If you’re a girl’s girl looking to visit Seoul in 2025, I have the ULTIMATE jam packed itinerary for you! I spent 6 days in Seoul this past January, enjoying a blissful solo vacation for my 36th birthday. I wanted an international trip that was female traveler safe and I wanted to try a lot of the top rated, viral treatments for work and my own curiosity. Below are my personal recommendations for the best beauty treatments, hair scalp spa, massage, manicure, medical skincare clinic and clothes & beauty shopping – all organized by day and time so you can literally follow me step by step đ
APPS TO DOWNLOAD & REGISTER BEFORE YOU LEAVE:
- KakaoTalk: used to communicate & schedule with businesses
- Kakao T: you will use this to order all of your taxis, be sure to put in your CC beforehand
- NaverMap: equivalent to Google Maps in Korea
DAY 1: ARRIVAL
4 pm: SEATTLE – INCHEON AIRPORT
I left Seattle late morning and landed in Incheon Airport around 4pm. It took me about 45 minutes to clear immigration, get my checked bag and walk outside to the taxi line. The taxis were all lined up and easily identifiable. The drive to my hotel in Myeongdong took about 1 hour 15 minutes (the touristy city center area, similar to Times Square in NYC) and had a decent amount of traffic since it was raining. I stayed at Hotel28Myeongdong and really loved the walkable location to everything, tons of food options around, the modern aesthetic and the staff was great. My room was on the small side, but cozy. Again, the location was the key selling point for me! This Myeongdong Shopping Guide will give you a rundown on the shopping in the area. Honestly, I was roaming all night through the streets, eating, people watching, shopping and there was so much to take in. I ate dinner on the literal street, trying out all the vendors and enjoying the energy. **Note: Korea is so clean – there are no public trash cans. I wish I had a plastic bag to keep all my trash on the go while I ate & walked. (My favorite Korean street food ratings here!)
DAY 2: SPA DAY
11:30am: COLOR ANALYSIS at VicsLab
This was a TOP priority on my trip to accomplish since I create so much style content. After seeing a lot of TikToks & mixed reviews on several of the big companies like Mood Collect & Color Place, I sought a more intimate and personal experience. I found a review on Reddit stating that Vicslab in Hongdae was very foreigner friendly and thought I’d give it a try. She just moved into a new studio with separate rooms, so I was able to enjoy my 1-1 consultation in the privacy of my own space while a couple was next door getting a 2-1 consultation. I think it’s great that you can do it by yourself or with a group!
The appointment starts off with a quick questionnaire and then my consultant broke down the philosophy behind the analysis. They breakdown your skin tone, hair color, eye color and color undertone to find your best clothing colors, metals, makeup and hair color. They draped dozens of different fabric colors over me, analyzing how each one interacted with my undertones. Flipping back and forth between similar colors with different undertones to figure out which shades were perfect. If youâve ever been curious about which hues make you shine, it will transform the way you shop
Location: Vicslab
Address: 15 World Cup buk-ro 4-gil Mapo-gu Seoul [3F]
Korean Address for taxi: ěě¸íšëłě ë§íŹęľŹ ěëěťľëśëĄ4길 15 3츾
2:30 pm: SKINCARE ANALYSIS
I went to a skincare clinic to get a skincare analysis (I was mostly interested in their technology that could read your pore size, hydration levels & real skin age), but I did not have a good experience in regards to the microneedling add on and the interactions with them when I brought up my post treatment concerns. I was happy with the rest of the experience, though I will say that I thought the clinic would have more Korean based products & tech. I was looking for more traditional Korean facial techniques and this was very Americanized with Swiss based products.
I impulsively added on the microneedling without doing proper research and the procedure was way more painful than I expected. It hurt more than the hundreds of shots of Rejuran I did on the last day in Korea. It was a bad call on my part since I had so much to do in Korea & the results were much harsher than I expected. I thought it was one of those rolling microneedling pins that you do at home. The second she started it felt like my skin was on fire even after the numbing cream, and it hurt for 2-3 days after. I am not going to disclose the location because I don’t want any drama, but if you are looking for a facial – just double check the reviews on TripAdvisor before booking. My main point is that you can fit something in between the morning’s color analysis & the night time spa services. I would actually recommend getting a facial at the NEXT spot below! If I could do it over, I would’ve booked here because the facials are not invasive and focus on massage for drainage and rejuvenation.
6:00 pm: KOREAN SCRUB, WRAP & MASSAGE – SPA GOGYEOL
I WILL COME HERE EVERY TIME I VISIT SEOUL. PERIOD. I am a spa connoisseur and this place delivered a 5 star experience. I was on the lookout to try a traditional style Korean massage (since I’ve never tried their style) and had to add their detox wrap & Korean scrub to the mix. I wrapped up my day with what was easily one of the most luxurious and refreshing spa experiences Iâve ever had. Spa Gogyeol is where you go to reset your entire body. I got the full Korean body scrub + detox + massage package, and WOWâmy skin has never felt so soft. They scrub you thoroughly (goodbye, dead skin cells đ), followed by a deeply relaxing massage that left me floating. If thereâs one self-care experience Iâd recommend to any beauty lover visiting Seoul, itâs this.
DAY 3: HAIR & NAILS
11:00AM – Body & Color Analysis at Color MUI
After my personal color session at Vicslab, I wanted to take it even furtherâenter Color MUI. This place goes beyond just color matching; they analyze your body proportions, facial structure, and style essence to determine the most flattering clothing cuts, fabrics, and silhouettes for you. If youâve ever struggled with finding the perfect outfit that makes you look effortlessly put together, this analysis is a game-changer. They break everything down scientifically, helping you shop smarter and refine your signature look. A must-visit if you want to unlock your true aesthetic potential.
2:30PM – Scalp Treatment & Head Spa at Lee Moon Won
Hair health is a huge deal in Korea, and I was beyond excited to experience a proper Korean scalp treatment at Leemoonwon, a renowned head spa specializing in hair loss prevention and scalp rejuvenation. The process was deeply relaxing yet incredibly effectiveâthink deep scalp cleansing, detox treatments, nourishing ampoules, and a soothing scalp massage that left my hair feeling healthier and stronger than ever. If youâre dealing with thinning, excess oil, or scalp buildup, this treatment is a must. Bonus: your scalp feels so clean afterward that your hair gets an instant volume boost!
6:00PM – Korean Manicure at NAILTAM2NA
I ended the day with what might be the most meticulous and luxurious manicure Iâve ever received. My jaw hit the floor when looking through their Insta feed, with my focus on this design in particular. Korean nail salons are famous for their flawless cuticle care, ultra-thin gel application, and long-lasting designs, and NAILTAM2NA is one of the best in the game. The process was incredibly detailed, with an emphasis on making the nails look naturally elegant and glassy smooth. Whether you prefer minimalist, clean-girl nails or intricate 3D K-beauty nail art, this spot delivers perfection.
đ Pro Tip: If you want an appointment here, book in advance! High-end Korean nail salons fill up quickly, especially ones as popular as this.
DAY 4: K-Pop Star Fantasy (kinda) & Shopping Heaven
10 am: K-POP MAKEUP
OUI OUI ATELIER
If youâve ever wanted to look like you just stepped out of a K-drama or a BLACKPINK music video, OUI OUI ATELIER is where the magic happens. This studio is known for creating the signature K-pop idol look, customizing every detail to match your features while maintaining that airy, youthful, and effortlessly chic aesthetic.
The process started with a thorough skin prep routine (because Korean makeup is ALL about the base), followed by a customized foundation blend that melted seamlessly into my skin. My artist focused on:
⨠Dewy, lightweight skin that looked naturally radiant without feeling heavy.
⨠Soft, lifted eye makeup with a subtle aegyo-sal (the tiny puffy under-eye area that makes your eyes look bigger and youthful).
⨠Perfectly blurred lips for that just-bitten effect.
⨠Snatched but soft browsâbecause no harsh Insta-brows here!
I walked out looking glowy, youthful, and effortlessly chicâlike I had just filmed a K-beauty commercial. If you want a pro-level, photo-ready makeover in Seoul, this is THE place to book.
đ Pro Tip: If you have a certain idol or K-drama actress whose makeup you love, bring reference photos! Korean makeup artists are amazing at recreating specific styles while tailoring them to your face.
1 pm: INDOOR PHOTOSHOOT
OCTOBEE STUDIOS
With my fresh K-beauty glam, it was only right to document the glow-up. Octobee Studios is a professional self-shoot studio, meaning you get access to a fully-equipped space with studio lighting, different backdrops, and high-quality camerasâall set up for you to take next-level photos.
The best part? You control the shoot yourself, so you can pose as much as you want without the pressure of a photographer. The setup was insanely goodâthink editorial lighting, modern aesthetics, and a crisp, minimal vibe that made the photos look like they belonged in a magazine. Whether youâre solo or with friends, this is a super fun experience and a great way to capture your Seoul trip in style.
đ¸ Pro Tip: Wear an outfit that pops on camera and bring some fun accessories! Also, make sure to download the photos immediately after the session so you donât lose them.
2:30 – 8 pm: SHOPPING
THE HYUNDAI SEOUL
After my mini K-pop star moment, it was time to shopâand The Hyundai Seoul is a MUST if you love high-end retail therapy. This isnât just any department store; itâs an architectural masterpiece filled with:
đď¸ Luxury brands & trendy Korean designer boutiques
đ° A stunning food hall with aesthetic cafĂŠs & bakeries
đż Gorgeous open spaces & modern interiors that make shopping feel luxurious
Even if youâre not planning to splurge, itâs worth visiting just to soak in the vibe. Everything feels ultra-modern, beautifully curated, and effortlessly chicâbasically, the ultimate “treat yourself” shopping experience in Seoul.
8 – 10 pm: LATE NIGHT SHOPPING
MYEONGDONG DAISO & SHOPPING STREET
No shopping day is complete without a late-night Daiso run, and the Myeongdong location is a treasure trove of affordable finds. Unlike the small Daiso stores elsewhere, this one is massiveâmultiple floors stacked with everything from:
𧴠Cute & budget-friendly K-beauty products
đ Aesthetic home decor & organizers
âď¸ Travel essentials
đ Stationery & kawaii accessories
Itâs basically a playground for anyone who loves cute, functional, and affordable things. I stocked up on some adorable organizers, skincare finds, and small souvenirsâbecause letâs be real, thereâs no such thing as too many Daiso goodies.
DAY 5
11 am: OUTDOOR PHOTOSHOOT | GYEONGBOKGUNG PALACE & BUKCHON HANOK VILLAGE
OCTOBEE STUDIOS
After my indoor studio shoot, I wanted something more majesticâand what better location than Gyeongbokgung Palace? I booked another session with Octobee Studios, and this time, we took the photos outdoors, against the breathtaking backdrop of one of Koreaâs most iconic landmarks.
đŤ The Vibe:
đ¸ Me, twirling in a hanbok, feeling like royalty.
đŻ Stunning palace architecture, ancient pavilions, and mountain views.
⨠A perfect blend of historical elegance and modern-day editorial shots.
Even though it was a photoshoot, it also felt like a history tour. Walking through the massive courtyards, intricate wooden gates, and tranquil gardens, you could feel the legacy of the Joseon dynasty. If you want that Pinterest-worthy Seoul moment, this experience is unmissable.
đ¸ Pro Tip: Rent a hanbok (traditional Korean dress) for an extra dreamy aestheticâplus, it gets you free entry to the palace!
2 – 5 pm: SHOPPING IN SEONGSU-DONG
LEBELLE CLINIC – DR. HWANG WONUK
After channeling my inner Joseon princess, it was time to step into Seoulâs trendiest neighborhood: Seongsu-dong. Think of it as Koreaâs version of Brooklyn or Tokyoâs Daikanyamaâfilled with:
đ¤ Chic, minimalistic designer boutiques
â Ultra-aesthetic cafĂŠs that are a whole experience
đ Independent Korean fashion brands & concept stores
đĄ Where I Shopped:
⨠ADER ERROR â The ultimate in edgy, futuristic Korean streetwear.
⨠Part-Time Store â A curated selection of local designer pieces & homeware.
⨠Beaker â A stylish multi-brand concept store featuring trendy Korean & international brands.
Everything about Seongsu feels cool, effortless, and understatedâif youâre into quiet luxury, minimalism, and unique finds, this is THE place to shop.
5 pm: MEDICAL SKIN CLINIC
LEBELLE CLINIC – DR. HWANG WONUK
To cap off the day, I went for some serious skin rejuvenation at Le Belle Clinic in Cheongdam, one of the most prestigious neighborhoods for high-end aesthetic treatments. My dermatologist, Dr. Ethan Wonuk Hwang, specializes in next-level anti-aging and skin restoration treatmentsâso I knew I was in expert hands. I HIGHLY recommend going to a private clinic like this where you are speaking directly to the doctor and he is the one administering the actual injections. I never wanted to go to those massive
đ What I Got:
⨠Rejuran Healer Facial â A polynucleotide injection treatment (aka liquid gold for your skin) that boosts collagen, elasticity, and overall glow.
⨠Juvelook on My Neck â A cutting-edge biostimulatory treatment designed to smooth and firm delicate neck skin, preventing signs of aging.
The results? Plumper, brighter, firmer skin with a supernatural glow. Korean dermatology is on another level, and if youâre serious about long-term skin health, booking a customized treatment in Seoul is 100% worth it.
đ Pro Tip: If youâre new to medical facials, consult with the doctor first to see what treatments work best for your skin goals. Korean clinics are highly personalized and focus on subtle, natural results.
DAY 6
10AM: MEDICAL SKIN CLINIC
LEBELLE CLINIC – DR. HWANG WONUK
I went back in the morning for a follow up mask treatment. Dr. Wonuk was so kind to treat my skin with extra free post care to help my microneedled skin heal. Ironically, the Rejuran Healer injections made my skin feel GREAT from within, but the scaling & peeling from the microneedling still hurt so bad on the surface. He gave me a lot of sheet masks and his team treated me with so much loving care. I will definitely come here everything in Seoul. I trust him a lot.
4 pm: DROVE TO INCHEON AIRPORT for my 8pm flight to SEATTLE
