Best Things To Explore In Seoul, South Korea
Seoul, South Korea, is a colossal city with an astonishing population of over 9 million people. It is famous for its rich history, which dates back to 18 BC, but is best known for its origins under the Joseon Dynasty in 1392.
Today, Seoul is home to four UNESCO World Heritage Sites, cutting-edge ecological parks and structures, and a presence of internationally renowned performing theatre.
In addition, it is home to some of the most mouthwatering street delicacies, a chic avant-garde fashion industry, and most lately, the expansion of K-Pop fans to a worldwide scale.
Let's get right into the 10 fun and unique things to do in Seoul, South Korea, as we have an exciting and educational list of things to come.
1. Start by entering the magnificent Gyeongbokgung Palace
The Joseon dynasty, which reigned from 1392 to 1897, resided at the Gyeongbokgung Palace (palace exceedingly favoured by Heaven), which was constructed in 1935.
About 300 years after the damage caused by the 1592 Japanese invasion, the Korean War, and several other natural calamities, the palace, also known as Gyeongbokgung Palace or Gyeongbok Palace, was abandoned.
The palace is now available for tourists to enjoy and learn from after years of refurbishment. Take in the National Folk Museum of Korea, the National Royal Museum of Korea, and the surrounding palace grounds.
Enter the palace via the Gwanghwamun Gate, which was erected in 1395 as a symbol of protection against invaders. Observe the daily shifting of the guards at 11 am or 1 pm.
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2 - Climb the N Seoul Tower to the summit
The N Seoul Tower, which stands 236 meters tall, adorns the urban landscape of modern-day Seoul. The N Seoul Tower, situated in the center of Seoul, is the second-highest point in the city due to its height and distinctive contemporary characteristics.
The N Seoul Tower, also known as Namsan Tower or Seoul Tower, is renowned for its entertainment, retail, communications, and observation tower, which is a must-see for sweeping views of the city and environment and costs 16,000 won to visit.
Namsan Mountain Park, a picturesque park with walking paths and slopes to climb up and capture another magnificent vista of the city, is just a 5-minute stroll from the tower.
Consider taking a 15-minute cable car trip on Namsan Cable Cars for a wonderful bird's eye perspective of the city.
3 - Explore the National Museum of Korea to learn about its rich history
At the National Museum of Korea, visitors may delve deeply into Korean history by being guided through the fascinating ancient history of the nation before moving on to later periods.
There are both special displays and a variety of permanent exhibits in the museum. Visit the permanent exhibition's Room of Contemplation, where two pensive bodhisattva sculptures from the sixth and seventh centuries invite visitors to reflect on life's deeper issues.
A current schedule of future foreign exhibitions, including those on the Aztecs, Mesopotamia, and the Astana Tombs, may be found at the temporary exhibition center. Enter the sizable Buddhist art and Korean calligraphy gallery.
The biggest museum in Korea, with 3 floors and an estimated 320,000 relics, is open from 10 am to 6 pm every day and is free to enter, with the exception of special exhibitions.
4 - Explore the variety of things to do in Dongdaemun Design Plaza
The magnificent Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), which welcomed visitors in 2011, was constructed to house a wide range of exhibits as well as some of the city's most significant events.
The DDP is popular among residents and visitors for its surprisingly modern look, markets, amazing shopping, cultural and international events, galleries and exhibits, museums, and other attractions.
Appreciate the building's gentle curves, contemporary gray-concrete appearance, beautiful lighting, and friendly atmosphere, which are all present in Seoul's historic Jung-gu neighborhood. DDP is split into about seven parts, each of which serves a distinct function and is available for certain events.
The DDP is accessible all year round and free to see, however, there may be an additional charge if you want to partake in a particular activity. For English speakers, interpreting services are offered.
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5. Arrange a day excursion to the abounding Nami Island
Consider taking a day excursion to Nami Island, a river island that is about 1.5 hours from Seoul's city center.
The charming and very beautiful natural attractions of Nami Island, which range from sparkling tranquil rivers to quiet tree-lined pathways, entice tourists throughout the year.
Petite France, a beautiful park with pastel-colored homes surrounded by a mountain and mirror-like lake, is 20 minutes distant.
Visit Garden of Morning Calm, one of Korea's most stunning gardens, which is renowned for its lush and colorful display of plants of all kinds, immaculate flowerbeds, tranquil strolling routes, and exquisite waterways.
In Gangchon Rail Bike, tourists may hire a rail bike and cycle their way along the track while admiring the grandeur of the surrounding mountainous scenery. The former railroad lines have been converted into a bike trail.
Last but not least, explore Mount Seorak's many hiking paths and towering, craggy 1,708-meter height. Visit temples, the bronze statue of Buddha, and other attractions. You may also ride the Seoraksan Cable Car to the Gwongeumseong Fortress, among many more destinations.
6. Take a lovely walk along Cheonggyecheon Stream
A historical, pre-existing stream from the Joseon Dynasty has been replaced with the ecological park and promenade known as the Cheonggyecheon Stream.
The park was created as a public open cultural area with an awareness of the environment, although it has seen many changes throughout the years.
Starting in the Cheonggye Plaza, you may take a stroll of roughly 11 kilometers through a variety of events and exhibitions that are presented there all year long.
Enjoy the November Seoul Lantern Festival, the lovely Seoul Christmas Festival, or the late April to early may Lotus Lantern Festival.
Visit at night to see a stunning light display that includes illuminated waterfalls, synchronized light shows, and a symbolic wishing well made out of 8 different stones that stand in for the country's 8 regions.
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7 - Take a tour of the local food market to explore the Korean Cuisine
Visit Gwangjang Market in the heart of Seoul's old quarter for a locally created culinary tour that includes staples like Japchae (stir-fried noodles), one of Korea's national meals. This market has more than 400 stores and food booths.
One of the city's oldest markets, dating to 1905, allows you to immerse yourself in a symphony of delectable fragrances that surround you in a vibrant market environment.
A well-known fish market, Noryangjin Fisheries Wholesale Market, keeps all of its fish mostly alive and in big fish tanks until they are bought, ensuring both the market's and the fish's freshness.
Enter Tongin Traditional Market, a well-known sanctuary for foodies that offers a wide variety of seafood vendors and street food selections. Take note of the very fresh vegetables and regional ingredients being offered when you shop for your next dinner.
8 - Explore Seoul Forest's breathtaking natural splendor
The Seoul Forest offers a number of various activities that may be enjoyed for a fee, including the Eco Forest, the Insect Garden, the Butterfly Garden, and a few more. Entry to the Seoul Forest is free.
Though the park is constantly overflowing with extravagant beauty, the spring and autumn, when the cherry blossoms are in bloom and the leaves are just beginning to change brilliant shades of orange, red, and yellow, are some of the greatest seasons to experience unadulterated natural beauty.
For an hourly fee of 4,000 won, consider hiring a bike to really experience the season. Alternatively, you may stroll along the many walking routes, including the fantastic overhead footbridge that links Seoul Forest to Hangang Waterside Park.
9. Visit the National Folk Museum of Korea
The National Folk Museum of Korea, which holds the social history of the Korean people and exhibits many examples of work that describe social and cultural life in Korea, both in the past and the present, is located within the iconic Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Explore the open-air display, which highlights numerous different aspects of traditional life in Korea, as well as the museum's three permanent exhibitions, Korean Traditional Daily Life, A Year in Korea, and "Korean Life Passages."
View the many treasures, including works of literature, cinema, art, and a range of other things, that have been preserved and displayed for the enjoyment of residents and guests.
Bring your kids to the Children's Museum, which has age-appropriate displays so they may learn about the many items in the real museum on their own terms.
10. Enjoy yourself on a Han River cruise
Since the late 1980s and up to the present, the Han River Cruise has been a well-liked recreation for residents and an exciting activity for tourists, bringing passengers on a voyage across the Han River (also known as the Hangang River).
The Bamseom Islet, Jeoldusan Park, and Namsan Seoul Towel are just a few of the many things you may see while on the tour. It also provides a buffet lunch or supper while traveling under the warm Korean sun or tranquil dusk.
You may decide whether to take a cruise during the day or at night, and you can choose from a range of cruise themes including narrative cruise, music cruise, or moonlight cruise. Adult tickets start at 15,000 won, and for the fireworks cruise, the price is 89,000 won.
Final Words
Seoul is a unique city to explore, it has a rich culture, and that can be visible in its streets, markets, and in their delicious cuisines. Seoul calls as the main hub and most visited city in the country.
These are the must-see places in Seoul that we have added to the list. Those who are looking for an amazing experience should definitely visit Seoul.