Tag: Traveling in Korea

  • Best 5 tourist attractions in Jeju Island, South Korea

    Best 5 tourist attractions in Jeju Island, South Korea

    5 must-visit destinations to explore Jeju Island: 5 must-visit destinations for travelers

    Located on the southern coast of Korea, Jeju Island is a tropical paradise known for its wonderful scenery, volcanic heritage, and unique culture. Whether you are seeking adventure or wanting to relax, Jeju has something special. Here are five must-visit places for your trip to Jeju.

    VISIT JEJU – official site

    1. Hallasan National Park (한라산 국립공원)

    Hiking magnificently from the center of Jeju Island, Hallasan Mountain is Korea’s highest peak at 1,947 meters tall. The dormant volcano is surrounded by a beautiful national park, a haven for hikers and nature lovers.

    Hallasan National Park – official web site

     

    The park offers several trails, the most popular of which are Seongpanak and Gwaneumsa Temple, which lead to the top of the mountain. From the top, you can see a wonderful view of Crater Lake and the island below.
    In addition, Hallasan’s diverse ecosystem boasts a variety of unique species of animals and plants and offers a lively spectacle year-round. When you reach the top of Hallasan Mountain, you can enjoy wonderful scenery and a sense of accomplishment.

     

    2. Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunchulbong) (성산일출봉)

    This UNESCO World Heritage Site, also known as Ilchulbong Peak, is a volcanic crater that formed 5,000 years ago. It is located on the eastern edge of Jeju Island and is famous for its beautiful sunrise.

    the beautiful scenery of Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak

    The summit of Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak is a relatively short course. If you visit early in the morning, you can see the spectacular sunrise over the East Sea from the summit. Visiting Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak in the early morning is a great way to start a day on Jeju Island. The place is certified as a UNESCO Cultural Heritage site for its unique formation and scientific value.

     

    3. Jeju Folk Village Museum (제주 민속촌 박물관)

    A visit to the Jeju Folk Village Museum is essential to experience Jeju’s rich history and culture. The outdoor museum displays traditional thatched houses and historical relics.

    Jeju Folk Village Museum

     

    Jeju Folk Village Museum -website link

    The village features more than 100 restored buildings, including houses, government offices, and religious sites, reflecting Jeju’s lifestyle in the 19th century.
    Visitors can enjoy programs such as folk performances, reenactments, and workshops that give them a glimpse of the island’s past. The museum is loved by history lovers as it offers immersive experiences that bring Jeju’s cultural heritage to life.

     

    4. Manjanggul Cave (만장굴)

    The Manjanggul Cave is one of the longest lava caves in the world, stretching over 13 km. The cave is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for its impressive lava formation.

    Inside the caves, visitors can witness fascinating formation, such as lava stalactites, stuccinos, and the largest known lava column in the world.
    Guided tours offer knowledge and insight into the geological history and formation of caves. In addition, surreal underground landscapes offer unique adventures for geology lovers and those seeking other world experiences.

    Operation will be suspended until August 31, 2025, according to the internal safety inspection and exploration environment improvement work. ※ Repair work (Suspension of operation) period: December 29, 2023 to August 31, 2025

    5. Cheonjeyeon Falls (천지연 폭포)

    Often called the “Pond of God,” Cheonjeyeon Falls is a three-tiered waterfall set in a lush subtropical forest. Picture-like surroundings – Waterfalls are surrounded by lush greenery, and crystal clear water is a beautiful place for photography and relaxation.
    Senior Bridge – a nearby bridge decorated with seven ‘nymphs’ offers stunning views of the waterfall below.
    Cheonjeyeon Falls is the best place to relax and soak in Jeju’s natural beauty.

     

     

    Link to the relevant website

    Exploring Gyeongbokgung Palace: A Glimpse into Korea’s Royal Heritage

    Top 5 Recommended Hotels for Travelers Visiting Korea

  • How to use public transportation in Korea that Korean travelers must know

    How to use public transportation in Korea that Korean travelers must know

    In Korea, public transportation systems are famous for their efficiency, cleanliness, and convenience.
    However, using public transportation during your trip to Korea will be a difficult experience for travelers. Korea is a country with very developed public transportation. So, even if you travel to a crowded city or outer area like Seoul, you will definitely use public transportation.

    Therefore, I will teach those preparing to travel to Korea the basic process of using public transportation in Korea.

     

    VISIT SEOUL NET website

    Types of Public Transportation in Korea

    1. the subway

    Coverage: a transport network designed extensively in major metropolitan areas.
    Convenience: It runs from early morning to midnight, and signs and announcements are available in both Korean and English.
    Tip: Download subway map apps like Subway Korea that offer live updates and route suggestions.

    a subway line search site

    2. Buses

    Type: downtown, express, out of town.
    Coverage: A tighter network reaching areas where the subway is not covered.
    Tip: Bus stops and buses often have digital displays that show real-time information in English. By downloading the traffic application, you can check the location and waiting time of the real-time bus.

     

    3. a taxi

    Types: Normal, Deluxe (Black), Jumbo Taxi.
    Convenience: Available 24/7, you can rent a car right off the street.
    Tip: You can easily book rides using apps like “Kakao Taxi.”

     

    4. a train

    Types: KTX (high speed), ITX, regular trains.
    Coverage: Great for long-distance trips between cities across the country.
    Tip: During peak travel periods such as holidays and weekends, you should book tickets in advance.

     

    Korean subway line map PDF (English version) <link

     

    How to pay for transportation

    1. T-money card

    Description: Rechargeable smart card used in most transportation.
    Where to buy: You can buy it at convenience stores and subway stations.
    Benefits: Cheaper fares than a single ticket and seamless transfer between various modes of transportation. Nowadays, both subways and Seoul have been integrated into T-Money cards.

    > M-pass (M-pass)

    This is a dedicated transportation card sold only to foreigners at T-Money, and you can use subways, Seoul buses, and Incheon International Airport Railroad within the Seoul metropolitan area. You can board only up to 20 times a day.

    >Discover Seoul Pass

    It is a foreign-only transportation card issued by the Seoul Metropolitan Government, and you can use subways, buses, and taxis in downtown Seoul.

    >Korea Tour Card

    It is a card that can be used not only on public transportation, but also anywhere where card payments are made.

    2. a bus ticket

    Description: This is a ticket purchased during long-distance operations such as airport buses and express buses.
    How to use it: Buy it from the ticket machine.

    Remember when using public transportation in our country!

    Plan ahead: Use apps like Naver Maps or Google Maps to plan routes and check schedules.

    Peak hours: Avoid travel during peak hours (7am-9am, 6-8pm) when public transportation can be very congested. Public transportation is very congested because it is the time to go to work and get off work.

    Learning Basic Phrases: Many Koreans are proficient in English, but knowing simple Korean phrases can be helpful.

    Familiarize yourself with local etiquette:
    – Korea should line up in an orderly manner when taking public transportation.
    – Buses and subways have seats exclusively for the elderly, pregnant, and disabled passengers.
    – Food consumption is prohibited on public transportation.
    – Public transportation should be careful about behaviors that shout into public places or cause damage to others.

     

    한국의 역사와 현대가 공존하는 매력적인 도시 – 경주

    Top 5 Recommended Hotels for Travelers Visiting Korea

  • Top 5 Recommended Hotels for Travelers Visiting Korea

    Top 5 Recommended Hotels for Travelers Visiting Korea

    hotel in Korea

    Top 5 Recommended Hotels for Travelers Visiting Korea

    I’ll let you know the hotels recommended by Koreans to Korean travelers.

     

    1. Lotte Hotel Seoul

    Venue: Located in the busy Myeongdong area in the center of Seoul.
    Features: This is one of the most prestigious hotels in Seoul, offering luxurious rooms with stunning city views and state-of-the-art technology for a comfortable stay.
    It has a variety of dining options, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a tranquil spa that includes international and Korean cuisine.

    Reason to Recommend: It is located in the center of Gangbuk, Seoul. It is a great location for sightseeing major tourist attractions such as Gyeongbokgung Palace and the National Museum of Korea.

    lottehotel – seoul – website

     

    2. Hotel Shilla – Jeju

    Location: Located on Jeju Island, the resort offers a beautiful blend of nature and luxury. (Silla Hotel in Seoul is also good. It is a five-star luxury hotel in Korea.)
    Features: Overlooking the dense garden and sea, Shilla Jeju offers a tranquil rest with traditional and modern architectural elements of Korea.
    It includes unique cultural programs such as indoor and outdoor swimming pools, wellness spas, and Korean tea ceremony.

    Reason to Recommend: Ideal for experiencing Jeju’s natural beauty while enjoying global amenities.

    hotel shilla – JEJU website

     

    3. Park Hyatt Busan

    Location: Located in Busan, the maritime city near the famous Haeundae Beach.
    Features: This hotel features a sleek, modern design and floor-to-ceiling windows that give you a panoramic view of the sea and city skyline.
    It offers a high-end dining experience, a top-floor spa, and an indoor swimming pool.

    Reason to Recommend: It is the best place for those who want to explore Busan’s vibrant culture and coastal attractions.

    park-hyatt Busan website

     

    4. Four Seasons Hotel Seoul

    Venue: Located in Gwanghwamun, Seoul, it is close to historical sites and shopping districts.
    Features: Combining classic Korean decorations with modern luxury, it offers a sophisticated urban resort.
    It has several restaurants and bars, a full-service spa, and a golf simulator.

    Reason to recommend: The location and facilities make it a great foundation for sightseeing and relaxation in Seoul.

     

    fourseasons Hotel Seoul – website

     

     

    5. InterContinental Alpensia Pyeongchang Resort

    Location: Set in the mountains of Pyeongchang, the resort is part of Alpensia Sports Park.
    Features: It is famous for its scenic mountain scenery and the venue for the 2018 Winter Olympics.
    Skiing or sledding grounds are available in winter, and swimming, spa, golf course, and hiking trails are available in other seasons.

    Reason to Recommend:

    It is a great place for those who are interested in outdoor activities such as skiing, golfing, and hiking in a beautiful and natural environment. Pyeongchang is an area close to the east coast of Korea, so it is a great accommodation for tourists to visit Gangwon Province or the East Sea.
    It is a great choice for travelers who want to find Korea, which is a combination of mountains and seas, out of cities like Seoul.

    alpensia <InterContinental> – Pyeongchang – website

  • 3 Tips on How to Be Good at Taekwondo

    3 Tips on How to Be Good at Taekwondo

    Taekwondo

    3 Tips on How to Be Good at Taekwondo

     

    To Taekwondo beginners

    Becoming proficient in Taekwondo requires dedication, discipline, and a willingness to learn. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to improve your skills, these three tips will help you excel in the art of Taekwondo:

     

    태권도 – Taekwondo – Korean traditional martial arts

    1. Master the Basics

    Grooming Postures and Foot Stages:

    The foundation of Taekwondo lies in mastering basic postures and footstacks. Practice maintaining a stable and balanced posture, ensuring proper alignment of your feet and body. Practice flexible movements and postures, and build agility and speed through fast-transitioning footstalk training.

    Perfect Skills:

    Pay close attention to the execution of basic skills such as punches, kicks, blocks, strikes. Practice each skill over and over again while working on precision, power, and control. It’s a good idea to master the skills while making sure your movements are sharp and efficient.

    Embrace discipline and consistency:

    Consistent practice is essential to master Taekwondo. Follow a regular training session, a regular practice routine. Consistency is a key way to hone a skill and build muscle memory by making it easy and instinctive to perform.

     

    2. Develop Physical Fitness

    Strength and Conditioning:

    Taekwondo requires a high level of physical health, including strength, endurance, and flexibility. Include strength exercises such as push-ups, squats, and lunge to build muscle strength and strength. Exercise to improve endurance and physical strength, which are essential for maintaining strength during sparring sessions, is also helpful.

    Flexibility and Mobility:

    Flexibility is crucial for executing dynamic kicks and performing techniques with fluidity and ease. Incorporate stretching exercises into your daily routine to improve flexibility and enhance range of motion. Focus on stretching major muscle groups, particularly those involved in kicking and striking movements, such as the hamstrings, quadriceps, and hip flexors.

    Balance and Coordination:

    Develop balance and coordination through specific drills and exercises targeting proprioception and spatial awareness. Practice standing on one leg or performing balance exercises on unstable surfaces to challenge your balance and improve stability. Enhancing balance and coordination will not only improve your performance in Taekwondo but also reduce the risk of injury.

    3. Cultivate Mental Strength

    Focus and Concentration:

    Taekwondo is a virtue where mental concentration is an essential virtue. Train your mind to stay where it is and where it is, while staying focused, blocking distractions, and maintaining clarity of thought during training and games. Practice mindfulness skills, such as deep breathing and visualization, to improve your concentration and mental resilience.

    Resilience and Determination:

    Taekwondo training can be physically and mentally challenging, and it requires patience and resilience when faced with difficulties. Accept frustration as an opportunity to grow and learn, and develop a mindset of determination and resilience. Maintain a positive attitude despite adversity, and maintain motivation and commitment to your goals.

    Sportsmanship and Respect:

    Taekwondo is not just about physical skills; it also emphasizes values such as sportsmanship, respect, and integrity. Treat your training partner and opponent with respect and courtesy regardless of their skill level or background. It is important to respect your opponent and have a spirit of camaraderie in a confrontation.

    Taekwondo – In Conclusion

    Becoming proficient in Taekwondo requires a holistic approach encompassing physical, technical, and mental aspects of training. By mastering the basics, developing physical fitness, and cultivating mental strength, you can unlock your full potential and excel in the art of Taekwondo.

     

    Taekwondo FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

    1. How long does it take to become proficient in Taekwondo?

    The time it takes to become proficient in Taekwondo depends on the individual’s aptitude, effort, and training frequency. However, it is an exercise that anyone can make significant progress in a few months to years with constant practice.

    2. Is Taekwondo suitable for all ages?

    Yes, Taekwondo is suitable for people of all ages, from children to adults. Usually, Taekwondo educational institutions offer professional programs tailored to each age group. Especially in Korea, a large number of children go to taekwondo academies and experience various sports that are good for children.

    3. Do I need any prior experience to start learning Taekwondo?

    No prior experience is required to start learning Taekwondo. Beginners are welcome, and instructors will provide guidance and instruction tailored to your skill level and learning pace.

    4. How can I find a reputable Taekwondo school or instructor?

    When choosing a Taekwondo instructor, it is good to decide by considering the following: instructor certificate, class style, class atmosphere, student review. And most of all, I recommend you to take a hands-on class and talk with the instructor. It is good to learn where it best fits your needs and goals.

    5. Is Taekwondo primarily a defensive or offensive martial art?

    Taekwondo encompasses both defensive and offensive techniques, emphasizing fluidity, speed, and precision in movement. While defensive techniques such as blocks and evasion are essential for self-defense, Taekwondo also includes a wide range of offensive techniques such as kicks, punches, and strikes for attacking opponents.

     

     

    BTS 모든 멤버 입대 완료. BTS는 군대에서 뭘 할까?

    [K-food chicken] 한국식 치킨이 왜 인기일까. (역사, 현재, 만드는 방법)

    한국의 역사와 현대가 공존하는 매력적인 도시 – 경주

     

  • 한국의 역사와 현대가 공존하는 매력적인 도시 – 경주

    한국의 역사와 현대가 공존하는 매력적인 도시 – 경주

    Gyeongju  경주

     

    한국 여행자들은 주로 서울, 제주 같은 곳을 많이 간다.

    하지만 서울을 여행한 외국 여행자라면,

    또 다른 한국의 매력을 느낄 수 있는 도시로 “경주”를 추천한다.

     

    지붕 없는 박물관이라고 불리는 경주.

    경주는 그만큼 발길이 닿는 어느 곳이든 문화 유적지를 만날 수 있는 곳이다.

    밤이면 더 빛나는 동궁과 월지,  7세기 신라시대때 지어진 문화유산 첨성대. 뛰어난 건축미를 자랑하는 불국사 석굴암까지 어느 하나 빼놓을 수 없다. 이렇게 많은 문화유산들도 멋지지만, 전통과 현대가 잘 어우러진 도시의 모습이 상당히 매력적이다.

     

    첨성대 Cheom seong dae (A.D. 633)

    첨성대는 무엇인가 (나무위키)

    무려 1300년 넘게 자리를 지켜오고 있다.

     

    첨성대 근처 도시 골목으로 예쁘고 맛있는 식당과 카페들이 많이 자리잡고 있다.

    이곳을 황리단길 이라고 한다.

     

     

     

       

    경주 도시의 모습이 정겹다.

    경주여행의 관심이 있는 분들은 아래의 사이트를 추천한다

    경주문화관광 사이트(대한민국 공식)

     

     

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    한국의 역사 배울 수 있는 영화 추천 LIST

    [K-food chicken] 한국식 치킨이 왜 인기일까. (역사, 현재, 만드는 방법)

    한국 길거리 음식 korean street food