A Glow-Up Trip to Seoul

1. Haircut and head spa at Juno Hair or EcoJardin: Seoul salons combine precision haircuts with luxurious head spa treatments that deeply treat the scalp and restore hair health, making it a must-do beauty ritual.

2. Advanced skincare treatments and facials: From laser treatments to dehydration and red-light therapy facials, Seoul’s skin clinics offer cutting-edge treatments that deliver visible, confidence-boosting results.

3. Shopping in Myeongdong: A beauty lover’s paradise, Myeongdong is ideal for discovering skincare, makeup, and masks while testing products in-store and taking advantage of generous samples.

4. Shopping at COEX Mall: COEX offers a more curated shopping experience with a mix of global brands, Korean fashion, cafés, and wellness-focused stores all in one stylish space. Visit the Starfield Library in the mall, where many influencers are taking their pictures and selfies.

5. Exploring Seongsu (Seong-dong): Known for its creative energy, Seongsu is perfect for finding emerging Korean designers, concept shops, and trend-forward cafés with a relaxed, local feel. Also go early before 10 am to get a slot for a free beauty assessment at Olive Young.

6. Visit Bukchon Hanok Village: This historic neighborhood offers a serene walk through traditional hanok homes, providing a beautiful cultural contrast to Seoul’s fast-paced modern life.

7. Beauty Play in Myeongdong or Hongdae: Beauty Play is an interactive K-beauty experience where you can learn about Korean beauty brands, receive a free makeup lesson, or do a personalized color and skin analysis using advanced AI technology. You’ll get a detailed report that helps guide smarter shopping for skincare and makeup throughout your trip at stores like Olive Young, Innisfree, Missha, and Etude.

Here are my favorite places to eat and drink in Seoul:

1. Woo Lae Oak: A Seoul institution known for its refined Pyongyang-style naengmyeon and exceptional Korean barbecue, especially galbi. The clean, subtle flavors make this a must-visit for understanding traditional Korean cuisine at a high level.

2. Buchon Yukhoe: Famous for its ultra-fresh yukhoe (Korean beef tartare), this spot is beloved for its quality, simplicity, and late-night market energy. Pair it with raw beef and pear for a uniquely Korean delicacy.

3. Mukjung: A hidden gem for Korean comfort food, Mukjung excels at deeply flavorful dishes like doenjang jjigae and hearty home-style plates that feel warm and authentic.

4. Pildong Myeonok: One of the best places in Seoul for Pyongyang-style cold noodles, known for its delicate, broth-forward naengmyeon that highlights subtlety over spice.

5. Pyeongyang Myeonok: A classic destination for lovers of traditional Pyongyang naengmyeon, offering clean buckwheat noodles and a restrained broth that locals swear by.

6. Niuroumianguan: This beloved Chinese-Korean spot is known for its hand-pulled beef noodle soup, delivering bold flavors and comforting depth, especially satisfying after a long day of exploring.

Signature dishes I always recommend trying in Seoul:

• kimchi (try at least three types: napa cabbage, white kimchi, and radish kimchi)

• doenjang jjigae (soybean paste stew)

• galbi-jjim (braised short ribs)

• Korean fried chicken (crispy, juicy, and addictive)

• jeon (savory pancakes similar to a Korean take on fish and chips)

• mandu (dumplings in many styles)

• and kimbap for an easy, delicious meal on the go.