Travel with Steve Chong

Travel Blogger @PhatLifeProject

Korea's culture is not something you only look at from a distance. As Korea regular Steve Chong well knows, it shows up in the details: a free Seoul museum that turns the city's past and future into something you can walk through, a colour-stacked Busan village climbing the hillside, a slow railcar above the East Sea, and a 12-step hair treatment handled with serious precision. It is history, design, food, beauty and daily life all moving at once. These are the pops of culture that make you look closer, stay curious and find your endless fascination - one street, ritual, plate and view at a time.

01. FREE Museums to Explore Korea’s Past and Future

Korea’s history is rich, and the best part? You don’t have to spend a dime to experience it. Here are two underrated but must-visit free museums in Seoul:

• National Folk Museum of Korea – "Streets of Memories" Exhibit
  • Step into Seoul’s past and see what daily life was like in the 1970s and 80s—from recreated old shops to nostalgic street scenes, this exhibit is a time capsule of Korea’s rapid transformation.
• Seoul Museum of History – "Seoul, Now and Future" Exhibit
  • A must-see light show over a miniature model of Seoul, offering a futuristic look at the city’s rapid urban evolution. It’s a fascinating way to understand how Seoul became the metropolis it is today.

These museums offer a rare chance to see how Korea’s traditions, innovations, and everyday life have evolved over time—all without spending a single won.

02. A Cultural Escape to Busan – A Day Trip From Seoul

Busan isn’t just South Korea’s second-largest city—it’s a coastal hub of culture, history, and food, making it the perfect getaway from Seoul’s fast-paced energy. The city blends traditional heritage with modern creativity, offering a glimpse into a different side of Korea.

Here are a few cultural must-dos in Busan:

• Haeundae Blueline Park Sky Capsule – A slow, scenic ride along Busan’s coastline, offering panoramic views of Haeundae Beach and the East Sea.
• Gamcheon Culture Village – Once a refugee village, now a vibrant art district known as the "Machu Picchu of Korea." Colorful murals, quirky installations, and winding alleyways make it a cultural landmark.
• Huinnyeoul Culture Village – Often called the “Santorini of Korea,” this coastal village is lined with indie cafes, art spaces, and scenic viewpoints over the sea.

Whether you're soaking in the coastal scenery or wandering through Busan’s creative neighborhoods, this city offers a cultural experience unlike anywhere else in Korea.

Walking through Gamcheon Culture Village feels like stepping into a living art piece — every corner tells a story, every colour sparks curiosity.

03. Dive Headfirst into Korea’s Love for Health & Beauty

Korea’s beauty industry isn’t just about trends—it’s about meticulous, science-backed care, and the 12-step hair treatment is a perfect example of this philosophy. Originally developed in Korea, this intensive hair care regimen is designed to restore damaged, dry, or chemically treated hair, making it a favorite among locals who prioritise long-term hair health.

The treatment includes a mix of deep cleansing, scalp nourishment, keratin and collagen infusions, and steam therapy to ensure deeper absorption of nutrients. It’s a luxurious yet practical beauty ritual, reflecting Korea’s emphasis on high-quality self-care. If you’re looking for a truly Korean beauty experience, this treatment is a must-try—you’ll leave with silky, strengthened hair and a firsthand understanding of why Korea leads the global beauty industry.