Travel Plan: 10-day Seoul Korean pop culture (K-pop)
Main Direction:
This itinerary is designed for travelers who are keen on exploring Korean pop culture or K-pop. It includes ten days of immersive experiences in Seoul, the cultural capital of South Korea, where you can indulge in everything from K-pop music, dance, food and shopping.
Day 1:
– Arrival in Seoul (Incheon International Airport)
– Take the Airport Express train to Seoul Station (45 minutes, KRW 9,000)
– Check-in at the L7 Myeongdong Hotel (approx. KRW 130,000/night)
– Lunch at Myeongdong Kyoja, famous for its handmade knife-cut noodles (approx. KRW 10,000)
– Visit the K-pop Art Hall, which displays exhibitions and souvenirs of BTS, BLACKPINK, EXO and other famous K-pop artists (approx. KRW 20,000)
Day 2:
– Breakfast at Isaac Toast, a popular Korean breakfast chain (approx. KRW 5,000)
– Explore the Gwangjang Market, a traditional market with a rich history and delicious street food (approx. KRW 10,000)
– Visit the SM Town Coex Artium, a cultural complex dedicated to the artists under the SM Entertainment label (approx. KRW 22,000)
– Dinner at Jungsik, a Michelin-starred restaurant, known for its unique presentation and flavors of Korean cuisine (approx. KRW 180,000)
Day 3:
– Breakfast at Sinsa-dong Garosu-gil, an upscale shopping district known for its trendy cafes and fashion boutiques (approx. KRW 10,000)
– Visit the K-Star Road, featuring the handprints of K-pop celebrities, and Gangnam Underground Shopping Center (approx. KRW 20,000)
– Lunch at Kkwabaegi Alley (Korean donut street), a famous spot in Gangnam (approx. KRW 5,000)
– Enjoy a K-pop concert at the Jamsil Arena, where you can watch live performances of popular K-pop groups (approx. KRW 100,000)
Day 4:
– Visit the Bukchon Hanok Village, a traditional Korean village preserved in the heart of Seoul (approx. KRW 10,000)
– Lunch at Tosokchon, a famous restaurant that specializes in Korean ginseng chicken soup (approx. KRW 20,000)
– Visit YG Entertainment’s headquarters, where you can purchase merchandise and catch a glimpse of the artists (approx. KRW 20,000)
– Dinner at Palsaik Samgyeopsal, a Korean BBQ restaurant known for its eight flavors of pork (approx. KRW 30,000)
Day 5:
– Explore the Hongdae area, a youthful and artistic neighborhood with live music, street art and fashion (approx. KRW 10,000)
– Lunch at Yoogane, a chain restaurant that specializes in chicken galbi (approx. KRW 15,000)
– Visit the MBC World Studio, where you can experience the world of TV dramas and entertainment shows (approx. KRW 20,000)
– Dinner at Gwangjang Market, where you can try the famous bibimbap (approx. KRW 15,000)
Day 6:
– Visit the Namsan Tower, an iconic landmark of Seoul, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city (approx. KRW 15,000)
– Lunch at Tosokchon, a famous restaurant that specializes in Korean ginseng chicken soup (approx. KRW 20,000)
– Visit the JYP Entertainment Building for a chance to see popular K-pop artists like TWICE and GOT7 (approx. KRW 20,000)
– Dinner at Myeongdong Kyoja, famous for its handmade knife-cut noodles (approx. KRW 10,000)
Day 7:
– Visit the Lotte World Adventure, a famous amusement park in Korea (approx. KRW 50,000)
– Lunch at Lotteria, a Korean fast-food chain (approx. KRW 7,000)
– Explore the nearby Lotte World Mall for shopping and entertainment (approx. KRW 30,000)
– Dinner at Gwangjang Market, where you can try the famous bindaetteok (Korean mung bean pancakes) (approx. KRW 10,000)
Day 8:
– Visit the Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore the palace grounds (approx. KRW 10,000)
– Lunch at King’s Garden, a traditional Korean cuisine restaurant (approx. KRW 40,000)
– Visit the K Star Exhibition, an interactive museum that allows you to experience the K-pop world (approx. KRW 20,000)
– Dinner at Palsaik Samgyeopsal, a Korean BBQ restaurant known for its eight flavors of pork (approx. KRW 30,000)
Day 9:
– Visit the Seoul Animation Center, a museum dedicated to the history and development of Korean animation (approx. KRW 10,000)
– Lunch at Mr. Holmes Bakehouse, a Korean bakery famous for its croissants and pastries (approx. KRW 7,000)
– Visit the Cube Entertainment headquarters, home to famous K-pop groups such as BtoB and CLC (approx. KRW 20,000)
– Dinner at Jungsik, a Michelin-starred restaurant, known for its unique presentation and flavors of Korean cuisine (approx. KRW 180,000)
Day 10:
– Breakfast at Dunkin Donuts, a popular American donut chain in Korea (approx. KRW 5,000)
– Check-out of L7 Myeongdong Hotel
– Take the Airport Express train back to Incheon International Airport (45 minutes, KRW 9,000)
– Departure from Seoul
FAQs:
Q: Is Seoul safe for tourists?
A: Yes, Seoul is a safe city for tourists. However, as with any major city, please be aware of your surroundings and exercise common sense to avoid potential dangers.
Q: What is the best way to get around Seoul?
A: Seoul has an excellent public transportation system, including the subway, buses and taxis. The subway system is convenient, affordable and covers most major tourist attractions in the city.
Q: Are there any vegetarian or vegan food options in Seoul?
A: Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Seoul. It is recommended to research and plan ahead to find specific restaurants that cater to dietary needs.
Q: Can I use my credit card in Seoul?
A: Yes, major credit cards are widely accepted in Seoul. However, it is recommended to carry some cash with you, especially for small purchases or street food.
Q: What is the best time to visit Seoul?
A: The best time to visit Seoul is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November), when the weather is mild and the scenery is beautiful. However, Seoul is a vibrant city throughout the year, with unique experiences for every season.
