1. Eat at a Korean Restaurant
Ok, this one is a given if you are living in or visiting Korea! When we say Korean restaurant we mean KOREAN RESTAURANT. If you've been to Seoul before you would know that Western foods or foods that are perhaps specific (Korean beef), or not as common are typically more pricey, but if you eat at an authentic, typical Korean restaurant you will see how much cheaper the price is and not only that the meals are filling and usually healthier than what you get from the Western style places.
Typical Korean restaurants aren't always decorated the fanciest but the food is 9 times out of 10 delicious!
For example below, a single serving of Kimchi jjigae (Kimchi Stew) will cost between ₩8,000-₩10,000 ($6.00 - $8.00 USD) depending on where you go. The same goes for most stews, and usually all come with rice or noodles and banchan (side dishes).
If you want even cheaper than that - you can get gimbab or ramyun prepared for you at gimbab shops or even the lovely ladies that have stalls set up on the side of the road, sometimes it's just an experience you can't beat!
2. See the Traditional Korean House at Bukchon
Hanok Village (북촌한옥마을)
Bukchon Hanok Village (북촌한옥마을) is filled with history, tranquility, and beautiful scenic views. It is free to visit the village and village museum. To add to the experience you can wear a traditional hanbok and walk around but this will cost a little more. Nestled in and around the surrounding areas of the Bukchon are cozy cafes and restaurants, art galleries, perfumeries, and skincare shops, and not too far along areas with more little shops for jewelry, accessories, clothes, and snacks. Insa-dong (a shopping and food district) is also close by. The only thing you have to be mindful of when visiting is that people still live in Bukchon so you generally need to be quiet while walking through, some areas have signs telling people that they need to be quiet and considerate to those living there.
Link for Bukchon Village: https://hanok.seoul.go.kr/front/eng/town/town01.do
Location: Gyedong-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
3. Go Shopping at Express Bus Terminal!
Do you love Korean fashion? Want a good deal? Then the GOTO Mall is for you! Filled with great deals and not only clothes, the GOTO mall has food, household items, toys, accessories, art, make-up, skincare shops, and more! One thing we would say to keep in mind is that this mall like many can get very busy and since it is underground (next to the train station) it does get packed, so if you're a little claustrophobic and don't like being stuck in crowds this may not be the place for you. Just be mindful! Another thing not to forget is to bring cash! Most vendors here only accept cash!
Wow, we have reached Part 5! Will there be a Part 6? You bet there will! Stay tuned for more tips and if you'd like to know about anything specific please let us know in the comment section below!