12 Hour Adventurous Layover in South Korea
South Korea is well known worldwide for its k-dramas, k-pop, and technology conglomerates like Samsung, LG, and Hyundai. Besides all the technological achievements, Korea is Rich with history and amazing food. A layover in South Korea just for the FOOD scene is worth the trip alone. With a combination of classic and modern touches. With that said, let’s eat and explore this wonderful country.
Layover in South Korea: Facts
The population of S.Korea is relatively homogeneous; out of the 51 million people in Korea, only 2 million are foreigners. A large majority of people speak Korean and are ethnically Korean. Elders tend to only speak Korean while the youth may speak Korean and English.
The biggest complaint foreigners have while traveling to South Korea is the ridiculous visa procedures. In fact, the foreign population has been steadily declining for decades due to visa issues. Although staying in Korea for a few weeks will mostly be fine, staying more than 3 months might be a headache for most foreigners.
Arriving in South Korea
International flights usually land at the Incheon International Airport. Known as one of the cleanest and modern airports in the world. The Incheon International Airport offers a wide variety of transportation options to tourists, including trains, taxis, and busses. Most tourists take the bus or train to the city center.
I am going to provide my ideal way to get to the city, but also a links to other local transportation ways.
Taking a bus is the cheapest option, busses cost between 7,000 Won and 10,000 Won, the equivalent of 6$ and 9$. If you choose to take a taxi, you can either use apps like KakoTaxi or Uber or you could take one of the Taxis parked outside of the airport.
5 things you MUST See & Do in 48 hours
One of the best and relaxing things while doing a layover in Korea is visiting a traditional bathhouse. This will rest and rejuvenate your body and you won’t be “jet lag” for your next destination.
Traditional Bathhouse (Jjimjilbang)
Bamdokkaebi Night Market
Noryangjin Fishmarket
- Namsan Seoul Tower
If you’re looking for an amazing view of Seoul, you should definitely visit Namsan Seoul Tower! The Seoul Tower is on the top of one of the tallest hills in South Korea, it gives tourists a 360 view of Seoul. The view is even more beautiful if you visit it at night. Usually, there are cable cars or busses you can take to the top of the hill. Although if you’re looking for a challenge, you can try hiking instead!
- Lotte Tower Known as the tallest building in Korea and the 5th largest building in the world, Lotte Tower is a must see for all tourists. You’ll be able to drink beverages and gaze at one of the most advanced cities in the world while in one of the tallest buildings in the world! As a bonus, you can also visit the beautiful lake right next to Lotte Tower!
- Banpo Bridge
If you’re looking for a beautiful place to picnic, the banpo bridge is perfect for you! There are various parks and cafes near Banpo bridge you can visit to eat and drink while gazing at a truly mesmerizing view.
- Seoul Grand Park
Seoul Grand Park offers a wide variety of entertainment options. Including but not limited to Zoos, Seoul Land (an amusement park), ponds, and hills you can hike in!
6 Must try foods & drinks in South Korea
Soju
- Milkis
Milkis is a soft drink made with Milk and sugar. It is sold only in Korea and tastes awesome!
- Kimbap
Kimbap is a Korean dish usually made with Tuna, carrots, cucumbers, eggs, fish cakes, and yellow pickled daikon. Some foreigners say it looks a lot like sushi.
- Tteokbokki
Tteokbokki is a popular Korean dish made with small rice cakes, noodles, boiled eggs, fish cakes, kimchi, and scallions.
- Kimchi
Kimchi is a spicy side dish made of salted and fermented napa cabbage, radish, and special seasoning. It’s delicious and goes well with almost all Korean food. You can also try eating it with Korean rice!
- Yellow pickled radish
Yellow pickled radish goes well with almost anything you can eat, it’s sweet and bite sized radish you can eat alone or as a side dish. Koreans usually eat it after lunch to aid digestion.
- Bulgogi
Bulgogi is usually the favorite Korean dish of foreigners. It is a mix of ground beef, cucumbers, carrots, eggs, and onions!
2 Non-tourist things to-do
- Ride the local busses and subways
- Try learning some Korean and talking with locals.
Grab a drink?
Conclusion
Overall, Korea is a fascinating country in many areas like entertainment, technology, history, and food! If you’re looking for a new experience in a country with many different sides and a fascinating culture, Korea is perfect
