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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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South Korean Diaries: Day 4-6 – Family Bonding in Seoul

Apr 16, 2016 | South Korea, Travel Diaries

They are exploring South Korea as a family has been an absolute dream come true. On days 4-6, it was all about spending quality time together in the bustling city of Seoul.

We visited some incredible attractions, such as Kidzania and Lotte World, that left us in awe. In addition, we also had the opportunity to delve into the country’s rich history by visiting the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace.

However, what truly made our trip unforgettable was our visit to Hangang Park, where we had a wonderful time bonding with each other and enjoying the stunning views of the river. Our South Korean diaries are filled with incredible memories, and I can’t wait to see what other adventures await us in this great country.

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Family bonding in Seoul at Hangang Park is a great escape for a whole heap of fun.

Highlights of South Korean Diaries: Day 4 – 6 – Family Bonding in Seoul

Reflecting on my recent trip to Seoul, South Korea, my heart fills with warmth as I recall our family bonding experiences on days 4-6 of our journey. From exploring the intricate architecture of Gyeongbokgung Palace to indulging in traditional Korean cuisine at a local restaurant, every moment spent with my loved ones was unforgettable.

Taking part in cultural activities like attending a Korean tea ceremony and trying on traditional clothing brought us closer, fostering a deeper understanding of each other’s perspectives. Though half a world away from home, these shared experiences made us feel more connected than ever before as we had family bonding in Seoul.

Day 4 – Kidzania in Seoul

As the train pulled into Jamsil Station on this busy holiday, we were ready for another adventure in Seoul. Our destination was Kidzania, a career centre for kids where they could try their hand at various professions. Although we had heard that this place was mainly for children, we decided to check it out and meet up with some new friends. The friendly atmosphere and fun-filled activities made us forget the crowded streets outside.

While Kidzania may have been geared towards kids, we couldn’t help but admire this place’s creativity and possibilities – it was a world of endless opportunities. We watched as our young companions made ice cream, acted as journalists, and even got a taste of what it’s like to be a pilot for Korean Air. Seeing their faces light up with excitement as they explored their dreams and aspirations was such a joy.

Kidzania in Seoul, South Korea.

Parents, let’s face it: patience is a virtue. But sometimes, when you’re knee-deep in chaos and your kids are running amuck, you might need a break. Thankfully, there’s a coffee shop on the third floor where you can kick back and relax while the little ones play to their heart’s content.

Of course, if you want to go all out and give your kids an unforgettable experience, Lotte World is the place to be. It’s not cheap, but worth it for the well-crafted rides, shows, and attractions that will keep your kids entertained for hours.

After all that excitement, you’ll need a good meal. Shabu-Shabu is a must-visit restaurant where you can indulge in thinly sliced beef and seafood dipped into a bowl of boiled, spicy stock. Just trust us on this one.

Shabu-Shabu, Korean Style.

After indulging in a delicious meal, going for a walk and burning those extra calories is always a good idea. And what better place to do that than in the Children’s Grand Park? Not only is the scenery jaw-droppingly beautiful, but the park also boasts various facilities such as playgrounds and sports fields.

On top of that, admission to the zoo is free, even though it may not feature all exotic animals. The indoor botanical garden is a visitor’s favourite, but the water feature is even more impressive. Beyond all that, you’ll find a variety of cafes and restaurants, meaning you’ll have everything you need at your fingertips. Playground doesn’t even describe what you’ll find here, so add the Children’s Grand Park to your Seoul itinerary.

Children’s Grand playground, South Korea.

Day 5 – A little Korean Culture

When my wife and kids left to visit family, I knew what I had to do – explore! I didn’t have to go far to stumble upon the magnificent Gyeongbokgung Palace, just a stone’s throw away from where we were staying.

The Palace is a breathtaking attraction with its vast palaces, gardens, and water features. It took me a good couple of hours to walk around the immense castle, first built in 1395 and has survived numerous difficult times, particularly with the Japanese. Overall, it was an incredible experience I wouldn’t forget anytime soon. However, I’ll save that story for my upcoming feature on Gyeongbokgung.

Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul, South Korea.

My dinner that night was a Korean BBQ, an absolute must-try for any foodie. The tantalizing smell of cut-up beef sizzling on a fire in front of us was irresistible. After a day filled with cultural experiences, nothing is better than capping it off with authentic Korean cuisine.

Of course, the meal was accompanied by a range of delicious side dishes and being in Korea, it wouldn’t be complete without a bottle of Cass Beer. While it may seem daunting to venture down the side alleys in Seoul, these hidden gems are where you’ll often find some of the best restaurants in town.

So take a chance and explore; you never know what delightful treats await you in the darkness.

Gyeongbokgung Palace, South Korea.

Day 6 – Hangang Park by the Han River

As a parent, sometimes you must get creative to entertain your kids. Today, I found myself in that exact situation. Without the help of my wife, our South Korean translator, I needed to devise a plan to make the most of our low-key day.

I decided to jump on the subway and head to Hangang Park in Seoul. The park is suitable in the city’s heart, with the beautiful Han River running alongside it. There’s so much for kids to see and do in this beautiful park, from cycling to picnicking and everything in between. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a peaceful day in nature. Even though it was just another low-key day, we turned it into a fun and memorable experience.

Spring is beautiful in Seoul.

Our day in the bustling city was filled with excitement and adventure. We were finally able to experience the thrill of playing Aussie Rules football, much to the confusion of the locals. However, most of our time was spent exploring the city on our hired bikes, taking in the breathtaking views of the river. We stopped for lunch at a familiar palace called Mcdonald’s, perfect for refuelling with some delicious fast food.

As the day turned into night, we indulged in a delicious traditional Korean dinner of spicy and garlic chicken, delivered right to our doorstep. And to top it off, we even had tap beer produced alongside our meal. It was the perfect way to wind down and enjoy the comforts of our apartment.

Follow the Korean Diairies with the links Below –

South Korean Diaries: Days 1-3 – Seoul Delight for a third time

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

Hangang Park, South Korea

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South Korean Diaries: Days 1-3 – Seoul Delight for a third time

Apr 14, 2016 | South Korea, Travel Diaries

When April 2016 arrived, I had already been to South Korea twice in 10 years, yet my anticipation for a third visit felt higher than ever. I was ready to take on two weeks of pure bliss from Seoul’s never-ending nightlife; this trip would be one incredible Seoul Delight!

For this particular trip to the East Asian country, we set up a base to spend the whole time in South Korea’s capital city instead of spreading my wings and exploring the entire country as I did in an exhausting trip in Christmas time of 2013 where I visited Busan, Jeju and Muju to name but a few top choice destinations in South Korea.

With an ideally located Airbnb apartment in the Gyeongbokgung area of the city, click here for an interesting story on my Airbnb experience; it was a perfect two weeks in the big city that is always having a party, and now let’s get into the opening part of South Korean Diaries – Days 1-3 – Seoul Delight for a third time.

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Seoul delight in South Korea.

South Korean Diaries: Days 1-3 – Seoul Delight for a third time

As I stepped off the plane and into the vibrant city of Seoul, I knew I was in for an adventure. This was my third time visiting this incredible city, but it never exceeded my expectations. The bustling streets were filled with locals and tourists alike, all eager to explore the many sights and sounds of the city. There was never a dull moment; from traditional markets to modern shopping centres, it simply was a Seoul delight.

Arriving in South Korea and dressing up in style, traditional style.

Day 1 – Arriving in South Korea for a Remarkable Seoul Delight

As mentioned, we arrived in South Korea for our third trip here. It has been a long, fourteen-hour flight, including transit; we are weary, exhausted and hungry. Arriving at Incheon international airport has lifted our spirits, not only because we have arrived at a glamorous and spectacular airport considered one of the world’s best but because we have arrived in a country that is undoubtedly number one in my book.

After arriving in Seoul, we made our way to Gyeongbokgung, a bustling part of the town home to the renowned Palace. Our Airbnb check-in wasn’t ready yet, so we visited a local food court for lunch and sampled authentic Korean cuisine. I opted for Dumpling Soup with rice cake – it was mouthwateringly delicious! And if that weren’t enough reward already – this gastronomic delight also came at an incredibly reasonable price! My first experience trying traditional Korean fare certainly didn’t disappoint; my hunger pangs subsided as soon as I took my first bite.

Finally, it is two in the afternoon, check-in time and up to the sixth floor of an eighteen-story apartment. The Room is ideal, kitchen, bathroom, living area and queen size bed downstairs and two beds for the kids in the loft upstairs. Perfect for a family of four. After a rest, it’s time to see the in-laws, at least my wife’s two sisters and their family; we meet at their fishing shop and eat one of Koreans finest and famous meals, bulgogi, a marinated beef grilled with vegetables, yummo. After the meal, it is home once again with the subway, it is a confusing system, but it works, and trains run all the time. We arrive at the apartment at nine pm, and it is fair we don’t remember much from there. We are all out like a light.

Korean Bulgogi, South Korea

Day two – Exploring Gyeongbokgung

After a rejuvenating slumber, we awaken, ready to explore the wonders of South Korea! My wife – who is Korean herself – leads us on an incredible journey filled with culture and fun. Even through the bustling streets, she remains our faithful tour guide, translator, wife and mother all at once; however, this trip can be more taxing for her than it is for me as she treks back home.

We wander around the Gyeongbokgung area, a busy place is known for its office workers. It has a modern look, with trendy shops and many restaurants, mainly local cuisine. It also contains familiar names amongst the westerners, such as KFC, Starbucks and Baskin-Robbins, yum yum. Therefore it is amongst high-rise buildings and apartments, with just about every second shop in the vicinity being a café; no problem for me there; I love my coffee. But I haven’t come all this way to indulge in food I can eat at home, although I am sure my taste buds will desire it soon.

As we explored the bustling streets of Korea, my taste buds were drawn to a hidden gem of a restaurant known for its black noodles. Despite the crowded atmosphere, the restaurant staff quickly delivered our meal and ensured our satisfaction. The neatly prepared dish was a delight, and we felt delighted. Of course, no meal is complete without dessert, and Baskin-Robbins beckoned me again.

We returned to our apartment for a brief rest before meeting friends for dinner at Jokpal, a popular Korean franchise chain. The pork leg was the meal’s highlight, sliced to perfection and served with various delicious sides, including Kimchi, quickly becoming a staple of our Korean diet. After dinner, we took a leisurely walk through the brightly illuminated streets, taking in the beauty and excitement of Korea at night.

Mountain at the backdrop of Gyeongbokgung, South Korea

Day three – A Day at Everland Theme Park

Tuesday is our first full day out; we go to Everland, South Korea’s finest theme park and one that more than matches any in Australia. Everland is packed even on a school day, with waiting times for some events over an hour; I hear on weekends, it is up to two to three hours, but forget that. Everland is a fun day out. With Safari world and hidden Valley, a bus tour that guides you on land and water around the animals of Africa, with the likes of giraffes, Zebras, Elephants, and cheetahs, to name a few. But as traditional with most zoos, the animals are not doing much, but the Giraffe gets up close and personal during the bus ride.

It was time to take a break from the hustle and bustle of Safari World, so we stopped off at Snack Bar for lunch. With an impressive selection of Korean and Western cuisine alongside soft drinks and beer, there were plenty of delicious options – whatever your budget! After all that excitement in Everland earlier, though, it seemed like everyone had quite an appetite; the food hall was bustling with hungry visitors as we found our seats.

Enjoy the tulips of Everland, which will truly inspire the trip to Seoul – South Korea.

Everland was aglow with beauty and excitement for the Tulip Festival – a seasonal event that changes themes yearly but is awe-inspiring each time. As we marvelled at the stunning landscape of flowers, an unforgettable parade strode through, bringing colour and animation to fill our eyes! The tunes were infectious as floats danced past us in celebration.

Not to be outdone, Dad took Lucas on his maiden voyage aboard the regal Pirate Ship ride – it’s clear they suited both young ones and big kids alike who would not resist its appeal! This made for one spectacular day spent amongst family…and tulips galore!

It was South Korea; it was a Seoul delight.