Taste of South Korea

  Hello, global travelers! Welcome back to my blog.  So far, we’ve explored Seoul's iconic historic spots like Bukchon Hanok Village, Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seochon, and the beauty of Hanbok. Today, I’m taking you to a place that offers a completely different vibe from Bukchon. If Bukchon feels like a grand, quiet museum, this place is alive, bustling, and incredibly hip. Let’s dive into Ikseon-dong Hanok Village (익선동 한옥마을) ! 🕒 The Story Behind Ikseon-dong Established in the 1920s, Ikseon-dong is one of the oldest Hanok (traditional Korean house) residential areas in Seoul. It was originally built to provide affordable housing for working-class citizens during a turbulent historical era. For decades, it remained a forgotten, aging neighborhood. However, young Korean artists and entrepreneurs recently breathed new life into it. They transformed these century-old houses into trendy cafes, restaurants, and boutiques, creating a unique "Newtro" (New + Retro) culture. ✨ What M...

Hi, it's Bitna, your travel guide of South Korea.  If you loved the grand scale of Gyeongbokgung Palace and the traditional charm of Bukchon Hanok Village, you are ready for your next adventure. Welcome to Seochon Village (서촌), located just west of Gyeongbokgung. While Bukchon was historically home to royals and high-ranking officials, Seochon was the neighborhood for artists, poets, and ordinary citizens. Today, it remains a peaceful labyrinth of narrow alleys where history, modern art, and trendy cafes coexist beautifully. Here is your ultimate guide to exploring the hidden alleys of Seochon.

  Hello, readers! It’s Bitna again. In my last post, I shared the golden rule for visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace : If you wear a Hanbok (Korean traditional clothing), your admission is 100% free! But how do you actually rent one? How much does it cost, and what should you watch out for? Renting a Hanbok is one of the best cultural experiences in Seoul, but it can be overwhelming for first-timers. Don't worry! Here is your step-by-step guide to renting a Hanbok like a pro. 💰 1. The Cost: What to Expect Hanbok rentals are highly affordable, and prices generally depend on the style of the dress and the rental duration . Traditional Hanbok (Basic): Features simple designs and solid colors. Average Price: 10,000 – 15,000 KRW (for 2 hours) Theme/Premium Hanbok (Trendy): Features vibrant patterns, gold embroidery, floral details, and wire skirts for a voluminous look. This is what 90% of tourists choose! Average Price: 20,000 – 30,000 KRW (for 2 hours) Full-Day Rental: If you want ...

  Hello, readers! It’s Bitna. In my previous post, we wandered through the quiet, upscale alleys of Bukchon Hanok Village , catching a glimpse of how Joseon-era nobility lived. Today, we are taking a short walk down the hill to visit the very heart of the Joseon Dynasty: Gyeongbokgung Palace . Built in 1395, it is the largest and most iconic of the Five Grand Palaces in Seoul. Ready to step back in time? Let’s dive into the ultimate guide to exploring Gyeongbokgung! 🏛️ Three Must-See Highlights at Gyeongbokgung 1. The Royal Guard Changing Ceremony Before you even pass through the main gate ( Gwanghwamun ), you can witness a colorful piece of living history. What it is: A re-enactment of how the royal guards marched and opened/closed the palace gates during the dynasty. Time: 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM daily (Except Tuesdays). Bitna’s Tip: Arrive 15 minutes early to grab a spot right in front of the gate for the best photos! 2. Geonjeongjeon (The Throne Hall) & Gyeonghoeru Pavilio...