10 bars/restaurants with the Han River view as its backdrop in Seoul, South Korea, to visit

Han River View Bar & Restaurants

Want to dine with Seoul’s Han River within sight?

We’ve scoured a list of bars/restaurants that offer you just that.

Some offer course sets which can be quite pricey if you’re on a budget; others have ala carte menus so take your pick.

And of course, enjoy the view 😉

Near Dongjak Station

녹트 | NOCT

 

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Opening hours:

6 pm to 12 am (Daily; closed on Sundays)

Prices: Ala carte starts from 8,000 KRW (approx. 7+ SGD)

Address: 서울 용산구 올림픽대로 2085-96 THE RIVER 2층 | Seoul, Yongsan District, Olympic-daero, 2085-96, The River (2nd Floor)

Distance: 938 m from Exit 2 of Dongjak Station

르다 | Le Da

 

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Opening hours:

12 pm to 10 pm (Daily; closed on Mondays)

3 pm to 6 pm (Break Time)

Prices: Lunch course starts from 95,000 KRW (approx. 89+ SGD)

Address: 서울 용산구 올림픽대로 2085-96 THE RIVER 3층 | Seoul, Yongsan District, Olympic-daero, 2085-96, The River (3rd Floor)

Distance: 942 m from Exit 2 of Dongjak Station

멜트 | Melt

 

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Opening hours:

7 pm to 1 am (Daily; closed on Sundays & Mondays)

Prices: Ala carte starts from 18,000 KRW (approx. 16+ SGD)

Address: 서울 용산구 올림픽대로 2085-96 THE RIVER 2.5층 | Seoul, Yongsan District, Olympic-daero, 2085-96, The River (2.5th Floor)

Distance: 948 m from Exit 2 of Dongjak Station

Near Sangsu Station

서강8경 | Seogang 8 Kyung

Opening hours:

12 pm to 12 am (Daily)

3 pm to 5.30 pm (Break Time 1)

7.30 pm to 8 pm (Break Time 2)

Prices: Lunch course starts from 110,000 KRW (approx. 103+ SGD)

Address: 서울 마포구 토정로 128 프렌치룸레스토랑8층, 홀 다이닝바9층 | 128 Tojeong-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul (8th & 9th Floor)

Distance: 463 m from Exit 3 of Sangsu Station

다이닝늘 홍대점 | Dining Neul (Hongdae)

Opening hours:

11.30 am to 10.30 pm (Daily)

3 pm to 5 pm (Break Time)

Prices: Lunch set starts from 35,000 KRW (approx. 32+ SGD)

Address: 서울 마포구 토정로 136-13 6층 | 136-13 Tojeong-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul (6th Floor)

Distance: 609 m from Exit 3 of Sangsu Station

레스토랑괴르츠 | Gortz

 

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Opening hours:

11.30 am to 11.30 pm (Daily)

Prices: Lunch pasta set starts from 59,000 KRW (approx. 55+ SGD)

Address: 서울 마포구 토정로 136-13 JNC빌딩 7층 | 136-13 Tojeong-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, JNC Building (7th Floor)

Distance: 609 m from Exit 3 of Sangsu Station

Near other stations

르포르테 | ㅣLe Forte

Opening hours:

5 pm to 12 am (Daily; closed on Sundays)

Prices: Ala carte starts from 17,000 KRW (approx. 15+ SGD)

Address: 서울 영등포구 양평로 68 DN빌딩 12층 | 68 Yangpyeong-ro, Yeongdeungpo District, Seoul, DN Building (12th Floor)

Distance: 212 m from Exit 13 of Dangsan Station

레스토랑 아이오유 | Resturant I. O. U

Opening hours:

11 am to 10.30 pm (Daily)

2.30 pm to 5 pm (Break Time)

Prices: Special course starts from 78,000 KRW (approx. 73+ SGD)

Address: 서울 용산구 원효로1길 16 | 16 Wonhyo-ro 1-gil, Yongsan District, Seoul

Distance: 549 m from Exit 4 of Mapo Station

블루페이지 | Blue Page Lounge

Opening hours:

11 am to 9.30 pm (Daily)

Prices: Ala carte starts from 8,000 KRW (approx. 7+ SGD)

Address: 서울 서초구 잠원동 121-9 | 121-9 Jamwon-dong, Seocho District, Seoul

Distance: Less than a 5-minute cab ride from Jamwon Station or approx. a 16-minute walk from Jamwon Station

메종한남브이 | Maison Hannam V

 

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Opening hours:

6 pm to 2 am (Daily)

Prices: Ala carte starts from 8,000 KRW (approx. 7+ SGD)

Address: 서울 용산구 유엔빌리지3길 24 | 24 UN village 3-gil, Yongsan District, Seoul

Distance: Less than a 10-minute cab ride from Hangangjin Station

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Best Ways to Spend Your Korean Won This December

My husband, his sister, my mother-in-law, and I are ready to brave the chilly winter weather as we embark on our holiday adventure in South Korea this December! We are ready to experience the local culture with every bite of delicious Korean food, put my Hangul skills to the test, and indulge in the world-renowned K-beauty products.

With a limited budget but an abundance of things to explore, I did my research to discover the best ways to spend our Korean won.

#1: BEAUTY OF JOSEON PROPOLIS SERUM

I’ve always been intrigued by honey in skincare, and the Beauty of Joseon Propolis Serum is exactly what my skin needs this winter. This honey-like serum is packed with propolis and niacinamide to balance oil production, minimize pores, and even out skin tone. It’s hydrating without feeling greasy. For about 21,000 KRW, this serum can provide what we need for the dry winter air.

#2: COSRX LOW PH GOOD MORNING GEL CLEANSER

As a longtime fan of COSRX, this gel cleanser never disappoints. It gently cleanses without stripping your skin, thanks to its pH-balanced formula. With BHA to unclog pores and tea tree oil to zap zits, this daily face wash keeps me feeling fresh without worrying about breakouts or dryness. It retails for as low as 10,000 KRW.

#3: SAEM ICELAND HYDRATING EYE STICK

For those days when I’ve hit the snooze button one too many times, The Saem’s Iceland Hydrating Eye Stick is a lifesaver. Infused with Icelandic glacier water, it delivers an instant hydration boost, giving my eyes the freshness they need to start the day right. It’s priced at 8,500 KRW.

#4: MIXSOON BEAN CREAM

Finding the perfect moisturizer can feel impossible until I discovered Mixsoon Bean Cream, selling for about 30,000 KRW. This thick yet light cream is a game-changer, leaving my skin plump, hydrated, and dewy. It’s truly the kind of cream I can see myself using for years to come.

#5: ROM&ND JUICY LASTING TINT

This lip tint is a cult favorite for a reason. Known for its long-lasting formula, the Rom&nd Juicy Lasting Tint offers beautifully soft shades. It’s perfect for achieving a natural, lasting lip look with minimal touch-ups throughout the day. Tint is priced at 13,000 KRW.

Image Credits: romand.us/products/rom-nd-juicy-lasting-tint

#6: AOU GLOWY TINT BALM

AOU has become one of my favorite K-beauty brands, especially their Glowy Tint Balm. Popular among K-pop idols, this balm works double duty as both a lip and cheek tint. For a flesh glow, you can get it for 18,000 KRW.

#7: TEAZEN KOMBUCHA

If you’re looking for a refreshing, healthy drink, Teazen Kombucha is a must-try. Loved by BTS’s Jungkook, this low-calorie, sugar-free kombucha comes in flavors like Shine Muscat and Peach. It retails for about 2,000 KRW.

#8: DELIGHT PROJECT BAGEL CHIPS

You haven’t truly tasted Korea until you’ve tried DELIGHT PROJECT’s bagel chips. Available in savory flavors like “Corn Soup” and “Real Pizza,” these crispy treats are a perfect snack while shopping or exploring. They’re addictive and definitely worth the purchase (i.e., 5,000 KRW each), even if the portions are a bit small.

#9: MEDIHEAL SHEET MASKS

As an avid fan of Korean skincare, I swear by sheet masks for instant hydration. MEDIHEAL offers a range of options, including their Watermide and Tea Tree masks, which are perfect for soothing dry or acne-prone skin. These masks (i.e., 2,000 KRW per mask) leave your skin feeling refreshed and rejuvenated after just one use.

#10: OMORI KIMCHI STEW RAMYUN

Warm up with a bowl of Omori Kimchi Stew Ramyun for about 2,500 KRW. The soft noodles and flavorful broth strike the perfect balance between spicy and tangy, with just the right amount of kimchi. It’s a comfort food that’s perfect for a chilly day in Seoul.

#11: K-FISH FISH CAKES

For a taste of traditional Korean street food, try K-fish fish cakes. These are often used in dishes like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and budae-jjigae (army stew). They’re chewy, savory, and packed with flavor. It retails in the grocery for about 3,500 KRW.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

#12: HAIO SEAWEED

Haio Seaweed (i.e., about 1,500 KRW each) is a simple yet delightful treat. Fresh, lightly toasted with sesame oil, it’s perfect for snacking or pairing with a bowl of rice. It’s the kind of snack you’ll want to stock up on!

#13: CHOCO PIE

No trip to Korea is complete without trying a Choco Pie. This chocolate-coated marshmallow cake, which costs approximately 1,500 KRW, is a beloved Korean snack. With unique flavors constantly being released, it’s always fun to try something new.

#14: AUTHENTIC GINSENG

Looking for an uncommon souvenir? Visit the ginseng market in Jegi-dong for high-quality ginseng products. From raw ginseng to extracts, you’ll find something for every budget, with most tourists spending around 50,000 to 80,000 KRW.

#15: KOREAN SOCKS

One of the best souvenirs you can buy in Korea are their famous socks. Whether you’re looking for something cozy or quirky, you can find a wide variety at affordable prices usually ranging from 1,000 to 3,000 KRW.

#16: FACE CARICATURES

Finally, capture the fun and whimsy of Korea with a face caricature. This entertaining experience allows you to transform your features into a playful work of art. This is perfect for a memorable souvenir or a gift for a loved one. Experience it for about 30,000 to 50,000 KRW via Klook app.

With so much to explore and so little time, these are just a few of the things I can’t wait to try. Which ones will you purchase? Feel free to comment below.

Image Credits: facebook.com/ittsfarahh

Sources: 1,2, 3, & 4

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45 newly launched foodstuffs from Korea’s convenience store to try before November 2024 ends

Korea Convenience Store CU Newly Launched Foodstuffs

Let’s cut to the chase.

Here’s a list of newly launched foodstuffs this month from CU, a well-known Korean convenience store chain located almost at every corner you turn in kimchi land.

Have fun searching!

#1a: 405 Bakehouse’s Potato Cheese Steamed Bagel (3,400 KRW; approx. 3.28 SGD)

#1b: 405 Bakehouse’s Sweet Potato Cheese Steamed Bagel (3,400 KRW; approx. 3.28 SGD)

#1c: Rilakkuma’s DIY Face Cookie (2,500 KRW; approx. 2.41 SGD)

#2a: Zeroweet’s Zero Sugar Vanilla Bar (3,300 KRW; approx. 3.18 SGD)

#2b: Zeroweet’s Zero Sugar Chocolate Bar (3,300 KRW; approx. 3.18 SGD)

#2c: Rilakkuma Stick Bar Caramel (Ice Cream) (2,800 KRW; approx. 2.70 SGD)

#3a: Chinese-style Dosirak (6,200 KRW; approx. 5.98 SGD)

#3b: Fried Squid Kimbab (Long Size) (4,000 KRW; approx. 3.86 SGD)

#3c: Gamjatang (Triangle) Fried Rice Ball (1,600 KRW; approx. 1.54 SGD)

#4a: Cheese Meat Sauce Pasta (5,500 KRW; approx. 5.30 SGD)

#4b: Meat Croquette Burger (3,400 KRW; approx. 3.28 SGD)

#4c: Fish Cake Bar (Hot Jalapeno) (3,500 KRW; approx. 3.37 SGD)

#5a: Jib-bab’s Fried Anchovies Chili Pepper Triangle Rice Ball (1,200 KRW; approx. 1.16 SGD)

#5b: Jib-bab’s Jangjorim Triangle Rice Ball (1,300 KRW; approx. 1.25 SGD)

#5c: Jib-bab’s Seasoned Shredded Squid Triangle Rice Ball (1,200 KRW; approx. 1.16 SGD)

#6a: Geum-mi-ok’s Rice Cakes (3,700 KRW; approx. 3.57 SGD)

#6b: Seafood Flavored Peanuts (2,800 KRW; approx. 2.70 SGD)

#6c: HEYROO’s Rice Syrup Conch Shaped Snack (1,500 KRW; approx. 1.45 SGD)

#7a: S’more Beef Burger (3,600 KRW; approx. 3.47 SGD)

#7b: Deep Cheese Beef Burger (3,500 KRW; approx. 3.37 SGD)

#7c: Teriyaki Chicken Burger (3,500 KRW; approx. 3.37 SGD)

#8a: Chicken Breast Garlic Bar (1,900 KRW; approx. 1.83 SGD)

#8b: Chicken Breast Cheese Bar (1,900 KRW; approx. 1.83 SGD)

#8c: Coffee Milk (South Korean Shooter Kim Ye-ji’s Pick) (1,800 KRW; approx. 1.73 SGD)

#9a: Rilakkuma Jelly (Tangerine) (1,600 KRW; approx. 1.54 SGD)

#9b: Digimon Apple Mango Iced Tea (2,600 KRW; approx. 2.51 SGD)

#9c: Peach Iced Tea (2,600 KRW; approx. 2.51 SGD)

#10a: Egg Salad with Strawberry Jam Sandwich (South Korean Table Tennis Player Shin Yu-bin’s Pick) (3,300 KRW; approx. 3.18 SGD)

#10b: Giant Ricotta Tuna Sandwich (4,000 KRW; approx. 3.86 SGD)

#10c: Giant Ham Potato Tuna Sandwich (4,000 KRW; approx. 3.86 SGD)

#11a: LOL Ekko Sausage Bread (2,400 KRW; approx. 2.31 SGD)

#11b: LOL Jayce Choco Bread (2,200 KRW; approx. 2.12 SGD)

#11c: Lalasweet’s Low Sugar Red Bean Steamed Bun (2,300 KRW; approx. 2.22 SGD)

#12a: Sweet Coffee Original (South Korean Shooter Kim Ye-ji’s Pick) (2,600 KRW; approx. 2.51 SGD)

#12b: Sweet Coffee Hazelnut (South Korean Shooter Kim Ye-ji’s Pick) (2,600 KRW; approx. 2.51 SGD)

#12c: Honey Pear Syrup (1,200 KRW; approx. 1.16 SGD)

#13a: Knotted Earl Grey Cream Donut (3,500 KRW; approx. 3.37 SGD)

#13b: Strawberry Yogurt Roll (Cake) (3,900 KRW; approx. 3.76 SGD)

#13c: Steamed Corn Mini Sand(wich) (2,300 KRW; approx. 2.22 SGD)

#14a: Grilled Onion Hotdog (Bun) (3,700 KRW; approx. 3.57 SGD)

#14b: Buldak Corn Cheese Steamed Hotdog (3,900 KRW; approx. 3.76 SGD)

#14c: Bulgogi Flavored Flank (2,200 KRW; approx. 2.12 SGD)

#15a: PIG’s Granola Salad (4,500 KRW; approx. 4.34 SGD)

#15b: PIG’s Chicken Tender Salad (4,500 KRW; approx. 4.34 SGD)

#15c: POP! Cup Butter Whole Potatoes (4,500 KRW; approx. 4.34 SGD)

All image credits to CU.

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6 Types of Tourists Singaporeans Love

Not all tourists are created equal! While Singaporeans are generally welcoming to foreigners, there are a few traits they really appreciate in visitors.

So, strive to be the kind of tourist that locals welcome with open arms.

#1: FOODIES WHO LOVE LOCAL FLAVORS

If you adore food, you’re already off to a great start. Singaporeans are passionate about their cuisine, and nothing warms their hearts more than seeing visitors enjoy iconic dishes like: Chili Crab, Char Kway Teow, Nasi Lemak, Kaya Toast, Roti Prata, Hokkien Mee, Laksa, and Chicken Rice.

Dive into a hawker center, explore the vibrant food scene, and don’t forget to snap your meal.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

#2: QUIET CONVERSATIONALISTS

Singaporeans cherish their peace and quiet, especially in public spaces. If you’re chatting with your group, keep it at a considerate volume. Loud conversations in the MRT or while queuing for food can irk the locals. A little “hush hush” goes a long way in maintaining harmony.

#3: THE RESPECTFUL COMMUTERS

Meet Stand-Up Stacey, the unofficial hero of Singapore’s public transport system. What makes her special? She always gives up her seat to those who need it such as elderly passengers, pregnant women, or people with disabilities.

If you’re seated in a priority spot on the MRT or bus, take note of your surroundings. Ignoring this unspoken rule won’t just earn you a side-eye as it’ll also reflect poorly on your tourist etiquette.

#4: CULTURE & HERITAGE LOVERS

Singapore’s rich heritage is a beautiful mosaic of cultures, traditions, and history. Whether you’re exploring Chinatown, Little India, or Kampong Glam, show your respect for these heritage sites. Avoid littering, follow the rules, and appreciate the stories behind these spaces.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

After all, it’s not just sightseeing…it’s immersing yourself in Singapore’s soul.

#5: POLITE INQUIRERS

Lost in the city? Need help ordering at a hawker center? Singaporeans are generally friendly and happy to help, but they’ll appreciate it even more if you ask politely. A warm smile and a simple “Excuse me, could you help me?” will take you far.

#6: INSTAGRAM-WORTHY PHOTOGRAPHERS

Singapore is a visual feast, with landmarks like Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, and Jewel Changi Airport offering endless photo ops. Locals love seeing visitors post stunning shots of the city. However, you have to make it tasteful. Avoid overcrowding spots just for a selfie, and always respect no-photo zones.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Being a thoughtful tourist isn’t just about following rules, it’s about embracing the local way of life. Do it right, and you’ll leave with not just amazing memories, but also the admiration of the locals!

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4 top-rated Japanese language schools to enroll in Singapore so you can get past just saying “konnichiwa”

a Japanese city

Ready to go beyond the basic “konnichiwa” and gain mastery of the Japanese language?

Allow us to help.

In this article, you will find a list of top-rated Japanese language schools in Singapore to help you achieve fluency and confidence in speaking Japanese.

Let’s roll!

Tomo Japanese Language School

tomo-japanese.com

Website: tomo-japanese.com

Google Rating: 5 (560+ reviews)

Address: 190 Clemenceau Ave, #03 #02, Singapore 239924

Forget textbook drudgery because, at Tomo Japanese Language School, fluency means fun first.

Their teaching method weaves together speaking, reading, writing, and listening to “train” you into an all-rounded Japanese speaker.

But it doesn’t stop at language.

Beyond the classroom, you will be exposed to the REAL culture of Japan, no tourist cliches there.

These practical lessons equip you with the real-world skills to thrive in Japanese business and society, whether you dream of working in Tokyo or simply want to connect with locals at a deeper level.

Tuition fees are priced at $450 for a 10-lesson term.

Tsubasa Language Services

learnjapanese.sg

Website: learnjapanese.sg

Google Rating: 5 (30+ reviews)

Address: 808 French Rd, Singapore 200808

Tsubasa Language Services isn’t your run-of-the-mill language school.

It features passionate local instructors, armed with rigorous teacher training, and can guide you on a journey through language, cuisine, travel, values, and more.

Starting from just $260 for an 8-class beginner package, Tsubasa makes Japanese fluency accessible easily.

What began as one man’s dream has blossomed into a well-sought-after destination for those seeking a better understanding of the Land of the Rising Sun.

Hougang Japanese Language School

hougangjapanese.com

Website: hougangjapanese.com

Google Rating: 5 (20+ reviews)

Address: 134 Jurong Gateway Rd, #02 303A, Singapore 600134

Founded in 1983 by Mr. Kenji Kitahara, a master of both Japanese linguistics and Chinese Mandarin, this school has spent over 40 years nurturing Singapore’s curiosity about Japan.

Now helmed by his son Yutaro, the family’s devotion to Japanese education remains unbroken.

Their beginner’s Elementary I course starts at just $300 for 32 hours of learning.

Or go all-in with the exclusive “lifetime student” membership, allowing unlimited learning for one affordable fee (from $1000).

Taiyo Japanese Language School

taiyo.edu.sg

Website: taiyo.edu.sg

Google Rating: 5 (10+ reviews)

Address: 20 Kramat Lane United House #05-05, Singapore 228773

Last but not least, you will want to cast aside visions of dusty Japanese textbooks and droning grammar lectures.

At Taiyo Japanese Language School, their approach makes learning the language as engaging as it is effective.

From day one, you will be taught practical, everyday conversation phrases so those follow-ups after “konnichiwas” roll off your tongue with confidence.

They will cover grammar to build your fluency, but rules take a back seat to real-world speaking.

After just one week, you could find yourself throwing out Japanese with your boss or clients over lunch.

The path to Japanese mastery is paved here not with tedious drills but with a curriculum focused on lively dialog and role-playing.

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