🗺️ Maps
Discover the unique sides of Boston & Seoul.
Uju Maps is a modest collection of hand-curated travel guides made for people exploring Boston or Seoul — whether you're visiting for the first time or a long-time local.
Each map features a personal mix of local favorites, hidden gems, and hard-to-Google spots. From rooftop patios in Boston to late-night eats in Seoul, these guides highlight the places I love most — the ones that feel a little less touristy, and more memorable.
Why I Made These Maps
I’ve spent years wandering both cities — Seoul as a Korean adoptee reconnecting with my roots, and Boston/Cambridge/Somerville as my long-time home. Along the way, I started making private lists for friends, family, and community members visiting either city. What started as a few recommendations turned into a fun side-project — a desire to help people experience these places with more joy, intention, and convenience.
These maps are designed with that spirit. Hope you enjoy!
What You’ll Find
Each Uju Map is focused on a specific theme or traveler need. A few examples:
- 🍽️ Seoul Street Food & Markets – From Gwangjang Market classics to hidden back-alley snacks.
- 📸 Best Views & Photo Spots in Seoul – Iconic cityscapes, nature escapes, and quiet rooftops.
- 💙 Adoptee Support & Healing Spaces – A map of meaningful places for Korean adoptees.
- 🍺 Boston Breweries & Beer Gardens – Favorite spots for craft beer, patios, and local vibes.
- 🌇 Boston Rooftops & Hidden Patios – Warm weather musts for views, drinks, and sunshine.
All maps are available on Naver (for Korea) and Google Maps (for Boston). Some come with companion Notion guides to give you extra tips and context.
Who It’s For
Uju Maps is for travelers, locals, adoptees, the Korean diaspora — and anyone who wants to explore with more depth and heart. Whether you're planning your first trip to Korea or just looking for a new brunch spot in Boston, there’s something here for you.
About Uju Maps
Why did you start making maps?
This all got started when I discovered my love for oysters 🦪. I always assumed I didn’t like them, despite enjoying most other seafood. After slurping down a half-dozen with some friends, I was hooked — similar to how Anthony Bourdain describes it in his book Kitchen Confidential 😂. I quickly went on a hunt for every dollar oyster deal in the Boston area and created a Google Map for myself and other oyster loving friends!
Why Boston & Seoul?
I was adopted from Korea at 3 months old, grew up in MA and lived in the Boston area since 2014. I fell in love with Boston and it remains my favorite US city even after visiting almost every other major US city.
My first trip back to Korea and Seoul was in 2019 to reconnect with my Korean roots and heritage. Since then, I’ve been reunited with my Korean mom and many other extended family members. I visit them in Seoul frequently and have grown to consider Seoul my second home.
Both cities are unique in their own way and offer so much to locals and visitors alike. My hope is that these maps and resources will help others enjoy these two amazing cities as much as I do.
Are these maps and lists free?
All maps are free for my subscribers, but if you want a specific one, shoot me an email and I'll see what I can do 🙂. If you’d like to show your support with a small donation, feel free to buy me a beer (or coffee, or half-dozen oysters 😁). I greatly appreciate any and all support!
What if I have an idea for a new map or feedback on a current one?
Shoot me a short, friendly note at uju@hellouju.com please!
Will there be more cities in the future?
It’s something I’m thinking about! I would need help and support from others living in the area. If you’d like to help participate in making maps for your local city, reach out to me at uju@hellouju.com.
Coming Soon
I’m always adding new maps and updating existing ones. Upcoming themes include:
- Top Free Things to Do in Seoul
- Best Coffee Shops in Boston
- Seoul for First-Time Visitors
- Boston for Creative Inspiration
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