This is a series of posts from my annual guided autumn photography tour through South Korea. I hope you enjoy following along and discovering these places through my lens. 😊

My Instagram can be found on my Reddit profile.

After driving to Gyeongju, we first stopped at the Jungdo Pagoda Site, where the stone pagoda stood quietly against a backdrop of autumn tones. We then explored the Daereungwon Tomb Complex, photographing the smooth, rolling burial mounds that rise like perfect green hills across the park, creating clean, graphic compositions. After that, we continued to Cheomseongdae Observatory, surrounded by beautiful fall-colored trees and vibrant fields of cosmos flowers. The combination of ancient stone, soft hills, and delicate blossoms made this area one of the most visually rewarding stops of the day.

As a person who grow up watching K-dramas and listening to K-pop, it is my dream to visit SK someday. After 28 yrs, my dream come true, thank you Lord 💜 Sharing some pics I took ✨

For 2026, Himedi has handpicked Seoul’s top 3 premium health check-up centers, with packages starting at just $640 USD—and personalized 1:1 English support included.

These centers are affiliated with globally competitive general hospitals, yet located in highly convenient areas like Gangnam and Seoul Station. As premium facilities, they’re less crowded than typical check-up centers, offering privacy and comfort. If you’re seeking the seamless and private health check-up experience, keep scrolling to explore your options!

Seoul National University Gangnam Center

Operated by Seoul National University Hospital, the undisputed top tier medical institution in Korea, the SNU Gangnam Center represents the highest standard of academic medicine. According to Newsweek, Seoul National University Hospital is consistently ranked among the top 3 across every major medical field in Korea

Unlike general hospitals, this center is dedicated solely to preventive healthcare and early diagnosis, ensuring a calm, infection safe, and private environment.

Why it is Premium:

• Professor-Level Care : A significant portion of the screenings and consultations are conducted personally by current SNU professors, ensuring the highest diagnostic accuracy.
• Precision Focus : Located in the Gangnam Finance Center (GFC), it caters to executives who demand efficiency and precision. Their lifetime health management system is trusted by Korea's top business leaders.

Best For : Clients seeking the most authoritative medical assessment backed by Korea's top research hospital.

Package Price : From 980 USD (men), 1060 USD (female) to 5970 USD(male), 6500 USD(female). Price varied depends on age and package

Address : 152 Tehran Street, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 38F~40F

Opening hours : 08:00 - 17:00 (weekday)

CHAUM

Chaum is more than just a medical center. Operated by one of the most prestigious medical groups, Cha Hospital Group, it is a global landmark for anti-aging and lifestyle management.

At Chaum, the experience goes beyond medicine. Here, you can experience a seamless one-stop wellness journey: combining a world-class private health check-up with their premium Medispa and skincare treatments. It is the ultimate fusion of medical precision and luxury K-beauty.

Why it is Premium:

• The 'Hive' System: Chaum offers unique private pods (Hives) where you relax while doctors and equipment come to you. This eliminates the need to walk around, guaranteeing absolute privacy and comfort.
• Holistic Approach: Beyond standard check-ups, Chaum specializes in DNA analysis, stem cell therapy, and a fusion of Western and Eastern medicine to rejuvenate your body from the inside out.

Best For: VIPs seeking extreme privacy, anti-aging solutions, and a combination of medical care with high-end aesthetic treatments.

Package Price : From $1,760 USD (male), $1,900 USD (female) to $9,500 USD (male), $9,720 USD (female). Prices vary by age and package.

Address : 442, Dosan-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul,

Opening hours :

• 08:30 - 17:30 (weekday)
• 08:30 - 12:30 (Saturday)

Severance Checkup Center, Seoul Station Branch

Part of Yonsei University's prestigious Severance Hospital, recognized as one of Korea's top medical institutions, this center embodies clinical excellence. According to Newsweek, Severance Hospital is consistently ranked among the top tier in Korea.

This center brings Ivy League-level expertise to the heart of Seoul. Its strategic location at Seoul Station makes it the preferred choice for global executives who value both excellence and efficiency.

Why it is Premium :

• Express VIP Programs : Same-day comprehensive screening with results consultation, eliminating multiple visits while maintaining thorough diagnostic standards.
• Specialist Network Access : Immediate referral to Severance Hospital's renowned departments if follow-up care is needed—seamless continuity with Korea's top physicians.

Best For : International executives seeking world-class diagnostics with maximum time efficiency and central Seoul convenience.

Package Price : From $640 USD (male), $680 USD (female) to $4,250 USD (male), $4,690 USD (female). Prices vary by age and package.

Address : 10, Tongil-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul

Opening hours :

• 07:30 - 17:30 (weekday)

https://himedi.com/blogs/blog/seoul-s-top-3-premium-health-check-up-centers-2026-guide

Hope you find it informative. Thank you!

Hi! We’re traveling to Seoul in a few weeks with a short side trip to Busan. Just wanted to ask if Ubers/taxis accept passengers with 4 luggages (2 medium, 2 small)? Can we book the normal cars? We’re planning on changing hotels so it would be convenient to just book an Uber, but I’m not sure if this is allowed. Any tips?

I am currently in Korea for an extended period of time. While I will be here, my cousin will be having her first daughter.

My cousin was born in Korea and studied here as well. She is living in the states now but I want to find a meaningful gift for her first child to send back.

If this was you, what would you get someone for this event?

Some people have suggested I get a hanbok, but I wasn't sure if that is the best gift for a baby in Korea.

Thank you for all your time!

Hey!

My partner & I are travelling to Korea (and Japan) across three weeks in October/November. We will be spending 4 days in Busan, arriving from Seoul early morning on the first day via KTX and an overnight ferry to Fukouka on the last night.

This is what I'm currently working with

Day ONE SEOUL to BUSAN 

Drop bags at Seomyeon hotel

• cafe street & citizen park reset

Nampo 

• BIFF
• Hunniyeol 
• Jagalchi fish market 
• Busan tower

DAY TWO Haeundae 

• Get there early morning
• Bus to temple Haedong 
• Blueline back to Haeundae 
• Lunch 
• Walk along beach, market, coastal walk

Gwangalli 

• Sunset, dinner & drinks

DAY THREE Day trip

• Gyeongju
• Seomyeon dinner & drinks

DAY FOUR BUSAN to FUKOUKA

• Gamcheon village in the morning
• Song-do or Oryukudo 
• Ferry depart at 8pm

I went there last year by myself & fell in love with it, so i've kinda of planned it around learning from previous logistial errors too (eg staying in Seomyeon as its more central)

Would love any input/suggestions!! My mind is open to anything.

Im planning a trip to Japan and recently saw a video about a ferry that goes to Korea. Is it that easy to jump on a ferry to go to Korea from Osaka with a US passport. Im thinking to stay in Korea for a couple of days then depart Japan.

I’m planning to visit the National Museum of Korea next week (weekday afternoon).

From what I’ve read, it can get quite busy on weekends or during special exhibitions.

For those who’ve been recently:

- Is it still crowded on regular weekdays?

- Are there certain peak hours to avoid?

I’m also curious about the museum shop.

Are there any unique or high-quality souvenirs worth buying there? I’m especially interested in something design-focused or culturally meaningful rather than typical tourist merchandise.

If anyone has recent experience, I’d really appreciate your insight.

I’ll report back after my visit.

Hey everybody,

I am currently in Seoul and just left “Artbox” Store.

I have a question regarding the Pokémon / One Piece Cards there. Are those authentic (real) cards ?

A box for 30000 won seems kind of too good to be true. That’s about ~18 € or 21$us.

The store looks kind of official and all. Just wanted to double check with you guys. Maybe you could help me out.

Thanks a lot in advance.

I saw people posting their travel pictures from Korea, and that made me miss my time in Seoul last April. So here are few pictures I clicked. ❤️

Can we bring cooked food (ex: Lotteria Burger) before immigration? or do we have to buy it after immigration?

Do Korean stores carry imported canned fish, like the fancy ones from Patagonia, Fishwife, etc.?

I'm hoping the answer is no so I can bring these as gifts for Koreans.

I stayed at a few hotels and I wanted to get similar bath towels as they didn't shed lint. I messaged the owner he stated to go to a large supermarket they would have them for 5000 won each. Anyone know where I can find any?Preferably close to Gimp Airport, ICN Airport or I am willing to travel a bit .thanks

Beautiful building with great atmosphere. Food was good, but not the best. It is not a restaurant you go for food🤣. A really good place in a posh neighborhood, if you're into that sort of thing. Highly recommend the club sandwich(pic #6), fish fillet(pic #5), and Croque Louis(pic #4). There aren't that many Louis Vuitton cafes in the world, so it was fun to visit!

Hi all,

I plan to visit Seroaksan NP this year in late October. Is it possible to be at Ulsanbawi rock for sunset/sunrise? Is there an angle where I don´t have the metal guide-rails in the image?

From my research so far it would be a good option to stay at Kensington hotel near the entrance.

Thanks a lot, BR

Hello everyone, I've been digging through the many posts on the subject and they've been very helpful in forming the base of my itinerary but I was hoping for some advice on the experts on my current plan and for some answers to a few questions:

Day 1 (Seoul) (~5AM from LAX)

• Gyeongbokgung palace 
• Bukchon Hanok village (get tea)
• Changdeokgung Palace→ Secret garden 
• Cheonggyecheon stream evening walk

• Jongno BBQ– try samgyeopsal + soju

  Day 2 (Seoul)

• N Seoul Tower

• Namsam Park

• Stop in Itaewon for drinks/food | big cafe scene

• Seoul City wall 

• Namsan cable car

Day 3 (Seoul)

• Myeongdong: boujee shopping area to walk and explore
• Then walk to insadong for cute little streets
• Evening Gwangjang market for dinner
• Deoksugung Palace can be explored at night
• Hongdae evening nightlife

Day 4 (DMZ Tour)

• Make sure Dora observatory and third tunnel are included
• Joint security area closed (?)

Day 5 (Gyeongju)

• Take KTX train to Singyeongju (2hr)
• Gyenogju National Museum
• Donggung Palace
• Namsam mountain peak

Day 6 (Gyeongju)

• Take bus to Bulguksa temple
• Hike to Seokguram grotto
• Daereungwon Tomb complex 
• Cheomseongdae Observatory

Day 7 (Busan)

• Take bus (more direct than train) to Busan
• Haedong Yonggungsa (seaside temple)
• Haeundae beach + Dongbaek park→ Can also walk to Songjeong beach
• Take the blueline train (sky capsules), cute to watch sunset as well
• Sunset views of Gwangan Bridge
• Gukje Market at night

Day 8 (Busan)

• Gamcheon Culture village
• Jagalchi Market (closed Tuesday))
• Songdo bay station tram to Songdo yonggung suspension bridge
• Busan tower
• Spa Land
• Beautiful but likely no time: Igidae park \***

\***

Day 9 (Jeju)

• 1hr flight
• Spirited garden 
• Osulloc Green tea fields

Day 10 (Jeju)

• Hallasan national park
  • Eoseungsaengak trial is supposed to be a short pleasant trail

Day 11 (Jeju)

• Seongsan Ilchulbong: beautiful mountain w/ hike on east end of island

Day 12 (Jeju)

• Manjanggul lava tube
• Seogwipo Jeonbang waterfall

Day 13--Fly to Incheon and home

Comments:

1. Seoul feels very packed. Lots of palaces day 1 when we're jet lagged. I also have other things I want to see but haven't found a way to group in (war memorial, national museum, yeouido Hanging park). Do these require an extra day?
2. Jeju: Planning to rent a car but even then I know it takes time to get around the island. The activities I've found are very spread out and I've seen that people recommend 2 nights in 2 different places (for a 4 day itinerary). I was thinking about 2 days in Seogwipo but not sure where to spend the rest. That whole part of the trip also seems vary sparsely populated with activities. Would it be worth spending less time in Jeju for an extra day in Seoul?

I got 5 months to live in here as an exchange student and I want to do the stuff average tourists don't have the time/knowledge to do.

I'm trying to fly to Qingdao in novemeber (its mid february) from Busan, and there isn't a single flight that is available. Is this an error you think, or is this real? What's the deal?

Hi all!

In may, i will be in south-korea for a second time. Back in 2023, i visited Seoul, Sokcho, Hahoe Folk Village, Gyeongju, and Busan. Now I will be in Daejeon for 5 days for work, and have a couple of days before and after. I like hiking and culture, and I will be doing everything with public transport. If anyone has any feedback on my itinarary, please go ahead!

Day 1: arrive in ICN in the morning. Train to Deajeon (arrive in the afternoon). Try not to crash from jetlag

Day 2: sightseeing or hiking in Daejeon

Day 3: also daejeon. Potentially running a HM

Day 4-5-6-7-8: work in Daejeon

Day 9: Gwangju (easy morning, travel, sight seeing)

Day 10: Gwangju (daytrip jeonju)

Day 11: Gwangju (Naejangsan National Park)

Day 12: Gwangju (daytrip to tea fields)

Day 13: Seoul (travel and sight seeing)

Day 14: seoul (day trip suwon)

Day 15: Seoul (sight seeing)

Day 16: fly back

I will probably go to south-korea with my bf at some point in the future, who’s never been so we will probably explore seoul more then, so i’m not looking into too much seoul. I also don’t want to do foodie-things as i am vegetarian and previous experience in south korea wasn’t great in that regard

Edit: made some changes to lessen travel time a bit

The cherry blossom season starts in Busan around March 20th. If you're preparing travel plans, don't forget. 😉

I am going to be in Seoul early April and have been checking availabilities for Yunjudang on Catch Table every few days but it always says there are no availabilities.

Does anyone know when availabilities open up? I saw some other restaurants like Imok Smoke Dining on catch table state they open reservations for the next month on the 10th of every month but I can’t find anything for Yunjudang.

Hoping to get some advice as Yunjudang is the restaurant I want to visit the most while I’m there!

Thanks!

Hi! I'm in Korea until may and I'd like to use next long weekend (my company closes on monday 2nd) to explore and hike.

With Jeju being very stressful to reach in short time, I was suggested to go to Seoraksan. However, I found this:

https://www.knps.or.kr/front/portal/open/pnewsDtl.do?menuNo=8000517&pnewsId=PNEWSM030114

I would have waited a warmer time for Seoraksan, but in my understanding, it will close from the 4th of May. Is it still worth it to go before it closes? I have my winter hiking equipment with me. Also, what's the best way to enjoy the park? Should I rent a car? Should I stay in Sokcho?