Whether you’re interested in South Korean history, art, culture, or cuisine, the capital city of South Korea is a fantastic destination. The city of Seoul is a fascinating blend of ancient and modern. Skyscrapers, bustling malls, and ultra-modern structures coexist with historic temples and palaces.
Top 10 Places to Visit in Seoul
Almost 25 million people call Seoul their home, making it by far the largest city in South Korea and the economic and political centre of the country. The city’s excellent planning means that tourists shouldn’t have any trouble getting about to see all the highlights.
Seoul is a fantastic destination for culture vultures and foodies both. The street food in Korea is consistently delicious, even at the most unassuming stand. Shopping is also quite popular, and the lively streets feature numerous stores selling the newest fashions from top designers.
1. Gyeongbokgung Palace
Gyeongbokgung Palace is the most visited of the Five Great Palaces due to its status as the largest and grandest of the five. Though the massive palace complex was first constructed by the Joseon Dynasty in 1395, it has been damaged multiple times throughout the ages, with many of the stunning buildings we see now dating back to 1867.
The royal dinner hall, located in a picturesque setting on an artificial lake, and the king’s sumptuous lodgings are only two examples of the beautiful Korean architecture seen across the country.
It’s a fascinating destination with a profusion of regal structures and chambers to explore. The changing of the guard ceremony at Gwanghwamun’s main gate is a must-see for any visitor.
2. Changdeokgung Palace
According to feng shui principles, Changdeokgung, one of Seoul’s palaces, should face a mountain and have a gorgeous stream flow before it.
In 1405, construction began on the official royal home. The majestic Injeongjeon Hall houses the luxurious throne room, and the colossal entrance gate of Donhwamun is only one of many marvels on display with its two-story wooden pavilion.
It’s a pleasure just to explore the palace grounds. The beautiful Hawon Gardens are located in the back, and their lotus pond set among the trees is an added bonus to the scenery.
3. National Museum of Korea
If you want to know more about the history of Korea, you have to go to the National Museum of Korea. The informative and entertaining displays span the entire history of humankind, from prehistoric periods to the present day.
There is a multitude of knowledge available, including many beautiful examples of Korean art. The museum’s ten-story pagoda may be the centre of attention, but the Silla Golden Crown is equally impressive for its exquisite design and construction.
There are around 15,000 works of art, historic artefacts, sculptures, and more on show at the museum, which is housed in a massive concrete edifice.
4. War Memorial of Korea
This massive memorial, which opened in 1994, stands on the site of the former Korean Army headquarters. Its current mission is to teach people about the evils of war in order to avert future conflicts.
Planes hang from the ceiling, and shells line the walls of the six exhibition halls, as they depict the story of Korea’s military history in this massive complex.
The memorial is a tribute to the deceased. You can’t help but feel a lump in your throat as you look at monuments like “Defending the Fatherland.” Equally affecting is the “Statue of Two Brothers,” from which visitors are quite unlikely to emerge unscathed.
5. N Seoul Tower
Namsan Tower, as it is commonly known, soars 236 metres into the air above Seoul, and the views from the observation deck are breathtaking.
The tower, situated atop Mount Namsan, is one of the best-known sights in all of South Korea. To get there, you can take a thrilling cable car journey. Lovers have left thousands of locks on a single roof terrace to symbolise their undying devotion to one another.
The observation and communication tower is especially beautiful at night when it is lit up against the starry sky, and the views of a lighted Seoul are breathtaking.
6. Dongdaemun Design Plaza
Dongdaemun Design Plaza opened in 2014 and lives up to its slogan, “Dream, Design, Play.” The building is a neo-futuristic marvel that combines workspaces, galleries, and a playground.
The five enormous rooms house the Design Market, where you can test out new ideas and explore cutting-edge technologies, as well as the Design Museum, which provides a fascinating look at inventive and imaginative Korean designs.
With so much going on, it’s worth keeping an eye out for the various conferences, exhibits, trade shows, and fashion displays that are held in the area.
7. Bongeunsa Temple
This beautiful Buddhist temple was established in 794, and it is located on the southern slopes of Mount Sudo. Despite the fact that skyscrapers have been built all around it, it has managed to keep its tranquil atmosphere.
Bongeunsa is the largest and wealthiest temple in the capital, and as such, it attracts a lot of visitors. The Buddha statues and other artworks found within the temple attest to this, as do the immaculately kept grounds.
The brightly painted Main Buddha Hall is unquestionably the most eye-catching example of the impressive architecture on display. Guests also have the option to spend a few hours living and learning the Buddhist monastic lifestyle.
8. Cheonggyecheon
Walking along this man-made creek that cuts through Seoul is becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason: the tranquilly of Cheonggyecheon transports you to a place that feels a world apart from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis.
The paths along the stream’s beautiful borders are adorned with plants and trees. At night, there are light shows that cast a romantic glow over the river, and performances by street artists. Cheonggyecheon is a quiet neighbourhood with several hidden pathways that make it easy to explore the rest of the city.
9. Noryangjin Fish Market
Noryangjin Fish Market has some of the best seafood you’ll ever taste. The greatest time to enjoy the hustle and bustle of the city’s oldest and largest fish market is at 3 in the morning, when an auction of the best catches takes place.
It’s a lot of fun to take a trip to Noryangjin. The variety of fish on show will astound you. There are many convenient places to eat, and the fresh fish is delicious.
10. Lotte World
Lotte World has the largest indoor amusement park in the world, and it’s a tonne of fun to check out. In addition, there is a huge retail centre with multiple department stores. Lotte World is essentially Seoul’s Disneyland, and it’s a huge hit with the people. When kids see all the rides, they won’t be able to contain their excitement for very long.
Lotte World is one of the best places in Seoul to have a good time, whether you’re interested in soaking on the log rides or getting your heart racing on the ‘French Revolution’ roller coaster.
