BTS x Lego: A Collaboration for the BTS Army

 Lego and South Korean pop sensation, BTS, have teamed up for a new project. The BTS Dynamite set, designed for adult fans, will feature scenes from the group's hit music video "Dynamite" including a doughnut shop, record store, basketball court, and stage. The set includes miniature figures of the seven band members and has a mechanism that allows them to move in sync when placed on the stage.

This marks one of BTS's first major collaborations since the group announced that its members would be taking a break from each other to pursue solo projects. The collaboration also comes as one member, Jin, has begun serving his mandatory 18-month enlistment in the South Korean army, with the rest of the group expected to follow suit.

BTS fans, also known as the BTS Army, are thrilled about the new collaboration. BTS accounted for two-thirds of the revenue of its management agency, Hybe, last year. When the group announced its break in June, Hybe's shares took a 25% dip. In an effort to diversify its revenue sources, Hybe has expanded its artist roster and launched a tender offer to buy a quarter of one of its biggest competitors, SM Entertainment.

BTS remains crucial to Hybe's success and the Lego collaboration will be a test of whether BTS's brand-licensing deals can still be profitable for Hybe even without the group promoting them together. Neither Hybe nor Lego responded to requests for comment.

According to Stephanie Choi, a postdoctoral associate at the Asia Research Institute at the State University of New York, Buffalo, who has studied Korean pop culture, BTS fans today are no longer passive consumers waiting for new content from the band or their management company, Hybe. Instead, they take an active role as promoters of the group and maintain its media presence through fan-run social media accounts and hashtags.

BTS has brought billions of dollars to the South Korean economy through touring, merchandise, and endorsements, and their success is heavily tied to the use of their intellectual property, including image rights, music copyrights, logo designs, and animated mascots. The band has already partnered with several companies, including Samsung Electronics Co., Mattel Inc., and McDonald's Corp.

Brand deals are not uncommon in the music industry, especially among artists with younger fan bases. However, BTS has a slightly older fan base, and their partnerships are often geared toward adults. The BTS Lego set is listed for ages 18 and up and costs $99.99. The set is based on a design submitted by two Lego and BTS enthusiasts as part of the "LEGO Ideas" line of products.

While some BTS fans are excited about the collaboration, others have expressed concern over the price of the 749-piece set.

(Kpop) Teddy Bear - STAYC | Meaning, MV, Lyrics

 "STAYC Girls, It's Going Down" is a song by the girl group STAYC that encourages listeners to live in the moment and enjoy life without stress or worries. The lyrics suggest that people shouldn't listen to others and try to act cool, as everyone's life is unique and there's no one right answer. Instead, the song suggests taking things slow and finding comfort in life's simple pleasures, like a teddy bear. The chorus encourages listeners to switch to "flight mode," letting go of unnecessary thoughts and worries, and to enjoy life on their own terms. The song also touches on the idea of keeping one's goals and aspirations in mind, but not letting envy or competition get in the way. Overall, "STAYC Girls, It's Going Down" is a feel-good track that encourages listeners to embrace life and make the most of each moment.

Teddy Bear (Teddy Bear) · STAYC · B.E.P · FLYT · Rado · FLYT · B.E.P · Jeon goon · B.E.P

Teddy Bear

℗ 2023 High Up Entertainment,under license to Kakao Entertainment

Released on: 2023-02-14

Author: B.E.P

Author: Jeon goon

Composer: B.E.P

Composer: FLYT

Arranger: Rado

Arranger: FLYT

Lyrics

STAYC Girls, it's going down

STAYC!

Other people's words are dizzying

They make a fool of themselves from front to back

But I don't think so

They only act so cool

Imagination is Jayoun's No way

Believe it when it's real

Why are you always trying to go back?

It's frustrating, How can I say

Don't hurry, No hurries

Anyway, anyway, we're all experiencing life for the first time

There's no right answer, One hunnit

So let go of that kind of expectation, disappointment is still big

Quiet please, switch to flight mode

Sit comfortably, ignore unnecessary words

Only press the button when I want to, Ooh yeah

Yeah yeah yeah yeah

Just look forward, just like

Teddy Bear ooh

Teddy Bear ooh

Teddy Bear ooh yeah

Pump pump pump pump it up

Teddy Bear

No no no, it's not stylish every day

Just smart words, So good

You're confident, like J J

Bang bang

Don't talk about it, be about it or you will lose

Greed is excessive, Wake it up, it's your dream

Don't hurry, No hurries

Anyway, anyway, we're all experiencing life for the first time

There's no right answer, One hunnit

So let go of that kind of expectation, disappointment is still big

Quiet please, switch to flight mode

Sit comfortably, ignore unnecessary words

Only press the button when I want to, Ooh yeah

Yeah yeah yeah yeah

Just look forward, just like

Teddy Bear ooh

Teddy Bear ooh

Teddy Bear ooh yeah

Pump pump pump pump it up

Teddy Bear

Make sure the mode is clear

If there's no worry, just watch

Call it now, call it now

Don't know if it's envy

What I'm doing well is me

So keep it down, what do you want?

Quiet please, switch to flight mode

Sit comfortably, ignore unnecessary words

Only press the button when I want to, Ooh yeah

Yeah yeah yeah yeah

Just look forward, just like

Teddy Bear ooh

Teddy Bear ooh

Teddy Bear ooh yeah

Pump pump pump pump it up

Teddy Bear

7 Must-Have Smartphone Apps for Independent Travel in South Korea

Traveling independently in South Korea has never been easier thanks to the country's smartphone apps designed for tourists. During our road trip in South Korea, we found several apps to be extremely useful, and we couldn't have navigated the country without them.

The first app that we used frequently was XE currency. This app provides real-time conversion rates between South Korean Won and your home currency, which is helpful when calculating expenses on the go.

If you plan on traveling around Seoul, Kakao Metro is a must-have app. It guides you through the city's spaghetti-like metro network, and it also works in other major cities like Busan, Daegu, Gwangju, and Daejeon. Another app that's useful for getting around is Kakao T. This app enables you to call and pay for a taxi, similar to Uber. You can even rent an electric bike through the app.

Mangoplate is another useful app for foodies. It provides information on nearby restaurants, including reviews. And if you don't speak Korean, don't worry - Papago is an app that offers fast and accurate translation of South Korean to 13 different languages, including English, French, German, Japanese, and Chinese. The quality of translations on this app is top-notch and beats that of Google Translate. Plus, it works offline, which is great for travelers who may not always have an internet connection.

Safety is always a top priority when traveling, and the Emergency Ready app provides valuable information in case of emergencies. This app, provided by the Ministry of Interior and Safety, contains information about shelters, police, and fire stations. The government also shares updates in case of natural disasters like typhoons.

The Visit Korea app, provided by the Korea Tourism Organization, is also worth downloading. It contains opening hours, prices, and other useful information about the many sights of the country. To get the app, simply scroll to the bottom of the page and click on “KTO Mobile apps.”

If you plan to visit Lotte World or Everland, using the theme park apps will help you check the waiting times at the attractions.

While it's possible to use WiFi hotspots in larger cities like Seoul, we found mixed results when testing them. Therefore, we recommend getting a prepaid SIM card for your phone as roaming costs can be expensive. South Korea has the world's best 4G network, so it's worth taking advantage of it during your visit.

In conclusion, traveling independently in South Korea is easy and convenient thanks to the country's numerous smartphone apps designed for tourists. From getting around to finding restaurants and staying safe, these apps make exploring the country a breeze. So, be sure to download them before your trip!

Discovering South Korea's Winter Wonderland: Why You Should Visit During the Colder Months

South Korea is a country that is often overlooked as a winter vacation destination. However, this stunning country has so much to offer during the winter months. From snow-covered mountains to unique winter activities, South Korea is a winter wonderland waiting to be explored. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at some of the reasons why you should visit South Korea in the winter.

 Winter Sports

One of the best reasons to visit South Korea during the winter months is for the abundance of winter sports available. South Korea has several ski resorts that offer world-class skiing and snowboarding. Some of the best ski resorts in the country include Yongpyong Resort, Phoenix Park Ski Resort, and Alpensia Resort. These resorts offer a variety of runs for all skill levels and have modern amenities to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable.

Unique Winter Activities

If skiing isn't your thing, there are plenty of other unique winter activities to try in South Korea. One such activity is ice fishing. During the winter months, many lakes and rivers in South Korea freeze over, creating the perfect environment for ice fishing. This is a popular activity among locals and tourists alike. You can rent equipment and try your hand at catching some fish, which can be prepared and cooked on the spot.

Another unique winter activity is visiting one of the many ice festivals that take place throughout the country. The most famous of these festivals is the Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival, which takes place in January. This festival is known for its ice fishing, ice sculptures, and other winter activities.

Beautiful Winter Scenery

South Korea is a country known for its stunning natural beauty, and the winter months are no exception. Snow-covered mountains and forests create a picturesque winter landscape. Some of the best places to experience this winter scenery include Seoraksan National Park and the Korean Folk Village.

Less Crowded Tourist Destinations

One of the advantages of visiting South Korea in the winter is that the tourist destinations are less crowded. This means that you can explore popular attractions without having to navigate through large crowds. Additionally, hotels and other accommodations are often less expensive during the winter months.

Hot Springs and Saunas

Winter in South Korea can be cold and dry, making it the perfect time to visit one of the country's many hot springs and saunas. These facilities offer the opportunity to relax and warm up after a day of winter activities. Some of the best hot springs and saunas in the country include Dragon Hill Spa and Spa Land.

In conclusion, South Korea is a fantastic destination to visit during the winter months. With world-class skiing, unique winter activities, beautiful winter scenery, less crowded tourist destinations, and hot springs and saunas, there is something for everyone. So if you're looking for a winter vacation destination, consider South Korea. You won't be disappointed.

(News) Explore Busan with Ease: Introducing the Visit Busan Pass for Foreign Tourists

 Busan, the second-largest city in South Korea, is a popular destination for tourists from around the world. Known for its stunning beaches, cultural landmarks, and delicious cuisine, Busan has something for everyone. And now, exploring the city has become even more convenient with the launch of the Visit Busan Pass.

http://www.visitbusanpass.com

Exclusively available to foreigners, the Visit Busan Pass offers an all-in-one solution for exploring the city's top tourist attractions, restaurants, shopping destinations, and more. With just one pass, you can access more than 30 paid tourist facilities in Busan, including museums, theme parks, and historical landmarks. In addition, the pass provides discounts at over 50 restaurants, shopping destinations, and other tourist facilities.

But the Visit Busan Pass isn't just a convenient way to explore the city - it's also a beautiful souvenir in its own right. The physical card features the stunning characteristics of Busan, making it a great way to remember your trip long after you've returned home.

One of the biggest advantages of the Visit Busan Pass is the free use of the City Tour Bus and prepaid use of the subway. This means that you can easily travel around the city without worrying about transportation costs. In addition, the pass provides free access to 30 affiliated tourist attractions and additional promotions at other tourist destinations and restaurants.

Using the Visit Busan Pass is easy. The pass is activated from the moment you enter your first attraction. For example, if you visit your first attraction at 9 am on January 1 with the 24-hour Visit Busan Pass, you can enjoy free access until 8:59 am on January 2. Each attraction can be visited once, allowing you to see as many sights as possible during your stay in Busan.

Overall, the Visit Busan Pass is an excellent way to experience all that Busan has to offer. With its convenience, affordability, and beautiful design, it's a must-have for any foreign traveler visiting the city. So grab your pass, hop on the City Tour Bus, and get ready to explore the best that Busan has to offer.

(News) 11th Edition of the Global Hanbok Model Contest: Showcasing the Beauty of Korean Culture.

 The World Culture Association based in Seoul has announced the 11th edition of the annual Hanbok Model Contest, which will be held across major cities in Korea and France from April to August.

The competition will take place in 11 cities in Korea, including Seoul, Incheon, Busan, Gwangju, Daegu, Ulsan, Daejeon, Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do Province, and Chungju, Chungcheongbuk-do Province. The contest is open to all women who were born before 2010 and reside in Korea, regardless of their nationality.

Founded in 2017, the Hanbok Model Contest is a unique platform for showcasing the beauty and elegance of traditional Korean clothing, known as Hanbok. 

The competition has been held in countries like France and Thailand to promote Hanbok to a global audience under the theme "Anyone in the World Can be a Hanbok Model."

This year, the Global Hanbok Model Contest will be held in Paris from May to August. Women aged 19 or older who live in France can participate in the competition, regardless of their nationality.

The Hanbok Model Contest is a great opportunity for women to showcase their beauty and grace while promoting the rich cultural heritage of Korea. 

If you're interested in participating or just want to admire the stunning Hanbok, be sure to mark your calendar for this annual event.

[News] Experience the Best of Korean Culture at the 2023 ITB Berlin: Korean Travel Companies Participate in Promoting K-Culture and Visit Korea Year 2023-2024

Korean travel companies are gearing up for the 2023 ITB Berlin (Internationale Tourismus Börse), one of the world's largest tourism exhibitions, which attracts approximately 10,000 companies from over 180 countries across six continents. The Korea Tourism Organization is planning to showcase high-quality K-Culture at the event, with 24 companies, including local travel agencies, local government, and RTO, participating in promoting traditional Korean culture (such as hanbok, Korean food, and hanok) as well as pop culture (such as K-Pop and K-Drama).

The Korea Tourism Promotional Hall, which will be situated in the Asia Section Hall at 242 square meters in size, will be designed with lines and colors of hanbok with the motif of “traditional Korean patterns,” emphasizing the Visit Korea Year 2023-2024. The promotional hall will feature an interactive screen zone, traditional culture experience event zone, Korea tourism sales promotion zone, and more.

In promoting "Visit Korea Year 2023-2024," the booth will highlight various K-Culture tourism contents, such as 100 K-Culture events and 2030 Busan Expo related culture, arts, sports, games, architecture, and more. Visitors will be able to participate in traditional Korean activities like a tea ceremony, hanbok wearing experience, and Korean calligraphy. A motion-sensor VR interactive game featuring a Korean version of "Green Light, Red Light," made popular from the hit series "Squid Game" (2021), will also be available.

Moreover, a large screen in the booth will be playing promotional videos, including "Feel the Rhythm of Korea" as well as K-Drama and reality show filming location tours. With a focus on spreading K-Culture to a wider audience, the Korea Tourism Promotional Hall will be a fantastic opportunity for event-goers to experience the vibrant and diverse culture of Korea.

Resuming short-term visit visa issuance: Starting February 11, 2023

Starting on February 11, 2023, the Korean government has announced the reissuance of short-term visit visas with COVID-19 testing requirements still in place. However, the testing mandate is expected to end sooner than previously anticipated.

Until the end of February, all visitors entering South Korea from China, Hong Kong, and Macau must undergo COVID-19 testing prior to their arrival. This includes either a COVID-19 PCR test taken within 48 hours of departure or a rapid antigen test taken within 24 hours of departure, with a negative result required. 

COVID-19 Test requirement for China, Hong Kong and Macau (until late-February): Visitors must have a negative test result from COVID-19 PCR Test taken within 48 hours of departure or a rapid antigen test (RAT) within 24 hours of departure. And also must receive a COVID-19 PCR Test within one day of entry.

Additionally, these visitors must take another COVID-19 PCR test within one day of entering South Korea. This requirement applies to anyone who has stayed in or visited China within the past 7 days before coming to South Korea. Short-term visitors from China must take a PCR test immediately upon arrival and await the results in a designated waiting area. 

Returning South Korean citizens and long-term stay visitors entering from China must take the test within one day of entry and await the results at their residence.

In the event of a positive test result, short-term visitors will be accommodated at temporary housing facilities located in different cities and provinces. 

Those who test positive upon arrival at the airport will be housed at temporary quarantine facilities.

Templestay in Korea

Looking for a way to escape the chaos of city life and recharge your soul? Look no further than Templestay, a unique program that offers a chance to experience Korean Buddhism and its daily lifestyle, rituals, and spirituality.

What is Templestay?

Templestay is a one-of-a-kind experience that involves staying at a Buddhist temple and participating in daily monastic activities. It has become one of the most popular programs among both locals and foreign visitors, who are seeking to immerse themselves in Korean Buddhism.

What to Expect During a Templestay

A typical templestay program usually includes a Buddhist service, seon meditation, 108 prostrations, and communal work. 

Some programs may also offer education on monastic meal offerings and tea ceremony rituals.

Another popular program is the creation of a lotus lantern, which is a form of Buddhist art. The lotus-shaped lantern symbolizes a light that illuminates the darkness and is hung at temples and surrounding areas across the country during Buddha's Birthday, the eighth day of the fourth lunar month. During this time, there are various events held across the country that attract tourists from near and far.

Traditional markets in Seoul offer a fascinating blend of modern and traditional experiences.

Popular Traditional Markets in Seoul

Traditional markets in Seoul offer a fascinating blend of modern and traditional experiences. With vendors selling a variety of goods and street foods, these markets are must-visit destinations for anyone looking to shop or eat.

Tongin Market

Tongin Market is located in Seochon near Gyeongbokgung Palace and was formed due to the rapid population growth that took place after the Korean War. Today, the market boasts over 80 vendors and stores, mostly consisting of restaurants and food stalls. One of the unique features of Tongin Market is the Dosirak Café, where you can buy a lunch tray and 10 yeopjeon (brass coins; old Korean currency) for 5,000 won. 

You can then use the yeopjeon to purchase food and fill up your tray as you explore the market, offering a fun and novel dining experience. Do note that the Dosirak Café is closed on Mondays and the third Sunday of the month. The market is conveniently located near popular attractions like Gyeongbokgung Palace, Gwanghwamun Gate, and Samcheongdong-gil Road.

Namdaemun Market

Namdaemun Market is a traditional market with over 600 years of history. It offers over 1,700 varieties of goods at affordable prices, including pottery, clothing, accessories, kitchenware, and regional specialties. It is also known for being one of the best places to buy traditional handicrafts, glasses, and sunglasses. 

In addition to shopping, visitors can indulge in delicious foods like guksu (noodles), jokbal (pig's trotters), and galchi jorim (stewed beltfish). Namdaemun Market is located near popular tourist attractions like Myeong-dong, Deoksugung Palace, and Gwanghwamun Gate, making it a great place to stop by after a tour of the area.

Gwangjang Market

Gwangjang Market is the first permanent market established in Korea and is best known for its food. The market has a unique strip of food vendors, each with long lines of people waiting to sample the delicious food. 

Some of the most popular foods sold here include bindaetteok (mung bean pancake) and gimbap.

Korean Currency(KRW) & Exchange

The Won: Understanding Korea's Currency System

Korea's official monetary unit is the won, and as a traveler, it's important to understand the various options available for exchanging and using currency in the country. In this article, we'll explore the different methods of payment and exchange available in Korea.

Bills

Coins

Traveler's Checks: A Dwindling Option

Traveler's checks were once a popular form of payment for travelers, and they can still be exchanged for cash at banks or exchange booths. However, the use of traveler's checks has declined in recent years as credit and debit cards have become the preferred means of payment for many travelers. 

Consequently, the number of stores that accept traveler's checks is also decreasing, making it a less common option for those visiting Korea.

Credit Cards: A Widely Accepted Payment Method

Credit cards are widely accepted in Korea, and businesses across the country, including major hotels, department stores, and general shops, allow customers to pay with Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and other credit cards. 

However, it's always a good idea to check with the specific store before making a purchase to ensure they offer this payment option.

Money Exchange: Convert Your Foreign Currency

When traveling to Korea, you may need to convert your foreign currency into the local won. Banks and authorized exchange service centers are readily available for this purpose. Note that banks are typically open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM on weekdays, with some banks operating from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM. It's also important to check if a bank or exchange service center accepts old currency as some locations may not accept outdated currency.

Foreign Exchange Banks in Airports: Convenient Currency Conversion

For travelers arriving in Korea, converting their money into the local currency can be done easily at bank branches and money exchangers located within Incheon International Airport. The hours and locations of these facilities may vary, so it's recommended to check ahead of time. Money exchangers within the airport generally operate from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with some locations remaining open until 10:00 PM or midnight.

In conclusion, while traveler's checks are becoming less common in Korea, credit cards are widely accepted, and exchanging foreign currency is readily available at banks and exchange centers. 

Whether you're arriving at Incheon International Airport or exploring the country, you're sure to have a seamless experience with your currency needs in Korea.

Flag of South Korea "Taegukgi"

The South Korean Flag: A Symbol of Peace and Balance

The South Korean flag, known as Taegukgi, is a symbol of peace and purity with its white field. The circle in the center represents balance in the world, with the blue half symbolizing the sky and the red half representing the land. The two trigrams in the center symbolize movement and harmony as key principles.

History of the South Korean Flag

Before 1876, the Joseon dynasty in Korea did not have a national flag, but the king had his own royal standard. However, the lack of a national flag became a problem during the negotiations for the Japan-Korea Treaty of 1876, where the delegate from Japan displayed the Japanese national flag, but Korea had no corresponding national symbol to exhibit. 

In 1880, the increasing number of foreign negotiations led to the need for a national flag, and the most popular proposal was described in the "Korea Strategy" papers, written by the Chinese delegate Huang Zunxian. This proposal was to incorporate the flag of the Qing dynasty of China into that of the Joseon dynasty of Korea.

During the negotiations for the United States-Korea Treaty of 1882, US emissary Robert Wilson Shufeldt suggested that Korea adopt a national flag to represent its sovereignty. This led the king of Joseon, Kojong, to order officials Sin Heon and Kim Hong-jip to begin working on a new flag. 

Lee Eung-jun was then tasked with creating the first design, which was presented to the Chinese official Ma Jianzhong. Ma Jianzhong proposed a modified dragon flag, but Kojong rejected this idea. 

He instead proposed the Taegeuk and Eight Trigrams flag, with changes made by Kim and Ma. The final design was approved by Kojong in 1882, and the Taegukgi was officially declared the national flag in January 1883.

The Taegukgi remained in use after the southern portion of Korea became a republic under the influence of the United States in 1945 and was also used by the People's Republic of Korea. 

In 1949, the current flag was declared official by the government of South Korea, although it had been used as the de facto national flag prior. The precise dimensions and color scheme of the flag were codified in 1984 and 1997, respectively.

Jeongwol Daeboreum - A Traditional Korean Holiday

A Traditional Korean Holiday Marking the First Full Moon of the Lunar New Year

Jeongwol Daeboreum is a traditional Korean holiday that takes place on the 15th day after the Lunar New Year’s Day. It is a celebration of the first full moon of the year and holds a significant place in Korean culture and tradition.

The significance of the first full moon of the year is deeply rooted in Korean culture. In ancient times, the first full moon was considered to be a symbol of hope and happiness for the coming year. 

People would come together on this day to perform traditional customs and rituals to welcome good luck and prosperity for the upcoming year.

Jeongwol Daeboreum is celebrated in various ways across the country. People crack and eat nuts as a symbol of breaking and overcoming hardships. 

They also eat five-grain rice and red bean porridge, which is believed to bring good health and good fortune for the year ahead. The Korean folk game, jwibullori, is played, which involves trying to catch a ball made of rice straws. Lastly, sheaf burning, a traditional activity in which sheafs of rice straw are burned, is performed to ward off evil spirits and to bring good luck and happiness.

In recent times, Jeongwol Daeboreum has become an important cultural and touristic event in South Korea. To commemorate the occasion, the “O” in VISITKOREA has been turned into a black rabbit, symbolizing the year of the black rabbit, the fourth animal of the twelve sibijisin (twelve zodiac signs).

Jeongwol Daeboreum is not just a celebration of the first full moon of the year, but a symbol of hope, happiness, and good fortune for the coming year. 

It is a time for families and friends to come together to celebrate their culture and to perform traditional customs that have been passed down for generations. Whether you are a local or a tourist, Jeongwol Daeboreum is an event not to be missed.

In conclusion, Jeongwol Daeboreum is a traditional Korean holiday that holds a significant place in Korean culture and tradition. 

It is a celebration of the first full moon of the year and a symbol of hope, happiness, and good fortune for the coming year. Join the celebration of this amazing event and experience the rich cultural heritage of South Korea.

More Info

Bureom(부럼): Eating the number of your age of shelled nuts including peanuts and walnuts to bring luck and peace.

Five-grain rice(오곡밥): Five grains include sweet rice, hog millet, Sorghum, green kernel black bean, and red beans. They are eaten to hope for a year of good crops.

Red bean porridge(팥죽): It is said to drive evil spirits away.

Jwibullori(쥐불놀이): A folk game that burns weeds out of rice paddies and farm fields to keep animals and insects away.

Sheaf burning(짚태우기): A ceremony of burning “daljip,” a pile of pine and tree twigs, in hopes of spending a good year and keeping bad lucks away.

12 animal deities(12지신): 12 animal deities that protect the land also portray 12 directions. The 12 animals are rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog and pig.

Why korean love iced americano?

Korean culture has a long-standing tradition of embracing coffee culture. From street vendors to high-end coffee shops, the love for coffee can be seen in every corner of the country. 

Out of all the coffee drinks, one in particular stands out - the iced Americano. But why do Koreans have such a fascination with this particular drink?

To start with, the iced Americano offers a refreshing taste, perfect for the hot and humid Korean summers. It’s a simple yet delicious drink that can be enjoyed any time of day, and is often used as a pick-me-up during work or studying. 

The combination of ice and the strong, rich flavor of the coffee creates a unique taste that sets it apart from other coffee drinks.

Another reason for its popularity is the rise of the cafe culture in Korea. In recent years, the number of coffee shops has dramatically increased, providing a wide range of options for coffee lovers. 

The iced Americano has become a staple in many of these cafes, and is often a go-to drink for many customers. It’s a simple and easy-to-make drink, making it a popular choice for busy baristas and a fast option for customers on the go.

The iced Americano is also a versatile drink, allowing for customization to meet individual tastes. Some people prefer a sweeter taste, and add sugar or syrup, while others may add a splash of milk or cream. 

This adaptability has made it a popular drink for all ages and tastes, making it a universal favorite in Korea.

Lastly, the iced Americano represents a certain level of sophistication and trendiness. It’s seen as a trendy drink that’s hip and modern, appealing to the younger generation. 

As a result, it’s not just a drink, but a cultural icon that has become a symbol of Korean coffee culture.

In conclusion, the iced Americano has become a favorite in Korea due to its refreshing taste, the rise of the cafe culture, versatility, and trendiness. 

It’s a simple yet delicious drink that has become a staple in the Korean coffee scene, and will continue to be loved for years to come.

Hwaseong Fortress - UNESCO World Heritages

UNESCO World Heritages 

Hwaseong Fortress

(Designated 1997)

The Hwaseong Fortress of Suwon, Gyeonggi-do is a renowned monument of the Joseon dynasty of the 18th century. 

Commissioned by King Jeongjo, the 22nd king of Joseon, the fortress was constructed as a tribute to King Jeongjo's father, Crown Prince Jangheon, and to house his tomb.

The construction of Hwaseong Fortress was an innovative feat that combined Asian and Western elements, in addition to incorporating the natural surroundings into its design for strategic defense. 

As a result, the fortress became a symbol of the technological advancements and ingenuity of the time, and was added to the UNESCO World’s Cultural Heritage List in 1997.

Paldalmun Gate is the southern entrance to the fortress, and is regarded as one of its most significant treasures. 

The gate, detached from the rest of the walls for added protection, has retained its original structure and is particularly stunning at sunset.

The Northwestern Watchtower of Hwaseong Fortress is another treasure, designated for its brick construction and strategic importance. 

This watchtower is unique for its arrow-slots, which allowed soldiers to defend the fortress with firearms and canons.

The Banghwasuryujeong Pavilion, which was used for military purposes and as a scenic viewpoint, is a two-story structure made of stone, wood, and brick. It is the only pavilion of its kind.

Hwaseomun Gate, the western entrance of the fortress, served as the major route connecting Suwon to the western coast and Namyangman Bay. 

Designated as a treasure, the gate features an ongseong (crescent-shaped wall) with a slight opening.

Hahoe and Yangdong - Historic Villages of South Korea (UNESCO)

UNESCO World Heritages 

Historic Villages of Korea: Hahoe and Yangdong 

(Designated 2010)

The Historic Villages of Korea, Hahoe and Yangdong, are two of the most well-preserved traditional Korean villages in the country. 

These villages offer a unique glimpse into the traditional way of life in Korea and are a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Korean culture and history.

Hahoe Village, located in Andong, is one of the most well-preserved traditional Korean villages in the country. It is famous for its beautiful natural scenery and traditional architecture, as well as its association with the Ryu family, one of the most influential families in Korean history. 

Hahoe Village is also home to the Hahoe Byeolsingut Talnori, a traditional Korean mask dance that has been passed down from generation to generation.

The houses in Hahoe Village are made of natural materials such as wood, clay, and straw, and they are designed to harmonize with the natural surroundings. 

Visitors can see the traditional Korean thatched roof houses and experience the simple yet elegant way of life of the people who lived in these villages centuries ago.

In addition to its beautiful architecture and traditional culture, Hahoe Village is also known for its scenic beauty. 

The village is surrounded by lush green mountains and the beautiful Nakdong River, making it a great place to relax and take in the natural beauty of the area.

Yangdong Village, located in Gyeongju, is another well-preserved traditional Korean village. It is famous for its traditional Korean houses and is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

Yangdong Village is known for its beautiful natural scenery and traditional architecture, making it a great place to experience the traditional way of life in Korea.

The houses in Yangdong Village are made of natural materials such as wood, clay, and straw, and they are designed to harmonize with the natural surroundings. 

Visitors can see the traditional Korean thatched roof houses and experience the simple yet elegant way of life of the people who lived in these villages centuries ago.

In addition to its beautiful architecture and traditional culture, Yangdong Village is also known for its scenic beauty. 

The village is surrounded by lush green mountains and the beautiful Hyeongsan River, making it a great place to relax and take in the natural beauty of the area.

In conclusion, the Historic Villages of Korea, Hahoe and Yangdong, are two of the most well-preserved traditional Korean villages in the country. 

These villages offer a unique glimpse into the traditional way of life in Korea and are a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Korean culture and history. Whether you're interested in traditional architecture, natural beauty, or cultural heritage, these villages are a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Korea.

Nearby attractions

• Woryeonggyo Bridge
• Dosanseowon Confucian Academy
• Andong Folk Museum
• Bulguksa Temple
• Seokguram Grotto
• Hwangnyongsa Temple Site
• Gyeongju National Museum