Cheonggyecheon: Where Seoul’s Dark Past Meets a Bright Present

(서울 한복판, 빌딩과 시냇물을 한 컷에

Cheonggyecheon flows through the heart of Seoul, framed by modern skyscrapers)

(산책하기 좋은 11km 청계천

*Cheonggyecheon stretches 11km—a peaceful path for a relaxing walk.*)

Cheonggyecheon: Where Seoul’s Dark Past Meets a Bright Present

— A Clear Stream in the Heart of the City

Cheonggyecheon is a stream that flows right through the heart of Seoul.
In June 2025, I revisited this place, and I’m delighted to share it with my international friends.
“If you come to Seoul, make sure to stop by Cheonggyecheon.”
There are also many great local restaurants nearby!

Cheonggyecheon is more than just a walking path.
It’s a rare place where the past and present, nature and urban life, beautifully coexist.

(한여름 밤의 청계천 야경

*Cheonggyecheon at night in midsummer—magical and breathtaking.*)

What Does "Cheonggyecheon" Mean?

The name Cheonggye (淸溪) literally means “clear stream.”
True to its name, Cheonggyecheon today flows with crystal-clear water.
You can spot small fish swimming underfoot, and even see herons walking quietly along the stones.

It’s hard to believe that such harmony between nature and the city exists in the very center of Seoul.

(돌다리를 건너는 재미도 있어요

*Stepping stones let you cross the stream—fun and photo-worthy!*)

A Brief History of Cheonggyecheon

Although peaceful today, Cheonggyecheon was once home to one of Seoul’s poorest neighborhoods.
Families who had migrated from rural areas built makeshift houses along the stream.

(1950년대 청계천, 한국전쟁 무렵

*A glimpse of Cheonggyecheon during the Korean War in the 1950s.*)

(판자촌 시절, 열악한 주거환경
*Families lived in poor shacks along the stream—but still raised children and built lives. One child even became a presidential candidate!*)

In the 1970s, during South Korea’s rapid industrialization, the stream was covered over and turned into an elevated highway.
I myself drove over that highway countless times.

(복개도로 위로 차량이 오가던 시절

*The stream was once covered by a highway to hide pollution and manage traffic.*)

That era gave Cheonggyecheon a gloomy atmosphere.

(1990년대, 위는 고가도로, 아래는 청계천

*Until the 1990s, Cheonggyecheon flowed under an elevated expressway.*)

In fact, director Bong Joon-ho’s movie The Host imagined a monster being born beneath the old highway — a fitting symbol of the place’s dark and eerie past.

(영화 ‘괴물’ 속 괴물이 등장한 복개천

*In the film *The Host*, a monster lives beneath the old overpass—echoing the space’s eerie past.*)

But in the early 2000s, everything changed.
The city launched a massive restoration project that transformed this area into a vibrant, eco-friendly urban space.

Highway demolished → stream restored → nature and culture revived.
I’ll share step-by-step photos showing this transformation.

(복개도로 철거 중

*Demolition of the concrete cover began in the early 2000s.*)

( 하늘이 다시 열린 청계천

*Once the overpass was gone, sunlight returned and so did life.*)

(다시 흐르기 시작한 냇물

*Step by step, the streambed was restored to its natural state.*)

I’ve read that other cities are now showing great interest in river restoration.
Mexico City, for instance, has reportedly taken inspiration from Seoul’s Cheonggyecheon in planning its own urban stream project.
If you're from a big city struggling with waterway pollution, I hope Cheonggyecheon offers some ideas.

Cheonggyecheon in June 2025

As I walked along Cheonggyecheon yesterday, I was met with beautiful scenes:

Sparkling water under the warm June sun
(왜가리의 사냥 장면
*A heron catches and swallows a fish—a rare and fascinating sight.*)
Fish swimming peacefully near my feet
(잉어처럼 큰 물고기도 있어요
*Large fish like carp swim gently in the clear water.*)
A heron walking over the stones—and I even saw it catch and swallow a fish!
(여기저기 보이는 왜가리들
*Herons are common here—you’ll see them throughout the stream.*)
Families and foreign visitors sitting on benches, reading books
(맨발로 책을 읽는 시민들
*People dip their feet in the water while reading—it’s so popular, seats are hard to find!*)
Especially at the “Clear Stream Reading Spot”, people dipped their feet in the stream and read books provided freely for anyone to enjoy
(‘책 읽는 맑은 냇가’, 누구나 책을 읽을 수 있어요
*At the “Clear Stream Reading Spot,” free books—including English ones—are available for anyone.*)

I’ve captured all these moments in photos, so please enjoy them as well.
Cheonggyecheon isn’t just a walking path—it’s a sanctuary of nature right in the middle of the city.

A Prime Location Connected to Seoul’s Top Attractions

Cheonggyecheon is a must-see destination on its own, but also connects easily to other popular spots:

Just a 5-minute walk from Gwanghwamun Square
Very close to Myeongdong Shopping District
Linked directly to Gwangjang Market, a famous traditional market

Even if your trip to Seoul is short, I highly recommend including Cheonggyecheon in your itinerary.
Whether you go in the morning, afternoon, or evening, each time of day offers its own charm.

(또 다른 왜가리의 사냥 순간

*Another heron on the hunt. At first, they’re fascinating—then they become part of the scene.*)

(하류 쪽의 한적한 청계천 풍경

*Further downstream, the stream offers a quiet, peaceful atmosphere.*)

In Closing…

In the midst of this bustling capital city,
Cheonggyecheon is a place where you can walk by the sound of water, read a book, and feel life itself.

If you ever visit Seoul, don’t miss this beautiful place.
Let’s share the inspiration through these photos and stories.

(청계천 옆 골목 맛집 거리

*Explore the alleys around Cheonggyecheon—great food for just $10 (₩14,000) per meal.*)

(도심에서 저녁 식사 후 즐기는 야경 산책
*After dinner in central Seoul, enjoy a night walk along Cheonggyecheon like this.*)

📺 Experience Cheonggyecheon in motion!
👉 This video captures both the present beauty and hidden history of the stream.

🎬 영상 보러가기 / Watch the video:

Hangang, Han River Picnic – A Must-Do for Your Summer in Seoul!

(한강공원 잔디위에 텐트, 텐트 밖으로 한강이 보입니다.👉 A tent set up on the grass at Hangang Park, with a view of the river just outside.)

I live near the Han River and enjoy it almost every day.

Sometimes I go for a jog at dawn, and other times I simply lie on the grass and gaze up at the sky.
One thing I always recommend to my foreign friends is this: “Go on a Hangang picnic!”

(한강 나무그늘에서 평화롭게 쉬고 있는 사람들, 한강 양화공원👉 People relaxing peacefully under the trees at Yanghwa Hangang Park.)

(공원에서는 돗자리 펴고 즐기는 사람들이 많아요👉 Many visitors are enjoying their time on picnic mats throughout the park.)

If you want to experience Seoul’s summer to the fullest, a picnic by the Han River is a must.

Spending time with friends or family while enjoying the open river view in the middle of the city is pure healing.

(여의도 공원, 특히 젊은이들이 많은데 텐트와 돗자리 모두 가능해요👉 Yeouido Park is popular with young people — both tents and picnic mats are welcome here.)

Just imagine sitting on soft green grass, surrounded by skyscrapers and blue skies — it’s like stepping into a modern version of Manet’s “Luncheon on the Grass.” A moment to remember for a lifetime.

(모네 그림 '잔디위에 점심', 그 시절엔 귀족들이 이런 사치를 누렸나 봅니다
👉 Like Monet’s “Luncheon on the Grass” — once a luxury for nobles, now a joy for all.)

1. What a Hangang Picnic Feels Like

Grab a cold beer from the convenience store and sip it with a river breeze
(한강라면과 치킨, 한강라면은 공원 편의점에서 1그릇에 $1.8(4,000원)👉 Hangang ramen and fried chicken! Ramen is just $1.8 (4,000 KRW) at park convenience stores.)
Order chicken, pizza, or tteokbokki through a delivery app and enjoy it on your picnic mat
(한여름 시원한 강바람을 쐬며 맥주, 와인을 곁들이면 환상적이랍니다.
👉 Cold beer or wine with a summer breeze from the river — absolutely magical.)
Pair a bottle of wine with fruits and cheese for a romantic touch
(이런 풍경에 친구들과 인생샷 한 컷!
👉 Snap the perfect shot with friends against this stunning backdrop!)
Every photo is Instagram-worthy — the scenery is stunning both day and night
A perfect spot to film your next YouTube vlog

2. Where to Go – 5 Recommended Hangang Parks

Yeouido Hangang Park – Famous for sunsets, night views, and fireworks
Banpo Hangang Park – Ideal for couples with the rainbow fountain show
Ttukseom Hangang Park – Trendy vibe, popular among campers
Yanghwa Hangang Park – Less crowded, more natural surroundings
Seonyudo Park – A peaceful, island-like park with garden walkways

All parks have bike paths, delivery zones, clean restrooms, and small convenience shops.

3. What to Bring? No Worries – Everything Can Be Rented!

You don’t need to carry much. Hangang picnic rental shops offer various kits you can rent on the spot.

(피크닉 물품 세트, 이 모든 것을 렌트 할 수 있어요
👉 Everything you need for a picnic — all available for rent!)

Here are prices from a popular shop called Sopunggaja (1-day rental):

Set Name	Includes	Price (KRW)	Approx. USD
Basic Mat Set	Mat + Cushions	15,000₩	$11
Cherry Blossom Set	Mat + Table + Cushions	20,000₩	$15
Shady Spot (Best Seller)	Tent + Table + Chairs	25,000₩	$18
Board Game Set	Shade Set + 2 Board Games	30,000₩	$22
Group Picnic Set	Large Mat + Lighting	30,000₩	$22
Aesthetic Big Table	Table + Lights + Chairs	25,000₩	$18
109 Set	Mat + Essentials (no wagon)	18,000₩	$13
Picnic Basket	Vlog-style props included	30,000₩	$22

Most items can be rented without reservation, but it's best to book in advance on weekends.

4. Add More Fun to Your Picnic – Hangang Activities

Rent a bike: Starting from 3,000₩ per hour (approx. $2.2)
(한강 자전거 타기, 한강은 자전거 전용도로가 있고 한강 공원에서 자전거도 렌트 할 수 있어요
👉 Cycling along the Han River is a breeze, with dedicated bike lanes and rentals right in the park.)
Jog or walk: Even a simple stroll along the river feels like a summer gift
(한강 달리기, 새벽부터 늦은 밤까지 조깅하는 사람들이 많습니다.
👉 Joggers fill the riverside paths from early dawn to late night.)
Night view photography: Don’t miss the moment when city lights meet the sunset!
(한강 야경, 반포 공원이 야경 즐기기에 안성맞춤입니다.👉 The night view from Banpo Park is one of the best ways to enjoy Hangang after dark.)

Seoul’s summer becomes truly special when you’re by the Han River.
Why not make your Seoul trip extra special with a picnic by the Han River?

I originally wrote this post in Korean with my heartfelt thoughts. For Korean readers—or anyone who wants to feel the original tone and nuance—

please enjoy the full Korean version below.

< 한글 원문입니다. 한글이 편하신분 들을 위해서 올려 드립니다.>

한강 피크닉 – 여름 서울여행 필수템!

저는 한강변에 살고 있어요. 자주 한강을 즐기고 있는데요. 새벽에 한강변 달리기를 하고 평화롭게 한강 잔디에 누워 하늘을 바라보기도 합니다. 제가 외국 친구들에게 강력하게 추천하는 것이 바로 "한강 피크닉"입니다. 서울의 여름을 제대로 즐기고 싶다면, 단연 한강 피크닉이 빠질 수 없습니다.

도심 속에서 탁 트인 강변 풍경을 바라보며, 친구 혹은 가족과 함께하는 시간은 그야말로 힐링 그 자체입니다. 도심 빌딩과 파란 하늘, 녹색의 잔디밭에서 소풍을 즐겨 보시기를 강추합니다. 우리가 알고 있는 마네의 <풀밭위의 식사>를 한강에서 체험해보세요. 평생의 추억이 될겁니다.

1. 한강 피크닉은 이런 경험입니다

- 편의점에서 맥주 한 캔 사서 강바람 맞으며 마시기

- 배달앱으로 치킨, 피자, 떡볶이 주문해 돗자리 위에서 즐기기

- 분위기 있는 와인 한 병과 과일, 치즈 곁들이기

- 사진 한 장마다 인생샷! 낮과 밤, 모두 아름다운 풍경 유튜브용 브이로그 촬영에도 완벽한 장소

2. 어디서 즐기면 좋을까? – 추천 한강공원 5곳

- 여의도 한강공원 : 석양, 야경, 불꽃놀이 명소
- 반포 한강공원 : 반포달빛무지개분수와 한강데이트 명소
- 뚝섬 한강공원 : 젊은 분위기, 캠핑족 인기
- 양화 한강공원 : 비교적 한산하고 자연 친화적
- 선유도공원 : 섬 같은 고요한 분위기와 정원 산책로

각 장소 모두 자전거도로, 배달존, 화장실, 매점이 잘 갖추어져 있습니다.

3. 피크닉 준비물? 걱정 마세요 – 대여 가능합니다!

현장에서 쉽게 대여 가능한 피크닉 세트가 다양하게 준비되어 있습니다.

대표 대여점 ‘소풍가자’ 기준 가격은 아래와 같습니다 (1일 기준)

상 품 명 구 성 가격 (KRW) 가격 (USD, 약)
제일기본 돗자리세트 돗자리+방석 15,000원 $11

벚꽃세트 돗자리+테이블+방석 20,000원 $15

그늘이되어줄게 (베스트) 그늘막+테이블+의자 25,000원 $18

보드게임세트 그늘세트+보드게임2종 30,000원 $22

깔고놀자 (단체용) 대형돗자리+조명 30,000원 $22

갬성빅테이블 테이블+조명+의자 25,000원 $18

109세트 돗자리+기본세트(웨건 제외) 18,000원 $13

피크닉바구니 브이로그용 소품 포함 30,000원 $22

💡 대부분 현장 예약 없이 바로 대여 가능하지만, 주말엔 미리 예약하는 게 안전합니다.

4. 함께 즐기면 더 좋은 한강 액티비티

- 자전거 타기: 1시간 약 3,000원($2.2)부터 대여 가능

- 조깅 / 산책: 강변 따라 걷기만 해도 여름이 선물처럼 느껴져요

- 야경 감상: 해 질 무렵부터 조명이 켜지는 순간, 사진은 필수!

서울의 여름이 더 특별해지는 이유, 유토피아가 바로 이곳.

이번 주말, 한강으로 피크닉 떠나보시는 건 어떨까요?

Hongdae Vibes: Where Youth and Culture Meet in Seoul

(홍대 거리 저녁, 홍대는 걷는 것만으로도 젊음과 활기를 확인 할 수 있어요

*Evening on the streets of Hongdae—just walking here lets you feel the youth and energy.*)

Hongdae Vibes: Where Youth and Culture Meet in Seoul

When people ask where to feel the heartbeat of youth in Seoul,
Hongdae is always near the top of the list.

This vibrant neighborhood is a hub of creativity, fashion, music, K-beauty, and freedom—
a place where Korea's younger generation expresses itself openly on the streets.

Why Is Hongdae So Popular?

The name “Hongdae” comes from Hongik University,
one of Korea’s most famous art schools.

(홍익대학교 건물, 홍대는 홍익대학교의 약자랍니다

*The building of Hongik University—‘Hongdae’ is short for ‘Hongik Daehakgyo’.*)

Back in the 1990s, the area began attracting young artists, musicians, and performers.

As the indie scene grew and spread from nearby university districts like Sinchon,
Hongdae evolved into a cultural hotspot, full of energy, rebellion, and creativity.
It’s now often described as a place that defines youth culture in Seoul.

What Is Hongdae Like Today?

These days, Hongdae is more than just an artsy neighborhood.
It’s a living stage for K-pop, street fashion, beauty, and food trends.

As you walk the streets, you’ll likely come across:

🎤 spontaneous busking performances

(홍대는 버스킹의 천국, 내가 갔을때도 몇팀이 공연 중이 었어요

*Hongdae is a paradise for busking—I saw several groups performing when I visited.*)

🛍️ bustling beauty stores and boutiques

(홍대앞에 있는 올리브영, K 뷰티를 체험하려는 사람들로 바글바글

*Olive Young in front of Hongdae—packed with people eager to explore K-beauty.*)

☕ cozy and stylish cafés

(홍대 카페, 홍대는 예쁜 카페가 수도 없이 많아요

*A café in Hongdae—this area is full of charming, Instagram-worthy cafés.*)

🎶 high-energy karaoke rooms

(유명한 수 노래방, 건물 전체가 노래방입니다. 한번 가보세요

*The famous Su Karaoke—an entire building dedicated to singing. Give it a try!*)

💸 convenient currency exchanges and ATMs

(환전소, 홍대거리에는 환전소와 ATM이 곳곳에 있어요

*Currency exchange booths and ATMs are easy to find all around Hongdae.*)

It’s a neighborhood that never sleeps—and never gets boring.

📍 Must-Visit Spots in Hongdae

Spot	Description
Street Busking Zone (near Hongdae Station)	Always alive with music and performance
KT&G Sangsangmadang	A culture complex with exhibitions, concerts, and design shops
Olive Young Flagship	A favorite stop for K-beauty lovers around the world
Contact Lens Streets	Unique Korean-style lens shops with trendy options
Cafés of All Kinds	From an 8-floor café building to hidden gems in back alleys
Famous Karaoke Rooms	Where you can sing your heart out like a K-pop star

How to Get to Hongdae

(홍대 전철역 8번 출구를 찾으세요

*Look for Exit 8 of Hongdae subway station.*)

From Incheon Airport
→ Take the Airport Railroad Express (AREX / Blue Line)
→ Get off at Hongdae Station (Hongik Univ. Station)
From downtown Seoul
→ Take Subway Line 2 (Green Line)
→ Get off at Hongdae Station

The station connects directly to the main shopping streets,
so you can start exploring as soon as you step outside.

A Neighborhood That Never Sleeps

Hongdae is buzzing from morning till night.
Whether you come for coffee, shopping, music, or people-watching,
there’s always something happening here.

(홍대 거리 영업시간, 평일 24시, 주말은 새벽 05시까지 밤새 홍대를 즐길 수 있어요

*Business hours sign—on weekdays till midnight, on weekends until 5 a.m. Enjoy Hongdae all night long!*)

And when you step off the main streets into the quiet back alleys,
you’ll find a different side of Hongdae—
still youthful, still alive, but calmer and more personal.

(고즈넉한 홍대 뒷골목, 한 블록만 걸으면 이런 평화로운 골목을 만날 수 있어요

*A quiet back alley in Hongdae—just one block away, you’ll find peaceful corners like this.*)

"Here, even the evening breeze feels young."
"Hongdae is never the same twice.
Come and see what’s waiting around the next corner."

📺 Watch the Video

🎥 Watch the Hongdae Street Vibe Video

(on the InsideKorea YouTube Channel)

Final Thoughts

Hongdae isn’t just a place.
It’s an experience.

Whether it’s your first time in Seoul or your tenth,
Hongdae always offers something new, something real, something unforgettable.

Let your feet take you where the rhythm lives.
And if you listen closely, you’ll hear the sound of Korea’s youth calling you in.

Korea’s Democratic Transformation – What I Lived Through

We support everyone who is fighting for democracy somewhere in the world

“How Korea evolved from dictatorship to democracy – through the eyes of someone who lived every chapter.”

1. A Childhood in the Shadow of War

I was born in a time when the scars of the Korean War were still visible everywhere. The streets were filled with ruins, and simply surviving each day was a challenge.

The Streets of Korea in the 1970s – A Time of Struggle and Simplicity

Korea was a divided nation on the front line of the Cold War, and those in power had seized control through military coups.

The Korean War of 1950 left the entire nation in ruins

Under the pretext of economic development, everything — politics, education, culture, and the economy — was tightly controlled.

The 1961 military coup crushed Korea’s fragile democracy.

As a student, I often won awards in anti-communist speech contests, essay writing, and art competitions.

In the 1970s, I was a student speaker in anti-communist contests

In high school, military training was mandatory. We practiced bayonet drills in uniform and stood in formation as if it were normal.

In the 1970s, all high school students received military training

Back then, all of this was simply accepted as the way things were.

2. Youth Awakening to Truth

It wasn’t until I entered university that I began to clearly see the structure of our society and its political reality.
The 1980s were a time of constant tension. The streets were filled with tear gas as young people rose up against military dictatorship. We distributed handwritten leaflets and resisted in the only ways we could.

In the 1980s, students like me rose up against military dictatorship

As university students, our generation felt a deep responsibility to build a better society — and we spoke the truth with conviction.

Then, in 1987, we finally toppled the dictatorship with our bare hands.
That year, for the first time, the people of Korea won the right to directly elect the president.

In 1987, democracy was finally won after over 20 years of struggle

I still remember the eyes of the citizens I met on the streets that day — full of courage, hope, and determination.

3. The Roots and Growth of Democracy

Korean democracy was not built in a day.
It was rooted in the April 19 Revolution of 1960, the Gwangju Democratic Uprising of 1980, and the June Democratic Movement of 1987 — through countless sacrifices and tireless efforts.

Gwanghwamun Street in May 2025 – peaceful and free

Political progress came hand in hand with economic development. Today, we live in a nation where peaceful transitions of power through elections are the norm.

But even now, the ideological divides and political conflicts — remnants of the Cold War — still linger.
It is one of the painful realities we continue to endure as a nation born of war and division.

In December 2024, citizens peacefully defeated martial law near the National Assembly.

4. The Road Ahead

Democracy is not a destination — it is an ongoing process.
Now, we must strive to create a more mature political culture.
Instead of fighting along partisan lines, we must learn to dialogue and compromise.
Rather than ideology, we must prioritize a sense of community and shared responsibility.

In June 2025, Korea achieved yet another peaceful transfer of power

There are still wounds and distrust in our society.

But I believe we also possess the strength to overcome them.

5. A Message to Global Citizens

Even today, there are many countries still struggling against dictatorship.
Some are enduring wars and unimaginable hardship.
Thinking of the citizens of those nations brings pain to my heart.

From what I have experienced, I can say this with certainty: Democracy never arrives overnight.

But when the will of ordinary citizens comes together, no change is impossible.

Today’s Korea stands as living proof of that truth.
To all those around the world who continue to fight for freedom and justice,
I send you my deepest words of encouragement and hope:

“Stay strong. Korea understands your journey — and we stand with you.”

The people of Korea support your fight. Stay strong

6 Must-Try Korean Foods in Hongdae

6 Must-Try Korean Foods in Hongdae

Hongdae is not only Seoul’s trendiest neighborhood but also a true food haven.
Here, dining is more than just eating—it's an experience.

In this post, I’ll introduce six of the most popular Korean foods in Hongdae,
perfect for sharing with friends from abroad.
(My YouTube video is linked below for visuals and prices.)

① Samgyeopsal – The Essence of Korean BBQ

Hongdae is filled with samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly) restaurants.
Watching the meat sizzle on the grill is an essential part of the Korean dining experience.
Prices range from $9.5 to $11.4 per serving, and the flavor is as satisfying as the lively atmosphere.

(한국 대표 음식 삼겹살, 삽겹살은 직접 구워먹는 재미가 있어요. 영상을 보고 적당하게 익는 정도를 익히시면 좋아요
Samgyeopsal, a signature Korean dish—you grill it yourself, which is part of the fun. Watch a video to learn how to cook it just right.)

② Unlimited Pork + Spicy Chicken (Dakgalbi)

When you're extra hungry, go for all-you-can-eat BBQ.
You can enjoy unlimited pork belly and spicy dakgalbi for just $12.5 per person—
a delicious and filling choice loved by locals and visitors alike.

(삼겹살과 닭갈비 무한리필, 두가지를 한번에 구워 드실 수 있어요. 무한리필이니 맘껏 먹을 수 있죠

*All-you-can-eat samgyeopsal and dak-galbi—grill both at once and enjoy as much as you want.*)

(무한리필 간판, 홍대거리에는 이런 무한리필을 제공하는 곳이 많아요. 배고플때는 이런간판을 찾아가세요

*All-you-can-eat signs—many places in Hongdae offer unlimited refills. Look for these signs when you're hungry!*)

③ Tteokbokki – Sweet & Spicy Street Food

Tteokbokki is Korea’s signature street snack,
featuring chewy rice cakes in a sweet and spicy red sauce.
At just $3.2, it’s a flavorful bite of Korean street culture.

(먹음직한 떡복이, 붉은 색깔이지만 보기보다 맵지 않아요. 달콤한 떡볶이를 드셔보셔야죠.

*Delicious tteokbokki—it looks spicy but is actually sweet and mild. A must-try Korean snack!*)

(떡볶이는 $3.2로 저렴해서 간식으로 적당하죠

*Tteokbokki costs just $3.2—affordable and perfect as a light snack.*)

④ Gimbap – Korea’s Everyday Favorite

Gimbap is a quick and hearty Korean rice roll.
You can get a roll for $2.5 to $3.5, packed with fresh ingredients.
Perfect to enjoy on the go as you stroll the streets of Hongdae.

(한국에 오면 김밥을 드세요. 종류가 수십가지가 된답니다.

*Try gimbap when you’re in Korea—there are dozens of varieties to choose from.*)

( 김밥은 간식으로도, 한끼 식사로도 좋아요

*Gimbap is great as both a snack and a full meal.*)

⑤ Jeon + Makgeolli – A Rainy Day Pairing

Korean savory pancakes (jeon) paired with traditional rice wine (makgeolli)
make for a classic rainy-day combo.
A platter of assorted jeon costs around $14.3, and a glass of makgeolli is just $3.6.
Crispy, cozy, and perfect for sharing.

(전과 막걸리, 안주거리로 적당한 전과 막걸리를 꼭 드셔보세요. 잘 맞는 조합이랍니다.

*Korean pancakes (jeon) with makgeolli—this classic combo makes the perfect side dish pairing.*)

⑥ Takeout Coffee – Carry a Taste of Hongdae

After your meal, grab a takeout coffee for just $1.8
and enjoy a romantic walk through the streets of Hongdae.
It feels just like a scene from a movie.

(식사 후에는 아이스아메리카노

*After your meal, enjoy a refreshing iced Americano.*)

Hongdae is more than a tourist destination—

it’s a place where Korea’s food culture, youth, and everyday life come together.
If you're planning a visit, don’t miss these must-try dishes.
Your heart and stomach will thank you.

(커피를 손에 들고 홍대 거리를 걸어 보세요. 좋은 추억을 가지실 겁니다.

*Stroll the streets of Hongdae with coffee in hand—it’ll be a memory to cherish.*)

Hope this video gives you a better sense of what Korea is like today.

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