Category: Culture

Attractions Culture

I Took a BTS Themed Cruise on the Han River (Spotify X BTS SWIMSIDE Experience in Seoul)

The Spotify x BTS “SWIMSIDE” cruise might be one of the most uniquely curated events of this entire comeback era (so far) and I actually managed to snag an invite. The SWIMSIDE cruise was part of a larger global campaign between Spotify and BTS celebrating their comeback album “Arirang.” For three nights only (March 27–29, 2026), selected fans boarded a themed cruise departing from Yeouido Hangang Park and sailed along the Han River.

Culture Events

BTS Media Show + Purple Lounge at DDP: What to Expect (Seoul Guide 2026)

There are moments in Seoul where you realize the city isn’t just hosting an event, it’s transforming into it. With the long awaited return of BTS, that’s exactly what’s happening in Seoul. Right now, the entire city seems to be shrouded in a hue of purple and the Dongdaemun Design Plaza in no exception. This is part of the larger “BTS THE CITY ARIRANG SEOUL” project, which is basically Seoul turning into a living stage. At night, the entire structure lights up with BTS visuals and, during the day, fans move through a quiet listening space filled with their music.

Culture Events

BTS ‘Arirang’ Pop-Up at Shinsegae: What to Expect + Must-Buy Merch (Seoul)

BTS has officially returned having had a successful and FREE, I might add, comeback concert in the center of Seoul for the world to see. And with the return of BTS come a whole bunch of BTS themed events including not one, but two merch pop-ups! The BTS ‘Arirang’ pop-up is currently being held at both HYBE headquarters and Shinsegae’s main branch in Myeongdong. And the experiences couldn’t be any more different.

Culture Events

Inside the BTS ‘Arirang’ Pop-Up at HYBE Yongsan (Seoul Guide)

If you’re in Seoul right now, it kind of feels like the city is quietly (or not so quietly) orbiting around one thing… BTS! The kings of K-pop have officially made their comeback with their FREE concert at central Seoul’s Gwanghwamun Square. And with that, they have ushered in a whole itinerary of BTS-coded events all over Seoul.

Attractions Culture Events

The Seoul Lantern Festival has Been Extended!!

Imagine strolling along a softly lit stream in the heart of Seoul, surrounded by glowing lanterns of every shape and size, from traditional hanji lanterns inspired by Korean history to playful media art and interactive light experiences all set against a winter night’s backdrop. That’s the Seoul Lantern Festival (서울빛초롱축제), one of our favorite events of the year!

Beyond Korea Culture Style USA

All the Decks for All the Halls at Roger’s Gardens

Of all the festive things to do during the holiday season in Southern California, visiting a home and garden store would definitely not have been on my list. If you’ve never been or even if you’ve heard about it but don’t really know what to expect (like me), Roger’s Gardens during Christmas is basically holiday magic with a gardening and decor twist.

Cafés Culture Events Food

Jesus Birthday Cafe Pop-Ups in Seoul

That’s right, in Korea Jesus gets his very own birthday cafe and it goes viral every year. This event is run by the Korea CCC (Campus Crusade for Christ), basically a Christian outreach wrapped in the fun energy of K-pop “birthday cafe” culture.

Attractions Culture

The Hyundai Seoul Christmas Market: Atelier de Noël

One of the most popular Christmas markets in Seoul is the one held every year at The Hyundai Seoul in Yeoido. This visually stunning Christmas market pop-up is held on the 5th floor and features a new theme every year. This year’s theme is Atelier de Noël and it engulfs you in a woodsy Christmas workshop wonderland.