Nestled between Inwang and Bugak mountains, Buamdong is a peaceful backwater neighborhood located in the center of Seoul, shielded by nature from the neon and concrete that drench the remainder of the metropolis. Boasting only a single bus stop, Buamdong is not the most convenient place to visit. It’s this very remoteness, however, that has …
Korea may be one of the world’s leading economies and fastest developing nations, but its modern history is a turbulent one. To the outsider, it can be difficult to spot the signs of Seoul’s struggles and suffering through the glitz and glamour of the city’s sparkling facade. But if one looks in the right places, …
The penis. As unattractive as it may be, it has remained to be an important symbol of strength, fertility and power in cultures all the world over since the beginning of time. From ancient Pompeii to Egyptian hieroglyphics to the costumes of modern day tribesmen of New Guinea, phallic imagery has been used unabashedly. Unsurprisingly, …
N’Seoul Tower. Gyeongbokgung. Myeongdong. Garuso-gil. Very few tourists come to Seoul without these must-see attractions at the top of their to-do lists. And for good reason, as each offers a unique insight into Korea’s capital city. However, there is a different Seoul waiting to be explored by the more curious traveler. In fact, there is …
A helmet-less child and a middle aged man ride up the hill that I’m descending. Their motorcycle suddenly stops in front of me, just next to a closed doorway and the little boy, no older than six, demounts the rumbling bike. The boy bows toward the man. “Kamsa hamneeda,” he thanks his elder before turning …