So, there I was, flipping through channels, another boring Tuesday night, and it just hit me. I needed a change, a real one. My buddy Dave had been raving about his trip to South Korea a while back, kept showing me pictures. Honestly, I mostly tuned him out, thought it was all K-pop and skincare, not really my scene. But then, I dunno, something just clicked. I figured, why not? Booked a flight almost on a whim. Didn’t have a massive plan, just wanted to see what all the fuss was about, or if it was all just hype. Turns out, it was a bit of both, but mostly, it was pretty eye-opening.
First stop: Seoul, the big smoke
Landed in Seoul, and boy, it was a sensory overload. Incheon airport itself was like a small city. I got on the train to the city center, and it was just… a lot. People everywhere, lights, noise. My first couple of days, I just wandered around Myeongdong, got jostled by shoppers, ate some street food that burned my mouth in a good way. It was exciting, yeah, but also kinda exhausting. I thought, “Is this it? Just endless shopping and crowds?”
Then, I stumbled into Bukchon Hanok Village. It was like stepping back in time. All these traditional Korean houses, quiet little alleyways. I found a tiny teahouse, sat down, and just watched the world go by. That was more my speed. Suddenly, Seoul wasn’t just this crazy modern beast; it had this calm, old soul too. I started to get it. I also spent a day just riding the subway, getting off at random stops. Saw some amazing temples squeezed between skyscrapers. Wild.
Next up: Busan, for some sea air
After about a week in Seoul, I was ready for a change of pace. Someone I met in a hostel, a chatty Aussie girl, told me I had to go to Busan. “It’s by the sea, mate, totally different vibe!” she said. So, I hopped on the KTX bullet train – that thing is fast, seriously. And she was right. Busan felt… breezier. More laid back.
First thing I did was head to Haeundae Beach. It was packed, but in a fun, summer-y way. But the real highlight for me was Gamcheon Culture Village. All those colorful houses stacked up on the hillside, like a giant Lego project. Got lost in the little lanes, found some quirky art installations. And the seafood! Jagalchi Fish Market was an experience. Loud, a bit smelly, but man, the fish was fresh. I just pointed at something wriggling in a tank, and half an hour later, it was on my plate. Can’t beat that.
A detour to Gyeongju, the old capital
While I was in Busan, I kept hearing people mention Gyeongju. “The ancient capital,” they’d say. Sounded a bit like a history lesson, and I wasn’t sure if that was my thing. But I had some time to kill before heading to my next planned spot, so I thought, “Eh, might as well.” Took a bus, wasn’t too far.
And you know what? I’m so glad I did. Gyeongju was beautiful. It’s called the “museum without walls,” and I see why. These massive grass mounds, ancient royal tombs, are just… there. In the middle of the city. I rented a slightly wobbly bicycle and just pedaled around. Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto were stunning, all intricate woodwork and peaceful Buddhas. It was quiet, really made me think. Not in a heavy way, just… a sense of history, you know? It wasn’t boring at all. Actually, it was a nice break from the hustle.
Finishing off with Jeju Island
My last big stop was Jeju Island. Everyone talks about Jeju. “Korea’s Hawaii,” they call it. So, I had high expectations. Flew over from Busan. And yeah, it’s pretty. Volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, those famous stone grandfather statues everywhere. I hiked up a bit of Hallasan Mountain – well, one of the easier trails, let’s be honest. The views were incredible.
But, parts of it felt a bit… touristy? Like, super developed for visitors. Some beaches were lovely, but others were just lined with cafes. My favorite bits were when I got off the beaten path a little. Rented a scooter (probably shouldn’t have, nearly crashed it twice) and just drove along the coast, finding little coves. Walked some of the Olle trails, these walking paths that go all around the island. That’s where I found the real Jeju, I think. Just the wind, the sea, and those black volcanic rocks. It was a good way to wrap things up, kind of clear my head before flying home.
So yeah, that was my little adventure. Went in not knowing what to expect, came out with a bunch of stories and a new appreciation for a place I’d totally misjudged from afar. It wasn’t all K-pop, that’s for sure. It was a lot more.
