EAT, DRINK, EXPLORE: SEOUL

BEST FOOD TO EAT IN SEOUL

South Korea, also known as, The Land of the Morning Calm, features exquisite food no matter where you are. But in Seoul, you’ll have no trouble finding delicious cuisine, including a sizzling bowl of bibimbap. Colorful sautéed vegetables are coated in a mind-blowing combination of chili paste, soy sauce, and fermented soybean paste then served over fluffy white rice. Mixed all together, the ingredients meld into a texture-filled, flavorsome feast you’ll crave again and again.

Top Cultural Foods To Try in Seoul

Here are some of the top traditional foods to try while you're studying in Seoul:

• Tteokbokki: This is a super popular street food that you can find all over Seoul. Tteokbokki are chewy rice cakes drenched in a sweet and spicy red chili sauce (gochujang). Often, you’ll find it served with sides like boiled eggs or cheese, and you can really customize the flavors to your liking!
• Seolleongtang: If you want to try a comforting Korean meal, try a bowl of Seolleongtang! This is a milky white soup made from ox bones that are simmered for hours to create a rich broth. You’ll find it served with thin noodles, alongside rice and kimchi. It’s perfect for cold days in South Korea, which is why you’ll find it served most frequently in the wintertime!
• Ganjang gejang: Ganjang gejang is a traditional dish that includes raw crab marinated in a special soy sauce-based brine. It’s extremely popular in South Korea, and you’ll find it typically served alongside rice and seaweed. 

BEST DRINKS IN SEOUL

When in Seoul, partaking in an ancient tea ceremony is just as essential as enjoying a bowl of bibimbap. Traditional Korean teahouses abound in Seoul but to ensure an authentic experience, find one off the beaten path in a hanok (a traditional Korean house). Then, take off your shoes and enjoy the quiet, peaceful atmosphere, delicate serving ware, and reverence surrounding this ancient ritual.

Top Cultural Drinks To Try in Seoul

Here are some of the top traditional drinks to try while you're studying in Seoul:

• Soju: Soju is a clear and distilled spirit with a smooth and somewhat sweet flavor. Generally, it’s served in small glasses and enjoyed with friends since it’s an important part of social culture in South Korea.  
• Yuja-cha: Yuja-cha is a traditional Korean tea made from the native yuja fruit, which is a type of citrus. It’s very popular in South Korea, especially in the winter since it is the perfect beverage to warm up on a cold day.
• Makgeolli: Makgeolli is a traditional rice wine with a milky color and sweet yet fizzy flavor. Traditionally, it’s served from a bowl with friends and is often paired with savory pancakes (jeon).  

BEST PLACES TO EXPLORE IN SEOUL

Spend an afternoon steeped in traditional Korean culture with a trip to Bukchon Hanok Village. The village is surrounded by Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, Jongmyo Shrine and home to hundreds of hanoks still occupied by residents. It also features traditional teahouses, art galleries, crafts, cafés, and restaurants. In all, a wonderful place to immerse yourself in Korea’s well-preserved past.

Top Cultural Attractions to Visit in Seoul

Here are some of the top cultural attractions to visit while you're studying in Seoul:

• Gyeongbokgung Palace: Explore the largest and most famous royal palace from the Joseon Dynasty. Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung is an amazing spot to learn about Korea’s royal history. You can also rent a traditional Korean dress (hanbok) to wear while you explore for a truly interactive experience!
• N Seoul Tower: This famous is an iconic feature in Seoul’s beautiful skyline.You'll find it located on top of Namsan Mountain, where it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. It also marks the second tallest point in all of Seoul!
• Gwangjang Market: In Gwangjang Market, you’ll find a huge variety of authentic Korean street food to taste as well as shops to find unique gifts and textiles. It’s Seoul’s largest and oldest market that has been serving the local population for over one hundred years! 

Explore Study Abroad Programs in Seoul