Busan's best destinations for film lovers

If you’re a cinephile, you’ll know about the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF). Held over eight days in October, BIFF is one of Asia’s biggest annual film festivals. As well as BIFF, Korea’s film city has draws all year round; here’s a guide to Busan for those who love life through a lens.

Busan Cinema Center

The home of Busan International Film Festival, the Busan Cinema Center, is located in Centum City (next to Shinsegae Centum City, which holds a Guinness world record as the largest department store in the world). It holds events year-round in its outside auditorium and has a number of movie theatres within its 150 million-dollar building. Tours are available, but it’s also worth going just for the movie-character sculpture selfies. At night, the building is illuminated, highlighting its unique architectural design.

BIFF Square

Set in the bustling downtown area of Nampo-dong, BIFF Square is Busan’s cinema district. Movie theatres jostle with shops, cafes and restaurants, and the area is famous for its street food. It’s divided into two sections, ‘Star Street’ and ‘Festival Street’. Don’t forget to look down — on the ground are hand prints from celebrities and film-makers including Jeremy Irons, Ennio Morricone and Juliette Binoche. BIFF Square is one of the best places to try ssiat hotteok, a sweet, deep-fried pancake filled with brown sugar syrup and chopped nuts.

Black Panther filming locations

To Marvel fans, Busan may look familiar. The city was used as a location for the 2018 blockbuster movie Black Panther, and iconic buildings such as Gwangan Bridge made an appearance in the movie’s high-speed car chase. Channel your inner Wakandan and stroll through filming locations such as Jagalchi Market and Gwangalli seafront; don’t forget to take a selfie with the Black Panther statue on Gwangalli Beach!

Cinema Street

Want some seaside air? Head to Haeundae, where the seafront walk by Marine City is lined with film-related sculptures and images. There are also trick-art photo zones, film posters from Korean movies and a zone called Santorini Square, where a number of famous Korean actors and film-makers have left their hand prints. Free telescopes are set at intervals along the walk to provide a view of the ocean. The street is lit at night, so you can head down there any time you like.

K-drama filming locations

Korea’s second city has been used as a filming location for many films and TV shows, so there’s plenty of places for K-drama fans to check out. Dalmaji-gil Road’s romantic atmosphere has been used in a number of drama scenes, and it’s especially beautiful during cherry blossom season. Gukje Market was heavily used in the 2014 movie Ode To My Father, a drama film set during the Korean War. Gamcheon Culture Village was used in the popular reality show Running Man (which also featured Shinsegae Department Store) as well as in Marry Me, or Not?, the first Taiwanese drama to be filmed in Busan.

See more: Best late night restaurants to eat in Busan, Korea

Source: Internet

What street foods to eat in Myeongdong, Seoul

Don't go home from your Seoul trip if you haven't tried Korean street foods in Myeongdong.
Here’s a list of the street foods we have snacked on in the busy district of South Korea’s number one tourist destination, Myeongdong.

Foot-long ice cream cones

Twirling an ice cream is a skill that entails a lot of time to practice. But it’s an easy thing to do for those street vendors selling these foot-long ice cream cones. You can choose from a variety of flavours – mango, strawberry, banana, chocolate, blueberry, etc. You can make it a combo of two flavours too! I would highly suggest you head over to 32 Parfait that’s located in Myeongdong.

Jipangyi (Korean cane ice cream)

If the usual ice cream cone doesn’t give you any unique experience, then you can buy this ice cream served in a cane-shaped cone. It’s worth the try for its cone is made out of corn. It has already been internationalised and franchised in different countries across the globe such as Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Macau, China, United Arab Emirates, Mexico, and New York, USA.

Bungeoppang (Fish bread)

Basically, this one is made from ingredients of waffle batter. And yes you’re right, it is not a fish-filled bread. It is just a fish-shaped waffle. The stuffing that makes this street food special is the red bean paste, a Korean-favourite dessert filling. Perhaps the best Koreanised sweet street food! Definitely a cheap steal!

Gyerranppang

Another worth-a-try Korean street food, this oval-shaped waffle topped with whole egg can be found in hawker stalls in every corner of Myeongdong district (and most Seoul City areas). It’s best when the yolk is uncooked!

Dalgona

It’s a light cookie snack which is surprisingly made up of only two ingredients: baking soda and white granulated sugar. A piece can be shared by two persons since it’s too sweet (although that’s optional). It’s definitely one of the cheapest sweet Korean street foods!

Eomuk kkochi (fish cakes)

Eomuk kkochi is probably the most affordable yet delicious Korean street food you can find that comes with a complimentary fish broth soup. It is absolutely worth a try! It is seen in most hawker stalls and subway stations. It has its Japanese street food counterpart oden.

Soondae or sundae

No, we’re done talking about ice cream, this isn’t about it anymore. This Korean street food is actually common worldwide, which every country has its own variation. Koreans made a twist in which other than the thickened pig blood, it also contains japchae (glass noodles), glutinous rice and barley. Give it a shot and compare it to your hometown’s version!

Tteokbokki

This cylinder-shaped sticky glutinous rice drench in spicy Korean sauce must be on your list of must-try Korean street foods. Although it is also served in most Korean restaurants, some hawker stalls serve better versions of it.

See more: 5 street foods to try in Busan, South Korea

Source: Internet

Come to these best bibimbap restaurants in Seoul, Korea

Bibimbap is a healthy, delicious, colorful dish wildly popular in South Korea. Made up of rice topped with seasonal vegetables and with additions consisting of egg or meat slices, this delicacy is served in numerous establishments throughout South Korea. Try one of these popular variations on bibimbap in the culinary metropolis that is Seoul.

Gogung

A popular restaurant for tourists and older generations due to its highly traditional Korean ambiance, Gogung specializes in bibimbap. With live performances of traditional Korean music every evening and staff that dress exclusively in hanbok (the traditional Korean garb), Gogung lives up to its name, which literally translates to ‘old palace.’ Don’t be fooled into thinking that Gogun is your typical tourist trap, however – it’s also regularly frequented by Korean diplomats. Their wide variety of bibimbap ranges from classics, such as Jeonju and dolsot bibimbap to specialty dishes such as nakji (octopus) and yukhoe (beef tartare) bibimbap.

Jeonju Jungang Hoekwan

Despite being a hole-in-the-wall establishment, this restaurant is highly recommended in guidebooks for its bibimbap’s taste – which is richer, slightly sweeter, and certainly more intense than those served in most other establishments. Jeonju Jungang Hoekwan has been around for 46 years and, despite an overwhelming popularity among Japanese tourists, also entertains both locals and Western visitors. Despite being famous for the Jeonjubibimbap, this restaurant also serves up a delicious dolsotbibimbap – consisting of rice made with beef broth and flavored soy bean paste, cooked in a pagodite stone pot until the bottom is slightly scorched.

Walkerhill Ondal

One of just two Korean restaurants to be found in Seoul’s luxury hotels, the Ondal restaurant at the Sheraton Walkerhill Hotel offers a gorgeous view of the Han River on the eastern side of Seoul. This fine-dining restaurant prides itself on its rich legacy, having hosted quite a few politicians and diplomats such as the members of the Korean G20 summit, and basing its menu on the traditional royal cuisine of the Joseon dynasty. Its bibimbap is created with ingredients of the highest quality – all vegetables are fresh and organic – and prepared using a combination of modern and classic techniques sourced from historical research.

Sae Byuk Jib

Sae Byuk Jib literally translates into ‘House Of Dawn’ and, unsurprisingly, given that it is primarily a galbi (steak) restaurant, it specializes in yukhoe – or raw beef – as a topping for bibimbap. Though yukhoe is undeniably an acquired taste, even for Koreans, Sae Byuk Jib’s yukhoe bibimbap is renowned among food critics and locals. The bibimbap also comes with a side of seonjitguk, a soup made from coagulated animal blood – another distinctive, daring dish which richly rewards those bold enough to try it. The menu at this restaurant is offered separately in English for Western tourists.

Mokmyeoksanbang

This gorgeous hanok restaurant was built by the Seoul government in order to promote Korean culture and cuisine. Named after the ancient Mokmyeok, the mountain which is now called Namsan, the traditional wooden house offers a small yet polished interior with warm lighting and a welcoming atmosphere. With metal bowls and wooden trays, the decor is classic old-school Korean, further enhanced by the brass kettles in which Korean teas and makgeolli (rice wine) are served. Eat inside with delightfully friendly service, or enjoy the al fresco dining and the accompanying view of Myeong-dong and the Namsan tower.

See more: What to eat for vegetarians in Korea

Source: Internet

Admire the beauty of Ulleungdo Island, Korea

Ulleungdo is an island the the east side of South Korea. This island is mostly famous with domestic tourists, however, it doesn't mean that it lacks of breathtaking tourist attractions.

Haengnam Coastal Walking Path

This shoreline, that snakes around the periphery of Ulleungdo, features steep cliffs and pebble beaches. There is, perhaps, no better way to experience the views of the island’s stunning scenery than by taking a walk along the Haengnam Coastal Walking Path. Take in stunning rock formations, walk through a lush forest and cross paths with fisherman dressed in wetsuits as you make the journey to the end, where the picturesque Haengnam Lighthouse awaits you. If you’re feeling really adventurous, go for a dip in the clear, blue waters, but do so at your own risk.

Location: Ulleung-eup Ulleung-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea

Drink fresh water at Bongnae Waterfall

The three-tiered, 25-meter-tall Bongnae Waterfall is not only a beautiful sight to see, it’s also the main source of drinking water for the residents of the surrounding area. Worked up a sweat on your trek to the falls? Then check out the nearby Punghyeol, an attraction that many locals refer to as “Mother Nature’s air-conditioner.” During the peak of summer, cool, subterranean air blows from these rock openings, providing a refreshing stream of wind that cools off passersby.

Location: Jeodong-ri, Ulleung-eup, Ulleung-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea

Visit a Traditional Village at Nari Basin

The Nari Basin is a volcanic depression that lies in central Ulleungdo. Surrounded by rolling hills and punctuated by stalks of sunflowers, this rustic village appeals to visitors not only thanks to its natural beauty, but its tumakjip, traditional houses built with wood and soil. While many of the island’s residents earn a living in the fishing industry, those living in the Nari Basin farm medicinal plants. Sample the local produce at one of the area’s small but tasty restaurants.

Location: 550, Nari-gil, Buk-myeon, Ulleung-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea

Take the Cable Car to Dokdo Observatory

The Dokdo Island Observatory Cable Car, from which one can get a bird’s eye view of Ulleungdo Island, is a must-do on any visit to the island. Nestled within the Dodong Yaksu Park, the cable car transports visitors to Manghyangbong Peak where, on clear days, they can see as far as Dokdo Island, located some 92 kilometers away. Consider taking an early morning ride, and find yourself in awe of the impressive sunrise that illuminates the coastal skies.

Location: 581-1, Dodong-ri, Ulleung-eup, Ulleung-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea

See more: Discover coastal cities in South Korea

Source: Internet

Visit the cutest places in Seoul, South Korea

Renowned as a shopping capital and a country with numerous historical wonders, Korea does not conventionally pop into mind when you mention the word ‘cute’. Dispel this myth, for here are our top picks on where you can find Seoul at its pinnacle of cuteness.

LINE Store

Brimming with an immense galore of LINE merchandise up for grabs, the LINE store at Ehwa definitely comes in at the top of our list of cute places in Seoul! Be sure to drop by this Instagram-worthy store when you’re shopping in Ehwa, especially since it’s only a short distance from the main fashion street. This place is virtual reality-come-true with the LINE characters from your chat app morphing into irresistible keepsakes!

I couldn’t stop gushing over the array of merchandise available! Pose with the stars of the show, a life-sized Brown or Cony that welcomes you upon your entrance.

The most arresting feature of this store is the quaint brick wall that hits all the right notes in the visuals department, displaying rows of Brown bears dressed in a plethora of outfits. And if you can’t get enough of the charm of this store, there is a little booth in which more LINE plushies await to greet you… This has got to be the epitome of cuteness, hands down!

Address: 59 Ehwa Women’s University Road, 56-136 Daehyun-dong Level 1, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul (서울 서대문구 이화여대길 59 대현동 56-136 1층)

Teddy Bear Gallery

The child within each of us can never resist cuddly teddy bears, what more a whole gallery of them! This slightly obscure find within the N Seoul Tower is not to be missed the next time you’re there.

With teddy bears in all shapes and sizes, this is a haven if you’ve got a soft spot for cuddly plushies and collectors’ items! Go ahead and purchase your favourites, because some of these teddies are truly rare and unique. Now you know that the locks of love and observatory tower aren’t the only attractions at N Seoul Tower!

Address: 105, Namsangongwon-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 용산구 남산공원길 105 (용산동2가) )

Ihwa Mural Village

Tucked in a secluded area, this humble yet extraordinary residential area is worth the trek up Naksan Mountain – it’s a tourist paradise where modernity and tradition meld into a harmonious concoction. We were surprised to find shops selling intricate costume jewellery, a plenitude of souvenirs, and even a few cafes brewing the whole range of coffee beverages!

Be dressed in your best; you will definitely want to look as gorgeous as the hand-painted murals which are pure artistry. Besides posing for your #ootds against the murals in the village, you can also enjoy the tranquillity of this place away from the bustle of the city.

Address: Ihwa-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul (서울 종로구 이화동)

Yeouido Hangang Park

If you’re visiting Korea during spring, don’t miss out on chilling at Han River Park. This is the time to behold flowers in a riot of vibrant colours here. You can literally take your time to smell the roses! Prepare your selfie stick for the highlight of the park — the cute “I Seoul U” sculpture that lends itself to enhancing the aesthetics of your Instagram feed.

Have a languid evening lounging on picnic mats with food and drinks purchased from the street food stall nearby and give yourself an auditory treat as you listen to the buskers perform. The refreshing breeze and panoramic views are sure to liberate you from all your troubles. Cheers!

Address: 330, Yeouidong-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 영등포구 여의동로 330 (여의도동))

Souvenir shop at Anguk Station

Still find yourself short of souvenirs for your friends and family back home? Suppress that sigh and make a beeline for this little souvenir shop near Anguk Station! Souvenir shopping was unbelievably fun for me when I stumbled upon this trove of delights.

This lovely shop is a cavern housing an amazing variety of souvenirs — from themed handmade dolls decked primly in hanboks (the traditional Korean costume), to gold-plated bookmarks that depict icons of Korea such as the Gyeongbokgung Palace. There are also purses made from rich textiles, novelty keychains, elegant fans adorned with intricate carvings and calligraphy paintings. Of course, this list isn’t exhaustive. We assure you that your friends and loved ones will simply adore you for these souvenirs!

How to get there: Walk to the shops near Anguk Station (Seoul Subway Line 3), Exit 2

See more: 7 reasons why you should visit Seoul once

Source: Internet

How to do the basic greetings in Korean

Greeting people in their own language is a sure way to get a smile and break the ice. When you travel to South Korea, the locals will typically switch to English for some practice and to continue the conversation, but it's an essential and respectful skill to learn before your next trip to South Korea.

Greetings in Korean

As with saying hello in many other Asian languages, you show respect and acknowledge a person's age or status by using different greetings. This system of showing respect by using titles is known as honorifics, and Koreans have a very complex hierarchy of honorifics.

Greetings take into account how well you know someone; showing proper respect for age and status are essential aspects of "face" in Korean culture.

Unlike in the Malay and Indonesian languages, basic greetings in Korea are not based on the time of day (e.g., "good afternoon"), so you can use the same greeting no matter the time. Additionally, asking how someone is doing, a typical follow-up question in the West is a part of the initial greeting in Korean. Fortunately, there are some simple, default ways to say hello that won't be misconstrued as rude.

The Three Greetings of Traditional Korean Culture

The basic greeting in Korean is anyong haseyo, which is pronounced "ahn-yo ha-say-yoh." While not the most formal of greetings, anyong haseyo is widespread and still polite enough for most circumstances when interacting with people whom you know, regardless of age. The rough translation of anyong, the initiator for saying hello in Korean, is "I hope you are well" or "please be well."

To show even more respect to someone older or of higher status, use anyong hashimnikka as a formal greeting. Pronounced "ahn-yo hash-im-nee-kah," this greeting is reserved for guests of honor and is used occasionally with older family members one has not seen in a very long time.

Finally, a nice, casual anyong is usually offered among friends and people of the same age who know each other. As the most informal greeting in Korean, anyong could be compared to saying "hey" or "what's up" in English. You should avoid using anyong by itself when greeting strangers or people of higher status such as teachers and officials.

Saying Good Morning and Answering the Phone

Although some variation of anyong is the principal way to greet Korean strangers, there are a few other ways that Koreans exchange greetings including saying "good morning" and when answering the telephone.

While the basic greetings work regardless of time of day, alternatively joun achim (pronounced "joh-oon ah-chim") can be used with close friends in the mornings. In Korea, saying "good morning" is not very common so most people simply default to saying anyong or anyong haseyo.

Since knowing how to say hello in Korea greatly depends on showing proper respect, a special greeting is used when answering the phone if the age or standing of someone is unknown: yoboseyo. Pronounced "yeow-boh-say-oh," yoboseyo is polite enough to be used as a greeting when answering the phone; however, it is never used when saying hello to someone in person.

See more: 5 ideal places to go camping in South Korea

Source: Internet

6 churches with English services for foreigners in Seoul

Religion in Korea is characterized by a rise of Christianity, a revival of Buddhism, and despite decades of suppression, the survival of shamanism. Regardless of their differences, it is safe to say that each of these religions, as well as their respective places of worship, are beautiful in their own way.

However, are you foreigner and wondering that they have any churches with English services there? Do not worry, here is a list of churches with English-services to help you keep connecting with God while being in Korea.

Seoul Sung Rak Church

Seoul Sung Rak Church is a Baptist church that provides services on Sundays in Korean, English, French, Japanese, Chinese, Spanish and Russian. The church also organizes international chapel and Bible study at 2 pm. The church is located in Guro-gu, near Sindorim Station, Guro Station, or Dorimcheon Station.

Seoul International Catholic Church

Seoul International Catholic Church, also called St. Francis Catholic International Parish is located in Hannam-dong, next to the Italian embassy and near Hangangjin Station. The masses are officiated in several languages like English, French, Italian, German, Spanish and Korean.

Seoul Anglican Cathedral

The Seoul Anglican Cathedral is a beautiful cathedral, like one could see in Europe. It is located next to the British Embassy, near City Hall Station. Sunday Service with Holy Communion is held every Sunday in the Seoul Anglican Cathedral Crypt. The church can also be visited from Monday to Saturday.

Yeoksam Catholic Church

Photo: VisitSeoul

Yeoksam Catholic Church is located near Yeoksam Station in Gangnam.  Most services are offered in Korean, but they have a special mass on Sunday mornings for English speakers. The church also offers an English Bible study and confessions before and after the mass.

Onnuri Church

Onnuri Church is located near Seobinggo Station (Gyeongui Jungang line) in Yonsang-gu, Seoul. There is a second church in Yangjae, Seocho-gu, Seoul. The church offers worship services on Sundays in different languages, such as English, Korean, Chinese, Japanese, Mongol, Russian, Nepali, Arabian, Filipino, Khmer,  and Sinhala. Onnuri Church also has different services for adults, infants, children, and youth.

SaRang Church (New Harvest Ministry)

SaRang Church is a non-denominational church just near Seocho Station. The New Harvest Ministry is the English ministry of SaRang Church. The ministry offers several services, for adults as well as youth and children, such as mass, bible reading plan, discipleship training, and more. The services are held in Korean, English, Japanese, and Chinese.

Read more: 7 best summer desserts in Seoul, Korea

Source 10 Magazine

7 must-visit cities in Asia

Asia is a continent that offers something for everyone, from Thailand’s magnificent beaches to Beijing’s famed shopping districts and the temples of Hanoi, you’re practically guaranteed to discover your perfect destination.

1. Singapore

Singapore, with a cityscape that looks as if it was ripped right out of the pages of a sci-fi book, has become an economic powerhouse over the past half-century, with a high standard of living and numerous reasons to visit. It’s considered a shopper’s paradise with its numerous malls, though it also offers magnificent architecture, culture and amazing public art along with a slice of horticultural heaven with its Gardens by the Bay and Singapore Botanic Gardens. Many visitors come for the incredible food, with the melding of cultures, cuisine and natural beauty evident in every area of the city. Feast on nasi lemak, a Malaysian dish of coconut rise, anchovies, cucumber and chili paste; bak kut the, a clear Chinese soup cooked with pork ribs and five spices and even delectable British crumpets for tea.

2. Hoi An, Vietnam

This city on the central Vietnamese coast is one of the coolest towns in Southeast Asia, with its center a national heritage zone, which means no motorized vehicles are allowed. Stroll the cobblestone streets lined with charming shops and cafés, lit with lanterns and loaded with history. Once a month, during the full moon, the town trades its electric lights for traditional colored lanterns, while performers and musicians fill the streets with song. Hoi An is also the home of some of the best tailors in the entire country – bring a photograph of something you like and they’ll whip it up for you in a matter of hours, at almost unbelievably cheap prices too.

3. Seoul, Korea

Seoul is a lively, economic powerhouse, the business and cultural hub of South Korea. Here skyscrapers tower over Buddhist temples. From the N Seoul Tower, built atop a peak in Namsan Park, visitors can take in the entire scene. Enjoy incredible food, with nearly all ingredients locally grown, often featuring grilled cuts of beef and unlimited portions of side dishes, including soups, fresh vegetables and spicy sauces, all served at the table. You’ll also find a thriving nightlife, friendly people and a fascinating culture with a “work hard, play hard” mentality.

4. Taipei, Taiwan

Filled with contrasts, in Taipei you’ll find peaceful parks encircled by hectic streets and traditional markets right next to some of the trendiest boutiques. It’s old enough to have a fascinating history, yet modern enough to get Wi-Fi coverage everywhere you go. Food lovers will be in heaven, as not only can you eat well, but you can eat very cheaply. Even in eateries that don’t exactly look sophisticated, you’ll find the quality of the food is superior and there are almost an overwhelming number of options. In addition to local Taiwanese dishes, you’ll find regional cuisines from across China along with outstanding Japanese, Indian and even Italian fare.

5. Hong Kong

Hong Kong, a Special Administrative Region of China, is one of the world’s leading financial, banking and trading centers and a gateway between East and West. You’ll find amazing dim sum, floating islands and a one-of-a-kind skyline. Enjoy tea in the elaborate lobby of the Peninsula Hotel, accompanied by music from a string ensemble, view traditional Chinese architecture in Ngong Ping village and then take the tram to the top of Victoria Peak for unparalleled views. The city also has more than 200 offshore islands, like Lantau Island, which offers a rare glimpse into the life of rural Hong Kong. After dark, take in the real-life version of Disney’s Electric Light Parade, when Hong Kong skyscrapers come to life at 8 p.m. every night in a magical show set to a stirring soundtrack.

6. Tokyo, Japan

In Tokyo, traditional collides with pop culture, offering everything from belting out a song at a karaoke bar to reverently wandering through ancient temples. While it’s chaotic, crowded and expensive, everything is incredibly clean and the people are extremely polite.  “Cosplay” is popular among young people, and they often use it to pay homage to favorite anime, movie, or comic book characters, which means you’ll see some intricate and impressive ensembles, especially in the hip, edgier Harajuku District. There are more Michelin-starred restaurants here than in Paris – the food is fresh, rich, and delicious – indulge in as much sushi, udon noodles, and wagashi as your belly can handle.

Read more: Where to go in Asia for summer vacations

7. Siem Reap, Cambodia

Siem Reap has been called the “perfect destination” for first-time travelers to Asia. This capital city in northwestern Cambodia is easy to get around, and you’ll find attractions on nearly every corner, with friendly people, lots of history, culture, nightlife, museums, markets and opportunities for relaxing as well as taking part in adventurous activities. When the morning light washes across the temples and ruins of Angkor Wat, the city looks like a breathtaking painting come to life. Its ancient structures are found within one of the largest religious complexes in the world, with this complex and the 12 century Angkor Thom royal city, an expression of the true genius, considered the main reasons to visit. You can also get a fascinating lesson in national history at the Cambodian Cultural Village.

Source Internet