Itaewon: Seoul's Melting Pot of Cultures and Cuisines

• Hello안녕하세요
  [an-nyeong-ha-se-yo]
• Goodbye안녕히 가세요
  [an-nyeong-hi ga-se-yo]
• Yes네
  [ne]
• No아니요
  [a-ni-yo]
• Please/You're welcome부탁합니다/천만에요
  [bu-tak-ham-ni-da/cheon-man-e-yo]
• Thank you감사합니다
  [gam-sa-ham-ni-da]
• Excuse me/Sorry죄송합니다
  [joe-song-ham-ni-da]
• How are you?어떻게 지내세요?
  [eo-tteo-ke ji-nae-se-yo]
• Fine. And you?잘 지내요. 그리고 당신은?
  [jal ji-nae-yo. geu-ri-go dang-si-neun?]
• Do you speak English?영어 할 수 있어요?
  [yeong-eo hal su iss-eo-yo]
• I don't understand이해하지 못해요
  [i-hae-ha-ji mot-hae-yo]

• I'd like to see the menu, please메뉴를 보고 싶어요
  [me-nyu-reul bo-go ship-eo-yo]
• I don't eat meat고기를 먹지 않아요
  [go-gi-reul meok-ji anh-a-yo]
• Cheers!건배!
  [geon-bae!]
• I would like to pay, please계산을 해 주세요
  [gye-san-eul hae ju-se-yo]

• Help!도와주세요!
  [do-wa-ju-se-yo!]
• Go away!가라!
  [ga-ra!]
• Call the Police!경찰을 부르세요!
  [gyeong-chal-eul bu-reu-se-yo!]
• Call a doctor!의사를 불러주세요!
  [ui-sa-reul bulleo-ju-se-yo!]
• I'm lost길을 잃었어요
  [gil-eul ilh-eoss-eo-yo]
• I'm ill아파요
  [a-pa-yo]

• I'd like to buy...구매하고 싶어요...
  [gu-mae-ha-go ship-eo-yo...]
• I'm just looking그냥 둘러보고 있어요
  [geu-nyang dul-leo-bo-go iss-eo-yo]
• How much is it?얼마에요?
  [eol-ma-e-yo?]
• That's too expensive너무 비싸요
  [neo-mu bi-ssa-yo]
• Can you lower the price?가격을 깎아 주실 수 있어요?
  [ga-geuk-eul kka-ga ju-shil su iss-eo-yo?]

• What time is it?지금 몇 시에요?
  [ji-geum myeot si-e-yo?]
• It's one o'clock한 시에요
  [han si-e-yo]
• Half past (10)십 시 반
  [sip si ban]
• Morning아침
  [a-chim]
• Afternoon오후
  [o-hu]
• Evening저녁
  [jeo-nyeok]
• Yesterday어제
  [eo-je]
• Today오늘
  [o-neul]
• Tomorrow내일
  [nae-il]
• 1일
  [il]
• 2이
  [i]
• 3삼
  [sam]
• 4사
  [sa]
• 5오
  [o]
• 6육
  [yuk]
• 7칠
  [chil]
• 8팔
  [pal]
• 9구
  [gu]
• 10십
  [sip]

• Where's a/the...?어디에...이에요?
  [eo-di-e...i-e-yo?]
• What's the address?주소가 뭐에요?
  [ju-so-ga mwo-e-yo?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?지도로 보여주세요?
  [ji-do-ro bo-yeo-ju-se-yo?]
• When's the next (bus)?다음 (버스) 언제에요?
  [da-eum (beo-seu) eon-je-e-yo?]
• A ticket (to ....)표 (....로)
  [pyo (....ro)]

Itaewon's history can be traced back to the Joseon Dynasty when it was primarily a farming village. Its name, meaning 'the place where water flows,' reflects its geography. The area remained relatively quiet until the late 19th century when it began to develop due to its proximity to the newly established Hanseong (Seoul) and the influx of foreign trade.

The Korean War (1950-1953) marked a significant turning point for Itaewon. Following the war, the presence of American military personnel established Itaewon as an international district. The influx of soldiers led to the growth of bars, restaurants, and shops catering to foreign tastes, transforming the neighborhood into a vibrant cultural melting pot.

During the 1970s and 1980s, Itaewon underwent rapid urbanization. The government promoted the area as a tourist destination, leading to an increase in businesses catering to both locals and foreigners. This period saw the establishment of numerous international restaurants and shops, making Itaewon a hub for expatriates and tourists.

In the 2000s, Itaewon experienced significant gentrification, with the construction of upscale condominiums and boutique shops. As the area diversified, it became known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ scene and multicultural atmosphere, attracting a younger demographic and artists. Events such as the Itaewon Global Village Festival further celebrated this diversity.

The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 posed significant challenges for Itaewon, impacting its bustling nightlife and tourism. However, the neighborhood demonstrated resilience, with businesses adapting to new health protocols and the rise of outdoor dining. As South Korea gradually reopened, Itaewon has been working to reclaim its status as a lively cultural and social hub.

Itaewon is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Seoul. The nearest subway station is Itaewon Station (Line 6), which connects to major lines across the city. From popular areas like Myeongdong or Hongdae, you can take Line 4 to Dongdaemun, then transfer to Line 6. Alternatively, taxis and ride-sharing services are widely available, and the journey from downtown areas typically takes 10-20 minutes, depending on traffic.

Itaewon is pedestrian-friendly, with many attractions within walking distance. The subway system is efficient, with Itaewon Station being the main hub. Buses also serve the area, connecting it to other neighborhoods. For a more local experience, consider renting a bicycle through Seoul's bike-sharing program, 'Seoul Bike,' which has stations throughout the area. Taxis are also readily available for longer distances.

Itaewon is generally a safe area for tourists, but it's wise to remain vigilant, especially at night. While violent crime is rare, petty theft can occur, particularly in crowded places. Areas like the alleyways around the main street can be less safe late at night. It is advisable to avoid secluded spots and keep personal belongings secure.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for police assistance or 119 for fire and medical emergencies. English-speaking operators may not always be available, so having a local contact or knowing some Korean phrases can be helpful. For minor health issues, visit a local pharmacy or the nearest hospital, such as the Seoul National University Hospital.

Fashion: Do dress appropriately, especially in religious sites; avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect customs, especially in mosques; remove shoes before entering. Public Transport: Do stand to the right on escalators and give up your seat to the elderly; don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a slight bow or handshake; don't use overly familiar terms unless invited. Eating & Drinking: Do try local street food and share meals; don't waste food, as it is considered disrespectful.

To experience Itaewon like a local, explore the backstreets for hidden gems like quaint cafes and boutique shops. Visit the Itaewon Antique Furniture Street for unique finds. Participate in local events or festivals, particularly during the Itaewon Global Village Festival. Engage with the vibrant expatriate community, and don't hesitate to ask locals for recommendations on off-the-beaten-path eateries or entertainment.