This is How I Got Stunning Travel Photos Alone in Seoul

What is Photo Trips?

My Experience with Photo Trips in Seoul

Do I Recommend Photo Trips?

Absolutely! Whether you're a solo traveler, couple, family, or content creator, Photo Trips is 100% worth it. It’s an easy and professional way to capture high-quality memories without the stress of doing it yourself.

What sets Photo Trips apart is that all their photographers are local experts. They know hidden gems and secret photo spots tourists usually miss, so you get authentic, unique shots in less crowded places.

Booking is super convenient too. Photographer availability is updated in real time, so you can book instantly without back-and-forth messaging. Perfect if you're on a tight schedule!

If you want stunning, professional vacation photos beyond the usual touristy spots, I highly recommend Photo Trips.

Final Thoughts

@annyeongruth This is your sign to book a photographer for your travel in South Korea! Huge thanks to Photo Trips Korea for these amazing shots. #southkorea #travelkorea #koreatravel #lifeinkorea #studyinkorea #kinfluencer ♬ original sound - Hans - 𝟑𝟎𝟑 Hans

Attending the K-Influencer Academy 2025 Induction Ceremony: A New Beginning

I’m once again trying for the K-Influencer Academy and this time, I’m more determined than ever.

In 2020 and 2022, I applied for the K-Influencer Academy, but unfortunately, I wasn’t able to complete the missions due to my busy schedule. Life got in the way, and despite my passion for Korean culture and content creation, I couldn’t fully commit. But this year, in 2025, I’m giving it another shot with the goal of staying consistent, completing the missions, and sharing more meaningful content that promotes Korean culture to the world.

Attending the K-Influencer Academy 2025 Induction Ceremony in Seoul

On April 29, 2025, I had the honor of attending the K-Influencer Academy 2025 Induction Ceremony. The event was held offline at the Korea Press Foundation in Seoul, and it was an unforgettable experience.

I met fellow international K-Influencers from all over the world, each with their own unique content style and love for Korea. It was so refreshing to talk to people who share the same passion as me. Some of us instantly clicked and became friends! The energy in the room was vibrant, filled with creativity, hope, and excitement for the year ahead.

What is the K-Influencer Academy?

The K-Influencer Academy is a program organized and supported by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. It’s designed to nurture global content creators who are passionate about Korean culture, also known as K-Content - from K-pop and K-dramas to food, language, beauty, and daily life in Korea.

Through various missions, workshops, and mentoring programs, participants get the chance to improve their content creation skills, receive feedback from professionals, and even win awards for outstanding content. Most importantly, it’s a platform that helps spread Hallyu (the Korean Wave) to the world through the voices of real fans and creators.

Representing A Fangirl’s Heart at K-Influencer Academy

As the creator behind A Fangirl’s Heart, I’m proud to bring my platform into this new chapter. What started as a personal blog about my fangirl life and adventures in Korea has now grown into a space where I share stories, tips, and honest experiences about Korean culture and content.

Being selected for K-Influencer Academy 2025 feels like a perfect fit for the direction I want A Fangirl’s Heart to grow in - more collaborations, deeper storytelling, and more content that connects fans and curious hearts across the globe.

This journey is not just about me. It’s about all of us who have fallen in love with Korea in our own unique ways.

My Goals for 2025 as a K-Influencer

I’ve learned from my past experiences, and this time, I’m committed to doing my best. I want to consistently create content that is fun, informative, and inspiring for people who love Korea or are curious about Korean culture. Whether it's through vlogs, blogs, short videos, or photos, I want to be part of sharing the beauty and diversity of Korea from my own perspective.

Being a part of the K-Influencer Academy 2025 is more than just a title. It’s a journey. And I’m excited to see where it leads.

To everyone reading this, thank you for your support. Please continue to support A Fangirl’s Heart as I share more stories about life in Korea, Korean trends, food adventures, and all the things that make this country special.

Let’s enjoy this journey together. 💙

@annyeongruth Life as a GKS Scholar Mini Vlog No. 13 I was one of the participants for 2025 K-Influencer Academy and I attended the Induction Ceremony that happened at the Korea Press Center in Seoul. #kinfluencer #kinfluenceracademy #lifeinkorea #studyinkorea #globalkoreascholarship #gks #kpop #kdrama #hallyu ♬ VERY NICE - SEVENTEEN

Celebrating Super Junior’s 20th Anniversary: Inside the Super Records Exhibit in Seoul

Feeling overwhelmed with school and life lately, I decided to take a short break and head to Seoul to unwind. Lucky for me, Super Junior’s Super Records Exhibit was ongoing during my visit. What better way to de-stress than celebrating 20 years with one of my favorite K-pop groups?

Originally, I planned to go alone, but thankfully, my fellow GKS scholar and friend Cass was also free. So we went together and had a great time fangirling!

What to Expect at the Super Junior Super Records Exhibit

If you’re a fan of Super Junior or K-pop exhibitions in general, this is something you wouldn’t want to miss. Here’s a breakdown of the experience:

🧩 Missions and Activities

The exhibit is divided into different stages:

Intro - Album Cover Photo Zone

You will pick a paper with an album title and take a picture of it with the album name! This area also displays each member’s profile along with items or visuals that represent their personalities.

Situation Room - Shooting Range Game

A fun, interactive game where you shoot targets, accompanied by LED screens showing the members doing the same. It’s simple but fun!

Training Room - Mini Games & Locker Zone

In this area, you can enjoy a variety of fun activities like guessing the song, locating the correct member, and completing a timer challenge. This area also features mock-up lockers decorated with stickers and personal items, giving fans a peek into the members' personalities. Plus, there’s a boxing ring setup that's perfect for fun photo ops.

Super Theater - Message & LED Wall

Send a message to Super Junior and see it on a large LED screen! There is also a huge LED sign where you can watch members’ messages. There is also a place where you can watch a music video. At the end, you’ll receive a postcard featuring the exhibit’s poster.

Photobooth

There’s also a photobooth open to the public after the merch booth. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to try it because of the long line and limited time.

🎁 Freebies You’ll Get

One of the best parts of the Super Records Exhibit is definitely the freebies!

Upon entry, you’ll receive a folder-type flyer and a pen, which you'll use to track your progress through the different missions. As you complete each stage, you’ll be rewarded with various collectibles, including a photocard and a pin - both of which you can customize by choosing your favorite member.

You'll also receive a postcard, and you can stamp the member’s name on your mission flyer as a fun keepsake of your experience.

📚 Super Junior & ELF History Section

At the end of the exhibit, there’s a merch booth and mini display area showcasing Super Junior’s 20-year journey - lightsticks, posters, and items from the past two decades.

To be honest, I found this part a little underwhelming. It’s tucked into a small corner and could have had more detailed information or a bigger space. For such a major milestone, I was expecting more.

🛍️ Super Junior Merchandise at the Exhibit

Yes, you can buy official Super Junior 20th Anniversary merch! Be warned though - some items sell out fast. I originally wanted a badge, but it was already sold out. I settled for a cute notebook and pen instead.

Tip: Visit early in the morning if you’re aiming to buy specific items.

🎟️ How to Buy Tickets

You can purchase tickets for the Super Records Exhibit through Interpark, both on the Korean and Global versions of the site, making it accessible for international fans.

Tickets are also available for purchase on-site, which is convenient if you’re making a last-minute decision to visit.

If your main goal is to explore the exhibit itself and you're not too interested in buying merchandise, it's best to go later in the day when the crowds have thinned out. This way, you can enjoy the experience at a more relaxed pace without the long lines.

⭐ Final Thoughts: Was the Exhibit Worth It?

As an ELF, attending the Super Records exhibit brought back so many memories. Seeing Super Junior celebrate 20 years in the K-pop industry made me feel proud and emotional.

That said, I felt the overall setup could have been more grand and diverse, especially in the historical display and music selection. (They only played Showtime the whole time we were queuing in the merch booth. Why not add other classic SJ tracks?)

Still, I had fun. It reminded me of why I became a fan in the first place, and I’m excited to see what other events Super Junior will have throughout their anniversary year!

📹 Mini Vlog

@annyeongruth This is what you can expect in Super Junior’s 20th Anniversary Super Records Exhibit! 📅 2025.04.25 (FRI) ~ 2025.05.18 (SUN) 📍 MALL OF K (서울특별시 광진구 아차산로30길 26) #kpop #superjunior #슈퍼주니어 #kinfluencer #lifeinkorea ♬ 너 같은 사람 또 없어 No Other - SUPER JUNIOR

Planning to visit the Super Records Exhibit? Let me know what you think and who your bias is! 💙

Another Cafe You Must Visit if You're an ELF

Location

Menu

Cafe Vibe

Overall Experience

@annyeongruth Another cafe series - I visited Super Junior Yesung’s Cafe after the exhibit. It’s easy to go to! #kpop #superjunior #슈퍼주니어 #koreacafe #mouserabbitcoffee #mouserabbit #yesung #lifeinkorea #studyinkorea ♬ 우리에게 The Melody - SUPER JUNIOR

Hansot Dosirak: The Ultimate Cheap Meal in Korea

What is Hansot Dosirak?

Hansot (한솥) is a popular chain restaurant in South Korea that specializes in dosirak, or Korean lunchboxes.

You can find Hansot stores all over the South Korea, especially near schools, offices, and subway stations. It's a go-to place for students, office workers, and anyone who needs a quick but satisfying meal without breaking the bank.

Why Hansot is Perfect for Budget Travelers and Students

If you're living in Korea on a budget, or even visiting for a short time, Hansot Dosirak is an ideal choice for an affordable and satisfying meal. Most of the meals range from ₩4,000 to ₩7,000 (around $3–$5 USD), making it easy to enjoy a full meal without breaking the bank.

One of the main reasons Hansot is so popular is the big portions they offer. Each meal typically includes rice, a main dish like fried chicken, pork cutlet, or beef bulgogi, and a selection of traditional Korean side dishes (called banchan) like kimchi and seasoned vegetables. Not only is it budget-friendly, but you also get a variety of flavors in one meal, filling you up with authentic Korean tastes.

Another great feature of Hansot is the convenient locations. Stores are found in almost every neighborhood across Korea, especially near university areas, subway stations, and shopping districts. This makes it easy for anyone to grab a quick, delicious meal on the go. The quick service is also a big plus. With the option to order through kiosks, you can skip long lines and get your meal fast. Plus, Hansot offers a variety of options, so whether you're in the mood for spicy stir-fried pork, a crispy pork cutlet, or a classic bulgogi, there’s something for everyone.

My Go-To Hansot Meals: A Must-Try for Everyone

As a regular at Hansot, I have a few favorites that I always go back to. If you’re new to the chain or looking for something to try, here are some of my personal go-to dishes (I cannot remember the exact name of the dish but this is how I remember them):

Chamchi Bibimbap - This Tuna Bibimbap is a delicious mix of soft rice, fresh tuna, creamy mayo, gochujang, and vegetables. It’s simple but satisfying, and it always hits the spot when I’m craving something light yet filling.

Chicken Mayo - A rice bowl with crispy chicken, mayo, and egg. It’s one of their cheapest meals and packed with flavor. Perfect for when you're on the go but need something comforting.

Jeyuk Tonkatsu Dosirak - If you love a bit of spice, this dish is for you. The Jeyuk Donkatsu Dosirak combines crispy pork cutlet with a spicy stir-fried pork dish, giving you a perfect kick while satisfying your hunger.

Chicken, Burger Patty, and Tonkatsu Dosirak - Looking for variety? This dosirak offers a combination of crispy chicken burger patty and the beloved tonkatsu. It’s hearty and gives you the best of both worlds!

These meals are not just affordable but also pack a lot of flavor, and they’re perfect whether you’re a student, a busy worker, or just anyone looking for a delicious meal on the go. Every dish is carefully prepared to give you the perfect balance of taste and satisfaction, making Hansot Dosirak my go-to spot for a reliable, quick, and tasty meal.

@annyeongruth When people ask me where I usually eat, I tell them “Hansot”. When I don’t know where to eat or when I lack money, I always go here. Plus, it’s near our dorm! #korea #southkorea #lifeinsouthkorea #lifeinkorea #globalkoreascholarship #gks2023 #gks2025 #koreanfood #kfood ♬ Little Happiness - Oneul

Interpark Play & Stay Review: My Experience at SEVENTEEN's Caratland 2025

What is Interpark’s Play & Stay?

Benefits of Play & Stay:

My Experience with Play & Stay

Ticketing Queue Was Manageable

Hotel Was Great

I don’t usually splurge on accommodations because I’m the type who’s always out and about, so I just need a clean place to stay. That’s why I rarely book hotels, and this was actually only my third time staying at a hotel in Korea. But honestly? Glad Yeouido Hotel exceeded my expectations.

The room was spacious, clean, and super cozy. It had a sleek and modern design with warm lighting that made the space feel extra relaxing. There was plenty of room to move around, even with two suitcases open on the floor (fangirl essentials, of course). The bathroom was spotless, and we had complimentary water bottles and all the basic amenities ready for us.

And the bed? Chef’s kiss. It was so soft and comfy. It's the kind of bed that makes you forget all your worries the moment you sink into it. After a long day of preparing for the fan meeting and running on barely any sleep, it felt like I was wrapped in a warm hug. I genuinely had one of the best, deepest sleeps I’ve had in months.

Check-in was also smooth and hassle-free. Just like the normal checking in, I just showed my passport and the staff gave us our keycards within minutes. The front desk staff were kind and professional, and even though we were international guests, everything went smoothly.

Ticket Claiming Was Convenient

One of the biggest perks of the Play & Stay package was the hassle-free ticket claiming process. We didn’t have to line up outside the venue with the crowd. Instead, we picked up our tickets and wristbands right at the hotel lobby between 9:00 AM and 12:00 NN. It was super convenient, especially for someone like me who gets anxious about queues and crowd control.

The process was simple and well-organized. All we had to do was present our Interpark verification page and a valid ID or passport to the staff stationed at the lobby. If you booked a twin room, make sure both guests are present during pickup. This ensures that the tickets are only given to the rightful holders, which I appreciated.

Along with our tickets and wristbands, we also received our official merch freebies for this package: a Bongbongie keyring (so cute!) and a trading card set. It was such a nice touch like a mini unboxing moment right there in the hotel.

As for the seating, it was randomly assigned but guaranteed to be in the R section, as mentioned in Interpark's announcement. While some hotels might get you better R seats (I assume the more premium ones), the difference wasn’t huge. Our seats still offered a great view of the stage, and I was able to fully enjoy the fan meeting without feeling like I was too far from the action.

Shuttle service to and from the venue

Final Thoughts: Is Interpark Play & Stay Worth It?

Mini Vlog

@annyeongruth Wondering what the Play&Stay Package for concerts and fanmeets in Korea? Here’s my experience! #kpop #seventeen #세븐틴 #캐럿랜드 #caratland #playandstay #interpark with @DM ♬ 蜜桃物语 - 仁辰 & 于行

And it's true - Beauty is Pain

Why I started my Skin Care Journey

Obliv Clinic

When I arrived, there were several people at the clinic, but I was the only foreigner. Honestly, I felt a bit anxious since my Korean skills aren’t that great, and all the staff spoke in Korean. But despite the language barrier, they did their best to accommodate me and made me feel welcomed. Note to self: I really need to improve my Korean!

The clinic itself looked premium and high-quality, so I knew I was in good hands. I didn’t have to wait long before my session started.

IDENEL PEPTAXEL Treatment - What to Expect

From IDENEL's IG account

What is PEPTAXEL?

The Treatment Process

Before and After - The Results

Mini Vlog

Let's Meet Again on a Winter Day When our Noses are Cold

Memorable Moments at Caratland 2025

OT12 Caratzone Photocards with PuzzleTeen Special Set

UPDATE: SEVENTEEN has launched their new mobile game, PuzzleTeen! It reminds me of Candy Crush, but with a SEVENTEEN concept. Safe to say, I am the target market.

My 10th Anniversary Caratbong Version 3

Interpark’s Face Pass: A New Ticketing Experience

Spectacular Performances from SEVENTEEN

Mini Vlog

@annyeongruth FANMEET MINI VLOG | SEVENTEEN Caratland 2025 ✨💎 It’s already been a week since Caratland happened 🥹 And to be honest, I haven’t processed my emotions because I was so busy right after the fanmeet. But all I know is I’m happy I got to attend Caratland once again. I miss them already 🥹 #kpop #seventeen #세븐틴 #캐럿 #캐럿랜드 #caratland2025 #lifeinkorea ♬ Encircled SEVENTEEN - 𝒚𝒆𝒆𝒏🐰ྀི