Author: Deniece Kim | Foreigner Living in Korea
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11.11 | Pepero Day
On November 11th every year, Koreans across the country celebrate Pepero Day (빼빼로 데이) — a fun, chocolate-filled holiday dedicated to sharing thin, cookie-like sticks called Pepero. Although not a public holiday, it’s one of Korea’s most popular commercial celebrations, similar in spirit to Valentine’s Day. Friends, couples, colleagues, and even families exchange boxes of…
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Festivals in South Korea to Visit this October 2025
October in South Korea is one of the most magical times of the year — when crisp air, golden leaves, and cultural celebrations fill every corner of the country. From dazzling lanterns lighting up ancient rivers to coffee-scented streets by the sea, this month offers travelers an unforgettable lineup of seasonal festivities. Though a few…
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Strike Announced at Korean Airports, Fueling Worries Over Holiday Travel
If you are planning to visit Korea soon, you have to be informed that there will be a scheduled strike by unionized workers at 15 airports across the country. This could cause travel disruptions, especially since it coincides with one of Korea’s busiest holidays, Chuseok, when millions of people travel to visit family. According to…
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The Five Palaces of Seoul | Travel Korea
When visiting Seoul, the legacy of the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897) is everywhere. Among its most enduring landmarks are the Five Grand Palaces: Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung, Deoksugung, and Gyeonghuigung. Each palace has its own story, shaped by over 500 years of dynastic history, wars, and reconstruction.
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The Good and the Bad in Living in Korea as a Foreigner
Living in any country outside of your home will, of course, not be easy! You’re lucky if you have someone to tell you the good and the bad that come with it. It’s like having a warning and information on a package label—and that’s the best way to get everything you need to know, so…
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Why Are There So Many Coffee Shops in Korea?
Have you ever wondered why you see so many students and even professionals settled in at Korean cafes for hours, surrounded by laptops and textbooks? It’s a common sight! This phenomenon, playfully nicknamed ‘ca-gong (카공)’ (a blend of ‘cafe’ and ‘gongbu (공부),’ the Korean word for studying), highlights how cafes offer a truly unique blend…
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Top Michelin Restaurants in Seoul
Seoul’s culinary landscape is a harmonious blend of time-honored traditions and innovative gastronomy. For those seeking the pinnacle of dining experiences, this guide delves into the city’s esteemed Michelin-starred establishments, offering insights into their unique offerings, celebrated chefs, and notable accolades.
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A Guide to Korean Dining Etiquette
Dining in Korea isn’t just about food — it’s a reflection of the country’s deep-rooted values of respect, harmony, and mindfulness. As a foreigner, no one expects you to get everything perfect, especially at first. But Korea is a society that thrives on living considerately with others, and showing awareness of dining etiquette is a…
