A detailed breakdown of my South Korea November 2024 trip, covering itinerary, accommodation, and expenses across Seoul and Jeju. While cards are widely accepted, many markets, small vendors, and T-Money reload machines still require cash. Here’s what I spent, where I stayed, and what to expect when budgeting for a similar trip.

My last day in Jeju was spent walking Jeju Olle Trail 10—a quiet, nature-filled route of beaches, fishing villages, and ocean views. What began as one last hike before my flight became a heartwarming encounter that made me want to return and complete the entire Jeju Olle Trail.

A coastal walk with city views—Jeju Olle Trail 8 offers a mix of seaside paths, resort areas, and distant glimpses of Hallasan. A different side of Jeju, where nature meets the island’s modern rhythm.

Jeju Olle Trail 6 offers one of the most beautiful coastal walks on Jeju Island, combining waterfalls, cliffs, and black sand beaches in a short 11.6 km route. A perfect balance of culture and nature just outside Seogwipo.

Starting from Seogwipo, Jeju Olle Trail 7 follows a 15 km stretch of coastline past waterfalls, beaches, and fishing towns—offering the perfect mix of city access and coastal beauty for first-time Olle hikers.

A hillside neighbourhood turned open-air art gallery, Ihwa Mural Village combines local creativity with stunning views of Seoul. Murals, mosaics, and sculptures line every path, while the preserved “Textile Worker” mural offers a meaningful glimpse into the village’s working-class past.

A rainy day turned into the perfect excuse to visit Dongdaemun Design Plaza, Seoul’s futuristic architectural landmark designed by Zaha Hadid. With its flowing curves, eco-friendly engineering, and design exhibitions, DDP offers an inspiring look into the city’s creative identity.

A walk through Seoul’s royal heart — from the grand courtyards of Gyeongbokgung Palace to the quiet alleys of Bukchon Hanok Village. Along the way, I found timeless architecture, tea houses tucked behind narrow lanes, and even a Tim Hortons that reminded me of home.

After finishing my DMZ Tour, I met up with a friend and spent the evening exploring Starfield Library and Lotte World Tower. The library’s soaring bookshelves and festive holiday decorations were breathtaking, and the glow of Christmas lights around Lotte World Tower made Seoul feel truly magical at night.

A full-day tour through the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) — from suspension bridges and observatories to the tunnels that once connected the two Koreas. A day of reflection, history, and a deeper understanding of the country’s divided past.

A spontaneous detour near Seoul Station led me to Seoullo 7017, Seoul’s elevated sky garden filled with greenery, night views, and over 24,000 plants. What was once an old highway overpass is now a peaceful one-kilometre walkway hovering above the city.

A panoramic view of Seoul from Namsan, autumn leaves in full colour, and the vibrant energy of Myeongdong below—my first day in South Korea was a perfect mix of calm and excitement.