled pancakes), and the refreshing bingsu (shaved ice desserts).
Another surprise for us was Korea’s coffee culture. With over 100,000 coffee shops in Seoul alone, the coffee scene is massive—and each café has its own distinct style. It’s not just about the drink itself (although it’s excellent); coffee shops in Korea are lifestyle hubs, places where people gather to chat or work late into the night.
Exploring Busan, Jeju, and beyond
Busan
After experiencing Seoul’s bustling city life, we headed south to Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city and its largest harbor. Busan is the gateway for some of the freshest seafood in the country, thanks to the Jagalchi Fish Market, South Korea’s largest and most iconic fish market. It is from this port that fish is auctioned off and distributed throughout the country.
What makes Jagalchi truly unique is that everything in the market is alive. As you stroll through, you’ll find fish, eels, and even octopuses still wriggling. It’s a sensory overload, but in the best way possible. We were fortunate to take a guided tour with a local celebrity chef who shared incredible insights into the market’s operation. The fish are constantly replenished from the port, and the market runs on a water circulation system that draws fresh ocean water directly from the harbor. This system not only keeps the market spotless (and odorless!)but also ensures that the seafood is as fresh as can be.
The real treat is selecting your seafood, having it prepared and cooked on the spot, and enjoying an unforgettable meal on the second floor, overlooking the harbor.
Aside from Jagalchi, Busan offers a range of experiences, from the stunning Haeundae Beach to the colorful Gamcheon Culture Village. But for anyone with a passion for fresh seafood and a desire to understand the local food culture, Jagalchi Fish Market is an absolute must-see.
Jeju
After Busan, we ventured to Jeju, a volcanic island off the southern coast of South Korea. At the heart of the island is Hallasan, a dormant volcano surrounded by lush vegetation and rugged terrain that makes for some incredible hiking and biking.
One of Jeju’s most fascinating cultural features is its tradition of Haenyeo—the female divers who have been an integral part of the island’s fishing culture for centuries. This tradition gained prominence in the 1960s when men were called to war, and women took on the grueling task of diving for abalone, shellfish, and other sea creatures. Today, these legendary divers—some of whom are in their 80s—continue to brave the cold, deep waters, often without modern diving equipment, relying solely on their endurance and skill. Representing a powerful symbol of strength and resilience, the Haenyeo embody a unique cultural legacy. However, this tradition is slowly fading as younger generations are less inclined to take up the mantle. Depending on the weather, you might even have the chance to witness these remarkable divers in action from Sunrise Peak National Park.
Other highlights of Jeju include visiting impressive art exhibitions, such as the Bonte Museum, designed by the famous architect Tadao Ando. If you’re into coffee, the island is also known for its stunning cafés set against the backdrop of Jeju’s picturesque landscapes.
But while the beaches are certainly beautiful, this island is better suited to the outdoorsy, the adventurous, and the culturally curious. There aren’t many high-end accommodations, and the island’s attractions are more about nature and adventure than luxury.
Overall tips for visiting South Korea
To make the most of your trip, here are a few tips:
Plan ahead: Seoul is a big city, and the distances between neighborhoods are vast. You’ll want to plan your days to combine nearby locations to avoid wasting time in traffic.
The language barrier can be tricky, so consider booking an English-speaking guide for at least part of your trip to help navigate the complexities of the language and culture.
Embrace the quirks: Whether it’s karaoke booths, photo booths, or quirky cafés, be ready to dive into the fun and enjoy the moments of lightheartedness that make South Korea so unique.
Google Maps doesn’t work in South Korea. Instead, use Naver or Kakao Map for more accurate directions. Be sure to download them before you go.
Best time to visit: Avoid the monsoon season (June-August) and aim for the stunning fall foliage or cherry blossom seasons for the most beautiful landscapes.
If you have a particular interest, be sure to reach out to us and check if there are any festivals or events happening in Seoul during your visit—whether it’s art, music, fashion, or a major exhibition. There’s always something going on year-round, making it a city you can easily plan your trip around.
Want some help planning a trip to South Korea, contact us here!