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Looking for free things to do or fun experiences in Korea without breaking the bank? You’ll want to mark your calendar for Culture Day (문화가 있는 날) — a monthly celebration of Korean culture that offers free entry and discounts to some of the country’s top attractions and experiences.

What is Culture Day?

Culture Day, held on the last Wednesday of every month, is a nationwide initiative launched by the Korean government to make cultural life more accessible and affordable for everyone — locals and tourists alike. It’s designed to boost interest in museums, heritage sites, performances, and sports through special discounts and freebies.

Whether you’re into history, cinema, or amusement parks, there’s something for everyone on Culture Day.

Free Entry to Cultural Landmarks

Explore some of Korea’s most iconic palaces and heritage sites completely free of charge:

• Gyeongbokgung Palace
• Changdeokgung Palace
• Changgyeonggung Palace
• Deoksugung Palace
• Jongmyo Shrine
• Royal Tombs
• National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art

It’s a perfect opportunity to dive into Korea’s rich history without spending a single won.

Major Discounts You Don’t Want to Miss

On top of free attractions, Culture Day also brings generous discounts across entertainment venues and cultural spots:

• Movie Theaters (CGV, Lotte Cinema, Megabox) – 2D movie tickets available for 7,000 KRW
• Everland – Up to 35% off tickets
• COEX Aquarium – Discounted admission
• Seoul Arts Center – Special pricing on shows and exhibitions
• National Gugak Center – Cheaper access to traditional Korean performances
• Baseball and Volleyball Games – Discounted game-day tickets

The full list of benefits is constantly updated and varies slightly by region and season.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It

Culture Day is not just for tourists. It’s a day that shows how Korea supports inclusive access to culture — whether you’re a local or a visitor. You’ll feel like an insider, making the most of what the country has to offer while enjoying huge savings.

How to Find All the Offers

👉 Explore the official list of free and discounted attractions here:
https://www.culture.go.kr/local/wday/cltrBnefList.do

The site provides an updated guide by region, category, and available perks.

So, next time you plan your monthly schedule in Korea, don’t forget the last Wednesday — your ticket to affordable culture and unforgettable experiences.

80th anniversary of Korea’s Liberation with two grand eve celebrations. These events, steeped in national pride and artistic brilliance, promise to offer both locals and international visitors a chance to witness Korea’s past, present, and future in one unforgettable night.

1. National Assembly Eve Festival – “대한이 살았다!” (“Korea Lives!”)

📍 Location: National Assembly Lawn, Yeouido
🕗 Time: August 14, 8:15 PM

This flagship celebration is jointly hosted by the National Assembly, Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs, and the Korean Liberation Association. The evening will combine cutting-edge visual art and live performances:

• Drone Show & Media Façade: The skies over the Han River will glow with the portraits of independence heroes, illuminated by hundreds of synchronized drones and large-scale projection mapping.
• Star-Studded Performances: Popular artists including PSY, Gummy, Kang San-ae, 10CM, and Crying Nut will energize the crowd with a mix of modern pop and rock, celebrating freedom through music.

The event is expected to draw thousands of spectators, and while there are no strict ticket requirements for the lawn area, visitors are advised to arrive early due to limited space.

2. Gyeongbokgung Palace Eve Celebration – “우리는 빛이다” (“We Are Light”)

📍 Location: Heungnyemun Square, Gyeongbokgung Palace
🕗 Time: August 14, 8:00 PM

This cultural showcase, organized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, will blend traditional Korean arts with K-pop for a mesmerizing “light”-themed evening.

• Diverse Line-Up: From TXT and fromis_9 to veteran singer Insooni, along with H1-KEY, the National Dance Company of Korea, the National Chorus of Korea, Seodo Band, Seoul Performing Arts Company, and even the Children’s History Choir.
• Innovative Stage Effects: AI-driven lighting, immersive media façades, and stage designs inspired by the concept of light will transform the historic palace into a modern art canvas.

How to Join:
Attendance is free, but admission is by online lottery (August 5–7), with a maximum of two tickets per person. Winners will be notified before the event.

3. Citywide Cultural Highlights

Beyond these two headline festivals, Seoul will host a variety of commemorative events, including:

• Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra Liberation Day Concert
• Outdoor Musical “Seoul My Soul” at Sejong Center
• National Gugak Center’s “Singing the Light” traditional music performance
• Collaborative concerts by the National Orchestra of Korea and the Korean National Symphony Orchestra

Why This Night Matters

For visitors, the Liberation Day Eve celebrations are more than entertainment—they are a rare opportunity to see how a nation honors its resilience and unity. Whether you’re standing among cheering crowds on the National Assembly lawn or watching history and technology merge at Gyeongbokgung Palace, you’ll experience the beating heart of modern Korea.

📅 Date to Remember: August 14, 2025
📍 Best Viewing Spots: National Assembly Lawn, Gyeongbokgung Palace
💡 Travel Tip: Arrive early, bring a camera for the spectacular light displays, and immerse yourself in the moment as Seoul lights up in celebration of freedom.

Image sources: Official event organizers and Visit Korea

Sejong City, South Korea – This summer, South Korea will proudly host the 2025 National Flower Mugunghwa Festival, a spectacular four-day celebration of the country’s beloved national flower. Coinciding with the 80th anniversary of Korean Liberation Day, the event will take place August 14–17, 2025 at the Korea National Arboretum in Sejong City. Entry is completely free.

Location & Dates

• Date: Thursday, August 14 – Sunday, August 17, 2025
• Opening Hours:
  • Aug 14–16: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
  • Aug 17: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Venue: Korea National Arboretum, 136 Sumokwon-ro, Sejong Special Self-Governing City
• Admission: Free of charge
• Organizer: Korea Forest Service (host) & Korea National Arboretum (operator)

Festival Highlights

Night Drone Show

One of the festival’s most anticipated events is the Mugunghwa Drone Show, where hundreds of illuminated drones will create dazzling patterns in the night sky — including the iconic hibiscus design.

Cultural & Historical Exhibitions

• “Independence Activists of the Month” – paying tribute to Korea’s freedom fighters
• “Mugunghwa Fences of the Joseon Era” – a rare glimpse into traditional landscaping
• “The Mugunghwa during Japanese Occupation” – exploring resilience through history
• Art & handicraft displays featuring hibiscus-inspired works

Hands-on Experiences

• Mugunghwa speed quiz
• Hand mirror making with hibiscus designs
• “Adopt a Mugunghwa” plant kit (pre-registration recommended)
• National flower jigsaw puzzle
• AI-powered photo booths & body painting
• Multiple photo zones including hot-air balloon props and themed frames

Educational Content

Interactive AI-powered guides will explain the cultural and historical significance of the Mugunghwa, making it easy for visitors of all ages to connect with Korea’s heritage.

Travel Tips for Visitors

• Don’t miss the night programs — the evening atmosphere and drone show are festival highlights.
• Pre-register for popular activities to secure your spot, as many are first-come-first-served.
• Plan for parking — free parking is available at the Visitor Center, but expect heavy traffic during peak hours.
• The festival is family-friendly, perfect for couples, friends, and solo travelers seeking both cultural enrichment and natural beauty.

Quick Reference

Category	Details
Dates	Aug 14–17, 2025
Location	Korea National Arboretum, Sejong City
Entry Fee	Free
Main Events	Drone show, exhibitions, cultural crafts
Best Time	Evening hours for lights & performances
Tip	Book hands-on programs in advance

Why It Matters

The Mugunghwa, or Rose of Sharon, is more than a flower in Korea — it’s a symbol of resilience, beauty, and national pride. This festival offers international visitors an immersive way to experience Korean culture while enjoying vibrant blooms, innovative light shows, and hands-on cultural workshops.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a unique travel experience, the 2025 National Flower Festival in Sejong promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Korean heritage.

Image Source: Ministry of the Interior and Safety – Mugunghwa Page
Festival Information Source: Korea National Flower Festival Official Site

If you’re visiting Korea in mid-August and want to experience a unique, refreshing summer festival away from the bustling city, the Dunnae Highland Tomato Festival in Gangwon Province is a perfect choice. From August 14th to 16th, this charming festival invites visitors from all over the world to enjoy the cool mountain air, delicious fresh tomatoes, and vibrant cultural experiences.

What is the Dunnae Highland Tomato Festival?

Held annually in the clean, cool highlands of Dunnae, Hoengseong County, this festival celebrates the region’s famous high-quality tomatoes grown in natural, pristine conditions. The festival’s theme this year, “Wow! Let’s Play with Dunnae Highland Tomatoes!”, promises fun and excitement for visitors of all ages.

Highlights for Visitors

• Tomato Splash Pools: Imagine cooling off in a giant tomato-themed splash pool! The festival hosts two daily tomato pool sessions where participants can splash around and win fantastic prizes such as gold rings, free water park tickets, and local produce gift sets. A refreshing and unforgettable way to beat the summer heat.
• Interactive Experiences: Visitors can join traditional Korean rice wine brewing with local experts, try planting tomato seedlings, or enjoy playful water gun battles. These activities are designed to engage families and travelers alike, providing hands-on fun that connects you with Korean culture and nature.
• Cool Down Zones: To keep visitors comfortable, the festival provides mist sprinklers, large water cannons, and shaded rest areas. These features ensure that everyone stays cool and refreshed, making your visit enjoyable even during the warmest days.
• Cultural Performances: Don’t miss lively stage performances including the grand opening ceremony on August 14th and popular Korean trot music concerts on the following days. The festival offers a glimpse into Korea’s vibrant musical traditions.
• Family-Friendly Fun: With a children’s water play area, traditional flower-painting booths, photo zones featuring the festival’s cute mascots, and even street ping-pong games, there’s always something exciting for visitors of every age.

Important Information for Travelers

• Location: Dunnae Sports Complex, Hoengseong County, Gangwon-do
• Dates: August 14–16, 2025
• Admission: Free entry for all visitors
• Getting There: Parking is limited; public transportation or taxis are recommended
• What to Bring: Lightweight clothing, sun protection, and bottled water
• Language: Basic English is available at the festival; locals are warm and welcoming

Why You Should Visit

The Dunnae Highland Tomato Festival offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and joyful activities. Whether you want to experience Korea’s agricultural heritage, cool off in a fun tomato splash pool, or enjoy live music under the mountain sky, this festival is a wonderful opportunity to make lasting memories.

So, if your travel plans include Gangwon Province this summer, be sure to mark your calendar for August 14th to 16th and join in the celebration of Korea’s delicious highland tomatoes!

Image source: Official website

Whether you’re an ARMY traveling through Seoul or just a food lover curious about BTS’s go-to spots, this guide will take you through the iconic restaurants visited by the members — from chic listening party venues to hidden traditional gems across Korea (and even Jeju Island!).

Woohyangwoo (우향우 / WHW) – Jungkook’s Listening Party Spot

📍 도산대로49길 23 B1
📍 B1, 23 Dosan-daero 49-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
A sleek and modern restaraunt where Jungkook hosted his Golden listening party. The interior is elegant and the menu diverse — from seafood and steak to elevated pasta dishes. This is where style meets flavor.
Reservations available via Naver or CatchTable.

Dotgogi 506 (돝고기506) – V’s BBQ Spot

📍 서울 강남구 테헤란로 145 지하1층
📍 B1, 145 Teheran-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
Featured in V’s drive vlog, this premium K-BBQ restaurant is known for aged pork cuts of the highest quality. A must-visit for pork lovers and BTS fans alike.
We would recommend to reserve in advance via CatchTable — it gets busy!

SCOPA THE CHEF (스코파더쉐프) – V’s Italian Pick

📍 서울 강남구 도산대로89길 13 이림빌딩 2층
📍 2F, 13 Dosan-daero 89-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
Located in trendy Cheongdam-dong, this Italian restaurant became famous for its truffle cream pasta. After V’s visit, it became an instant ARMY hotspot. Chic ambiance and authentic flavors guaranteed.

Yeongcheon Yeonghwa (영천영화 청담점) – Jungkook’s Hanwoo Favorite

📍 서울 강남구 도산대로90길 3 상민빌딩 1층
📍 1F, 3 Dosan-daero 90-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
Jungkook dined here with Jaehyun (NCT), Cha Eunwoo (ASTRO), and Bang Chan (Stray Kids). Famous for Korean raw beef and marinated short ribs, paired with a secret house sauce.
Pro tip: Go early to avoid long wait times.

Golden Pig (금돼지식당) – A Michelin Favorite for Jimin & Jungkook

📍 서울 중구 다산로 149
📍 149 Dasan-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul
This pork BBQ spot near Yaksu Station has earned a Michelin nod 5 years running. Try the signature Snowflake Pork Neck for melt-in-your-mouth magic.
Go early to register on the on-site waiting list

🍲 Yujeong Restaurant (유정식당) – BTS’s Pre-Debut Comfort Spot

📍 서울 강남구 도산대로28길 14
📍 8-8 Nonhyeon-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
One of the most sentimental locations for ARMYs. This small restaurant supported BTS in their rookie years and remains a cherished fan site.
Must-try dishes:
– 돌솥비빔밥 (Hot Stone Bibimbap)
– 흑돼지볶음 (Spicy Stir-Fried Black Pork)

ACROSS KOREA (JEJU & Jeonju EDITION)

Ichunok Mackerel Ssambap (이춘옥 고등어쌈밥)

📍 제주 제주시 애월읍 일주서로 7213
📍 7213 Iljuseo-ro, Aewol-eup, Jeju
BTS (Jungkook, Jimin and V) enjoyed a traditional Jeju meal with mackerel and lettuce wraps here — all with a stunning ocean view. Also featured in their variety show “Are You Sure?”.

Samwonjeong (삼원정 중문본점) – Jin’s Seafood Pick

📍 제주 서귀포시 색달중앙로 44
📍 44 Saekdaljungang-ro, Seogwipo, Jeju
Visited by Jin, this local gem specializes in dried pollack and Jeju-style seafood including sashimi, anchovies, and octopus. Authentic and soul-warming.

Honamgak (호남각) – Jeonju Bibimbap Heaven

📍 전북 전주시 덕진구 시천로 65 호남각
📍 65 Sicheon-ro, Deokjin-gu, Jeonju
Heading to Jeonju for a day trip? Visit this traditional Hanok-style restaurant to try authentic Jeonju bibimbap and beef dishes — a perfect blend of culture and flavor.
This spot is also extra special for ARMYs, as BTS dined here during the filming of their Summer Package, making it a true pilgrimage destination for fans.

Looking to plan your BTS-themed food tour across Korea? This guide is your perfect starting point to eat your way through Bangtan history.

Follow @Unlock_Korea to find out about more hidden gems in Seoul !

Written by Mariia Dmitrieva

Looking for a little oasis getaway right in the heart of Seoul? Glow Seongsu is here to transport you—this newly opened global food hall in the hip Seongsu-dong neighborhood (“Seoul’s Brooklyn”) makes you feel like you’ve left the city for a lush mini-vacation. The moment you step inside, you’ll notice the space completely transforms you: soaring greenery, stunning natural light, and, at the center of it all, a beautiful man-made pond.

The pond is truly the main focal point of Glow Seongsu—it anchors the entire hall and sets the mood for relaxation and visual delight. Whether you’re sitting on the sunny terrace right by the water or admiring the views from inside, the calming, watery centerpiece is a photo magnet and conversation starter. It’s the kind of spot where locals linger, snap pics for the ’gram, and let city stress melt away.

Glow Seongsu isn’t just a feast for the eyes. The global food hall brings together kitchens serving up favorites from around the world. With NFC tags at every table, you can easily browse menus, order on your phone, and get a ping when your food’s ready. The dedicated bar offers a dazzling choice of 30+ imports—wine, craft beers, and global sodas, perfect for sipping while you take in pondside views.

If you’re after a getaway vibe in Seoul, there’s nowhere quite like Glow Seongsu. Whether you’re coming for the eats, the scenery, or that eye-catching pond, you’re guaranteed to leave refreshed and inspired.

Hours: 11am–11pm (some stalls close at 8pm)
Address: 32 Seongsui-ro 16-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Soha Saltpond

Inspired by Southeast Asia, Soha Saltpond serves up bold, salty, and savory dishes reminiscent of Vietnamese and Thai food. Expect flavor-packed rice and noodle bowls, aromatic broths, and distinctive seafood specialties that evoke a seaside street food experience.

ChangChang

ChangChang offers contemporary Asian cuisine with playful Korean fusion twists—think comfort classics with a modern makeover, from creative stir-fries and rice dishes to inventive small plates, making it great for both adventurous eaters and fans of familiar flavors.

Oasis 80 Turkish Coffee & Dessert

Oasis 80 whisks you to Istanbul with strong Turkish coffee, ornate tea sets, and luscious desserts like baklava and Turkish delight. It’s an ideal pitstop for coffee aficionados and anyone craving a sweet, authentic Middle Eastern treat.

GGool

GGool is all about honey—this sweet-centric stall infuses honey into unique desserts and drinks for a whimsical, one-of-a-kind snack break. Their honey toast and specialty lattes are customer favorites.

Avivo Yogurt & Smoothie

Avivo specializes in healthy Greek yogurt bowls and fruit-heavy smoothies, perfect for those looking for a fresh, nutritious treat. The acai bowls and signature berry smoothies are especially popular.

My SanFran Fish and Chips & Clam Chowder

Bringing a taste of the Bay Area, My SanFran delivers classic fish and chips—crispy and golden—alongside creamy clam chowder served in a bread bowl, transporting diners to California’s breezy coast.

Hong Kong Milk Company Bubble Tea

Hong Kong Milk Company pours up rich, silky milk teas with a chewy tapioca twist, reflecting classic Hong Kong cha-chaan-teng style. Fan favorites include their signature milk tea and innovative bubble blends.

Da Shi Jia Big Prawn Mee

A direct import from Singapore, Da Shi Jia excels at big prawn mee: springy noodles, succulent jumbo prawns, and robust seafood broth that’s comforting and utterly satisfying. This is Singaporean street food at its finest.

Mini Bunz Burger

Mini Bunz Burger serves adorable American-style sliders—miniature hamburgers bursting with juicy patties, cheese, and secret sauces. Ideal for sharing or snacking, they’re a hit with both kids and adults.

Follow @Unlock_Korea to find out about more hidden gems in Seoul !

Written by Kayla Watson

How Koreans Stay Cool and Protected in Summer

When summer hits, protecting your skin from strong sunlight and UV rays becomes a must.
In Korea, people have developed a variety of clever and practical ways to deal with the sun—it’s all about staying healthy and feeling fresh, not just hiding from the heat!

Here are some of the most popular and effective ways to avoid UV rays, Korean style. \

1. Sun Umbrellas Are a Summer Staple

Nothing beats portable shade on a sunny day!
Sun umbrellas (called yangsan in Korean) are lightweight, easy to carry, and provide full coverage for your face and shoulders.
These days, many come with UV-blocking materials, cooling fabric, and stylish designs. They’re used by both men and women as essential summer items.

2. Sunscreen Is a Daily Must

Before heading out, never skip sunscreen!
Look for SPF 30+ and PA++ or higher for strong UV protection, and reapply every 2–3 hours.
Korean sunscreens come in various forms, including stick types, waterproof options, and even cooling formulas for summer comfort.

3. Arm Sleeves and Cooling Long Sleeves

You don’t have to wear short sleeves to stay cool.
Cooling long-sleeved shirts and arm covers help block UV rays while keeping your skin comfortable in the heat.
These are especially popular for driving, biking, or any long outdoor activity.

🕶️ 4. Sunglasses and Wide-Brim Hats

UV rays can harm your eyes too!
Sunglasses with UV protection and wide-brimmed hats offer great protection for your face and eyes—plus, they add a nice style bonus.

⏰ 5. Avoid Peak UV Hours When Possible

The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
If possible, plan indoor activities during these hours or walk in shaded areas like underground walkways or building overhangs to stay cool and protected.

💧 Bonus Tip: Stay Hydrated & Soothe Your Skin

Heat and UV rays can dry out and irritate your skin.
Drink plenty of water and soothe your skin after sun exposure with aloe vera gel or cooling face masks—a popular skincare step in Korea.

Final Thought

Instead of avoiding the sun completely, Koreans focus on smart and stylish ways to protect their skin while enjoying summer.
These tips are great for anyone looking to stay healthy, fresh, and sun-safe.

Netflix has recently revealed additional official merchandise for the popular animation series ‘K-Pop Demon Hunters,’ sparking great excitement among fans worldwide. The new lineup includes the beloved tiger character “Derpy Tiger” plush and growing demand for a limited-edition magpie character “Seossi” plush. Apparel items feature prints of the Huntrix and Lion Boys members on T-shirts, hoodies, and sweatshirts, along with officially branded bucket hats and caps.

Additionally, a variety of desk goods have been introduced, such as notebooks and journals printed with mood boards, sheet music, and artwork from the series, plus holographic photo cards, large stickers, keychains, brooches, and pins.

Popular official fan items like light sticks, posters, and phone cases remain available on the Netflix official store. Due to the high demand, limited-edition and popular items are quickly selling out, so fans are encouraged to check the store frequently.

Official Merchandise Purchase Link

• Netflix Official Store
  The most reliable platform to purchase a wide range of official ‘K-Pop Demon Hunters’ merchandise:
  Netflix Shop – K-Pop Demon Hunters Goods
• Overseas Direct Purchase & Shipping Services
  Some merchandise is also available through official partner sites like Walmart, Amazon, and Republic Records. Fans facing shipping restrictions can use package forwarding services to receive items internationally.

Fans are strongly advised to purchase only through Netflix’s official store or verified sellers to ensure authenticity and quality. Avoid unofficial sources to prevent counterfeit or poor-quality products.

The image is a screenshot from the official website.

On July 22, 2025, Apple Pay officially introduced T-Money support in South Korea, allowing iPhone and Apple Watch users to pay for public transportation more conveniently.

With this launch, users with an iPhone XS, XR, or later models running iOS 17.2 or higher, and Apple Watch Series 6, SE 2, or later with watchOS 10.2 or above can add a T-Money prepaid transit card to the Apple Wallet app. This enables contactless payment on buses, subways, and other public transit without a physical card, using NFC technology. Payments can be made by simply tapping the device on the reader—no need to unlock the phone.

T-Money top-ups are done via prepaid charging using Hyundai Card credit cards, and an auto-recharge feature is available to prevent running out of balance. However, postpaid payments, as well as “Gihu Donghaeng” and “K-Pass” cards, are currently not supported, leading some to call the service “partial” or “incomplete.”

This introduction marks a significant step as Apple Pay officially enters the South Korean public transit payment market. It is expected to be well received by users seeking a simpler, faster way to pay without carrying physical cards.

Image source: Official website