Must Visit Restaurants near Home

Restaurants near 42SHARE

FOOD!!! okay now you are in your accommodation and want to go out to eat but what? mostly when there are so many options and various restaurants catering similar menus. Following we will provide a list of the best restaurants around 42SHARE halls and around Seoul if you are feeling adventurous!!

Gosami

The Gosami restaurant is famous for their grilled fish such as grilled Godeungoe (Mackerel) and Samchi (Spanish Mackerel). You can also enjoy the fish with Kimchijjigae (Kimchi Stew) and or doenjangjjigae (soy bean).

There are other options in the menu as wel, such as bulgogi and spicy stir fry squid!!

For more information click HERE

Seo Seo Galbi / 서서갈비

No seat KBBQ??? yep that's right!! at this restaurant you will be able to enjoy delicious meat standing up, I know it sounds a bit strange or just different but is one of those experiences you won't want to miss out!!

Seo Seo Galbi has been around for over 50 years and they only serve domestic marinated beef in soy sauce in Korean "Hanwoo Sogalbi". The meat is so delicious that people line up to eat there and you can't make any reservations so it's first come first serve basis. Make sure to head on over quickly since they tend to sell out!! even on weekdays!!

For more information click Here


42SHARE

At 42SHARE there are rooms that have their own kitchen and others that don't but we provide a common kitchenette for residents to use and cook with their friends!! As you can see in our pictures from Yonsei Hall, there is enough space to cook and sit down to eat!! also if the weather allows it you can go outside and enjoy the rooftop overlooking around the buildings!!

You can also invite your friends and have a potluck!! We sometimes host similar events in order to bring everyone together and getting to know each other!!


Bangkok Express

Want some Thai food? Bangkok Express is known to be one of the best Thai food restaurants in Seoul!! They used to be in a smaller location but their popularity forced them to move into a bigger space. Their popular dishes are the soft shelled curry crab served in a yellow curry sauce with rice and the Pad Thai.

Their location is pretty close to our Yonsei Hall!! For more information click Here!!

Sag

Want a quick snack? If you want to try various kinds of fried foods you should visit Sag!! Sag is a tteokbokki place where you can eat sundae, fried banana, dumplings, veggies and chicken as well!!

Their tteokbokki is one of kind because of the well balance of spiciness and savor taste!! It's popular among Ewha students to distress from their daily life and enjoy the delicious food!! Also be aware that during peak hours you might have to wait since the restaurant is quite small and there will be a waiting line, but that proofs how good the place is!!!

Also the place is not well known, therefore a lack of other blogs talking about it, but here is the Address: 12 Ewhayeodae 3-gil, Daehyeon-dong, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul

Dessert

If you still have room for dessert, go ahead and get some Bingsu!!! (of course if it's in season) There are many cafes that serve this delicious Korean desert, however some locations have different style and tastes for Bingsu. There are three unique Bingsu locations in Sinchon to pick from, click HERE for more information!!

We hope the information was helpful and you get to visit one of these locations!! Remember to read our other blogs about living in Seoul!!

Best 5 Study Cafes in Seoul

Study Cafes in Seoul

Now that you are in Seoul either just travelling or studying, and want a place to relax and be focused, you should consider visiting one of these awesome Cafes in Seoul!! Studying at the same location everyday can get tiring and unmotivated, therefore here is a list of places you can go and sit down to study or read. Since changing environments time to time can improve your style of thinking and spice up your study time.

The 1st Penguin

The 1st cafe in Seoul that is great for those who want a nice and quiet place to study or read, has designed their shop for those purposes. This style of a Cafe is unusual but effective for customers since there are 200 electric outlets, 2 computers, 30 lamps, dozens of pencils and sharpeners. Also they provide free water and books if you don't have anything to study with. You will also find some couches, desks for two with a lamp, blankets and even a chalkboard. That being said, this place is really for those who want to study or read, so not a good idea to go there and have a conversation.

The location of The 1st Penguin is near Korea University, so it's really popular for students who attend the prestigious school. Also the colors of the Cafe are really bright and colorful that help people stay awake!! Another thing about their location, is that there are quite a number of restaurants around that you can go eat when you get hungry, but The 1st Penguin do sell small snacks.

For more information click HERE!



Cafe Meeple

Cafe Meeple first opened back in 2007 and has attracted tens of thousands of students to study there and people to just prepare work or read. The cafe is really spacious and aims to provide comfortable study spaces for people. There you can find various sizes of tables, study rooms, and printing facilities. Also there is a possibility you can get a discount if you go during their early hours!!

If you know Korean, visit their Website for more information!!



Dokdabang Cafe

The Dokdabang Cafe is symbolic in Sinchon, it first opened back in 1971 as a music cafe and it was popular among students in the 70's and 80's for 33 years and closed down in 2005. However it has re-opened thanks to the grand son of the original owner and has been a favorite of locals since then!! and close to Yonsei University!!

The Cafe is not just for study as the other two, it has two separate areas for study and regular common space. The ambiance gives a gracefully library-like feel because of their interior design such as wooden tiles, ceiling-tall wooden shelves, wood patio doors with gold linings and classical music as background music. They also have huge glass windows that you will be able to enjoy the view of Sinchon.

If you need a quiet space to study or read, they have a room for that!! In there you will find tables with study lamps and absolutely no talking. Another great part of this cafe is that they have two private meeting rooms for hourly rent for any purpose you would need, maybe such as study groups. Now for the coffee, any drink you purchase you can have a coffee refill for FREE but only once for every purchased drink.

The cafe also is well known for their seasonal Bingsu, every Summer they sell Melon Bingsu which is a favorite because of the style it's served but also of its delicious taste!!

For more information and reviews click HERE!

More pictures and credit click HERE!

Cafe Cita at Soom Island

This cafe near Sogang University is a combination of reading room, cafe and an art gallery. The environment is really peaceful and relaxing!! The combinations mentioned are divided into different spaces around the building, such as where you would find the Book Gallery there is a no-talking policy, then there is the Cafe (CITA) and then an art gallery to enjoy.

Occasionally the Cafe Cita hosts film screenings, book club meetings and lectures. You would also find special meditation and conference rooms available for rent on the seventh floor. However CITA is well known for their beautiful pastries!! The Head Chef studied at Le Cordon Blue in France and one of the popular items are the tarts which people claim are the best ones they ever tried!!

For more information click HERE!


Sahara Cafe

The Sahara Cafe is a hidden gem in Seoul and is really popular among Soongsil University students. Because of the cheap price for coffee and a beautiful and minimalist design. You can go there to study or read, they even have hundreds of books to choose from!!

For seating they have pillowed chairs, long tables with study lamps and just a nice quiet relaxing atmosphere. The nearest subway station to get here is Soongsil University station and they are open Monday to Saturday from 11 am to 11 pm and on Sunday 1 pm to 11 pm, go ahead and check them out!!

Address: 501-2 Beonji Sangdo-dong, Dongjak-gu, Seoul, South Korea
주소: 서울특별시 동작구 사당로 6-1

We hope that you find this information useful and get the chance to visit any of these locations!! Remember to check out our other blog posts about Exploring outside of Seoul!! 

5 Best Reviewed Language Schools in Seoul

Live in Seoul, Learn Korean

Are you learning Korean but there are a few obstacles you can't seem to overcome? such as lack of language levels at your home university, not having Korean language courses near where you live or learning but not feeling fulfilled, well come to South Korea and learn, practice and excel your Korean language skills!! Learning another language is always a difficult path but a great opportunity to meet new people, learn about other cultures and much more!! Therefore, we would like to give a few of the best reviewed language schools in Seoul, so you can analyze them and decide which one fits your needs the most!! Of course none of these are ranked and feel free to do more of your own research as well.

Rolling Korea Language & Culture School

The Rolling Korea Language & Culture School was founded back in 2012 and has been developing their unique educational contents and activities so students receive the most satisfying experiences. If you are one of those students who occasionally lose motivation (I know I am hehehe), one of their goals is to always maintain students' interests and desire to become experts in Korean through cultural contents, such as K-POP/K-Dramas and field trips to popular locations around Seoul!!

If you are concerned about grammar, don't worry since they use Visual Learning. Meaning where instructors use visual materials to facilitate the understanding of grammar and this method has shown that students understand quickly about the subject. Some of the materials include, YouTube clips, magazines, news articles, Powerpoints, music videos and song lyrics, so don't worry it won't be a boring class with just textbooks!!

If you are worried there won't be much opportunity to speak, don't worry since they focus a lot of time to give students to practice their Speaking Skills. After each grammar lesson there will be guided conversations students can use to practice their skills. Also each classroom has a few number of students, so everyone has a chance to learn and practice more freely.

This institution has Various types of courses, click HERE to read about them and decide which one fits best for your needs!!

Click HERE to read their Reviews!

Lexis Korea

If you are looking for a more modern and attractive facility, then Lexis Korea is just for you. This institution has ten air conditioned classrooms with floor to ceiling glass windows that overlooks the Gangnam district of Seoul, and the student common room and restaurant facilities are within the building which is pretty convenient for students. Lexis Korea goal is to provide the highest quality of a study environment to students.

Lexis Korea has 7 different types of programs to choose from with different focus of study, however each one are fast-paced and small to medium size classes. They also provide cultural activities that students can participate in and further immerse into Korean culture.

Visit their Official Website for more information! and click HERE to read their Reviews!

Easy Korean Academy

At Easy Korean Academy, they have written and published their own learning textbooks and they are the same ones that are used in classrooms therefore being very efficient and systematic. They have various types of classrooms and each floor is equipped with computers for students to use. Also there is a coffee machine in the lounge and a classroom students can go to self-study after school.

They have various Korean language courses such as TOPIK class, K-POP (dance and song lyrics), pronunciation class, weekend classes and online classes as well. Besides the courses they also offer cultural activities such as cooking classes, city tours, Hanbok experience and much more!!

Visit their Official Website for more information! and click HERE to read their reviews!

Sogang University Korean Language Program

Sogang Korean Language Education Center (KLEC) classes are student-centered and focus on Speaking. Students are able to improve their ability to speak quickly by learning vocabulary and phrases used in daily life while engaging in very realistic activities. Of course listening, reading and writing are also included in the course. This program is highly recommended among Korean language students, especially known for its results in achieving practical knowledge of Korean language, rather than strict grammar which is limited in real life use.

Each course has cultural activities to keep students engaged in Korean culture. There are 7 levels of Korean language learning that one can partake. However you will be tested through speaking interview, reading and writing evaluation and then placed to the correct Korean level you are at. In order to advance students need to score over 70% on the final exam in each class and area (such as speaking, reading, writing and listening).

Visit their Official Website for more information! and click HERE to read their reviews!

Yonsei University Korean Language Program

The Yonsei University Korean Language Program is an extremely popular choice for those wanting to learn Korean, especially among the younger demographics. Their program is also one of the largest Korean language programs in Korea!!

The University Korean Language Program at Yonsei is designed for foreign students who are either currently enrolled in a Korean university or are planning on applying to a Korean university. Their main goal is to cultivate high level of Korean ability necessary for studying at a Korean university by focusing on content related to university life as well as university courses and lectures. One thing to keep in mind is that this program is known to be really heavy on grammar rather than practical speaking or listening.

Visit their Official Website for more information! and click HERE to read their reviews!

We hope this Blog post helped you a lot on deciding which language program will be best for your needs and preferences!! Remember to read our other Blog posts about living in Seoul and click HERE to read about different kinds of accommodations you can stay!!

Also if you would like to know how to further practice your learning around Seoul, click HERE for a list of places where you can do Language Exchange!!!

Stay in Korea for the Fall

Autumn Activities in Korea

Oh Autumn.... Most of us love this weather and the beautiful views you can experience due to the change of leave colors and nice breezy weather. Therefore coming to Korea should not take so much convincing for you to come huh? Trust me when I say you will want to be here during that time because not only is the best weather here but also because there are various festivals, holidays and view spots you won't want to miss out!!

September

There are a few events that happen in September and you won't want to miss out the opportunity to experience them!!

Gwangju World Kimchi Festival

(Every two years from early September to November)

This festival celebrates what could be called Korea's national food, kimchi. At the festival visitors may sample a wide range of kimchi varieties and learn how to make some as well. In addition, exhibitions, educational and hands-on programs will be held too. You can also tour around Gwangju, which is known as "home of delicacies". 

Admission for Adults: ₩14,000     Youth: ₩6,000 

Visit their Official Website for more information!

Paju Booksori Festival

(Usually second week of September)

Are you a Book Lover!? then you will not want to miss out this Book Festival in Paju!! The event draws half a million of book lovers from all around for a week-long celebration. In there you can find around 100 publishers and many notable book-related organizations in attendance. There are dozens of bookshops in Paju Book City one of only 16 official book towns in the world and includes a variety of themed exhibitions, performances and hands on activities for the whole family!! (credit)

Admission is FREE

Dates for 2019: TBD

Official Website HERE

Chuseok

(15th Day of the 8th Month of the Lunar Calendar)

You probably have heard about this holiday, but if you haven't it's a major harvest festival and a three-day holiday in both North and South Korea. If you are familiar with American holidays you could say Chuseok is American's Thanksgiving since families come together to share food and stories to give thanks to their ancestors.

Keep in mind that since it's a very important holiday many stores and restaurants will be closed!!

Dates for 2019: September 12 to September 14

Visit HERE for more information about what it means and how it is celebrated!!

Andong Mask Dance Festival

(Usually end of September and beginning of October)

This festival was designed by Korea's Cultural Heritage Administration as Important Intangible Cultural Properties. Therefore this festival is a MUST if you are wanting to understand more about Korean culture. The event is full of performances and hands on activities for you to join the free-spirited environment!!

Admission is NOT FREE but it's pretty cheap!!

Adults: ₩7,000 Students: ₩5,000

Dates for 2019: 09.27 - 10.6

Visit their Official Website for more information!

Gimje Horizon Festival

(End of September and beginning of October)

This festival is a Traditional Farming Festival that represents the Republic of Korea. You will be able to experience all the fall fragrances, offering content that can satisfy all five sense of every family member, including a street full of things to see, food streets, and experiential street. Come heal your body and mind, letting go of exhaustion from daily life and visit the Gimje Horizon Festival!! 

Admission FREE     Experience programs: ₩10,000

Dates for 2019: 9. 27 - 10.6

Visit their Official Website for more information!

October

There are quite some events happening in this month so you will have to pick wisely which ones to go!!

Jinju Lantern Festival

(First week of October)

Do you enjoy being out during the dark and see beautiful lights of arts, then these lamps in this festival are seen as a representation of wishing for the world peace and mankind fortune each year. 

Admission is FREE 

Dates for 2019: 10.1 - 10. 13 

Visit their Official Website for more information!

Anseong Namsadang Baudeogi Festival

(First week of October)

Anseong was the birth place of Namsadang (troupes of entertainers who traveled around the country during the Joseon Period) and the hub of Korean art and Culture. Namsadang Baudeogi Festival continue the heritage of the artistic spirit of Baudeogi. The festival was also declared as the official festival of UNESCO's CIOFF (International Council of Organizations of Folklore Festivals and Folk Arts) in 2006. At the event there will be Baudeogi many ceremonies, courtyard performances, hanbok experience, traditional games, barehaded fishing, 7090 Concert and much more!!  

Admission is FREE and Family Friendly

Dates for 2019: 10.2 - 10. 6

Visit their Official Website for more information!

Jeonju International Sori Festival

(First week of October)

The Jeonju International Sori Festival is a traditional music festival which is held every fall at the Sori Arts Center of Jeollabuk-do and other venues as well. They host indoor and outdoor programs for kids and adults. All great masters of gugak (Korean traditional music, for instance pansori and pungmul) perform at the festival when welcoming artists from all over the world!! 

For Admission you will have to purchase a ticket in their website

Dates for 2019: 10.2- 10.6

Visit their Official Website for more information!

Seoul Street Art Festival (SSAF)

(First week of October)

The Seoul Street Arts Festival turns a daily space into a stage while demolishing the boundaries between the audience and performers.It is the street arts festival that brings the city, people and art together based on the citizens’ involvement. The festival is widely open to people of all age and gender and it will be a great chance to find new attractions of the familiar city space while moving through every street corner. 

Admission is FREE

Dates for 2019: 10.3 - 10. 6 

Visit their Official Website for more information!

Busan International Film Festival

(First to second week of October )

The BIFF purpose is to introduce new films and first-time directors, especially those from Asian countries. An interesting feature about the festival is the great appeal to young people, in terms of large youthful audience it attracts and efforts to promote young talent.  

Admission is FREE but you do have to do a reservation online

Dates for 2019: 10.3 - 10. 12

Visit their Official Website for more information!

Suwon Hwaseong Cultural Festival

(First week of October)

The Suwon Hwaseong Cultural Festival is Suwon's landmark festival held every October at Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site built to commemorate King Jeongjio's filial piety and dream for national prosperity and military power. 

Admission FREE     

Dates for 2019: 10.3 - 10.6

Visit their Official Website for more information!

Seoul International Fireworks Festival

(Early October)

Yay Fireworks!! the Seoul International Fireworks Festival brings a million of people to the banks of the Han River every October. You can go there during the day and enjoy some performances and later on enjoy exuberant themed fireworks shows by teams from South Korea and abroad. After the show there is a DJ-led party!! 

Admission is FREE 

Dates for 2019: 10.6

Visit their Official Website for more information!

Guri Cosmos Festival

(Usually first week of October)

There are beautiful flowers in Guri during Autumn!! The festival is held in the beautiful Hangang River with the cosmos fully blossomed. Many people take idle walks or ride a bicycle to enjoy the refreshing river wind. This place is also ideal to have a picnic and the festival is held for two days with approximately 200,000 visitors!!

Admission FREE    

Dates for 2019: TBD

Visit their Official Website for more information!

Nonsan Ganggyeong Salted Seafood Festival

(Usually second to third week of October)

This festival is known for its freshest and finest quality since the recipes were handed down from generation to generation, and still retaining the unique and authentic taste of salted fermented fish. All the ingredients are imported directly and prepared in modern facilities. Everything you find here is considered incredibly healthy!! 

Admission FREE    

Dates for 2019: 10.16 - 10.20

Visit their Official Website for more information!

Jeonju Bibimbap Festival

(Usually by the end of October)

The Jeonju Bibimbap Festival takes place at the Jeonju Hanok Village in Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do (North Jeolla Province). The festival centers on the widely popuar jeonju bibimbap, a popular dish served as a bowl of rice topped with various vegetables, beef and chili pepper paste. A variety of events await visitors at the festival, including concerts and magic shows. Organizers will be mixing a gigantic bibimbap (about 400 servings) as well as bibimbap cooking and a night market. 

Admission FREE    

Dates for 2019: 10.23 - 10.26

Visit their Official Website for more information!

We hope that you find this information useful and be able to visit any of these events in Korea!! Remember to check out our other blog posts about living in Korea!!