Planning a trip to South Korea will blow your mind in the best ways possible. As you step onto the tarmac, expect to be absorbed into an unreal world filled with unique and special sightings. To give you a taste of what to expect, we’ve put together a collection of pictures that show how special the East Asian country is.
A Fascinating Country - Where Illiterate Grandmothers Learn to Read
What better way to kickstart our list than with this group of illiterate grandmothers on a bus route to school. South Korea has one of the lowest birth rates in the world, and the schools have run out of children to fill the seats.
In response, schools have opened their doors to illiterate grandmothers so they can learn to read. This type of care is extended beyond the locals, too.
A Carefully Planned Quarantine Care Package
If you’ve traveled during the pandemic, then you’ll understand the stress of having to quarantine. The cost is high, and the food is normally sub-par - unless you’re in South Korea! This photograph shows a care package sent by the South Korean government to someone while in quarantine.
The letter included translates to read, “For people who are currently suffering from the Corona-19 virus, we send our regards and sympathy. We (the food ministry?) are sending this “environment-friendly health package” constructed with environment-friendly crops. We hope this helps you get energy for your daily routine. Furthermore, we hope you get well soon to return to your daily life. You can do it! Fight it! Go South Korea!”
We’ll take this care package over greasy pasta any day!
We’ll take this care package over greasy pasta any day!
Streets Filled With Pink
Jeju Island is an area known for its beach resorts, volcanic landscape, and - as you can see - gorgeous cherry trees. Not only is it impressive that South Korea makes an effort to line the city streets with nature, but the true amazement kicks in when you see these cherry trees explode with pink blossoms.
If you plan a trip to South Korea at the correct time, you could be lucky enough to stroll down these pink-lined streets. Want to try your luck? The best time to visit South Korea for cherry blossom season is from late March to mid-April.
Puppies Have the Power to Heal
Animal therapy is a real solution to many sad and stressful days. Nothing can compare with the soft fur of a kitten or the adorable breath of a puppy. Even seeing a picture of a cute animal can lift the mood - and the Korean train organizations know this very well!
Korean KTX Trains play regular “Healing Broadcasts” for those commuting. Essentially, the broadcast shows newborn puppies rolling around for five minutes. During those five minutes, the stresses of the day melt away!
No More Excuses for Missing Your Flight
Depending on the airport's size, you may find yourself getting lost on the way to the boarding gate. We’re all familiar with that feeling of running from one signboard to another, waiting to see your boarding gate appear, and calculating how long it will take you to get there - sometimes being late.
In Seoul, the airports give travelers a headstart by providing a map to your gate on the back of the boarding pass. With the route marked in your hand, it’s easy to find your way from the luggage counter to your seat on the plane.
Comparing Four Seasons in South Korea
Sometimes, you have to travel to opposite ends of the world to experience a different climate or see a contrasting scene. However, if you spend a year in South Korea, then you can experience a different scene with every season.
These pictures were all taken in the same spot over the course of a year, highlighting the impact of the natural season on the aesthetic of the city. From bright streets lined with cherry blossoms and full, green trees to golden leaves falling and snowy skeleton branches. How stunning!
There’s Always an Opportunity to Learn
Take a moment and consider the many hours lost on the train or while you commute. Frequent travelers have taught themselves various ways to pass the time in constructive ways. Some people binge podcasts, others respond to messages, while many catch up on some shuteye.
In South Korea, travelers also have the option to read a book from the subway car’s mini-library. Simply choose a book that tickles your fancy and use your time commuting to enrich your mind and stay entertained.
Even the Contractors Are Considerate
South Korean citizens have a reputation for being polite and reserved. There’s a low crime rate and very little vandalism within the country, and this all comes down to being considerate of everyone around you. This picture of cars covered in plastic is the perfect example!
In South Korea, this apartment complex was due to be painted, but the painters had a few extra steps included in their preparation process. Before dipping their brushes in the paint tins, the painters covered all the cars in the parking lot to protect them from paint splatter. Now that’s service!
A Franchise That Cares
Large corporates can get a bad rap for their mighty bank balances and greedy appearance. People often shame franchise companies because of their unrelenting drive for success - often at the expense of the community or environment. But not Starbucks in South Korea!
Someone snapped this picture of a basket found in a Starbucks franchise, filled with little packets of used coffee grounds. The store had collected used coffee grounds and made these used resources for gardening. What a great upcycling idea!
The Devil Is in the Detail
Everything that the South Koreans do is executed with care and consideration. The underside of this temple roof is the perfect example of how every detail is considered when creating something beautiful.
Not only are these wooden structures beautiful and eye-catching, but they are also hand-painted. We can only imagine the time and dedication that was needed to complete this roof - and it’s not the only one! Temples all around South Korea flaunt the same intricate beauty, showing how people hold the temples in reverence.
Let South Korea Light Up Your Life
In many cities, walking home at night is intimidating, with possible danger lurking around every corner. In South Korea, the walk home is illuminated by bright lights and gorgeous shrubbery!
Can you imagine walking home to this backdrop after finishing a long day at the office? Not only is the path illuminated, but it’s also beautiful, punctuating the end of the day with a moment of magic. Needless to say, South Korean city planners know how to see the bright side of life!
Cats Are Sacred
If you’ve ever owned a cat, then you’ll know that the furry felines quickly become a member of your family. In many instances, they become the leading member of the family, and everyone’s schedule needs to revolve around them. As this sign suggests, cats are popular pets in South Korea.
At first glance, it seems that this sign alerts drivers of a cat crossing the road. However, the sign is actually a warning to let people know that a cat is in the vicinity. Armed with this knowledge, drivers can decide to slow down for safety or stop for a photograph!
3D Worlds Are Overrated
East Asian countries are known for their innovative spaces and quirky habits, but this 2D cafe in Seoul kicks the effort up a notch. One of the most effective ways to be different and leave an impression is to create an alternate reality, and this cafe most certainly does the job!
Can you imagine the surreal experience of walking into a venue that looks like a drawing? Or sipping a coffee off of a flattened table? This cafe is one to add to your bucket list - just make sure that your camera is fully charged!
Tradition Means Innovation
South Korea has a long and fascinating history. While the history includes stories of war and the struggle for independence, it also has a rich traditional history, stunning architecture, and age-old customs.
This traditional side of life is still a reality in modern-day South Korea, which serves as a beautiful contrast to the developed and elegant skyscrapers in the city. It’s this delicate balance between progressive city and traditional culture that makes South Korea, and Seoul, such interesting places to visit.
A Picture Perfect Moment
With the modern world's obsession with social media, it’s easy to get caught up in the whimsical world of posed photographs and orchestrated moments. However, these moments are authentic in South Korea. Just look at this small restaurant in the snow as an example!
There’s something magical about a cozy, yellow light that illuminates warmth amid a cold winter day. The snow was dropping lightly in Seoul when a passerby snapped this picture of a welcoming sanctuary. Needless to say, there’s beauty in the mundane!
Sustainable Efforts Place Solar Energy as a Priority
The world is waking up to the importance of sustainability and eco-conscious behavior. There’s no guarantee that the world will be habitable if we continue to live without concern - but South Korea is thinking ahead.
Rather than leave it up to citizens to live with a sustainable mindset, the government is setting the example by including solar-powered benches along the city’s sidewalks. But that’s not all - the benches also come with USB and wireless charging docks (all powered by the sun)!
A Beautiful Escape Provided by Public Art
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and these lucky citizens in Seoul get access to a unique type of beauty when visiting this public space. Talented architect Yong Ju Lee created this installation in Hangang Art Park in South Korea, titled “Root Bench”.
We can only imagine the tranquility that exists as you lie on these wooden roots, reading your book or staring at the clouds. Maybe you choose to walk along the roots and soak in the surroundings. Whatever your preference, this public art installation is beautiful.
The Perfect Example of Adapting With the Times
Even though it’s dangerous to use your phone while driving, many people continue to text and drive. If not organizing dinner plans, they are using their phone to navigate their way to a venue - and South Korea has made a plan to prioritize safety.
South Korea has rolled out traffic lights on the ground so that people can know when they can go while looking at their phones. We’re not sure if this is the safest way to control traffic, but if you can’t beat them - join them!
No More Sticky Fingers
Nothing beats the joy of licking an ice lolly after a long, hot day in the sun. And nothing is as frustrating as having juice drip down your fingers as it melts in the sun. This South Korean ice lolly brand has a plan!
When you buy this fruity pop, it comes complete with a drip tray to prevent the delectable treat from melting all over your hands. Now there’s no reason not to indulge in the frosty treat on a warmer summer’s day!
Age-Old Beauty in South Korea
Every now and then, nature forces you to take a step back and marvel at its raw state. This picture was snapped in the well-known South Korean mountainous region, Daedunsan. It’s difficult to say which is the most beautiful element of this scene…
Perhaps you’re in love with the beautifully painted sky, the blanket of clouds, or the delicately jagged rocks? If we had to choose, the old pine tree in the middle is a mighty sight to behold and unbeatable in its vision!
The Balance Between Walking and Resting
Walking is not only good for your health, but it also provides a cost-effective and sustainable way to get from one point to another. To further support this mode of transport in South Korea, the government has placed regular resting places along the road.
Every half a kilometer, you’ll find a resting station such as this one for pedestrians to rest in the city of Ansan. The shady spot provides shelter from natural elements and a relaxing place to catch your breath.
Organization Is Key
Have you ever seen such a fantastic display of organization? These food products have been arranged in a glorious rainbow display, with the staff taking the time to group each product with others that are the same flavor or color packaging.
We can only hope that all of the brands are on the same page when it comes to assigning a color to a flavor. Otherwise, it could be a real challenge to find what you’re looking for during your shopping experience!
Cutesy Latte Art
South Korea has a reputation for being cute in its various marketing campaigns. It’s not surprising to see couples wearing matching shirts and little characters as the mascots for railway brands. So, it should come as no surprise that their latte art has a special twist too.
This latte art from a cafe in Seoul is unlike any other caffeinated treat we’ve seen. While the little character doesn’t look happy to be slurped up, it still paints a very vivid picture of emotion. How cute are those blushed cheeks!
A Waterproof Temperature Sticker
The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic sent the world into a frenzy, with countries implementing various techniques to keep their citizens safe. In South Korea, people visiting the beach were given a waterproof body-temperature sticker to manage symptoms of the virus.
If the sticker becomes too yellow, then the person needs to return to the beach entrance and have their temperature taken again. Better hope that the sun isn’t too toasty, or you may be banned from enjoying the day at the seaside!
A Peek Inside the Architecture of South Korea
Architecture is a fine art, and it takes great skill to be able to design a space that is aesthetically pleasing as well as functional. This picture is the perfect example of how South Korea nailed the art of design (again).
The golden curves of this entrance lead to the largest nightclub in the world, Seoul's Club Chroma. MRDV Architecture managed to put together this gorgeous design, inviting visitors and locals alike to step inside and party the night away.
Guilt-Tripping Doesn’t Always Work
Rush hour on the subway can be a nightmare, with people flocking for the escalators and causing a bottleneck in the process. In an effort to get people to use the stairs, very amusing pictures were pasted on the floor.
Using the stairs is one of the healthier options to move around, and these pictures on the floor clear any doubt about which route is best to use when trying to lose weight. While it may be a novel idea, it doesn’t seem to work with the people who continue to congest the escalators!
Innovative Road Cleaning Methods
Have you ever walked down the street and stepped into a dog poo? Or walked home from work to the smell of litter on the road? Rather than pay people to maintain these amenities, South Korean authorities have come up with an advanced way of keeping the roads clean.
These self-cleaning roads are an effective way to keep the tar in good condition. The water that comes from the cat eyes keeps the dirt at bay, and the road looking spick and span.
How Would Your Butt Feel About That?
Shopping is a sensory experience. It’s great to smell the aromas of the food, feel the textures of the clothing, and look at the quality of each item before you add it to your cart. Some brands even offer samples so that you can test the product before you buy it. Yet toilet paper samples are not the norm…
Toilet paper is normally used in an intimate setting, so it’s weird to see toilet paper samples out on the floor. We’re not sure how people plan to test these products in the store - but we hope that it’s with their noses!
Every Cake Occasion Is Worth Celebrating
Life is full of little moments that are worthy of celebrating. Whether it’s a milestone birthday or the joy of getting out of bed in the morning, life is full of exciting and meaningful moments. And what better way to celebrate than with a small cake!
South Korea kicks these celebrations up a notch. Cakes often come with free candles and matches hidden in the plastic cake knife. So, the next time that you want a chocolate ganache, make sure that you pack a lighter.
Outstanding Traditional Korean Architecture
There’s something nostalgic about tradition. Each country has its own style that deserves to be honored. In South Korea, the architecture is particularly astounding and worthy of being recognized.
In South Korea, the buildings are structured both vertically and horizontally, rising from a stone sub-foundation to a curved roof. Each of these structures is adorned with intricate details. It’s easy to get lost in another world by simply staring at these buildings. Now, all that you need is the traditional outfit, and you’ve dipped back into history!
An Intimate Karaoke Experience
Karaoke is all the rage in South Korea. No night out is complete without a karaoke experience, singing your heart out into a microphone and moving your body to the tune. While many people choose to enjoy a karaoke night with their friends, people in South Korea are willing to enjoy karaoke alone - at all places.
While some people choose to read books on the train, others prefer to dip into a single-person karaoke booth and release some pent-up energy. We hope that each of these booths is sound-proof!
Architecture That Creates an Illusion
Architecture is a highly underrated art form with so much potential to impress bystanders and create beauty. We’ve already shared the allure of traditional Korean architecture, as well as a taste of the modern marvel that South Korean architects are able to design. The GT Tower in Seoul is another example of an architectural wonder.
This tall skyscraper brings elements of the ocean into the city, creating a wavy illusion and inspiring a fluid movement. Can you imagine working in this building? We hope you don’t get seasick!
Solving the Problem of the Toothpaste Tube
Now, this is a product that we can get behind! Everyone can relate to the age-old struggle of squeezing the final blob of toothpaste out of the tube - and we all know that there’s always one more! But South Korea has come up with a solution.
These pump toothpaste bottles are ingenious, and one pump provides the perfect amount for a single toothbrush. Not only are these toothpaste pumps easy to use, but they also fit comfortably on the bathroom counter with your other hygiene products!
Robotic Customer Service
It’s no secret that technology has developed at a rapid rate, and many manual services have been replaced by technological tools. Automated software is being used for accounting, and machines are doing the job of factory workers. These friendly robots have been introduced at Incheon Airport in Seoul.
These helpful robots are used to check flight information, guide travelers to their boarding gate and make sure that everyone gets on the plane as needed. Who knows, we may even have robots flying the plane one day!
One of the Most Photographic Libraries in the World
Books are nostalgic and magical, which is why so many people are obsessed with the faded pages and ancient smell. If ever there was a place for bookworms to get lost in a world of wonder, it’s this library in Seoul.
Whether you visit this library to browse the many titles that line the shelves, or you simply want a beautiful backdrop for your Instagram profile - this library has you covered. Just make sure that you keep track of time because it’s easy to get lost!
Does Anybody Fancy Some Ramen?
Calling all ramen fans! You never know when the craving for ramen will kick in, and luckily you don’t have to worry about quelling your hunger when visiting South Korea. These automatic ramen dispensers are not only ingenious, but some may argue that they are also necessary.
The automated dispensers are convenient and readily available, giving you the carbohydrate kick of your dreams. If you’re ever feeling low on energy, just look for one of these dispensers around your local South Korean city.
A Unique and Interesting Sight of 1,000 Doors
The normal structure of a home includes four walls, a roof (or ceiling), and windows facing the exterior. But not this building! It’s difficult to take your eyes away from the magical appearance of the 1,000 dors building in South Korea. Every time that you scan the walls, you’ll notice something different.
Not only are these doors placed in an interesting way, but they are different colors and designs too. Even so, it’s best to make sure that the doors stay locked to avoid any tragic accidents.
Cherry Blossoms Are Not Only on Trees
The stunning outburst of cherry blossoms lining the streets of South Korea is an incredible sight, but it’s not the only place you’ll find the motif. If you visit any major store in South Korea, then you’ll see the funky flavor being applied to various consumable products.
In this particular store, cherry blossom Coca Cola fills the shelves. We can only imagine the delicate sweetness that explodes in your mouth after taking the first sip! Who knows what flavor will appear in the next few years!
Efficient Incorporation of COVID Tests
While COVID turned the world on its head, disrupting businesses and canceling travel plans, South Korea ensured that the pandemic’s interference would be kept to a minimum. One of the ways that they achieved this goal was by using walk-through Covid-19 test booths.
With these convenient stations, you could get your status checked while heading out for your morning coffee. Judging from this picture, they have taken great precautions in keeping everyone safe while also allowing them to move on with daily life.
Don’t Play With Your Food
South Korea loves to make a game out of different experiences, and that includes grocery shopping. Why get a pack of boring bananas delivered to your home when you can get these awesome stickers and have some fun!
These funky stickers are especially great for young kids to use as an incentive to eat their bananas. Before you peel back the golden, yellow skin, you can have a little bit of fun and create characters out of your favorite fruit! We especially love the heart eyes stickers!