The Korean Story of Andy Tattoo in Hongdae, Seoul
Have you ever stood at a Korean mart or convenience store checkout and heard the cashier ask, “Would you like a bag?” Many foreigners say “yes” assuming it’s free — then get surprised when 100–200 won is added to the total. This isn’t a mistake. Korea’s bag fee is a legally mandated environmental policy. Knowing … Read more
As of February 2026, Seoul has a total of 136 public smoking booths — a very small number compared to roughly 300,000 no-smoking zones. On top of that, the distribution is heavily uneven — 11 districts have no public smoking booths at all. Having been active in Hongdae for 10 years, there’s a question I … Read more
If you thought you could smoke anywhere on Korean streets, you need to read this first. Korea has very strict indoor no-smoking policies, and outdoor no-smoking zones are expanding fast. There are actually foreign travelers who get fined because they didn’t know the rules. Having been active in Hongdae for 10 years, there’s a question … Read more
In Korea, taking off your shoes before entering indoors is basic etiquette. It applies not just at homes, but also at some restaurants and temples. Many first-time foreign visitors feel confused and wonder, “Why do I have to take my shoes off?” This isn’t just about hygiene. It’s a rule shaped by hundreds of years … Read more
One of the most highly satisfied services among English-speaking tourists and residents visiting Korea recently is dental care. Korean dental clinics are an excellent choice for bringing parents, as they offer world-class technology and reasonable costs simultaneously. In particular, the Jongno, Gangnam, and Hongdae areas are popular among foreigners due to their good accessibility and … Read more
When foreign freelancers choose a place in Seoul, rent alone doesn’t give the answer. Your daily routes, density of cafés and coworking spots, how it feels getting home at night, and even airport access are tied together. This post compares Gangnam vs Hongdae not to declare a winner, but to help you decide which fits … Read more
The first major barrier that foreigners planning a long-term stay in Korea face is housing. In particular, the ‘Jeonse’ system is a unique Korean method found nowhere else in the world, which can be quite baffling. As of 2026, while the Korean real estate market has become technically transparent, it still involves large sums of … Read more
If you want a Korea travel activity that’s low-cost and instantly gives you something to keep, Life Four Cuts is hard to beat.It’s usually budget-friendly, and the moment it prints, your trip turns into a physical souvenir.It’s even better with friends or family, and even awkward groups become a team once you strike a pose. … Read more