Hello, everyone! I was born and raised in Korea, and I would love to introduce you to this amazing country. Korea, located in East Asia, is a small but fascinating nation where ancient history and modern trends coexist harmoniously. You might have learned about Korea through K-pop or dramas, but there’s so much more to explore: travel, food, culture, and much more. Today, I want to personally share with you various aspects of Korea.
1.Korea's History and Tradition
Korea boasts over 5,000 years of rich history. From ancient kingdoms to modern times, Korea has developed a unique culture through its long history. One of the most iconic symbols of Korean tradition is its palaces. Gyeongbokgung, located in Seoul, is a grand palace from the Joseon Dynasty, perfectly situated amidst the modern cityscape. Wearing the traditional Korean clothing, the hanbok, and taking photos at Gyeongbokgung is a popular activity among foreign visitors.
While modern Korean pop culture such as K-pop, K-dramas, and films are widely known globally, Korea's deep history and traditions are just as important to experience. Stars like BTS and director Bong Joon-ho (Parasite) have helped introduce Korea to the world, but Korea has much more to offer beyond just pop culture.
2. Korea's Nature and Travel Destinations
Korea has four distinct seasons, each offering its own charm. In spring, cherry blossoms fill the streets with pink petals, and in autumn, vibrant autumn leaves turn the mountains and parks into colorful landscapes. The autumn foliage is especially popular among foreign visitors.
Despite being a small country, Korea has a wide range of travel destinations. Seoul, the capital city, is a modern metropolis blending history, food, shopping, and entertainment. Outside of Seoul, places like Busan and Jeju Island offer incredible scenery. Busan, Korea's second-largest city, boasts beautiful beaches and mountains, while Jeju Island is a top vacation spot known for its volcanic landscapes.
3. Korean Food: What Should You Try?
Food is an essential part of any trip, and Korean cuisine is loved around the world for its bold flavors and healthy ingredients. Kimchi, a staple fermented vegetable dish, is spicy and savory, and no Korean meal is complete without it. Kimchi is not only a symbol of Korean food but also a representation of the Korean spirit of fermentation and preservation.
Korean street food is also a must-try. Dishes like tteokbokki, hotteok, and sundae are convenient and delicious snacks loved by locals and visitors alike. The spicy tteokbokki (stir-fried rice cakes) is especially popular among foreigners. Other classic Korean dishes like samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly) and doenjang jjigae (soybean paste stew) offer a glimpse into the hearty and flavorful world of Korean cuisine.
4. Modern Life and Trends in Korea
Korea is a rapidly evolving country where cutting-edge technology and trends are a part of everyday life. Korea's IT infrastructure and smartphone technology are among the best in the world. Free Wi-Fi is available in many public places, and you can do almost everything via smartphone apps—from ordering food to shopping.
Korean fashion and beauty trends are also highly influential worldwide. Korean skincare products are known for their quality, and beauty tips from Korea are shared globally. If you visit Korea, exploring places like Myeong-dong or Gangnam, where the latest trends in fashion and beauty come together, is highly recommended.
