Although quite small, South Korea packs a powerful punch. Its rich history, diverse culture and delicious cuisine create a wonderful experience for anyone willing to step inside. It’s the perfect gateway to Asia – modern and convenient, yet charmingly chaotic.

By Igne Aleliunas, for Summersalt yoga

Although quite small, South Korea travel packs a powerful punch. Its rich history, diverse culture, and delicious cuisine create a wonderful experience for anyone willing to step inside. It’s the perfect gateway to Asia – modern and convenient, yet charmingly chaotic.

The Land of Convenience

My plane lands at Incheon International Airport early in the morning. I’m jet lagged and sleep-deprived, but the beautiful weather keeps my spirits high – as it turns out, it’s the first warm and sunny day of spring in Seoul. It’s only when I’m finally in the airport train heading to central Seoul that I realize I still haven’t experienced any of the cultural shock Westerners so often mention when they step out of their comfortable and predictable bubbles.

And after a few days, another realization strikes – maybe it’s impossible to feel lost or shaken in a land that is so convenient and efficient? The streets are clean and well-maintained, the Seoul metro – fast, reliable, and extensive. Train and bus schedules are so well-matched it made my inner control freak squeal with delight. But I guess these things are necessary in a country of 50 million people. Everything has to be fast and efficient, otherwise, it would all just collapse.

Besides, Koreans are quick by nature. They live by “bbali, bbali” (faster, faster). They walk fast, they consume fast, and they even eat fast – there’s no idling in restaurants. The only places where it’s acceptable to sit and chat are the countless coffee shops. And when I say countless, I mean death-by-caffeine countless.

Meanwhile, convenience stores in South Korea are the epitome of the word “convenience” – they’re everywhere, they’re always open, and they’re always ready to satisfy your midnight cravings. And don’t get me started on street vendors! They always have their carts exactly where you need them to be. Going to a picnic in Han River Park? Skip the grocery store – there’ll be plenty of street food on the way. Not in the mood for that? Order restaurant food delivered practically anywhere. That’s the magic of South Korea travel – it’s made for ease.

The Magical Sense of Freedom

And still, despite all the efficiency, South Korea is surprisingly chill. Underneath all the bustle and hustle, there’s this wonderful magical freedom.

For Koreans, rules are there to make life easier (e.g., lining up to board trains and buses, extensively recycling), but if something isn’t explicitly forbidden, it’s considered allowed. But don’t misunderstand – the Koreans, though charmingly chaotic and somewhat dramatic, are in no way careless or lazy. They work hard and they play hard. They don’t do anything half-heartedly – which is perhaps why South Korea travel has become so compelling in recent years.

Everything’s full throttle here – from business to karaoke parties. The people are full of life and it’s highly infectious. After living for 50+ years next to a volatile neighbor, they’ve probably learned to just enjoy the moment.

A short visit to Jeonju, the so-called food capital of South Korea, proves this point. I happen to go there right when Western media is escalating tensions between North and South Korea (April 2017). Panic-filled texts and calls from friends and family back home catch me by surprise. “Is everything well?”, they ask. “Has the war already started?” I look around – happy people sightseeing, taking selfies, riding bikes through Jeonju’s historical center – and I have no idea what they’re talking about. All I see is joy.

This total sense of chill, of knowing not to fret over things beyond your control, is everywhere you go in South Korea, probably fueled by its Buddhist background.

Temples and Palaces: A South Korea Travel Highlight

South Korea hasn’t forgotten its royal past, and locals are proud of their country’s history and culture, never missing a chance to don traditional hanboks and pretend to be nobles or scholars from the Joseon era. Nowhere is that pride more evident than in the colorful temples, shrines, palaces, and gates dotting various cities.

Traditional Korean architecture is vivid and mesmerizing, with greens, reds, and blues forming intricate patterns. Buddhist temples shine with cheerful decor, especially around Buddha’s birthday when lanterns flood the grounds. The Haedong Yonggungsa Temple in Busan, perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop, offered perhaps the most breathtaking view of all.

The Confucian shrines, like the 14th-century Jongmyo Royal Shrine in Seoul, take a different approach – sleek, monochromatic, and majestic. Seoul’s royal palaces are equally captivating. The grandest, Gyeongbokgung, sits next to Bukchon Hanok Village – a traditional neighborhood where past and present intertwine.

And then there’s Changdeokgung, home to the unforgettable Huwon – the Secret Garden. Lush, tranquil, and steeped in history, it was once turned into a zoo during Japanese occupation, but today stands proud in its original elegance.

Escaping the City: Nature in South Korea Travel

When city life gets overwhelming, South Korea offers amazing getaways – from picturesque mountains to cozy seaside villages. My first sight of rolling green hills was on a bus ride to Jeonju, and I was instantly enchanted. These hills looked soft and mystical, like something out of a storybook.

Hiking is practically a national pastime, especially among seniors. You’ll see plenty of pro-level gear – boots, hiking poles, windbreakers – even if the trail is just outside Seoul. And when it comes to the coast, locals dive into exploration with the same enthusiasm – walking, eating fresh seafood, and ending the day with fireworks on the beach.

That’s the beauty of South Korea travel – you’re never far from a moment of magic, whether it’s in a bustling subway or under the stars by the sea.

Kimchi with everything

When city life gets overwhelming, South Korea offers amazing getaways – from picturesque mountains to cozy seaside villages. My first sight of rolling green hills was on a bus ride to Jeonju, and I was instantly enchanted. These hills looked soft and mystical, like something out of a storybook.

Hiking is practically a national pastime, especially among seniors. You’ll see plenty of pro-level gear – boots, hiking poles, windbreakers – even if the trail is just outside Seoul. And when it comes to the coast, locals dive into exploration with the same enthusiasm – walking, eating fresh seafood, and ending the day with fireworks on the beach.

That’s the beauty of South Korea travel – you’re never far from a moment of magic, whether it’s in a bustling subway or under the stars by the sea.

My month in South Korea ends before I know it. The last evening there I eat some kimchi stew, get (once again) complimented on my tolerance for spicy food – the lady working at the restaurant beams at me – and I get the distinct feeling that I have found home away from home. South Korea welcomed me with open arms, fed my body and soul and even taught a couple of things about living in the moment. And once the plane takes off, I feel compelled to come back – to eat, discover and shoot some more fireworks at the beach.

Living in the Moment: Why South Korea Travel Stays With You

My month in South Korea ends far too quickly. On my last evening, I eat kimchi stew, get complimented again on my spice tolerance by a smiling restaurant owner, and feel a warmth that’s hard to put into words.

South Korea travel fed my body and soul, surprised me with its freedom and friendliness, and gave me lessons in convenience, culture, and letting go.

As the plane takes off, I already know I’ll be back – for the food, the temples, the chaotic peace, and maybe just one more box of fireworks for a night under the stars.