Dancing Gangnam style into a new chapter

Diary of a Lost Seoul Entry #3

Am I lost in the rhythm of Seoul?

I remember hearing Gangnam Style for the first time in England. It came out of nowhere and catapulted into complete stardom. Who was this PSY, and how did he create such a brilliant song? It was 2012—the year the song took over the world, not only because of its infectious beat but also due to the iconic dance moves that everyone was trying to replicate. I even felt an obligation to play it during my spin classes, as there was so much demand for it. Everyone was jumping at the chance to dance to it, and it brought so much energy into the room.

Fast forward to today, and here I am in Gangnam, standing at one of the most iconic locations where Gangnam Style exploded. Dancing right by the massive golden hands—the Gangnam Style monument that was built as a tribute to the song’s cultural impact.

Unveiled in 2016 in front of COEX Mall, the sculpture’s hands replicate the famous horse-riding dance move from the music video. It was designed to celebrate Gangnam Style’s global influence and solidify Gangnam as a trendy, world-famous district.

Seeing the Gangnam Style monument reminded me of just how massive this song was. It became a global phenomenon, the first YouTube video to surpass 1 billion views, and a key moment in bringing K-pop to the world stage. This viral success paved the way for Korean music's global rise, leading to the worldwide recognition of groups like BTS, BLACKPINK, EXO, TWICE, and many more.

Standing there, I felt an instant connection to Seoul. The energy was palpable, and the glamour and charm that exuded from this place were undeniable. This wasn’t just about visiting a new city—it was about embracing South Korea in its entirety: its culture, people, language, food, and everything that makes it so unique.

Our first week in Seoul was a culture shock, and adjusting to life in such a huge and bustling

city was not easy. We had no sense of our bearings, and the unbearable roaming costs whenever we were out of Wi-Fi range left us without internet, GPS, or instant access to information while exploring. It felt like stepping back in time, and I was quickly reminded of how challenging it is to navigate an unfamiliar place without modern technology.

Without Google Maps—or its Korean equivalent, Naver Maps—I felt like Alice in Wonderland, navigating a world that didn’t quite make sense, hoping each turn would lead somewhere interesting. Armed only with a paper map and a hopeful guess, every wrong turn became a lesson, and every detour led to a hidden gem. Each successful journey felt like a small victory.

Navigating Seoul’s streets and tackling its underground system without digital help is no small task. With its maze-like layout, multiple exits, layered floors, and endless stairs, it feels like a challenge designed to test both patience and endurance. If you’re ever in need of a serious leg workout, just try transferring between underground lines here—it’s a workout in itself!

Adjusting to life in a new country felt like learning a new dance—stumbling at first, then slowly finding the rhythm. Even the simplest tasks, like grocery shopping, became mini-adventures in discovery. We had no idea where to buy groceries. Which supermarket had the best prices? How far were they? Living in central Seoul doesn’t offer supermarkets on every corner, and without a car, getting groceries home was another challenge. Driving in Seoul? No, thanks. Our grocery bags were taking a taxi!

Technology quickly became our lifeline in this unfamiliar city—like a rope thrown to a drowning swimmer. Suddenly, I could function again, actually go where I wanted without the fear of getting completely lost or taking long detours back to the hotel.

Temporary SIM cards, a good signal everywhere, and free Wi-Fi, together with Naver Maps, made it feel more manageable. It’s incredible to think about how much we rely on technology for the simplest things—until suddenly, we don’t have access to it.

We’re slowly finding our way, and with time, these things become easier. Once we receive our Alien Registration Card (ARC), local life will open up even more for us. I also can’t wait to finally try Coupang—everyone raves about it. It seems like Korea’s version of Amazon, and from what I hear, it’s a game-changer for online shopping here.

Just like Gangnam Style broke boundaries and took the world by storm, this journey is pushing me beyond my comfort zone. Seoul isn’t just a city I’m exploring—it’s a rhythm I’m learning to dance to. And if I’ve learned anything from PSY, it’s that sometimes, you just have to go all in and own the moment.

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© 2025 Lefitko. All Rights Reserved. Article written by Lenka Morgan-Warren