Arrival in Seoul: A New Beginning
This is my story about Exploring South Korea!
Upon arriving in South Korea, I spent my first day wandering around the area where I’d be staying for the next nine days. I snapped a few photos, posted them on Instagram, and then set out to find something to eat. With so many dining options around, I was unsure where to go. Feeling a bit tired and eager to try traditional Korean food, my first stop was a small, local restaurant in Itaewon (though I can’t recall the name). There, I had my first Bulgogi Hot Pot, a giant bowl of hot pot served with rice and various sides. It was my first time eating in Asia, and I felt a bit intimidated. I wasn’t sure how to eat the soup or mix the sides with it properly. I tried a few spoonfuls but couldn’t finish it. Despite paying 30,000 KRW (about 22 USD) for it, I only managed to eat a quarter of the meal. Afterward, I continued my walk back to the hostel, excited for the adventures that awaited me in the coming days.
The next day, I woke up early to start my itinerary in Seoul. My first stop was Gyeongbokgung Palace. I arrived before it opened, so I decided to have breakfast in a nearby café, watching as people hurried to work. It was surreal to be in Korea—on the other side of the world from where I had always been. It felt like a dream come true, something I never thought would be possible in my lifetime.
Day Two: A Royal Morning at Gyeongbokgung Palace
At 10:00 AM, I left the café and rented a Hanbok, a traditional Korean dress that has been worn for centuries. It’s a must-do for tourists visiting the palace, as wearing a Hanbok grants you free entry. I rented the Hanbok for four hours and spent the morning exploring Gyeongbokgung Palace and the Blue House, the presidential residence of South Korea from 1948 to 2022.
Wearing a pink Hanbok, I felt like a princess walking through the palace grounds. It didn’t matter that I was alone—I was so happy exploring and asking other tourists to take pictures of me to capture the moment. It was autumn, and the trees were dressed in vibrant colors—yellow, green, orange, and red—making the entire scene even more magical.
After the palace visit, I stopped by a photo booth (which are everywhere in Seoul!) to snap some fun pictures with Minions and other cartoon characters.
Then, feeling famished, I headed to a nearby restaurant to try Kimbap and Udon noodles. Satisfied and energized, I continued exploring Bukchon Hanok Village, a neighborhood known for its well-preserved traditional Korean houses.
After the palace visit, I stopped by a photo booth (which are everywhere in Seoul!) to snap some fun pictures with Minions and other cartoon characters. Then, feeling famished, I headed to a nearby restaurant to try Kimbap and Udon noodles. Satisfied and energized, I continued exploring Bukchon Hanok Village, a neighborhood known for its well-preserved traditional Korean houses.
As the evening approached, I made my way to Yeouido Hangang Park in Seoul to visit a 7-Eleven store. This was inspired by a scene from a Korean drama where characters eat ramen in front of the river, enjoying the beautiful lights of Seoul. I had to do it too! It was a simple yet memorable experience that capped off my first full day in South Korea
A Spiritual Journey: Hiking Bukhansan National Park – Exploring South Korea
On my second day, I decided to hike one of the trails in Bukhansan National Park. I woke up at 5:30 AM, excited to start the day. After grabbing some snacks from a convenience store, I headed to the park. The trail wasn’t crowded, and at times, I felt like I was the only one climbing the mountain. As I ascended, I took the opportunity to pray and thank God for the incredible opportunity to be in South Korea. I had dreamed of this moment for so long, and now I was living it.
During my hike, I met a kind Korean couple who stopped to check if I was okay when I took a break. I mentioned that I was new to the area and they encouraged me to keep going.
Later, when I reached the summit, they were there waiting for me with a granola bar as a gift. It was such a thoughtful gesture, and in that moment, I felt deeply moved by how God provides for us, even in the smallest ways. I was reminded of the Bible verse from Matthew 6:7-8: “Your Father knows exactly what you need, even before you ask Him.”
That evening, after my hike and a visit to Myeongdong (Seoul’s shopping district), I met two amazing women from my hostel, Shaizy and Joanne. We instantly clicked and decided to go for Korean BBQ together. We ate at a place called Maple Tree House in Itaewon and shared a Beef Bulgogi Stew Set, laughing and enjoying Soju for the first time!
Exploring Seoul: From Gangnam to the Namsan Tower
Over the next few days, I explored more of Seoul. I visited the K-Star Road and Starfield Library in the Gangnam district, marveled at the Lotte Tower, and tried famous Korean fried chicken. One evening, I went to Namsan Tower, where I admired the stunning lights of Seoul at night.
Trusting God’s Plan: Overcoming Fear and Finding Confirmation
Before embarking on this trip, I had moments of fear and doubt. My father had been critically ill earlier that year, and I wasn’t sure if it was the right time to travel. The global tension after the Hamas attacks on Israel in October 2023 made me even more anxious, with news reports suggesting the possibility of a conflict between North and South Korea. I spent a lot of time praying for guidance, asking God if it was wise to go.
During a women’s retreat at my church in Cali, Colombia, I received a powerful confirmation. The pastor prayed for me and shared that God saw me as a pilgrim on a journey to distant lands and that I needed to remain faithful, just as Daniel did in Babylon. This reassurance filled my heart with peace, and I felt confident that this trip was part of God’s plan for me.
A Divine Sign: The Letter That Changed Everything
On November 2, 2023, after a tour to Seoraksan National Park, Nami Island, and The Garden of Morning Calm, I returned to the hostel and opened my locker with anticipation. To my surprise, a letter fell out.
At first, I thought it was money, but it was something even more significant—a letter addressed to “Karen.” My name is actually Karem, but the letter was clearly meant for me. It was from parents to their daughter, Karen, who was about to embark on a journey to Asia. The letter spoke about the importance of self-discovery, setting goals, and trusting in God’s guidance along the way.
Reading it, I felt as though God had given me a sign. The letter captured everything I had been feeling about this journey—to understand who I am, what I want from life, and how I can trust in God’s plan for me. It was a beautiful confirmation that this trip was not just about exploring new places, but about deepening my relationship with God and discovering the path He has for me.
The Final Days in Korea: Reflection and New Beginnings
As my time in South Korea came to an end, I visited Busan, Gamcheon Village, and even rented a karaoke room in Hongdae to sing my heart out for two hours. I ended my trip with Korean BBQ and made the most of every moment before heading to the next leg of my journey—Philippines.
This trip was so much more than sightseeing. It was a journey of faith, reflection, and growth. I returned home with a sense of peace, knowing that every step of this adventure was part of a greater plan. As the Bible says, “We are God’s masterpiece, created to do good works which He prepared in advance for us to do” (Ephesians 2:10). I truly believe that every moment of this journey was designed by Him.