Just another world from Ploy's view
Nestled right at the foot of Namsan Mountain, in the very heart of Seoul’s bustling urban landscape, lies a beautiful pocket of tranquility: Namsangol Hanok Village. This isn’t just any park; it’s a carefully preserved collection of five traditional Korean hanok houses from the Joseon Dynasty, complete with a tranquil pavilion, a flowing stream, and …
Sometimes the best discoveries happen when you’re looking for something else. That’s exactly how I stumbled upon one of Seoul’s most enchanting springtime gems—while on a brunch quest to Dear Moment, a charming little café tucked away in Mapo-gu. What began as a hunt for avocado toast led me to the Gyeongui Line Forest Trail …
Every spring, the world flocks to the Han River or Seokchon Lake for cherry blossoms. But sometimes, the most magical scenes are found by accident. Last winter, a simple errand in Mokdong led me down Sinjeong Jungang-ro. Even in the dead of winter, I noticed the long, skeletal lines of cherry blossom trees flanking the …
There’s a moment in early spring when Seoul shakes off the last of winter’s chill, and the air fills with a quiet magic. Before the iconic cherry blossoms take center stage, another floral pioneer makes a stunning, albeit brief, debut: the magnolia. With their elegant, sculptural petals in shades of pure white and soft pink, …
Spring in Korea is nothing short of enchanting. As the cold grip of winter loosens, the landscape transforms into a dreamy canvas painted with delicate shades of pink and white. Among the many places to witness this seasonal spectacle, Yeonhui Forest Shelter (연희숲속쉼터) stands out as a hidden gem—a tranquil retreat nestled in the heart …
After my accidental discovery of Guro Geori Park (구로거리공원) during the autumn of 2024, I made a promise to myself to return when the seasons shifted. On April 11th, I finally made it back—and let me tell you, this park is a total chameleon! While my last visit was defined by deep fiery reds and …
As spring unfolds its vibrant hues, one of the most breathtaking sights in Korea can be found at Bucheon Mureungdo Arboretum. Nestled within the Bucheon Natural Ecological Park, this hidden gem in the bustling city of Bucheon offers a serene escape into nature, especially during the tulip season. A few springs ago, I had the …
For me, spring in Seoul has always meant following the cherry blossoms. They paint the city in soft pinks and whites, transforming well-known avenues into festive, crowded corridors of springtime joy. But this year, my annual quest for blossoms led me to a quieter, slightly different kind of magic. I discovered a road not lined …
Spring in Seoul is a time for chasing blooms, and cafe-hopping takes on a magical, floral twist. But what if you could combine that flower-seeking adventure with one of the city’s most uniquely themed cafes? Enter Cilantro Coffee—a place that’s more than just a cute, quirky concept for herb lovers. It’s a springtime destination that captures …
Hidden in the heart of Seoul, Jeongdok Public Library is a cultural gem that offers more than just books. Known for its tranquil ambiance and stunning architecture, this library is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Its name, “Jeongdok,” translates to “correct virtue,” reflecting its mission to promote knowledge and learning. But beyond its …