Overview
Seoul is a dense metropolis with over 9.7 million people (and about 500 million foreigners) located next to Incheon metropolis and surrounded by the suburbs of Gyeonggi Province. With 25 districts (gu) and 423 neighborhoods (dong) and so many people commuting it can feel overwhelming and busy at times. Fortunately there are 9 well-connected subway lines integrated with the bus system, with plenty of English signs and apps and wifi for new and seasoned travelers. In addition, the several intercity bus terminals with frequent and cheap buses, a KTX train which runs at 186 mph connecting to the rest of the country within a few hours, and two international airports connected by train or express bus, you’ll find it convenient to travel inside Korea and abroad. The city itself is full of attractive places and events featuring both traditional buildings in renovated neighborhoods and towering skyscrapers, nestled between large mountainous parks in the green belt zone. There are several large museums worth visiting, restored palaces and Buddhist temples, and amusement parks that can fill up several days. If you’re into shopping, you can bargain at the traditional markets, browse craft fairs for handmade or vintage items, or see the latest trends in large department stores. Nowadays social media is buzzing with all the hot spots to eat, from trending street food creations to Michelin star fine-dining. Whether you’re spending a few days or a few years, you’ll have plenty of options to explore while in this city and learn about dynamic Korean life.
Nature
Around the city you’ll see 8 mountain ranges over 600 meters high and plenty of well-marked day hiking trails. One of the most popular for hikers and rock climbers is located on the northern edge of the city, called Bukhan Mountain. Hike up the winding network of trails past gorgeous temple complexes, along old fortress walls and large gates, taking in the maple trees (especially colorful in the fall), to get a spectacular summit view of the city skyline. If you want a more casual walk you’ll find trails skirting around these large national parks as well. In the city you can ride up Namsan Park cable car and put your “love lock” on the fence while you view the city from N Seoul Tower. Or take in the historic site of the 1988 Summer Olympics at the maintained complex. Dividing the city in half is the mighty Han River with large bridges and parks, and busy bicycle riding paths which line both sides of the river. While there is some air pollution in this large city, it’s not hard to find outdoor spaces in and around the city to refresh yourself.
Main Attractions
There are some must-see places to really take in both the past roots and future direction of this dynamic East Asian nation. First stop is Gyeongbokgung Palace located near the embassies and capital building. The largest of Seoul’s five grand palaces, it was built long ago in the Joseon Dynasty for kings and has been rebuilt many times. It is home to the National Palace Museum of Korea and the National Folk Museum and features gorgeous ponds and meticulous landscaping. If you’re interested in learning about Korea’s culture, also check out the National Museum of Korea to see it’s treasures, and the War Memorial of Korea to take in the artifacts and stories of the “Forgotten War.” There are many worthwhile art museums and a popular Trick Eye Museum for taking fun photos.
Another must-see is the Lotte World Tower (pictured on top). At 555 meters high, it is currently the world’s 5th largest building. There are 123 floors with a high speed elevator running to the sky deck with an eerie translucent floor view. On the lower levels there’s a large aquarium, giant amusement park, folk museum, luxury hotel, and plenty of shopping outlets and places to eat.
Walking Tour
If you have time for a walking tour, check out Bukchon Hanok Village located in central Seoul near the large palaces. You can wander through the nostalgic alleyways of traditional Korean Hanok houses and learn about life in the “Hermit Kingdom” lived for centuries. These hanok houses have also been converted into guest houses, museums, and culture centers where you can partake in craft-making.
Another popular destination is Itaewon. This busy neighborhood with endless alleyways is full of novelty and antique shops, all kinds of restaurants catering to international tastes, cafes and bars for all hours of the day. This is where you’ll find the most international mix of people and events. Not far away is Hongdae art district with a lot of craft shops, good eats, and wild nightlife.
For those inclined to go shopping, check out the sprawling Namdaemun traditional market with floor to ceiling packed stores and narrow walkways and lots of character. If you’re into newer fashion, visit Gangnam district or Myeongdong fashion street with lots of trendy outlets and renowned K-beauty products.
Events
As you’d expect, this international hub city features world-class festivals. For a stunning visual display of night lights the Lotus Lantern Festival and Fireworks Festival, and in winter the Christmas Festival and Land Winter Festival are all worthy spectacles. In late spring the Cherry blossoms around the country magically come and fall like snow and in Seoul you can walk through Yeouido Park along the river to enjoy the atmosphere. There are also several inexpensive and foreigner-operated travel companies that organize bus tours all over Korea so you can easily join other regional events.
In addition to these seasonal celebrations, there are many popular festivals for music, such as the Ultra Music Festival and Seoul Jazz Festival which bring in major stars. If you’re into Korean pop music or drama, you’ll find lots of events and fan clubs to get closer to those celebrities.
Summary
While Seoul can be a busy and crowded place and a bit expensive to live in, as a traveler it’s very convenient to get around and experience all the highlights. People are also generally pretty friendly and polite and many are eager to learn or practice their English skills. And if you choose to settle into the city, it will take you years to explore all the neighborhoods, and you can quickly find a community with your shared interests.
