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<p>The high-rise, open-all-hours city of Seoul has many faces, from the rice-beer bars and markets to the palaces, temples, royal tombs, ancestral shrines and cultural attractions that act as magnets for tourists. For five centuries it was a dynastic seat of power, and this amazing blend of ancient history and modern-day joie-de-vivre infuses a tantalising vitality into everyday life that leaves visitors enthralled.&nbsp;</p>



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<p>A huge urban conglomeration of almost 10 million people, the South Korean capital sits about halfway down the Korean peninsula. Of course, recent history has seen Korea become a centre of geopolitical power play, and some 50 kilometres to the north is the four-kilometre-wide Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), pulling in tourists curious to witness how the country has been carved into two.&nbsp;</p>



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<p>Autumn is the best season to visit as rainfall is minimal and temperatures bearably mild. This is when the slopes of the four main surrounding mountains – Bugaksan, Inwangsan, Naksan and Namsan – take on delightful hues as leaves turn into beautiful arrays of red, yellow and orange. Another good time to visit is spring; the flowers are in bloom and cherry blossom washes a pinkish white over the city. Both seasons play host to some amazing cultural and arts festivals that accompany the joys of nature.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Palaces galore</h3>



<p>A small settlement called Hanyang at the dawn of the Joseon dynasty in 1392, Seoul was soon renamed and bounded by protective fortress walls. The city is now blessed with five palaces, the largest of which, Gyeongbokgung, was built by King Taejo in 1395 against a splendid mountain backdrop as home for the new ruling family. It has been restored twice, following destruction during the Japanese invasions of 1592 and more recently that country’s occupation from 1910-1945. On another momentous date in Korean history, Japanese assassins broke into the palace in the early hours of 8 October 1895 and murdered Empress Myeongseong.&nbsp;</p>


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<p>The scholars, eunuchs, concubines, soldiers and servants who once roamed this majestic compound have been replaced by hordes witnessing the changing of the guard and browsing two fantastic museums that bring Korea’s rich and often turbulent narrative to life. Royal artefacts in the National Palace Museum highlight the artistic pedigree of the Joseon era – royal seals, gold-embroidered traditional clothing and illustrations of court ceremonies. The National Folk Museum has three main exhibition halls replete with memorable attractions.</p>


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<p>Perhaps the most enchanting of Seoul’s palaces is Changdeokgung, built in the early 15th century as a secondary royal residence to Gyeongbokgung and now a Unesco World Heritage Site. Many royal family members lived here into the 20th century, enamoured by its aura of beauty and grace. The must-see Huwon secret garden beguiles with charming vistas of pavilions on the edge of a square lily pond. &nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Magnificent markets</h3>



<p>Following a palace tour, stop for some retail therapy at one of the city’s great markets. The hugely atmospheric Gwangjang Market is a mesmerising panoply of silk, satin and linen wholesalers congregated in a hive of alleyways during the day, joined by food stalls and vendors who stay active well into the night. Considered the merriest place to go for dinner and drinks, it is a veritable foodie’s paradise. Popular offerings include stewed pig’s trotters and snouts, gimbap (vegetables and ham wrapped in rice and rolled in sheets of seaweed) and bindaetteok (crispy pancakes of crushed mung beans and veggies fried on a skillet). Why not wash the delicacies down with the local liquors of makgeolli and soju?</p>


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<p>If seafood is your preferred choice, then Noryangjin Fish Market is the place to go with its mind-boggling variety of fresh catches. Early mornings host noisy fish auctions, while the evening is particularly picturesque and a good time to wander among the acres of shellfish, spider crabs, sea worms and other salty fare.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Night vibes</h3>



<p>Seoul is teeming with places to eat, drink and enjoy nightlife. Fine dining is showcased at Dooreyo, celebrity chef Tony Yoo’s restaurant nestled in the heart of Bukchon Hanok Village – a tourist draw of restored traditional Korean houses. Hot soups are a favourite in Korea, and high-end O’neul in Dongbinggo-dong has a wonderful rendition of yukgaejang (spicy beef soup) simmered for 12 hours. Ssuk tteok, a rice-cake hybrid tinged green with mugwort, also entices at this restaurant that champions Korean culinary traditions and techniques.</p>


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<p>Teeming with some of the capital’s best bars, clubs and restaurants, Itaewon has become a trendy night-time area and attracts many from the LGBT community. Another buzzing district, Hongdae, is saturated with nightlife hotspots, while Samcheongdong, the historic neighbourhood east of Gyeongbokgung Palace’s Gwanghwamun Gate, entices with relaxed joints for wining and dining. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Cultural enrichment</h3>



<p>While famed for its glitzy K-pop stars and karaoke bars, the city has much more to offer in terms of culture, with a high concentration of museums, art institutions and galleries. You can soak up Seoul’s past and vibrant present in Samcheongdong, where art events abound during the autumn month. Art Sonje Center presents a major exhibition by Do Ho Suh, one of the most important figures in Korean contemporary art, until 3 November. The Seoul branch of the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art has an extensive collection of modern Korean and international artworks, and hosts the prestigious Korea Artist Prize annual exhibition.</p>



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<p>The Frieze Seoul art fair takes place in the upscale Gangnam district, south of the Han River, from 4-7 September, providing exposure for local and international artists. Some galleries have seized the chance to stage their debut exhibitions in South Korea alongside Frieze. For instance, until 12 October, Gagosian presents new paintings by Derrick Adams at the APMA Cabinet, which is located in the headquarters of the country’s cosmetics giant, Amorepacific.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">City oasis</h3>



<p>An attraction of a different sort, Cheonggyecheon is a long-buried stream uncovered when a raised highway was demolished. Stretching almost 11 kilometres, it has transformed the city centre, creating a riverside park that offers a calm respite from the commercial hubbub and a walking course whose banks are popular with joggers. Peruse the public art dotted along the way or pay a visit to the museum which tells its history.&nbsp; A spectacular two-week Lantern Festival is held in November, when thousands of glowing paper-and-paint sculptures float in the water, illuminating downtown Seoul in sparkling lights.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Spectacular hiking&nbsp;</h3>



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<p>There is plenty of hiking available in the city and its mountains. The Seoul City Wall trail, snaking more than 18 kilometres along the major peaks, offers a wonderful opportunity to admire myriad architectural styles from the ancient Three Kingdoms period to modern restoration work. One option is to start your circuit of the City Wall by hiking up the tallest of Seoul’s four guardian mountains, the conical-shaped Bugaksan (North Peak Mountain). This is considered a most spectacular section of the City Wall trail, running for about 2.5km and rising steeply from Changuimun, one of the ‘four small gates’ in the City Wall. Another beautiful trail is Naksan, which is the lowest of the four guardian mountains and is blessed with the arty neighbourhood of Thwa-dong on its slopes.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Great views</h3>



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<p>For some of the best views of the city, the section of the City Wall at Inwangsan takes some beating. The hike involves climbing past some incredible weirdly shaped rocks and giant boulders, but the trek is worth it for the most amazing views of Seoul, offering a complete panorama of this spectacular city. Several of the majestic palaces are clearly visible as well as much of the glorious Seoul City Wall, especially the sections where it meanders its course along Bugaksan, Naksan and Namsan. Hikers at this wonderful viewing point can clearly discern how the guardian mountains formed a protective shield for the old city nestled inside.</p>


Sensational Seoul: Beyond K-pop hype, the city’s glorious palaces and majestic surrounding mountains endure

<p>Back in 1960, South Korea was one of the world’s poorest countries. In the wake of the Korean War, the northeast Asian nation was so poverty-stricken that its GDP per capita clocked in at a meagre US$79. Fast forward six decades, and the country is on an incredible high. Having transitioned from a largely agricultural economy to a high-tech producer of semiconductors, phones and cars, it boasts the fourth largest economy on the continent (in terms of nominal GDP), lagging behind only China, Japan and India.</p>
<p>Home to such plugged-in conglomerates as Samsung, LG and Hyundai, South Korea has also spawned a whole new hit of global exports: Hallyu. If the term is new to you, chances are the phenomenon it represents is not. For the uninitiated, Hallyu is the romanised form of hanryu, the term for what has come to be known as the Korean Wave – the immense growth and export of the country’s pop culture to the world.</p>
<p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-64449" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-4.png" alt="Hallyu the rise of Korean Wave gafencu (4)" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-4.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-4-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-4-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-4-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-4-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-4-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-4-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></p>
<p>When this movement first began some 20 years ago, it was quickly adopted by neighbours China and Japan, but today Western nations are equally enamoured with all things Korean, be it movies like the 2019 Academy Award-winning film Parasite, TV shows such as 2020’s Crash Landing on You and last year’s record-breaking Squid Game; music (think wildly successful bands such as BTS and girl squads Girls Generation and Blackpink); food, and even cosmetics.</p>
<p>The current global love for all things South Korean can be traced back to the turbulent times of the 1997 Asian financial crisis, when the nation took active measures to restrict cultural imports from Japan. To fill the resulting void, a new mission to foster and strengthen local culture and talent was initiated, including pouring funds into creative industries such as film and TV studios. High-quality Korean dramas were produced very cheaply, and these new media offerings rapidly gathered a fan base in China before reaching further afield. Thus, Hallyu spread to the West, piquing the curiosity and capturing the imagination of the ’90s generation.</p>
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<h3><strong>K-wave</strong></h3>
<p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-64454" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu.png" alt="Hallyu the rise of Korean Wave gafencu" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><br />
Many liken the beginning of the Korean Wave to the popularity that Japan itself experienced around that time, when anime, manga, J-pop music and such heavy hitters as Pokemon and Studio Ghibli gained cult status beyond its shores. However, the critical difference between them is that Hallyu managed to capitalise on the emerging trend of digital globalisation, and thus became accessible to a wider international audience.</p>
<p>As Margot Peppers, Consumer Trends Editor at Foresight Factory, explains: “[Japanese culture is] still seen as offbeat, quirky and cool to like, but it is not necessarily mainstream. [Whereas] there has been such a push for K-dramas and stories that are rooted in Korean settings but still have universal themes and archetypes that everyone across the globe can relate to. They are built on this accessible universality that has really resonated with people.”</p>
<h3><strong>K-beauty</strong></h3>
<p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-64447" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-2.png" alt="Hallyu the rise of Korean Wave gafencu (2)" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-2.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-2-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-2-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-2-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-2-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-2-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-2-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><br />
It’s no secret that standards of beauty are often set by what society sees in the media, and given the widespread dissemination of Hallyu, it’s not surprising that many young people want to mimic the pristine, pale skin of Korean celebrities, paving the way for the rise of K-beauty. The country’s cosmetics industry responded deftly, introducing a constant flow of new, innovative and sometimes unusual ingredients – snail slime, starfish extract, pig collagen and bee venom, to name a few – to serve up the Next Big Thing to consumers.</p>
<p>As a result, the South Korean beauty and cosmetics market now ranks among the top 10 worldwide. According to a study published by Portland-based research company Allied Market Research, the business was valued at US$10.2 billion in 2019 and is projected to grow to US$13.9 billion by 2027 – representing a staggering 36-percent increase.</p>
<p>&nbsp;<strong><em>Also Read:</em>&nbsp;<a href="//www.gafencushop.com/beauty-airbrushing-photo-camera-filters-denting-confidence/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Beauty Airbrushing: Why filters are denting our confidence</a></strong></p>
<h3><strong>K-dramas</strong></h3>
<p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-64452" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-7.png" alt="Hallyu the rise of Korean Wave gafencu (7)" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-7.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-7-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-7-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-7-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-7-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-7-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-7-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><br />
South Korean dramas always had an avid fanbase across Asia and its diaspora population, but they have now hit their stride on a global scale. It began when streaming service Netflix decided to break into K-dramas – as the country’s TV series are affectionately dubbed – and debuted its zombie drama series Kingdom in 2019. Since each episode cost a whopping KRW 2.2 billion (about HK$14.4 million) to make, the investment into Hallyu’s popularity was a gamble, to say the least, but the show was received with great acclaim.</p>
<p>Next to break records was Crash Landing on You, which stayed on Netflix Japan’s Top 10 list for 229 consecutive days; it even became the sixth most-watched series in the US. But that all pales in comparison to the enormous cultural impact of nail-biting survival series Squid Game. Having been streamed for a whopping 1.65 billion hours in the first four weeks of airing, it is Netflix’s biggest series launch ever, outstripping nearest competition Bridgerton almost two-fold.</p>
<p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-64446" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-9.png" alt="Hallyu the rise of Korean Wave gafencu (9)" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-9.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-9-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-9-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-9-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-9-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-9-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-9-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></p>
<p>Korean movies were no less in the spotlight, with comedy-thriller Parasite becoming the first non-English-language film to clinch Best Picture at the Academy Awards. Director Bong Joon-ho nabbed the Best Director prize as well. Then, last year, Minari – which follows the travails of a family of South Korean immigrants in rural ’80s USA – also garnered an Oscar (for supporting actress Youn Yuh-jung), prompting a new generation of Western cinephiles to explore other works by the creative talents in these films.</p>
<h3><strong>K-pop</strong></h3>
<p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-64451" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-6.png" alt="Hallyu the rise of Korean Wave gafencu (6)" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-6.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-6-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-6-600x399.png 600w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-6-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-6-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-6-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Hallyu-the-rise-of-Korean-Wave-gafencu-6-400x266.png 400w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></p>
<p>While Korean food, cosmetics and films have undoubtedly permeated throughout Asia and the West, there is one aspect of Hallyu that outstrips them all – K-pop. Thanks to its distinctive blend of addictive melodies, slick choreography and production values, and an endless parade of attractive performers who spend years in gruelling studio systems learning to sing and dance in synchronised perfection, K-pop has become a global phenomenon.</p>
<p>No band exemplifies the rise of this sensation than BTS; the country’s leading musical act raked in a massive US$4.65 billion for its economy in 2019. To put that sum into perspective, it equates to 0.3 percent of South Korea’s entire GDP, and more than what many small African nations earned within the same timeframe.</p>
<p>While naysayers may scoff that Hallyu is but a passing phase, the mercenary truth of the matter is that the staying power of the movement is reflected by the financial gains involved. What’s more, it’s not just the bands and the nation that are basking in reflected glory – it’s multinational brands as well, with everyone from McDonald’s and Nike to Louis Vuitton cashing in on collaborations with BTS and their ilk. As long as the attractiveness of the Korean Wave continues to enchant fans, the world will remain at their dancing feet.</p>
<p><strong><a href="//www.gafencushop.com/beauty-airbrushing-photo-camera-filters-denting-confidence/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Also Read:</em>&nbsp;</a><a href="//www.gafencushop.com/anticipated-movies-to-watch-in-2022/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">10 Most anticipated Asian movies to watch in 2022</a></strong></p>
<h6>(Text: Tenzing Thondup)</h6>


Hallyu the rise of Korean Wave gafencu (8)

Hallyu to the World: The rise and rise of Korean Culture

<p>Setting aside the craze of K-drama rom-coms to spotlight a Korean suspense-thriller show that has been landing headlines, and become the muse of countless memes across different social media platforms around the world. On TikTok alone,&nbsp; hashtag <em>#SquidGame</em> has been viewed&nbsp;more than 22.8 billion times.</p>
<p><a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_1.png"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-61402" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_1.png" alt="gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_1" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_1.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_1-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_1-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_1-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_1-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_1-400x266.png 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_1-600x399.png 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></a></p>
<p>Squid Game is a psychological horror that often draw similarities to survival franchises such as Hunger Games and Battle Royale.&nbsp;The South Korean drama, released on 17 Sep 2021, has crossed the global charts of popularity within two weeks. It&#8217;s quickly became the most-watched Netflix show in 90 different countries&nbsp;— a first for any Korean drama!</p>
<p>Expected to grow even bigger, the global streaming platform is anticipating the series to rise to the top of the global charts and become Netflix&#8217;s most popular program ever. If that&#8217;s not enough to peak your interest and have you jump in on the hype of, we give you five reasons why you should&#8230;</p>
<p><a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_2.png"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-61403" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_2.png" alt="gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_2" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_2.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_2-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_2-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_2-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_2-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_2-400x266.png 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_2-600x399.png 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></a></p>
<p><strong>1. A simple but compelling storyline</strong><br />
Named after a &#8217;70s Korean childhood game, Squid Game, the show, written and directed by Hwang Dong-hyuk, centers protagonist&nbsp;Seong Gi-hun (Lee Jung-jae), an indolent father with a gambling problem, who finds himself betting against a suited man in a subway station after losing his winnings while running from loan sharks. He is recruited to&nbsp;participate in a game to win an extremely large sum of money.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Accepting the offer, he finds himself waking up in a room with 456 other contestants, all of whom come from different backgrounds and social class, but are gathered for the same reason — to play a series of games that will earn them a chance at winning ₩45.6 billion. But as soon as the first game begins, players quickly realise that the stakes are even higher than they were led on to believe; not only are they fighting to win the grand prize, but they are fighting to stay alive.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_6.png"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-61407" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_6.png" alt="gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_6" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_6.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_6-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_6-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_6-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_6-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_6-400x266.png 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_6-600x399.png 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></a></p>
<p><strong>2. It&#8217;s binge-worthy</strong><br />
Not everyone has the time of day to commit to long-running shows, but with only nine episodes, the show is worthy of a quick binge before the week ends. The show is comprised of characters and plot twists that offer a mix of&nbsp;&nbsp;drama, comedy suspense, action and&nbsp;heart-felt moments all in&nbsp;nine hour-long episodes.</p>
<p>With a plot that takes the simple concept of playing childhood games, then pitting 456 desperate participants against each other for a chance at win a large sum of cash, the story unfolds into an elaborate reflection of human nature and modern capitalist society that elicit realistic emotions and struggles that has proven to be universally relatable.</p>
<p>The show serves up a well-rounded balance of hope, horror and entertainment that have will have you hooked and tapping &#8220;next episode&#8221; as soon as the credits roll.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_3.png"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-61404" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_3.png" alt="gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_3" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_3.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_3-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_3-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_3-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_3-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_3-400x266.png 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_3-600x399.png 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></a></p>
<p><strong>3. The characters grow on you<br />
</strong>What makes this dark thriller both uniquely dramatic and entertaining is the characters. Like any good show, the character development in the show add depth to the storyline that will have viewers&#8217; perceptions of the players turning 180-degree as participants gradually&nbsp;shed layers of their personas — revealing their true nature.</p>
<p>To say the least, in the absence of heart-racing and action-packed scenes, the supporting characters such as emotionally-distant North-Korean defector Kang Sae-byeok (Jung Ho-Yeon), the intelligent and model leader Cho Sang-Woo (Park Hae-Soo), and the wise elderly Oh Il-Nam (Oh Young-Soo) convincingly portray realistic emotions that will have audiences&nbsp;rooting for the underdog and sympathising with the villains.&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_4.png"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-61405" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_4.png" alt="gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_4" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_4.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_4-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_4-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_4-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_4-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_4-400x266.png 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_4-600x399.png 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></a></p>
<p><strong>4. Cleverly layered details</strong><br />
Film buffs will surely keep their eyes peeled for details that symbolise a deeper meaning that foreshadow future outcomes or even mirror real life situations in metaphors, from the soundtrack to hidden meanings within objects, the many hints, musical cues and visual details make up an eerily calm and fun-loving setting that recall the innocence of childhood that drastically transitions&nbsp;as players are shocked back into reality in the harrowing fight for survival that unravels in horrific consequences with each failed attempt at completing the game.</p>
<p><a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_5.png"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-61406" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_5.png" alt="gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_4" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_5.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_5-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_5-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_5-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_5-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_5-400x266.png 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_5-600x399.png 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></a></p>
<p>Take for example the striking set designs&nbsp;of the Red Light, Green Light grounds of the first game, with the chilling and now iconic mechanical girl as the focal point — a character designed off of actual Korean children&#8217;s textbooks; or the vibrant Penrose stairs that serve as the interlude between resting area and playing zones which polarise the darker undertones of the games; nothing is as it seems and forever are these nostalgic symbolisms of childhood tainted as players continue to push through each stage of the competition.</p>
<p>Art director Chae Kyoung-sun said, “We created the places and displays trying to make the viewers think about the hidden intentions of&nbsp;<i>Squid Game</i>.”&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_7.png"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-61408" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_7.png" alt="gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_7" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_7.png 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_7-200x133.png 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_7-421x280.png 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_7-120x80.png 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_7-500x333.png 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_7-400x266.png 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/gafencu_entertainment_netflix_must_watch_squid_game_south_korean_kdrama_7-600x399.png 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></a></p>
<p><strong>5. A second season in the making</strong><br />
Holding back on the spoilers, this binge-worthy Netflix show rounds up to a jaw-dropping plot twist with plenty of holes and a cliffhanger of an ending that sill leave audiences wanting more. With a second season already in the works, there are still plenty of unanswered questions, and theories as to how the show will move forward.</p>
<p>But until then, the intense first season of this mega successful Korean drama series is definitely a hot and redefining Netflix series of the Korean thriller genre that will have you gritting your teeth through every episode.</p>


Netflix’s ‘Squid Game’ is sensational: 5 reasons why it’s so popular!

<p>Despite boasting a population of just over 50 million souls, the nation of South Korea has in the past four decades, become something of a cultural powerhouse, with its music, electronics, cuisine, cosmetics and TV shows entering the mainstream and developing a legion of fans across the globe. Indeed, it’s no stretch to say the world is now obsessed with South Korea. This, in turn, has turned its capital of Seoul into one of Asia’s most visited destinations, drawing over 17.5 million intrepid travellers in 2019.</p>
<p><a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-national-palace.jpg"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-59112" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-national-palace.jpg" alt="Gafencu Magazine Seoul Searching South Korea’s capital city national palace" width="700" height="446" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-national-palace.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-national-palace-200x127.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-national-palace-439x280.jpg 439w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-national-palace-120x76.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-national-palace-500x319.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-national-palace-400x255.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-national-palace-600x382.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></a><br />
Sadly, the coronavirus pandemic has brought all travel to a sudden halt, but that doesn’t mean you can’t plan ahead to better days when borders once again open up and you can visit this unique destination once more. In preparation, we highlight some of Seoul’s most visit-worthy sights to put on your itinerary&#8230;</p>
<p><strong><a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-changing-of-the-guard-gyeongbokgung.jpg"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-59110" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-changing-of-the-guard-gyeongbokgung.jpg" alt="Gafencu Magazine Seoul Searching South Korea’s capital city changing of the guard gyeongbokgung" width="700" height="446" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-changing-of-the-guard-gyeongbokgung.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-changing-of-the-guard-gyeongbokgung-200x127.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-changing-of-the-guard-gyeongbokgung-439x280.jpg 439w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-changing-of-the-guard-gyeongbokgung-120x76.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-changing-of-the-guard-gyeongbokgung-500x319.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-changing-of-the-guard-gyeongbokgung-400x255.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-changing-of-the-guard-gyeongbokgung-600x382.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></a><br />
Gyeongbokgung</strong><br />
Perhaps the most iconic of Seoul’s five palaces, Gyeongbokgung is also the largest. Built in 1395 during the Joseon Dynasty as its main royal residence, it was destroyed during World War II by Japanese occupiers, but the Korean government has painstakingly rebuilt and restored the complex – which encompasses some 330 buildings in all – back to its original glory. Visitors here should not miss the changing of the guard ceremony, which occurs at 10am and 2pm daily. For a truly culturally immersive experience, you can also explore the National Palace Museum and National Folk Museum that are on the grounds. The entrance fee is even waived for guests dressed in the traditional hanbok robes, which can be rented at various outlets in the city.</p>
<p><a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-trees.jpg"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-59115" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-trees.jpg" alt="Gafencu Magazine Seoul Searching South Korea’s capital city trees" width="700" height="446" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-trees.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-trees-200x127.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-trees-439x280.jpg 439w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-trees-120x76.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-trees-500x319.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-trees-400x255.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-trees-600x382.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Changdeokgung</strong><br />
A short walk to the east of Gwanghwamun – the main gate of Gyeongbokgung – is Changdeokgung, the city’s second-largest palace. Dotted with a plethora of leafy pathways, ancient temples and picturesque pavilions, it affords travellers a tranquil reprieve from the urban jungle just beyond its boundaries. Changdeokgung is a particularly popular hotspot for tourists and Seoulites alike during the spring and autumn seasons, with cherry blossoms blooming during the former and spectacular fall foliage on display during the latter.</p>
<p><a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-autumn.jpg"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-59107" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-autumn.jpg" alt="Gafencu Magazine Seoul Searching South Korea’s capital city autumn" width="700" height="446" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-autumn.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-autumn-200x127.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-autumn-439x280.jpg 439w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-autumn-120x76.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-autumn-500x319.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-autumn-400x255.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-autumn-600x382.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></a></p>
<p><strong>Bukchon Hanok Village</strong><br />
Nestled between the two palaces atop the hill, you will find the traditional Korean village, also known as a hanok, of Bukchon. Once inhabited by nobility and high-ranking government officials, in all, some 400 old-fashioned houses comprise the mini-town. Many have since been transformed into cultural centres, guest houses, tea houses, shops and eateries. Perhaps among the city’s most Instagrammable locales, it’s not unusual to see its rustic streets thronged by crowds dressed in hanbok couture.</p>
<p><a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-food.jpg"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-59117" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-food.jpg" alt="Gafencu Magazine Seoul Searching South Korea’s capital city food" width="700" height="446" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-food.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-food-200x127.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-food-439x280.jpg 439w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-food-120x76.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-food-500x319.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-food-400x255.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-food-600x382.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></a></p>
<p><strong>Cheonggyecheon Stream</strong><br />
Amid the skyrise-laden buildings of Seoul’s business district runs a 10km-long stream lined with pedestrian promenades – Cheonggyecheon Stream. Popular throughout the year as a getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life, it’s a particular draw during such holidays as Buddha’s Birthday, the Lantern Festival and Christmas, when the waterways are punctuated with various artworks and illuminations. As you meander along the river, keep an eye out for sign posts for Gwangjang Market, the city’s oldest traditional market. Laden with everything from kitchen appliances to dummy food props, the key highlights here are the array of culinary treats on offer at its centre. Here, must-try dishes include mandu (Korean dumpling) soup, bibimbap – rice topped with various vegetables and meats and presented in a hot stone pot – and, of course, the famous Korean mung bean pancake, or bindaetteok, a deep-fried concoction fronted by such ingredients such as mung beans, bean sprouts, onions, peppers and egg.</p>
<p><a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-hanbok-robe.jpg"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-59111" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-hanbok-robe.jpg" alt="Gafencu Magazine Seoul Searching South Korea’s capital city hanbok robe" width="466" height="700" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-hanbok-robe.jpg 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-hanbok-robe-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-hanbok-robe-186x280.jpg 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-hanbok-robe-120x180.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-hanbok-robe-400x601.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" /></a></p>
<p><strong>Namdaemun Market</strong><br />
Another must-visit destination for foodies is Namdaemun Market, the largest traditional market in the country. Frequented by locals and tourists alike, you’ll find everything from fresh produce to clothing in the many stalls on display. Alongside these are a veritable treasure trove of cheap eats, ranging from spicy tteokbokki rice cakes and meat skewers to kimchi stews and seafood. Retailers here open through the day, while wholesalers and food vendors work through the night from 11pm to 4am. The best way to cover most ground here is to graze sparingly, taking small portions as you walk through the market in order to save some appetite for other culinary treats you may discover.</p>
<p><a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-cable-car.jpg"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-59109" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-cable-car.jpg" alt="Gafencu Magazine Seoul Searching South Korea’s capital city cable car" width="700" height="446" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-cable-car.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-cable-car-200x127.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-cable-car-439x280.jpg 439w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-cable-car-120x76.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-cable-car-500x319.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-cable-car-400x255.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-cable-car-600x382.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></a></p>
<p><strong>N Seoul Tower</strong><br />
For a change of scenery, perhaps a visit to N Seoul Tower – perched atop the 243m Namsan Mountain – is the way to go. Adventurous and athletically inclined explorers can actually scale to the peak via a 2km trail, while those in search of a more sedentary option can head to the cable car instead. The tower measures some 236m in height, and the observatory platform there affords some of the city’s best panoramas. To prolong your visit, drop by the revolving restaurant, and for couples in love, don’t forget to add your own ‘lock of love’ to lock-laden gates here.</p>
<p><a href="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-shopping.jpg"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-59113" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-shopping.jpg" alt="Gafencu Magazine Seoul Searching South Korea’s capital city shopping" width="700" height="446" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-shopping.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-shopping-200x127.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-shopping-439x280.jpg 439w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-shopping-120x76.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-shopping-500x319.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-shopping-400x255.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gafencu-Magazine-Seoul-Searching-South-Korea’s-capital-city-shopping-600x382.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></a></p>
<p><strong>Gangnam</strong><br />
Heading back into town, no visit to Seoul is complete without visiting the bustling neighbourhood of Gangnam. Made famous with singer Psy’s viral 2012 hit, Gangnam Style, it’s brimming with trendy restaurants, upscale cocktail bars and much more. The area is also home to the COEX Mall, the world’s largest underground shopping complex, where you’ll find hundreds of stores, a mammoth book store, a Megabox movie theatre and even the COEX Aquarium. Fans of K-pop should also head to SM Town, a museum dedicated to the country’s modern musical culture. Here, you can even watch full hologram renditions of past concerts – a wonderfully quirky way to experience the modern side of South Korea.</p>


Gafencu Magazine Seoul Searching South Korea’s capital city

Seoul Searching: Exploring the countless sights of South Korea’s capital city

<p>While we may be able to avoid the snowy touch of winter here in Hong Kong, our northern-nation neighbors are not so lucky, but with Spring but already sprung now is the perfect time to hop a plane and pack your hiking boots for a trip northward.&nbsp;Indeed, with a boundless amount of&nbsp;<a href="//www.gafencushop.com/tag/hiking/">hiking</a> trails in Northern Asia, it can be difficult to narrow down which ones should top our to-do lists in a world never before so friendly for travel. Fortunately, we&#8217;ve had the time to climb a mountain or two for you and report back with our top results.</p>
<p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-43992 aligncenter" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/china.jpg" alt="hiking trails in Northern Asia" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/china.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/china-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/china-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/china-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/china-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/china-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/china-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></p>
<h3>Zhangjiajie National Forest Park</h3>
<h4>China</h4>
<p>Now just a quick train ride of five or so hours,&nbsp;thanks to the high-speed train from West-Kowloon station, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park appears to be right out of a lucid dream. However, the national park is indeed a sure thing with a beauty arguably unmatched, so much so that it was featured in the James Cameron blockbuster <strong>Avatar&nbsp;</strong>(2010). The&nbsp;unique geological formations are plentiful, with rushing rivers and trails for days. You won&#8217;t want to exclude Zhangjiajie from your bucket list, but be sure to go during off season as the sudden fame of the park has propelled visitors into the millions.</p>
<h3><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-43990 aligncenter" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/japan.jpg" alt="hiking trails in Northern Asia" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/japan.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/japan-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/japan-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/japan-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/japan-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/japan-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/japan-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></h3>
<h3>The Imperial Route to Kumano</h3>
<h4>Japan</h4>
<p>A cherished park in Japan for over 1,000 years, the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route is now a registered UNESCO world heritage site and for good reason. Enjoy a stroll down the same trails that once were taken by retired emperors and aristocrats, offering routes for both short walks and multi-day treks. To give your feet a deserved break, treat yourself to one of the many traditional accommodations of the area and take a dip into the hot springs.</p>
<p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-43991 aligncenter" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/korea.jpg" alt="hiking trails in Northern Asia" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/korea.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/korea-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/korea-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/korea-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/korea-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/korea-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/korea-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></p>
<h3>Odaesan National Park</h3>
<h4>South Korea</h4>
<p>For those eager to explore South Korea&#8217;s North-Eastern region, you best start with Odaesan Nation Park found some 144 kilometers east from the nation&#8217;s capital of Seoul. As the place to be for anyone looking to be at one with nature, Odaesan is chock-full of well-marked trails and even child-friendly. Enjoy the calming sounds of the river, and make sure to stop into the Sangwonsa Temple before calling it a day. &nbsp;</p>
<p><figure id="attachment_43993" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-43993" style="width: 466px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-43993 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/taiwan.jpg" alt="hiking trails in Northern Asia" width="466" height="700" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/taiwan.jpg 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/taiwan-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/taiwan-186x280.jpg 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/taiwan-120x180.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/taiwan-400x601.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-43993" class="wp-caption-text"><em>Photo: Bailey Atkinson</em></figcaption></figure></p>
<h3>Taroko National Park</h3>
<h4>Taiwan</h4>
<p>Bearing its name from the local Truku aboriginal tribe, Taroko National Park is not only one of the most beautiful sights in Taiwan, but in the world. For those searching for a truly marveling view which has been scantily touched by man, will be delighted to learn that Taroko is sacredly protected by Taiwan&#8217;s environmental protection movement. Sure to be a splendid way to immerse yourself into nature, the park is home to several hiking trails, a wide range of wildlife many of which are unique to the region and relaxed county of Hualien just minutes away.</p>
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<p><em>Text: <a href="mailto:bailey@itotalmedia.com">Bailey Atkinson</a></em></p>


Tag: south korea

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Tag: south korea

Blog Section

Sensational Seoul: Beyond K-pop hype, the city’s glorious palaces and majestic surrounding mountains endure

Hallyu to the World: The rise and rise of Korean Culture

Netflix’s ‘Squid Game’ is sensational: 5 reasons why it’s so popular!

Seoul Searching: Exploring the countless sights of South Korea’s capital city

Northern Steps: Discover northern Asia’s hiking trails