This year, I had a unique experience of spending the New Year alone in Seoul. The Korean New Year, also known as Seollal, is an important traditional holiday that typically lasts for three days. During this time, many locals travel back to their hometowns to celebrate with family, which can make the city feel quieter than usual.
I was initially quite concerned about finding places to eat during the holiday period. In Korea, many restaurants and cafes close down for these few days as owners and staff take time off to reunite with their loved ones. This left me wondering if I would be able to find any open eateries or food options while exploring the city.
To prepare for this situation, I did some research beforehand and discovered that certain areas of Seoul remain more active during holidays. For instance, popular tourist spots like Myeongdong and Insadong tend to have shops and restaurants that stay open to cater to visitors. Additionally, large shopping malls and convenience stores are generally operational throughout the holiday season, offering a variety of ready-made meals and snacks.
Despite my initial worries, I found that there were still plenty of options available for someone celebrating the New Year solo in Seoul. The experience turned out to be both memorable and enlightening, allowing me to appreciate the local traditions while also adapting to the changes in the city's atmosphere during this special time.