This is south Korea (이것이 한국이다)

 A variety of spicy Korean kimchi                                                       introduction: Hello, readers! Today, let's explore an intriguing cultural question: Why do Koreans love spicy food so much? It’s a topic that fascinates both locals and foreigners alike. If you’ve ever visited Korea or tried Korean cuisine, chances are you’ve noticed the bold use of chili pepper in everything—from soups and stews to side dishes and even snacks. But the answer goes far beyond just taste preferences. To understand Korea’s spicy food culture, we need to dive into its history, culinary evolution, emotional associations, and even the physiological effects of spice. So grab a warm drink and let’s dive into this flavorful journey! 🌶️ A Bit of History: Chili Peppers Were Not Always Korean Contrary to what many people assume, chili peppers are not ...

The Northwestern Watchtower (Seobuk Gongsimdon) and the Hwahseomun Barbican of Suwon Hwaseong Fortress"                                          introduction: For many first-time visitors to Korea, one of the biggest worries is arriving without a fixed itinerary. But in today’s travel culture, spontaneity is no longer a drawback—it’s a trend. There’s a saying: “The best travel plans are the ones you didn’t make.” So let’s explore a stress-free journey that begins the moment a solo traveler from an English-speaking country lands at Incheon International Airport with no prior plans. Rather than heading straight to Seoul, Gangnam, or the popular Itaewon district, we’ll set our sights on a unique destination: Hwaseong Fortress in Suwon —a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in history and culture. And before diving into this historic attraction, we’ll enjoy a comforting meal at a multicul...

Korean Shaved Ice Dessert (Patbingsu) Topped with Ice Cream                                Introduction: Lost in the Heat of Korea’s Summer Dear readers, hello! If you’ve come to Korea alone this summer and don’t know where to go, this article is for you. But let me be upfront — the places introduced here are all well-known spots that many locals and savvy travelers already know. Still, they’re great starting points. And don’t worry — I’ll be sharing even more hidden gems and truly special places in upcoming posts. Stay tuned Summer in Korea is a season full of vibrant culture and beautiful nature, wrapped in blazing sunshine and heavy humidity. But for American and English-speaking travelers, the heat can feel more intense than expected — and unfamiliar. Especially when you're traveling alone without local friends or solid information, it’s easy to feel stuck, unsure of where to go or what to do. For tra...

   A view of an airplane moments after takeoff                                               1. Unbelievable Fare—And a Spontaneous Decision “A round-trip ticket to Korea for just $99?! Is this some kind of scam?” I was sipping my morning coffee when I spotted an ad for unbelievably cheap flights to Korea. Normally, I’m cautious and plan trips methodically—but that ad made my heart race. With just a few clicks, I booked the ticket. Before I knew it, I had an email with a confirmed “Seoul-bound” flight. Life often surprises you when you make impulsive choices. I packed minimally—“I’ll only be gone a week or two,” I thought. With that simple mindset, I stepped onto Korean soil. 2. Touchdown at Incheon Airport—And Now What? Incheon International Airport is world-famous. As soon as I arrived, Wi-Fi connected automatically, and clear signs in both Korean and Engli...

   Cheonggukjang (Fermented Soybean Stew)                                                   introduction: Dear readers, hello! Today, let’s talk about a fun and flavorful topic: “If a foreigner is trying Korean food for the first time, what dish would be the best choice?” Believe it or not, there are many foreigners who have lived in Korea for a long time and can enjoy Korean food even better than some Koreans. Korean cuisine, or hansik, includes some dishes known for their strong aromas — fermented skate (hongeo) and cheonggukjang, for instance, are famous for making first-timers hesitate. But don’t worry too much — most people end up loving them eventually!  One Greek man named Andreas, who has been living in Korea for many years, once recalled his first time in the country. With no acquaintances around, he went to a small, unassuming restaurant ...

   A Stylish Café Interior in Jinyeong, Gimhae                                                Introduction: What's Life Like for Foreigners Living in Korea?  Hello everyone! Today, I’d like to share a closer look at how foreigners living in Korea make a living and build their lives here. In recent years, Korea has become more than just a popular travel destination. A growing number of foreigners—especially from the U.S., Canada, and Europe—are choosing to stay for the long term, building families and careers here. These individuals are no longer just students or temporary workers; they’re people who have rooted their lives in Korean soil. But how do they make a living? Particularly for those running their own businesses, what types of ventures have proven successful? What are the benefits and challenges of starting a business in Korea compared to other c...

   A Set of Korean Metal Spoon and Chopsticks                                              Introduction: Hello, dear readers. Today, I’d like to introduce some important etiquette to keep in mind when dining at restaurants in Korea. If you're planning a trip to Korea or staying for a while, one cultural aspect that might surprise you is the dining etiquette. Korean food culture isn't just about what you eat — it's deeply connected to how you eat, who you're eating with, and the respectful behavior that accompanies a meal. This article is a complete guide for English-speaking visitors on how to enjoy Korean dining culture with confidence. Whether you're wondering about chopsticks, seating etiquette, mealtime behavior, or drinking customs, this guide will help you navigate Korean restaurants smoothly and respectfully. 1. Before You Sit: Seating and Greetings Wh...

Gamja-jeon, a type of Korean buchimgae (savory pancake made with potatoes) Introduction: Korean Jeon, Poetry on a Griddle Hello, dear readers! Today, I’d like to introduce you to Korea’s traditional dishes: buchimgae, bindaetteok, and jeon. I hope you enjoy it! In Korea, jeon (pan-fried food) is more than just a fried dish—it’s a cultural symbol. The sizzling sound on the griddle, the visual of steam rising, and the savory aroma fill homes and evoke nostalgic memories. Unlike Western pancakes, which are typically associated with breakfast or dessert, Korean jeon symbolizes sharing among family, traditional holiday rituals, and humble meals accompanied by a glass of makgeolli. 1. Definitions and Differences: Buchimgae, Jeon, and Bindaetteok Although often grouped under the term “Korean pancakes” in English, buchimgae, jeon, and bindaetteok have subtle differences: Buchimgae : General term for batter-based pan-fried dishes with flour or starch and various...

  Introduction: Korean Traits as the Foundation of Global Success Dear readers, hello! Today, I’d like to talk about a unique trait of Koreans—their exceptional adaptability—and how it has played a crucial role in driving the country’s overall growth. Koreans are known for their remarkable ability to adapt quickly and improvise in unexpected situations, rarely feeling constrained by rigid manuals or systems. This quality goes beyond being a mere cultural trait—it has been a driving force behind Korea's success in various global arenas, from semiconductors and startups to education, healthcare, and even K-pop. In this article, we explore how this flexible mindset has empowered Koreans to stand out across industries, and how it continues to shape Korea’s distinctive presence in the global market. Chapter 1: A Nation of Improvisation – The Roots of Korean Adaptability Korea’s history is one of survival and innovation amid adversity—foreign invasions, political turmoil, and resou...

Haeundae Beach: Perfect for swimming and relaxation                                                       Introduction:  Hello, readers! Today, I’d like to introduce some great places in Korea for digital nomads to work or relax while staying for a month or longer. As the number of digital nomads worldwide rapidly increases, South Korea is emerging as more than just a tourist destination — it is becoming a favored country for long-term stays and one-month living experiences. Among its cities, Busan stands out as a prime choice. This guide shares realistic information that foreigners, especially English speakers, should know when planning to stay and work or relax in Busan for a month or longer — including housing costs, living expenses, environment, and building community connections. 1. Why Busan? Busan is South Korea’s second-largest city, wh...