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  • Traveling Korea During Seollal (Lunar New Year): What Visitors Should Know

    If you are planning to visit Korea during the Lunar New Year holiday — known as Seollal — a bit of preparation goes a long way. In 2026, the Seollal holiday period runs from February 16 (Mon) to February 18 (Wed). While it can be a fascinating cultural time to visit, travelers may also run into unexpected challenges such as heavy traffic, sold-out train tickets, and shortened business hours. With the right expectations and planning, you can turn this period into a unique and enjoyable travel experience.

    1. Long-Distance Transportation Gets Extremely Busy

    Seollal is one of the biggest family holidays in Korea. Millions of people travel from Seoul and other big cities back to their hometowns.

    Early holiday period (Feb 14–16): outbound rush

    • Trains and express buses from Seoul to regional cities sell out quickly
    • Highways leaving Seoul often experience severe congestion
    • Last-minute tickets are very difficult to secure
    • Travel times by car can double or triple

    Holiday peak & return period (Feb 17–18): inbound rush

    • Return tickets back to Seoul are hardest to get
    • Express bus terminals and train stations become crowded
    • Highways toward Seoul are heavily congested

    If you plan intercity travel during these dates, book KTX and bus tickets as early as possible. Flexible timing (very early morning or late night departures) increases your chances.

    2. Some Stores and Restaurants Close (or Shorten Hours)

    During Seollal, many family-run businesses close, especially:

    • Small restaurants
    • Traditional markets
    • Independent shops
    • Local clinics and service businesses

    Large chains behave differently:

    • Big supermarkets may close on the main holiday day
    • Department stores sometimes close one day
    • Franchise cafés and restaurants often remain open but with reduced hours
    • Convenience stores almost always stay open

    Tourist-heavy areas usually retain more operating businesses, but opening hours can still be shorter than usual. Checking same-day hours on map apps before visiting saves time.

    3. Tourist Sites and Palaces: Mixed Schedules

    Major attractions often remain open, but with adjustments:

    • Some museums close on the main Seollal day
    • Royal palaces and heritage sites may open but with holiday hours
    • Special cultural events and traditional performances sometimes take place

    This can actually be a bonus — you may get to see holiday folk games, traditional clothing, and seasonal foods that are not available at other times.

    4. A Big Advantage: Seoul Becomes Noticeably Quieter

    One hidden upside: Seoul gets less crowded.

    Because many residents leave the city to visit family:

    • Streets are calmer
    • Subways are less packed
    • Popular neighborhoods feel more relaxed
    • Café hopping and city walks become more pleasant

    For photographers and slow travelers, this is one of the best times to experience a more peaceful version of Seoul.

    5. Food Planning Matters More Than Usual

    Since some restaurants close, it helps to plan meals:

    • Keep a list of backup restaurants
    • Use convenience stores and food courts if needed
    • Hotel restaurants usually operate normally
    • Delivery apps still run in major cities (though selection may shrink)

    All-you-can-eat chains, franchise eateries, and mall restaurants are your most reliable options during the holiday window.

    6. Extra Practical Tips for Seollal Travelers

    A few smart moves make holiday travel smoother:

    • Book intercity transport early
    • Reserve hotels near train or bus terminals if moving cities
    • Carry some cash — smaller places may be closed but kiosks still operate
    • Expect family crowds at parks and cultural sites
    • Try holiday foods if you see them — seasonal items appear briefly
    • Allow buffer time for every long trip

    7. The Cultural Side: Why It’s Still Worth It

    Seollal is when Korean traditions are most visible — family gatherings, ritual foods, traditional games, and hanbok clothing. Even with closures and traffic, you gain a rare window into how the country actually celebrates its most important holiday.

    With smart scheduling and flexible plans, traveling Korea during Seollal can feel less like a disruption and more like privileged access to real seasonal culture.

  • Using a One-Day Pass at a Korean Gym: What Travelers Should Know Before You Go

    If you’re visiting Korea and want to keep up your workout routine, using a gym one-day pass (1일권) can be a practical option. Whether you’re staying short-term, traveling between cities, or simply don’t want a long membership, many Korean gyms allow walk-in access for a daily fee. Still, there are a few local customs and practical details worth knowing before you step inside.

    1. Typical Price Range for One-Day Passes

    In most private gyms across Korea, a one-day pass usually costs 10,000 to 30,000 KRW. The price depends on location, facility quality, and included amenities. Gyms in central Seoul or newer boutique fitness centers tend to be on the higher end, while neighborhood gyms are often more affordable.

    If you’re looking for a budget option, public sports centers operated by city or district governments can be a great choice. These facilities often charge under 10,000 KRW for daily access and still offer solid equipment and clean facilities. They may feel more local and less commercial, which can be part of the cultural experience.

    2. Walk-In Access Is Common

    One convenient aspect of Korean gyms is that many allow walk-in entry without a reservation, especially for one-day passes. You typically pay at the front desk, show your ID, and receive a locker key. Some gyms may ask you to fill out a simple health questionnaire or waiver form.

    Still, during peak hours—usually weekday evenings—it’s wise to call ahead if you want to be certain there’s space, particularly in smaller gyms.

    3. Indoor Shoes Are Often Required

    One detail that surprises many visitors is that Korean gyms often require separate indoor sneakers. Wearing the same shoes you walked in with may not be allowed, as gyms aim to keep floors clean. Bringing lightweight workout shoes in your bag is a good habit when visiting Korean fitness facilities.

    4. Towel and Locker Policies Can Differ

    Unlike some countries where towels are freely provided, Korean gyms vary in their policies. Some offer small towels at no extra cost, while others may charge a small rental fee or expect you to bring your own. Lockers are usually included with a day pass, but sizes can be compact, so packing light helps.

    5. Gym Etiquette You’ll Notice

    Korean gym culture places strong emphasis on consideration for others. After using machines, wiping them down is common courtesy. Loud conversations or phone calls are generally avoided. Many people also spend time stretching before and after workouts, sometimes longer than expected, especially older members.

    You may also notice that personal trainers are quite active on the gym floor, offering guidance to their clients. Even if you’re just visiting for a day, staff are often willing to briefly explain how equipment works if you ask politely.

    6. Shower Facilities Are Usually Available

    Most Korean gyms include locker rooms with showers, which makes it easy to freshen up after a workout. Bringing simple toiletries—like a small towel, flip-flops, or personal shampoo—can make the experience more comfortable, especially in public sports centers where amenities are more basic.

    Final Thoughts

    Using a one-day gym pass in Korea is straightforward, flexible, and accessible for visitors. With reasonable prices, walk-in convenience, and clean facilities, it’s easy to maintain your routine while traveling. Knowing a few local customs—like bringing indoor shoes and understanding towel policies—helps you blend in smoothly and enjoy the experience without surprises.

  • Free BTS Performance at Gwanghwamun on March 21 — What to Know & Where to Stay If Hotels Are Sold Out

    As BTS return with their new album Arirang on March 20, excitement has reached a level rarely seen in Seoul. The very next day, March 21, the group will hold a free outdoor performance at Gwanghwamun Square—and fans from around the world are already planning trips around it. City estimates suggest up to 200,000 people could gather for a plaza designed to hold far fewer, and hotel prices around Gwanghwamun have surged dramatically, with budget rooms jumping several times their usual rates and many top hotels already fully booked.

    Gwanghwammun Square is already preparing foro March 21 concert.

    If you’re hoping to experience the atmosphere—even without guaranteed sightlines—this free show is still one of the most special moments of the entire tour. And if staying right by Gwanghwamun is no longer realistic, there are smart, well-connected neighborhoods that make excellent alternatives.

    1. Euljiro 4-ga — Central, Connected, and Practical

    Euljiro 4-ga sits just east of Gwanghwamun in the heart of downtown Seoul, making it one of the most convenient backup options. The area offers excellent access to central Seoul and connects directly to Gwanghwamun Station via Subway Line 5, keeping travel simple even on a crowded concert day. Hotels here are often more available than in the immediate Gwanghwamun zone, and the neighborhood blends historic streets with newer cafés and restaurants—ideal if you want to stay central without paying peak prices.

    2. Magok — New, Calm, and Surprisingly Convenient

    If central hotels are completely sold out, Magok is a strong alternative that many international visitors overlook. This newer district has modern, good-quality hotels at relatively reasonable prices, even during major events. Magok is also on Subway Line 5, which runs straight to the Gwanghwamun area, so you won’t need transfers. Compared to downtown, Magok is less crowded and quieter, making it easier to rest after a long day. It’s also close to Gimpo Airport, which is useful if you’re arriving late or leaving soon after the event.

    3. Dongdaemun — Shopping, Sights, and Easy Access

    The Dongdaemun area is another practical choice, especially if you want to combine the concert with sightseeing and shopping. With landmarks like DDP (Dongdaemun Design Plaza) and the Dongdaemun Fashion Town, there’s plenty to explore day and night. From here, Subway Line 1 takes you to Jonggak Station, putting you within walking distance of Gwanghwamun Square. Accommodation options are plentiful, and availability tends to be better than in the immediate concert zone.

    A Free Concert That Turns Seoul Into a Festival

    Gwanghwamun is usually a business-focused district that quiets down on weekends—but March 21 will be different. Cafés, restaurants, and shops are preparing for an unprecedented surge of visitors, and the entire area is expected to feel more like a city-wide festival than a single performance. Even if nearby hotels are fully booked, staying just a few subway stops away still lets you be part of this historic moment—without overpaying for a room.

    For fans planning their Seoul trip around the free Gwanghwamun show, flexibility on where you stay can make all the difference. The music may last one night, but the memories will travel much farther.

  • Winter Hot Spring Getaways in Korea: Three Classic Destinations to Warm Up Your Trip

    Winter travel in Korea isn’t only about snow, food, and city lights. There’s another, quieter pleasure that locals have enjoyed for centuries: hot spring travel. As temperatures drop, soaking in naturally heated mineral water becomes one of the most satisfying ways to relax, recover from travel fatigue, and experience a deeper layer of Korean history and culture.

    If you’re visiting Korea in winter, these three hot spring towns are especially worth considering.

    1. Onyang Hot Spring (온양온천), Asan

    Korea’s oldest recorded hot spring with royal history

    Onyang Hot Spring in Asan is widely recognized as the oldest hot spring in Korea, with records dating back more than 1,300 years to the Three Kingdoms period. It later became a royal hot spring reserved for the Joseon Dynasty, used by kings and royal family members. The water here is sulfur-rich, traditionally believed to help with skin conditions, fatigue recovery, and circulation.

    One of Onyang’s biggest strengths is accessibility. You can reach Onyang Oncheon Station directly via Seoul Metropolitan Subway Line 1, making it one of the easiest hot spring trips from Seoul. Intercity buses from Seoul also arrive at Asan Bus Terminal, from which the hot spring area is just a short ride away. Thanks to this convenience, Onyang is ideal for a relaxed overnight stay or even a slow-paced day trip.

    2. Suanbo Hot Spring (수안보온천), Chungju

    Naturally hot water and a classic winter pairing: pheasant cuisine

    Suanbo Hot Spring has been used since the Goryeo Dynasty and is known for its exceptionally high water temperature. The natural spring water emerges at around 50°C, and even in the depths of winter, bath temperatures often stay above 40°C, making it especially appealing during cold weather.

    Beyond soaking, Suanbo is also famous for pheasant dishes, a local specialty traditionally enjoyed after a hot spring bath. The combination of mineral-rich water and hearty regional cuisine makes this destination feel distinctly seasonal and local.

    Transportation has become much easier with the opening of Suanbo Oncheon Station on the Jungbu Naeryuk Line. From Pangyo Station, you can reach the area by KTX in roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a realistic winter getaway even for travelers based in the Seoul metropolitan area.

    3. Bugok Hot Spring (부곡온천), Changnyeong

    A legendary hot spring town rediscovering its charm

    Bugok Hot Spring, located in Changnyeong, Gyeongsangnam-do, was developed in the 1970s and quickly became one of the most famous hot spring destinations in Korea. At its peak, it symbolized large-scale resort-style hot spring tourism. While its popularity later declined, Bugok has been steadily regaining attention in recent years through family baths and private soaking options, making it appealing again for modern travelers.

    Bugok’s location makes it particularly convenient for travelers from Daegu, Busan, and other southern regions. You can reach the area by getting off at Changnyeong Intercity Bus Terminal and taking a taxi for about 20 minutes, or by arriving directly at Bugok Intercity Bus Terminal. It’s a great choice if you want a quieter, less tourist-heavy hot spring experience outside the Seoul area.

    Why Hot Springs Belong in a Korean Winter Itinerary

    Hot spring travel in Korea blends history, nature, and everyday wellness in a way that feels both traditional and practical. Whether it’s a royal sulfur bath in Onyang, naturally hot waters and local food in Suanbo, or the nostalgic revival of Bugok, these destinations show how Koreans have long embraced winter not by avoiding the cold, but by soaking right through it.

  • Warm Comfort Foods You’ll Find in Korean Convenience Stores During Winter

    Korean winters can be brutally cold, especially when icy winds cut through city streets. But one thing that makes winter in Korea more bearable—and surprisingly enjoyable—is the convenience store on every corner. Step inside for just a few minutes, and you’ll quickly warm up.

    More than that, Korean convenience stores offer seasonal hot foods and drinks that give you a small but very real taste of everyday Korean culture. When you need a break from the cold, these winter staples are where many locals instinctively turn.

    1. Hobbang (호빵): The Ultimate Korean Winter Snack

    Hobbang is a soft, steamed bun that appears in convenience stores only during the colder months, making it a true symbol of Korean winter. You’ll usually find them kept warm in a steamer near the counter, ready to grab and eat on the go.

    The classic version is filled with sweet red bean paste, but modern varieties include custard, pizza-style fillings, and even spicy options. Warm, fluffy, and slightly sweet, hobbang is perfect when your hands are frozen and you want something comforting without sitting down for a full meal. For many Koreans, the smell of hobbang alone signals that winter has officially arrived.

    2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes (군고구마): Simple, Sweet, and Nostalgic

    Roasted sweet potatoes—gun-goguma—are another winter favorite you can often find in Korean convenience stores. Stored in heated ovens near the entrance, these sweet potatoes are naturally caramelized, soft inside, and surprisingly filling.

    They’re especially popular because they feel both healthy and nostalgic. Many Koreans associate roasted sweet potatoes with childhood winters, street vendors, and long walks home in the cold. For travelers, it’s an easy way to try a very Korean winter flavor without any language barrier: just point, pay, and enjoy.

    3. Warm Bottled Drinks: Korean-Style Winter Beverages

    Near the cashier, you’ll often see heated shelves filled with bottled drinks—something that surprises many first-time visitors. These aren’t just teas; they’re traditional-style beverages adapted for modern convenience stores.

    Popular options include ginseng tea, honey citron tea, ginger tea, and simple honey water. They’re mildly sweet, soothing, and designed to warm you from the inside out. Locals often grab one on their commute or while walking outside, treating it almost like a portable hand warmer you can drink.

    Why Convenience Stores Matter in a Korean Winter

    In Korea, convenience stores aren’t just places to buy snacks—they’re small shelters from the cold and windows into everyday life. The warm foods you find there aren’t flashy or touristy, but they reflect how people actually get through winter: quickly, practically, and with a little comfort.

    If you’re traveling in Korea during winter, stepping into a convenience store for hobang, roasted sweet potatoes, or a hot bottled drink isn’t just about staying warm—it’s about experiencing winter the Korean way.

  • All-You-Can-Eat Restaurants in Korea: Eat More, Worry Less While Traveling

    When you travel to Korea, you probably want to try everything—K-BBQ, tteokbokki, fried snacks, sushi, desserts—but time and budget can quickly become real constraints. This is where Korea’s all-you-can-eat (무한리필) restaurants become a smart option. For a fixed price, you can explore multiple dishes in one place, eat at your own pace, and avoid the stress of choosing “just one” menu item. For travelers, it’s efficient, filling, and surprisingly fun.

    1. Myeongryun Jinsa Galbi (명륜진사갈비): A Gateway to K-BBQ Culture

    If you want to experience Korean pork BBQ in a casual, beginner-friendly setting, Myeongryun Jinsa Galbi is one of the most popular choices. This franchise focuses on pork BBQ, especially marinated pork ribs(or Galbi), which are sweet, smoky, and very approachable even if you’re new to Korean food.

    For around 20,000 KRW per person, you get unlimited access to marinated ribs, pork belly, spicy chicken, and other grilled meats. What makes it especially travel-friendly is the variety beyond meat: tteokbokki, simple bread items, and side dishes are also available. It’s a great place to understand how Korean BBQ works—grilling at your table, sharing food, and eating slowly—without worrying about ordering the “wrong” cut of meat.

    2. Dookki Tteokbokki (두끼 떡볶이): Build-Your-Own Korean Street Food

    Tteokbokki is one of the most iconic Korean foods, often seen in K-dramas and variety shows, and Dookki turns it into an interactive experience. Instead of ordering a finished dish, you create your own instant tteokbokki by choosing different rice cakes, noodles, vegetables, fish cakes, and sauces.

    You’ll also find fried snacks like sweet potato tempura and vegetable fritters, which you can dip into your sauce or eat separately. For travelers curious about Korean bunsik (snack food culture), this is an easy and fun introduction. The biggest advantage is the price: usually around 10,000–15,000 KRW per person, making it one of the most budget-friendly all-you-can-eat options in Korea.

    3. QooQoo (쿠우쿠우): A Korean-Style Sushi Buffet Experience

    Many people associate sushi strictly with Japan, but Korea has developed its own wide variety of sushi and rolls, often adapted to local tastes. QooQoo is a franchise where you can explore this side of Korean food culture in buffet form.

    Prices usually range from 20,000 to 30,000 KRW per person, and in return you get access to assorted sushi, rolls, and seafood, along with much more. QooQoo functions as a comprehensive buffet: pizza, pasta, salads, fried foods, and desserts are all part of the lineup. If you’re traveling with people who have different food preferences, or if you simply want one very full meal after a long day, it’s an easy and satisfying choice.

    Why All-You-Can-Eat Works So Well for Travelers in Korea

    Korean all-you-can-eat restaurants aren’t just about quantity—they’re about variety and accessibility. You don’t need advanced Korean language skills to order, you don’t need to understand complex menus, and you can try unfamiliar foods without committing to a single dish.

    If your trip is short but your curiosity is big, these restaurants let you taste more of Korea in less time—one plate at a time.

  • A BTS Fan’s Dream Itinerary in Korea: From Seoul to Busan, Gangneung, and Jecheon

    For many ARMY, attending a BTS concert in Korea is already a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But with a little planning, this trip can become something even more meaningful—a journey through places connected to BTS’s music, stories, and memories. This itinerary links Seoul, Gangneung, Busan, and Jecheon, combining concerts, music video filming locations, and some of Korea’s most beautiful scenery into one smooth route.

    Stop 1: Seoul & Goyang – Concert, City, and First BTS Moments

    Start your journey in Seoul, where most international travelers arrive and where the Goyang concert takes place. After enjoying the show, take time to explore Seoul at your own pace—neighborhood cafés, late-night food spots, and easy day trips make it a natural starting point. When you’re ready to move on, head to Seoul Station or Cheongnyangni Station to begin the next chapter of your BTS journey.

    Stop 2: Gangneung – Ocean Views and “Spring Day” Memories

    From Seoul, take the KTX to Gangneung, a coastal city on Korea’s east coast that feels calm, cinematic, and emotional in a very BTS-like way. Gangneung is best known among ARMY as the filming location for “Spring Day(봄날).” Near Jumunjin Beach, you can visit the famous bus stop set, quietly facing the sea just like in the music video. Standing there, with the waves behind you, feels like stepping directly into one of BTS’s most iconic eras.

    Beyond BTS, Gangneung offers plenty to enjoy. The city is home to filming locations from the drama “Goblin,” a well-loved coffee street filled with ocean-view cafés, and classic sights like Gyeongpo Beach and Gyeongpodae Pavilion. It’s the perfect place to slow down, reflect, and let the emotional weight of the music settle in.

    Stop 3: Gangneung → Busan – A Scenic KTX Ride South

    From Gangneung Station, board the Donghae Line KTX and travel south along Korea’s eastern coastline to Busan. This route connects two very different seas and moods, making the journey itself part of the experience. By the time you arrive in Busan, the energy shifts—bigger city, warmer air, and a strong sense of hometown pride.

    Stop 4: Busan – Following Jungkook and Jimin’s Footsteps

    Busan isn’t just a concert city—it’s Jimin’s hometown, and for many fans, that alone makes it deeply special.

    Begin with Geumjeongsan, the highest mountain in Busan and a symbol of the Geumjeong District, where Jimin grew up. You can hike up, but many visitors choose the Geumgang Park cable car, which offers panoramic views through glass cabins. From the observatory, Busan stretches out in every direction, giving you a literal overview of Jimin’s hometown.

    Next, head to Oryukdo, a stunning coastal landmark Jimin visited in 2015. The sea here feels endless and refreshing, and the exact photo spot Jimin stood on is clearly marked on the ground, making it easy for fans to recreate the moment. The surrounding hill also offers beautiful viewpoints and nearby cafés for a short break.

    As the day winds down, make your way to Dadaepo Beach, one of Busan’s most emotional sunset spots. With wide walking paths, art installations, and glowing moonlight sculptures after dark, it’s a place that naturally invites reflection—perfect for ending a day shaped by music and memories.

    Finally, visit Gamcheon Culture Village, famous for its colorful hillside houses and narrow alleys. Among its many murals, you’ll find a beloved Jungkook & Jimin wall painting, now a must-stop photo spot for ARMY. Take your time wandering, grabbing coffee, and soaking in the playful yet nostalgic atmosphere.

    Stop 5: Busan → Jecheon – “Epilogue: Young Forever”

    From Busan, take the Jungang Line KTX inland to Jecheon, a quieter city surrounded by mountains and lakes. Jecheon is best known among fans as the filming location for “Epilogue: Young Forever.” The Jecheon Airfield, with its wide open space and dramatic skies, feels instantly recognizable the moment you arrive—it’s one of those places where the music starts playing in your head automatically.

    Beyond the airfield, Jecheon offers peaceful attractions perfect for decompressing after busy city travel. The Cheongpung Lake Cable Car gives sweeping views over the water and surrounding mountains, while lakeside areas invite slow walks and deep breaths. Jecheon’s calm atmosphere makes it an ideal final BTS stop before returning to the capital.

    Final Stop: Jecheon → Seoul – Full Circle

    From Jecheon Station, take the KTX back to Seoul, completing a loop that connects music, places, and seasons. By the time you return, the trip feels less like a concert journey and more like a personal story—one shaped by landscapes, lyrics, and shared memories.

    This itinerary isn’t about rushing from spot to spot. It’s about following the emotional map of BTS, across cities that reflect different chapters of their story—and maybe your own. For ARMY, this is what traveling to Korea can truly feel like.

  • Why BTS Concert 2026 Is the Perfect Reason to Visit Korea

    Seeing BTS live in Korea is already special. But what makes this tour truly worth planning a full trip around is when it happens. With concerts expected in April (Goyang) and June (Busan), the timing aligns almost perfectly with two of the best travel seasons in Korea. From cherry blossoms to early summer breezes, these months let you experience the country at its best—both on and off the stage.

    Why April Is Perfect for Traveling to Korea (Goyang Concert)

    April is widely considered the best month to travel in Korea. The weather is comfortably warm, yet not hot, with clear skies that make walking around cities and parks genuinely enjoyable. Unlike summer, there’s no humidity, and unlike winter, no heavy layers are needed—ideal conditions for first-time visitors and packed concert schedules.

    What truly sets April apart is cherry blossom season. Korea’s cherry blossoms bloom spectacularly but briefly, and in the Seoul metropolitan area, peak bloom is usually expected between the first and second week of April. This timing matches almost perfectly with the Goyang concerts, meaning you can attend the show and still enjoy peak spring scenery.

    Ilsan Lake Park is one of the easiest cherry blossom spots to visit from Goyang Stadium – only 20 minutes walk from the stadium.

    If you’re staying near Goyang Stadium, Ilsan Lake Park is one of the easiest cherry blossom spots to visit, offering wide paths, lakeside views, and a relaxed local atmosphere. Closer to central Seoul, Sinchon transforms with blossom-lined streets around university campuses, while Yeouido is one of Korea’s most famous cherry blossom destinations, known for long riverside paths filled with trees in full bloom. In April, even a simple walk after the concert can turn into a postcard moment.

    Beyond flowers, April also means fewer crowds compared to peak summer, better hotel availability, and perfect conditions for café hopping, walking tours, and day trips—all without rushing back indoors because of the heat or cold.

    Why June Is Ideal for Traveling to Korea (Busan Concert)

    June offers a very different, but equally appealing, side of Korea. It marks the beginning of summer, yet temperatures are still manageable, especially compared to July and August. Importantly, the monsoon season usually arrives toward the end of June, which means early- and mid-June often remain dry, sunny, and travel-friendly.

    This is where Busan truly shines. As Korea’s most loved summer travel destination, Busan comes alive in early summer. Cool sea breezes make coastal areas comfortable even during the day, and evenings by the water feel refreshing rather than hot. Staying near beaches like Haeundae or Gwangalli allows you to enjoy the ocean, night views, and open-air cafés—something Seoul simply can’t offer.

    Summer night walk along Haeundae beach can be a mesmerizing moment,

    June is also an excellent time to enjoy outdoor food markets, seaside walks, and late-night city views without the intense crowds and heat of peak summer vacation season. The atmosphere feels relaxed yet lively, making it easy to balance concert excitement with real downtime.

    A Concert That Becomes a Season, Not Just a Night

    What makes this BTS tour special isn’t only the performances—it’s the timing. April and June sit right in Korea’s sweet spot for travel, offering ideal weather, seasonal scenery, and smoother logistics compared to peak tourist months. Add efficient public transportation, world-class food, and distinct regional experiences between Seoul and Busan, and the concert becomes more than an event—it becomes the centerpiece of a memorable Korean journey.

    If you’ve ever thought about visiting Korea, this is the kind of timing that turns “maybe someday” into “this is it.”

  • Too Expensive to Stay in Busan? Smart Nearby Alternatives During the BTS Concert

    As BTS’s Busan concerts approach, hotel prices across the city have surged sharply. Recent reports show that accommodation rates in central Busan and popular tourist areas have spiked during the concert period, making it difficult for many fans to find reasonably priced places to stay.

    The good news is that Busan is surrounded by well-connected cities that offer much better value, without sacrificing convenience. If you’re traveling on a budget—or simply don’t want to overpay—these nearby cities are worth serious consideration.

    1. Yangsan – The Closest and Easiest Alternative

    Yangsan is a small but well-developed city located just north of Busan, often overlooked by international travelers. If the concert is held at Busan Asiad Main Stadium, Yangsan is only about 30 minutes away by taxi, with fares around KRW 20,000, making it surprisingly accessible. Yangsan is also connected to Busan via Subway Line 2, which means you can reach central Busan without relying solely on taxis.

    Compared to Busan city hotels, accommodation prices in Yangsan are noticeably lower, while still offering clean, modern options. For fans who want to stay close without paying peak Busan prices, Yangsan is one of the most practical choices.

    2. Gimhae – Great Transport and Easy Travel

    Gimhae is another strong alternative, especially for travelers arriving by air. Located near Gimhae International Airport, this city offers excellent transportation links, including the Busan–Gimhae Light Rail Transit, which connects directly into Busan’s subway network. From Gimhae to Asiad Main Stadium, the journey is also around 30 minutes by taxi, typically costing about KRW 20,000.

    Beyond convenience, Gimhae has a relaxed atmosphere, plenty of local restaurants, and a reputation for being easy to navigate. It’s a comfortable base for fans who want affordability without feeling too far removed from Busan.

    3. Changwon – More Distance, More Flexibility

    Changwon is a larger planned city located west of Busan, and while it’s farther from Asiad Main Stadium—roughly 40 to 50 minutes by taxi, with fares around KRW 40,000—it offers unique advantages. As a well-designed city, Changwon has spacious hotels with modern designs, wide roads, and generally better availability during peak periods.

    Staying here also opens up additional travel options: you can explore Masan and Jinhae, famous for coastal scenery and local food, or even extend your trip toward Tongyeong and Geoje Island, two of southern Korea’s most beautiful destinations. If your BTS trip doubles as a broader southern Korea itinerary, Changwon can be a surprisingly strategic base.

    Changwon can be a surprisingly strategic base if you are planning a trip to Tongyeong, often called “the Korean Naples” with its scenic ocean view.

    When concert demand pushes Busan hotel prices beyond reason, looking just outside the city can make a huge difference. Yangsan, Gimhae, and Changwon all offer better value, manageable travel times, and different travel experiences, depending on your priorities. For budget-conscious fans—or travelers who prefer a calmer stay—these cities prove that you don’t actually have to sleep in Busan to enjoy a Busan concert.

  • How Foreigners Can Access CCTV Footage in Korea When Something Goes Wrong

    Korea is widely known for its strong public safety and low crime rate, but that doesn’t mean problems never happen. Minor theft, hit-and-run accidents, or unexpected traffic incidents can affect anyone—foreign residents included.

    When something like this happens, many foreigners feel stuck, not because evidence doesn’t exist, but because they don’t know who to ask or how to ask. One of the most powerful tools in Korea is CCTV, and understanding how to legally access it can make a real difference.

    1. Can You Legally Request CCTV Footage in Korea?

    Yes. Under Korean law, if you yourself are captured in CCTV footage—for example, as a victim of an incident—you are considered an “information subject” and have the right to request access to that footage. This right is guaranteed under the Personal Information Protection Act. Importantly, police presence or a police report is not a legal requirement just to view CCTV footage.

    The Korean National Police Agency has made it clear that CCTV managers (such as apartment offices or store owners) must allow victims to view footage in which they appear. If other people appear in the video, their faces or identifying features can be blurred or masked, but the footage itself cannot be refused simply because it contains other individuals.

    2. How to Access Public CCTV (Crime-Prevention & Traffic Cameras)

    If the CCTV is installed in a public place—such as streets, alleys, parks, or intersections—the footage is usually managed by a local government office or police authority.

    • Neighborhood crime-prevention CCTV (often labeled like “Safety-000” or “Children-000”) is typically managed by the local district office (gu office). You can request access through Korea’s official Information Disclosure Portal(정보공개포털).
    • Traffic CCTV on main roads is often managed by the local police or a city traffic information center. Requests can be made through the relevant police station, especially if the footage is related to an accident.

    In investigation-related cases, CCTV collected by police during an investigation can also be requested by the incident party, once your status as the information subject is confirmed. Any third parties appearing in the footage will be fully blurred, and in some cases, the cost of masking may be charged to the requester.

    3. Can Foreigners Request CCTV Footage? – Absolutely Yes.

    Foreigners have the same legal rights as Koreans when it comes to accessing CCTV, as long as they meet basic residency conditions. The law explicitly allows information disclosure requests by foreigners who either (i) reside in Korea with a registered address, or (ii) are temporarily staying in Korea for academic or research purposes.

    In practice, this means most foreign residents—workers, students, exchange students, and long-term visitors—are fully eligible to request CCTV footage through the same procedures as Korean citizens.

    4. Practical Tips Foreigners Should Know

    Timing is critical. Many CCTV systems only store footage for about 30 days, sometimes less. If you think CCTV might be relevant, act quickly.

    When viewing footage, it’s often allowed to record the screen using your smartphone, as long as other people’s faces are already blurred. This is a practical way to preserve evidence before the footage is deleted.

    Also, don’t overlook private CCTV. In Korea, many small shops, cafés, parking garages, and convenience stores have their own cameras. If an incident happens nearby, it’s often effective to politely ask surrounding businesses whether their cameras captured the area. Store owners are generally cooperative, especially when you explain you are the victim.

    Finally, if a CCTV manager unreasonably refuses access despite your clear appearance in the footage, they may face administrative fines under Korean law. Complaints can be filed with the Personal Information Protection authorities, though in most everyday situations, calm explanation and understanding of your rights are enough to move things forward.

    Knowing how CCTV access works in Korea turns uncertainty into control. For foreigners living here, this knowledge can be the difference between feeling helpless and confidently protecting your rights when something unexpected happens.