It's beginning to look a lot like Seollal!   Seollal is lunar new year's day and one of the greatest holidays in Korea. To celebrate the day, Koreans traditionally make Teok-guk(떡국) with a savory broth and the sliced rice cake called Ga-rae Teok(가래떡). The reason why rice cake soup is eaten on New Year's Day morning is be…

Did you know many Koreans spend a lot of time learning English starting at a young age? In Korea, it is common for kids under 7 to go to day care center ( 어린이집 ) and kindergarten ( 유치원 ) before they enter the elementary school. Korean day care centers forcus on nursery care for children under 2 years old and kindergarten is a presc…

Prevent Freezing Water Meters 1. Keep water flowing by leaving a tap slightly open during extremely cold weather. 2. Insulate the water meter box with materials like used clothing, seal with vinyl wrapping, and close the lid. 3. Wrap exterior pipes tightly with insulation material. 4. If pipes freeze, thaw slowly with warm water (30…

Winter in Korea can be a real challenge to tackle due to bone-chilling cold air coupled with biting winds that make it feel even colder. We've got you covered with essentials for braving the outdoors, but what about staying warm indoors? Forget about lounging in your living room wearing a bulky coat or clutching hand warmers. Wh…

Korea's K-Play Culture embraces the essence of capturing moments through the lens of a self studio photo booth. Unlike the fleeting nature of selfies, these booths have gained immense popularity, turning an ordinary meet-up into a cherished memory-making ritual among Koreans. Strolling down the streets, you'll often encounte…

"Hanyak" (한약) refers to traditional Korean medicine, which boasts a rich history deeply embedded in Korean culture. It encompasses a diverse range of traditional healing practices, including herbal medicine, acupuncture, moxibustion, and other holistic approaches to healthcare. The term “Hanyak" specifically means tra…

In the bustling streets of South Korea, nestled between the modernity of skyscrapers and the historical charm of traditional markets, lies an embodiment of culinary delight and cultural fusion—the Pojangmacha. These colorful tents or wagons, vibrant with character, represent more than just a place to dine; they embody a unique featu…

Suneung, the College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT) or the Korean SATs. In fact, it wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that it's the most crucial exam they'll ever take, as it's the standardized test recognized by South Korean universities. It's quite distinct from regular high school tests in several ways. For s…

Kimjang is a cherished Korean tradition where families and communities unite to prepare kimchi for the winter months. Rooted in Korea's rich cultural heritage, this age-old practice not only guarantees a consistent supply of nutritious food but also fortifies the bonds within communities. Also, Kimjang, making and sharing kimchi…

Korea's chilly season, typically during the fall and winter months, brings a delightful array of snacks that are not only delicious but also warming and comforting. These snacks are perfect for enjoying on cold and windy days. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at some popular Korean chilly season snacks that will w…

Nongak (농악) is a traditional Korean form of music and performance that originated in rural agricultural communities. The word "nongak" literally means "farmers' music“. It's a vibrant and energetic art form that combines various elements of music, dance, and acrobatics, often performed in outdoor settings. Non…

Hanbok is a Korean word that refers to traditional Korean attire. Hanbok is a symbol of Korean culture and heritage, known for its timeless elegance and intricate designs. Hanbok has a rich history that dates back over a thousand years and continues to be an essential part of Korean cultural identity. It is still beloved by Koreans …

Superstitions in Korean culture reveal a captivating blend of history, society, and environment. Passed down through generations, they offer insight into the unique traditions and beliefs that shape this culture. Though not universally followed, these superstitions remain significant in the lives of many Koreans. Let's explore s…

Elevate Your Conversations: Essential Korean Phrases for Daily Use After the overwhelming positive response to our previous post on "10 Useful Korean Phrases" we're thrilled to be back with another set of indispensable Korean expressions! In this edition, we've curated 10 Common Korean Phrases tailored to seamless…

Hangul Day, also known as 한글날 (Hangeulnal) in Korean, is a national holiday celebrated in Korea on October 9th each year. This significant holiday commemorates the creation and proclamation of the Korean script known as Hangul. Hangul is the writing system of the Korean language, and it consists of 24 letters, including 14 consonan…