I travel to Korea every year, and this is the insider guide I wish I had on my first trip. Instead of the same touristy spots everyone writes about, I’ve packed it full of hidden gems and local secrets you’d never find without a little help.

Think hole-in-the-wall restaurants where locals actually eat (with tips on exactly what to order so you don’t miss the best dish), cozy cafés tucked into back alleys, rooftops with unreal views of Korea, and hidden speakeasies with delicious cocktails.

I’ll walk you through neighborhood itineraries in Seoul that most travelers skip. And if you’re into nature, I’ve included day trips and hikes that get you out of the city and into some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes.

This isn’t just another guide — it’s like having a local friend in your pocket showing you all the hidden gems of Korea