Is Seoul Safe? Loaded Question

You mention to your parents that you're planning a trip to Seoul, and their immediate reaction is a mix of excitement and concern. "Isn't that close to North Korea?" they ask, their voices tinged with worry. Meanwhile, your globe-trotting friend raves about Seoul's incredible food scene and how she felt safer there than in her own hometown. So, which is it? Is Seoul a risky adventure or a secure urban paradise?

My wife Sarah and I found ourselves pondering this very question as we planned our recent 7-night stay in South Korea's capital. As a pair of 40-something remote workers from Florida with a passion for food and a healthy dose of caution, we decided to dive deep into Seoul's safety landscape. Our mission? To share with you how we assessed Seoul's safety and our honest experiences navigating this fascinating city.

Ready to uncover the truth about Seoul's safety? Let's jump in!

3 Safety Factors to Consider

Before we packed our bags and boarded our flight to Seoul, we did our homework. Here's how we evaluated the city's safety:

01- State Department Travel Advisory

First stop on our safety research journey: the U.S. Department of State website. As a rule, Sarah and I only visit places with advisory levels of 1 or 2.

U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory: "Exercise Normal Precautions" (Level 1)

I have to admit, I was pleasantly surprised. Seoul and South Korea as a whole are currently at Level 1, the lowest advisory level. This puts it on par with countries like Japan, New Zealand, and many European nations.

State Department Check: PASS

02- Latest News

Next, we dug into recent news about Seoul. We were looking for any red flags - political unrest, a spike in crime, or anything that might make us reconsider our trip.

What we found was quite the opposite. Seoul has been making headlines for its booming tech industry and cultural exports (K-pop and K-dramas, anyone?). The city has also been investing heavily in urban renewal projects and improving air quality.

One particularly interesting piece of news caught our eye: as of January 30, 2024, masks are no longer required indoors in Seoul, except in certain medical facilities. However, they're still recommended in crowded public spaces. This recent change signaled to us that Seoul was moving towards post-pandemic normalcy while still prioritizing public health.

Latest News Check: PASS

03- Community Forums

Finally, we turned to the wisdom of the crowds. We scoured TripAdvisor forums and Reddit threads for recent traveler experiences in Seoul.

The consensus? Overwhelmingly positive. Many travelers, including solo female travelers, raved about how safe they felt in Seoul. One TripAdvisor user, Sarah (no relation to my wife!), wrote, "I felt incredibly safe walking around Seoul, even late at night. The streets are well-lit and there are always people around."

Of course, we took these reviews with a grain of salt. But the sheer volume of positive experiences was reassuring.

Community Forum Check: PASS

With all three safety factors giving us the green light, we felt confident booking our trip to Seoul. But how did our research stack up against reality? Let's find out!

First Hand Experience in Seoul

Alright, now for the juicy part. Did our research match our real-life experience in Seoul? In a word: absolutely!

We spent 7 nights exploring different neighborhoods, sampling delicious food, and immersing ourselves in Korean culture. Here's our neighborhood-by-neighborhood breakdown:

Myeongdong

Myeongdong is Seoul's shopping mecca, and it was our first stop after dropping off our bags at the hotel.

The area was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all out for some retail therapy. Despite the crowds, we never felt unsafe or worried about pickpockets. The well-lit streets and visible police presence put us at ease.

Our favorite spot? A tiny stall selling hoddeok (호떡), a sweet pancake filled with brown sugar and nuts. The vendor, a cheerful ajumma (a respectful term for a middle-aged woman), insisted we try them hot off the griddle. It was a delicious welcome to Seoul!

Is Myeongdong Safe? YES

Hongdae

Hongdae, with its youthful energy and vibrant nightlife, was next on our list. We visited on a Friday night to get the full experience.

The streets were alive with street performers, university students, and partygoers. Despite the lively atmosphere, we never felt uncomfortable. The abundance of bright neon signs and 24-hour convenience stores meant the area was well-lit even in the wee hours.

We ended up at a quirky cat café, where we sipped lattes while petting friendly felines. The café staff was incredibly welcoming, even teaching us how to say "cute cat" in Korean (귀여운 고양이 - gwiyeoun goyangi).

Is Hongdae Safe? YES, even at night

Gangnam

Ah, Gangnam - made famous by Psy's catchy tune. This upscale district screams luxury, with its high-end boutiques and sleek office buildings.

We felt like we were walking through the set of a K-drama. The streets were impeccably clean, and we noticed several security guards outside the larger buildings.

Our splurge meal of the trip was at a Michelin-starred Korean barbecue restaurant here. The staff was incredibly attentive, even helping us navigate the complex world of soju etiquette. Pro tip: always pour drinks for others and receive with both hands!

Is Gangnam Safe? YES, very much so

Itaewon

Itaewon, known for its international vibe, was a melting pot of cultures. We heard more English spoken here than in any other part of Seoul.

The area felt safe, but we did notice it was a bit grittier than other neighborhoods we visited. However, the visible police presence, especially around the main street, was reassuring.

We stumbled upon a hidden gem - a rooftop bar with a stunning view of Namsan Tower. The bartender, who had lived in New York for a few years, gave us some great tips on navigating Seoul safely.

Is Itaewon Safe? YES, but stay alert as you would in any busy area

Bukchon Hanok Village

Stepping into Bukchon Hanok Village felt like traveling back in time. This historic neighborhood, with its traditional Korean houses (hanoks), was a peaceful retreat from the modern city.

We felt completely safe wandering the narrow alleyways, admiring the beautiful architecture. The biggest danger here? Potentially tripping on the uneven stone pathways (watch your step!).

We participated in a traditional tea ceremony at one of the hanoks. The owner, a lovely older gentleman, explained the importance of respect and harmony in Korean culture - values that contribute to the overall sense of safety in Seoul.

Is Bukchon Hanok Village Safe? YES, incredibly so

Dongdaemun

Our final neighborhood exploration took us to Dongdaemun, famous for its late-night shopping and futuristic Dongdaemun Design Plaza.

We visited after dark to experience the night market. Despite the late hour, the area was well-lit and full of people. We felt perfectly safe browsing the stalls and sampling street food.

The highlight? Watching the changing LED rose garden at the Design Plaza. We chatted with a local student who told us how much safer Seoul feels compared to when she studied abroad in New York.

Is Dongdaemun Safe? YES, even late at night

Seoul by Foot and Public Transit

One of the best ways to really get a feel for a city's safety is to walk its streets and use public transportation. Here's our take on getting around Seoul:

Walking in Seoul

Overall, we felt incredibly safe walking in Seoul, both day and night. The streets are well-lit, sidewalks are in good condition, and there are always people around, even late at night.

We did have one slightly unnerving experience. While walking back to our hotel in Myeongdong late one night, we accidentally took a wrong turn and ended up in a quieter, residential area. It was darker and less populated than the main streets. While nothing happened, we felt a bit uncomfortable and quickly retraced our steps. It was a good reminder to always be aware of our surroundings and stick to well-lit, busier areas at night.

Seoul Metro

The Seoul Metro is a marvel of efficiency and cleanliness. We used it extensively during our stay and always felt safe. The stations and trains are well-lit, there are security cameras everywhere, and we often saw police patrolling the larger stations.

One thing that impressed us was the emergency call buttons in every car. We never had to use them, but their presence was reassuring.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing

We primarily used the Kakao T app for taxis, which was recommended by our hotel. It's similar to Uber, but with licensed taxi drivers. We felt very safe using this service, and the drivers were always professional.

We did take a few regular taxis as well, usually when we were too tired to navigate the app. While most experiences were positive, we did have one driver who took a longer route than necessary. It's a good idea to have your route pulled up on your phone to avoid this.

Here's when we chose to use taxis instead of walking or public transit:

• Late at night, especially if we were in an unfamiliar area
• When we were carrying a lot of shopping bags (those Korean beauty products add up!)
• During a particularly nasty rainstorm
• After a long day of sightseeing when our feet just couldn't take anymore

Recommended Itinerary

Based on our experiences, here's a 5-day itinerary that balances safety with seeing the best of Seoul:

Day 1: Myeongdong and Namsan Tower

• Start in Myeongdong for shopping and street food
• Take the cable car up to Namsan Tower for panoramic views
• Have dinner at a traditional Korean barbecue restaurant

Day 2: Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village

• Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace in the morning
• Explore Bukchon Hanok Village in the afternoon
• End the day with a traditional tea ceremony

Day 3: Hongdae and Itaewon

• Spend the afternoon in Hongdae, visiting quirky cafes and watching street performances
• Head to Itaewon for dinner and drinks with an international flair

Day 4: Gangnam and COEX Mall

• Explore the upscale Gangnam district
• Visit the massive COEX Mall and its impressive aquarium
• Splurge on a fancy dinner in Gangnam

Day 5: Dongdaemun Design Plaza and Night Market

• Visit the futuristic Dongdaemun Design Plaza
• End your trip with some late-night shopping and street food at Dongdaemun Market

Throughout this itinerary, we recommend using a mix of walking and public transportation during the day, and opting for taxis late at night or when traveling between far-flung neighborhoods.

Final Thoughts

So, is Seoul safe? Based on our experience, the answer is a resounding yes. We felt safer in Seoul than in many major U.S. cities we've visited.

Here are our top safety tips for visitors:

• Always be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Keep valuables secure and use hotel safes when available
• Use official taxi stands or reputable ride-hailing apps like Kakao T
• Learn basic Korean phrases for emergencies
• Carry a copy of your passport and keep the original in a safe place
• Stay informed about current events and potential demonstrations
• Use ATMs inside banks or well-lit areas
• Be cautious when accepting drinks from strangers in nightlife areas
• Follow local authorities' instructions during civil emergency drills
• Respect local customs and etiquette to avoid unwanted attention

Would we recommend visiting Seoul? Absolutely! The city offers an incredible mix of history, culture, technology, and culinary delights, all wrapped up in a blanket of safety that allowed us to explore with confidence.

Just remember to exercise the same common sense you would in any large city, and you'll be set to have an amazing time in this fascinating metropolis.

Safe travels!

About Us

Hi there! We're West and Sarah Parker, a pair of 40-something remote workers from sunny Florida with an insatiable appetite for travel and good food. West, a Cornell University School of Hotel Administration graduate, has spent two decades as the secret weapon of the jet-set elite, crafting bespoke adventures that redefine luxury travel. Now a resident writer for Town & Tourist, this "Architect of Extraordinary Journeys" combines razor-sharp insights with unparalleled industry connections to deliver experiences that even the most discerning globetrotters can't help but rave about.

Sarah, on the other hand, is our resident foodie and safety expert. With a background in risk management and a palate that can detect the subtlest hints of gochugaru in a bowl of kimchi jjigae, she's the perfect travel companion for those who want to explore the world's cuisines without compromising on safety.

Together, we've explored 6 continents and 32 countries, from the bustling streets of Phnom Penh to the serene beaches of Zanzibar. Our goal? To help everyone travel better, eat well, and stay safe. We believe that with the right information and a dash of adventure, anyone can experience the joys of global exploration.

By reading our articles, you're getting a win-win: insider tips from seasoned travelers combined with practical safety advice. So whether you're a solo traveler taking your first international trip or a family planning your next big adventure, we've got you covered. Let's make the world a little smaller and a lot more delicious, one safe journey at a time!

Safety Statistics and Facts

To give you a more comprehensive picture of safety in Seoul, let's dive into some statistics and facts:

1. Seoul consistently ranks among the top 10 safest cities in the world according to The Economist's Safe Cities Index.
2. The crime rate in Seoul is significantly lower than in many other major cities worldwide. According to the Korean Statistical Information Service, the homicide rate in Seoul is just 0.9 per 100,000 inhabitants.
3. A 2022 survey by the Seoul Metropolitan Government found that over 90% of Seoul residents feel safe walking alone at night.
4. Seoul has over 75,000 CCTV cameras installed throughout the city, contributing to its low crime rate and quick response to incidents, as reported by the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency.
5. South Korea ranks 41st out of 163 countries in the 2023 Global Peace Index, indicating a high level of safety and stability.
6. Seoul's air quality has significantly improved in recent years, with the annual average PM2.5 concentration decreasing by 33% between 2016 and 2021.
7. According to the Korean Tourism Organization, as of January 30, 2024, masks are no longer required indoors in Seoul, except in certain medical facilities.
8. The Seoul Global Center provides support services in multiple languages for foreign residents and visitors, enhancing the city's safety and accessibility for international travelers.
9. Seoul's extensive public transportation system, including the metro and bus networks, is considered one of the safest and most efficient in the world.
10. The Korea Tourism Organization operates a 24/7 tourist information hotline (1330) that provides emergency assistance and translation services in multiple languages.

These statistics paint a picture of a city that takes safety seriously and has implemented effective measures to protect both residents and visitors.

Safety for Different Types of Travelers

Seoul's safety extends to various types of travelers, but it's always good to be aware of specific considerations:

Solo Travelers

Seoul is generally very safe for solo travelers. The city's low crime rate, efficient public transportation, and helpful locals make it an ideal destination for those exploring on their own. However, as with any solo travel, it's important to stay alert and trust your instincts.

Sarah's Solo Adventure: While I was attending a cooking class, West decided to explore Namdaemun Market on his own. He reported feeling completely at ease navigating the crowded market stalls and even made some new friends over a bowl of kalguksu (knife-cut noodle soup).

Female Travelers

Female travelers, including solo female travelers, often report feeling very safe in Seoul. The city has low rates of harassment and violent crime against women. However, it's still wise to exercise standard precautions, especially in nightlife areas.

Seoul's Thoughtful Touch: We were impressed to learn about the Seoul City Women's Helpline, a 24/7 service providing counseling and emergency support for women in need.

LGBTQ+ Travelers

While South Korea is generally conservative regarding LGBTQ+ issues, Seoul is more progressive and accepting. LGBTQ+ travelers are unlikely to face overt discrimination or safety issues, especially in areas like Itaewon, known for its LGBTQ+-friendly venues. However, public displays of affection (regardless of orientation) may attract attention.

Rainbow Over Seoul: We chatted with a same-sex couple at a café in Itaewon who shared that they felt comfortable and safe exploring the city together, though they were more discreet with PDA than they might be back home.

Families with Children

Seoul is a fantastic destination for families. The city is clean, safe, and offers numerous family-friendly attractions. Many restaurants and cafes are welcoming to children, and the efficient public transportation system makes getting around with kids a breeze.

Family-Friendly Find: We loved watching families enjoy the Seoul Children's Grand Park, a massive green space with a zoo, amusement rides, and plenty of space for picnics.

Travelers with Disabilities

Seoul has been making strides in improving accessibility, though challenges remain in some areas. Many major attractions, hotels, and newer public transportation facilities are wheelchair accessible. The city also offers several barrier-free tourism routes.

Accessibility in Action: We noticed tactile paving on sidewalks and in metro stations to assist visually impaired travelers, as well as elevators and wheelchair lifts in many public spaces.

Cultural Awareness for Safety

Understanding and respecting local customs can go a long way in ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip to Seoul. Here are some cultural tips to keep in mind:

1. Respect for elders is crucial in Korean culture. On public transport, give up your seat to older passengers.
2. Public drunkenness is frowned upon, even though drinking is a significant part of social life. Enjoy responsibly!
3. Always remove your shoes when entering homes and some traditional restaurants.
4. Tipping is not expected and may cause confusion. In most situations, politely refusing change is a better way to show appreciation.
5. Be mindful of personal space in crowded areas, but don't be surprised if people stand very close in queues.
6. Taking photos of people without permission, especially of older Koreans or in traditional settings, can be considered disrespectful.
7. If you're invited to a meal, wait for the eldest person at the table to start eating before you begin.

Cultural Misunderstanding Averted: During a visit to a traditional tea house, we almost committed a faux pas by reaching for our tea cups with one hand. Thankfully, our host gently demonstrated the proper technique: always use both hands when giving or receiving items, especially from elders.

Seasonal Safety Considerations

Seoul's safety landscape can vary slightly with the seasons:

Spring (March to May)

Spring is beautiful with cherry blossoms in bloom, but it's also the season when yellow dust from China can affect air quality. Bring a mask and check air quality reports.

Summer (June to August)

Summer can be hot and humid with occasional heavy rains. Be prepared for sudden downpours and potential flooding in some areas.

Fall (September to November)

Fall is generally pleasant, but typhoons can occasionally affect the Korean peninsula. Stay informed about weather forecasts.

Winter (December to February)

Winters are cold and dry. Be cautious of icy sidewalks and dress warmly. Seoul's efficient snow removal keeps the city running smoothly even during heavy snowfall.

Weather Wisdom: We visited in early April and experienced everything from warm, sunny days to a surprise snow flurry! Packing layers and checking the forecast regularly helped us stay comfortable and safe.

Emergency Information

While we hope you never need it, it's crucial to have emergency information on hand:

Emergency Numbers:

• Police: 112
• Fire/Ambulance: 119
• Tourist Emergency: 1330 (24/7 interpretation service available)

Reputable Hospitals:

• Seoul National University Hospital
• Asan Medical Center
• Severance Hospital

Embassy Contacts:

• U.S. Embassy: +82-2-397-4114
• UK Embassy: +82-2-3210-5500
• Canadian Embassy: +82-2-3783-6000

Health and Safety Apps:

• Emergency Ready app: Provides disaster alerts and safety information
• Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency app: Offers updates on public health situations

Safe Travels in Seoul!

We hope this comprehensive guide helps you feel confident about safety in Seoul. Remember, while Seoul is generally very safe, it's always important to stay alert and use common sense, just as you would in any unfamiliar city.

From the serene temples to the bustling markets, from tranquil tea ceremonies to high-tech shopping malls, Seoul offers a unique blend of traditional culture and modern innovation. And the best part? You can explore it all with the peace of mind that comes from being in one of the world's safest major cities.

So go ahead, book that ticket, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Seoul. Just don't blame us if you come back addicted to kimchi and K-dramas!

Happy and safe travels!

West and Sarah Parker

Navigating Seoul's Nightlife Safely

Seoul's nightlife is legendary, from the neon-lit streets of Hongdae to the upscale clubs of Gangnam. While it's generally safe, here are some tips to ensure your nocturnal adventures are both fun and secure:

1. Stick to well-known areas like Hongdae, Itaewon, or Gangnam for nightlife.
2. Use the buddy system, especially if you're planning on drinking.
3. Don't leave drinks unattended, and be cautious about accepting drinks from strangers.
4. Know your limits with alcohol consumption. Soju, the popular Korean spirit, is stronger than it tastes!
5. Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps for late-night transportation.
6. Be aware of the last train times if you're using public transportation. The subway usually stops running around midnight.

Night Owl's Note: We had a blast exploring Hongdae's music scene one evening. The streets were well-lit and full of people even at 2 AM. We felt completely safe walking around, but still opted for a Kakao taxi back to our hotel as a precaution.

Scams and Petty Crimes to Watch Out For

While Seoul is remarkably safe, no city is entirely free of scams or petty crime. Here are a few things to be aware of:

1. Tea Ceremony Scam: Be wary of overly friendly strangers inviting you to participate in a "traditional" tea ceremony. This can result in an exorbitant bill.
2. Pickpocketing in crowded areas: Keep valuables secure, especially in markets and on public transport.
3. Overcharging by taxis: Insist on using the meter or agree on a price beforehand.
4. Counterfeit goods: Be cautious when purchasing luxury items at significantly discounted prices.
5. Bar scams: Be wary of "friendly" locals inviting you to specific bars, which may result in overcharging.

Scam Avoided: A friendly young woman approached us in Myeongdong, inviting us to a traditional tea ceremony. Remembering our research, we politely declined. Later, we enjoyed a lovely (and legitimately priced) tea experience in Insadong that our hotel had recommended.

Safe Shopping in Seoul

Shopping is a major attraction in Seoul, from high-end department stores to bustling traditional markets. Here's how to shop safely and smartly:

1. Use credit cards when possible, but carry some cash for smaller vendors.
2. Be cautious with your wallet or purse in crowded markets.
3. Check the authenticity of high-end goods, especially if the price seems too good to be true.
4. Keep receipts for any major purchases.
5. Be aware that some shops may not allow you to try on clothes before buying.

Shopaholic's Safety: We went a bit overboard shopping for Korean skincare products in Myeongdong. To avoid carrying around bags all day, we used our hotel's luggage storage service. Many larger stores also offer to hold your purchases or deliver them to your hotel.

Staying Healthy in Seoul

Seoul's healthcare system is world-class, but it's always better to prevent health issues. Here are some tips:

1. Tap water in Seoul is generally safe to drink, but many locals prefer bottled or filtered water.
2. Street food is a big part of Seoul's culinary scene. While it's generally safe, stick to busy stalls where the food is cooked fresh in front of you.
3. If you have allergies, learn how to communicate them in Korean. Many restaurants may not be familiar with less common allergies.
4. Air quality can be an issue, especially in spring and winter. Check daily air quality reports and consider wearing a mask on bad days.
5. Most medications are available in Seoul, but bring any prescription medicines with you, along with a copy of the prescription.

Health Hiccup Handled: I (West) had a minor allergic reaction to some street food. We easily found an English-speaking pharmacist who provided over-the-counter medication. The incident was resolved quickly, showcasing Seoul's accessible healthcare.

Technology and Safety

Seoul is one of the most technologically advanced cities in the world, and this extends to safety measures:

1. Free public Wi-Fi is available in many areas, but use a VPN for sensitive transactions.
2. The Emergency Ready app provides real-time alerts about natural disasters or other emergencies.
3. Kakao Map is more detailed than Google Maps for navigating Seoul.
4. T-money cards can be used for public transportation and at many convenience stores, reducing the need to carry cash.
5. Many tourist attractions offer audio guides through smartphone apps, allowing you to explore safely at your own pace.

Tech Tip: We downloaded the Naver Papago app for real-time translation. It was a lifesaver when reading menus or asking for directions!

Natural Disasters and Seoul

While Seoul is generally safe from major natural disasters, it's good to be prepared:

1. Summers can bring heavy rains and occasional flooding. Stay informed about weather forecasts.
2. Typhoons rarely hit Seoul directly but can cause heavy rain and strong winds, usually between July and September.
3. Yellow dust from China can affect air quality, particularly in spring. Check air quality indexes and wear a mask if needed.
4. Earthquakes are rare but not unheard of. Know basic earthquake safety procedures.

Nature's Reminder: During our visit, we experienced a yellow dust day. We were glad we had brought masks and could check the air quality on our apps. It didn't significantly impact our plans, but it was good to be prepared.

Comparative Safety: Seoul vs Other Major Cities

To put Seoul's safety in perspective, let's compare it to some other major cities:

1. Tokyo, Japan: Both cities rank high in safety, with low crime rates and efficient public transportation. Seoul edges out slightly in affordability.
2. New York City, USA: Seoul has a significantly lower crime rate and is generally considered safer, especially at night.
3. London, UK: While both are safe by global standards, Seoul has lower rates of petty crime like pickpocketing.
4. Bangkok, Thailand: Seoul is considerably safer, with lower risks of scams and petty theft.
5. Paris, France: Seoul has lower rates of pickpocketing and is generally considered safer at night.

Global Perspective: Having visited all these cities, we found Seoul to be the most comfortable in terms of safety. We felt at ease exploring at all hours, something we couldn't say for some other major metropolitan areas.

Final Thoughts: Is Seoul Safe?

After spending a week exploring Seoul, from its ancient palaces to its futuristic skyscrapers, we can confidently say: Yes, Seoul is safe. In fact, it's one of the safest major cities we've ever visited.

The combination of low crime rates, efficient public services, helpful locals, and advanced technology creates an environment where visitors can explore with confidence. Of course, as with any unfamiliar place, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and use common sense.

What impressed us most was how safety in Seoul doesn't come at the expense of excitement or cultural immersion. We felt secure whether we were wandering through bustling markets, enjoying late-night street food, or navigating the extensive public transportation system.

Our advice? Don't let unfounded safety concerns hold you back from experiencing this incredible city. With its fascinating blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge innovations, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality, Seoul offers a travel experience like no other.

So go ahead, book that trip to Seoul. Explore its palaces, sing your heart out in a noraebang (karaoke room), feast on bibimbap and Korean barbecue, and shop till you drop in Myeongdong. Do it all with the peace of mind that comes from being in one of the world's safest cities.

Seoul isn't just safe—it's a safe bet for an unforgettable travel adventure. We can't wait to go back!

Safe travels and 안녕히 가세요 (annyeonghi gaseyo - goodbye)!

West and Sarah Parker

P.S. Don't forget to try the Korean fried chicken. It's life-changing, and we promise it's safe for your taste buds (though maybe not for your waistline)!