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Hoesik: The Love-Hate Relationship with Korea’s Work Dinner Culture

If you've ever worked in Korea or even visited for business, you might have heard of Hoesik (ํšŒ์‹) . It's a company dinner (or sometimes lunch) where coworkers get together to eat, drink, and bond. Sounds fun, right? Well… it depends on who you ask! Some people love it, others dread it . Let’s dive into what makes Hoesik both a blessing and a curse, and how it has changed after COVID-19. The Good Side of Hoesik One of the best things about Hoesik is that it helps break the ice between coworkers . In Korean work culture, hierarchy can be pretty strict, so these gatherings provide a rare chance to talk casually with your boss or colleagues. People share personal stories, joke around, and build stronger relationships outside of the office setting. It can also be a great way to de-stress after work. With delicious food (think Korean BBQ, fried chicken, or seafood) and drinks flowing, it’s a moment to enjoy and relax with your team. Some even say Hoesik is where real teamwork s...

๐ŸšŒ Seoul to Busan by Business Class Style Bus! + Money-saving Hacks(Free Pass Purchase)

Hey travel buddies! Remember my last post about taking the KTX to Busan? Today, I'm excited to share another awesome way to reach Korea's beach paradise - by premium express bus! While it might take a bit longer than the KTX, you can travel in amazing comfort (think airplane business class vibes ๐Ÿ˜Ž).


How to Book Your Bus Ticket

Head to the KOBUS website (https://www.kobus.co.kr/main.do) or use their app. Here are some crucial tips:


  1. Choosing Your Terminal:
    • Departure: Select "Seoul Gyeongbu" (recommended) or "Dongseoul"
    • Pro tip: Don't choose "Central City" - it doesn't offer Busan routes!
    • Arrival: Click "Busan" under the "Busan/Gyeongnam" tab
  1. Choosing Your Seat Class: Let me break down the options:
    • Premium: The crรจme de la crรจme! Think business class seats that recline flat, with footrests and touch screens. Bonus perks include:
      • Emergency stop button for extra rest stops(which is not provided in the other grades!!!)
      • Wireless phone charging
      • USB ports
      • Personal table
      • Privacy curtains between seats
    • Excellent: Three seats per row instead of four - super spacious!
    • Economy: Standard comfortable seating


How to Find Your Way at Seoul Express Bus Terminal

Take the subway to Express Bus Terminal Station (Line 3, exits 1,2 or Lines 7,9, exits 1,2). Inside the terminal:

  • Follow signs for "Gyeongbu line / Yeongdong line"
  • Head to 1st floor
  • Your Busan bus will depart from Platform 1 or 2


๐ŸŽŸ️ Secret Money-Saving Tip

The Express Bus FREE PASS PURCHASE! Here's something special - you can get multi-day passes:

  • 4-day pass: 75,000 KRW
  • 5-day pass: 110,000 KRW
  • 7-day pass: 130,000 KRW

Important pass rules:

  • 4-day passes can't be used Friday-Sunday
  • Each route can only be used once per pass
  • Not valid during major holidays
  • No refunds after first use

Buy here: https://www.kobus.co.kr/adtnprd/frpsPrch.do 


Bonus Tip

The terminal isn't just for buses! Check out:

  • 3rd floor: Famous flower market
  • B1 & 1st floor: Tons of great restaurants

Need to kill some time before your bus? Take a stroll through the flower market on the 3rd floor - it's where florists from all over Korea come to buy their blooms! Hungry? The basement and first floor are packed with delicious restaurant options.


Ready to experience the most comfortable way to reach Busan? Let me know if you have any questions in the comments below! ๐ŸšŒ✨

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