Bukchon Hanok Village (북촌 한옥마을): A Guide to Traditional Korean Houses in Seoul

“Jjan~” (jjan) is the sound Koreans make when clinking glasses.

It is commonly used when making a toast.

When is it used

• Before drinking

• While clinking glasses

• To match the group’s mood

What it means...

In Korea, it is common to see small stacks of stones in mountains or along trails.

What it means

• Making a wish

• Hoping for good luck

• A simple, personal ritual

Why people do it

• Easy for anyone to try...

Kimchi is served first in Korean restaurants

When you go to a Korean restaurant, you’ll often get kimchi before you even order.

No matter what you choose, kimchi usually comes as a standard side dish.

What is kimchi?

Kimchi is a fermented dish typically made with napa cabbage, red chili flakes, garlic, and salted seafood.

It usually has a salty, slightly sour, and mildly spicy flavor.

As it ferments over time, the flavor becomes deeper and stronger....

Hanbok (한복) is more than just traditional clothing

When people think of Korea, one of the first images that comes to mind is hanbok. But hanbok cannot be fully explained by simply calling it “traditional clothing.”

Hanbok is a clothing that reflects Korea’s long history, culture, and sense of aesthetics. It is known for its loose fit, layered structure, and soft, flowing silhouette.

When do people wear hanbok?

Today, hanbok is not everyday clothing in Korea. It is typically worn on special occasions.

For example, people...