Seoul is a city that never slows down, and our trip was nothing short of exhilarating. My wife and I arrived expecting a mix of futuristic cityscapes, vibrant nightlife, and legendary food—and we got all of that, plus an unexpected dose of political drama.
One of our first stops was Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), a sleek, alien-like structure that serves as a cultural hub. By day, it’s an architectural marvel, but at night, it transforms into something out of a dream. The light show we witnessed was mesmerizing—an explosion of colors and digital art projected onto the flowing curves of the building, synchronized perfectly with ambient music. It was one of those surreal, only-in-Seoul moments.
However, the city’s usual energy felt different. Just days after we arrived, the president declared martial law, triggering massive protests. Streets that were supposed to be filled with revelers instead became rally points for demonstrators, waving signs and chanting in unison. Walking through these protests was surreal—it was a stark reminder that travel isn’t always just about sightseeing; sometimes, you step into the middle of history in the making.
Of course, no trip to Seoul is complete without indulging in Korean BBQ. We made it our mission to try as many spots as possible, feasting on thick cuts of samgyeopsal (pork belly), tender galbi (beef ribs), and marinated bulgogi. The ritual of grilling the meat at the table, dipping it in sauces, and wrapping it in crisp lettuce never got old. Seoul’s street food also deserves a mention—hotteok (sweet pancakes) and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) kept us fueled between meals.
Beyond the food, Seoul is also known for its skincare industry, which turned out to be a hidden gem of our trip. While high-tech skincare treatments are a luxury in many countries, here they’re shockingly affordable. It was almost too tempting, so we booked laser facials at a clinic recommended by locals. The results? Noticeably smoother skin for a fraction of the price we’d pay back home.
When it came to nightlife, we had mixed experiences. We started with Aura in Gangnam, a club that looked promising but was disappointingly smoky and repetitive in music selection. Determined to find a better scene, we headed to Itaewon, and that’s where the real magic happened. The area’s clubs had a much more diverse mix of music, from house to hip-hop to funk, and the crowds were lively without feeling too packed. We danced until sunrise, proving that Seoul’s nightlife lives up to the hype—if you know where to look.
Seoul was an unforgettable experience. From futuristic landmarks to fiery protests, from indulgent meals to unexpected skincare upgrades, the city threw everything at us. It was intense, dynamic, and full of contrasts—the kind of trip that sticks with you long after you’ve left.