Jiyun

I’m Jiyun, a local host in Seoul. I study economics at Yonsei University and also work as a content editor.

Because of my work, I spend a lot of time keeping up with trends and news about the things I’m into, so I tend to hear what’s new pretty early.

I like trying things for myself and sharing the ones I genuinely love.

I travel at least once a month, and whenever I go somewhere new, I try to spend at least one day with locals.

Those are usually the days I remember most. You get a feel for everyday life there and discover things you wouldn’t have found on your own.

I wanted people visiting Seoul to have that kind of day too. I also wanted to share some of the things I love doing in Seoul.

I don’t really have a formula.

I see so much content about the things I’m into that I’ve gotten pretty good at noticing what might catch on.

Sometimes I just get that feeling right away.

I usually do a little more digging.

If it’s a restaurant, I check the KakaoMap reviews first. I like to try beauty products myself.

For K‑pop, X is usually where I hear things first. I follow both official and fan accounts, since a lot of fan events are announced only in Korean.

When a friend from abroad came to Korea, I planned a route around BOYNEXTDOOR member Sungho’s birthday cafes.

I start with what they already love.

I once planned a day for a friend who loves rock music, starting at Nakwon Musical Instrument Arcade and then exploring the markets and old-school restaurants nearby.

Seeing someone enjoy a day I planned around their interests is really rewarding. Sometimes it makes me rediscover Seoul too.

Lately, I’ve been spending a lot of time around Myeongdong and Jongno.

I like the mix of newer places and older ones that have been there for years.

I’d start at BOAN 1942 for an exhibition and coffee, head to Cheongun Literature Library in Buam-dong, then end at Sookhee for seasonal fruit cocktails and mac and cheese with aged kimchi.

With those three stops, you get a bit of old Seoul and a bit of Seoul as it is today.

I want it to feel relaxed and fun, even if we’ve just met.

I usually have a rough plan, but I’m pretty spontaneous too. If something fun catches my eye, I’ll probably suggest we check it out.

And if I see a moment I want to capture, I’ll usually take the photo before anyone starts posing.

Seoul changes fast. The places everyone’s talking about today might be different a month from now.

I try to keep up with those changes. If I recommend somewhere, it’s because I think it’s worth your time.

I’d want to help you find the places that fit what you’re into, with a few of my favorites along the way.