Seoul is famous for modern skyscrapers, high-tech subways, and pop culture. We will show you some places to visit in Seoul. Visit Seoul: trending places to visit in South Korea.
Dongdaemun Market
Dongdaemun market is a booming shopping area and must-visit for anyone traveling to Seoul. It’s a shopper’s paradise and operates on a scale that’s actually hard to process. Across roughly 10 square blocks you’ll find over 26 shopping malls. Somewhere in the ballpark of 30,000 to 35,000 retail stores. Where shoppers can find just about anything and everything. One could possibly want from electronics and toys to major brands, high-end fashion, and accessories.
Ihwa Mural Village
Located north of the Tonga moon between Tonga station and Chu Huai station. The Ihwa Mural village is definitely a change of pace and scenery. Not so long ago the Ihwa town was scheduled to be demolished due to widespread poverty and crumbling infrastructure. In 2006 however, the Ministry of Culture Sports and Tourism executed a plan to not only save. But also to revitalize the neighborhood. The strategy takes this neighborhood in need and turns it into one of the most beautiful and inspiring areas in the city. Unfortunately, this newfound popularity has not been without cost overcrowding and noise has become a serious problem for residents of the area.
Insa-Dong
We thought we’d clarify that the word Dong does indeed mean neighborhood. While Insa-dong is just one of many neighborhoods that make up Seoul’s Chung know GU district. It’s among the most popular areas in the city due to the fact that it feels very rooted in traditional Korean culture. Whereas the Dongdaemun market is jam-packed with modern offerings. The storefronts that line the bustling Main Street in zodanga skew heavily towards cultural items. Like paintings, sculptures, tea, calligraphy tools, folk art, and other such traditional goods. That is so intimately intertwined with the country’s history regardless of the budget. It’s a great place to window-shop and the street food in the neighborhood is fantastic.
Seoullo 7017
Seoul is a fascinating and vibrant city but when you’re in the thick of things it can often be difficult to get your bearings. At times even a bit claustrophobic and that’s what makes Seoullo 7017 also known as the sky park or Seoul sky garden. Such a great addition to the city’s landscape similar to the High Line in New York City. This elevated linear garden makes use of old infrastructure and gives it a fresh lease on life. Whereas the High Line was once a railway. Seoullo 7017 is actually a repurposed section of highway overpass running for more than 3,000 feet through the city center.
Nami Island
If you enjoy the greenery of the sky Park you will absolutely fall in love with Nami Island. Technically speaking it’s not part of the city but it is considered a must-visit for anyone heading to South Korea’s capital. Think of it as a mandatory day trip and given that it’s easily accessible via public transit or shuttle bus. It’s not a difficult outing to plan among the most popular attractions in all of South Korea. Nami Island is a unique slice of natural beauty year-round. Each season boasting a different picture-perfect color palette so get away from the crowds for an afternoon. Enjoy the simple pleasures of strolling the tree-lined paths, serene waterfront and Gardens fans of Korean dramas. In particular, I will enjoy visiting the island as it served as a shooting location for the hugely successful series Winter Sonata.
Hongdae
Hongdae is arguably the city’s trendiest most forward-thinking neighborhood. If you want to experience the cutting edge of South Korean pop culture is where you will find it. Yes, it’s a student neighborhood but it’s also so much more. A young traveler could easily spend their entire trip. Here the indie music scene played a big part in shaping the area starting in the 1990s and with whom this status as the place to be for art, entertainment and underground culture has only continued to grow and evolve ever since though gentrification is changing. The neighborhood an artistic spirit persevered, in short, this is where South Korean trends are born.
Gangnam
This neighborhood certainly requires no introduction thanks to the mega-hit Gangnam Style by South Korean pop star. This trendy neighborhood now enjoys immediate name recognition The world over the district is the third-largest in the city and its name Gangnam means south of the river. A reference to the Han River which cuts through the city. In case I didn’t already make this clear enough Gangnam is known for its wild nightlife and booming club scene. If you’re the type to dance the night away this is the place to do it. It also happens to be home to the largest underground mall in the world.
Myeongdong
Shopping has come up a lot on this neighborhood guide but the reality is if you’re planning a trip to Seoul shopping is likely part of the appeal. The city has in recent years become one of the biggest shopping destinations on the planet. Located in the Choong district Myeongdong is relatively small but it sure packs a whole lot of commerce into its modest footprint. Here you’ll find all the major brands and retailers including the more high-end and prestige ones earning its Main Street. The distinction of being among the most expensive global shopping hubs. You’ll find plenty of fast food and franchises. Here the street food game is also on point just be warned the streets get jam-packed with shoppers then again the crowds are part of the experience.
Namdaemun Market
If you want to get a real feel for a city’s culture and food you’ve got to go to their major markets. In Seoul, nothing on the market is as historic as they come. It takes its name from the main gate of the old city which it sits next to. The market itself dates all the way back to 1414 though it has naturally undergone many changes over the centuries. Today much of the open-air market is open 24 hours.
It is home to somewhere in the ballpark of 10,000 shops and stalls in terms of what you can buy here. The sky is the limit jewelry, knickknacks, luggage, kitchen tools, toys, bedding, clothing. They’ve really got it all but the star attraction at Namdaemun market many would argue is the food. Not only is the produce on inspiring in its abundance and variety but the countless street food vendors make it a foodies dream.
Bukchon Hanok Village
Seoul is in most ways of very modern destination and yet within the city limits. One can essentially travel back through time roughly 600 years. Bukchon Hanok Village has located between three major sites Quan bakhoum palace, Chengdu Kun palace, and Chung meow shrine. This neighborhood is a destination on its own. The narrow alleyways are lined with traditional Korean houses known as Han Oaks. Many of which date back centuries and while people are leading regular lives and running businesses out of these structures.
When you’re strolling through the village. One can’t help but feel utterly untethered from the modern age. Many travelers list Bukchon Hanok village among their favorite experiences in Seoul. It’s an incredible cultural experience a history lesson and a photographer’s dream. Just remember to enjoy the village in a way that’s also respectful to its residents.
