Have you ever needed to overcome a language barrier while accessing healthcare in Korea? Many of us have, even those who speak Korean somewhat fluently. Language barriers can be challenging but not impossible to navigate. This blog post offers some tips on how to overcome such language barriers that may help.

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Are you a pet owner living in South Korea struggling to find resources? Elise, the founder and Admin for the Facebook group The Dog Lover’s Guide to South Korea shares one of her favorite resources, the FREE 1330 service. Read her post to learn how to use the app and examples of questions you can ask. What is 1330? The 1330 Korea Travel Helpline is a free telephone and real-time chat service designed to assist people in Korea and those abroad planning a trip to Korea. This invaluable resource provides up-to-date information on transportation, attractions, accommodations, dining, and shopping, making it easier to navigate Korea with confidence. This includes supporting dog owners in Korea with help finding information they need. Since this post is about pets, you can find info on subway/bus routes (dogs can travel in carriers), taxi fares (dogs can often travel in carriers but each taxi driver has discretion), dog-friendly areas, pet-friendly hotels, or pet-friendly restaurants. The service is available 24/7 in multiple languages, ensuring language barriers don’t stand in the way of exploring Korea. Best Time to Use 1330 1330 can provide most information between the hours of 10am -5pm Korea Standard Time (UTC+9) Monday – Friday. This is because that’s when most businesses will be open to answer additional questions. Cost Although it seems too good to be true, 1330 is completely free for dog owners in Korea (and everyone else). Available languages English, Korean, Japanese, Chinese, Russian, Vietnamese, Thai, Indonesian Operating hours 24 Hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year for English. Some languages are served 7:00 – 24:00. How 1330 Helps Pet Owners For pet owners, 1330 has been especially helpful in navigating life with a dog in Korea. They provide the latest information on pet restrictions, ensuring that I can confidently visit dog-friendly destinations. Thanks to 1330, I’ve discovered dog-friendly activities and confirmed pet policies for places that don’t always display a pet-friendly icon on NAVER. While my dog is small and doesn’t require weight restriction checks, 1330 is a great resource for owners of larger dogs to verify size limitations before visiting various locations. For Your Safety And Your Pet For pet emergency support, 1330 can provide emergency support by connecting international residents and travelers with relevant authorities or services when needed, offering peace of mind for those unfamiliar with the country. This includes helping you find a veterinarian near your home or the closest 24-hour animal hospital. For human support, 1330 can connect callers to the 1345 Ministry of Justice Call Center, 119 Emergency Rescue Service, KTO Complaint Center, and other related call centers. My Personal Experience with 1330 I learned about 1330 from the Pyeongtaek Living 101 program hosted by the Pyeongtaek International Exchange Foundation. I use this service almost daily, and I highly recommend it to everyone! It’s completely free and has saved me countless hours of time and frustration. Since discovering 1330, my life in Korea—especially as a dog owner—has become so much easier and more enjoyable. Sample Questions: The following are questions that I personally asked 1330, in English: After asking these questions, 1330 sent me actionable information that I used. Keep in mind, 1330 may send you information with Naver or Kakao map links so you need to have these apps downloaded. You can learn more about Naver Maps on the South of Seoul blog as well. Tips for Asking Questions A few things to remember when talking with 1330 and asking for dog-friendly information: How to Access 1330 There are many ways to access 1330 and ask questions! You can access this resource via telephone or online messaging. Turn off Your VPN Turn off your VPN on your phone or computer when trying to access 1330. Otherwise, the 1330 website will be blocked. Call 1330 via Telephone: Write via 1330 Messenger: If you don’t want to download an app, you can use 1330 Messenger. Here is how: ** Remember, websites and systems change often. The information provided is that this post represents how the 1330 Messenger user interface worked at one moment in time. Always be prepared for changes that may occur and remain flexible and curious. Using Facebook Messenger If you like to use Facebook Messenger, you can also contact 1330 there. Here is how: Messaging 1330 on KakaoTalk Almost everyone in Korea relies on KakaoTalk for texting. Beyond messaging, KakaoTalk connects to a wider ecosystem of services like mobile payments, reservations, and shopping, though many of these features require a Korean phone number. For international residents living in Korea, using the KakaoTalk profile may feel like the most comfortable way to communicate with 1330. Here is how: Click via this link: http://pf.kakao.com/_xoRQTK  OR  Access via online chat or call via scanning the QR codes listed on this website. Support Rex and My Adventures! Did you find this blog post helpful? You can support more dog-friendy content about Korea in two ways: Join the Dog Lover’s Community! If you’re a dog owner in South Korea and want to connect with other pet lovers, join The Dog Lover’s Guide to South Korea on Facebook! This community shares tips, recommendations, and resources to help you and your furry friend make the most of your time in Korea. I look forward to meeting you there! Join here! Additional Articles and an Affiliate Link I am an Ambassador for Mountain Shiba and write for their blog. If you would like to support our doggie research and articles. You can use our Mountainshiba Discount Code Rex25 for 25% off, we will also receive a little money to fund our Korean research and adventures. Thank you for your support! Elise PetersenHi, I’m Elise! I’m a military spouse passionate about helping fellow dog parents provide the best life for their furry companions while living in Korea. I love exploring with my dog and discovering dog-friendly destinations, activities, and resources. My goal is to make life easier for dog owners by sharing recommendations, tips, and insights on navigating Korea with your pup.

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Looking for the best places to grab brunch in Pyeongtaek? Perhaps you are confused by the difference between brunch styles between Korea and America. Don’t worry, we have you covered with fabulous local brunch options no matter what you are craving. What Is The Difference Between Korean and American Brunch? We often tend to think of meals in the way that the culture we were raised in considered them. When you move to a new country, you may be confused to learn that what you consider for meals may look different. Our volunteers demystified Korean breakfast for you in a past blog. Therefore, we felt it was time to dig into the differences between Korean and American brunch. When Americans think of brunch, it often involves sweet and savory foods and alcohol, usually mimosas or bloody marys. You might find dishes like pancakes, French toast, eggs benedict, or options typical to Western breakfasts. Korean brunches tend to be more focused on sandwiches, plates of pasta, and salads, but they may also include traditional Korean dishes. Since this brunch is less focused on alcohol, they often include beverage choices like sikhye (sweet rice punch), a variety of teas, coffees, juices, or fruit ades. In this blog, we will provide you with locations to enjoy both Korean and American-style brunch options. Restaurants Serving American-Style Brunch In Pyeongtaek This list does not include every location serving American-style brunch. However, we tried to include as many options as possible. For the past two years, Le Pain has been recognized as serving the best local American brunch. They offer mimosas and a host of fabulous American-style breakfast options, as well as sandwiches and salads to meet all your brunch needs. The following locations serve mimosas or alcohol for their brunch menus: The following locations serve brunch only on the weekends. Braai Republic and NOM Beer serve lunch on both Saturdays and Sundays. However, Pub 210 serves brunch from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Sundays only. Restaurants Serving Korean-Style Brunch in Pyeongtaek If you are looking for delicious options for a Korean-style brunch, the following locations offer great Korean foods and may also include some American-style brunch foods as well. In 2022, Hocus Pocus won the award for best Korean brunch in Pyeongtaek. Their Korean brunch menu often includes a rotation of gorgeous pasta, salads, and sandwiches served in a stunning countryside setting. KimchiRednecks Grabbing Brunch In Pyeongtaek While we do not always get out to enjoy brunch locally, we have made it to a few of the restaurants. Here are a few of the videos that we have done for brunch. However, if you are looking for more local recommendations, we suggest checking out our YouTube channel. We have many local restaurant recommendations and cooking videos as well. Join The Pyeongtaek Food & Fun Facebook Group You are also welcome to join our Pyeongtaek Food & Fun Facebook Group. The South of Seoul moderated community of active and friendly Pyeongtaek international residents makes moving to Pyeongtaek easier. With so many different voices and opinions, it is always refreshing to see everyone’s adventures in our local community. Additionally, the shared posts introduce our community to new places and old places that can feel new all over again. Volunteer With South Of Seoul Interested in working with a fun team of talented volunteers? The South of Seoul volunteer team is always looking for other like-minded folks to research information, compile blogs, and edit content. KimchiRednecksAbout Melissa Edwards-Whittington & Chuck Whittington (KimchiRednecks) Chuck and Melissa—also known as the KimchiRednecks—have been living in Korea since 2017 and documenting their life abroad since launching their YouTube channel in 2018. Originally created to share their adventures with friends and family back in the U.S., KimchiRednecks has since grown into a vibrant and dynamic platform that reflects their love for Korean culture, food, travel, and everyday life. From foodie explorations and recipe experiments to gaming, tech, and car projects (especially the BRZ), their content offers a fun and honest window into expat life. Chuck Whittington is a graduate of Francis Marion University with a degree in Information Systems Management. With over two decades of experience in IT, Chuck combines his technical expertise with a long-standing fascination with Korea—having visited many times before moving permanently. He’s the tech-savvy side of KimchiRednecks and brings a love for innovation, gaming, and cars to the channel. Melissa Edwards-Whittington holds a degree in Bible with a minor in Elementary Education from Mid-Atlantic Christian University. She has worn many hats over the years—working in customer service, marketing, and now also serving as a volunteer Co-Editor and Social Media Marketing Manager for United on the RoK Magazine. Her writing and digital work focus on building community and supporting military-connected and expatriate populations in Korea. Melissa also volunteers with South of Seoul, where she helps manage online social media groups, supports local language exchanges, and creates original content to assist newcomers and long-term residents alike. Together, Chuck and Melissa share their lives with their three beloved Shih Tzu daughters—Minion, Sookie (forever in their hearts), and Mayhem—who are frequently featured in their videos and social media posts. Whether they’re sipping coffee at a neighborhood café, exploring hidden corners of Korea, or experimenting with homemade whiskey and brandy on their second channel, Shining with KimchiRednecks, Chuck and Melissa are passionate about sharing the real and ever-evolving journey of life abroad. One of their greatest joys is cooking, and they frequently document their culinary adventures—especially their experiences learning to prepare Korean dishes and other global cuisines—on their YouTube channel, inviting others to celebrate food, culture, and connection alongside them. Follow Chuck, Melissa & the KimchiRednecks Adventures: YouTube: @kimchirednecks YouTube: @shiningwithkimchirednecks Instagram: @kimchirednecks Facebook: KimchiRednecks United on the RoK Magazine: www.unitedontherokmag.com

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Do you have kids? Want to know more about child-friendly life in Korea? Here is the inside scoop. Child-Friendly Every culture has different views of what the term ‘child-friendly’ means. Sometimes the definition even changes between families or people within a culture. This makes it complicated for unsuspecting international families who ask a group of international strangers the simple but complicated question, “Any child-friendly activities?” Over the years, South of Seoul volunteers like me have seen this simple request spark great debates and feelings of betrayal. Let’s be honest, anyone asking this question is probably at their wit’s end. They are parents who need support who have gone to a local expat group to find something easy and non-stressful for their family. When the recommendations don’t work out based on unspoken expectations, it can create some pretty bad feelings. Since I have seen this happen, I thought I would share what I have learned about ‘child-friendly’ while living with my toddler in South Korea. Definitions of Child-Friendly One definition of “child-friendly” refers to something that is suitable, safe, and appealing for children. This can pertain to a wide range of things including environments, activities, content, products, services, and more. Let’s take a look at each of these factors more closely: Another definition of “child-friendly” looks at the broader societal context of the term. In this case, child-friendly refers to policies or practices that respect the rights of children, promote their well-being, and consider their perspectives in decision-making processes. This might include laws, urban planning decisions, or educational policies, among other things. ‘Child-Friendly’ and Culture Shock Families that move to a new country like Korea may experience culture shock when visiting child-friendly events or businesses. Such culture shock could be both positive and negative. Maybe some things seem better while other things seem more scary. Since international residents in South Korea come from a wide range of countries and cultures, it’s impossible to predict how each family will experience cultural differences. However, it can be helpful for all of us to know what impacts each culture’s definition of child-friendly: Once a person understands that child-friendly varies, it can help them navigate their expectations as well as prepare their children for navigating new experiences. I certainly went through this and I want to share my experience with you. My Experience with Child-Friendly Korea Honestly, especially since we arrived in Korea with a toddler, one of the things that I will miss about Korea is how child friendly this country is. For me, child-friendly means that my child is made to feel welcome by the community around her. There don’t have to be specific types of child-focused activities, although those help. The thoughtfulness and generosity bestowed upon our little one while living in Korea is so far unrivaled. Child-Friendly Havens Korea has a wide variety of businesses that cater to parents with kids. Therefore, we visited almost every one we could find. Such businesses include: Not to mention all of the free candy and toys that our little one has received from shops, cafes, and restaurant owners. At times, having children may make you feel like a celebrity. With the birth rate dropping early every month, kids get quite a lot of attention from older people in Korea. Of course, all of the child-friendly spots in the Korean countryside may have provided me the false perception that children were welcomed everywhere. I mean, they are mostly, but there are some exceptions. Child Free Zones Having visited quite a few cafes around Korea, I am now very much aware that there are exceptions and important details to keep in mind when traveling around Korea with a child. Oftentimes, the closer you get to a major city, like Seoul, but even in Pyeongtaek, you’ll find cafes and restaurants with signs either designating “Child Free Zone”, which is often the upper floors of cafes, or “No Children Allowed”. Please don’t feel rejected, as we can assure you, there are many more places in Korea that welcome families. Child-free zones are often on the upper level and/or rooftop level of restaurants and cafes. Often times these designations are just to keep your child safe and mitigate liability issues in these areas. Cafes and restaurants are not play areas. In addition, the staff shouldn’t be expected to monitor or police our children. Child-free locations also help to maintain a certain ambiance for more diverse patronage. In our 3 years in Korea, we rarely felt inconvenienced by “child-free” locations. We’ve been denied entry from 3 locations in 3 years, just because we have a toddler. And yet, we have had countless family adventures here. Tips for Communicating Your Definition of Child-Friendly If you’re trying to plan a family adventure, you may be inclined to contact business owners and/or throw your question out to the social-media-verse. Before you do, we’d like to recommend being specific about what your family’s needs are. Remember that members of the online groups also come from different cultures that may not share your definition of ‘child-friendly.’ Since the term has no shared meaning and often becomes extremely vague, providing specific questions about your family needs provides better results. Examples of How ‘Child-Friendly’ Differs Between People To understand what I mean by “different meaning of child-friendly” let’s look at a recent misunderstanding I had with another person who shares the same passport as I do: I long believed that noraebangs or karaoke rooms in Korea were all “Child Free Zones.” Specifically meaning that “children are not welcome at all.” However, a friend and fellow South of Seoul blogger recently visited a noraebang in Asan Techno Valley that welcomes families. In fact, I learned to noraebang is a favorite family activity in Korea. Therefore, there are often child and family-friendly noraebangs as well as child-free noraebangs. However, when I communicated to another friend that we found a “child-friendly” noraebang location, she thought I meant a location that includes a play area and kids activities, not simply that children were allowed. For here, simply allowing kids to attend with the family didn’t make it child-friendly. As you can see, “child-friendly” meant two different things to us. For me, the noraebang was perfect for me and my child but not what she needed at all. Another example of this form of miscommunication may happen when inquiring about “child-friendly” menu options. Make sure that you clearly communicate the hidden meaning you may hold. For example, while moderating groups, we have found this often means, “Is there Western food for kids?” However, many people offer international food options and the parents then feel frustrated due to miscommunication. Therefore, it is best to be clear and specific about what you might mean by child-friendly food. Does your child have food allergies? Will your child only eat fries and chicken nuggets? Does your child hate spicy food? Your family will definitely enjoy your experience just a little more if you know how to advocate for your family’s needs in clear and specific ways understood across cultures. Homework for Parents I recommend taking an hour to sit down and talk about what you mean by ‘child-friendly’ as it relates to different topics like: hiking, cafes, restaurants, museums, parks, etc. Ask yourself the following questions to get started: Managing Expectations Now that you understand your expectations, you may find it easier to communicate about them and manage them. Managing expectations and being open to new views of the world is half the battle to enjoying life in a new culture like Korea. Join The Pyeongtaek Family Fun Group Join our Pyeongtaek Family Fun group. This South of Seoul moderated community includes active and friendly families sharing their adventures in Pyeongtaek. Join The Pyeongtaek Travelers Group You are also welcome to join our Pyeongtaek Travelers. This South of Seoul moderated community includes active and friendly travelers sharing their adventures across the country with their families. (Most of the members live in Pyeongtaek, South Korea). Volunteer With South Of Seoul Interested in working with a fun team of talented volunteers? The South of Seoul volunteer team is always looking for other like-minded folks to research information, compile blogs, and edit content. LeaDan Yee, M.EdLeaDan Yee holds a Master’s in Education with a focus in Secondary Education and Teaching – Language Arts and Bachelor’s in Psychology, with a minor in Speech. As a Cultural Liaison and Content Creator at South of Seoul, Ms. Yee focuses on creating content for families interested in traveling and those with toddlers.  She is especially interested in opportunities to share her Native Hawaiian background and empower others to be cultural ambassadors. Prior to joining South of Seoul, LeaDan worked as a High School Speech Teacher and Adjunct Communications Professor. She specializes in Public Speaking, Argumentation and Debate, Team Management, and Event Planning.

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Looking for Instagrammable cafes with some serious WOW factor? I have visited hundreds of cafes across Korea and found the 10 most Instagrammable cafes beyond Seoul. Visiting Cafes Beyond Seoul Here’s a list of my favorite photographable or Instagrammable cafes outside of Seoul.  Yes, Seoul has many beautiful cafes, but so does the rest of Korea. While Seoul receives a great deal of well-deserved attention, Korea has so much more to experience if you venture further. Cafe Culture In Korea The cafe scene in Korea, much like the rest of Korea, puts the “extra” in “extravagant” and “extraordinary”. Much like a fingerprint, from afar, cafes may seem similar. However, once you take a closer look, you’ll notice that no two cafes are exactly alike. Many cafes in Korea set up Instagrammable areas. However, some cafes go above and beyond for those who like the “extra.” This is definitely the case with this list of visually astounding cafes for photographers and social media selfies. How I Made My List I’m a mom who does everything with my toddler. This means I visit cafes that feel comfortable with kids. This includes the Instagrammable Cafes. Maybe things will change with time, but when I visited with my daughter these options felt comfortable and enjoyable. 10 Most Instagrammable Cafes Beyond Seoul Visit any of the following Instagrammable cafes and come away with photographs that will leave your followers impressed. Amoene Cafe in Incheon – While not recommended for those who experience vertigo or motion sickness, the unique architecture of this cafe and pension may leave you wondering which way is up. This cafe will give you very Instagrammable images that will entrance your followers. With tilted windows and doors, you will get some Alice in Wonderland vibes here. The bakery section includes some of the unique shapes of the cafe. In addition, they specialize in cakes and tarts. Susan Gongwon (or Susan Park Cafe) in Incheon – Located just 11 minutes from Amoene, this is also a filming location for “Extraordinary Attorney Woo”. This cafe will leave you feeling beach vibes without the sand in between your toes. With an epic-sized cafe and restaurant, there are lots of bakery options. In addition, it is next to an indoor marine park for kids. Every floor of this cafe includes unique, picturesque decor, including little boats on the first floor, and large stone structures on the rooftop. Cafe Daenerys in Namyangju – Not to be confused with the character from “Game of Thrones,” but similar in extravagance. Just off Bukhangang River (aka Bukhan River), this magnificent bakery cafe also serves brunch only on the weekdays. This location has many beautiful spots indoors and outdoors to get those Instagrammable photos. Dreamy Camera Cafe or Kkumkkuneun Camera in Yangpyeong – This cafe was featured in a July 2014 Buzzfeed article. It is not only filled with vintage cameras, but the architecture resembles a vintage camera. You can enjoy your coffee, as you admire the rural countryside through the lens-shaped window and consider your life goals. This cafe is small, so groups of 7 or more cannot enter together. Mudae Theater Cafe / Moodae Black Box in Songtan – This is one of two cafes created by a musical actor and a stage director. After you order your drink, you sit in the auditorium-like seating area, while your barista, dressed in hanbok, prepares your drink on a stage. Sip and enjoy, as a misty fog covers the rock formations on the floor. Or, if you’d prefer another artistically picturesque vibe, ascend the steep steps up to the second floor, with yin and yang mountain murals, or the rooftop for a poetic view. Mudae Bakery Cafe in Anseong – Much like Mudae Theater, Mudae Bakery Cafe offers picturesque seating but from an island or coastal perspective. Ascend the verdantly decorated steps to a more mountainous decor on the second floor. Also, this is a great location during the warmer weather because of the spacious lawn. There is a children’s area on the first floor and a pet area outdoors. Main Street Cafe in Pyeongtaek – While the 2D Cafe Greem in Seoul and Jeju receive a lot of social media attention, there are a number of cafes in Korea that offer a 2D atmosphere. Main Street Cafe in Pyeongtaek does just that and more. In fact, every corner of this three-story cafe is its own New York-inspired photo zone. Your followers will love all the Instagrammable photos you take in this cafe. Monamour in Asan – Monamour includes a cafe, bakery, fine-dining restaurant, and both indoor and outdoor art exhibits. Get a drink at the cafe, sit and enjoy the tranquil water art, then take a walk along the galleries for those Instagrammable shots. Photopia in Pohang – This is a cafe AND a photography zone with 4 floors of scenery, including the rooftop view of the sea with Santorini-esque architecture. As you arrive, you’ll be greeted by epic Italian architecture, but make sure you walk through every area. The freshly baked bread at Photopia will not disappoint you. High Class 153 in Yeosu – This is a pension with an amazing view of the Yeosu Coast, which you can admire from the cafe, even if you are not a guest. If you purchase a drink, then you may also take it to the rooftop for an even better view. However, that’s not the only reason you are visiting this cafe. You may purchase a ticket at the cafe for individual swing opportunities. Please note that this swing is not for those who are afraid of heights, nor for children or anyone weighing over 200 pounds, for safety reasons. You may even rent a flowy dress on location. Many come to this location for this amazing Instagrammable photo opportunity. THIS WILL BE YOUR NEXT PROFILE PICTURE! Always Confirm Details Before Visiting Businesses change often in South Korea so you need to do your due diligence before visiting. This blog represents a moment in time and times change. We recommend calling or messaging a business before visiting to confirm they are in business. We also recommend double-checking the business’s 1) days off, 2) vacation days, 3) break times, and 4) open times. If you are visiting to try a specific item confirm that such items remain on the menu. You can use apps like Papago or AI apps like ChatGPT to help with the language barrier. How To Source Additional Information About Locations For more detailed information like business hours for these Instagrammable cafes beyond Seoul, you can use the free foreigner support app/phone number 1330. Join The Pyeongtaek Travelers Group If you are looking for more adventures in Korea outside of the Instagrammable cafes beyond Seoul, you are also welcome to join our Pyeongtaek Travelers. There you may find many additional locations to get amazing visual images for Instagram. The South of Seoul moderated community of active and friendly travelers (most of who live in Pyeongtaek, South Korea) sharing their adventure across the country. Join The Cafes In Korea Group After checking out this list of Instagrammable cafes in Korea, then you should head over to Cafes in Korea to find additional locations to enjoy! Join our group to discover new cafes and share your cafe adventures. Also, you can discover more of the best cafes in South Korea for you personal list. Volunteer With South Of Seoul Interested in working with a fun team of talented volunteers? The South of Seoul volunteer team is always looking for other like-minded folks to research information, compile blogs, and edit content. LeaDan Yee, M.EdLeaDan Yee holds a Master’s in Education with a focus in Secondary Education and Teaching – Language Arts and Bachelor’s in Psychology, with a minor in Speech. As a Cultural Liaison and Content Creator at South of Seoul, Ms. Yee focuses on creating content for families interested in traveling and those with toddlers.  She is especially interested in opportunities to share her Native Hawaiian background and empower others to be cultural ambassadors. Prior to joining South of Seoul, LeaDan worked as a High School Speech Teacher and Adjunct Communications Professor. She specializes in Public Speaking, Argumentation and Debate, Team Management, and Event Planning.

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Grab your kids or some friends and go explore science museums in Korea. Reasons to Visit Science Museums in Korea There are many science museums in Korea that both kids and adults may enjoy. Each of the museums offers a unique experience for visitors of all ages. Here are a few of the many reasons to go to a science museum while living and traveling in South Korea: Overall, science museums offer a fun and educational experience that can benefit people of all ages and backgrounds. Issues Expats May Face When Visiting Science Museums While visiting science museums in Korea can be a great experience, there may be some hurdles that expats face. Some of these hurdles may include: To overcome these hurdles, ex-pats visiting science museums in Korea can consider booking a guided tour in their native language, downloading translation apps, researching cultural differences before visiting, and checking for discounts or free admission days. Seven Science Museums in Korea Now that you know a little bit about what to expect, here are seven great science museums to visit with your friends and families. Located in Osan City, Eunsan Eoullim Ecology Museum recommends that you make a reservation for your visit. If you go without reservations, you may be disappointed because you will not be included in the class (or ongoing tour) and will be left on your own. However, reservations can be made by booking on Naver. This museum specializes in amphibians and reptiles. Environmental Science Center (or Asan Ecological Environment Insect Museum) is in Asan. This large park is dedicated to learning more about environmental science. There are various tropical plants, and the area includes over 40 types of creatures, including tarantulas and scorpions. Also, the site has the Green Tower Observation Deck, and the Asan Insect Museum included. Located in Busan, Hong Dae-yong Science Museum was named after the inventor who developed the first Korean-made sewing machine. The museum focuses on the life and work of Hong Dae-yong. Also, it is dedicated to the history and development of science and technology in Korea. Exhibits include displays of Hong Dae-yong’s inventions and interactive exhibits for exploring scientific concepts. Located in Daejeon, the National Museum of Science and Technology covers various sciences, from physics and chemistry to astronomy and biology. Exhibits include interactive displays, live demonstrations, and educational programs for children and adults. The Daegu National Science Museum is located in Daegu and features a variety of interactive exhibits covering a wide range of science topics. The presentations engage visitors by including hands-on activities, games, and demonstrations. More popular exhibits include a giant piano that visitors can play with their feet, a virtual reality space exploration exhibit, and a simulated earthquake experience. Also, this museum hosts temporary exhibitions and educational programs. The Korea Astronomy and Space Science Institute (KASI) established Naro Space Science Center in Goheung, Jeollanam-do. The museum features exhibits and activities educating visitors about the universe. The Planetarium features a 23-meter dome with state-of-the-art projection technology creating an immersive night sky and beyond. In addition to the museum, they operate a research center and a rocket launch site. Yangpyeong Insect Museum is located in Yangpyeong. Dedicated to insects, it features over 20,000 specimens from around the world. The exhibits educate visitors about the different types of insects and their importance in the natural world. The displays and activities include both live and preserved specimens. Popular exhibits include a silkworm room and a butterfly house. How to Source Additional Information About These Locations Whenever you have questions about things like business hours, you can use the free foreigner support app/phone number 1330. In addition, this is really helpful especially around holidays to make sure if a business will be open when you want to visit. With this app, you can prevent a wasted trip to a location when they are enjoying their regular day off or a holiday. Join the Pyeongtaek Travelers Group You are also welcome to join our Pyeongtaek Travelers. This South of Seoul moderated community includes active and friendly travelers sharing their adventures across the country. (Most of the members live in Pyeongtaek, South Korea). Volunteer with South of Seoul Interested in working with a fun team of talented volunteers? The South of Seoul volunteer team is always looking for other like-minded folks to research information, compile blogs, and edit content. LeaDan Yee, M.EdLeaDan Yee holds a Master’s in Education with a focus in Secondary Education and Teaching – Language Arts and Bachelor’s in Psychology, with a minor in Speech. As a Cultural Liaison and Content Creator at South of Seoul, Ms. Yee focuses on creating content for families interested in traveling and those with toddlers.  She is especially interested in opportunities to share her Native Hawaiian background and empower others to be cultural ambassadors. Prior to joining South of Seoul, LeaDan worked as a High School Speech Teacher and Adjunct Communications Professor. She specializes in Public Speaking, Argumentation and Debate, Team Management, and Event Planning.

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Many people become mushroom-loving foodies after moving to South Korea. So, these Korean mushroom restaurants might be right up your alley! Since the country has a delicious and wide variety of mushrooms, here are some spots to try in Pyeongtaek-si Where is Pyeongtaek? First of all, these locations for Korean mushroom restaurants exist in Pyeongtaek-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea. Feel free to skip this section if you live in Pyeongtaek or know about the area. Pyeongtaek-si is located in the southern portion of the Gyeonggi-do province. This large administrative district includes many different communities and cities including two US military installations: Camp Humphreys and Osan Air Base. In this blog post, South of Seoul provides addresses and phone numbers for each restaurant recommendation. we recommend using this information in either Naver Maps or Kakao Maps or Kakao Maps for the best results. We never encourage the use of either Google or WAZE within South Korea. About Korean Mushroom Restaurants South Korea has an amazing selection of mushrooms that create rich and delicious mushroom dishes. Therefore, you will find restaurants around the country that feature these intensely flavorful and wonderful fungi in all their culinary glory. Mushrooms might be grilled, sauteed, or cooked into soups and stews. In Pyeongtaek, many of the mushroom dishes are soups filled with many veggies and a delicate, flavor full broth. Mushroom Restaurants are Not Meatless A mushroom restaurant does not equal a vegan or vegetarian restaurant. Mushrooms don’t generally replace meat. In fact, most mushroom dishes may also include chicken, duck, pork, beef, or seafood. Even if you don’t see the meat, it’s likely used to make the broth that the mushrooms get cooked in. Types of Mushrooms that Might be in Your Food There are four commonly used mushrooms. You will find all or some of these included in your mushroom-rich meal: Additionally, you might also find these more unique mushrooms such as However, there are hundreds of other mushrooms that are native to Korea. You can even find a complete list of them with their Latin and Korean names. Of course, not all of these will end up in your meal but some might and there won’t be a name they can find for them in English. Also, many are used only for medicinal purposes. Mushrooms Change with the Season Some mushrooms in the dishes may change seasonally based on access to fresh ingredients. Also, the mushroom selection in each dish might change each time you visit the mushroom restaurant. This occurs because Korea prefers their ingredients in season and full of flavor. Delicious Mushroom Dishes in Pyeongtaek Join the Pyeongtaek Food & Fun Facebook Group You are also welcome to join our Pyeongtaek Food & Fun Facebook Group. The South of Seoul moderated community of active and friendly Pyeongtaek international residents makes moving to Pyeongtaek easier. With so many different voices and opinions, it is always refreshing to see everyone’s adventures in our local community. In addition, all of the posts shared introduce our community to new places and old places that can feel new all over again. While this list of mushroom restaurants in Pyeongtaek is not comprehensive of the entire area, we may have missed your favorite spot. Therefore, make sure to share with the community and share your favorite spots with us! Volunteer with South of Seoul Interested in working with a fun team of talented volunteers? The South of Seoul volunteer team is always looking for other like-minded folks to research information, compile blogs, and edit content. KimchiRednecksAbout Melissa Edwards-Whittington & Chuck Whittington (KimchiRednecks) Chuck and Melissa—also known as the KimchiRednecks—have been living in Korea since 2017 and documenting their life abroad since launching their YouTube channel in 2018. Originally created to share their adventures with friends and family back in the U.S., KimchiRednecks has since grown into a vibrant and dynamic platform that reflects their love for Korean culture, food, travel, and everyday life. From foodie explorations and recipe experiments to gaming, tech, and car projects (especially the BRZ), their content offers a fun and honest window into expat life. Chuck Whittington is a graduate of Francis Marion University with a degree in Information Systems Management. With over two decades of experience in IT, Chuck combines his technical expertise with a long-standing fascination with Korea—having visited many times before moving permanently. He’s the tech-savvy side of KimchiRednecks and brings a love for innovation, gaming, and cars to the channel. Melissa Edwards-Whittington holds a degree in Bible with a minor in Elementary Education from Mid-Atlantic Christian University. She has worn many hats over the years—working in customer service, marketing, and now also serving as a volunteer Co-Editor and Social Media Marketing Manager for United on the RoK Magazine. Her writing and digital work focus on building community and supporting military-connected and expatriate populations in Korea. Melissa also volunteers with South of Seoul, where she helps manage online social media groups, supports local language exchanges, and creates original content to assist newcomers and long-term residents alike. Together, Chuck and Melissa share their lives with their three beloved Shih Tzu daughters—Minion, Sookie (forever in their hearts), and Mayhem—who are frequently featured in their videos and social media posts. Whether they’re sipping coffee at a neighborhood café, exploring hidden corners of Korea, or experimenting with homemade whiskey and brandy on their second channel, Shining with KimchiRednecks, Chuck and Melissa are passionate about sharing the real and ever-evolving journey of life abroad. One of their greatest joys is cooking, and they frequently document their culinary adventures—especially their experiences learning to prepare Korean dishes and other global cuisines—on their YouTube channel, inviting others to celebrate food, culture, and connection alongside them. Follow Chuck, Melissa & the KimchiRednecks Adventures: YouTube: @kimchirednecks YouTube: @shiningwithkimchirednecks Instagram: @kimchirednecks Facebook: KimchiRednecks United on the RoK Magazine: www.unitedontherokmag.com

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Grab your family and your imagination for a fun day at Fairy Tale Village in Incheon. About Fairy Tale Village Songwol-dong 송월동 동화마을, Fairy Tale Village, is a vibrant, mural-themed village in Incheon with Disney Fairy tales, Korean Fairy tales, and other childhood story favorites. This truly is a delight for your senses. Your children will love it and your inner child will, too! If you just want a fanciful walk, this village is free and open year-round.  Also, this is another great spot for cherry blossoms and tulips in the Spring. This area was revitalized in 2013 and covered with fabulous scenes from fairy tales. Fairy Tale Village has wonderful street murals and areas for photos that are based on fairy tales from Korea and western ones as well. If you are looking for fun photos for your Instagram, there are many wonderful spots from which to choose. Other Places to Visit in the Area After you are done walking around Fairy Tale Village, you should check out some of the other fun things in the area. Chinatown – Created when the Incheon Port opened in 1883 & designated an extraterritorality by the Qing Dynasty in 1884. Great place to visit for the flavors of various regions of China. For more history, visit the Korea-Chinese Cultural Center and the Chinese History Museum. Jayu Park (Freedom Park) – Built in 1888, Korea’s first Western-Style modern park, with a view of Incheon Harbor, verdant walks, & cherry blossoms in the Spring. Samgukji Mural Street – This street has murals depicting scenes from Chinese history. Walking this area gives the feeling of reading a book. Trick Art Museum – Open 0900 to 1800, Closed Mondays. Entrance fee W9,000 Wolmido (or Wolmi Island) – Although this area was the location of King Hyojong’s temporary palace (built around 1653), there is no trace left behind. The Wolmi Culture Street is a great place to walk and feel the sea breeze. This area includes a theme park, nature hikes, cultural museums, restaurants, and cafes. Unique Cafes in Fairy Tale Village Looking for a unique cafe to visit while you are in the area? Then, you should check out these five locations to get your coffee and dessert fix. Cafe Oz – Open 1100 to 1700. Cafe for those who would follow the yellow brick road, but also for the anime fans. Donghwamaeul Cafe – Open 1300 to 1730 on weekdays; 1030 to 1800 on weekends. Rent a uniform and take black and white pics as well as enjoy a coffee. Donghwamaeul Puppet Show Cafe – 1000 to 1800, Closed Tuesday & Thursday. Visitors may create puppets a d watch puppet shows while enjoying their drinks. Children’s books and building blocks upstairs. The owner played games and brought out games for my toddler. The Present – Closed Thursday & Friday, Open 1200 – 2100. Go for lunch, but stay for the view because there’s no better time to sit and relax, then the present. Sit and enjoy cherry blossoms, if it’s Spring. Umul Yeop Geu House – You can’t miss the giraffes out front. Diverse drink menu, cookies, postcards, and trinkets. Where to Eat in the Area? While you are in the Fairy Tale Village area in Incheon, check out one of these great locations for a meal or dessert. Kkotbongja Donghwamaeul Branch – If you’ve never had ice cream cones that look like flowers, here’s a cute dessert stop Dolphin Pizza – Dolphin shaped desserts as well as pizza. Gaehangno Chicken – Very juicy and tender chicken! If you love Chinese food, we would recommend perusing Chinatown. You’ll find many restaurants with jjajangmyeon and dumplings. Here’s a recommendation. You can also find the Jjajangmyeon Museum in Chinatown, the birthplace of Jjajangmyeon in Korea. Sandong Kitchen Sinpo International Market – Walking through an international market is an experience everyone should have in Korea, also great places to find food. Parking & Transportation to Incheon While there’s a few parking lots around Jayu Park, here are a few recommendations for Public Parking. Since Incheon is a perfectly walkable area, we would recommend public transportation. How to Source Additional Information About These Locations Whenever you have questions about things like business hours, you can use the free foreigner support app/phone number 1330. In addition, this is really helpful especially around holidays to make sure if a business will be open when you want to visit. With this app, you can prevent a wasted trip to a location when they are enjoying their regular day off or a holiday. Join the Pyeongtaek Travelers Group If you are loved this blog about Fairytale Village in Incheon and are looking for more adventures in Korea, you are also welcome to join our Pyeongtaek Travelers. The South of Seoul moderated community of active and friendly travelers (most of who live in Pyeongtaek, South Korea) sharing their adventure across the country. Volunteer with South of Seoul Interested in working with a fun team of talented volunteers? The South of Seoul volunteer team is always looking for other like-minded folks to research information, compile blogs, and edit content. LeaDan Yee, M.EdLeaDan Yee holds a Master’s in Education with a focus in Secondary Education and Teaching – Language Arts and Bachelor’s in Psychology, with a minor in Speech. As a Cultural Liaison and Content Creator at South of Seoul, Ms. Yee focuses on creating content for families interested in traveling and those with toddlers.  She is especially interested in opportunities to share her Native Hawaiian background and empower others to be cultural ambassadors. Prior to joining South of Seoul, LeaDan worked as a High School Speech Teacher and Adjunct Communications Professor. She specializes in Public Speaking, Argumentation and Debate, Team Management, and Event Planning.

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This Needs Assessment was conducted by graduate student Olivia Bowman as part of her practicum with SOS Public Health (SOSPH) in the Fall of 2022.  This needs assessment examines healthcare information access among the multinational English-speaking community living in South Korea, with a focus on the role that cultural dissonance may play in such access.

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Have you ever wondered which nostalgic Korean snacks to try? Let me show you my favorite Korean snacks from growing up here in Korea. How I Discovered These Nostalgic Korean Snacks to Try Born and raised here in South Korea, I grew up exposed to a lot of different kinds of sweets and snacks – some traditional and some modern.  In my free time, one of the things I like to do is go to the grocery stores or convenience stores to see what new kinds of snacks are out.  And though, I like trying new things, I wanted to share with you my top seven sweets and snacks I always return to, even after trying the new stuff.  Thankfully, all of these nostalgic Korean snacks are readily available in most Korean supermarkets! Matdongsan 맛동산 This crunchy peanut-y goodness is not only a favorite of mine but a favorite of older folks like my mother.  Growing up, I wasn’t so enamored by them, but I find myself craving this fried, crunchy Korean dough covered in syrup and peanuts as I get older.  Comfort snacks at their best! Saekomdalkom 새콤달콤 These are the Korean candies I grew up with before HiChews and MyChews came into the picture.  The name of this candy literally means sweet and sour, and they are indeed that.  These soft and chewy candies are something I try to share with friends overseas.  I sent some to my best friend once, and she squealed in delight because she and I both grew up on these.  These are definitely nostalgic for us! Bboddo 뽀또 These cheese sandwich crackers (or, as the box says, “cheese tarte”) are not something I enjoyed much as a kid, but rather a snack I have grown to appreciate recently.  Tastes definitely change over the years.  This particular snack is just addicting.  The crackers are flakier than the US ones I have tried, and the “cheese” filling tastes better, too.  When I ate one for the first time in like two decades, all I could think was, “Why did I ignore these all these years?!” Potato Chip 포테토칩 We all need some chip/crisps in our lives that just hit the spot, and this brand does it for me.  Its texture is very similar to Lays, but it’s less salty and has more of an umami flavor that I like a lot.  Seriously, these chips have never let me down, and I have tried plenty of potato chips snacks in Korea. Dakdali Nugget 닭다리 너겟  The original Dakdali snack came out in the shape of chicken drumsticks, which is what dakdali means – chicken drumsticks.  However, I prefer these nuggets version because it’s bigger, so it has more flavor!  Anyway, this version is the fried chicken flavor, and it’s good.  It doesn’t quite taste like fried chicken, but it is seasoned in a way that just goes well with these chips.  If anything, get the ones that are shaped like chicken drumsticks, and they will make interesting snack gifts! Ojingeo Ddangkong 오징어 땅콩 Much like the aforementioned Matdongsan, this squid-flavored peanut snack is another I grew up with and love even until current times.  It doesn’t sound like a tasty combination, but squid and peanuts really do go well together.  Not only is it crunchy and delicious, but this makes for good beer or other alcohol snacks! Jayusigan 자유시간 Last but not least, this is my favorite Korean candy bar that I grew up loving.  Its name means “free time” in Korean, and I have no clue why.  What I do know is that it’s a good candy bar.  It’s a nougat bar with peanuts – kind of like a Snickers bar, but less sweet.  It’s good for those wanting something sweet, but not something overly sweet. I hope you will give these nostalgic Korean snacks a try next time when you are in the store.  What I like, you may not like, but it can be fun to try new things!  I’m always excited to try new Korean snacks, but these seven will always stay with me as the others come and go. Join the Pyeongtaek Food & Fun Facebook Group Also, please join our Pyeongtaek Food & Fun Facebook Group. The South of Seoul moderated community of active and friendly Pyeongtaek international residents makes moving to Pyeongtaek easier. With so many different voices and opinions, it is always refreshing to see everyone’s adventures in our local community. In addition, all of the posts shared introduce our community to new foods, places, and even old places that can feel new all over again. Volunteer with South of Seoul Interested in working with our fun team of talented volunteers? Join our South of Seoul volunteer team. We are always looking for other like-minded folks to research information, compile blogs, and edit content. Tara Popp, MA. EdTara Popp holds a Master of Arts degree in Youth Development with an emphasis on youth and technology and a Bachelor of Arts degree in English with a concentration in Romantic and Modern literature and poetry.  Ms. Popp was born and raised in Seoul for 30+ years as a Korean-American living around military and civilian communities. She moved down to Pyeongtaek officially in 2018.  Though she misses the big city life in Seoul, she has grown to love the Pyeongtaek area and country living. Ms. Popp has many hobbies and interests and is a long-time blogger and user of social media.  She also enjoys visiting new restaurants and cafes, of which she actively shares her foodie adventures on Pyeongtaek Food & Fun and other social media platforms and groups.  She recently joined South of Seoul as a volunteer, and she continues to come up with ideas on how to share her unique experiences with the Pyeongtaek community. When she is not volunteering, you can find her reading on her Kindle, playing video games on her many handheld consoles, and wandering around the streets of Pyeongtaek to look for new places to try and love.

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