Seoul moves fast but rewards planning. Base yourself in Myeongdong or Hongdae for transit links; Insadong and Bukchon Hanok Village show traditional lanes between skyscrapers. Gyeongbokgung Palace morning guard ceremony is worth the alarm.
Food is the main event — Korean BBQ in Mapo, street tteokbokki in markets, and convenience-store breakfasts that embarrass Western equivalents. Download Papago for menu translation; many spots are cashless.
Day trips to DMZ require booked tours weeks ahead. Nami Island and Suwon Fortress suit autumn foliage. Spring cherry blossoms crowd Yeouido — go mid-week.
Incheon (ICN) and Gimpo (GMP) serve international routes. SnagAFlight helps compare Gulf and Asian hub connections — Tuesday departures frequently undercut Friday long-haul pricing.
