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One of the must-try dishes when visiting Jeju Island is undoubtedly “Jeju Black Pork.” This native (or crossbred) breed is known for its distinct black hair, unlike standard white pigs, and its uniquely chewy texture and rich, fatty flavor make it truly exceptional. Thanks to its nutty and deep flavor, once you taste it, you’ll find yourself saying, “Nothing beats Jeju’s black pork!” In this post, we’ll introduce you to some of the can’t-miss black pork restaurants on Jeju Island and share tips on how to fully enjoy a satisfying meal.

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Characteristics and History of Black Pork

The native black pigs of Jeju are believed to have been raised freely in the island’s harsh natural environment. They used to roam freely around the villages, and there was even a unique farming tradition involving pig pens combined with traditional toilet structures. Although such methods are rarely seen today due to modern hygiene and quality control standards, black pork has long been considered a vital protein source for the people of Jeju.

While the black pork that we commonly enjoy today may not be 100% purebred, it’s widely noted for its shorter black hair and especially savory meat compared to ordinary pork. When grilled to a crisp on the outside, the leaking juices offer arguably one of the most mouthwatering moments—rightly earning black pork its place as the “king” of grilled pork dishes.

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Downtown Jeju City: Black Pork Street

In downtown Jeju City, there’s an alley popularly known as “Black Pork Street,” which gets packed during dinner hours with tourists seeking a pork BBQ feast. Most restaurants in this area prefer grilling meat over charcoal or stone slabs and often offer unique local twists—like serving it with hallabong sauce or Jeju sea salt.

When you order black pork belly or shoulder, the meals typically come with a large brazier and a spread of side dishes. Jeju’s kimchi, known for its refreshing flavor, pairs beautifully with the meat. While every restaurant has its own style, most emphasize thick-cut meat as a highlight. Once grilled and thinly sliced for eating, the way the juices burst with each bite will remind you how different it is from any pork belly you’ve ever had elsewhere.

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Near Dongmun Market: Market Tour & Pork House Crawl

Dongmun Market is one of Jeju’s most famous traditional markets, and its surrounding area also boasts countless black pork restaurants. A popular route for visitors involves walking through the market to check out local specialties like tangerines, tangerine chocolates, and dried tilefish—then heading straight to a nearby restaurant for black pork BBQ.

One perk of dining near the market is that these restaurants typically open early in the evening, so it’s easy to grab a meal once your market stroll works up your appetite. You can also snack on items like fish cakes or noodles in the market to hold you over until dinner. If your itinerary is packed, using this centrally located area as your travel base can help maximize your schedule while still enjoying Jeju’s local flavors.

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Aewol and Hyeopjae: Beach Views with Black Pork

The western coastal regions of Aewol and Hyeopjae are famous for their stunning sea views, with plenty of trendy cafés and restaurants. It’s also easy to find great black pork eateries here. Grilling meat while watching the sunset over the ocean feels like something out of paradise—offering a richly relaxing and romantic experience.

Several restaurants in Aewol boast wide-open sea views, and after your meal, you can stop by a scenic café for dessert. Around Hyeopjae Beach, you can enjoy a day at the beach, shower off, and then head straight for dinner. This region satisfies both your craving for pork and your love of the sea, so if you’re planning a trip to western Jeju, this area is well worth a visit.

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Seogwipo and Jungmun: Combining Sightseeing with a Great Meal

Seogwipo is a naturally beautiful area filled with top tourist spots like Jungmun Resort, Cheonjiyeon Waterfall, and Jeongbang Waterfall. With so many visitors, it’s no surprise that black pork restaurants can be found in abundance. Many places near the Jungmun Resort complex are spacious and cleanly designed, offering large seating areas perfect for families or tour groups.

Some restaurants in this area also serve horse meat, seafood, or squid dishes alongside black pork. If you want to sample a variety of Jeju’s local cuisine in one meal, you can opt for a course menu that combines pork and seafood. Enjoying the aroma of juicy grilled pork while gazing at Seogwipo’s beautiful blend of mountains and ocean is truly one of the highlights of any trip to Jeju Island.

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Must-Try Side Dishes: Meljorim and Gosari Yukgaejang

Don’t forget to pair your black pork barbecue with some local side dishes. For example, meljorim is a savory-sweet dish of simmered baby anchovies that perfectly complements the richness of the meat. While pork may be the star, the delicate interplay between main dishes and side dishes is what makes Korean cuisine special.

Another regional favorite is gosari yukgaejang, a spicy beef and bracken fern soup. Made with bracken grown near Hallasan Mountain, the broth is both hearty and flavorful, easily going down even after a big meal. If black pork is the main attraction, then pairing it with yukgaejang or meljorim is a delicious way to wrap up the feast.

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Tip: How to Properly Grill Thick-Cut Pork

The key to enjoying black pork is proper grilling. Thick-cut slices should be seared quickly over high heat at first to lock in the juices, then cooked more slowly on a lower flame to evenly heat the inside. Some restaurants will grill it for you, but if you’re doing it yourself, try not to flip the meat too often. Let each side develop a nice brown crust for the best flavor.

With pork belly in particular, the fat can cause flare-ups, so be mindful of the flame. If grease starts dripping into the fire, move the meat to the edges of the grill or stone plate rather than the center. Cut the cooked pork into bite-sized pieces and keep it at an ideal temperature for eating. When you take that perfectly grilled bite of black pork, you’ll feel that experiencing Jeju was truly worth it.

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Conclusion: Jeju’s Flavors Come Alive Through Black Pork

Jeju is an island blessed with rich natural beauty and a unique culinary identity. Among its many local specialties, black pork stands out as a must-have gourmet experience that leaves a lasting impression on any visitor. Whether you’re in Jeju City, Seogwipo, Aewol, or Hyeopjae, delicious black pork restaurants are everywhere—so be sure to try at least one during your trip.

Take it a step further—strike up a conversation with the restaurant owner or a staff member. You might uncover behind-the-scenes stories or cooking tips that enhance your appreciation. A single slice of black pork—raised under Jeju’s winds and sun—along with the fusion of Jeju’s local flavors, becomes a rich memory that’s nearly impossible to recreate elsewhere.

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When planning a domestic trip in Korea, Gyeongju, Busan, and the Gangwon Province area are always among the most popular destinations. These regions are rich with historical sites, cultural landmarks, and natural scenery, attracting both domestic and international visitors. When traveling to these areas as a group, one of the most effective modes of transportation is a charter bus. With the freedom of movement, spacious seating, and the ability to coordinate group schedules efficiently, a charter bus can make sightseeing tours richer and far more convenient. In this article, we’ll share detailed tips on how to best utilize charter buses for each major destination.

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1) Gyeongju Tour: Immersing Yourself in History and Tradition

Travel Time and Recommended Itinerary

Gyeongju is a city that preserves the thousand-year history of the Silla Dynasty, featuring cultural heritage sites such as Bulguksa Temple, Cheomseongdae Observatory, and Anapji Pond (Donggung Palace and Wolji). Traveling from Seoul by charter bus takes around 4 hours, while from Busan or Daegu, it’s approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Planning for at least a 2-day trip allows you to visit major historical sites at a relaxed pace.

On the first day, most visitors explore popular landmarks like Bulguksa and Seokguram Grotto, then in the evening enjoy a hanok stay or sample traditional food near Gyochon Village. On the second morning, a visit to the Cheomseongdae and Anapji area followed by lunch at a downtown restaurant and departure back to your starting point in the afternoon is a common itinerary.

Convenience of Using a Charter Bus

In Gyeongju, traveling between attractions typically takes 20–30 minutes by bus, and there is also some walking time from parking lots to ticketing areas. With a bus waiting for your group, you can move directly to the next destination without delays, increasing tour efficiency. In extreme weather conditions, the bus serves as a comfortable waiting area, which is especially beneficial for elderly travelers or those with children.
Dedicated parking zones for large buses are available near Bulguksa, Anapji, and Cheomseongdae, so if your driver is familiar with the locations, there should be no major issues. However, on weekends and during peak seasons, arriving early to secure parking is wise.

Food and Rest Stop Tips

Popular local treats in Gyeongju include the cafés on Hwangnidan-gil, as well as the famous Gyeongju bread and glutinous barley bread. For large groups, it’s a good idea to schedule some free time to stop by bakeries or cafés. Your driver might know spots with convenient parking or help arrange group reservations that include discounts.
If traveling from Seoul, common rest stop choices include Singal or Manghyang Service Areas, where you can also have breakfast. By discussing your route with the driver in advance, you can make the most of rest stop breaks along the way.

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2) Busan Trip: A Paradise of Beaches and Food

Transportation and Major Attractions

Busan is famous for its attractions like Haeundae and Gwangalli Beaches, Jagalchi Fish Market, Nampo-dong, and Taejongdae. From Seoul, a charter bus ride takes around 4–5 hours, and most travelers from the metropolitan area plan at least a 2-day trip. A same-day round trip is not recommended, so plan for two days or more.
Within Busan, traffic can be heavy during rush hours. While a charter bus helps avoid the hassle of transfers on public transport, congestion in the city may affect your schedule, so plan accordingly. Parking near Haeundae and Gwangalli beaches can be extremely crowded on weekends and during peak seasons, so aim for weekdays or early hours when possible.

Advantages of Using a Bus

Busan has many hilly areas, and some attractions are quite far from subway stations. Walking long distances can be tiring for large groups, and splitting into multiple taxis can be costly. With a charter bus, you can travel scenic coastal roads while enjoying the view, and reach spots like Jagalchi Market or Nampo-dong more conveniently.
If you want to enjoy the Gwangandaegyo Bridge night view, your bus can drop you off near Gwangalli Beach, and after a night stroll, it can pick you up to return to your accommodation. This makes it possible to enjoy fireworks or the night sea while ensuring everyone returns safely.

Food and Shopping Tips

Busan is known for its raw fish markets, milmyeon (wheat noodles), pork soup rice, and ssiat hotteok (seed-stuffed pancakes). With a charter bus, you can make group dining reservations in advance and park nearby for easy access. In contrast, public transportation may cause delays if your group is split up, and arranging seating can be difficult.
Busan also offers large shopping malls like Lotte Gwangbok Branch and Shinsegae Centum City. If your schedule allows, include shopping in your itinerary. With the bus waiting, even large shopping bags can be stored in the luggage compartment, making movement easy.

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3) Gangwon Province Trip: Healing in Nature

Key Areas and Transportation

Gangwon Province is blessed with both mountains and the sea, with destinations like Sokcho, Gangneung, Pyeongchang, Hongcheon, and Chuncheon. From Seoul, Sokcho or Gangneung takes about 3 hours by charter bus, while Pyeongchang or Hongcheon is around 2 hours, making day trips or 2-day trips possible. It is popular for winter trips to ski resorts and leisure spots, as well as summer visits to the beach.
Highways make for easy travel, but in winter, heavy snow can be an issue, so tire conditions and driver experience are critical. For safety, check if the bus company can provide a driver with extensive winter driving experience.

Benefits of a Charter Bus

Public transportation in Gangwon Province is not as extensive, and grouping attractions together often isn’t efficient without private transport. For example, visiting Seoraksan in Sokcho, heading to Jumunjin or Gangneung for the beach, then moving to a mountain pension in Pyeongchang would be quite difficult without a bus. A group traveling in the same bus can visit multiple spots in one go while avoiding the stress of long drives.
The stunning natural scenery of Gangwon also makes enjoying the view from the bus a part of the trip itself. When passing valleys, mountain roads, or coastal routes, a slow, scenic drive allows the group to take photos and admire the landscape.

Enjoying Rest Stops and Local Specialties

On the way to Gangwon, stopping by rest areas or local markets to try specialty foods is part of the fun. You can ask your driver if there are famous spots like Anheung Steamed Bun Village or a Hongcheon corn stand worth visiting. If your driver is local or experienced, they may recommend hidden restaurants or attractions to enhance your journey.
Even if your group buys large amounts of local products such as chili powder or dried seafood, the bus luggage compartment can store everything without issue — one of the biggest advantages of traveling by charter bus.

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Tips for Booking a Charter Bus

Check Regional Parking and Traffic Conditions

In Gyeongju, Busan, and Gangwon, severe traffic congestion and parking shortages can occur during peak tourist seasons. Departing early is essential on weekends, public holidays, and vacation periods. Discuss detour routes and parking options with your driver in advance. Some famous beaches or historical sites may require reservations for large bus parking, so check the relevant city or county tourism websites for details.

Linking Accommodation and Itinerary

For long-distance trips, accommodation is essential. When booking pensions or hotels, always confirm whether large bus parking is available. Smaller pension complexes may not accommodate large buses on-site, requiring parking in a nearby open lot or village hall — in which case, coordination with the host is needed.
Also, depending on your itinerary, bus rental duration and driver accommodation costs may apply. For trips lasting more than one night, you may need to provide your driver with a rest space or pay an additional fee. Specifying these details in your contract will help avoid disputes.

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Conclusion: Charter Bus Convenience for Popular Destination Group Trips

Gyeongju, Busan, and Gangwon are not only popular among domestic travelers but are also favorites for foreign visitors. When traveling as a group to these destinations, using a charter bus eliminates the inconvenience of arranging separate transport or wasting time on multiple public transit transfers. The schedule can run as planned, luggage is easily managed, and there’s great flexibility for visiting local restaurants or buying specialties.

Of course, knowing each area’s traffic conditions, selecting the right departure time, checking parking spots, and researching accommodations are essential. By communicating closely with the bus provider, you can ensure safe driving and a smooth itinerary, resulting in a comfortable trip.
Whether you’re immersing yourself in Silla culture in Gyeongju, enjoying beaches and food in Busan, or seeking relaxation in Gangwon’s natural beauty, a charter bus will be a “reliable foundation for group travel.” Keep these tips in mind for your next group trip to create richer, more comfortable memories.

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Pottery is not only an art form where you directly touch and shape clay with your hands, but also a well-known healing activity that helps restore peace of mind. Korea boasts a world-renowned history of ceramics, such as Goryeo celadon and Joseon white porcelain, with a diverse development of traditional kilns and techniques. These days, pottery studios offer one- or two-hour one-day classes and hands-on experience programs, allowing beginners to easily touch clay and try their hand at shaping pottery. In this article, we’ll briefly explore the traditional Korean pottery culture and look into the joys and tips you can gain from participating in a pottery experience.

The Charm of Pottery Experience: Shapes Born at Your Fingertips

The essence of a pottery experience lies in the “tactile pleasure of touching clay” and the fun of watching it gradually transform into the shape you envisioned. At a pottery studio, you’ll typically find prepared clay, a potter’s wheel, carving tools, and more. Guided by the instructor’s demonstration, you’ll learn how to touch the clay while spinning the wheel. At first, you might press too hard or position your fingers wrong and collapse the shape, but with repeated attempts, you develop a sense for adjusting hand pressure and angles, and before you know it, you create a bowl that looks quite presentable.

Once you’ve shaped a bowl, cup, or small ornament, it’s dried, glazed, and fired in a kiln, resulting in a one-of-a-kind pottery piece that belongs only to you. In a one-day class, the kiln firing process can take several days, so it’s common for finished pieces to be shipped to you or stored at the studio for pickup. Regardless of the final form, the tactile satisfaction and moments of focus make it a truly special artistic experience.

The Beauty and History of Traditional Korean Pottery

The history of Korean pottery dates back to the Three Kingdoms period, but it truly flourished during the Goryeo and Joseon dynasties. Goryeo celadon is famous for its delicate jade-green color and inlay techniques, while Joseon white porcelain captivates with its simple yet dignified white tones. Knowing this historical background while participating in a pottery experience deepens the meaning—you might think, “The bowl I’m making right now is connected to a tradition that’s centuries old.”

Some studios also offer programs where you can apply simple celadon or white porcelain patterns in your designs. For example, after shaping the clay into your desired form, you might paint patterns with blue pigment or finish it with a clear glaze to enhance its beauty. While reproducing traditional techniques can be time-consuming, even a brief brushwork and pattern session can give you a glimpse into the aesthetics of Korean pottery.

Mindfulness and Healing Through Pottery

Pottery often unfolds like meditation. While spinning the wheel and touching clay, it’s hard for stray thoughts to creep in—you’re only focused on “right here, right now, this clay.” During that time, everyday stress fades, and you become fully immersed in the act of creation. Some people even prefer spending their time in silence, moving their hands and feeling the texture of the clay, rather than chatting with others in the studio.

Pottery is also often perfected through trial and error. Pressing the clay too hard may ruin its shape, yet you knead the clay again and try once more. This cycle can feel similar to life’s ups and downs, which is why some refer to pottery as a form of “training the mind.” In Korea, pottery experiences are embraced as more than just making souvenirs—they’re seen as a way to gently settle and quiet the mind.

Tips for Choosing a Pottery Studio and Preparing for the Experience

Pottery studios are popular in cities like Seoul, Busan, and Jeju—major tourist hubs—as well as in well-known art villages or cultural districts such as Insadong, Hongdae, and Tongyeong. It’s a good idea to book in advance, check the class size, program type, and language availability. Some studios may only offer instructions in Korean, so confirming whether they have English-speaking instructors can also be helpful.

It’s best to wear comfortable clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty. While clay generally washes out, it’s still wise to avoid white shirts or expensive outfits. Also, those with long nails might find wheel work challenging, so trimming them the day before is recommended. Many studios provide aprons, but bringing a change of clothes just in case is a good precaution.

The Joy of Receiving Your Finished Work

Keep in mind that in a one-day pottery class, you likely won’t be able to take your piece home the same day. The clay needs to dry, then be glazed and fired, which takes several days. If your trip is short, check whether the studio offers international shipping. Some studios provide delivery services for free or for a fee. When the finished pottery arrives at your home via international mail, you’ll be touched by the realization: “The time and touch I left in Korea have returned as this tangible creation.”

Some people use the bowls, cups, or planters they make as part of their daily lives. During meals, they might recall, “I made this myself at a pottery studio during my trip to Korea,” letting the memories flow back. Although the souvenirs are somewhat heavy and breakable, many feel the sentimental value is worth the extra effort.

Conclusion: Clay, Fire, and Your Own Work of Art

A pottery experience is a way to understand a part of traditional Korean culture through art born from the natural elements of clay and fire. The unique beauty of Korean ceramics is deeply rooted in history, and the fact that you can enjoy this tradition through modern experience programs adds to the appeal. Even in a relatively short time, you can intuitively enjoy the process of creating “something from nothing,” making it an unforgettable “hands-on experience unique to Korea” for travelers.

If you have a free day during your trip, consider choosing a pottery studio over a café or shopping. Unlike typical sightseeing spots, the pottery experience lets you enjoy the pleasure of creating your own value. Months later, looking at the planter that arrives at your home, you might find yourself immersed in the feelings of that day. For some, that alone can be reason enough for their trip to Korea to remain a shining memory.

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One of the very first things you need to do when coming to study in Korea is to set up your mobile phone service. Nowadays, smartphones are essential for daily life — from getting school information and navigating directions to ordering food delivery and connecting with transportation cards. Without a phone, life can become quite inconvenient. In Korea, there are three major telecom providers — SK Telecom (SKT), KT, and LG Uplus (LG U+) — plus a variety of MVNO (budget phone) operators, making it tricky to decide which one to choose.

In this article, we’ll go over the features and pricing plans of major telecom companies for international student mobile phone, explain what MVNOs are, and explore how you can save money while still enjoying convenience when choosing a phone plan as a foreign student.

1) Overview of the Korean Telecom Market

The Korean mobile market is dominated by three major providers that cover most of the market share, offering wide-ranging networks from the latest 5G to 4G LTE and even 3G. These major telcos boast excellent nationwide coverage and a variety of added benefits such as membership perks, discounts, and content services. However, their basic monthly fees tend to be relatively high, which might be a burden for students on a tight budget.

On the other hand, MVNO (budget phone) operators lease networks from the major telcos and sell plans at lower prices. The service conditions — data, voice, and SMS — are usually similar with some minor limitations, but the value for money is excellent, attracting many consumers. If you have an Alien Registration Card (ARC) as a foreign student, you may be able to sign up for both major telcos and MVNOs, so it’s worth making a detailed comparison.

2) Comparison of Major Telcos: SKT, KT, LG U+

SK Telecom (SKT)

As Korea’s number one telecom provider, SKT offers stable coverage and service quality. With plenty of membership perks (such as movie and café discounts), it’s very practical for students who use these benefits often. They offer a variety of 5G and LTE plans, and although prices are slightly higher than competitors, it may be worth it if you value gifts or membership benefits. Large discounts are available with family or Internet+TV bundles, but for international students living alone, these might not be very advantageous.

KT

KT’s strength lies in its internet infrastructure and Wi-Fi network. Some plans provide free access to KT WiFi in public places such as subway stations, and they offer strong bundle discounts for combining giga internet with mobile service. If you frequently use international roaming or make overseas calls, KT’s international communication packages are worth a look. Their pricing is similar to SKT, and they offer a wide variety of plans, so it’s important to choose one that fits your usage pattern.

LG U+

LG U+ targets the MZ generation (Millennials and Gen Z) with bundled media service plans including Netflix, YouTube Premium, and gaming options, as well as cloud gaming services. Their 5G network is stable in Seoul and the metropolitan area, but coverage in rural areas is sometimes considered weaker than SKT or KT. However, if you take advantage of contract discounts and promotions, you can end up paying significantly less. They also operate a foreign customer support center with English-speaking assistance, which can help new international students overcome language barriers.

3) What is an MVNO (Budget Phone)?

MVNO stands for Mobile Virtual Network Operator — these companies lease the infrastructure from major telcos and sell their own branded phone plans, usually called “budget phones” in Korea. The main advantage is a much lower monthly fee compared to major carriers. Plans range from unlimited data to small-data options, and because they use the same networks (e.g., SKT network, KT network, LG network), call quality and data speeds are almost the same as with major providers.

However, MVNO customer service centers are generally smaller, and some services may be unavailable — for example, major carrier perks like T membership, data sharing, or certain bundled services are often not offered by MVNOs. For an international student who prioritizes cheap monthly fees over perks, budget phones can be a very reasonable choice.

4) Examples of MVNO Providers and Sign-Up Process

There are dozens of MVNO providers in Korea, such as Hello Mobile (LG HelloVision), SK Seven Mobile, KT M Mobile, U+ Budget Mobile, and others like A Mobile, FreeT, and SmarTel. You can simply order a SIM (USIM) card online, have it delivered to your home, and start the activation process. Some providers have offline stores where you can sign up in person by presenting your ID.

For foreigners, an Alien Registration Card (ARC) along with a passport or a domestic credit card may be required, so check in advance. Many plans have no contracts and can be canceled on a monthly basis, allowing you to use the service for just your study period and cancel when you return home.

5) How to Choose a Plan

International students should consider data usage, international calls or roaming needs, and calling/texting patterns. For instance, if you spend most of your time on campus with Wi-Fi access, you may need less mobile data. However, if you frequently use maps, YouTube, or social media on the go, you’ll want a plan with generous data.

Major carriers offer both 5G and LTE plans, and MVNOs also support LTE and sometimes 5G. While 5G plans are more expensive, the difference in real-world usage may not always justify the cost — LTE may be sufficient. Whether you need 5GB, 10GB, or unlimited data per month will greatly affect your plan’s cost, so understanding your usage habits is crucial.

6) Online Activation & SIM Verification

Nowadays, you can apply for activation online. Simply visit the website of a major carrier or MVNO, choose your plan, and order a SIM (USIM) card. Within 1–2 days, it will be delivered to your home, and you can follow the instructions to upload your ID (Alien Registration Card) photo and verify your identity for activation. Once completed, insert the SIM into your phone, and you can start using the service immediately.

Keep in mind that some devices (especially phones brought from overseas) may not be compatible with Korean networks due to frequency band issues. If possible, buy an unlocked phone in Korea or confirm in advance whether your overseas unlocked phone supports Korean bands.

7) Contract Period & Early Termination

Major telcos usually promote long-term contracts. With a two-year contract, you can receive handset installment discounts and monthly plan discounts (choice contracts). However, if you plan to stay for only about a year, you may face hefty early termination fees. With MVNOs, most plans have no contracts and can be canceled anytime, so buying your own phone separately and just using an MVNO SIM can often be more cost-effective.

That said, if you utilize major telco promotions well, you may be able to get a new phone at a lower price and monthly discounts, so if you plan to study for 2 years or more, it could be worth considering. Just make sure to check the early termination fees, how public subsidies and choice contract discounts apply, and other important details.

8) Data Roaming vs. Local Plan

Some students consider keeping their home country SIM card and using international roaming. However, for long-term stays, local Korean plans are far cheaper and more convenient. You can keep your home SIM on the cheapest plan just for number retention and use your Korean SIM as the primary one. When traveling abroad temporarily, you can use roaming from your Korean SIM instead.

If you need to make international calls, services like Skype or KakaoTalk Voice Call are commonly used, so you don’t necessarily need to pay for expensive international calling packages. As long as your Korean plan provides sufficient data, you can handle calls via VoIP or messenger apps.

9) Device Purchase Strategy

Where you buy your smartphone is also important. Purchasing from a major telco store allows you to get contract discounts and public subsidies, but you may be tied to that carrier for a certain period. Buying an unlocked phone (SIM-free) from an online or offline retailer, then using it with an MVNO SIM, is also a popular option.

For international students, buying a used phone is another good choice. You can get a relatively new phone at a lower price via second-hand markets (like Bungaejangter or Karrot Market) and pair it with a budget SIM to lower your monthly costs. Be sure to verify that the used phone is not lost/stolen and has been properly released from its previous contract.

10) Conclusion: Finding the Best Option for You

Ultimately, choosing a carrier depends on factors like “How long will you be in Korea?”, “How much data will you use?”, and “Do you need perks like memberships or extra services?”. If you plan to stay long-term, want unlimited 5G, and value perks like movie discounts, it might make sense to sign a two-year contract with SKT, KT, or LG U+. On the other hand, if you are staying less than a year or only need basic internet surfing and messaging, an MVNO plan (such as LTE 10GB) will be cheaper and more flexible.

Major carrier stores are located nationwide, and some offer English assistance, so visiting a store for consultation when you first arrive is a good idea. MVNOs typically focus on online sign-ups, so you’ll need some ability to read Korean websites, which could be a small barrier. However, once you get used to the process, both major and MVNO plans can be easily started or canceled online, so it shouldn’t be a big challenge for international students.

Lastly, when signing up, make sure you prepare all necessary documents like your Alien Registration Card and passport, and carefully check the terms of the contract, early termination fees, and details of the plan (voice, text, data) to avoid issues. Korea is known for having one of the world’s most advanced internet and telecom infrastructures, so once you’re set up, your student life here will become much more convenient.

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When people think of Korean cuisine, rice, soups, side dishes, and meat-based meals often come to mind. However, traditional Korean desserts also boast a long and rich history. From royal court sweets enjoyed by kings and aristocrats during the Joseon Dynasty to fusion desserts created with modern interpretations, the variety is vast and diverse. Made with glutinous rice, beans, fruits, nuts, and honey, these treats offer a sweet yet healthy taste. Recently, they have been reinvented in stylish café settings, captivating the palates of not only Koreans but also international tourists.
In this article, we’ll explore both the traditional and contemporary sides of Korean desserts, looking into the different types and how to best enjoy them.

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1) The World of Traditional Korean Sweets: Hangwa and Tteok

Traditional Korean desserts can largely be categorized into two types: “Hangwa” (traditional sweets) and “Tteok” (rice cakes). These desserts were often served during banquets, ceremonies, or alongside tea in royal courts or noble households. They exhibit artistic finesse, featuring time-honored recipes and premium ingredients.

Hangwa: Gangjeong, Yakgwa, Dasik, and More

Hangwa is a category of traditional confections made from ingredients like glutinous rice flour, soybean powder, honey, malt syrup, and sesame seeds. Notable examples include Gangjeong, Yakgwa, and Dasik.

• Gangjeong is made by frying glutinous rice dough to create a crispy texture, then coating it with honey or syrup and sprinkling it with sesame seeds, peanuts, or puffed rice for added sweetness.
• Yakgwa is a honey cookie made from wheat flour dough mixed with honey and oil, then deep-fried. It’s known for its melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich, sweet flavor.
• Dasik is a small bite-sized confection made by kneading fine powders such as ground beans or green tea with honey, then pressing the mixture into decorative molds. Beautifully shaped, it pairs excellently with traditional teas.

Tteok: Songpyeon, Injeolmi, Gyeongdan, and Others

Tteok, or Korean rice cakes, are symbolic of celebrations and holidays. From Garaetteok and Injeolmi to Songpyeon and Mujigae-tteok (rainbow rice cake), the varieties are extensive, with textures and flavors that differ depending on ingredients and preparation methods. Made from ground rice or glutinous rice, the dough can range from soft to chewy. Fillings like sweet red bean paste, honey, or roasted soybean flour enhance their savory-sweet flavor.
For instance, Songpyeon is traditionally enjoyed during Chuseok (Korean harvest festival). These half-moon-shaped rice cakes are filled with sesame seeds, beans, or sweetened red beans. Injeolmi, made by pounding glutinous rice and coating it with roasted soybean powder, is known for its soft and sticky consistency.

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2) Pairing with Traditional Korean Teas

Korean desserts are often enjoyed alongside traditional teas. Various options—such as jujube tea, citron tea, Ssanghwa-cha, and green tea—complement Hangwa or Tteok perfectly. The natural sweetness of the desserts and the warmth and fragrance of these teas create a harmonious pairing.
For example, desserts with intense sweetness like Yakgwa or Gangjeong go well with clear-flavored teas like green or yellow tea. Tteok, on the other hand, pairs wonderfully with aromatic teas like jujube or citron tea which enhance the flavor of the rice cake. This pairing tradition dates back to the royal court and can still be experienced at specialized tea houses today.

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3) Fusion Korean Desserts: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity

Recently, Korean desserts have been reimagined in more modern and sophisticated styles. By combining traditional elements such as Tteok or Hangwa with Western dessert techniques, these new creations bring unique flavors, textures, and visual appeal.

Examples: Hangwa Macarons, Tteok Cakes, and Tea-Based Beverages

• Hangwa Macarons: These unique desserts blend the French macaron with ingredients from Hangwa. Fillings like Injeolmi cream, roasted soybean powder, or black sesame create distinctive flavor profiles and colorful visuals.
• Tteok Cakes: Rather than using conventional sponge cake, these use layered glutinous rice cakes. Frosted with soy milk cream or sweet bean paste instead of whipped cream, they offer a luxurious appearance and healthier alternative that has gained popularity.
• Traditional Tea Lattes: A variety of tea-based lattes and sparkling drinks made with green tea, Pu’er tea, and even Ssanghwa-cha are now featured in many cafés. Often served with side desserts like Tteok or Gangjeong, they make Korean dessert culture more accessible and enjoyable.

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4) How to Enjoy Korean Desserts: Tips and Considerations

Traditional Korean desserts often use natural sweeteners like honey, molasses, or rice syrup rather than refined sugar, providing a deep and nuanced sweetness. To fully appreciate this, it’s best to savor them slowly in small bites.
Some rice cakes tend to harden if left out for too long, so for the best texture, consume them fresh or gently warm them up. Pairing with traditional tea aids digestion and balances the sweetness for a more harmonious experience.

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5) Where to Enjoy Them: Cafés and Traditional Markets

If you’re looking to experience Korean desserts authentically, visit a traditional tea café or a Hanok-style café. In Seoul’s Insadong, Jeonju Hanok Village, Gyeongju, and other cultural heritage areas, cafés often serve curated dessert sets or feature unique fusion offerings.
Traditional markets are also a treasure trove of quality Tteok and Hangwa. Handmade by local vendors with care and fresh ingredients, these desserts make great souvenirs or treats to enjoy during your travels.

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Conclusion: A New Discovery in Korean Dessert Culture

Korean desserts are not just a sweet bite after a meal—they’re rooted in centuries-old traditions from royal ceremonies to everyday customs, now evolving with creative modern twists. A single piece of Tteok or Hangwa encapsulates Korean culinary wisdom, unique ingredients, and heartfelt warmth.
As Korean desserts gain global attention, even those familiar only with cupcakes or macarons are showing interest in treats like Injeolmi, Yakgwa, and Dasik. With ongoing innovation and fusion, the scope of Korean desserts continues to expand.

If you’re traveling in Korea, don’t miss the chance to try traditional sweets and fusion-style desserts. Pairing them with a cup of warm tea offers not only delicious flavors but also a cozy glimpse into Korean culture that’s both elegant and comforting.

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