Day 2: Landing and Unraveling in Seoul
- wanderingazuki
- Jul 16
- 9 min read
Table of Content
🌺 Introduction 🫘
"The journey is just as important as the destination." - Unknown
After a long flight, I finally arrived in Seoul and wasted no time jumping straight into the adventure. From the convenience of the K-Limo bus ride to the luxurious Lotte Hotel Seoul, the journey felt seamless and exciting. I explored the vibrant streets of Myeongdong, indulged in a hearty meal of jokbal, and had my first taste of the city's night energy. With a lot of food, laughter, and unexpected surprises along the way, Day 2 in Seoul was just the beginning of what promises to be an unforgettable trip.
✈️ Touchdown Seoul: The Adventure Begins 🚌
We opted for a red-eye flight, hoping we’d get better rest in the air. My mum slept like a dream—she loved being able to fully recline and stretch out in her own space. I wasn’t quite as lucky; sleep came in short, broken stretches. I’ve always found it hard to sleep in a new environment. Still, during the moments we were awake, we made the most of the inflight entertainment or reading. I really appreciated having the freedom to doze off or tune in as I pleased—having my own space to relax made all the difference.
Just when it felt like morning according to our body clocks, the cabin lights were turned on. Thankfully, the eye mask they provided helped a lot—I actually managed to catch some rest during that window. Then came ‘breakfast’ — though it was listed under snacks on the menu, it was definitely a generous and satisfying one. I started with lemongrass and ginger-flavoured prawns with mango salsa, which turned out to be the perfect palate cleanser — light, zesty, and refreshing.
Side note📝: I told my mum I thought the tiny olive oil bottles were adorable (I’ve got such a soft spot for miniature things). The flight attendants overheard and later came by with an extra one for me — so sweet of them, it really made me smile.
For the main, I had the vegetable lasagna — comforting, flavourful, and just the kind of warm dish that hits the spot mid-flight. It did feel a bit heavy for something labelled as a snack (and technically breakfast by the flight schedule), but since it was already lunchtime by local time, I wasn’t complaining — especially with a chilled glass of orange juice to wash it all down.
My mum opted for the braised beef with rice, which looked just as hearty and delicious.
We finally touched down in Seoul around 5:30 PM, excitement bubbling with every step as we made our way through Incheon International Airport. Immigration was a breeze, and baggage collection went just as smoothly. One of the perks of flying business class was that our luggage came out first, so we didn’t have to wait long at all. After what felt like an eternity of travel, I was absolutely thrilled to have arrived. The cool evening breeze and bright city lights made it feel like the adventure had truly begun.
Following the signs through the terminal, we made our way to the ICN Bus ticket counter to catch the Limousine Bus (6701) to our hotel. I’d already purchased our vouchers on Klook.com, so exchanging them for physical tickets was quick and easy. The staff at the counter were kind and helpful, guiding me through the process without any trouble.
Tip✨: Depending on which terminal you arrive at, the bus counter may be in a different location—so it’s a good idea to check ahead!
Tip✨: Before hopping in a taxi or navigating train routes, consider taking the K-Limousine Bus from Incheon Airport. It’s a convenient, affordable, and stress-free way to get to major areas in Seoul like Gangnam or Myeongdong, and it stops right outside many larger hotels. The buses are clean, comfortable, and reliable—perfect if you’re travelling with luggage. Just be sure to check the schedule and pick-up points in advance!
After receiving our tickets, we waited around 15 minutes for the next bus—departures seemed to run every 30 minutes. When it arrived, the staff kindly loaded our luggage into the compartment below, and we hopped on board, ready to relax. The journey into the city was smooth and comfortable, though quite long—just over an hour, I think. We got off at the Euljiro 1-ga Station stop, which turned out to be right outside Lotte Hotel Seoul. No need to wander or stress about directions—just a short, straight walk to the entrance.
🏨 Lotte Hotel Seoul: Luxury from the Moment You Step In ❤️
The moment we arrived at Lotte Hotel Seoul, we were warmly greeted by the doormen, who immediately helped us with our luggage. Their attentive service set the tone right away—professional, seamless, and genuinely welcoming.
Stepping through the doors felt like entering another world. The lobby was an oasis of elegance, with high ceilings, gleaming marble floors, and soft ambient lighting that created a calm, sophisticated atmosphere. Plush seating in the lounge area, curated floral arrangements, and the gentle hum of soft piano music in the background made it feel more like a luxury retreat than a hotel. I couldn’t help but smile—this was the kind of place that made you feel instantly at ease and quietly spoiled.
We were promptly ushered to the check-in counter, where the staff continued the excellent service with friendly smiles and efficient assistance. The process was smooth and effortless, and to my delight, I was offered a complimentary room upgrade—an unexpected surprise that instantly lifted my tired spirits. What a lovely way to kick off the trip!
The upgraded room did not disappoint. Spacious, tastefully decorated, and designed with comfort in mind, it was the perfect sanctuary after a long journey. From the plush bedding and modern amenities to the thoughtful layout that made unpacking a breeze, everything felt intentional and well-executed. I could already picture myself unwinding here over the next few nights—whether curling up with a drama, sipping tea by the window, or just soaking in the comfort of it all.
Side note📝: Kicking myself a little for not snapping more photos of the hotel room — it was such a lovely space 😟
🍽️ Dinner at a Jokbal Joint: Meat Overload 🍖
After settling into our room and taking a moment to freshen up, our stomachs were rumbling—it was officially time for dinner. I had originally planned to explore the Lotte Department Store food court conveniently located next door, but to my disappointment, it had already closed for the evening. A minor letdown, sure, but I wasn’t about to let that stop us from diving into our first proper Korean meal.
Determined to find something local and hearty, we wandered a little and soon stumbled upon a nearby jokbal restaurant tucked along one of the side streets. For those unfamiliar, jokbal is a traditional Korean dish made from pig’s trotters, slow-braised in a savoury-sweet mixture of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and spices until melt-in-your-mouth tender. It’s rich, flavourful, and typically served on a generous platter, perfect for sharing.
The restaurant was packed to the brim with locals—always a promising sign when searching for authentic food. Despite the crowd, we were seated relatively quickly, and the staff were both efficient and friendly. As an added bonus, some of them spoke a bit of Chinese and English, which helped us navigate the menu with ease and avoid the dreaded game of ‘point and hope for the best.’
When the dish arrived, we were stunned by the sheer size of the portion. The jokbal was piled high, glistening and aromatic, surrounded by a generous spread of side dishes—fresh kimchi, pickled radish, ssamjang, and crisp lettuce for wrapping. It was a beautiful spread, and the flavours didn’t disappoint: rich, savoury, and deeply comforting. That said, after a long day of flights, layovers, and navigating a new city, I quickly realised I may have underestimated just how heavy this meal would be on a tired stomach. A few bites in, and I was already full.
Still, it was a delicious introduction to Korean comfort food, and the atmosphere—bustling, local, and full of laughter—made it a worthwhile experience. The price was also very reasonable considering the quantity and quality of the food.
Note📝: Korean restaurants often serve generous portions meant for two or more people, and it’s not uncommon for some places to turn away solo diners during peak hours. If you’re travelling alone, it’s a good idea to check the menu and portion sizes ahead of time or ask if solo dining is allowed.
🌙 Myeongdong Market & Olive Young: Late-Night Wanderings 💆
After dinner, we decided to walk off some of the jokbal and stretch our legs with a bit of late-night exploring. Luckily, Myeongdong Market was just a short stroll away from the hotel. As we approached, the quiet streets gave way to a burst of light, colour, and sound—the energy was absolutely electric. Even late into the evening, the area was buzzing with life.
Tip✨: Myeongdong Market was the most convenient option for us since it was closest to our hotel. However, based on recommendations from friends and reviews I’ve come across, Namdaemun Market is often a better choice if you're looking for more affordable prices and a local vibe. Myeongdong can feel a bit touristy and is sometimes considered a “tourist trap” compared to the more authentic experience at Namdaemun. I would love to try that next time.
Myeongdong has a unique kind of charm. Stalls lined the streets, sizzling with street food like tteokbokki, tornado potatoes, corn dogs, and fish cake. The air was filled with the mouthwatering scent of fried batter and sweet syrup, mingled with the chatter of vendors and the steady rhythm of K-pop playing in the background. Between bites and bargain calls, locals and tourists alike weaved through the crowd, all caught up in the market’s lively rhythm.
We wandered slowly, taking it all in. Olive Young, the beauty store that's practically a Korean institution, was impossible to resist. We popped into more than one location (they’re everywhere) and picked up a few (a lot!) skincare essentials. There’s something oddly therapeutic about browsing shelves of neatly organised toners and cleansers under soft lighting.
It felt indulgent and exciting to be part of the late-night buzz, but eventually, our feet began to protest. After soaking up the atmosphere and making a few cheeky purchases, we decided to call it a night. The walk back to the hotel was peaceful, a nice contrast to the sensory overload of the market.
Climbing into our cosy hotel beds, I felt a mix of exhaustion and contentment. It had been a long travel day—full of new sights, flavours, and moments that already felt like memories in the making. I was beyond grateful to have a plush pillow waiting for me, and I drifted off quickly, eager for what the next day in Seoul would bring.
🌕 Day’s reflection 🫶
Day 2 marked the official start of my Seoul adventure, and what a start it was. From the moment we landed at Incheon to settling into the elegant comfort of the Lotte Hotel, everything felt smooth and surreal—like the city was gently welcoming us in. The K-Limo bus made arriving in the city stress-free, and the impeccable service at the hotel set the tone for a restful stay.
Trying jokbal at a packed local restaurant reminded me of why I travel: to taste, to try, and to occasionally misjudge how full I really am. It was rich, flavourful, and very Korean—a comforting (albeit heavy) introduction to the cuisine. Wandering through the vibrant chaos of Myeongdong Market afterward was exactly the kind of sensory thrill I needed to re-energise. The neon lights, the tempting smells, the music, the late-night beauty hauls—it all made the city feel very much alive.
Though the day flew by in a whirlwind, it left me feeling grounded and grateful. I’ve only just begun to scratch the surface of what Seoul has to offer, but already I’m hooked. I can’t wait to see what stories tomorrow will bring.
🧳 Your Turn to Wander In 🧋
Have you ever landed in a new country and instantly felt at home? What made it feel that way for you?
What’s your favourite way to recover after a long-haul flight—food, a walk, a nap, or something else?
Jokbal might not be for everyone—would you try it, or is there another Korean dish you’d dive into first?
Do you enjoy exploring busy night markets when travelling, or do you prefer quieter experiences to unwind?
What’s your go-to way to explore a new city on your first night?
If you could stay at any hotel in Seoul, what would you look for—luxury, location, local charm?
Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear your stories and experiences!
Comments