What began as a reward for a successful book launch quickly evolved into an unexpected adventure for author Juliet Izon and her ten year old daughter, Avvie. After spending ten days exploring Tokyo, the pair decided to make a short jump across the sea to Seoul, drawn by Avvie’s passion for K-pop and skincare. While the logistics were simple, the experience proved deeper than a mere detour. For Izon, the trip became a lesson in letting go of the steering wheel, allowing her preteen daughter to curate an itinerary filled with lip gloss boutiques and trendy eateries that shifted the dynamic from parent-led touring to a shared exploration.
Navigating Seoul required some agility, particularly when they discovered that Google Maps is largely ineffective in South Korea due to government restrictions on mapping data. However, these minor hurdles were eclipsed by the stunning sight of cherry blossoms blanketing Namsan Mountain. The duo eventually found themselves in Seongsu, a vibrant district often compared to Brooklyn’s Williamsburg. With its late-night boutiques and impeccably dressed crowds, the neighborhood captured Avvie’s imagination as she darted between makeup shops and accessory stalls under the glow of city lights.
To deepen their connection to the city, Izon hired a local guide named Alice, who transformed their visit from surface-level sightseeing into a cultural immersion. From navigating the chaotic brilliance of Gwangjang Market for savory mung bean pancakes and sweet hotteok to uncovering the hidden histories of Gyeongbokgung Palace, Alice provided a layer of nuance that textbooks could not provide. This guided approach turned every question curiosity sparked into a learning moment, making the vastness of the city feel intimate and manageable for a young traveler.
One of the most memorable highlights involved stepping back in time through traditional attire. By renting colorful hanboks near the palace gates—a practice that grants visitors free admission—they blended seamlessly into the timeless atmosphere of royal architecture. Between the high energy of modern beauty trends and the quiet dignity of ancient shrines, Izon found that Seoul offered more than just shopping; it provided a perfect middle ground where a mother and daughter could meet as equals in discovery.
