Food Archives - Aclipse

Category: Food

30 Dec

Exploring Seoul’s Trendiest Hotspot: Seongsu

I had some mixed emotions about moving to Gangnam. While Gangnam is considered one of the nicest areas in Korea, it’s a bit far from some of the places I thought I’d frequent. Some of the most popular places for tourists these days are Hongdae, Myeongdong, and Itaewon. I was a bit bummed, and decided to search around and explore what might be a bit closer. While doing some research on TikTok, I found an up and coming popular area called Seongsu, which is sometimes referred to as the “Brooklyn of Seoul.” I saw it was only 20 minutes from my house. Needless to say I checked it out first thing the following morning!

Getting To Seongsu

Seongsu station is located on the green Line 2! The green line is one of the most accessible subway lines in Seoul, so this makes Seongsu very easily accessible from just about anywhere!

Pop-Up Shops

Seongsu is most famous for the vast amount of pop-up shops. Pop-up shops are when brands rent a space from a couple days to a couple months. During that time, they will offer their products coupled with different/limited edition products, activities, and freebies! These pop-ups can be a little difficult to find, but there are plenty of Instagram pages that tell you what, when, and where certain pop-ups are! While the details are in Korean, the translation feature on Instagram is extremely helpful! Three of my favorites on Instagram are

@popga_official, @popupmate, and @pops.official_

TIP: Be prepared to wait if you want to go to a popular pop-up. I recommend looking to see if you can make a reservation through NAVER so you won’t be stuck outside.

Cafes And Restaurants

The beauty of Seongsu is that you can find something new everyday. Pop-ups are super fun, but there are many different flagship stores and small businesses in Seongsu! On top of that, there are a ton of different cafes and restaurants.

One of the most famous foods in Seongsu is 소금빵 (Sogeum Bbang)! Sogeum Bbang, or salt bread, is one of the BEST bakery items I have tried in Seoul! The most famous salt bread place is in Seongsu! Check out this TikTok talking about it here.

TIP: Come to Seongsu on the WEEKDAYS! The weekends can be very crowded, so the streets and stores can get packed.

More Shopping

You can find anything in Seongsu! Key rings, clothes, socks, bags, houseware, home decor, stuffed animals, ANYTHING! Since Seongsu is extremely trendy and becoming more popular, be prepared to spend a decent amount of money if you are actually looking to buy. Of course, you can window shop and still find some great bargains in the neighborhood shops. Here are just some of the different flagship stores I went to below!

Seoul Forest

Seongsu is one of my favorite places in Seoul to spend my time. Whether I’m window shopping for myself or cafe hopping with a friend, Seongsu is always a reliable place to spend my time. It’s even right next to Seoul Forest, where you can take a walk in nature and has even more great food! Seongsu is a fun, eclectic place with tons of energy which you definitely need to check out when in Korea!

Gabriel White, Marketing Assistant

Gabriel (Gabe) White is an English teacher in South Korea. He is a Korean, Puerto Rican-American from the Richmond, Virginia area and received a bachelor’s degree in English from Virginia Commonwealth University. Being involved in student organizations like Filipino Americans Coming Together at VCU (FACT@VCU) and VCU Globe during his college years, Gabe learned just how much he enjoys experiencing new cultures. In his free time, Gabe loves teaching local dance classes, spending quality time with his loved ones, exploring new cities, and watching nostalgic movies.

25 Nov

FoodLifestyleBy aclipse

Drinking Craft Beer In Korea

I will be the first to admit that I am a huge fan of craft beer! As a beer lover, Korea has been an amazing place to eat and drink my way through, full of cozy pubs to full-scale breweries. Whether I’m unwinding with friends or checking out a new spot, the variety of beers and vibes is truly unmatched- even compared to the scene I’m used to in Toronto. In this post, I’ll take you through some of my favorite craft beer spots in Korea—from my go-to bar in Euljiro, to a cozy pizza-and-beer joint in Hongdae, and even a few breweries.

Magpie Brewing Co.

Magpie Brewing Co. in Seoul’s Euljiro area is my top recommendation! It’s my go-to bar for a relaxed, indie vibe that’s open late on weekdays. Magpie is known for their creative beers, including a flagship pale ale and seasonal brews. My favorite is The Ghost, which is a tangy sour made with coriander seed and Jeju tangerine peel. If you get the chance, I also recommend visiting their original brewery on Jeju island which should be part of your Jeju vacation itinerary.

Spill Out

Spill Out is owned by three Americans who are bringing a cozy, home-roots feeling to the local scene. I love this spot because I can enjoy an IPA along with their delicious, freshly made pizzas. They offer a wide selection of beers, from American pours like the Guayabera Citra Ale to more unique Korean flavors. Whether you’re looking for a night out with friends or a casual date spot, Spill Out’s flavorful menu makes it a must-visit.

Goose Island Brewhouse

This craft beer spot is located in Gangnam but offers a slice of Chicago’s beer culture in Seoul. Goose Island Brewhouse has an impressive selection of their signature beers like the Big Juicy Bear Hug IPA and their Full Pocket Pilsner which are brewed on-site. My favorite thing on tap is their award-winning Mango Pang Pang. I recommend ordering the wings along with your beer because they are some of the best and biggest wings I’ve had in Korea!

Budnamu Brewery

This brewery was founded in Gangneung in 2015. Budnamu is in Gangneung’s oldest makgeolli distillery which gives a really cool atmosphere and makes for a fun evening of trying out different drinks. I went to this brewery during my summer vacation and loved that they had a huge outdoor seating area so that we could eat and drink alongside flowers, trees, and a few local cats that stopped by to visit! Many of Budnamu’s beers use signature local ingredients such as chrysanthemum, pine, and rice. Another cool feature of Budnamu is that they have big glass windows into the brew rooms so you can watch the distilling process while you eat and drink.

Craftworks Taphouse

Craftworks is located in Itaewon and is a cornerstone of Seoul’s craft beer scene. Craftworks is known for their creative beers named after iconic Korean landmarks, like the Hallasan Hefeweizen and Jirisan IPA. I prefer the Jirisan because it’s a bit lighter and drier, but everything I have tried so far on their menu is good! They even have a sampler flight so you can try multiple beers. Craftworks offers a relaxed atmosphere with a rotating tap list so there’s always something new to try. If you’re looking for some hair-of-the-dog on a weekend, Craftworks is a great place to checkout because they offer five types of eggs benedict. I go here for Sunday brunch and never regret it!

Whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur or just starting to explore craft brews, I think that any of these spots are the perfect entry into the Korean scene. So grab a pint and enjoy everything that Korea’s craft beer community has to offer!

English teacher, Michelle Duquette at Chungdahm Learning

Michelle Duquette, Marketing Assistant

Michelle Duquette is from Toronto, Canada and moved to South Korea in 2015. She has a Bachelors in English literature and a Masters in ESL Education. Michelle has taught at Creverse campuses in Gangneung, Songpa, and Mokdong and currently works as a CDI and April Trainer. Michelle never set out to be a teacher but fell in love with Korean culture and the excitement of being in the classroom. Michelle lives in Seoul with her partner and two cats, Cherry and Frost.

22 Aug

FoodHealthLifestyleBy aclipse

Eating Gluten Free In Korea

Dietary Accommodations

As a vegetarian in Korea, I can definitely relate to how stressful it can be to find dietary accommodations, regardless of the country you’re in. The good news is Korean food uses a lot of meat, rice, and vegetables, so being gluten-free is totally doable in South Korea. Here’s a quick guide to help you navigate being gluten-free here in South Korea!

Naturally Gluten Free Dishes

Here are a few great Korean dishes that just happen to be gluten-free!

○ Gimbap 김밥 – Gimbap looks similar to Japanese sushi, but it usually includes vegetables, rice, and a cooked meat (like
tuna for example).

○ Bibimbap 비빔밥 – A mixed rice dish that usually includes vegetables and an egg, just be sure to ask that it’s not cooked with soy sauce!

○ Bulgogi 불고기- This is a popular meat used for Korean barbeque! The great news is a lot of meats traditionally eaten at a Korean barbeque should be okay. Again, just be careful about what sauces are included!

For a more detailed list of gluten-free Korean foods, I recommend checking out this website from the Gluten Intolerance Group!

Learn Basic Phrases

This one is pretty self-explanatory. The more Korean you know, the better off you’ll be. However, I came to Korea knowing just about zero Korean and a dietary restriction, so don’t stress too much if you’re a novice!

○ 저는 셀리악 병 가지고 있어요. (Jeoneun selliak byeong gajigo isseoyo.)

○ Translation: I suffer from celiac disease (I have celiac disease)

Carry A Dietary Card

If you’re unfamiliar with Korean and you have any kind of dietary restriction (especially an allergy), I highly recommend carrying a dietary card with you. Communicating your needs verbally shouldn’t be too hard. However, it’s always better to be safe than sorry! A quick search on the internet will link you to any card you might need that communicates in Korean what you cannot eat. Here’s one for celiac disease.

Be Open, Try New Things!

You might be an old pro when it comes to eating gluten-free in your home country, but regardless of your diet, moving to a new country means
trying new foods and gaining new experiences. Of course, I’m not suggesting you jeopardize your health in any way. However, maybe there’s a gluten-free food you haven’t considered trying back home. There’s no better time or place to expand your palette than while living abroad!

Restaurant Recommendations

Sunnybread
It just so happens that one of my favorite restaurants/cafes in Seoul is gluten-free! Sunnybread is a cute, English-friendly cafe located in Itaewon. It even has an awesome view of Lotte Tower! I’ve never stayed for a full meal, but it has a wide menu of gluten-free options to choose from. What’s my usual order at
Sunnybread? A cold brew and a vegan choco-pie cupcake!
Snackroom
A cute, gluten-free cafe located near Yeouido Hangang Park? Sign me up! I haven’t personally been to Snackroom, but the menu looks like it’s full of delicious pastries and meals to try from! Plus, anywhere with a wine menu has my vote for a great hangout spot.
Jihwaja Seoul
Located just northwest of Gyeongbokgung Palace, this restaurant has a full gluten-free menu option, going from appetizers all the way to dessert! The vegetable meat skewers and hot pot sound especially great!

For more information on how to be gluten-free is South Korea, I recommend checking out these resources!

A Guide To Eating Gluten Free In Korea

Gluten Free In Seoul

Whether you are Gluten Free or have other dietary restrictions like nut, seed, egg, or shellfish, you can rest assured that there are options for you in Korea. Hopefully, some of the above tips provide a good starting point for your journey teaching English in Korea!

A native English language teacher pointing to a large screen monitor at an April Institute

Diana Richtman, Marketing Assistant

Diana Richtman, Marketing Assistant Diana Richtman is a writer and ESL teacher living in Seoul, South Korea. Originally from Savannah, Georgia in the United States, Diana holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Georgia in English & Women’s Studies. After receiving her TEFL certification, Diana moved to South Korea where she works at one of Creverse’s April Institutes. When Diana isn’t working, she loves exploring Korea, drinking warm cups of tea, and scaring away her friends with her karaoke performances.

30 Apr

FoodHealthLifestyleBy aclipse

Being A Vegetarian In Korea

Being a Vegetarian in Korea

If there is one thing I’ve realized about Korean food culture, it’s that they love their meat. When I moved to Korea, I was nervous about finding vegetarian friendly restaurants. But never fear! There are actually a lot of vegetarian and vegan options if you know where to look. Here are some tips for ordering as a vegetarian and some of my go-to restaurants!

Ordering as a Vegetarian

Most Korean restaurants specialize in one dish and it is typically something like raw fish, pork, beef, or meat barbeque. Almost all Korean dishes include some kind of meat or fish, so I had a hard time finding where to eat at first. My coworkers were all meat-eaters and I didn’t want to miss out on group meals just because of my dietary restrictions. I quickly learned that all restaurants will serve rice with the meal as well as some kind of side dishes, which are 90% vegetables. If there’s nothing you can order straight off the menu, just ask the server for a bowl of rice and then use the side dishes and gochujang sauce to create some bibimbap! Another option you should look out for at meat based restaurants is soft tofu soup. Just keep in mind that other soups like kimchi jjigae and doenjang jjigae will tend to have a meat or fish based broth. I keep a list of veggie options in my phone that I can show to a server in a pinch which includes:

Bibimbap 비빔밥 – A rice dish with an assortment of veggies, seaweed, and egg.

Gimbap 김밥 – Korean “sushi” rolls, traditionally made with veggies.

Kimchi 김치 – fermented, spicy cabbage.

Banchan 반찬 – side dishes often served alongside entrees, especially at BBQ restaurants.

Vegetable Dumplings 야채만두 – Korean dumplings filled with veggies and tofu.

While getting resourceful at a meat-based restaurant is a great strategy, I also love to eat at restaurants that cater to a vegan and vegetarian diet. Here are some of my all time favorite spots where you don’t need to compromise taste or choice just because of your lifestyle.

Plant Cafe

Plant Cafe is a vegan restaurant that has two locations in Seoul: their namesake restaurant and full size bakery in Itaewon and their newest location in Yeonnamdong. Plant’s menu features delicious items like a mushroom burger, macaroni and cheese, cauliflower wings, and even chili cheese fries. They also have lighter options like veggies and hummus, peanut soba noodles, and smoothies. I recently ordered a birthday cake for my friend’s party and the flavors were unreal. Nobody could believe that the banana salted caramel cake was vegan! Plant Cafe is also a great place to enjoy a soy milk latte, a glass of wine, or my favorite, kombucha!

Osegyehyang

This might be the best veggie friendly restaurant I’ve been to! Osegyhyang is located in Jongno amidst the winding alleyways. The restaurant is inside a Hanok style building and has a lovely atmosphere where you can sit on the heated floors and enjoy your meal. I love that they offer traditional Korean dishes that are entirely vegan so you don’t have to miss out on enjoying the culture. It is also very easy to order in English which makes the dining experience that much more convenient.

Buddha's Belly

Buddha’s Belly is a Thai restaurant that is vegan and vegetarian friendly. Located in Itaewon, this spot is tucked away on top of a hill which means their patio has an incredible view over the city at night. The servers are very friendly and attentive and provide a comfortable dining experience. Last time I ate here, I ordered the green curry and the Thai fried rice with pineapple, which were both incredible. I went with a non-veggie friend and she was pleased that they served meat options too. Buddha’s Belly is a great place when you’re dining with a big group as they offer all types of options.

While navigating vegetarianism in Korea may seem daunting at first, there are plenty of delicious options to enjoy. I recommend you download the app Happy Cow which will recommend other great vegetarian places to enjoy. As you start living and teaching in Korea, rest assured that you can savor the local cuisine while staying true to your dietary preferences. Bon appétit!

Michelle Duquette is from Toronto, Canada and moved to South Korea in 2015. She has a Bachelors in English literature and a Masters in ESL Education. Michelle has taught at Creverse campuses in Gangneung, Songpa, and Mokdong and currently works as a CDI and April Trainer. Michelle never set out to be a teacher but fell in love with Korean culture and the excitement of being in the classroom. Michelle lives in Seoul with her partner and two cats, Cherry and Frost.

30 Jan

CultureFoodLifestyleBy aclipse

A Gourmet Expedition into Korean BBQ

What Do You Really Know About Korean BBQ?

Fire up the grill! Korea has no shortage of amazing food but Korean BBQ is one of the best culinary experiences you can have. From traditional charcoal grilling to marinated short ribs and bulgogi, KBBQ is a delicious and fun experience that allows you to grill and eat right at your table. Being able to indulge in the many forms of traditional Korean BBQ is just one of the many perks of teaching English in South Korea. Let me take you on a gourmet expedition into Korean BBQ!

Is Korean BBQ Always Beef?

Traditionally, KBBQ restaurants serve different cuts of beef. Pork and chicken are other common KBBQ meats but if you are adventurous, why not try:

Gopchang (beef or pork intestines)
Gyutan (beef tongue)
Makchang (beef stomach)

Gopchang is my personal favorite! The rich and flavorful taste of gopchang pairs perfectly with the smoky char from the grill, creating a unique dining experience.

Dry-Aged Meat

Dry-aged BBQ is a sophisticated twist to traditional grilling. Cuts of beef like ribeye and sirloin undergo a dry-aging process that can take several weeks or even months before being served. This aging process allows for more complex, umami flavors to develop and gives the beef an intense, flavor-packed taste. The richness and tenderness of aged meat is the best way to elevate your KBBQ experience.

Wet-Aged Meat

Unlike dry-aged BBQ, wet-aged BBQ relies on soaking the meat in a mouth-watering marinade of soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, sugar, and various spices before grilling. Wet-aged BBQ is especially tender and is usually cooked on a flat, table-top grill. I recommend that you enjoy it with Makgeoli, as the sweet, tangy flavor is the perfect pairing! One of my favorite places to eat wet-aged KBBQ is Yeonnamseo Sikdang.

Address: 189-7 Yeonhui-dong, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul South Korea

Hanwoo (Korean Beef)

Hanwoo, or Korean beef, is a breed of cattle native to South Korea and renowned for its deep marbling and premium quality. Hanwoo is often compared to other high-end varieties of beef like Wagyu and Kobe. Hanwoo barbeque is great for special occasions but can be enjoyed anytime. Typically, Hanwoo is cooked over a charcoal flame for flavor. I recommend pairing with a fruity red wine, such as a Malbec, to compliment the robust flavors. You can even choose the beef at certain restaurants, which they then grill tableside. Or, you can take out Hanwoo to cook at home!

Seafood Grill

If red meat isn’t your thing, then why not indulge in seafood BBQ? Switch gears and enjoy succulent oysters, shrimp, calamari, and all sorts of fish. Seafood adds a fresh, coastal twist to the traditional KBBQ experience and can be a more affordable option. My favorite place to enjoy all the different seafood varieties is in Busan.

Now you’re ready to enjoy all that KBBQ has to offer when you teach English in Korea! Happy grilling!

09 Jan

CultureFoodLifestyleBy aclipse

Best Things To Do In Jeonju

The Place To Be

Jeonju is an idyllic city known for its traditional architecture, culture, and cuisine. It is a popular tourist destination, even among Koreans. And, for good reason! If you decide to teach English in Korea, make sure to strongly consider spending a year in this amazing city. Here are the best things to do in Jeonju.

Eat More Bibimbap

In Korean, “bibim” means mixing, and “bap” means cooked rice. This traditional dish often features egg, various vegetables, and sometimes cooked or raw meat! Jeonju is famous for its bibimbap, so don’t pass up the opportunity to try it. While you eat, go ahead and order Jeonju’s variation of makgeolli, a traditional rice wine! I had it when I visited Jeonju, and it was absolutely delicious.

Rent Hanboks

Hanboks are the traditional style of dress in Korea, but they’ve become more popular in recent years. Even though social media often shows only women wearing them, there are hanboks for men, women, and children! It’s super common in Seoul as well as other cities to see people wearing them for special occasions and around hanok villages and palaces. In Jeonju, we payed about ₩17,000 to wear our hanboks all day. Wearing a hanbok while exploring Jeonju is one of the coolest (and most fashionable!) cultural experiences I’ve had in Korea!

Visit A Traditional Hanok Village

Now that you’ve got your hanbok, there’s no better place to go than Jeonju’s Hanok Village. A hanok is a traditional Korean building that features a wooden framework and often intricate, beautiful designs on the walls. This is the perfect place to soak up Korea’s rich history and feel like you’ve been transported back in time!

Visit Jeondong Cathedral

Right across the street from Jeonju Hanok Village is Jeondong Cathedral! This beautiful religious building was built in 1908 and is a must see when visiting Jeonju.

Indulge In Street Food

Korea has some of the best street food in the world, and there’s a little something for anything. What’s one you absolutely have to try in Jeonju? Korean coin bread. Imagine a waffle and a grilled cheese on a stick. That’s coin bread. Shaped like a coin, this street food is a perfect sweet and savory snack to end your day in the beautiful Korean city of Jeonju.

Diana Richtman is a writer and ESL teacher living in Seoul, South Korea. Originally from Savannah, Georgia in the United States, Diana holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Georgia in English & Women’s Studies. After receiving her TEFL certification, Diana moved to South Korea where she works at one of Creverse’s April Institutes. When Diana isn’t working, she loves exploring Korea, drinking warm cups of tea, and scaring away her friends with her karaoke performances.

17 Dec

FoodHealthLifestyleMoneyRelocationBy aclipse

5 Reasons Why I Prefer Living In Korea

Here are the top 5 reasons Why I Prefer Living in Korea!

1. Transportation (High Tech Bus Stops)

Korea is often ranked one of the best public transportation systems on the planet. Let’s start with the buses, which can take you anywhere you want in major cities as well as across the country. In the winter, Korea has heated bus stop seats as well as heated waiting room areas at some locations. Not only that but some bus stops provide free phone charging stations, and all buses have public Wi-Fi. The bus system is convenient and affordable for anyone looking to get around quickly and comfortable. This is one of the main reasons I prefer living in Korea over the States.

The subway is fast, safe, and easy to use. All signs and announcements are made in both Korean as well as English. If you want to leave your city and explore another part of Korea, there are regular trains for the stop-and-smell-the roses type of passenger as well as the KTX bullet trains for those looking to get places fast. All of the options are affordable and give you the opportunity to view the beautiful Korean countryside.

2. Online Banking (Sending Money)

Forget Venmo and PayPal. In Korea, you can make easy and safe bank transfers online with your bank. This means you can pay people and businesses as well as receive funds in seconds. No more waiting 2-3 days to see funds show up in your bank account. In Korea, you can have your money instantly. (By the way, they’ve been doing it this way for almost 20 years! For better context, they never used a paper checking system.)

3. Public Safety (No Theft Or Guns)

With strict gun laws, it’s difficult to gain access to weapons in Korea. Between this and Korea’s CCTV coverage, South Korea is an extremely safe country to live in. When compared with other industrialized countries, South Korea has a very low crime rate, and in 2021, they saw their lowest crime rate in ten years. You may not realize it until you are here, but living in Korea made me realize how much unnecessary stress I frequently dealt with worrying about keeping myself and my belongings safe.

4. Cheap Meals (Delicious & Healthy, too!)

The cost of a delicious, nutritious meal in Korea can be as cheap as ₩7,000, which is roughly $5.50 USD. Not only is eating out affordable, but there are plenty of delicious foods to try from. Korea has everything from bibimbap and tteokbokki to pizza and burgers. Oh, and a huge bonus you probably didn’t think was even a possibility. There is NO TIPPING in Korea! Whether you dine out or take a cab, tipping is not a part of the culture. It is a huge savings and makes life so much easier.

5. Skin Care (The Mecca for All Your Needs)

Koreans love skin care. With a huge market for it, you can find the exact right combination of products for your skin type. Due to its popularity, there’s a wide variety of options, and they are relatively affordable in comparison to American brands. In addition, Korea has many great spa options if pampering is your favorite method of self-care. And it’s not just for us girls! Men all across the world are starting to take better care of their skin, and Korea has all the products you can think of.

Diana Richtman is a writer and ESL teacher living in Seoul, South Korea. Originally from Savannah, Georgia in the United States, Diana holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Georgia in English & Women’s Studies. After receiving her TEFL certification, Diana moved to South Korea where she works at one of Creverse’s April Institutes. When Diana isn’t working, she loves exploring Korea, drinking warm cups of tea, and scaring away her friends with her karaoke performances.

31 Oct

FoodHealthLifestyleMoneyBy aclipse

Grocery Shopping in South Korea

The Korean Grocery Scene

Are you getting ready to embark on an ESL teaching journey in Korea? As you prepare for your exciting new chapter, let’s delve into one of the most essential aspects of daily life: grocery shopping. Korea offers a unique and vibrant grocery store scene that caters to both convenience and quality. In this blog, I will take you on a tour of the diverse shopping options, from common markets to online shopping.

Major Chains: Emart and No Brand

When you’re in the mood for a more extensive grocery haul, Korea’s food supermarkets offer an impressive variety of options. Emart and No Brand are two prominent names that stand out. No Brand, in particular, is a favorite among budget-conscious shoppers. It’s known for its affordability and convenience, offering a plethora of grocery products. However, keep in mind that they might only accept credit cards, as experienced by some shoppers. On the other hand, Emart is a paradise for those seeking fresh produce. Offering the flexibility of both credit card and cash payments, it’s a one-stop-shop for all your grocery needs. Other honorable mentions include Homeplus and Lotte Mart.

Prices of Common Goods

My weekly market runs consist of eggs, bread, milk, chicken, fruits, and veggies. A pack of 15 eggs costs 6,000 KRW ($4.44), a loaf of bread goes for about 4,000 KRW ($2.96 USD). A 1,800 mL carton of milk can be purchased for 6,000 KRW ($4.44 USD) , and a 1 kg of chicken breasts costs about 9,000 KRW ($6.65 USD) ($1.00 USD = 1352 KRW). Fruits and veggies are a bit more expensive, as they are typically imported. Regardless, market prices are still very reasonable and affordable.

Delivery Services

In the age of digital convenience, Coupang emerged as a game-changer for grocery shopping in Korea. This online shopping platform boasts lightning-fast delivery right to your doorstep, with options like “rocket shipping” ensuring next-day delivery. While the convenience is undeniable, there’s a crucial detail to remember: to make purchases on Coupang, you need to register with your Alien Registration Card (ARC). As a foreign teacher, this means waiting until you have your ARC to fully embrace the convenience of Coupang. The platform’s easy exchange, return, and refund policies make it an attractive choice for many, earning its reputation as one of the best online shopping experiences in Korea.

As you prepare to teach ESL in Korea, rest assured that the country’s grocery store landscape offers a variety of options to suit your preferences and needs. From the freshness of supermarkets to the digital ease of online shopping, you’ll find everything you need to make your stay enjoyable and comfortable.

Amber Ochoa is from Los Angeles, USA, and just recently moved to South Korea in May. She studied Biochemistry as an undergraduate. After graduation, she began venturing out and embracing her love for adventure. She finds that “nothing holds greater power in our life than the unknown.” One night while applying to random jobs on Indeed, she came across an English teaching position in Seoul, Korea. Flash forward, she is now teaching at CDI, Mokdong branch. She claims that Creverse found her and ended up becoming a blessing in disguise. Amber says giving knowledge to students & inspiring them for higher achievements in life is one of the greatest feelings in the world.

26 Sep

CultureFoodLifestyleBy aclipse

Korean Cafe Culture

Unveiling Korean Cafe Culture

Teaching English in Korea has been eye opening on so many levels! Stepping into South Korea’s cafe world, time slows, and each coffee promises new connections. My Sejong journey transformed me. Moreover, Korean cafe culture isn’t just about drinks; it’s life woven into existence. Let’s explore five captivating Sejong cafes.

1. Café Drop Top: A Sanctuary for Studious Minds and Friendships

Nestled in Sejong’s heart, Café Drop Top offers productivity and camaraderie. Its cozy setting is ideal for book immersion or engaging conversations. Furthermore, the fresh coffee aroma fosters concentration and connection.

Starbucks: Where Friendships Flourish Over a Cup of Joe

Starbucks, a global coffee icon, nurtures friendships. Friends gather for stories, laughter, and favorite drinks in a welcoming atmosphere with a diverse menu. Additionally, the familiar ambiance makes it a reliable choice for cultivating friendships.

A Twosome Place: Where Intimacy Meets Study Sessions

A Twosome Place blends study tranquility with intimate chats. The soothing design sets the stage for learning and tête-à-têtes. Moreover, coffee enhances connections on every visit.

Paik's Coffee: Fueling Ambitions, One Cup at a Time

In Sejong’s fast-paced world, Paik’s Coffee symbolizes convenience. A quick stop refuels with rich coffee, integrating into the city’s hustle. This is a testament to how coffee has seamlessly integrated itself into the city’s hustle and bustle.

Café Florence: Aesthetic Bliss Amidst Friends

Tucked in Sejong’s corners, Café Florence marries aesthetics with companionship. This charming cafe offers an idyllic setting for friends to relish company while savoring treats. Furthermore, every visit is a visual feast that ignites the senses and fosters connections.

Reflecting on my journey from skeptic to enthusiast, Sejong’s cafe culture reshaped my perspective. Coffee extends beyond flavors; it’s a catalyst for forging bonds, igniting creativity, and creating memories. Moreover, cafes have become the backdrop for heartwarming encounters.

Sejong’s cafe culture weaves camaraderie, productivity, and creativity. For me, it painted warmth, intimacy, and vibrant connections. Each cafe provides a canvas for friendships to flourish, ambitions to be fueled, and experiences to be cherished. As a result, memories linger like the aroma of coffee, a testament to Sejong’s profound cafe culture impact.

Bella Maselana hails from South Africa where she earned a Bachelor’s of Psychology and has served as an English teacher and Lecturer at the University of SA. Bella currently teaches at April English in Sejong, South Korea.

09 Aug

FoodLifestyleBy aclipse

American Food in Korea

Eating kbbq, kimchi, bulgogi, and samgyeopsal never gets old while living in Korea. Although, from time to time I do miss the occasional cheeseburger, pizza, and street tacos. I can’t help it! I was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. Missing food from home is not unusual while living abroad. Thankfully, I’ve run into my fare share of restaurants that serve American food in Korea.

The Cheeseburgers Finds

If you are ever in the mood for a cheeseburger, you’ll be sure to find a McDonald’s or Burger King nearby. Are you worried about not being able to order because of your lack of Korean speaking skills? Not to worry! They have kiosks that you order from with English language settings. The prices are impeccable, as inflation is not a huge issue here in Korea (yet). For instance, you could purchase a whopper meal and spend about 10,000 KRW or $7.50 USD.

More “sophisticated” American food in Korea, Five Guys is also located in Gangam. Lines are usually out the door, so be sure to plan accordingly. The menu is a bit overpriced, but if you’re looking for a quality burger, this is the way to go. Now, if you’re looking for a burger that is absolutely chef’s kiss, Brooklyn burger joint takes the trophy. I go to the Mokdong location at least once a week. The patty is juicy, and the buns are soft, yet sturdy. The meat/bun/accompaniment ratio is even from the first to last bite. Not to mention, the milkshakes are thick, creamy, and smooth. The quality of the meal makes up for the price. You can expect to pay about 20,000 krw or $15.50 USD for a cheeseburger, milkshake, and fries. Be sure to check out this link for additional information on Brooklyn locations and menu.

"American" Pizza

The great news about American food in Korea: pizza parlors can be found on almost every corner. I was surprised to find Papa Johns my first week arriving here in Seoul. The menu is a bit different out here, as all places accommodate their audience. Garlic pepper steak, grilled bulgogi, and shrimp alfredo pizza are common in most Korean parlors. But, you can definitely still order your plain pepperoni and cheese pizza as well. Prices range depending on the size. The smallest size starts at 20,000 KRW. Be sure to click the link to see the official menu. Also, feel free to check out Foursquare’s top 15 best pizza places in Seoul.

American-style Mexican Food

According to google, Mexican food is Americans’ second favorite food. So, it’s only right that I include a section of this blog dedicated to the best kind of food on the planet (I am mexican, call me biased). Crazy enough, Koreans can cook up a decent burrito, taco, and quesadilla. Mexican restaurants are not the easiest finds. But, I have found that Itaewon has a handful of good spots. Some meals (other than the usual burrito/tacos/quesadillas) you’ll be able to order include enchiladas, super nachos, tamales, chilaquiles, and mole. Check the link below to see 10Magazine’s top 10 Mexican restaurants in Seoul for Mexican American Food in Korea.

Additional American Food Spots In Korea

Some other noteworthy American food spots in Korea include Subway, KFC, Starbucks, On The Border, Auntie Anne’s, Pancake House, and TGI Friday’s just to name a few! Mom’s touch actually originated here in South Korea. They’ve been branching out over the years, and actually have some locations in Los Angeles. If you are looking for a delicious chicken sandwich, be sure to check them out!

Amber Ochoa is from Los Angeles, USA, and just recently moved to South Korea in May. She studied Biochemistry as an undergraduate. After graduation, she began venturing out and began to embrace her love for adventure. She finds that “nothing holds greater power in our life than the unknown.” One night while applying to random jobs on Indeed, she came across an English teaching position in Seoul, Korea. Flash forward, she is now teaching at CDI, Mokdong branch. She claims that Creverse found her and ended up becoming a blessing in disguise. Amber says giving knowledge to students & inspiring them for higher achievements in life is one of the greatest feelings in the world.

Food

Category: Food

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The Cheeseburgers Finds

"American" Pizza

American-style Mexican Food

Additional American Food Spots In Korea

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