maruarrive

Life in Maru

What you need to live well in Korea for weeks at a time: the streets around each Maru stay, city guides for a longer stay, and the everyday basics.

Commuters at a bustling Seoul subway station platform during the day.

Beyond Seoul

Seoul to Jeonju by KTX: Step-by-Step Train Booking Guide

Board a high-speed train in Seoul and step into Jeonju in under two hours with this step-by-step ticketing and arrival guide.

11 Nov 20263 min read

Asan Medical Center campus in Songpa, Seoul

City Guides

Asan Medical Center International Clinic vs Samsung

A clinical comparison of Seoul's top two hospitals and practical guidance on choosing outpatient accommodation for longer medical stays.

11 Nov 20263 min read

Cherry blossoms in Yeouido, Seoul

City Guides

Han River Park Spring Guide: Where to See Cherry Blossoms

A guide to catching Seoul's riverside cherry blossoms, from bustling festival avenues to peaceful wetland boardwalks.

11 Nov 20263 min read

Produce stalls at Garak Market in Songpa

Around the Stay

How to Shop at Garak Market Seoul for Fresh Produce and Seafood

A practical guide to buying seasonal produce, seafood, and pantry basics across Seoul's largest food wholesale district.

11 Nov 20263 min read

인천공항 2터미널역 역명판

City Guides

Incheon Airport to Seoul: Which Transfer Option Is Best for You?

A clear comparison of trains, airport limousine buses, and private taxis to help you choose the smoothest route into Seoul.

11 Nov 20265 min read

MMCA Seoul, the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art

City Guides

Seoul Contemporary Art Museums: Which Galleries Should You Visit?

A thoughtful guide to exploring the contemporary art scene across Seoul during an extended stay.

11 Nov 20264 min read

Lotte World Tower and Seokchon Lake in Songpa

Around the Stay

Songpa vs Gangnam: Where to Stay in Seoul Long Term?

Southern Seoul offers two distinct living rhythms across the Han River basin: dense corporate energy or open lakefront residential calm.

11 Nov 20263 min read

Fare gates at Myeongdong Station on Seoul Subway Line 4

Living in Korea

Seoul Monthly Transit Pass: T-money or Climate Card?

A straightforward look at baseline fares, monthly ride counts, and line restrictions to help you choose the most economical transit card in Seoul.

11 Nov 20263 min read

Apgujeong Rodeo Street in Gangnam

Around the Stay

Gangnam English Speaking Dermatology: Top Seoul Clinics

A practical guide to finding certified English-friendly skincare clinics along the main avenues of Gangnam.

11 Nov 20263 min read

Food stalls at a traditional market in Seoul at night

City Guides

Seoul Late Night Food: Where to Eat After Midnight

From steaming pots of pork backbone stew to bustling pre-dawn seafood auctions, Seoul keeps night owls well fed around the clock.

11 Nov 20264 min read

Living room and island kitchen of a serviced residence in Gangnam

Living in Korea

Seoul Monthly Apartment Rental: Serviced Residence or Hotel?

A clear breakdown of how serviced residences, hotels, and short-term rentals compare for travellers spending weeks in Seoul.

11 Nov 20263 min read

Few people in arrival hall at Incheon International Airport, Terminal 1, during coronavirus outbreak, March 6, 2020.

Living in Korea

Korea Tourist SIM Card, Transit, and Cash Setup Guide

A straightforward arrival checklist covering airport SIM counters, transit cards, cash exchange, and the mobile apps you need for your first weeks in Korea.

11 Nov 20264 min read

Hana Bank flagship branch in Myeong-dong, Seoul

Living in Korea

Korea Expat Banking and Medical Care: How Foreigners Get Started

A straightforward guide to setting up financial essentials and finding medical care during an extended stay in South Korea.

11 Nov 20264 min read

a bus stop covered in snow at night

City Guides

Seoul Night Bus: How to Ride Transit After Midnight

When the subways stop running at midnight, Seoul's Owl buses, midnight taxis, and driver services keep the city moving.

11 Nov 20264 min read

Serene autumn day walk through colorful foliage in Seoul's picturesque park.

Around the Stay

What Are the Best Things to Do in Songpa-gu on Weekends?

A quiet lake walk, expansive historic parklands, and local market food show a relaxed side of Seoul in Songpa.

11 Nov 20264 min read

Panoramic view of Seoul's skyline shrouded in fog, framed by lush autumn foliage.

Living in Korea

Korea Yellow Dust Season: How to Manage Air Quality and Allergies

A practical guide to tracking air quality, visiting neighborhood pharmacies, and protecting your lungs during spring in South Korea.

11 Nov 20263 min read

View of Namsan Tower and traditional architecture in Seoul, South Korea.

City Guides

Is Seoul Wheelchair Accessible for Daily Transit and Sightseeing?

A practical guide to elevators, river trails, and palace grounds across the capital for travellers managing wheelchairs, strollers, and slow walking.

11 Nov 20263 min read

Incheon International Airport, where most medical travellers arrive

Living in Korea

Korea Medical Visa: Rules and First 48 Hours

A clear guide to medical visa requirements, entry rules, and organising your initial days of care in South Korea.

11 Nov 20263 min read

a tower on top of a grassy hill

Beyond Seoul

Family Day Trips from Seoul: Transit and Destinations

A practical guide to choosing destinations, boarding regional trains with a stroller, and spending relaxed days beyond the capital.

11 Nov 20263 min read

A korean restaurant and market with many foods

City Guides

Seoul Winter Activities: What to Eat and Where to Warm Up

Embrace sub-zero days in Seoul with steaming market treats and restorative afternoon visits to warm bathhouses.

11 Nov 20263 min read

Black and white storefront of a korean laundry shop

Living in Korea

How to Do Laundry in Korea: Studio Washers and Coin Laundromats

A clear guide to operating washing machines, visiting coin laundromats, and sourcing detergent during a multi-week stay in Korea.

10 Nov 20263 min read