✧ Series Note – South Korea Trip 2024 ✧
Feels like coming home. Like flipping through a familiar chapter, this time with braver eyes and a bolder heart. 🇰🇷✨
📅 November 01-06, 2024

🚉 A Spontaneous Start

On my second day in Seoul, I returned to Nami Island—this time at my sister’s request. I didn’t have a fixed itinerary, and honestly, I prefer it that way. It gives me the freedom to fully immerse myself in each place, letting spontaneity guide the adventure.

I woke up at 5 AM and hopped on Line 4 (Incheon-bound), transferring at Ichon Station to the Gyeongui-Jungang Line, then again at Sangbong to the Gyeongchun Line bound for Gapyeong. It was a long journey, but I made it—unlike last year, when I canceled the plan after getting lost in the train maze.

🥾 A Quiet Walk to the Wharf

It was a long journey—but I made it. Unlike last year, when I had to cancel my Nami Island plan because I couldn’t figure out the train route. This time, reaching Gapyeong felt like a quiet victory.

Once there, familiar sights greeted me: the Gapyeong Tourist Information Center, friendly staff, and the calm buzz of travelers. The lady at the desk explained how to get to Nami Island and mentioned that the hop-on-hop-off Gapyeong Tourist Bus would arrive around 10:00 AM. I had time to spare, so I grabbed breakfast at a nearby CU convenience store.

🚶‍♀️ A Walk Through Rural Serenity

Back at the tourist center, I noticed a solo female traveler asking how to reach the Nami Island Wharf on foot. The staff gave her directions—a 20-minute walk, she said. Quietly inspired, I decided to follow her path while checking Naver Map for guidance.

I wished I had her sense of direction, but the stroll turned into a peaceful detour. We passed through rural areas—stunning in their simplicity, far from the noise and pace of city life. The only downside was a traffic jam near the wharf and the aching pain from my boots. Still, walking those quiet roads was something I won’t forget.

🍁 Nami Island, Hello Again!

With my online ticket validated, I boarded the ferry to Nami Island. Within minutes, we docked—and I stepped into a storybook.

The calm lake mirrored the sky. Trees were cloaked in fiery autumn colors. It was like stepping into a dream.

As I wandered the tree-lined paths, I felt transported. Nami Island has this magical way of slowing time. The serene atmosphere and stunning views explain why it’s such a popular destination—especially during fall.

I never got to finish watching Winter Sonata, the famous drama filmed here. But seeing the photos, benches, and statues around the island brought me back to the early 2000s, when the Korean Wave first swept into my country. The nostalgia filled me with quiet joy.

🥘 A Cozy Meal & Keepsakes

After exploring, soaking in the scenery, and watching happy visitors pass by, I stopped at a cozy local restaurant. The warm smell of traditional Korean dishes drifted out the door and pulled me in.

I sat near a window, excited to taste the flavors of the season—comfort food at its best.

Later, I wandered through Nami Island’s souvenir shops, hunting for keepsakes. Handmade crafts, traditional snacks, and art lined the shelves. I also sent a postcard, featuring a stunning landscape shot of the island—my way of freezing a moment in time.

As I penned my message, I felt overwhelmed with gratitude for this island and its quiet magic.

🚄 Back to Seoul, Braver Than Before

Determined to challenge myself, I walked back to Gapyeong Station—solo this time. No more following strangers. I knew the way now. I felt confident.

Once at the station, curiosity got the better of me, and I bought a KTX ticket to Yongsan Station for just KRW 6,000. This high-speed train had fewer stops, and I was eager to experience it.

From Yongsan, I transferred to Line 1 heading back to Seoul Station. My feet were sore from all the walking, so I returned to the guesthouse to change and rest. The weather had grown noticeably colder as night fell.

🍢 Myeongdong Food Trip & Holiday Glow

For dinner, I headed to Myeongdong—a place I hold dear. Instead of dining in the pricier restaurants, I chose a street food tour. Though Myeongdong’s stalls are a bit more expensive than Namdaemun Market, I was full and satisfied by the end.

Every Christmas, a large department store in this area sets up a gorgeous LED display, adding magic to the holiday season. That festive atmosphere, paired with the lights, always makes my heart full.

Myeongdong is more than a shopping district for me—it’s a feeling. A memory. A tradition.

🌸 Reflection:

That day reminded me why I travel. Not just to see beautiful places, but to feel them—to walk unfamiliar paths, make small choices that turn into lifelong memories, and let nostalgia dance with the present.

Nami Island didn’t just offer autumn leaves and scenic views—it gave me a sense of peace I hadn’t realized I needed.

I arrived there uncertain, tired, and nostalgic.
I left with warmth, clarity, and a renewed sense of direction.

*** I wrapped up 2024 with a solo trip to South Korea as the finale. From visa anxieties to subway rides, from cathedral quiet to Myeongdong chaos, I’m documenting the highs, lows, and everything in between. Thank you for reading, supporting, and walking this path with me—one step, one train, one heartwarming misadventure at a time. 💙***