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The Night a Korean Alcoholic Drink Made me a Fool in Seoul

Aug 5, 2016 | South Korea, Travel Tales

Greetings, fellow adventurers! Welcome to Travel Tales – where I tell all my wild stories worldwide. In Seoul, an unexpected Korean alcoholic drink entered my hands and turned me into a drunk fool for one night only (thank god!). This story might make me look foolish… but no adventure is complete without a few embarrassing moments you can giggle about later.

My first-ever trip abroad had started grandly with hopes of extraordinary encounters ahead; little did I know it would end so quickly with some humble lessons learned and plenty of laughs along the way! So please sit back, relax, and grab your favourite beer or wine — let’s reminisce on this unforgettable scene as we bring these travel tales to life at last.

The night, a Korean alcoholic drink, made me a fool in Seoul. Picture by Pexels

Setting the scene in Seoul

Arriving in Seoul as a first-time traveller was nerve-racking. I waved off pesky taxi drivers who offered me rides and waited for my Korean girlfriend, who had travelled back home earlier than me. After she arrived late at the airport, all apologetic, we were finally ready to go! We went straight towards her family’s house, where everyone gathered around with welcoming arms (and some curious glances).

It indeed wasn’t what I expected on this trip. Still, it ended up being one of those genuinely remarkable memories that stick out like no other from travels past – an experience complete with great company and beautiful moments worth cherishing forever!

We had a fabulous lunch to kick off our first day in Seoul and planned for an epic evening ahead; however, little did I know that the night would be much more than I expected! It was my sister-in-law’s engagement party – things were going great until all hell broke loose. But trust me when I say you won’t believe what happened next!

I have gotten a little more familiar with Korean food and a Korean alcoholic drink over the years.

What Happened that night with the Korean alcoholic drink?

I was a curious Aussie, standing in the cold and watching as young men charged up the street chanting. I had never seen anything like this before – it seemed to be some engagement party – or at least that’s what they called it: ‘hamn”.

As far as I could tell, women on one side were trying to persuade a group of men into their house by any means necessary, whether through music and dancing, gifts or other tactics! After about an hour’s hard work (which included more than its fair share of noise!), finally, there is a success…and with that comes treasure – namely, cheers from all gathered around ushering the future bride inside for festivities ahead!

As the only non-Korean speaking person in a room full of Koreans, I felt out of place. My Korean girlfriend sat beside me but was preoccupied with catching up after our long flight from Seoul. With everyone else deep in conversation and laughter, my attention shifted towards the food before us at the table – so much unknown to me except for its foreignness!

I mustered courage as I scooped an unfamiliar dish onto my plate; it didn’t look quite enticing, considering how tired I already felt post-travel. But surprisingly enough, that first bite changed everything – no wonder why there were so many conversations around this particular meal, like what had gotten into this house!

I was feeling so out of place and drained from the long day, but when a conversation drifted my way, I suddenly found myself becoming part of something special. It seemed like it just dawned on them that an outsider was in their presence – yet this only spurred curiosity about who I am!

I don’t know what hit me more; those questions or the Soju these young Korean men passed around. The first taste sent pleasure running through me with its smooth sensation – no wonder why they consider it one of the finest spirits ever known! But once you start, it’s hard to stop…one glass soon became two. Three, which eventually led to fifteen (no kidding)—with each drink, language barriers disappeared while laughter filled our conversations until morning light arrived – memories fully intact thanks to that fantastic Soju experience!

The rest of the night was a total blur! I shamelessly grabbed the karaoke mic and tried to serenade it, but my rendition of Boyz II Men’s “I’ll Make Love To You” didn’t quite hit all the right notes. My romantic moment quickly ended as they ripped away that fateful microphone before it could reach its climax—unfortunately for me, no lovemaking this time around.

Afterwards? Blackout-town! I’m not sure how I’d gotten there in the first place, but it looks like their momma bear didn’t precisely appreciate napping in my sister-in-law’s bed. Talk about an awkward introduction, though. The next thing I knew, there were repeated smacks on my shoulder–as if someone was saying, “hello again?!”

From the second I set foot out of that taxi, a wave of nausea crashed into me. Before I knew it, my stomach contents were exploding in front of the house where we’d been staying – and this was only the beginning! For four long days afterwards, vomiting continued to ravage my body as alcohol poisoning took its toll. Suffice it to say – all thanks go towards none other than myself for this particularly wild ride.

My inaugural pilgrimage to Korea was a colossal misstep, so cringeworthy that it’s become part of family folklore. It won’t rank in my top trips for precious memories anytime soon!

Oh yeah, and whatever happened to that girlfriend at the time? Surely her family didn’t let me stick around. Nothing could be further from the truth. I made her my wife a couple of years later, and to this day, we are still going secure with a couple of new additions to the family.

The night a Korean alcoholic drink made me a fool in Seoul was also the first and last time I ever drank Soju.

Are you heading to Seoul? Look for accommodation on TripAdvisor.

I married my then-girlfriend and have since created quite a beautiful life together – with two little ones to boot!

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Is South Korea a safe country to visit? Of course and it’s Beautiful

Aug 3, 2016 | South Korea

Is South Korea a safe country to visit? Bottom dollar it is. Quite frankly, it’s incredibly reliable, and I would not hesitate to recommend any traveller to the East Asia country.

I have been to South Korea on a few separate occasions, and come the lead to every trip, I get asked the same old questions. You know those simple questions like, “be careful, North Korea might launch a nuclear missile,” or another classic, “Should you be taking your kids into the country?” and the common question which always turns up “, Is South Korea a safe country to visit? I wouldn’t be going if I was you.”

The answers are always the same, much like their questions.

It continues along the same line every time Kim Jong-Un’s name appears in the media, which is a regular occurrence, although his best friend, Donald Trump, seems to keep him in check. However, the North Korean President was prominent in the news during my last trip to Seoul. Friends told me I was crazy for going and getting tagged on Facebook for every news article with the latest gossip coming out of North Korea.

Every single time I could only roll my eyes at their concerns; it would be my friends and family missing out on an epic trip to a beautiful country in South Korea.

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Is South Korea a safe country to visit? Of course, it is, and it’s a beautiful country to visit.

Is South Korea a Safe Country to Visit?

So what is my usual answer to those being concerned for my well-being in a foreign country permanently in the news? (And I do know they mean well)

My response is South Korea is a very safe country to visit, and not only that, it is one of the most beautiful and friendliest countries I have ever seen. It’s a tourist goldmine with a lot happening within the country, especially in the capital city of Seoul. When asked about my security, I tell people that I feel safer in Seoul than in my home country in, Australia, and yes, I think Australia is very safe, of course. For instance, in Seoul, you can’t walk in the city centre without seeing a group of police gathered together in large numbers and situated on every corner of the city.

I get that their concern is not about what is happening within the country of the Korean Republic itself; the matter is the neighbours in the North. That is like saying, should I go on holiday in case of a terrorist attack? Or should I jump on a plane in case it goes down? Due to catastrophic events that have occurred over recent years.

Daily concerns in our lives and even in our backyards about the safety of our homes exist. We don’t shield ourselves from the problems at home, nor should we when travelling because of a minimal chance something goes wrong. Of course, you need to move cautiously; that is a given, and that’s when you must get travel insurance for every trip you take because you never know what is around the corner.

Live life to the fullest; that’s my motto because when it is all said and done, we only get one chance at it, and it’s about making every day count. If we live every day in fear, we will never go outside our homes; hence, if you find yourselves with a chance to visit the beautiful country of South Korea.

Jump at it without any hesitations because I guarantee you that you won’t regret it one bit. I know I haven’t on each occasion I have visited, and I can’t wait to head back again real soon and write a few more Fair Dinkum Traveller stories.

Check out this excellent Book from Amazon South Korea: At the Crossroads, a great history listens on the country and their neighbours North Korea.

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Why don’t you check out this Seoul Kimchi and Culture
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Explore modern Korea and have a safe trip.

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Baseball Electrifies at Jamsil Stadium in Seoul – South Korea

Jul 27, 2016 | South Korea

Springtime in Seoul is not just a time for the picturesque cherry blossoms but marks the commencement of the Korean baseball season. This season promises to be another compelling one full of gripping moments that will leave sports lovers on the edge of their seats.

For those who want to experience the electrifying atmosphere firsthand, Jamsil Stadium is the place to be. As the most famous baseball stadium in the city, the renowned stadium hosted the baseball games during the 1988 Seoul Olympics. With stunning cheerleaders dressed to impress and the crowds roaring their team on, it’s no wonder that Jamsil Stadium is so famous. If you’re looking for an excuse to get your passion for sports going, then the baseball season in Seoul is just what you need.

Baseball may not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning a trip to Seoul, but I highly recommend checking out a game at the Jamsil Baseball Stadium. Even if you’re not a die-hard fan of the sport, the lively atmosphere and enthusiastic crowd will surely make for an unforgettable experience.

From the cheering chants to the delicious stadium snacks, you’ll feel like a true local as you root for the home team. And who knows, you may even find yourself belting out “Take me out to the ball game” in between innings as I did. So why not do yourself a favour and add a baseball game to your itinerary when exploring the vibrant city of Seoul?

Are you visiting Seoul in South Korea for Baseball action? Find affordable hotel rates at Booking.com!

Supporting the away team at Jamsil Stadium is not very smart, I would say.

Where is the Famous Venue of Jamsil Stadium, Seoul?

Jamsil Olympic Stadium has become a must-see in southern Seoul of South Korea, one of its central tourist attractions. The stadium, located next to the former Olympic Stadium, offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy a breathtaking view of the Han River while cheering on the home team.

If you’re hoping to catch a Korean baseball game, there’s no better way to get there than by taking the subway. Travel along the green line, alight at Jamsil station, and walk right out of the gate into baseball paradise!

Come and experience the exceptional blend of sports and Seoul sightseeing that Jamsil Olympic Stadium offers. While parking space can be limited, the stadium grounds are well-equipped and provide ample parking spots for patrons who drive. Don’t forget to visit the Doosan Bears shop near the entrance and take home a souvenir or two.

A lot of activity outside the stadium.

Basic Information on Jasil Stadium – Seoul!

Jamsil Stadium, built in 1982, was designed to be Seoul’s premier baseball stadium. However, it has served a much greater purpose than that. This venue hosted baseball games during the 1988 Olympics, alongside the main athletic arena and the swimming stadium.

As the home of co-tenants Doosan Bears and LG Twins, it sees a lot of excitement during the baseball season. During a day game, the Doosan Bears put on quite a show against the Samsung Lions, whereas the LG Twins lost a nail-biting match against the NC Dinos at night. Recently, I was fortunate enough to catch both teams in action, and it was quite an experience.

If you’re planning to visit Jamsil Stadium, make sure to pick up some Korean baseball merchandise and show your support for a team because there’s no fun in being a neutral spectator.

How Jamsil Stadium, Seoul, was used at the Summer Olympics in 1988

Jamsil Stadium, located in the thriving capital of South Korea, quickly became a hub of excitement during the Summer Olympics of 1988. As the country hosted an international event for the first time, the baseball venue within Jamsil Stadium proved to be an ideal location for the sport.

The Seoul stadium was large enough to hold over 30,000 spectators and was built specifically for the Summer Olympics at the time. Many notable baseball games were played here, including the showdown between the United States and Japan, which ended with the United States taking home the gold medal.

The atmosphere within the stadium was electric, vibrant, and infused with the passion of thousands of spectators, creating a memorable experience for all involved. The legacy of Jamsil Stadium has only grown since then, attracting sports enthusiasts worldwide who seek to experience the magic and thrill of this historic landmark.

The Fans and Stadium Entertainment at the Game

It’s not often that a sporting occasion’s atmosphere is more exciting than the action on the field, but at Jamsil during a baseball game, it’s not an understatement to say that the fans make the occasion.

Even if baseball isn’t your preferred sport, you can’t help but feel wrapped up in the excitement that permeates the stadium. The energy and enthusiasm of the crowd announcers and the chants from the Korean fans serve to energize and excite everyone in attendance. And let’s not forget the beautiful cheerleaders who bring an extra level of entertainment to the proceedings.

All in all, if you’re looking for a memorable experience, look no further than the electric atmosphere of Jamsil during a baseball game.

The Korean Baseball Season

Baseball fanatics, mark your calendars because the Korean Baseball Season is almost here! With 144 games plus playoffs, the season spans over six months, giving fans numerous opportunities to catch their favourite teams in the act. Come April; we’ll witness ten teams competing for the ultimate prize of being crowned Korean championships., ps. Ion.

Prepare to cheer on your favourite teams as we count down to an unforgettable season of Korean baseball! Jamsil Stadium, in particular, will be exciting as it hosts close to 150 games. And let’s not forget about the dedicated ground staff who have their work cut out for them, ensuring that the stadium is in tip-top shape for every game.

Why you should visit Jamsil stadium in Seoul, even if you’re not a baseball fan

Jamsil Stadium in Seoul is a must-visit destination, even if you’re not a die-hard baseball fan. While this sports arena is the home of the LG Twins, it offers much more than just a game. The stadium is a hub of excitement and energy, where you can soak up the electrifying atmosphere and experience the lively culture of South Korea.

With its state-of-the-art facilities, Jamsil stadium has become a popular venue for concerts, variety shows, and other events, making it an incredible entertainment hotspot for everyone. It’s the perfect place to indulge in the local culture, taste the food, and get swept up in the city’s vibrant spirit.

So, whether for the love of sports, entertainment, or culture, a visit to Jamsil stadium is an absolute must.

Baseball is better at night, with Seoul lit up in the background.

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The Day the South Korean Police came Barging into my Airbnb Apartment

Jul 26, 2016 | South Korea, Travel Tales

It was the day the South Korean police came barging into my Airbnb apartment and fair to say I was not too impressed at the whole situation, as it brought a little stress to the holidays and it caught me quite unaware.

Anyway, here is the story of my Airbnb Seoul experiences.

First of all, this post is not a dig at Airbnb Korea! I think Airbnb is a terrific organisation that I will use on numerous more opportunities and a convenient system that does indeed work for the majority of the time.

In life, little problems can arise, and it did on this particular morning, hence this short episode I am about to share with you right now about an Airbnb experience I had in Seoul of South Korea.

The Airbnb Experience Seoul

In a recent trip to South Korea, we booked our accommodation through Airbnb, using their services for the first time and the whole experience was going smoothly.

On the Airbnb website, we were able to find a lovely lofted apartment, perfect for a family of four and in an ideal location of Seoul.

Everything went well with the booking, the owners were helpful upon checking in to the apartment, and more importantly, the apartment was clean and spacious.

And yes, Airbnb is legal in Korea, but like anything in life, it comes with rules and organisation.

Image by Pexels: South Korean Police, always do a great job.

So what went wrong with the Seoul Airbnb Apartment?

A few days into our stay, my wife, who is Korean, went out to catch up with friends. I was in the apartment with my two boys when there was a knock on the door, this should go well, I thought, full well knowing I couldn’t speak a word of Korean.

Of course, I opened the door (I do love a challenge).

Upon opening the door, I could see that I would indeed face a challenge because standing in front of me were three policemen. I

nteresting indeed.

They proceeded to ask me, with the only English speaking police officer present, “if the apartment was rented through Airbnb?”I answered yes, why not, I had no reason to lie or hesitate.

After an initial chat at the door, the South Korean police officers proceeded to enter the apartment and began to take photos, (okay, they didn’t want precisely barge in).

At this stage, I was a little panicked, and all I could do at this time was to try and get in touch with my Korean speaking wife.

I couldn’t.

After the police wandered through the apartment, they wanted me to write a statement saying that I rented this apartment through Airbnb. The officer proceeded to explain to me that this is an illegal apartment due to being unregistered as an Airbnb apartment.

Well at this stage, I was furious, not at the police but at the owners who I paid perfectly good money to for rental of the studio.

They proceeded to give me the paperwork for a statement; it was in Korean writing. I refused to write the report because it wasn’t in English, even though the officer offered to translate. That’s nice but no. Don’t ever fill out a statement when you can’t understand the text, a golden rule in life.

The police told me that they would return when my wife got home, and before they left, I gave them the details to the owners through the booking report. Leaving the apartment and reassuring me I was not in trouble and that our stay in the studio would continue.

All’s well, and end’s well I suppose.

The police never returned to the apartment as they said they would.

And I wish I could give you a fitting conclusion, but what I do know, however, is that the owners were in the police department no more than two hours later and in a little bit of trouble.

Of course, I was not privy to all the information at what happened to the owners of the Airbnb apartment, but it’s safe to say that the owners probably got a good old fine.

A decent whack I suppose for not being honest landlords.

Photo by Pexel: The Day the South Korean Police came Barging in my Airbnb Apartment.

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The Top Food in South Korea I tried on my trip to the country

Apr 30, 2016 | South Korea

South Korea is a food-lovers paradise, with unique dishes of bold flavours and spiciness coming alive on the plate. Traditional side dishes such as kimchi bring even more flavour to every meal – it’s nearly impossible not to be satisfied by Korean cuisine! I was fortunate to experience these fantastic taste sensations firsthand during my visit in 2016; truly delicious memories indeed!

During the third trip to South Korea, I had the fortunate pleasure of trying many Korean Foods of different varieties, either homemade style, in restaurants, take away on a street vendor or a satisfying buffet that is well worth all you can eat fee; it was fair to say I was never left hungry.

The best part about dining and enjoying great food in South Korea is that a lot of meals seemed to have an authentic positive atmosphere to the occasion, where family, work colleagues or friends gathered with their Hite or Cass beer and gathered around a table to eat a whole bunch of delicious dishes that lay in front of them on the dining table. Dinner time in Korea can last hours.

With all this delicious food talk, what were my favourite dishes in Korea? Well, in this segment, I’ll tell you the Top Food in South Korea I tried on my trip to Korea.

Are you visiting Seoul to taste great meals for yourself? Book accommodation on TripAdvisor.

My top food in South Korea that will hit the spot on your adventures.

The Top Food in South Korea I tried on my trip.

I enjoyed sampling some fantastic local cuisine on my recent journey to South Korea. Here are five foods that particularly stood out with their unique flavours and textures

1. Shabu Shabu

If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable culinary adventure, I suggest sampling some shabu-shabu in South Korea. This classic Asian dish is trendy throughout the region – especially in downtown Seoul where I had my incredible experience. Whether for lunch or dinner, this savoury feast will surely tantalize your taste buds to no end!

Tuck in and savour the exquisite blend of flavours with thinly sliced beef masterfully cooked with succulent seafood, fresh vegetables and fragrant spices immersed collectively into a bubbling hot pot. Delight your taste buds further as you dunk each forkful into an indulgent chilli paste sauce for that extra pinch of explosiveness.

Shabu-Shabu is a Japanese meal made famous in South Korea.

2. Korean BBQ

Korean BBQ is a global celebrity among dishes, with dedicated restaurants in cities worldwide. But to experience it at its best means travelling back to Korea – this tantalizing treat features thinly sliced pork or beef cooked over an open flame right before your eyes and served straight from the grill!

Get ready for an unforgettable Korean BBQ experience! Savour the tantalizing flavours of grilled garlic, onions and mushrooms as you bite into a delectable meal. Make it complete with your favourite beer – the perfect accompaniment to elevate the evening truly.

Korean BBQ is a ten-out-of-ten treat when sampling food in South Korea.

3. Patbingsoo Shaved Ice dessert.

Patbingsoo, a cold dessert originating in South Korea, is quickly gaining food fame on the international stage. This delightful treat of delicate ice shavings and toppings such as fruit, nuts, beans, jelly and syrup is the perfect way to beat the heat!

The delightfully soft treat is becoming increasingly appreciated in different food cultures worldwide due to its sophisticated blend of flavours embraced by foodies everywhere. A fantastic food discovery from South Korea, anything Patbingsoo-related will surely be a big hit!

4. Bulgogi

No trip to South Korea is complete without a taste of Bulgogi – marinated beef grilled with onion, mushrooms and spring onions. This beloved local favourite comes with an array of signature side dishes that will make you feel at home in the country.

Korean Bulgogi is an ideal option for bringing people together! This dish’s widespread appeal in Korea and its convenient ability to feed a large group make it the perfect gathering delicacy. Enjoyed by locals and loved ones alike, Korean Bulgogitruly makes meals unique.

Korean Bulgogi is one of the most famous foods in South Korea.

5. Sundubu Jjigae

Sundubu Jjigae, also widely known as soft tofu stew, is one of the most well-known foods in South Korea. It is a spicy seasoned soup that consists of uncurdled and usually slightly fermented, firm or extra-firm tofu, vegetables such as onions, mushrooms, chilli peppers and scallions, Minari (water dropwort) and optional seafood or pork.

The hearty stew is often served to share with friends or family. It’s an accessible food item to create at home when you don’t have time to prepare complicated meals after a long day! It’s a comforting food whose authenticity comes from it being designed and appreciated in its simplicity.

6. Sun-dae – Blood Sausage

Koreans take “food-love” to a whole new level, and the proof is in their legendary blood sausage. On my trip to Gyeongbokgung’s side alleyways, I had the great fortune of trying this delicacy first-hand. As it turns out – a sundae isn’t just an ice cream flavour but also an unforgettable dish! The unique yet delectable flavour mesmerised me; no wonder they can’t get enough!

Sun-dae – the traditional blood sausage dish of Korea! This chunky soup won’t just tantalize your taste buds; it delivers an experience unique to this culture’s food. I encountered some trepidation with my first attempt, but why not take a bite out of local life and give it a go? After all, that’s what we’re here for.

One of Korea’s favourite dishes, Sun-Dae.

7. Kimbop Rice Balls

As a food popular throughout South Korea, Kimbop rice rolls are known for their colourful display and delicious flavours. Generally made with bright ingredients such as pickled radish, green onion, and processed meat, kimbap is a refreshingly light snack or meal that can easily be picked up on the go. The crunchy-soft texture of the thinly sliced radish combined with pickled flavours offers a unique sweetness that is difficult to find in other food items.

In the right hands, Kimbop rolls are an art form, with the traditional version featuring six to seven ingredients – including cucumber, shrimp and omelette – each finely chopped and thoughtfully arranged before being rolled together into bite-size morsels. Kimbop has established itself in Korean food culture and continues to be enjoyed by generations as a delightful food enjoyed on the go.

8. Galbi-Tang

Galbi-Tang is an iconic Korean dish, a deliciously comforting soup made with Rib beef, perfect no matter where you are. Its simplicity ensures it packs a punch of flavour that will tantalize your tastebuds without making you feel bloated and overstuffed. This is a quintessential example of why Korean cuisine continues to captivate foodies worldwide!

Enjoy a hearty beef soup with flavour and freshly cut spring onion. Complementary white rice is included – an essential ingredient for any actual Asian-inspired experience!

South Korea’s cuisine is full of flavour, from savoury stews to fermented delicacies. But which dish reigns supreme? Whether you crave spicy and piquant or something milder, it’s time to decide on your favourite Korean meal! Be prepared for some strong drinks as well—it has been known that sampling South Korea’s alcoholic beverages can prove...challenging. After all – no risk means no reward!

Related South Korean Articles:

Beautiful Things to Do in Nami Island, South Korea

10 Fun Things to do in Suwon, Seoul’s Neighbouring City

Incredible Day Trips from Seoul That You Won’t Want to Miss

Try the best Korean food when in South Korea.

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South Korean Diaries: Day 7-9 – Insadong, Baseball and Myeongdong

Apr 18, 2016 | South Korea, Travel Diaries

Another edition of South Korean Diaries; This time, we have culture, sport and shopping, including Insadong, baseball and Myeongdong.

Our journey in Seoul was a whirlwind of activity – no matter the hour, we could always explore something new. From bustling night markets to traditional dishes, this vibrant city made us feel like we were on a real adventure!

As I look back on days 7-9 of our South Korean Diaries, I can’t help but smile at the memories we made. These three days were packed with unforgettable experiences in Seoul, but what stood out were our visits to Insadong, Baseball and Myeongdong. We got a taste of Korean culture as we wandered the charming streets of Insadong, admiring traditional art and sampling the local cuisine.

It was refreshing to combine that with an exciting day of watching a baseball game, rooting for the home team and joining in on the cheers. And to top it off, we indulged in a shopping spree at Myeongdong. With its endless options of beauty and skincare products, it became every beauty lover’s paradise. These days I honestly have something for everyone, leaving us with memories that will last a lifetime.

South Korean Diaries: Day 7-9 – Insadong, Baseball and Myeongdong

Days 7-9 of my South Korean adventure were full of fun and excitement! It was nonstop action in Seoul, from exploring the culture in Insadong to cheering on an exciting baseball game down to shopping up a storm in Myeongdong. This whirlwind tour will surely be remembered for years to come!

Day 7 – Visiting Insadong

Insadong is the perfect melding of old and new! Set in South Korea, it’s a meeting place where traditional culture blends seamlessly with modern lifestyle. Whether you’re looking to get lost in history or explore cutting-edge trends – there’s something for everyone at this cultural compound.

Despite being a multi-religious nation, South Korea honours Buddhism as their spiritual foundation with proud devotion. Our journey from the Apartment in Gyeongbokgung was full of endless discoveries. After a twenty-minute trek, we arrived at an impressive site celebrating Buddhist culture and tradition. Glowing golden lanterns hung from every wall for an upcoming festival, while statues of Buddha sat inside the hall where many followers sought guidance and peace through prayer.

The lanterns in a temple in the cultural hub of Insadong.

Insadong is a unique blend of past and present, where one can admire the traditional displays while still being able to find modern restaurants and shops. Even though it’s meant for pedestrians only, don’t be surprised if you have to dodge an occasional van or two! From souvenir stores to hanbok shops (traditional Korean dress), cafes, tea spots – anything your heart desires- no shortage of things here will give you both refreshed with new experiences.

As we watched the beginning of a colourful parade featuring Korean music and traditional attire, it seemed like something too good to miss! We decided to explore the area during their procession along the street. To our surprise, though, when we returned after grabbing some lunch, they were back where they started with an hour-and-a-half-long performance full of singing and dancing that even got us up on our feet in a joyous celebration! It was quite a sight watching these talented performers go nonstop for so long; no doubt everyone who experienced this fantastic show walked away feeling entertained.

Insadong will capture your attention, especially of your camera, as you become click-happy with the beautiful sites.

As the day wore on, the clouds grew darker and the air cooler. And then, just like that, the rain came pouring down. We quickly retreated to the warmth and comfort of our little apartment. For a while, we just sat there listening to the steady drumming of the rain on the roof; each lost in our thoughts. But then, hunger began to gnaw at us, and I decided to take the kids out for dinner.

We headed to Lotteria, a Korean fast-food chain like McDonald’s or Burger King but with a few fun twists. Despite the downpour outside, we were all smiles as we chowed down on our burgers and fries, savouring the warmth and coziness of our little fast food oasis. And it was worth it. The rain may have dampened our clothes but it couldn’t dampen our spirits.

Do you want to find a hotel in Insadong? Find great rates at Booking.com!

The culture is alive in Insadong.

Day 8 – Baseball at Jamsil Stadium

On that glorious Sunday, the scorching sun shone over Jamsil Baseball Stadium, located right outside Olympic Park in Seoul. We slowly rose out of bed and got to the stadium just before it began at two o’clock.

The moment we stepped off subway line 2, a wave of energy washed over us as people around erupted with chanting fans, delicious eats from food stalls and vibrant merchandise – all swirling together for an intense battle between Doosan Bears against Samsung Lions!

Supporting the Samsung Lions inside Jamsil Stadium.

As I arrived at the stadium, I was immediately drawn to a dazzling sea of royal blue and white worn by fans supporting The Lions. Captivated by the striking colours, I could no longer resist buying one of their jerseys – instantly becoming devoted to this team that day!

Once inside Jamsil Stadium, it is undeniable how grandiose its scale truly is: from towering walls surrounding home plate, which cast an impressive shadow onto outfield seats below them up towards reaching clouds above. A spectacle for any sports enthusiast like myself who revels in such a dynamic atmosphere with a larger-than-life viewing screen right before me!

Outside Jamsil Stadium and enjoying the atmosphere of the ball game.

Ignoring the entertainment in the stands was hard, but that’s not to say the game was dull. The electricity in the stadium was palpable as both the home supporters and the opposing team battled it out through cheers and screams. The sounds of the crowd announcer and the dazzling cheerleaders only added to the already buzzing atmosphere.

On the contrary, it kept us in our seats until the end, with Doosan Bears ultimately taking home the win. As the game ended, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the excitement and adrenaline rush that sports always bring.

It was the perfect ending to a day filled with my favourite pastime. As I headed out into the night for a late dinner at Pho Roi, I couldn’t help but already look forward to the next game.

Take me out to the ball game.

Day 9 – Enjoying the Vibrantcy of Myeondong

Finally, a day to take it easy. Today, we decided to hop on a train and head to Myeongdong. This bustling spot is the ultimate shopping destination, with all the big names in clothing, sporting goods, skincare, shoes, and more.

And let’s not forget about the array of food options that fill the air with mouth-watering scents. As a self-proclaimed shopaholic, this place felt like heaven on earth. It’s hard to put into words the energy that fills the streets of Myeongdong but trust me when I say it’s a sight to behold. Today may not have been much, but it was exactly what we needed.

The wife is Looking good in Myeongdong.

Today was a dreamy day of putting our feet up and relaxing after a long week of the hustle and bustle. Feeling content, we ventured out to Myeongdong, a vibrant and lively Seoul neighbourhood filled with captivating sights and sounds. We took the opportunity to indulge in some delicious Korean takeout and savoured each bite with pure delight.

The day was spent leisurely, enjoying the ambience and exploring the bustling streets after a few busy days of Insadong, Baseball and Myeongdong. As the sun set, we returned to our peaceful abode, readying ourselves for the hectic day ahead. Tomorrow will be all go, go, go, but today was the perfect recharging day we needed at the DMZ Korea.

Check out other editions of South Korean Diaries:

Days 4 – 6 Family Bonding in Seoul!

Days 1 – 3 Seoul Delight!