And here are some of the important things I learnt during my VTL trip to South Korea. Please note that this is a summary of the full version of my VTL Korea blog. As the situation is evolving, this is only for your casual consumption.

CAUTION: My trip commenced from mid-December 2021 to mid-January 2022. All information below is reflective of my personal experience during the mentioned period. While I try my best to update the content, please do your due diligence by checking in with the authority and their websites listed in the full version of my VTL blog.

1. It is good to have a Korean Mobile Simcard. 

I have always skipped this in my previous trips to South Korea. A wifi-egg / router was more than enough back then but with COVID-19, you’ll need a local number for your PCR test & contact tracing.

Note that at the end of my trip, which was January of 2022, most of the restaurants and premises were no longer accepting writing down your name and your Singapore mobile number for contact tracing. Instead, they’re doing the “Ahn Shim Call” (안심콜) which requires you to make a toll-free call. To improve your chance to enter your favourite restaurant, please get a Korean SIMcard that includes a local voice call plan.

UPDATE: As the South Korea government has removed the "Ahn Shim Call" (안심콜), it is not a must to get a Korean Mobile Simcard. However, some reported that they were required to provide a local mobile number by the airport officer when they were registrating for their On-Arrival PCR at Incheon Airport. We did went ahead with purchasing a Korean Mobile Simcard. 

2. You No Longer Need So Many COVID-19 Tests.

During my trip in December 2021, we were required to do 7 tests that include PCR and ART. It sums up to SGD 673.48 for 1 person. Here are the breakdowns during my trip (end of December 2021-January 2022):

• Pre-departure PCR with PTD Swabs. (SGD 107 per pax)
• On-arrival PCR at Incheon Airport via Safe2go. (KRW 174,000, ~SGD 201.87 per pax)
• 6th/7th day PCR at Seegene 씨젠의료재단 (KRW 110,000, ~SGD 124.21 per pax)
• Pre-departure ART test at Eulji Bareun Clinic (KRW 45,000 ~SGD 50.4 per pax)
• On-arrival PCR at Changi Airport (SGD 160 per pax)
• Post-arrival day 3 – supervised self-administered test (SGD 15 per pax)
• Post-arrival day 7 – supervised self-administered test (SGD 15 per pax)

UPDATE: No more on-arrival COVID-19 Tests Required (as of 1st October 2022)

• Those who show symptoms within three days of their arrival can get a free PCR test at public health centers

3. You Need to Apply for K-ETA.

Contrary to the pre-COVID time where Singaporean enjoy VISA exemption for leisure travel, you will now need to apply for K-ETA, a travel authorisation by the South Korean government for your travel eligibility. This K-ETA will allow you to stay in South Korea for up to three months and is valid for two years.

4. You Can Take Public Transport from Incheon Airport to Seoul.  

Other than the expensive private taxi and limousine service that transport you from Incheon Airport to Seoul, you may also take public airport limousine buses that are designated for passengers arriving from overseas.

However, the frequency for such buses has been greatly reduced so it may be quite inconvenient. That said, you may also take AREX all-stop train from Incheon Airport to Hongik University Station, or Seoul Station, which cost way cheaper than a private taxi.

5. Some Hotels May Require Your Negative PCR Result to Check You In. 

While the instructions from the immigration officer were to take any mode of transportation head straight to the hotel and wait for the result, the hotels that I booked required my negative PCR test result to proceed with my check-in procedure. As the PCR test results will take approximately 2-3 hours to arrive, I decided not to take a private taxi from the airport. Taking the AREX train to Seoul station and then changing to a taxi to Gangnam makes more sense as it is way cheaper, and by the time I got to the hotel lobby, I have already received my test result.

6. Some Attractions May Require You To Wear a KF94 Mask. 

Generally, you can wear any type of mask you are comfortable with, especially in Seoul, Busan or any other cities. However, while I was in the mountains at Namhae, there was a public notice outside the entrance that requires visitors to wear a KF94 mask so you may want to prepare some. Also, I noticed my mask gets damp way more easily in the winter temperature so it is good to prepare extra in your bag just in case!

UPDATE: While it is not compulsory to wear a mask outdoor nowadays, similar to Singapore, we do see that the South Koreans are still wearing mask outdoor. 

7. Don’t Be Surprised if You Get Turned Away at Restaurants or Properties.

While this is definitely not common, there may still be chances that you’ll be rejected an entry due to many reasons. I had an up-to-date vaccination status, I brought my vaccination cert with me all the time, and I have the COOV app and a local mobile number to do my “Ahn Shim Call”, but I was turned away as the cafe did not have their unique “Ahn Shim Call” number and the owner thought it was risky to accept me. I have explained this in detail in my dedicated blog post (click the square banner at the end of this blog). My tip is to avoid visiting your “wishlist cafe/resto” at peak hours. If all things fail, let’s just go with the flow and eat/ visit other places nearby.

UPDATE: During my recent trip in May 2022, the restaurants are no longer checking the Ahn Shim Call and COOV app, there is no problem of being rejected an entry anymore. 

8. You Can Travel Out of Seoul.

Once you received your on-arrival test result, you can roam freely. That includes taking a KTX to Busan, to the heritage city Jeonju, taking a bus to the Treasure Island Namhae, or flying to Jeju Island! However, please plan your trip accordingly so that you can take your mid-trip PCR on the 6th/7th day at these designated hospitals.

UPDATE: You only need to take self-administered ART on Day 6 / 7 in South Korea (if stay ≥8 days)

9. The ART Test at Incheon Airport Can Be More Expensive.

During my time, we were allowed to do an ART test for pre-departure to Singapore. While the one at Incheon Airport cost ~SGD 75, we found an alternative at Eulji Bareun Clinic, which is located in the charming Euljiro area that cost KRW 45,000 (~SGD 50.4) per pax.

UPDATE: There is no need for travellers to do any COVID-19 Test when they're coming back from South Korea through Changi Airport.

10.  Sanitise Frequently.  

As we are travelling during the pandemic and with all the changing rules and regulations, I wouldn’t say that it is absolutely risk-free. What we did was really sanitise every single thing we touch, drink a lot of water and I am also taking a few supplements that help to improve my immunity (DM me on Instagram to find out more!). We also got this Hinoki sanitising spray from Olive Young and have religiously sprayed it all over ourselves and on our clothing the first thing we reach the hotel every single day!

I hope you enjoy reading this blog and if you would like to get more in-depth information about the VTL trip to South Korea, click on the banner below to read my ultimate preparation guide & travel information you should know before embarking on your Singapore – Korea VTL trip!

Related Articles:

Singapore-Korea Quarantine Free Travel – Preparation & Travel Information 

What Supplements I take to boost my Immunity during COVID-19

We stayed in the Patio room which features natural jade ondol flooring, a modern bathroom and an exclusive, traditional-style patio. The temperature went down to -18°C at night but the ondol kept the room warm and mattresses were thick and comfortable enough to sleep in. I like that the hotel strived to merge modern day comfort while retaining the authentic hanok experiences for their guests.

Breakfast at our very own patio was a highlight too! We were also very lucky to enjoy the Jjimjilbang all to ourselves during our stay. Read about my entire experience in detail here: Rakkojae Seoul Hanok Stay 

Full Article:

RAKKOJAE SEOUL: A Hanok Stay at a 130-year-old Property at Bukchon Hanok Village

Check out my IG Reels about Rakkojae Hanok Stay below:

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Important Notice: Please note that I have stopped updating all South Korea-related content published before 2020 on this blog. You may find all updated South Korea travel content at my dedicated, new travel site here: www.thecalmchronicle.com 

In an online poll of  “Countries that Singaporeans want to have an Air Travel Bubble with” conducted by The Straits Times, South Korea scored 40.7 per cent of votes, claiming its place as Singaporean’s favourite destinations after the COVID.

So here are my insider tips of 10 hidden Winter Wonderland destinations you should consider post-pandemic. Who knows, maybe we’ll have a travel-bubble with South Korea someday!

1. Jeonju Hanok Village

If you are an avid foodie at heart and interested in Korean traditional culture, Jeonju (전주) in Jeolla-do province is where you should head to. It is arguably the culinary city of South Korea where a long list of mouth-watering food experiences awaits. And if you are lucky enough, the snow painted Jeonju Hanok Village ( 전주 한옥마을) will be a sight to behold during your trip. Check out our Jeonju Hanok Village Street Food Guide and our 3D2N Jeonju itinerary here.

2. Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm 

Pyeongchang county (평창군)  in Gangwon Province is a snowboard capital of South Korea. And Daegwallyeong (대관령)  is nested within this beautiful county famed of its sheep farms and snow-covered landscape in winter. These enormous sheep farms offer a rare opportunity for city kids to enjoy the beauty of mother nature. Read my dedicated post regarding Daegwallyeong Yangtte Sheep Farm, a delicious Tangsuyuk and Jjajjang Myun restaurant in the region, as well as my recommended accommodation in Degwallyeong at Queen’s Garden Guesthouse.

3. Bukchon Hanok Village

Bukchon Hanok Village (북촌 한옥 마을) in Seoul is a traditional Korean housing cluster inhabited by the elite Yangban Noble class during the Joseon Dynasty. It has developed into a tourist site packed with independent cafes, tea-houses, and interesting shops or museums in recent years. Experience the enchanted atmosphere of Bukchon Hanok village after the snow here.

South Korea, Seoul, Jongno-gu, Gahoe-dong | 서울특별시 종로구 계동길 37 

4. The Palaces

I love going to the palaces in Seoul after heavy snowfall. Gyeongbok Palace is one of my favourites. The frozen lake, blue sky and the red, green, yellow motifs of the traditional architecture make a striking contrast against the white snow. Complete your palace tour experience wearing a traditional hanbok here!

5. Jeongdongjin

Located in Gangneung, Gangwon-do, Jeongdongjin (정동진)  is a picturesque town with a train station closest to the ocean in the world. The beach right behind the Jeongdongjin station is also a well-known sunrise spot. Sunrise spectators would take an overnight train to Jeongdongjin station on the new year’s eve for the first sunrise of the year. The nearby Jeongdongjin Sun Cruise Resort is a beach resort modelled after a cruise ship perched on top of a cliff!

Jeongdongjin Station:
Gangdong-myeon, Gangneung-si, South Korea

Jeongdongjin Sun Cruise Resort:
950-39 Heonhwa-ro, Gangdong-myeon, Gangneung-si, Gangwon-do, South Korea 

6.Hahoe Folk Village

Tucked away in a secluded valley in Gyeongsang Province, the Andong Hahoe Folk Village (안동 하회마을)  is an idyllic place to unwind and experience traditional Korean rural life. Visitors can immerse in a rich array of cultural traditions such as Korean Mask Dancing and enjoy a wide variety of ancient culinary delights such as Andong Gangodeungeo (Salted Mackerel), Heotjesabap (A type of Bibimbap for the nobles) and Andong Guksu (A local noodle delicacy). Sleepover at one of the traditional hanok within the village and enjoy the fuzzy, magical and ethereal view the next morning!

40 Hahoe, Pungcheon-myeon, Andong, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea | 안동시 풍천면 하회남촌길 63

7. Gamaksan Mountain

This beautiful photo of winter at Gamaksan Suspension Bridge (감악산 출렁다리) located in Paju definitely warrant a mention on the list! It just feels straight out of the Disney “Frozen” to me. The bridge spans 150 meters across Silmari Valley, and is easily accessible from the car park area! (No hiking required!). Be early to enjoy this majestic winter view all to yourself!

365, Gisan-ro Gwangtan-myeon, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do | 경기 파주시 광탄면 기산로 365

8. Paju Heyri Art Village

Located just 1 hour away from Seoul, Paju is a heaven for any art and book lover. The Hyeri Art Village (파주 헤이리 마을) is home to filmmakers, publishers, book writers, and artists. Expect quirky museums & architectures, beautiful cafes, enormous book store and book cafes, interesting studios and art spaces in this village. Paju is the nearest South Korean city to North Korea. And the north’s winter is known to be harsher than the south, so you can imagine Paju to be a winter wonderland after a heavy snowfall.

There is a “Paju English Village” (파주 영어 마을) filled with European styled buildings to create an immersive environment for the students to learn the language. The space is open to the public so you may spot couples taking pre-wedding photos there too!

Paju Hyeri Art Village:
1652-239 Beopheung-ri, Tanhyeon-myeon, Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do |경기 파주시 탄현면 법흥리 1652-239

Paju English Village:
Paju-si Tanhyeon-myeon Uleumsil-ro 40  |경기 파주시 탄현면 얼음실로 40 

9. Seonunsa Temple

Seonunsa Temple (선운사) is one of the largest temples in the Southern part in Korea with over 1,500 years of its history. And winter is considered one of the best seasons to visit the temple as the camellia flowers bloom and the persimmons ripen. The fiery orange persimmons covered in snow, together with the blooming camellias from shrubs to shrubs make for an alluring sight in winter.

567, Samin-Ri, Asan-Myeon, Gochang-Gun, Jeollabuk-Do, Korea |전라북도 고창군 아산면 선운사로 250 선운사

10. Boseong Green Tea Field 

Located at Jeollanam-do Province, the Boseong Green Tea Field (보성 녹차밭) is another beautiful place to visit after a snowfall in Winter. Enjoy a tranquil walk and soak in the picturesque landscape at Daehan Dawon (대한 다원), the largest green tea plantation in the country as the snow turned the plantation white. Do note that the plantation closes at 5 pm daily during winter.

Daehan Dawon Greentea Plantation:
763-67, Nokcha-ro, Boseong-gun, Jeollanam-do | 전라남도 보성군 보성읍 녹차로 763-67 

All photos are provided by KTO unless otherwise stated.
Please note that information of the article is accurate at the time of publishing. 

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Li

Important Notice: Please note that I have stopped updating all South Korea-related content published before 2020 on this blog. You may find all updated South Korea travel content at my dedicated, new travel site here: www.thecalmchronicle.com 

For those who enjoy the beautiful scenery of South Korea, and would love a free & easy trip to their coastal provinces, I highly recommend the Gangwon province. It has gorgeous sheep farms, endless mountains and breathtaking ocean view, suitable for nature lovers, couples and family with kids.

I embarked on a quest for a place to stay in Daegwallyeong after deciding to bring dad and mom for our first family trip in Gangwon-do. After some search on Naver, I found Queen’s Garden, a beautiful guesthouse located in Hoenggye (횡계), a town in Pyeong Chang that is a 19 minutes drive away to Daegwallyeong Yangtte Sheep Farm. It is a family-run guesthouse famed for its beautifully decorated garden.

As our family trip took place a few weeks before the arrival of autumn, the changing of the season brought a sudden thunderstorm. We were all drenched by the time we reached the guesthouse. The owner set up a cosy fireplace at the lobby cafe and served towels and herbal tea as a welcome drink. Though with limited English capacity, we were delighted by the friendly, thoughtful and authentic service.

We booked a “Pension” room, which is a type of lodging widely found in quiet towns or countryside in South Korea. A pension usually comes with family-friendly facilities, such as separating bedroom, bathrooms, kitchen and ondol-style flooring, which is a excellent amenities for old-folks. Each pension comes in different configuration, and our room has a mezzanine level which has 3 beds and a sofa that can easily be converted into a single bed – great for a 4 pax family!

The room has a veranda that has direct access to the garden, a perfect place for a BBQ party, especially from spring to summer. We did opted-in for their in-house BBQ dinner package which was supposed to take place at the veranda. However, due to the bad weather, we had to move the dinner venue to the lobby cafe.

We had Hanwoo beef and BBQ pork prepared by the owner of Queen’s Garden. The meat was fatty, tender and juicy. We also loved the side-dishes made by the owner’s wife. Though we did not get to experience in-room dining, the atmosphere at the cafe was warm and invigorating, as if we were dining at a friend’s place.

We woke up in the morning feeling refreshed at our pension. The sky has cleared up, and the crisp autumn morning air makes us feel vibrant and excited. We went out at the veranda and inhaled the natural forest fresh air — a much-needed forest bathing indeed.

The complimentary breakfast was a simple and hearty spread consists of salad, juices, soup, bagels with butter and assorted homemade jam. We finished up our breakfast and decided to take a tour at Queen’s Garden’s famed garden. Unfortunately, the damaging storm left the plants flattened – my photos certainly do not do them justice as it was taken right after the storm. I believe the garden will look stunning after tidying up, especially when the weather is good!

Writer’s Note: 

Queen’s Garden is a lovely guesthouse at Hoenggye, perfect for those who are visiting Gangwon-do (or Gangwon Province), especially the Daegwallyeong area. Traditionally known as the best winter destination, this province is exceptionally beautiful in winter. However, I would also recommend you to visit this place even in the summer because it is reportedly 6 degrees cooler than Seoul. This would also mean that the winter in Gangwon-do will get even colder in winter, so do dress appropriately. During the warmer season, you may have a picnic or a swim by the valley which is a stone’s throw away or have an ATV ride session against the scenic wind generator area.

I love how near Queen’s Garden is from Hoenggye Bus Terminal, and you can easily hail a cab to the guesthouse. As for touring around the area, I figured it is best to hire a taxi driver that drives you around the whole day. However, making a reservation wasn’t exactly a breeze. You’ll need a Korean bank account for a deposit, which I find most overseas tourist would find this a hassle. However, if you’d like an experience similar to local Korean, you may still write in to enquire. The owner might be able to help with your booking without a deposit but please do your part by not backing out!

Contact Details:

Queens Garden
Tel.:  +82 10-9012-2583
Email: queens700@naver.com
https://queensgarden.co.kr/ (Korean)

퀸스가든
강원도 평창군 대관령면 경강로 5425-21

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If you are currently located in South Korea, please download Kakao Map App and navigate by clicking the map below:

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It is indeed an excellent place for winter vacation. But I’d like to cast light on the summer in Pyeongchang. The summer temperature in Pyeongchang is claimed to be 6 degrees Celsius lower than in Seoul, makes it a perfect getaway to escape the sweltering summer heat in Korea. If you are planning a summer vacation to South Korea, Pyeongchang is worth checking out, especially for those who would like to explore beyond Seoul.

The sheep ranches in Daegwallyeong are one of the best places to check out while in Pyeongchang. The 3 sheep ranches that are open for public visits in Daegwallyeong are Yangtte Sheep Farm (양떼 목장), Samyang Sheep Farm (삼양 목장) and Sky Sheep Farm (하늘 목장). They are all one-of-its-kind, so it’s hard to select just one farm to visit. For this post, we’ll be talking about Yangtte Sheep Farm, and I’ll come back to the rest in future.

Yangtte Sheep Farm is South Korea’s first and the only ranch that raises sheep. The owner started building the farm in 1988, and it gained popularity after a few TV dramas and commercial took place here. The barn and fences were painstakingly built by the owner and his team.

One thing you should probably note when travelling to Pyeongchang in summer is that the season is usually shorter compared to other provinces. We visited Pyeongchang in the 2nd week of August. While Seoul was still in the dead heat of summer, the maple trees in this region were starting to turn red. Rain is frequent during the transitional season so a poncho will be handy.

It rained on and off all day during our visit, and a thick fog enveloped the ranch. Though inconvenient, the sight of the foggy farm was a true sight to behold.

Down the slope across the ranch is a feeding barn, where visitors would be able to get up close with these fluffy creatures. Just show your entrance ticket in exchange for a small basket of hay – I bet kids would enjoy this activity!

We were lucky as it was a brief shower and by the time we finished feeding the sheep, the rain stopped, and the sheep were out again. Isn’t it soothing to see the fluffy creatures roaming freely on the green fields? Please do not forget to visit the wooden shack in the middle of the ranch on your way up or down the feeding barn. It is an iconic sight in Daegwalleong that is certainly not to be missed.

Writer’s Note: Daegwallyeong Yangtte Sheep Farm is great place to check out in Pyeongchang. I love the rustic and natural landscape, and the long circular walkway that surrounds the entire ranch. I went there for that beautiful wooden shack though, but I’d say it is a destination suitable for all seasons: You’ll see about 300 sheep graze on the vast field from March to late October and a magical winter wonderland in the winter. However, the sheep will go indoor during winter.

Contact Details:

Daegwallyeong Yangtte Farm 대관령 양떼목장
483-32, Daegwallyeongmaru-gil, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwondo
강원도 평창군 대관령면 대관령마루길 483-32

Transportation:

It is not exactly convenient to go to the farm using public transport, but it is not entirely impossible.

1. Take the subway Line No.2 to Gangbyeon Station (강변 역), and take exit 4.
2. This will bring you to the Dong Seoul Bus Terminal (동서울 터미널), where you can take an intercity bus to Hoenggye (횡계) Intercity Bus Terminal. The bus journey will take about 2hr and 30 minutes, and the ticket cost KRW 14,500 per pax.
3. Once arrived at Hoenggye Intercity Bus Terminal, you may take a red colour shuttle bus to the farm, OR take a taxi to Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm. The taxi will cost you about KRW 12,000, and it takes about 10 minutes.)

Maps:

2019.6.29 | 지도 크게 보기 ©  NAVER Corp.

If you are currently located in South Korea, you may download the Naver Map app to navigate. 

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So we were checking out Daegwallyeong sheep farms, and our guesthouse host recommended this place for lunch. Though it was summer, it was a rainy day and the temperature dropped to 18 degrees Celcius, perfect weather for Jjajjangmyun and Tangsuyuk!

Upon entering Jintaewon Restaurant, we were greeted by the friendly Korean ajumma. Some Chinese paintings adorned the dated wallpapers, and we were led to the very traditional Korean seating where everyone has to sit on the floor. The restaurant has only 6 tables, and the premise is rather old and unassuming, but no one seemed to care. Now when I think about it, it was the food that draws attention.

A quick background for those who’re interested: Jjajjangmyun, according to Wikipedia is a Chinese Korean noodle dish topped with a savoury and sweet, black gravy made of a Korean condiment Chunjang, diced pork and veggies. It is often consumed with Tangsuyuk, a Korean Chinese version of Sweet & Sour Pork.

We were taken aback by the boss’s generosity when they served us fried dumplings before serving the rest of the dishes. It was fried pork dumplings (퇴김만두). It is common that most Korean restaurants offer free items (often called as “Service”서비스), BUT I have never encountered any Korean Chinese restaurants that offer fried dumplings, not one but 12 dumplings all together.

These dumplings are in the most luscious golden brown colour, and is juicy and crispy that keep us wanting for more.

Next up was the Tangsuyuk. Jintaewon’s tangsuyuk was lightly coated with a layer of extra crispy skin, then coated with sweet and sour sauce, with fresh veggies to add that extra crunch. The light, fluffy yet robustly crispy Tangsuyuk was one of the best I had in my entire life. The pork was fresh and very tender, no funky smell at all. You’ll hear the crackling sound of the skin echoes as you chew, and the sweet and sour flavour kicks in… definitely one of the best tangsuyuks in South Korea.

The homemade noodles were springy. Give it a good stir and slurp it up — the chewy texture, together with the salty gravy, with bits of potato cubes and green beans in it, it was so good. Especially so when you eat it with the sliced radish. The slight sweetness emits from the radish balanced the palate and the crunchy texture compliment the chewy noodles so well. I figured this is the reason why I enjoy eating jjajjangmyun and tangsuyuk. They are so simple yet highly addictive, nothing fancy but true luxury.

Contact Details:

Jintaewon 
325-18 Hoenggye-ri, Daegwalnyeong-myeon, Pyeongchang-gun, Gangwon-do, South Korea
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 11am-730pm| Sun: 12:30pm-7:30pm
진태원
강원도 평창군 대관령면 횡계길 19

Note: It is an extremely popular restaurant at Pyeongchang, you’ll be prompt to leave your mobile number with them. If you do not have a local number, it is best to stay around and wait. 

Maps:

If you are currently located in South Korea, you may use the below map to navigate:

2019.5.25 | 지도 크게 보기 ©  NAVER Corp.

So when my friend, Mong, told me about her new venture called UDUL Studio, where she conducts DIY custom jewellery workshops and even invited me for a studio tour, I got really excited. I thought it would be fun to find out how is it like to make jewellery entirely by hand.

NOTE: Udul studio has moved from Seoul to Daejeon as of Dec 2018.
Below was written based on my experience at their then Seoul studio. Her latest info was updated at the end of the article.  

Located in the Gangnam district, this cozy little heaven of all-things-handmade will bring out the inner designer in you. Classes are conducted at an underground studio where she shares with other artists. The atmosphere is relaxed and fun. You get to learn all the jewellery making basics before creating one you can proudly call it your work.

I was given a small tray upon arrival, with all things needed – several tweezers and a wooden holder where I can put all my selected materials in the later part of the class. The class covers basic skills like how to make simple jewellery clasps, closures, and connectors. By the 1 hour mark, I have got the basics and started working on my wood earring.

It wasn’t easy. The thin, fine wires are delicate. You’ll need to stay focus for a very long time, tweezing them to the correct size and to close the tiny loop tight. This requires so much patience and an excessive amount of attention. Twisting them too much will cause breakage and I destroyed several connectors before finally connecting the wooden piece together. Super hard work, but it is all worth it!

The classes are conducted either in group or solo, depending on the total amount of guests who signed up at one time. I’d say it is a great way to spend your time in Seoul, if you’re up to creating something unique and meaningful for yourself (or even for a friend)!

Writer’s Note: I made a wood earring and a sky blue colour suede bracelet during the session. I do not have photos of the bracelet but I do have photos of me wearing the lovely wood earrings. The dangling wood pieces somehow make my face looks smaller. It makes a perfect accessory for my summer dresses! I matched it with my LIE SS18 stripped dress with ribbon when I met up with the designer of the dress, Mr. Chung Chung Lee when he was in Seoul.

I really enjoyed the whole DIY Jewellery making session with Mong. It just feels like having a cup of tea with a friend while having a jewellery making party at an underground studio. Mong speaks English so you’ll be able to follow the class. Hit her IG up to arrange a class if you’re interested!

Class Information

Single Class (one-off class suitable for travellers) 
Participants will bring back 2 types of jewellery (1 pair of earring + 1 bracelet/ 2 bracelets/ 2 pairs of earrings).
Class Price:  KRW 45,000
Class Duration: 2-3 hours

Other classes suitable for Seoulites:
Class Pack A – 6 times, KRW350,000
Class Pack B – 10 times, KRW 700,000
Jewellery Making Certification Class – 14 times, KRW2,800,000

Contact Details

You may contact Mong via her official Instagram prior to your arrival in Daejeon. Kakaotalk users may contact her via her Kakao ID: jimong20

Udul Studio (Daejeon)
Daejon-si, Seo-gu, Mannyeon-ro 12-21, No. 302.
대전 서구 만년로 12번길 21, 302호

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I am not talking about one or two rows of azaleas in the park, but something really massive. A mountain full of blooming azaleas that turn the entire site an eye feasting one.

Located in Bucheon, a city at the outskirt of Seoul, this place is perfect for half-day-outing, especially during the first 3 weeks in April due to its famous azalea bloom. The Wonmi Mountain (원미산) will be covered with hundreds and thousands of brightly coloured azaleas in full bloom this time every year. You may want to pack your own picnic bag and spend your entire morning there appreciating the beauty of mother earth.

I especially enjoyed my morning at Wonmi mountain. You’ll see adorable elementary school kids hiking up the stairs with their teachers, and ajummas sharing sweet potatoes and a cup of coffee under the trees. The better air, the bright pink flowers, and the relaxed vibe there at the park are all so wonderful.

I’ll totally list it as one of the not touristy things to do in Seoul! It is true that the cherry blossom waits for no one, but always remember you have an alternative. The azaleas never disappoint.

Writer’s Note: Aside admiring the bloom, there’s an annual Wonmisan Azalea Festival where visitors can participate in various activities. It is usually held on the 2nd week of April.  If picnic is your kind of activity, there’s a huge convenient storeto get some snacks at the Bucheon Sports Complex Station. Alternatively, you can pack your own food before departing from Seoul. Azalea flowers last about 3 weeks to a month. However, it is best to visit the place before the 3rd weekend of April to avoid disappointment. Please wear comfortable shoes as you’ll need to walk uphill quite a bit to reach the park.

Contact Details:

Wonmi Mountain Azalea Hill
482, Sosa-ro, Wonmi-gu, Bucheon-si, Gyeonggi-do
원미산 진달래동산
경기도 부천시 소사로 482 (춘의동)

Direction:

The Wonmi Mountain Azalea Hill can be accessed from anywhere in Seoul.
1. Get on subway line No. 7 and alight at Bucheon Sports Complex Station (부천 종합운동장역), then exit from Exit No. 2. Continue walking straight and you’ll find a stadium on your right-hand side. 

2. Walk into the compound of the stadium, until you see the above slope on your way up. You’ll be able to find a notice board with Korean wordings that read “진달래동산 가는길” (circled in red in the picture above). Follow the direction indicated: go up the slope.

3. Once you climbed up the slope, you’ll be able to see the blooming azaleas on the hills. Follow the crowd and continue to walk uphill, towards the mountain.

4. You should be able to see the staircase leading upward. Climb up these stairs and you’ll reach the entrance of the Wonmi Mountain Azalea Hill soon!

Maps

If you’re currently located in Korea, please use the Naver Map below to navigate: 

2018.2.24 | 지도 크게 보기 ©  NAVER Corp.

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One of the best spring destinations in South Korea is Jeju Island. This charming island is a popular holiday destination for both locals and tourists. However, I often find the places that these two audience groups visit can be very different. This prompt me to pen down information about these hidden spots in Jeju.

Gasiri Wind Power Plant (가시리 풍력발전소) is always on top of my pocket list for the best attractions in Jeju during spring. It is located along Noksan-ro (녹산로), one of the most picturesque roads I’ve seen in Korea. The road stretches about 10 KM and once you’re about to reach the wind power farm, a landscape of light pink and bright yellow beacons. Lining the road are thousands of tiny little petals of canola flower and the dreamy cherry blossom. It is so beautiful I was lost for words the first time when I visit this place — certainly the best rapeseed/canola flower field in Jeju!

Writer’s note: The canola field is enormous. As you can see from my photos, it is an endless field of velvety yellow flowers blooming on waist-high stalks, against the backdrop of the clear blue sky and several wind power plants. It is so tranquil and magical — more than the photos can convey.

What I like the most about this place is they don’t fence up the field so you can walk into the bushes. It was lovely walking in there, albeit a little whiffy. lolx However, please be gentle and refrain from plucking the flowers. Don’t disgrace yourself and your country!

As it is a hidden spot on the island, there is no public toilet, restaurant or carpark in the vicinity. However, there are a few food trucks selling titbits like sweet corn, sausages, drinks, and ice-cream around.

The best time to visit?

The first week of April, typically 1st of April to the 9th.

Venue Details

녹산로 유체꽃 도로
제주 특별 자치도, 서귀표시 표선면 가시리 산 51-1
Noksan-ro Canola Flower Road
San 51-1 Gasi-ri, Pyoseon-myeon, Seogwipo, Jeju-do, South Korea

Entrance Fee: Free of charge.

2018.2.24 | 지도 크게 보기 ©  NAVER Corp.

Transportation

There are public buses connecting places in Jeju, but I do not recommend non-Korean speakers to take public buses like how you do in Seoul. Navigating to your desired destination in Jeju by the public transport can be a lot more challenging. Generally, here are the 2 recommendations for travelling around in Jeju –

Drive: If you have an international driving license, how about a road trip in Jeju? You may consider renting a car right at the Jeju airport. Getting to the unbeaten track is a breeze – only if you understand basic Korean. Just key in the address on GPS and you’re good to go. It helps if you are able to key in the Korean address using the Korean GPS system provided in the rented car.

Engage A Private Tour Guide: Alternatively, you may want to engage private tour guide at the airport — this is what I always do whenever I visit Jeju. Tour guides here works pretty much the same as other countries. A typical one-day private tour would cost KRW 130,000++ and last about 9 hours, from 9 am to 6 pm and will usually cover 5-6 places including a restaurant and a cafe (if you like to have a cup of coffee after the meal, which is quite standard in modern Korean daily lifestyle). Most of the tour guides expect customers to pay their meal during their time with you.

You decide your itinerary – most services here can accommodate a personal customization of the itinerary.  Discuss your wish list with your tour guide before the departure. For your information, most of the basic /major attractions for the 1st timers are located in the Southern part of the island while the “hidden gems” are mostly in the Northern part. The island is quite big and travelling to and fro two parts of the island can take up a lot of time and you don’t want to end up spending time on the road instead of enjoying the scenery.

My take: Just pick your choice and focus on one area in a day. If you want to cover the more commercial/ touristy sites AND the authentic local experience, it is best to engage 2 days of the service. If you’re unsure, talk to your guide and I’m sure they’ll be able to tweak your itinerary a little to compliment your needs. I would say, line up your priority and take out the places of the least priority to fit in one day’s itinerary. After all, you can only visit 5-7 places in a day via these private tour service.

Some taxi drivers work as private tour guides too! They might not be as professional in explaining the history behind certain places, or they have limited English proficiency but they provide reliable transport from point to point. If listening to stories is not your priority, you may consider hiring a taxi driver for a day.

P.S. The tour guide that I engaged during my Jeju trip is getting married, therefore she is not taking any more trips. It’s a pity that she has decided to quit. If not, I’d be sharing her contact here. If you have any tour guides that you want to recommend, feel free to comment below

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“Bam” means night in Korean, and “Dokkaebi” refers to a Korean folklore character that appears only at night to trick human and disappears when the night turns to dusk. It is named after the characteristic of such night markets because they’re known to appear only at night and completely disappear by morning.

Bamdokkaebi Night Market first started in Yeouido in 2015 and expanding into 4 other venues in Seoul due to surging popularity — Dongdaemun Design Plaza, Cheonggye Plaza, Cheonggye-Cheon and Banpo. I have recently visited a Bamdokkaebi Night Market in Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP). Check out the video below:

These night markets are typically held every Fridays and Saturdays, with some Sunday markets happening at several locations mentioned above. Visitors can expect snack trucks, handmade goods stalls and cultural performances at these markets from 5pm- 11 pm.

The food trucks selections are wide. Expect international dishes like shrimp pad thai, Mexican tacos, English fish & chips, sandwiches, grilled lobsters, churros, hot dogs as well as Korean street food such as mandoo, ddeokbokki, and king sized bulgogi stick. The license to sell food here isn’t easy to obtain either. According to an egg benedict truck owner, all of these vendors went through several rounds of interviews before given a green light to do business there.

Different Bamdokkaebi Night Market has slightly different characteristics. For example, Yeouido focuses more on international fair, hence given the theme of “Yeouido World Night Market” whereas the one at DDP is themed as a “Youth Runway Market”, which functions as a platform for the youth to dream and shine. If you want to do some shopping to support local artists and designers, DDP night market is clearly the better option.

Yeouido Night Market is believed to be the biggest and oldest Bamdokkaebi Night Market in Seoul, which makes it the best night market you should check out if you’re in short of time. However, if you prefer something more stylish or quirky, board on subway line No.2 to Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station, where you’ll be greeted by the energetic crowd at the market.

For those who prefer a romantic night out with the loved ones, check out the Bamdokkaebi night market at Banpo. Themed as “Romantic Starlight Market”, the market focuses on food and various performances such as Jazz and Acapella. Remember to catch the Banpo Bridge Light Show when you’re there!

Information

Click onto the compiled Google map below to locate the nearest Bamdokkaebi Night Market.

Yeouido World Night Market 여의도 월드나이트마켓
Address: 330 Yeoeuido Hangang Park, Yeoeuidong-ro, Yondeungpo-gu, Seoul.
서울시 영등포구 여의동로 330 여의도한강공원 물빛광장
Every Friday & Saturday, March – October.
6pm-11pm

DDP Youth Runway Market 청춘 런웨이마켓
Address: 281 Euljiro, Jung-gu, Seoul.
서울시 중구 을지로 281
Every Friday & Saturday, March – October.
6pm-11pm

Banpo Romantic Starlight Market 반포 낭만달빛마켓
Address: Banpo Hangang Park, Banpo 2 dong, Seocho-gu, Seoul.
서울시 서초구 반포2동 반포한강공원 달빛광장
Every Friday & Saturday, March – October.
6pm-11pm

Cheonggye-Cheon Time Slip Market 청계천 타임슬립 마켓
Address: Cheonggye Cheon, Near Gwang Tong Bridge. Jungak Station Exit 5.
청계천 광통교 일대(을지로입구역 1∙2번 출구, 종각역 5번 출구)
Every Saturday 430pm-1130pm
Every Sunday 4pm – 9pm
March – October

Cheonggye Plaza 청계광장 시즌마켓
Address: 14 Seorin-dong, Jungno-gu, Seoul.
서울시 종로구 서린동 14
May 19th, 20th, 21st;  6pm-11pm.
August 18th, 19th, 20th; 6pm-11pm.
September 15th, 16th, 17th;  6pm-11pm.
October 13th, 14th, 15th;  6pm-11pm.
**Cheonggye Plaza’s night market has seasonal opening. Please check the official website for more information.

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