Quick Guide to Discovering South Korea

Approximately 4 hours from Manila, South Korea has become a popular destination partly due to the craze brought by K-Dramas, K-Pop, cosmetics, and food. Of course, there’s definitely more to Korea than the ones above!

To be perfectly honest, I never would have thought of travelling to South Korea if not for the Kingdom Hearts Orchestra Concert that me and my best friends attended. For one, I was pretty sure I wouldn’t be able to enjoy the food. You see, I don’t do well with anything that’s spicy. Thankfully, there were plenty of options so I was able to enjoy the food somehow! Next, I was rather insecure going to a place where people are shown to have almost-perfect skin. Nahiya naman ang acne scars di ba!? Lastly, it’s terrifying not to know the language there. While some can speak English, I was surprised that there were a few who could speak Mandarin too. So I guess that was one unfounded fear!

With that said, what did we end up doing in South Korea?

1. Have a preview of South Korea through Korean Air

For our trip, my friends and I flew Korean Air. It was my first time on that airline so I was quite excited to get on the plane. First thing you’ll notice is the legroom. It’s so spacey you could put your legs over the other and still be comfortable! Take note, we didn’t pay any additional fee for this. Then there’s the charging station for your gadgets; honestly, this should be a staple in any airline now. If I’m not mistaken, Philippine Airlines has this as well. Of course, there’s the media board where one can enjoy movies, music, and games.

Airplane food… still tastes like airplane food. Aside from the one above, you can also get a bibimbap which my friend did. If you truly want to experience South Korea, the bibimbap is a good start! After eating, we were also served a cup of vanilla ice cream. Yum!

2. Ease through their subway system with T-Money

Similar to Hong Kong’s Octopus card, South Korea has their own subway payment system powered by T-Money. These are available in train stations and convenience stores and can be loaded up in the same places. They also come in various cartoon characters so it’s cute to have as well!

3. Attend a concert at KBS

Located at Yeoeuido, the Korean Broadcasting Station served as the venue for the Kingdom Hearts orchestra that my friends and I attended. The television studios for broadcasting are also located right next to the concert hall.

Once night arrives, the area is brightened up by interesting light displays.

4. Marvel at modern architecture at Dongdaemun Design Plaza

Some buildings in Korea are on a different level from the ones in Manila. Aside from their cultural heritage, they also have modern masterpieces such as the Dongdaemun Design Plaza.

Entry to the museum is free of charge and consists of around 4-5 levels of displays and exhibits. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes since the place is huge. If you’re just there to take pictures, feel free to take the elevator and use the stairs as props instead. Don’t worry, no one’s going to judge you!

There’s also a mall right next to the museum so you can shop and dine here. At the top of my head, there’s a K-Pop shop, cosmetics shops, and dessert shops!

5. Go on a leisurely walk at Seoul Forest

For nature and animal-lovers, you can visit Seoul Forest right in the middle of the metro. During our trip, we were only able to visit the deer as other portions of the forest were closed. You can likewise buy feeds if you want to pet the deers. 

You can also find something similar to a food park a few steps from Seoul Forest. After a tiring walk, relax and chill as live bands serenade you.

Most establishments are also set-up from refurbished containers. Feel free to shop, dine, and drink and take in the cool, industrial vibe.