Forever in My Heart: 8 Days in Korea with the Ones I Love
This trip will forever stay in my heart.
It felt like a breath of fresh air for my soul. After over a year of taking good care of myself—both physically and mentally—traveling with my loved ones hit differently. I had been looking forward to this trip for so many wonderful reasons.
First and foremost, it was the chance to spend quality time with my family—this time with my mom, my oppa (brother), my aunties, and my cousins. I feel so lucky to have had this opportunity, especially to reconnect with my cousin sister, who had been away in the UK for nearly a decade. Listening to her stories—about her work, about life during the pandemic—stirred up a mix of emotions in me. Even though we hadn’t seen each other in years, it felt like no time had passed. She’s like a little sister to me, and our bond remains unshaken.
After years of chasing dreams and working hard, I feel so deeply grateful to finally slow down and share this time with my mom, my brother, and my mom’s closest sisters. I want to spend more time loving and caring for them—truly being present.
Second, Korea has always been on my wish list. Years ago, when I was living with my brother in his condo in Puchong, we used to watch Korean variety shows together. That’s how we got to know Korean culture, and ever since, it’s held a special place in my heart. It felt so surreal to finally set foot in Korea and experience the culture firsthand.
And lastly, this trip was a personal checkpoint—a moment for me to see if I had truly healed from my fears and anxiety. And I can proudly say: yes, I have. Though there were many moments I wished my partner could have been there with me, I’m proud of the independence I’ve built. I was brave. And I was fearless. And I was so happy.
We went on an 8-day, 6-night tour. We decided to join a guided tour so it would be more convenient and comfortable for our elders, and we didn’t have to worry about the logistics. Everything was well taken care of, which allowed us to fully enjoy each moment together.
Watch the summary video of our trip below — a little glimpse into the beautiful memories we created.
Day 1: Hello, Korea!
We met up at KLIA before our departure to Incheon. Just before we left, my cousin brother surprised me with a blind box toy — and it instantly became my lucky charm, dangling proudly on my bag throughout the whole trip. I love it! Thank you so much!
The flight took around 6 hours and 10 minutes. South Korea is one hour ahead of Malaysia, and although it’s officially spring (March to May), the weather had been a bit unpredictable lately — news reports even mentioned snowfall in some areas just days before we arrived. And true enough, when we touched down, the air was slightly chilly, which made everything feel even more exciting and fresh.
We checked in at the Royal Emporium Hotel, located near Incheon. The hotel had a clean, modern vibe — cozy rooms with comfortable beds and big windows that let in plenty of natural light. The lobby was welcoming, and the location made it easy to wander around and explore the surrounding neighborhood.
After settling in and unpacking, my cousins, brother, and I decided to head out and explore. We were so excited, but oh my gosh — it was so cold! The wind hit us hard, and the moment it blew into my face, my eyes started tearing up like crazy. It felt like the wind literally dried up my eyeballs in seconds!
We stopped by a nearby restaurant, just wanting to try a simple bowl of noodles. But to our surprise, we found out that each person had to order a full meal from the menu. We weren’t that hungry yet, so we politely left and continued our little adventure.
That’s when we stumbled upon a self-service cup noodle spot — and it was such a fun experience! We picked two flavors of instant cup noodles, cooked them using a vending-style machine, and even heated up some sausages for snacks. It felt like such a unique and local moment, something you wouldn’t experience on a typical tourist route.
There were convenience stores around too, so I grabbed a heated onigiri — and let me tell you, it was delicious. Simple food, cold weather, and good company. It was the perfect way to kick off our Korean adventure.
Day 2: A Hanbok Dream, Palaces, and Our First Taste of Jeju
Waking up this morning, I was filled with excitement—we were finally going to experience wearing hanbok and visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace!
After breakfast, we headed to The Artist Hanbok, a popular hanbok rental studio. The place was bustling with tourists. We picked our outfits, and for the ladies, there was a queue to get our hair styled after changing. There were extra charges for hair accessories and other add-ons, but the whole experience felt so traditional and charming.
Once everyone was ready, we walked to our transport, and as our driver took us to the National Folk Museum of Korea, we passed by the Blue House (Cheong Wa Dae) — the former executive office and residence of the South Korean president. Surrounded by lush forests and set against Bugaksan Mountain, the Blue House is known for its striking blue tiles and grand traditional architecture.
At the National Folk Museum of Korea, our guide took us on a fascinating tour through Korea’s cultural history. We learned about the traditional Korean way of life, from farming tools to ancestral rituals, wedding customs, and more. Wearing our hanbok, we couldn’t resist snapping photos along the way—it was such a unique experience to blend into the setting like we were part of history!
After the museum, we strolled over to Gyeongbokgung Palace, the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty, originally built in 1395. It’s the largest and most beautiful of the Five Grand Palaces, featuring majestic gates, serene courtyards, and a breathtaking backdrop of mountains. This was where we went all out with our photos and videos—especially me! I couldn’t stop moving around with joy. Expressing my excitement through playful poses and twirls made my heart sing.
Eventually, we returned the hanboks and headed for lunch. We had a comforting bowl of Gamjatang (pork bone potato soup)—a rich, spicy stew made with tender pork bones, potatoes, vegetables, and perilla leaves, served with a generous spread of Korean side dishes (banchan). It was our first proper meal in Korea, and we loved it! We also noticed how common it is in Korea to dine in groups of four at square tables, which made meals feel intimate and connected.
Next, we made our way to Ikseon-dong, one of Seoul’s trendiest neighborhoods—a blend of old hanok (traditional houses) and modern cafes, boutiques, and snack shops. We tried the famous salted butter bread, which was warm, crispy on the outside, and incredibly fluffy inside—so good! We continued hunting for local must-try foods but sadly couldn’t find the lemon ice cream our guide highly recommended.
My brother and I stopped by a café to get some drinks. While waiting for our order, we took photos and videos around the area. Unfortunately, the café was super crowded, and we had to leave before our drinks were ready due to our evening flight—such a bummer!
We headed to the airport and took a short flight from Seoul ✈️ Jeju Island. Upon landing, we were treated to a delicious dinner of grilled fish, which tasted like sok yu back home in Malaysia—crispy skin, tender meat, and lightly seasoned to perfection.
We checked in at Hotel Air City Jeju, dropped our bags in the room, and went for a short evening walk around the area. We ended the night with Korean fried chicken topped with onions and cheese—crispy, savory, and just the right amount of indulgent. After a short chat and some laughs, we headed back up to our rooms to rest and recharge for another day of adventure.
Day 3: Wind in My Hair, Magic in the Air – Exploring Jeju Island
We woke up early, had a quick hotel breakfast, and set off for our first destination: Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak).
This majestic tuff cone crater was formed by a volcanic eruption over 5,000 years ago. It rises sharply from the sea on the eastern coast of Jeju Island and is known for offering one of the most beautiful sunrise views in Korea—hence the name. The peak is even listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
I absolutely loved this place! The weather was cold when we arrived, but the air was fresh and the scenery—wow, it was simply mesmerizing. Before we started the hike, we took a quick toilet break. On the way to the trailhead, we spotted one of Jeju’s iconic Dol Hareubang — large stone statues carved from volcanic rock, often referred to as “grandfather statues.” These figures are believed to be guardians, symbolizing protection and fertility, and they’re a beloved emblem of the island.
We began the hike, and it took me about 20 minutes to reach the top. Along the way, I felt the chilly wind brushing against my face, and when I reached the peak, it took my breath away—literally and emotionally. The view of the crater surrounded by the endless blue ocean was so iconic and calming. I stood there, just soaking it all in.
On my way down, I visited the Haenyeo site—Jeju’s legendary women divers. These incredible women, often elderly, dive without oxygen tanks to harvest seafood like abalone, sea urchins, and sea cucumbers. It’s a beautiful symbol of strength, resilience, and the island’s matriarchal heritage. The sea in that area was a stunning shade of blue-green, and I managed to snap a few great photos and videos with help from a kind local tourist. You could even see fresh abalone and sea cucumbers being sold right by the shore. What a sight!
Afterward, we made a lovely stop at the seasonal rape flower fields (油菜花田). We were told how lucky we were to catch them in full bloom that day—it felt like perfect timing. The golden-yellow flowers stretched endlessly beneath the wide open sky, swaying gently in the breeze. It truly felt like stepping into a postcard. We didn’t waste a moment—we wandered into the field, soaking in the vibrant beauty, before heading off to our next stop.
Next, we visited a tangerine and hallabong farm. Even on the way there, we spotted adorable little tangerine trees lining the roadside. It was such a charming and refreshing sight!
Curious about the difference between tangerines and hallabong?
Tangerines are small, easy-to-peel citrus fruits with a bright, tangy flavor—commonly grown across Jeju Island. Hallabong, on the other hand, is a premium variety of citrus fruit that’s sweeter, juicier, and larger. It has a signature “bump” or “nob” on the top (like a little hat!) and gets its name from Mount Hallasan, the iconic volcano of Jeju. Hallabong is often seen as a seasonal delicacy in Korea.
Before leaving the farm, we dropped by the shop to grab some tangerine-flavored goodies and treated ourselves to a chilled bottle of fresh tangerine juice. It was so delicious and refreshing—sweet, citrusy, and the perfect pick-me-up after all that exploring.
Next, we headed to Seongeup Folk Village, a preserved traditional village where people still live to this day. Nestled at the foot of Hallasan Mountain, this village offers a rare glimpse into life during the Joseon Dynasty. We were warmly welcomed by a very talented and enthusiastic guide from Taiwan, who brought the village to life with her storytelling. She walked us through the narrow paths and shared the rich history and culture of Jeju’s early inhabitants.
We explored centuries-old stone houses that were built in a way unique to Jeju. I was told that the walls were made from a mixture of black lava rock and dried horse dung, a natural insulation method that helped keep the homes warm during winter and cool in the summer. The thatched roofs were tied down with ropes to withstand Jeju’s strong winds, and traditional water jars were placed in front of homes—once used to store drinking water and offer a warm welcome to guests. It was fascinating to see how resourceful and in tune with nature the villagers were in adapting to their environment. We also learned about Jeju’s unique customs, from Jeju-style fermented food, to ancestral rituals and farming practices.
And here’s something cool—Seongeup Folk Village was actually a filming location for the iconic Korean historical drama, Dae Jang Geum (대장금). It added an extra layer of magic to walk through the same paths once used in such a beloved series that introduced Korean culture and cuisine to the world.
After the tour, we were introduced to some of the local specialties, including horse bone powder (said to be good for joint health), omija (five-flavor berry) juice, and even a moisturising lotion made with natural local ingredients. I decided to buy a bottle of omija juice—they’re unique to Korea and especially Jeju. What makes them special is that they carry all five flavors: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and pungent. They’re known for their antioxidant properties and are traditionally used to make a refreshing tea or juice that helps with fatigue and boosts immunity. Love that it’s both delicious and beneficial!
And then—it was lunch time! Something I had been looking forward to all day: Korean BBQ with lotsa banchan (side dishes). The sizzling grilled meat paired with warm rice, crispy kimchi, and fresh greens was so comforting. I felt full, satisfied, and completely content.
After lunch, we took a short break at Delekoomda Café, where each of us got to choose between a hot Americano or a fruit juice. The café had a warm and cozy vibe, with large floor-to-ceiling windows that offered a calming view of the peaceful countryside. I ordered a hot Americano, and it was just what I needed—comforting and grounding—especially on a rainy, chilly afternoon.
The outdoor area of Delekoomda Café felt more like a miniature farm-style playground, perfect for stretching our legs and taking in the fresh air. My cousin and I took a gentle stroll around the grounds, and to our delight, we came across adorable little lambs and horses nearby. The combination of coffee, misty weather, and animals made the whole stop feel like a scene from a peaceful countryside storybook.
Then we made our way to the Snoopy Garden—a lovely blend of indoor exhibits and outdoor garden trails filled with Peanuts characters like Snoopy, Charlie Brown, and Woodstock. The place had a whimsical and peaceful charm, perfect for light-hearted fun, slow walks, and lots of photos. Whether you’re a big Snoopy fan or not, it’s easy to appreciate the creativity and joy of the place.
As for me—honestly, I’m quite neutral about Snoopy. I wasn’t deeply into the comics, but I do remember being introduced to the character through those free cartoon-themed plates from Colgate toothpaste promotions back in the day! So being surrounded by all things Snoopy felt nostalgic in a really unexpected way.
After that, we made a stop at Alpaca World, where we had the chance to get up close with some adorable alpacas—and yes, we even got to feed them! Some were shy and kept their distance, while others were curious and came right up to us, poking their noses around. Each one had its own personality, and it quickly turned into one of those unexpected but totally heartwarming highlights of the day.
The rain was still gently falling, and the wind picked up every now and then, but I’m so glad we pushed through with our raincoats and umbrellas. It made the whole experience feel a bit like a gentle adventure—messy hair, muddy shoes, but lots of laughter and cute alpaca moments. What an experience!
Then we visited Yongduam Rock (Dragon Head Rock), a dramatic lava formation that juts out into the sea—shaped just like a dragon’s head emerging from the waves. According to local legend, a dragon once tried to steal a sacred jade from Hallasan Mountain, but was struck down by a guardian spirit. The dragon fell into the ocean, and its body turned to stone—forever frozen mid-leap. Nearby, there was also a stone mermaid sculpture, perfectly placed for photos with the sea as a backdrop.
My brother and I couldn’t resist the moment—we went full creative mode and filmed some dramatic videos with the wind and waves for effect. Haha, such a fun memory!
Just before dinner, we also made a stop at Mysterious Road—a famous optical illusion spot where vehicles appear to roll uphill on their own. It was a quirky little experience that made everyone go “Whoa, how is that possible?”
We ended the day with a seafood dinner. It wasn’t exactly our favorite—the taste was a bit too fishy, and the abalone and crab weren’t as fresh as we expected. Still, it was part of the full experience.
Back at the hotel, my brother thoughtfully got us a warm herbal drink, which is quite popular in Korea—especially when you’re feeling a little tired or under the weather. It was comforting, and with that, we wrapped up the night and called it a day.
Day 4 – Seoul
We woke up early, had breakfast, and got ready to catch our flight from Jeju Island ✈️ back to Seoul. I couldn’t believe the trip was already halfway through—how time flies. A part of me quietly wished time would slow down, just so I could soak in every moment a little longer.
Our first stop after landing was Haechan Songhak Laver Museum, also known as the Kimchi & Seaweed Museum. It’s a place that celebrates the rich culture and heritage of Korea’s iconic foods—seaweed (gim) and kimchi. A Taiwanese guide gave us a lively walkthrough of the seaweed farming process, the varieties of gim, and how it became such a staple in Korean cuisine. We also got to taste different seaweed samples—they were surprisingly flavorful and crispy!
One of the highlights there was a fun hands-on session: we learned how to make Korean rice rolls (gimbap). Did you know that Korean gimbap is usually square-shaped, unlike the round sushi rolls from Japan? After that, we also got to make our own kimchi, and what made it even more meaningful was knowing that the kimchi we made would be donated to elderly homes. That part truly warmed my heart.
Of course, we didn’t leave empty-handed—I made sure to grab some tasty seaweed to bring home. A little something to look forward to after the trip, hehe.
Next up: lunch time! And oh my, this was definitely one of the most memorable meals of the trip. We dined at a Michelin-star restaurant that served Samgyetang—Korean ginseng chicken soup with glutinous rice stuffed inside the whole chicken. The broth was rich yet comforting, the perfect nourishment after a chilly day. Many of us emptied our bowls down to the last drop!
A fun detail: the soup was served with radish kimchi (kkakdugi). It’s believed that the crunch and refreshing bite of radish balances the richness of the ginseng broth—helping digestion and enhancing the flavors.
After our hearty meal, we made our way to the scenic Nami Island—a place I’ve always dreamed of visiting, but it still managed to exceed every expectation.
Located in Chuncheon, Nami Island is a half-moon shaped island in the middle of the Han River, known for its stunning tree-lined paths and tranquil natural beauty. It’s especially famous as the filming location of the beloved K-drama Winter Sonata, which made it a romantic destination for fans from all over the world. The moment you arrive, you’re greeted by tall metasequoia and pine trees, charming riverside trails, and whimsical corners filled with sculptures, books, and art.
I fell completely in love with this place—it quickly became one of my favorite moments of the entire trip. What made it even more magical was that… I experienced snow for the very first time in my life—on this very island! ❄️
Can you believe it? Within the span of just a few hours, we witnessed snowfall, sunshine, and rain—all in one visit. It felt surreal, almost like a dream. I was so grateful I packed my winter jacket, because that boat ride to the island was absolutely freezing. But once we stepped foot on Nami Island, every shiver was worth it.
We were guided to the iconic spot from Winter Sonata, where we couldn’t help but snap photos and take videos. The path lined with cherry blossoms had me in awe—it felt like walking through a fairytale. Honestly, I could’ve spent the whole day there just soaking it all in.
This island will always hold a special place in my heart.
After that heartwarming and chilly adventure, we returned to the mainland and had an early dinner—a dish called Dak Galbi, stir-fried spicy chicken with vegetables, rice cakes, and sweet potatoes on a hot plate. It tasted a bit different from what I’m used to back in Malaysia, but it was still yummy. The unexpected star of the meal for me? The pickled radish! I loved it so much, I ate so much. 😂
We then checked in to our hotel for the night—Hanhwa Resort Seorak Sorano, located near Seoraksan National Park. The resort is spacious and family-friendly, with large rooms that have a traditional-meets-modern feel. The area is peaceful, surrounded by mountains and fresh air. It was the perfect place to wind down after such an emotional and beautiful day.
Day 5 – Mount Sorak, Sinheungsa Temple and Everland
Woke up feeling so refreshed—our room at Hanhwa Resort Seorak Sorano truly felt like a home away from home. Cozy, clean, and spacious, it was such a comforting place to wake up in.
We were told that the breakfast buffet at the resort would be the best and most luxurious one of the entire trip—and it absolutely lived up to the hype! The buffet spread was extensive, offering both Korean and Western selections: from fresh fruits, salads, toast, eggs, and sausages, to porridge, dumplings, kimchi, grilled vegetables, and warm local delicacies.
One of the best parts? We got to make our own croffles—crispy, golden waffles made from buttery croissants. Topped with syrup or fresh cream, they were a total treat! I also tried the dry pollack soup, a nourishing traditional Korean dish that’s savory, soothing, and perfect for cold weather. It warmed me right up from the inside.
After our hearty breakfast, we took some time to snap photos outside the resort. The view? Absolutely stunning. We were surrounded by crisp air, lush greenery, and majestic mountains rising in the background. A peaceful, postcard-perfect morning.
Then came one of the biggest highlights of the trip: our visit to Mt. Seorak National Park—a place that will stay in my heart forever.
This was the moment where I finally got to touch and play with real snow for the first time in my life! ❄️😭 Praise the Lord for this amazing gift! Honestly, it felt like I had hit the jackpot with this trip—the snow, the views, the weather, the timing—everything just felt so perfectly aligned.
When we arrived at the park, we made our way to the cable car station. The queue moved quite smoothly, and before long, we were soaring up the mountain, taking in the breathtaking views of Seoraksan from above.
Once we reached the cable car stop, we hiked up the rest of the way to the peak. I was with my mom, and we both moved slowly and mindfully—the trail was snowy and the rocks were slippery, but every step brought us closer to a spectacular view.
And then we reached the top.
It was truly mind-blowing. The peaks, the chilly wind against our faces, the beautiful landscape—it was just so surreal. We took our time, snapped photos, captured videos, and simply soaked in the moment.
Standing there, I couldn’t help but feel overwhelmed with gratitude and joy. This experience—this mountain, this snow, this memory with my mom—will always be one of the most beautiful parts of my journey.
Next, we made our way to Sinheungsa Temple, a serene and historical Buddhist temple nestled within Seoraksan National Park.
Sinheungsa is believed to be the oldest Zen temple in the world, originally built in the 7th century during the Silla Dynasty. The temple complex is surrounded by towering pine trees and dramatic mountain backdrops, creating a peaceful and meditative atmosphere. As we walked in, we were greeted by the Great Bronze Buddha (Tongil Daebul)—a massive seated Buddha statue that symbolizes peace, unity, and enlightenment.
I strolled around the temple grounds with my aunty, snapping photos of the grand Buddha and soaking in the calm energy of the place. The sound of the wind, the crisp mountain air, and the quiet chanting from within the temple halls made it such a grounding experience. I paused a few times to take it all in—so much beauty, stillness, and reverence in one space.
After that, it was time to eat again! For lunch, we had the famous six-layer seafood steamed dish, featuring crab, abalone, shellfish, and more, stacked in steaming trays one after another.
Now, we’re not usually big fans of seafood, but we were pleasantly surprised—the flavors were fresh and comforting, and the soup that came from the mix of seafood juices was really tasty with the noodles.
After lunch, we made our way to Everland—South Korea’s largest theme park!
From the moment we arrived, it felt like stepping into a fairytale. The entrance was vibrant and magical, filled with colors, music, and laughter. We felt like kids again!
Our first stop was the Everland Safari World, which we reached via a scenic cable car ride across the park. The safari experience was such a highlight! We boarded a special bus that took us up close to incredible wildlife—tigers, lions and brown bears! They were all much bigger and more majestic than the ones we usually see back home in Malaysia. Some bears even stood on two legs —it was both adorable and awe-inspiring!
After the safari, we visited the Giant Panda World. The pandas were absolutely adorable, munching on bamboo and lounging lazily—so chill and cute. We then continued to explore the rest of Everland, passing through different themed zones with animals, gardens, and fun installations. One of the most stunning spots was the flower garden—vivid rows of tulips, daffodils, and colorful blooms arranged in perfect harmony. A total dream for photos!
For dinner, we ate at China Moon inside the park. I ordered jajangmyeon (black bean noodles)—simple, savory, and comforting. It hit the spot after a long day of exploring.
And just when we thought the day couldn’t get any better, my brother surprised everyone by suggesting we all ride the carousel together—yes, even our aunties joined! It was such a sweet and nostalgic moment, twirling under the sparkling lights. Afterward, we went on a few fun rides like the spinning ride and bumper cars that left us giggling.
As the night fell, we strolled slowly toward the exit, soaking in the magical atmosphere of Everland one last time.
Finally, we checked in at Ramada by Wyndham Yongin and called it a night—our hearts full and our feet tired from such a memorable day.
Day 6 – Seoul Sky Observatory & The Painters: Hero Show
I woke up to a beautiful sunrise view from my hotel room—what a way to start the day! After breakfast, we took a few moments to step outside and snap some photos of the lovely morning light before checking out.
Our first stop was the Korean Ginseng Outlet. I honestly didn’t realize how important ginseng is in Korean culture until the guide explained everything! Korea is famous for its high-quality 6-year-old ginseng, known for boosting energy, strengthening immunity, and improving blood circulation. We also learned about different types like white ginseng, red ginseng, and even black ginseng—which undergoes multiple steaming and drying processes to enhance its potency.
After learning about all the incredible health benefits, I couldn’t help but feel the urge to buy some—especially for my oppa.
Next, we dropped by Guboncho, a beloved Korean local skincare brand rooted in traditional hanbang (Korean herbal medicine). Their products use natural herbs and ancient recipes designed to balance and nourish the skin from within. My brother picked up some moisturizing lotions and serums as souvenirs.
Then came the moment we were waiting for—lunch! Today’s menu was the iconic budaejjigae (Korean army stew). But before that, while waiting in line, we treated ourselves to some delicious street snacks nearby. The surprise winner? The crispy glutinous rice balls—so chewy and flavorful!
When we finally sat down for our budaejjigae meal, it did not disappoint. The stew came bubbling with sausage, tofu, kimchi, ramen noodles, and more. For me though, the real MVP was the pickled perilla leaves—SO good that I couldn’t stop eating them!
After our satisfying meal, we headed over to the Seoul Sky Observatory in Lotte World Tower—the tallest building in South Korea, and the fifth tallest in the world. Riding one of the fastest elevators, we zoomed up to the 117th floor and were met with breathtaking panoramic views of Seoul. The glass floor section was both thrilling and slightly terrifying, but such a cool experience!
Next up was a fun twist—THE PAINTERS: HERO Show. It was a high-energy, non-verbal performance where artists painted live on stage with dramatic music, dance, and lights. No spoken words, just pure talent and creativity. The way they combined art and performance was both humorous and inspiring—definitely a unique and unforgettable show.
We wrapped up the day with a delicious dinner of shabu shabu and bibimbap—a comforting and hearty combo that warmed us up from the inside out.
What made the evening even more special was the little celebration we planned for my mom’s birthday. With the help of our amazing guide, we were able to surprise her with a beautiful strawberry cake right at the restaurant. Her face lit up with joy, and we could tell it meant a lot. We really hoped this small gesture would become a sweet and memorable moment for her—and we think it did. ❤️
After dinner, we checked in to Sollago Myeongdong Hotel & Residence, our cozy base right in the heart of Seoul. The location was perfect for one last adventure.
Not ready to end the night just yet, my cousins, brother, and I decided to go for a stroll through Myeongdong. The streets were buzzing with energy—shopping, snacks, and bright city lights everywhere. We tried some tasty street food and picked up a few goodies to bring home.
And since it was our last night in Korea, we wanted to make it extra memorable. So, in true fun-loving spirit, we practiced and recorded a dance video right on the streets! Music, laughter, and good vibes—it was such a blast and the perfect way to end our trip on a high.
Day 7 (Our Final Day)
It’s the last day in Korea—it’s hard to believe how quickly time flew by! We had a lovely breakfast to kickstart the day before heading to a Liver Supplement Shop to learn more about some of the local health products. It was interesting to see how much emphasis there is on natural wellness in Korea!
Next up, we went to Ashley Queens, a Korean + International buffet, where we indulged in a delicious mix of local and international dishes. The buffet offered a variety of flavors that left us all feeling very satisfied and happy!
After lunch, we made our way to Shinsegae, a popular duty-free shopping destination. We picked up a few last-minute items before wrapping up our shopping spree.
For our final stop, we spent time in Myeongdong, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere one last time. We shopped for souvenirs, grabbed coffee, juice, and pastries at Tour Le Jous, and had another round of strolling through the lively streets.
For our last dinner in Korea, we enjoyed Korean jokbal—a flavorful, tender dish of pig’s trotters that left us feeling full and happy. The highlight was when my cousin brother suggested boiling the pig trotters in soup, which made it extra delicious! It was the perfect way to end our food adventures.
After dinner, it was time to head to the airport. Although it was a bit bittersweet to say goodbye, we were ready to return to our home sweet home with our hearts full of memories from this incredible journey.
