Everyday
🏪 Convenience stores, decoded
CU, GS25, 7-Eleven, and emart24 are the 24-hour backbone. Cards work. English on packaging is hit-or-miss; photos on the fridge usually match.
T-money and cash. Many stores reload T-money and have ATMs. Ask “티머니 충전” while holding the card.
Food. Triangle kimbap, cup ramyeon (hot water at the machine), fried chicken in the evening, and banana milk. Seating is often a window ledge — eat there or take away.
Travel kit. Umbrellas, heat packs in winter, phone cables, contact-lens solution, and basic painkillers. For a real pharmacy, see
pharmacies.
Trash. Korea separates recycling strictly. Convenience stores often have bins for cups vs cans. Do not leave bags on the sidewalk.
Late-night: CU/GS25 will save you after last subway. Pair with late-night eats.
T-money → Cash vs cards →