Olympic Winter Games PyeongChang 2018

Games Period: 9 - 25 February 2018 (17 days)
Venue Location: PyeongChang, Gangneung, Jeongseon

[Introduction]
The XXIII Olympic Winter Games will be held for 17 days from 9 to 25 February 2018 in PyeongChang, Gangwon Province, the Republic of Korea. PyeongChang was selected as the host city of the 2018 Olympic Winter Games after receiving a majority vote at the 123rd IOC Session held on 6 July 2011 after three consecutive bids. The Olympic Winter Games will be held in Korea for the first time in 30 years after the Seoul Olympic Games in 1988. PyeongChang will be the stage for the Opening and Closing Ceremonies and most snow sports. Alpine speed events will take place in Jeongseon, and all ice sports will be competed in the coastal city of Gangneung.

[Vision]
The world’s best athletes will compete on Asia’s centre stage to launch New Horizons in winter sports and create a sustainable legacy for Gangwon Province and the Republic of Korea.

[Goals of PyeongChang 2018]

• The Olympic Games without language barriers will be realized through the world’s best automatic interpretation and translation technologies.
• We will reinforce cooperation so that we can promote the ICT and related convergence industries and tourism in Korea.

[Slogan]

Passion.Connected.

Passion.Connected refers to a world in which everyone is connected with shared passion for winter sports, a world open to any generation anywhere, anytime, to open new horizons in the continued growth of winter sports.

'Passion' means a very strong feeling, affection and something one is fond of. PyeongChang is a place of global festivals that inspires each other and symbolises a place where Koreans share their warm affection. It also expresses the Olympic spirit and the warm heartedness of Koreans.

'Connected' means to link, join, combine, bridge , and understand. PyeongChang is a place where all generations can participate and inspire each other anytime and anywhere through Korea’s innovative technology and cultural convergence, and it means opening a new horizon for a new beginning, a harmonized world and the Olympic Winter Games.

[Emblem]

The emblem symbolises a world open to everyone. It combines the image of ice and snow, winter sports stars (athletes), and people from all over the world, coming together in PyeongChang where heaven meets earth.

[Sports]

Athletes taking part in the Olympic Winter Games PyeongChang 2018 will compete in 102 events in 15 sport disciplines. The Games will be the first ever Olympic Winter Games with over 100 gold medals.

In particular, 6 new events such as Snowboard Big Air (men, women), Speed Skating Mass Start (men, women), Curling Mixed Doubles, Alpine Skiing Team Event will be added to the programme. PyeongChang 2018 will also be the stage for the greatest number of women’s and mixed events in the history of Olympic Winter Games.

[Mascot]

Soohorang, the mascot of the Olympic Winter Games PyeongChang 2018 took its motif from white tiger, which has been long considered Korea’s guardian animal. “Sooho”, meaning protection in Korean, symbolises protection offered to the athletes, spectators and other participants in the 2018 Games. “Rang” comes from the middle letter of “Ho-rang-i”, the Korean word for “Tiger”, and is also the last letter of “Jeong-seon A-ri-rang”, a cherished traditional folk song of Gangwon Province, where the Games will be held. Soohorang not only has a dauntless spirit and passion but also is a trustworthy friend who protects the athletes, spectators and all participants in the Olympic Games.

Korean Marts in Kuala Lumpur

Korean marts (한인마트) were blooming in the neighborhood where I stayed. In the neighborhood itself, from existing 4 Korean marts, it has grown up to 9 Korean marts till to-date. 4 in Desa Sri Hartamas and 4 in Mont' Kiara & Solaris Mont' Kiara. If add in the other 6 Korean Marts in Ampang, Total 15 Korean Marts in KL till today.

Overall, almost all those basic Korean food product that generally needed for Korean cooking and living can be found in all Korean Marts above. The only difference is each Korean Mart have their own preference range of products and brands which they are selling.

Desa Sri Hartamas 데사스리 하타마스

(1) Seoul Mart 서울 마트

One of the pioneer Korean Mart in Desa Sri Hartamas that has been operate for more than a decade. I frequent Seoul Mart as most of the items I am looking for can be obtain here - from veggie, meat, kimchi, instant food, snacks, frozen foods, beauty care, cosmetic to various household items. They also selling ready to go food such as kimbap or steam wang-mandu (dumplings), or tteok (sticky rice). Delivery service available for purchase above RM300 (Thanks Soo Hwei for the info). 

Address: 27, Jalan 23/70a, Plaza Crystal Ville Centre, Desa Sri Hartamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur

Phone: 03-6201 3060

(2) Lotte Mart 롯데 마트

Just two blocks away from Seoul Mart, located same row as Pelita Nasi Kandar, Lotte Mart is also another pioneer Korean Mart in town operate for many years in Desa Sri Hartamas. We would grab some sales items here sometimes especially ramyeon.  

Address: 26G, Jalan 25/70a, Desa Sri Hartamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur

Phone: 03-2300 2400

(3) Lee Mart 이 마트

New Korean mart open around a years ago. The mart name was E-Mart when they first open. Later rename to Lee Mart probably due to copyright issue. Although there are already 3 Korean marts nearby (all are within few hundred meters distance). Lee Mart still have it's regular customers, each time I pass by they do have customer inside. Lee-Mart located same row as 99 speed mart, KFC or next to the Korean living products shop (see no.5).  

Address: Jalan 26a/70a, Plaza Prisma, Desa Sri Hartamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur

Phone: 03 2859 9358

(4) Kedai Bekalan Hidup & Rumati 생활용품매장

The shop first caught my attention with the "odd" Malay words at the signboard "Kedai Bekalan Hidup & Rumati". Does anyone knows the meaning of Rumati? Anyway, this is a living and life supply shop. The shop is like a mini Namdaemun. You can find all sorts of living supply such as socks, beauty items, toiletries, quilts and mats, kitchen utensils, bowls pots plates, kpop items, even souvenirs here.

Address: 15, Jalan 26a/70a, Plaza Prisma, Desa Sri Hartamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur

Tel.: 03 6201 8900

Mont' Kiara & Solaris Mont' Kiara (몽키아라 & 솔라리스)

(5) NH Mart | 농협관 마트

Galaxy Korean Mart has converted into NH Mart in Nov'16, where you can find imported agriculture and halal products in NH Mart. One of the large scale Korean Mart located inside Plaza Mont' Kiara. Block E, Lower ground. NH Mart (previously Galaxy Mart) can be access from carpark at Level B1 as well. They have 3 reserved parking lots for their customers (30 minutes limit time) which I like the most as sometimes it is hard to find parking at plaza MK. One of the great deal I would grab here is they are selling big bulk of spring onion at RM3 only. More photos about NH Mart - Click HERE. 

*Delivery service available if purchase above RM100 (Mont' Kiara Area) or above RM1000 (outside Mont' Kiara Area) - Thanks Soo Hwei for the info!

Address: EOG-01 & EOG-04, Plaza Mont' Kiara, Jalan Kiara, Mont' Kiara, 50480 Kuala Lumpur

Tel.: 03-6201 4989 / 03-6201 3690

(6) Kim's Mart 킴스마트

Kim's Mart used to be the one and only Korean Mart available at Tanjung Tokong, Penang (Year 2008 on-wards). The mart later has sold to other Korean expats and the owner couple move to KL and open their first Kim's Mart Desa Sri Hartamas. Later they shifted to Solaris Mont' Kiara and the first Kim's Mart has become the current Top Mart. Kim's Mart is another large scale Korean mart in town. The mart has an attached Korean street food corner known as "I love Topokki".

We like to purchase pork meat for Korean BBQ use at the butchery section as the price is reasonable and a lot of variety. Kim't Mart give 2% cash rebate of total purchase (except pork meat) where you can accumulate the rebates and claim it later. 

Address: No. 11, Jalan Solaris 2, Solaris Mont Kiara, 50480 Kuala Lumpur 

Tel.: +60 3-6203 7500

(7) K-Market 케이마캣

K Market is another new large scale Korean Mart open last year January. Most of the products brands that selling here are different from other Korean Marts. Some in-trend items that  I couldn't find in other Korean mart can be get here. K-market also provide 30 minutes reserved parking lots in front of the mart for customer's convenient. 

K-Market also give 2% of instant rebate of total purchase. For those who unable to visit K-Market, K-Market is available online too through HappyFresh & 11th Street. K-Market is located at the rear of Soho KL building. Just walk across from Kim's Mart towards entrance to basement carpark towards the rear of the building on your right, you will see K-Market standing signboard just few meters away. 

Address: J-G-10 & J-G-11, Ground Floor, Solaris Mont Kiara, Jalan Solaris, 50480 Kuala Lumpur

Tel.: 03-6206 3352

Website: www.facebook.com/kmarketmalaysia/?fref=ts

(8) Shin Shun Mi Mart 신선미 마캣

Shin Shun Mi Market can be spot on your right when you enter to Solaris Mont Kiara, same row with CIMB, right below Daorae Plus. We normally will hop in and browse around after dine in at Daorae Plus to get some Korean ice-cream as our dessert after dinner. Shin Shun Mi Market is first open their store at Ampang - Korean Town and recently open their third branch in Taman Bukit Indah, Johor Bahru.

Address: 7, Jalan Solaris, Solaris Mont Kiara, 50480 Kuala Lumpur,

Tel.: 03 6206 5654

Website: shinsunmiko.cafe24.com/

Ampang 암팡

(9) Phil Market 필마트 

I still remember I bought our first Korean earth-ware and culinary sets here at Phil Mart during my first visit in year 2008. Phil Mart is one of the pioneer Korean mart in Ampang where husband and I would grab something whenever we are here at Ampang. Their item price are much lower price compare to all the Korean Marts I visit before. 

Address: 1, Jalan Ampang Utama 1/1, Taman Ampang Utama 68000 Ampang, Selangor

Tel.: 03-4257 8066

(10) Shin Shun Mi Mart, Ampang 신선미 마캣 (암팡)

Shin Shun Mi Market in Ampang is the largest Korean Mart in Ampang area. They are the first Korean Mart in Klang Valley which have a snack corner selling Korean street food before Kim's Marts in Solaris Mon't Kiara. We used satisfy our cravings of tteokbokki and kimbap here as it is not expensive and delicious. Shin Shun Mi Market later expanded to Solaris MK and Johor Bahru recently. 

Address: 14-L1, Ampang Putra Residensi, Jalan Ampang Putra 6, 68000 Ampang, Selangor

Tel.: 03-4256 8989

(11) Galaxy Korean Mart, Ampang | 갤럭시 코리안 마트 (암팡)

I haven't been to Galaxy Korean Mart in Ampang so far. From this interview by local newspaper TheStar, Galaxy Korean Mart has been open for business for a decade (since year 2005) before they open another branch in Plaza Mont' Kiara in 2013. 

Address: 64, Komplex Galaxy Ampang, Jalan Dagang 5, Taman Dagang, 68000 Ampang, Selangor

Tel.: 03-4278 4989

(12) Hanaro Mart 하나로 마트 (암팡)

Another new Korean Mart located just 2 shops away from Hanwoori. Previously the mart was named "Pasaraya Korean Mart" before refurbish and rename to Hanaro Mart.

Address: C-9, G/Floor, Jalan Utama 1/1, One Ampang Avenue, 68000 Ampang, Selangor

Tel.: 03-4256 5595

(13) Lotte Mart (One Ampang Avenue)

About 1 min walk from the street beside Phil Mart, you may find new Korean Mart located at the ground floor of the 4-storey shoplots. Same row with Nak-won Korean BBQ Restaurant.  

Address: A-15-1-1, Jalan Ampang Utama 2/2, One Ampang Avenue, 68000 Ampang

Tel.: 03-4257 7788

(14) Living and Life Sdn. Bhd. 생활용품매장

Similar to no.5, this is another Korean shop selling living and life products such as Korean fashion accessories, household items, Korean food and etc in Ampang. Located right next to San Nae Duel Korean Restaurant, Ampang.

Address: No. G-13, Jalan Dagang B/3A Taman Dagang, 68000, Ampang, Selangor

Tel.: 03-4270 2624

Best Korean Restaurants in KL

Few years ago, K-POP suddenly became such a trend that everyone wanted a piece of it. From K fashion to buying the cheesiest merchandise one can find; K-POP influenced most teenagers. Today fashion and music have gone a level below as many people are looking for the newest trend – Korean food. Adhering to the growing demand, many Korean restaurants have emerged with the hopes of bringing their authentic cuisine to Malaysia: however, not all have been successful. With that said, here is a list of the defending champions who have placed a firm foothold in the Korean food scene in Kuala Lumpur.

Namoo on the Park

Namoo Korean Dessert Café & Bistro takes pride in their ability in combining authentic Korean food with Western cuisine. Taking traditional elements like bulgogi beef and putting them into Western elements like tacos, is simply mind-blowing. One of their most well-known sections, ‘Just Rice Burgers’, is a great hit amongst young people. Though there are only a few ‘Just Rice Burgers’ available, they compensate by giving such diverse flavour. Assorted cakes and Korean-style sticky cakes sure know how to offer a delightful climax. Kudos to them for bringing their own take into Korean cuisine!

Daorae Garden Korean BBQ Restaurant

Being one of the largest chain restaurants for Korean food in Malaysia, you can be ensured that Daorae Korean BBQ Restaurant has some form of quality and standard. The original founder of this chain restaurant is a Korean chef who had an aim to bring Korean culture into Malaysia. Over the years, this restaurant has gained recognition for its ability to maintain its ranking, while keeping true to its standards. Choices are plenty and for those who are on a budget, do check out their set meals. Also, the interior is spacious, beautiful and pleasantly lid to embrace that authentic Korean essence.

 

Paniya Korean Teppan BBQ

Like many other Korean restaurants, Paniya Korean Teppan BBQ offers the standard Korean BBQ, but with an added value of teppanyaki as well. This will allow the customers to enjoy the best of both worlds, without the need to visit two different places. However, what's more important would be the quality and taste of their BBQ, which quite fortunately, is pretty good. The teppanyaki part of this restaurant lies within the dakgalbi, which is one of their signature dishes as well. 

Uncle Jang

Back when Uncle Jang first came out, everyone was raving about it. After all, the term 'dakgalbi' has been quite a hit in Korean dramas, and has since incepted the minds of innocent Malaysian. Unlike most of the common Korean restaurant, Uncle Jang Dakgalbi or rather, the term 'dakgalbi' means stir-fry. Chicken thighs, vegetables, Korean rice cakes, rice and even instant noodles are some of the common ingredients found in dakgalbi, and those are what makes it really special. Patrons can bring over their friends and family, rejoice the sizzling meal while having a moment of togetherness. 

Palsaik Korean BBQ

For those who love a good Korean BBQ, here is the place for you to head to! Palsaik Korean BBQ has definitely elevated the standard of Korean BBQ in Malaysia. Using an eight colour system, this restaurant is well-known for their ‘Colour in Food Therapy’, which projects the 8 different flavours of pork belly. The best part is all colours offer distinctive flavours that are equally delicious too. So for all those pork lovers out there, you know where to head to! For a refreshing end to your meal, they also serve a range of lemon and citron teas. 

KyoChon

KyoChon is known as Korean’s KFC, except much healthier and fresher. Supported by a K-Pop group, Super Junior, KyoChon has definitely attracted fans of all ages; however, it’s not just the music that has caught public attention. KyoChon prides themselves for staying true to their original stand of using Soy Garlic glaze to cook their chicken, and this has set them apart in the food industry. Promising to only use 100% natural ingredients, you can be sure that KyoChon fried chicken is a healthy and wise option. For a more fulfilling meal, check out their range of fried rice. 

Pyongyang Koryo Restaurant

This establishment is said to be the only North Korean restaurant in the entire region of KL. For those who want to know how North Korean lifestyle would be like, this is definitely a place to check out. Pyongyang Koryo also offers performances every night to bring in their culture into our country. With a night of entertainment and exposure to a different culture as well as gastronomic goodness, head over to this restaurant with your entire entourage. Also, do check out their cold dishes and authentic beverages that are also considered as medicine.



Aka Raka

If you’re looking for a new place to hang out, then Aka Raka is the spot for you, especially for Korean food buffs. Headed by an experienced chef, Aka Raka ensures that no matter what, customers will get fresh and delicious food. The real deal here is the sheer spread of meats, seafood and vegetables that are meticulously marinated before hitting the grill. Another scoring point is the complementing sides as well as Korean beers. If you're coming in with a voracious appetite, their affordable lunch buffet is tailor-made for you.



Jung Won Korean BBQ Restaurant

Jung Won Korean BBQ Restaurant is one of the most well-hidden restaurants in KL. But the best part is it never fails to draw over a decent crowd. The restaurant resembles to the setting of a small village, with their koy pond and small garden. The theme of the place brings you back to the early ages of traditional South Korea, rather a respite from the hectic urban jungle. The venue is perfect for those looking to spread the love of traditional Korean cuisine, as the food is on par with the background.



San Nae Deul

San Nae Deul has been awhile for quite some time and they're pretty much everywhere. It's also one of the most standard Korean place to be, where they serve a wide range of Korean dishes as well as BBQ buffet. Apart from the constant promotion that you'll get from them, their BBQ option on its own are pretty solid as well. From spicy marinated pork belly to seafood pancake, as well as a series of imported Korean drinks and soju, there's just so much to try!



688 Korean Restaurant

688 Korean Restaurant is a great place to be if you're in the mood for some authentic Korean food or BBQ. Located in Ampang, the only downside to this place would be the horrendous parking. Aside from that, almost everything that is served in 688 Korean Restaurant are absolutely delicious. They also offer quite an array of cuts for their BBQ section, while their ala-carte meals are pretty on point too. For those who are feeling generous, why not have a bottle of soju to compliment? Certainly the best match under the Korean food scene. 

10 Things South Koreans Do Better Than Americans

Enjoy!

20 Interesting Facts about South Korea

1. The name “Korea” comes from Goryeo, which was the name given to the dynasty established by General Wang Geon in AD 918. Goryeo means “high and clear.” Some poetic interpretations of the name Korea are “Land of High Mountains and Sparkling Streams” and “Land of the Morning Calm.
2. Most restaurants, including McDonald’s, will deliver food straight to homes in South Korea.
3. South Koreans are obsessed with feces, and everything from turd-shaped cookies, phone charms, and an entire museum devoted to poop can be found in the country. Toilets across the country also feature pleasant flushing sounds, background music, and colored water.
4. In Korea, babies are considered one year old at birth.
5. Only 3.2% of South Koreans are overweight, which ties the country of Japan for the lowest percentage in the world.
6. South Korean men love makeup, spending close to US$900 million a year, or a quarter of the world’s men’s cosmetics. Up to 20% of the male Korean population is reported to use makeup regularly.
7. In South Korea, it is perfectly legal to drink alcohol in public. People can carry open containers of their favorite alcoholic beverage and even take a drink or two.
8. When a Korean’s name is written in red ink, this indicates that that person is about to die or is already dead.
9. South Koreans believe that leaving an electric fan on overnight will kill the person sleeping directly below it.
10. The microchips for Apple’s iPhones are made by the South Korean company Samsung.
11. On Jeju, South Korea’s largest island, giant stone statues known as dol hareubang (old grandfather) can be found along the beaches. Newlywed women believe that if they touch the statues’ long, broad, phallic-looking noses, they will be blessed with fertility.
12. South Koreans consider the number 4 as unlucky, and it is associated with death. This belief seems to have come from China.
13. More than 2 billion people have viewed the “Gangnam Style” music video of Korean K-pop artist Psy since 2011. It topped the charts in 30 countries around the world. World leaders including U.S. President Barack Obama and British Prime Minister David Cameron have mimicked the dance. The song refers to the Gangnam District of Seoul.
14. South Korea is the largest market for plastic surgery per capita in the world. It is estimated between 1/5 and 1/3 of the women in Seoul have gone under the knife for at least one cosmetic procedure.
15. Group blind dating in South Korea is called “Meeting” or “So-getting” and is a very popular way for young university students to meet over dinner and drinks.
16. South Koreans enjoy showing off their relationship statuses publically. It is common to see couples holding hands, kissing, and even wearing matching outfits.
17. South Korea has the world’s fastest wireless speeds on the planet, with an average download speed 33.5 megabits per second, nearly three times the average speed of second-place Hong Kong. The country also has an average upload speed of 17 megabits per second. One hundred percent of South Koreans have broadband access.
18. South Koreans love Honey Butter Chips, which are potato chips flavored with honey and butter from France. Because shops run out of them so fast, raffles are held for a chance to buy a bag, and the chips can sell for up to US$100 a bag on eBay. McDonald’s even sold honey butter-flavored French fries in South Korea for a while.
19. South Koreans love shopping, and the country has some of the biggest shopping malls in the world. The stores are open until 4:00 in the morning, while most restaurants, bars, and cafes are open only until 11:00 p.m.
20. South Koreans love sweet potatoes so much that there is every possible dish flavored with sweet potato, including main courses, desserts, chips, latte, bread, salads, and sweet potato-topped pizza.

Seoul City Walking Tours - help you to understand the Korean culture deeper

Hey beloved readers, a good news for you guys. There is a free and attractive programme offered by the city of Seoul.

This programme is provided for those curious tourists who want to see Seoul’s top tourist attractions on foot under the expert guidance of multilingual tour guides.

Reservations for this program can be made via the internet and mobile web at dobo.visitseoul.net



Are you worry about losing direction?

Don't worry! "Seoul Cultural Tourism Volunteer Guides", the experts that are knowledgeable in Seoul's history and culture that are ready to help. They volunteer as guides to help visiting tourists understand Seoul in a deeper way.

Walking Tour Introduction

[About]
The programme themes:

• Historic-Culture area
• Traditional Cultural area
• Modern Culture area
• Environmental and Ecological Restoration area
• Traditional Market area
• Themed course on the Weekends

There are 23 different tours available with a program that is classified under six themes with twenty walking tour courses (the Gyeongbok Palace, the Changdeok Palace, Bukchon, Cheonggye stream, the Namsan fortress, Seonggyungwan, etc) and three permanent tours including 'Tong-Tong' course for Seoul City Hall.

[Operating Hours]

• Weekdays: 10 a.m., 2 p.m.
• Weekends: 10 a.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m.

Gentle reminder: Please be advised the time for opening and closing of the courses are available at detail content view.

[Number of Participants]

• Individual: Up to 10 people
• Group: 11 or more people

Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung tours are advised for 21 or more people.

[Language]

Don't afraid of communication problem. You can talk to them in Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese language.

[Fee]

Worry about the money exchange rate? It is FREE for this tour. You only have to pay for the admission fees to the royal palaces & fees for cultural experience programs, etc. and must be paid for separately.) 

Walking Tour Reservation Information

[Making Reservations]

Reservations must be made online at least 3 days in advance

• All reservations can be made on the Visit Seoul mobile website (m.dobo.visitseoul.net)
• As tour guides are volunteers, there may be instances in which a certain tour may not be available because a volunteer tour guide is unavailable for that tour date or time.
• Spots fill up quickly on weekends, holidays, and during peak season (April, May, September, October), so if you would like to make a reservation during this time, please consider reserving in advance.
• Reservations for groups of 50 or more must be made at least 2 weeks in advance.
• For Seoul Cultural Tourism Volunteer Guide Permanent Tours, please contact the tour sites directly.

[Viewing / Cancelling Reservations]

• Your reservation details will be sent to you via mobile text message and e-mail. You can also view your reservation details on the "View / Cancel Reservation" page on the website and mobile web, or on your My Seoul page.
• Changes cannot be made to a reservation once it has been made. If you would like to change your reservation, please cancel your reservation first and make a new reservation.
• If you would like to cancel your reservation, you may do so on the website or mobile website up to 24 hours in advance. If it is less than 24 hours in advance, you may cancel via phone or e-mail up to 6PM. After 6PM the tour cannot be cancelled, so please cancel in advance.
• If a tour guide has to cancel or adjust the tour or time due to personal reasons, we ask for your understanding.

[Meeting Place]

Meet at the designated meeting place for each tour. 

Seoul Cultural Tourism Volunteer Guide Permanent Tours
Namsangol Hanok Village
Languages: Korean, English, Chinese, Japanese
Hours of Guided Tours: 10:30, 12:00, 14:00, 15:30
Fee: Free
Closed: Every Tuesday
Phone: +82-2-2264-4412
Transportation: Take subway line 3 or 4 to Chungmuro Station. Go out exit 3 or 4 and walk about 5 minutes along the road between Dongguk University Chungmuro Media Center and Maeil Business Newspaper.

War Memorial of Korea
Languages: Korean, English, Chinese, Japanese
Hours of Guided Tours: 10:00~17:00
Fee: Free
Closed: Every Monday (except for when the Monday falls on an extended holiday,
in which case the tours resume regular business hours, and tours do not operate on
the day after the last day of the extended holiday.)
Phone: +82-2-709-3139
Transportation: Take subway line 4 to Samgakji Station. Go out exit 1 and walk about 5 minutes.

Contact Information 
Weekdays: Seoul City Walking Tours Office / Hours of Operation: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
(Closed 12 p.m. – 1 p.m.) Phone: +82-2-6925-0777 Fax : +82-2-3788-0899
E-mail : dobo@seoulwelcome.com
Weekends & Holidays: DASAN Call Center / Hours of Operation: 9 a.m. – 10 p.m.
DASAN Call Center(Tel : 02-120)

SPECIAL THANKS TO
visitseoul.net for the detailed information

9 Things to Know Before Travelling to Korea

Visiting South Korea for the first time? Arm yourself with these useful tips and travel information.

(1) Language

The official local language is of course Korean. However, be prepared that most of the vendors do not speak English, even in touristy areas. If you’re a Chinese, you can still understand a little as they know a few Chinese characters like the price of their merchandises. If you’re not, you may have to start doing some hand language with them.

Unfortunately, most of the locals can only understand a little bit of English and they can hardly converse with you in English.


(2) Money matters

Each KRW1,000 is about MYR4. My friend taught me to simply divide the Korean won by 250. KRW10,000 would be of course around MYR40.


(3) Public Transport



Trains arrive on time and on a frequent basis. If you purchase the Korea T-money card, which is our touch-n-go card equivalent, each ride would mostly cost KRW1, 250 unless you go slightly further, then it will add another KRW100-300. You have to tap in and out of the gantries when you board the train.

I was told that that cabs here are pretty cheap too. But avoid black cabs here as they can be quite expensive. Take those orange/silver ones.


(4) Public toilets and hygiene

There are quite a number of public toilets wherever we go, and to my pleasant surprise they are generally clean. You can also often find toilet paper in public toilets. On the other hand, it is extremely difficult to find dustbins around so you may have to carry your trash for quite a distance before you find one bin.


(5) Weather

Children play in a fountain to cool down on a hot summer day in front of the General Lee Soon-shin statue in Gwanghwamun, Seoul

The period from late July to early August can be seriously hot. The government even announced a heat wave warning. So my friend recommends us to come during spring, which is between April and June. September’s cooling weather is great too.

If you’re here in July, make sure you bring lots of sunblock and aloe vera gel to defend yourself against the merciless sun! You can barely open your eyes if you don’t wear a cap, the sun was just so glaring.


(6) Drinking Water

My friend Carolyn also mentioned that the tap water here in Korea is drinkable. If you still do not feel safe about it, you can purchase bottles of water from their convenience stores or vending machines. They should not cost more than KRW1,500 unless you are in tourist areas.


(7) Travel and Korea metro apps

For first time travellers, travel apps are really useful. The train maps might look daunting because it’s so complicated, and it surely doesn’t help when there are Korean words on it, making it look even scarier. You’ll be glad to know that train line map apps like Seoul Metro and Busan Metro Map will save your life here in Korea. For more travelling and food tips, they also have a VisitKorea app that is pretty useful too!

Seoul Metro App

VisitKorea App

(8) Travelling to and fro Seoul and Busan

You can take the Korea’s High-speed Train (KTX) to travel to and fro Busan and Seoul, which takes only about 2 hour and 45 minutes. Visitkorea website has very extensive information on this. All in all, it was a breeze and very comfortable to take the KTX, and there’s even Wi-Fi on board.

They do sell snacks on the train, but you are also free to buy your snacks before boarding and enjoy them while on board.

(9) Shopping places in Seoul

I only know a few shopping places in Seoul, and they are:

• Myeongdong: Best shopping place for girls and fashionistas. Lots of cosmetics stores.
• Namdaemun: For wholesale shopping. Not much trendy items here though.
• Dongdaemun: More of affordable clothing, street market style like Bangkok.
• Insadong: Cultural place, more for souvenirs.
• Garosugil: Trendy cafe streets. High end designer clothing.
• Express bus terminal underground shopping: A variety of both cheap and expensive apparels.

Most of these shopping districts close at 10pm.

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I guess that’s about it. I really hope you will find this simple travel guide to Korea useful, and I’ll be excited for you if you choose to visit Korea! There are many things to see, do and eat here that you’ll be packed with many fun activities every single day. Never stop travelling and exploring!

♥

12 fascinating Korean festivals

Mountain Trout Ice Festival (화천 산천어축제)

Each year throughout January, visitors are welcomed to celebrate the beautiful scenery of crystal clear ice and amazing white snow at Hwacheon, Gangwon Province. The Mountain Trout Ice Festival features exciting activities for families, travelers and couples. Its special activities include mountain trout ice fishing, snow sledding, ice sculpture and many more programs.
Visit: http://www.narafestival.com/01_icenara



Jindo Sea parting Festival (진도 신비의 바닷길축제)

A few times during the year, the sea around Jindo in South Jeolla Province parts and visitors can walk along a narrow path through the sea from the mainland to a nearby island. This phenomenon, sometimes called the “Moses Miracle,” is caused by the tide. The path is approximately 2.8 kilometers long and is 40 to 60 meters wide. The next festival will be held on March 19. 

Visit: http://miraclesea.jindo.go.kr/

Hampyeong Butterfly Festival (함평나비축제)

The Hampyeong Butterfly Festival is celebrated each year around the end of April in Hampyeong, South Jeolla Province. Visitors can experience thousands of different butterflies at the Hampyeong Butterfly Festival. In the fresh spring weather, visitors can walk through fields of wild flowers and observe the butterflies in their natural habitat. They can also observe rare butterflies up close and learn about ecology. 

Visit: http://inabi.or.kr/2008_hpm/hpm01/m1index.php

Damyang Bamboo Festival (담양대나무축제)

Damyang-gun in South Jeolla Province, known for its rich green forests, celebrates its bamboo festival each year at Juknokwon for five consecutive days in early May. The ecosystem is known for its spectacular scenery which contains lots of bamboo, other trees and cultural sites. More than 1.2 million tourists visited Damyang for the 2009 Festival. The festival includes orchestral concerts, traditional music, riding pedaloes, fishing and lots more. 

Visit: http://www.bamboofestival.co.kr/

Muju Firefly Festival (무주반딧불축제)

Don’t miss this magical experience. As the sky darkens, thousands of fireflies light up the sky with their beautiful natural illumination. The firefly festival is held each year in mid-June in Muju, North Jeolla Province. Fireflies are considered to be very special and are designated as one of Korea’s natural monuments. Activities include a nighttime “fireflies exploration event,” a chance to experience fireflies’ natural environment and trout fishing. 

Visit: http://firefly.or.kr/main.html

Boryeong Mud Festival (보령머드축제)

Boryeong has beautiful scenery with mountains and beaches. Its mud festival takes place on Daecheon beach. Participants slap on mud packs made from Boryeong mud, which is claimed to be a great way to improve your skin tone with its high level of minerals, germanium and bentonite. Other exciting activities include mud wrestling, the “mud king” contest, fireworks and slides greased with mud. This is one of the most popular festivals among Korea’s foreign community. There are International nighttime events such as hip hop and dance parties. “Boryeong Mud Festival” takes place in mid July each year. 

Visit: http://mudfestival.or.kr

Andong International Mask dance Festival (안동탈춤축제)

The Andong International Mask Dance Festival is held around the end of September each year. At one of the venues, Hahoe Folk Village, Korea’s vibrant traditional performing art is still a part of everyday life. The main venue is in nearby Andong, a city in North Gyeongsang Province. Visitors can not only enjoy Korea’s talchum (Korean masked dances), but there are also international masked performances. After the sun sets, enjoy Hahoe’s highlight performance “Seonyujul Bulnori” where fireworks fall like rain, creating spectacular reflections on the river. 

Visit: http://www.maskdance.com/

Jinju Lantern Festival (진주남강유등축제) 

This is a very special festival with hundreds of stunning paper lanterns floating down the Nam River. The lanterns come in all shapes and sizes. In this particular festival which is usually held for more than a week after the first day of October, visitors can write wishes and attach them to lanterns. 

Visit http://www.yudeung.com/index.php

Cheongdo Bullfighting Festival (청도 소싸움축제)

In 2010 the bullfighting festival was held on March 17-21. This is an annual event and tickets are sold for an affordable price at approximately 4,000 to 5,000 won. The previous event had 132 matches and there were other activities including introductions to the cultural values of bullfighting. 

Visit: http://www.청도소싸움.kr/

Bongpyeong Cultural Festival (봉평 메밀꽃축제)

Bongpyeong Cultural festival is surrounded each autumn by beautiful buckwheat flowers. The flowers are often associated in Korea with remembering your first love, an idea that comes from a famous novel “When the Buckwheat Flower is About to Blossom” by Lee Hyo-seok. The story takes place right at the location of the festival at Bongpyeong, Gangwon-do province. The event takes place on Sept. 3-21. The main purpose of this festival is to appreciate the natural beauty of Bongpyeong by welcoming visitors and sharing different cultural experiences. 

Visit: http://www.hyoseok.com/html/index.asp

Boseong Green Tea Festival (보성 녹차축제)

Each year Boseong celebrates its tea industry and culture by promoting the Boseong Green Tea Festival. This festival is held May 1-5. There are a variety of activities such as making tea and learning about tea culture. Next year, the city will celebrate the 37th Boseong Green Tea Festival. Visit: http://dahyang.boseong.go.kr/dahyang2005/

Icheon Ceramic Festival (이천 도자기축제)

The Icheon Ceramic Festival is another exciting annual event. There are lots of lessons and experiences to try out. Intriguing programs range from making your own ceramics to learning methods of drinking tea. Other events include ceramic exhibitions, sales and performances. This event usually lasts from second week of May until the first week of June. 

Visit: http://www.ceramic.or.kr/

Traditional Korean Houses

【 Photo: Namsangol Hanok Village 】

Hanok refers to houses built in the traditional Korean style. While tile-roofed and thatch-roofed hanoks were equally common, the former were typically noblemen residences while the latter were mostly houses of the commoners in the past. These days, most traditional hanok that are still lived in have modern facilities installed within.

【 Photo: Thatched houses at Suncheon Naganeupseong Folk Village 】

There are two main charms to hanoks. The first is the unique heating system of 'ondol.' A layer of stone is laid down below the flooring and when heated, the heat spreads up into every room of the house, keeping both the floor and the air surprisingly warm in winter. The use of ondol has influenced the Korean culture to a lifestyle of sitting on the floor, even in modern times. Because the floor is used for eating, sleeping, and general leisure time, people take off their shoes when entering a Korean home. This custom started with hanok and the ondol system.

【 Photo: Environmental-friendly hanok houses 】

The second attractive point to hanok houses is that they are environmentally-friendly. The materials needed to build a hanok house are free from chemicals, making it a healthy environment. The pillars, rafters, doors, windows, and floor are wooden, while the walls are a mixture of straw and dirt. The paper to cover the frames of doors and windows were made from tree pulp. As the building materials used are all natural, hanok houses have excellent breathability, perfect for escaping the summer heat. It is also said to help in the treatment of atopic dermatitis and other modern skin diseases. 

Experience the traditional culture for yourself through the many hanok villages in Korea, including Jeonju Hanok Village, Andong Hahoe Folk Village, Bukchon Hanok Village, Namsangol Hanok Village and Naganeupseong Folk Village.