Hi, I’m Brian (my English name), and welcome to Seoul Friend. I’m a Seoul-based physician who performs aesthetic skin treatments, and I’ve lived in Seoul for more than 30 years. This blog is my way of being the friend you wish you had in Korea: someone who tells you where locals actually go, what’s worth your money, and what you can happily skip.
Quick facts about me
- 🩺 Seoul-based physician who performs aesthetic skin treatments, so I see K-beauty from the clinic side, not just the shop shelf
- 🏙️ Seoul local for 30+ years: I’ve watched neighborhoods like Seongsu and Hongdae change completely
- 🧭 Traveled much of Korea, from Seoraksan to Busan, and lived in Jeju for two months
- 🍜 Home cook and food hunter: I’ll cross the city for one good bowl of noodles, then try to recreate it at home
Why a doctor writes about K-beauty
Korea sells skincare with clinic words on the label: PDRN, exosomes, “skin boosters”, “derma”. I use the real versions of these at work, so I can tell you what a cream can do, what only a needle or laser can do, and which viral products are worth your suitcase space. I don’t name or promote specific clinics here, and nothing on this blog replaces a consultation with your own doctor.
What you will find here
- Korea Travel: neighborhood guides, realistic itineraries, hikes, Jeju and practical tips on transport, apps and money that guidebooks often miss.
- K-Beauty: the products Koreans actually buy at Olive Young, pharmacies and Daiso, explained with a doctor’s eye and in plain English.
- Korean Recipes: easy, authentic home cooking with clear measurements and substitutes you can find outside Korea.
How I write
Everything here is based on my own experience. I visit the places, use the products and cook the recipes myself. When something isn’t great, I’ll say so. Prices, opening hours and transport details change often, so treat prices as rough ranges and double-check before you go.
Some posts may contain affiliate links. If you buy through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. You can read more on the Disclosure page.
Say hello
Planning a trip, curious about an ingredient, or stuck on a recipe? Send me a note through the Contact page. I read every message.