DEBORAH IN KOREA

Category: K Dramas

  • 13 Best Things to Do on Wolmido Island, Incheon

    Wolmido is famous around Korea for a few things. One, for being the perfect quick getaway for a date day outside of Seoul, and two, for being a popular K-Drama filming spot. With delicious local restaurants, plenty of fun carnival rides and games, and beautiful views of the coast – there’s plenty to do even if you’re just visiting for the day.

    My Essential Korea Travel Resources :

    There are plenty of travel companies out there, but these are my favorite websites and resources for planning an unforgettable trip to South Korea. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more here.

    🚙 Car rentals, although not common in Korea, are best through Discover Cars – just make sure to have a copy of your international driver’s permit with you!

    🏨 I always use AGODA to compare hotels & prices in Asia.

    📶 To keep cell phone service, I use Airalo’s easy to purchase eSIM’s (no installation required).

    📸 For fun things to do, Klook specializes on tours in Asia, otherwise Viator also does the trick.

    🦋 Just in case, Safetywing is the insurance I always use when visiting a new country.

    🧳 Lastly, my essential packing list when visiting Korea.

    Getting to Wolmido & Planning Your Trip

    No matter where you’re coming from in the Seoul area, Wolmido is very easy to get to, however because Wolmido is located on the western coast of South Korea near Incheon International Airport, it might take you a while on public transportation.

    On the subway, you’ll want to connect to either the Dark Blue #1 Line or the Golden Yellow SuinBundang Line and take it all the way to Incheon Station. When you exit you’ll be right at the entrance to Incheon’s Chinatown – and from here you can either take a bus or the Wolmido Sea Train onto Wolmido Island.

    As you plan your trip to Wolmido, I recommend wearing comfortable tennis shoes, bringing extra sunscreen, sunglasses, and of course your camera to capture the beautiful coastal views! You’ll also want to come with an empty stomach to enjoy the delicious local restaurants. It’s also worth noting that during summer months many people visit Wolmido as a quick getaway or date day from Seoul, and so you can expect lots of couples and Seoul locals.

    If you’re looking for somewhere to stay near Wolmido, I recommend this Holiday Inn near Central Park!

    My Favorite Tours Near Wolmido :

    -> Pororo Theme Park Admission on Wolmido

    -> Incheon Full Day Tour from Seoul

    Best Things to Do in Wolmido

    1. Enjoy the Carnival Rides
    As soon as you walk around Wolmido you’ll notice this area is filled with not just the Wolmi Theme Park but also random rides in the area that you can enjoy! Two of the most popular in Korea are the “Disco Pang Pang” where riders attempt to sit around a circular arena as the announcer tries to bounce them off, and the second is “The Viking” – a pirate boat that swings up and down. You can choose to get a day pass or pay for each ride individually at the ticket booths.

    2. Play Some Carnival Games
    The more you walk, you’ll also notice plenty of small shops with all kinds of Carnival Games inside! Currently, the most popular is the dart throw to pop balloons – it’s really quite easy but you’ll have to buy a lot of rounds to actually win a large prize.

    3. Enjoy the Local Cafes
    Although there’s a number of cafe’s throughout all of South Korea, one of my personal favorites on Wolmido is the Orange Cafe. They have a super comfortable interior with adorable macarons and drinks, and when I visited the owner had her adorable puppy running around as well. Plus, because it’s on the second floor the views of the ocean are stunning!

    4. Look For K-Drama Filming Locations
    My husband and I were lucky when we visited and there were multiple filmings going on along the main street, however this is a fairly popular spot to film K-Drama scenes so chances are pretty good you’ll see one too if you’re lucky! Descendants of the Sun, 19/20, and Hotel Del Luna all had scenes filmed on Wolmido!

    5. Visit the Incheon Chinatown
    Not technically on Wolmido, but this Chinatown is the most popular and well known throughout Korea. As you exit the Incheon subway station, you’ll simply have to cross the street and you’ll find yourself right at the beginning! I highly recommend trying some Chinese-Korean cuisine, specifically a black noodle dish called “jajangmyeon” (자장면) that is only found in Korea. You can also walk up the hill to the Emperor Stairs for a fantastic view.

    6. Try the Local Seafood
    Because Wolmido is located right on the coast, it’s also lined with plenty of local seafood restaurants – and although they’ll all beckon you in as you walk by – don’t feel any pressure! Honestly they’re all serving the same dishes, so I would go into the one that looks the busiest! If you don’t feel like seafood, there’s an excellent traditional Korean Udon restaurant off the main road that serves some awesome King Dumplings!

    7. Ride the Wolmido Sea Train
    This is hands down the best way to experience the incredible views of Wolmido and the ocean – plus, by taking the Sea Train you’ll save your legs and feet from walking around the entire island! Included in the your ticket you get one chance to get off and get back on, so I recommend doing that at the beginning of the Culture Street and walking down to the next station.

    8. Walk the Wolmi Culture Street
    As you walk down the main street of Wolmido, dubbed the Wolmi Culture Street, you’ll find all sorts of entertainment. From musical fountains, to local fishermen, to beautiful ocean views and even the chance to buy some shrimp chips to feed the seagulls – there’s plenty to do! This is also where you’ll see all the carnival games and rides in addition to the local cafes and restaurants.

    9. Lock Gate Exhibition Center
    This exhibition center on Wolmido shares all about the Port – how and why it started, how it’s changed into what it’s become today, and even future plans for the port area!

    10. Wolmi Observatory
    You’ll have to hike up a few stairs for this observatory, but if you want some more epic views overlooking Wolmido then this is your second best bet aside from the Sea Train! You can also catch your breathe here at the local cafe!

    11. Walk through Wolmi Park
    This large park has plenty of paved trails for a nice walk and even has traditional Korean gardens. You can also find the Maritime Police Ship and the Wolmi Observatory here in the park!

    12. Take the Wolmido Ferry
    ​The Wolmido Ferry is 80 minutes long and takes you from the Wolmido Port around the Yeongjongdo Bridge and the Ara Waterway. It has incredible views of the islands in the area and the coastline, and costs about $15 a person.

    13. Incheon National Maritime Museum
    Having just opened earlier in the year, the National Maritime Museum was created to share exhibitions and galleries that showcase the “magnificent world of the ocean”. Entry is free, so it’s an excellent idea if you’re looking to cool down in the AC or get out of the rain!

    Watch My Wolmido Adventures Here!

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  • Seoul’s Bean Bag Movie Theater Review (CGV Cine Foret)

    Regardless of what many people think, there are a few Bean Bag Chair Movie Theaters in Seoul. However, the most popular and easiest to find is at the Cine & Foret at the CGV Gangbyeon. Here, you can get comfy in one of their bean bag chairs or even in one of two cabanas in the back of the theater room (although those tend to book out ahead of time). Here I’m sharing everything I’ve learned about our mishap and how to make the most of your trip here!

    My Essential Korea Travel Resources :

    There are plenty of travel companies out there, but these are my favorite websites and resources for planning an unforgettable trip to South Korea. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more here.

    🚙 Car rentals, although not common in Korea, are best through Discover Cars – just make sure to have a copy of your international driver’s permit with you!

    🏨 I always use AGODA to compare hotels & prices in Asia.

    📶 To keep cell phone service, I use Airalo’s easy to purchase eSIM’s (no installation required).

    📸 For fun things to do, Klook specializes on tours in Asia, otherwise Viator also does the trick.

    🦋 Just in case, Safetywing is the insurance I always use when visiting a new country.

    🧳 Lastly, my essential packing list when visiting Korea.

    Where to Find the Bean Bag Chair Movie Theater

    Luckily, Cine & Foret (and all their bean bag chairs) are quite easy to find once you know how to get there. You’ll want to begin by making your way to the Gangbyeon (강변) Subway Station on the Green Line/Line 2 in Seoul.

    After getting to Gangbyeon station, you’ll simply need to follow the signs to CGV – you can either head outside, cross the street into the mall, and take the elevator to the 10th floor OR you can even get there through the subway system.

    My Favorite Tours in Seoul :

    -> DMZ and Suspension Bridge Full Day Tour

    -> Nami Island and Alpaca World

    -> Minsokchon & Suwon Fortress Day Trip

    Before You Visit Cine & Foret

    1. Ticketing – Although you can get your tickets in advance online, I recommend just getting them in person for the easiest option. My husband and I actually ended up having to visit the theater twice because the first time we had accidentally ordered movie tickets for a regular room and not the Bean Bag Chair Room.

    If you do feel the need to order tickets in advance to make sure that you save the spots you want – you can do that here. Head to the 2nd column titled “국장” (Theater) – then the second tab titled “아트하우스” (Art House) then “서울” (Seoul) and finally “강변” (Kangbyun or Gangbyeong). After setting this up to ensure you’re booking tickets for the Cine & Foret, you can then choose what day/time you’d like in the column to the right and finally the movie you’d like in the column to the right.

    2. Food & Drink – One of the most unique things to me about the movie theaters in Korea is that unlike in the U.S., you can bring in any food & drinks you want! In addition to some popcorn and drinks from the movie theater’s concession stands my husband and I stopped at the Lotteria downstairs and grabbed some food to go – then just brought it in with us to snack on during the movie! Try not to bring in anything too noisy though.

    3. Cine & Foret – As one of CGV’s Art Houses (they have multiple kinds throughout Korea, like their living room or library themed theaters), the Cine & Foret looks to bring the regular movie goer to the forest. With walls lined with trees, comfortable bean bag chairs or cabanas for a picnic feel, this theater even has stars covering the ceiling. Hands down the most unique theater I’ve ever been to.

    After you find your assigned seat, you’ll find that each bean bag chair has its own private cubby & small table next to it. And although the experience is unique and (let’s be honest) pretty adorable, I recommend sitting towards the back if you’re able to. I sat in the 3rd row and to be completely honest it started to get a little uncomfortable towards the end. It’s also worth noting that the movie we saw had no English subtitles (which made it tricky for my husband) but overall – a very fun experience that I would recommend if you’re visiting Seoul!

    Watch My Seoul Adventures Here!

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  • Korean Folk Village (Minsokchon): Complete Visitor’s Guide

    Minsokchon is the most popular Folk Village in Korea, mainly due to its’ proximity to Seoul – an area most tourists frequent. Although Minsokchon is located a little ways to the South of Seoul near Suwon, it’s easy to get to and it’s the perfect full day experience. Here, you can see what life was like for locals, both rich and poor, during the Joseon Dynasty. They even have live performances and plenty of activities you can participate in!

    My Essential Korea Travel Resources :

    There are plenty of travel companies out there, but these are my favorite websites and resources for planning an unforgettable trip to South Korea. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more here.

    🚙 Car rentals, although not common in Korea, are best through Discover Cars – just make sure to have a copy of your international driver’s permit with you!

    🏨 I always use AGODA to compare hotels & prices in Asia.

    📶 To keep cell phone service, I use Airalo’s easy to purchase eSIM’s (no installation required).

    📸 For fun things to do, Klook specializes on tours in Asia, otherwise Viator also does the trick.

    🦋 Just in case, Safetywing is the insurance I always use when visiting a new country.

    🧳 Lastly, my essential packing list when visiting Korea.

    Getting to the Folk Village & What to Expect

    Minsokchon is located to the South of Seoul, and takes about one hour (depending on traffic) to get there from downtown Seoul. Personally, I think the easiest way to get there is by bus – which drops you off right across the street from the Folk Village’s Parking Lot. This bus station is called the “Korean Folk Village/Bora Hyosung/Samjung Apartment” stop, and the following buses stop here : 10-5, 88, 88-1, 4101, 5001-1, 30, 32, 551-2B, 54. For up to date information on how to get to Minsokchon, check their website here.

    Tickets cost 32,000 Won per adult, 26,000 Won per child, and 22,000 Won for Senior Citizens. Hours for Minsokchon depend on the season – they always open at 10:00am and close either at 6:00pm, 6:30pm, or 7:00pm – and also on any special events or holidays. If you have some things you’d like to put away while you explore, Minsokchon also has lockers available for guests (located directly to the right after you enter). Below, I’ve listed my 11 favorite things to do at Minsokchon to make the most of your trip! 

    My Favorite Tours Near Minsokchon :

    -> Full Day Folk Village & Suwon Fortress Tour

    -> Folk Village & Suwon Night Tour

    Best Things to Do at Minsokchon

    1. Night Experiences
    There are a handful of attractions that can only be experienced at Minsokchon after nightfall (they’re typically open until 6:00pm – 7:00pm depending on the season). One of course, is the Jigokcheon River, which has a giant moon in the center that lights up and the Wooden Bridge that is lined with traditional lanterns – very cutesy. In addition to the beautiful photo zones, they also have special traditional performances, LED performances, and shadow art performances at night!

    2. Minsokchon Horror Experience
    ​This terrifying experience shares the story of the shaman Lee Hwa – including village ghosts! To be honest I wasn’t quite up for it, but I’ve heard it’s one of the scariest and best ghost experiences found in Seoul. Located in the Amusement Village, all children must be accompanied by an adult.

    3. Traditional Holiday Experiences
    During national Korean Holidays, Minsokchon has special activities and experiences for guests to partake in! If you visit during these holidays, you’ll find unique experiences and foods that aren’t typically available to guests during “normal” visits. Dates can change annually depending on holidays based on the lunar calendar, but these include :

    Dongji – also considered the Winter Solstice festival, locals typically eat red bean soup with friends and family, a food also served at Minsokchon on this day (Dec. 21, 2025 – Jan. 4, 2026)

    Korean New Year’s Day – a special day to bring in the Korean New Year where locals share rice cakes & rice cake soup (Jan. 29, 2025)

    Jeongwol Daeboreum – a Full Moon Festival celebrating the first full moon of the year, Minsokchon celebrates by building a triangular bonfire – also called the “Moon House” – for burning (Feb. 25, 2025)

    Double Third Festival – a festival originally from China, that is celebrated to ward off evil spirits, at Minsokchon they have special flower pancakes (Mar. 31, 2025)

    Buddha’s Birthday – throughout Korea, the coming of Buddha is celebrated in a large way – primarily through lantern parades and lantern making crafts – at Minsokchon they encourage guests to make special lanterns as well (May 5, 2025)

    Dano – during this festival, locals celebrate the coming of warm weather, planting of the yearly crop, and the coming summer season, during this festival locals wash their hair in boiled water with iris to ward off evil spirits (May 31, 2025)

    Chuseok – also dubbed the Korean Thanksgiving, Chuseok is celebrating the year’s harvest – and locals tend to gather with large meals which also includes gathering to make Songpyeon (you can even experience this right at Minsokchon!) (Oct. 5-7, 2025)

    4. Yippee! Yippee! Parade
    This parade route follows the path circling the Market Village, and showcases traditional clothing, dance, and music! Depending on when you’re visiting it can get quite crowded, so I recommend finding a seat about 10-15 minutes beforehand so you can get a good view. This is one of the best ways to see the traditional dance and “folk people” up close!

    5. Traditional Yeot Candy
    ​If you’re lucky, you’ll run into the traditional Candyman! He’ll be selling Yeot (pronounced “YUT”) – a very sticky rice taffy that is sweet and made from steamed rice, corn and sweet potatoes. Surprisingly it’s quite delicious, and when we met him he was super friendly too! Just be warned, they’re quite messy and VERY sticky – so if he asks if you want it cut make sure to say yes!

    6. Archery, Horseback Riding, Etc.
    ​In addition to special events during Korean holidays, Minsokchon also has traditional activities for visitors to try. During my visit I tried archery (a little more crooked than I was used to haha) but they also have horseback riding, traditional dyeing, and a few others! These types of activities are an extra cost, but usually fairly cheap.

    7. Traditional Tea House
    ​Tucked away on the other side of the river, you’ll find Minsokchon’s Traditional Tea House – which was adorable. They have floor seating – common in hanok buildings – and delicious tea sets. You can choose which type of tea you’d like and also what kind of dessert! When I visited there was no one else there and a very peaceful stop compared to the rest of Minsokchon!

    8. Korean Folk Museum
    ​Nearby the Tea House, you’ll also find the Korean Folk Museum. Here, you can walk through at your own pace to see life for local Korean’s during the late Joseon Dynasty. The museum showcases daily activities, chores, and customs for Korean’s during all 4 seasons.

    9. Eat Your Way Through the Market Place
    ​The Market Place at Minsokchon is the perfect place to grab lunch, especially if you’re at the village exploring all day. Here you can find traditional dishes like seafood and veggie pancakes, bibimbap, jajangmyeon, and nangmyeon! There’s large tables and lots of shade, making it the perfect spot to rest your feet.

    10. Enjoy the Amusement Village
    ​The Amusement Village is on the other side of the river inside Minsokchon, however if you want to start your day with some thrill you can head straight over the bridge to the right after entering Minsokchon. In the Amusement Village you can find all sorts of rides for the whole family – the Viking, bumper cars, and even some roller coasters! This is also where the scary Minsokchon Horror Experience is located.

    11. Enjoy the Folk Village!
    ​Even though there’s a ton to do at Minsokchon, one of the best things to do of course is exploring the Folk Village! Taking up a majority of the Minsokchon grounds, you can self-guide yourself through different buildings during the Joseon Dynasty – like the pottery shop, landowner’s houses, government offices, and even see what a nobleman’s mansion would have looked like in the day. Hidden throughout these grounds you’ll find all the live experiences and hands on activities I mentioned above!

    Watch My Minsokchon Adventures Here!

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  • Complete Guide to Lotte World Seoul (2026)

    Lotte World Theme Park in Seoul is featured on plenty of K-Dramas and reality shows, and if you’re visiting South Korea – and wanting to do something iconic – then this is the place for you. If you want to fit in and do as the locals do, I recommend renting some school uniforms from Pixie on 2F, dropping off your personal items in the lockers on 2F. In order to make the most of your time at the theme park, I also recommend splurging and getting the Magic Pass – it’s an extra 49,000 Won for 5 rides, or an extra 89,000 Won for 10 rides on top of entry ticket prices. Below I’ve listed my personal favorite rides and foods at Lotte World Seoul.

    My Essential Korea Travel Resources :

    There are plenty of travel companies out there, but these are my favorite websites and resources for planning an unforgettable trip to South Korea. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more here.

    🚙 Car rentals, although not common in Korea, are best through Discover Cars – just make sure to have a copy of your international driver’s permit with you!

    🏨 I always use AGODA to compare hotels & prices in Asia.

    📶 To keep cell phone service, I use Airalo’s easy to purchase eSIM’s (no installation required).

    📸 For fun things to do, Klook specializes on tours in Asia, otherwise Viator also does the trick.

    🦋 Just in case, Safetywing is the insurance I always use when visiting a new country.

    🧳 Lastly, my essential packing list when visiting Korea.

    Best Rides at Lotte World Seoul

    1. The Conquistador
    Thrill 6/10 | Wait : 5 Minutes
    A local’s favorite, this ride is nicknamed “Viking” and you can choose to either sign up for a reserved time or join in on the standby line. Personally, my husband and I opted for the standby line and were on the next ride – we just got last pick of seats!

    2. The Adventures of Sinbad
    Thrill 3/10 | Wait : 20 Minutes
    To be completely honest, this ride used to give me nightmares as a kid – and after visiting again last summer I could see why. This floating boat ride takes you through the story of Sinbad the Sailor.

    3. Flyventure
    Thrill 5/10 | Wait : 20 Minutes
    If you’ve ever heard of the Flyover experiences in Iceland, the US, and Canada – then this experience will be fairly similar. You’ll be floated up in movie theater like seats and flown through different animated worlds.

    4. Samba Parade
    Thrill 4/10 | Wait : Go Early for Better Seats
    ​When my husband and I visited last Summer their current parade was the Rio Carnival Samba Parade – honestly I really wasn’t impressed. However, they switch up Parade themes every so often – so I still recommend sitting up front and watching at least one during your visit! Plus you’ll get to see the adorable Lotty and Lorry in action.

    5. Gyro Drop
    Thrill 10/10 | Wait : 20 Minutes
    The Gyro Drop is my husband’s favorite ride at Lotte World. They bring you up to the top for some epic views of the park, then drop you like a rock. I also recommend checking out the Gyro Swing and Gyro Spin rides – both of which can get very popular. However, there was an incident a few years back where a person was flung off and thrown into the Sokchon Lake nearby, so these might be rides you choose to skip.

    6. Atlantis Roller Coaster
    Thrill 10/10 | Wait : 60 Minutes
    This outdoor roller coaster instantly became one of my all time favorite rides. The wait is insanely long, but worth it. Once you make it to the front you’ll realize that this unique roller coaster has no sides, and you actually are strapped into a seat that resembles a motor bike. With sharp turns and drops, if you choose to purchase a Magic Pass then this is the ride you’ll want to use it on!

    7. World Monorail
    Thrill 2/10 | Wait : No Wait
    This easy tram ride tours you around the entire Theme Park, and it’s a great way to get a grasp of the layout of Lotte World. I recommend doing this first thing in the morning, or trying to time it with sunset views over the lake!

    8. Water Flume Ride
    Thrill 8/10 | Wait : 60 Minutes
    I’ve personally always loved water flume rides – and this one is no different. There’s a surprise photo, and giant fall and splash at the end. If you don’t feel like getting wet they even sell ponchos in a vending machine right before you reach the front of the line!

    9. The Comet Express
    Thrill 7/10 | Wait : 60 Minutes
    Chances are you’ll be able to find this ride just from the line, but it’s another ride that’s worth the wait. If you’re able to I recommend reserving your ride time and using your Magic Pass on this dark ride that reminds me of Magic Mountain at Disney World.

    10. French Revolution
    ​Thrill 9/10 | Wait : 60 Minutes
    Another local favorite at Lotte World, this will be a long wait but a fun one. This is the only major thrill attraction ride inside the building, and if you’re able to I again recommend using your Magic Pass on this one and reserving a time slot if you’re able to!

    Now this doesn’t even come close to covering all the rides at Lotte World, and there are plenty of rides catered to younger audiences as well. If you’re looking for some easy rides to enjoy, I also enjoyed The Drunken Basket, Dragon’s Wild Shooting, 3D Desperados, the Magic Tree Swings, Bungee Drop, Camelot Carousel, and the Moonboats – most that will hardly have a 5-10 minute wait!

    My Favorite Tours Near Lotte World :

    -> Lotte World Admission Ticket

    -> Lotte Tower Seoul Sky

    Best Foods at Lotte World Seoul

    1. TGI Friday’s Lotte Shaped Tomato Pizza
    ​(17,500 Won)
    This Lotte/Lorry shaped Pizza is the perfect lunch snack and is one of the only themed meal sets you’ll find at Lotte World. You can find this pizza at TGI Fridays – near the Camelot Carousel.

    ​2. Lotte & Lorry Cookies Butter & Chocolate
    (3,000 Won)
    To be completely honest I wasn’t super impressed with the taste of these cookies (which you can find at multiple stands throughout the inside of the park), but they sure were adorable little caricatures of Lotty and Lorry!

    3. Gyro Churro
    (5,500 Won)
    This miniature version of the Gyro Drop is sold right across the path from the ride itself. I thought this was one of the most delicious snacks I had at Lotte World – and the gummy bears representing riders on the Gyro Drop were absolutely adorable!

    ​4. ​Lotte Ice Cream Ice Factory
    (4,000 Won)
    An adorable Lotty and Lorry shaped ice cream that is perfect for hot summer days. I believe there’s a few different places you can purchase at the theme park, but I found mine inside near the entrance from Magic Island.

    5. Chain Fast Food Restaurants
    (Price Varies)
    If you’re looking for other meals while you’re enjoying Lotte World, you have plenty of options. There’s a KFC, A Twosome Place, BHC (Korean Chicken), Dominos, Gong Cha, and a few others. I didn’t feel we were there long enough to try more than we already had, but they’re on my list for next time!

    Watch My Lotte World Adventures Here!

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  • 9 Best Korean Reality Shows on Netflix (2026 Guide)

    Chances are if you’re searching for some Korean reality shows to watch, you’ve already binged the ultra-popular Korean dramas like Squid Game and watched the hit film K-Pop Demon Hunters. Naturally, it’s time to dive into the world of Korean reality TV. Korean reality shows are my favorite series to watch, and over the last few years there’s been a huge increase in the availability on Netflix.

    Not only are they entertaining, but they also help me practice Korean and help me feel connected to the culture when I’m away. Whether you’re interested in intense survival competitions, Michelin-level cooking shows, or wholesome dating programs, there’s really something for everyone in the world of Korean reality TV on Netflix.

    My Essential Korea Travel Resources :

    There are plenty of travel companies out there, but these are my favorite websites and resources for planning an unforgettable trip to South Korea. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more here.

    🚙 Car rentals, although not common in Korea, are best through Discover Cars – just make sure to have a copy of your international driver’s permit with you!

    🏨 I always use AGODA to compare hotels & prices in Asia.

    📶 To keep cell phone service, I use Airalo’s easy to purchase eSIM’s (no installation required).

    📸 For fun things to do, Klook specializes on tours in Asia, otherwise Viator also does the trick.

    🦋 Just in case, Safetywing is the insurance I always use when visiting a new country.

    🧳 Lastly, my essential packing list when visiting Korea.

    Why Korean Reality Shows Are So Popular

    One of the reasons Korean reality shows have become so popular around the world is because they are completely different from many Western reality TV shows, and you’ll notice a bit of a culture clash. Rather than focusing on drama or conflict, many Korean series emphasize genuine relationships and personal growth, something that can often be left behind in reality shows from other countries. Dating shows in Korea tend to be much more wholesome, and you’ll notice that something as simple as hand holding often feels like a big deal. You’ll also notice fun editing styles, quirky sound effects, and usually a panel of celebrities that comment on the show, adding their own take without taking away from the contestants.

    My Must-Do Tours in Seoul :

    ->Guided DMZ Tour with Suspension Bridge

    ->Nami Island and Alpaca World Day Trip

    Best Korean Reality Shows on Netflix

    1. Kian’s Bizarre B&B (1 Season)

    This quirky reality show showcases celebrity Kian84 (a webtoon illustrator and YouTuber), along with Ji Ye Eun and Jin from BTS as a trio who begins to run their own B&B. Not only does Kian create his own crazy building based off his animations (a building with no stairs and outside sleeping only), but him and his workers are completely in charge of everything that needs to be done – cooking, laundry, cleaning, you name it. Every so often they get a new guest, and you get to know them and their story.  If you’re in the mood for a laugh, or for a show to jumpstart your creativity, this is the perfect one.

    2. Better Late Than Single (2 Seasons)

    Another one of my favorites, Better Late Than Single gathers a group of “eternal singles” – people in their late 20s that haven’t had a “real” relationship before. Not only do they each undergo a complete physical transformation including lessons on how to dress and act, but they get full on training for their communication and people skills, plus dating advice from their “cupids.” It’s a funny show that pulls on your heart strings and has you rooting for each of them by the end.

    3. Nineteen to Twenty (1 Season)

    This adorable show has a similar plot line to Better Late Than Single. It follows a group of 19-year-olds right before they turn 20, and the transition they undergo from a school like setting (19), to New Year’s when they turn 20, and then to a dorm like setting (20). For most of them, this is their first dating experience, and first time living away from home with no parents.

    4. The Devil’s Plan (2 Seasons)

    This strategic game show gathers some of the smartest celebrities in Korea and puts them into a dorm building where they’re challenged to beat each other in various puzzles and mind games. There’s alliances, secrets, and betrayals – plus a few plot twists – that makes The Devil’s Plan a show that hooks you until the end.

    5. Culinary Class Wars (2 Seasons)

    This unique cooking competition is unlike any I’ve ever seen before. The show begins with 100 chefs, divided into two groups. White Spoons are chefs that have already established their space in the cooking industry – think Michelin star chefs, or people that have cooked in the White House. Black Spoons are chefs that are still looking for their big break – more self-taught, homestyle meals. Throughout the series they compete to become the final and best chef with celebrity judges. If you’re wanting to learn more about Korean cooking or Korean cuisine this is a great show to watch.

    6. Physical 100 (2 Seasons)

    This unique reality show is similar to Culinary Class Wars – but instead of chefs they have athletes. The show aims to find a single person with “the most perfect physique.” They have everyone from Olympic medalists to bodybuilders, professional athletes to dancers, even Korean travel influencers. They undergo a series of individual and team based challenges to determine the winner.

    7. Singles Inferno (5 Seasons)

    Singles Inferno is one of Korea’s most “risky” reality shows, and it’s the closest you’ll get to their version of Love Island. Even though the most touching you’ll see is handholding, this dating show really shares how conservative the Korean culture is. Unlike Better Late Than Single, these adults have been on dates before, and after being corralled on an island off the coast of Korea, they spend one week participating in various games to win dates, including chances at overnights.

    8. The Influencer (1 Season)

    This game show gathers influencers from throughout Korea, whether that’s TikTokers, Youtubers, or just flat out celebrities. Through various challenges, the goal is to find the influencer who can best hold their audience’s attention. It’s silly, wild, and studies just how far they’ll go for strangers approval and attention.

    9. Pop Star Academy (1 Season)

    Falling to the very bottom of my list is Pop Star Academy. The reality show/docuseries follows a group of girls as they train to become K-pop idols, eventually becoming the sensation that is KATSEYE. Even though it’s not necessarily Korean, it is a unique show that showcases just how hard the K-pop field is and gives you an insiders look at what it takes to become a K-pop idol.

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