32 Best Things To Do in South Korea For Young Adults

Explore best things to do in South Korea for your first time traveling in the land of the morning calm!

Discover the best places to visit and exciting activities to do!

May this list help you have the best experiences and spark travel ideas of what you must see and try that will make you fall in love with South Korea! 

Explore unique places to visit in South Korea including the best tourist attractions, reasons to visit, travel tips, and best photo spots to help your South Korea travel journey be unforgettable! 

I traveled to the country for almost one week with one of my closest friends. Based on our travel experiences, these are the fun things to do in South Korea for young adults!

I hope this list will give you travel ideas on how to enjoy the country in the most enjoyable way possible as I show you some of the famous things in South Korea!

In addition, I will also share my personal travel experiences and travel photos of the best places to see and things to do in Korea that will make your heart flutter and bring butterflies to your stomach!

So, what are you waiting for? Learn the fun things to do in South Korea and start planning your trip!

Best Things To Do In South Korea

Hi there! My name is Karen. I traveled to South Korea twice and these are the best things to do that I found uniquely fun, interesting, and relaxing! I hope they will spark travel ideas and help you plan your South Korea trip!

What are some fun things to do in South Korea

1. Wear Hanbok, a traditional Korean dress, and have a photoshoot

• Reasons NOT to miss: It’s a great way to appreciate Korean heritage and experience a cultural connection to the traditions. Having a photoshoot will capture a unique and lasting experience that you’d be happy to look back on. Lastly, if you are a K-drama historical fan, it’s a must-do when traveling for the first time to South Korea to re-live your K-drama FAN-tasy!

• Tip: Book in advance. Consider a rental package with accessories plus hairstyling and professional photography. Don’t forget to wear cute but comfortable shoes if you plan to walk around for hours wearing the Hanbok.
• Book your experience: Hanbok Rental and Photoshoot Experience by Hanbok That Day

2. Step back in time in Gyeongbokgung Palace and watch the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony

• Reasons NOT to miss:  It’s a unique opportunity to experience the historical reenactment of guard-changing performed back in time during the Joseon Dynasty. It’s a way to step back in time to get insights into Korea’s historical military practices and ceremonies. Tour the Palace after and take advantage of plenty of photo opportunities to capture memories!

• Tip: Wear a hanbok to enter the palace for FREE! Double-check the scheduled time of the ceremony. It can get crowded, so arrive early and be in the front row for the best view!
• Book your experience: Hanbok Rental and Photoshoot Experience by Hanbok That Day

• Tip: Try to visit in the morning to get your photos taken without people.
• My experience: Getting a glimpse into Korea’s royal past while touring the Palace is one of my favorite experiences while traveling to South Korea. It felt like being in a historical Korean drama in my FAN-tasy world.
• Book your experience: Guided walking tour – Gyeongbokgung Palace and the Bukchon Hanok Village  

3. Explore the charm of Bukchon Hanok Village

• Reasons NOT to miss: It’s a free to visit to see and photograph the well-preserved traditional Korean houses. Explore the picturesque neighborhood of Korean history and culture with the scenic backdrop of Seoul’s modern skyline! Walking through the narrow and winding alleys provides a unique experience to appreciate South Korea’s past and present architecture.Did you know Bukchon Hanok Village was one of the filming locations of the Korean drama Personal Taste?

• Tip: Please respect the neighborhood as it is a residential area. Please talk quietly and follow the signs.

• Tip: As you walk around, you can get lucky and discover a quieter area without people, and it’s usually the best time to take a photo to capture the unique design and perspective of Korean traditional houses.
• Book your experience: Guided walking tour –  Bukchon Hanok Village 

4. Visit some of the famous K-drama Filming Locations

• Reasons NOT to miss: Goblin filming site! If you are a K-drama fan, you should walk along the Stone Wall Road at Samcheong-dong! Don’t miss visiting as you can walk around the area and spot more familiar and famous Korean dramas filming scenes like Hotel De Luna, Touch your Heart, and a mural from While You Were Sleeping.
• My experience: This wall looked so familiar to me as I’ve seen it in so many Korean dramas! I watched too many that I don’t remember which ones!
• Book your experience: PRIVATE Full-day Customizable Seoul Highlight Tour – CREATE YOUR OWN ITINERARY

5. Experience the exciting rides/attractions at Everland

• Reasons NOT to miss:  If you are traveling as a couple, group of friends, or family, this is a fun place to visit! The theme park designs give plenty of photo opportunities for most Instagrammable photo spots! If you enjoy exciting rides, special shows, and fun-filled attractions, this is one of the best things to do in South Korea! 

• Why visit: The amusement park has a seasonal theme based on four seasons. If you travel in the 2nd week of December like we did, it transformed into a winter wonderland with magical lights and atmosphere! We loved our experience and had an amazing time!
• Tip: Book early with SKIP THE LINE offers

• Tips: Check the weather before booking. Buy your tickets online in advance to save time and money! Discounts may be available for early bookings. Wear comfortable shoes and clothes as it’s a lot of walking. Rent a locker to store your personal belongings. Only bring what you need.
• Book your experience:  Everland Day Tour with Early/Late Return from Seoul | Everland Ticket with PLAN-IT (Fast Track)

6. Take a day trip to Nami Island

 

• Reasons NOT to miss: For the K-drama fans and nature lovers out there, you cannot miss a day trip to Nami Island! For the millennials, you may know it’s a famous filming location of Winter Sonata. There are signs, a statue, and snow carving displays from the drama scenes. The tree-lined paths are worth exploring and photographing for scenic views!

Tip: Don’t forget to photograph the famous tree-lined paths. Visit early morning on a weekday to experience the peaceful atmosphere on the island and get your photos taken without the crowd. You may also rent bicycles to explore the island at your own pace.

• Tip: Try some street food here after exploring around. The fish cake is my favorite. I asked the seller to give me some fish cake soup/sauce on the cup as well because the weather was cold and it made the experience extra warm. There are also restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops for dining and shopping experiences!

• Book your experience: Day Trip to Nami Island with Rail bike and The Garden of Morning Calm

• Tip: When you take a day trip to Nami Island from Seoul, consider visiting nearby attractions – Petite France, The Garden of Morning Calm, and Gapyeong Rail Park.
• Prefer a PRIVATE Tour?  BOOK —> Nami Island+Alpaca+RailBike+Petite+LEGOLAND+Morning Calm Private Tour

7. Visit the lovely Petite France Village

• Reasons NOT to miss: After your Nami Island, consider visiting the French-themed village to see colorful buildings and streets where every corner shows charming scenery! You can also visit art galleries and explore cultural exhibits. One to less than two hours should be enough to explore the village.

 

• Tip: Visit early before or as soon as it opens. Check for any special events or festivals before your visit. Check the Petite France website for updated information.  You can do your own Nami Island, Petite France, and Garden of Morning Calm from Seoul or join a group tour that includes all three attractions in one day. 

• Tip: Explore around and take photos of cute spots! This place will make your photographer’s heart flutter because of its picturesque designs!
• Book your experience: Trip to Nami Island with Petite France & Italian Village, Garden of Morning Calm
• Prefer a PRIVATE Tour?  BOOK —> Nami Island+Alpaca+RailBike+Petite+LEGOLAND+Morning Calm Private Tour

 

8. Admire the colorful light displays at Garden of the Morning Calm

• Reasons NOT to miss: Combine nature with vibrant and colorful lights, it’s a perfect place to feel magic! This place is full of visually picturesque and beautifully designed multicolored sparkling lights that give such a charming atmosphere! It’s one of my favorite experiences in South Korea, especially visiting at night!

• Tip:Time your visit, arrive 30 minutes before it gets dark to ensure less crowd when taking photos. There are plenty of photo opportunities that you shouldn’t miss! So, take advantage of taking stunning pictures when you visit in the evening while enjoying the spectacular lights!
• Book your experience: Trip to Nami Island with Petite France & Italian Village, Garden of Morning Calm

• Tip: Visit during the winter season to see the garden transform into a “Lighting Festival” with beautifully illuminated lights. We visited in the 3rd week of December, and seeing these lights felt so magical. 
• South Korea Must Buy: After taking photos, don’t forget to visit the garden’s gift shops and consider buying souvenirs of essential oils and locally made products. I love their creative formulations and travel-sized essential oil products. It’s worth looking around and buying some products as souvenirs.

• Tip:  You can do your own Nami Island, Petite France, and Garden of Morning Calm from Seoul or join a group tour that includes all three attractions in one day. We did our FIRST Nami Island tour with a group. Then, our second time, we did it on our own. If you prefer NOT to navigate and plan it all out, join a group tour. If you have time to plan, like to create/have your own schedule, and be early at certain places, doing it on your own may work best.
• Prefer a PRIVATE Tour? BOOK —> Nami Island+Alpaca+RailBike+Petite+LEGOLAND+Morning Calm Private Tour

9. Photograph the grand Starfield Library

• Reasons NOT to miss: Get ready to be impressed with this library’s interior design and vast collection of books! See the towering bookshelves and large glass ceilings! It’s one of the most photograph spots in Seoul! So, it’s a must-visit!

• Tip: Combine your visit to this Starfield Library with SM town and Gangnam Style statue as they are all walking distance from each other.

10. Explore Myeongdong and see the (Big Bear)

• Reasons NOT to miss and MUST KNOW: This BEAR is huge, but so cute when we found it at Myeongdong! It’s a must-photograph as you explore the area! There are plenty of shops/stores and restaurants to explore in  Myeongdong, including its underground shopping center. However, please note it’s a bit more pricey as it caters more to tourists. If you stay near Myeongdong like we did, you may get carried away shopping as there are so many different things you can buy, especially if you are into Korean fashion clothes.
• Shopping Tip: You can bargain when shopping at certain places in Myeongdong. If you plan to shop in South Korea, check out Dongdaemun and Hongdae first. I found their prices lower compared to Myeongdong. However, if you see/find something you like in Myeongdong, don’t wait to buy it because you may not find similar ones in Dongdaemun and Hongdae.
• MUST-KNOW after 10 pm: Based on my experience, taxis are way more expensive after 10 pm, and it’s hard to find Uber around that time. So, if you already know you take long shopping and likely will get carried away or will lose track of time, set up an alarm and plan accordingly.

11. Visit the N-Seoul Tower before sunset

• Reasons NOT to miss: Looks familiar from Boys Over Flowers? It’s an iconic landmark seen in many Korean movies and dramas. It’s on top of Namsan Mountain which offers panoramic views of the Han River and Seoul’s skyline. We rode a cable car with a scenic ride to reach N-Seoul Tower. I recommend visiting one or two hours before sunset to have time to walk around and take photos of the surrounding area.
• Tip: Check the weather before booking to ensure a clear view of the city. Book your ticket in advance and visit before sunset to see both day and night views.
• Book your experience: N Seoul Tower Ticket

12. Lock your love memory at the Love Lock

• Reasons NOT to miss: Visit the symbol of love and express your love in Seoul! Feeling romantic and want to write a personal message to your other half? Lock your love memory at the Love Locks in Seoul! Bring your own lock or you can purchase on-site at the N-Seoul Tower. There are vending machines and gift shops near the town that sell locks with markers. Even as a solo traveler or traveling with friends, you can still write a personal message and lock the memory here! For me, it’s my reason to send a message to my future self and come back and see it again after years.

• Tip: Catch the sunset and enjoy the picturesque scenery of the colorful locks and Seoul’s skyline! Stay until evening to see the city lights, especially the tower beautifully lights up turning the atmosphere more romantic!
• Book your experience: N Seoul Tower Ticket

13. Go skiing at Nami Ski Resort

• Reasons NOT to miss: Enjoy skiing and sightseeing at Elysian Resort if you are traveling during winter! Make unforgettable memories of seeing winter landscapes and experiencing skiing, snowboarding, or sledding! It’s a fun way to enjoy South Korea!

• Tip: Book in advance if you plan to visit from late November to early March. Check the weather and book your visit, rentals, and lessons on weekdays.
• Book your experience: Nami Island & Elysian Gangchon Winter Ski Day Tour From Seoul

 

14. Admire the Dongdaemun Design Plaza & Park and go shopping at nearby places

• Reasons NOT to miss: Discover the heart of the Seoul Fashion Week! For architecture and fashion lovers, it’s a must-visit! I have seen Dongdaemun Design Plaza features in Korean dramas like Vincenzo and Record of Youth. DDP hosts various fashion shows, and its unique architectural design makes it famous for Instagram-worthy spots in Seoul. You can visit on your own, or if you prefer, you can book a private tour with a local tour guide.

• Tip:Don’t miss the Seoul light show DDP! You will appreciate the building even more when you visit at night to see the exterior beautifully illuminated! Check the DDP website for updated events schedule!
• Book you experience: Seoul Half Day Tour with a Local: 100% Personalized & Private

15. Explore the Gangnam area and photograph the Statue of Gangnam Style

• Reasons NOT to miss: Perhaps you’ve seen the popular Gangnam Style music video by Korean artist PSY? The statue is a popular photo spot just outside the Coex Mall. If you’re a fan or just for fun, take a photo mimicking PSY’s dance moves!
• Tip: Visit nearby attractions Starfield Library, SM town and Bongeunsa Temple. 

 

16. Stroll through alleyways with various shops at Insadong Street

 

• Reasons NOT to miss: If you’re looking for unique shopping and cultural experiences, visit Insadong Street, where you can find traditional crafts, art galleries, souvenir shops, traditional food, and tea houses! There’s a different charm I only felt in Insadong street when walking down the alleyways and seeing traditional buildings! If you’re curious, it’s worth a visit!
• Tip: From my experience, this is a great place to try traditional Korean snacks and desserts like yakgwa, dasik, and bingsu.
• Book you experience: Seoul Half Day Tour with a Local: 100% Personalized & Private

17. See K-pop displays at SM Town

• Reasons NOT to miss: Curious about Korean pop culture? For any K-pop fan, SM Town is a must-visit to get a closer look into the heart of K-pop! SM Town features a K-pop museum, big screen performances, interactive exhibits, celebrity big photo displays, store-themed café, and merchandise you can purchase.

• Tip:Combine your sightseeing visit at nearby attractions with Starfield Library and the Gangnam Style statue

18. Try as many Korean street food and desserts as you can

• Reasons NOT to miss: Your South Korea trip is incomplete without tasting Korean street food from bustling night markets! Korean Street food offers a unique, authentic, and enjoyable experience. It’s a fantastic way to connect with Korean culture and bond with the locals and your travel buddies! It’s my top favorite experience in Seoul because I am a foodie! I travel for food!
• Tip: Bring cash! Most food vendors only accept cash. There’s a money exchange nearby the Myeongdong Street Food Alley.

• Tip: I enjoyed eating all the street food I am showing you in this blog. It’s hard to say NO to experience, especially when the food is uniquely delicious and the atmosphere is great! I recommend a food adventure in South Korea!
• Where to eat Korean Street Food: Gwangjang Market, Hongdae, Myeongdong Street Food Alley, Insadong Street, or Dongdaemun Night Market
• Book your experience:  Eating and Drinking  through the Alleys of Seoul

• Tip: Even if I enjoyed Korean street food, based on my experience I found that it’s hard to find trash cans/bins around Seoul even at street-side stalls. So, bring a small disposable plastic with you OR eat near where you bought your street food and ask the lady/man how to dispose of it after eating.

19. Experience cafe hopping in Seoul

• Reasons NOT to miss:Reasons NOT to miss: The cafe culture in Seoul is big! Consider a cafe hopping if you’re a coffee, tea, or dessert lover! You will find various unique-themed cafes everywhere, including a board game cafe! From petting animals to writing your future self a letter to an impressively designed cafe or delicious pastry, you’ll find one that will suit your taste!

• Tip: Ask the locals for the cafes they recommend. Download Google Translate Korean so you can still use it offline with no wifi.  Based on our experience, we’re thankful we asked the locals where to go! There were many cafes in one area in Gangnam, where you could walk and see each one within walking distance what menus/drinks, what type of desserts, and their cafe-themed look! We probably visited/walked to at least seven (7) cafes.

• Tip: Depending on what experience you’re looking for, research before going or do a cafe hopping in one area. For me, before I sit down at a cafe, I look for a great ambiance and uniquely made desserts that look tasty. I found the cafes in Hongdae, Insadong, and Gangnam stylish and have delicious desserts and an atmosphere I enjoyed! Sorry, but I don’t remember all the cafes we went to as they were written in Korean. I only remember one with the English name “AB cafe” in Gangnam that we went to, which was recommended by the locals. The desserts were delicious, and the ambiance was great!

20. Taste the local Korean food including the famous Korean BBQ, fried chicken, and more!

• Location: Dwaeji Sanghoe All You Can Eat Pork BBQ at Gangnam
• Reasons NOT to miss: Korean food is very delicious and an adventure for your taste buds! Taste the flavorful Korean cuisine and perhaps you’ll find your new favorite dish! If you travel for food, you should NOT miss some of the famous Korean cuisines!
• Korean food I enjoyed eating during my Seoul Trip – If you want to eat like a local and tourist, consider tasting:
  • Dakgalbi
  • Maeun galbi tang
  • Korean BBQ
  • Korean-style fried chicken
  • Jjajangmyeon
  • Bibimbap
  • Kimchi-jjigae
  • Bulgogi
  • Gimbap
  • Donkkaseu
  • Naengmyeon
  • Japchae and many more!

• Places I enjoyed eating Dakgalbi: Shin Migyeong Hongdae Dakgalbi and Namiseom Chuncheon Dakgalbi
• My experience: I only discovered and tasted Dakgalbi (a stir-fried dish with chicken and vegetables) when I traveled to South Korea! It’s so delicious! It’s my favorite Korean local dish while traveling to Seoul twice! I wish they had this in the United States!
• Tipping in South Korea: You do NOT have to tip in South Korea. I noticed when I gave tips to waiters, they seemed surprised. I heard from locals and tour guides that tipping is NOT expected and practiced in South Korea.

• Location: BB.Q Chicken Myeongdong Star
• Must know when dining in Seoul: In some restaurants, the utensils are found in small compartments on the side of your table. Don’t expect to pay like in America. You’d have to go where the cash register is and pay there before leaving. 
• Where to try Dakgalbi, Korean BBQ, and other Korean cuisines in Seoul: Myeongdong, Hongdae, and Gangnam. 

21. Watch Live Street Performances at Hongdae

• Reasons NOT to miss: Spend an evening in Hongdae and enjoy free, fun, and live entertainment! Hongdae is known for its vibrant and youthful vibe. If you are into energetic and lively atmosphere, Hongdae is a must-visit at night to enjoy singing and dance performances live on the street. Hongdae is known where young adults party so you can even consider going to bars and clubs if you are into that.
• Show your gratitude: Consider leaving a tip at their designated box to show your support and appreciation for their music and talent.

22. Do a personal “color” analysis

• Location: Color Signal in Gangnam (Where I got mine done *RECOMMEND*)
• Reasons NOT to miss:
  • Discover ideal colors that best suit your skin tone and enhance your natural features to help you look your best and make informed choices on fashion, cosmetics, and accessories.
  • Receive professional expertise from a reputable personal color consult and beauty studio in Gangnam.
  • The recommendations provide personalized beauty advice on the best clothing colors, makeup shades, accessories, hair dye, colored contact lenses, and nail colors that complement your skin tone and unique natural features.
• Tips: Book online in advance as it can fill up fast! Book as early as you can to get the date and time you want. Do NOT wear makeup to get a better/accurate analysis and wear neutral clothes on the day of your appointment. Bring your cosmetics to compare to your ideal color type result and ask for feedback/advice.

• My experience: Personal color analysis is more than just about discovering the ideal colors most flattering to you. For me, it’s mostly about the experiences of understanding the analysis and learning to make informed decisions incorporating the personalized beauty advice and tips given on clothing, makeup, and accessories that best align with my identified suitable color type to help me LOOK and FEEL my best self comfortably yet confidently.
• Book your experience: Seoul Personal Color Analysis Experience in Gangnam (Where I got mine done *RECOMMEND*)

23. Shop quality skincare and cosmetics at Innisfree, Olive Young and Etude

• Reasons NOT to miss: South Korea is globally known for its quality skincare and cosmetic products with extensive options. It’s also cheaper to shop in the country than to buy online. So, you’ll buy high quality at affordable prices for a great value! Lastly, shopping at these popular shops is a great way to immerse yourself in K-beauty culture and bring some as souvenirs and gifts!
• Location Tip: You can find all these three stores within walking distance of each other in one location at Myeongdong.
• Shopping Tips: Bring your passport for tax refunds. Consider buying more to save more. Please note some Korean stores may offer special deals and discounts if you buy more. So, look out for these. If you’re shopping to stock up or for souvenirs/gifts, it’s a great way to take advantage of the deals offered.
• My experience: I got lucky at Innisfree because the manager gave me an extra discount on top of a special promotion. She said she’s giving me an additional discount because I am buying a lot.
• Don’t forget Tip:  After your color analysis, go to Olive Young to shop for cosmetics that best suit you based on your recommended color analysis results.
• Where we stayed in Seoul near Myeongdong: Four Points by Sheraton Josun, Seoul Station (RECOMMEND)

24. Discover your personal “facial” analysis

• Location: Areuke SPA in Hongdae
• Reasons NOT to miss:  Want to achieve better results with your skincare routine? Experience the advanced and high-tech technology that reveals a detailed analysis of your skin’s surface and deeper layers! An expert professional will discuss your results, address your concerns, and make recommendations that best suit your skin type. You will also receive a QR code to view the detailed report of your personalized and comprehensive facial assessment of your skin’s condition including hydration, UV damage, redness, pigmentation, pore size, elasticity, wrinkles and overall skin health. The report also includes data how your skin condition compares with others of the same age and skin type.
• Must Know: The facial scan is non-invasive and takes only few minutes
• Tips: Ensure you arrive with a clean face with NO makeup, sunscreen, and moisturizer for accurate results. Write down your main concerns and ask for feedback/recommendations.
• Book your experience: Areuke SPA (Book in advance) 

25. Indulge in a Korean Spa (facial and body massage)

• Location: Art de la Peau (where I got mine done *RECOMMEND*)
• Reasons NOT to miss: Experience the ultimate self-care while on vacation! Pamper yourself! Why not GIFT yourself Korean beauty treatments and spas for beauty glow, wellness, and relaxation? Seoul is the best place to experience self-care and have the opportunity to experience renowned Korean beauty and wellness culture. Enjoy a time of indulgence and rejuvenation as you focus on self-care during a vacation!
• Places where I recommend SPA & Massages: Myeongdong: Art de la Peau Gangnam: SPA 1899 DONGINBI

Best Korean Spa in Seoul

• My experience: I love my experiences of getting deep cleansing, brightening, and hydration facials with full body massage. The treatments improved my skin immediately. I noticed an instant glow, hydration, and radiance in my skin! My skin looks clearer and healthier! Unquestionably, the treatment and massage were performed to the highest standard. The Korean treatments offer innovative technology with high-quality products and accommodating staff that ensure a glowing and soothing experience. I appreciate how the staff communicated she had to massage harder due to tension in my back shoulder. As soon as I was done, she asked the front desk staff to translate that I would be sore the next day because of it. So, she gave me a patch I could use. Honestly, I have experienced multiple massages in the U.S. and in almost every country I visited abroad. However, it’s ONLY in Seoul that such a considerate massage therapist would care to inform me of that and give me a patch despite the language barrier. I appreciate that a lot, so I highly recommend this place Art de la Peau. Overall, I have enjoyed traveling to South Korea because of all these experiences for ultimate self-care. It’s one of my favorite experiences in Seoul! For me, this is the best place to prioritize self-care when traveling! 
• Book your experience: BOOK IN ADVANCE!
  • Myeongdong: Art de la peau  | Aesthetic Korea Skin Care & Massage Treatment 
  • Gangnam: CheongKwanJang SPA 1899 DONGINBI

26. Get a hair SPA, treatment and styling

 

• Location: Hair Dice in Gangnam  [within walking distance from (Color Signal – where I got my color analysis)]
• Reasons NOT to miss: Make your self-care vacation complete by getting hair SPA and treatment in Seoul! Consider scalp detox, keratin treatments, deep conditioning, hydrating, and steam therapy in a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere! Korean Salon uses premium quality ingredients and reputable brands formulated to treat your specific hair care needs! The service comes with a head and neck massage with tea refreshments! 
• My experience: This was a transformative experience as I also got a Korean hair perm and haircut! I was happy with the treatment result and newly styled hair that is softer with volume that looks and feels GOOD! I have always wanted to experience Korean hair treatment + styling. I was happy with my experience despite the language barrier. So, I would still recommend the experience to complete an ultimate self-care vacation!
• Tip: Ask for an English-speaking staff for faster/better communication than Google Translate. If they do not have one on-site like how it was for me, they would call someone (another staff or manager) to help be the translator so you can communicate your concerns and needs.

27. Buy K-Fashion clothes and souvenirs at various fashion shopping centers and boutiques

• Reasons NOT to miss: South Korea is a shopping paradise, especially for the fashionista! Even if you’re not into shopping, you’ll find something you would like! Take advantage of shopping for high-quality clothes with unique and elegant designs in Seoul! There are a wide variety of styles at reasonable prices! Korean dramas introduced and influenced me to Korean fashion. Most of my outfits are inspired and likely purchased in South Korea and Thailand! I love shopping in these countries! They have a lot of fashionable and comfortable clothes at affordable prices! 
• Tip: After your color analysis, find and choose clothes ideal for your color type result. Furthermore, if you love shopping, expect to use additional luggage. If you do NOT want to purchase extra luggage, consider bringing/packing less, so you have room to fit other things you’ll be shopping for. I have been to Seoul twice, and I always told myself I would NOT be shopping that much or would NOT need extra luggage. However, there are so many cute things in Seoul that I have always ended up buying/using an extra suitcase.
• Where I recommend shopping: Hongdae, Dongdaemun, Myeongdong, Migliore, Pyeonghwa Clothing Market, DDP fashion mall

28. Try some convenience stores (Nice to CU, Seven Eleven) food and drinks

• Reasons NOT to miss: Discover why Korean convenience stores are so popular! Have a local experience finding diverse snacks and drinks you won’t find elsewhere! Try a variety of refreshing drinks, hot food, hot bakes, and ready-to-eat meals at affordable prices!  I love going to Japanese and South Korean convenience stores because I always enjoy anything I get there! Just like in Japan, South Korea’s convenience stores are worth visiting and should be on your Seoul itinerary even if it’s for a quick stopover.
• Tips: Try the tasty kimbap, sweet hot bakes, and the famous K-drama banana drink for the experience! If you arrive late in the middle of the night or are hungry after a night out, you can consider going to a convenience store and enjoy late-night access to a wide range of products with in-store ready-to-eat meals. If you are leaving early in the morning the next day, consider purchasing here an on-the-go or quick snack on your way to the airport or your next destination.

29. Take a walk along Cheonggyecheon stream before/at sunset

 

• Reasons NOT to miss: Take a break from shopping around Dongdaemun district, and just within walking distance, take a stroll at the stream for new surroundings and a relaxing atmosphere! See a blend of serene nature and a bustling modern city surrounding skyscrapers! Experience the scenic walking paths with fountains and bridges! You may find street performances right before sunset. 
• Tips: Visit at night when it’s beautifully illuminated! There may be light shows to enjoy in the evening. Look out for art installations, seasonal festivals, and light shows throughout the year featuring picturesque displays and illumination along the stream! 

30. Experience nightlife in Hongdae (local experience) or Itaewon (international vibe)

 

• Reasons NOT to miss: Experience the vibrant nightlife scenery, live music, unique themed bars and clubs with youthful vibes! Enjoy an energetic and lively atmosphere and surroundings when you experience Hongdae night scenery! Have some fun immersing into young adult life in Seoul and dance the night away at K-pop dance clubs with a live DJ! Explore the live music venues at trendy bars and nightclubs if you are into that. Even if you don’t plan to go inside the clubs, you can still experience a friendly, youthful, and social atmosphere all around!
• Tips: Have fun and socialize safely and responsibly! Visit Hongdae if you’re under 30 as I heard there are age restrictions, unlike Itaewon when entering clubs/bars. Depending on your preference, Hongdae has more local vibes as it caters to university students whereas Itaewon has a more international atmosphere with no age restrictions entering clubs from what I heard. 
• Book you experience: The Seoul Pub Crawl (Join in Group)

Korean Fortune Tellers in Hongdae – Be careful

***I’m NOT recommending it based on my experiences***

• My experience: Of course, my close friend and I were young and curious about our love life so we got our fortunes told for the experience! We had a tour guide who was translating for us. Looking back, I have a bit of regret since I got scammed by the 2nd fortune teller at a different booth when she charged me $100 for a 20-minute session.  She said she’s charging me per question and NOT the time. However, I was under the impression (what she communicated in the beginning) that she set the price where I could ask any questions within that time for the price of $30. I wouldn’t recommend it unless you want to do it for experience, and you’re OKAY paying for that much money! Be careful!

31. Visit Heunginjimun Gate Park

 

• Reasons NOT to miss: Get a glimpse of Seoul’s old city wall and see the architectural and scenic view of the park around Heunginjimun Gate! Enjoy strolling around the surrounding area just before or after sunset! I enjoyed walking around this area and witnessing the bustling city and buildings light up at night. Perhaps, it’s every traveler’s ideal way to start the evening with a vibrant atmosphere!
• Tip: This park is close to Dongdaemun Design Plaza and Dongdaemun shopping places. So, it’s convenient to explore and add to your itinerary while you’re around the area!

32. Take photos at a Korean Photo Booth

• Reasons NOT to miss: South Korea is very advanced not just with skincare products and technology, but also with photo booths! There were plenty of Korean photo studios we saw everywhere when we visited the Gangnam area.Why not bring a unique souvenir back home through a printed photograph when you visit a self-photo studio to have your pictures taken? Whether traveling solo, couple, or with friends and family, it’s a fun way to capture your memories uniquely and creatively with instant printing and digital copies at affordable prices! These self-photo studios provide cute props and accessories with different themes and backgrounds and allow customization before you print! Some of the photo studios are using AI like this Miso Photo Booth! If you love creative photos and keeping memories, it’s worth trying!
• Tip: Practice your poses since you’ll only be given limited time between shots! Know your best angle and adjust for good lighting! Photo booths are meant to be enjoyed by doing funny and silly expressions so enjoy the moment and let the camera capture your experience!

Summary

Undoubtedly, South Korea is a dream destination for K-drama, K-pop, K-food, K-fashion, and K-beauty fans. I am also such a fan of what South Korea is well-known for internationally that I fell in love with the country even more as I experienced its food, culture, customs, and traditions. South Korea has the best street food, skin care products, shopping places, and self-care experiences! It is one of the countries I have always wanted to visit again in the future for the 3rd time!

I hope these 32 best things to do in South Korea sparked travel ideas to try, do, and see for your first trip that will truly make you fall in love with the experiences that you’d want to come back to someday again (like me). So, what are you waiting for? Live your K-drama dream and ultimate self-care vacation! Start planning your travel to South Korea! Enjoy your trip and let me know if you have any questions I can help answer!

32 Experiences in South Korea that will make you fall in love

South Korea Bucket List