Seoul Travel Diary – Day 0 & Day 1

Border Entry Details: K-ETA & Entry Prep

Before heading to Seoul, I completed the K‑ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) a required entry procedue for many visa-exempt visitors to South Korea. We applied around one week before our trip (applications are required at least 72 hours to 1 week before departure).

You should have a copy of valid passport, a recent profile photo, your hotel location/address, a credit card or debit card to pay the KRW 10,000 fee (about USD 7–10), and a valid email address for delivery of approval. Most K‑ETA applications are approved within 72 hours, though it can sometimes take longer depending on volume. I received my approval in less than a day.

Once approved, your K‑ETA is valid for multiple entries over approximately 3 years, unless your passport expires sooner. K‑ETA holders aren't exempt from filling out the arrival card, you still need to fill that out.

PS: A K‑ETA is not a visa, it only grants permission to board your flight. Final entry is determined by the immigration officer on arrival.

Day 0 – Arrival in Seoul

After a long flight, we touched down at Incheon Airport around 18:20. The excitement of finally being in Seoul kicked in as soon as we collected our bags and made our way to the city. We grabbed a T-money card right at the airport, a must-have for anyone planning to use the metro and buses in Seoul.

Instead of navigating public transport late in the evening, we opted for a taxi straight to our hotel in Myeongdong, one of the liveliest neighborhoods in the city. After checking in, we couldn’t resist heading out right away.

Dinner was at BHC Chicken, one of Korea’s most famous fried chicken chains, crispy, flavorful, and the perfect “welcome meal.” Afterwards, we strolled through the bustling Myeongdong night streets, sampling a few bites of street food and peeking into shops. The neon lights, the energy of the crowd, and the smell of sizzling food made for the perfect first impression of Seoul.

Day 1 – Palaces, Hanok Villages & Foodie Adventures

Our first full day in Seoul started with history and tradition.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

We began the morning at Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest and most iconic of Seoul’s five palaces. Walking through its grand gates and courtyards felt like stepping back in time. The architecture, colors, and mountain backdrop made it a breathtaking start to the day.

Bukchon Hanok Village

From the palace, we wandered over to Bukchon Hanok Village, a neighborhood filled with traditional Korean houses (hanoks). Narrow alleys, tiled roofs, and wooden doors gave us a glimpse of what Seoul looked like centuries ago, yet all set against the backdrop of a modern skyline.

Café Onion Anguk

After exploring, we needed a break. We stopped at the famous Café Onion Anguk, housed in a renovated hanok. The space was atmospheric and calming, a mix of old tradition and modern minimalism. Their pastries and coffee gave us the energy to continue exploring.

Ikseon-dong Hanok Village

Our next stop was Ikseon-dong Hanok Village, one of Seoul’s trendiest neighborhoods. Unlike Bukchon’s quieter vibe, Ikseon-dong is filled with boutique shops, cozy cafés, and hidden restaurants tucked inside hanoks. The charm here is in discovering little corners that blend the old with the new.

Jayeondo Sogeumppang (Salt Bread) & More

While in Ikseon-dong, we made sure to try Jayeondo Sogeumppang, famous for its salt bread. The simple yet rich buttery flavor with a hint of salt made it unforgettable. Other tempting options in the area included Mil Toast Ikseon or Soha Salt, but we stuck with the salt bread for the full experience.

Pond (Ikseon-dong)

For a little snack and rest, we also passed by Pond, a trendy café in the area. It was the perfect place to relax before dinner.

Korean BBQ Feast

Of course, no day in Seoul is complete without Korean BBQ. We wrapped up the night with sizzling meat, side dishes, and plenty of flavors that made us feel like true locals. Whether in Ikseon-dong or back in Myeongdong, it’s a must-do experience.

First Impressions of Seoul: Seoul is a city where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly. From palaces and hanoks to trendy cafés and sizzling street food, our first day gave us a taste of everything. And the best part? This was just the beginning.