about me

Hey, I’m Mel!

In 2013, I stumbled upon Korea and was instantly fascinated.

At first, it was just curiosity. I found myself drawn to the culture, the food, the language, and the everyday aspects of life that felt so different from what I knew. The more I learned, the more I wanted to understand.

Seven years later, I finally landed in Korea for real.

One trip turned into two, then three… and now we're somewhere around ten visits. At this point, immigration probably thinks I have a secret second life there (I don't... or do I?).

What started as a travel destination gradually became something much more meaningful.

With every visit, I gained a deeper appreciation for Korean culture, daily life, and the subtle social nuances that often go unnoticed by visitors. I started paying attention to the small things: giving and receiving with both hands, understanding when to bow, reading the atmosphere in social situations, and recognizing the unspoken rules that shape everyday interactions.

The more time I spent in Korea, the more I realized that what fascinated me was the traditions, values, and everyday habits that make Korea unique.

Somewhere along the way, Korea stopped feeling like a place I visited and started feeling like a second home.

Why I Started This Website

One question I get asked all the time is:

"Why Korea?"

And honestly, it's not easy to answer.

It's not just the food, the beautiful places, or the latest trends. It's the culture, the people, the traditions, and all the little details that make everyday life in Korea unique. The more time I spend there, the more I discover, and the more I appreciate the things that make Korea special.

Over the years, I've found myself sharing stories, explaining cultural customs, and talking about experiences that most visitors don't notice at first glance. That's when I realized I wanted a place where I could share all of it.

So I created this website.

My goal is to show you the Korea that made me fall in love with the country in the first place. Not just where to go, but why things are the way they are. Not just the sights, but the culture behind them.

Through travel stories, cultural insights, personal experiences, and practical tips, I hope to help you discover the side of Korea that keeps drawing me back year after year.

This is where I share:

  • Korean culture and customs

  • Travel guides and itineraries

  • Personal experiences from my trips

  • Cultural insights and etiquette tips

  • The small details that make Korea so fascinating

  • Korean study ressources

Whether you're planning your first trip, studying Korean culture, or simply curious about life in Korea, I hope you'll find something here that helps you see the country through a different lens.

Let's Explore Korea Together

I'm not Korean, and I don't claim to know everything. What I share here comes from years of visits, personal experiences, countless conversations, and a genuine love for the country and its culture.

My goal isn't just to help you visit Korea. It's to help you understand it a little better.

Thank you for being here, and I hope you'll join me as I continue exploring, learning, and sharing everything that makes Korea such a special place.

Welcome to the journey.

Mel