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South of Seoul: Localized Living Resources

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      • CookingLiving and Cooking in Korea is Different than Home Cooking in Korea requires international residents to adapt in many ways. This includes learning where food is in grocery stores, which stores carry which ingredients, what can be used as a substitution, etc. It’s like learning how to cook and manage a kitchen all over again. This is part of the fun and adventure of living abroad and learning to adapt may give you new confidence in the kitchen. We are here to help support a less frustrating transition into your Korean kitchen. Learning to Cook Korean Food Learning to cook Korean food also involves adaptation. The Korean cooking process may require learning about new cutting techniques, new ingredients, new cooking tools, and new flavors. For this cooking series, vloggers Kimchi Rednecks share how they have studied Korean chefs and how they have adapted what they have learned into their ex-pat kitchen. We will share a variety of resources to make sure that you can experience learning about Korean from a few perspectives. Learning to Cook Korean Food Takes Time Rome wasn’t built in a day and neither will your Korean kitchen. This series is designed to spread across a year.…
    • Kids and FamilySouth Korea is a family-focused country due to a variety of reasons such as multi-generational family homes and a low national birth-rate. Children are allowed in nearly all food and drinking establishments and there are special travel accommodations that allow upwards of 20+ people per room. However, South Korea’s family-friendly experiences are often difficult for new international residents to access since South Korean family-friendly activities manifest in different ways than those experienced in the home countries of international residents. South of Seoul supports international families by publishing blogs that unravel what family-friendly looks like and how to access the activities. If you have any idea of an article that would help your family, submit the topic to [email protected].
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      • SpringSpring is a beautiful time in South Korea. The South of Seoul Spring Guide brings together the articles you need for enjoying fall and embracing life in South Korea. The guide is shared in February and covers events, issues, and information in March, April, and May. This includes such things as : Cherry Blossom Season Dealing with seasonal mold Hiking areas ENT for seasonal allergies
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Posts by Ara Ko Lopez

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About Ara Ko Lopez

Ara Ko Lopez was born in Korea and raised overseas, giving her a unique perspective on Korean culture and life abroad. A proud military spouse, she has spent more than 20 years working as an English teacher, translator, and interpreter while pursuing creative passions that include crochet, knitting, sewing, photography, and travel. She is the founder of Crafty Ara, a home-based business dedicated to creating handmade pieces that bring warmth, comfort, and connection to others. When she's not crafting, Ara enjoys exploring South Korea, discovering local events and hidden gems, reading, cooking, and sharing her experiences through writing and photography.

Follow Ara's creative and travel adventures on Instagram: @CraftyAra, @cupio, and @feedingFOMO

Handarty Korea craft fair entrance at COEX Convention Center in Seoul with handmade furniture displays and author Ara Ko Lopez.
Posted inAugust in South Korea Culture & Community Fun & Entertainment

Handarty Korea: Seoul’s Premier Handmade Craft Fair

Discover Handarty Korea, Seoul's premier handmade craft fair at COEX. Learn what to expect, how to get there, ticket information, and tips for planning your visit.
Posted by Ara Ko Lopez July 31, 2026
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Ara Ko Lopez

Ara Ko Lopez was born in Korea and raised overseas, giving her a unique perspective on Korean culture and life abroad. A proud military spouse, she has spent more than 20 years working as an English teacher, translator, and interpreter while pursuing creative passions that include crochet, knitting, sewing, photography, and travel. She is the founder of Crafty Ara, a home-based business dedicated to creating handmade pieces that bring warmth, comfort, and connection to others. When she’s not crafting, Ara enjoys exploring South Korea, discovering local events and hidden gems, reading, cooking, and sharing her experiences through writing and photography.

Follow Ara’s creative and travel adventures on Instagram: @CraftyAra, @cupio, and @feedingFOMO

www.youtube.com/@craftyara
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