Shopping
Seoul is a vibrant city with plenty of places to shop for unique items. Some of the best shopping destinations include Myeongdong, Gangnam, and Dongdaemun. These vibrant areas offer a mix of traditional Korean shops, clothing boutiques, and souvenir shops.
Let’s take a look at the shopping options available in Seoul:
Dongdaemun Market
Dongdaemun Market, located in north-eastern Seoul, is one of the largest shopping complexes in South Korea. With street vendors, fashion retailers, and traditional markets selling all sorts of goods, it’s easy to spend hours browsing this vibrant and exciting atmosphere. The market is split into five different sections, offering a wide range of products from clothes to electronics and food. All sections are open 24/7 and make for one of the most exciting places to explore in Seoul.
At Dongdaemun Market, you’ll find a remarkable variety of clothing, from everyday apparel to designer fashions—there’s something here for everyone! It’s also known for its fabric market, where shoppers can get quality materials at wholesale prices. For electronics, there are an array of shops selling cameras and other electronic equipment. Lastly, the food section features famous eateries, such as Tteokbokki Town, which offers Korean-style street food like spicy rice cake (Gamja tteokbokki) and Korean fried chicken (KFC).
If you’re looking for an iconic shopping experience in Seoul, look no further than Dongdaemun Market—it definitely won’t disappoint!
Myeongdong Shopping Street
Myeongdong Shopping Street is one of the most popular shopping destinations in Seoul and a paradise for shoppers looking for a mix of traditional and modern products. It is jam-packed with street stalls, designer brand outlets, department stores, cosmetics shops, and more. Located in the heart of downtown Seoul, the area is divided into several main sections, including fashion outlets on Cheonggyecheon Stream and Myeongdong Underground Shopping Center, as well as many more designer boutiques and shopping arcades.
At Myeongdong Shopping Street, shoppers can browse through heavily discounted items such as traditional Korean clothing (hanbok), ornaments, handcrafted accessories, souvenirs, and cosmetics. There are also many international chain stores, such as Nike and Adidas, that can be found in Myeongdong alongside countless smaller South Korean fashion boutiques. The area is one of the best places to pick up quality souvenirs for loved ones or indulge yourself with delicious street snacks such as bizarre roasted silkworm larvae or tteokbokki (spicy rice cake).
For visitors seeking entertainment, there are plenty of things to do here, like enjoying performances by K-Pop stars or taking part in traditional cultural activities like calligraphy, writing, or making kimchi. The area comes alive at night when it becomes one complex outdoor stage featuring various street performances ranging from folk singing to acrobatics. At the same time, restaurants become busy with their terrace seating options allowing plenty of people-watching opportunities with a dose of Asian culinary delight.
Insadong Antique Market
Located in the heart of Seoul — the Insadong Antique Market is a great place to find authentic Korean antiques and curios. This traditional open-air market offers a unique selection of handcrafted items, ranging from conventional Korean artwork to rare books and vintage jewelry.
When visiting the market, it’s possible to explore the artisans’ shops and browse the artwork available. You can also enjoy food from small street vendors or sit down for a meal at one of the market’s many restaurants.
The antique market opens its doors daily, starting at 10 am and closing at 6 pm. With a wide range of antiques, visitors can purchase coins, books, ceramics, pottery, Buddhist sculptures, delicate fans made of feathers or paper, and other souvenirs symbolically linked with ancient Korea. The atmosphere here is bustling yet relaxed — and items bought from here make excellent gifts for friends back home.
Culture
Seoul is rich in culture and history. Korean cuisine, innovative art galleries, and breathtaking architecture are just a few of the city’s many cultural offerings. Whether visiting a traditional temple or enjoying a k-pop concert, there is something for everyone to explore and experience in Seoul.
Let’s take a look at some of the cultural activities you can enjoy in the vibrant city:
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest and the oldest of the five grand palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897). One of Korea’s most iconic landmarks, this palace is a striking example of ancient Korean architecture. Gyeongbokgung Palace was reconstructed during the late 19th century and remained one of South Korea’s most popular tourist sites. You will find impressive examples of traditional architecture, ornamental gates, statues, pavilions, and a breathtaking landscape park.
Located in central Seoul near several high-end shopping districts, Gyeongbokgung palace offers a fascinating glimpse into South Korea’s past. Stroll through corridors lined with traditional buildings, each decorated with intricate carvings inspired by hanok architecture – thatched-roof homes developed in Korea centuries ago. Refresh yourself on scorching summer afternoons in the pleasant Bipa Garden while admiring panoramic views over the Seoul cityscape. During springtime, when cherry blossom trees blossom, spectators flock to admire ancestral structures silhouetted against puffy pink petals. Visitors can also visit the Gyeonghoeru Pavilion – a floating structure in the middle of the courtyard harboring mesmerizing flower ponds and colorful foliage – it was built for essential state ceremonies during the Joseon era, recalling the imperial court’s brilliance and grandeur.
Changdeokgung Palace
Changdeokgung Palace is a dream visit for history and architecture fans. Founded in 1405, it served as the royal palace of the Joseon dynasty until 1868. The palace grounds include several grand central courtyards, towers, luxuriantly planted gardens, and two exceptional “secret gardens.” The Huwon Secret Garden is an impressive 60,000 square meter filled with flower beds and pavilions surrounded by beautiful trees and ponds.
Changdeokgung Palace embodies many traditional Korean elements, such as low-lying roofs described as “curved eaves” and walls coated with white lime plaster to keep out the humidity in the summer months. Yet, within these walls lies a stunning array of traditional architecture, including ponds, bridges, secret gardens, and many other breathtaking views.
Aside from its renowned architecture, Changdeokgung Palace also houses valuable artifacts used throughout its 600-year history in the National Treasure Hall. Furthermore, some areas of the palace contain memorial tablets dedicated to kings or prominent figures in Korea’s history that can be viewed within its premises – making it one of Seoul’s prime cultural attractions! Each year the palace also typically hosts events such as re-enactments and festive celebrations honoring Korea’s rich traditions and culture – giving visitors an indication of what life may have been like during the Joseon Dynasty!
National Museum of Korea
The National Museum of Korea is the flagship museum of Korean history and art in South Korea and is the cultural organization representing Korea. Located in Seoul, South Korea, the museum houses over 220,000 documents, items, and artworks from throughout Korean history to the present day. Since its opening in 1945 and being relocated to its current location near Ichon Station in Yongsan District in 2005, more than 8 million people have visited annually, becoming a prominent tourist attraction in Seoul.
The museum’s immense collection includes artifacts from Neolithic times to the Goryeo dynasty, including gold crowns, royal garments, handmade porcelains, and Buddhist sculptures. In addition to these artifacts, one can find the archeological remains from Donggung Palace & Wolji Pond from the Baekje period, along with royal musical instruments affording insight into traditional Korean music performance and a partial copy of Daejanggyeong (the most comprehensive document about ancient medicine). The museum also features special exhibits for alien artifacts, such as ancient Chinese pottery shards or Silla gold adornments from Japanese shores, which are frequently updated throughout the year. There are also helpful educational resources like video content available to visitors and audio guides available both online before your visit or inside free of charge during your visit.
An advanced reservation is required before visiting to ensure a safe visiting environment for all guests during the COVID-19 pandemic – these can be made online through their official website or by calling their reservation center at 02 379 2983 (Korea/English).
Food
Seoul is known for its exciting and diverse food culture, which any traveler should experience. So whether you’re looking for traditional Korean dishes, the latest culinary trends, or anything in between, you’ll be able to find it in Seoul.
In this section, we will explore some of the best food experiences that Seoul has to offer.
Gwangjang Market
Gwangjang Market, located near Jongno 5-ga Station, is the oldest traditional market in Seoul and has long been visited by residents and tourists alike. Over a thousand stores, from fabric to fresh food vendors, line this lively market. If you’re looking for a real taste of authentic Korean culture, Gwangjang Market has it all!
You can try all kinds of delicacies in this bustling marketplace. From traditional dishes like bindaetteok (Korean pancakes made out of mung beans), buchimgae (savory snacks of various types that are fried on a griddle), japchae (Korean-style stir-fried glass noodles) to freshly made sushi rolls with homemade sauces and sashimi, there is something here for every palate. The street food stalls at the market offer dishes such as tteokbokki (Korean rice cakes in a spicy sauce) and sundae (blood sausage). And don’t forget the array of Korean barbeque stalls offering delicious mild pork belly seasoned with freshly ground chili powder or crispy yangnyeom chicken wings in a sweet and spicy sauce – these dishes have everyone coming back for more!
Gwangjang Market is also known for its unique style items and fashion hubs such as hanbok (traditional Korean dress), hats, shoes, bags, and much more. Here you’ll find fashionable vintage clothes that combine old and new trends in fashion. In addition, you’ll discover colorful handbags made with bright materials that evoke traditional Korean patterns known as Hwa-yeop embroidery or Heukpogeut patterns from Bokjee fabrics. Shopping in Gwangjang Market will be an unforgettable experience for sure!
Hongdae Food Street
Hongdae Food Street offers a variety of different flavors in one spot. From humble street food snacks to fine dining restaurants, this area offers something for everyone. In addition, authentic Korean delicacies like jeon, tteokbokki, bibimbap, and kimchi jjigae are all available on this road.
Aside from the traditional tastes of Korea, a range of international cuisines, from Italian pasta dishes to Mexican tacos and vegan options, are also present here. Visitors can watch as chefs grill up popular barbeque dishes or take their time browsing unique dining establishments like brick-oven pizzerias, vegan noodle shops, and organic cafes.
For dessert connoisseurs, there is an array of pastries, specialty coffees, and teas at Hongdae Food Street that satisfy the sweet tooth. So whether you grab a bite at one of the homey stands or linger at an upscale restaurant, you’ll find that Seoul’s Hongdae Food Street has something for everyone!
Samcheongdong-gil
Samcheongdong-gil provides visitors to Seoul with an adventure in cutting-edge fashion, art, and culture. The winding, historic street is lined with restaurants, shops, and galleries, both modern and traditional. In addition, visitors can wander past art museums and popular shopping destinations or indulge in the local café culture.
This bustling neighborhood often hosts a series of festivals focused on bringing the community together and showcasing its diverse offerings. Tourists can experience traditional Korean entertainment, such as Korean mask dance performances, folk music concerts, and cultural parades. The street has many eateries ranging from large international chains to homey family-run establishments like small cafes, bakeries, and restaurants serving everything from pork cutlets to hot pot teems delivered by waiters dressed in traditional ancient Korean garments.
When it comes to cuisine, Samcheongdong-gil offers a little something for everyone:
- Seoul food stands sell everything from skewered meat snacks to ramen noodles.
- Italian restaurants serve homemade pasta dishes.
- Indian eateries are offering spicy samosas.
- Japanese sushi bars dishing out freshly cut sashimi.
- Other international favorites include falafel joints, Mexican taco stands, and Thai noodle stalls.
- Popular seafood restaurants also adorn the street, serving fresh catches of the day at even fresher prices.
Adding this new spot onto your list of must-sees while in South Korea!
Nightlife
Seoul, South Korea, is known for its bustling nightlife. From rooftop bars to nightclubs, visitors can explore many options.
In this section, we will look at the nightlife opportunities available in Seoul for locals and tourists. So whether you’re looking for a casual night out or an all-out nighttime party, Seoul has something for everyone.
Hongdae Nightlife
Hongdae area in Seoul is one of the most popular places for nightlife activities. The area has a vibrant scene, and visitors can experience a wide variety of cultural attractions and activities all day long, with an even more lively atmosphere at night.
The district has a buzzing atmosphere because of its numerous bars, cafes, restaurants, and clubs that serve as gathering spaces for people from all walks of life. When roaming the streets at night, you will be dazzled by music from multiple sources, from traditional Korean folk songs to rock music. You can also find unique shopping areas where you can browse creative and handcrafted items (during the day) and party areas with laughably cheap street food options (at night).
For wine tasting, Beer or soju enthusiasts should consider checking out Hongdae’s Ho Bar; beer connoisseurs should visit The Booth; trendy bistros are always an option at 3 Alley Pubs; HighBar lounge provides an upscale experience; or you could pick your favorite music style by visiting any one of Hongdae’s many nightclubs/ live bars such as Sendaero Live Bar for EDM/ Dj Parties, Door 4 Showcase For Rock Music or Acoustic Bars in Voice Holic Square. The “Take Me Home” café lets guests bring their food while they pay the entry fee to listen to music –, particularly hip-hop. Ambulance sirens often signal closure to this fantastic district just before sunrise sets in after another wild and unforgettable Hongdae Nightlife adventure!
Itaewon Nightlife
Itaewon is one of the most vibrant and lively nightlife areas in South Korea’s bustling capital city of Seoul. Itaewon is well known as an expatriate enclave, meaning its bars, nightclubs, and other attractions welcome foreigners and local Koreans. From cocktail bars to rooftop nightclubs, a night out in Itaewon promises international crowds fueled by specialty cocktails, live music, craft beers, and chili-spiced Korean fried chicken.
For small bar vibes in an alleyway set, Lighthouse Craft Beer Bar boasts 16 draft Beer taps that pour craft IPAs from Korea’s finest microbreweries. In the same alleyway is Tommy Leogun – named after the Korean film actor – playing a mix of rock ‘n’ roll classics and modern hip-hop against leather furniture with a distinctive 1950s atmosphere. At Club Maya (formerly known as What The Book), guests can expect foreign DJs pounding electronic dance music under an ultraviolet light show beneath a vast rooftop – perfect for summer evenings. Finally, for the more adventurous among you, there is Myeongdong 조상publik house, where patrons can sample over 100 imported wines with their meal or snack.
No matter which venue you choose to visit, you won’t be disappointed by all Itaewon has to offer!
Gangnam Nightlife
Gangnam, a trendsetting district of Seoul in South Korea, has a vibrant nightlife scene for millions of residents and visitors. Whether looking for a chic nightclub filled with K-pop artists or a speak-easy-style bar with a craft beer selection and live music, Gangnam is primed to provide the perfect night out. Here are some top picks for the best Gangnam offers in terms of nightlife.
Clubs:
- Gram Cafe & Pancakes – Located in Sinsa-dong, this club is an exciting mix of hip-hop and techno sounds while serving up some French toast and alcoholic drinks.
- M2 – A high-end club in Cheonho-dong features global EDM and Hip Hop names and top DJs from Korea.
- Toy Bar – Hidden on the fourth floor of Yongsan Station, Toy Bar offers neon lights, heavy bass, and easy access from just about anywhere.
Bars:
- Brew 3.14 – If you’re looking for a craft beer selection with knowledgeable bar staff, look no further than this innovative joint in Cheongdam-dong.
- Club Roof – If you want unadulterated night views of the Gangnam skyline, head up to the tenth-floor rooftop open mic nights at Club Roof to get your fill.
- Azul Pulsar – A stylish outdoor sports bar featuring artfully mixed cocktails and a great ambiance, Azul Pulsar will make your night unforgettable!
Nature
There are plenty of options if you’re looking for a great way to experience nature and the outdoors when visiting Seoul, South Korea. From the breathtaking mountain peaks and royal palaces to the stunning beaches and botanical gardens, there’s something for everyone.
We’ll take a closer look at some of the best natural attractions in Seoul and how you can make the most of them:
Namsan Park
Namsan Park is a public park located in Seoul, South Korea. The park covers an area of 0.26 square kilometers and is a popular recreational area for locals and tourists. Located on the south side of Namsan Mountain, Namsan Park offers a range of activities depending on the season, including hiking, biking, and picnicking.
The park boasts several wooded areas with deciduous and evergreen trees and several ponds that provide habitats for various plant and animal life. Birdwatchers can expect to spot several species in the area, such as goldfinches, magpies, nightingales, and thrushes. During the summer months, visitors can enjoy watching giant aquatic bugs, such as dragonflies skimming over the water surfaces trying to collect food.
Namson Park provides visitors with access to numerous walking trails which offer spectacular views over downtown Seoul from different angles. There are also plenty of places to sit, relax, or have a picnic lunch. In addition to these stunning views, there are also many cultural attractions within Namsan Park, such as pagodas, temples, pavilions, statues, and sculptures from ancient times, which add extra character to this nature retreat in South Korea’s capital city.
Bukhansan National Park
Bukhansan National Park, located in the northern part of Seoul, offers a beautiful opportunity to explore the serene and peaceful nature of South Korea. The park boasts some of the most stunning landscapes in the country and is home to breathtaking scenery, such as picturesque valleys, lush forests, and rugged mountain peaks.
For those looking for a more active adventure, there are dozens of walking and hiking trails winding through forests and meadows which offer spectacular views over the vast countryside. The summits of two of the highest points in the park – Baegundae and Insubong – max out at 836 meters/2747 feet above sea level and provide an excellent opportunity for spectacular photography or to take a break from city life.
Bukhansan National Park also boasts numerous Buddhist temples where visitors can pray or meditate among nature. So if you’re looking for a day trip outside of Seoul, then Bukhansan National Park is worth considering.
Yeouido Hangang Park
Yeouido Hangang Park is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of Seoul. This oasis of peace sits on a stretch of the famous Hangang River, and visitors can take advantage of various waterfront activities. Rent bikes, walk or jog along the riverside path, or stroll over the nearby Han-gang Bridge for a breathtaking view by day or night.
At Yeouido Hangang Park, visitors can also:
- Visit nearby wetlands and forests.
- Participate in weekend festivals that take place during the spring and summer months.
- Explore local artists’ galleries dotting the park’s perimeter.
- Pick apples at the organic apple farm from June to October.
- Check out archaeological artifacts from Moahan Valley at Jigyeong Archaeological Museum dating back 2.5 million years.
- Bask in rare wildlife sightings like silver-crowned cranes that are believed to bring luck with their presence all year long.