From K-Pop to Kimchi: Discover the Best Attractions, Food, and Nightlife in South Korea Seoul-full city with Our Ultimate Guide
Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a dynamic city that offers visitors many experiences. From exploring the city’s ancient palaces to trying delicious Korean street food, there’s something for everyone in Seoul.
The city’s mix of ancient history and modern innovation is evident in its architecture, cuisine, and attractions. In this list, we’ve compiled some top things to do and see in Seoul, including must-visit landmarks, museums, neighborhoods, and cultural performances that will make your trip unforgettable.
Here are some things to do and see:
- Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace: Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest of the five palaces built by the Joseon dynasty in Seoul. This palace is a must-see attraction for visitors to Seoul as it represents the Joseon dynasty’s grandeur and history. Beautiful gardens also surround the palace, and you can witness the changing of the guard ceremony, which takes place every hour.
- Explore the Bukchon Hanok Village: This traditional Korean village is located in the heart of Seoul and is a great place to explore and learn about the country’s history and culture. The town is a collection of traditional Korean houses, or hanoks, preserved and restored to their original state. Visitors can walk through the streets and alleys, participate in traditional Korean activities and see how people lived in ancient times.
- Shop at Myeong-dong: Myeong-dong is one of Seoul’s most popular shopping districts, and it’s easy to see why. This bustling district has various shops, restaurants, and street vendors selling everything from traditional Korean goods to the latest fashion trends. You can also find many popular Korean cosmetic brands here.
- Visit Namsan Tower: Namsan Tower is a famous landmark in Seoul that offers breathtaking city views. You can take a cable car to the top of the tower and enjoy panoramic views of Seoul’s skyline or hike up the mountain if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Try Korean street food: Seoul is known for its delicious street food, and there are many markets and food stalls throughout the city where you can try traditional Korean dishes like kimchi, tteokbokki, and bibimbap. Some popular food markets include Gwangjang Market and Namdaemun Market.
- Visit the War Memorial of Korea: The War Memorial of Korea is a museum and memorial that commemorates the Korean War and honors the country’s veterans. The museum features exhibits and artifacts from the war, including tanks, planes, and weapons, as well as multimedia displays and interactive exhibits.
- Visit the National Museum of Korea: The National Museum of Korea is the largest in South Korea and houses over 220,000 artifacts, including many treasures from Korea’s ancient past. Visitors can explore the galleries and learn about Korean history and culture.
- Walk along the Cheonggyecheon Stream: Cheonggyecheon Stream is a beautiful urban park running through Seoul’s heart. The stream was restored in 2005 and has become a popular spot for locals and visitors to relax and enjoy the tranquil environment. You can stroll along the stream or join one of the available guided walking tours.
- Visit the Dongdaemun Design Plaza: The Dongdaemun Design Plaza is a modern, futuristic building home to exhibitions, galleries, and events. The building was designed by Zaha Hadid, an award-winning architect, and is a must-see attraction for architecture enthusiasts.
- Explore the Hongdae neighborhood: Hongdae is a trendy Seoul neighborhood known for its vibrant nightlife, street art, and music scene. The area is home to many independent shops, cafes, and bars and is a great place to experience modern Korean culture.
- Visit the Seoul Tower: The Seoul Tower, also known as Namsan Tower, is a popular tourist attraction that offers spectacular city views. You can take a cable car to the tower or hike up the mountain to reach the top. The building is magnificent at night when it’s illuminated with colorful lights.
- Attend a traditional Korean performance: Seoul is home to many traditional Korean performances, including music, dance, and theater. Some popular performances include the Nanta performance, a high-energy, comedic cooking show, and the Korean Folk Performance at the Jeongdong Theater, which showcases traditional Korean music and dance.
Did you know?
Seoul has one of the fastest internet speeds in the world? The city is known for its high-speed broadband network, available almost everywhere, including subway stations, parks, and public spaces.
The internet speed in Seoul is so fast that it’s possible to download a high-definition movie in just a few seconds. This has made Seoul a hub for technology and innovation, attracting many startups and tech companies to the city.
A little history:
Seoul was founded in 18 BC by the Baekje kingdom, one of the three kingdoms that ruled the Korean peninsula at the time. Initially known as Wiryeseong, the city was a small settlement surrounded by walls and fortresses to protect it from invaders.
Over the centuries, Seoul was invaded and occupied by various empires and kingdoms, including the Mongols, Japanese, and Manchu. The city suffered significant damage during the Japanese occupation from 1910 to 1945, during which many historical buildings and cultural artifacts were destroyed or taken away.
After World War II, it became the capital of South Korea and underwent rapid development and modernization. The city hosted the 1988 Summer Olympics, which helped boost its global reputation and economy.
This bustling metropolis that blends traditional Korean culture with modern technology and innovation. It’s home to many adventures and activities, iconic landmarks, including Gyeongbokgung Palace, Namsan Tower, and the Han River, symbolizing Seoul’s rich history and dynamic culture.
