10 Must-Try Local Experiences in Korea for Foreigners
Hi there!
If you’re visiting Korea—or maybe even living here for a while—you might be wondering:
“What should I really do to experience the real Korea?”
Sure, you could check out the famous tourist spots, but if you want to truly feel what it’s like to live like a local, this list is for you.
Here are 10 must-try local experiences that will let you go beyond sightseeing and dive deep into Korean culture. Let’s get started.
1. Relax in a Korean Jjimjilbang (Sauna)
A jjimjilbang is more than just a sauna. It’s a 24-hour public bathhouse with hot rooms, cold rooms, sleeping areas, food courts, and even arcade games.
Locals come here to relax, hang out with friends, and sometimes even sleep overnight.
Make sure to try the "sikhye" (sweet rice drink) and boiled eggs after sweating it out in a hot room.
You’ll see people lying on the heated floor in matching pajamas—yes, that’s totally normal here!
2. Sing Your Heart Out at a Norebang (Karaoke Room)
Koreans love karaoke. But here, it’s done in private rooms with your own mic, screen, and sometimes disco lights.
You can go with friends or even try a coin norebang, which is super popular and lets you sing solo for a small fee.
Whether you sing BTS, Adele, or Bon Jovi, it’s all about having fun.
And yes, snacks and drinks are usually allowed inside too.
3. Try Street Food at a Pojangmacha
Pojangmacha are those little orange tents or street stalls you see around cities like Seoul or Busan.
They serve everything from tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and odeng (fish cake soup) to soju and grilled seafood.
Sitting outside with locals, especially in the evening, enjoying spicy food with a drink? That's one of the most authentic Korean experiences you can have.
4. Walk Through a Hanok Village in Traditional Clothes
Visit a hanok village like Bukchon in Seoul or Jeonju Hanok Village, where you can rent hanbok (traditional Korean clothing) and walk around beautiful old houses.
These areas are full of cultural charm, with teahouses, museums, and photo spots everywhere.
It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the country’s history while capturing some stunning photos.
5. Have Chicken & Beer by the Han River
Koreans call it “chimaek”—a combo of chicken and maekju (beer)—and it’s basically a national pastime.
At the Han River parks in Seoul, you can sit on a picnic mat, order food through a delivery app, and enjoy the sunset or night view.
It’s relaxing, social, and uniquely Korean. You haven't really experienced local life until you've tried it.
6. Explore a Traditional Market and Eat Like a Local
Skip the fancy restaurants for a day and head to a traditional market like Gwangjang Market or Namdaemun Market.
You’ll find everything from hotteok (sweet pancakes) and mayak gimbap (addictive mini rice rolls) to fresh seafood and handmade crafts.
Markets are loud, busy, and full of delicious surprises. Try talking to the vendors—you might get a discount or an extra bite for free.
7. Spend a Night (or Two) Gaming in a PC Bang
Korea’s PC bangs (internet cafés) are on another level.
Super fast internet, high-end gaming gear, comfortable chairs—and you can order snacks or ramen right to your seat.
Even if you’re not a serious gamer, playing a round of League of Legends or PUBG in a PC bang is an unforgettable cultural experience.
8. Take a Korean Cooking Class
Love Korean food? Try making it yourself.
Many cooking studios offer classes in English where you can learn to prepare kimchi, bulgogi, bibimbap, and more.
It’s a hands-on way to understand Korean ingredients and cooking methods—and the best part is, you get to eat your creation at the end.
9. Ride the Subway and Get Lost (Just a Little)
Okay, hear me out. This might sound boring, but Korea’s subway system is super efficient, clean, and full of little surprises.
Some stations have underground malls, art exhibitions, or historical displays.
Try picking a random station, getting off, and exploring the area. You never know what hidden gems you’ll find.
10. Experience Korean-Style “Hoesik” (Group Dinner & Drinks)
This one’s for those who really want to see how Koreans socialize.
Hoesik is the after-work dinner and drinking culture in Korea.
If you’re lucky enough to be invited by Korean friends or colleagues, say yes!
Expect soju shots, shared dishes, lots of toasts (say “geonbae!”), and maybe even a second or third round at karaoke or a pub.
It’s all about bonding—and even if you don’t speak perfect Korean, the vibe is usually very friendly and open.
Final Thoughts
Experiencing Korea isn't just about ticking off landmarks from a checklist.
It’s about eating what locals eat, going where they go, and doing what they do.
Even the smallest things—like using Korean delivery apps, ordering coffee at a convenience store, or playing games at night—can be rich, memorable experiences.
If you try even just a few of the things on this list, you’ll walk away with more than just souvenirs.
You’ll have stories—the kind you’ll want to share again and again.
So go out there, dive in, and live Korea like a local.
And if you ever feel a bit lost? Just smile and say "Annyeonghaseyo!"
You’re already doing great.