If you’re planning a trip to Seoul, South Korea, I’d like to recommend five must-visit places that I, as a resident of Korea, am proud to suggest. These are five areas that I think you should definitely check out.
So, let’s make it quick and easy to understand!
Seoul Travel Spot – Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Gyeongbokgung was the largest palace built during the Joseon Dynasty. It showcases an overwhelming beauty that’s truly impressive.
Gyeongbokgung Palace is closed for regular maintenance every Tuesday. However, if a public holiday coincides with Tuesday, the palace is open. In this case, the following non-holiday after the open holiday becomes the closed day.
Moreover, an interesting point is that you can enjoy free admission to Gyeongbokgung Palace if you rent and wear a traditional Korean hanbok. Along with the hanbok experience, exploring the place where past kings lived will surely create unforgettable memories for you.
Bukchon Hanok Village
Where in Seoul can you truly feel the essence of Korea? I would proudly say it’s Bukchon Hanok Village, where the old Korean way of life lives on.
By observing actual residents living in these traditional Korean houses, you can experience something truly unique. This area is well-known as a tourist destination, and the bus routes are very convenient, making it a preferred choice for many.
If you’re interested in the history and traditions of South Korea, I strongly recommend visiting this area. You might even consider it similar to the streets of Kyoto in Japan.
Seoul Travel Spot -Dongdaemun Design Plaza(DDP)
Dongdaemun Design Plaza, often abbreviated as DDP, is a prominent attraction. These two names refer to the same place, so keeping them in mind for reference should work.
If you have a keen interest in modern architecture and design, this site is a must-visit. It’s considered one of the most innovative architectural landmarks in South Korea.
For those who are passionate about fashion, attending a fashion show in line with your schedule could be a great experience.
In addition to all this, Dongdaemun Design Plaza hosts a variety of exhibitions, events, and even unique shops. If you’re interested, I highly recommend paying a visit.
It’s a route I always recommend to my friends when they visit from overseas.
Seoul Travel Spot -Itaewon
Itaewon is Seoul’s prominent multicultural district. This area developed as an entertainment hub for U.S. soldiers stationed in Korea, which naturally led to a mix of various ethnicities being able to enjoy themselves here.
Particularly, Itaewon is a popular spot for Koreans who want to make friends with foreigners. If you’re looking to connect with Korean friends, I recommend visiting this area.
Furthermore, Itaewon is great for enjoying drinks in the evening. It offers a unique experience where you can savor various alcoholic beverages and immerse yourself in a new drinking culture alongside diverse groups of people.
Seoul Travel Spot – Hongdae
Hongdae is the most famous artist district in South Korea. While it might seem similar to Itaewon at a glance, I can assure you that Hongdae is the ultimate “young artist’s street” in the country.
In this area, you can listen to various indie music performances, witness diverse street shows, and even catch theater performances in a unique setting.
The primary age group here is in their 20s, and if you’re curious about how young Koreans enjoy themselves, visiting Hongdae is an absolute must.
Seoul Travel Spot – Namsan Tower
Seoul’s Namsan Tower is not only a communications tower but also a representative landmark of the city. The tower stands at a height of 236.7 meters, making it quite tall. With an observatory deck, Namsan Tower offers a panoramic view that captures the entire capital city of Seoul at a glance.
Inside the tower, you’ll find a variety of upscale restaurants, gaming rooms, and cafes.
Upon arriving in South Korea, starting your journey from Namsan Tower to take in the view of Seoul and then exploring different areas of your interest could be a wonderful plan.