South Korea - School Tour Travel Blog
7 Days of Food, Culture & Surprises
Standing under a sea of pink lanterns at Jogyesa Temple, I realised South Korea was nothing like I expected. I came looking for a mix of city energy and peaceful temples and I got so much more. South Korea surprised me in the best ways the warmth of locals, the buzz of Seoul’s streets, the unexpected calm of a hanok village.
Here's how one week in Korea became one of my favourite travel memories.
Trip Highlights: My Favourite Moments in Korea
Seoul’s Street Food Heaven I started my journey in Seoul and my tastebuds still aren’t over it Gwangjang Market stole the show: knife cut kalguksu noodles, bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), and spicy tteokbokki (rice cakes) that were chewy, fiery, and addictive. One stall near Hongdae served rose tteokbokki, creamy, cheesy, and unforgettable for just 4,000 won. Also tried hotteok (sweet syrup-filled pancakes), skewered fish cakes, and soondae (Korean blood sausage). My Quick tip: Go around 11am before the lunch rush. Avoid weekends unless you love the crowd energy
Temples, Palaces & Secret Gardens No trip to Korea is complete without stepping into the past and Gyeongbokgung Palace is the grandest portal. The scale is breathtaking: vast courtyards, painted wooden gates, and mountain views in the background. You feel like you’ve stepped into a historical drama. We wore traditional Korean hanbok, rented just outside the palace gates for ?18,000 KRW (~$13 USD) for a few hours — and it was totally worth it. Not only did it elevate the whole experience, but entrance to the palace is free if you're in hanbok! Walking through the royal throne hall and gazing at the patterned ceilings in hanbok made us feel like royalty. Photo tip: The best shots are near Gwanghwamun Gate just after opening (avoid the crowds), or in front of Geunjeongjeon Hall with the mountains behind you. Don’t miss the Changing of the Guard Ceremony, which happens hourly — colorful, dramatic, and totally Instagramable. You can pair this visit with a short walk to Bukchon Hanok Village nearby for more traditional charm.
A Full Day in Busan: Beaches, Villages & Seafood We took the KTX bullet train to Busan, fast, smooth, and incredibly scenic. Just over 2.5 hours from Seoul. First stop: Gamcheon Culture Village, a colorful hillside neighborhood filled with winding alleys, murals, and artisan shops. Don’t miss the mini observatories overlooking the sea. Walked to Jagalchi Fish Market, Korea’s largest seafood market, for ultra-fresh grilled clams and spicy seafood stew. Spent my afternoon relaxing at Haeundae Beach. It’s clean, lively, and perfect for sunset watching. Grabbed a cold banana uyu (banana milk) and watched street performers set up along the boardwalk. Tip: Use the Busan subway to get around — clean, easy, and cheap. Google Maps doesn’t work well here, so download Naver Map or KakaoMap before your trip.
K-Pop Nights & Neon Dreams in Seoul Seoul after dark is a completely different world, more electric, loud, and full of surprises. In Hongdae, I stumbled upon a street dance battle, live indie music at a small underground bar, and a shop where I could record my own K-pop cover (yes, I tried it). Explored Itaewon — international food, rooftop bars, and a view of the Namsan Tower lit up in the distance. Visited a K-pop hologram concert at K-Live: unreal visuals, fan chants, and all the energy minus the screaming crowds. Tried Korean soju cocktails at a tiny bar recommended by a local. Everything glowed — even the drinks. Sensory moment: the scent of sizzling skewers, the pulse of bass beats from a basement club, laughter echoing from karaoke rooms spilling onto the street.
My Quick Tips If You Go
- Best time to visit: Spring (April–May) for cherry blossoms & mild weather - Useful local phrases: Annyeonghaseyo (Hello) Gamsahamnida (Thank you) Eolma-eyo? (How much is it?) - Getting around: T-money card works on all metros & buses - Apps to download: Naver Map (essential!), Papago (translation), KakaoMetro
Where I stayed: Seoul: Ibis Hotel: fun, youthful neighborhood Next time: I’d book a hanok stay in Jeonju or try a temple stay for a night of zen
Bonus Hike: Inwangsan Mountain Just behind Gyeongbokgung, Inwangsan rises to 338?m and is one of Seoul’s most accessible scenic hikes.In just under an hour (about 1–2?km uphill), you reach the summit via paved stone steps, no scrambling, no heavy gear.
Entry point: Start from Gyeongbokgung or Dongnimmun Station, walk up past the Seoul City Fortress wall, and enjoy unique granite rock formations, Chimabawi, Gichabawi, and more. Why it's worth it; Along the trail, you can glimpse the Blue House and panoramic views of downtown Seoul, framed by fortress walls and granite pinnacles Best times to go: Early morning or evening for sunrise/sunset city views or even a night hike, since lighting covers much of the trail . Ease & accessibility: The route (about 3?km round trip taking 2?hrs) is well-marked and smooth, ideal even for casual walkers
Quick Tip: maybe bring a headlamp for evening hikes to fully appreciate Seoul’s glittering skyline from the summit
Bonus Mishap: When “Mild” Was a Lie
At a street food stall in Myeongdong, I spotted the spiciest-looking toktokkie (spicy rice cakes) I’d ever seen.
I asked the vendor if it was hot, and she smiled sweetly and said, “Just a little!” So, naturally, I took a big bite and immediately regretted my decision. My lips were on fire, eyes watering, and I may have chugged an entire banana milk in 30 seconds. Meanwhile, a group of local students watched me turn bright red and gave me a thumbs-up and I think they were impressed? Maybe? ?? Lesson learned: Korean “mild” might still destroy you, proceed with caution (and milk).
Final Thoughts & Why I’ll Be Back
This trip reminded me why I travel, to feel small, surprised, and inspired. South Korea offered so much more than what Instagram shows from subtle beauty, deep history, and food that tells a story. I already know I’ll be back for Jeju Island, temple stays, and maybe even a Korean cooking class.
Ella